Medium-sized Brazilian City Research Articles

Cycling in a Brazilian City

This study aims to investigate the characteristics and attitudes of people who cycle to work in a Brazilian medium-sized city, especially focusing on safe cycling context. In loco observation was also conducted in order to verify the attitudes and behaviors of cyclists, motorcyclists and drivers regarding the Brazilian Traffic Code. The results indicate that cycling is a very important transport mode for people going to work, but the municipality has a precarious control of traffic, there is a lack of relevant legislation to the use of bicycles and the Brazilian Traffic Code is frequently violated by motorized and non-motorized drivers.

Effects of Particulate Matter and Its Chemical Constituents on Elderly Hospital Admissions Due to Circulatory and Respiratory Diseases.

Various fractions of particulate matter have been associated with increased mortality and morbidity. The purpose of our study is to analyze the associations between concentrations of PM2.5, PM2.5–10, PM10 and their chemical constituents (soluble ions) with hospital admissions due to circulatory and respiratory diseases among the elderly in a medium-sized city in Brazil. A time series study was conducted using Poisson regression with generalized additive models adjusted for confounders. Statistically significant associations were identified between PM10 and PM2.5–10 and respiratory diseases. Risks of hospitalization increased by 23.5% (95% CI: 13.5; 34.3) and 12.8% (95% CI: 6.0; 20.0) per 10 μg/m3 of PM2.5-10 and PM10, respectively. PM2.5 exhibited a significant association with circulatory system diseases, with the risk of hospitalization increasing by 19.6% (95% CI: 6.4; 34.6) per 10 μg/m3. Regarding the chemical species; SO42−, NO3−, NH4+ and K+ exhibited specific patterns of risk, relative to the investigated outcomes. Overall, SO42− in PM2.5–10 and K+ in PM2.5 were associated with increased risk of hospital admissions due to both types of diseases. The results agree with evidence indicating that the risks for different health outcomes vary in relation to the fractions and chemical composition of PM10. Thus, PM10 speciation studies may contribute to the establishment of more selective pollution control policies.

The Role of Medium-sized Cities for Global Tropospheric Ozone Levels

Brazilian medium-sized cities are those showing highest growing rates in the last decades, above 3% annually. To call attention to the consequences of such strong urban growth on air quality, measurements of ozone concentrations were comparatively performed in Londrina (a growing medium-sized city), Curitiba (a big city) and São Paulo (a megacity). Particularly to the cities of Londrina and São Paulo, both are located at similar latitude (–23.5). Surprisingly, the findings of this study indicated that, there are periods of the year in which the average ozone concentration measured in Londrina can be even higher than those found in large urban areas like São Paulo. The average ozone concentrations at three medium cities are close to those found in São Paulo. It is suggested that the local meteorological conditions (temperature, cloud cover, relative humidity and wind speed), as well as the local chemical regime, could explain the differences in the observed ozone concentrations. As the number of medium-sized urban areas is increasing around the world, especially in South America, special attention should be given by policy makers when defining new air quality monitoring networks and the regulation of new areas planned for the purpose of industrial development.

Percepção dos gestores escolares sobre a utilização da caminhada para acesso à escola

The number of children who walk to school has been decreasing every year. Policies and programs developed in schools can play an important role in reversing this trend by encouraging active transport. The purpose of this article is to describe research conducted with school administrators to identify the perception of managers regarding the children walk to school. The focus of the research was on primary schools, located in a Brazilian medium-sized city. It is observed that managers have a positive perception of the importance of physical activity (over 90%). The results confirm that there is no consensus about the best age and children skills to make safe decisions. About half (49%) of managers has a positive opinion about the quality of the environment around the schools. Just over half of managers (56%) are indifferent with respect to bus travel, and only about a third of them (31%) favor the use. It was found that more than half of managers (68%) are in favor of walking and that nearly a third of them (31%) are indifferent. The vast majority of managers (86%) is concerned about the impact of traffic on the environment. Keywords: non-motorized transport, active modes of transport, school transport.

