ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE This study aims to propose a comprehensive alternative to the Bland-Altman plot method, addressing its limitations and providing a statistical framework for evaluating the equivalences of measurement techniques. This involves introducing an innovative three-step approach for assessing accuracy, precision, and agreement between techniques, which enhances objectivity in equivalence assessment. Additionally, the development of an R package that is easy to use enables researchers to efficiently analyze and interpret technique equivalences. METHODS Inferential statistics support for equivalence between measurement techniques was proposed in three nested tests. These were based on structural regressions with the goal to assess the equivalence of structural means (accuracy), the equivalence of structural variances (precision), and concordance with the structural bisector line (agreement in measurements obtained from the same subject), using analytical methods and robust approach by bootstrapping. To promote better understanding, graphical outputs following Bland and Altman’s principles were also implemented. RESULTS The performance of this method was shown and confronted by five data sets from previously published articles that used Bland and Altman’s method. One case demonstrated strict equivalence, three cases showed partial equivalence, and one showed poor equivalence. The developed R package containing open codes and data are available for free and with installation instructions at Harvard Dataverse at https://doi.org/10.7910/DVN/AGJPZH. CONCLUSION Although easy to communicate, the widely cited and applied Bland and Altman plot method is often misinterpreted, since it lacks suitable inferential statistical support. Common alternatives, such as Pearson’s correlation or ordinal least-square linear regression, also fail to locate the weakness of each measurement technique. It may be possible to test whether two techniques have full equivalence by preserving graphical communication, in accordance with Bland and Altman’s principles, but also adding robust and suitable inferential statistics. Decomposing equivalence into three features (accuracy, precision, and agreement) helps to locate the sources of the problem when fixing a new technique.

ABSTRACT Tomato fruits are highly perishable. In this sense, adopting techniques to maintain and extend its shelf life is essential. Recent studies have used microalgae as an edible coating for fruit, as it is a nutrient-rich alternative and reduces fruit mass loss and respiration, delaying senescence. The aim of this study was to evaluate the application of microalgae-based coatings with or without the use of modified atmosphere packaging, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), in post-harvest tomato conservation. The design used was completely randomized, in a 4x2 factorial arrangement, with four coatings (no coating, coating composed of Spirulina platensis sp., Chlorella sp. and Scenedesmus sp.) and two conditions (with and without PVC), totalizing 8 treatments, with four replicates, consisting of one fruit each. Stored for 7 days at 10±2ºC and 55±5% UR and evaluated at harvest and on the last day of storage. The fruits coated with Chlorella sp. without PVC and Scenedesmus sp. associated with PVC, showed the lowest mass losses, representing a reduction of 73.79% and 78.47%, respectively, in relation to the control. In addition to mass loss, the levels of ascorbic acid (18.91 and 16.97 mg/100 g), citric acid (4.02 and 4.01), respectively, and the SS/AT ratio also stood out. The microalgae Chlorella sp. and Scenedesmus sp. can be used in coating ‘Santa Clara’ tomato fruits to maintain their physicochemical characteristics over 7 days of storage. The use of PVC film coating helped maintain these characteristics, reducing the perishability of the fruits.

RESUMO Os frutos do tomateiro têm alta perecibilidade havendo a necessidade da adoção de técnicas que mantenham e prolonguem sua vida útil pós-colheita. Estudos recentes têm utilizado microalgas como recobrimento comestível em frutos, por ser uma alternativa rica em nutrientes e reduzir perda de massa e respiração do fruto e assim retardar a senescência. Objetivou-se avaliar a aplicação de revestimentos a base de microalgas com ou sem o uso de embalagem com atmosfera modificada (policloreto de vinila) na conservação pós-colheita de tomate. O delineamento utilizado foi inteiramente casualizado, em arranjo fatorial 4x2, com quatro revestimentos (sem revestimento, revestimento com Spirulina platensis sp., Chlorella sp. e Scenedesmus sp.) e duas condições [com e sem PVC (policloreto de vinila)], totalizando 8 tratamentos, com quatro repetições, constituída por um fruto cada. Armazenados por 7 dias a 10±2ºC e 55±5% UR e avaliados na colheita e no último dia de armazenamento. Os frutos recobertos com Chlorella sp. sem o PVC e Scenedesmus sp. associado ao PVC, tiveram as menores perdas de massa, representando redução de 73,79% e 78,47%, respectivamente, em relação ao controle. Além da perda de massa, também tiveram destaque nos teores de ácido ascórbico (18,91 e 16,97 mg/100 g). As microalgas Chlorella sp. e Scenedesmus sp. podem ser utilizadas no revestimento de frutos do tomateiro ‘Santa Clara’ para manter suas características físico-químicas ao longo de 7 dias de armazenamento. A utilização do recobrimento com filme PVC auxilia na manutenção dessas características, diminuindo a taxa de perecibilidade dos frutos.

