A laserterapia em baixa intensidade (LLLI) é uma nova metodologia com comprovada eficácia na formação e na diminuição da reabsorção óssea, porém ainda não existe uma padronização quanto à sua utilização, sendo, portanto, necessários mais estudos para investigar o efeito de diferentes parâmetros como o comprimento de onda, duração da aplicação e número de sessões. Este estudo teve por objetivo avaliar os efeitos da LLLI em defeitos ósseos críticos em calvária de ratas Wistar com modelo experimental para osteoporose. A qualidade do tecido ósseo neoformado foi analisada por meio da microscopia de luz, e por meio da estereologia, foram estimados os seguintes parâmetros: volume do tecido de reparação do defeito (Vtr - μm3), densidade de volume das trabéculas (Vvt), volume total das trabéculas ósseas neoformadas (Vtot - μm3), densidade numérica de osteócitos (Nvost - μm-3), número total de osteócitos (Ntoost), volume médio dos osteócitos (Vnost - μm3), densidade de superfície das trabéculas (Svt - μm-1) e superfície de área das trabéculas (Sαt - μm2). A quantidade total de colágeno também foi analisada (Ac - μm2). Foram utilizadas 54 ratas que foram submetidas à ovariectomia bilateral. Após 150 dias, foram realizados defeitos ósseos na calvária. Os animais foram divididos em 9 grupos (n=6) e 24 horas após a confecção do defeito iniciou-se o tratamento com laser de Arseneto Gálio-Alumínio (AsGaAl; 780 nm). Os Grupos 1, 2 e 3 (G1, G2 e G3) receberam a dose ou densidade de energia de 0 J/cm2, 20 J/cm2 e 30 J/cm2 respectivamente, por 3 sessões; os grupos 4, 5 e 6 (G4, G5 e G6) receberam 0 J/cm2, 20 J/cm2 e 30 J/cm2 respectivamente, por 6 sessões e os grupos 7, 8 e 9 (G7, G8 e G9) receberam 0 J/cm2, 20 J/cm2 e 30 J/cm2 respectivamente, por 12 sessões. Comparando os grupos G2 e G1 os resultados estereológicos foram significantes para Vtr (p=0,023), Vvt (p=0,003), Vtot (p=0,04), Ntoost (p=0,048), Svt (p=0,000), Sαt (p=0,001) e Ac (p=0,000). Na comparação de G3 e G1 encontrou-se resultados significantes para Vvt (p=0,002) e Vtot (p=0,02). Na comparação de G5 e G4 os resultados foram significantes para Svt (p=0,041) e Sαt (p=0,043) e na comparação de G6 e G4 os resultados foram significantes para Vtr (p=0,005), Vvt (p=0,000), Vtot (p=0,000), Nvost (p=0,025), Ntoost (p=0,011), Svt (p=0,034), Sαt (p=0,028) e Ac (p=0,001). A comparação de G8 e G7 mostrou que a Sαt foi significante (p=0,047) e na comparação entre G9 e G7 os resultados foram significantes para Vtr (p=0,014), Vvt (p=0,000), Vtot (p=0,000), Nvost (p=0,025), Ntoost (p=0,024), Svt (p=0,042), Sαt (p=0,014) e Ac (p=0,023). Pôde-se concluir que houve neoformação óssea nos grupos que receberam as doses de 20 e 30 J/cm2 quando comparados com os respectivos grupos controles, porém, ao longo do tempo, a dose de 30 J/cm2 mostrou parâmetros estereológicos melhores quando comparada à dose de 20 J/cm2 / Low-level laser irradiation (LLLI) is a new methodology with proven clinical benefits in increased formation and decreased resorption of bone, however, the use of LLLI still needs to be clarified and standardized. Therefore, more studies are needed to analyze the effects of different parameters, such as wavelength, duration of application and number of sessions. This study aimed to assess the effects of LLLI on critical bone defects in rat calvaria used as an experimental model of osteoporosis. Light microscopy was used to analyze the quality of newly formed bone tissue and stereology was used to calculate the following parameters: tissue repair volume (Vtr - μm3), volume density of trabecular bone (Vvt), total volume of newly formed trabecular bone (Vtot - μm3), numerical density of osteocytes (Nvost - μm-3), total number of osteocytes (Ntoost), mean volume of osteocytes (Vnost - μm3), surface density of trabecular bone (Svt - μm-1) and area surface of trabecular bone (Sαt - μm2). The total amount of collagen was also examined (Ac - μm2). Fifty-four Wistar rats were subjected to bilateral ovariectomy. The bone defects were created in calvaria after 150 days. The animals were divided into 9 groups (n=6) and 24 hours after creating the defect, the treatment started with 780nm low intensity gallium-aluminum-arsenide (GaAlAs) laser: Groups 1, 2 and 3 (G1, G2 and G3) received the energy density of 0 J/cm2, 20 J/cm2 and 30 J/cm2 respectively, in 3 sessions; Groups 4, 5 and 6 (G4, G5 and G6) received 0 J/cm2, 20 J/cm2 and 30 J/cm2 respectively, in 6 sessions; Groups 7, 8 and 9 (G7, G8 and G9) received 