bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Crop coefficient and water consumption of eggplant in no-tillage system and conventional soil preparation
Authors: Carvalho Daniel F. de , Lima Marcio E. de , Oliveira Alexsandra D. de , Rocha Hermes S. da , Guerra José G. M.
Published: September 2012

Under organic management in Seropédica-RJ, Brazil, using a weighing lysimeter, the crop coefficients (kc), the maximum evapotranspiration and the productivity of eggplant cultivation under two cropping systems (no tillage with straw plus soil with conventional preparation) were determined. A whole randomized layout with two treatments (no tillage and conventional) and five replicates during 134 days of cultivation were adopted. There were no significant differences in the eggplant cultivation in the two cropping systems, with a maximum commercial productivity obtained from 47.42 Mg ha-1 for the no-tillage system, and 47.91 Mg ha-1 for the conventional tillage. The accumulated ETc was 285.15 and 323.44 mm for the no-tillage and conventional, respectively. The crop coefficients value for the phases: 1 - transplanting, flowering, 2 - flowering-fruiting, 3 - fruit- first harvesting, 4- first harvesting of the final crop cycle was 0.83, 0.77, 0.90 and 0.97 in no-tillage system for the respective phases and for the conventional one 0.81, 1.14, 1.17 and 1.05 for the same steps described above.
Avaliação da qualidade da atenção primária pelos profissionais de saúde: comparação entre diferentes tipos de serviços
Authors: Castro Rodrigo Caprio Leite de , Knauth Daniela Riva , Harzheim Erno , Hauser Lisiane , Duncan Bruce Bartholow
Published: September 2012

Em Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil, a rede pública de Atenção Primária à Saúde (APS) inclui as Unidades Básicas de Saúde tradicionais (UBS), a Estratégia Saúde da Família (ESF), o Centro Saúde Escola Murialdo (CSEM) e o Serviço de Saúde Comunitária (SSC) do Grupo Hospitalar Conceição. O objetivo deste estudo é comparar a qualidade da atenção à saúde do adulto entre esses diferentes tipos de serviços. A qualidade da atenção foi medida por meio de entrevistas sobre a experiência de médicos e enfermeiros com os serviços (n = 340), utilizando-se, para isso, o Primary Care Assessment Tool. O Escore Geral de APS atribuído à ESF, ao CSEM e ao SSC foi significativamente maior do que o atribuído às UBS. O SSC apresentou também Escore Geral de APS significativamente maior do que o atribuído à ESF e ao CSEM. No modelo multivariável, ter "especialidade na área de APS" e referir "oferta de educação continuada" mostraram-se associados com a prevalência de alto Escore Geral. Dessa forma, a ampliação da cobertura da ESF e o investimento na formação profissional são estratégias para qualificar a APS no município.
Adaptação transcultural do instrumento Tilburg Frailty Indicator (TFI) para a população brasileira
Authors: Santiago Lívia Maria , Luz Laércio Lima , Mattos Inês Echenique , Gobbens Robbert J. J.
Published: September 2012

Este estudo tem como objetivo realizar a adaptação para a população brasileira do Tilburg Frailty Indicator (TFI), instrumento utilizado para a avaliação da fragilidade em idosos. Foram realizadas análises das equivalências conceitual, de itens e semântica, além do pré-teste da versão-síntese do instrumento. Na avaliação da equivalência conceitual, pôde-se constatar que o constructo fragilidade adotado no Brasil tem a mesma concepção das demais culturas onde essa condição tem sido investigada. Verificou-se que todos os itens incluídos no instrumento original apresentavam similaridade de conteúdo nas duas culturas. Identificou-se, também, alta equivalência semântica tanto na análise do significado referencial quanto do significado geral dos itens. No pré-teste, foram observados elevado percentual de entendimento e boa aceitação dos itens do instrumento por parte dos idosos. Os resultados sugerem que a versão do TFI para a cultura brasileira pode representar uma ferramenta útil na avaliação da saúde dos idosos do país.
An experimental model for the study of collagen fibers in skeletal muscle
Authors: Calvi Eliziane Nitz de Carvalho , Nahas Fábio Xerfan , Barbosa Marcus Vinícius , Calil José Augusto , Ihara Silvia Saiuli Miki , Silva Marcelo de Souza , Franco Marcello Fabiano de , Ferreira Lydia Masako
Published: September 2012

PURPOSE: To examine histological and histomorphometric techniques for measuring collagen in skeletal muscle. METHODS: The following staining methods were used in the study: hematoxylin and eosin, Masson's trichrome, reticulin, and picrosirius red, and immunostaining for collagen types I, II, III, IV, and V. Histomorphometric measurements were performed using Corel PhotoPaint and UTHSCSA Image Tool 3.0 software. RESULTS: Both the Masson's trichrome and picrosirius red staining provided the best visualization for the measurement of collagen content. CONCLUSION: This methodology is important for the identification and quantification of the different types of collagen in muscles and can be used in the investigation of the qualitative and quantitative influence of collagen on physical activities, aging, and diseases.
Comparison on different strategies for treatments of hypertensive hemorrhage in the basal ganglia region with a volume of 25 to 35ml
Authors: Zheng Wei , Zhang Chunpu , Hou Dapeng , Cao Chunguang
Published: September 2012