Abstract Treatment of landfill leachate is an important environmental issue, especially in developing countries such as Brazil. Advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) have been considered interesting treatment alternatives. In this study, ZnO-TiO2 mixtures were incorporated into a paint polymer matrix and fixed onto supports. Paints were applied by overlapping coat layers on plates, resulting in high film thickness (600 ± 80 µm). Treatment of mature leachate by an AOP was conducted in a plug flow reactor connected to a stirred tank under solar irradiation. The objective was to evaluate the degradation of humic acid (HA) and fulvic acid + humins (FAH). The highest HA and FAH removal efficiencies were 62% ± 4.9% and 16% ± 4.2%, respectively. The kinetic model provided a coefficient of determination (R 2) of 0.974. Rate constants for HA and FAH removal were 2.96 and 1.03 × 10−3 min−1, respectively. Statistical models for HA and FAH degradation had R 2 values of 0.96 and 0.99, respectively. Both approaches indicated that HA degradation is greater at acidic pH and higher TiO2 concentrations. FAH degradation was favored by acidic pH and higher ZnO concentrations. Statistical models showed the same mean difference in conversion between replicate runs of HA and FAH, suggesting a uniform diffusion of fractions through catalysts.

Resumo O tratamento de chorume de aterro é uma questão ambiental importante, especialmente em países em desenvolvimento como o Brasil. Os processos oxidativos avançados (POA) têm sido considerados interessantes alternativas de tratamento. Neste estudo, misturas de ZnO-TiO2 foram incorporadas a uma matriz polimérica de tinta e fixadas em suportes. As tintas foram aplicadas pela sobreposição de camadas de revestimento em placas, resultando em alta espessura de filme (600 ± 80 µm). O tratamento do lixiviado maduro por um POA foi conduzido em um reator de fluxo contínuo conectado a um tanque de agitação sob irradiação solar. O objetivo foi avaliar a degradação de ácido húmico (HA) e ácido fúlvico + huminas (FAH). As maiores eficiências de remoção de HA e FAH foram 62% ± 4,9% e 16% ± 4,2%, respectivamente. O modelo cinético forneceu um R2 de 0,974. As constantes de velocidade para remoção de HA e FAH foram 2,96 e 1,03 × 10−3 min−1, respectivamente. Os modelos estatísticos para degradação de HA e FAH tiveram valores de R2 de 0,96 e 0,99, respectivamente. Ambas as abordagens indicaram que a degradação do HA é maior em pH ácido e concentrações mais altas de TiO2. A degradação de FAH foi favorecida por pH ácido e maiores concentrações de ZnO. Os modelos estatísticos mostraram a mesma diferença significativa na conversão entre as execuções repetidas, sugerindo uma difusão uniforme das frações através dos catalisadores.

RESUMO Selecionar novos genótipos de batata-doce, que sejam adaptados às condições edafoclimáticas e de cultivo das regiões produtoras, se faz necessário. Assim, objetivou-se avaliar o desempenho agronômico de genótipos experimentais de batata-doce de polpa branca em lavouras comerciais, buscando obter indicação do seu mérito como cultivares comerciais. Os experimentos foram conduzidos nos munícipios de Presidente Prudente-SP, Emilianópolis-SP, Tarabai-SP e Álvares Machado-SP. Foi adotado o delineamento experimental de blocos ao acaso, com cinco repetições, avaliando-se os genótipos UZBD-L1-04 e UZBD-L5-29, e utilizando as testemunhas Ligeirinha Paulista, Canadense e INIA Arapey. Foram avaliados a produtividade total de raízes tuberosas, número de raízes tuberosas comerciais, produção de raízes tuberosas comerciais, massa média de raízes tuberosas comerciais, porcentagem de massa seca de raízes tuberosas comerciais, sólidos solúveis, resistência a danos causados por pragas, comprimento, diâmetro e aparência das raízes. Concluiu-se que o genótipo UZBD-L1-04 obteve desempenho superior aos demais (média dos ambientes para produtividade total de raízes tuberosas de 31,76 t/ha), e possuindo potencial como cultivar para a região.

