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First record of Dendropspophus frosti (Amphibia, Anura, Hylidae) in Brazil, with comments on its reproductive behaviour

Introduction: Acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) lead to a decline not only in the patient’s lung function but also in other important health domains, such as functional status. Functional status includes functional capacity and functional performance. Functional capacity refers to one’s maximal potential to realize a functional activity in a standardized environment. Functional performance refers to the activities people actually do during their daily life. Pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) is fundamental for COPD management, however, its effectiveness in improving the functional status (capacity and performance) during and after AECOPD is less known. Objectives: To systematize the effects of PR in the functional status (capacity and performance) during or immediately after an AECOPD. Methods: This systematic review was registered (no. CRD42022298593). Systematic searches for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing PR (with, at least, exercise training and education and/or psychosocial support) with usual care in people during and/or after AECOPD were conducted in PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science Core Collection. Two independent reviewers assessed the titles, abstracts and full text of studies, extracted data and assessed the risk of bias with the Risk of Bias 2 tool. Mean and standardized differences (MD/SMD) were calculated to synthesize results. A statistical random effects model was applied in the meta-analysis. Results: Eight studies were included. The total number of participants was 533, with an age range of 58-74 years and an FEV1%predicted of 35-56%pred. PR was conducted in inpatient (n = 3), outpatient (n = 4) and inpatient/outpatient (n = 1) settings with varying durations and frequencies. Functional capacity was assessed with six measures, the six-minute walk test (6MWT) (n = 3), incremental shuttle walk test (ISWT) (n = 2), the 2-minute walk test (2MWT) (n = 1), 5-repetition sit-to-stand test (5 STS) (n = 1), 30-second sit-to-stand test (30sec STS) (n = 1), and timed up and go (TUG) (n = 1). Functional performance was assessed with four measures, the functional independence measure (FIM) (n = 1), london chest activity of daily living (LCADL) (n = 1), activity of daily living dyspnoea (ADL-D) (n = 1) and stepwatch activity monitor (steps/day) (n = 1). Significant improvements were observed in functional capacity, measured with the 6MWT (n = 159, MD 91.5, 95%CI [23.5; 159.5], p = 0.008) after outpatient and in TUG (n = 32, MD -2.2, 95%CI [-3.9; -0.5], p = 0.009) after inpatient PR in the EG compared to CG. Functional performance, measured with the ADL-D and the LCADL (n = 160, SMD 1.0, 95%CI [0.8; 1.2], p < 0.0001), as well as with the FIM (n = 44, MD 7.5, 95%CI [2.1; 12.8], p = 0.006), improved significantly after inpatient PR in comparison to usual care. No other significant between-group differences were observed for functional capacity or performance. Conclusions: Pulmonary rehabilitation improves functional status during or immediately after an AECOPD. Nevertheless, few studies with small samples and high heterogeneity of outcome measures and interventions exist, which hinders conclusions. Functional performance is less assessed than functional capacity. Inclusion of both is fundamental to tailor PR in AECOPD and ensure benefits translate not just to what people can, but also do in their daily life. published

Water scarcity is the most significant factor limiting coffee production, although some cultivars can still have important drought tolerance. This study analyzed leaf transcriptomes of two coffee cultivars with contrasting physiological responses, Coffea canephora cv. CL153 and Coffea. arabica cv. Icatu, subjected to moderate (MWD) or severe water deficits (SWD). We found that MWD had a low impact compared with SWD, where 10% of all genes in Icatu and 17% in CL153 reacted to drought, being mainly down‐regulated upon stress. Drought triggered a genotype‐specific response involving the up‐regulation of reticuline oxidase genes in CL153 and heat shock proteins in Icatu. Responsiveness to drought also included desiccation protectant genes, but primarily, aspartic proteases, especially in CL153. A total of 83 Transcription Factors were found engaged in response to drought, mainly up‐regulated, especially under SWD. Together with the enrollment of 49 phosphatases and 272 protein kinases, results suggest the involvement of ABA‐signaling processes in drought acclimation. The integration of these findings with complementing physiological and biochemical studies reveals that both genotypes are more resilient to moderate drought than previously thought and suggests the existence of post‐transcriptional mechanisms modulating the response to drought.

Background: The incidence of gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms (GEP-NENs) has been increasing in the last five decades, but there is no large-scale data regarding these tumours in Portugal. We conducted a cross-sectional, multicentric study in main Portuguese centers to evaluate the clinical, pathological, and therapeutic profile of GEP-NENs. Methods: From November, 2012, to July, 2014, data from 293 patients diagnosed with GEP-NENs from 15 centers in Portugal was collected and registered in an online electronic platform. Results: Median age at diagnosis was 56.5 (range: 15-87) years with a preponderance of females (54.6%). The most frequent primary sites were the pancreas (31.1%), jejunum-ileum (24.2%), stomach (13.7%), and rectum (8.5%). Data regarding hormonal status was not available in most patients (82.3%). Stratified by the tumour grade (WHO 2010 classification), we observed 64.0% of NET G1, 24.7% of NET G2, and 11.3% of NEC. Poorly differentiated tumours occurred mainly in older patients (p = 0.017), were larger (p < 0.001), and presented more vascular (p = 0.004) and lymphatic (p = 0.001) invasion. At the time of diagnosis, 44.4% of GEP-NENs presented metastatic disease. Surgery (79.6%) and somatostatin analogues (30.7%) were the most frequently used therapies of GEP-NENs with reported grading. Conclusion: In general, Portuguese patients with GEP-NENs presented similar characteristics to other populations described in the literature. This cross-sectional study represents the first step to establish a national database of GEP-NENs that may aid in understanding the clinical and epidemiological features of these tumours in Portugal. Methods: From November, 2012, to July, 2014, data from 293 patients diagnosed with GEP-NENs from 15 centers in Portugal was collected and registered in an online electronic platform. Results: Median age at diagnosis was 56.5 (range: 15-87) years with a preponderance of females (54.6%). The most frequent primary sites were the pancreas (31.1%), jejunum-ileum (24.2%), stomach (13.7%), and rectum (8.5%). Data regarding hormonal status was not available in most patients (82.3%). Stratified by the tumour grade (WHO 2010 classification), we observed 64.0% of NET G1, 24.7% of NET G2, and 11.3% of NEC. Poorly differentiated tumours occurred mainly in older patients (p = 0.017), were larger (p < 0.001), and presented more vascular (p = 0.004) and lymphatic (p = 0.001) invasion. At the time of diagnosis, 44.4% of GEP-NENs presented metastatic disease. Surgery (79.6%) and somatostatin analogues (30.7%) were the most frequently used therapies of GEP-NENs with reported grading. Conclusion: In general, Portuguese patients with GEP-NENs presented similar characteristics to other populations described in the literature. This cross-sectional study represents the first step to establish a national database of GEP-NENs that may aid in understanding the clinical and epidemiological features of these tumours in Portugal. This study was industry-sponsored by the pharmaceutical company Ipsen Portugal. João Vinagre (CEECIND/00201/2017) and Paula Soares receive funding from the Operational Program for Competitiveness and Internationalization (POCI), Portugal 2020; Portuguese funds through FCT (Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia)/Ministério da Ciência, Tecnologia e Inovação in the framework of the project “Institute for Research and Innovation in Health Sciences” (POCI-01-0145-FEDER-007274) and the project “Advancing Cancer Research: From Basic Knowledge to Application” (NORTE-01-0145-FEDER-000029); and “Projetos Estruturados de I&D&I,” funded by Norte 2020—Programa Operacional Regional do Norte. Further funding was from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) through the Operational Program for Competitiveness and Internationalization (COMPETE 2020) and Portuguese national funds via FCT (Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia), under the project “POCI-01-0145-FEDER-016390: CANCEL STEM.” Maria João Bugalho and João Vinagre were funded by the Sociedade Portuguesa de Endocrinologia, Diabetes e Metabolismo through the Study Group for Neuroendocrine Tumours. info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersion

The second law of thermodynamics, through exergy analysis, is commonly applied to quantify process inefficiencies in metallurgical reactors, however, it is not yet being used to understand physical processes and changes in particle-based systems. Correlating the state of mixing of particle texture and homogeneous liquid mixtures is of importance. This paper applies the exergy analysis and excess entropy method to two sets of experiments highlighting the differential breakage as microwave pre-treatment is applied to a gold-copper ore. Grinding kinetic properties were measured following the top-size fraction method and calculated using the population balance model. The approach combines the mixing entropy on the system level (streams) and the entropy for multicomponent particle systems, using automated mineralogy data to quantify the effects of intergrowth and improvements in grinding performance. This is a first step towards understanding mineral processing not only in terms of energy conservation (first law of thermodynamics) but also in terms of the quality of energy available at multicomponent systems (second law of thermodynamics). When applied to comminution processes, this methodology enables us to understand the change in particle composition (its degree of liberation) as well as changes in particle size, being an important measure of process efficiency and selectivity.