PURPOSE: To compare curative effect of different treatments for hypertensive cerebral hemorrhage of 25 to 35ml. METHODS: In this study, 595 cases were enrolled and grouped regarding treatments including conservative treatment, evacuation with microinvasive craniopuncture technique within 6h and 6-48h after the attack. RESULTS: After follow up for three months after the attack, the assessment based on the Activity of Daily Living (ADL) indicated no significant difference among conservative treatment and surgical interventions (p>0.05). However, surgical interventions showed advantages of shorter hospitalization, quick removal of hematoma and obvious reduction of cost. CONCLUSION: The microinvasive craniopuncture technique to drain the hematoma within 6-48h may be a good way in treating hypertensive hemorrhage of basal ganglia region.
Relação entre morbidade hospitalar e cobertura vacinal contra Influenza A
Authors: Marques Fernanda Ribeiro Baptista , Furlan Mara Cristina Ribeiro , Okubo Patrícia , Marcon Sonia Silva
Published: September 2012

OBJETIVO: Analisar o perfil dos indivíduos acometidos pelo vírus Influenza A (H1N1), e o impacto vacinal nos grupos prioritários à vacinação. MÉTODOS: Estudo ecológico, observacional, de caráter retrospectivo, com população de indivíduos residentes na cidade de Maringá-PR e submetidos à internação por Influenza A entre 2009 e 2010. RESULTADOS: No ano de 2009, ocorreram 614 internações decorrentes de infecção pelo vírus Influenza A em Maringá-PR. A disponibilização da vacina fez com que o número de acometidos diminuísse para 169 em 2010, ocorrendo impacto vacinal nos seguintes grupos populacionais: gestantes, portadores de doenças crônicas e adultos de 20 a 39 anos. CONCLUSÃO: Identificou-se a necessidade de estender a faixa etária de vacinação para crianças de 2 a 4 anos e preenchimento dos impressos de vacinação dos indivíduos e grupos vacinados com maior rigor.
Análise da administração de medicamentos intravenosos em hospital da rede sentinela
Authors: Silva Lolita Dopico da , Camerini Flavia Giron
Published: September 2012

O estudo objetivou identificar tipo e a frequência dos erros que ocorrem na administração de medicamentos intravenosos. Pesquisa transversal de natureza observacional em três unidades de um hospital. Observaram-se 367 doses de medicamentos intravenosos preparadas por 35 técnicos de enfermagem. A coleta de dados ocorreu entre janeiro e agosto de 2008. Os erros foram agrupados nas categorias medicamento, paciente, via, hora, dose, verificação de flebite e permeabilidade do cateter. Os resultados mostraram taxas de erros, em todos os setores e maiores de 80% para as categorias Não conferir medicamento, Não avaliar permeabilidade do cateter e Não avaliar presença de flebite. Não houve erros em via e dose. A administração do medicamento com atraso em 69,75% das doses, possivelmente afetou o resultado terapêutico da ampicilina sódica, furosemida e tenoxican. As altas taxas de erros podem ter causado mudanças no resultado terapêutico esperado, podendo ocorrer consequências indesejáveis aos pacientes.
Vestuário de profissionais de saúde como potenciais reservatórios de microrganismos: uma revisão integrativa
Authors: Oliveira Adriana Cristina de , Silva Marlene das Dores Medeiros , Garbaccio Juliana Ladeira
Published: September 2012

Objetivou-se identificar na literatura, artigos sobre a ocorrência de contaminação por microrganismos, em jalecos, aventais e uniformes dos profissionais de saúde, e a similaridade com aqueles associados às Infecções Relacionadas à Assistência à Saúde, considerando o perfil de resistência aos antimicrobianos. Realizou-se busca por artigos nas seguintes bases de dados: MEDLINE, LILACS e SCOPUS, publicados entre 2000 e 2010. Foram selecionados nove artigos. Os estudos evidenciaram a contaminação dos jalecos, aventais e uniformes. Nos estudos analisados, verificou-se a presença de bactérias, principalmente, nos bolsos, punhos e região abdominal. Quanto ao perfil de sensibilidade, verificou-se recuperação de Staphylococcus aureus meticilina resistente, seguidos dos Gram negativos resistentes aos antimicrobianos. Identificou-se semelhança entre as cepas isoladas no vestuário dos profissionais de saúde e aquelas relacionadas à ocorrência de infecções. Assim, jalecos, aventais e uniformes devem ser considerados na cadeia de disseminação de microrganismos resistentes.
Welding shape memory alloys with NdYAG lasers
Authors: Quintino Luisa , Miranda Rosa M.
Published: September 2012

The demand of emerging joining techniques for shape memory alloys (SMA) has become of great importance, as their functional properties namely shape memory effect (SME) and superelasticity (SE) present unique solutions for state-of-the-art applications. Welding of SMAs is a challenge due to the risk of reduced mechanical performance after laser processing. The wider application of these alloys in various sectors as aerospace, medical or electronic industry is hindered by the limitations in its processing. The need to weld SMAs to other materials is pressing for applications in the above referred sectors. In dissimilar joints the need to understand materials behavior is even more challenging since base materials have different physical properties leading to different heat flow, convection processes and residual stress distribution. The chemical composition across the weld pool varies and intermetallic compounds are formed. Research detailing the effects of laser processing on NiTi is essential to overcome many of these challenges. The objectives of the current study are to analyze the effects of laser welding in the weld shape of both similar and dissimilar joints of NiTi to stainless steel and titanium alloys.
Tendências no desenvolvimento de gases de proteção utilizados na soldagem MIG/MAG
Authors: Tatagiba Luiz Claudio Soares , Gonçalves Renata Barbosa , Paranhos Ronaldo
Published: September 2012