ABSTRACT Selecting new sweet potato genotypes that are adapted to the soil, climate, and cultivation conditions of the producing regions is necessary. Thus, the objective of this work was to evaluate the agronomic performance of experimental genotypes of white-fleshed sweet potato in commercial fields, seeking to evaluate their potential as commercial cultivars. The experiments were carried out in the municipalities of Presidente Prudente, Emilianópolis, Tarabai, and Álvares Machado in São Paulo state. The randomized complete block design with five repetitions was used in the experiments, where the genotypes UZBD-L1-04 and UZBD-L5-29 were evaluated along with the controls Ligeirinha Paulista, Canadense, and INIA Arapey. The assessed traits were tuberous root total yield, number of commercial tuberous roots, commercial tuberous root yield, average mass of commercial tuberous roots, percentage of commercial tuberous root dry mass, soluble solids, resistance to pest-caused damage, root length, diameter, and appearance. UZBD-L1-04 performed better than the other genotypes (the average of environments for tuberous root total yield was 31.76 t/ha), showing great potential as a commercial cultivar for the studied region.

Resumo Esse estudo tem como objetivo avaliar a acurácia da análise microtomográfica em mensurações lineares e volumétricas em osso nativo (ON) e enxertado (OE). Para isso, 111 biópsias removidas de seios maxilares de pacientes enxertados com osso bovino desproteinizado foram coletadas e avaliadas. As medidas lineares foram realizadas para medir o comprimento do ON e do OE. Além disso, foi realizada a mensuração da quantidade de tecidos mineralizados em ON e OE. Na análise histomorfométrica a porcentagem de tecidos mineralizados do ON e OE foi obtida em dois cortes histológicos enquanto os tecidos mineralizados foram medidos em microtomografias variando os thresholds da escala de cinza variando de 90-250 a 90-150 com 10 níveis de variação entre cada. Em seguida, esses dados foram correlacionados para verificar o maior nível de R entre os intervalos dos thresholds testados na análise microtomográfica em relação aos dados obtidos na histomorfometria. O comprimento linear do ON foi de 2,44±0,91mm e 2,48±1,50mm, respectivamente, para análises microtomográfica e histomorfométrica (r=0,57), enquanto o comprimento linear do OE foi de 3,63±1,66mm e 3,13±1,45mm, respectivamente, para para análises microtomográfica e histomorfométrica (r =0,74) A histomorfometria detectou 45,91±11,69% de osso na porção de ON e 49,57±5,59% de osso e biomaterial na porção de OE. O volume total de tecidos mineralizados detectados pela análise microtomográfica que apresentou valores mais próximos da análise histomorfométrica foi de 43,75±15,39% no ON (Thresholds:90-240; r = 0,50) e 51,68±8,42% no OE (Thresholds:90-180; r =- 0,028). A análise microtomográfica apresentou boa acurácia na análise linear em ambas as porções das biópsias, porém a mesma apresentou boa acurácia para análise volumétrica apenas em áreas de ON.

Abstract The study aimed to evaluate the accuracy of Micro-CT in linear and volumetric measurements in native (NB) and grafted bone (GB) areas. A total of 111 biopsies of maxillary sinuses grafted with deproteinized bovine bone (DBB) in humans were evaluated. The linear measurements were performed to measure the length of the NB and GB. Furthermore, the amount of mineralized tissues at the NB and GB was performed. In the histomorphometry analysis the percentage of mineralized tissues at the NB and GB was obtained in two histological sections while the mineralized tissues were measure in the micro-CT varying the thresholds of the grayscale varying from 90-250 to 90-150 with 10 levels of variation between each one was applied. Then these data were correlated in order to check the higher r level between the histomorphometry and micro-CT thresholds intervals. The linear length of the NB was 2.44±0.91mm and 2.48±1.50mm, respectively, for micro-CT and histomorphometry (r =0.57), while the linear length of the GB was 3.63±1.66mm and 3.13±1.45mm, respectively, for micro-CT and histomorphometry (r =0.74) Histomorphometry showed 45.91±11.69% of bone in NB, and 49.57±5.59% of bone and biomaterial in the GB. The total volume of mineralized tissues that were closest to the histometric analysis were 43.75±15.39% in the NB (Threshold:90-240; r = 0.50) and 51.68±8.42% in the GB (Threshold:90-180; r =-0.028). The micro-CT analysis showed good accuracy in the linear analysis in both portions of the biopsies but for volumetric analysis just in NB.

