bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estratégias educativas de internacionalização: uma revisão da literatura sociológica
Authors: Aguiar Andréa
Published: May 2009

Este artigo traça um panorama das contribuições de pesquisas estrangeira e nacional sobre o tema das estratégias educativas de internacionalização. São trabalhos que, em geral, versam sobre modalidades recentes de investimento por parte de famílias socialmente favorecidas em uma dimensão internacional do capital cultural. A aquisição desses recursos - o acúmulo de competências linguísticas, culturais e sociais, além da própria mobilidade - é interpretada, por esses grupos, como o vetor da constituição de disposições que resultariam em certa desenvoltura de atuação de seus filhos em meios internacionais. A análise do conjunto de resultados fornece pistas importantes, na medida em que permite a visibilidade a estratégias comuns, próprias do momento atual, mas sinaliza também a necessidade de maior compreensão das particularidades que caracterizam ações e valores distintos atribuídos ao capital simbólico internacional por parte de populações de nações diversas. Nesse sentido, o texto realça a relevância sociológica do objeto, em particular, no caso brasileiro. É que o recurso recente a esse capital como estratégia educativa não só das elites, mas também de grupos em ascensão, vem tornar mais complexo, ou mesmo agravar, o quadro de desigualdade de oportunidades escolares que, tradicionalmente, tem marcado a disputa pelas melhores posições na hierarquia social do país. Assim, o interesse renovado pela dimensão internacional do capital cultural parece se constituir, recentemente, em um fator a mais a aprofundar e consolidar fronteiras já existentes entre os que podem se beneficiar da rentabilidade de tal investimento, ao longo de sua escolarização, e aqueles que se limitam aos recursos nacionais.
Fístula linfática após tratamento cirúrgico de síndrome do desfiladeiro torácico à direita
Authors: Araujo Luiz Felipe Lopes , Moreschi Alexandre Heitor , Macedo Guilherme Baroni de , Moschetti Laura , Machado Eduardo Lopes , Saueressig Maurício Guidi
Published: May 2009

A fístula linfática como complicação de correção de síndrome do desfiladeiro torácico é um evento muito raro. Relatamos um caso de fístula linfática à direita e apresentamos uma breve revisão do tratamento de quilotórax pós-cirúrgico.
Midgut neuroendocrine tumours with liver metastases: results of the UKINETS study
Authors: Ahmed A , Turner G , King B , Jones L , Culliford D , McCance D , Ardill J , Johnston B T , Poston G , Rees M , Buxton-Thomas M , Caplin M , Ramage J K
Published: May 2009

We intended to identify the prognostic factors and the results of interventions on patients with liver metastatic midgut carcinoids. Five institutions that are part of United Kingdom and Ireland neuroendocrine tumour (NET) group took part in this study. Patients were included if they had histology proven NET of midgut origin and liver metastases at the time of the study. Clinical and biochemical data were collected retrospectively from hospital charts, pathology reports, radiology reports and biochemistry records for each patient. Three hundred and sixty patients were included in the study. The median survival from date of diagnosis was 7.69 years (confidence interval (CI) 6.40–8.99) and 5.95 years (CI 5.02–6.88) from date of diagnosis of liver metastases. On univariate analysis, increasing age at diagnosis, increasing urinary hydroxyindole acetic acid levels, increasing plasma chromogranin A levels, high Ki67, high tumour volume and treatment with chemotherapy were identified as factors associated with a significantly poorer outcome. Resection of liver metastases, resection of small bowel primary, treatment with somatostatin analogue therapy and treatment with peptide receptor therapy were associated with improved prognosis. Multivariate analysis revealed that age at diagnosis (P=0.014), Ki67 level (P=0.039) and resection of primary (P=0.015) were independent predictors of survival. This is the largest study to our knowledge looking specifically at the prognosis and clinical course of patients with liver metastatic midgut NETs. For the first time, we have shown that Ki67 and resection of primary are independent predictors of survival for this group of patients.
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor as a target for estrogen receptor-negative breast cancer chemotherapy
Authors: Zhang Shu , Lei Ping , Liu Xinyi , Li Xiangrong , Walker Kelcey , Kotha Leela , Rowlands Craig , Safe Stephen
Published: May 2009

2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) and the relatively non-toxic selective aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) modulator 6-methyl-1,3,8-trichlorodibenzo-furan (MCDF) induced CYP1A1-dependent ethoxyresorufin O-deethylase activity and inhibited proliferation of seven estrogen receptor (ER) negative breast cancer cell lines. MCDF, TCDD and structurally related 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzofuran, 1,2,3,7,8-pentachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin, 2,3,4,7,8-pentachlorodibenzofuran, and 3,3′,4,4′,5-pentachlorobiphenyl induced CYP1A1 and inhibited proliferation of BT-474 and MDA-MB-468 cells. In BT474 and MDA-MB-468 cells transfected with a small inhibitory RNA for the AhR, the antiproliferative activity of the chlorinated aromatic compounds was reversed, whereas for MCDF, only partial reversal was observed, suggesting that this compound acts through both AhR-dependent and AhR-independent pathways in these two cell lines. MCDF also inhibited tumor growth in athymic nude mice in which MDA-MB-468 cells were injected directly into the mammary fat pad. These results suggest that the AhR is a potential drug target for treatment of ER-negative breast cancer.
Orange‐red upconversion luminescence of Sm3+‐doped ZnO‐B2O3‐SiO2 glass by infrared femtosecond laser irradiation
Authors: Zhang Songmin , Zhu Bin , Zhou Shifeng , Qiu Jianrong
Published: May 2009

