bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differential baseline and response profile to IFN-γ gene transduction of IL-6/IL-6 receptor-α secretion discriminate primary tumors versus bone marrow metastases of nasopharyngeal carcinomas in culture
Authors: Chou Andy Shau-Bin , Wang Hsin-Yi , Chen Hung-Chang , Tsai Ming-Hsiu , Chuang Cheng-Keng , Liao Shuen-Kuei
Published: June 2009

Background

Understanding of immunobiology of bone marrow metastases (designated BM-NPC) versus primary tumors (P-NPC) of the nasopharynx is far from complete. The aim of this study was to determine if there would be differences between cultured P-NPCs and BM-NPCs with respect to (i) constitutive IL-6 and the IL-6 receptor gp80 subunit (IL-6Rα) levels in the spent media of nontransduced cells, and (ii) IL-6 and IL-6Rα levels in the spent media of cells transduced with a retroviral vector containing the IFN-γ gene.

Methods

A panel of NPC cell lines were transduced with the IFN-γ gene through a retroviral vector. Four clonal sublines were isolated via limiting dilution methods. Cytofluorometric analysis was performed for the detection of cell surface antigens of HLA class I, HLA class II and ICAM-1. ELISA was used to assay for IFN-γ, IL-6 and IL-6Rα in the spent media of cultured cell lines.

Results

Our results showed that in day 3 culture supernatants, low levels of soluble IL-6 were detected in 5/5 cultured tumors derived from P-NPCs, while much higher constitutive levels of IL-6 were detected in 3/3 metastasis-derived NPC cell lines including one originated from ascites; the difference was significant (p = 0.025). An inverse relationship was found between IL-6Rα and IL-6 in their release levels in cultured P-NPCs and metastasis-derived NPCs. In IFN-γ-transduced-P-NPCs, IL-6 production increased and yet IL-6Rα decreased substantially, as compared to nontransduced counterparts. At variance with P-NPC cells, the respective ongoing IL-6 and IL-6Rα release patterns of BM-NPC cells were not impeded as much following IFN-γ transduction. These observations were confirmed by extended kinetic studies with representative NPC cell lines and clonal sublines. The latter observation with the clonal sublines also indicates that selection for high IL-6 or low IL-6Rα producing subpopulations did not occur as a result of IFN-γ-transduction process. P-NPCs, which secreted constitutively only marginal levels of IFN-γ (8.4 ~ 10.5 pg/ml), could be enhanced to produce higher levels of IFN-γ (6.8- to 10.3-fold increase) after IFN-γ transduction. Unlike P-NPCs, BM-NPCs spontaneously released IFN-γ at moderate levels (83.8 ~ 100.7 pg/ml), which were enhanced by 1.3- to 2.2-fold in the spent media of their IFN-γ-transduced counterparts.

Conclusion

Our results showed that cultured P-NPCs and BM-NPCs could be distinguished from one another on the basis of their differential baseline secretion pattern of IFN-γ, IL-6 and IL-6Rα, and their differential response profiles to IFN-γ gene transfer of the production of these three soluble molecules. These results suggest that the IL-6 and IFN-γ pathways in a background of genetic instability be involved in the acquisition of metastatic behaviour in BM-NPCs.
Neck emergency due to parathyroid adenoma bleeding: a case report
Authors: Merante-Boschin Isabella , Fassan Matteo , Pelizzo Maria Rosa , Ide Eric Casal , Rugge Massimo
Published: June 2009

Introduction

The spontaneous rupture of a parathyroid adenoma accompanied by extracapsular hemorrhage is a rare, potentially fatal, condition and is a cervicomediastinal surgical emergency.

Case presentation

This report describes an atypical two-step spontaneous rupture of an asymptomatic parathyroid adenoma in a 56-year-old Caucasian woman who presented with a painful mass in the right side of her neck.

Conclusion

Based on this case report and similar cases reported in the medical literature, a diagnosis of extracapsular parathyroid hemorrhage should be considered when a non-traumatic sudden neck swelling coexists with hypercalcemia and regional ecchymosis.
Fracture effects in seismic attenuation images reconstructed by waveform tomography
Authors: Rao Ying , Wang Yanghua
Published: June 2009

We have investigated seismic waveform tomography to characterize fractures in petroleum reservoirs. Seismic reflection data are used in a frequency-domain inversion to reconstruct subsurface attenuation images. The images show fracture distributions, from which fracture density is estimated. Fractures smaller than or equal to a half-wavelength of seismic act as single scatterers, producing images of strong attenuation ellipses and from which fracture density can be estimated. When fracture size approaches one wavelength, fracture orientation affects the attenuation image. Horizontal fractures act as individual reflectors and produce strong tomographic attenuation images from which fracture density can be estimated. The strength of the attenuation image decreases when the fracture angle relative to horizontal increases; vertical fractures produce the weakest attenuation image. Consequently, the accuracy of fracture density measurements decreases with increased fracture angle unless waveform tomography includes different seismic modes acquired from several directions.
Fabrication of Dispersed Permalloy Nanoparticles by Pulsed Laser Ablation in Aqua
Authors: Bao Ruqiang , Yan Zijie , Huang Yong , Chrisey Douglas B.
Published: June 2009

Permalloy (Ni81Fe19) nanoparticles with diameters of hundreds of nanometers have been successfully fabricated by pulsed laser ablation (PLA) in air, distilled water, pure ethanol and sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) aqueous solutions. The permalloy nanoparticles made in SDS solutions are typically spherical in shape. Lower laser energy with lower frequency leads to the formation of smaller permalloy nanoparticles. Higher concentration of SDS results in smaller nanoparticles. Lastly, we found some unusual permalloy nanoparticles with interesting morphologies made by PLA in air, distilled water and ethanol.
High Temperature Creep-Fatigue Design and Service Experience
Authors: Tavassoli A-A. F. , Fournier B. , Sauzay M.
Published: June 2009

