bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Desenvolvimento de guias alimentares em diversos países
Authors: Barbosa Roseane Moreira Sampaio , Colares Luciléia Granhen Tavares , Soares Eliane de Abreu
Published: October 2008

Os guias dietéticos baseados nos alimentos têm objetivo de favorecer a educação nutricional, utilizando termos que sejam compreensíveis, simples e claros para a maioria dos consumidores e indicando as modificações necessárias nos padrões alimentares. Este trabalho foi realizado com o objetivo de apresentar uma revisão da literatura sobre o desenvolvimento dos guias alimentares em vários países. Para tanto, foi realizado um levantamento bibliográfico no período de 1991 a 2006 nas bases de dados Medline e Lilacs, utilizando como palavras-chave "guia alimentar", "guia dietético" e "desenvolvimento de guia dietético" com o intuito de aprofundar os seguintes itens: elaboração, avaliação, implantação e problemas metodológicos relacionados ao desenvolvimento dos mesmos. Desde 1996, vêm sendo publicadas orientações pelo Comite de Alimentação e Nutrição/Organização Mundial de Saúde para elaboração dos guias alimentares e vários países os desenvolveram de acordo com essas recomendações, apesar dos diversos problemas metodológicos enfrentados. Após o desenvolvimento dos guias alimentares, os maiores desafios são a implantação e a avaliação. Dentre as estratégias para sua divulgação destaca-se a elaboração de ferramentas de educação nutricional, tais como: representação gráfica, folder, apostila e pôster. Com relação à avaliação dos guias alimentares, poucos países realizaram pesquisas abordando o conhecimento e o entendimento dos consumidores. Conclui-se que o processo de desenvolvimento dos guias alimentares é complexo e é necessário realizar um planejamento para sua implantação e avaliação, esta última devendo se voltar tanto ao entendimento como ao impacto sobre a saúde da população.
Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty in the treatment of renovascular hypertension: sequential prospective study
Authors: Miranda Jr. Fausto , Perez Maria del Carmen Janeiro , Plavnik Frida , Francisco Jr. João , Burihan Emil
Published: October 2008

OBJECTIVE: to evaluate the use of percutaneous transluminal renal angioplasty (PTRA) in the treatment of renal vascular hypertension. DESIGN: sequential prospective PTRA treatment of severe arterial hypertension, screening by the captopril test, confirmed by renal arteriography, and the result evaluated by post-PTRA arteriography, blood pressure measurement and renal function. SITE: Vascular Surgery, angioradiology sector, and Nephrology outpatients department of the Federal University of São Paulo - Paulista School of Medicine, São Paulo, Brazil, a tertiary health-care institution. PARTICIPANTS: PTRA was employed on 32 patients screened by clinical examination, captopril test and renal arteriography. EVALUATION: PTRA results were evaluated by the criteria of the Cooperative Study of Renovascular Hypertension. RESULTS: after PTRA the completion arteriography showed no renal stenosis in 24 patients (75%), residual stenosis (20-50%) in 3 (9.4%) and no change in 5 (15.6%). The blood pressure results were: 3 patients (9.4%) were cured, 24 (75%) improved: and 5 (15.6%) were unchanged. We observed normal renal function before and after PTRA in 25 patients (78%); altered pre- and improved post-PTRA in 2 (6.3%); post-PTRA remained unaltered in 2 (6.3%); and altered pre- and worsened post-PTRA in 3 (9.4%). Recurrence of stenosis occurred in one patient after 8 months. CONCLUSIONS: PTRA is a convenient procedure, relatively safe and an effective complementary method of medical therapy for controlling renovascular hypertension.
Treatment of severe actinic rectitis
Authors: Rossi Benedito Mauro , Nakagawa Wilson Toshihiko , Fernandes José Augusto P. , Lopes Ademar , Paegle Lauma Dzidra
Published: October 2008

BACKGROUND: The authors report the treatment of three female patients with severe actinic rectitis, with stenosis or perforation, submitted to anterior proctosigmoidectomy and transanal coloanal anastomosis. METHODS: In all cases surgery consisted of total proctosigmoidectomy, mucosectomy of the anal canal, lowering of the left colon through the pelvis and transanal anastomosis performed manually at the level of the pectineal line using separate absorbable sutures. A protective intestinal shunt was performed in all cases. RESULTS: The three patients did not present transoperative or immediate postoperative complications, but the first patient developed deep venous thrombosis of the leg that was submitted to successful clinical treatment. The intestinal shunts were later closed in all three cases. Sphincter function was considered very good in the first case and regular in the remaining two. CONCLUSION: The surgical technique utilized was considered to be adequate for the cases reported and is the first option for the maintenance of transit in patients with severe actinic rectitis since the anastomosis is performed using non-irradiated colon with the pectineal line, practically outside the pelvis.
Relapsing polychondritis
Authors: Miyasaka Lincoln Sakiara , Andrade Junior Ary de , Bueno Carlos Eduardo , Atallah Alvaro Nagib
Published: October 2008

