bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intermittent Hypoxia-Induced Spinal Inflammation Impairs Respiratory Motor Plasticity by a Spinal p38 MAP Kinase-Dependent Mechanism
Authors: Huxtable Adrianne G. , Smith Stephanie M.C. , Peterson Timothy J. , Watters Jyoti J. , Mitchell Gordon S.
Published: April 2015

Inflammation is characteristic of most clinical disorders that challenge the neural control of breathing. Since inflammation modulates neuroplasticity, we studied the impact of inflammation caused by prolonged intermittent hypoxia on an important form of respiratory plasticity, acute intermittent hypoxia (three, 5 min hypoxic episodes, 5 min normoxic intervals) induced phrenic long-term facilitation (pLTF). Because chronic intermittent hypoxia elicits neuroinflammation and pLTF is undermined by lipopolysaccharide-induced systemic inflammation, we hypothesized that one night of intermittent hypoxia (IH-1) elicits spinal inflammation, thereby impairing pLTF by a p38 MAP kinase-dependent mechanism. pLTF and spinal inflammation were assessed in anesthetized rats pretreated with IH-1 (2 min hypoxia, 2 min normoxia; 8 h) or sham normoxia and allowed 16 h for recovery. IH-1 (1) transiently increasedIL-6(1.5 ± 0.2-fold;p= 0.02) andinducible nitric oxide synthase(iNOS) (2.4 ± 0.4-fold;p= 0.01) mRNA in cervical spinal homogenates, (2) elicited a sustained increase inIL-1β mRNA (2.4 ± 0.2-fold;p< 0.001) in isolated cervical spinal microglia, and (3) abolished pLTF (−1 ± 5% vs 56 ± 10% in controls;p< 0.001). pLTF was restored after IH-1 by systemic NSAID administration (ketoprofen; 55 ± 9%;p< 0.001) or spinal p38 MAP kinase inhibition (58 ± 2%;p< 0.001). IH-1 increased phosphorylated (activated) p38 MAP kinase immunofluorescence in identified phrenic motoneurons and adjacent microglia. In conclusion, IH-1 elicits spinal inflammation and impairs pLTF by a spinal p38 MAP kinase-dependent mechanism. By targeting inflammation, we may develop strategies to manipulate respiratory motor plasticity for therapeutic advantage when the respiratory control system is compromised (e.g., sleep apnea, apnea of prematurity, spinal injury, or motor neuron disease).
Striatal Iron Content Predicts Its Shrinkage and Changes in Verbal Working Memory after Two Years in Healthy Adults
Authors: Daugherty Ana M. , Haacke E. Mark , Raz Naftali
Published: April 2015

The accumulation of non-heme iron in the brain has been proposed as a harbinger of neural and cognitive decline in aging and neurodegenerative disease, but support for this proposal has been drawn from cross-sectional studies, which do not provide valid estimates of change. Here, we present longitudinal evidence of subcortical iron accumulation in healthy human adults (age 19–77 at baseline). We used R2* relaxometry to estimate regional iron content twice within a 2 year period, measured volumes of the striatum and the hippocampus by manual segmentation, and assessed cognitive performance by working memory tasks. Two-year change and individual differences in the change of regional volumes, regional iron content, and working memory were examined by latent change score models while taking into account the age at baseline and metabolic risk indicators. Over the examined period, volume reduction occurred in the caudate nucleus and hippocampus, but iron content increased only in the striatum, where it explained shrinkage. Higher iron content in the caudate nucleus at baseline predicted lesser improvement in working memory after repeat testing. Although advanced age and elevated metabolic syndrome risk were associated with greater iron content in the putamen at baseline, neither age nor metabolic risk influenced change in any variable. Thus, longitudinal evidence supports the notion that accumulation of subcortical iron is a risk factor for neural and cognitive decline in normal aging.
Pituitary tumors contain a side population with tumor stem cell-associated characteristics
Authors: Mertens Freya , Gremeaux Lies , Chen Jianghai , Fu Qiuli , Willems Christophe , Roose Heleen , Govaere Olivier , Roskams Tania , Cristina Carolina , Becú-Villalobos Damasia , Jorissen Mark , Poorten Vincent Vander , Bex Marie , van Loon Johannes , Vankelecom Hugo
Published: April 2015

Pituitary adenomas cause significant endocrine and mass-related morbidity. Little is known about the mechanisms that underlie pituitary tumor pathogenesis. In the present study, we searched for a side population (SP) in pituitary tumors representing cells with high efflux capacity and potentially enriched for tumor stem cells (TSCs). Human pituitary adenomas contain a SP irrespective of hormonal phenotype. This adenoma SP, as well as the purified SP (pSP) that is depleted from endothelial and immune cells, is enriched for cells that express ‘tumor stemness’ markers and signaling pathways, including epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT)-linked factors. Pituitary adenomas were found to contain self-renewing sphere-forming cells, considered to be a property of TSCs. These sphere-initiating cells were recovered in the pSP. Because benign pituitary adenomas do not grow in vitro and have failed to expand in immunodeficient mice, the pituitary tumor cell line AtT20 was further used. We identified a SP in this cell line and found it to be more tumorigenic than the non-SP ‘main population’. Of the two EMT regulatory pathways tested, the inhibition of chemokine (C-X-C motif) receptor 4 (CXCR4) signaling reduced EMT-associated cell motility in vitro as well as xenograft tumor growth, whereas the activation of TGFβ had no effect. The human adenoma pSP also showed upregulated expression of the pituitary stem cell marker SOX2. Pituitaries from dopamine receptor D2 knockout (Drd2−/−) mice that bear prolactinomas contain more pSP, Sox2+, and colony-forming cells than WT glands. In conclusion, we detected a SP in pituitary tumors and identified TSC-associated characteristics. The present study adds new elements to the unraveling of pituitary tumor pathogenesis and may lead to the identification of new therapeutic targets.
Cu Migration and its Impact on the Metastable Behavior of CdTe Solar Cells
Authors: Guo Da , Akis Richard , Brinkman Daniel , Moore Andrew , Fang Tian , Sankin Igor , Ringhofer Christian , Vasileska Dragica
Published: April 2015