Este trabalho tem como objetivo apresentar uma revisão do estado da arte sobre os gases de proteção usados nos processos de soldagem a arco elétrico, com ênfase na soldagem MIG/MAG do aço. São apresentados os principais conceitos da física do arco e as propriedades relacionadas aos gases de proteção. O modelo de atmosfera ligeiramente oxidante para os gases de proteção é discutido, sendo mostradas as formulações dos gases estudados em artigos científicos e em patentes depositadas, bem como as reivindicações (vantagens) requeridas. Também são mencionados alguns poucos estudos usando adições de gases não convencionais. Foi observado que no desenvolvimento de gases de proteção para soldagem MIG/MAG do aço predomina o modelo da formação de atmosfera ligeiramente oxidante. A maioria das formulações propostas envolve o uso de misturas binárias, ternárias e até quaternárias dos gases Ar, He, CO2 e O2. Em aplicações específicas, adições de N2 e H2 foram usadas. Neste sentido, pouca inovação foi identificada, sendo atribuídas possíveis razões a este fato. A tendência observada para o desenvolvimento de gases de proteção parece ser o uso de misturas ricas em gases inertes, com adições calibradas de elementos oxidantes, sempre atendendo a aplicações específicas.
Avaliação das ações de controle da sífilis e do HIV na assistência pré-natal da rede pública do município do Rio de Janeiro, Brasil
Authors: Domingues Rosa Maria Soares Madeira , Hartz Zulmira Maria de Araújo , Leal Maria do Carmo
Published: September 2012

OBJETIVOS: avaliar a adequação das ações de controle da sífilis e do HIV na assistência pré-natal realizada em unidades do Sistema Único de Saúde do Município do Rio de Janeiro, Brasil. MÉTODOS: estudo transversal, realizado em 2007-2008, por meio de entrevistas com 2353 gestantes, análise de cartões de pré-natal e dados obtidos junto a 102 profissionais de saúde. Para avaliação da adequação da assistência foi elaborado um modelo lógico-operacional, tendo como referência normativa os protocolos assistenciais dos programas de assistência pré-natal e de DST/Aids do Ministério da Saúde. Foi considerado adequado o cumprimento de 100% das ações previstas para cada idade gestacional. RESULTADOS: foram identificadas falhas no aconselhamento das gestantes, na realização dos exames sorológicos, no tratamento dos casos de sífilis e na abordagem dos parceiros. Na análise bivariada, gestantes com início tardio da assistência pré-natal e número inadequado de consultas apresentaram pior adequação de todas as ações, exceto do aconselhamento anti-HIV. CONCLUSÕES: problemas no início precoce do prénatal, na garantia do número mínimo de consultas, no manejo adequado das gestantes e seus parceiros e, principalmente, no resultado sorológico oportuno da infecção pela sífilis e pelo HIV, são barreiras ao melhor controle da transmissão vertical dessas doenças.
Avaliação da implantação da iniciativa hospital amigo da criança no Rio de Janeiro, Brasil
Authors: Oliveira Maria Inês Couto de , Hartz Zulmira Maria de Araújo , Nascimento Vivianne Cavalcanti do , Silva Kátia Silveira da
Published: September 2012

OBJETIVOS: avaliar a implantação da Iniciativa Hospital Amigo da Criança no Rio de Janeiro. MÉTODOS: pesquisa avaliativa realizada em 2009, com sete hospitais credenciados (HAC) e oito não (HNC), do SUS. Avaliação de estrutura (Passos 1 e 2) realizada por observação e entrevista a 215 profissionais. Avaliações de processo (Passos 3 a 10) e resultado compreenderam entrevista em amostra representativa de 461 gestantes, 687 mães em alojamento conjunto e 148 mães com recém-nascido em unidade neonatal. O grau de implantação foi avaliado segundo o cumprimento de cada passo e de parâmetros compreendidos nestes passos. A correlação entre grau de implantação e desfechos foi analisada por meio de regressão linear: aleitamento materno (AM) na primeira hora, AM exclusivo (AME) e satisfação das mulheres com o apoio recebido. RESULTADOS: os graus de implantação variaram de 9 a 5 passos (90,6% a 70,1% dos parâmetros) cumpridos nos HAC e de 5 a 1 passo (76,1% a 43,9% dos parâmetros) nos HNC. Foi encontrada correlação linear significativa entre o grau de implantação, expresso em passos e parâmetros, respectivamente, e o AM na primeira hora (r=0,78 e r=0,74), o AME (r=0,72 e r=0,69), e a satisfação (r=0,69 e r=0,73). CONCLUSÕES: ambas as formas de avaliação mostraram-se consistentes com os resultados. Os HAC apresentaram um desempenho superior aos HNC, sendo necessário um investimento na sustentabilidade desta iniciativa.
Is it necessary to repeat cervical cytology at the tie of a colposcopy?
Authors: Katz Leticia Maria Correia , Souza Alex Sandro Rolland , Guerra Juliana Melo de Moraes , Amorim Melania Maria Ramos
Published: September 2012

