Abstract This study aimed to use the petiole residues of miriti to partially replace pine wood and evaluate the effects of this incorporation on the physical and mechanical properties of the particleboards. Panels were produced with 0, 25, 50, and 75% of miriti in partial replacement of wood and 12% of urea-formaldehyde adhesive. The chemical-physical properties of miriti residues showed potential particleboard production as they were similar to those of pinewood. For the physical properties, the panels were classified as low density. There was an increase in the compression ratio and, consequently, in the hygroscopicity . For the mechanical properties, it was observed that the modulus of elasticity (MOE) and modulus of rupture (MOR) did not show any statistical differences. For perpendicular traction (PT), there was a significant reduction in 50%. Considering a general analysis of the physical and mechanical properties, up to 40% of mirti can be substituted, as in this situation they meet the properties mentioned in CS-236-66, except for PT for commercialization of the panels.

Resumo O objetivo deste trabalho foi utilizar os resíduos do pecíolo do miriti em substituição parcial da madeira de pinus e avaliar os efeitos dessa incorporação nas propriedades físicas e mecânicas dos painéis aglomerados. Os painéis foram produzidos com 0, 25, 50 e 75% de miriti em substituição parcial de madeira e 12% de adesivo uréia-formaldeído. As propriedades físico-químicas dos resíduos de miriti mostraram potencial de produção de aglomerados, uma vez que foram semelhantes às do pinus. Quanto às propriedades físicas, os painéis foram classificados como de baixa densidade. Houve aumento na taxa de compressão e, consequentemente, na higroscopicidade. Para as propriedades mecânicas, observou-se que o módulo de elasticidade (MOE) e o módulo de ruptura (MOR) não houve diferença estatística. Para tração perpendicular (TP) houve redução significativa de 50%. Considerando uma análise geral das propriedades físicas e mecânicas, é possível uma substituição em até 40% de miriti, pois nessa situação atendem as propriedades mencionadas na CS-236-66, com exceção da TP para a comercialização dos painéis.

Abstract: This work aimed to evaluate the physical-mechanical properties of Pinus oocarpa wood agglomerated panels produced with different levels (0 %, 25 %, 50 %, 75 % and 100 %) of wood replacement with bean residues. For this purpose, Pinus oocarpa wood and the agricultural residue were reduced into particles and their properties of apparent density, extractives, lignin and ash content of these raw materials were determined. Then, the particles were dried to a 3 % humidity and granulometrically selected to produce panels with a density of 0,60 g/cm3. These particles were bonded using 12 % urea-formaldehyde adhesive, pressed, following normative dimensions (250 mm x 250 mm x 15 mm (width, length, and thickness)), and kept in a climate-controlled environment (20 ºC ± 2 ºC and 65 % ± 5 % RH) until the physical and mechanical tests were carried out. The research results indicated that the particles from bean residues in comparison with Pinus oocarpa wood, presented low density, lignin and holocellulose values, and higher extractives data. Furthermore, regarding the characterization of the panels, there was a trend towards uniformity in the apparent density values, an increase in the properties of compact ratio, water absorption and thickness swelling, and a decrease in their mechanical properties associated with the increase in the by-product addition to the panels. Therefore, new studies are necessary, seeking a larger study and greater knowledge of the addition effects of bean residues in particulate panels, aiming the dissemination of this sustainable process on large scale.

Abstract Background: Marine aquaculture is a very important economic and food production activity in Patagonian channels. The biophysical mechanisms through which farms interact with surrounding areas is poorly understood. A better understanding of the relationship between zooplankton distribution, hydrodynamics and aquaculture farms in Patagonian channels can contribute to the environmental sustainability of this activity. Methods: The study was conducted in winter in the Caucahué Channel (Chiloé Island, southern Chile), which is composed of two asymmetric northern and southern sections separated by a geomorphological constriction (a narrows) and hosts 55 aquaculture farms. Intensive zooplankton and water column sampling (time scale: 12 h) was carried out, together with current measurements as a background of the channel hydrodynamics (time scale: 30 days). Results: Spatial dissimilarities in composition and abundances of zooplankton communities and in water column variables were identified between the two sections of the channel in this short-term time scale. In the southern section we found higher abundances of holo- and meroplankton and higher species richness. No differences in zooplankton community were found between sampling sites near and far from aquaculture farms. Southward asymmetrical residual flow and semidiurnal tidal excursion were verified in the central part of the channel during two tidal fortnightly time periods. Conclusions: (i) Clear dissimilarity in zooplankton composition were found between the two sections of Caucahué Channel in the time scale studied; and (ii) Quemchi geomorphological constriction and the asymmetrical southward residual flow could act as a physical barrier favoring the spatial dissimilarities found in biotic and abiotic variables between the two sections of the channel.