In this work, we report on development of one-dimensional reaction-diffusion simulator needed to understand the kinetics of Cu-related metastabilities observed in CdTe PV devices. Evolution of intrinsic and Cu-related defects in CdTe solar cells has been studied in time-space domain self-consistently with free carrier transport. Resulting device performance was simulated as a function of stress time, thus showing pronounced effect that the evolution of associated acceptor and donor states can cause on device characteristics. Although 1D simulation has intrinsic limitations when applied to poly-crystalline films, the results presented confirm the validity and the potential of the approach presented in better understanding of the performance and metastabilities of CdTe photovoltaic devices.
Ewolucja miasta. Od miasta tradycyjnego do miasta innowacyjnego
Authors: Manczak Iryna
Published: April 2015

The aim of this study, which takes the form of a review, is to explain the processes that determine the evolution of the city. The first part describes the city as a social-urban and geographical unit, and also discusses a model for the evolution of the city. It assumes that the city is entering a new stage of development, in which it aims to be innovative. The study draws on disciplines including economy, geography, sociology, and urban studies.
Zewnątrzmiejska dostępność komunikacyjna w kontekście budowania atrakcyjności lokalizacyjnej metropolii w Polsce na przykładzie województwa małopolskiego
Authors: Kudłacz Michał
Published: April 2015

This article's basic assumption, and starting point, is that there is a strong correlation between accessibility (the availability of transport) and the territorial potential of an economy. Increased accessibility is one of the most important goals for metropolis authorities, central government representatives and key EU officials alike. The article shows the intentions of different levels of public administration representatives for how they would like to use the communication infrastructure to speed up regional and local social-economy indicators. Accomplishing that goal is especially important for metropolises which seek to join the global network of potential exchange. It is also important for governments because the strongest cities are "the mirrors" of the strength of the national economy. Economic strength is important for regions as well as metropolitan areas and metropolitan centre officials because they would like to attract potential. The article reviews the possibilities and solutions for building transport links to improve the economic potential of the most powerful cities in Poland.
Um lugar para a América Hispânica na historiografia norte-americana: a fundação do Hispanic American Historical Review e as políticas da história
Authors: De Avila Arthur Lima
Published: April 2015

O presente artigo trata da formação de um lugar específico para a veiculação da historiografianorte-americana sobre a América Hispânica, a Hispanic-American Historical Review, na década de 1910 nos Estados Unidos. Tal processo, argumenta-se, consolidou a disciplinarização da área naquela conjuntura, assim como em algumas necessidades políticas maiores, como, por exemplo, a legitimação da crescente hegemonia estadunidense ao sul de suas fronteiras – o que a análise de artigos que tratavam da Doutrina Monroe e do suposto antiamericanismo das repúblicas hispano-americanas, veiculados pela revista em seus primeiros anos, procura explicitar. Nesse sentido, o texto busca inferir os modos pelos quais certas historiografias adquirem legitimidade não só a partir de imperativos disciplinares, mas também por conta de necessidades políticas mais amplas.
Anamorfose de um dia: o tempo da história e o dia 11 de dezembro de 1972
Authors: Faria Daniel
Published: April 2015

Neste artigo são apresentadas uma narrativa historiográfica centrada num dia em particular, 11 de dezembro de 1972, e uma breve discussão teórica sobre as relações entre poética, tempo e história. A escolha desse dia se deu a partir da leitura de uma carta escrita por Honestino Guimarães, presidente da UNE na clandestinidade e desaparecido político, a seus familiares. A opção pelo conceito de anamorfose para a categorização deste relato, no lugar de simplesmente “história”, deveu-se à percepção de que a estratégia narrativa necessitava de melhor explicitação conceitual. São dois os objetivos principais deste trabalho: em primeiro lugar, apresentar uma experiência de narrativa historiográfica ao leitor, na procura de uma nova perspectiva para se pensar a história contemporânea, em particular a história da ditadura militar no Brasil; em segundo lugar, elaborar algumas questões teóricas a partir dessa experiência, tendo em vista não apenas a experiência em si, mas também suas relações com a escrita da história.
Azeitonas de mesa no Brasil: mercado, tecnologia e aspectos legais
Authors: Cappato Leandro Pereira , Ferreira Elisa Helena da Rocha , Rosenthal Amauri
Published: April 2015