Measurements methodology for evaluation of Digital TV operation in VHF high-band

This paper describes the experimental setup of field measurements carried out for evaluating the operation of the ISDB-TB (Integrated Services Digital Broadcasting, Terrestrial, Brazilian version) standard digital TV in the VHF-highband. Measurements were performed in urban and suburban areas in a medium-sized Brazilian city. Besides the direct measurements of received power and environmental noise, a measurement procedure involving the injection of Gaussian additive noise was employed to achieve the signal to noise ratio threshold at each measurement site. The analysis includes results of static reception measurements for evaluating the received field strength and the signal to noise ratio thresholds for correct signal decoding.

Maternal and congenital syphilis, underreported and difficult to control.

To identify and to describe cases of congenital and maternal syphilis reported and not reported in a Brazilian medium-sized city. This is a descriptive and retrospective study, which evaluated 214 medical records of pregnant women and newborns. It began with the identification of epidemiological notification records, followed by active search in maternity evaluating all records that did show positive nontreponemal serology and records of the reference service in infectious diseases in Montes Claros, Minas Gerais, from 2007 to 2013. The case definitions followed the Ministry of Health recommendations in Brazil and the variables were described using absolute and relative frequencies. This study was approved by the Ethics in Research Committee (University State of Montes Claros). Of the 214 medical records, we identified 93 cases of maternal syphilis and 54 cases of congenital. The women studied were predominantly mulatto, with Secundary/Higher, aged between 21 and 30 years and single marital status. Considering the prenatal care of pregnant women with syphilis, it was observed predominance of late diagnosis, after parturition or curettage, and all of their treatments were considered inadequate according the Ministry of Health. The newborns of pregnant women with syphilis, most were not referenced for pediatric follow-up. Only 6.5% of syphilis in pregnant women was notified, and in congenital syphilis, 24.1%. Persisting vertical transmission, there are signs that the quality of prenatal and neonatal care should be restructured.

Clinical, demographic, and epidemiologic characteristics of hepatitis B virus-infected patients at a tertiary public hospital in Presidente Prudente, State of São Paulo, Brazil.

Few studies have addressed the primary characteristics of patients infected with hepatitis B virus (HBV) in the general population, especially those living in small- and medium-sized cities in Brazil. We aimed to determine the clinical, demographic, and epidemiologic characteristics of patients diagnosed with HBV who were followed up at an infectious diseases clinic of a public hospital in State of São Paulo, Brazil. Medical records of patients aged >18 years and diagnosed with HBV infection between January 2000 and December 2013 were reviewed. Seventy-five patients were enrolled with male-female main infection-associated risk factors; 9 (12%) were co-infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), 5 (6.7%) with hepatitis C virus (HCV), and 3 (4%) were co-infected with both HIV and HCV. Antiviral HBV therapy was applied in 21 (28%) patients and tenofovir monotherapy was the most prescribed medication. After approximately 2 years of antiviral treatment, the HBV-DNA viral load was undetectable in 12 (92.3%) patients and lower levels of alanine aminotransferase were found in these patients. Over a 13-year interval, very few individuals infected with HBV were identified, highlighting the barriers for caring for patients with HBV in developing countries. New measures need to be implemented to complement curative practices.

Association between NOx exposure and deaths caused by respiratory diseases in a medium-sized Brazilian city.

Exposure to nitrogen oxides (NOx) emitted by burning fossil fuels has been associated with respiratory diseases. We aimed to estimate the effects of NOx exposure on mortality owing to respiratory diseases in residents of Taubaté, São Paulo, Brazil, of all ages and both sexes. This time-series ecological study from August 1, 2011 to July 31, 2012 used information on deaths caused by respiratory diseases obtained from the Health Department of Taubaté. Estimated daily levels of pollutants (NOx, particulate matter, ozone, carbon monoxide) were obtained from the Centro de Previsão de Tempo e Estudos Climáticos Coupled Aerosol and Tracer Transport model to the Brazilian developments on the Regional Atmospheric Modeling System. These environmental variables were used to adjust the multipollutant model for apparent temperature. To estimate association between hospitalizations owing to asthma and air pollutants, generalized additive Poisson regression models were developed, with lags as much as 5 days. There were 385 deaths with a daily mean (±SD) of 1.05±1.03 (range: 0-5). Exposure to NOx was significantly associated with mortality owing to respiratory diseases: relative risk (RR)=1.035 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.008-1.063) for lag 2, RR=1.064 (95%CI: 1.017-1.112) lag 3, RR=1.055 (95%CI: 1.025-1.085) lag 4, and RR=1.042 (95%CI: 1.010-1.076) lag 5. A 3 µg/m3 reduction in NOx concentration resulted in a decrease of 10-18 percentage points in risk of death caused by respiratory diseases. Even at NOx concentrations below the acceptable standard, there is association with deaths caused by respiratory diseases.