Abstract: Non-destructive techniques for characterizing materials in-service have been increasing in importance. Thus, it is relevant to assess the potential of non-destructive techniques for solid materials. This work aimed to determine the modulus of elasticity of Bertholletia excelsa wood using the particle image velocimetry technique and the ultrasound method to compare the results with the conventional methodology. For this purpose, samples of Bertholletia excelsa were made using a circular saw. The samples were evaluated for sound propagation to calculate the modulus of elasticity using ultrasound equipment. Subsequently, they were subjected to the compression parallel to grain test in a universal testing machine. The samples were marked and monitored during the loading session, with the repeated capture of images using a professional camera. The deformation values obtained were used to estimate the modulus of elasticity using the particle image velocimetry technique. The mean values of modulus of elasticity found were 17403 MPa for ultrasound, 15589 MPa for the particle image velocimetry technique, and 15333 MPa for the universal testing machine. The particle image velocimetry technique was considered to be statistically similar (Tukey α = 0,05) to the other methods tested. The linear coefficient of determination (R2) between the particle image velocimetry technique and the universal testing machine was 0,95, a high and satisfactory value. Thus, the particle image velocimetry technique and the ultrasound method are valid to estimate the modulus of elasticity of Bertholletia excelsa wood and possibly of woods with similar technological characteristics.

RESUMO O presente trabalho tem como objetivo analisar o efeito de diferentes espécies de madeiras e de bambu (Pinus taeda, Cereus jamacaru e Bambusa vulgaris) na hidratação de matrizes cimentícias. Para tanto, os materiais lignocelulósicos foram moídos e caracterizados antes e depois de tratamento em água quente. Posteriormente, o efeito da adição de diferentes níveis (5, 10 e 33,3%) de madeiras, pré-tratadas ou não, em pastas de cimento foram analisados a partir dos ensaios de calorimetria isotérmica e termogravimetria. Os resultados demonstraram que as partículas de cada espécie lignocelulósica apresentaram um aumento das propriedades de umidade e absorção concomitante a diminuição de suas densidades e níveis de extrativos a partir do pré-tratamento aplicado. Os outros componentes químicos destes elementos, majoritariamente, todavia, não foram afetados. Por outro lado, foi observado que quanto maior o teor de tais materiais lignocelulósicos, pré-tratados ou não, nas matrizes de cimento, maior o impacto na hidratação do cimento, segundo o ensaio de calorimetria. Já com relação ao resultado do ensaio de termogravimetria observou-se uma tendência geral, com ou sem pré-tratamento de partículas ou adição de água de compensação, de aumento dos produtos hidratados, fato atribuído, principalmente, a presença de água livre e gases nos materiais lignocelulósicos.

ABSTRACT The present work aims to analyze the effect of different species of wood and bamboo (Pinus taeda, Cereus jamacaru and Bambusa vulgaris) on the hydration of cementitious matrices. For this, the lignocellulosic materials were ground and characterized before and after treatment in hot water. Subsequently, the effect of adding different levels (5, 10 and 33.3%) of wood, pre-treated or not, in cement pastes were analyzed using isothermal calorimetry and thermogravimetry tests. The results showed that the particles of each lignocellulosic species showed an increase in moisture and absorption properties concomitant with a decrease in their densities and extractive levels from the pre-treatment applied. The other chemical components of these elements, however, were mostly unaffected. On the other hand, it was observed that the higher the content of such lignocellulosic materials, pre-treated or not, in the cement matrices, the greater the impact on cement hydration, according to the calorimetry test. Regarding the result of the thermogravimetry test, a general trend was observed, with or without pre-treatment of particles or addition of make-up water, of an increase in hydrated products, a fact mainly attributed to the presence of free water and gases in the lignocellulosic materials.

