RESUMO O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a influência de sistemas de irrigação e lâminas de irrigação sobre processos fisiológicos, bioquímicos e produtivos da pereira cultivada no Semiárido brasileiro. O delineamento experimental foi em blocos casualizados, com fatorial 2 x 4, sendo dois sistemas de irrigação (gotejamento e microaspersão) e quatro lâminas de irrigação (60; 80; 100 e 120% da evapotranspiração da cultura - ETc), com quatro repetições. A deficiência e o excesso hídrico aplicados às plantas são prejudiciais às trocas gasosas, bem como à biossíntese e acúmulo de carboidratos, aminoácidos e proteínas nas folhas, comprometendo o ciclo de cultivo de pereiras cultivadas na região do Submédio São Francisco. A lâmina de irrigação de 91,8% ETc promove a maior produção de pereira (18,49 kg planta-1) sob sistemas de irrigação por gotejamento e microaspersão, nas condições edafoclimáticas do Submédio São Francisco. fisiológicos brasileiro casualizados 4 microaspersão 60 (60 80 10 120 ETc, , ETc) repetições gasosas carboidratos folhas Francisco 918 91 8 91,8 18,49 1849 18 49 (18,4 planta1 planta 1 planta-1 6 (6 12 9 91, 18,4 184 (18, planta- ( 18, (18 (1

ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of irrigation systems and water depths on physiological, biochemical and production processes of pear trees grown in the Brazilian semi-arid region. The experimental design was randomized blocks, with 2 × 4 factorial scheme, corresponding to two irrigation systems (drip and microsprinkler) and four irrigation depths (60, 80, 100 and 120% of the crop evapotranspiration - ETc), with four replicates. Water deficit and excess applied to plants are harmful to gas exchange as well as to biosynthesis and accumulation of carbohydrates, amino acids and proteins in leaves, compromising the cultivation cycle of pear plants grown in the Sub-Middle São Francisco region. The irrigation depth of 91.8% ETc promotes the highest production of pear (18.49 kg plant-1) under drip and microsprinkler irrigation systems, under the edaphoclimatic conditions of the Sub-Middle São Francisco region. physiological semiarid semi arid region blocks scheme 60, 60 (60 80 10 120 ETc, , ETc) replicates carbohydrates leaves SubMiddle Sub Middle 918 91 8 91.8 18.49 1849 18 49 (18.4 plant1 plant 1 plant-1 6 (6 12 9 91. 18.4 184 (18. plant- ( 18. (18 (1

Lithium manganese oxide, LiMn2O4, was synthesized in two temperature stages, where the first consisted by an ecofriendly solution combustion method at 300 °C. Finally, the as-burned powders were thermal treated at 500 and 700 °C. The structural and morphological changes were evaluated by the Rietveld method and density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The Rietveld refinement indicates obtaining the spinel cubic phase LiMn2O4 and a small amount of Mn2O3. The analyses by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) show a porous microstructure composed of nano-sized crystallites for the sample treated at 500 °C. In cyclic voltammetry, it was possible to observe that the reduction-oxidation reaction is reversible due to the shape of voltammograms and the anodic and cathodic peaks of Mn ions. The theoretical calculations considered the experimental crystallographic parameters. The unit cell volume change was evaluated according to distinct amounts of lithium ions in the structure. The removal of the Li+ cations from the oxides promotes a volume contraction. Therefore, it was possible to evaluate the participation of the Mn3+ ions in the frontier region between the valence and conduction bands. The density of states (DOS) calculation shows a predominant contribution of the O 2p and Mn 3d orbitals in the frontier orbitals.

