bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Saúde e Educação: a discussão das relações de poder na atenção à saúde da mulher
Authors: d'Oliveira Ana Flávia P. Lucas
Published: July 2009

Busca-se discutir algumas questões acerca das ações educativas em saúde a partir da proposta contida no material do Programa de Atenção Integral à Saúde da Mulher (PAISM), publicado na década de 80 e elaborado e implementado com importante participação do movimento feminista. Abordam-se os avanços trazidos pela participação do movimento social na elaboração e implantação de políticas de saúde, ao lado dos impasses assistenciais que esta mesma participação acaba por colocar. Conclui-se que o programa não deixou de enfrentar riscos e possibilidades na incorporação das questões do poder, seja por referência às questões homem-mulher na sociedade, seja por referência às relações medicina-mulheres, no interior dos serviços de saúde, trazendo uma importante questão ético-política para o interior dos serviços. A possível tradução técnica dessa questão - possibilidade histórica e socialmente dada - mostrou-se, contudo, perpassada por conflitos e dilemas entre o ético-político e o científico-tecnológico, como a dificuldade de compor qualidade e quantidade, saber técnico e saber popular e de questionar as relações de poder no interior de instituições de grande autoridade técnica e moral na sociedade.
Estudo fotoelástico do controle vertical com o arco de dupla chave na técnica Straight wire
Authors: Dobranszki Adriano , Vuolo José Henrique , Levy Neto Flamínio , Suzuki Hideo , Barbosa Jurandir Antônio , Dobranszki Nara Pereira D'Abreu Cordeiro
Published: July 2009

INTRODUÇÃO: em alguns casos, a extração de pré-molares torna-se necessária e nem sempre os espaços são completamente fechados após o alinhamento e nivelamento. O arco de dupla chave, ou Double Key Loop (DKL), é um arco retangular de aço para retração, com duas alças - uma mesial e outra distal ao canino. OBJETIVOS: este trabalho propôs-se a estudar o local onde a força é exercida, após a ativação desse arco, utilizando ativação na alça distal, ativação entre as alças e na alça distal, e ativação com Gurin®. MÉTODOS: foram montados nove modelos fotoelásticos de um arco dentário inferior, sem os primeiros pré-molares e os terceiros molares, com braquetes In-Ovation e arco DKL. O arco foi ativado e a região de incisivos, caninos e dentes posteriores foi fotografada, com interposição de filtros polarizadores de luz. RESULTADOS E CONCLUSÕES: após a análise do modelo fotoelástico, concluiu-se que a ativação com Gurin® pode produzir movimento de retração anterior com componente extrusivo; a ativação na alça distal pode produzir movimento de retração anterior sem componente extrusivo; e a ativação entre as alças e na alça distal pode produzir movimento de retração anterior com componente intrusivo.
O papel dos stakeholders na sustentabilidade da empresa: contribuições para construção de um modelo de análise
Authors: Lyra Mariana Galvão , Gomes Ricardo Corrêa , Jacovine Laércio Antônio Gonçalves
Published: July 2009

Este artigo tem como objetivo analisar a Empresa Alfa e seus stakeholders e buscar formas de inferir que uma melhor gestão de stakeholders pode repercutir positivamente no processo de sustentabilidade da empresa. Para isso duas metodologias internacionais previamente testadas serão aplicadas no contexto brasileiro: o diagrama de Venn de Mitchell, Agle e Wood (1997) que contém sete tipos de stakeholders segundo as combinações dos atributos poder, legitimidade e urgência; e a matriz de Savage, Nix, Whitehead e Blair (1991), que analisa a propensão dos stakeholders em colaborar ou ameaçar as estratégias da empresa. Os principais resultados dizem respeito ao desalinho nos discursos dos diversos stakeholders com relação às práticas da empresa e às sugestões de políticas gerenciais para contornar esta situação. Entretanto o estudo se limita a traçar estratégias, sendo necessário, portanto, estudos posteriores com acompanhamentos in loco para analisar a evolução da empresa com a aplicação do estudo. As ferramentas apresentadas podem ser testadas em empresas de diferentes setores que têm preocupações com relacionamento de stakeholders e com os impactos de seus negócios na sociedade.
Uso de fosfatos com diferentes relações flúor: fósforo na alimentação de poedeiras semipesadas na fase de produção
Authors: Araújo Lúcio Francelino , Araújo Cristiane Soares da Silva , Junqueira Otto Mack , Barbosa Luís Carlos Garibaldi Simon , Albuquerque Ricardo de , Faria Douglas Emygdio de
Published: July 2009

Um experimento foi conduzido para verificar os efeitos de diferentes relações flúor:fósforo (F:P) na dieta sobre o desempenho e as concentrações de cálcio, fósforo, magnésio e flúor na tíbia de poedeiras comerciais semipesadas. Foram utilizadas 160 galinhas poedeiras, distribuídas em delineamento inteiramente casualizado, com quatro tratamentos (fontes de fósforo com diferentes relações flúor:fósforo - 1:40; 1:60; 1:80; 1:100) e cinco repetições de oito aves. No final do experimento, foram abatidas duas aves de cada repetição para coleta da tíbia e análise dos teores de flúor, cálcio, fósforo e magnésio. As relações flúor:fósforo não afetaram o consumo de ração, a produção de ovos, a conversão alimentar, o peso dos ovos e a gravidade específica. Entretanto, a porcentagem de casca e a espessura da casca foram menores quando a relação F:P foi de 1:100. Apesar da ausência de efeitos na produção de ovos, verificou-se redução de 7,3; 5,4 e 9,8% na produção entre as aves que receberam ração com a maior relação F:P (1:100) em comparação àquelas alimentadas com as rações com as relações de 1:40; 1:60 e 1:80, respectivamente. A deposição óssea de flúor reduziu e a de magnésio aumentou nas aves alimentadas com a ração contendo as maiores relação de F:P. As fontes de fósforo, nas relações fluor:fósforo de 1:40 a 1:80, podem ser utilizadas em dietas para poedeiras comerciais, pois não afetam o desempenho e a qualidade da casca dos ovos.
Feed efficiency in Mangalarga Marchador foals fed diet supplemented with probiotics or phytase
Authors: Moura Raquel Silva de , Saliba Eloísa de Oliveira Simões , Almeida Fernando Queiroz de , Lana Ângela Maria Quintão , Silva Vinícius Pimentel , Rezende Adalgiza Souza Carneiro de
Published: July 2009