Generation IV fission and future fusion reactors envisage development of more efficient high temperature concepts where materials performances under creep-fatigue hold the key to success. This paper presents extended experimental results obtained from creep, fatigue and creep-fatigue tests on the main structural materials retained for these concepts, namely: stainless steel type 316L(N), the conventional Modified 9Cr-1Mo martensitic steel and its low activation derivatives such as Eurofer steel, and their more advanced grades strengthened by oxide dispersion. It shows that the existing recommendations made in design codes adequately cover individual damage due to creep or fatigue but often fall short under combined creep-fatigue interaction. This is partly due to the difficulties of reproducing service conditions in laboratory. In this paper, results from tests performed on components removed from reactor, after long service, are used to refine code recommendations.

Using the above combined assessment, it is concluded that there is good confidence in predicting creep-fatigue damage for austenitic stainless steels. For the martensitic steels the effects of cyclic softening and microstructure coarsening throughout the fatigue life need more consideration in creep-fatigue recommendation. In the long-term development of ferritic/martensitic oxide dispersion strengthened grades with stable microstructure and no cyclic softening, appears promising provided problems associated with their fabrication and embrittlement are resolved.
Light trapping in hydrogenated amorphous and nano-crystalline silicon thin film solar cells
Authors: Yang Jeffrey , Yan Baojie , Yue Guozhen , Guha Subhendu
Published: June 2009

Light trapping effect in hydrogenated amorphous silicon-germanium alloy (a-SiGe:H) and nano-crystalline silicon (nc-Si:H) thin film solar cells deposited on stainless steel substrates with various back reflectors is reviewed. Structural and optical properties of the Ag/ZnO back reflectors are systematically characterized and correlated to solar cell performance, especially the enhancement in photocurrent. The light trapping method used in our current production lines employing an a-Si:H/a-SiGe:H/a-SiGe:H triple-junction structure consists of a bi-layer of Al/ZnO back reflector with relatively thin Al and ZnO layers. Such Al/ZnO back reflectors enhance the short-circuit current density, Jsc, by ˜20% compared to bare stainless steel. In the laboratory, we use Ag/ZnO back reflector for higher Jsc and efficiency. The gain in Jsc is about ˜30% for an a-SiGe:H single-junction cell used in the bottom cell of a multi-junction structure. In recent years, we have also worked on the optimization of Ag/ZnO back reflectors for nano-crystalline silicon (nc-Si:H) solar cells. We have carried out a systematic study on the effect of texture for Ag and ZnO. We found that for a thin ZnO layer, a textured Ag layer is necessary to increase Jsc, even though the parasitic loss is higher at the Ag and ZnO interface due to the textured Ag. However, a flat Ag can be used for a thick ZnO to reduce the parasitic loss, while the light scattering is provided by the textured ZnO. The gain in Jsc for nc-Si:H solar cells on Ag/ZnO back reflectors is in the range of ˜60-75% compared to cells deposited on bare stainless steel, which is much larger than the enhancement observed for a-SiGe:H cells. The highest total current density achieved in an a-Si:H/a-SiGe:H/nc-Si:H triple-junction structure on Ag/ZnO back reflector is 28.6 mA/cm2, while it is 26.9 mA/cm2 for a high efficiency a-Si:H/a-SiGe:H/a-SiGe:H triple-junction cell.
Increase in Open-circuit Voltage and Improved Stability of Organic Solar Cells by Inserting a Molybdenum Trioxide Buffer Layer
Authors: Murata Hideyuki , Kinoshita Yoshiki , Kanai Yoshihiro , Matsushima Toshinori , Ishii Yuya
Published: June 2009

We report the increase in open-circuit voltage (Voc) by inserting of MoO3 layer on ITO substrate to improve built-in potential of organic solar cells (OSCs). In the OSCs using 5,10,15,20-tetraphenylporphyrine (H2TPP) as a p-type material and C60 as a n-type material, the Voc effectively increased from 0.57 to 0.97 V as increasing MoO3 thickness. The obtained highest Voc (0.97 V) is consistent with the theoretical value estimated from the energy difference between the LUMO (−4.50 eV) of C60 and the HOMO (−5.50 eV) of H2TPP layer. Importantly, the enhancement in the Voc was achieved without affecting the short-circuit current density (Jsc) and the fill-factor (FF). Thus, the power conversion efficiency of the device linearly increased from 1.24% to 1.88%. We also demonstrated that a MoO3 buffer layer enhances the stability of OSCs after photo-irradiation. We have investigated the stability of OSCs using H2TPP and N,N′-di(1-naphthyl)-N,N′-diphenylbenzidine as a p-type layer. The both devices with MoO3 layer showed improved stability. These results clearly suggest that the interface at ITO/p-type layer affects the device stability.
Mechanical Constraint and Loading on Ferroelectric Memory Capacitors
Authors: Pane Ivindra , Fleck Norman , Chu Daping , Huber John
Published: June 2009

