bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On Walkers and Wheelchairs
Authors: Serlin David
Published: September 2012

Disability, as a differential of urban experience, is rarely integrated into the constitutive subjectivities of modern urban history. Despite the sophisticated theoretical and methodological innovations in the fields of urban history, cultural geography, and urban studies over the past three decades, the body that can see, hear, walk, and communicate normatively and/or without assistive technology—no matter how marginal its social or political status—remains consistently centered and remarkably unproblematized. This essay draws attention to this woeful lack of engagement and challenges scholars to confront key canonical definitions of urban modernity as fundamentally linked to the privileges of being nondisabled. The essay concludes with recommendations for “cripping” the spatialization of the city that might expand the historian's analytical repertoire, especially since urban modernity has typically relied upon architectural and technological spectacles of the visual, the auditory, and the mobile.
The CCLM contribution to improvements in quality and patient safety
Authors: Plebani Mario
Published: September 2012

Clinical laboratories play an important role in improving patient care. The past decades have seen unbelievable, often unpredictable improvements in analytical performance. Although the seminal concept of the brain-to-brain laboratory loop has been described more than four decades ago, there is now a growing awareness about the importance of extra-analytical aspects in laboratory quality. According to this concept, all phases and activities of the testing cycle should be assessed, monitored and improved in order to decrease the total error rates thereby improving patients’ safety. Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (CCLM) not only has followed the shift in perception of quality in the discipline, but has been the catalyst for promoting a large debate on this topic, underlining the value of papers dealing with errors in clinical laboratories and possible remedies, as well as new approaches to the definition of quality in pre-, intra-, and post-analytical steps. The celebration of the 50th anniversary of the CCLM journal offers the opportunity to recall and mention some milestones in the approach to quality and patient safety and to inform our readers, as well as laboratory professionals, clinicians and all the stakeholders of the willingness of the journal to maintain quality issues as central to its interest even in the future.
The combined use of neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin and brain natriuretic peptide improves risk stratification in pediatric cardiac surgery
Authors: Cantinotti Massimiliano , Storti Simona , Lorenzoni Valentina , Arcieri Luigi , Moschetti Riccardo , Murzi Bruno , Spadoni Isabella , Passino Claudio , Clerico Aldo
Published: September 2012

Background: The aim of this study is to test the hypothesis whether the combined use of a cardio-specific biomarker, the brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) and a marker of early renal damage, the assay of urinary neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (uNGAL), may improve risk stratification in pediatric cardiac surgery.

Methods: We prospectively enrolled 135 children [median age 7 (interquartile range 1–49) months] undergoing to cardiac surgery for congenital heart disease. All biomarkers were evaluated pre- and post-operatively at different times after cardiopulmonary-bypass (CPB): uNGAL at 2, 6 and 12 h; BNP at 12 and 36 h; serum creatinine at 2, 6, 12, and 36 h. Primary endpoints were development of acute kidney injury (AKI) (defined as 1.5 serum creatinine increase) and intubation time.

Results: AKI occurred in 39% of patients (65% neonates and 32% older children, p=0.004). The peak of uNGAL values occurred more frequently at 2 h. uNGAL values at 2 h [median 28.2 (interquartile range 7.0–124.6) ng/L] had a good diagnostic accuracy for early diagnosis of AKI with an AUC (area under the curve) ROC (receiver operating characteristic) curve of 0.85 (SE 0.034). Using multivariable logistic regression analysis, development of AKI was significantly associated with uNGAL values at 2 h after CPB [OR=1.88 (1.30–2.72, p=0.001)], together with the CPB time and Aristotle score, as an index of complexity of the surgical procedure, while pre-operative BNP values were not. Furthermore, uNGAL and pre-operative BNP values (together with Aristotle score) were significantly associated with adverse outcome (longer intubation time and mortality).

Conclusions: Pre-operative BNP and uNGAL values after surgery (together with the Aristotle score) were independently associated with a more severe course and worse outcome in children undergoing cardiac surgery for congenital heart disease.
Tensile creep and recovery of Norway spruce influenced by temperature and moisture
Authors: Engelund Emil Tang , Salmén Lennart
Published: September 2012

The time-dependent mechanical behaviour (TDMB) of wood is important when using the material for structural purposes. Recently, a new method for predicting the TDMB by numerical modelling was established based on the assumption that TDMB is caused by the sliding of the microfibrils past each other. In this study, the TDMB is examined via creep experiments on small specimens of Norway spruce latewood. The results of these are compared with results from numerical modelling. The experiments include results at two levels of moisture content and three levels of temperature, enabling an investigation of these two climatic factors on TDMB of wood. It was found that the mechanical response of wood tissue is the sum of responses from both tracheids and middle lamella, with only the previous being reversible. The effect of moisture and temperature differed in that the latter affected the elastic and time-dependent responses equally. Moisture, on the other hand, reduced both the elastic properties and the activation energy barrier for sliding of the microfibrils, but furthermore changed the microfibril angle of the sample as a result of swelling. Hereby, moisture had a larger effect on the time-dependent response than the elastic. All of these effects were predicted by numerical modelling.
The versatile regulation of cellular events by Jak-Stat signaling: from transcriptional control to microtubule dynamics and energy metabolism
Authors: Groner Bernd , Hennighausen Lothar
Published: September 2012

No abstract available.
Pregnancy and neonatal outcome following an antenatal diagnosis of cleft lip and palate
Authors: Michel Bénédicte , Debauche Christian , Hutchings Graham , Bernard Pierre , Biard Jean-Marc , François Geneviève , Bayet Bénédicte , Williams Olivia
Published: September 2012

Aim: To identify the significance of associated antenatal ultrasound findings on long-term prognosis following the antenatal diagnosis of cleft lip/palate [CL(P)].