The objective was to assess the effect of probiotic or phytase supplementation on dry matter intake (DMI), average daily gain (ADG) and feed conversion (FC) in 24 Mangalarga Marchador foals (16 males, 8 females), with 241.6 ± 23.2 days of age, and 216.7 ± 27.8 kg of body weight (BW). The study lasted 28 days, the first 23 days for diet and handling adaptation, and the last five days for feces collection. The basal diet consisted of Cynodon pasture and pelleted concentrate (1.2 kg/100 kg BW), as well as water and mineral salt ad libitum. Treatments groups were assigned as follows: basal diet (control); basal diet + 5 g/day of live yeast culture (10(9) CFU/g of S. cerevisiae); basal diet + 2 g/day of live bacteria (10(8) CFU/g of B. bifidum, E. faecium, L. acidophilus, L. plantarum) and yeast culture (10(5) CFU/g of S. cerevisiae); and basal diet + 1250 FTU/day of phytase. Pasture DMI was estimated with an external marker (LIPE™) associated with cecal in situ digestibility of dry matter. All foals were randomized, by replicated, using a 4 × 2 factorial, and results were compared using Student t-test, taking into consideration the effect of initial BW as covariate for the percentage DMI per BW. Among foals, DMI varied from 2.4 to 2.8% BW, with foals supplemented with live bacteria and yeast having lower DMI (total diet and forage). All animals had an ADG of 0.33 kg/day, and foals supplemented with live bacteria and yeast had FC 32.42 to 43.83% lower than foals supplemented with phytase or fed only basal diet. The phytase dose of 205 FTU/kg DM in the basal diet had no effects. Probiotic composed of live bacteria and yeast culture improved feed efficiency of forage and can be used as a nutritional strategy to maintain body condition in foals during the dry season.
Composição físico-química e valores energéticos dos resíduos de goiaba e tomate para frangos de corte de crescimento lento
Authors: Silva Edney Pereira da , Silva Demósthenes Arabutan Travassos da , Rabello Carlos Bôa-Viagem , Lima Rodrigo Barbosa , Lima Michele Bernardino , Ludke Jorge Vitor
Published: July 2009

Objetivou-se determinar a composição físico-química e o valor energético dos farelos de goiaba e de tomate para frangos de corte de crescimento lento. Analisou-se a composição químico-fisica e, em seguida, realizou-se ensaio de metabolismo utilizando-se 60 frangos da linhagem Caipirão, com 65 dias de idade, distribuídos ao acaso em três tratamentos e cinco repetições de quatro aves por unidade experimental. Os tratamentos consistiram de uma ração-referência e duas rações-teste, formuladas com 70% da ração-referência e 30% de farelo de goiaba ou tomate. O experimento teve duração de dez dias, cinco para adaptação das aves às rações e cinco para coleta total das excretas. A composição químico-física dos farelos de tomate e de goiaba (na matéria natural) foi: 90,81 e 91,96% de matéria seca (MS); 10,09 e 21,74% de proteína bruta (PB); 11,71 e 12,01% de extrato etéreo (EE); 1,25 e 4,76% de matéria mineral (MM); 55,62 e 43,66% de fibra bruta (FB); 64,06 e 51,53% de fibra em detergente neutro (FDN); 57,38 e 42,22% de fibra em detergente ácido (FDA); 6,67 e 9,32% de hemicelulose; 4.290 e 4.368 kcal/kg de energia bruta (EB), 576,32 e 201,90 g/L de densidade; e 1.271,56 e 1.092,66 µm de diâmetro geométrico médio, respectivamente. Para os aminoácidos, os valores encontrados foram: 0,17 e 0,33% de metionina; 0,32 e 0,30% de cistina; 0,16 e 1,12% de lisina; 0,23 e 0,75% de treonina; 1,47 e 1,57% de arginina; 0,32 e 0,78% de isoleucina; 0,71 e 1,27% de leucina; 0,39 e 0,90% de valina; 0,25 e 0,43% de histidina; 0,44 e 0,93% de fenilalanina; 0,85 e 1,08% de glicina; 0,42 e 0,99% de serina; 0,30 e 1,05% de prolina; 0,35 e 0,945 de alanina; 0,97 e 2,19% de ácido aspartico; 1,91 e 3,105 de ácido glutâmico, respectivamente. Os valores de energia metabolizável aparente corrigida, com base na matéria natural, foram 1.436 e 1.969 kcal/kg, respectivamente.
Fontes de energia em suplementos múltiplos para recria de novilhos mestiços em pastejo durante o período de transição seca/águas: desempenho produtivo e características nutricionais
Authors: Nascimento Michele Lopes do , Paulino Mário Fonseca , Detmann Edenio , Valadares Filho Sebastião de Campos , Porto Marlos Oliveira , Sales Maykel Franklin Lima
Published: July 2009