PURPOSE: This article describes a clinically-diagnosed case of relapsing polychondritis (RP), attended at the Hospital São Paulo, and presents a literature review of the subject. SOURCE OF RESEARCH: The literature review was made via Medline (1990-96), Lilacs (1980-96), textbooks of rheumatology, and some articles about the history of the disease. In Medline, 113 articles from 1990 to 1996 were found, and there were 23 articles from 1980 to 1996 in Lilacs. RESEARCH PROCEDURE: We reviewed the articles available at BIREME (Biblioteca Regional de Medicina) with the primary focus being on the disease in question. SUMMARY: RP is a rare disease of unknown etiology described initially by Jackson-Wartenhorst in 1923 and characterized by a recurrent and acute inflammatory process that causes the collapse of the cartilaginous structures and their subsequent replacement by fibrous connective tissue. The cartilage most commonly attacked is that of the auricle of the ear and nasal septum, while the cartilage of the trachea, larynx, epiglottis, ribs, and articulations may also be involved. Ocular inflammations and systemic reactions with fever are also described. In 1976, McAdam presented a complete prospective study of 23 patients, reviewed the 136 cases described up until that time, and then proposed diagnostic criteria which were later expanded by Damiani and Levine. Currently, more than 500 cases have been described. CONCLUSION: Although a rare disease, better knowledge of it is needed, as RP may be lethal with tracheal collapse and obstruction of respiratory pathways, making precise diagnosis and adequate therapeutic intervention necessary.
The influence of aggregates on the mechanical characteristics of concrete exposed to fire
Authors: Robert F. , Colina H.
Published: October 2008

In this work, eight types of aggregates that are representative of French production are tested for thermal stability. Afterwards, the influence of this stability on the mechanical characteristic of concrete under fire is studied using strength tests at high temperatures. Two kinds of aggregates, one representative of the siliceous type and the other of the calcareous type, are then selected to perform an experimental programme for studying the evolution of mechanical proprieties of concrete when varying other parameters, principally linked to admixtures (i.e. vibrated or self-compacting concretes). The results of this study are compared to the Eurocode 2-1-2 and the French standard NF P 92-701(known as DTU–FB). A good correlation with the predictions of the standards is found, and the consideration of a single curve for the strength variation with temperature, without distinction between the aggregates, is suggested.
A numerical algorithm for the ITZ area fraction in concrete with elliptical aggregate particles
Authors: Zheng J.J. , Xiong F.F. , Wu Z.M. , Jin W.L.
Published: October 2008

In view of the importance of the interfacial transition zone (ITZ) to the macro-properties of concrete, it is essential to determine the ITZ area fraction in concrete. Once the ITZ area fraction is known, the physico-mechanical properties of concrete can be predicted based on the three-phase composite model. The intention of the present paper is to develop a numerical algorithm for the ITZ area fraction in concrete with elliptical aggregate particles. By introducing a contact function for two ellipses, the elliptical aggregate particles with various sizes are distributed within a square element with periodic boundary conditions. The Monte Carlo method is then adopted to evaluate the ITZ area fraction. After verifying the developed numerical algorithm with the analytical solution for the ITZ area fraction in concrete with circular aggregate particles, the effects of key factors that affect the ITZ area fraction are examined in a quantitative manner. It is found in the paper that the ITZ area fraction increases with the increase of the ITZ thickness, but decreases with the increase of the maximum aggregate diameter and the ratio between the major and minor axes of elliptical aggregate particles. It is also found that the aggregate gradation has a significant influence on the ITZ area fraction. The paper concludes that the numerical algorithm presented in the paper can predict the ITZ area fraction with reasonable accuracy.
Plastic disproportionate collapse at lost corner columns
Authors: Gurley C.
Published: October 2008

This paper deploys an existing method for the simple rigid-plastic hand calculation of slab yield-line mechanisms to address the wider problem of disproportionate collapse at lost columns in multi-storey buildings. Floor systems will be treated as grillages combining torsion-free (Hillerborg) slabs and torsion-free beams. The aim is to achieve an understanding that transcends reliance on non-linear finite element software but does not compete with it. This paper deals with lost corner columns, which are the columns most at risk; the approach can be extended to other columns.
Landfill modelling challenge: HBM model predictions
Authors: McDougall J.
Published: October 2008

Two laboratory-scale consolidating anaerobic reactors were commissioned, constructed and monitored by Southampton University's waste research group to investigate the long-term behaviour of decomposing waste. The reactor tests were run for 919 days while leachate quality, gas production and surface settlement were monitored. After releasing information on initial conditions and some early data on volatile fatty acid, a challenge was issued to landfill modellers to predict the behaviour of the waste over the remaining period. This paper describes the use of the HBM model in response to the challenge.
Review of responses to a landfill modelling challenge
Authors: Beaven R. P.
Published: October 2008