Azeitona de mesa é o produto vegetal fermentado de maior importância no mundo ocidental. Apesar de não possuir produção significativa, o Brasil está entre os dez maiores consumidores de azeitona de mesa do mundo. Para o ano safra 2013/2014 (período entre os dias 01 de outubro até 30 de setembro), estima-se que o país seja o segundo maior importador e o nono maior consumidor do fruto. No entanto, as características do fruto e os principais processos de elaboração de azeitonas de mesa são pouco conhecidos no Brasil. Dessa maneira, este trabalho objetiva realizar um levantamento do mercado, as principais tecnologias utilizadas e os aspectos legais associadas à produção de azeitona de mesa
Um modelo da maturidade da gestão da demanda: Um estudo multicaso na cadeia de suprimento de produtos de mercearia básica
Authors: Melo Daniela de Castro , Alcântara Rosane Lúcia Chicarelli
Published: April 2015

A gestão da demanda deve equilibrar as necessidades dos clientes com as capacidades da empresa, reduzindo incertezas, resultando em fluxos mais eficientes na cadeia de suprimentos. O objetivo deste estudo foi propor um modelo para analisar a maturidade do processo de gestão da demanda na cadeia de suprimentos de produtos de mercearia básica. Espera-se que o modelo resultante possa subsidiar as empresas a se estruturarem e desenvolverem competências para atingir maturidade no processo de gestão da demanda. Para tal, realizou-se um estudo multicaso que envolveu 22 empresas, dentre as quais: indústrias fornecedoras de produtos de mercearia básica, atacadistas distribuidores e supermercados. Foram realizadas observações diretas e 33 entrevistas nestas empresas. A pesquisa possibilitou estruturar um modelo de maturidade em gestão da demanda composto de quatro estágios divididos em nove dimensões: compartilhamento de informações; planejamento de ações conjuntas; execuções de ações conjuntas; interações inter e intraempresas; indicadores de desempenho; envolvimento da alta gerência; segmentação de clientes; segmentação de fornecedores; tecnologia da informação. Este modelo pode permitir às empresas identificar em qual estágio se encontram e em qual dimensão precisam focar seus esforços. Cada uma das dimensões representa um meio para que as empresas possam se estruturar e otimizar a rentabilidade por meio da melhoria da eficiência e da eficácia na cadeia de suprimentos.
Uma comparação entre os métodos TOPSIS e Fuzzy-TOPSIS no apoio à tomada de decisão multicritério para seleção de fornecedores
Authors: Lima Junior Francisco Rodrigues , Carpinetti Luiz Cesar Ribeiro
Published: April 2015

A seleção de fornecedores é considerada a atividade mais crítica da função de compras e impacta diretamente a qualidade dos produtos manufaturados e o desempenho do comprador. Na literatura acadêmica, dezenas de métodos de tomada de decisão multicritério vêm sendo explorados para apoiar a seleção de fornecedores. Dentre esses, o TOPSIS (Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution) e o Fuzzy-TOPSIS (uma adaptação do primeiro) se destacam por sua simplicidade de uso e pela capacidade de avaliar um número ilimitado de alternativas e critérios simultaneamente. Embora muitos autores sugiram a adoção do TOPSIS e do Fuzzy-TOPSIS para suportar a seleção de fornecedores, na literatura não são discutidas as reais vantagens de uso e as limitações destes métodos quando aplicados neste domínio de problema. Diante de tal lacuna, este estudo compara o TOPSIS e o Fuzzy-TOPSIS, em relação à complexidade computacional, à estrutura dos algoritmos e aos resultados fornecidos quando aplicados em um mesmo caso real de seleção de fornecedores. Os métodos foram implementados usando MATLAB(r) e aplicados na seleção de fornecedores de uma empresa de cabos de transmissão. Os resultados mostram que o TOPSIS requer menor esforço para coleta de dados e processamento computacional. Em contrapartida, o Fuzzy-TOPSIS não sofre inversões no ranking e se mostra adequado para lidar com informações qualitativas e imprecisas. Os resultados deste estudo podem orientar pesquisadores e profissionais na escolha do método mais adequado para lidar com o problema de seleção de fornecedores em questão.
Fatores explicativos da alta competitividade no longo prazo: presença dos fatores identificados nas empresas norte-americanas em empresas da BM & FBOVESPA
Authors: Pereira Ilson Luiz , Crispim Sergio Feliciano
Published: April 2015

