The Co-Adapted Community: A New Vision for the Parks at Walter Reed

The human-canine bond is one that has existed for thousands of years, yet not until more recently has it gained serious attention in the military medical field. The following thesis will use architecture as a way to explore the physical and psychological rehabilitative relationship between veterans and rescued canines. As soldiers return home from deployment, many struggle with reintegration into civilian life. The therapeutic potential of service dogs, however, has become a widely recognized recovery tool. Meanwhile, there are thousands of non-service dogs suffering extended periods in animal shelters with adverse psychological effects. In a society primarily centered on the typical human experience, the built environment often demonstrates a narrow perspective that lacks sensitivity towards the atypical user. Soldiers and dogs alike perceive and experience the world uniquely, and a further exploration of their distinct relationship can begin to inform how we might develop a new type of shared healing environment or co-adapted community.

Síntese verde de nanopartículas de prata a partir de extrato aquoso do tubérculo de Curcuma longa associadas à quitosana e avaliação da atividade antitumoral in vitro em câncer de pele não melanoma (linhagem A431)

Dissertação (mestrado)—Universidade de Brasília, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Programa de Pós-Graduação Nanociência e Nanobiotecnologia, 2016.

Avaliação da contaminação por elementos metálicos dos sedimentos do Estuário Santos - São Vicente

Three approaches were applied to evaluate metal contamination in 41 sediment samples from the Santos - São Vicente Estuarine System: normalization to Al, statistical analysis and sediment quality guidelines (SQGs). The results showed increases in the concentrations of Zn, Ni, Pb, Cd, Cr and Hg, which seemed to be associated with human activities. The levels of Al, Fe and Co probably were associated with crustal material or natural weathering processes. About 45% of the samples presented concentrations exceeding TEL-ERL, levels occasionally associated with adverse biological effects. Four of these samples presented concentrations above PEL-ERM, levels frequently associated with adverse biological effects.

Determinação de mercúrio total no material particulado atmosférico do Distrito Federal, Brasil

Dissertação (mestrado)—Universidade de Brasília, Instituto de Química, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Tecnologia Química e Biológica, 2016.

Sustentabilidade ambiental e humana da produção de alimentos: uma análise comparativa entre agricultura biológica e convencional

A produção e o consumo de alimentos produzidos em agricultura biológica (AB) apoiam-se na ideia da sua superior qualidade nutricional e em supostos efeitos benéficos na saúde humana, bem como no menor impacto ambiental da AB relativamente à agricultura convencional (AC). Mas serão mesmo as dietas baseadas nestes alimentos significativamente mais saudáveis para as pessoas e o ambiente e, portanto, mais sustentáveis que as dietas baseadas no modo convencional? O objetivo deste trabalho é apresentar uma síntese da informação publicada na última década referente a análises comparativas entre AB e AC, através de um conjunto de indicadores de qualidade ambiental e de saúde humana. Foram consultados diversos estudos, privilegiando aqueles que recorreram a um conjunto de indicadores de qualidade ambiental e de saúde humana. A nível ambiental, os estudos apontam para que, apesar das práticas biológicas terem, em geral, impactes menos negativos por unidade de área que as práticas convencionais, o mesmo não se verifica por unidade de produto. Os estudos sobre o impacto comparativo na biodiversidade mostram a tendência benéfica da AB, apesar de as diferenças se afigurarem pouco consistentes. A presença de resíduos de pesticidas e metais pesados em alimentos biológicos é significativamente menor que nos convencionais. A nível nutricional, os vegetais e frutas biológicos apresentam consistentemente conteúdos mais elevados em metabolitos secundários que os convencionais. Todavia, os estudos disponíveis sobre efeitos na saúde são pouco conclusivos quanto a diferenças consistentes entre modos de produção. Evidências científicas suportam a ideia geral de que a AB tende a constituir um modo de produção de alimentos ambiental e humanamente mais sustentável que a AC, embora as diferenças sejam consistentes apenas em alguns indicadores.

