bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
LED-Induced fluorescence and image analysis to detect stink bug damage in cotton bolls
Authors: Mustafic Adnan , Roberts Erin E , Toews Michael D , Haidekker Mark A
Published: February 2013

Background

Stink bugs represent a major agricultural pest complex attacking more than 200 wild and cultivated plants, including cotton in the southeastern US. Stink bug feeding on developing cotton bolls will cause boll abortion or lint staining and thus reduced yield and lint value. Current methods for stink bug detection involve manual harvesting and cracking open of a sizable number of immature cotton bolls for visual inspection. This process is cumbersome, time consuming, and requires a moderate level of experience to obtain accurate estimates. To improve detection of stink bug feeding, we present here a method based on fluorescent imaging and subsequent image analyses to determine the likelihood of stink bug damage in cotton bolls.

Results

Damage to different structures of cotton bolls including lint and carpal wall can be observed under blue LED-induced fluorescence. Generally speaking, damaged regions fluoresce green, whereas non-damaged regions with chlorophyll fluoresce red. However, similar fluorescence emission is also observable on cotton bolls that have not been fed upon by stink bugs. Criteria based on fluorescent intensity and the size of the fluorescent spot allow to differentiate between true positives (fluorescent regions associated with stink bug feeding) and false positives (fluorescent regions due to other causes). We found a detection rates with two combined criteria of 87% for true-positive marks and of 8% for false-positive marks.

Conclusions

The imaging technique presented herein gives rise to a possible detection apparatus where a cotton boll is imaged in the field and images processed by software. The unique fluorescent signature left by stink bugs can be used to determine with high probability if a cotton boll has been punctured by a stink bug. We believe this technique, when integrated in a suitable device, could be used for more accurate detection in the field and allow for more optimized application of pest control.
Automated peritoneal lavage: an extremely rapid and safe way to induce hypothermia in post-resuscitation patients
Authors: de Waard Monique C , Biermann Hagen , Brinckman Stijn L , Appelman Yolande E , Driessen Ronald H , Polderman Kees H , Girbes Armand RJ , Beishuizen Albertus
Published: February 2013

Introduction

Mild therapeutic hypothermia (MTH) is a worldwide used therapy to improve neurological outcome in patients successfully resuscitated after cardiac arrest (CA). Preclinical data suggest that timing and speed of induction are related to reduction of secondary brain damage and improved outcome.

Methods

Aiming at a rapid induction and stable maintenance phase, MTH induced via continuous peritoneal lavage (PL) using the Velomedix® Inc. automated PL system was evaluated and compared to historical controls in which hypothermia was achieved using cooled saline intravenous infusions and cooled blankets.

Results

In 16 PL patients, time to reach the core target temperature of 32.5°C was 30 minutes (interquartile range (IQR): 19 to 60), which was significantly faster compare to 150 minutes (IQR: 112 to 240) in controls. The median rate of cooling during the induction phase in the PL group of 4.1°C/h (IQR: 2.2 to 8.2) was significantly faster compared to 0.9°C/h (IQR: 0.5 to 1.3) in controls. During the 24-hour maintenance phase mean core temperature in the PL patients was 32.38 ± 0.18°C (range: 32.03 to 32.69°C) and in control patients 32.46 ± 0.48°C (range: 31.20 to 33.63°C), indicating more steady temperature control in the PL group compared to controls. Furthermore, the coefficient of variation (VC) for temperature during the maintenance phase was lower in the PL group (VC: 0.5%) compared to the control group (VC: 1.5%). In contrast to 23% of the control patients, none of the PL patients showed an overshoot of hypothermia below 31°C during the maintenance phase. Survival and neurological outcome was not different between the two groups. Neither shivering nor complications related to insertion or use of the PL method were observed.

Conclusions

Using PL in post-CA patients results in a rapidly reached target temperature and a very precise maintenance, unprecedented in clinical studies evaluating MTH techniques. This opens the way to investigate the effects on neurological outcome and survival of ultra-rapid cooling compared to standard cooling in controlled trials in various patient groups.

See related letter by Esnault et al.,http://ccforum.com/content/17/3/431

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01016236
Effect of Ruxolitinib Therapy on Myelofibrosis-Related Symptoms and Other Patient-Reported Outcomes in COMFORT-I: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial
Authors: Mesa Ruben A. , Gotlib Jason , Gupta Vikas , Catalano John V. , Deininger Michael W. , Shields Alan L. , Miller Carole B. , Silver Richard T. , Talpaz Moshe , Winton Elliott F. , Harvey Jimmie H. , Hare Thomas , Erickson-Viitanen Susan , Sun William , Sandor Victor , Levy Richard S. , Kantarjian Hagop M. , Verstovsek Srdan
Published: February 2013

Purpose

To assess the effects of ruxolitinib on symptom burden and quality of life (QoL) and to evaluate the ability of the modified Myelofibrosis Symptom Assessment Form (MFSAF) v2.0 to measure meaningful changes in myelofibrosis-related symptoms in patients with myelofibrosis.

Patients and Methods

COMFORT-I (Controlled Myelofibrosis Study With Oral JAK Inhibitor Treatment–I) is a double-blind, placebo-controlled phase III study evaluating ruxolitinib in patients with intermediate-2 or high-risk myelofibrosis. Exploratory analyses were conducted on the following patient-reported outcomes (PROs) assessments: modified MFSAF v2.0 (individual symptoms and Total Symptom Score [TSS]), European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire-Core 30 (EORTC QLQ-C30), Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Fatigue Scale, and Patient Global Impression of Change (PGIC).