This paper reviews the responses from various international research groups to a challenge to model and predict the performance of a well-constrained laboratory experiment on the settlement and biodegradation of municipal solid waste (MSW). The paper outlines and compares the modelling approaches taken by the various groups and compares their predictions against actual long-term data from the experiment. The opportunity to compare models side-by-side against a common dataset has been extremely valuable in highlighting differences in approach, input parameters and identifying areas that need further investigation. One of the main differences identified related to hydrolysis, with three different algorithms used. Within the context of this modelling challenge it was not clear which was the appropriate formulation to use and thus the need for further work in this area was highlighted. This is also an example where the need to standardise on one pathway (or algorithm) could be investigated. There appears to be a clear imperative for settlement models to include a component for mechanical creep. An objective of the modelling challenge was to create a framework by which various models can be compared and act as a starting point for discussion and further collaboration in the future. This paper forms a starting point to this process.
Assessment of the anaerobic biodegradation potential of MSW
Authors: Ivanova L. K. , Richards D. J. , Smallman D. J.
Published: October 2008

A series of laboratory tests was performed to characterise the anaerobic biodegradation potential of a fresh well-characterised sample of municipal solid waste (MSW). This characterisation included measurement of the quality and quantity of biogas produced, determination of the loss of cellulose and hemicellulose (as indicated by measurements of neutral detergent fibre (NDF) and acid detergent fibre (ADF)) and assessment of various leachate chemical characteristics at key phases during the biodegradation process. Twelve 1-litre high-density polyethylene reactors were filled with 100 g of prepared MSW together with a methanogenic mineral media and a bacterial seed derived from an anaerobic digester. Two other reactors, containing no MSW, were used as blanks. Relationships between the chemical composition of the waste and the capacity for predicting the biochemical methane potential (BMP) of fresh waste are discussed. The methane recovery is presented and discussed in the context of the theoretical yield expected from these reactors and from larger consolidating anaerobic reactors (CARs) used in a parallel study.
Physical Exercise as Interoceptive Exposure Within a Brief Cognitive-Behavioral Treatment for Anxiety-Sensitive Women
Authors: Sabourin Brigitte C. , Stewart Sherry H. , Sherry Simon B. , Watt Margo C. , Wald Jaye , Grant Valerie V.
Published: October 2008

A brief cognitive-behavioral treatment intervention that included an interoceptive exposure (IE) component was previously demonstrated effective in decreasing fear of anxiety-related sensations in high anxiety-sensitive (AS) women (see Watt, Stewart, Birch, & Bernier, 2006). The present process-based study explored the specific role of the IE component, consisting of 10 minutes of physical exercise (i.e., running) completed on 10 separate occasions, in explaining intervention efficacy. Affective and cognitive reactions and objective physiological reactivity to the running, recorded after each IE trial, were initially higher in the 20 high-AS participants relative to the 28 low-AS participants and decreased over IE trials in high-AS but not in low-AS participants. In contrast, self-reported somatic reactions, which were initially greater in the high-AS participants, decreased equally in both AS groups over IE trials. Findings were consistent with the theorized cognitive and/or habituation pathways to decreased AS.
Developing Nitrogen Fertilizer Recommendations for Corn Using an Active Sensor
Authors: Dellinger Adam E. , Schmidt John P. , Beegle Doug B.
Published: October 2008

Producers often overapply N fertilizer to corn (Zea mays L.) because of the uncertainty in predicting the economic optimum nitrogen rate (EONR). Remote sensing represents a potential opportunity to reduce this uncertainty with an in‐season assessment of crop N status. This study examines the relationship between EONR and reflectance from a ground‐based sensor, and considers its potential for developing sidedress N recommendations for corn. Four fields with unique cropping histories were planted to corn during each of 2 yr. Three preplant whole plot treatments (control, 56 kg N ha−1 as NH4NO3, and manure) were used to create a range of N availability. Split plot treatments included seven sidedress rates (0, 22, 45, 90, 135, 180, and 280 kg N ha−1) and one preplant rate (280 kg N ha−1) as NH4NO3. The EONR for the sidedress N rates was determined for each whole plot treatment at each site. A ground‐based active sensor was used at the sixth‐ to seventh‐leaf growth stage (V6–V7) to collect reflectance data at 590 and 880 nm, which were then used to calculate the Green Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (GNDVI). The EONRs for sidedress N application for the 24 preplant treatment–site combinations ranged from 0 to 202 kg N ha−1. The EONR was strongly related to relative GNDVI (r2 = 0.84) for the control and manure preplant treatments; but unrelated when NH4NO3 was applied at planting (r2 = 0.20). Developing sidedress N recommendations for corn using an active sensor could be an effective N management tool in Pennsylvania.
Relationships between Immobilized Phosphorus Uptake in Two Grain Legumes and Soil Bioactive Phosphorus Pools in Fertilized and Manure‐Amended Soil
Authors: Rao S. C. , Dao T. H.
Published: October 2008