Abstract— Near‐infrared‐to‐visible upconversion luminescence was observed in Sm3+‐doped ZnO‐B2O3‐SiO2 glass under femtosecond laser irradiation. The luminescence spectra show that the upconversion luminescence originates from 4G5/2 to 6Hj/2 (j = 5, 7, 9) transition of Sm3+. The dependence of the fluorescence intensity of Sm3+ on the pump power indicates that a two‐photon absorption process is dominant in the conversion of infrared radiation to the visible luminescence. The analysis of the upconversion mechanism reveals that the simultaneous absorption of two infrared photons produces the population of upper excited states, which leads to the characteristic orange‐red emission of Sm3+. A three‐dimensional display is demonstrated based on the multiphoton absorption upconversion luminescence.
Transflective IPS‐LCD with improved reflective contrast ratio
Authors: Mori Kenichi , Sakamoto Michiaki , Matsushima Jin , Inoue Daisuke , Naka Kenichirou , Sumiyoshi Ken
Published: May 2009

Abstract— In order to improve the reflective contrast ratio of transflective IPS‐LCDs, a novel pixel design for a normally white reflective IPS has been proposed. In this design, the large‐inter‐electrode‐spacing layout using a novel driving method and a double‐layered electrode have effectively reduced the light leakage. By applying these two technologies, a transflective IPS‐LCD has been successfully demonstrated with a high contrast ratio (15:1) in the reflective mode and a wide‐viewing‐angle characteristic in the transmissive mode.
a‐InGaZnO thin‐film transistors for AMOLEDs: Electrical stability and pixel‐circuit simulation
Authors: Chen Charlene , Abe Katsumi , Kumomi Hideya , Kanicki Jerzy
Published: May 2009

Abstract— Inverted‐staggered amorphous In‐Ga‐Zn‐O (a‐InGaZnO) thin‐film transistors (TFTs) were fabricated and characterized on glass substrates. The a‐InGaZnO TFTs exhibit adequate field‐effect mobilities, sharp subthreshold slopes, and very low off‐currents. The current temperature stress (CTS) on the a‐InGaZnO TFTs was performed, and the effect of stress temperature (TSTR), stress current (ISTR), and TFT biasing condition on their electrical stability was investigated. Finally, SPICE modelling for a‐InGaZnO TFTs was developed based on experimental data. Several active‐matrix organic light‐emitting‐display (AMOLED) pixel circuits were simulated, and the potential advantages of using a‐InGaZnO TFTs were discussed.
Intervening on Persistent Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: Rumination-Focused Cognitive and Behavioral Therapy in a Population of Young Survivors of the 1994 Genocide in Rwanda
Authors: Sezibera Vincent , Van Broeck Nady , Philippot Pierre
Published: May 2009

This study assessed the outcome of a brief rumination-focused cognitive and behavioral intervention in treating posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms among Rwandan adolescent survivors of the 1994 genocide. All participants (54.5% female, N = 22) aged between 15 and 18 years (M = 16.55, SD = 0.96) met criteria for PTSD as assessed by the PTSD self-rating scale (UCLA PTSD index). Measures included questionnaires assessing PTSD, depression, and somatization. Data were obtained at four points: (1) 11 years after the genocide (baseline), (2) 13 years after the genocide (pretreatment), (3) posttreatment (2 weeks after the treatment), and (4) follow-up (2 months after the treatment). PTSD symptoms increased between baseline and pretreatment. The intervention was associated with a reduction in PTSD symptoms, with gains maintained at follow-up.
Differential Sequencing of Cognitive-Behavioral Techniques for Reducing Child and Adolescent Anxiety
Authors: Nakamura Brad J. , Pestle Sarah L. , Chorpita Bruce F.
Published: May 2009

Treatment outcome research has rarely allowed investigators to declare how or why therapeutic techniques work. As an initial step to understand such change processes, the current study investigated the timing of positive changes typically achieved during a course of cognitive-behavioral therapy for anxiety reduction. Using an interaction element multiple-baseline design across four children (N = 4) diagnosed with selected anxiety disorders, anxiety levels, cognitive errors, and treatment outcome were repeatedly assessed as children progressed through four a priori determined treatment sequences. Results varied across reporters, dependent variables, and the order in which each treatment technique was delivered. Child-reported trends were slightly clearer than those reported by parents and suggested that exposure was a key element for triggering some (but not all) positive changes after completing self-monitoring and psychoeducation techniques.
Schema Content for a Threatening Situation: Responses to Expected and Unexpected Events
Authors: Wenzel Amy
Published: May 2009