Hidrocarbonetos policíclicos aromáticos em sedimentos de fundo do estuário do rio Potengi, região da grande Natal (RN): implicações ambientais

Estuaries are environments prone to the input of chemical pollutants of various kinds and origins, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Anthropogenic PAHs may have two possible sources: pyrolytic (with four or more aromatic rings and low degree of alkylation) and petrogenic (with two and three aromatic rings and high degree of alkylation). This study aimed to evaluate the levels, distribution and possible sources of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in the estuary of the Potengi river, Natal, Brazil. Samples of bottom sediments were collected in the final 12 km of the estuary until its mouth to the sea, where the urbanization of the Great Natal is more concentrated. Sampling was performed on 12 cross sections, with three stations each, totaling 36 samples, identified as T1 to T36. The non alkylated and alkylated PAHs were analyzed by gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC / MS). PAHs were detected in all 36 stations with total concentration on each varying 174-109407 ng g-1. These values are comparable to those of several estuarine regions worldwide with high anthropogenic influence, suggesting the record of diffuse contamination installed in the estuary. PAHs profiles were similar for most stations. In 32 of the 36 stations, low molecular weight PAHs (with 2 and 3 ring: naphthalene, phenanthrene and their alkylated homologues) prevailed, which ranged from 54% to 100% of the total PAH, indicating that leaks, spills and combustion fuels are the dominant source of PAH pollution in the estuary. The level of contamination by PAHs in most stations suggests that there is potential risk of occasional adverse biological effects, but in some stations adverse impacts on the biota may occur frequently. The diagnostic ratios could differentiate sources of PAHs in sediments of the estuary, which were divided into three groups: petrogenic, pyrolytic and mixing of sources. The urban concentration of the Great Natal and the various industrial activities associated with it can be blamed as potential sources of PAHs in bottom sediments of the estuary studied. The data presented highlight the need to control the causes of existing pollution in the estuary

Probiotics, Prebiotics and Synbiotics

Probiotics are living microorganisms which, when ingested in certain amounts, have a positive impact on human health, mainly due to their roles in improving the balance of the intestinal microflora. On the other hand, the prebiotic are food ingredients that may also have a positive impact in the improvement of the intestinal flora. These components, which fall into the category of fibers, are not digested in the upper gastrointestinal tract, and therefore reach the colon where they stimulate the growth and/or the activity of some types of bacteria. The term synbiotic is used for products that contain both probiotics and prebiotics, thus taking advantage of both the addition of beneficial bacteria and the encouragement of the growth of resident beneficial bacteria. The present chapter aims to review the scientific literature related to prebiotics, probiotics and synbiotics, including their identification, properties and health benefits.

Teen Girls’ Perspectives on Their Current Dietary Habits and Food Choices: A Qualitative Study in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Rapid socioeconomic development in Saudi Arabia, as a result of oil revenues, has had profound effects on people’s lifestyles, including the transformation of people’s dietary habits. Such dietary transformations, known as the nutrition transition, are common in countries undergoing rapid socioeconomic changes. This transition is significant in Saudi Arabia as the traditional Saudi diet is considered a healthy one. Adoption of the Western diet has had negative health effects on the Saudi population, especially adolescents. As evidenced in many studies, adolescents are the most affected population when it comes to changes in dietary habits and physical activity. Adolescence is a vulnerable stage of life when dietary habits are developed, often lasting into adulthood, and may not be easily changed. In the case of Saudi Arabia, youth or adolescents represent almost 60% of the population; therefore, the eating habits they develop now could have profound consequences for population health in the future. To develop effective health promotion strategies, it is important to understand the sociocultural factors that influence the dietary habits and food choices of Saudi teens. I conducted two semi-structured, open-ended interviews, using photo-elicitation techniques, with 12 Saudi girls, aged 15-16 years. Analysis of the data shows four factors that pulled the participants toward eating home cooked traditional food and five factors that pushed participants away from eating home cooked traditional foods. The research suggests that despite the attractiveness of modern, Western ways of eating for Saudi teen girls, parents still play a key role in encouraging and supporting them to eat healthy food.

Riesgo biomecánico y dolor lumbar en operarios y personal administrativo en una fábrica de jabón en Bogotá 2016