Resumen Contexto: La violencia autoinfligida se caracteriza por dos formas de autolesión, suicida y no suicida, siendo la búsqueda del individuo de formas de agresión contra sí mismo, siendo una conducta intencional y agresiva a su salud. Objetivo: Analizar datos sobre violencia autoinfligida en regiones brasileñas, en el período 2009-2017 y discutir este problema en el contexto de la salud pública. Metodología: Estudio epidemiológico descriptivo, transversal, con enfoque cuantitativo, con notificaciones del Sistema de Información de Enfermedades y Notificaciones de violencia autoinfligida. Para el análisis estadístico se utilizó el software R y Microsoft Excel. Resultados: En Brasil, la prevalencia de casos de violencia autoinfligida fue de 14,20 / 100 mil habitantes. (2009-2017) con mayor prevalencia en el Sur, entre mujeres, de 20 a 29 años, con bajo nivel educativo y de raza / piel morena. La mayoría de los casos ocurrieron por intoxicación y en la residencia. Conclusión: El estudio identificó un escenario alarmante de casos de violencia autoinfligida, especialmente al considerar la prevalencia en las regiones Sur y Sudeste de Brasil, entre los adultos jóvenes, población económicamente activa. Dichos hallazgos sirven para orientar y apoyar la planificación de estrategias preventivas efectivas para no llevar a cabo el suicidio; puede abarcar desde la incorporación de acciones como la restricción de la comercialización de armas, la realización de campañas de concientización de la población para identificar qué factores de riesgo se asocian a conductas no suicidas y suicidas y la asistencia a personas en riesgo.

Abstract Context: Self-inflicted violence is characterized by two forms of self-harm, suicidal and non-suicidal, with the individual's search for forms of aggression against himself, being an intentional and aggressive behavior to his health. Objective: To analyze data on self-inflicted violence in Brazilian regions, in the period 2009-2017 and to discuss this problem in the context of public health. Methodology: A cross-sectional, descriptive epidemiological study, with a quantitative approach with notifications from the Diseases Information System and Notifications on self-inflicted violence. Software R and Microsoft Excel were used for statistical analysis. Results: In Brazil, the prevalence of cases of self-inflicted violence was 14.20 / 100 thousand inhabitants. (2009-2017) with the highest prevalence in the South, among females, aged 20-29 years, with low education and race / brown skin. Most of the cases occurred due to poisoning and in the residence. Conclusion: The study identified an alarming scenario of cases of self-inflicted violence, especially when considering the prevalence in the South and Southeast regions of Brazil, among young adults, economically active population. Such findings serve to guide and support the planning of effective preventive strategies for not carrying out suicide; it can range from the incorporation of actions such as the restriction of the commercialization of arms, the execution of awareness campaigns of the population to identify which risk factors are associated with non-suicidal and suicidal behavior and the assistance to individuals at risk

Resumo Contexto: As violências autoprovocadas são caracterizadas por duas formas de autoagressão a suicida e a não suicida, com a busca do indivíduo pelas formas de agressão a si mesmo, sendo um comportamento intencional e agressivo à sua saúde. Objetivo: Analisar os dados de violências autoprovocadas nas regiões brasileiras, no período de 2009-2017 e discutir sobre esse problema no âmbito da saúde pública. Metodologia: Estudo epidemiológico transversal, descritivo, de abordagem quantitativa com as notificações do Sistema de Informação de Agravos e Notificações sobre violências autoprovocadas. Utilizaram-se o Software R e o Microsoft Excel para as análises estatísticas. Resultados: No Brasil a prevalência dos casos de violências autoprovocadas foi de 14,20/100 mil hab. (2009-2017) com a maior prevalência na região Sul, no sexo feminino, na faixa etária de 20-29 anos, com baixa escolaridade e raça/cor parda. A maioria dos casos ocorreram por envenenamento e na residência. Conclusão: O estudo identificou um cenário alarmante dos casos de violências autoprovocadas, principalmente, quando considerada as prevalências nas regiões Sul e Sudeste do Brasil, no público adulto jovem, população economicamente ativa. Tais achados servem para direcionar e subsidiar o planejamento de estratégias preventivas eficazes para a não realização do suicídio; podendo abranger desde a incorporação de ações como a restrição da comercialização de armas, a execução de campanhas de conscientização da população para identificar quais os fatores de risco associados com o comportamento não suicida e suicida e o auxílio aos indivíduos em situação de risco.