Avaliaram-se os efeitos da utilização de fontes amiláceas e fibrosas de energia em suplementos múltiplos sobre o desempenho e as características nutricionais de novilhos mestiços em recria em pastagem de Brachiaria decumbens durante o período de transição seca/águas. A área experimental constituiu-se de 5 piquetes de 2,0 ha, com disponibilidade média de matéria seca (MS) de 4.309,4 kg/ha. Utilizaram-se 24 novilhos mestiços (Holandês × Zebu), castrados, com aproximadamente 24 meses de idade e peso vivo inicial de 314,46 kg. A cada animal destinou-se, casualmente, um dos cinco tratamentos: mistura mineral à vontade, grão de milheto ou grão de milho como fontes amiláceas de energia; polpa cítrica ou farelo de trigo como fontes fibrosas. Às fontes de energia foram adicionados mistura mineral, farelo de algodão e uréia para comporem suplementos com 30% de PB, com base na matéria natural, fornecidos em 1,5 kg/animal/dia. No grupo controle, não houve efeito da suplementação sobre o ganho médio diário. O ganho médio diário obtido com as fontes fibrosas foi 17,43% superior ao obtido com as fontes amiláceas. Os consumos de matéria seca e orgânica (kg/animal/dia e g/kg de peso vivo) pelos animais do grupo controle foram inferiores, assim como os consumos (kg/animal/dia) de PB, CNF, EE, FDNi e NDT. As digestibilidades aparentes totais de PB e CNF foram mais baixas nos animais que receberam somente mistura mineral. Animais do grupo controle apresentaram menores teores de nitrogênio uréico sérico e urinário. Suplementos com fontes fibrosas de alta digestibilidade em associação a uréia promovem ganhos de peso superiores àqueles formulados com fontes amiláceas e uréia. A suplementação múltipla no período de transição seca/águas, fornecida no nível de 0,4% do peso vivo, não afeta a digestibilidade da FDNcp, independentemente da fonte de energia.
Estimating size at first maturity (L50) from Gonadossomatic Index (GSI) data
Authors: Fontoura Nelson F. , Braun Aloísio S. , Milani Paulo Cesar C.
Published: July 2009

Correct estimates of size at first maturity (L50) are useful for fish stock management and different methods have been proposed. In this study we propose the use of a modified logistic to estimate L50, including a variable asymptote (A). We also test the use of the Gonadossomatic Index (GSI) as a flag to establish the reproductive status of each female fish. The method is demonstrated using GSI data for four Neotropical fish species: Characiformes: Astyanax fasciatus (n = 473) and Oligosarcus robustus (n = 297); Siluriformes: Loricariichthys anus (n = 427) and Trachelyopterus lucenai (n = 195). The results were stable enough to propose this method be used for other fish species with different life histories and with a relatively unconstrained sampling programs. Nevertheless, a wide scale test program is desirable to identify any possible bias in this approach.
O que percebemos quando não vemos?
Authors: Sousa Joana Belarmino de
Published: July 2009

Este artigo responde a uma questão chave tratada por ocasião do Colóquio "Ver e Não Ver", investigando a natureza da percepção tátil, sobretudo naqueles indivíduos cegos de nascença. O percurso adotado, ainda que dialogue com algumas teorias, opta por uma linguagem mais solta, menos comprometida com o rigor científico, trazendo para a discussão, vivências da minha própria infância. Norteia-se por uma concepção chave, explorada em minha tese de doutorado, a qual caracterizei como "mundividência tátil", para explicar um modo tátil de pensarperceber o mundo.
Using Ultrasonic Techniques to Accurately Examine Seal-Surface-Contact Stress in Premium Connections
Authors: Hamilton Kirk , Wagg Brian , Roth Tim
Published: July 2009

One of the most important functions of a tubular connection is sealability. This is especially the case for premium connections that are commonly used in the demanding conditions of high-pressure/high-temperature (HP/HT) and thermal-well applications. Sealability, therefore, also is one of the most important criteria used during connection qualification in which the capability of the connection is verified for the characteristics of the application. During qualification tests, it has been found that breakdown in connection sealability can be traced to damage on the primary seal surface, which can eventually develop into a leak path.

Ultrasonic-inspection technology can be used to provide a means to obtain nonintrusive measurements of contact stress between two mating metal surfaces separated by a thin lubricating film. While the technology has a wide scope of potential applications in this respect, the technology has been specifically developed to measure seal-surface-contact stresses inside oilfield tubular premium connections.

This application of ultrasonic technology has been used numerous times during connection-qualification programs to assess the quality of the contact-stress band in premium connections. During these analyses, the technology has been able to detect seal-surface damage in premium connections.

This paper will cover the basic concepts of premium connection design, along with some of the issues that can affect the sealability of premium connections. As well, this paper will include an overview of the use of ultrasonic technology as a technique to assess the contact stress along the metal-to-metal seal band of a premium connection and methods used to monitor changes in the contactstress profile induced by many installation and service loads.
Surge and Drag Analysis for Extended Reach Casing and Casing Flotation Operations With Centralizers: A Design Challenge?
Authors: Samuel G. Robello , Mason Colin J.
Published: July 2009

Refining advanced technologies for the successful completion of wells is paramount in high-risk, high-cost environments. Challenges are associated with complex well architectures and with the successful completion of wells deploying conventional or floated casing or liner strings. A key part of the design process is to be able to predict both maximum downhole surge pressures and dynamic and static friction effects. The analysis also needs to take into account the impact of using centralizing devices. Understanding these effects during both casing running and reciprocation is important so that appropriate operational decisions can be made. Specific challenges are associated with running liners through casing strings or hole sections with limited annular clearance.