0 J/cm2, 20 J/cm2 and 30 J/cm2 respectively, in 12 sessions. For the comparison between groups G2 and G1, the results obtained were significant for Vtr (p=0,023), Vvt (p=0,003), Vtot (p=0,04), Ntoost (p=0,048), Svt (p=0,000), Sαt (p=0,001) and Ac (p=0,000). For the comparison between G3 and G1, the results were significant for Vvt (p=0,002) and Vtot (p=0,02). For the comparison between G5 and G4, the results were significant for Svt (p=0,041) and Sαt (p=0,043) and for the comparison between G6 and G4, the results were significant for Vtr (p=0,005), Vvt (p=0,000), Vtot (p=0,000), Nvost (p=0,025), Ntoost (p=0,011), Svt (p=0,034), Sαt (p=0,028) and Ac (p=0,001). The comparison between G8 and G7 was significant for Sαt (p=0,047) and for the comparison between G9 and G7, the results were significant for Vtr (p=0,014), Vvt (p=0,000), Vtot (p=0,000), Nvost (p=0,025), Ntoost (p=0,024), Svt (p=0,042), Sαt (p=0,014) and Ac (p=0,023). In conclusion, there was new bone formation in the groups that received doses of 20 and 30 J/cm2 when compared with the respective control groups, but over time, the dose of 30 J/cm2 showed better stereological parameters when compared to 20 J/cm2

A reabsorção radicular inflamatória induzida pela movimentação dentária é uma consequência da lesão dos cementoblastos devido à aplicação da força sobre o dente deixando a raiz exposta à ação dos osteoclastos. Estudos vêm sendo feitos a fim de se desenvolver um meio de evitar, controlar ou reduzir este tipo de reabsorção. A fototerapia com laser tem demonstrado efetividade como agente antiinflamatório e, considerando a origem inflamatória desta patologia este estudo se propôs a avaliar a ação do laser sobre as reabsorções radiculares. Para isto realizou-se uma análise histomorfométrica da raiz disto-vestibular dos primeiros molares superiores de ratos após a indução da sua movimentação mecânica, sendo irradiados ou não com laser de baixa potência. Para a fototerapia foi utilizado um laser diodo, calibrado com comprimento de onda de 808 nm, potência de saída de 100mW, energia total de 2,1J ou 96J e área de 0,0028cm2. A aplicação foi contínua, pontual e com contato. Foram utilizados 54 ratos Wistar, machos, com aproximadamente 80 dias, pesando entre 280±40g. Para a movimentação utilizou- se uma mola fechada super-elástica, com força constante, pré-calibrada em 25g. Os espécimes foram irradiados a cada 48 horas conforme o grupo a que pertenciam. O sacrifício se procedeu no sétimo ou décimo dia após o início da movimentação. O exame histológico foi realizado com cortes de 6 μm corados em HE. Os resultados revelaram que, com as dosimetrias estudadas, o laser de baixa potência, não teve efeito estatisticamente significante sobre as reabsorções radiculares. Concluindo-se que não há diferença na área reabsorvida, espessura ou extensão da reabsorçãoradicular entre os grupos controle e experimental. / Inflammatory root resorption induced by tooth movement is a consequence of the cementoblasts injury due to application of force on the tooth leaving the root exposed to the action of osteoclasts. Studies have been made to develop a means of preventing, controlling or reducing this kind of resorption. Phototherapy by laser has demonstrated effectiveness as an antiinflammatory and considering the inflammatory origin of this pathology this study evaluated the effects of laser on root resorption. For this we carried out a histomorphometric analysis of maxillary first molars distobuccal root of rats after being moved, irradiated or not with low-level laser. Order to phototherapy it was used a diode laser, calibrated with a wavelength of 808 nm, output power of 100mW, 2.1J or 96J of energy and area of 0.0028 cm2. The application was continuous, punctual and with contact. It was used 54 male Wistar rats, approximately 80 days, weighing 280 ± 40g. For tooth movement, it was used a super elastic closed spring, with pre-calibrated and constant force of 25g. The specimens were irradiated every 48 hours depending on the group they belonged to. The sacrifice was made in the seventh or tenth day after the onset of movement. Histological examination was performed with sections of 6 μm stained with HE. The results revealed that, considering the dosimetry studied, low-level laser, has no effect statistically significant on the root resorption. Concluding it does not have difference in the root reabsorption area, thickness or extension, between the control and the experimental groups.