Patients and methods: Retrospective case note analysis of patients seen at a single tertiary referral centre with a diagnosis of CL(P). The patients were classified as those with unilateral or bilateral clefts and then further subdivided according to the presence of associated anomalies, and these were related to pregnancy and neonatal outcome.

Results: A total of 125 singleton pregnancies were seen at the antenatal diagnostic unit, 14 of which were subsequently lost to follow-up. Eighty-two (65.6%) had a diagnosis of unilateral CL(P) and 43 (34.4%) a bilateral CL(P). Seventy-five foetuses (67.5%) had no other anomalies detected on antenatal ultrasound. Seventeen patients (15%) underwent a termination of pregnancy. A normal postnatal outcome was seen in 79% of liveborn infants overall. Only 50% of foetuses diagnosed with a single minor anomaly and 4% of the foetuses in whom more than two minor anomalies or one major anomaly had been detected on ultrasound had a normal postnatal outcome. Infants with bilateral CL(P) had a significantly reduced incidence of a normal postnatal course (60% vs. 87.5%, P<0.01).

Conclusion: In cases of CL(P), there is a high incidence of associated anomalies detected on antenatal ultrasound and these significantly increase the risk of poor neonatal outcome.
Einführung in die allgemeine Grundrechtslehre
Authors: Scheidler Alfred
Published: September 2012

Nach ihrer ursprünglichen Konzeption sind Grundrechte die
in den Verfassungen der jeweiligen Staaten aufgelisteten
staatlich garantierten Freiheitsrechte des Individuums gegenüber
der Staatsmacht. Die allgemeine Grundrechtslehre befasst sich nicht nur mit der Entstehung und Entwicklung von Grundrechten, sondern auch mit Fragestellungen, die sich beispielsweise mit dem Geltungsbereich der Grundrechte, den Grundrechtsberechtigten oder mit der Rechtfertigung
von Grundrechtseingriffen durch den Staat befassen.
Activity-Dependent Modulation of the Interaction between CaMKIIα and Abi1 and Its Involvement in Spine Maturation
Authors: Park Esther , Chi Susan , Park Dongeun
Published: September 2012

Remodeling of dendritic spines through regulation of actin dynamics is a key event in activity-dependent structural plasticity. However, the molecular mechanism underlying this process is poorly understood. Here, we show that activity-dependent modulation of Abl interactor 1–Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent kinase IIα (Abi1–CaMKIIα) interaction, and thereby their activity, is important for regulation of spine morphology in cultured rat hippocampal neurons. Abi1 interacts with CaMKIIα at resting conditions through Abi1's tSNARE (target membrane-associated SNARE), which harbors striking homology with CaMKIIα regulatory domain. The interaction of the two proteins, Abi1 and CaMKIIα, results in their simultaneous inhibition, inhibition of CaMKIIα activity, and also inhibition of Abi1-dependent Rac activation. Their functional impediment is released when they dissociate from each other by calmodulin binding through glutamate receptor activation. Before dissociation, Abi1 is phosphorylated by CaMKIIα at serine 88, which may involve in regulation of Rac activation and spine maturation. Our results suggest that modulation of the interaction between Abi1 and CaMKIIα, through the glutamate receptor pathway, may be a molecular mechanism underlying activity-regulated structural plasticity in rat hippocamapal neurons.
GABAergic Inhibition of Histaminergic Neurons Regulates Active Waking But Not the Sleep–Wake Switch or Propofol-Induced Loss of Consciousness
Authors: Zecharia Anna Y. , Yu Xiao , Götz Thomas , Ye Zhiwen , Carr David R. , Wulff Peer , Bettler Bernhard , Vyssotski Alexei L. , Brickley Stephen G. , Franks Nicholas P. , Wisden William
Published: September 2012

The activity of histaminergic neurons in the tuberomammillary nucleus (TMN) of the hypothalamus correlates with an animal's behavioral state and maintains arousal. We examined how GABAergic inputs onto histaminergic neurons regulate this behavior. A prominent hypothesis, the “flip-flop” model, predicts that increased and sustained GABAergic drive onto these cells promotes sleep. Similarly, because of the histaminergic neurons' key hub-like place in the arousal circuitry, it has also been suggested that anesthetics such as propofol induce loss of consciousness by acting primarily at histaminergic neurons. We tested both these hypotheses in mice by genetically removing ionotropic GABAAor metabotropic GABABreceptors from histidine decarboxylase-expressing neurons. At the cellular level, histaminergic neurons deficient in synaptic GABAAreceptors were significantly more excitable and were insensitive to the anesthetic propofol. At the behavioral level, EEG profiles were recorded in nontethered mice over 24 h. Surprisingly, GABAergic transmission onto histaminergic neurons had no effect in regulating the natural sleep–wake cycle and, in the case of GABAAreceptors, for propofol-induced loss of righting reflex. The latter finding makes it unlikely that the histaminergic TMN has a central role in anesthesia. GABABreceptors on histaminergic neurons were dispensable for all behaviors examined. Synaptic inhibition of histaminergic cells by GABAAreceptors, however, was essential for habituation to a novel environment.
A Parametric Investigation of Pattern Separation Processes in the Medial Temporal Lobe
Authors: Motley Sarah E. , Kirwan C. Brock
Published: September 2012