Although previous research has identified the components of event-based schemas, or scripts, for threatening situations in anxious individuals, no studies have examined how scripts change when anxious individuals are faced with a deviation in the expected sequence of events. In the present study, blood fearful (n = 49) and nonfearful (n = 48) participants assigned subjective units of discomfort (SUD) ratings to the events comprising the script for getting a bleeding cut on the arm. Subsequently, they listed a series of 10 events that would occur following 1 of 2 unexpected events that interrupted the script. Results indicated that blood fearful participants assigned higher SUD ratings to scripted events than nonfearful participants. Participants in the two groups generated largely similar sequences of events that would occur after the unexpected events. However, relative to nonfearful participants, blood fearful participants listed more events characterized by negative affect. These results suggest that blood fearful individuals are able to recover from deviations from the standard script for a common but threatening situation, although their associated emotional experiences are more distressing than those of nonfearful individuals.
Negative Self-Beliefs in Relation to Eating Disorder and Depressive Symptoms: Different Themes Are Characteristic of the Two Sets of Symptoms in Those With Eating Disorders and/or Depression
Authors: Cooper Myra J. , Cowen Phil
Published: May 2009

This study aimed to identify differences in the personal themes in negative self or core beliefs that might be characteristic of high levels of eating disorder symptoms when compared to high levels of depressive symptoms in those with an eating disorder and/or depression. Differences between putative diagnostic subgroups were also examined. One hundred and ninety-three participants completed self-report measures of negative self-beliefs, eating, and depressive symptoms. Putative diagnostic subgroups were also identified, including an eating disorder group that also had high levels of depressive symptomatology and in most cases a diagnosis of depression. Six themes descriptive of the self corresponding to 6 robust factors were identified and provisionally labeled isolated, repelled by self, self-dislike, lacking in warmth, childlike, and highly organized. Multiple regression analyses indicated that, in the whole sample, eating disorder symptoms were uniquely predicted by subscales reflective of repelled by self and lacking in warmth, though depressive symptoms were uniquely predicted by subscales measuring isolation and self-dislike. Between-group analyses indicated that high scores on isolation, self-dislike, and lacking in warmth were typical of both eating-disordered and depressed-only diagnostic groups when compared to the control group, though only the eating-disordered group (also high in depressive symptoms and “diagnosis” of depression) also had high scores on repelled by self. The findings indicate that eating disorder and depressive symptoms are associated with some potentially important differences in self-beliefs. Putative diagnostic subgroups may also differ in these beliefs. The findings further indicate that psychometrically sound themes exist in the core or negative self-beliefs associated with eating disorder and depressive symptoms. Implications of the findings for cognitive therapy with eating disorders and depression are briefly considered, and the limitations and implications of the diagnostic subgroups identified here are discussed.
Catastrophizing the Consequences of Gastrointestinal Symptoms in Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Authors: Hunt Melissa G. , Milonova Marina , Moshier Samantha
Published: May 2009

This study investigated whether patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) tend to (a) catastrophize the social and functional implications of gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms, and (b) have heightened visceral anxiety sensitivity. IBS patients, Crohn’s disease patients, panic disorder patients, and a normal control group were assessed on GI symptom severity, visceral anxiety sensitivity, and the tendency to catastrophize the implications of GI symptoms. Visceral anxiety sensitivity was associated with more severe GI symptoms for IBS patients but not for Crohn’s patients. IBS patients catastrophized the implications of GI symptoms significantly more than Crohn’s patients and controls but not significantly more than panic patients. Similar to panic patients, but unlike Crohn’s patients, IBS patients engage in maladaptive cognitive processes related to symptom severity. Results suggest that therapeutic focus on reducing visceral anxiety sensitivity and correcting catastrophic beliefs about the social and functional implications of GI symptoms may enhance the efficacy of cognitive interventions for IBS.
A Systematic Review of Questionnaires Measuring Health-Related Empowerment
Authors: Herbert Rosemary J. , Gagnon Anita J. , Rennick Janet E. , O’Loughlin Jennifer L.
Published: May 2009

The objective of this systematic review was to identify questionnaires that measure health-related empowerment in adults or families and demonstrated the best evidence of reliability and validity. A search of nine data bases identified 8,269 abstracts that referred to empowerment. Full article review was completed for abstracts that met the inclusion criteria or that could not be excluded with certainty (n = 124). Fifty distinct, modified, or translated questionnaires measuring empowerment were identified in 74 articles. Each was rated in terms of reliability and validity. One questionnaire had good evidence of reliability and validity, four had moderate evidence, and 45 had limited or no evidence. Limited or no evidence for reliability and validity for many questionnaires could relate in part to lack of consensus on the theoretical definition of, and indicators for measuring empowerment. We recommend that researchers use the questionnaire rated as having good evidence and that data on reliability and validity continue to be reported for other questionnaires.
Exploring Possibilities: Virtual Reality in Nursing Research
Authors: Davis Rebecca L.
Published: May 2009

This article describes the use of virtual reality (VR) as a method of measurement in nursing research. Virtual reality refers to the use of computerized displays to show a lifelike environment in which the user interacts. Although many disciplines are beginning to use VR environments in research, nursing has yet to embrace this technology. Nursing, as a profession that values the interaction between the environment, individual, and health, can benefit from the use of VR in research. Establishing reliability and validity of the VR tool selected for research is important and requires special consideration. Virtual reality testing can produce side effects, such as vertigo and discomfort, which must be anticipated in the research protocol.
The Rhythm of Health in Older Women With Chronic Illness
Authors: Crawford Shearer Nelma B. , Fleury Julie D. , Reed Pamela G.
Published: May 2009