PURPOSE As cancer surgery restarts after the first COVID-19 wave, health care providers urgently require data to determine where elective surgery is best performed. This study aimed to determine whether COVID-19–free surgical pathways were associated with lower postoperative pulmonary complication rates compared with hospitals with no defined pathway. PATIENTS AND METHODS This international, multicenter cohort study included patients who underwent elective surgery for 10 solid cancer types without preoperative suspicion of SARS-CoV-2. Participating hospitals included patients from local emergence of SARS-CoV-2 until April 19, 2020. At the time of surgery, hospitals were defined as having a COVID-19–free surgical pathway (complete segregation of the operating theater, critical care, and inpatient ward areas) or no defined pathway (incomplete or no segregation, areas shared with patients with COVID-19). The primary outcome was 30-day postoperative pulmonary complications (pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome, unexpected ventilation). RESULTS Of 9,171 patients from 447 hospitals in 55 countries, 2,481 were operated on in COVID-19–free surgical pathways. Patients who underwent surgery within COVID-19–free surgical pathways were younger with fewer comorbidities than those in hospitals with no defined pathway but with similar proportions of major surgery. After adjustment, pulmonary complication rates were lower with COVID-19–free surgical pathways (2.2% v 4.9%; adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 0.62; 95% CI, 0.44 to 0.86). This was consistent in sensitivity analyses for low-risk patients (American Society of Anesthesiologists grade 1/2), propensity score–matched models, and patients with negative SARS-CoV-2 preoperative tests. The postoperative SARS-CoV-2 infection rate was also lower in COVID-19–free surgical pathways (2.1% v 3.6%; aOR, 0.53; 95% CI, 0.36 to 0.76). CONCLUSION Within available resources, dedicated COVID-19–free surgical pathways should be established to provide safe elective cancer surgery during current and before future SARS-CoV-2 outbreaks.

Metallurgical simulation and evaluation of the resource efficiency of whole production processes are of key importance for a sound environmental impact assessment. An exergy dissipation analysis is suitable for quantifying the theoretical limits for a process and pinpoint hotspots for improvement along the value chain. The production of NdFeB permanent magnets is evaluated through a simulation-based life cycle assessment and exergetic analysis, comprising 107 unit operations, 361 flows and 209 compounds. This methodology highlights areas with the greatest potential for improvements in terms of technology and environmental impact, shedding light on the true resource efficiency and minimum exergy dissipation for the production of permanent magnets, present in several low-carbon technologies. A maximum exergy efficiency of 60.7% shows that there is a limit for sustainability, which can be improved by technological improvements and recovery of waste streams, showing the inconvenient truth that the resource efficiency will never reach 100%.

Background: Survival outcomes are poor for patients with metastatic urothelial carcinoma who receive standard, first-line, platinum-based chemotherapy. We assessed the overall survival of patients who received durvalumab (a PD-L1 inhibitor), with or without tremelimumab (a CTLA-4 inhibitor), as a first-line treatment for metastatic urothelial carcinoma. Methods: DANUBE is an open-label, randomised, controlled, phase 3 trial in patients with untreated, unresectable, locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma, conducted at 224 academic research centres, hospitals, and oncology clinics in 23 countries. Eligible patients were aged 18 years or older with an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status of 0 or 1. We randomly assigned patients (1:1:1) to receive durvalumab monotherapy (1500 mg) administered intravenously every 4 weeks; durvalumab (1500 mg) plus tremelimumab (75 mg) administered intravenously every 4 weeks for up to four doses, followed by durvalumab maintenance (1500 mg) every 4 weeks; or standard-of-care chemotherapy (gemcitabine plus cisplatin or gemcitabine plus carboplatin, depending on cisplatin eligibility) administered intravenously for up to six cycles. Randomisation was done through an interactive voice–web response system, with stratification by cisplatin eligibility, PD-L1 status, and presence or absence of liver metastases, lung metastases, or both. The coprimary endpoints were overall survival compared between the durvalumab monotherapy versus chemotherapy groups in the population of patients with high PD-L1 expression (the high PD-L1 population) and between the durvalumab plus tremelimumab versus chemotherapy groups in the intention-to-treat population (all randomly assigned patients). The study has completed enrolment and the final analysis of overall survival is reported. The trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02516241, and the EU Clinical Trials Register, EudraCT number 2015-001633-24. Findings: Between Nov 24, 2015, and March 21, 2017, we randomly assigned 1032 patients to receive durvalumab (n=346), durvalumab plus tremelimumab (n=342), or chemotherapy (n=344). At data cutoff (Jan 27, 2020), median follow-up for survival was 41·2 months (IQR 37·9–43·2) for all patients. In the high PD-L1 population, median overall survival was 14·4 months (95% CI 10·4–17·3) in the durvalumab monotherapy group (n=209) versus 12·1 months (10·4–15·0) in the chemotherapy group (n=207; hazard ratio 0·89, 95% CI 0·71–1·11; p=0·30). In the intention-to-treat population, median overall survival was 15·1 months (13·1–18·0) in the durvalumab plus tremelimumab group versus 12·1 months (10·9–14·0) in the chemotherapy group (0·85, 95% CI 0·72–1·02; p=0·075). In the safety population, grade 3 or 4 treatment-related adverse events occurred in 47 (14%) of 345 patients in the durvalumab group, 93 (27%) of 340 patients in the durvalumab plus tremelimumab group, and in 188 (60%) of 313 patients in the chemotherapy group. The most common grade 3 or 4 treatment-related adverse event was increased lipase in the durvalumab group (seven [2%] of 345 patients) and in the durvalumab plus tremelimumab group (16 [5%] of 340 patients), and neutropenia in the chemotherapy group (66 [21%] of 313 patients). Serious treatment-related adverse events occurred in 30 (9%) of 345 patients in the durvalumab group, 78 (23%) of 340 patients in the durvalumab plus tremelimumab group, and 50 (16%) of 313 patients in the chemotherapy group. Deaths due to study drug toxicity were reported in two (1%) patients in the durvalumab group (acute hepatic failure and hepatitis), two (1%) patients in the durvalumab plus tremelimumab group (septic shock and pneumonitis), and one (

Datasource from two sets of grinding experiments: - from top size fraction -1600µm+1250µm - from top size fraction -425µm+315µm

The incidence of gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms (GEP-NENs) has been increasing in the last five decades, but there is no large-scale data regarding these tumours in Portugal. We conducted a cross-sectional, multicentric study in main Portuguese centers to evaluate the clinical, pathological, and therapeutic profile of GEP-NENs.From November, 2012, to July, 2014, data from 293 patients diagnosed with GEP-NENs from 15 centers in Portugal was collected and registered in an online electronic platform.Median age at diagnosis was 56.5 (range: 15-87) years with a preponderance of females (54.6%). The most frequent primary sites were the pancreas (31.1%), jejunum-ileum (24.2%), stomach (13.7%), and rectum (8.5%). Data regarding hormonal status was not available in most patients (82.3%). Stratified by the tumour grade (WHO 2010 classification), we observed 64.0% of NET G1, 24.7% of NET G2, and 11.3% of NEC. Poorly differentiated tumours occurred mainly in older patients (In general, Portuguese patients with GEP-NENs presented similar characteristics to other populations described in the literature. This cross-sectional study represents the first step to establish a national database of GEP-NENs that may aid in understanding the clinical and epidemiological features of these tumours in Portugal.