The influence of mechanical constraint imposed by device geometry upon the switching response of a ferroelectric thin film memory capacitor is investigated. The memory capacitor was represented by two-dimensional ferroelectric islands of different aspect ratio, mechanically constrained by surrounding materials. Its ferroelectric non-linear behaviour was modeled by a crystal plasticity constitutive law and calculated using the finite element method. The switching response of the device, in terms of remnant charge storage, was determined as a function of geometry and constraint. The switching response under applied in-plane tensile stress and hydrostatic pressure was also studied experimentally. Our results showed that (1) the capacitor's aspect ratio could significantly affect the clamping behaviour and thus the remnant polarization, (2) it was possible to maximise the switching charge through the optimisation of the device geometry, and (3) it is possible to find a critical switching stress at zero electric field and a critical coercive field at zero residual stress.
Characterization of Indium Sulfide Thin Films Containing Copper
Authors: Barreau Nicolas , Tessier Mickael
Published: June 2009

The crystalline, optical and electrical properties of In2S3 containing copper thin films are investigated. Increasing the amount of copper within the In2S3 crystalline matrix yields reduced bandgap value and hindered conductivity. The films investigated being synthesized at low temperature (200 °C), it is likely they have similar properties as the materials formed at the CuIn1-xGaxSe2/In2S3 interface.
Thermoelectric properties and microstructure of large-grain Mg2Sn doped with Ag
Authors: Chen Haiyan , Savvides Nick
Published: June 2009

Mg2Sn ingots, doped p-type by the addition of 0–1.0 at. % Ag, were prepared by the vertical Bridgman method at growth rates ∼0.1 mm/min. The crystalline quality and microstructure of ingots were analyzed by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The single-phase Mg2Sn ingots consist of highly oriented large grains. Measurements of the Hall coefficient, Seebeck coefficient α, and electrical conductivity σ in the temperature range 80–700 K were conducted to study the dependence on the silver content, and to determine the thermoelectric power factor α2σ which reached a maximum value 2.4×10-3 W m-1 K-2 at 410 K for 1.0 at.% Ag content.
Optical Feedback on Erbium Doped Fibre Laser for Efficient Heterodyne SNOM Imaging Near 1.5μm
Authors: Bahin Pierre , Gilles hervé , Girard Sylvain , Gourbilleau Fabrice , Laroche Mathieu , Rizk Richard
Published: June 2009

Heterodyne optical feedback on a class B laser is investigated for Scanning Near field Optical Microscopy (SNOM). All-fiberized set-up combining an Er-doped Distributed Feedback (DFB) fiber laser, a pair of pigtailed acousto-optics modulators (AOM) and a shear-force based scanning probe technique has been developed for the simultaneous observation of topography and evanescent light field on integrated optical devices. First demonstration of imaging using this technique is illustrated by characterizing the propagating modes into a rib waveguide at 1.54μm. Comparison between a theoretical model based on beam propagation mode (BPM) simulations and experimental measurements validates the results.
Fibers Networks as a New Type of Core Material. Processing and Mechanical Properties
Authors: Mezeix Laurent , Bouvet Christophe , Crézé Serge , Poquillon Dominique
Published: June 2009

Many different sandwich panels are used for aeronautical applications. Open and closed cell structured foam, balsa wood or honeycomb are often used as core materials. When the core material contains closed cells, water accumulation into the cell has to be taken into account. This phenomenon occurs when in service conditions lead to operate in humidity atmosphere. Then, water vapor from air naturally condenses on cold surfaces when the sandwich panel temperature decreases. This water accumulation might increase significantly the weight of the core material. Core with a ventilated structure helps to prevent this phenomenon. Periodic cellular metal (PCM) has been motivated by potential multifunctional applications that exploit their open architecture as well as their apparent superior strength and stiffness: pyramidal, lattice, Kagome truss or woven. One of the drawbacks of these materials is the expensive cost of the manufacturing. Recently, a novel type of sandwich has been developed with bonded metallic fibers as core material. This material presents attractive combination of properties like high specific stiffness, good damping capacity and energy absorption. Metal fibers bonded with a polymeric adhesive or fabricated in a mat-like form consolidated by solid state sintering. Entangled cross-linked carbon fibers have been also studied for using as core material by Laurent Mezeix. In the present study, ventilated core materials are elaborated from networks fibers. The simplicity of elaboration is one of the main advantages of this material. Multifunctional properties are given by mixing different sorts of fibers, by example adding fibers with good electrical conduction to give electrical conductivity properties.
In this study network fibers as core material are elaborated using carbon fibers, glass fibers and stainless steel fibers. In aeronautical skins of sandwich panels used are often carbon/epoxy prepreg, so epoxy resin was used to cross-link fibers. The core thickness was chosen at 30 mm and fibers length was chosen at 40 mm. Entanglement, separation of filaments and cross-linking are obtained in a specific blower room. Fibers are introduced in the blower room, compressed air is applied and in same time epoxy resin is sprayed. Indeed one of the sandwich core material properties required is low density, so yarns size need to be decreased by separating filaments. Network fibers are introduced in a specific mould and then are compressed. The density obtained before epoxy spaying is 150 kg/m3. Finally samples are polymerized at 80°C for 2 hours in a furnace under laboratory air. Compressive behavior is study to determinate the influence of fibers natures and the effect of cross-linking. Reproducibility is also checked.
A Preliminary Study on Cell Wall Architecture of Titanium Foams
Authors: Tuncer Nihan , Salvo Luc , Maire Eric , Arslan Gürsoy
Published: June 2009