OBJECTIVES: to evaluate whether repeating Papanicolaou smear testing at the time of colposcopy improves agreement between cytology and histopathology in the diagnosis of cervical cancer. METHODS: this cross-sectional study included 397 women referred for colposcopic evaluation following an abnormal cervical smear test. The cytology was repeated at the time of the colposcopy using a conventional medium. The two cytology tests were compared with each other and with the histopathological findings obtained by colposcopy-directed biopsy. The 2001 Bethesda system and the WHO 1994 classification were used for reporting cytology and histology results. The kappa coefficient was used to determine the agreement between methods. RESULTS: the comparison between the initial cytology findings and cytology performed at the time of colposcopy revealed a kappa of 0.297 (95%CI: 0.235-0.359), indicating a fair degree of agreement. When the results of the initial cytology were compared with histopathology, a kappa of 0.261, considered to represent a fair degree of agreement, was obtained (95%CI: 0.181-0.340). A kappa of 0.408, considered to represent moderate agreement, was found when the second cytology findings were compared with the histopathology (95%CI: 0.332-0.485). CONCLUSIONS: the agreement between cytology and histology improved when cytology was repeated at the time of colposcopy, following an initial abnormal test.
Cooperação internacional para a preservação do meio ambiente: o direito brasileiro e a convenção de Aarhus
Authors: Mazzuoli Valerio de Oliveira , Ayala Patryck de Araújo
Published: September 2012

O artigo examina a cooperação internacional para a preservação do meio ambiente na Lei dos Crimes Ambientais e propõe o seu entendimento à luz das regras do Direito Internacional Público, especialmente sob a óptica da Convenção de Aarhus de 1998 sobre acesso à informação, participação do público no processo de tomada de decisão e acesso à justiça em matéria ambiental. Trata-se de uma pesquisa bibliográfica, sendo utilizadas legislação e doutrina, tanto produzida no Brasil quanto no direito comparado. Os resultados alcançados demonstram que o acesso à informação de cunho ambiental é fundamental ao aperfeiçoamento de uma cultura global de cooperação, sendo fundamental a informação, participação e interferência da coletividade nos processos de decisão ambientalmente relevantes. O ensaio conclui que a Convenção de Aarhus, conquanto ainda não ratificada pelo Brasil, serve de paradigma à legislação doméstica com relação ao dever de cooperar internacionalmente para fins de preservação do meio ambiente.
A estratégia dos bônus: três pressupostos e uma consequência
Authors: Oliveira Marcos Barbosa de
Published: September 2012

A 'estratégia dos bônus' é definida como a prática, por parte dos empregadores, de procurar fazer com que os empregados trabalhem mais e melhor usando como incentivo a concessão de vantagens monetárias adicionais ao salário, condicionadas ao aumento de produtividade. Dois exemplos da estratégia são mencionados, um deles referente à Secretaria da Educação do Estado de São Paulo, outro à Universidade de São Paulo. Examinam-se a seguir três pressupostos da estratégia a concepção penosa do trabalho, o trabalhador imbuído do espírito do capitalismo e a recompensa monetária como única forma de incentivo procurando-se mostrar que nenhum deles tem validade universal, sendo portanto estritamente falsos. Apresentam-se a seguir evidências adicionais para a invalidade dos pressupostos, oriundas do trabalho de professores aposentados, ou que já têm condições de se aposentar, mas continuam na ativa. Na última seção é exposta a consequência mais nefasta do uso da estratégia dos bônus: a 'idiotização' da sociedade.
Financial Market Regulation and Opportunities for Accounting Research
Authors: Kohlbeck Mark J. , Krische Susan D. , Mangold Nancy R. , Ryan Stephen G.
Published: September 2012

SYNOPSIS

A concurrent session at the 2011 American Accounting Association Annual Meeting featured the panel discussion “Financial Market Regulation and Opportunities for Accounting Research.” Structuring their comments around their unique interests and expertise, the panelists covered diverse topics on the regulation of financial markets and financial institutions, including current activities of the primary financial market regulators responsible for accounting and auditing oversight, the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, and the financial regulation of financial institutions from an economist's perspective. This paper summarizes the panelists' prepared remarks, which were followed by questions and comments from the audience.
The Effect of Relative Performance Information on Performance and Effort Allocation in a Multi-Task Environment
Authors: Hannan R. Lynn , McPhee Gregory P. , Newman Andrew H. , Tafkov Ivo D.
Published: September 2012

This study investigates how relative performance information (RPI) affects employee performance and allocation of effort across tasks in a multi-task environment. Based on behavioral theories, we predict that the social comparison process inherent in RPI induces both a motivation effect that results in increased effort as well as an effort distortion effect that results in the distortion of effort allocations across tasks away from the firm-preferred allocations. We also predict that both effects are magnified when the RPI is public compared to private. We argue that although the motivation effect will generally benefit performance, the effort distortion effect may be detrimental to performance. We design an experiment that isolates these two effects. Consistent with our predictions, we find that RPI induces both motivation and effort distortion effects and that both effects are magnified when the RPI is public rather than private. Although the motivation effect increases performance, we demonstrate that the effort distortion effect can decrease performance. By isolating the motivation and effort distortion effects, our study provides insights into the costs and benefits of RPI in a multi-task environment. As such, it informs accountants regarding the design of information systems and when tasks should be aggregated or disaggregated across employees.

Data Availability: Data are available from the authors upon request.
Class II subdivision treatment with the Herbst appliance
Authors: Bock Niko C. , Reiser Benjamin , Ruf Sabine
Published: September 2012

Objective:

To assess the effectiveness of Class II subdivision Herbst nonextraction treatment and its short-term stability retrospectively.