Um dos principais fins da Administração é a sistematização das melhores práticas que dão suporte ao atingimento dos objetivos organizacionais, entre os quais se destaca o valor ao acionista no caso de empresas com fins lucrativos. Neste sentido, o objetivo desta pesquisa foi verificar em que medida os fatores de competitividade identificados como explicativos para a valorização elevada no longo prazo em empresas americanas também estiveram presentes em empresas brasileiras com desempenho de valor semelhante. Esta é uma pesquisa descritiva e seu delineamento é de um levantamento de campo. Depois de um levantamento de dados de valor de mercado de todas as empresas brasileiras de capital privado com ações negociadas na BM & FBOVESPA, durante 24 anos (1988 a 2012), foram identificadas sete empresas que atenderam aos parâmetros de desempenho estabelecidos na pesquisa. Executivos ou ex-executivos destas empresas colaboraram com a pesquisa e responderam questões sobre os sete fatores explicativos de sucesso identificados na pesquisa Good to Great, realizada junto a empresas norte-americanas de capital aberto. A aderência − ou grau de alinhamento − observada para cada um dos fatores foi: melhoria contínua (90%); atitude diante dos problemas (86%); foco estratégico (86%); disciplina (86%); liderança (82%); equipe (80%); e relação com a tecnologia (78%). Concluiu-se que em geral os fatores identificados como explicativos do alto desempenho das empresas americanas também explicam significativamente o sucesso de empresas brasileiras. Esta pesquisa contribui para avalizar o valor de mercado como indicador de desempenho no longo prazo de empresas brasileiras de capital aberto; identificar empresas brasileiras de capital aberto com alto desempenho; melhorar a compreensão dos fatores de competitividade de empresas brasileiras com alto desempenho; identificar possíveis caminhos para a melhoria do desempenho das empresas; e identificar oportunidades de estudos futuros que relacionem valor das empresas, competitividade e fatores explicativos
Meaningful Work Scale in creative industries: a confirmatory factor analysis
Authors: Bendassolli Pedro F. , Borges-Andrade Jairo Eduardo , Alves Joatã Soares Coelho , Torres Tatiana de Lucena
Published: April 2015

This study conducts a confirmatory factor analysis of a meaningful Canadian work model. The sample comprised 446 professionals working in creative industries based in Midwestern and Northeastern Brazil who completed the 25-item Meaningful Work Scale (MWS). This study tested both the original Canadian five-factor model and a six-factor model previously adapted into Portuguese, based on professionals from São Paulo's creative industries. The results indicate that globally, both models, when re-specified, seem to fit the data. However, an inspection of the local fit indices suggests problems with both models, specifically in two factors: development and learning, and expressiveness and identification with work. We discuss the extent to which these findings may relate to cultural and occupational influences. The paper concludes that the meaningful work model, although it can vary in content, is vulnerable to possible subculture differences in the Brazilian context.
Vegetative and reproductive phenology of Butia purpurascens Glassman (Arecaceae) under the effects of leaf harvesting
Authors: Guilherme FAG , Vasconcelos EI , Coelho CP. , Ressel K , Batista NTF , Souza LF.
Published: April 2015

Butia purpurascens is an endemic and threatened palm tree species that occurs in open areas of the Brazilian Cerrado, predominantly in southwestern Goiás. The leaves of this palm tree are harvested by local people to fabricate brooms. This study evaluated changes in vegetative and reproductive phenology in two different natural populations of this palm tree: one population with leaf harvesting and another non-harvested population. Twenty plants were monitored in each area for 23 months. The phenophases were related to the temperature and precipitation averages for a 30-year period. Leaf sprouting occurred throughout the year, with a slight reduction in periods of low temperatures and low rainfall. The first spathes emerged in March and flowering began during the dry season (June), continuing until January of the following year, concurrent with the period of most intense fruiting. Flowering and fruiting appear to be triggered by periods of drought, which are commonly observed in the Cerrado. The harvested sites produced significantly fewer leaves, spathes, inflorescences and infructescences than the non-harvested sites. Thus, the supply of resources to the local fauna is possibly reduced in sites under leaf exploitation, which in the long term can represent damage to the palm tree population’s structure and dynamics. Other socioeconomic and ecological studies about the effects of leaf harvesting in B. purpurascens are necessary to enable strategies for sustainable use, devise management alternatives and conserve this threatened palm species.
Translocation and radio-telemetry monitoring of pygmy marmoset, Cebuella pygmaea (Spix, 1823), in the Brazilian Amazon
Authors: Dias CAR. , Queirogas VL. , Pedersoli MA.
Published: April 2015

Two groups of pygmy marmoset (Cebuella pygmaea) were rescued along the left bank of the Madeira River during the formation of Santo Antônio Hydroelectric Dam reservoir in the state of Rondônia, Northern Brazil. Reintroduction of both groups occurred in areas of open Tropical rainforest located within the project´s Permanent Preservation Area. A post-release monitoring was conducted for three months using radio-telemetry. Individuals of each group remained together and settled in stable home ranges near their respective release sites. The mortality rate of translocated animals was about 7%. This seems to be the first report documenting the complete group translocation of C. pygmaea and the first to successfully employ radio-telemetry techniques in monitoring this species. This study demonstrated the feasibility of translocation and the use of radio-telemetry in monitoring C. pygmaea.
The rainy season increases the abundance and richness of the aquatic insect community in a Neotropical reservoir
Authors: Santana HS , Silva LCF , Pereira CL. , Simião-Ferreira J. , Angelini R.
Published: April 2015