The Prevalence of Stages of Heart Failure in Primary Care: A Population-Based Study

BackgroundPlanning strategies to prevent heart failure (HF) in developing countries require epidemiologic data in primary care. The purpose of this study was to estimate the prevalence of HF stages and their phenotypes, HF with preserved ejection fraction (HFPEF), and HF with reduced EF (HFREF) and to determine B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) levels to identify HF in the adult population. Methods and ResultsThis is a cross-sectional study including 633 individuals, aged ≥45 years, who were randomly selected and registered in a primary care program of a medium-sized city in Brazil. All participants were underwent clinical evaluations, BNP measurements, electrocardiograms, and tissue Doppler echocardiography in a single day. The participants were classified as stage 0 (healthy, 11.7%), stage A (risk factors, 36.6%), stage B (structural abnormalities, 42.7%), or stage C (symptomatic HF, 9.3%). Among patients with HF, 59% presented with HFPEF and 41% presented with HFREF. The mean BNP levels were 20 pg/mL−1 in stage 0, 20 pg/mL−1 in stage A, 24 pg/mL−1 in stage B, 93 pg/mL−1 in HFPEF, and 266 pg/mL−1 in HFREF. The cutoff BNP level with optimal sensitivity (92%) and specificity (91%) to identify HF was 42 pg/mL−1. ConclusionThe present study demonstrated a high prevalence of individuals at risk for HF and the predominance of HFPEF in a primary care setting. The clinical examination, along with BNP and tissue Doppler echocardiography, may facilitate early detection of stages A and B HF and allow implementation of interventions aimed at preventing progression to symptomatic HF.

Grid-based simulation method for spatial electric load forecasting using power-law distribution with fractal exponent

Summary A grid-based simulation method to forecast the spatial growth of load density in a distribution utility service zone is presented. The future load density is simulated considering a city's dynamic growth. A power-law distribution with fractal exponent is used to determine how much the load density will increase/decrease depending on different factors like: natural growth following patterns, spontaneous new loads without predefined patterns, and urban poles growth that attract/repel new consumers. These factors are simulated using two modules that exchange information. The final result will display a map with future load density considering a heterogeneous distribution, which is the main contribution of this work. The method is tested on a real distribution system in a medium-sized Brazilian city. The most important characteristic of this method is its high efficiency in spatial load density recognition with less input data than traditional spatial load forecasting methodologies. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Control measures to trace ≤ 15-year-old contacts of index cases of active pulmonary tuberculosis.

This was descriptive study carried out in a medium-sized Brazilian city. In ≤ 15-year-old contacts of index cases of active pulmonary tuberculosis, we assessed compliance with the Brazilian national guidelines for tuberculosis control. We interviewed 43 contacts and their legal guardians. Approximately 80% of the contacts were not assessed by the municipal public health care system, and only 21% underwent tuberculin skin testing. The results obtained with the Chi-square Automatic Interaction Detector method suggest that health care teams have a biased attitude toward assessing such contacts and underscore the need for training health professionals regarding tuberculosis control programs.