Orientador: Maeli Dal Pai / Coorientador: Francis Lopes Pacagnelli / Banca: Adriana Pertile / Banca: Thiago Luiz de Russo / Banca: Selma Maria Michelin Matheus / Banca: Ines Cristina Giometti / Resumo: Pesquisas recentes na área de fisioterapia buscam elucidar as alterações envolvidas na regeneração do músculo esquelético após a aplicação de recursos terapêuticos. Neste contexto, a aplicação da Laserterapia de Baixa Intensidade tem se mostrado eficaz para melhorar o processo de regeneração muscular, entretanto, o tipo de laser, os parâmetros de radiação, período avaliado e os mecanismos moleculares envolvidos no processo de regeneração demonstram resultados discrepantes. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o efeito da Laserterapia de Baixa Intensidade, tipo (AsGa), comprimento de onda de 904 nm, 7 dias após a lesão e verificar se o tipo de laser e a dose escolhida tem influência no processo de regeneração muscular. Foram utilizados nesse estudo trinta ratos Wistar, machos, adultos (três meses de idade), peso corporal médio de 210-340g. Os animais foram randomizados em três grupos: Grupo Controle (C, n= 10), Grupo lesado não tratado (L, n=10) e o Grupo lesado e tratado (LT, n= 10). Após anestesia dos animias, a lesão muscular foi induzida por congelamento (criolesão) na região central do ventre do músculo tibial anterior (TA) de ambos os membros posteriores, por meio de uma haste de ferro previamente imersa em nitrogênio líquido. Como recurso terapêutico foi utilizado o laser de AsGa, comprimento de onda de 904 nanômetros. As aplicações do laser foram iniciadas 24 horas após a lesão, diariamente, com densidade de energia de 69 J/cm², (48 segundos), durante cinco dias, em dois pontos na área da lesão. Aos 7 dias, os animais foram pesados e mortos; o músculo TA de ambos membros posteriores foi retirado e processado para as análises morfológica e molecular. O músculo TA esquerdo foi congelado em nitrogênio líquido e cortes histológicos obtidos em criostato foram submetidos às coloraçõe s Hematoxilina e Eosina (para análise morfológica) e Picrosirius (para análise do colágeno). O músculo TA... / Abstract: Recent research in the field of physiotherapy has aimed to elucidate the main changes involved in skeletal muscle regeneration after application of therapeutic resources. In this context, the application of Low Level Laser Therapy has proven to be effective at improving the muscle regeneration process. However, the type of laser, irradiation parameters, evaluation period and molecular mechanisms involved in the regeneration process present conflicting results. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of Low Level Laser Therapy, type GaAs at 904 nm, during the muscle regeneration process, for seven days after the lesion, and verify whether both the GaAs laser and chosen dose influence the muscle regeneration process. Thirty Wistar male adult rats (three-month old), mean body weight 210 - 340 g were used in this study. The animals were randomized into three groups: Control Group (C, n=10), Untreated Lesion Group (L, n=10) and Treated Lesion group (TL, n=10). After anesthetizing the animals, muscle lesion was induced by freezing (cryoinjury) in the middle belly portion of the tibialis anterior muscle (TA) of both hind limbs, using an iron rod previously immersed in liquid nitrogen. A GaAs laser, with a wavelength of 904 nm was used as a therapeutic resource. Daily laser applications were initiated 24 hours after lesion, with an energy density of 69 J/cm2, (48 seconds), for five consecutive days, at two points in the lesion area. On the seventh day, the animals were euthanized and weighed; the TA muscles from both hindlimbs were removed and processed for morphological and molecular analysis. The left TA muscle was frozen in liquid nitrogen and histological sections obtained in a cryostat were submitted to Hematoxylin and Eosin (for morphological analysis) and Picrosirius (for collagen analysis) staining. The right TA muscle was used for the analysis of gene expression of MyoD, myogenin, TNF-α and TGF-β by using the Polymerase... / Doutor