Results

Patients receiving ruxolitinib experienced improvements in individual myelofibrosis-related symptoms, although patients receiving placebo experienced worsening (P < .001). The majority (91%) of ruxolitinib-treated patients designated as ≥ 50% TSS responders (≥ 50% TSS improvement) self-reported their condition as either “Much improved” or “Very much improved” on the PGIC. These patients achieved significant improvements in the EORTC QLQ-C30 functional domains and Global Health Status/QoL versus patients receiving placebo, who experienced worsening on these measures (P ≤ .0135). Ruxolitinib-treated patients with a lesser degree of symptom improvement (< 50% TSS responders) also achieved improvements over placebo on these measures. The degree of spleen volume reduction with ruxolitinib correlated with improvements in TSS, PGIC, PROMIS Fatigue Scale, and EORTC Global Health Status/QoL. Ruxolitinib-treated patients who achieved a ≥ 35% reduction in spleen volume experienced the greatest improvements in these PROs.

Conclusion

Ruxolitinib-treated patients achieved clinically meaningful improvements in myelofibrosis-related symptoms and QoL, but patients receiving placebo reported worsening of symptoms and other PROs.
Endosomal sorting of GLUT4 and Gap1 is conserved between yeast and insulin-sensitive cells
Authors: Shewan Annette M. , McCann Rebecca K. , Lamb Christopher A. , Stirrat Laura , Kioumourtzoglou Dimitrios , Adamson Iain S. , Verma Suzie , James David E. , Bryant Nia J.
Published: February 2013

The insulin-regulated trafficking of the facilitative glucose transporter GLUT4 in fat and muscle cells and the nitrogen-regulated trafficking of the general amino acid permease Gap1 in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae share several common features: Both Gap1 and GLUT4 are nutrient transporters that are mobilised to the cell surface from an intracellular store in response to an environmental cue; both are polytopic membrane proteins harboring amino acid targeting motifs in their carboxy-terminal tails that are required for their regulated trafficking; ubiquitination of both Gap1 and GLUT4 plays an important role in their regulated trafficking, as do the ubiquitin-binding GGA (Golgi-localised, γ-ear-containing, ARF-binding) adaptor proteins. Here, we find that when expressed heterologously in yeast, human GLUT4 is subject to nitrogen-regulated trafficking in a ubiquitin-dependent manner similar to Gap1. In addition, by expressing a GLUT4/Gap1 chimeric protein in adipocytes we show that the carboxy-tail of Gap1 directs intracellular sequestration and insulin-regulated trafficking in adipocytes. These findings demonstrate that the trafficking signals and their cognate molecular regulatory machinery that mediate regulated exocytosis of membrane proteins are conserved across evolution.
A pathway involving HDAC5, cFLIP and caspases regulates expression of the splicing regulator polypyrimidine tract binding protein in the heart
Authors: Ye Junmei , Llorian Miriam , Cardona Maria , Rongvaux Anthony , Moubarak Rana S. , Comella Joan X. , Bassel-Duby Rhonda , Flavell Richard A. , Olson Eric N. , Smith Christopher W. J. , Sanchis Daniel
Published: February 2013

Polypyrimidine Tract Binding Protein (PTB) regulates pre-mRNA splicing, having special relevance for determining gene expression in the differentiating muscle. We have previously shown that PTB protein abundance is progressively reduced during heart development without reduction of its own transcript. Simultaneous reduction of Histone Deacetylase (HDAC) expression prompted us to investigate the potential link between these events. HDAC5-deficient mice have reduced cardiac PTB protein abundance, and HDAC inhibition in myocytes causes a reduction in endogenous expression of cFLIP and caspase-dependent cleavage of PTB. In agreement with this, cardiac PTB expression is abnormally high in mice with cardiac-specific executioner caspase deficiency and cellular FLICE-like inhibitory protein (cFLIP) overexpression prevents PTB cleavage in vitro. Caspase-dependent cleavage triggers further fragmentation of PTB and these fragments accumulate in the presence of proteasome inhibitors. Experimental modification of the above processes in vivo and in vitro results in coherent changes in the alternative splicing of tropomyosin-1 (TPM1) and tropomyosin-2 (TPM2) and Myocyte Enhancer Factor-2 (Mef2) genes. Thus, we report a pathway connecting HDAC, cFLIP and caspases regulating the progressive disappearance of PTB, which enables the expression of the adult variants of proteins involved in regulation of contraction and transcription during cardiac muscle development.
Analysis of Methyl-, Chloro-, Bromo- and Trifluoromethyl-Substituted 1,9-Diphenyl-9H-Fluorene and its Isomers by Gas Chromatography-Ion Trap Multistage Tandem Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Guo Ming , Li Zuguang , Wei Dan , Jiang Kezhi , Lee Maw-Rong
Published: February 2013