The hippocampus is thought to be involved in memory formation and consolidation, with computational models proposing the process of pattern separation as a means for encoding overlapping memories. Previous research has used semantically related targets and lures to investigate hippocampal responses to mnemonic interference. Here, we attempted to define the response function of the human hippocampus and its inputs during pattern separation by parametrically varying target-lure similarity in a continuous recognition task. We also investigated the effect of task demands (intentional vs incidental encoding) on pattern separation processes. We collected functional magnetic resonance imaging data while participants were shown a series of objects. In the intentional paradigm, participants identified objects as “new” (novel stimuli), “old” (exact repetitions), or “rotated” (previously seen objects that were subsequently rotated by varied degrees). In the incidental paradigm, participants were shown the same stimuli but identified objects as “toy” or “not toy.” Activation in the hippocampus was best fit with a power function, consistent with predictions made by computational models of pattern separation processes in the hippocampus. The degree of pattern separation was driven by the information most relevant to the task: pattern separation was seen in the left hippocampus when semantic information was more important to the task and seen in the right hippocampus when spatial information was more important. We also present data illustrating that top-down processes modulate activity in the ventral visual processing stream.
Crystal structure of mullite-type PbMn0.5Al0.5BO4 determined by combined X-ray and neutron diffraction data
Authors: Murshed M. Mangir , Nénert Gwilherm , Gesing Thorsten M.
Published: September 2012

PbMn0 . 5 Al0 . 5 BO4, orthorhombic, Pnam ( n o . 6 2 ) , a = 6.88207(22) Å, b = 8.26813(31) Å, c = 5.84767(20) Å, V = 332.74 Å3, Z = 1, Rp = 0.0381(i), 0.0458(ii), 0.0505(iii), Rwp = 0.0491(i), 0.0676(ii), 0.0677(iii), T = 298 K.
ENDOCRINE DISORDERS IN CHILDHOOD AND ADOLESCENCE: Natural history of subclinical hypothyroidism in children and adolescents and potential effects of replacement therapy: a review
Authors: Monzani Alice , Prodam Flavia , Rapa Anna , Moia Stefania , Agarla Valentina , Bellone Simonetta , Bona Gianni
Published: September 2012

Objective

Subclinical hypothyroidism (SH) is quite common in children and adolescents. The natural history of this condition and the potential effects of replacement therapy need to be known to properly manage SH. The aim of this review is to analyze: i) the spontaneous evolution of SH, in terms of the rate of reversion to euthyroidism, the persistence of SH, or the progression to over hypothyroidism; and ii) the effects of replacement therapy, with respect to auxological data, thyroid volume, and neuropsychological functions.

Methods

We systematically searched PubMed, Cochrane, and EMBASE (1990–2012) and identified 39 potentially relevant articles of which only 15 articles were suitable to be included.

Results and conclusions

SH in children is a remitting process with a low risk of evolution toward overt hypothyroidism. Most of the subjects reverted to euthyroidism or remained SH, with a rate of evolution toward overt hypothyroidism ranging between 0 and 28.8%, being 50% in only one study (nine articles). The initial presence of goiter and elevated thyroglobulin antibodies, the presence of celiac disease, and a progressive increase in thyroperoxidase antibodies and TSH value predict a progression toward overt hypothyroidism. Replacement therapy is not justified in children with SH but with TSH 5–10 mIU/l, no goiter, and negative antithyroid antibodies. An increased growth velocity was observed in children treated with levothyroxine (l-T4; two articles). l-T4 reduced thyroid volume in 25–100% of children with SH and autoimmune thyroiditis (two studies). No effects on neuropsychological functions (one study) and posttreatment evolution of SH (one study) were reported.
Designing Tunable Bio-nanostructured Materials via Self-Assembly of Amphiphilic Lipids and Functionalized Nanotubes
Authors: Dutt Meenakshi , Kuksenok Olga , Balazs Anna C.
Published: September 2012

Via the Dissipative Particle Dynamics (DPD) approach, we study the self-assembly of hybrid structures comprising lipids and end-functionalized nanotubes. Individual lipids are composed of a hydrophilic head group and two hydrophobic tails. Each bare nanotube encompasses an ABA architecture, with a hydrophobic shaft (B) and two hydrophilic ends (A). To allow for regulated transport through the nanotube, we also introduce hydrophilic hairs at one end of the tube. The amphiphilic lipids are composed of a hydrophilic head group (A) and two hydrophobic tails (B). We select the dimensions of the nanotube architecture to minimize its hydrophobic mismatch with the lipid bilayer. We find the amphiphilic lipids and functionalized nanotubes to self-assemble into a stable hybrid vesicle or a bicelle in the presence of a hydrophilic solvent. We demonstrate that the morphology of the self-assembled functionalized nanotube-lipid hybrid structures is controlled by the rigidity of the lipid molecules and concentration of the nanotubes.
Goniometria dos membros torácicos e pélvicos de ovinos em duas faixas etárias
Authors: Conceição Renato T. , Rahal Sheila C. , Agostinho Felipe S. , Teixeira Carlos R. , Araújo Fábio A.P. , Monteiro Frederico O.B.
Published: September 2012