Trends in population growth indicate that nurses increasingly will be caring for older adults, especially older women, who are at risk for less than optimal health due to chronic illnesses. The purpose of this qualitative study was to obtain a better understanding of the meaning of health from the perspective of older women. Focus group interviews with 51 women, aged 55 to 93, were held. Data were analyzed using directed qualitative content analysis. A Rogerian perspective of human health provided the broad conceptual lens for the study. Three themes explicating the meanings of health emerged from the data: realizing the potential for purpose, listening to energy flow, and purposefully participating in health-related changes. The three themes represented ways in which the women dealt with the paradoxes posed by their chronic illness. Findings captured the hopeful, although sometimes conflicting, meanings of health among the women as brought forth by experiences with chronic illness and the challenges of aging.
Enacting Nursing Obligations: Public Health Nurses’ Theorizing in Practice
Authors: Doane Gweneth Hartrick , Browne Annette J. , Reimer Joanne , MacLeod Martha , McLellan Edna
Published: May 2009

A recent study illustrated Public Health Nurses’ theorizing of obligation within their everyday practice with high priority families. As a practical (and practice) activity this theorizing shaped and enhanced PHN practice in complex nursing situations and served to affect desired outcomes for families. Using a hermeneutic methodology, six features were identified as central to this practical theorizing process: (a) being in the complexity of families’ lives, (b) responding to relational cues, (c) putting the primary investment in people and families, (d) working toward potential, (e) working the relational “in-betweens,” and (f) reflexive inquiry. The findings have implications for understanding theory and theory development in everyday nursing practice.
“Protecting Disaster Site, Support, and Recovery Workers”—A Brief Comment
Authors: Newman David M.
Published: May 2009

Jim Celenza ( New Solutions, Vol. 18, No. 3) wrote of a lack of clarity as to whether OSHA's role in disaster response efforts is one of consultation or of enforcement. Here, the author suggests the problem originates not in a lack of clarity but rather in substantive policy changes implemented during the Bush administration. The revisions emphasize voluntary action at the expense of regulation and enforcement. The changes arguably are at variance with OSHA's legal obligation to ensure protection of workers against avoidable harmful exposures, including those that occur during disaster response efforts.
Reforming State-Level Chemicals Management Policies in the United States: Status, Challenges, and Opportunities
Authors: Geiser Ken , Tickner Joel , Torrie Yve
Published: May 2009

During the last several years there has been increasing public concern about chemicals in everyday products. Scientific studies are increasingly revealing the build-up of some substances in ecosystems and in our bodies and new findings are linking exposures to hazardous chemicals to a range of adverse human health effects. Despite these trends, there has been little federal initiative in the United States on reforming chemicals management policies for well over two decades, even though a variety of analyses have identified significant gaps in the regulatory structure. As has historically been the case, states are beginning to fill the holes in federal leadership. This article explores this emerging state leadership and establishes a vision for and elements of policies to reduce hazardous chemicals in the products we buy and the places we go. It examines international efforts to reform chemicals management policies, such as the European REACH legislation and corporate leadership in advancing safer products. Finally, it outlines specific challenges states face in developing integrated, comprehensive chemicals management policies. We conclude that while there are plenty of challenges to implementation of chemicals policy reforms, it is a propitious time for states to become leaders in policy innovation that can help achieve safer production systems and products for future generations. This article is part of a Lowell Center for Sustainable Production report entitled “Options for State Chemicals Policy Reform” that provides in-depth analysis of the pros and cons of policy options to address a range of aspects of state-level chemicals policy reform. The article has been edited slightly for use in New Solutions. The report has been widely distributed to policy-makers, advocates, and others across the United States.
Financial Disclosure and Toxic Products: Encouraging Wall Street to Anticipate Product Risk and Exercise Precaution
Authors: Lewis Sanford , Byrne Margaret
Published: May 2009

Amidst discussion by policymakers about how regulators' failure to ensure disclosure of risks contributed to the current financial crisis, we assess how emerging product toxicity risks are addressed in companies' financial reports. Will corporations blindside investors with “the next asbestos?” Existing disclosures are found lacking in the specificity needed to forewarn of liabilities and reputational damage from the use of potentially harmful materials—from nanotechnologies, to asthmagens, to perfluorinated compounds. Improved standards could protect investors while also enhancing corporate incentives to use safer materials. Reforms by the Securities and Exchange Commission and the Financial Accounting Standards Board are recommended.
Blue-Green Coalitions: Fighting for the Right to Know
Authors: Mayer Brian
Published: May 2009

The fight for information on the use, storage, and release of toxic substances in and from workplaces has been often referred to as the struggle for the right to know. The frustration of occupational safety-and-health activists in trying to obtain information on product names and potential risks closely mirrors that uphill struggle to access information from the state and industry faced by environmental activists. Given the similarities between the two situations, collaboration on the right to know produced a formidable alliance between the two movements—especially in New Jersey, where the dense population and the close proximity of industry to that population produced a powerful blend of anti-toxics and pro-union activism that redefined the relationship between blues and greens. This blue-green coalition, the New Jersey Work Environment Council, has existed since the 1980s and has continuously led the fight for safer workplaces and a cleaner environment by building bridges between labor groups and environmental activists.
Eula Bingham—Experience Bares “The Real World” and Smart Politics Saves Lives
Authors: Dunn Mary Lee , Hoppin Polly , Rosenberg Beth
Published: May 2009