Centralizers are primarily installed on a casing string to provide adequate stand-off for primary cementing operations; however they are also sometimes used to aid in the deployment of casing strings. To achieve adequate stand-off, calculations are performed to determine the number of centralizers, their placement, and spacing frequency. Drag modeling is performed to ensure that the casing string will reach its target depth. This requires predictions of both static and dynamic drag effects that take into account the impact of centralizers and surge pressures on drag. In cases where non-rigid centralizers are used, conventional torque and drag models underestimate frictional drag effects. Similarly it is considered that steady state surge models under-predict maximum surge pressures.

To address these concerns, both improved models and comprehensive analysis are required. This paper describes the analytical models that are used to incorporate additional forces associated with centralizers. Both conventional and floated casing running scenarios, especially in close tolerance extended reach wells, are considered.
Evaluation of the Gas Production Potential of Marine Hydrate Deposits in the Ulleung Basin of the Korean East Sea
Authors: Moridis George J. , Reagan Matthew T. , Kim Se-Joon , Seol Yongkoo , Zhang Keni
Published: July 2009

Although significant hydrate deposits are known to exist in the Ulleung basin of the Korean East Sea, their survey and evaluation as a possible energy resource has not yet been completed. However, it is possible to develop preliminary estimates of their production potential based on the limited data that are currently available. These include the elevation and thickness of the hydrate-bearing layer (HBL), the water depth, and the water temperature at the seafloor. On the basis of this information, we developed estimates of the local geothermal gradient that bracket its true value. Reasonable estimates of the initial pressure distribution in the HBL can be obtained because it follows closely the hydrostatic. Other critical information needs include the hydrate saturation, and the intrinsic permeabilities of the system formations. These are treated as variables, and sensitivity analysis provides an estimate of their effect on production.

On the basis of the geology of similar deposits, it is unlikely that Ulleung basin accumulations belong to Class 1 (involving an HBL underlain by a mobile gas zone). If Class 4 (disperse, low-saturation accumulations) deposits are involved, they are not likely to have production potential. The most likely scenarios include Class 2 (HBL underlain by a zone of mobile water) or Class 3 (involving only an HBL) accumulations.

Assuming nearly impermeable confining boundaries, this numerical study indicates that large production rates (several million scf/D) are attainable from both Class 2 and Class 3 deposits using conventional technology. The sensitivity analysis demonstrates the dependence of production on the well design, the production rate, the intrinsic permeability of the HBL, the initial pressure, temperature, and hydrate saturation, as well as on the thickness of the water zone (Class 2). The study also demonstrates that the presence of confining boundaries is indispensable for the commercially viable production of gas from these deposits.
A Novel Technique for Determining Sand Screen Failure
Authors: Navaira G. (Guy) , Hupp M. T. (Marty) , Palisch T. T. (Terry) , Renkes Jason J.
Published: July 2009

Offshore completions in the Gulf of Mexico (GOM) must typically address sand control. Our industry has made significant progress with respect to sand control equipment and implementation. However, all methods of sand control are subject to mechanical failure, with the first indications often being the production of solids into a common separation facility. In many offshore completions, particularly subsea or multizone completions, it is often difficult and expensive to determine which well or specific completion interval has failed, most times requiring production to be shut in for diagnosis. Not until that point can a remedy be evaluated.

One GOM producer engaged the services of a proppant supplier to determine whether or not a suite of proppants/gravel can be developed that uniquely identified and placed in each completion interval. In the event of proppant production to surface (i.e., mechanical failure), the surface samples are analyzed to directly determine which interval failed. The proppant needs to be nonra-dioactive, yet identifiable with standard laboratory techniques.

The supplier subsequently developed a methodology whereby the proppant can be "tagged" with more than 20 unique markers. This paper discusses how the tagging agents are incorporated to become a permanent component of the pellet. The results of laboratory testing are provided, verifying that the taggant does not materially affect the performance of the proppant

In addition, the authors review two applications in which this new product was placed in multizone frac-pack completions in several deepwater GOM completions. The paper also describes basic laboratory techniques used to successfully identify the source of prop-pant found in a surface choke subsequent to the frac. The potential economic savings provided by this novel approach are presented, as well as other potential applications for this new product.
Investigation of Factors for Strengthening a Wellbore by Propping Fractures
Authors: Wang Hong (Max) , Soliman Mohamed Y. , Towler Brian F.
Published: July 2009

Wellbore strengthening or stress cage implementation has been recognized as an effective means of dealing with lost circulation during drilling operations. One of the mechanisms developed for strengthening a wellbore has been to prop induced and existing fractures with particulate lost circulation materials (LCM) to effectively increase hoop stress in the near wellbore region.

However, a good understanding of this mechanism is necessary in order to avoid a potentially flawed design and implementation process which could adversely affect job success in the field. One of the main issues is fracture stability under the strengthening conditions. This paper will describe those factors which are important in designing wellbore strengthening jobs and address the conditions necessary to help ensure fracture stability, as determined through rock mechanics analysis.