Materials and Methods:

Twenty-two Class II subdivision (SUB: right-left molar difference ≥0.75 cusp width) and 22 symmetric Class II patients (SYM: ≥0.75 cusp width bilaterally) were matched according to gender and pretreatment handwrist radiographic stage. The mean treatment duration of the Herbst and subsequent multibracket phase was 8 months and 14 months, respectively. The mean retention period amounted to 36 months. Dental casts from before treatment (T1), after Herbst treatment (T2), after Multibracket treatment (T3), and after retention (T4) were evaluated.

Results:

A bilateral Class I or super Class I molar relationship was seen in 72.7% (SUB) and 77.3% (SYM) at T3. The corresponding values at T4 were 63.7% (SUB) and 72.7% (SYM). A unilateral or bilateral Class III molar relationship was more frequent in the SUB group (T3: +4.6%; T4: +13.6%). For overjet, similar mean values were seen in both groups after treatment (T3: SUB, 2.7 mm; SYM, 2.3 mm) and after retention (T4: SUB, 3.0 mm; SYM, 3.4 mm). This was also true for the midline shift (T3: SUB, −0.4 mm; SYM, 0.0 mm; T4: SUB, −0.3 mm; SYM, 0.0 mm).

Conclusion:

Class II subdivision Herbst treatment was successful similarly to symmetric Class II Herbst treatment. However, a slight overcompensation of the molar relationship (Class III tendency) was more frequent in the subdivision patients (original Class I side).
Qualitative research in reproductive medicine: From description to action
Authors: Konečná Hana , Mardešić Tonko , Rumpíková Taťána , Kučera Tomáš
Published: September 2012

Assisted reproduction (ART), particularly that performed using donated gametes, increases the prospect of healthy babies being delivered to increasing numbers of people striving for parenthood. The psychosocial, ethical and legislative issues related both to the donation and receipt of gametes are perceived as extraordinarily complicated. In 2009, a research project aimed at mapping the issues was drawn up and implemented in the Czech Republic. The project should have provided material for consultation purposes, for the work of ethical and legislative bodies, and for better interdisciplinary and international communication in reproductive medicine. Work on the project was affected by several unforeseen events, particularly by the drafting and adoption of a new law on ART (to which the project was initially to have contributed material once concluded). The article describes the dynamic and structural changes occurring within the project due to drafting of the bill as well as the changes and consequences resulting from other circumstances related to the topic researched.
Experiences of Slovak University students with on campus alcohol policy
Authors: Salonna Ferdinand , Vendelová Natália , Benka Jozef , Bačíková Mária
Published: September 2012

The vast majority of studies focusing on alcohol consumption among university students are based on US and Canadian samples and employ a quantitative approach. Universities from the US and Canada also have a longer tradition in implementing alcohol policies. The alcohol policies at universities in Slovakia are mostly non-systematic and often not implemented in practice. The objective of this study was to explore Slovak university students’ experiences towards alcohol policy on their campuses using a qualitative approach. Eight focus group discussions were conducted among university students (n=64; 38 female; 2011; Slovakia). The key questions were (1) “Is there a policy concerning alcohol on your campus and what are the consequences of not complying with it?”, and (2) “How should an on-campus alcohol policy be developed and what should it include?” The students knew of few, if any, rules concerning alcohol. Student participation was considered important in policy development and implementation. Slovak universities should be more active in forming alcohol policies. A preventative policy which actively involves students was emphasized as optimal.
When ownership hurts: Remembering the in-group wrongdoings after a long lasting collective amnesia
Authors: Leone Giovanna , Sarrica Mauro
Published: September 2012

This study explores the effects of two different kinds of text addressed to young Italian students, which convey past in-group war-crimes either in a detailed or in an evasive way. After completing a first questionnaire (and confirming the social amnesia on these crimes) a sample of Italian university students (number: 103; average age: 21.79) read two versions (factual vs. evasive) of a same historical text on Italian invasion of Ethiopia (1935–36). The results show that participants reading a detailed text feel react more emotionally and feel more involved. However, the more negative reactions linked to the detailed text were also associated to a stronger will to repair intergroup relations with the descendents of ancient victims of the in-group crimes. Positive consequences of negative emotions linked to detailed text that challenge a widespread collective amnesia of war crimes are discussed.
Is there a natural right to healthcare?
Authors: Rife Sean
Published: September 2012

In recent years, policy debates in the United States have focused heavily on rising healthcare costs and what measures can be taken to ensure greater provision of healthcare to individuals of limited means. Much of the rhetoric on this subject has taken on an explicitly moral character, and one common sentiment is that healthcare is or should be viewed as a basic human right. However, the notion of a right to healthcare has not been well articulated, and critics have failed to distinguish between legal and moral rights. Additionally, there are numerous problems inherent to viewing healthcare as a basic human right-many of which are in direct conflict with distinctly American conceptualizations of rights. The present paper reviews the debate over “rights”-both legal and natural-to healthcare, and argues that problems associated with natural rights arguments render them severely compromised. Instead, market systems commonly accepted in American society may be better suited to reducing healthcare costs and increasing access to services in the United States.
Setup of a Novel Biofeedback Prototype for Sensorimotor Control of the Hand and Preliminary Application in Patients With Peripheral Nerve Injuries
Authors: Chiu Haw-Yen , Hsu Hsiu-Yun , Su Fong-Chin , Jou I-Ming , Lin Cheng-Feng , Kuo Li-Chieh
Published: September 2012

Background

Biofeedback training is widely used for rehabilitative intervention in patients with central or peripheral nervous impairment to train correct movement patterns; however, no biofeedback apparatus is currently available to correct pinch force ratios for patients with sensory deficiencies.