Eula Bingham, toxicologist and former head of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, is now at that place in her professional life where she can look back over her long career and identify its turning points and evaluate what worked and what didn't, what was important and what of lesser significance. In two interviews, she also looks at the present and the future and expresses concerns about the way we live now.
Voodoo Death
Authors: Lester David
Published: May 2009

Scholarly writing on voodoo death is reviewed. Criticisms that voodoo deaths in indigenous societies have never been well documented are refuted with cases medically documented in developed nations. The work of Cannon and Richter on sudden death in animals is reviewed and dismissed as irrelevant for understanding voodoo death. The role of starvation and dehydration is discussed, and it is suggested that the given-up/giving-up hypothesis best fits the phenomenon of voodoo death. Hypotheses for future research are suggested.
Back Home: A Qualitative Study Exploring Re-Entering Cross-Cultural Missionary Aid Workers' Loss and Grief
Authors: Selby Susan , Moulding Nicole , Clark Sheila , Jones Alison , Braunack-Mayer Annette , Beilby Justin
Published: May 2009

Over 200 Australian, American, and British Non-Government Organizations send aid workers overseas including missionaries. On re-entry, they may suffer psychological distress; however, there is little research about their psychosocial issues and management in the family practice setting. Research suggests loss and grief as a suitable paradigm for family practitioners dealing with psychosocial issues. The aim of this study was to explore loss and grief issues for adult Australian missionary cross-cultural aid workers during their re-entry adjustment. Mixed methods were used and this study reports the qualitative method: semi-structured interviews conducted with 15 participants. Results were analyzed using framework analysis. Themes of re-entry loss and grief were identified with sub-themes of multiple varied losses, mechanisms of loss, loss of control, common grief phenomena, disenfranchised grief, and reactivation of past grief. Theoretical and clinical implications are discussed. Findings of this study suggest that loss and grief is an appropriate paradigm for the management of these workers in the family practice setting. Further research is needed to enable appropriate care.
The Arabic Scale of Death Anxiety: Some Results from East and West
Authors: Abdel-Khalek Ahmed M. , Lester David , Maltby John , Tomás-Sábado Joaquin
Published: May 2009

The twofold objectives of the present study were (a) to examine sex-related differences on the Arabic Scale of Death Anxiety (ASDA) in seven Arabic and Western countries, and (b) to compare the mean ASDA scores among Arabic samples (Egypt, Kuwait, Lebanon, and Syria) with Western samples (Spain, the United Kingdom, and the United States). A total sample of 2,978 volunteer undergraduates participated in this study. They resided in their countries of origin and responded to the scale in their respective native-speaking languages. Sex-related differences on the ASDA were statistically significant in all countries (except the United Kingdom), with women having higher mean scores than their male peers. It was found that all the Arab samples, except the Lebanese men, had significantly higher mean ASDA scores than their Western counterparts. These differences might be explained either in the light of higher emotionally responsiveness of the Arab samples, differences in individualism and collectivism and in secularism in the countries, and the lower per capita income in the Arab countries except in Kuwait.
Siblings and Child Friends in Death-Related Literature for Children
Authors: Corr Charles A.
Published: May 2009

This article explores ways in which siblings and child friends are represented as being involved in death and loss experiences. These representations are taken from 51 selected examples of death-related literature designed to be read by or with children. The main goal is to ask how these youngsters respond when confronted by the death of a sibling or child friend. How do they act when they are on their own, with each other, or with adults? This is important because these representations of children coping with death-related situations can serve as partial role models for the youngsters who read these books, either on their own or with a companion adult. And when adults are involved in reading, discussing, or examining books of this type, they can gain some insights into the world of children as portrayed by these authors, insights that adult readers might not otherwise have had, insights about how children respond to death-related situations, what they need, and how they might be helped.
When Clients Sense the Presence of Loved Ones Who Have Died
Authors: Sanger Michael
Published: May 2009

The continued bonds between bereaved individuals and the deceased are central to the process of mourning. One challenging form of continuing bond is that in which the mourner senses the actual presence of the deceased—i.e., seeing one's deceased husband at the kitchen counter. Some see this experience as a sign of pathology while others see it as a normal, healthy aspect of grief and mourning. Twenty-one social workers shared their experiences in addressing this issue with clients. Despite conceptualizing this experience in a variety of ways, they all grounded their interactions with clients around this issue on the fundamental social work value of respecting the client's dignity and experience. Their experiences and insights may be useful to other practitioners.
Computer Modelling and Simulation of Bakeries' Production Planning
Authors: Hussein Walid Barakat , Hecker Florian , Mitzscherling Martin , Becker Thomas
Published: May 2009