Abstract: The ecological characteristics of the benthic macrofauna make a good indicator to evaluate the effects of anthropic perturbations (e.g., aquaculture, submarine pipelines emissions) on marine ecosystems. Chilean environmental regulation establishes that macrofauna characterization must be performed with sieves with 1,000 µm opening. To evaluate the loss of information on species composition and abundance by using an opening of 1,000 µm instead of 500 µm, subtidal samplings were performed during summer and winter of 2018 in 5 areas of the Gulf of Arauco, central Chile. Sampling and analysis consisted of: (i) samples were sieved through 1,000 µm mesh and the organisms passing through this sieve were retained in 500 µm mesh sieves; (ii) identifying the taxa retained in both sieves to the lowest possible level, and (iii) comparison of the macrofauna between sieves, periods and sampling areas, using univariate and multivariate statistics. The analyses showed significant differences in the community structure among sieve sizes, areas and sampling periods. The AMBI and W indexes, used as community bio-indicators, also showed significant differences between sieve sizes. The results revealed that, although a 1,000 µm sieve can identify spatial and temporal differences in the macrofauna, it underestimates the level of impact shown by community bio-indicators. The use of a 500 µm sieve is recommended if the objective is to evaluate anthropic impact on the marine environment, especially for baseline studies, preliminary site characterizations for aquaculture, monitoring and/or environmental surveillance programmes. This information should also be complemented with multivariate statistical tools that are capable of incorporating together all the biological and environmental information compiled in the study area.

Resumen: Las características ecológicas de la macrofauna bentónica, la convierten en un buen indicador para evaluar los efectos de perturbaciones antropogénicas (e.g., acuicultura, emisarios submarinos, etc.) sobre los ecosistemas marinos. La normativa chilena aplicable a monitoreos ambientales establece que su caracterización debe realizarse utilizando tamices de 1.000 µm de abertura. Con el objetivo de evaluar la pérdida de información en composición y abundancia de las especies al utilizar este tamiz respecto de uno de 500 µm, se realizaron muestreos submareales en invierno y verano del 2018 en 5 áreas del Golfo de Arauco, Chile central. El muestreo y análisis consistió en: (i) cernido en tamiz de 1.000 µm, reteniendo los organismos que traspasan este tamiz en uno de 500 µm, (ii) identificación de los organismos retenidos en ambos tamices hasta el nivel taxonómico más bajo posible y, (iii) comparación de la macrofauna entre tamices, períodos y áreas de muestreo, utilizando estadística univariada y multivariada. A partir de los análisis se encontraron diferencias significativas en la estructura comunitaria de la macrofauna entre tamices, áreas y periodos de muestreo. Los índices AMBI y W, utilizados como bio-indicadores comunitarios, también identifican diferencias significativas entre tamices. Los resultados señalan que, si bien el uso de un tamiz de 1.000 µm permite identificar diferencias espaciales y temporales en la macrofauna, con su uso se subestima el nivel de impacto detectado por los bio-indicadores comunitarios. Por tal razón, se recomienda utilizar un tamiz de 500 µm si el objetivo es evaluar impactos antropogénicos en el ambiente marino, especialmente en líneas de base, caracterizaciones preliminares de sitio para la acuicultura y programas de vigilancia ambiental. Toda la información, debiera, además, ser integrada mediante herramientas estadísticas multivariadas, capaces de incorporar en conjunto los antecedentes biológicos y ambientales recopilados en el área de estudio.