Bio-inspired architectures, especially metallic foams, have been receiving an increasing interest for the last 10 years due to their unusual mechanical properties. Among commonly dealt foamed metals, like aluminum and steel, titanium possesses a distinctive place because of its high strength-to-weight ratio, excellent corrosion resistance and biocompatibility. In this study, Ti foams were produced by a very simple and common method, sintering under inert atmosphere with fugitive space holder. Removal of the space holder was conducted by dissolution in hot deionized water which makes it possible to minimize contamination of Ti. Sintering of remaining Ti skeleton at 1300 °C offered a wide range of properties and cost savings. The effects of the processing parameters such as sintering temperature and powder characteristics on the 3D foam architecture were investigated by using X-ray microtomography (μ-CT). Use of bimodal Ti powders caused a decrease in final theoretical density when compared to the ones prepared with the same amount of space holder but with monomodal Ti powders. It was also observed that the use of bimodal Ti powders decreased compressive strength, by introducing pores into the cell walls, when compared to the ones having the same theoretical density.
Metallic Hollow Sphere Structures Manufacturing Process
Authors: Davoine Cecile , Götzfried A. , Mercier S. , Popoff F. , Rafray A. , Thomas M. , Marcadon V.
Published: June 2009

This paper focuses on manufacturing process of regular Metallic Hollow Sphere Structures (MHSS) through brazing technique. As a large stress level is generally confined into the necks formed by brazed spheres, the influence of the filler material on mechanical behavior of cellular metal has been studied. The microstructures of joints resulting from nickel hollow spheres brazing with different commercial fillers “MBF 30” and “MBF 1006” were compared by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and microhardness testing. These studies revealed a wide boron diffusion into nickel shells through grain boundaries for “MBF 30” brazing, with the formation of borides in a fine brittle eutectic structure. Conversely it was observed that the eutectic structure concentrates at the necks for “MBF 1006” and can be completely eliminated by diffusion-brazing, despite of the shells thinness. The uniaxial compressive tests of HSP specimens have shown two different strain mechanisms depending on brazing process.
Projeção da distribuição diamétrica de uma floresta explorada seletivamente na Amazônia Ocidental
Authors: Vasconcelos Sumaia S. , Higuchi Niro , Oliveira Marcus V.N.
Published: June 2009

Utilizando um modelo estocástico, foi projetada a distribuição diamétrica futura de uma floresta submetida à exploração seletiva de madeira na Amazônia Ocidental. Foram utilizados dados de cinco parcelas permanentes localizadas no PC Pedro Peixoto, no Acre. A primeira medição das parcelas ocorreu em 1996, a exploração florestal em 1997 e as re-medições em 1999 e 2001. A principal variável utilizada foi o diâmetro à altura do peito (DAP). A matriz de transição probabilística (Cadeia de Markov) foi utilizada para fazer a projeção da distribuição diamétrica do número de árvores sobreviventes nas classes diamétricas. O modelo foi primeiramente testado para fazer a projeção para 2001, tendo como base as observações de 1999 e seu passado imediato (1997). Quando comparadas às projeções feitas para 2001 e as medições de campo (2001), o teste Qui-quadrado mostrou que não houve diferença significativa entre freqüências esperadas e observadas na distribuição diamétrica (p=0,05). A projeção para 2005 indica que a taxa de mortalidade será próxima a de 2001, e se repetida a taxa de recrutamento em 2005 o total de árvores será maior que o observado em 2001. Esse comportamento da floresta indica que não existe um padrão definido para a dinâmica nas classes diamétricas em termos de mortalidade ou crescimento, apresentando um comportamento aleatório ou probabilístico, justificando a eficiência da Cadeia de Markov para projetar a dinâmica da floresta estudada, podendo auxiliar na determinação do ciclo de corte ou mostrando as tendências que a floresta de hoje apresentará em um futuro próximo.
Influence of omentoplasty on colonic anastomosis in animals submitted to hemorrhagic shock in rats
Authors: Bolzam-Nascimento Ricardo , Coy Cláudio Saddy Rodrigues , Pereira Yara Ematné Amaral , Leal Raquel Franco , Reis Rosana Celestina Morandin , Mantovani Mário , Ayrizono Maria de Lourdes Setsuko , Chung Wu Feng , Fagundes João José
Published: June 2009

PURPOSE: To analyze influence of omentoplasty on anastomosis in descending colon of rats. Rats were submitted to the hypovolemic shock of the hemorrhagic type by the Biomechanical Test of Pressure of Rupture by Liquid Distension (BTPRLD). In addition, establish a type of acute anemia in rats that are provided to the study. METHODS: Comparative study between two groups of animals with ten rats in each one, all submitted to hemorrhagic shock for 30% volemic removal by the carotid artery. An anastomosis was performed in left colon. An anastomosis was performed in the left colon. Group 1 took place anastomosis with Polyvinyl Chloride (P.V.C) film to prevent the adhesions formation on sature line. Group 2 placed the great omentum around the anastomosis. Euthanasia occurred on the fifth day, when the anastomoses were submitted to the biomechanical test of pressure of rupture by liquid distension (BTPRLD). RESULTS: High rupture pressure was gained with omentoplasty group in relation to the group in which anastomosis was protected from adhesions formation. A statistical significance was noted. CONCLUSION: Protection by great omentum has increased the anastomosis resistance of the shocked animals. Also, the proposed hemorrhagic shock type has proven to be useful for this study.
The complex controller for three-phase induction motor direct torque control
Authors: Sguarezi Filho Alfeu J. , Ruppert Filho E.
Published: June 2009

This paper proposes a design and tuning method for a complex gain controller, based on the three-phase induction motor mathematical model complex transfer function to be used in the direct torque control at low speed which is a problem so far. The design and tuning of the complex gain is done by using the closed loop system frequency-response function. Experimental results are presented to validate the controller and operation at low speed is also explored.
Cuidado ecológico: o significado para profissionais de um hospital geral
Authors: Backes Marli Terezinha Stein , Erdmann Alacoque Lorenzini , Backes Dirce Stein
Published: June 2009