Alterations in aquatic systems and changes in water levels, whether due to rains or dam-mediated control can cause changes in community structure, forcing the community to readjust to the new environment. This study tested the hypothesis that there is an increase in the richness and abundance of aquatic insects during the rainy season in the Serra da Mesa Reservoir, with the premise that increasing the reservoir level provides greater external material input and habitat diversity, and, therefore, conditions that promote colonization by more species. We used the paired t test to test the differences in richness, beta diversity, and abundance, and a Non-metric Multidimensional Scaling (NMDS) was performed to identify patterns in the community under study. Additionally, Pearson correlations were analyzed between the richness, abundance, and beta diversity and the level of the reservoir. We collected 35,028 aquatic insect larvae (9,513 in dry period and 25,515 in the rainy season), predominantly of the Chironomidae family, followed by orders Ephemeroptera, Trichoptera, and Odonata. Among the 33 families collected, only 12 occurred in the dry season, while all occurred in the rainy season. These families are common in lentic environments, and the dominance of Chironomidae was associated with its fast colonization, their behavior of living at high densities and the great tolerance to low levels of oxygen in the environment. The hypothesis was confirmed, as the richness, beta diversity, and abundance were positively affected by the increase in water levels due to the rainy season, which most likely led to greater external material input, greater heterogeneity of habitat, and better conditions for colonization by several families.
About rats and jackfruit trees: modeling the carrying capacity of a Brazilian Atlantic Forest spiny-rat Trinomys dimidiatus (Günther, 1877) – Rodentia, Echimyidae – population with varying jackfruit tree (Artocarpus heterophyllus L.) abundances
Authors: Mello JHF , Moulton TP , Raíces DSL , Bergallo HG
Published: April 2015

We carried out a six-year study aimed at evaluating if and how a Brazilian Atlantic Forest small mammal community responded to the presence of the invasive exotic species Artocarpus heterophyllus, the jackfruit tree. In the surroundings of Vila Dois Rios, Ilha Grande, RJ, 18 grids were established, 10 where the jackfruit tree was present and eight were it was absent. Previous results indicated that the composition and abundance of this small mammal community were altered by the presence and density of A. heterophyllus. One observed effect was the increased population size of the spiny-rat Trinomys dimidiatus within the grids where the jackfruit trees were present. Therefore we decided to create a mathematical model for this species, based on the Verhulst-Pearl logistic equation. Our objectives were i) to calculate the carrying capacity K based on real data of the involved species and the environment; ii) propose and evaluate a mathematical model to estimate the population size of T. dimidiatus based on the monthly seed production of jackfruit tree, Artocarpus heterophyllus and iii) determinate the minimum jackfruit tree seed production to maintain at least two T. dimidiatus individuals in one study grid. Our results indicated that the predicted values by the model for the carrying capacity K were significantly correlated with real data. The best fit was found considering 20~35% energy transfer efficiency between trophic levels. Within the scope of assumed premises, our model showed itself to be an adequate simulator for Trinomys dimidiatus populations where the invasive jackfruit tree is present.
Brazilian scientific production on phytoplankton studies: national determinants and international comparisons
Authors: Nabout JC. , Carneiro FM. , Borges PP. , Machado KB. , Huszar VLM.
Published: April 2015

In this study, we determined the temporal trends of publications by Brazilian authors on phytoplankton and compared these trends to those of other Latin American countries as well as to the 14 countries ranking ahead of Brazil in terms of scientific publication. To do this, we investigated phytoplankton studies published in an international database (Thomson-ISI). The data showed that Brazil plays an important role among other Latin American countries in the publication of these studies. Moreover, the trend of studies published on phytoplankton in Brazil was similar to trends recorded in the developed countries of the world. We conclude that studies can be more deliberately targeted to reduce national and international asymmetries by focusing on projects with large spatial scales and projects that concentrate on less-studied geographic regions, thus encouraging increased productivity in remote areas of the country. Associated with this is a necessary increase in high-impact journal publications, increasing the quantity and quality of Brazilian scientific studies on phytoplankton and, consequently, their global visibility.
Priming and temperature limits for germination of dispersal units of Urochloa brizantha (Stapf) Webster cv. basilisk
Authors: Nakao EA. , Cardoso VJM.
Published: April 2015

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of priming treatments on the upper and lower thermal limits for germination of Urochloa brizantha cv. basilisk, and testing the hypothesis that pré-imbibition affect thermal parameters of the germination. Pre-imbibed seeds both in distilled water (0 MPa) and PEG 6000 solution (–0.5 MPa) were put to germinate in different temperatures. It is suggested that U. brizantha seeds have low response to priming when they were placed to germinate in medium where water is not limiting. The response of U. brizantha seeds to priming is dependent on the temperature and water potential conditions at which the seeds are pre-imbibed, as well as on the germination temperature. The optimum temperature for germination of U. brizantha shift toward warmer temperatures in primed seeds. Priming effect was more pronounced at temperatures closer to the upper and lower limit for germination, but probably that response cannot be accounted for changes in the thermal time constant (θT(g)) and ceiling temperature (Tc(g)). Otherwise, a decrease in the base temperature (Tb) was observed in primed seeds, suggesting that the Tb distribution in U. brizantha seeds is influenced by priming.
A violência na vida de mulheres em situação de rua na cidade de São Paulo, Brasil
Authors: Rosa Anderson da Silva , Brêtas Ana Cristina Passarella
Published: April 2015