Mixing P‐immobilizing additives with manure has raised concerns of irreversible reduction in P availability to growing crops. A potted plant growth experiment was conducted to characterize cattle manure P mineralization as modified by iron amendments and uptake by pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan L. Millsp.) and soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.]. Triple superphosphate, untreated, or manure amended with Fe at 1:1 or 1:3 molar ratio of manure P:Fe, was applied to Dale silt loam (fine‐silty, mixed, superactive, thermic Pachic Haplustolls) at the rate of 20 mg kg−1. Whole plants were harvested at three stages of development (vegetative, flowering, and physiological maturity) to determine and correlate P uptake to changes in soil bioactive P pools over the growing season. Dry matter production was unaffected by Fe at both application rates. Phosphorus solubility and plant uptake were reduced at the 1:3 P:Fe molar ratio rate, in spite of the legumes' reported ability to secrete siderophores. Within‐season changes in bioactive P fractions indicated that P was taken up from the inorganic (water‐extractable P [WEP] + inorganic ligand‐exchangeable P [EEPi]) pools. Comparing soil P pools in cropped and noncropped soils, the decrease in the organic phosphohydrolase‐labile P (PHP) pool corroborated the fact that the PHP pool replenished the WEP + EEPi fractions. Although Mehlich 3 P and EEPi were related, the Mehlich 3 P pool showed no significant relationship with whole plant or any plant part P. The latter did not perform as well as the EEPi pool in assessing plant availability and enzymatically mediated turnover of immobilized P.
Dairy Manure Compost Effects on Corn Silage Production and Soil Properties
Authors: Butler Twain J. , Han Kun J. , Muir James P. , Weindorf David C. , Lastly Laura
Published: October 2008

Accumulation of dairy manure compost has created a need to identify alternative uses for this plant nutrient source. This field study determined compost effects on corn (Zea maysL.) silage production, nutritive value, and soil characteristics for three growing seasons following incorporation of dairy manure compost at 0, 35, 70, and 105 Mg dry matter (DM) ha−1. Yields from subplots receiving annual split applications of supplemental inorganic N at 224 or 336 kg ha−1yr−1were not different. Compost at 35 Mg ha−1with supplemental inorganic N fertilizer produced equivalent amounts of DM to that of conventional inorganic fertilizer (IF: 336–49–93 kg ha−1, N‐P‐K) for the first 2 yr. By the third year, the IF treatment produced 17% more DM than the 105 Mg compost treatment (pooled across N rates). Corn silage nutritive values generally did not differ among compost and IF treatments. By the third year, compost applications >35 Mg ha−1raised soil pH 2.3 units and increased electrical conductivity (EC) 50% compared to IF. Three years after compost application, soil P and K concentrations were still greater in plots receiving 70 and 105 Mg compost ha−1compared to both the check and IF plots. Soil organic matter (OM) increased with compost rates over 35 Mg ha−1the first season after application, but did not differ after the second season compared to IF. Compared to IF, dairy manure compost can improve soil nutrients for 3 yr; however, it can also increase soil EC and pH, which may be beneficial or detrimental.
Organic Amendment History and Crop Rotation Effects on Soil Nitrogen Mineralization Potential and Soil Nitrogen Supply in a Potato Cropping System
Authors: Sharifi Mehdi , Zebarth Bernie J. , Burton David L. , Grant Cynthia A. , Porter Greg A.
Published: October 2008

Crop management practices influence readily and potentially available N in soil. In this study, we evaluated the effects of organic amendment history and crop rotation on potentially mineralizable N (N0), mineralizable N pools, and field estimates of soil N supply in potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) production, and evaluated a suite of N availability measures to detect changes in these parameters. Preplant soil samples (top 15‐cm) were collected from the potato year of a rotation trial in Maine during 2004 and 2005. Treatments included three crop rotations, with and without a history of organic amendment [solid beef (Bos taurus) manure] application: PB, potato‐barley (Hordeum vulgare L.); PSPB, potato‐soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.]‐potato‐barley; and PSBA/T, potato‐soybean‐barley‐alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.)/timothy (Phleum pratense L.). The N0 and mineralizable N pools were determined by aerobic incubation at 25°C and periodic leaching for 24 wk with a fixed‐k approach. On average, historically amended soil had 35% higher values of N0, and an 8% higher proportion of mineralizable N partitioned to the stable mineralizable N pool, compared with nonamended soil. Lower values of N0, mineralizable N pools and some measures of N availability were measured in PSBA/T compared with PB and PSPB rotations. All tested measures of N availability detected management‐induced changes in N0 and mineralizable N pools. The preplant nitrate, UV absorbance of 0.01 M NaHCO3 extract at 205 nm and particulate organic matter (POM)‐N were the best predictors of field‐based indices of soil N supply (r2 = 0.50 to 0.73). Management‐induced changes in the size and quality of mineralizable N should be considered in developing best N management programs through organic amendment application and crop rotations.
Defoliation of Panicled Tick‐Clover, Tweedy's Tick‐Clover, and Tall Bush‐Clover: I. Winter Survival and Yields of Nitrogen, Herbage, and Seed
Authors: Muir James P. , Bow J. Randal
Published: October 2008