Resumen Introducción: Existe una importante relación entre el desarrollo de la lectura y el conocimiento ortográfico, la cual varía en dependencia de las características ortográficas de la lengua. En ortografías transparentes, como el español, esa relación es más estrecha, donde la velocidad de lectura y el conocimiento ortográfico reflejan la automatización del proceso, en la que se asume una participación importante de las redes atencionales. Objetivo: Comparar los patrones de actividad funcional cerebral en una tarea de control atencional que involucra el reconocimiento de palabras, en sujetos con alto y bajo conocimiento ortográfico. Método: Se usó un muestreo no probabilístico para seleccionar a 30 jóvenes, diestros, en un rango de edad entre 17 y 20 años, clasificados en dos grupos de acuerdo con su nivel de conocimiento ortográfico: alto y bajo. Se registró la actividad neurofuncional usando IRMf, durante la ejecución de una tarea de Stroop (palabras impresas en color congruente e incongruente con su significado). Los participantes procesaron las palabras en dos condiciones: atender al significado (procesamiento automático) o al color (condición de interferencia). Resultados: El grupo con «bajo» rendimiento ortográfico mostró mayores tiempos de reacción en la ejecución de ambas condiciones, así como mayor actividad funcional en áreas subcorticales. El grupo alto mostró la actividad esperada en áreas corticales como el giro supramarginal izquierdo (GSI) y giro frontal medial (GFM) durante el procesamiento automático de las palabras, mientras que en la condición de interferencia se observó mayor actividad en lóbulo parietal. Conclusiones: Diferencias en las habilidades ortográficas derivan en distinta activación funcional, donde una mayor actividad en GFM del grupo «alto» pudiera implicar el reclutamiento de mayores recursos atencionales y de control cognitivo, mientras que la actividad neurofuncional observada en el grupo «bajo», podría asociarse con un efecto compensatorio con el reclutamiento de áreas subcorticales para resolver la tarea.

Abstract Introduction: There is an essential relationship between reading development and orthographic knowledge, which varies depending on a language’s orthographic characteristics. In transparent orthographies, such as Spanish, that relationship is closer, where reading speed and orthographic knowledge reflect the automation of the process in which crucial participation of attention networks is assumed. Objective: The objective of this study is to compare behavioral performance and patterns of cerebral functional activity while subjects with high and low orthographic knowledge perform an attentional control task involving word recognition. Methods: Thirty right-handed participants, aged between 17 and 20 years, were selected through non-probabilistic sampling and then classified into two groups according to their level of orthographic knowledge: high (H) and low (L). Neurofunctional activity was recorded using fMRI methods during the execution of a Stroop task (words printed in color congruent and incongruent with their meaning) under two conditions: attending to the meaning (automatic processing) or the color (interference condition). Results: The L group showed greater reaction times in both conditions, as well as greater functional activity in subcortical areas. In contrast, the H group showed higher activity in cortical areas, such as left supramarginal gyrus and medial frontal gyrus in the automatic processing condition, and in the parietal lobe during interference. Conclusions: The more significant activity in the giro frontal medial of the high orthographic knowledge group could imply recruitment of greater attention and cognitive control resources, while the neurofunctional activity observed in the low group could be associated with a compensatory effect with the recruitment of subcortical areas to solve the task.

Textural and catalytic properties of nickel, palladium or titanium oxides supported on MCM-41 materials were evaluated in this paper. The results indicated that the MCM-41 material with well defined and highly ordered hexagonal structure was obtained. After metal ions impregnation and calcinations, the structure of MCM-41 was preserved and formed metallic oxide particles, however the decreased of surface area of these structures occurred. The catalysts studied showed maximum conversion levels of dibenzothiophene in the range of 50-65%.

Botrytis cinerea Pers., the causal agent of gray mold, infects more than 200 plant species. This pathogen has traditionally been controlled by fungicides. However, with the increasing demand for pesticide-free foods new control strategies are needed. The objective of this study was to isolate and select grapevine (Vitis vinifera L.) epiphytic yeasts for the biocontrol of B. cinerea in table grapes. Of the total isolated yeasts (n = 256), 32 exhibited mycelial growth inhibition in dual cultures with a halo > 4 mm, and eight of these isolates inhibited > 90% of conidial germination. When evaluating increasing concentrations on conidial germination inhibition, a dose-dependent response was observed with EC90 values from 0.45 x 10(5) to 0.22 x 10(8) cells mL-1. The antagonistic activity of six yeasts against B. cinerea in table grape berries ’Flame Seedless’ increased as the yeast colonization time increased from 1 to 24 h on the berries, resulting in a higher biocontrol activity on B. cinerea. These results show the effectiveness of grapevine epiphytic yeasts as biocontrol agents of B. cinerea on table grapes.