This file contains an HSC model for NdFeB permanent magnet production, from ore processing to magnet production and two possible recycling routes. Data to build the model is found in key literature studies and from internal project data obtained by the various partners in four work packages (rare earth oxide separation, reduction and purification, alloy design, and powder magnet production). The model was used to perform a resource efficiency, including exergy, and environmental impact (LCA) evaluation of the life cycle of a NdFeB permanent magnet produced from primary and secondary resources. This work has been submitted to JOM, in its special edition “Thermodynamic modeling of sustainable non-ferrous metals production” and has been accepted for publication with a digital object identifier (DOI): https://doi.org/10.1007/s11837-020-04185-6. Detailed information about the literature sources used for developing the model can be found in the original research paper. The model was built using HSC Chemistry version 9.9 (https://www.outotec.com/products-and-services/technologies/digital-solutions/hsc-chemistry/).

O bem-estar animal nos matadouros é um tema recente na legislação europeia (Regulamento (CE) N.º 1099/2009 do Conselho de 24 de Setembro) e ainda pouco observado a nível nacional, no que diz respeito aos ruminantes. Sabe-se hoje, que as condições de bem-estar animal não são apenas uma questão de moral, mas que têm uma influência significativa na qualidade da carne. Além disso, os consumidores estão cada vez mais sensíveis às questões de bem-estar animal e segurança alimentar, valorizando novas formas de produção que respeitem os animais, exigindo dos produtores a atualização dos seus métodos de trabalho e adaptação à legislação em vigor. Para a realização do presente trabalho, desenvolvido no matadouro da SAPJU CARNES, S.A. em Beja, foram realizadas monitorizações diárias, com observação e registo nas linhas de abate de bovinos e ovinos/caprinos, com o intuito de verificar o cumprimento dos procedimentos de bem-estar animal no maneio pré-abate, implementados à luz do Regulamento (CE) N.º 1099/2009. A sangria foi o indicador que obteve maior taxa de cumprimento, o que demonstra que o operador é experiente na execução da tarefa e procede de forma exemplar nas diferentes espécies animais. Com base nos resultados obtidos, de um modo geral, é possível concluir que apesar de todos os esforços desenvolvidos pelo responsável do bem-estar animal do matadouro, não se consegue ainda atingir o total cumprimento dos procedimentos implementados. Os colaboradores encontram-se ainda em fase de adaptação aos novos procedimentos e em fase de formação que é ministrada no local de trabalho com aquisição de novos métodos e respectiva prática. Estamos perante um trabalho que exige um esforço da equipa da SAPJU Carnes, S. A. no cumprimento das exigências legais., Revista de Ciências Agrárias, vol. 40 n.º spe (2017)

Animal welfare in the slaughterhouses is a recent issue in European legislation (Reg. (CE) N. 1099/2009 of Council 24thSeptember) and still with low mien at national level, mainly in respect to ruminants. Nowadays it’s known that animal welfare is not only a moral question, but also that have a significant influence in meat quality. Further, consumers are more sensitive to issues concerning animal welfare and food safety, valorizing new ways of production that respect animals, demanding to the producer an update to his working methods and adaptation to the legislation. To accomplish the present work, developed in SAPJU CARNES, S.A. slaughterhouse, in Beja, daily monitoring was carried out, with observation and registration of the bovines, ovines and goats pre-slaughter processing, with the goal to verify the compliance of animal welfare procedure’s along pre-slaughtering, which were implemented by the legislation Reg. (CE) N. 1099/2009. The bleeding was the indicator that obtained higher rate of compliance, showing that the operator is skilled in executing the task, and proceeds in an exemplar mode in all different species. Thus regarding the results obtained, in general terms, it’s possible to conclude that besides all the developed efforts by the animal welfare responsible of the slaughterhouse, it’s still not possible to achieve the total commitments in the implemented procedures. Collaborators are still in the adaptation step to the new procedures and in the training stage which is given at the workplace with the acquisition of new methods and respective practice. This assignment demands an effort from SAPJU CARNES S.A. team to be in compliance with legal requirements., O bem-estar animal nos matadouros é um tema recente na legislação europeia (Regulamento (CE) N.º 1099/2009 do Conselho de 24 de Setembro) e ainda pouco observado a nível nacional, no que diz respeito aos ruminantes. Sabe-se hoje, que as condições de bem-estar animal não são apenas uma questão de moral, mas que têm uma influência significativa na qualidade da carne. Além disso, os consumidores estão cada vez mais sensíveis às questões de bem-estar animal e segurança alimentar, valorizando novas formas de produção que respeitem os animais, exigindo dos produtores a atualização dos seus métodos de trabalho e adaptação à legislação em vigor. Para a realização do presente trabalho, desenvolvido no matadouro da SAPJU CARNES, S.A. em Beja, foram realizadas monitorizações diárias, com observação e registo nas linhas de abate de bovinos e ovinos/caprinos, com o intuito de verificar o cumprimento dos procedimentos de bem-estar animal no maneio pré-abate, implementados à luz do Regulamento (CE) N.º 1099/2009. A sangria foi o indicador que obteve maior taxa de cumprimento, o que demonstra que o operador é experiente na execução da tarefa e procede de forma exemplar nas diferentes espécies animais. Com base nos resultados obtidos, de um modo geral, é possível concluir que apesar de todos os esforços desenvolvidos pelo responsável do bem-estar animal do matadouro, não se consegue ainda atingir o total cumprimento dos procedimentos implementados. Os colaboradores encontram-se ainda em fase de adaptação aos novos procedimentos e em fase de formação que é ministrada no local de trabalho com aquisição de novos métodos e respectiva prática. Estamos perante um trabalho que exige um esforço da equipa da SAPJU Carnes, S. A. no cumprimento das exigências legais.

The present study aims to investigate possibilities for improving the recovery of pyrochlore ((Na, Ca)₂Nb₂O₆) and monazite ((Ce, La, Th, Sm)PO4) as by-products from a phosphate mine with current niobium (Nb) production from geometallurgical perspectives. With this purpose, process mineralogy of Nb- and REE-bearing minerals together with operating properties of the concentration plant are examined using respectively mineral liberation analyzer (MLA) and the HSC® Chemistry 9 simulation module. A plant-site sampling campaign was performed and key operating parameters such as throughputs and pulp densities for individual streams were measured. The results obtained by MLA analyses as the base of mineral mass balances were compared and validated by commonly used chemical characterization techniques i.e. X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF) and inductively coupled plasma–optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES). Simulation results showed that the combination of Nb flotation rougher and scavenger cells into one single rougher bank plus the addition of a new scavenger bank (4x1.4 m³ cells) can increase pyrochlore recovery in the silica/niobium flotation circuit from approximately 31% to 44%. This cell configuration improves the ultimate pyrochlore’s plant recovery from 27% to 38% leading to a substantial enhancement in final concentrate throughput from 540 to 740 kg/h. Future studies on this topic include the use of wet high intensity magnetic separation (WHIMS) and froth flotation respectively for the pre-concentration and concentration of monazite.

For a long time, the mining and minerals processing communities have developed process models based on the bulk chemical compositions of ores and processing products. Recently, the emergence of the geometallurgy field and the advent of new characterization techniques have shifted the focus to mineralogical composition and certain particle-based properties (e.g. mineral liberation). Automated mineralogy systems based on scanning electron microscope platforms, such as the Mineral Liberation Analyzer or TIMA-X, were essential for this advance. They are capable of producing large data sets with detailed information on the sizes, shapes and compositions of individual ore particles in a sample. Methodologies that use this particle-based information to model the outcomes of a specific processing unit or an entire operation are summarized as “particle tracking”. This is a useful diagnostic technique for mineral separation processes. However, limitations in the statistical methods applied in existing approaches mean that users are required to summarize considerably the information contained in the particle datasets by pre-selecting explanatory variables (expert input) and binning particles. This means that a distinct recipe, including specific assumptions, is required for each new case. It also makes the resultant models liable to human bias. This work describes a new method for particle tracking that combines automated mineralogy data with machine learning to automate the variable selection process and eliminate the need for particle binning. In doing so, it maximizes the utilization of detailed particle data, minimizes the effects of human input, and provides the flexibility to assess different cases with minimal prior adjustments. Its utility is demonstrated using data from both a flotation and a magnetic separation units of an operating niobium mine. In both cases, the method is able to accurately predict the mineralogical compositions of the concentrate and tailings streams. It clearly has the potential to be extended as a diagnostic tool for the optimization and operation of processing plants.