Few native herbaceous perennial warm‐season legumes are available for cultivation in the southern United States. Additional germplasm would be useful for pastures, biomass production, wildlife plantings, rangeland reseeding, or native prairie restoration. Three native perennial legumes were selected from an initial screening of north‐central Texas germplasm for potential domestication based on successful establishment, ease of seed harvest, and herbage production. Response to herbage removal was evaluated by measuring forage yield when clipped at 10‐, 20‐, and 40‐cm height (whenever regrowth exceeded 20 cm) over three seasons in 2‐ by 2‐m plots with 0.5 m between plants. Tall bush‐clover (Lespedeza stuevei Nutt.) was the slowest to establish but was as productive (P > 0.05) as panicled tick‐clover [Desmodium paniculatum (L.) DC.] by the third year (28 g plant−1 at the 10‐cm clipping). Panicled tick‐clover produced 160 g plant−1 during the second year at the 20‐cm harvest, the height at which the greatest (P < 0.05) yields were measured; by the third year at this harvest intensity, the same plants only yielded 27 g. Panicled tick‐clover clipped at 20 cm in Year 2 produced the greatest amount of harvested N, 4.44 g plant−1, compared to other entries (average of 0.90 g). Seed numbers, measured in Years 2 and 3, were greatest (P < 0.05) for no‐clip bush‐clover plants (2470 seed plant−1) during the second year and lowest (4–506 seed) for the panicled tick‐clover regardless of clipping or year. These three native North American legumes show some tolerance to herbage removal and potential for both forage and seed production in their region of origin.
Corn Belt Assessment of Cover Crop Management and Preferences
Authors: Singer Jeremy W.
Published: October 2008

Surveying end‐users about their use of technologies and preferences provides information for researchers and educators to develop relevant research and educational programs. A mail survey was sent to Corn Belt farmers during 2006 to quantify cover crop management and preferences. Results indicated that the dominant cereal cover crops in Indiana and Illinois are winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and cereal rye (Secale cereale L.), cereal rye and oat (Avena sativa L.) in Iowa, and oat in Minnesota. Legumes were used more frequently in Indiana and Illinois, and red clover (Trifolium pratense L.) was the dominant choice across the region. Farmers relied solely on herbicides 54% of the time to kill cover crops. Ninety‐three percent of respondents indicated that they received no cost sharing for using cover crops and 14% indicated that they would plant cover crops on rented land. Corn Belt farmers prefer cover crops that overwinter (68%) and fix N (64%). The information provided in this survey supplements existing knowledge that can be used to develop relevant research and educational programs to address agronomic production systems that include cover crops.
Macro- and microscale gaseous diffusion in a Stagnic Luvisol as affected by compaction and reduced tillage
Authors: SIMOJOKI A. , FAZEKAS-BECKER O. , HORN R.
Published: October 2008

Intensification of mechanical agriculture has increased the risk for soil compaction and deformation. Simultaneously, reduced tillage practices have become popular due to energy saving and environmental concerns, as they may strengthen and improve the functioning of structured soil pore system. Soil aeration is affected by both compaction and reduced tillage through changes in soil structure and in the distribution of easily decomposable organic matter. We investigated whether a single wheeling by a 35 000 kg sugar-beet harvester in a Stagnic Luvisol derived from loess near Göttingen, Germany, influenced the gas transport properties (air permeability, gaseous macro- and microdiffusivities, oxygen diffusion rate) in the topsoil and subsoil samples, and whether the effects were different between long-term reduced tillage and mouldboard ploughing. Poor structure in the topsoil resulted in slow macro- and microscale gas transport at moisture contents near field capacity. The macrodiffusivities in the topsoil under conventional tillage were slower compared with those under conservation treatment, and soil compaction reduced the diffusivities by about half at the soil depths studied. This shows that even one pass with heavy machinery near field capacity impairs soil structure deep into the profile, and supports the view that reduced tillage improves soil structure and aeration compared with ploughing, especially in the topsoil.;
Properties and cleanability of new and traditional surface materials in cattle barns - a field study
Authors: KUISMA R. , KYMÄLÄINEN H-R. , HELLSTEDT M.
Published: October 2008

In this study surface properties and cleanability of new and traditional surface materials in cattle barns were examined in a field test. The concrete and plastic-coated samples were placed on a walking path on the floor and on a feeding table in a cattle barn. The surfaces were characterized using colorimetric and gloss measurements and determination of topography. In most cases, the colour of the surfaces placed on the floor darkened during the one year study period, whereas the colour changes of the samples placed on the feeding table did not show a similar trend. However, in both locations the plastic-coated surfaces were generally the easiest to clean, and the highest colour changes indicating soil residues were detected on the uncoated and silane-impregnated concrete surfaces. The difference between the locations was also seen in the gloss values, which increased in the samples placed on the floor during the one-year test period but varied considerably between the different materials on the surfaces placed on the feeding table. This field study confirmed the observation from earlier laboratory studies that plastic coatings improved the cleanability of concrete cattle barn surfaces. Silane impregnation was not functionally competitive with the plastic coatings. In general, the cleanability results were in accordance with the results of previous laboratory experiments but the field study provided practical information about the behaviour of the surface materials examined.;
Policy-related transaction costs of agricultural policies in Finland
Authors: OLLIKAINEN M. , LANKOSKI J. , NUUTINEN S.
Published: October 2008