This work presents a modified method to analyze methyl-, chloro-, bromo- and trifluoromethyl-substituted 1,9-diphenyl-9H-fluorene and their isomers by ion trap mass spectrometry with electron impact ionization (EI). Since MS spectra of 1,9-diphenyl-9H-fluorene with these four groups and their isomers are similar, it is difficult to distinguish them from its isomers. Multistage tandem mass spectrometry analysis involves selecting molecular ions obtained in MS spectra as precursor ions in the MS/MS process, and the fragment [C25H17]+ ( m/z 317) obtained in MS/MS spectra as a precursor ion in MS3 processes. Collision-induced dissociation (CID) experiments at different activation energies were done to elucidate possible fragmentation pathways. Proposed fragmentation pathways including m/z 317 and structures of the product ions are acquired simultaneously. At a higher CID voltage, the isomers of C25H17–CF3 can be distinguished in MS/MS, while the isomers of C25H17–CH3, C25H17–Cl and C25H17–Br can be distinguished in MS3. This work can provide new and valuable information needed for unambiguous characterization of such substances in complex sample matrices.
Mechanical properties of self-reinforced poly(lactic acid) composites prepared by compression moulding of non-woven precursors
Authors: Mustapa Izan , Shanks Robert , Kong Ing
Published: February 2013

A hot compaction method has been used to form all-PLA composites by partial melting and fusion of fibres in non-woven mats where the matrix phase is formed from partially melted fibres and the reinforcement phase is the original PLA fibres that remain. Compaction required a minimum of 10 min heating at temperature range 172°C to 176°C under a load of 2.4 MPa. An advantage is that the oriented high tensile strength fibre properties are retained, while matrix adhesion is strong because melt adhesion is provided by the same polymer. The all-PLA composite structure was confirmed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and wide-angle X-ray scattering. Mechanical properties were evaluated from modulated force thermo-mechanical analysis. The temperature window below melting temperature of PLA of about at 172°C to 176°C was found as the optimum temperature for all-PLA composites with optimum properties. SEM study also shown the gaps between the fibers are filled with recrystallised material that has melted from the original fibres.
Expression and role of the genes involved in the transport of bile acids in the liver and kidneys in mice
Authors: Attakpa Eugène S. , Djibril Naguibou M. , Baba-Moussa Farid , Yessoufou Ganiou , Sezan Alphonse
Published: February 2013

Background: Bile acids are synthesized in the liver from cholesterol.

Methods: This study investigated the impact and expression of different carriers of bile acid in the liver and kidneys. Eight-week-old male mice were used, which were fed for 15 days and divided into two groups: 15 mice fed with standard diet (control group) and another 15 mice fed with a rich diet of 5% cholesterol (second group). Bile acid dosage was based on their oxidation by 7α hydroxyl-steroid dehydrogenize. The mRNA expression was quantitatively analyzed by the real time of polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), and the expression of the renal carrier bile acid protein was analyzed by Western blot.

Results and conclusions: The expression of bile salt export pump involved in the uptake of bile acids in the basolateral membrane of hepatocytes revealed no differences between the two groups of mice. However, the expression of multidrug resistance-associated protein 2 was reduced in mice of the second group. Moreover, the expressions of organic anion transporting polypeptide 4, organic anion transporting polypeptide 1, and sodium taurocholate co-transporting polypeptide (Ntcp) involved in the uptake of bile acids in the apical pole of hepatocytes are suppressed in mice of the second group. The expression of multidrug resistance-associated protein 3 involved in the secretion of bile acids in the apical membrane of hepatocytes revealed no significant differences between the two groups. In mice of the second group, blood concentration of bile acids on the last day was increased. In those mice, the expression of intestinal bile acid transporter was reduced in the kidneys compared with the control mice.
Phospholipid Scramblase-1-Induced Lipid Reorganization Regulates Compensatory Endocytosis in Neuroendocrine Cells
Authors: Ory Stéphane , Ceridono Mara , Momboisse Fanny , Houy Sébastien , Chasserot-Golaz Sylvette , Heintz Dimitri , Calco Valérie , Haeberlé Anne-Marie , Espinoza Flor A. , Sims Peter J. , Bailly Yannick , Bader Marie-France , Gasman Stéphane
Published: February 2013

Calcium-regulated exocytosis in neuroendocrine cells and neurons is accompanied by the redistribution of phosphatidylserine (PS) to the extracellular space, leading to a disruption of plasma membrane asymmetry. How and why outward translocation of PS occurs during secretion are currently unknown. Immunogold labeling on plasma membrane sheets coupled with hierarchical clustering analysis demonstrate that PS translocation occurs at the vicinity of the secretory granule fusion sites. We found that altering the function of the phospholipid scramblase-1 (PLSCR-1) by expressing a PLSCR-1 calcium-insensitive mutant or by using chromaffin cells from PLSCR-1−/−mice prevents outward translocation of PS in cells stimulated for exocytosis. Remarkably, whereas transmitter release was not affected, secretory granule membrane recapture after exocytosis was impaired, indicating that PLSCR-1 is required for compensatory endocytosis but not for exocytosis. Our results provide the first evidence for a role of specific lipid reorganization and calcium-dependent PLSCR-1 activity in neuroendocrine compensatory endocytosis.
Estágios de desenvolvimento econômico e políticas públicas de empreendedorismo e de micro, pequenas e médias empresas (MPMEs) em perspectiva comparada: os casos do Brasil, do Canadá, do Chile, da Irlanda e da Itália
Authors: Sarfati Gilberto
Published: February 2013

Esta pesquisa explora em perspectiva comparada as políticas públicas de empreendedorismo e Micro, Pequenas e Médias Empresas (MPMEs) no Brasil, no Canadá, no Chile e na Itália. A hipótese fundamental é que economias no estágio de inovação tendem a desenvolver mais políticas de empreendedorismo do que as de países no estágio da eficiência. Da mesma forma, países no estágio de inovação tendem a usar menos instrumentos de políticas de MPMEs do que países em estágio de eficiência, quase sempre para incentivar grupos, setores ou regiões em específico. O artigo contribui com a literatura de empreendedorismo ao analisar na prática a convergência/divergência das escolhas de política pública e estágio de desenvolvimento.
Estudo sobre a implantação do orçamento baseado em desempenho na Autoridade Portuária de Valência
Authors: Lunkes Rogério João , Ripoll-Feliu Vicente , Giner-Fillol Arturo , Rosa Fabricia Silva da
Published: February 2013