Abstract: The aim of this work was to verify the ability to use the Particle Image Velocimetry technique for measurements of dimensional variations resulting from wood retractability of Pinus elliottii wood, initially saturated and with the surface marked with multiple dots of ink randomly distributed, was used in this work to apply the Particle Image Velocimetry technique. The specimens were dried and images were captured during the process. The images obtained were processed by the Particle Image Velocimetry algorithm and the deformations that occurred were calculated. For comparison, a conventional method (pachymeter) was used to measure the dimensions of the specimen during drying. The variation in dimensions obtained on the surface of the specimens from the Particle Image Velocimetry technique was 2,28 % for the radial direction and 0,20 % for the longitudinal direction of the fibers. With the standardized method, these values were 2,18 % for the radial direction and 0,21 % for longitudinal. The reduction in the average area of the specimens was 3,85 % by the Particle Image Velocimetry technique and 3,77 % by the conventional methodology. It was concluded that the Particle Image Velocimetry technique was able to accurately measure the displacements on the surface of the Pinus elliottii specimens, resulting in values statistically similar to those reached through the use of the conventional measurement method, demonstrating its reliability.

Este artículo se trata de una evaluación de modelos de turbulencia para la predicción de la pérdida de presión y el coeficiente de transferencia de calor durante el flujo de refrigerantes con bajo GWP en el interior de microcanales. En este estudio, características de mecánica de fluidos y transferencia de calor se simulan incorporando condiciones de flujo turbulento en un microcanal circular de 1.1 mm de diámetro. Los modelos de turbulencia con las formulaciones k - ε y k - ω son evaluados para números de Reynolds hasta 10000 y son implementados computacionalmente en el software OpenFoam. Los perfiles de velocidad, factores de fricción y números de Nusselt son calculados y analizados en función de variables paramétricas. Los resultados numéricos son validados con métodos de predicción analíticos y con datos experimentales medidos en trabajos previos para flujos de R134a, R1234fy, R1234ze(E) y R600a. La variación de la caída de presión y coeficiente de transferencia de calor convectivo son analizados de acuerdo al efecto al tipo de fluido y al modelo de turbulencia empleado. Los resultados indican que los modelos describen cualitativamente el comportamiento del flujo y la transferencia de calor en condiciones de turbulencia. Cuantitativamente, los modelos Low-Re k - ε, k - ω estándar y k - ω SST presentan mejores predicciones para las variables de interés. Por otro lado, el modelo Low-Re k - ε presenta el menor error medio absoluto.

This paper evaluates the capacity of the following turbulence models: standard k - ε, RNG k - ε, k - ω standard, k - ω SST, Realizable k - ε and Low-Re k - ε to predict the fluid mechanics and heat transfer characteristics of low GWP fluid flow in a 1.1 mm ID microchannel. These turbulence models were evaluated for Reynolds Numbers up to 10(4). The numerical results for velocity profile, friction factors and Nusselt Numbers are validated with analytical and experimental data published in previous works for R134a, R1234yf, R1234ze(E) and R600a. Parametric behaviors of pressure drop and heat transfer coefficient are presented and analyzed. The results indicate that each of the models describes the qualitative behavior of flow and heat transfer processes. On the other hand, the quantitative results indicate that the Low-Re k - ε, k - ω and k - ω SST models demonstrate an acceptable prediction of some variable’s behavior. Numerically, the Low-Re k - ε model presents an accurate prediction with the lowest mean absolute.

Abstract Background: It is known that aquaculture may produce negative environmental effects on marine ecosystems. Southern Chile is one of the most important salmon and mussel-producing areas in the world. Here we assess the ecological status of benthic communities near farming centers in Caucahue Channel, Chiloe, which has been used intensely for salmon and mussel production for 30 years. Methods: The macrofauna, sediments and water column were characterized at distances of 5 to 100 m from three salmon and three mussel-producing centers. Information was also obtained from reference sites 500 to 3000 m from these aquaculture farms. The macrofauna and environmental conditions during winter were analyzed using uni- and multivariate analysis and the AZTI Marine Biotic Index (AMBI) as an indicator of benthic community condition. Results: (i) There is a high degree of spatial dissimilarity in macrofauna and environmental variables among sampling sites and types of environments (far from or near farming centers) and between the northern and southern areas of the channel; (ii) sediment structure (mean grain size and percentage of total organic matter) correlated with the observed dissimilarities in macrofauna communities; and (iii) the level of perturbation according to AMBI was heterogeneous, with sites in the undisturbed/normal range to moderately disturbed/polluted. Conclusions: We found a high spatial dissimilarity in benthic macrofauna and environmental variables among sampling sites, environmental types and between the northern and southern areas of the channel. AMBI and multivariate community-environment analysis are useful tools to define the level of perturbation of a geographic area at different spatial scales, using all the ecological information from each sample and replicates.