Design

A cross-sectional and longitudinal design was used in an observational measurement study for establishing a prototype and to determine the effects of biofeedback intervention, respectively.

Objective

This study aimed to develop a computerized evaluation and re-education biofeedback (CERB) prototype for application in clinical settings.

Methods

A CERB prototype was developed integrating pinch apparatus hardware, a biofeedback user-controlled interface, and a data processing/analysis interface to detect momentary pinch performances in 79 people with normal hand sensation. Nine patients with hand sensory impairments were recruited to investigate the effects of training hand function with the CERB prototype.

Results

Hand dominance, pinch pattern, and age significantly affected the peak pinch force and force ratio for lifting a 480-g object with a steel surface. In the case of the 79 volunteers with normal hand sensation, hand dominance affected the time lag between peak pinch force and maximum load; however, it was unaffected by pinch pattern or age. Training with the CERB prototype produced significant improvements in force ratio and better performance in the pin insertion subtests, although the results for both 2-point discriminative and Semmes-Weinstein monofilament tests did not change significantly.

Limitations

The intervention findings are preliminary.

Conclusions

This study developed a conjunct system suited for evaluating and restoring sensorimotor function for patients with impaired hand sensibility. The results from the participants with normal hand sensation could serve as a reference database for comparison with patients with nerve injuries.
The baric probe: a novel long-term implantable intracranial pressure monitor with ultrasound-based interrogation
Authors: Limbrick David D. , Lake Stephen , Talcott Michael , Alexander Benjamin , Wight Samuel , Willie Jon T. , Richard William D. , Genin Guy M. , Leuthardt Eric C.
Published: September 2012

Object

Prompt diagnosis of shunt malfunction is critical in preventing neurological morbidity and death in individuals with hydrocephalus; however, diagnostic methods for this condition remain limited. For several decades, investigators have sought a long-term, implantable intracranial pressure (ICP) monitor to assist in the diagnosis of shunt malfunction, but efforts have been impeded by device complexity, marked measurement drift, and limited instrumentation lifespan. In the current report, the authors introduce an entirely novel, simple, compressible gas design that addresses each of these problems.

Methods

The device described herein, termed the “baric probe,” consists of a subdural fluid bladder and multichannel indicator that monitors the position of an air-fluid interface (AFI). A handheld ultrasound probe is used to interrogate the baric probe in vivo, permitting noninvasive ICP determination. To assess the function of device prototypes, ex vivo experiments were conducted using a water column, and short- and long-term in vivo experiments were performed using a porcine model with concurrent measurements of ICP via a fiberoptic monitor.

Results

Following a toe region of approximately 2 cm H2O, the baric probe's AFI demonstrated a predictable linear relationship to ICP in both ex vivo and in vivo models. After a 2-week implantation of the device, this linear relationship remained robust and reproducible. Further, changes in ICP were observed with the baric probe, on average, 3 seconds in advance of the fiberoptic ICP monitor reading.

Conclusions

The authors demonstrate “proof-of-concept” and feasibility for the baric probe, a long-term implantable ICP monitor designed to facilitate the prompt and accurate diagnosis of shunt malfunction. The baric probe showed a consistent linear relationship between ICP and the device's AFI in ex vivo and short- and long-term in vivo models. With a low per-unit cost, a reduced need for radiography or CT, and an indicator that can be read with a handheld ultrasound probe that interfaces with any smart phone, the baric probe promises to simplify the care of patients with shunt-treated hydrocephalus throughout both the developed and the developing world.
Single-fraction stereotactic body radiotherapy for spinal metastases from renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Balagamwala Ehsan H. , Angelov Lilyana , Koyfman Shlomo A. , Suh John H. , Reddy Chandana A. , Djemil Toufik , Hunter Grant K. , Xia Ping , Chao Samuel T.
Published: September 2012

Object

Stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) has emerged as an important treatment option for spinal metastases from renal cell carcinoma (RCC) as a means to overcome RCC's inherent radioresistance. The authors reviewed the outcomes of SBRT for the treatment of RCC metastases to the spine at their institution, and they identified factors associated with treatment failure.

Methods

Fifty-seven patients (88 treatment sites) with RCC metastases to the spine received single-fraction SBRT. Pain relief was based on the Brief Pain Inventory and was adjusted for narcotic use according to the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group protocol 0631. Toxicity was scored according to Common Toxicity Criteria for Adverse Events version 4.0. Radiographic failure was defined as infield or adjacent (within 1 vertebral body [VB]) failure on follow-up MRI. Multivariate analyses were performed to correlate outcomes with the following variables: epidural, paraspinal, single-level, or multilevel disease (2–5 sites); neural foramen involvement; and VB fracture prior to SBRT. Kaplan-Meier analysis and Cox proportional hazards modeling were used for statistical analysis.

Results

The median follow-up and survival periods were 5.4 months (range 0.3–38 months) and 8.3 months (range 1.5–38 months), respectively. The median time to radiographic failure and unadjusted pain progression were 26.5 and 26.0 months, respectively. The median time to pain relief (from date of simulation) and duration of pain relief (from date of treatment) were 0.9 months (range 0.1–4.4 months) and 5.4 months (range 0.1–37.4 months), respectively. Multivariate analyses demonstrated that multilevel disease (hazard ratio [HR] 3.5, p = 0.02) and neural foramen involvement (HR 3.4, p = 0.02) were correlated with radiographic failure; multilevel disease (HR 2.3, p = 0.056) and VB fracture (HR 2.4, p = 0.046) were correlated with unadjusted pain progression. One patient experienced Grade 3 nausea and vomiting; no other Grade 3 or 4 toxicities were observed. Twelve treatment sites (14%) were complicated by subsequent vertebral fractures.