O crescimento e o desenvolvimento da economia mundial têm dependido cada vez mais do transporte marítimo, e os portos são um elo importante nesse processo. O presente estudo tem como objetivo explorar a aplicação do orçamento baseado em desempenho no sistema de portos da Espanha. Para tanto, foi realizado um estudo sobre o modelo orçamentário do Sistema Portuário de Titularidade Estatal e um estudo de caso na Autoridade Portuária de Valência. Os resultados mostram que as mudanças no orçamento geraram maior integração entre as medidas de desempenho e as dotações orçamentárias, as quais são feitas com detalhamento do processo no nível operacional, o que inclui os projetos de investimento. Em nível de controle, o modelo permitiu melhorar a avaliação dos resultados por incluir outras medidas de desempenho, além de receitas e custos, que podem ser comparados com outros portos do país e do exterior.
Folga orçamentária em uma Secretaria da Fazenda: um caso no nível do governo estadual no Brasil
Authors: Osajima Alyne Anteveli , Aquino André Carlos Busanelli de
Published: February 2013

Organizações públicas vêm adotando modelos de mensuração de desempenho (MMD), a exemplo da iniciativa privada, buscando gerar incentivos à eficiência de equipes de servidores. A partir da literatura de folga orçamentária, este trabalho analisou o MMD de uma das Secretarias de Fazenda no nível estadual no Brasil e identificou que, a partir das metas pactuadas pela equipe diretiva da secretaria, a organização opera em um regime de folga orçamentária, em um ambiente organizacional de menor tensão em relação ao atingimento das metas e consequente gratificação. Através de séries históricas (jan./2007 a jun./2009) do desempenho individual mensal de 950 servidores públicos que atuam como fiscais, foram comparados o nível de atingimento das metas tributárias e administrativas. Adicionalmente, tais evidências foram trianguladas com observações participativas e análises documentais. Apesar da folga orçamentária detectada na utilização de metas com alta probabilidade de atingimento, o desempenho nas tarefas administrativas duplicou no último ano analisado, evidência de que o nível de esforço individual cresceu, apesar do incentivo pecuniário ser garantido em um nível menor de esforço.
Desenho institucional e custos de transação: um estudo sobre a reestruturação do Programa Banco Social no Paraná
Authors: Prevedello Maria Inês , Pessali Huáscar Fialho , Almeida Felipe
Published: February 2013

O Programa Banco Social de microcrédito, iniciado em 2001 pelo governo do estado do Paraná em 2001, foi constituído a partir de um arranjo institucional complexo dentro do setor público estadual. Seu desenho original foi reformulado em várias oportunidades de modo a lidar com dificuldades operacionais e com vistas a seu autofinanciamento. Este trabalho estuda a reformulação de sua estrutura inicial sob a ótica dos custos de transação, analisando a natureza e o impacto das mudanças com relação aos problemas específicos de assimetria de informação, oportunismo e racionalidade limitada. Percebem-se, por fim, as dificuldades do Programa em executar uma função de cunho social diante de uma lógica mais comercial a orientar sua continuidade operacional.
Estudo experimental do processo de rotomoldagem de PELBD: efeitos sobre a morfologia e estabilidade dimensional
Authors: Comisso Tiago Boni , Lima Carlos Alberto Silva de , Carvalho Benjamim de Melo
Published: February 2013

No presente estudo o empenamento de peças de polietileno linear de baixa densidade (PELBD) moldadas por rotomoldagem foi investigado. O efeito de diferentes fatores como espessura da peça, taxa de resfriamento e diâmetro de tubo de ventilação foi avaliado. Além dos experimentos de rotomoldagem, uma técnica alternativa denominada "Hot Press" foi também aplicada para investigar o empenamento de dois diferentes PELBD sob condições típicas da rotomoldagem quanto ao resfriamento assimétrico. Cristalinidade e morfologia esferulítica ao longo da espessura das peças rotomoldadas foram avaliadas por Calorimetria Exploratória Diferencial (DSC) e Microscopia Ótica de Luz Polarizada. Verificou-se que o grau de empenamento aumenta com a taxa de resfriamento. O aumento do diâmetro do tubo de ventilação é mais efetivo na redução do empenamento principalmente em menores taxas de resfriamento. Nos experimentos de "Hot Press" o PELBD com menor índice de fluidez e maior módulo de flexão apresentou menor empenamento. Nos experimentos de "Hot Press" a espessura das peças afetou o empenamento somente para maiores taxas de resfriamento. Em geral, a cristalinidade e o tamanho de esferulitos se mostraram menores nas posições ao longo da espessura das peças rotomodadas onde as taxas de resfriamento eram mais rápidas.
Médicos alemães no Rio Grande do Sul, na primeira metade do século XX: integração e conflito
Authors: Gertz René E.
Published: February 2013