Botrytis cinerea Pers., agente causal de la pudrición gris, infecta a más de 200 especies vegetales. Tradicionalmente, este patógeno ha sido controlado con fungicidas; sin embargo, la creciente demanda de alimentos libres de pesticidas hace necesario el uso de nuevas estrategias de control. El objetivo de este estudio fue aislar y seleccionar levaduras epífitas de vid (Vitis vinifera L.) para el biocontrol de B. cinerea en uva de mesa. Del total de levaduras aisladas (n = 256), 32 presentaron inhibición del crecimiento micelial, en cultivos duales, con un halo > 4 mm y ocho de estos aislamientos inhibieron la germinación de conidias > 90%. Al evaluar concentraciones crecientes de levaduras sobre la inhibición de la germinación de conidias, se observó una respuesta dosis-dependiente, con valores de CE90 de 0,45 x 10(5) a 0,22 x 10(8) células mL-1 Al evaluar la actividad antagonista de seis levaduras frente a B. cinerea en bayas de uva de mesa ’Flame Seedless’ se determinó que al aumentar el tiempo de colonización de las levaduras en las bayas de 1 a 24 h, la actividad de biocontrol sobre B. cinerea fue superior. Estos resultados demuestran la efectividad de levaduras epífitas de vid como agentes de biocontrol de B. cinerea en uva de mesa.

La producción de vainilla (Vanilla planifolia J.) es una actividad de importancia socioeconómica y cultural en México; por tanto, el objetivo del presente estudio fue evaluar la rentabilidad y competitividad de los sistemas de producción de vainilla bajo naranjo y en malla sombra en la región del Totonacapan, Puebla-Veracruz, México, con la matriz de análisis de política (MAP). La información técnico-productiva requerida de cada sistema de producción se obtuvo mediante 99 entrevistas estructuradas a productores usando un muestreo aleatorio simple con una confiabilidad de 95 %. El análisis de los resultados sugiere que las medidas de política macroeconómica como la sobrevaluación del tipo de cambio y la alta tasa de interés tienen un efecto negativo en los sistemas de producción estudiados. Un coeficiente de protección efectiva (CPE) de 0.90 y 0.77 muestra una desprotección para los sistemas bajo naranjo y en malla sombra, en detrimento de su rentabilidad. El sistema de producción de vainilla bajo naranjo, con una relación de costo privado (RCP) de 0.79 y una relación de costo de los factores internos (RCR) de 0.26 calculado con base en precios económicos, mostró competitividad (rentabilidad privada) y eficiencia económica (ventaja comparativa) a diferencia del sistema de producción en malla sombra cuyos indicadores fueron 1.95 y - 0.24, lo cual indica que no es rentable, ni eficiente económicamente.

The production of vanilla (Vanilla planifolia J.) is an activity of economic and cultural importance in México; therefore the objective of this study was to evaluate the profitability and competitiveness of the vanilla production systems under orange trees and mesh shade in the region of Totonacapan Puebla-Veracruz, México, with the Policy Analysis Matrix (PAM). Productive-technical information required for each production system was obtained through 99 structured interviews with growers using simple random sampling with a reliability of 95 %. The analysis of the results suggests that the macroeconomic policy measures such as the overvaluation of the exchange rate and the high interest rate have a negative impact on the production systems studied. An effective protection coefficient (CPE) of 0.90 and 0.77 shows a lack of protection for the systems under orange trees and shade mesh at the expense of profitability. The vanilla production system under orange trees, with a private cost ratio (PCR) of 0.79 and a domestic resource cost ratio (DRC) of 0.26 calculated based on economic prices, showed competitiveness (private profitability) and economic efficiency (comparative advantage) as opposed to mesh shade production system whose indicators were 1.95 and -0.24, indicating it is not profitable, nor economically efficient.

Dolabelladienotriol is a product extracted from the brown marine alga Dictyota pfaffii from Brazil that has been shown to have antiviral activity and low cytotoxicity. Our studies have evaluated the acute toxicity of dolabelladienotriol in BALB/c mice for ten days after administration of a single dose. Among the parameters considered were behavior, weight, biochemical and histological analyses of blood samples taken at three different times (Bs.0, Bs.1 and Bs.2) and optical microscopic examination of organs like liver, kidney, stomach and small intestine. Mice deaths were not observed at any dose during the ten day period. There were some changes in the biochemical analysis results for urea nitrogen (BUN) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT), but the changes were not significantly different from the reference levels of the animals before administration of the substance. Histological analyses of tissues were very similar for all animals. The alterations in liver and kidney tissues did not affect the animals´ behavior at any concentration, not even at 50 mg/kg, where the most significant changes in tissues were seen. This study indicates that dolabelladienotriol has low toxicity in administered dose range.