O trabalho teve por objetivo comparar os valores goniométricos das articulações dos membros torácicos e pélvicos em ovinos da raça Santa Inês em duas faixas etárias (jovens e adultos). Foram utilizados 30 ovinos hígidos, fêmeas, divididos em dois grupos: Grupo 1 com 15 animais jovens (idade entre 6 e 12 meses), Grupo 2 com 15 animais adultos (entre 3 e 6 anos). Foram aferidas a máxima flexão, a máxima extensão e calculou-se a amplitude de movimento das articulações, direita e esquerda, dos membros torácicos (ombro, cotovelo e carpo) e pélvicos (coxofemoral, joelho e tarso), com o emprego de um goniômetro universal de plástico. Cada articulação foi aferida em triplicata por dois avaliadores com o animal em estação. Não foram detectadas diferenças estatísticas entre as médias em ambos os lados, entre os avaliadores ou entre os grupos. Foi possível assim concluir que, em ovinos hígidos, os valores goniométricos não foram influenciados pela idade.
Decisões reprodutivas e triagem neonatal: a perspectiva de mulheres cuidadoras de crianças com doença falciforme
Authors: Guedes Cristiano
Published: September 2012

Um dos objetivos do Programa Nacional de Triagem Neonatal para doença falciforme, criado em 2001, foi o de informar casais com chances de ter filhos com doenças falciformes para a tomada de decisões reprodutivas. Este artigo apresenta as escolhas reprodutivas e analisa a noção de risco reprodutivo biomédico de mulheres cuidadoras de crianças com doença falciforme inseridas em um programa de triagem neonatal. O levantamento de dados qualitativos, realizado de 2006 a 2008, foi baseado em entrevistas com 50 mulheres cuidadoras de crianças com doença falciforme participantes do Programa de Triagem Neonatal do Distrito Federal. A pesquisa revelou as seguintes percepções no campo das decisões reprodutivas: mulheres que querem ter outros filhos mesmo sob o risco de recorrência da doença; mulheres que não querem mais ter filhos; e mulheres cujo projeto reprodutivo ainda está sendo elaborado com base nas informações recebidas no programa de triagem. O estudo mostrou que as escolhas reprodutivas das mulheres são embasadas na experiência do cuidado dos filhos e de si. A noção de risco reprodutivo é construída de modo a fortalecer as decisões das mulheres perante a família e outros grupos sociais ao qual pertence.
Conhecimento, consumo e acesso à contracepção de emergência entre mulheres universitárias no sul do Estado de Santa Catarina
Authors: Alano Graziela Modolon , Costa Laise Nunes , Miranda Luziane Righeto , Galato Dayani
Published: September 2012

A contracepção de emergência tem sido utilizada na prevenção da gravidez não planejada. Este estudo objetivou investigar o conhecimento, o consumo e o acesso desse método entre mulheres universitárias do Sul do Estado de Santa Catarina. Trata-se de estudo observacional, transversal, aplicando-se formulário de setembro a outubro de 2008. Participaram 360 mulheres entre 18 e 45 anos, a maioria da classe econômica B2 ou superior (74,2%), onde 79,4% já haviam mantido relação sexual. Destas, 48,6% haviam utilizado a contracepção de emergência, sendo mais frequente quanto menor a idade. O método foi usado em média 2,4 vezes e 87,1% administraram-no até 24 horas após a relação sexual. Foram referidas reações adversas por 20,9% das usuárias, sendo as mais comuns, alterações menstruais (44,8%) e náuseas (44,8%). Os principais motivos para o uso do método foram: não uso do preservativo (44,6%) e rompimento do mesmo (39,6%). Das entrevistadas, 15,0% não souberam responder ou responderam de modo errado à questão sobre a não prevenção de Doença Sexualmente Transmissível pelo método e 97,8% negaram ter alterado o método utilizado rotineiramente. Apenas 2,9% das mulheres adquiriram o medicamento mediante prescrição médica e 35,3% receberam orientações no momento da compra.
Estudo ecológico sobre o desenvolvimento da saúde no Brasil
Authors: Brevidelli Maria Meimei , Freitas Fernando Celso Garcia de
Published: September 2012

Avaliar o nível de saúde das Unidades da Federação (UF) do Brasil, por meio de um indicador sintético - Índice de Desenvolvimento da Saúde (IDS). O IDS foi composto pelas dimensões: (1) Recursos de saúde: disponibilidade e qualidade dos recursos de saúde; (2) Cobertura por atenção básica e saneamento; (3) Eficácia das políticas de saúde. Cada dimensão englobou um conjunto de indicadores obtidos em bases de dados nacionais. Em 2005, o Brasil apresentava nível intermediário de desenvolvimento da saúde, tendo progredido de patamares inferiores, desde 1999. A maioria das UF apresentava déficits em "recursos" e "cobertura". A dimensão da "eficácia" mostrou-se altamente desenvolvida em todo Brasil. Conclusões: A construção do indicador sintético IDS possibilitou constatar deficiências e disparidades significativas na disponibilidade e qualidade dos recursos de saúde, em grande parte do território nacional. Esses resultados podem auxiliar gestores de saúde no desafio de tornar a saúde pública universal.
Las fronteras de la medicalización: tensiones en torno a la identificación y valoración de la desnutrición infantil en un centro de atención primaria de la ciudad de Buenos Aires
Authors: Herkovits Damián
Published: September 2012