Esta cartografia objetivou trazer à reflexão situações de violência na vida de mulheres em condição de rua na cidade de São Paulo, Brasil. Durante o trabalho de campo, o pesquisador interagiu com cerca de cem mulheres em situação de rua, sendo as percepções registradas em diário de campo. Posteriormente, 22 mulheres foram entrevistadas em um albergue. Depreendemos, dos resultados, que a situação de rua para as mulheres foi relacionada a: violências sofridas no contexto doméstico e familiar, a renda insuficiente para garantir o próprio sustento e o dos filhos, e a ruptura dos vínculos sociais. Nas ruas, conheceram a violência nas disputas territoriais, opressões de gênero, falta de privacidade, tráfico de drogas e nas práticas higienistas. O estudo desconstruiu os estereótipos de frágeis e dependentes para as mulheres de rua; no processo relacional, elas também protagonizavam disputas por espaço e poder.
Corantes comumente empregados na citogenética vegetal
Authors: Brammer Sandra Patussi , Toniazzo Claudia , Poersch Liane Balvedi
Published: April 2015

O emprego dos corantes, na citogenética vegetal, data de muitos anos, uma vez que as pesquisas nas áreas da citologia e histologia vêm sendo desenvolvidas constantemente desde os primeiros estudos celulares no século XIX. Inicialmente, eram extraídos de fontes vegetais ou animais, sendo atualmente produzidos sinteticamente em escala comercial. Os corantes são classificados em não fluorescentes e fluorescentes, conforme suas propriedades químicas e a escolha de uso é de acordo com o tipo de estrutura celular ou grupo celular a ser analisado. A diversidade de tipos e compostos químicos existentes nos diferentes corantes proporciona sua aplicação em estudos avançados na citogenética clássica e molecular. Uma revisão de suas propriedades químicas e emprego é apresentada para os corantes não fluorescentes orceína, hematoxilina, Giemsa, carmin; e para os fluorescentes 4',6-diamidino-2-fenilindol (DAPI), cromomicina A (CMA), fluoresceína e rodamina.
Tempo e Trânsito na Experiência Subjetiva de Motoristas
Authors: Lima Ana Inez Oka Elvas de , Cavalcante Sylvia
Published: April 2015

Esta pesquisa investiga como são percebidos e vivenciados o tempo e a pressa no trânsito por motoristas de Fortaleza, identificando e analisando seus estados subjetivos e comportamentos associados a essa experiência. Para a coleta de dados, organizaram-se quatro grupos focais, a partir dos quais emergiram diversos elementos relacionados ao tempo e à pressa e à incidência de comportamentos inadequados no trânsito, segundo o sexo e a idade dos participantes. Para analisar os dados obtidos nas discussões grupais utilizaram-se os critérios da Análise Clássica de Conteúdo. Os resultados levaram à conclusão de que a questão do tempo e da pressa constitui um potencial gerador de erros e violações na condução de veículos, pois exerce influência decisiva sobre os comportamentos dos motoristas e configura uma realidade importante para se compreender os fatores humanos envolvidos na dinâmica do trânsito e do ambiente urbano como um todo.
A tablet computer application for conceptual design
Authors: Åkesson Daniel , Lindemann Jonas
Published: April 2015

In the conceptual design phase, solutions are reached through an iterative, high-paced and often chaotic manner. Conventional advanced structural analysis software is often too advanced and insufficiently agile to follow this high-paced work pattern. Premature use of advanced structural analysis tools can negatively affect conceptual understanding and the quality of the conceptual design. The multi-touch interfaces of today's tablet computers give the user a strong feeling of direct manipulation of objects on the screen. This is interesting for structural mechanics applications, enabling direct manipulation of the structural model on the screen so as to have a better understanding and feeling of the structural behaviour. A tablet computer application for the conceptual design phase, which uses this type of direct manipulation interface, has been developed.
Session report: physical modelling in geotechnical earthquake engineering
Authors: Madabhushi Gopal Santana Phani
Published: April 2015

Geotechncial earthquake engineering continues to be an important area of research for physical modellers. There were 13 papers presented in this session. These papers and the direction of future research in this area are discussed in this session report.
Finite-element analysis of a piled machine foundation
Authors: Fattah Mohammed Y. , Hamood Mohammed J. , Al-Naqdi Ibtehal A. A.
Published: April 2015

A case study using finite-element software for the dynamic analysis and structural design of a machine foundation on piles in homogeneous sandy soil is reported. A parametric study was carried out to investigate the effect of the foundation geometry, the amplitude and frequency of the dynamic load, and the damping ratio. It is concluded that as the pile cap thickness increases the oscillation of displacement decreases due to material damping inherent in the concrete of the pile cap. There is a limit of the pile cap size at which its stiffness governs its dynamic response. Above this size the weight of the pile cap overrides its stiffness effect, and the additional weight leads to an increase in pile displacement. When the pile group size increases, the frequency at which maximum displacement occurs increases, and hence the system becomes more stable against resonance. In the case of changing the pile spacing, the maximum moment factor IM is always at the pile cap centre, where the load is applied. This factor increases when the pile spacing increases. The dimensionless displacement factor Iz decreases markedly as the pile cap length increases, reflecting the increase in displacement with pile cap length.
Liquidity Windfalls: The Consequences of Repo Rehypothecation
Authors: Infante Sebastian
Published: April 2015