The strengthening of a wellbore by propping fractures has been discussed in a previous investigation (Wang et al. 2007a). In this paper, continuing the previous discussion, various parameters that affect the strengthening of the wellbore are addressed in detail. In-depth discussion of how each of those parameters affects the process of wellbore strengthening is presented. This study was accomplished using a boundary element numerical simulator to facilitate the analyses.
Efficiency of Electrolyzed Oxidizing Water for Inactivation of Salmonella spp. and Inoculated Shell Eggs
Authors: Ma Qijun , Li Baoming , Wang Chaoyuan , Ji Yingying , Wang Shuhua , Cao Wei
Published: July 2009

The risk of a salmonellosis outbreak from consuming contaminated eggs is a societal and governmental concern. The bactericidal efficiency of electrolyzed oxidizing (EO) water for inactivation of salmonella and artificially inoculated shell eggs were evaluated in this study. The effects of available chlorine concentration (ACC, 0.1-2.0 mg/l) and pH value (2.3, 3.5, 4.6, 5.7 and 6.5) on the bactericidal activity of EO water were investigated by using pure cultures (7.0-8.0 log10 CFU/ml) of Salmonella pullorum and Salmonella enteritidis strains. EO water was effective for inactivation of both pathogens. The bactericidal activity increased with increasing the ACC of EO water. The bacteria were completely inactivated when the ACC of EO water was higher than 1.0 mg/l. At a sufficient ACC (greater than 3.0 mg/l), the bactericidal activity of EO water was independent of its pH value. A 100% inactivation (reduction of 6.7 log10 CFU/g) of both pathogens on the surface of shell eggs was achieved at an ACC of 20 mg/l except for the treatment of EO water spraying. Shell eggs soaked in alkaline electrolyzed water followed by soaked in EO water was more effective to reduce the viable counts of both pathogens compared to EO water used alone. No survival of both pathogens was detected in EO water after washing treatment. Results indicated that EO water is a promising and powerful disinfectant agent for shell eggs washing processing.
Cognitive functions and clinical features among diabetic patients in Polish population
Authors: Talarowska Monika , Florkowski Antoni , Zboralski Krzysztof , Gałecki Piotr
Published: July 2009

Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disease which can lead to numerous complications. One of these disturbances is cognitive function impairment. A group of 62 patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. There is a correlation between certain clinical features among diabetic patients and cognitive functions. Negative influence on cognitive functions have a higher level of total cholesterol, a higher level of LDL cholesterol, a lower level of HDL cholesterol concentration in the blood, a higher level of glucose after meals, a higher level of basic insulin dose and insulin dose taken just before the examination, longer duration of the diabetes and a lot of hypoglycemic episodes. There is no influence on cognitive functions from glucose levels before meals, the type of the insulin therapy, or the number of hyperglycemic episodes and value rate of hemoglobin HbA1C.
Experimental Study on Performance Characteristics of a Pem Fuelcell
Authors: Ale B. B. , Shrestha S.O. Bade
Published: July 2009

The performance of a PEM fuel cell was investigated for different operating conditions. The fuel cell was tested for different dew point temperature of humidifier, the stack coolant temperature, and stoichiometric of fuel and air supply conditions. The higher stack coolant temperature, humidity, as well as stoichiometric of reactants produced enhanced performance of the fuel cell as expected. The effect on the cell voltage and efficiency were more pronounced as the current density was increased to medium and high levels. The deteriorating and degradation effect of the performance of the fuel cell was also observed during the test span.Keywords: Pem Fuelcell, NepalJournal of the Institute of Engineering, Vol. 7, No. 1,  2009 July pp. 31-39doi: 10.3126/jie.v7i1.2060
Barrier for Implementation of Improved Cook Stove Program in Nepal
Authors: Bhattarai Nawraj , Risal Sunil
Published: July 2009

More than 85% of total population lives in rural part of Nepal. Traditionally, they are mostly using biomass based cooking stove for cooking purpose. To substitute those traditionally using cooking stoves, many Improved Cooking Stoves (ICS) programs are implemented and now more than three hundred thousand improved cooking stoves are already installed in rural households across the country. To accelerate the installation of such stoves more commonly in coming days, the past experiences and observed barriers for implementation of the programs are necessary to trace out. Thus, the present paper highlights the major barriers related to policy, technology, finance and social aspects of already disseminated ICSs based on literature review and questionnaires interview with relevant stakeholders. The statistical analysis of the study is carried out using SPSS statistical tool and presented.Key words: Improved cooking stove (ICS), Stakeholders, and SPSS analyzing toolJournal of the Institute of Engineering, Vol. 7, No. 1, July 2009 pp. 116-120doi: 10.3126/jie.v7i1.2069
Impact of Temperature on Biological Denitrification Process
Authors: Amatya Iswar Man , Kansakar Bhagwan Ratna , Tare Vinod , Fiksdal Liv
Published: July 2009

Nitrate removal in groundwater was carried out by biological method of denitrification process. The denitrification and without denitrification were performed in two different sets of reactors. Each reactor consists of two columns connected in series packed with over burnt bricks as media. The filtration rate varied from 5.3 to 52.6 m/day for denitrification process. The ammonia, nitrate and nitrite nitrogen concentrations were measured at inlet, intermediate ports and outlet. The temperature varied from 10 to 30°C at 2°C intervals. The results demonstrated that high amount of nitrate nitrogen removed in groundwater at denitrification process. The nitrate nitrogen removed by denitrification varied from 3.50 to 39.08 gm/m3/h at influent concentration from 6.32 to 111.04 gm/m3/h. Denitrification was found more significant above 16°C.Key words: Over burnt brick, Denitrification, Filtration rate and TemperatureJournal of the Institute of Engineering, Vol. 7, No. 1, July, 2009 pp. 121-126doi: 10.3126/jie.v7i1.2070
Trends in brain cancer incidence and survival in the United States: Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program, 1973 to 2001
Authors: Deorah Sundeep , Lynch Charles F. , Sibenaller Zita A. , Ryken Timothy C.
Published: July 2009

Object

An increasing incidence of brain cancer has been reported for the last three decades. In this study of brain cancer incidence and patient survival in the US, the authors attempt to update information on trends by examining data provided by the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) Program.