Introducción: Anisakis simplex puede producir síntomas digestivos y alérgicos. En este trabajo se evalúan los antecedentes epidemiológicos y los resultados inmunológicos para diferenciar entre pacientes con anisakidosis y aquellos con otras patologías digestivas que cursan con dolor abdominal. Pacientes y método: estudio de cohortes realizado con 134 pacientes: 52 fueron diagnosticados de anisakidosis por los hallazgos quirúrgicos y anatomopatológicos y/o seroconversión específica frente a A. simplex (grupo A) y en 82 pacientes la anisakidosis fue excluida como diagnóstico (grupo NA: no-anisakidosis). Se han evaluado el antecedente de ingesta de pescado crudo, la prueba cutánea en prick (PC) y el inmunoblot IgE como elementos de diagnóstico. Resultados: los pacientes de los grupos A y NA mostraron resultados diferentes respecto a la de ingesta de pescado crudo (p < 0,0001) y la PC (p < 0,0001), con valores predictivos negativos (VPN) del 98,39 y 95,56% y positivos (VPP) del 70,83 y 87,50%, respectivamente. En el inmunoblot, se halló una banda de aproximadamente 60 kDa en el 86,2 y 19,2% de los pacientes del grupo A y NA, respectivamente (VPP: 62,50%; VPN: 94,03%). Conclusiones: en pacientes con dolor abdominal, la ingesta de pescado crudo o poco cocinado tiene elevada sensibilidad y VPN (98,39%) pero menor VPP (70,83%), por lo que nos ayuda principalmente a descartar la anisakidosis. La ausencia de sensibilización cutánea al extracto crudo de A. simplex apoya la ausencia de anisakidosis con una probabilidad alta (95,56%). La presencia de una banda de 60 kDa en el inmunoblot podría ser útil para su diagnóstico.

Introduction: Anisakis simplex can be a cause of digestive symptoms. Our aim was to evaluate the epidemiological antecedents and immunological data available for a differentiation between patients with anisakidosis and those with other acute abdominal problems. Patients and methods: this is a prospective cohort study involving 134 patients with acute abdominal problems: 52 patients were diagnosed with anisakidosis by means of surgical and pathological findings and/or specific IgE seroconversion against Anisakis simplex (group A), and in 82 patients anisakidosis had been ruled out (group NA: non-anisakidosis). We evaluated the antecedent of raw fish ingestion, the skin prick test, and IgE immunoblotting as diagnostic tools. Results: patients in groups A and NA differ in terms of prior raw fish ingestion (p < 0.0001) and positive SPT (p < 0.0001), with their respective negative predictive values (NPV) being 98.39% (95%CI: 90.17-99.92) and 95.56% (95%CI: 83.64-99.23). Regarding immunoblotting, in 86.2% of patients in group A a band of 60 kDa was detected, which was also detected in 19.2% of patients in group NA. Conclusions: a negative answer to the question about raw or undercooked fish ingestion has very high sensitivity and NPV (98.39%), and is thus reasonably reliable to rule out anisakidosis. The absence of cutaneous sensitization to crude A. simplex extract gives a high probability (95.56%) that the illness is absent. The presence of a band of about 60 kDa in immunoblotting would be useful for diagnosis.