A fotobioestimulação por laser e LED é uma tendência terapêutica inovadora e não invasiva. Os efeitos fotofísicos e fotoquímicos dessa terapia geram imunomodulação, aceleram a cicatrização e angiogênese, bem como reduzem a dor. Dessa forma tem se buscado o emprego desses estímulos no tecido ósseo, porém ainda inexistem padrões definidos para obter a melhor fotobioestimulação nas células ósseas. O objetivo desse trabalho foi avaliar a capacidade da fotobioestimulação na viabilidade celular e mineralização de células da granulação óssea de ratos (rGO). Células rGO na 6ª passagem foram plaqueadas em placas de 96 poços para os ensaios de viabilidade celular (1x10³) e em placas de 24 poços para os ensaios de cicatrização de feridas in vitro (1x104), mineralização e atividade da fosfatase alcalina (FALC) (4x104). As células receberam DMEM (10% SFB) e irradiações com laser (AlGaAs- 660nm e AlGaInP-810nm) e LED (637±15nm). Os grupos experimentais foram: laser vermelho (3 e 5 J/cm²), laser infravermelho (3 e 5 J/cm²) e LED (3 e 5s), além dos grupos controles, positivo (C+) e negativo (C-, 1%SFB). Para os ensaios de mineralização e atividade de fosfatase alcalina, além do meio convencional, grupos com meio osteogênico e os mesmos tratamentos luminosos foram acrescentados. A viabilidade celular foi avaliada pelos testes do MTT e cristal violeta nos períodos de 24, 48, 72 e 96h. O ensaio de cicatrização de feridas in vitro foi avaliado por meio da porcentagem da área de fechamento da ferida nos períodos de 12, 24, 36, 48h. O teste de mineralização foi feito por meio do teste com vermelho de alizarina nos períodos de 14, 21 e 28 dias enquanto que a atividade da FALC foi medida em 7, 14 e 21 dias. A análise estatística foi realizada através dos testes ANOVA complementados por Tukey (p<0,05). Os resultados mostraram que as terapias com luz de maneira geral aumentaram a viabilidade o fechamento da ferida in vitro, principalmente os grupos laser vermelho e LED5s (p<0,05). Pode-se observar um bom desempenho do grupo LED5s no ensaio de mineralização, onde nos grupos que receberam meio osteogênico houve um efeito somatório com a ação da fotobioestimulação promovendo maior produção de nódulos in vitro. Também, as terapias com luz, estimularam a produção de nódulos mineralizados nos grupos que receberam meio convencional de forma a superar o C+ osteogênico (p<0,05), denotando uma ação de indução osteogênica a partir da fotobioestimulação. A fosfatase alcalina foi estimulada pelos tratamentos com luz no período de 7 dias (p<0,05). Em conclusão, as terapias com laser e LED foram capazes de estimular a viabilidade e migração celular e eventos de mineralização em osteoblastos, sendo que o laser vermelho e LED promoveram os melhores resultados. / Photobiomodulation by laser and LED is a new therapeutic non-invasive trend. Photophysical and photochemical effects occur in immunomodulation, acceleration of wound healing and angiogenesis and reduction of pain. These effects are desired in bone tissue but there are no defined parameters for light irradiation and no consensus for the best effect on osseous cells. The aim of this study was to evaluate photobiomodulation effects on cell viability and mineralization events of rat osseous granulation cells (rGO). Cells in 6th passage were plated in 96-well plates for viability tests (1x10³ cells), and 24-well plates for in vitro wound healing test (1x104 cells), mineralization and alkaline phosphatases (AF) activity (4x104 cells). Cells were cultured in DMEM (10% bovine fetal serum) and irradiation with lasers (AlGaAs-660nm e AlGaInP-810nm) and LED (637±15nm). Experimental groups were red laser (3 and 5 J/cm²), infrared laser (3 and 5 J/cm²), LED (3 and 5s), positive(C+) and negative controls (C-, 1% bovine fetal serum). For mineralization and AF assays, other groups with osteogenic medium and same light treatments were added. Cell viability was evaluated by MTT and crystal violet tests at 24, 48, 72 and 96h. In vitro wound healing test evaluated the percentage of wound closure area by cells migration at 12, 24, 36, 48h. Mineralization test was done by alizarin red at 14, 21 and 28 days. AF activity was measured at 7, 14 and 21 days. Statistical analysis was performed by ANOVA complemented by Tukeys test (p<0,05). Results showed that light therapies in general increased viability and wound healing closure, mostly red laser and LED5s (p<0,05). Best results in mineralization stimulation were observed for LED5s. In groups with osteogenic medium, a synergistic effect of photobiomodulation resulted in higher numbers of mineral nodules. Light groups stimulated higher mineral nodule formation than positive control (p>0.05) even in groups with regular medium, showing an osteogenic induction by light. Increased AF activity was observed at 7 days in light treatment groups (p<0,05). In conclusion, laser and LED photobiostimulation increased viability, cell migration and mineralization events in osteoblasts with best results for red laser and LED.