Methods

Population-based data from the SEER Program were used to calculate the incidence of and survival rates for people with brain cancer. The approximate Poisson method was used to calculate relative risks for brain cancer and to determine a 95% confidence interval. Annual age-standardized incidence rates were calculated, and time-trend analysis was conducted using joinpoint regression analysis.

The relative risks of brain cancer were 1.48 for men compared with women, 3.18 for elderly persons compared with young adults, 1.86 for Caucasian patients compared with African-American patients, and 1.35 for those in metropolitan counties compared with those in nonmetropolitan counties. The incidence of brain cancer increased until 1987, when the annual percentage of change reversed direction, decreasing from 1.68 to −0.44%. The elderly experienced an increase until 1985, but their rates were stable thereafter. Rising trends were noticed for glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), oligodendroglioma, anaplastic astrocytoma, medulloblastoma, and mixed glioma, and falling trends were observed for astrocytoma not otherwise specified and malignant glioma. The survival rate for patients with GBM has not shown improvement in the last two decades.

Conclusions

Increased risk of brain cancer is associated with being male, Caucasian, elderly, and residing in a metropolitan county. The incidence rate of brain cancer in the US is gradually declining, but the rising trend of GBM combined with its poor survival rate is disconcerting and needs further exploration.
Safe Blood Transfusion: Past, Present And Future
Authors: Dipta Tashmim Farhana , Rahman Md Tahminur
Published: July 2009

Bangladesh J Pathol 24 (1) : 1-2doi: 10.3329/bjpath.v24i1.2873
Cardio specific Troponin I in patients with Aortic stenosis
Authors: Nahar Nazmun , Begum Bilquis Ara , Khaleque-uzzaman Dr , Mashud SM , Parveen Sultana , Yeasmin Roksana
Published: July 2009

To evaluate the association of Cardio specific Troponin I (CTnI) and aortic stenosis. Cross sectional study was conducted among 20 aortic stenosis patients and 20 control groups. A structured questioner and checklist was used to collect data through face to face interview, Echocardiography findings, and laboratory estimation of cTnl. A total 20 patients and 20 healthy control subjects were investigated for cTnl. cTnl level was within normal physiological limits in all the control subjects. The mean value was 0.02±00. The mean cTnl level in Aortic stenosis patients were 0.67±0.81. EJection fraction of Aortic stenosis patients were normal, indicating that cases yet not develops complication (eg; Heart failure). The cTnl in control group and Aortic stenosis patients shows significant difference of mean (p < 0.001). cTnl level in Aortic stenosis patients increases in absence of heart failure indicating that it can expose cardiomyocyte injury prior to the development of over Left ventricular dysfunction. So that, serial monitoring of cTnl could help clinician to give definitive treatment before development of complications. Keywords: Cardiospecific Troporin I. Aortic Stenosis.   doi: 10.3329/bjpath.v24i1.2875 Bangladesh J Pathol 24 (1) : 9-11
A huge retroperitoneal mass histologically diagnosed as well differentiated liposarcoma-a case report
Authors: Rahman Md Tahminur , Khan Abdul Kader , Ferdousi Shamima , Bela Shamsun Nahar
Published: July 2009

A 45 year old female presented with huge abdominal swelling (subsequently diagnosed as a retroperitoneal mass (12kg) by ultrasonogram and CT scan), gradual weight loss and respiratory distress for last one year. She had also complaints of anorexia, epigastric pain, and hiccough for one year. Her retroperitoneal mass was resected and sent for histopathological examination which was later diagnosed as well differentiated liposarcoma. Key words: Liposarcoma, retroperitoneal mass   doi: 10.3329/bjpath.v24i1.2878 Bangladesh J Pathol 24 (1) : 21-24
The Effects of Environmental Factors on Persons Living with HIV/AIDS
Authors: Nichols Lucersia , Tchounwou Paul  B. , Mena Leandro , Sarpong Daniel
Published: July 2009

In recent years, environmental awareness has received a great deal of public attention. However, little emphasis has been put on the influence of environmental factors (weather, personal attitudes, policies, physical structures, transportation, etc.) on the quality of life of persons infected with HIV/AIDS. The goal of this study was to assess the effect of selected environmental factors on the quality of life of persons affected by HIV/AIDS. To achieve this goal, the Craig Hospital Inventory of Environmental Factors (CHIEF) subscales including Policies, Physical Structure, Work/School, Attitudes/Support, and Service/ Assistance were evaluated in patients selected from a STD/HIV clinic in Jackson, MS. They were chosen based on previously diagnosed HIV/AIDS status and age (16-95). Written consents, demographics sheets and self-administered questionnaires were obtained. Data were analyzed using Excel and SPSS software. Interviews started in July 2007 and ended in August, 2007. One hundred and thirteen patients responded. Participants were 72.6% (82) male, 26.5% (30) female and 0.9% (1) transgender. The median age of participants was 38.8 (18-63). Over 50% (65) had some college or higher education, and 35.4% reported annual incomes less than $10,000. Multivariate analysis showed marginal significance between disease diagnosis and gender (p < 0.10), and statistical significance between disease diagnosis and income (p = 0.03). Also, age (p = 0.01) and education (p = 0.03) were significant predictors in one of the subscales. The CHIEF subscales that showed the greatest significance among AIDS respondents were Attitudes and Support, and Government Policies with mean sensitivity scores of 1.39 and 1.42, respectively. The element with the least effect on AIDS patients was the Work/School subscale, with a mean score of 0.74. In general AIDS patients were disproportionately affected in all but one of the five subscales observed. Conversely those with HIV were more affected in the Work/School subscale with a mean score of 1.70. This proved to be the only subscale responsible for causing the greatest degree of perceived barriers for the HIV population. With a mean score of 0.75, Physical/Structural subscale showed the least negative impact on those infected HIV without AIDS. It is therefore recommended that the environmental barriers identified in this study be addressed in order to eliminate/minimize their negative effect and improve the quality of life of HIV/AIDS patients.
The Liver-Brain Axis of Alcohol-Mediated Neurodegeneration: Role of Toxic Lipids
Authors: De la Monte Suzanne M. , Longato Lisa , Tong Ming , DeNucci Sarah , Wands Jack R.
Published: July 2009