OBJETIVO: Analisar o efeito do processo de estigmatização e discriminação no ambiente de trabalho sobre os cuidados cotidianos à saúde e o bem-estar de homens vivendo com HIV/Aids. MÉTODOS: Estudo qualitativo com 17 homens vivendo com HIV, realizado em 2002. Foram estudados os depoimentos em grupo para discutir as dificuldades sobre discriminação no ambiente de trabalho, utilizando análise das práticas discursivas. O grupo, proveniente de centro especializado em HIV/Aids da cidade de São Paulo, representou segmento de pesquisa anterior. RESULTADOS: O debate entre os participantes indicou que o tratamento anti-retroviral exige idas freqüentes aos serviços de assistência médica, que implicam em faltas ou atrasos no trabalho. A apresentação de atestados médicos para justificar ausência no trabalho, mesmo sem indicar Aids, pode resultar em demissão. Desempregados, muitos são barrados nos exames médicos e têm o direito ao sigilo de sua condição violado. Como último recurso, o pedido de aposentadoria implica em cenas de humilhação ou discriminação na perícia médica. CONCLUSÕES: A assistência planejada com o envolvimento dos pacientes consegue ampliar a atenção psicossocial e considerar as necessidades do paciente trabalhador ou desempregado, reconhecendo que o estigma limita o cuidado, afetando a saúde mental e a evolução da infecção. Mitigar o efeito do estigma e da discriminação requer articulação política intersetorial e contribuirá para atingir metas globalmente reconhecidas como fundamentais para o controle da epidemia.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the effect of the stigmatization and discrimination process in the work environment on the routine healthcare and well-being of men living with HIV/AIDS. METHODS: Qualitative study with 17 men living with HIV, conducted in 2002. Testimonies given in a group to discuss the difficulties concerning discrimination in the work environment were studied, by means of discursive practice analysis. The group, originating from a specialized center for HIV/AIDS treatment in the city of São Paulo, represented a segment of previous research. RESULTS: The discussion among participants pointed out the fact that antiretroviral treatment requires frequent visits to medical assistance services, resulting in absences and delays at work. To show medical certificates to justify absences at work, even without indicating AIDS, can lead to dismissal. Unemployed, many are barred during medical examinations and have their right to confidentiality violated. As a last resource, the request for retirement results in a humiliating or discriminatory scene during the medical inspection. CONCLUSIONS: Assistance planned with the patients' participation enables the broadening of psychosocial attention and the consideration of the needs of both employed and unemployed patients, acknowledging that the stigma limits care, affecting mental health and the evolution of infection. To reduce the effect of stigma and discrimination is something that requires intersectoral political articulation and will contribute to reach goals that are globally recognized as fundamental to control the epidemic.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the effect of the stigmatization and discrimination process in the work environment on the routine healthcare and well-being of men living with HIV/AIDS. METHODS: Qualitative study with 17 men living with HIV, conducted in 2002. Testimonies given in a group to discuss the difficulties concerning discrimination in the work environment were studied, by means of discursive practice analysis. The group, originating from a specialized center for HIV/AIDS treatment in the city of São Paulo, represented a segment of previous research. RESULTS: The discussion among participants pointed out the fact that antiretroviral treatment requires frequent visits to medical assistance services, resulting in absences and delays at work. To show medical certificates to justify absences at work, even without indicating AIDS, can lead to dismissal. Unemployed, many are barred during medical examinations and have their right to confidentiality violated. As a last resource, the request for retirement results in a humiliating or discriminatory scene during the medical inspection. CONCLUSIONS: Assistance planned with the patients' participation enables the broadening of psychosocial attention and the consideration of the needs of both employed and unemployed patients, acknowledging that the stigma limits care, affecting mental health and the evolution of infection. To reduce the effect of stigma and discrimination is something that requires intersectoral political articulation and will contribute to reach goals that are globally recognized as fundamental to control the epidemic.

OBJETIVO: Analisar o efeito do processo de estigmatização e discriminação no ambiente de trabalho sobre os cuidados cotidianos à saúde e o bem-estar de homens vivendo com HIV/Aids. MÉTODOS: Estudo qualitativo com 17 homens vivendo com HIV, realizado em 2002. Foram estudados os depoimentos em grupo para discutir as dificuldades sobre discriminação no ambiente de trabalho, utilizando análise das práticas discursivas. O grupo, proveniente de centro especializado em HIV/Aids da cidade de São Paulo, representou segmento de pesquisa anterior. RESULTADOS: O debate entre os participantes indicou que o tratamento anti-retroviral exige idas freqüentes aos serviços de assistência médica, que implicam em faltas ou atrasos no trabalho. A apresentação de atestados médicos para justificar ausência no trabalho, mesmo sem indicar Aids, pode resultar em demissão. Desempregados, muitos são barrados nos exames médicos e têm o direito ao sigilo de sua condição violado. Como último recurso, o pedido de aposentadoria implica em cenas de humilhação ou discriminação na perícia médica. CONCLUSÕES: A assistência planejada com o envolvimento dos pacientes consegue ampliar a atenção psicossocial e considerar as necessidades do paciente trabalhador ou desempregado, reconhecendo que o estigma limita o cuidado, afetando a saúde mental e a evolução da infecção. Mitigar o efeito do estigma e da discriminação requer articulação política intersetorial e contribuirá para atingir metas globalmente reconhecidas como fundamentais para o controle da epidemia.