Computer simulations are used to represent the essential features of a real system so that analyzers can test their design skills in a convenient and safe environment. Organizations throughout the world are quickly moving to adopt process modelling and simulation as an integral part of their business decision-making and continuous improvement initiatives, due to their significant role in the design of a cost-effective system. ARENA fulfils these needs by mapping processes and simulating discrete and continuous systems. The properties of ARENA software engine involved in its ease of use and rapid mastery, power of complex system modelling, and open architecture to support user applications. This paper outlines how ARENA is applied to model, simulate and analyze the basic production processes. The case study is the bakery's production processes, at which the model creation is explained in detail and the simulation results are analyzed. This study gives a real-life example of how to use ARENA to model a complete production line in an efficient way.
Exponential Observer Design for State Estimation in a Class of Anaerobic Sulfate Reducing Bioreactor
Authors: Aguilar-López Ricardo , Acevedo-Gómez Ricardo
Published: May 2009

The objective of this work is to infer the biomass and product concentrations in a class of bioreactor, under the assumption of substrate measurements. This is done by employing a mathematical model of a continuous stirred bioreactor where the corresponding kinetic term is experimentally corroborated. The observer's structure contains, as usual, a predictive term given for nominal model plus a corrective term, which is proposed as adaptive one, where the corresponding observer's gain obey a specific dynamic equation, which provides an exponential convergence characteristic, under the Lipschitz assumption of the system. Numerical simulations show an adequate performance of the proposed observer and a comparison with a finite-time observer is done.
Modeling of Pyrolysis and Gasification of Biomass in Fluidized Beds: A Review
Authors: Basu Prabir , Kaushal Priyanka
Published: May 2009

Recent surge in interest in biomass conversion in fluidized bed calls for an analysis of the information available on mathematical modeling of this attractive process. Such an analysis could provide a useful base for the development of mathematical tools for design or optimization of fluidized bed gasifiers. This paper analyzes the current reaction kinetics and its application in modeling pyrolysis and gasification of biomass in fluidized beds. This review identifies the knowledge gaps and relevance of different modeling approaches to design and operation of gasifier plants.
Fluctuations in Overlapping Generations Economies
Authors: Tvede Mich
Published: May 2009

In the present paper stationary pure-exchange overlapping generations economies with L goods per date and M consumers per generation are considered. It is shown that for an open and dense set of utility functions there exist endowment vectors such that N-cycles exist for N less than or equal to L+1 and L less than or equal to M. The approach to existence of endogenous fluctuations is basic in the sense that the prime ingredients are the implicit function theorem and linear algebra. Moreover it is sketched how the approach can be applied to show that for an open and dense set of utility functions there exist endowment vectors such that sunspot equilibria, where prices at every date only depends on the state at that date, exist.
Retrobulbar diameter of optic nerve in glaucoma
Authors: Stefanovic Ivan , Marjanovic Ivan , Vlajkovic Gordana
Published: May 2009

Introduction. The ultrasound diagnostics of the optic nerve includes the analysis of the optic nerve disc (PNO) and measuring of its retrobulbar diameter. With B-scan, by Schraeder's method, it is possible to measure very precisely the optic nerve, the pial diameter, the normal values for the pial diameter being 2.8-4.1 mm. In glaucoma, the disease that is most frequently associated with higher intraocular pressure, there comes the destruction of nerve fibres, which can be visualized as the excavation of the optic nerve disc. Objective. In this paper, we were interested in finding whether in glaucoma, and in what phase of the disease, the optic nerve starts growing thinner. Aware of many forms of this very complex disease, we were interested in knowing if the visualization of excavation on the optic nerve disc is related to diminishing of the pial diameter of the retrobulbar nerve part. Methods. There were treated the patients who had already had the diagnosis of glaucoma and the visualized excavation of the optic disc of various dimensions. Echographically, there was measured the thickness of the retrobulbar part of the optic nerve and the finding compared in relation to the excavation of the optic disc. Results. In all eyes with glaucoma, a normal size of the retrobulbar part of the optic nerve was measured, ranging from 3.01 to 3.91 mm with the median of 3.36 mm. Also, by testing the correlation between the thickness of the optic nerve and the excavation of the PNO, by Pearson test, we found that there was no correlation between these two parameters (r=0.109; p>0.05). Conclusion. In the patients with glaucoma, the retrobulbar part of the optic nerve is not thinner (it has normal values), even not in the cases with a totally excavated optic disc. There is no connection between the size of the PNO excavation and the thickness of the retrobulbar part of the optic nerve.
Influence of environmental tobacco smoke on characteristics of childhood asthma
Authors: Radic Snezana , Zivkovic Zorica , Erdeljan Nada , Cerovic Sofija , Jocic-Stojanovic Jasmina
Published: May 2009