OBJETIVO: Compreender à luz do pensamento complexo, o significado do cuidado ecológico e como este vem sendo associado à prática de profissionais que trabalham em um hospital geral. MÉTODOS: Estudo descritivo de natureza qualitativa realizado com 15 profissionais que atuam em três diferentes setores: Serviço de Lavanderia, Serviço de Nutrição e uma Unidade de Internação. Os dados foram coletados por meio de um questionário semi-estruturado e submetidos à análise de conteúdo proposta por Bardin. RESULTADOS: As categorias encontradas foram: Significando o cuidado ecológico, Salientando a importância do cuidado ecológico para a prática profissional e Medidas preventivas em saúde associadas ao cuidado ecológico. CONCLUSÕES: O estudo evidenciou que existe uma preocupação geral, ainda que incipiente, a respeito da problemática ambiental. A preocupação principal está relacionada à separação, reciclagem e destino adequado do lixo, mesmo que alguns profissionais tenham sinalizado para a importância de medidas preventivas como a lavagem das mãos, utilização de produtos biodegradáveis, entre outros.
Uso de lodo de esgoto na produção de tapetes de grama esmeralda
Authors: Backes Clarice , Büll Leonardo Theodoro , Godoy Leandro José Grava de , Bôas Roberto Lyra Villas , Lima Claudinei Paulo de , Pires Eder Carlos
Published: June 2009

Com objetivo de avaliar o efeito do lodo de esgoto na formação e qualidades de tapetes de grama, foi instalado, em Itapetininga, São Paulo (SP), o experimento utilizando grama Zoysia japonica Steud., conhecida como esmeralda. O delineamento experimental utilizado foi o de blocos ao acaso em parcelas subdivididas, com quatro repetições, sendo as parcelas principais constituídas de cinco doses de lodo (0, 10, 20, 30 e 40Mg ha-1, base seca), mais um tratamento com NPK, de acordo com as necessidades da cultura e as subparcelas com dois sistemas de manejo (com e sem o uso de escarificador utilizado para romper uma camada superficial compactada). Utilizou-se o lodo da Estação de Tratamento de Esgoto de Jundiaí, SP. As doses de lodo aplicadas correspondem às doses de 100, 200, 300 e 400kg ha-1 de nitrogênio. Após 165 dias da aplicação do lodo de esgoto, a dose de 31Mg ha-1 permitiu o fechamento completo (100% da taxa de cobertura do solo) e a maior resistência dos tapetes de grama. O mesmo resultado foi encontrado quando utilizou-se a adubação química. A testemunha e as parcelas que receberam 10Mg ha-1 de lodo não formaram tapete. O lodo de esgoto aplicado em superfície promoveu redução da massa dos tapetes de grama esmeralda. O uso do escarificador reduziu a resistência dos tapetes de grama esmeralda. Os valores de metais pesados encontrados no lodo de esgoto estavam abaixo do limite estabelecido pelas normas que regulamenta a utilização do lodo de esgoto na agricultura.
Evoluções motoras e linguísticas de bebês com atraso de desenvolvimento na perspectiva de mães
Authors: Hekavei Tatiany , Oliveira Jáima Pinheiro de
Published: June 2009

O presente estudo teve por objetivo investigar a evolução do desenvolvimento motor e de linguagem em bebês com atraso de desenvolvimento a partir da perspectiva materna. Participaram do estudo seis mães de bebês com atraso de desenvolvimento. A pesquisa foi realizada numa instituição com programa de intervenção precoce e em ambiente domiciliar. Foram feitas entrevistas com as mães, por meio de um roteiro semiestruturado. O modo de compreensão das mães, tanto do processo de desenvolvimento motor, quanto linguístico dos filhos, indicou uma evolução no desenvolvimento dessas crianças. Uma das provas disso, foi a forma como essas mães se referiram ao desenvolvimento das crianças, antes destas ingressarem no programa de intervenção precoce e no momento atual. Conhecer e valorizar as percepções trazidas pelos cuidadores e particularmente pelas mães, implica em ampliar o entendimento dos seus saberes e práticas. Estes valores, por sua vez, podem ser utilizados no sentido de favorecer todo o processo de desenvolvimento infantil.
Avaliação de políticas públicas: a inclusão de alunos com necessidades educacionais especiais no Ensino Fundamental das cidades-pólo do Estado de São Paulo
Authors: Marins Simone Cristina Fanhani , Matsukura Thelma Simões
Published: June 2009

Esta pesquisa fundamenta-se nas diretrizes políticas para a educação inclusiva no Brasil e suas estratégias de implementação que propõem, além da garantia do acesso, permanência e qualidade da educação para os alunos com necessidades especiais no ensino regular. A literatura nacional reporta inúmeros estudos sobre as questões legais e as diretrizes políticas. Não obstante, indica-se que pouco se conhece sobre as práticas em perspectivas locais, observando-se a possibilidade de um descompasso entre as práticas e as políticas públicas em educação especial. O governo federal apoiou-se nas ações de 144 cidades-pólo, visando a interação entre a gestão e as práticas educacionais desenvolvidas nas escolas dos municípios. O objetivo desta pesquisa é identificar, de acordo com a percepção dos gestores da área da Educação Especial de cidades-pólo do estado de São Paulo, quais as ações foram implementadas a partir das diretrizes nacionais para a educação inclusiva na rede regular - Ensino Fundamental. Participaram do estudo seis Secretarias Municipais de Educação - Educação Especial. O instrumento de coleta de dados foi um questionário com questões abertas e fechadas. Os resultados demonstram que na esfera municipal há o conhecimento da legislação acerca das diretrizes nacionais, há formação, capacitação continuada e apoio para professores, além de transporte, acessibilidade e alguns materiais para o atendimento da educação especial no ensino regular. No entanto, constata-se um número reduzido de alunos atendidos e a necessidade do levantamento da demanda total da educação especial, além da pouca atuação de equipes multiprofissionais e a falta de envolvimento da esfera estadual em ações para a Educação Especial.
Reabsorção no metabolismo ósseo de pacientes HIV-positivos
Authors: Silva-Santos Antonio Carlos , Matos Marcos Almeida , Galvão-Castro Bernardo
Published: June 2009