Implementation of car-free neighbourhoods in medium-sized cities in Brazil, a case study in Florianópolis, Santa Catarina

The aim of this study was to investigate the best conditions for the success of a car-free neighbourhood and the profile of the potential residents who would live in it. In this context, questionnaires were applied to a sample of the population of Florianópolis. We attempted to determine the profile of potential residents through a logistic regression. The gathered data were complemented by the literature review regarding the already existent car-free neighbourhoods that led to some adaptations required by the Brazilian context in relation to the European car-free neighbourhoods.

Diagnosis and proposals for tables adapted to wheelchair users: a case study on usability in a childhood and teenage care institution

This article aims to evaluate a table design adaptable for wheelchair users. This type of furniture is needed in educational spaces, rehabilitation institutes and even in homes, to perform various tasks. We used the case study approach, in which the assessed usage scenarios were located in an institution that offers treatment for children and adolescents with multiple kinds of disabilities, located in a medium-sized Brazilian city. A number of constraints for users and professionals were found, especially in regard to the adjustment of moving parts, appearance and the structure general instability. The assays resulted in alternative suggestions to improve the product, given the diversity of purposes by their users. Also, the need for the product's users participation (and other role players also present on this interaction) in the development process was evidenced.

Identification of Factors that Influence Cyclistś Route Choice

The objective of the research described in this paper was to evaluate the perception of a group of individuals with respect to factors that might influence their route choice. Data collection was carried out with 65 cyclists that use the bicycle for commuting in a medium-sized Brazilian city. A questionnaire was prepared in which eighteen factors and respondents asked to assess the importance of these factors for their route choice, on a 5-point scale ranging from “Very important” (coded as 1) and “Very Unimportant” (coded as 5). The final part of the questionnaire asked about the respondent's personal characteristics: gender, age, reason why they use the bicycle (work, school, leisure, other), frequency of cycling (a few days month, one day a week, two or three days a week, four or more days a week) and if they usually plan their route before leaving home. The results showed that the most important factors were: motor vehicle speed and number of trucks in the flow (both assessed as 5.0–very important). Other important attributes were: volume of motor vehicles, security and street lighting (all with a 4.86 score). The least important factor was cycling on a one way street (3.29).

Influence of Attitudes with Respect to Cycling on the Perception of Existing Barriers for Using this Mode of Transport for Commuting

The aim of the present research was to examine whether an individuaĺs attitude towards cycling influences his perception of barriers (perceived behavioral control) for cycle commuting. Attitudes and perceived behavioral control were measured using psychological constructs, following the Theory of Planned Behavior. Data collection for this research was conducted in a public college in a Brazilian medium-sized city. The results indicate that the respondents have a positive attitude to cycling for four aspects: environmental benefits, health benefits, economy and feeling of independence. For other eight aspects (better observing the landscape, parking, speed, prestige, effort, risk of accidents, risk of being assaulted and exposure to sun and rain) the general attitude is negative. Perceived behavioral control (barriers) was assessed in relation to six possible obstacles to cycling: lack of infrastructure, lack of safety, distance, skill, slopes and climate. The main deterrent against cycling was lack of adequate cycling infrastructure. Lack of safety (which is associated with the absence of infrastructure) and slopes are other strong obstacles for commuting by bicycle in the city. Individuals who have a negative or neutral attitude toward cycle commuting are not very different in their perception of barriers for cycling. The individuals who have a positive attitude perceive weaker barriers (they have stronger behavioral control). In contrast, a very negative attitude is associated with the perception of stronger barriers.

Analysis of Bicycle Commuter Routes Using GPSs and GIS

This paper reports on the information obtained by analyzing actual urban bicycle-commuter routes in a Brazilian medium-sized city using Global Positioning Systems (GPSs) for collecting the data and a Geographic Information System (GIS) for analyzing the data.In order to accomplish this objective, the actual routes used by cyclists were compared with the shortest-path routes, by means of the extra distance travelled. To therefore determine which characteristics that influences the choice between the two paths.The information collected showed that the speed of motorized traffic and volume (proxi variable, from classification of the roads) at the last, quality of the pavement influence directly in choosing the way to go. Other observed characteristics in this work, not shown to have great importance on the route selection, the absolute difference in most of the variable means were very small.The first part reports the motivations and goals of this paper, followed by a brief literature review on work carried out in the same scope, in the chapter 2. The third chapter describes the methods of data collection for this research and the compared with the shortest paths. Following chapter, describe the resulting from this information's, finally chapter 5 presents conclusions and limitations of this paper.