Alcohol abuse causes progressive toxicity and degeneration in liver and brain due to insulin resistance, which exacerbates oxidative stress and pro-inflammatory cytokine activation. Alcohol-induced steatohepatitis promotes synthesis and accumulation of ceramides and other toxic lipids that cause insulin resistance. Ceramides can readily cross the blood-brain barrier, and ceramide exposure causes neurodegeneration with insulin resistance and oxidative stress, similar to the effects of alcohol. Therefore, in addition to its direct neurotoxic effects, alcohol misuse establishes a liver-brain axis of neurodegeneration mediated by toxic lipid trafficking across the blood-brain barrier, leading to progressive white matter degeneration and cognitive impairment.
The Relationship between Concurrent Substance Use Disorders and Eating Disorders with Personality Disorders
Authors: Courbasson Christine , Brunshaw Jacqueline M.
Published: July 2009

Objective: The current pilot study investigated whether patients with concurrent substance use disorders and eating disorders (SUD and ED) who experienced a reduction in SUD and ED symptoms following treatment for SUD and ED also experienced a reduction in personality disorder (PD) symptoms. Method: Twenty patients with SUD and ED and PD were assessed pre and post treatment using clinical interviews, self-report questionnaires, and a therapist questionnaire on DSM-IV-TR symptoms for PD. Results: Symptoms for the personality disorders were reduced following treatment. This reduction was correlated with a decrease in the number of symptoms of ED at post treatment. Discussion: Chronic concurrent SUD and ED may make it difficult to separate PD symptoms from co-occurring disorders. Many features attributed to PDs may be reduced when problematic substance use and disordered eating are addressed, a fact that may increase clinician and patients’optimism about therapeutic change.
Effect of Neem Leaf Extract and Neem Oil on Penicillium Growth, Sporulation, Morphology and Ochratoxin A Production
Authors: Mossini Simone A. G. , Arrotéia Carla C. , Kemmelmeier Carlos
Published: July 2009

In vitro trials were conducted to evaluate the effect of Azadirachta indica (neem) extracts on mycelial growth, sporulation, morphology and ochratoxin A production by P. verrucosum and P. brevicompactum. The effect of neem oil extract from seeds and leaf was evaluated at 0.125; 0.25 and 0.5% and 6.25 and 12.5 mg/mL, respectively, in Yeast Extract Sucrose (YES) medium. Ochratoxin A production was evaluated by a thin-layer chromatography technique. Oil extracts exhibited significant (p ≤ 0.05) reduction of growth and sporulation of the fungi. No inhibition of ochratoxin A production was observed. Given its accessibility and low cost, neem oil could be implemented as part of a sustainable integrated pest management strategy for plant disease, as it has been shown to be fungitoxic by inhibition of growth and sporulation.
CCR 7 Ligands Are Required for Development of Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis through Generating IL-23-Dependent Th17 Cells
Authors: Kuwabara Taku , Ishikawa Fumio , Yasuda Takuwa , Aritomi Kentaro , Nakano Hideki , Tanaka Yuriko , Okada Yayoi , Lipp Martin , Kakiuchi Terutaka
Published: July 2009

CCL19 and CCL21 are thought to be critical for experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) induction, but their precise role is unknown. We examined the role of these chemokines in inducing EAE. C57BL/6 mice lacking expression of these chemokines (plt/plt mice) or their receptor CCR7 were resistant to EAE induced with myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein peptide 35–55 (MOG35–55) and pertussis toxin. However, passive transfer of pathogenic T cells from wild-type mice induced EAE in plt/plt mice, suggesting a defect independent of the role of CCR7 ligands in the migration of immune cells. Examination of draining lymph node (DLN) cells from MOG35–55-immunized plt/plt mice found decreased IL-23 and IL-12 production by plt/plt dendritic cells (DCs) and a concomitant defect in Th17 cell and Th1 cell generation. In contrast, production of the Th17 lineage commitment factors IL-6 and TGF-β were unaffected by loss of CCR7 ligands. The adoptive transfer of in vitro-generated Th17 cells from DLN cells of MOG35–55-immunized plt/plt mice developed EAE in wild-type recipient mice, whereas that of Th1 cells did not. Pathogenic Th17 cell generation was restored in plt/plt DLNs with the addition of exogenous IL-23 or CCL19/CCL21 and could be reversed by inclusion of anti-IL-23 mAb in cultures. Exogenous CCL19/CCL21 induced IL-23p19 expression and IL-23 production by plt/plt or wild-type DCs. Therefore, CCR7 ligands have a novel function in stimulating DCs to produce IL-23 and are important in the IL-23-dependent generation of pathogenic Th17 cells in EAE induction.
IL-10 Suppresses Calcium-Mediated Costimulation of Receptor Activator NF-κB Signaling during Human Osteoclast Differentiation by Inhibiting TREM-2 Expression
Authors: Park-Min Kyung-Hyun , Ji Jong-Dae , Antoniv Taras , Reid Alicia C. , Silver Randi B. , Humphrey Mary Beth , Nakamura Mary , Ivashkiv Lionel B.
Published: July 2009