O sucesso do tratamento com implantes osseointegráveis dependente do processo de reparo da ferida e do potencial osteogênico das células. Com o objetivo de aumentar a formação óssea na superfície dos implantes, vários tratamentos têm sido propostos, entre eles, a terapia com laser de baixa intensidade. Neste contexto, o objetivo do presente estudo foi investigar o efeito do laser diodo de Arseneto-Gálio-Alumínio (AsGaAl) em culturas osteogênicas humanas crescidas sobre titânio. Após exposição das culturas, aos 3 e 7 dias, a uma dose de 3 J/cm2, foram avaliados os seguintes parâmetros: 1) proliferação celular aos 10 e 14 dias; 2) atividade de fosfatase alcalina (ALP) em 10, 14 e 17 dias; 3) formação de matriz mineralizada em 17 dias; 4) imunolocalização de proteínas não-colágenas e do antígeno nuclear Ki-67 por fluorescência indireta em 8, 10, 14 e 17 dias; 5) expressão de genes relacionados ao desenvolvimento do fenótipo osteoblástico aos 14 dias. Os resultados dos ensaios de proliferação celular mostraram que a radiação laser aumentou a proliferação de 10 para 14 dias, mas tanto a atividade de ALP como a formação de matriz mineralizada aparentemente não foram afetadas. A análise das culturas por epifluorescência mostrou que as culturas controle e irradiadas apresentaram comportamento distintos. Aos 14 dias, foi demonstrado que a exposição à radiação laser, na dose utilizada, promoveu aumento na expressão relativa dos genes ALP, OC, BSP, BMP-7 e OPG e redução dos níveis de expressão de Runx2 e osteopontina, mas não afetou a expressão gênica de COL I, RANK-L e ICAM. As culturas irradiadas apresentaram áreas sem células após 24 h da última irradiação, que posteriormente foram repovoadas por células mais proliferativas e menos diferenciadas. Em conclusão, os resultados indicam que a radiação do laser diodo de AsGaAl estimula a expressão do fenótipo osteoblástico de culturas osteogênicas humanas crescidas sobre titânio. / The success of treatment with osseointegrated implants depends on wound healing and the osteogenic potential of cells. Aimed at increasing bone formation onto implant surfaces, several treatments have been proposed and low-intensity laser therapy is one of them. Thus, the purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of the Gallium-Aluminum-Arsenic (GaAlAr) diode laser on human osteogenic cultures grown on titanium. After irradiation of osteogenic cultures with 3 J/cm2 of GaAlAr laser at the days 3 and 7, the following parameters were evaluated: 1) cell proliferation at 10 and 14 days; 2) alkaline phosphatase activity (ALP) at 10 days; 3) mineralized matrix formation at day 17, 4) non-collagenous bone proteins and nuclear antigen Ki-67 immunolocalization by indirect fluorescence at 8, 10, 14 and 17 days; and 5) Expressions of a panel of genes related to osteoblastic phenotype at day 14. Apparently cell proliferation, ALP activity and mineralized matrix formation were not significantly different between irradiated and control cultures in any period. Epifluorescence revealed that control and irradiated cultures had presented different behaviors. At 24 h after irradiation procedures, irradiated cultures displayed areas with no cells, which were repopulated later on by proliferative and apparently less-differentiated cells. Laser radiation increased relative gene expression of ALP, OC, BSP, BMP-7, and OPG; reduced the gene expression of Runx2 and OPN; and did not affect the expression of COL-1, RANK-L and ICAM. Altogether these results indicated that the GaAlAr laser stimulates the expression of osteoblastic phenotype of human osteogenic culture cells grown on titanium.