INTRODUÇÃO: Pacientes infectados pelo HIV apresentam osteoporose ou osteopenia densitométrica numa taxa de 28 a 50%. O objetivo deste estudo é verificar alterações na taxa de reabsorção/formação destes pacientes. MATERIAL E MÉTODOS: Realizou-se revisão sistemática com metanálise de estudos controlados que avaliaram a associação entre osteopenia e/ou alterações no metabolismo ósseo com a infecção pelo HIV. Todos os estudos que incluíam osteocalcina ou NTX com marcadores respectivos de formação e reabsorção ósseos foram incuidos. Cinco estudos foram classificados como evidência classe III e envolveram 456 indivíduos HIV positivos e 590 controles. O NTX teve aumento significante (p < 0.00014) no grupo HIV-positivo, enquanto osteocalcina não se mostrou alterada. CONCLUSÃO: O presente estudo permite concluir que, durante a infecção pelo HIV, o marcador NTX está significantemente elevado, refletido alta atividade reabsortiva no tecido ósseo. Isto aponta um papel importante na atividade osteoclástica na perda óssea de pacientes HIV-positivos.
Religiosidade, reprodução e saúde em famílias urbanas pobres
Authors: Couto Márcia Thereza
Published: June 2009

Este trabalho analisa a conversão religiosa pessoal no contexto das relações familiares em uma área da periferia da cidade de Recife, Pernambuco-Brasil. Apresenta resultados de uma pesquisa de caráter qualitativo sobre os significados da conversão para os integrantes da família e as decorrentes transformações no comportamento reprodutivo. Por fim, com base neste material empírico, levanta algumas questões sobre os serviços de saúde existentes no bairro e o uso que a população faz destes.
A psicose ordinária e os fenômenos de corpo
Authors: Rosa Márcia
Published: June 2009

Este artigo retoma as formulações lacanianas dos anos 50 sobre a psicose, psicose freudiana à la Schreber, e aquelas outras dos anos 1970, propostas a partir do sinthoma joyciano, de modo a discutir uma nova denominação surgida contemporaneamente, a psicose ordinária, e o modo como ela trata o corpo.
Processamento auditivo e potenciais evocados auditivos de tronco cerebral (BERA)
Authors: Pfeiffer Marcela , Frota Silvana
Published: June 2009

OBJETIVO: verificar relação existente entre os potenciais auditivos de tronco cerebral e a avaliação comportamental do processamento auditivo. MÉTODOS: foi realizada em um grupo de 60 meninas residentes de Paraíba do Sul na idade de nove a 12 anos com limiares tonais dentro dos padrões de normalidade e timpanometria tipo A com presença dos reflexos acústicos. Os testes utilizados para a avaliação comportamental do processamento auditivo foram: avaliação simplificada do processamento auditivo, teste de fala no ruído, teste de dissílabos alternados e teste dicótico não verbal. Após a avaliação do processamento auditivo, as crianças foram subdivididas em dois grupos, G1 (sem alteração no processamento auditivo) e G2 (com alteração no processamento auditivo) e submetidas aos potenciais auditivos de tronco cerebral. Os parâmetros utilizados na comparação dos dois grupos foram: latência absoluta das ondas I, III e V; latência interpicos das ondas I-III, I-V, III-V; diferença interaural da latência interpico I-V; e diferença interaural da latência da onda V. RESULTADOS: foram encontradas diferenças estatísticas nos parâmetros de latência interpico das ondas I-V na orelha esquerda (p=0,009), diferença interaural da latência interpico de ondas I-V (p=0,020) e diferença da latência interpico de ondas I e V da orelha direita para a esquerda entre os grupos G1 e G2 (p=0,025). CONCLUSÃO: foi possível encontrar relação dos potenciais evocados auditivos de tronco cerebral com a avaliação comportamental do processamento auditivo nos parâmetros de latência interpico entre as ondas I e V da orelha esquerda e diferença interaural da latência interpico I-V na orelha esquerda.
Heart transplants for patients with Chagas' heart disease
Authors: Bocchi Edimar Alcides
Published: June 2009

