bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A neural network approach to the modelling and analysis of stereolithography processes
Authors: Lee S H , Park W S , Cho H S , Zhang W , Leu M C
Published: April 2011

Stereolithography has attracted more attention due to better part build accuracy than other rapid prototyping technologies. However, this build method still limits wider applications due to the unsatisfactory level of dimensional accuracy that remains with the current technology. To improve accuracy and reduce part distortion, understanding the physics involved in the relationship between the operating input parameters and the part dimensional accuracy is prerequisite. In this paper, this causality is identified through a process model obtained via an artificial neural network based upon 140 actual build parts. The network is so constructed that it relates the process input parameters to part dimensional accuracy. The neural network model is found to predict the effects of the input parameters on the accuracy with reasonable accuracy. The prediction performance is discussed in detail for various process parameter ranges.
Swept volume with self-intersection for five-axis ball-end milling
Authors: Jung Y-H , So B-S , Lee K , Hwang S-M
Published: April 2011

The generation of a volume swept by a tool along its path, called the swept volume, is indispensable for the volumetric simulation of five-axis machining. In some cases of five-axis machining, the swept volume may be self-intersecting, which requires special processing to handle the geometric and topological problems due to complex tool motion. In this work, an algorithm is proposed for generating the swept volume, including the self-intersection case for five-axis ball-end milling, based on triangle strip representation. The proposed algorithm has various applications such as interference detection in assembly design, and visualization of manipulator motions in robotics.
Application of transactional analysis in supply chain networks: A potential holonic mediating tool
Authors: Dani S , Backhouse C J , Burns N D
Published: April 2011

The aim of the research detailed in this paper is to model and ultimately to improve the relationships that occur between individuals transacting across organization boundaries in supply chain networks and/or virtual partnerships. Opportunistic behaviour and/or repetitive patterns of behavioural actions, resulting in gamesmanship, are explored to determine whether, under certain situations, the behaviours lead to win-lose situations and reduced trust. Transactional analysis (TA) is used to model games, which have been identified and observed in collaborating industrial partners. The experiments carried out to date have led to the formation of a preliminary relationship model which can be used, firstly, to identify correlations to the established library of TA games and hence, secondly, to investigate methods of mitigating the effect of some of the more negative form of games. It is proposed that this technique can be used as a mediating tool within holonic manufacturing systems or, at the ultimate, result in the establishment of relationship holons that could establish and maintain standardized co-operative patterns of behaviour between interacting partners, or holons, in the supply chain.
Strategies and case studies in assembly system selection
Authors: Swift K G , Booker J D , Edmondson N F
Published: April 2011

Selecting the most appropriate assembly system can offer enormous benefits in terms of product quality, cost reduction and manufacturing productivity. However, selecting the right system for a product depends on a large number of factors and is not a simple problem. Its solution requires considerable expertise and there is a lack of systematic approaches to support decision making in this area. The paper presents a strategy for selecting assembly systems for a product based on technological and economic considerations, including component and assembly design, component variability and production conditions. Application of the strategy is illustrated through the use of a number of industrial case studies across a range of business sectors. The case study reference data are provided in a common format to enable businesses to compare in the selection process.
Madrid tram-train feasibility study conclusions
Authors: Novales M , Orro A , Bugarin M. R.
Published: April 2011

The tram-train concept consists of the operation of a light rail system that can run either on existing or new tramway tracks, or on existing railway tracks, so that the services of urban public transport can be extended towards the region over these existing railway tracks, with much lower costs than if a completely new line were built. The authors have developed a research project about the feasibility of such a system in Madrid (Spain), extending newly created light rail networks through local Renfe (National Railways) lines, or through the Metrosur line (a circular metro line of new construction in the south of the city). The aim of the paper is to explain the conclusions of this research project in relation to the main technical issues that must be solved to develop this system.
Thermodynamic performance study of an integrated gasification fuel cell combined cycle: An energy analysis
Authors: Ghosh S , De S
Published: April 2011

In this paper, an energy analysis of an integrated gasification combined cycle (IGCC) with a high-temperature, pressurized solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) in the topping cycle and a single-pressure nonreheat steam bottoming cycle has been presented. The objective is to identify the components responsible for major exergy losses and to optimize the design and operating parameters with respect to second law performance of the combined cycle. This analysis reveals that the gasifier and SOFC contribute to the major part of the total exergy loss arising from the gasification and electrochemical reactions occurring respectively in these components. A higher pressure ratio across the gas turbine is found to reduce exergy losses in the gasifier, SOFC, and the stack. On the other hand, higher SOFC operating temperature is found to increase the exergy losses in the combustion chamber, economizer, and stack, while it decreases the loss in the SOFC.
A step further in gas turbine dynamic simulation
Authors: da Cunha Alves M. A. , Barbosa J. R.
Published: April 2011