L’exposition à des polluants environnementaux est considérée comme l’un des facteurs pouvant expliquer l’augmentation exponentielle des maladies métaboliques dans le monde. Parmi ces polluants, plusieurs études épidémiologiques suggèrent une association entre exposition au cadmium (Cd) et incidence et sévérité des cas de diabète, mais le sujet reste controversé. Des travaux expérimentaux sur des modèles animaux montrent qu’une exposition au Cd induit des effets divers sur le métabolisme du glucose. Toutefois, ces études ont été réalisées avec des doses de Cd relativement fortes et avec des modèles d’exposition peu réalistes. De plus, très peu de données sont disponibles sur l’effet de l’exposition maternelle sur la descendance. L’objectif de ces travaux était donc d’étudier les possibles altérations du métabolisme du glucose après une exposition orale à des doses faibles de Cd, chez des rats adultes ainsi que sur des jeunes rats exposés via leur mère. Nos résultats montrent qu’à des niveaux de Cd proche des doses de références sans effets chez le rat, les femelles adultes présentent des perturbations du niveau d’insuline plasmatique ainsi qu’une légère diminution de la sensibilité à l’insuline. Ces effets diabétogènes ne sont pas retrouvés chez les mâles. Les résultats de notre seconde étude indiquent que l’exposition maternelle au Cd, pendant la gestation et la lactation, induit des modifications métaboliques précoces chez les descendance, 21, 26 et 60 jours après la naissance. A 21 jours, la tolérance au glucose est altérée. A 26 jours, la sensibilité périphérique à l’insuline est transitoirement restaurée mais la fonction pancréatique est impactée. Enfin, à 60 jours, le défaut de sensibilité à l’insuline est compensé par une sécrétion accrue. Ces travaux mettent en évidence les effets d’une exposition à doses faibles de Cd sur le métabolisme du glucose et renforcent l’idée que l’environnement périnatal, en particulier l’exposition aux polluants, impacte la santé de la descendance, à plus ou moins long terme. Au-delà de ces résultats, ces travaux portent une réflexion sur l’intérêt et la difficulté à mettre en place des modèles animaux d’exposition pertinents, pour répondre à l’enjeu de l’évaluation des risques de l’exposition chronique au Cd. / The exposure to environmental pollutants is considered one of the factors that could explain the exponential increase in metabolic illnesses worldwide. Among these pollutants, many epidemiological studies suggest a link between Cadmium (Cd) exposure and the occurrence and severity of diabetes, although the subject remains controversial. Experimental work on animals shows that exposure to Cd induces various effects on glucose metabolism. However, these studies were performed with relatively high doses of Cd and with unrealistic exposure models. In addition, very little data are available on the effect of maternal exposure and effect on descendants. The aim of this work was to study possible alterations in glucose metabolism after oral exposure to low doses of Cd in adult rats as well as in young rats exposed via their mothers. Results show that when exposed to Cd levels close to no-observed-effect reference values in rats, female rats show disturbances in plasma insulin level and a slight decrease in insulin sensitivity. These diabetogenic effects are not found in male rats. The results of the second study indicate that maternal exposure to Cd during pregnancy and lactation induces early metabolic changes in the offspring, 21, 26 and 60 days after birth. At 21 days, glucose tolerance is altered. At 26 days, the peripheral insulin sensitivity is transiently restored but the pancreatic function is impacted. Finally, at 60 days, the lack of insulin sensitivity is compensated by increased secretion. This work demonstrates the effects of low doses of Cd on glucose metabolism and reinforces the idea that the perinatal environment, in particular exposure to pollutants, affects the health of offspring in the long term. Beyond these results, this work allows the reader to reflect on the interest and difficulty of setting up relevant experimental animal models, in order to tackle the issue of risk assessment of chronic Cd exposure.