Introduction. We compared characteristics of asthma in children from smoking and non-smoking families. Objective. To examine if there was any difference in asthma in children exposed and not exposed to environmental tobacco smoke (ETS). Methods. We examined 231 asthmatic children and their parents. According to the questionnaire and carbon monoxide (CO) values in exhaled air measured by Smokerlyzer, we divided the children in two groups: children from smoking and children from non-smoking families. We compared birth weight, birth length, the occurrence of the first broncho-obstruction, the number of respiratory infections and exacerbations per year, asthma severity, the number of hospitalizations, total IgE, Skin prick test and allergic manifestations. We examined the influence of parental educational level on smoking behavior and how much money a smoking family spent on cigarettes. Results. The children's average age was 10.6 years, there were 49% of boys and 51% of girls. We had 77% of smoking families, 45.9% of active smoking mothers and 51% of active smoking fathers. Smoking was more common among lower educated parents. A smoking family spent 7.3% of the family budget on cigarettes. The children from smoking families had more allergic manifestations. The children of smoking mothers had more respiratory infections (without a statistic difference in the second and third year) and more asthmatic exacerbations with a statistic difference after the third year. With parents who smoked, children had more severe asthma. There was no statistical difference in the following: birth weight, birth length, Skin prick test, total IgE, the first wheezing episode and the number of hospitalizations. However, in the group of 26 children with exhaled CO values higher than 6ppm, birth weight was lower (3250 g vs. 3550 g), the first wheezing episode occurred earlier (2 years vs. 3.7 years) and total IgE was higher (702 IU/ml vs. 563 IU/ml) by more than two normal ranges (60 IU/ml). Conclusion. It is necessary to protect children with asthma from ETS because it has a negative impact on their illness.
Influence of balneophysical therapy on activity, functional capacity, and quality of life in patients with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Stojanovic Sonja , Dimic Aleksandar , Stamenkovic Bojana , Stankovic Aleksandra , Nedovic Jovan
Published: May 2009

Introduction It has been well known that balneophysical therapy has a therapeutic effect on clinical and biological parameters of disease activity in the patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Objective. To determine the influence of balneophysical therapy on functional capacity, activity and quality of life of the patients with RA primarily treated with some of disease modifying antirheumatic drugs. Methods. The study enrolled 73 patients with RA treated with some of disease modifying antirheumatic drugs (Methotrexate in 85% of patients). During hospitalization at the Clinical Rheumatologic Department of the Institute 'Niska Banja', the patients were treated, beside the medicamentous therapy, by hydrotherapy (oligomineral, homeothermic, low radioactive water), mineral peloid therapy, electrotherapy and kinesiotherapy. Before and after balneotherapy, the patients filled in the Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ) and the Quality of Life Rheumatoid Arthritis (QOL-RA) scale. The Disease Activity Score (DAS) 28 was used to measure the disease activity before and after balneotherapy. A possible value of HAQ was from 0 to 3, and QOL-RA from 0 to 10. Results. The mean value of the duration of balneophysical therapy was 14.7?4.8 days. We found significant improvement of functional capacity in the patients with RA. The average HAQ score before balneotherapy was 1.07?0.61, and 0.86?0.55 after balneotherapy, which was statistically significantly lower (p<0.05). DAS 28 after balneotherapy was also statistically significantly lower than DAS 28 before balneotherapy: the mean value of DAS 28 before therapy was 6.30?0.81 and after therapy 5.48?0.75 (p<0.001). The quality of life significantly improved after balneophysical therapy: the mean value of QOL-RA scale before therapy was 5.38?1.62 and after therapy 7.35?1.81 (p<0.05). Conclusion. Balneophysical therapy, when properly dosed, is an effective, adjuvant therapy in the patients with RA of mild disease activity. Balneophysical therapy has a positive influence on disease activity, functional capacity and quality of life in the patients with rheumatoid arthritis.
Ultrasound biomicroscopy in diagnosis of anterior segment pathology
Authors: Stefanovic Ivan , Dacic-Krnjaja Bojana , Djuric Smiljka
Published: May 2009

Introduction. Ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) is a non-invasive diagnostic procedure, developed in order to achieve better visualization of the anterior segment of the eye. The first clinical images were made in March 1990. The use of UBM at the Institute for Eye Diseases, Clinical Centre of Serbia, began in February 2007. Outline of Cases. Due to a drop in visual acuity, the first patient was sent to the Institute for Eye Diseases, Clinical Centre of Serbia. The existence of the ciliary body tumour was suspected, so she underwent a UBM diagnostic procedure. UBM showed fibrin in the anterior chamber of the eye, occlusion of the pupil, and the absence of tumour. The second patient had a part of the chamber angle filled with solid lesion. UBM showed a solid tumour lesion filling the chamber angle in the lower part of the anterior chamber. The origin of the tumour was the ciliary body rather than the choroid which was shown by the B scan ultrasound. Lipodermoid was found by clinical examination of the third patient. He underwent UBM in order to exclude the involvement of the sclera under the lesion. UBM visualized a subconjunctival lesion lying on the sclera, reaching the limbus of the cornea. The difference in ultrasound reflection of the two tissues helped us to confirm that the sclera was not involved. Our fourth patient underwent an antiglaucomatous procedure, and the assessment of the chamber angle opening was the reason for the UBM examination. Parameters measured in the lower quadrants (6 o'clock) that we managed to obtain were the following: AOD (250 ?m) - 180 ?m, AOD (500 ?m) - 400 ?m, TIA - 34.39 deg., ARA - 0.25 mm2. Comparing them to normal values, we came to the conclusion that the chamber angle was open in the lower part of the anterior chamber. Conclusion. Ultrasound biomicroscopy gives us plenty of useful information when it comes to diagnosing the anterior chamber pathology.
Recommendations for tuberculosis screening before and during treatment with tumour necrosis factor inhibitors
Authors: Mandic Dragana , Curcic Radmila , Radosavljevic Gordana , Damjanov Nemanja , Stefanovic Dusan , Mitic Igor , Dimic Aleksandar
Published: May 2009