O grupo de imigrantes alemães que se instalou em 1824 no Rio Grande do Sul é considerado o iniciador do processo de imigração que se estendeu até a Segunda Guerra Mundial. Desse grupo, fez parte o médico Daniel Hillebrand, primeiro diretor da colônia de São Leopoldo. Nos 125 anos seguintes, outros médicos alemães (formados ou não) emigraram para o estado. Muitos tiveram papel de destaque na prática da medicina, reforçando aquilo que, no título, se denomina integração. Sua presença, no entanto, também desencadeou conflitos. O artigo analisa os processos de contribuição e enfrentamento, em especial da proclamação da República até a Segunda Guerra Mundial.
A percepção de estudantes da primeira série de um curso de graduação em enfermagem acerca da pesquisa
Authors: Piexak Diéssica Roggia , Barlem Jamila Geri Tomaschewski , Silveira Rosemary Silva da , Fernandes Geani Farias Machado , Lunardi Valéria Lerch , Backes Dirce Stein
Published: February 2013

Objetivou-se conhecer a percepção de estudantes da primeira série de um curso de graduação em Enfermagem acerca da pesquisa. Trata-se de um estudo qualitativo realizado em uma instituição de ensino superior de rede privada no mês de junho de 2010. Aplicou-se um questionário, composto de pergunta única e aberta, para 30 estudantes da primeira série de um curso de graduação em Enfermagem. A partir da análise de conteúdo, foi possível conhecer a percepção dos estudantes acerca da pesquisa; eles retrataram a importância da pesquisa para formação profissional, a contribuição para a prática baseada em evidências e para a educação permanente, e a maior visibilidade da profissão por meio da produção de conhecimentos consolidados pela pesquisa. Acredita-se que o reconhecimento da importância e da necessidade da pesquisa como prática transversal nos cursos de graduação em Enfermagem poderá contribuir para a formação profissional dos estudantes.
Cuidado de enfermagem a pessoas com hipertensão fundamentado na teoria de Parse
Authors: Silva Fabíola Vládia Freire da , Silva Lúcia de Fátima da , Guedes Maria Vilani Cavalcante , Moreira Thereza Maria Magalhães , Rabelo Ana Cleide Silva , Ponte Keila Maria de Azevedo
Published: February 2013

Este estudo propõe o cuidado de enfermagem, baseado nos princípios de Parse, a pessoas com hipertensão consultadas na Estratégia Saúde da Família. Estudo descritivo, de cunho qualitativo, realizado de março a maio de 2011, com quatorze enfermeiros no município de Itapajé-Ceará. Para coleta das informações utilizou-se a entrevista semiestruturada e, para análise, o discurso dos sujeitos. Emergiram três categorias baseadas nos princípios de Parse: Multidimensão dos significados - o enfermeiro conduz ao relato dos significados; Sincronização de ritmos - o enfermeiro ajuda a identificar harmonia e desarmonia; Mobilização da transcendência - o enfermeiro guia o plano de mudanças. Notou-se aproximação dos discursos ao teorizado por Parse quando citaram buscar um cuidado humanizado, com a participação da família, valorização da autonomia, utilização da educação em saúde, com orientações individuais. Percebeu-se a viabilidade na implementação do cuidado de enfermagem fundamentado na Teoria de Parse a pessoas com hipertensão.
Exaustão emocional em enfermeiros de um hospital público
Authors: Rissardo Marina Pereira , Gasparino Renata Cristina
Published: February 2013

O presente estudo teve como objetivo identificar o nível de burnout nos enfermeiros de um hospital público do interior do estado de São Paulo. A pesquisa descritiva e transversal foi realizada com 69 enfermeiros de diferentes setores do hospital. Foram utilizados uma ficha para caracterização da amostra e o Inventário de Burnout de Maslach (IBM). A maioria da amostra era do sexo feminino, solteira, com pós-graduação, sem nenhum outro vínculo empregatício e lotada nas unidades de clínica médica/cirúrgica. As médias encontradas para as subescalas do intrumento foram: 21,4 para exautão emocional; 9,3 para despersonalização; e 31,3 para diminuição da realização pessoal, revelando um nível moderado da síndrome de burnout. Destaca-se a importância de se avaliar a prevalência da síndrome entre os diferentes profissionais, pois o seu desenvolvimento pode acarretar resultados negativos para os profissionais, pacientes e instituições.
A construção da integralidade no trabalho cotidiano da equipe saúde da família
Authors: Viegas Selma Maria da Fonseca , Penna Cláudia Maria de Mattos
Published: February 2013

Trata-se do recorte de uma tese de doutorado de abordagem qualitativa, delineada pela estratégia de pesquisa Estudo de Casos Múltiplos Holísticos, com objetivo de compreender a construção das práticas de integralidade em saúde no trabalho cotidiano das equipes de Saúde da Família e de gestores de três municípios do Vale do Jequitinhonha-MG. Foram entrevistados 48 trabalhadores das equipes Saúde da Família e de apoio, além dos secretários municipais. Apresenta-se uma das categorias de análise que mostra a importância dada ao trabalho em equipe multiprofissional e o reconhecimento da necessidade do trabalho do outro, isto é, a complementaridade e a interdependência das ações para prestar uma assistência integral e resolutiva. Algumas equipes apresentaram ações interdisciplinares com uso das diferentes habilidades na identificação e resolução dos problemas. Outras convivem com ações individualizadas, mas referem a necessidade de responsabilidade compartilhada nas ações e decisões da equipe para alcançar a integralidade em saúde.
A ocorrência da tuberculose em um distrito administrativo do Município de São Paulo
Authors: Hino Paula , Takahashi Renata Ferreira , Bertolozzi Maria Rita , Egry Emiko Yoshikawa
Published: February 2013