Non-proprietary gas turbine transient performance models that deal with volume dynamics in the open literature usually do not consider heat transfer effects and friction existing in the volume walls. Such models are more than satisfactory for the analysis of aero gas turbines because the associated volumes of their components are inherently small and therefore treated as adiabatic, frictionless and passing low Mach number flows. When focusing upon gas turbines with heat exchangers, such as those working on regenerative cycles, on the other hand, these simplifying hypotheses may not be valid. The analysis model suggested in this work takes account of non-adiabatic volume dynamics with friction and high Mach number flows. The model is applied to the study of a regenerative-cycle gas turbine, through which the need for a more complete analysis model is demonstrated. The result of the study showed that the regenerator cold section volume has a greater influence on the dynamics than the hot section volume, this causing the power output. Friction has little influence on the dynamic response but causes a decrease in the steady state power output, as expected. Heat exchange also reduces the power output and lowers the transient engine surge margin.
Realistic evaluation as an avenue to learning for development NGOs
Authors: Holma Katariina , Kontinen Tiina
Published: April 2011

The rise of evidence-based policy-making has created pressures on the evaluation activities of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs). In tandem with the demands from outside, NGOs themselves have improved their evaluation activities due to their own desire to learn. This article was motivated by the reflections of Finnish development NGOs on their need to elaborate new approaches. The NGOs have particularly searched for alternatives to the Logical Framework Approach (LFA), as they have found its measurability demands not to be applicable to their work. This article considers the possibilities of realistic evaluation providing a potential alternative approach. The attempt of realistic evaluation to integrate the concept of mechanism into the identification of programme theory increases the depth of the analysis. In addition, we suggest that the value dimension in NGOs’ work should be taken into account as a part of realistic evaluation.
Introduction to interventional radiology in trauma
Authors: Jones Robert G
Published: April 2011

Interventional radiology (IR) has much to offer in the treatment of the trauma patient and should be integral in multidisciplinary trauma management. Many minimally invasive endovascular techniques are available with a vast amount of evidence to support their successful application. These techniques are both safe and effective and can in many circumstances negate further trauma caused by surgery in this high risk group. IR should not necessarily be considered a direct replacement for surgery as the two can often be synergistic in providing optimal care to many trauma patients. Despite the body of evidence and wealth of experience, IR is often overlooked or thought of late in trauma management when therapies are less effective. This article explores the role of IR and reviews the techniques and evidence behind their use.
Modelling of liquefied petroleum gas spray development, evaporation and combustion
Authors: Yoong A P F , Watkins A P
Published: April 2011

The research reported in this paper is the computational part of a joint experimental/computational investigation of the possible utilization of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) in a direct injection internal combustion engine. Many aspects of spray modelling have been investigated in the research. This paper concentrates on the implementation of three aspects, namely (a) the incorporation of LPG (butane or propane) physical and chemical properties, (b) the development of a flash evaporation model and (c) the application of a laminar flamelet model of combustion, extended to handle mixtures with equivalence ratios other than unity and implemented here for the first time to simulate spray combustion. The latter two aspects of the research are dealt with in some detail, with the models given prominence in the paper. The solution procedures for the whole model are also outlined. The model is tested by simulating a number of non-evaporating and evaporating LPG sprays. The flash evaporation model is shown to produce both quantitative and qualitative results that are realistic and have a reasonable degree of accuracy, where this is currently measurable. Non-flashing LPG sprays are also shown to be well simulated. The combustion of a number of LPG sprays and a diesel spray is shown to be simulated realistically. The combustion model is found not to require ‘tunable’ constants in order to obtain a reasonable level of agreement with reaction rates for both fuels. Various suggestions for improvements to the models are advanced as well as a series of suggestions for further research in order to enhance the accuracy and capabilities of the models.
Why good guys finish last
Authors: Sumanth John J. , Mayer David M. , Kay Virginia S.
Published: April 2011