O enfoque deste trabalho é contribuir para a compreensão dos processos que definem a propagação de linhas de instabilidade tropicais da Amazônia. Foi feita a análise de 9 anos de imagens de satélite definindo casos de linha de instabilidade e relacionando sua ocorrência com as do seu ambiente. Foi ressaltado o papel dos jatos de baixos níveis na propagação das linhas de instabilidade e verificadas possíveis diferenças entre os sistemas que se propagam e os que não se propagam. A partir da análise observacional foram feitas simulações numéricas com o modelo BRAMS para explorar a sensibilidade da propagação das linhas de instabilidade às características cinemáticas do ambiente. Como resultado principal, obteve-se que a maioria dos casos observados foi de linhas que não se propagaram, permanecendo quase estacionárias nas proximidades da costa norte do Brasil. Do total de casos de LI identificadas nas imagens de satélite, apenas 20% foram de linhas se propagaram mais de 400 km. O perfil do vento para seu ambiente de formação e desenvolvimento possui características que reúnem um jato em baixos níveis, um jato em altos níveis e pouco cisalhamento na intensidade e na direção. O jato em baixos níveis foi predominante de leste com intensidade média de 9 ms-1 e ocorreu em torno de 800 hPa. Ele foi mais intenso e mais profundo para as linhas que se propagaram mais de 400 km e menos intenso e menos profundo para as linhas costeiras. Os anos de 2005 e 2006 tiveram um aumento considerável de casos, em especial para as linhas que se propagaram. 2005 foi um ano atípico, pois foi verificado um aumento na temperatura da superfície do mar do Atlântico tropical, o que permitiu especular que aumentos como o que foi verificado, em certas áreas do Oceano Atlântico, pode levar ao aprofundamento do JBN através da intensificação das ondas de leste e assim favorecer a formação de mais LI na costa norte do Brasil. O JBN tem papel importante no processo de desenvolvimento das torres de cúmulos que compõe as linhas de instabilidade. Não só são responsáveis pela organização do sistema em linha, mas influenciam diretamente nos processos internos das nuvens, como ventilação e entranhamento, a formação de correntes descendentes e a formação de frentes de rajada em superfície que, em última instância, definem as características de propagação. / The aim of this work is to contribute to the understanding the processes that define the propagation of Amazon Tropical Squall Lines (ASL). 9 years of satellite images were analyzed defining ASL cases and their relationship with environment characteristics. The low level jet (LLJ) in ASL propagation has emerged as an important feature and possible differences between the systems that propagated and systems that did not propagate were analyzed. The observational analyzes suggested a series of numerical simulations with BRAMS model to explore the sensitivity of propagating ASL with respect to the kinematic characteristics of environment. Main results show that the larger number of ASL cases was of non propagating coastal lines. From the total, only 20% of ASL propagated more than 400 km (SL2). The wind profile of ASL formation and development environment had a LLJ, an upper level jet and to small values of speed and directional shear. The LLJ was from east with intensity of about 9 ms-1 and it was occurred around 800 hPa. It was more intense and deeper for SL2 than CSL. The 2005 and 2006 years had an considerable increase of ASL cases, specially for propagated lines. The 2005 year was atypical, because had an increase of sea surface temperature of Tropical Atlantic Ocean, allowing to speculate that this kind of increase, in certain areas of the Ocean, can lead to the deepening of LLJ through of easterly wave intensification, and thus favoring the formation of more ASL in the North coast of Brazil. The LLJ has a important role in the development processes of cumulus towers that compose the ASL and not only it were responsible for organization of the system, but it directly influence the internal processes of clouds, like inflow into the cloud.