RESUMO Os programas de melhoramento vegetal têm investido no desenvolvimento de cebolas com alto padrão comercial e para tal dependem dos recursos genéticos disponíveis para a obtenção de híbridos comerciais. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar parâmetros genéticos, diversidade genética e as correlações fenotípicas e genotípicas de caracteres relacionados à produção de cebola. O experimento foi realizado em Uberlândia - Minas Gerais, Brasil. Foram avaliadas 53 linhagens de cebola. Foi utilizado o delineamento em blocos ao acaso. Foram avaliadas 13 características de planta e bulbo. As análises estatísticas foram realizadas no programa Genes e R. Observou-se a existência de variabilidade genética entre os genótipos para a maioria dos caracteres ao nível de 1% pelo teste F. A herdabilidade da maioria dos caracteres apresentou valores moderados a altos (≥ 70%) e relação CVg/CVe alta (≥1). O método UPGMA possibilitou separar os genótipos em 20 grupos e de forma semelhante o método de Tocher separou os mesmos em 19 grupos. Os grupos que mais se destacaram foram V, XIV, XV, XVI, XVII, XVIII, XIX e XX. Houve seis correlações fenotípicas significativas pelo teste t com grau de associação baixo a moderado, e as correlações genotípicas, em sua maioria, mostraram-se superiores às fenotípicas e apresentaram o mesmo sinal. A partir dos parâmetros genéticos estudados existe alta possibilidade de ganhos na seleção. Há ampla variabilidade genética para os caracteres estudados o que permitiu a separação de grupos de genitores divergentes. Adicionalmente, as correlações fenotípicas e genotípicas mostraram inviabilidade para seleção indireta.

ABSTRACT Plant breeding programs have been investing in the development of high commercial standard onions; thus, they depend on the genetic resources available for obtaining commercial hybrids. The objective of this study was to evaluate genetic parameters and diversity, and phenotypic and genotypic correlations of characters related to onion production. The experiment was conducted in Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil. Fifty-three onion strains were evaluated, and a randomized block design was used. The number of plant and bulb characteristics evaluated was 13. The statistical analyses were performed using Genes and R software. A genetic variability among the genotypes was found for most of the characters at 1% level of significance in the F test. The heritability of most characters presented moderate to high values (≥ 70%) and high CVg/CVe ratio (≥ 1). The UPGMA method separated the genotypes into 20 groups, while the Tocher method separated them into 19 groups. The groups that stood out were V, XIV, XV, XV, XVI, XVII, XVIII, XIX, and XX. The results of t-test showed six significant phenotypic correlations with low to moderate degree of association, and the genotypic correlations, in most cases, were higher than the phenotypic ones and showed the same sign. From the genetic parameters studied, the possibility of gains in the selection is high. The separation of groups of divergent genitors was possible due to the wide genetic variability for the studied characters. Moreover, the phenotypic and genotypic correlations showed that indirect selection is not feasible.

RESUMO A deficiência de vitamina A é frequente nos países em desenvolvimento. Neste contexto, a batata-doce pode ser uma aliada na reversão desse quadro, uma vez que apresenta baixo custo de aquisição e elevada disponibilidade de mercado. Além disso, alguns genótipos apresentam polpa de coloração laranja, rica em betacaroteno, que é o precursor da vitamina A. Assim, objetivou-se com a presente pesquisa selecionar genótipos de batata-doce de polpa laranja por meio do emprego de dois índices de seleção (Smith e Hazel e Mulamba & Mock). Para tanto, foram avaliadas sete famílias de meio irmãos com raízes de polpa laranja (141 genótipos experimentais e a cultivar comercial Beauregard), verificando-se os parâmetros produtivos, aparência externa das raízes, a intensidade de cor da polpa e suscetibilidade à Euscepes postfasciatus. Dessa forma, os genótipos UZBD-C-14, UZBD-U1-25, UZBD-F-15, UZBD-C-30, UZBD-K-32, UZBD-U1-10, UZBD-L2-14 e UZBD-L5-67 apresentaram-se mais promissores, demonstrando maior equilíbrio para os caracteres avaliados. Ademais, esses genótipos estão aptos a novos estudos, com propósito de confirmar o desempenho produtivo e de qualidade de raízes, além dos parâmetros bioquímicos que comprovem a herança do caráter que regula a biofortificação mediada pelos carotenos.