Los avances en el conocimiento actual de la fisiopatología del Síndrome Doloroso Regional Complejo (SDRC), conducen a la búsqueda de nuevos fármacos dirigidos a los blancos moleculares que se involucran en sus complejos mecanismos. En la actualidad se considera el papel activo de la neuroinflamación en el fenómeno de hiperexcitabilidad del cuerno dorsal espinal y el establecimiento de la sensibilización central dentro de sus procesos subyacentes. El Extracto obtenido de la corteza de variedades seleccionadas de la especie Mangifera indica L. y que se comercializa en Cuba bajo la Marca Registrada VIMANG®, posee actividad antioxidante, antiinflamatoria y antihiperalgésica in vivo. Por otra parte estudios in vitro demostraron su efecto inhibidor sobre múltiples moléculas que participan en la cascada de la sensibilización central y en un modelo de isquemia-reperfusión sus cualidades neuroprotectoras. Presentamos el caso de una paciente con diagnóstico de SDRC tipo II, secundario a una lesión del plexo braquial, con sección del nervio radial a nivel humeral que fue provocada por el desplazamiento de la fractura del húmero izquierdo. La paciente llega a nuestro servicio a los 4 meses de evolución, con síntomas sensoriales, dolor persistente quemante y paroxístico, alodinia mecánica, edema, cambios vasomotores hacia la hiperhemia y mano en flexión por pérdida de la función motora de los músculos extensores del antebrazo. Con compromiso de la articulación del carpo y hombro de limitación severa y dolor de valor 5 en una escala numérica de Likert. El estudio de conducción nerviosa mostró alteraciones mielínico-axonales discretas del nervio mediano y mielínico-axonales severas del nervio radial. Se instauró el tratamiento con Vimang (300mg) 2 tabletas cada 8 horas por 4 meses y la aplicación local de la crema Vimang 3 veces al día, asociado a los bloqueos simpáticos y somáticos para miembro superior y a la fisioterapia. La evolución clínica y electrofisiológica fue muy favorable. Este caso constituye el primero descrito en la literatura, en el cual se introduce este producto a la terapia múltiple del síndrome, se deben dirigir los estudios básicos y clínicos en este sentido, dadas las posibilidades terapéuticas del Vimang® en el SDRC.

Advances in our understanding of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) physiopathology have led to new drugs targeted toward molecular mediators involved in the complex mechanisms of pain. Neuroinflammation is thought to have an active role in phenomena underlying spinal cord dorsal horn hyperexcitability and the establishment of central sensitivity. An extract from the bark of selected Mangifera indica L species, registered under the Vimang® Trade Mark in Cuba, has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antihyperanalgesic activity in vivo. In Vitro studies have demonstrated that it has an inhibitory effect on several molecules mediating the central sensitization cascade and an ischemic-reperfusion model has proved its cerebral neuroprotective qualities. We present a patient with type II CRPS secondary to a brachial plexus lesión following a displaced left humerus fracture that sectioned the radius nerve. The patient presented in our pain clinic four months after the accident with sensorial symptoms, persistent burning pain mechanical allodynia, oedema, vasomotor alterations tending to hyperhaemia and a flexed hand due to loss of the motor function in the fore arm extensors. Carpal and shoulder Joint movement was severely limited and she scored 5 on the Likert pain scale. Electrophysiological study revealed mild myelin-axonal alterations in the median nerve and severe alterations in the radial nerve. Treatment with Vimang (300 mg; 2 tablets/8 hours/4 months) with topical administration of Vimang cream 3 times per day combined with sympathetic and somatic nerve blocks in the upper limb and physiotherapy were begun. The patient's clinical and electrophysiological evolution was very favourable. This is the first description of the use of this product in combined CRPS therapy. Our results indicate that further basic and clinical research into the use of Vimang® for CRPS is Justified.

Introduction: Complex Regional Pain Syndrome type 1 (CRPS-I) starts with an acute phase of regional neurogenic inflammation that leads to a chronic phase of neuropathic disorders. The involvement of the sympathetic nervous system in its genesis and maintenance is significant, but not exclusive. Consequently, an early and multi-factorial treatment aimed to physiopathological mechanisms is important. Objectives: To study the use of sympathetic blockade associated to other therapies and drugs for the management of CRPS-I. Material and methods: Sixty eight patients with CRPS-1 attending a Pain Clinic were studied. All of them underwent blockade of the sympathetic cervical and lumbar chain of nodes, depending on the location of the problem. All patients received also hydromassages at home. Co-adjuvant drugs were administered for the management of neuropathic, paroxysmal and burning persistent pain. In patients with bone consolidation disorders, local laser-therapy was applied. In patients with greater functional limitations, TENS and Physiatry techniques were used. A visual analogue scale was used (VAS) to assess the degree of analgesia and a physical examination was conducted to assess autonomic disorders. Joint function was assessed using the scale of Enneking and cols. for patients with amputation, modified by us. Results: Pain was controlled in 33 patients and 28 reduced their VAS score to tolerable pain levels, with a therapeutic effectiveness of 89,70%. Joint function was recovered in 30 patients, with a slight limitation remaining in 20. These two groups that achieved a better response represented 73.52% of all patients. A moderate limitation remained in 11 patients and a severe limitation remained in 7 patients, or 10,29%. Vasomotor disorders disappeared in all the patients with a favorable response. Conclusions: The degree of analgesia and control of autonomic symptoms were satisfactory in most patients. They recovered the joint function and, hence, improved their quality of life. The method was useful for the management of patients with CRPS-1, in combination with other therapies.