This paper assesses policy-related transaction costs (PRTC) associated with the main agricultural and agri-environmental policy instruments in Finland. We find that area-based income support measures entail low transaction costs as expressed in percent of payments, not only in Finland but also in other European countries. Moreover, transaction costs in the Finnish agri-environmental programme are surprisingly low. Within the agri-environmental programme, transaction costs increase with more targeted and differentiated agri-environmental measures. For the basic mandatory measures, these costs are even lower than the transaction costs for the area-based income support measures. What regards the most differentiated policy measures such as conservation of special biotopes or establishment of riparian buffer zones, transaction costs increase considerably. Combining these findings with the actual targets of the Finnish agricultural policies provides indirect evidence about the impacts of policy instruments and the efficiency of administration in implementing the instruments. For area-based income support measures, the Finnish administration seems to work very efficiently. For water protection targets, enforcement and division of labour within the administration seem to be insufficient.;
GPE 2007 - Utilization of the Coagulation Diagram in the Evaluation of the Natural Organic Matter (NOM) Removal for Obtaining Potable Water
Authors: Konradt Moraes Leila C , Bergamasco Rosangela , Tavares Célia Granhen , Hennig Dillaine , Carvalho Bongiovani Milene
Published: October 2008

The natural organic matter (NOM) is a mixture of many organic compounds that can be dispersed in superficial water. The NOM is due to the compounds formed in the biologic degradation process of the vegetable organic matter and its interaction with the clay and the other hydrographic basin soil constituents, besides algae and other microorganism activity. Many researchers have obtained results that indicate that the coagulation/flocculation process is an effective process in the NOM reduction without committing the non-stabilization colloidal particles. So, with the intuit to guarantee a better final water quality in the water treatment plants, different studies were evaluated based on the coagulation diagram for obtaining the best concentration of the chitosan coagulant as function of the pH for the NOM removal for obtaining potable water. The data for the coagulation diagram construction will be obtained by a series of tests in a jar-test apparatus. Different concentrations of the coagulant solution (0.1% w/v of chitosan) will be studied. The pH will be varied (4.0  8.5) with sodium hydroxide solution (NaOH) and hydrochloric acid (HCl) 25 and 50%. The rapid mixture gradient, the coagulation time, the slow mixture gradient and the flocculation time will be maintained constant during this experiment. The process efficiency will be evaluated by the color, turbidity and compounds with absorption in UV-254nm removal. The best results of removal were found for the chitosan in the concentration of 1.0mg/L and pH between 4.0-5.0, approximately.
Security Aspects in Verification of the Safety Integrity Level of Distributed Control and Protection Systems
Authors: Tomasz Barnert , Kazimierz Kosmowski , Marcin Śliwiński
Published: October 2008

Security Aspects in Verification of the Safety Integrity Level of Distributed Control and Protection Systems

The article addresses some important issues of the functional safety analysis, namely the safety integrity level (SIL) verification of distributed control and protection systems with regard to security aspects. A quantitative method for SIL (IEC 61508) verification, based on so called differential factors, is presented. Taking into account SIL and the evaluation assurance level (EAL), which concerns the level of information security within entire system, two parametrical criterion function is defined for the SIL verification.
Study of Aircraft Wing Flap Hydraulic System Dynamics Under Damages Due to Operating an Aircraft
Authors: Błachnio Józef , Gronczewski Andrzej
Published: October 2008

Study of Aircraft Wing Flap Hydraulic System Dynamics Under Damages Due to Operating an Aircraft

The paper indicates the main reasons for faulty operation of aeroplane wing flap hydraulic systems. A mathematical model of the wing flap dynamics has been presented, allowing an analysis of a simulation study taking into account damages due to usual wear and tear during operating of a plane.
The Combinatorial Diagnostic Entropy and Symptoms' Informativity
Authors: Borowczyk Henryk
Published: October 2008

The Combinatorial Diagnostic Entropy and Symptoms' Informativity

This paper presents combinatorial measures of the system condition uncertainty (diagnostic entropy) and the diagnostic symptoms' informativity. The multi-valued diagnostic model has been assumed. Proposed measures can be used in the manner similar to Shannon entropy use for the diagnostic model analysis and the diagnostic algorithm planning process.
Semi-Markov Models of Safety of the Renewal Systems Operation
Authors: Franciszek Grabski , Jerzy Jaźwiński
Published: October 2008

Semi-Markov Models of Safety of the Renewal Systems Operation

Usually, the renewal systems are mathematically described by the alternating renewal process, which is special case of the semi-Markov process. It allows us to find the basic reliability characteristics like the renewal function, the operational availability of the system and many other. Many papers are devoted to that problem. Very often the operation of the system is perturbed by the danger events. The operation process of the system is broken or stopped. In that case we can say that the unsafety event occurred. Semi-Markov model of the safety of operation is constructed in this paper. The safety characteristics of the system operation are calculated by using the properties of the semi-Markov processes.
The Application of Risk Analysis in the Assessment and Management of Road Safety in Road Tunnels
Authors: Jamroz Kazimierz
Published: October 2008

The Application of Risk Analysis in the Assessment and Management of Road Safety in Road Tunnels

Road tunnels are highly sensitive to disturbance caused by road accidents. The most serious accidents occurring in tunnels involve trucks carrying hazardous materials. Europe has been developing methods of risk analysis and building models for traffic management in tunnels. Poland is only just beginning to build road tunnels and the area of tunnel safety has not been given adequate attention yet.
Problems of Identification of Operation Processes for Low Cost Carriers
Authors: Kierzkowski Artur
Published: October 2008