The role of heart transplants for treating Chagas' heart disease is not quite clear. Immunosuppression could lead to resurgence of T. cruzi infection with acute or chronic damage to the allograft. There are few publications regarding this issue. Thus we reported the follow-up of 18-patients with Chagas' heart disease submitted to orthotopic heart transplants from 1985 to 1993 at The Heart Institute. The patients were in functional class IV or III, or II, with sustained ventricular tachycardia episodes. The mean left ventricular ejection fraction was 25 ± 9% and the mean right ventricular ejection was 22 ± 6% (MUGA). Immunosuppression was based on cyclosporin, azathioprine and corticosteroids. For specific post-transplant monitoring of T. cruzi infection, blood tests were performed (examination of blood or leukocyte concentrate, Giemsa-stained blood smears, blood culture, xenodiagnosis, mouse inoculation) and tissue biopsy (skin or myocardium). In addition, complement fixation hemagglutination and immunofluorescence assays were performed. T. cruzi parasitemias were detected in 18 circumstances in 13 patients. Resurgence of Chagas' disease was diagnosed in 11 circumstances in 5 patients. Fever, subcutaneous nodules and myocarditis predominated in these episodes. All episodes of parasitemia and Chagas' disease resurgence were successfully treated with benzonidazole. All surviving patients had normal cardiac function despite left ventricular function worsening during some myocarditis episodes. Neoplasias were important findings and 3 patients developed lymphoproliferative disease, 2 developed Karposi's sarcoma and 1 patient developed skin cancer. The survival rates at 4 and 12 months were 83% and 49% respectively. The survival of patients who underwent heart transplants from August 1991 to April 1993 was 100% at 4 months and 75% at 12 months. Heart transplants for Chagas' heart disease may be associated with episodes of parasitemia and a reoccurrence of episodes of Chaga's disease. The survival of heart transplanted patients has improved when associated with lower doses of cyclosporins and thus, fewer resurgences of the disease.
Magnetic resonance imaging in Chagas' heart disease
Authors: Kalil Filho Roberto , Albuquerque Cicero Piva de
Published: June 2009

Many important aspects of Chagas' heart disease can be successfully assessed using magnetic resonance imaging of the heart. It is possible to obtain with great detail the anatomic characterization of the cardiac chambers as well as important information of the functional or metabolic status of the heart. Magnetic resonance imaging after gadolinium infusion seems also a promising technique to obtain a better regional characterization of myocardial tissue, and may be important in the non-invasive diagnosis of active myocarditis in patients with Chagas' heart disease.
Significados de violência em abordagens da mensagem televisiva
Authors: Magalhães Nara
Published: June 2009

Este artigo aborda a multiplicidade de significados da violência apontada pelos estudiosos, comparando-a com estudos empíricos realizados em uma cidade de médio porte do interior do Estado do Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. A seguir, discute a ausência dessas várias significações, tanto no espetáculo televisivo, quanto na percepção das pessoas pesquisadas, e a presença de estereótipos na construção de mensagens da televisão e em suas interpretações. Busca, também, expor outros dados para explicar a percepção das pessoas pesquisadas sobre o aumento da violência no contexto local. Problematiza, por fim, a cultura do medo, sugerindo que ela pode ser alimentada não só pelo alarme das pessoas pesquisadas que assistem ao espetáculo televisivo, mas também pelo próprio modo de alguns estudiosos analisarem este mesmo espetáculo. A reflexão busca demonstrar que existem concepções reificadas de violência, imagem e realidade, presentes no debate, que retro alimentam a percepção de aumento da violência e o sentimento de insegurança daí decorrentes.
Estrutura de capital, dividendos e juros sobre o capital próprio: testes no Brasil
Authors: Futema Mariano Seikitsi , Basso Leonardo Fernando Cruz , Kayo Eduardo Kazuo
Published: June 2009

A estrutura de capital e os dividendos são dois dos temas mais estudados em finanças corporativas. Em 2002, Fama e French estudaram esses dois temas simultaneamente dentro do contexto das teorias de tradeoff estática e pecking order. A análise conjunta significa reconhecer que o dividendo afeta a estrutura de capital e vice-versa, o que gera um problema de endogeneidade. Estendendo o estudo de Fama e French e adaptando a análise para a realidade brasileira com a inclusão de mais uma variável dependente, os juros sobre o capital próprio, o objetivo deste artigo é analisar as relações conjuntas da estrutura de capital, dividendos e juros sobre o capital próprio das empresas brasileiras para o período de 1995 a 2004. Em linhas gerais, os resultados confirmam boa parte das previsões das teorias, embora a distribuição de lucros no Brasil ainda seja muito baixa, comparada com a americana. A lucratividade demonstrou ser a variável explicativa de maior peso e influência tanto para a distribuição de lucros como para a alavancagem.
Un análisis institucional de la implicación del proceso de cambio de los SCG en la evolución de la eficiencia de las PYME
Authors: Lavarda Carlos Eduardo Facin , Feliu Vicente Mateo Ripoll , Palanca Mercedes Barrachina
Published: June 2009

El objetivo general de este trabajo es conocer la relación existente entre el proceso de cambio de un Sistema de Contabilidad de Gestión (SCG) en las pequeñas y medianas empresas (PYME) y el éxito que genera dicho cambio. El éxito del cambio del SCG se va a medir a través de dos indicadores. El primer indicador, el éxito interno, medirá la distancia que existe entre las expectativas (qué se esperaba) de las nuevas técnicas de gestión implantadas y las realidades (qué son). El segundo indicador, el éxito externo, medirá la variación en el nivel de eficiencia relativa de la empresa dentro de su sector. La hipótesis básica de este estudio, plantea que el proceso de cambio puede explicar el nivel de éxito (interno-externo) alcanzado en el cambio de un SCG. Para captar y analizar los datos, utilizaremos dos técnicas: el Análisis Envolvente de Datos (DEA) y el método del Estudio de Caso (EDC). Los resultados de la investigación permitieron conocer los que factores influyeron, y por tanto explican el éxito de un cambio en los SCG de una PYME del sector de la madera y mueble de la Comunidad Valenciana, España, entre ellos: los conocimientos y habilidades de los agentes implicados en el cambio, la influencia de los expertos externos, la profesionalización de la gestión, los recursos informáticos, la formación interna en SCG, la confianza entre los agentes y la implicación de las personas. Además, hemos observado que los cambios producidos a lo largo de los años analizados influyeron positivamente en el nivel de eficiencia de la organización.
The H1 Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spin-Lattice Relaxation Rate of Some Hydrated Synthetic and Natural Sands
Authors: Bray Christina L. , Bryant Robert G. , Cox Marcus J. , Ferrante Gianni , Goddard Yanina A. , Sur Sandip K. , Hornak Joseph P.
Published: June 2009