Introducción: El síndrome doloroso regional complejo tipo 1 (SDRC-I) cursa con una fase aguda de inflamación neurogénica regional, que conduce a una fase crónica de desórdenes neuropáticos. La participación del sistema nervioso simpático en su génesis y mantenimiento es significativa, pero no exclusiva. De ahí la importancia de un tratamiento precoz y multifactorial, dirigido a los mecanismos fisiopatológicos. Objetivos: Estudiar el uso de los bloqueos simpáticos, asociados a otros procederes y fármacos en su tratamiento. Material y métodos: Se estudiaron 68 pacientes portadores de SDRC-I que acudieron a la Clínica del Dolor, a los que se realizó bloqueo de la cadena simpática ganglionar cervical y lumbar según la localización de la entidad. Todos los pacientes asociaron el hidromasaje en el hogar. Se administraron fármacos coadyuvantes para el control del dolor neuropático, paroxístico y persistente quemante. En los casos con trastornos de la consolidación ósea, se aplicó laserterapia local y TENS en los que presentaban mayor limitación funcional; así como técnicas de fisiatría. Se aplicó la escala análoga visual (EAV) para evaluar la intensidad de la analgesia y se realizó examen físico para la valoración de los trastornos autonómicos. La función articular se consideró mediante la escala de Enneking y cols. para pacientes amputados, modificada por nosotros. Resultados: El dolor se controló en 33 pacientes y 28 descendieron su EAV a niveles álgicos tolerables, para un 89,70% de efectividad terapéutica. La función articular se recuperó en 30 pacientes y 20 quedaron con limitación leve, estos dos grupos con mejor respuesta correspondieron al 73,52% del total de los pacientes, 11 quedaron con limitación moderada y sólo 7, el 10,29% de ellos con limitación severa. Los trastornos vasomotores remitieron en la totalidad de los que presentaron respuesta favorable. Conclusiones: La intensidad de la analgesia y el control de la sintomatología autonómica fue satisfactoria en la mayoría de los pacientes. La función articular fue recuperada en los mismos, por lo que mejoró su calidad de vida. El método se comportó como útil en el tratamiento de los pacientes con SDRC-I estudiados, asociado a otras terapias.

Foi estudada a retenção de cromo (III) de águas residuais por meio de Al-bentonitas modificadas. Foi usada uma bentonita da província de San Juan, Argentina. As bentonitas-Al forma preparadas colocando-as em contato com soluções (0,10 M Al) hydrolizadas de OH-Al durante 24 horas. As bentonitas-Al modidicadas foram obtidas por meio de: a) tratamento com cloreto de sódio 0,5 M; b) com cloreto de sódio 0,5 M sodium com pH ajustado para 8; e c) tratamento com uma solução de hexametafosfato após a adição de sódio. As amostras foram então secas a 100 °C e aquecidas a 500 °C. A retenção do cromo (III) pelas amostras foi feita em lotes colocando o material em contato em diferentes tempos com um resíduo contendo 2000 ppm de cromo. O cromo retido foi caracterizado por meio de análise do sobrenadante usando espectroscopia UV-visível. As diferentes retenções de cromo foram correlacionadas com características estruturais dos sólidos.

Retention of chromium (III) from a tanning wastewater by modified Al-bentonites was studied. One bentonite from San Juan province, Argentina, was used. Al-bentonite was prepared by contact of bentonite with hydrolyzed OH-Al solutions (0.10 M in Al) for 24 hours. The modified Al-bentonites were obtained by: a) treatment with 0.5 M sodium chloride; b) with 0.5 M sodium chloride adjusted at pH 8; and c) treatment with an hexametaphosphate solution after sodium addition. Then, the samples were dried at 100 °C and heated at 500 °C. The chromium (III) retention by samples was carried out in batch system putting in contact the material with a 2000 ppm Cr tannery waste at different times. The retained chromium was characterized by analyzing the supernatant using UV-visible spectroscopy. The different chromium retention was correlated with structural characteristics of the solids.