La medicalización de la vida y sus implicancias en cuanto a la producción de subjetividades han sido fenómenos destacados por las ciencias humanas en el estudio de la salud y la enfermedad. Sin embargo, el análisis de sus expresiones locales permanece insuficientemente tratado. El presente trabajo tiene como propósito avanzar en esta dirección mediante el estudio etnográfico del proceso de medicalización de la desnutrición infantil en un centro sanitario de la ciudad de Buenos Aires. Abordaremos las singularidades involucradas en la percepción valorativa del cuerpo y su contexto alimentario por parte de los profesionales de la salud y los destinatarios de sus acciones terapéuticas. Destacamos que los criterios de percepción y los valores morales que animan las posiciones sociales de los profesionales del sector salud y los destinatarios de sus acciones imposibilitaron la institucionalización de la visión médica. Concluimos que el proceso analizado subraya la necesidad de exceder los enfoques que abordan la medicalización exclusivamente desde el ángulo de la imposición. La historia social de los grupos involucrados y los modos de relacionamiento que establecen en escenarios locales constituyen elementos esenciales para comprender las singularidades de estos procesos.
Capacitação em antropometria como base para o fortalecimento do Sistema de Vigilância Alimentar e Nutricional no Brasil
Authors: Bagni Ursula Viana , Barros Denise Cavalcante de
Published: September 2012

OBJETIVO: Apresentar recomendações acerca do planejamento de capacitações em antropometria em âmbito local na Atenção Primária à Saúde, a fim de subsidiar a geração de informações nutricionais de boa qualidade e fortalecer a vigilância nutricional. MÉTODOS: Diante da ausência de documentos oficiais que normatizem periodicidade, metodologia, conteúdo e outros aspectos relevantes ao adequado planejamento e execução de capacitações em antropometria em âmbito local, as recomendações apresentadas são baseadas em experiências bem-sucedidas de um Laboratório de Antropometria com vocação para formação de recursos humanos, pertencente a uma instituição federal do Rio de Janeiro. RESULTADOS: Reciclagens periódicas devem integrar de forma permanente a agenda dos serviços de saúde, sendo desenvolvidas ao menos uma vez por semestre, em pequenos grupos. Os equipamentos antropométricos devem estar disponíveis em todos os momentos, e para uma capacitação abordando peso, estatura e perímetro da cintura, deve haver, no mínimo, 1 balança, 1 antropômetro e 2 fitas antropométricas para cada 6 participantes. Uma capacitação contemplando até 3 medidas corporais deve ter carga horária mínima de 4 horas, sendo metade direcionada para sensibilização, troca de experiências e revisão das técnicas, e o restante para treinamento, identificação e correção de erros, avaliação da qualidade das medidas e discussão dos resultados. Essas atividades devem se constituir em espaço de troca de experiências que favoreça o aperfeiçoamento das técnicas considerando o contexto de atuação e dificuldades enfrentadas pelos profissionais em sua rotina. Deve-se dar ênfase na prática supervisionada das medições, pois permitem identificar e corrigir erros, assim como avaliar a precisão e exatidão dos profissionais. CONCLUSÃO: O aperfeiçoamento e uniformização das capacitações em antropometria poderão favorecer o aprendizado e desenvolvimento do profissional, bem como garantir o alcance dos objetivos de promoção e vigilância em saúde do Sistema Único de Saúde.
Caracterização química, física e mineralógica do produto granulado de manganês proveniente da Mina do Azul
Authors: Faria G. L , Reis E. L , Janotti Jr. N. , Araújo F. G. S.
Published: September 2012

Os minérios de manganês provenientes da mina do Azul são importante matéria-prima na produção de ferro-ligas de manganês. Visando melhorias no beneficiamento e no processo de fabricação destas ligas, foi realizada a caracterização do produto Granulado da unidade do Azul-VALE/Manganês. Foi obtida uma amostra representativa desta mina e realizada análise granulométrica, onde se verificou a ocorrência de 80% das partículas abaixo de 22,6mm e 50% abaixo de 12,5mm. Considerou-se como granulado a fração menor que 37,5mm e maior que 6,3mm, que é a mais abundante neste minério e comumente destinada às usinas de ferro-ligas. A fração entre 37,5mm e 6,3mm foi amostrada e foram realizadas análises termogravimétrica, química dos elementos majoritários e identificadas as fases minerais presentes. A análise térmica (TG-DTA) identificou perda de massa em torno de 300ºC, 500ºC, 700ºC, 900ºC e 1000ºC associadas à decomposição térmica de algumas fases minerais presentes. Os teores de Mn, Fe e SiO2 foram respectivamente, 47,68; 3,59; e 3,16%. O produto Granulado da unidade do Azul é composto majoritariamente pelos minerais de manganês criptomelana [KMn8O16] e pirolusita [MnO2]. Os constituintes minoritários são todorokita [(Na,Ca,K)2Mn6O12 •3-4.5(H2O)], magnetita[Fe3O4] e gibbsita [Al(OH)3] (A pirolusita, a magnetita e a gibbsita foram identificadas por microscopia óptica).
O formante do cantor e os ajustes laríngeos utilizados para realizá-lo: uma revisão descritiva
Authors: Gusmão Cristina de Souza , Campos Paulo Henrique , Maia Maria Emília Oliveira
Published: September 2012

Este estudo descreve, através da literatura da Fonoaudiologia e da Física Acústica, alguns aspectos relacionados à produção da voz, tais como o espectro do som como a frequência fundamental, os harmônicos, os formantes e também os ajustes laríngeos. A revisão de literatura inclui a descrição anátomo-fisiológica do aparelho vocal, suas funções e mecanismo para produção vocal. Descreve também os aspectos relacionados à espectografia do som, da localização dos formantes e de ajustes anatômicos e musculares para se obter o formante do cantor. Este estudo visa esclarecer conceitos e levantar questionamentos sobre o que ocorre na fisiologia vocal e o que é dito e aceito pelo senso comum sobre o formante do cantor.
Cultivar development of allogamous crops
Authors: Souza Jr. Cláudio Lopes de
Published: September 2012