Induction of effective osteoclastogenesis by RANK (receptor activator of NF-κB) requires costimulation by ITAM-coupled receptors. In humans, the TREM-2 (triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 2) ITAM-coupled receptor plays a key role in bone remodeling, as patients with TREM-2 mutations exhibit defective osteoclastogenesis and bone lesions. We have identified a new rapidly induced costimulatory pathway for RANK signaling that is dependent on TREM-2 and mediated by calcium signaling. TREM-2-dependent calcium signals are required for RANK-mediated activation of calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase (CaMK)II and downstream MEK and ERK MAPKs that are important for osteoclastogenesis. IL-10 inhibited RANK-induced osteoclastogenesis and selectively inhibited calcium signaling downstream of RANK by inhibiting transcription of TREM-2. Down-regulation of TREM-2 expression resulted in diminished RANKL-induced activation of the CaMK-MEK-ERK pathway and decreased expression of the master regulator of osteoclastogenesis NFATc1. These findings provide a new mechanism of inhibition of human osteoclast differentiation. The results also yield insights into crosstalk between ITAM-coupled receptors and heterologous receptors such as RANK, and they identify a mechanism by which IL-10 can suppress cellular responses to TNFR family members.
Chimeric NKG2D T Cells Require Both T Cell- and Host-Derived Cytokine Secretion and Perforin Expression to Increase Tumor Antigen Presentation and Systemic Immunity
Authors: Barber Amorette , Sentman Charles L.
Published: July 2009

Treatment of mice bearing established ovarian tumors with T cells expressing chimeric NKG2D receptors (chNKG2D) develop protective host immune responses to tumor Ags. In this study, the mechanisms that chNKG2D T cells require to induce host immunity against ovarian tumors and which of the host immune cells are involved in tumor elimination were determined. Treatment with chNKG2D T cells led to a sustained, increased IFN-γ production by host NK, CD4+, and CD8+ T cells in the spleen and at the tumor site and this continued for many weeks after T cell injection. Tumor Ag presentation was enhanced in chNKG2D T cell-treated mice, and there were greater numbers of tumor-specific T cells at the tumor site and in draining lymph nodes after treatment with chNKG2D T cells. The increase in host cell cytokine secretion and Ag presentation was dependent on chNKG2D T cell-derived perforin, IFN-γ, and GM-CSF. Host immune mechanisms were involved in tumor elimination because inhibition of tumor growth was limited in mice that lacked perforin, IFN-γ, NK cells, or T and B cells (Rag1−/−). There was no role for host-derived GM-CSF or CD1-dependent NKT cells, because mice deficient in these were able to clear tumors as well as treated wild-type B6 mice. In summary, chNKG2D T cells required both cytotoxicity and cytokine secretion as well as the participation of host immune cells for development of a host antitumor immune response and complete efficacy.
Human Neutrophils Coordinate Chemotaxis by Differential Activation of Rac1 and Rac2
Authors: Zhang Hui , Sun Chunxiang , Glogauer Michael , Bokoch Gary M.
Published: July 2009

Rac1 and Rac2, members of the small Rho GTPase family, play essential roles in coordinating directional migration and superoxide production during neutrophil responses to chemoattractants. Although earlier studies in Rac1 and Rac2 knockout mice have demonstrated unique roles for each Rac isoform in chemotaxis and NADPH oxidase activation, it is still unclear how human neutrophils use Rac1 and Rac2 to achieve their immunological responses to foreign agent stimulation. In the current study, we used TAT dominant-negative Rac1-T17N and Rac2-T17N fusion proteins to acutely alter the activity of Rac1 and Rac2 individually in human neutrophils. We demonstrate distinct activation kinetics and different roles for Rac1 and Rac2 in response to low vs high concentrations of fMLP. These observations were verified using neutrophils from mice in which Rac1 or Rac2 was genetically absent. Based on these results, we propose a model to explain how human neutrophils kill invading microbes while limiting oxidative damage to the adjacent surrounding healthy tissue through the differential activation of Rac1 and Rac2 in response to different concentrations of chemoattractant.
Role of Salmonella enterica Lipopolysaccharide in Activation of Dendritic Cell Functions and Bacterial Containment
Authors: Zenk Sebastian F. , Jantsch Jonathan , Hensel Michael
Published: July 2009

In contrast to nonpathogenic bacteria, the Gram-negative pathogen Salmonella enterica is not eradicated, but persists in murine dendritic cells (DC). The molecular basis of this phenotype is unknown. We set out to characterize bacterial and DC functions that are involved in Salmonella persistence. Our data prove that neither bacterial nor host cell de novo protein biosynthesis is required for Salmonella persistence in DC. We identified the Salmonella O-Ag of the LPS of Salmonella as an important factor for controlling the intracellular fate of Salmonella in DC. A Salmonella strain with entirely absent O-Ag showed an increased rate of uptake by DC, altered intracellular processing, and increased degradation, and also boosted the activation of immune functions of DC. These novel findings demonstrate that in addition to the multiple functions of the bacterial LPS in adaptation to the intestinal environment and protection against innate immune function, this molecule also has an important role in interaction of Salmonella with DC.