ABSTRACT Vitamin A deficiency is common in developing countries. Sweet potato can be an ally in reversing this situation since it has a low acquisition cost and high market availability. In addition, some genotypes have orange-flesh roots, rich in beta-carotene, which is the precursor of vitamin A. Thus, the objective of this research was to select orange-fleshed sweet potato genotypes using two selection indices (Smith and Hazel and Mulamba & Mock). For this purpose, seven half-sibling families with orange flesh roots (141 experimental genotypes and the commercial cultivar Beauregard) were evaluated, assessing yield-related traits, external appearance of roots, pulp color intensity, and susceptibility to Euscepes postfasciatus. The genotypes UZBD-C-14, UZBD-U1-25, UZBD-F-15, UZBD-C-30, UZBD-K-32, UZBD-U1-10, UZBD-L2-14, and UZBD-L5-67 were the most promising, showing greater balance for the evaluated characters. Furthermore, these genotypes are suitable for new studies to confirm their productive performance and root quality and evaluate the biochemical parameters that prove the inheritance of the character regulating biofortification mediated by carotenes.

SUMMARY: Adverse events (AE) contribute significantly to postoperative morbidities and comorbidities. Many AEs occur due to a lack of anatomical knowledge and its variants. Latrogenic bile duct injuries, for instance, represent a serious surgical complication of laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Anatomical knowledge for the identification and adequate drainage of all ducts is relevant and fundamental in order to avoid future errors. The objective of the study was to morphometrically analyze the bile ducts in adult human corpses. 13 livers were extracted from adult human corpses to obtain the ducts: choledochal, common hepatic and cystic. After morphological analysis, duct measurements (length and diameter) were continued using a digital caliper. The data obtained were tabulated in SPSS 21 program, performing descriptive analysis with mean and standard deviation. The averages of bile ducts were 61.05 (± 16.43) mm in length and 3.86 (± 0.72) mm in diameter. The cystic duct length and diameter averages were 33.59 (± 12.29) mm and 3.40 (± 0.79) mm, respectively. The common hepatic ducts had an average of 30.02 (± 7.19) mm in length and 3.74 (± 1.18) mm in diameter. The analyzed samples presented different values ?? from those already described in the literature, where the length of the cystic ducts was greater, while the length of the common hepatic ducts was numerically smaller. This work is very significant, as the morphometric variability of the bile ducts allows for varying morphological situations that can compromise the hepatobiliar physiology.

RESUMEN: Los eventos adversos (EA) contribuyen significativamente a las morbilidades y comorbilidades postoperatorias. Muchos EA se deben a la falta de conocimiento de la anatomía y sus variaciones. Por ejemplo, las lesiones iatrogénicas de las vías biliares representan una complicación quirúrgica grave de la colecistectomía laparoscópica. El conocimiento anatómico para la identificación y drenaje adecuado de todos los conductos es relevante y fundamental para evitar futuros errores. El objetivo del estudio fue analizar morfométricamente las vías biliares en cadáveres humanos adultos. Se extrajeron 13 hígados de cadáveres humanos adultos y se retiraron los conductos: colédoco, hepático común y cístico. Después del análisis morfológico, se continuó con las mediciones de los conductos (longitud y diámetro) utilizando un calibrador digital. Los datos fueron tabulados en el programa SPSS 21, mediante análisis descriptivos con media y desviación estándar. Los promedios de las vías biliares fueron de 61,05 (± 16,43) mm de longitud y 3,86 (± 0,72) mm de diámetro. Los promedios de longitud y diámetro del conducto cístico fueron 33,59 (± 12,29) mm y 3,40 (± 0,79) mm, respectivamente. Los conductos hepáticos comunes tenían un promedio de 30,02 (± 7,19) mm de longitud y 3,74 (± 1,18) mm de diámetro. Las muestras analizadas presentaron valores diferentes a los ya descritos en la literatura, donde la longitud de los conductos císticos era mayor, mientras que la longitud de los conductos hepáticos comunes fue numéricamente menor. Este trabajo es significativo, debido a que la variabilidad morfométrica de las vías biliares y permite identificar situaciones morfológicas que pueden comprometer la fisiología hapatobiliar.