Objectives of this review were to present the state of the art of the technologies used to develop cultivars in allogamous species, excluding the perennial and asexually propagated species. It was reviewed the genetic structure of these species and its relationship with the development of cultivars, the technologies used to develop hybrids and improved open-pollinated varieties and their F1´s, and the impact of the biotechnology and the mixed models on the development of cultivars. A summary of results from the researches developed in the maize breeding project at the Department of Genetics of the Agriculture College "Luiz de Queiroz" will be presented.
Germplasm enhancement for adaptation to climate changes
Authors: Carena Marcelo J
Published: September 2012

Billions of dollars and crops are being lost to drying high moisture grain; drought, cold, and salt susceptibility; and to processing poor quality grain. Maize is a model crop for adaptation to climate changes. Breeding for adaptation is best done under challenging environmental conditions where strengths and weaknesses are quickly identified and most stable genotypes are selected. The North Dakota State University (NDSU) maize breeding program is strategically located to develop products under extreme weather. It currently exploits northern U.S. environments that allow screening for adaptation traits that are as important as yield. The program focuses on germplasm adaptation and its integration into cultivar development, particularly those carrying unique alleles not present in the B73 and NAM genomes. There is a need for projects that are vital to agricultural research and will meet present and future demands of superior genotypes tolerant to climate changes in the U.S. and abroad.
Cacao breeding in Bahia, Brazil: strategies and results
Authors: Lopes Uilson Vanderlei , Monteiro Wilson Reis , Pires José Luis , Clement Didier , Yamada Milton Macoto , Gramacho Karina Peres
Published: September 2012

Cacao was introduced in Bahia in 1756, becoming later the largest producer state in the country. In order to support the planting of cacao in the region, a breeding program was established by CEPEC at the beginning of the 1970s. For a long time, the program consisted in testing new hybrids (full-sibs) and releasing a mixture of the best ones to farmers. Lately, particularly after the witches´ broom arrival in the region, in 1989, recurrent breeding strategies were implemented, aiming mainly the development of clones. From 1993 to 2010, more than 500 progenies, accumulating 30 thousand trees, were developed by crossing many parents with resistance to witches´ broom, high yield and other traits. In this period, more than 500 clones were put in trials and 39 clones and 3 hybrids were released to farmers. In this paper the strategies and results achieved by the program are reviewed. Overall the program has good interface with pathology and genomic programs.
Effect of rootstock on the scion of Hevea brasiliensis through metabolic analysis of latex samples by ¹H NMR
Authors: Nascimento Eduardo Sanches Pereira do , Oliveira Clayton Rodrigues de , Gonçalves Paulo de Souza , Costa Reginaldo Brito da , Moreno Rogério Manoel Biagi , Mattoso Luiz Henrique Capparelli , Ferreira Antonio Gilberto
Published: September 2012

In this study, the effect of rootstock on grafting through metabolomic analysis of latex (Hevea brasiliensis) samples was verified by ¹H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and multivariate data analysis. Sixteen metabolites present in the latex cytosol were characterized by NMR. PCA analysis showed that the latex samples of the RR and GR groups can be differentiated. The GR group samples present a metabolic profile similar to the RR group samples, while the RG group is in an intermediate position between RR and GG groups. Sucrose and formate contributed greatly to the separation obtained by PCA, presenting a good correlation between the results. ¹H NMR was an efficient technique to differentiate latex samples from different types of rootstocks and grafting and in the future could be used to predict rubber production by latex analysis.
Laboratory investigation of stress waves in young shotcrete on rock
Authors: Ahmed Lamis , Ansell Anders
Published: September 2012

To study the behaviour of shotcrete under dynamic load, a non-destructive laboratory experiment was set up with P-wave propagation along a concrete bar, with properties similar to rock. Cement-based mortar with properties that resemble shotcrete was applied to one end of the bar with a hammer impacting the other. The shape of the stress waves travelling towards the shotcrete was registered using accelerometers positioned along the bar. Finite-element modelling was used to verify the test results, which showed that the laboratory model with an impacting hammer could be used to initiate the same type of stress waves that result from blasting in good-quality rock. Previously recommended maximum allowed peak particle vibration velocities were verified.
Design for efficient drainage of railway track foundations
Authors: Rushton Ken R. , Ghataora Gurmel
Published: September 2012

The efficient drainage of water from railway track support systems is critical in maintaining the stiffness of the subgrade following substantial rainfall. In a preliminary investigation, the results from a full-scale laboratory experiment of drainage through ballast and sub-ballast were examined; a numerical model was developed to represent these experimental results. That initial study is extended to consider the effect of the geometry and the hydraulic properties of the track foundation on the rate at which water drains from the system. A design methodology is presented which shows that the time for almost complete drainage depends on the permeability and specific yield (drainable porosity) of the underlying sand blanket. A number of additional conditions are examined including the slope of the subgrade, the intensity and duration of the rainfall, and the occurrence of a surcharge in the drainage ditch. The provision of a laterally and vertically permeable geocomposite directly above the subgrade can reduce the time for drainage by a factor of ten.
Nitrogen Use by Yam as Affected by Mineral Fertilizer Application
Authors: Hgaza V. K. , Diby L. N. , Oberson A. , Tschannen A. , Tié B. T. , Sangakkara U. R. , Aké S. , Frossard E.
Published: September 2012