Problems of Identification of Operation Processes for Low Cost Carriers

Article discusses chosen aspects of low cost carriers airships' operation. Proper planning of net connection is one of the most important factor of their functioning as well as the creation of the ideal maintenance schedules. Reasonable service system, dedicated to maintain high aircrafts' airworthiness, seems, however, to be feasible to create. Important factors influencing the process of airships' operation are highlighted: port slot, sectorial capacity, base maintenance, line maintenance. Moreover, further directions of research are also described in the final part of the article.
The Safety of Ship During Berthing Manoeuvre Process to the Quay
Authors: Galor Wiesław
Published: October 2008

The Safety of Ship During Berthing Manoeuvre Process to the Quay

The berthing of ship to the quay is last stage of navigation advance. An ideal manoeuvre would be consisted in a total loss of speed at the moment the ship makes contact with the quay. The accident can happened as results of unwanted ship's strike to the quay. In results, the damage of ship's hull or port structure can occur. It can happened when will be exceeding the admissible energy during contact the ship-quay. The fenders improve the safety of berthing operations by partially absorbing the kinetic energy of ship. The paper presents the analysis of risk of accident when ship berthing. Besides, the possibility of its decreasing by use of fenders will be considered.
New Technologies for Air Traffic Security
Authors: Loroch Leszek , Żyluk Andrzej
Published: October 2008

New Technologies for Air Traffic Security

Security of increasing intensity of air traffic requires significant technological support. In Europe, the dynamics of this phenomenon will be additionally stimulated by implementation of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) into the air traffic. For effective operation of aircraft fleet it is necessary to employ new on-board diagnostic devices and flight recorders in order to evaluate technical condition of aircraft's instrumentation. Reducing the pilots' workload requires the development of new integrated digital avionics. On the other hand, in order to make the air traffic more secure, it is necessary to develop "sense and avoid" systems not only for UAVs, but for piloted aircraft, as well. On-ground support requires the effective airport/airfield protection and keeping airfield pavements well-maintained and safe.
Safety of Flying in the Air in Aspect of Using Electronic Warfare Device
Authors: Masiewicz Mariusz , Loroch Leszek
Published: October 2008

Safety of Flying in the Air in Aspect of Using Electronic Warfare Device

The paper presents some problems of the safety of military air forces in the area of enemy air defence. Recently, this problem has become one of the most important issues of fighting against terrorists. Presented are some threats and techniques of fighting them. On the grounds of the threats analysis in the air defence areas, the author tries to predict safety condition in function of the quality and effectiveness of an onboard electronic warfare system.
The Numerical Analysis of Weldability in the Design and Technological Processes Influence on the Exploitation Condition and Quality
Authors: Ranatowski Eugeniusz , Muślewski Łukasz
Published: October 2008

The Numerical Analysis of Weldability in the Design and Technological Processes Influence on the Exploitation Condition and Quality

Numerical weldability analysis is a new powerful research and development tool which is useful for metallurgists, technologist and design engineers. Saying strictly the numerical analysis of weldability comprises thermodynamic, thermomechanical and microstructural modelling of the welding process. The result of this analysis is material susceptibility (SU). The fracture resistance of welded joints is mainly characterised by normalised parameters:KIth/ KIC; δ / δc, J / Jc;in the exploitation condition. From above-mentioned equations results that does not exist one global parameter which defines the step of susceptibility SU of base materials has been also executed with use of SINTAP program and Computational Welding Mechanics (CWM).
Functional and Operational Structures of the Motorway Telematics System
Authors: Wawrzyński Wojciech , Siergiejczyk Mirosław
Published: October 2008

Functional and Operational Structures of the Motorway Telematics System

The paper presents the issues relating to the identification of functional and operational structures of the motorway telematics system. General functional structure of the motorway telematics system has been presented, as well as its components used for transmission, transfer and reception of information. Then, the information flow process has been shown for a selected group of telematics services during the tolling process.
Reliability Analysis of Water Distribution Subsystem
Authors: Izabela Zimoch
Published: October 2008

Reliability Analysis of Water Distribution Subsystem

This paper presents results of detailed reliability analysis of water distribution subsystem operation of Krakow city. Basis of the research was wide base of information of occurred failures during exploitation (1996-2006). These analysis included evaluation of basic factors such as: failure and renovation intensities, mean recovery time and mean time to failure, availability factor and probability of failure-free operation at any time. Moreover, it was performed wide analysis of failure capability of pipes as a function of its diameter and material. The paper consists also of research results of occurred piping failures reasons and consequences.
Psychiatric Morbidity among Asian Students at an Australian University
Authors: Karthigasu K. T. , Kidd C. B.
Published: October 2008

A quesionnaire survey was made to enquire into the mental health status of 243 Southeast Asian students who were pursuing full-time courses for bachelor degrees at the University of Western Australia. The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of reported nervous complaints among these students and to examine the factors that influence this. The rates for self-declaration of nervous complaints was 21.6 per cent for men and 46.2 per cent for women. Analyses of their significant characteristics showed that predominantly medical factors—the attributes of neurosis-prone individuals anywhere—were associated with high case rates, while personal, social and demographic factors specific to them as overseas students were not.
Facilitation of Noradrenaline Uptake by Lithium
Authors: Pomeroy A. , Rand M. J.
Published: October 2008