Foram encontradas mudanças reológicas em suspensões de esmectitas (montmorillonitas tipos Wyoming e Cheto) após modificações estruturais. Foi examinado o efeito do tamanho de partícula e troca de Na+ nas curvas de escoamento de suspensões de esmectitas 6% peso com e sem Na2CO3. As características mineralógicas, estructurais e físico-químicas foram estudadas por difração de raios X (DRX), espectroscopia no infravermelho (IV), capacidade de troca catiônica (CTC), determinações de Mg2+ e Al3+, de distribuição de tamanho de partículas e de índice de expansão (swelling index - SI). Moagem em moinho oscilatório modificou o tamanho das partículas. O tamanho de grão da montmorillonita e a desordem estrutural aumentaram após maiores tempos de moagem. O tratamento por moagem modificou a viscosidade aparente e o limite de escoamento das suspensões de montmorillonita. A montmorillonita homoiônica de Na do tipo Cheto com pequeno tamanho de partícula (obtido por moagem) melhorou as propriedades de escoamento. Entretanto, as propriedades reológicas foram piores que as de suspensões de montmorillonita do tipo Wyoming. Os diferentes tipos de montmorillonitas reagiram de modo diferente com adições de Na2CO3 e este comportamento pode estar relacionado com suas composições estruturais. A ativação por Na2CO3 melhorou as propriedades de escoamento da montmorillonita tipo Wyoming original após moagem por 30 s.

Rheological changes were found in smectite (Wyoming- and Cheto-type montmorillonites) suspensions after structural modifications. The effect of the particle size and Na+ exchange on the flow curves of 6% wt/wt suspensions of smectites with and without Na2CO3 were examined. Mineralogical, structural and physicochemical characteristics were studied by X-ray diffraction (XRD), infrared spectroscopy (IR), cationic exchange capacity (CEC), Mg2+, Al3+ determinations, particle size distribution and swelling index (SI). Grinding in an oscillating mill modified the particle sizes. The montmorillonite grain size and the structural disorder increased after larger grinding times. The grinding treatment modified the apparent viscosity and the yield stress of the montmorillonite suspensions. The homoionic Na Cheto-type montmorillonite with fine particle size (obtained by grinding) increased the flow properties. Nevertheless, rheological properties were lower than those of suspensions of the Wyoming-type montmorillonite. Montmorillonite-types reacted differently with Na2CO3 additions and this behavior may be related to their structural composition. The Na2CO3 activation improved the flow properties of the original Wyoming-type montmorillonite and after 30 s grinding.

A influência do pH e dos aditivos de sinterização Y2O3 e Al2O3 na viscosidade e na quantidade de íons tetrametilamônio adsorvidos foi determinada a fim de se obter dispersões aquosas concentradas de Si3N4 para colagem por barbotina. Foram preparadas em moinho atritor dispersões aquosas (35 vol%) de Si3N4 e Si3N4 -6 peso% Y2O3 -4 peso% Al2O3. Hidróxido de tetrametilamônio foi adicionado para ajuste dos valores de pH na faixa 9,7-12,3. A viscosidade das dispersões de Si3N4 e a quantidade de íons [(CH3)4N]+ em solução aumenta com o aumento de pH. Esses contra-íons contribuíram principalmente para aumentar a ionicidade da solução com o aumento da viscosidade da dispersão. Os pós aditivos de sinterização tiveram um efeito positivo na dispersão do pó de Si3N4 para valores de pH 10,3-12,3 porque baixos valores de viscosidade puderam ser obtidos. Esse resultado foi atribuído à menor concentração de contra-íons em solução.

In order to obtain well dispersed concentrated aqueous Si3N4 slips for slip casting, the influence of pH and sintering aid powders (Y2O3 and Al2O3) on the viscosity and on the amount of tetramethylammonium ions adsorbed were determined. 35 vol% aqueous Si3N4 and Si3N4-6wt%Y2O3-4wt% Al2O3 slips were prepared in an attrition mill. Tetramethylammonium hydroxide was added to adjust the pH values in a range of 9.7 to 12.3. The viscosity of Si3N4 slips and the amount of [(CH3)4N]+ ions in solution increased with increasing pH. These counterions contributed mainly to increase the ionic strength of the solution with increasing the slip viscosity. The sintering aid powders had a positive effect on the dispersion of the Si3N4 powder at pH 10.3-12.3 since low viscosity values could be obtained. This was attributed to the lower concentration of counterions in solution.