Soil fertility decline and high N demand during plant growth are cited as main causes of low yield in yam (Dioscorea spp.). As information regarding fertilizer N use in yam is lacking, a field experiment was undertaken in 2006 and repeated in 2007 in central Côte d'Ivoire using 15N (15NH415NO3) labeled fertilizers to monitor N uptake and fertilizer use efficiency in D. alata. The 15N‐labeled fertilizer was added in two splits (at 90 and 130 d after planting) for a target tuber yield of 40 Mg fresh tuber ha−1. The application of mineral fertilizers increased total biomass production and tuber yield as well as N uptake from native soil organic matter. The recovery of 15N‐labeled fertilizer applied at 90 and 130 d after planting was not significantly different but the year affected 15N recovery by the plant. The maximum 15N recoveries calculated from the sum of the 15N recovery measured at both application dates were 46 and 23% in 2006 and 2007, respectively. Leaf dry matter and leaf N uptake were higher in 2006 than in 2007, but tuber dry matter was not different between years at the final harvest. Up to 170 kg N ha−1 was returned to the soil through the fallen shoots, indicating an important recycling of N for soil fertility replenishment. Thus, crop succession or intercropping are encouraged in a yam cropping system. Our results also show that the application of mineral fertilizers had a strong “priming effect” on the native soil N in both years.
In‐Season Canopy Reflectance‐Based Estimation of Rice Yield Response to Nitrogen
Authors: Tubaña B. S. , Harrell D. L. , Walker T. , Teboh J. , Lofton J. , Kanke Y.
Published: September 2012

A sensor‐based approach to derive N recommendation based on crop needs and seasonal variation in yield potential and plant‐available soil N requires an estimate of in‐season rice (Oryza sativa L.) response to applied N. The objectives of this study were to: (i) determine if normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) readings can be used to predict rice grain yield response to applied N and (ii) establish the relationship between NDVI‐estimated response index (RI‐NDVI) and measured response index at harvest (RI‐YIELD). Sensor and yield data were collected from multiple N‐rate trials from different locations in Louisiana and Mississippi from 2008 to 2010. The NDVI readings were collected using a ground‐based active sensor at panicle initiation (PI), one (PI + 1 wk) and 2 wk (PI + 2 wk) after PI. Two sets of RI values were computed: (i) the ratio of the highest yielding N‐fertilized plot to the check plot and (ii) ratio of N fertilized plots to the check plot. Across sampling dates, significant linear relationships were obtained between RI‐NDVI and RI‐YIELD (P < 0.01). The highest coefficient of determination value (r2) obtained between estimated and measured RIs was obtained at PI + 1 wk (r2 = 0.63). The quality of the models was improved when RI values were computed by comparing all variable rate N‐fertilized plots to the check plot. Our results showed that RI‐YIELD can be predicted using RI‐NDVI measured within a 3‐wk period starting at PI which is in synchrony with the schedule of topdress N application in mid‐southern United States rice production systems.
Knudsen and Molecular Diffusion Coefficients for Gas Transport in Unconsolidated Porous Media
Authors: Fen Chiu-Shia , Liang Wanjung , Hsiesh Pihsiang , Huang Yunkuen
Published: September 2012

This study was an assessment of the Knudsen and molecular diffusion coefficients in relation to gas‐phase permeability and air‐filled porosity, respectively, for gas transport in unconsolidated porous media. Single gas flow experiments at various gas pore pressures and equimolar binary experiments were conducted to determine apparent, effective gas permeabilities as well as the Knudsen and molecular diffusion coefficients. Experimental results integrated with data from previous studies showed that for dry porous media, the Knudsen diffusion coefficient value for kaolin with total porosity ranging from 0.675 to 0.85 is on the order of 10−4 m2, while it is at least one order of magnitude greater for sea sand and one order less for silica flour. Additionally, the existing correlations of the Knudsen diffusion coefficient can give lower and upper limits to the order of this coefficient value for porous media with effective gas permeabilities in the order of 10−14 to 10−16 m2 The gas‐phase molecular diffusion coefficient for an unsaturated silica flour sample with total porosity of 0.386 and water saturation levels >50% was measured to be one order of magnitude less than those for the other samples with total porosities ranging from 0.402 to 0.417 at similar air‐filled porosities. The former also had lower gas diffusivity under rewetting than under desaturation conditions. The diffusivity factor values obtained from all of the unsaturated silica flour samples were far less than the predictions from other commonly used diffusivity relationships.
The Nanopore Inner Sphere Enhancement Effect on Cation Adsorption: Sodium and Nickel
Authors: Schulthess C. P. , Taylor R. W. , Ferreira D. R.
Published: September 2012

This study compared the adsorption behavior of Na+ and Ni2+ by zeolite minerals that differed only in the physical size of the nanopores in their interstitial regions. Any differences observed in the adsorption of these ions were interpreted in terms of how the physical variations of their nanopores might be involved. The adsorption strength of Ni2+ was weak with zeolite Y and ZSM‐5 but strong with mordenite. The adsorption strength of Na+ was weak with zeolite Y but strong with ZSM‐5 and mordenite. Even when Na+ adsorbed weakly, its adsorption strength was comparable to that of Ni2+ Similarly, when both adsorbed strongly, they both adsorbed with nearly the same strength. The adsorption reaction is a three‐way competition between H+, Na+, and Ni2+ for the adsorption sites. We propose a new theory to explain the increase in adsorption by the ZSM‐5 zeolite for Na+ and by mordenite for Na+ and Ni2+ The new theory states that a dehydrated inner sphere adsorbing ion will be stable if either the ion's attraction to the surface site is stronger than toward the bulk water or the ion's attraction to the bulk water is offset by hindering the presence of water in the region. This occurs when the nanopore diameters are larger than the ionic diameter of the ion but much smaller than the hydrated diameter of the ion, which occurs with interstitial cavities that are not greater than approximately 0.3 to 0.5 nm in size in at least one dimension.
Bermudagrass Forage Yield and Ammonia Volatilization as Affected by Nitrogen Fertilization
Authors: Massey Colin G. , Slaton Nathan A. , Norman Richard J. , Gbur Edward E. , DeLong Russell E. , Golden Bobby R.
Published: September 2012