Introdução: A pitíríase liquenóide (PL) é uma dermatose pouco comum e apresenta duas variantes major: a pitiríase liquenóide e varioliforme aguda (PLEVA) e a pitiríase líquenóide crónica (PLC). A sua classificação baseia-se essencialmente nas características clínicas e histológicas. Caso Clínico: Uma criança do sexo masculino, com seis anos de idade, foi referenciada à Consulta de Dermatologia Pediátrica com história de uma erupção cutânea generalizada recorrente, com seis meses de evolução, compatível com o diagnóstico de PLC, corroborado pelo resultado histológico. Discussão: Na PLC, as lesões cutâneas típicas são geralmente assintomáticas e consistem em pápulas eritematosas, com descamação micácea central, facilmente destacável, revelando uma superfície brilhante (liquenóide). Geralmente, tem uma resolução espontânea, após um longo período de remissões e recorrências. As opções terapêuticas incluem a corticoterapia tópica ou sistémica, eritromicina oral, helioterapia, entre outras. ABSTRACT Introduction: Pityriasis lichenoides (PL) is an uncommon skin disorder with two major variants: pityriasis lichenoides et varioliformis acuta (PLEVA) and pityriasis lichenoides chronica (PLC). Its classification is essentially based on clinical and histological features. Case report: A six-year-old boy was referred to the Pediatric Dermatology Consultation with history of a recurrent generalized skin eruption since the last 6 months, favoring the diagnosis of PLC that was supported by the histological findings. Discussion: In general, the typical cutaneous lesions of PLC are asymptomatic and consist of erythematous papules with a central micaceous scale that can easily be detached to reveal a shiny surface (lichenoid). It usually resolves spontaneously following a long period of remissions and recurrences. The treatment options include topical and oral corticosteroids, oral erythromycin and heliotherapy, among others.

Different subsets of asthma patients may be recognized according to the exposure trigger and the frequency and severity of clinical signs and symptoms. Regarding the exposure trigger, generally asthma can be classified as allergic (or atopic) and nonallergic (or nonatopic). Allergic and nonallergic asthma are distinguished by the presence or absence of clinical allergic reaction and in vitro IgE response to specific aeroallergens. The mechanisms of allergic asthma have been extensively studied with major advances in the last two decades. Nonallergic asthma is characterized by its apparent independence from allergen exposure and sensitization and a higher degree of severity, but little is known regarding the underlying mechanisms. Clinically, allergic and nonallergic asthma are virtually indistinguishable in exacerbations, although exacerbation following allergen exposure is typical of allergic asthma. Although they both show several distinct clinical phenotypes and different biomarkers, there are no ideal biomarkers to stratify asthma phenotypes and guide therapy in clinical practice. Nevertheless, some biomarkers may be helpful to select subsets of atopic patients which might benefit from biologic agents, such as omalizumab. Patients with severe asthma, uncontrolled besides optimal treatment, notwithstanding nonatopic, may also benefit from omalizumab therapy, although currently there are no randomized double-blind placebo controlled clinical trials to support this suggestion. However, omalizumab discontinuation according to each patient’s response to therapy and pharmacoeconomical analysis are questions that remain to be answered.

Background: Catatonia is a neuropsychiatric syndrome, classically related to schizophrenia, but more often associated with other psychiatric, neurological and/or metabolic causes.Case Report: A 61-year-old man was admitted in the Psychiatric Department with catatonia of unknown etiology. He was submitted to a detailed investigation including electroencephalogram that revealed triphasic periodic activity and cranial magnetic resonance imaging that revealed brain cortical and subcortical atrophy of frontal and medial temporal predominance. The patient was then transferred to the Neurology Department. An increase of 14.3.3 protein in the cerebrospinal fluid, was detected and a presumptive diagnosis of spongiform encephalopathy was made. The clinical picture worsened with plurisegmental myoclonus, episodes of ocular deviation and dystonia. The patient died after 5 weeks. Anatomopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of sporadic Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease. Conclusions: This case report reflects the difficulty in the differential diagnosis of diseases with neuropsychiatric symptoms, particularly of catatonia, and the importance of coordination and multidisciplinary synergy in medicine., Introdução: A catatonia é uma síndrome neuropsiquiátrica, classicamente associada à esquizofrenia, mas mais frequentemente relacionada com outras causas psiquiátricas, neurológicas e/ou metabólicas.Caso Clínico: Um homem de 61 anos foi internado no Serviço de Psiquiatria por catatonia de etiologia a esclarecer. O electroencefalograma revelou actividade periódica trifásica e a ressonância magnética crânio-encefálica revelou atrofia cortico-subcortical de predomínio frontal e temporal interno. O doente foi transferido para o Serviço de Neurologia por provável encefalopatia espongiforme, com a detecção de um aumento da proteína 14.3.3 no líquor cefalorraquidiano. O quadro clínico agravou-se com mioclonias plurisegmentares, episódios de desvio ocular e distonia, culminando no óbito ao fim de 5 semanas. O estudo anatomopatológico confirmou o diagnóstico de Doença de Creutzfeldt-Jakob esporádica.Conclusões: Este caso reflecte a dificuldade no diagnóstico diferencial das doenças com sintomatologia neuropsiquiátrica, em particular da catatonia, e a importância da articulação e sinergismo multidisciplinar na Medicina.

The city of Vendas Novas, Évora, Portugal, is crossed by a national road. Currently, 30.000 to 35.000 vehicles cross the city, of which more than 2.000 are heavy motor vehicles. Due to the negative effects of the high levels of traffic, the city council as long proposed an alternative route to Estrada Nacional 4. To better understand the effects of an alternative route to the city of Vendas Novas our study applies an axial map analysis to the city current road network system and the two proposals currently being studied by the local city council and national infrastructure management entity. Based on this analysis a new proposal was drawn by our team to optimize the diversion of traffic from the city centre. Through the application of an axial map analysis, in this study our team hoped to demonstrate and disseminate near the local city management entities the potential and validity of this tool to the current and future planning of cities and, in particular, road networks. info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersion

Isabel Fernandes,1,2 Teresa R Pacheco,2 Adília Costa,3 Ana C Santos,2 Ana R Fernandes,3 Mara Santos,3 António G Oliveira,4 Sandra Casimiro,2 António Quintela,1 Afonso Fernandes,2 Madalena Ramos,3 Luís Costa1,21Department of Medical Oncology, Hospital Santa Maria, CHLN, Lisboa, Portugal; 2Clinical and Translational Oncology Research Unit, Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal; 3Department of Pathology, Hospital Santa Maria, CHLN, Lisboa, Portugal; 4Department of Biostatistics, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade Nova, Lisboa, PortugalIntroduction: Somatostatin analogs (SSAs) are used as part of standard treatment for advanced neuroendocrine tumors (NETs). The mechanisms behind the antiproliferative action of SSAs remain largely unknown, but a connection with the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway has been suggested. Our purpose was to evaluate the activation status of the AKT/mTOR pathway in advanced metastatic NETs and identify biomarkers of response to SSA therapy.Patients and methods: Expression of phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN), phosphorylated (p)-AKT(Ser473), and p-S6(Ser240/244) was evaluated using immunohistochemistry in archival paraffin samples from 23 patients. Expression levels were correlated with clinicopathological parameters and progression-free survival under treatment with SSAs.Results: A positive association between p-AKT and p-S6 expression was identified (P = 0.01) and higher expression of both markers was observed in pancreatic NETs. AKT/mTOR activation was observed without the loss of PTEN expression. Tumors showing AKT/mTOR signaling activation progressed faster when treated with SSAs: higher expression of p-AKT or p-S6 predicted a median progression-free survival of 1 month vs 26.5 months for lower expression (P = 0.02).Conclusion: Constitutive activation of the AKT/mTOR pathway was associated with shorter time-to-progression in patients undergoing treatment with SSAs. Larger case series are needed to validate whether p-AKT(Ser473) and p-S6(Ser240/244) can be used as prognostic markers of response to therapy with SSAs.Keywords: mTOR pathway, neuroendocrine tumor, somatostatin analogs