Conclusions

Stereotactic body radiotherapy for RCC metastases to the spine offers fast and durable pain relief with minimal toxicity. Stereotactic body radiotherapy seems optimal for patients who have solitary or few spinal metastases. Patients with neural foramen involvement are at an increased risk for failure.
Anterior longitudinal ligament release using the minimally invasive lateral retroperitoneal transpsoas approach: a cadaveric feasibility study and report of 4 clinical cases
Authors: Deukmedjian Armen R. , Le Tien V. , Baaj Ali A. , Dakwar Elias , Smith Donald A. , Uribe Juan S.
Published: September 2012

Object

Traditional procedures for correction of sagittal imbalance via shortening of the posterior column include the Smith-Petersen osteotomy, pedicle subtraction osteotomy, and vertebral column resection. These procedures require wide exposure of the spinal column posteriorly, and may be associated with significant morbidity. Anterior longitudinal ligament (ALL) release using the minimally invasive lateral retroperitoneal approach with a resultant net lengthening of the anterior column has been performed as an alternative to increase lordosis. The objective of this study was to demonstrate the feasibility and early clinical experience of ALL release through a minimally invasive lateral retroperitoneal transpsoas approach, as well as to describe its surgical anatomy in the lumbar spine.

Methods

Forty-eight lumbar levels were dissected in 12 fresh-frozen cadaveric specimens to study the anatomy of the ALL as well as its surrounding structures, and to determine the feasibility of the technique. The lumbar disc spaces and ALL were accessed via the lateral transpsoas approach and confirmed with fluoroscopy in each specimen. As an adjunct, 4 clinical cases of ALL release through the minimally invasive lateral retroperitoneal transpsoas approach were reviewed. Operative technique, results, complications, and early outcomes were assessed.

Results

In the cadaveric study, sectioning of the ALL proved to be feasible from the minimally invasive lateral retroperitoneal transpsoas approach. The structures at most immediate risk during this procedure were the aorta, inferior vena cava, iliac vessels, and sympathetic plexus. The mean increase in segmental lumbar lordosis per level of ALL release was 10.2°, while global lumbar lordosis improved by 25°. Each level of ALL release took 56 minutes and produced 40 ml of blood loss on average. Visual analog scale and Oswestry Disability Index scores improved by 9 and 35 points, respectively. There were no cases of hardware failure, and as of yet no complications to report.

Conclusions

This initial experience suggests that ALL release through the minimally invasive lateral retroperitoneal transpsoas approach may be feasible, allows for improvement of lumbar lordosis without the need of an open laparotomy/thoracotomy, and minimizes the tissue disruption and morbidity associated with posterior osteotomies.
Independent predictors of survival and the impact of repeat surgery in patients undergoing surgical treatment of spinal metastasis
Authors: Lau Darryl , Leach Matthew R. , La Marca Frank , Park Paul
Published: September 2012

Object

Surgery for spinal metastasis is considered palliative, and postoperative survival is often less than a year. Recurrence of metastatic lesions is quite common, and it remains unclear whether repeat surgery is effective. In this study, the authors assessed independent predictors for survival at 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years after surgery, and examined whether repeat surgery for recurrence of spinal metastasis influenced survival rates.

Methods

Retrospective review of the electronic medical records was performed to identify a consecutive population of adult patients who underwent surgery for spinal metastasis during the period 2005–2011. Utilizing a Cox proportional hazard regression model, the authors assessed independent predictors and risk factors for survival at 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years after surgery. In addition, the impact of repeat surgery on survival was specifically assessed via multivariable analysis.

Results

A total of 99 patients were included in the final analysis. The overall mean postoperative duration of survival was 9.6 months. In addition to previously identified predictors of survival (preoperative ambulation, Karnofsky Performance Status [KPS], radiotherapy, primary cancer type, presence of extraspinal metastasis, and number of spinal segments with metastasis), pain on presentation and body mass index (BMI) of 25–30 were both independently associated with survival. Patients with recurrence who underwent repeat surgery had longer mean survival times than patients with recurrence who did not undergo repeat surgery (19.6 months vs 12.8 months, respectively). Repeat surgery was also independently associated with higher survival rates on multivariate analysis. Follow-up KPS was significantly higher in patients who underwent repeat surgery as well.

Conclusions

In addition to confirming previously identified predictors of survival following surgery for spinal metastasis, the authors identified BMI and pain on presentation as independent predictors of survival. They also found that repeat surgery may be a viable option in patients with metastatic recurrence and may offer prolonged survival, likely due to improved functionality, mitigating complications associated with immobility.
Tumors at the lateral portion of the C1–2 interlaminar space compressing the spinal cord by rotation of the atlantoaxial joint: new aspects of spinal cord compression
Authors: Ozawa Hiroshi , Kusakabe Takashi , Aizawa Toshimi , Nakamura Takeshi , Ishii Yushin , Itoi Eiji
Published: September 2012

The authors describe 2 patients with C-2 nerve root tumors in whom the lesions were located bilaterally in the lateral portions of the C1–2 interlaminar space and compressed the spinal cord when the atlantoaxial joint was rotated.