Forage fertilization practices are changing because of poultry litter use restrictions and reduced NH4NO3 availability. Our objectives were to compare bermudagrass [Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers.] yield and N uptake among N sources and rates and evaluate the influence of N‐fertilizer source on NH3 volatilization. Four N sources, pelleted poultry litter (PPL), NH4NO3, urea, and urea + N‐(n‐butyl) thiophosphoric triamide (NBPT) were applied at rates of 0 to 500 kg N ha−1 yr−1 to common bermudagrass from 2006 to 2008. Measurements included dry matter yield and total N uptake from each N source applied at 400 kg N ha−1 yr−1 A semi‐open static chamber method was used to measure NH3 volatilization for 15 d from each N source applied at 400 kg N ha−1 yr−1 in three split applications. Dry matter increased linearly in 2006 and curvilinearly in 2007 and 2008 as N rate increased, with maximum yields of 9910 to 14,328 kg ha−1 Forage fertilized with ≤300 kg PPL‐N ha−1 yr−1 produced 78 to 96% of the dry matter as the same rates of NH4NO3 The addition of NBPT to urea showed no consistent benefit to yield or N uptake compared with urea alone. Urea‐based fertilizers produced similar to slightly lower yields and N uptakes than NH4NO3 Cumulative NH3–N loss was greatest for urea (10.4–18.7% of applied N), intermediate for urea + NBPT (2.0–3.9%), and <1.5% for PPL and NH4NO3 Given the limited availability of NH4NO3, restrictions on poultry litter use, and concerns about air quality, urea amended with NBPT is a suitable N source for bermudagrass.
Prediction of Soil Nitrogen Supply in Potato Fields in a Cool Humid Climate
Authors: Dessureault-Rompré Jacynthe , Zebarth Bernie J. , Chow T. Lien , Burton David L. , Sharifi Mehdi , Georgallas Alex , Porter Gregory A. , Moreau Gilles , Leclerc Yves , Arsenault Walter J. , Grant Cynthia A.
Published: September 2012

This study evaluated different strategies for use of a simple first‐order kinetic model (Nmin = N0 [1‐e−kt] where N0 is potentially mineralizable N and k is the mineralization rate constant) to predict growing season soil N supply (SNS) in potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) fields under cool humid climatic conditions. Direct application of the kinetic model for the 0‐ to 15‐cm depth significantly underestimated a field‐based measure of plant available soil N supply (PASNS). Modeling strategies that considered the soil mineral N (SMN) present at the start of the growing season, or included a pool of labile mineralizable N (Pool I) not normally considered in determination of N0, performed better, but still underestimated high values of PASNS. Strategies which included a greater soil depth (0–30 cm), or which assumed that the mineralizable N pool was replenished during the growing season, overestimated PASNS. A strategy which used a higher value of k for Pool I gave the most promising results. Results of this study highlight the importance of considering both SMN and labile mineralizable N pools in predicting SNS, and suggest that it is possible to estimate growing season SNS in humid regions using simple kinetic models.
Predicting Soil Moisture and Temperature of Andisols under a Monsoon Climate in Japan
Authors: Kato Chihiro , Nishimura Taku , Imoto Hiromi , Miyazaki Tsuyoshi
Published: September 2012

Predicting the effects of climate change on the vadose zone is a new and important application of the analysis of simultaneous heat and water movement between the atmosphere and the vadose zone. The HYDRUS‐1D software system, with meteorological submodels that evaluate the surface water and energy balance, has been reported to be a useful tool for predicting field thermal and moisture conditions in semiarid regions. Application of the physical model to a humid climate and all types of soils is necessary because this climate has pronounced biological activity and thus significantly contributes to the global environment. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of HYDRUS in predicting annual changes in soil moisture and temperature in the vadose zone under a monsoon climate. The model was evaluated using observed data from a western suburb of Tokyo. The soil properties utilized in the simulation were obtained using laboratory experiments. Climate data for the meteorological submodels were obtained from open‐access climate records. The observed surface heat flux agreed well with the predicted surface heat flux produced by the meteorological submodels. The numerical results produced by HYDRUS using the meteorological submodels represented annual changes in soil thermal and moisture conditions fairly well. Our results show that the meteorological submodels of HYDRUS are appropriate to produce thermal and water boundary conditions under a monsoon climate. This suggests that HYDRUS has the potential to simulate the physical conditions of the vadose zone by using forecast climate data coupled with global circulation models.
Measurements of Interactions between Resident and Infiltrating Water in a Lattice Micromodel
Authors: Gouet-Kaplan Maxime , Berkowitz Brian
Published: September 2012

The interplay between resident water (“old water”) and infiltrating water (“new water”) in porous media was examined through experiments in an idealized, two‐dimensional, glass micromodel. Image analysis was used to quantify the miscible interplay between old and new water during a cycle of imbibition by new water and drainage by air in a domain that was partially saturated with old water. The dynamics of the old–new water exchange were characterized in terms of several parameters: remaining old water, number of old‐water pockets, volumetric fraction, and degree of mixing. In particular, it was found that some old water remained in the system at long times within stable water pockets; these pockets may remain stable even after a second cycle of infiltration.