Clove oil is used as a fish anesthetic because it is a natural and inexpensive product with low toxicity risks. The goal of the present study was to determine the appropriate concentration of clove oil for small-sized tropical fish to be used in mark-recapture studies or when individuals are to be sacrificed. We applied three different clove oil concentrations (D1=0.05 mL, D2=0.10 mL and D3=0.20 mL per 500 mL of water) on three small-sized fish species. We found a negative relationship between induction time and treatment for two species (Hyphessobrycon sp.1 and Hemigrammus sp.), while concentration was unrelated to recovery time. Fish body length was positively related to induction time in the D2 treatment for Hemigrammus sp., and negatively for Hyphessobrycon sp.1 in the D1 treatment, but was unrelated to recovery time for three species and treatments. Mortality rates varied across treatments, but higher rates were observed with higher clove oil concentrations. We conclude that 0.05 mL of clove oil per 500 mL of water is the most efficient dose for studies where fish will be released back to their natural habitats, while 0.20 mL of clove oil is recommended for studies that require fish euthanization for further laboratory analyses. Resumo O óleo de cravo é recomendado como anestésico para peixes por ser produto de origem natural, baixo custo e apresentar poucos riscos de intoxicação. O objetivo deste trabalho foi determinar concentrações adequadas de óleo de cravo para anestesiar ou eutanasiar peixes de pequeno porte em ambiente natural. Foram testadas três concentrações do anestésico (D1=0,05 mL, D2=0,10 mL e D3=0,20 mL) em três espécies de peixes de pequeno. Houve uma relação negativa entre o tempo para a sedação dos indivíduos e a concentração para duas espécies (Hyphessobrycon sp.1 e Hemigrammus sp.), porém não foi encontrada relação entre o tempo para recuperação e as concentrações. Os exemplares maiores de Hemigrammus sp. levaram mais tempo para serem sedados no tratamento D2, já o contrário foi observado para Hyphessobrycon sp.1 no tratamento D1, enquanto que não houve efeito do comprimento no tempo de recuperação das três espécies. A mortalidade dos indivíduos variou entre as três concentrações do anestésico e as maiores taxas de mortalidade ocorreram nas maiores concentrações. Desse modo, a concentração de 0,05 mL é eficiente para estudos que envolvem manuseio e a soltura dos peixes, enquanto que a concentração de 0,20 mL é recomendada em estudos onde os peixes precisam ser sacrificados.

Granite is one of the most commonly employed materials in the production of aggregates for concrete, and represents 40% of the total volume of aggregates produced in Portugal. This type of rock is traditionally considered as slowly/late reactive or even non-reactive to alkalis. However, a number of cases of damaged concrete structures in Portugal, due to alkali–silica reaction, have been related to granitic aggregates. A research program has been developed in order to define the best test method for evaluating the potential alkali-reactivity of granitic rocks. The present study involved thirteen granites collected from different quarries. The tests carried out included: petrographic examination of the aggregate, as well as mortar and concrete expansion tests. It was concluded that the content of microcrystalline quartz correlates better with the results of concrete prism expansion tests than with the mortar-bar expansion test. 63–77pp The authors would like to acknowledge LNEC, ICT (University of Porto) and Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia (FCT) for the financial support of the Project IMPROVE (Ref: PTDC/ECM/115486/2009) and COMPETE 2020 through the ICT project (Ref: POCI-01-0145-FEDER-007690). The author V. Ramos is grateful to FCT towards the financial support of her PhD studies (Ref: SFRH/BD/47893/2008). 86 DM/NMM Cement and Concrete Research

The mechanisms involved in alkali-aggregate reaction and the characteristics of reactivity of some aggregates are not completely understood, although tens of thousands of mortar and concrete prisms have been tested in the laboratory and field exposure sites have been installed in a number of countries. Aggregates are the least well understood component in the alkali-aggregate reactions and, surely, the most difficult to assess. This happens not just because the materials used as aggregates are widely variable in origin, geological history, composition, texture and degree of alteration, but also because rocks that behave as innocuous in certain areas of the world appear to perform as reactive elsewhere. In consequence, the petrographic assessment of the aggregates is commonly not enough to classify an aggregate as innocuous or potentially reactive. In this paper questions are raised concerning slow reactive rock types, including suggestions about the possible forms of silica present and their identification. 9p This work was developed in the scope of the activities of ICT – Earth Sciences Institute, financed by FCT, under the scope of the activities of the G3G working group. DM/NMM

Although considerable efforts have been made worldwide regarding alkali-silica reaction (ASR) prevention and mitigation, including the approval of new national and international regulations, several concrete structures are still being diagnosed with ASR. In Portugal, the new cases of ASR pertain to concrete produced mainly with igneous aggregates, whose potential reactivity is difficult to assess, notably on granitic and basaltic rocks. The most effective way to prevent ASR is an adequate knowledge of the alkali reactivity of the aggregate, which requires the application of appropriate tests and criteria to enable a correct classification. In the last 4 years a research program conducted in Portugal has evaluated more than 90 aggregates of different mineralogy and/or texture. The test campaign included petrography, ASTM C1260, RILEM AAR-3 and RILEM AAR-4.1 test methods. In this paper the results of ASR reactivity evaluation obtained in a group of granitic and basaltic aggregates are presented and discussed. From the results obtained, proposals to improve the reliability of existing test-methods are presented. 10p DM/NMM

Alkaline minerals, like feldspars and micas, present in aggregates can release alkalis with time for concrete pore solution, being a contributor factor for the delaying ASR occurrence in some concrete structures (e.g. dams). Since there is presently no consensus on how to test for releasable alkalis in aggregates, a research program has been conducted to evaluate the factors that can affect the alkalis release in laboratory test conditions. This paper presents the results after 455 days evaluation of alkalis released by igneous aggregates with different grain sizes, in different alkaline solutions (Ca(OH)2, NaOH and KOH), in two different concentrations (1M and 0.7M) -with and without addition of saturated Ca(OH)2. The results obtained show that reducing the particle size of the aggregates leads to an increase of alkalis release to the solution, which is higher in the alkaline solutions of KOH and NaOH with saturated Ca(OH)2. The sodium extraction is higher in 0.7M KOH, while potassium is higher in 1M NaOH. 10p DM/NMM

Several cases of alkali-silica reaction involving granitic aggregates have been diagnosed in damaged concrete structures in Portugal. Nonetheless, this kind of rock is usually regarded as slow/late reactive or even non-reactive to alkalis. Granitic rocks are widely exploited in Northern and Central Portugal, representing almost half of the produced aggregates in this country. Project IMPROVE rose from the need to accurately diagnose the potential reactivity of granites to alkalis. The study involved about forty granites collected from different regions in Portugal, from which the results of eight samples are being presented in this paper. The tests carried out include the petrographic analyses of the aggregates and mortar and concrete expansion tests. It was concluded that the content of microcrystalline quartz correlates better with the results of AAR-4.1 than with the other expansion tests. 66-74pp. The authors would like to acknowledge LNEC, ICT and Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia (FCT) for the financial support of the Project IMPROVE (Ref: PTDC/ECM/115486/2009) and of the Strategic Project (Ref. PEST-OE/CTE/UI0039/2014). The author V. Ramos is grateful to FCT towards the financial support of her PhD studies (Ref: SFRH/BD/47893/2008). vol. 9 nº 1 DM/NMM IBRACON Structures and Materials Journal

La microencapsulación de compuestos de actividad biológica (ADN, fármacos, proteínas, probióticos, enzimas, etc.), desde el punto de vista tecnológico, podría definirse como el proceso de recubrimiento de dichos compuestos, bajo la forma de moléculas, partículas sólidas o glóbulos líquidos, con materiales de distinta naturaleza, para dar lugar a partículas de tamaño micrométrico. Uno de los polímeros naturales más utilizados para la producción de microesferas es el quitosano (?-1,4- glucosamina). Diversos métodos han sido propuestos para la producción de microcápsulas, divididos en tres grupos: procesos físicos, procesos químicos y procesos físico-químicos. En el presente trabajo se ensayaron distintas metodologías para la producción de microesferas y microcápsulas de quitosano. Según la metodología empleada se obtuvieron distintos tipos de esferas en lo que respecta a tamaño y densidad principalmente. Las micropartículas obtenidas se evaluaron mediante microscopía óptica, electrónica de barrido, así como se realizó la evaluación de su estabilidad y liberación del agente encapsulado. AbstractThe microencapsulation process of agents with biological activity (such as DNA, pharmaceuticals, proteins, probiotics, enzymes, etc.), from the technological view, could be defined as the coating process of those agents, under a molecular form, solid particles, or liquid globules, with materials of different nature, that gives particles particles of micrometric size. One of the most used natural polymers for the production of microspheres is chitosan (?-1,4-glucosamine). Various methods have been proposed for the production of microcapsules, divided into three groups: physical processes, chemical processes, and physico-chemical processes. In this work, it were assayed different methodologies for the production of chitosan microspheres and microcapsules. Depending on the methodology used, were obtained differente types of spheres in reference to size and density. The microparticles produced were evaluated with optic microscopy, scanning electronic microscopy, so as were evaluated its stability and liberation of the encapsulated agent.