O objetivo do estudo foi caracterizar a situação clínica e epidemiológica dos casos de tuberculose no distrito administrativo do Capão Redondo, Município de São Paulo, para o período de 2000 a 2009. Tratou-se de uma série histórica que utilizou dados secundários do Tbweb. Foram realizadas análises descritivas das variáveis: ano da notificação, sexo, faixa etária, escolaridade, tipo de caso, forma clínica, sorologia para o HIV, tipo de supervisão e desfecho do caso. Observou-se predomínio no sexo masculino, adultos jovens, caso novo e forma pulmonar, sendo que 10% dos casos estavam infectados pelo HIV. A interpretação dos resultados apresentados evidenciou que as metas propostas para o controle da tuberculose ainda não foram alcançadas no que se refere à cura e ao abandono do tratamento. No entanto, observaram-se esforços dos serviços de saúde no controle da doença por meio do aumento da cobertura do tratamento supervisionado.
Desempenho coordenativo de crianças: construção de cartas percentílicas baseadas no método LMS de Cole e Green
Authors: Chaves Raquel Nichele de , Tani Go , Souza Michele Caroline de , Baxter-Jones Adam , Maia José
Published: February 2013

Os propósitos do estudo foram: 1) apresentar valores de referência percentílica às quatro provas da bateria de testes KTK; 2) comparar o desempenho coordenativo entre crianças vouzelenses e de outros estudos do país e exterior; e 3) apresentar pseudo-curvas de velocidade para cada prova. Foram avaliadas 811 crianças com idades entre os seis e os 10 anos. O desempenho coordenativo foi estimado por meio da bateria KTK. Cartas percentílicas e pseudo-curvas de velocidade foram construídas com base no método LMS, implementado no "software" LMSchartmarker Pro versão 2.54. Os valores de referência percentílicas expressam forte variabilidade interindividual do desempenho coordenativo. Em geral, os valores médios vouzelenses são inferiores aos belgas e alemães. O comportamento do percentil 50 das quatro provas do KTK é similar entre Vouzela, Peru e Açores. As pseudo-curvas de velocidade sugerem especificidade em cada prova e sexo, bem como diminuição dos ganhos coordenativos ao longo da idade.
Evaluation of Metallurgical Quality of Master Heat IN-713C Nickel Alloy Ingots
Authors: Binczyk F. , Cwajna J. , Roskosz S. , Gradoń P.
Published: February 2013

The paper presents the results of evaluation of the metallurgical quality of master heat ingots and of the identification of non-metallic inclusions (oxides of Al., Zr, Hf, Cr, etc.), which have been found in the shrinkage cavities formed in these ingots. The inclusions penetrate into the liquid alloy, and on pouring of mould are transferred to the casting, especially when the filtering system is not sufficiently effective. The specific nature of the melting process of nickel and cobalt alloys, carried out in vacuum induction furnaces, excludes the possibility of alloy refining and slag removal from the melt surface. Therefore, to improve the quality of castings (parts of aircraft engines), it is so important to evaluate the quality of ingots before charging them into the crucible of an induction furnace. It has been proved that one of the methods for rapid quality evaluation is an ATD analysis of the sample solidification process, where samples are taken from different areas of the master heat ingot. The evaluation is based on a set of parameters plotted on the graph of the dT/dt derivative curve during the last stage of the solidification process in a range from TEut to Tsol.
Definition of Alloy Substitute Thermal Capacity Using the Simple Macrosegregation Models
Authors: Mochnacki B.
Published: February 2013

Mathematical description of alloys solidification in a macro scale can be formulated using the one domain method (fixed domain approach). The energy equation corresponding to this model contains the parameter called a substitute thermal capacity (STC). The analytical form of STC results from the assumption concerning the course of the function fS = fS (T) describing the changes of solid state volumetric fraction and the temperature at the point considered. Between border temperatures TS , TL the function fS changes from 1 to 0. In this paper the volumetric fraction fS (more precisely fL = 1- fS ) is found using the simple models of macrosegregation (the lever arm rule, the Scheil model). In this way one obtains the formulas determining the course of STC resulting from the certain physical considerations and this approach seems to be closer to the real course of thermal processes proceeding in domain of solidifying alloy.
Effect of Multipoint Sequential Water Mist Cooling of Casting Die on Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of AlSi11 Alloy
Authors: Władysiak R.
Published: February 2013

The work is a continuation of research on the use of water mist cooling in order to increase efficiency of the die-casting process for aluminum alloys. The paper describes the multipoint sequential cooling system of the casting die and its computer control and monitoring. It also includes results of the tests and analysis of cooling methods during making of the casting. These methods differ from each other in the sequence of casting die cooling and cause effective changes in microstructure and mechanical properties of castings made of AlSi11 alloy. The study demonstrated that the use of multipoint sequential cooling with water mist affects the microstructure refinement and reduces the segregation in the cast as well as more than by 20% increases the mechanical properties of castings in the rough state. The study also demonstrates that the sequential cooling of casting die accelerates the cooling of the casting and shortens die-casting cycle.
Modeling of Two-Stage Solidification: Part I Model Development
Authors: Wodo O. , Gawrońska E.
Published: February 2013