Patients with an autoimmune disease, such as rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, uveitis or psoriasis, and treated with the anti-tumour necrosis factor (TNF) alpha inhibitors are at high risk of developing various infections including tuberculosis (TB). Serious infections are the result of the patients' immunocompromised status that is caused by the primary disease itself, as well as by previous immunosuppressive therapy. In order to decrease the risk of developing TB, prior to the introduction of the anti-TNF alpha therapy, all patients should undergo screening for TB. Experiences from the countries that have already implemented recommendations for TB screening show a significant decrease in TB occurrence in the anti-TNF alpha treated patients. The PPD skin test result is considered positive if induration is of size ?5 mm. The BCG vaccine applied at birth has no effect on interpretation of PPD test results in adults. The diagnosis of active TB is contraindicated for the introduction of the anti-TNF alpha therapy; first, such patients should receive the TB treatment; and 6 months after the completion of the TB treatment, the introduction of the anti-TNF alpha therapy may be considered. The patients with the diagnosis of the latent TB infection (LTBI) should not immediately start with the anti-TNF alpha therapy, but they should first receive the TB chemoprophylaxis; not earlier than a month upon the introduction of the TB chemoprophylaxis, the anti-TNF alpha therapy may be introduced. The first TB follow-up screening during the anti-TNF alpha therapy is recommended 6 months after the anti-TNF alpha therapy has been introduced and the next one should be scheduled after 12 months.
Susceptibility level of cucumber downy mildew (Pseudoperonospora cubensis) to metalaxyl
Authors: Bagi Ferenc , Balaz Ferenc , Stojsin Vera , Budakov Dragana , Sokolovski Tatjana , Radonic Bojana
Published: May 2009

Level of susceptibility of Pseudoperonospora cubensis isolate from Ratkovo to metalaxyl in concentrations 50, 100, 200, 400 and 800 ?g/ml was investigated. The trials were conducted on cotyledon and fully developed young leaves using cucumber cultivar Haros. Reduced level of susceptibility was detected in metalaxyl concentrations of 50, 100 and 200 ?g/ml because the intensity of sporulation in these treatments was on the same level as in control. Sporulation was also observed on developed leaves treated with metalaxyl in concentrations of 400 and 800 ?g/ml.
Access to Care and the Incidence of End-Stage Renal Disease Due to Diabetes
Authors: Ward Michael M.
Published: May 2009

OBJECTIVE

Low socioeconomic status (SES) is associated with an increased risk of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) due to diabetes. Because ESRD is a preventable complication of diabetes, the association with SES may be related to limited access to treatment.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

In this population-based ecological study, I examined the association between the incidence of ESRD attributed to diabetes and the proportion of hospitalizations with no insurance, Medicaid, or managed care insurance; residence in a primary care provider shortage area or rural area; and rate of hospitalizations for hyperglycemic complications, by ZIP code in California in 2001–2004.

RESULTS

The incidence of ESRD attributed to diabetes was higher in ZIP codes with higher proportions of hospitalizations with no insurance (r = 0.45; P < 0.0001) or Medicaid (r = 0.69; P < 0.0001) and in ZIP codes with higher rates of hospitalizations for hyperglycemic complications (r = 0.27; P < 0.0001). The incidence was lower in ZIP codes with higher proportions of hospitalizations with managed care insurance (r = −0.37; P < 0.0001) and was lower in primary care provider shortage areas and rural locations. In contrast, there were only weak associations between measures of access to care and the incidence of ESRD attributed to polycystic kidney disease, a condition that is not treatable.

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of ESRD attributed to diabetes is strongly associated with area-based measures of access to care, suggesting that access to treatment partly mediates the association between SES and the incidence of ESRD.
Experimental and computational investigations of a cadmium(II) mononuclear complex with 2,6-Bis(3,5-dimethyl-N-pyrazolyl)pyridine (bdmpp) and selenocyanate as ligands
Authors: Odabaşıoğlu Sinem , Kurtaran Raif , Azizoglu Akin , Kara Hülya , Öz Sevi , Atakol Orhan
Published: May 2009

A new cadmium (II) complex, [Cd(bdmpp)(SeCN)2(H2O)] (1) (where bdmpp = 2,6-bis(3,5-dimethyl-N-pyrazolyl)pyridine), has been synthesized and characterized by elemental and spectral (IR, 1H-NMR and 13C-NMR, UV-Vis) analyses, differential scanning calorimetry, and single crystal X-ray diffraction studies. X-ray analysis showed that the structure was crystallized in the monoclinic space group Cc with a = 9.031(2), b = 13.884(3), c = 16.910(3) Å, and Z = 4. The geometry around the cadmium atom is distorted octahedral with a CdN3Se2O setup. The N atoms of the SeCN are engaged in two strong intermolecular H-bonding interactions forming a 3D supramolecular polymeric network. The geometry and vibrational frequencies of complex 1 computed with the DFT methods (BLYP, B3LYP, B3PW91, MPW1PW91) are in better agreement with experiment than those obtained with the ab-initio method except for the bond angles. The molecular orbital diagram has been also calculated and visualized at the B3LYP/LanL2DZ level of theory.