Submitted by António Silva (ssilva@lnec.pt) on 2015-06-12T14:33:38Z No. of bitstreams: 1 The effectiveness odf expansion tests on slowly reactive aggregates_Abstract.pdf: 40539 bytes, checksum: 062fca34566d89511dc76fbd62812218 (MD5) Rejected by Ana Duarte (aduarte@lnec.pt), reason: Rejeita-se o deposito pela mesma razão dos anteriores. Cumprimentos Ana Duarte SID/DSRHL on 2015-06-12T14:46:08Z (GMT) Submitted by António Silva (ssilva@lnec.pt) on 2015-06-16T08:11:02Z No. of bitstreams: 2 The effectiveness odf expansion tests on slowly reactive aggregates_Abstract.pdf: 40539 bytes, checksum: 062fca34566d89511dc76fbd62812218 (MD5) paper address.txt: 81 bytes, checksum: 23498a8e8c8d6aafe9c4f844b9f3f005 (MD5) Approved for entry into archive by Ana Duarte (aduarte@lnec.pt) on 2015-06-16T10:37:03Z (GMT) No. of bitstreams: 2 The effectiveness odf expansion tests on slowly reactive aggregates_Abstract.pdf: 40539 bytes, checksum: 062fca34566d89511dc76fbd62812218 (MD5) paper address.txt: 81 bytes, checksum: 23498a8e8c8d6aafe9c4f844b9f3f005 (MD5) Made available in DSpace on 2015-06-16T10:37:03Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 2 The effectiveness odf expansion tests on slowly reactive aggregates_Abstract.pdf: 40539 bytes, checksum: 062fca34566d89511dc76fbd62812218 (MD5) paper address.txt: 81 bytes, checksum: 23498a8e8c8d6aafe9c4f844b9f3f005 (MD5) Previous issue date: 2015-06 Made available in DSpace on 2017-04-13T11:46:44Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 3 license.txt: 1824 bytes, checksum: 0e8f0a2b3297cbff76e4756d4aa25e10 (MD5) The effectiveness odf expansion tests on slowly reactive aggregates_Abstract.pdf: 40539 bytes, checksum: 062fca34566d89511dc76fbd62812218 (MD5) paper address.txt: 81 bytes, checksum: 23498a8e8c8d6aafe9c4f844b9f3f005 (MD5) Previous issue date: 2015-06 72-80pp. The authors wish to acknowledge the Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT), under project IMPROVE PTDC/ECM/115486/2009, and LNEC for the financial support. The authors affiliated in the Center of Geology of University of Porto are thankful to FCT for the funding in the scope of the Strategic Project PEST-OE/CTE/UI0039/2014. Vol 41 No 2 DM/NMM Concrete in Australia

Concrete swelling processes are one of the main degradation mechanisms of hydro concrete structures, such as dams. Included in this degradation phenomenon, the reactions that involve the aggregates when exposed to the alkali rich environment of the cement paste are probably the ones that deserve more concern worldwide. The alkali concentration of the concrete pore solution could also be modified with time due to the alkalis release from some aggregates or mineral phases present in the aggregate particles, a fact which perhaps could explain the delaying occurrence of AAR in some dams. This paper presents the first results of the evaluation of the alkalis released by different types of aggregates. The results obtained evidence that aggregates containing alkali minerals in their composition are susceptible to alkalis releasing in alkaline solution. This release is thought to be dependent on the mineralogy of the aggregate, the particle size and the type of solution employed. The reactivity of an aggregate, should take into account the alkali content which can release and that may contribute to the AAR. 249-258pp. The authors wish to acknowledge the Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia for the financial support under project IMPROVE - Improvement of performance of aggregates in the inhibition of alkali-aggregate reactions in concrete (PTDC/ECM/115486/2009). DM/NMM Proceedings of Second International Dam World Conference

Background: The European crisis lead to funding restrains in healthcare, already under pressure due to the ageing of the population and the increase of demands from innovation. Portugal is the paradigm of the European crisis since has both an economic and demographic crisis. The researchers aimed to evaluate the impact of economic restrains in Portugal for access and reimbursement of new oncological drugs. Methodology: A qualitative approach was used, supported by 27 formal, tape recorded, semi-structured interviews to representatives of the different healthcare stakeholders and policymakers. The content analysis with semantic associations through co-occurrence analysis were done with the support of Tropes® software. Results: The results of the content analysis showed that economic restrains are leading to a policy of cost control with lower prices and reduced access to innovation; an excessive delay in the approval of new drugs; lack of transparency; serious limitations and inequity between hospitals. Contractual boundaries to national prescription was established and agreements with pharmaceuticals were made. Changes in the reimbursement process are being implemented with an increase of risk sharing mechanisms and implementation of a new system of health technological evaluation (SINATS). Treatment protocols are also being revised and public hospitals are trying to increase the number of clinical trials but there is still much bureaucracy. In this qualitative approach, the following factors with impact on survival were identified: Innovation and technological development, government funding, the price of drugs and type of oncological diseases. Conclusions: The economic crisis is leading to a very serious problem of inequity. However, it is also an opportunity for a structural reform. In Portugal, an attempt of reform is being made with the implementation of SINATS since it is important to distinguish molecules that effectively bring added value. In order to consider the strategic vision in which the patient is the center of all efforts, the process of reimbursement approval for new medicines should be faster, more transparent and interdisciplinary. Moreover, the decisions must be done triangulating evidence based medicine, economics, health policy and ethical and legal issues. For National Health Service sustainability, efficiency and efficacy, clinical and economic reassessments must be done after market introduction of new medicines, with subsequent renegotiations. info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersion

Apresentam-se e discutem-se os resultados obtidos na caracterização de rochas xistosas provenientes de duas áreas distantes em Portugal: os xistos negros da estrada EN17 em Coimbra e os filitos de Vila Velha de Ródão (VVR). Na EN17 correspondem a taludes escavação, enquanto em VVR correspondem a um maciço onde se pretendeu efetuar uma escavação subterrânea. A caracterização e os ensaios realizados foram adaptados ao tipo de amostras disponíveis, que são blocos de rocha na EN17 e tarolos de sondagens em VVR. Descreve-se a rocha, apresentam-se as propriedades índice, as propriedades mecânicas e a durabilidade. Comparam-se os resultados obtidos, entre si com resultados publicados. Confirma-se a variabilidade das características mecânicas devido à anisotropia, à composição mineralógica e ao grau de alteração das rochas. Analisam-se as relações entre ensaios expeditos, martelo Schmidt e carga pontual, com a resistência.