The patients were adult men with neurofibromatosis. Each presented with clumsiness of both hands and motor weakness of the extremities accompanied by spastic gait. Magnetic resonance imaging of the cervical spine performed with the neck in the neutral position showed tumors at the bilateral lateral portion of the C1–2 interlaminar space without direct compression of the spinal cord. The spinal cord exhibited an I-shaped deformity at the same level as the tumors in one case and a trapezoidal deformity at the same level as the tumors in the other case. Computed tomography myelography and MRI on rotation of the cervical spine revealed bilateral intracanal protrusion of the tumors compressing the spinal cord from the lateral side. The tumors were successfully excised and occipitocervical fusion was performed.

The tumors were pushed out into the spinal canal from the bilateral lateral portion of the interlaminar spaces due to rotation of the atlantoaxial joint. This was caused by a combination of posteromedial displacement of the lateral mass on the rotational side of the atlas and narrowing of the lateral portion of the interlaminar space on the contralateral side due to the coupling motion of the lateral bending and extension of the atlas. The spinal cord underwent compression from both lateral sides in a one-way rotation. Without sustained spinal cord compression, intermittent long-term dynamic spinal cord compression from both lateral sides should induce a pathognomonic spinal cord deformity and the onset of paralysis. To the authors' knowledge, there have been no reports of the present conditions—that is, the bilateral protrusion of tumors from the bilateral lateral portion of the C1–2 interlaminar spaces into the spinal canal due to atlantoaxial rotation.
BUILDING INFORMATION MODELING INTEGRATED WITH ELECTRONIC COMMERCE MATERIAL PROCUREMENT AND SUPPLIER PERFORMANCE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
Authors: Ren Yali , Skibniewski Mirosław J. , Jiang Shaohua
Published: September 2012

This paper describes an innovative approach to the integration of Building Information Modeling (BIM) and electronic commerce (e-commerce) in a material procurement process for improved design-construction integration. The paper includes the present applications, benefits, limitations and barriers to e-commerce and BIM in material procurement processes, compares the present commercial BIM based and non-BIM based quantity takeoff and cost estimating software, and identifies potential benefits of integrating BIM and e-commerce software solutions for construction quantity takeoff, cost estimating and procurement processes. The authors propose a framework for integrating BIM for quantity takeoff and cost estimating applications with e-commerce solutions for material procurement and supplier performance evaluation. The paper presents a proposed solution to link BIM-derived data with RS Means unit price cost data to generate accurate cost estimating reports, one weight coefficient-based model to evaluate the performance of material suppliers, and a preliminary version of corresponding BIM-based application integrated with e-commerce software system.
NONLINEAR STABILITY OF A SINGLE-LAYER HYBRID GRID SHELL
Authors: Cai Jianguo , Xu Yixiang , Feng Jian , Zhang Jin
Published: September 2012

This paper presents a study of a hybrid grid shell, which is made of quadrangular meshes diagonally stiffened by pre-tensioned thin cables. The construction of the hybrid structure by translating a spatial curve against another spatial curve is firstly described. Then the elasto-plastic buckling analyses of the perfect hybrid structure and the corresponding single-layer lattice shell are carried out, and the influence of the asymmetric load on the failure loads is discussed based on a finite element model. Furthermore, the different shapes and sizes of imperfections are considered in this study. Two schemes of imposing imperfections are chosen: the first several eigenvalue buckling modes and the deformed shape of the loaded structure obtained from a geometrical non-linear analysis are chosen as the imperfection shape. Finally, the effects of different structural parameters, such as the rise-to-span ratio, beam section dimension, area and pre-stress of cables and boundary conditions, on the failure loads are investigated.
STATIC ANALYSIS OF THE CYLINDRICAL TANK RESTING ON VARIOUS TYPES OF SUBSOIL
Authors: Mistríková Zora , Jendželovský Norbert
Published: September 2012

The paper presents analyses of deformations and stress of the circular rotationally symmetric tanks. The reinforced concrete tanks – water reservoirs – resting on elastic subsoil have been analyzed. The elastic subsoil has been modeled using three basic subsoil models: half-space model, two-parametric model and one-parametric (Winkler) subsoil model. Particular modifications have been applied to the basic models which yield in seven models presented. The cylindrical tank has been analyzed in the interaction with the subsoil, while the elastic subsoil has been characterized by different parameters. The differences in modeling using individual calculation models have been highlighted. The results from analytical and numerical solutions have been presented and compared in graphs and tables. The method for the calculation of settlement of the circular foundation plate was verified experimentally. The settlement of the circular plate was measured while the silo was fully loaded by its contents. The experimentally obtained values have been compared with the calculation results. In the conclusion the recommendations for the suitable model subsoil for these types of structures have been presented.
DEA-BASED INTEGRATED RELATIONSHIP OF RETURNS TO SCALE – AN APPLICATION TO ROAD MAINTENANCE IN TAIWAN
Authors: Lee Gang , Yu Ming-Miin , Wang Lung-Chuang
Published: September 2012

An Integrated Relationship of Returns to Scale (IRRS) associated with multiple-stage Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) is proposed for identifying the returns to scale (RTS) among decision-making units (DMUs) appropriately and accurately. The validity and feasibility of the proposed method is tested by using 31 case studies on highway maintenance and construction offices based on the data provided by the Directorate General of Highways (Taiwan). The results show that the multi-stage DEA method with IRRS is more useful than the traditional single-stage DEA for evaluating the status of RTS for each DMU. Among the 31 units evaluated, 14 units are categorized as having increasing returns to scale, 4 have decreasing returns to scale, and no unit has constant returns to scale; the returns for the remaining 13 units cannot be determined.