Abstract Objective: Cognitive dysfunction may occur postoperatively. Fast and efficient assessment of Postoperative Cognitive Dysfunction (POCD) can minimize loss of quality of life, and therefore, a study comparing a digital game with standard neuropsychological tests to assess executive, mnemonic, and attention functions to evaluate POCD seems to be relevant both for research and clinical practice. Methods: A battery of standardized tests and a digital game (MentalPlus®) were administered to 60 patients at the Central Institute of Hospital das Clínicas in São Paulo (36 women and 24 men), with ages between 29 and 82 years, preand post-surgery performed under anesthesia. Correlation and linear regression model were used to compare the scores obtained from the standardized tests to the scores of the six executive and cognitive functions evaluated by the game (shortand long-term memory, selective and alternating attention, inhibitory control, and visual perception). Results: After correlation analysis, a statistically significant result was found mainly for the correlation between the scores from the phase of the digital game assessing the visuoperception function and the scores from the A and B cards of the Stroop Test (p < 0.001, r = 0.99 and r = 0.64, respectively), and the scores from TMTA (p = 0.0046, r = 0.51). We also found a moderate correlation between the phase of the game assessing short-memory function and VVLT (p < 0.001, r = 0.41). No statistically significant correlations were found for the other functions assessed. Conclusion: The digital game provided scores in agreement with standardized tests for evaluating visual perception and possibly short-term memory cognitive functions. Further studies are necessary to verify the correlation of other phases of the digital game with standardized tests assessing cognitive functions.

NaA ZEOLITE SYNTHESIZED OVER FIBERGLASS AS A STRATEGY FOR OPTIMIZING HARD WATER SOFTENING. Zeolite NaA has been successfully synthesized over glass fiber surface previously activated by alkaline treatment. By varying the time of the treatment and the amount of silica and alumina precursors used in the reaction mixture, a sample with higher zeolite concentration could be obtained. This material was evaluated for water softening process as an alternative substitute for the use of the zeolite in its powder form, in which several drawbacks related to recovery and reuse limit its application. Water softening experiments, carried out in a continuous flow system, with a column containing the glass fiber-zeolite NaA, showed high performance in decreasing the Ca2+ ions, with complete removal achieved for 20 mL of simulated hard water (Ca2+ 100.0 mg L-1) by using 200 mg of the sample in form of column (10 mm diameter × 300 mm high). The sample maintained this performance in a wide range of pH (3.0-9.0), and also presented a feasible regenerability, with no decrease in its performance during the first four cycles of use, reaching 87.3% of efficiency over the tenth cycle.

Resumo Um procedimento para estimar a capacidade residual após incêndio para o momento fletor e o cisalhamento em vigas de concreto armado foi avaliado. O método de cálculo é baseado no Método das Isotermas dos 500ºC, adotando os coeficientes de redução propostos por Van Coile et al. (2014) para resistência ao escoamento do aço. A validação foi feita com resultados experimentais de 62 vigas disponíveis na literatura e foi possível observar uma boa aproximação com os dados experimentais, apresentando para o momento fletor uma relação média M r ana / M r exp de 1.04 e desvio padrão médio de 0.15, e para o esforço cortante uma relação média V r ana / V r exp de 0.85 e desvio padrão médio de 0.23.

Abstract A procedure to estimate the residual bending moment and the shear load capacity after fire in reinforced concrete beams was evaluated. The calculation method is based on the 500ºC Isotherm Method, adopting the reduction coefficients proposed by Van Coile et al. (2014) for the steel yield strength. The proposed method validation was done from experimental results of 62 reinforced concrete beams available in the literature. It was possible to observe a good approximation of the analytical method with the experimental data. For the bending moment an average ratio M r ana / M r exp of 1.04 and standard deviation of 0.15 was found. For the shear force an average ratio V r ana / V r exp of 0.85 and standard deviation of 0.23 was found.