This paper presents a model of repo rehypothecation in which dealers intermediate funds and collateral between cash lenders (e.g., money market funds) and prime brokerage clients (e.g., hedge funds). Dealers take advantage of their position as intermediaries, setting different repo terms with each counterparty. In particular, the difference in haircuts represents a positive cash balance for the dealer that can be an important source of liquidity. The model shows that dealers with higher default risk are more exposed to runs by collateral providers than to runs by cash lenders, who are completely insulated from a dealer’s default. In addition, collateral providers’ repo terms are sensitive to changes in a dealer’s de- fault probability and its correlation with the collateral’s outcome, whereas cash lenders’ repo terms are unaffected by these changes. This paper rationalizes the difference in haircuts observed in bilateral and tri-party repo markets, reconciles the partial evidence of the run on repo during the recent financial crisis, and presents new empirical evidence to support the model’s main prediction on haircut sensitivities.
Raphael Pumpelly (1837–1923): Pioneering archaeological geologist in central Asia
Authors: Rapp George (Rip)
Published: April 2015

The early twentieth century was a time of rapid expansion of field work in archaeological geology. During this time the connections between geology [especially stratigraphy (Gamio 1913) and geomorphology (Davis 1904)] and archaeology became apparent. Among those involved who made major archaeological contributions during this period was American geologist Raphael Pumpelly. His excavation at Anau in Turkmenistan was an exemplary example of a geologist with no training a experience in archaeology undertaking a successful and pioneering excavation in Central Asia. A similar situation occurred in China where Swedish geologist, Johan Gunnar Andersson, discovered and defined the Chinese Neolithic.
The evolution of non-quantitative geological graphics in texts during the formative years of geology (1788–1840)
Authors: Clary Renee M. , Wandersee James H.
Published: April 2015

Although modern geology uses both pictorial and graphical illustrations for conveying information and data presentation, early books in the discipline did not place such a reliance on graphics. This study investigated the numbers and types of graphics in 72 texts containing geological illustrations, which were considered to be representative (excluding works with solely mineralogical or paleontological illustrations), published during the formative years of geology (1788–1840) in terms of Edward R. Tufte's principles of graphic design. The text graphics were analyzed in terms of the presence of proxy or inferred imagery, direct or keyed labeling, unnecessary embellishment, and their data density; and whether they exhibited multivariate properties, represented the small multiple format, or exhibited graphic modifications. Mixed methodology analyses revealed four stages in the evolution of geologic illustrations in the interval from 1788–1840: (1) early pictorial or proxy representations; (2) the introduction of labeled graphics, coinciding with the first geology textbooks; (3) ‘grand' or elaborate illustration; and (4) a high graphic density. Although progress was made in graphical representation during the time period studied, statistical graphics were hardly ever used.
Automated Dynamic Well Control With Managed-Pressure Drilling: A Case Study and Simulation Analysis
Authors: Kinik K.. , Gumus F.. , Osayande N..
Published: April 2015

The detection and control of gas kicks in oil-based mud/synthetic-based mud while drilling through narrow pore-pressure/fracture-pressure windows has always been a challenge because of gas solubility and mud compressibility. Continuous closed-loop monitoring of the well and automated early kick detection and control helps to keep the influx volume at a minimum before it reaches the well-control-threshold margin in the kick-tolerance matrix.

This paper presents a case study and detailed analysis of the event through advanced simulations to examine the benefits of automated influx detection and control by use of a managed-pressure-drilling (MPD) system compared with a conventional-well-control method. In the case study, an automated-MPD system successfully detected and controlled a gas influx in oil-based mud while drilling in onshore western Canada. The analysis used dynamic well-control simulations to regenerate the event, and a close match with the field data was achieved. A sensitivity analysis was then conducted to study the effect of total response time on pressures at the surface and at the casing shoe during the application of the conventional “driller's method” of well control.

The findings from the study demonstrate how automated early kick detection and control minimize influx volume and increase operational safety. The implementation of an MPD system with such capabilities significantly reduces nonproductive time by enabling influx circulation at full rate and eliminating the need for flow check, blowout-preventer closure, and operational delays inherent in conventional well control.
Patriarch Peter III of Antioch (1052-1056) and the Church crisis of 1054
Authors: Puzovic Vladislav , Nikolic Bogdana
Published: April 2015

During the Church crisis in the middle of the 11th century, which divided the
Christian world, the Patriarch Peter III of Antioch (1052-1056) found himself
in the role of an intermediary between eastern and western Christiandom. This
paper examines relationships between the Patriarch Peter III of Antioch with
the Churches of Constantinople and Rome. It aims to provide an analysis of
the theological argumentation presented in his epistles to prominent Eastern
and Western bishops.
Vizantijskaja derevjannaja skul'ptura
Authors: Pucko Vasilij
Published: April 2015

The paper is devoted to the Byzantine wooden sculpture, least known and
conserved segment of artistic creativity in Byzantine empire. All such
artefacts, well known to experts for a long time, are commented in the text.
These art objects are observed in comparison to the so-called minor
sculpture as well as to the other other types of sculpture. Also special
emphasis is on the problems of style of the sculptural works in question.
Three-dimensional evaluation of hybrid expander appliances: A pilot study
Authors: Akin Mehmet , Akgul Yasin Erdem , Ileri Zehra , Basciftci Faruk Ayhan
Published: April 2015

Objective: 

To evaluate transverse dimensional changes in dentoalveolar and skeletal structures caused by hybrid expander, using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT).