RESUMO INTRODUÇÃO: A avaliação vascular da função erétil por meio da ultrassonografia com Doppler colorido do pênis (UDCP) pode trazer benefícios na tomada de decisão. Infelizmente, a falta de padronização na condução de UDCP resulta em alta variabilidade do exame, além de poder comprometer a interpretação dos resultados. OBJETIVO: Os objetivos desta revisão são promover uma maior padronização durante o UDCP e discutir os princípios fundamentais para sua correta condução e interpretação. MÉTODOS: O UDCP é conduzido inicialmente com o pênis no estado flácido; todo o pênis deve ser avaliado (imagens no modo B) com um transdutor linear de alta frequência (7,5-18 MHz). A injeção intracavernosa de agentes vasodilatadores (prostaglandina E1, papaverina, fentolamina) é realizada para induzir uma ereção rígida. Medições seriais em momentos diferentes podem ser realizadas durante a sessão da UDCP e a rigidez peniana deve ser estimada em cada avaliação. RESULTADOS: É importante monitorar a resposta da ereção após o agente vasoativo (escala de rigidez), bem como realizar avaliação hemodinâmica durante a ereção de melhor qualidade. Os protocolos de estimulação sexual manual e audiovisual (AVSS) e redosagem de agente vasoativo devem ser levados em consideração para reduzir a influência de fatores psicogênicos e ajudar o paciente a obter a ereção mais rígida possível. Tais medidas contribuem para o relaxamento máximo do tecido erétil, de modo que os parâmetros hemodinâmicos não são subestimados. CONCLUSÕES: O UDCP é uma ferramenta especializada relevante para avaliar pacientes com disfunção erétil; portanto, esta diretriz ajudará a padronizar e estabelecer uniformidade em sua condução e interpretação, se considerarmos a complexidade e a heterogeneidade das avaliações do pênis por UDCP

SUMMARY INTRODUCTION: The vascular evaluation of the erectile function through Color Duplex-Doppler Ultrasound (CDDU) of the penis can benefit the therapeutic decision-making process. Unfortunately, there is no standard procedure for CDDU conduction, a fact that results in high result-interpretation variability. OBJECTIVE: The aims of this review are to promote greater standardization during CDDU of the penis and discuss the fundamental principles for its accurate conduction. METHODS: CDDU is initially conducted with the penis in the flaccid state; the whole penis must be assessed (images at B mode) with a high-frequency linear transducer (7.5-18 MHz). Intracavernous injection of vasodilating agents (prostaglandin E1, papaverine, phentolamine) is performed to induce a rigid erection. Serial measurements at different times should be taken during the CDDU session and penile rigidity must be assessed in each evaluation. RESULTS: It is important to monitor the erection response after the vasoactive agent (hardness scale), and scanning during the best-quality erection should be contemplated. Manual self-stimulation, audiovisual sexual stimulation (AVSS), and vasoactive agent re-dosing protocols must be taken into account to reduce the influence of psychogenic factors and to help the patient to get the hardest erection possible. Such measurements contribute to the maximal relaxation of the erectile tissue, so the hemodynamic parameters are not underestimated. CONCLUSIONS: CDDU is a relevant specialized tool to assess patients with erectile dysfunction; therefore, this guideline will help to standardize and establish uniformity in its conduction and interpretation, taking into consideration the complexity and heterogeneity of CDDU evaluations of the penis.