Aim To evaluate the influence of the parameters L* a* b* on the variation of the color of bovine tooth enamel submitted to artificial darkening, after simulated brushing, with whitening toothpastes containing blue covarine. Methods To undertake this study in vitro, 60 specimens (SP) were divided into 6 groups (n=10): control group (CGwater) and 5 test groups (GT1-Colgate Total 12, GT2-Oral-B 3D White Perfection, GT3-Colgate Luminous Instant White, GT4-CloseUp White Diamond Attraction, GT5-Sorriso Xtreme White). The specimens were darkened with coffee and submitted to simulated brushing for 6, 12, and 24 months. The alteration in the color was evaluated using CIELAB parameters and the ∆L, ∆a, ∆b and ∆E were calculated. The data was analyzed through generalized linear models using the R program and considering a level of significance of 5%. Results The parameters L*, a* and the ∆L, ∆a obtained better results in the test group than in the control group. There were no statistical differences between CG and the test groups for the evaluation of the b* parameter. In the evaluation of the ∆b, the GT3 differed statistically from the CG. In relation to the ∆E, all the group tests showed a variation in color statistically greater than that of the CG and the GT4 showed the greatest variation, not differing from the GT3 during the periods studied. Conclusion The mechanical and optical whitening agents positively influenced the values L*a* and b*, as well as in its variations and in the ∆E. It is important to emphasize, however, that to analyze tooth whitening it is necessary to evaluate their parameters together.

RESUMO O uso do acelerômetro para mensurar a atividade física em pesquisas epidemiológicas, apresenta desafios para aumentar a comparabilidade entre os estudos que utilizam esse equipamento. Nesse sentido o objetivo deste trabalho é comparar estimativas de tempo em AFMV para adultos provenientes de diferentes métodos de processamentos de dados, através do acelerômetro Actigraph GT3X+. Trata-se de um estudo transversal, da linha de base do estudo piloto do Estudo Longitudinal dos Determinantes da Atividade Física. Amostra contou com 31 funcionários terceirizados de ambos os sexos, com idade média de 47.05anos (DP=9.35). Os participantes utilizaram acelerômetros do modelo GT3X+ durante sete dias consecutivos. A estimativa de tempo de AFMV foi gerada através de software Actilife e R-package GGIR. Análises estatísticas descritivas, ANOVA e pos-hoc de Bonferroni para comparabilidade foram realizadas no software R. Análise de Bland-Altman foi realizado no SigmaPlot para avaliação de viés e concordância. Houve diferença significativa no tempo médio de AFMV entre os dados baseados em counts e dados brutos (p<0,001). O tempo médio em AFMV foi menor a partir do processamento por dados brutos do que o em counts (-264,81min/dia; p<0,001). Concluindo que os achados sugerem não haver, estatisticamente, equivalência entre os métodos comparados para estimar tempo de AFMV.

ABSTRACT The use of accelerometers to measure physical activity in epidemiological research presents challenges to increase comparability between studies that use this equipment. In this sense, the objective of this work is to compare time estimates in MVPA for adults from different data processing methods, using the Actigraph GT3X+ accelerometer. This is a cross-sectional study, from the baseline of the pilot study of the Longitudinal Study of the Determinants of Physical Activity. Sample had 31 outsourced employees of both genders, with an average age of 47.05 years (SD=9.35). Participants used GT3X+ model accelerometers for seven consecutive days. The MVPA time estimate was generated using Actilife and R-package GGIR software. Descriptive statistical analyses, ANOVA and Bonferroni post-hoc for comparability were performed in the R software. Bland-Altman analysis was performed in SigmaPlot to assess bias and agreement. There was a significant difference in the mean time of MVPA between count-based data and raw data (p<0.001). The average time in MVPA was shorter from processing by raw data than in counts (-264.81 min/day; p<0.001). Concluding that the findings suggest that there is no statistically equivalence between the methods compared to estimate MVPA time.

Abstract The objective of this study was to evaluate the performance of hybrids and the heterosis in crosses of sweet sorghum using juicy sweet male-sterile lines and fertility-restoring lines with and without sensitivity to photoperiod. Thirty hybrids and six controls were evaluated in experiments laid out in a 6 × 6 triple lattice design. The genotypes differed for all traits. The general combining ability (GCA) of the R lines affected all traits, while the GCA of the A lines only affected juice extraction, total soluble solids, and tons of Brix per hectare (TBH). The photosensitive-restoring line CMSXS5022 had the highest positive GCA estimates for the fresh mass production and TBH traits. Heterosis was significant only for days to flowering and plant height. Overall, the photoperiod-sensitive hybrids stood out. The development of male-sterile lines requires better complementarity from restoring lines to reap the benefits of heterosis.