It has been suggested that lithium exerts its antimanic effect by facilitation of noradrenaline uptake into adrenergic neurones. Evidence in support of this hypothesis has been obtained from pharmacological experiments in which the effects of lithium were observed on isolated tissue preparations and in whole animals. The effectiveness of lithium in facilitating the uptake of noradrenaline was greater under conditions of reduced noradrenaline uptake, as in the presence of cocaine, than under control conditions.
Sex Distribution in Sibships
Authors: Lindsay J. S. B.
Published: October 2008

There is available an extensive literature relating to birth order and its possible effect on the incidence of psychiatric disorder, on character, or on patterns of personality development. Little attention has been given to the distribution of sex within sibships. A study is reported on the sibships of 400 consecutive psychiatric admissions. The preceding sibships show an increase in same sexed members. This effect is most obvious in larger sibships and for the penultimate member. This may be due to a series of children of the same sex born into a family. Finally a child of the desired opposite sex is born and the family completed.
Serotonin and Severe Affective Disorders
Authors: McLeod W. R. , McLeod M. F.
Published: October 2008

Monoamines have been associated with affective disorders following observations with mood elevating and mood depressing drugs. In addition, abnormalities in the metabolism of the biogenic amines have been reported in these illnesses. Experimental studies on animals have further supported the view that both catecholamines and indoleamines are important for the maintenance of normal mood states. The monoamine hypothesis of affective disorders states that severe depression is associated with a relative deficiency of brain monoamines, while clinical improvement follows correction of this deficit. The converse applies to mania and antimanic treatments. The evidence for these assertions is critically examined, and pertinent experimental observations will be discussed. The monoamine hypotheses of Brodie and of Dewhurst are examined to integrate the findings reported, and the biogenic amines will be shown to be only part of a more complex biochemical disturbance involving the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical system.
If Cows Could Fly
Authors: Brunton W. A.
Published: October 2008

An historian examines the administration of the first Inspector of Lunatic Asylums in New Zealand, from 1876–1881. Dr Frederick Skae killed himself in an endeavour to reform the asylums. Inadequate statutory powers, and lessons he learned while medical superintendent of a Scottish asylum, hindered and prevented his success. In New Zealand, he was ensnared by the problem of insufficient accommodation. The policies he selected to cope with this matter were surprisingly conservative. Aspects of his policies remain today, and Skae must be blamed for retarding the evolution of a successful mental health policy in New Zealand.
Transference in a Group with Different Therapists
Authors: Dinnen Anthony , Bell David S.
Published: October 2008

A long-term psychotherapcutic group was conducted by a “substitute” therapist on each occasion that the senior therapist was absent. The group reacted to these temporary absences in an indirect fashion, and this became more apparent after the senior therapist finally terminated his association with the group. These phases are designated as “therapist substitution” and “therapist replacement”. The observations of the group's behaviour are discussed with reference to the changed nature and function of transference in group psychotherapy with multiple therapists.
The Significance of an Abnormal EEG in Psychopathic Personalities
Authors: Harper M. A. , Morris Marion , Bleyerveld Jean
Published: October 2008

The clinical features of 100 patients with psychopathic personalities presenting to an acute psychiatric service are described. Neurotic symptoms were frequently found to co-exist with psychopathic traits. Fifty-three patients had abnormal electroencephalograms. The abnormalities were significantly negatively correlated with age, and positively with the occurrence of epileptic convulsions, but few other significant clinical correlates were found. It is suggested that an abnormal EEG may be positively misleading if misinterpreted as evidence of epilepsy or of an “organic” disorder. The medico-legal and therapeutic implications of this conclusion are discussed. It is suggested that environmental deprivation may be one of the factors responsible for the delay in electroencephalographic maturation so frequently found in psychopaths.
Punishment, Treatment or Quarantine: Some Problems in Social Defence
Authors: Bingham E. M.
Published: October 2008

Changing ideas in the disposition of offenders range from “Crime and Punishment” through “Punishment or Treatment?” towards “Social Defence”. Attention is increasingly focused on offenders who have behavioural and mental abnormalities but are not presently regarded as treatable. The resistance from lawyers and correctional personnel to the shift of emphasis away from the interests of the individual patient towards the preservation of community interests is parallel to that of the medical profession. Legal changes which will enhance the status of psychiatric diagnosis and treatment will be delayed unless psychiatrists can demonstrate empirically confirmed advances in management which can be demonstrated to the courts.
The Psychiatrist as Administrator
Authors: Shea Peter
Published: October 2008

This paper deals with some of the problems of the psychiatrist working within an institutional setting. Reference is made to the distinction between psychiatric administrators and administrative therapists, and the hypothesis is put forward that a degree of management training is as necessary for the latter as it is for the former. Examples are given of some of the management problems that an administrative therapist might have to deal with and suggestions are made as to how a suitable course in middle management for psychiatrists might be designed and implemented.