Introducción: El dolor lumbar y los desórdenes músculo esqueléticos comprometen la salud y la calidad de vida de los trabajadores, pueden poner en riesgo el futuro laboral de las personas. bjetivo: Estimar la prevalencia de dolor lumbar y los posibles factores biomecánicos asociados en el personal operativo y administrativo en una empresa manufacturera de jabón en Bogotá, en el año 2016 Metodología: Estudio de corte transversal donde se evaluó el riesgo biomecánico y la prevalencia del dolor lumbar en personal administrativo (138) y operativo (165); se utilizó como instrumento el ERGOPAR validado en España. Se revisó la asociación utilizando la prueba Chi Cuadrado de Pearson, con un nivel de significación α 0.05 Resultados: 303 trabajadores de una empresa manufacturera de jabón en Bogotá, donde predominó el género masculino (51,82%) y la población adulta media entre 30-39 años (57,42%). La prevalencia del dolor lumbar en la población fue de 61,39% (186). La edad no se asoció estadísticamente al dolor lumbar. Se encontró asociación estadística entre el síntoma dolor lumbar y extensión de cuello (p=0,05 OR1.95 IC 1.33-2.88), así como con agarrar o sujetar objetos (p= 0,036. OR 2.3 IC 1.59-3.51) y con las exigencias físicas laborales (p= 0.001 OR 1.99 IC 1.31-3.02). Conclusiones: La población estudiada presentó una alta prevalencia de dolor lumbar, con predominio en personal que realiza labores operativas, y del género femenino. La adopción de posturas de extensión del cuello y la sujeción o agarre de objetos son factores asociados directamente con la aparición de lumbalgia.

Función endotelial y lipemia postprandial en adultos normolipídicos: Efecto del estado nutricional

El objetivo del presente estudio fue cuantificar la contribución del sobrepeso en la magnitud de la lipemia posprandial en sujetos normolipídicos. Se incluyeron 33 adultos normolipídicos en dos grupos (n=20, sobrepeso y (n=13 eutróficos, 66% hombres, edad media 31,2±7,6 años). Se midió la vasodilatación mediada por flujo (VMF), la velocidad de onda de pulso (VOP), el perfil lipídico, el cociente Log TG/c-HDL, la glucosa y presión arterial tras una ingesta estándar con alto contenido de grasa (79% Kcal/grasa). Se calculó, el Z-score de riesgo cardiovascular a partir de la suma de los residuos tipificados (Z) de las variables de riesgo cardiovascular. El estado de lipemia posprandial se midió en ayuno (0 min) y a los (60, 120, 180, y 240 min) posprandiales. El valor basal de la VMF y la VOP fue de 6,9±5,9% y 7.0±0.8 m/s, respectivamente. Se identificó que la lipemia posprandial reducía la WMF en 19,2% a los 60 min (5,9±1,5%) y a los 240 min (3,7±1,2%) (p<0,04), respectivamente. Este hallazgo se acompañó con un aumento en la VOP (p<0,05). Al dividir los sujetos en dos grupos según el IMC, los participantes en sobrepeso muestran cifras más elevadas en el Z-score de riesgo cardiovascular, la VOP, el Log TG/c-HDL y el Δ-VOP, (p<0,001). En conclusión los sujetos clasificados en sobrepeso muestran un perfil cardiometabolico asociado con un mayor riesgo cardiovascular.

Evidencia sobre la eficacia de cannabinoides en el dolor neuropático oncológico

Contexto: La eficacia de los cannabinoides en el dolor neuropático es desconocida. El control del dolor es determinante en los pacientes ya que genera un impacto negativo en la calidad de vida de los pacientes. Objetivo: El presente trabajo pretende demostrar la evidencia sobre la eficacia de los medicamentos cannabinoides en el control del dolor neuropático oncológico, mediante la evaluación de la literatura disponible. Metodología: Se realizó una revisión sistemática de literatura incluyendo estudios experimentales, observacionales y revisiones sistemáticas en un periodo de 15 años. Se incluyeron todos los estudios desde el años 2000 con evidencia IB según la escala de evidencia de Oxford. Resultados: Cuatro estudios cumplieron criterios para su inclusión, sin embargo la evidencia es baja y no permite recomendar o descartar los cannabinoides como terapia coadyuvante en control del dolor neuropático oncológico. La combinación de THC/CDB (Sativex®) parece ser un medicamento seguro pues no se reportaron muertes asociadas a su uso, sin embargo la presentación de eventos adversos a nivel gastrointestinal y neurológico podría aumentar el riesgo de interacciones medicamentosas y tener un impacto negativo en la calidad de vida de los pacientes oncológicos. Conclusiones: No hay suficiente literatura y la evidencia no es suficiente para recomendar o descartar el uso de los cannabinoides en dolor neuropático oncológico. Futuros estudios deben realizarse para analizar el beneficio de estos medicamentos. Aunque ética y socialmente hay resistencia para el uso de los cannabinoides, actualmente hay una gran discusión política en el mundo y en Colombia para su aceptación como terapia en el control del dolor.