The hydrogen nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spin-lattice relaxation rate [Formula: see text] of three fully hydrated natural sands was measured and compared to that for a fully hydrated synthetic sand as a function of applied magnetic field and particle diameter [Formula: see text]. [Formula: see text] values increased with decreasing particle diameter for both natural and synthetic sands. The increase in [Formula: see text] became greater with decreasing magnetic field strength. The field dependent [Formula: see text] data allowed the prediction of [Formula: see text] at the Earth’s magnetic field [Formula: see text]. Measurable [Formula: see text] differences were observed between the three natural sands, as well as the natural and a synthetic sand. The difference in [Formula: see text] of the natural sands can not be attributed to the geometric characteristics of the grains, as these were identical within experimental error. The [Formula: see text] differences can be attributed to trace paramagnetic impurities in the grains which influence the surface relaxation component of [Formula: see text]. These results show that it is unwise to predict aquifer characteristics based on [Formula: see text] values from nuclear magnetic resonance sounding without knowledge of the paramagnetic impurities in the sand grains. Furthermore, the results emphasize that laboratory measurements of [Formula: see text] should be performed at [Formula: see text].
Improvement of the resolution in direct membrane integrity test by controlling solution surface tension
Authors: Lee J. H. , Hong S. K. , Hur H. C. , Choi Y. J.
Published: June 2009

Membrane-based treatment technologies have been introduced as a promising tool for the removal of water-borne pathogens. To ensure successful application of membrane processes, the integrity of the membrane system should be maintained. Related with evaluation of the membrane integrity, USEPA guidance recommends pressure-based membrane integrity (MIT). Based on the bubble point theory, the ability of detecting smallest integrity breakage during the MIT is defined as “Resolution”. However, the response to remarkably small breach demands significantly high initial test pressure of the pressure decay test. In this study, the surface tension of the test liquid was controlled to improve the resolution without increasing the corresponding test pressure. Three common chemicals were chosen to control the solution surface tension. It is concluded that 0.1 M of the citric acid can decrease the initial test pressure significantly for the same pore size. Subsequently, the improvement of the resolution with controlled surface tension was confirmed by the results of pressure decay test and marker test.
Application of Thermally Responsive Elastin-like Polypeptide Fused to a Lactoferrin-derived Peptide for Treatment of Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Massodi Iqbal , Thomas Emily , Raucher Drazen
Published: June 2009

A well characterized, peptide derivative of bovine lactoferrin, L12, has been shown to possess anticancer properties in multiple cell lines. However, adverse side effects in normal tissues and poor plasma kinetics that hinder the clinical effectiveness of current chemotherapeutics also deter the potential for effective delivery of this L12 peptide. To overcome these limitations, we have developed an Elastin-like polypeptide (ELP) carrier that has the potential to thermally target therapeutic peptides and chemotherapeutics to a tumor site. The coding sequence of ELP was modified with the L12 peptide at the C-terminus and a membrane transduction domain derived from the HIV-1 Tat protein at the N-terminus (Tat-ELP-L12). The thermally responsive Tat-ELP1-L12 is soluble in aqueous solutions at 37°C but aggregates near 41°C, which makes Tat-ELP1-L12 ideal for targeting to solid tumors on application of focused hyperthermia. We observed that under hyperthermia conditions at 42°C, Tat-ELP1-L12 mediated cytotoxicity in MIA PaCa-2 pancreatic adenocarcinoma cells was enhanced by nearly thirty-fold. We investigated the mechanisms of cell death and found evidence of mitochondrial membrane depolarization and caspase activation, which are characteristic of apoptosis, as well as, increased membrane permeability, as shown by LDH release. These results suggest that Tat-ELP1-L12 possesses cytotoxic properties to cancer cells in vitro and may have the potential to provide an effective vehicle to thermally target solid tumors.
Soil Microbial Activity in Conventional and Organic Agricultural Systems
Authors: Araújo Ademir S.F. , Leite Luiz F.C. , Santos Valdinar B. , Carneiro Romero F.V.
Published: June 2009

The aim of this study was to evaluate microbial activity in soils under conventional and organic agricultural system management regimes. Soil samples were collected from plots under conventional management (CNV), organic management (ORG) and native vegetation (AVN). Soil microbial activity and biomass was significantly greater in ORG compared with CNV. Soil bulk density decreased three years after adoption of organic system. Soil organic carbon (SOC) was higher in the ORG than in the CNV. The soil under organic agricultural system presents higher microbial activity and biomass and lower bulk density than the conventional agricultural system.
Symmetry – An International and Interdisciplinary Scientific Open Access Journal
Authors: Lin Shu-Kun
Published: June 2009

As the publisher of MDPI journals, I am pleased to launch Symmetry (ISSN 2073-8994), an international and interdisciplinary open access scientific journal. Twenty years ago, a journal entitled Symmetry – An Interdisciplinary and International Journal was launched by VCH Publishers, Inc. in New York, with Professor Istvan Hargittai as Editor-in-Chief. I submitted a paper which was processed by Professor Sven J. Cyvin from The University of Trondheim – The Norwegian Institute of Technology. The paper was accepted and scheduled for publication in the printed issue 4 of volume 1, 1990. I still keep a copy of the galley proofs. However, the publication of this journal was terminated after just the release of the first issue of volume 1, and this paper was finally published elsewhere [1]. [...]