Prevalence of traumatic dental injuries and its association with binge drinking among 12-year-olds: a population-based study.

To determine the prevalence of traumatic dental injuries and its association with binge drinking among 12-year-old schoolchildren. A cross-sectional study was carried out involving 588 students from a medium-sized city in Brazil. Data were collected through a clinical examination and self-administered questionnaires. Andreasen's classification was used for the determination of traumatic dental injuries. The consumption of alcoholic beverages and binge drinking were evaluated using the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test--Consumption. Socio-economic status, overjet, and inadequate lip seal were also analysed. Associations were tested using the multivariate logistic regression analysis. The prevalence rates of traumatic dental injuries, alcohol consumption in one's lifetime, and binge drinking were 29.9%, 45.6%, and 23.1%, respectively. The prevalence of traumatic dental injuries was significantly higher among those who engaged in binge drinking (PR = 1.410; 95% CI: 1.133-1.754) and even higher among those with inadequate lip protection and accentuated overjet (PR = 3.288; 95% CI: 2.391-4.522 and PR = 1.838; 95% CI: 1.470-2.298, respectively). A higher prevalence rate of traumatic dental injuries was found among 12-year-olds who engaged in binge drinking. The high rate of alcohol intake among adolescents is worrisome considering the vulnerability of this population due to the intense transformations that occur in the transition from childhood to adulthood.

Assessment of sexual risk behaviors and perception of vulnerability to sexually transmitted diseases/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome in women, 1999–2012: a population based survey in a medium-sized Brazilian city

Sexual behavior is a key factor for susceptibility to sexually transmitted diseases. An evaluation of the sexual behavior of women at reproductive age was conducted in 1999. A replication of this study aims to evaluate the current situation and identify changes in sexual behavior, 13 years later. This is a population-based cross-sectional study, conducted with 1071 women in Pelotas, Brazil. Compared to the 1999 study, a 14% increase in early sexual debut and an 8% decrease in the non-use of condoms were observed in 2012. The proportion of women who reported anal sex doubled between these periods. There was no trend of increase or decrease in the prevalence of behaviors with distinct patterns being observed for each of them. Reduction of non-use of condoms may be an indicator of the effectiveness of campaigns to promote safe sex. However, the increased prevalence of early sexual debut and anal sex indicates the need for campaigns to continue and to expand their focus, especially among vulnerable groups.

Dengue virus surveillance in a medium size city in Brazil reveals a complex pattern of serotypes and strains circulation

Dengue virus surveillance in a medium size city in Brazil reveals a complex pattern of serotypes and strains circulation

Política habitacional e o capital privado: o programa de arrendamento residencial em Presidente Prudente, São Paulo

Este artigo busca contribuir para uma análise crítica sobre a produção da habitação de baixa renda pela iniciativa privada em cidades médias no Brasil, no período entre 1999 e 2008, e seus efeitos no espaço urbano. Aborda o papel dos municípios, após a Constituição Federal de 1988, tendo como estudo de caso Presidente Prudente, município localizado no Oeste do Estado de São Paulo. Discute a relação entre as políticas urbanas e habitacionais e a implantação de empreendimentos executados pela iniciativa privada e financiados pela Caixa Econômica Federal, por meio do Programa de Arrendamento Residencial, instituído em 1999 pelo Governo Federal. Verifica seus mecanismos e efeitos na produção do espaço urbano, e as ações públicas locais voltadas à produção de habitação social e a legislação municipal que apóia ou controla essa produção. Evidencia a ausência de diretrizes específicas voltadas para a política habitacional no âmbito da política urbana deste município, induzindo a uma atuação direta do capital privado, que contribui para a produção de espaços urbanos segregados e excludentes.PALAVRAS-CHAVE: Expansão urbana. Habitação de interesse social. Políticas urbanas. Segregação socioespacial.