The paper presents a new numerical model of solidification processes in hypoeutectic alloys. The model combines stochastic elements, such as e.g. random nucleation sites and orientation of dendritic grains, as well as deterministic methods e.g. to compute velocity of dendritic tips and eutectic grains. The model can be used to determine the temperature and the size of structure constituents (of both, the primary solid phase and eutectics) and the arrangement of individual dendritic and eutectic grains in the consecutive stages of solidification. Two eutectic transformation modes, typical to modified and unmodified hypoeutectic alloys, have been included in the model. To achieve this, cellular automata and Voronoi diagrams have been utilized.
Thermodynamic Analysis of Cast Irons Solidification With Various Types of Graphite
Authors: Elbel T. , Hampl J.
Published: February 2013

The contribution summarises the results of oxygen activity determinations, which were measured and registered continuously in castings from cast irons with various types of graphite. The results were used to find the relationship between two variables: natural logarithm of oxygen activities and reverse value of thermodynamic temperature 1 /T. Obtained regression lines were used to calculate oxygen activity at different temperatures, to calculate Gibbs free energy ΔG at the different temperatures and to calculate the single ΔG value for significant temperature of the graphite solidification. The results were processed by a statistical analysis of data files for the different types of graphite with flake, vermicular and spheroidal graphite. Each material has its proper typical oxygen activities range and individual temperature function of Gibbs free energy for analysing and governing casting quality.
Application of Time-series Analysis in Control of Chemical Composition of Grey Cast Iron
Authors: Perzyk M. , Rodziewicz A.
Published: February 2013

The aim of the paper was an attempt at applying the time-series analysis to the control of the melting process of grey cast iron in production conditions. The production data were collected in one of Polish foundries in the form of spectrometer printouts. The quality of the alloy was controlled by its chemical composition in about 0.5 hour time intervals. The procedure of preparation of the industrial data is presented, including OCR-based method of transformation to the electronic numerical format as well as generation of records related to particular weekdays. The computations for time-series analysis were made using the author’s own software having a wide range of capabilities, including detection of important periodicity in data as well as regression modeling of the residual data, i.e. the values obtained after subtraction of general trend, trend of variability amplitude and the periodical component. The most interesting results of the analysis include: significant 2-measurements periodicity of percentages of all components, significance 7-day periodicity of silicon content measured at the end of a day and the relatively good prediction accuracy obtained without modeling of residual data for various types of expected values. Some practical conclusions have been formulated, related to possible improvements in the melting process control procedures as well as more general tips concerning applications of time-series analysis in foundry production.
Determination of the Overheating Degree of Moulding Sand with Bentonite - on the Grounds of Simulation Investigations
Authors: Żymankowska-Kumon S. , Holtzer M. , Lelito J. , Dańko R.
Published: February 2013

A determination of the heating degree of the moulding sand with bentonite on the grounds of simulating investigations with the application of the MAGMA program, constitutes the contents of the paper. To this end the numerical simulation of the temperature distribution in the virtual casting mould was performed. It was assumed that the mould cavity was filled with a moulding sand with bentonite of a moisture content 3,2 % and bentonite content 8 %. A computer simulation can be used for predicting the heating degree of moulding sands with bentonite. Thus, prediction of the active bentonite (montmorillonite) content in individual layers of the overheated moulding sand can be done by means of the simulation. An overheating degree of a moulding sand with bentonite, and thus the bentonite deactivation depends on a temperature of a casting alloy, casting mass, ratio of: mass : masscasting, moulding sand amount in the mould and contact area: metal - mould (geometry of the casting shape). Generally it can be stated, that the bentonite deactivation degree depends on two main factors: temperature of moulding sand heating and time of its operation.
Gender Differences in Prosodic Characteristics of Speech in the Task of Serial Subtracting of Sevens
Authors: Nešić Milkica , Čičević Svetlana , Nešić Vladimir , Kostić Jelena , Ćirić Milan
Published: February 2013

Significant differences in speech between genders are contained in nonsegmental correlates, i.e. in the prosody and paralinguistics. Pronunciation differences between genders are more numerous than those in grammatical form. This study aims to detect temporal prosodic patterns and investigate gender differences in performing serial sevens subtraction (SSS). One hundred students of medicine (equal number of males and females) voluntarily participated in the investigation. SSS was performed by asking the participant to perform mental arithmetic consisting of repeatedly subtractions of sevens, beginning from one thousand. The students had to pronounce aloud and simultaneously write the results for five minutes. The original program for the analysis of digital signals (ADS) converted the speech signal samples into digital data. MANOVA showed significant gender differences for a group of characteristics of the SSS test: F (11, 75)=4.06, p=0.000. The number of samples per each minute and the total number of samples during five minutes was higher in males compared to females. The average length of articulation of three-digit numbers, average length of articulation and length of pauses between the linguistic units, as well as between the samples, was shorter in males for each of these five minutes and for the „average“ minute. The maximum intensity of speech was higher in males for each of the five minutes. Average duration of mispronunciations, with end results being correct, was longer in women in the first, second, and fourth minute, as well as for the „average“ minute. A conclusion may be drawn that shorter utterances and pauses in men suggest the advantage on the part of men in SSS task, and not greater verbal fluency in general in men.
Nasal Carriage of Staphylococcus aureus in Healthy Adults and in School Children
Authors: Dinić Marina , Vuković Slavica , Stanković Đorđević Dobrila , Bogdanović Milena
Published: February 2013

Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) is a microorganism that colonizes the skin and mucosal surfaces of healthy individuals, but it is also one of the most common causes of community-acquired and hospital infections. Nasal carriage of S. aureus represents a major risk factor for the development of infection with this bacterium. A special therapeutic problem are methicillin-resistant isolates of S. aureus (MRSA). The aim of this study was to assess the nasal carriage of S. aureus in healthy individuals in the local community, and the sensitivity of the microorganism to antibiotics. The study enrolled 56.868 healthy individuals aged 19 to 65 years, and 2.040 healthy school children aged 15 to 19 years. Specimens to be studied were obtained from anterior nares. We used the disk diffusion method (Kirby-Bauer) on Mueller- Hinton agar to assess the sensitivity of isolated S. aureus. S. aureus was isolated in 1.381 (2.34%) respondents. Positive findings were obtained in 2.33% of adult examinees, and in 2.59% of studied school children. We found a low level of susceptibility only to penicillin (5.36%). The susceptibility of S. aureus isolates to all other tested antibiotics was present in a high percentage, with the lowest percentage of susceptibility to doxycycline (71.54%) and erythromycin (86.09%). The highest percentage of susceptibility of tested isolates was reported for fusidic acid (99.27%). In relation to the total number of S. aureus isolates from nasal swabs in adults, MRSA was present in 8.96% (119 isolates), while there were 4 MRSA isolates from nasal swabs in school children. In this study, we established a low percentage of nasal carriage of S. aureus in the population of healthy individuals, but a high percentage of MRSA.
External Fixation in the Management of Closed Segmental Tibial Fractures
Authors: Golubović Zoran , Stojiljković Predrag , Golubović Ivan , Radovanović Zoran , Višnjić Aleksandar , Ristić Branko , Kutlešić Stojanović Katarina , Trenkić Milan , Najman Stevo , Trajanović Miroslav
Published: February 2013

Segmental fractures represent the interruption of bone integrity at two or more levels. In these fractures, a wide zone of injury (damage of all structures of the lower leg) creates very unsuitable biological conditions for healing of the fracture. Because of the damage of both intramedullary and periostal vascularization, segmental fractures are predisposed to slow healing and development of pseudoarthrosis.

The aim of the paper was to present the results of treatment of patients with closed segmental tibial fractures treated by external fixation.

Within the period between January 1, 1998 and June 31, 2012 in the Clinical Center Niš, 26 patients with closed segmental fractures of the tibia were treated. The assessment of outcomes of treatment of closed segmental tibial fractures by external fixation was performed on a series of 24 patients. The mean age was 43.57 years. All the patients were treated by Mitković unilateral external fixator produced by “Trafix” firm.

Fracture healing occurred in 20 (83.33%) patients; four (16.67%) patients reported significant complications in the course of treatment that required further surgical treatment.

By applying the method of external fixation in the treatment of closed segmental tibial fractures, reposition of fragments is achieved through a small incision, with pins of exteranal fixator placed outside the fracture zone to prevent further damage of intramedullary and periosteal bone vascularisation, which is very important for fracture healing.
Functional warp-knitted fabrics with integrated superelastic niti filaments
Authors: Janouchova Katerina , Heller Ludek , Vysanska Monika
Published: February 2013

We report on a particular direction of currently conducted extended research on novel textiles with integrated thin
metallic filaments made of an intermetallic shape memory NiTi alloy exhibiting functional behaviour such as
superelastic deformation up to 10% and a thermally induced shape memory effect. Within this research direction
we focus on development of single and multi-layered warp-knitted fabrics that are directionally reinforced with
superelastic NiTi filaments. First, we describe the expected properties of such novel structures and their potential
applications. Second, we present the functional thermomechanical behaviour of applied superelastic NiTi
filaments. Third, we address questions related to the design and fabrication of warp-knitted fabrics with integrated
NiTi filaments. Then, we describe experimental methods applied on novel functional textiles in order to evaluate
their functional properties. Finally, we present and discuss results of experiments carried out on these novel
functional textiles.
Generation of micro-sized conductive lines on glass fibre fabrics by inkjet printing
Authors: Irurzuna Unai Balda , Dutschka Victoria , Calvimontesb Alfredo , Akkermana Remko
Published: February 2013

Micro-sized lines were inkjet printed on glass fibre fabrics using different droplet spacing. A conductive ink
containing silver nanoparticles was used in this study. Glass fibre fabrics were differently pre-treated to avoid
spontaneous spreading of the ink dispersion. The sample topography was examined using scanning electron,
optical and confocal microscopy with a chromatic sensor. Printability conditions were discussed based on the
results of topographic characterization and wettability measurements.
Intrapartum Vibroacoustic Stimulation Test and Cardiotocography for the Prediction of Neonatal Outcome
Authors: Bano Imam , Noor Nasreen , Kavitha C
Published: February 2013

Objectives

To evaluate the role of intrapartum vibroacoustic stimulation (VAST) and cardiotocography (CTG) for the prediction of neonatal outcome.

Materials and methods

One hundred and twenty-five patients in labor with cephalic presentation were selected and subjected to CTG and VAST was done further to find out whether fetus is reactive or nonreactive and findings were correlated with the fetal outcome.

Results

VAST is a good predictor of fetal well being. It is less time consuming, inexpensive and technically easy to perform. In developing countries, where fetal scalp blood sampling is not available in all institutions, VAST can effectively be used as a clinical tool to compliment abnormal CTG traces for better prediction of fetal outcome.

How to cite this article

Kavitha C, Bano I, Noor N. Intrapartum Vibroacoustic Stimulation Test and Cardiotocography for the Prediction of Neonatal Outcome. J South Asian Feder Obst Gynae 2012;4(3):141-143.