RESUMO Objetivo Avaliar aspectos epidemiológicos do priapismo em pacientes com doença falciforme e o impacto desses aspectos na função sexual de adultos. Métodos Trata-se de estudo transversal, que incluiu indivíduos com doença falciforme acompanhados em um centro de referência. Os participantes responderam a um questionário estruturado acerca das características sociodemográficas e eventos de priapismo. A função sexual foi avaliada por meio de dois instrumentos validados, a Escala de Rigidez de Ereção e um sobre satisfação com a vida sexual. Resultados Foram entrevistados 64 indivíduos com média de idade de 12 (7-28) anos. A prevalência de priapismo foi de 35,9% (23/64). O episódio mais precoce ocorreu aos 2 anos de idade e o mais tardio, aos 42 anos. A projeção estatística foi de que 71,1% desses sujeitos teriam pelo menos um episódio de priapismo ao longo da vida. Pacientes adultos com episódios de priapismo (10/23) apresentaram função erétil significativamente pior Escala de Rigidez de Ereção de 2 [1-3]; p=0,01 e estavam menos satisfeitos com a vida sexual 3 [3-5]; p=0,02. Conclusão O priapismo manifesta-se desde a infância, e episódios graves estão associados a dano cavernoso, prejuízo na qualidade da ereção e menor satisfação sexual.

ABSTRACT Objective To evaluate epidemiological aspects of priapism in patients with sickle cell disease, and these aspects impact on adult sexual function. Methods This was a cross-sectional study including individuals with sickle cell disease who were evaluated at a reference center for sickle cell. Participants completed a structured questionnaire about their sociodemographic characteristics and priapism events. Sexual function was assessed using validated two instruments, the Erection Hardness Score and one about the sex life satisfaction. Results Sixty-four individuals with median aged of 12 (7 to 28) years were interviewed. The prevalence of priapism was 35.9% (23/64). The earliest priapism episode occurred at 2 years of age and the latest at 42 years. The statistical projection was that 71.1% of individuals of the study would have at least one episode of priapism throughout life. Patients with episodes of priapism (10/23) had significantly worse erectile function Erection Hardness Score of 2 [1-3]; p=0.01 and were less satisfied with sexual life 3 [3-5]; p=0.02. Conclusion Priapism is usually present in childhood, and severe episodes are associated with cavernous damage, impairment in the quality of the erection, and lower sexual satisfaction.

RESUMO A esclerose múltipla é uma doença imunomediada do sistema nervoso central. Seu tratamento tem sido focado no controle da inflamação o mais cedo possível para evitar incapacidade. O transplante autólogo de células tronco hematopoiéticas (TACTH) vem sendo usado para tratar esclerose múltipla desde 1996, e recentes resultados foram decisivos a respeito do benefício na eficácia a longo prazo. Cinco pacientes seguidos num centro de esclerose múltipla de Belo Horizonte, Brasil, que apresentavam forma clínica remitente recorrente com alta atividade de doença foram submetidos a esse tratamento de 2009 a 2011. Após o transplante foram avaliados clinicamente e com ressonância magnética, e escala de EDSS, a cada seis meses até julho de 2018. Os pacientes eram quatro mulheres e um homem, com idade entre 25 e 50 anos e tempo de doença variando de 4 a 17 anos na época do procedimento. Quatro pacientes melhoraram após a primeira avaliação e um manteve-se estável. Todos os pacientes permaneceram sem evidência de doença clínica ou radiológica de 5 a 9 anos após. Com uma seleção cada vez mais criteriosa de pacientes o TACTH pode interromper a disseminação do epítopo e controlar a progressão da doença. Apesar de várias outras opções terapêuticas aprovadas para esclerose múltipla o TACTH continua a ser uma forma de tratamento a ser considerada em casos de doença muito agressiva.

ABSTRACT Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an immune-mediated disease of the central nervous system. Its treatment has focused on inflammation control as early as possible to avoid disability. Autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (AHSCT) has been used for treating MS since 1996, with recent decisive results regarding benefits in long-term efficacy. Five patients followed up at an MS center in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, who had relapsing-remitting MS with high disease activity, underwent AHSCT between 2009 and 2011. They were evaluated clinically, with magnetic resonance imaging, and by the EDSS every six months after transplantation, up to July 2018. The patients were four women and one man, with ages ranging from 25-50 years, and time since disease onset ranging from 4-17 years at the time of the procedure. Four patients improved, one patient was stabilized, and all patients were free of disease activity after 5-9 years. Through improving patient selection and decreasing the time from disease onset, AHSCT could stop epitope spreading and disease progression. Despite multiple other therapeutic choices being approved for relapsing-remitting MS, AHSCT continues to be a treatment to consider for aggressive MS disease.