Aims: The aims of this thesis were to describe and gain an understanding of how people who live in the vicinity of wind turbines are affected by wind turbine noise, and how individual, situational and visual factors, as well as sound properties, moderate the response. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out in a flat, mainly rural area in Sweden, with the objective to estimate the prevalence of noise annoyance and to examine the dose-response relationship between A-weighted sound pressure levels (SPLs) and perception of and annoyance with wind turbine noise. Subjective responses were obtained through a questionnaire (n = 513; response rate: 68%) and outdoor, A-weighted SPLs were calculated for each respondent. To gain a deeper understanding of the observed noise annoyance, 15 people living in an area were interviewed using open-ended questions. The interviews were analysed using the comparative method of Grounded Theory (GT). An additional cross-sectional study, mainly exploring the influence of individual and situational factors, was carried out in seven areas in Sweden that differed with regard to terrain (flat or complex) and degree of urbanization (n = 765; response rate: 58%). To further explore the impact of visual factors, data from the two cross-sectional studies were tested with structural equation modelling. A proposed model of the influence of visual attitude on noise annoyance, also comprising the influence of noise level and general attitude, was tested among respondents who could see wind turbines versus respondents who could not see wind turbines from their dwelling, and respondents living in flat versus complex terrain. Results: Dose-response relationships were found both for perception of noise and for noise annoyance in relation to A-weighted SPLs. The risk of annoyance was enhanced among respondents who could see at least one turbine from their dwelling and among those living in a rural in comparison with a suburban area. Noise from wind turbines was appraised as an intrusion of privacy among people who expected quiet and peace in their living environment. Negative experiences that led to feelings of inferiority added to the distress. Sound characteristics describing the amplitude modulated aerodynamic sound were appraised as the most annoying (swishing, whistling and pulsating/throbbing). Wind turbines were judged as environmentally friendly, efficient and necessary, but also as ugly and unnatural. Being negative towards the visual impact of the wind turbines on the landscape scenery, rather than towards wind turbines as such, was strongly associated with annoyance. Self-reported health impairment was not correlated to SPL, while decreased well-being was associated with noise annoyance. Indications of possible hindrance to psycho-physiological restoration were observed. Conclusions: Wind turbine noise is easily perceived and is annoying even at low A-weighted SPLs. This could be due to perceived incongruence between the characteristics of wind turbine noise and the background sound. Wind turbines are furthermore prominent objects whose rotational movement attracts the eye. Multimodal sensory effects or negative aesthetic response could enhance the risk of noise annoyance. Adverse reactions could possibly lead to stress-related symptoms due to prolonged physiological arousal and hindrance to psychophysiological restoration. The observed differences in prevalence of noise annoyance between living environments make it necessary to assess separate dose-response relationships for different types of landscapes.

In this thesis various descriptions of the near surface atmospheric flow over a high latitude glacier is used in an effort to increase our understanding of the basic flow dynamics there. Through their contribution to sea-level change, mountain glaciers play a significant role in Earth’s climate system. Properties of the near surface atmospheric flow are important for understanding glacier response to climate change. Here, the near surface atmospheric flow is studied from several perspectives including the effects of both rotation and slope. Rotation is an important aspect of most atmospheric flows and its significance for mesoscale flows have gained recognition over the last years. Similarly, the very stable boundary layer (VSBL) has lately gained interest. Within a VSBL over sloping terrain katabatic flow is known to be usual and persistent. For the present thesis a combination of numerical and simple analytical models as well as observations from the Vatnajökull glacier on Iceland have been used. The models have continuously been compared to available observations. Three different approaches have been used: linear wave modeling, analytic modeling of katabatic flow and of the Ekman layer, and numerical simulations of the katabatic flow using a state of the art mesoscale model. The analytic models for the katabatic flow and the Ekman layer used in this thesis both utilizes the WKB method to allow the eddy diffusivity to vary with height. This considerably improves the results of the models. Among other findings it is concluded that: a large part of the flow can be explained by linear theory, that good results can be obtained for surface energy flux using simple models, and that the very simple analytic models for the katabatic flow and the Ekman layer can perform adequately if the restraint of constant eddy diffusivity is relieved.

This thesis provides a novel architecture for the creation and management of virtual multimedia adaptation services offered by a multimedia-enabled cloud. The aim of the proposed scheme is to provide an optimal yet a transparent user access to adapted media contents while isolating them from the heterogeneity of the utilized devices, diversity of media formats, as well as the details of the adaptation services and performance variations of the underlying network. This goal is achieved through the development of service virtualization models that provide various levels of abstraction of the actual physical services and their performance parameters. Such virtual models offer adaptation functions by comprising adaptation services with accordance to their parameters. Additionally, parameters describing the functional specifics of the adaptation functions, as well as multimedia content features, are organized into a hierarchical structure that facilitates extraction of the virtual models capable of satisfying the conditions expressed by the user requests. At the same time the paramter/feature organization structure itself is flexible enough to allow users to specify media delivery requests at various levels of request details (e.g., summarize video vs. drop specific frames). As a result, in response to a user request for a multimedia content, an optimal virtual service adaptation path is calculated, describing the needed media adaptation operations as well as the appropriate mapping to the physical resources capable of executing such functions. The selection of the adaptation path is done with the use of a novel performance-history based selection mechanism that takes into account the performance variations and relations of the services in a dynamically changing environment of multimedia clouds. A number of experiments are conducted to demonstrate the potential of the proposed work in terms of the enhanced processing time and service quality.