Materials and Methods: 

The CBCT records of nine patients (five boys and four girls) (mean age 13.61 ± 0.72 years) treated with hybrid expander were examined. CBCT images were taken at pretreatment and after the expansion. ELSA (point equidistant to both foramina spinosa) was determined as a reference point to compare the distances in all three dimensions. Nineteen transversal dimensions and four angles were measured for both right and left sides. Wilcoxon signed rank test was used for statistical comparison at P < .05 levels.

Results: 

A V-shaped expansion of suture was successfully achieved in all patients without teeth support. The amount of opening was greater in anterior than posterior and in inferior than superior. An 8.75-mm screw expansion was achieved for all patients. Expansion effects reverberated to maxillary central incisor, canine, first premolar, and first molar at 70%, 75%, 92%, and 89%, respectively. The molar teeth tipped buccally (right 3.06° and left 3.24°) as did premolars (right 2.88° and left 3.02°).

Conclusion: 

The hybrid expander, minimally invasive expansion appliance that protects teeth by including bone support, can be used easily for rapid maxillary expansion treatment.
Are we Treating or Curing Tuberculosis? Profile of Secondary Renal Amyloidosis in Patients Receiving Anti Tubercular Treatment
Authors: Sharma Sanjeev , Mathur Mohit , Prasad Dharmendra , Singh Ajay Pal , Garsa Rajesh , Kumar Rajesh , Beniwal Pankaj , Agarwal Dhananjai , Malhotra Vinay
Published: April 2015

Introduction. Secondary renal amyloidosis due to tuberculosis is a debilitating disease with considerable mortality and morbidity due to renal failure and other manifestations of both amyloidosis and renal failure. Most patients with amyloidosis have been adequately treated with DOTS (Directly observed treatment, Short Course strategy). The aimof our study was to analyze the epidemiological and demographic profile of patients undergoing renal biopsy and found to have renal amyloidosis secondary to tuberculosis.

Methods. In this study, retrospective renal biopsy data was collected from 2009-2012 and patients with amyloidosis were identified and their clinical and biochemical parameters were analyzed.

Results. Incidence of amyloidosis was 4.66% (n=24/514) among total renal biopsies. Among this, secondary amyloidosis constituted 87.5% of total amyloidosis. The commonest etiology in these patients was pulmonary tuberculosis (73.5%). All patients with tuberculosis had previously received DOTS treatment. 47.5% of patients with amyloidosis had renal impairment and 10.5% developed end-stage renal disease over 12 months and were dialysis dependent.

Conclusions. Amyloidosis due to tuberculosis is a well-established, yet under-diagnosed complication of tuberculosis. The duration and treatment status of tuberculosis does not influence the occurrence of amyloidosis, as most of the patients were treated appropriately with DOTS. There are no predictive factors in patients who will develop secondary amyloidosis. At present there is no specific treatment apart from supportive therapy. The prognosis is poor, as most of these patients inexorably progress towards end-stage renal disease (ESRD) with significant mortality and morbidity. To conclude, at present we are only treating tuberculosis, we are yet to cure tuberculosis.
Communication : a basic skill of medical practice
Authors: Yasmeen BH Nazma
Published: April 2015

Abstract not availableNorthern International Medical College Journal Vol.5(1) 2013: 291-292
Health education intervention regarding swine flu among secondary school students in a selected school of Dhaka city
Authors: Imtiaz Khondker Saif , Begum Nilufar , Nazneen Humaira , Tamanna Nushrat , Naureen Samiha , Kibria Md Golam
Published: April 2015

Background : Swine flu is a viral disease spread by droplet infection during coughing, sneezing, laughing or talking. Mortality rate among the adolescent is high.Objective : To assess the outcome of health education intervention on knowledge regarding Swine flu among adolescent students of a selected school in Dhaka city.Material & Methods : A quasi-experimental study was conducted among 150 students of class × of B.C.S.I.R. High School in Dhaka city. As Dhaka city is densely populated and chance of transmission Swine flu is higher.Results : The mean age of the students was 14.83 years. Regarding educational qualification of their mothers, 40% had completed education up to the S.S.C level. In case of occupational status of the fathers, 50.7% were businessmen. A majority (31.3%) of the respondents had monthly income of 20,001-30,000 Taka. Almost all (99.3%) of the students had heard the name of Swine flu and their source of information was from newspapers (50.5%) followed by that of television (26.2%),family members (8.1%) and radio(4.7%). Before intervention- regarding the causative agent & mode of transmission, 75.3% & 92.0% of the students had a good knowledge respectively. Fair knowledge was observed among the students regarding signs & symptoms (50.7%), complications (46.0%) and preventive measures (51.3%) of the disease. Poor knowledge was found regarding high risk groups of the disease among 52% of respondents. A high proportion of respondents, (94.0%) had no knowledge regarding treatment of Swine flu. In case of overall knowledge regarding Swine flu, 27.3% had poor knowledge; 56.7% had fair knowledge and 16.0% had good knowledge before intervention. After health education intervention 98.7% & 1.37 of students had good & fair level of knowledge regarding the disease respectively no respondent was observed poor knowledge. Chi square test (x2=2.096, df=2) showed the significant association (p<0.001) between health education intervention and knowledge on Swine flu among the students, before & after intervention. So all school students should be motivated well by a health education intervention programme regarding Swine flu, as they are one of the vulnerable groups of the diseaseNorthern International Medical College Journal Vol.5(1) 2013: 309-312