Study of the Electromagnetic Interference Generated by Wireless Power Transfer Systems

This paper presents a study related with measuring of radio frequency emissions. The purpose is to determine the level of interference generated by wireless power transfer equipment in a specific frequency range, and to compare those levels to the existing standards. The technology of wireless power transfer, especially for electric vehicles batteries charging, is rapidly developing in the recent years. An increasing use of this technology in industrial and consumer electronic products has raised concerns about the possible unfavorable health-effects onto the human being. Another concern is raised from the high intensity fields produced by wireless power transfer systems which will generate highly undesired influence on other electrical and electronic equipment. As a protection against the potential health effects, the governments imposed limits on the occupational and general public exposure to the radio frequencies. These limitations are set out in national and international safety guidelines, standards and regulations. The measurement and evaluation of the human exposure to electromagnetic fields are essential to guarantee occupational and general public safety.

Adverse breast cancer treatment effects: The economic case for making rehabilitative programs standard of care

Purpose: The purpose of this work was to evaluate the patient-borne financial cost of common, adverse breast cancer treatment-associated effects, comparing cost across women with or without these side-effects. Methods: 287 Australian women diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer were prospectively followed starting at six months post-surgery for 12 months, with three-monthly assessment of detailed treatment-related side effects and their direct and indirect patient costs attributable to breast cancer. Bootstrapping statistics were used to analyze cost data and adjusted logistic regression was used to evaluate the association between costs and adverse events from breast cancer. Costs were inflated and converted from 2002 Australian to 2014 US dollars. Results: More than 90% of women experienced at least one adverse effect (i.e. post-surgical issue, reaction to radiotherapy, upper-body symptoms or reduced function, lymphedema, fatigue or weight gain). On average, women paid $5,636 (95%CI: $4,694, $6,577) in total costs. Women with any one of the following symptoms (fatigue, reduced upper-body function, upper-body symptoms) or women who report ≥4 adverse treatment-related effects, have 1.5 to nearly 4 times the odds of having higher healthcare costs than women who do not report these complaints (p<0.05). Conclusions: Women face substantial economic burden due to a range of treatment-related health problems, which may persist beyond the treatment period. Improving breast cancer care by incorporating prospective surveillance of treatment-related side effects, and strategies for prevention and treatment of concerns (e.g., exercise) has real potential for reducing patient-borne costs.

Adverse effects of androgen-deprivation therapy in prostate cancer and their management

Objective To provide an up-to-date summary of current literature on the management of adverse effects of androgen-deprivation therapy (ADT). Patients and Methods All relevant medical literature on men with prostate cancer treated with ADT from 2005 to 2014, and older relevant papers, were reviewed. Recent health advisory statements from the Australian government, societies and advocacy groups have been incorporated to the document. Results There are numerous adverse effects of ADT that require pro-active prevention and treatment. Ranging from cardiovascular disease, diabetes and osteoporosis, to depression, cognitive decline and sexual dysfunction, the range of adverse effects is wide. Baseline assessment, monitoring, prevention and consultation from a multidisciplinary team are important in minimising the harm from ADT. Conclusions This review provides a series of practical recommendations to assist with managing the adverse effects of ADT.

Effects of a multiple health behavior change intervention for colorectal cancer survivors on psychosocial outcomes and quality of life: A randomized controlled trial

Background Multiple health behavior change can ameliorate adverse effects of cancer. Purpose The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of a multiple health behavior change intervention (CanChange) for colorectal cancer survivors on psychosocial outcomes and quality of life. Methods A total of 410 colorectal cancer survivors were randomized to a 6-month telephone-based health coaching intervention (11 sessions using acceptance and commitment therapy strategies focusing on physical activity, weight management, diet, alcohol, and smoking) or usual care. Posttraumatic growth, spirituality, acceptance, mindfulness, distress, and quality of life were assessed at baseline, 6 and 12 months. Results Significant intervention effects were observed for posttraumatic growth at 6 (7.5, p < 0.001) and 12 months (4.1, p = 0.033), spirituality at 6 months (1.8, p = 0.011), acceptance at 6 months (0.2, p = 0.005), and quality of life at 6 (0.8, p = 0.049) and 12 months (0.9, p = 0.037). Conclusions The intervention improved psychosocial outcomes and quality of life (physical well-being) at 6 months with most effects still present at 12 months. (Trial Registration Number: ACTRN12608000399392).