Submitted by jcustodio@lnec.pt (jcustodio@lnec.pt) on 2014-12-22T14:28:40Z No. of bitstreams: 1 2014, Custódio - Prevenção das RAA no concreto. Melhoria do monitoramento da reatividade aos álcalis de agregados (Revista_Especial_DEGRADA).pdf: 97815 bytes, checksum: fd36c9eb47a63c29a026e3d1a375e2be (MD5) Rejected by arlindo@lnec.pt(arlindo@lnec.pt), reason: Acrescentar nas palavras-chave "álcalis" on 2014-12-22T15:57:05Z (GMT) Submitted by jcustodio@lnec.pt (jcustodio@lnec.pt) on 2014-12-22T15:59:19Z No. of bitstreams: 1 2014, Custódio - Prevenção das RAA no concreto. Melhoria do monitoramento da reatividade aos álcalis de agregados (Revista_Especial_DEGRADA).pdf: 97815 bytes, checksum: fd36c9eb47a63c29a026e3d1a375e2be (MD5) Approved for entry into archive by arlindo@lnec.pt(arlindo@lnec.pt) on 2014-12-22T16:06:00Z (GMT) No. of bitstreams: 1 2014, Custódio - Prevenção das RAA no concreto. Melhoria do monitoramento da reatividade aos álcalis de agregados (Revista_Especial_DEGRADA).pdf: 97815 bytes, checksum: fd36c9eb47a63c29a026e3d1a375e2be (MD5) Made available in DSpace on 2014-12-22T16:06:00Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 1 2014, Custódio - Prevenção das RAA no concreto. Melhoria do monitoramento da reatividade aos álcalis de agregados (Revista_Especial_DEGRADA).pdf: 97815 bytes, checksum: fd36c9eb47a63c29a026e3d1a375e2be (MD5) Previous issue date: 2014-09-30 Made available in DSpace on 2015-01-28T14:56:54Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 2 license.txt: 1875 bytes, checksum: 91715c5c44c6a64f7f448186dee58d7b (MD5) item1007874.pdf: 97815 bytes, checksum: fd36c9eb47a63c29a026e3d1a375e2be (MD5) Previous issue date: 2014-09-30 Made available in DSpace on 2017-04-13T10:04:31Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 2 item1007874.pdf: 97815 bytes, checksum: fd36c9eb47a63c29a026e3d1a375e2be (MD5) license.txt: 1875 bytes, checksum: 91715c5c44c6a64f7f448186dee58d7b (MD5) Previous issue date: 2014-09-30 96-109 Edição especial DEGRADA 2014 DM/NMM Revista Politécnica

A fasceíte necrosante (FN) é uma doença rara em pediatria. Na maior parte dos casos surge como complicação de varicela, sendo a pele habitualmente a porta de entrada e o Streptococcus pyogenes o agente mais frequente. Os autores descrevem um caso clínico de uma criança de 8 anos, previamente saudável que, no contexto de uma otite média aguda medicada com um anti-inflamatório não esteróide (AINE), desenvolve uma infecção invasiva a Streptococcus 13 hemoliticus do grupo A., Portuguese Journal of Pediatrics, Vol 32 No 3 (2001)

Submitted by António Silva (ssilva@lnec.pt) on 2015-02-13T16:37:01Z No. of bitstreams: 1 Ramos et al_IAEG_2014_Abstract.pdf: 35023 bytes, checksum: 3baf743cd0a0e7ddd99c03790befb1ff (MD5) Approved for entry into archive by Ana Duarte (aduarte@lnec.pt) on 2015-02-13T17:28:20Z (GMT) No. of bitstreams: 1 Ramos et al_IAEG_2014_Abstract.pdf: 35023 bytes, checksum: 3baf743cd0a0e7ddd99c03790befb1ff (MD5) Made available in DSpace on 2015-02-13T17:28:20Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 1 Ramos et al_IAEG_2014_Abstract.pdf: 35023 bytes, checksum: 3baf743cd0a0e7ddd99c03790befb1ff (MD5) Previous issue date: 2014-09 Made available in DSpace on 2017-04-13T12:11:38Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 2 license.txt: 1748 bytes, checksum: 8a4605be74aa9ea9d79846c1fba20a33 (MD5) Ramos et al_IAEG_2014_Abstract.pdf: 35023 bytes, checksum: 3baf743cd0a0e7ddd99c03790befb1ff (MD5) Previous issue date: 2014-09 55-58pp The authors are thankful to Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia (FCT) for the financial support concerning the Project IMPROVE (Ref: PTDC/ECM/115486/2009). The authors afiliated in the CGUP are thankful to FCT for the funding of the Strategic Project Pest-OE/CTE/UI0039/2014. The author V. Ramos is grateful to FCT towards the financial support of her PhD studies (Ref:SFRH/BD/47893/2008) 5 DM/NMM Urban Geology, Sustainable Planning and Landscape Exploitation

Volcanic rocks have been found to be potentially alkali-reactive in a number of countries, including Japan, New Zealand, Iceland and Turkey. In order to characterize the potential reactivity of the volcanic rocks in Azores a project is being carried out, under the support of the Azores Government: the ReAVA Project—“Characterization of Potential Reactivity of the Volcanic Aggregates from the Azores Archipelago: Implications on the Durability of Concrete Structures”. This project comprises mainly: (1) petrographic assessment of the aggregates, (2) assessment of their performance in expansion tests and (3) site inspection of existing large concrete structures. This study has also the support of the IMPROVE Project—“Improvement of Performance of Aggregates in the Inhibition of Alkali-Aggregate Reactions in Concrete”, aiming to minimize the occurrence of alkali aggregate reaction (AAR) in Portugal. The Azorean rocks used as aggregates are mainly basalts and some trachytes. The reactivity of this kind of rocks is usually associated with the presence of volcanic glass, altered minerals and SiO2 content of the rock. The petrographic examinations of the rocks confirmed that one of the basaltic samples contains volcanic glass. The occurrence of microcrystalline quartz as a secondary product filling the interstices of the trachyte sample was confirmed by scanning electron microscope. The results of the concrete expansion test RILEM AAR-3 showed an increasing expansion starting on 140 days and continued to grow after 2 years of laboratory testing, but below the limit of 0.05 % recommended for this method. 51-54pp The analyses by SEM/EDS were performed at CEMUP which equipment was funded by the projects REEQ/1062/CTM/2005 and REDE/1512/RME/2005 of Portuguese Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT). The authors also acknowledge the financial support of the FRC under the project M5.2.2/I/05/2011 and FCT under the project PTDC/ECM/15486/2009. 5 DM/NMM Urban Geology, Sustainable Planning and Landscape Exploitation

As rochas graníticas representam em Portugal cerca de 40% do volume total de agregados para concreto. Estas rochas são normalmente consideradas como sendo de reação lenta ou até como não reativas aos álcalis. Contudo, diversos casos de reação álacalis-agregado (RAA) têm sido diagnosticados em estruturas de concreto nas quais foram utilizadas rochas graníticas. Com o objetivo de diminuir a incerteza na avaliação da reatividade potencial aos álcalis de granitos foi desenvolvido um projeto de investigação no qual os resultados deste artigo se inserem. No âmbito deste projeto foram estudadas trinta e uma amostras colhidas em diferentes regiões de Portugal, apresentando-se neste artigo os resultados de oito dessas amostras. Os ensaios realizados incluem a caraterização petrográfica dos agregados e ensaios de expansão de barra de argamassa e prisma de concreto. Conclui-se que o conteúdo em quartzo microcristalino se correlaciona melhor com os resultados do ensaio em prisma de concreto RILEM AAR-4.1 do que com os outros ensaios de expansão. 307-321pp Os autores manifestam o seu agradecimento à Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia (FCT) pelo financiamento do Projeto IMPROVE (Ref: PTDC/ECM/115486/2009). A autora V. Ramos agradece à FCT o financiamento da sua bolsa de doutoramento (Ref: SFRH/BD/47893/2008). Os autores afiliados ao CGUP agradecem o suporte da FCT através do Projeto Estratégico (PEst-OE/CTE/UI0039/2011) 1 DM/NMM Politécnica - Revista do Instituto Politécnico da Bahia

A ocorrência de reações álcalis-sílica (RAS) em estruturas de betão foi reconhecida pela primeira vez em Portugal no início da década de 90 do século passado. Desde então um grande volume de trabalho tem vindo a ser desenvolvido com o objetivo de estudar os agregados para betão, criar medidas preventivas da reação, monitorizar e reparar as estruturas afetadas. No presente trabalho resume-se o estudo realizado para a caracterização de oito granitos portugueses provenientes de pedreiras atualmente em exploração para obtenção de agregados para betão. A caracterização seguiu os procedimentos previstos nas normas nacionais e internacionais em vigor e incluiu um conjunto de ensaios que se distribuem em dois métodos principais: petrografia com análise petrográfica; ensaios de expansão envolvendo a produção de barras de argamassa e prismas de betão expostos a diferentes condições ambientais. Os ensaios permitiram determinar a reatividade potencial de alguns destes agregados e tecem considerações sobre possíveis modificações a propor na revisão das normas nacionais. 6p Os autores agradecem à Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia (FCT) pelo financiamento do Projeto IMPROVE (Ref: PTDC/ECM/115486/2009). Os autores afiliados ao CGUP agradecem o apoio da FCT através do Projeto Estratégico (PEst-OE/CTE/UI0039/2014). A autora V. Ramos agradece à FCT pelo financiamento da bolsa de doutoramento (Ref: SFRH/BD/47893/2008). DM/NMM

BACKGROUND: Quantifying pediatric immunologic recovery by highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) initiation at different CD4 percentage (CD4%) and age thresholds may inform decisions about timing of treatment initiation. METHODS: HIV-1-infected, HAART-naive children in Europe and the Americas were followed from 2002 through 2009 in PENPACT-1. Data from 162 vertically infected children, with at least World Health Organization “mild” immunosuppression and CD4% RESULTS: Seventy-two percent of baseline immunosuppressed children recovered to normal within 4 years. Compared with “severe” immunosuppression, more children with “mild” immunosuppression (difference 36%, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 22% to 49%) or “advanced” immunosuppression (difference 20.8%, 95% CI: 5.8% to 35.9%) recovered a normal CD4%. For each 5-year increase in baseline age, the proportion of children achieving a normal CD4% declined by 19% (95% CI: 11% to 27%). Combining baseline CD4% and age effects resulted in >90% recovery when initiating HAART with “mild” immunosuppression at any age or “advanced” immunosuppression at age CONCLUSIONS: Initiating HAART at higher CD4% and younger ages maximizes potential for immunologic recovery. Guidelines should weigh immunologic benefits against long-term risks.

O Aproveitamento Hidroelétrico de Foz Tua, um dos projetos da responsabilidade da EDP atualmente em construção em Portugal, situa-se no rio Tua, próximo da sua confluência com o rio Douro, e será equipado com dois grupos geradores reversíveis. Para garantir as adequadas condições de escoamento, principalmente em bombagem a partir da albufeira da barragem da Régua, no rio Douro, verificou-se ser necessário proceder à escavação de um canal no leito do rio Tua entre a zona da restituição da central e a confluência com o rio Douro. Para definição do referido canal foram conduzidos estudos ao longo das diversas fases do projeto do aproveitamento em causa, tendo-se realizado análises hidrodinâmicas apoiadas em modelos numéricos unidimensionais e bidimensionais, desenvolvidos na EDP, e ensaios em modelo físico reduzido, realizados no LNEC. Na presente comunicação, após descrição das principais características do Aproveitamento Hidroelétrico de Foz Tua, são apresentados os pressupostos e critérios considerados nos estudos antes referidos, bem como os principais resultados obtidos nas análises numérica e física realizadas e respetiva análise comparativa. DHA/NRE 2014 5 a 8 março

Submitted by Revista Nascer e Crescer (nascerecrescer.hmp@chporto.min-saude.pt) on 2014-02-19T16:00:00Z No. of bitstreams: 1 v22n3a11.pdf: 201971 bytes, checksum: 8b05908ca1b419c86180e368a33f420e (MD5) Made available in DSpace on 2014-02-19T16:00:00Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 1 v22n3a11.pdf: 201971 bytes, checksum: 8b05908ca1b419c86180e368a33f420e (MD5) Previous issue date: 2013-09

In Portugal, volcanic rocks are commonly used as aggregates for concrete in Madeira and Azores islands and in a lower extent in the mainland. Nonetheless, the information about the potential alkali-silica reactivity of Portuguese volcanic rocks is rather scarce. In order to fulfill this lack of information and in the scope of the Portuguese research project IMPROVE (Improvement of performance of aggregates in the inhibition of alkali-aggregate reactions in concrete) six volcanic lithologies used as aggregates were investigated. For this purpose, petrographic characterization (polarizing microscopy and Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive Detector (SEM-EDS) and bulk chemical analysis were carried out. In the present work, the results of this preliminary investigation are presented aiming the identification of potential reactive features according to RILEM AAR-1 and the Portuguese Specification LNEC E 461. A comparison with other case studies of alkali-reactivity of volcanic rocks in the world is made with special reference to Japan, Iceland, Turkey and New Zealand, where the reactivity has specially been attributed to the chemical/mineral composition and the presence of SiO2 rich glass in the volcanic rocks. The authors are thankful to Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia (FCT) for the financial support concerning the Project IMPROVE (Ref: PTDC/ECM/115486/2009) and also the Project GeoRemat. The author V. Ramos is grateful to FCT towards the financial support of her PhD studies (Ref: SFRH/BD/47893/2008). The authors are also indebted to Centro de Materiais da Universidade do Porto (CEMUP) (funded by FCT’s projects QREEQ/1062/CTM/2005 and REDE/1512/2005) for SEM-EDS analysis. 11 2 15 DM/NMM 2013 10 a 14 de junho

O pênfigo vulgar é uma doença bolhosa auto-imune rara, que atinge a pele e as mucosas. Geralmente tem um curso clínico severo, sendo necessário o recurso a terapêutica prolongada com corticóides sistémicos e outros fármacos imunossupressores, que podem conduzir a efeitos adversos graves. O rituximab é um anticorpo monoclo- nal quimérico dirigido ao antigénio CD20, expresso pelos linfócitos B. Recentemente, têm surgido alguns estudos que documentam o seu sucesso terapêutico no tratamento de pênfigo refractário. Os autores descrevem dois casos clínicos de pênfigo vulgar refractários às terapêuticas convencionais, que foram tratados com rituximab, tendo atin- gido a remissão completa da doença. A experiência bem sucedida em relação a estes dois casos clínicos reforça que o rituximab constitui uma opção valiosa e segura na abordagem terapêutica do pênfigo vulgar severo e refractário.

Submitted by Revista Nascer e Crescer (nascerecrescer.hmp@chporto.min-saude.pt) on 2013-05-07T16:28:31Z No. of bitstreams: 1 v21n1a13.pdf: 149113 bytes, checksum: 13051270b1eeb24b287abdb1e969f905 (MD5) Made available in DSpace on 2013-05-07T16:28:32Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 1 v21n1a13.pdf: 149113 bytes, checksum: 13051270b1eeb24b287abdb1e969f905 (MD5) Previous issue date: 2012-12

The authors describe a clinical case of a six-year-old boy with history of a segmental brownish maculopapular skin eruption on his left thoracic and lumbar wall, since the last four months. Based on clinical and histological findings he was diagnosed with segmental lichen aureus.

Esta comunicação visa apresentar resultados obtidos no âmbito do projeto IMPROVE (Melhoria do desempenho de agregados para a inibição das reações álcalis-agregado no betão) que tem por objetivo, entre outros, estabelecer a metodologia mais adequada para avaliação da reatividade potencial dos agregados portugueses. Procede-se à avaliação da reatividade potencial aos álcalis de três agregados graníticos nacionais de diferentes origens através da análise petrográfica (RILEM AAR-1 e LNEC E 461), de ensaios de expansibilidade (ASTM C 1260, RILEM AAR-3 e RILEM AAR-4.1) e do ensaio químico (ASTM C 289). Os resultados obtidos comprovam que os ensaios ASTM C 1260 e ASTM C 289 não deverão ser utilizados na avaliação da reatividade aos álcalis de agregados graníticos. Relativamente aos ensaios RILEM AAR-3 e RILEM AAR-4.1 verificou-se que traduzem mais corretamente os resultados obtidos pela análise petrográfica. Para este tipo de agregados é proposta a necessidade do prolongamento da duração dos ensaios de expansibilidade de betão, até que seja atingida a estabilização da expansão. Os autores manifestam o seu agradecimento à Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia (FCT) pelo financiamento do Projeto IMPROVE (Ref: PTDC/ECM/115486/2009). A autora V. Ramos agradece à FCT pelo financiamento da sua bolsa de doutoramento (Ref: SFRH/BD/47893/2008). Os autores agradecem ainda o apoio no âmbito do projecto DURATINET (Durable Tranport Infrastructures in the Atlantic Área Network) do Programa Operacional Espaço Atlântico 2007-2013, co-financiado pelo FEDER. 4 1 10p DM/NMM 2012 24 a 26 de outubro