Despite the public’s growing dissatisfaction with unethical behavior in modern organizations, research suggests that individuals who blow the whistle in an attempt to stop illicit activity often suffer retaliation at the hands of those who stand to benefit from the wrongdoing. To date, relatively little work has been undertaken exploring the boundary conditions and mechanisms for when and why retaliation occurs, with perceived differences in power and resource dependence between the whistleblower and retaliator being offered as the primary explanations. In this article, we attempt to build upon this theoretical foundation by introducing cognitive (i.e., moral disengagement) and affective (i.e., moral emotions) mechanisms as underlying drivers of the whistleblowing–retaliation relationship. Additionally, we use the theoretical lens of system justification theory to explore how perceived threats to an individual’s ego, group, and/or system heighten cognitive and affective responses that drive an individual to retaliate in seemingly paradoxical ways. Implications for practice and future research directions are discussed.
The small GTPase Rac1 is a novel binding partner of Bcl-2 and stabilizes its antiapoptotic activity
Authors: Velaithan Rathiga , Kang Jia , Hirpara Jayshree L. , Loh Thomas , Goh Boon Cher , Le Bras Morgane , Brenner Catherine , Clement Marie-Veronique , Pervaiz Shazib
Published: April 2011

The small GTPase Rac1 is involved in the activation of the reduced NAD phosphate oxidase complex resulting in superoxide production. We recently showed that Bcl-2 overexpression inhibited apoptosis in leukemia cells by creating a pro-oxidant intracellular milieu, and that inhibiting intracellular superoxide production sensitized Bcl-2–overexpressing cells to apoptotic stimuli. We report here that silencing and functional inhibition of Rac1 block Bcl-2–mediated increase in intracellular superoxide levels in tumor cells. Using confocal, electron microscopy and coimmunoprecipitation, as well as glutathione S-transferase–fusion proteins, we provide evidence for a colocalization and physical interaction between the 2 proteins. This interaction is blocked in vitro and in vivo by the BH3 mimetics as well as by synthetic Bcl-2 BH3 domain peptides. That this interaction is functionally relevant is supported by the ability of the Bcl-2 BH3 peptide as well as the silencing and functional inhibition of Rac1 to inhibit intracellular superoxide production as well as overcome Bcl-2–mediated drug resistance in human leukemia cells and cervical cancer cells. Notably, the interaction was observed in primary cells derived from patients with B-cell lymphoma overexpressing Bcl-2 but not in noncancerous tissue. These data provide a novel facet in the biology of Bcl-2 with potential implications for targeted anticancer drug design.
Presence of intestinal Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis(MAP) DNA is not associated with altered MMP expression in ulcerative colitis
Authors: Rath Timo , Roderfeld Martin , Blöcher Sonja , Rhode Annika , Basler Tina , Akineden Ömer , Abdulmawjood Amir , Halwe Jörg M , Goethe Ralph , Bülte Michael , Roeb Elke
Published: April 2011

Background

Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP) is suspected to be a causative agent in human Crohn's disease (CD). Recent evidence suggests that pathogenic mycobacteria and MAP can induce the expression of Matrix Metalloproteinases (MMP), which are the main proteases in the pathogenesis of mucosal ulcerations in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Within this study we assessed the prevalence of intestinal MAP specific DNA in patients with Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis (UC), and healthy controls. We further analysed regulation patterns of MMPs in mucosal tissues of UC patients with and without intestinal MAP DNA detection.

Methods

Colonic biopsy samples were obtained from 63 Norwegian and German IBD patients and 21 healthy controls. RNA was quantified by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to study MMP gene expression in both pathological and healthy mucosal specimens. The presence of MAP DNA in colonic mucosa was examined using MAP specific PCR.

Results

MAP DNA was detected in 20% of UC patients and 33% of healthy controls but only in 7% of patients with CD. UC patients treated with corticosteroids exhibited a significantly increased frequency of intestinal MAP DNA compared to those not receiving corticosteroids. Expression of MMP-1, -2, -7, -9, -13, -19, -28 and TNF-α did not differ between UC patients with presence of intestinal MAP DNA compared to those without. MMP-2, MMP-9 and MMP-13 were significantly decreased in UC patients receiving corticosteroids.

Conclusions

The presence of intestinal MAP specific DNA is not associated with altered MMP expression in UC in vivo. Corticosteroids are associated with increased detection of intestinal MAP DNA and decreased expression of certain MMPs. Frequent detection of MAP DNA in healthy controls might be attributable to the wide environmental distribution of MAP and its presence in the food-chain.
Porphyrin-magnetite nanoconjugates for biological imaging
Authors: Nowostawska Małgorzata , Corr Serena A , Byrne Stephen J , Conroy Jennifer , Volkov Yuri , Gun'ko Yurii K
Published: April 2011

Background

The use of silica coated magnetic nanoparticles as contrast agents has resulted in the production of highly stable, non-toxic solutions that can be manipulated via an external magnetic field. As a result, the interaction of these nanocomposites with cells is of vital importance in understanding their behaviour and biocompatibility. Here we report the preparation, characterisation and potential application of new "two-in-one" magnetic fluorescent nanocomposites composed of silica-coated magnetite nanoparticles covalently linked to a porphyrin moiety.

Method

The experiments were performed by administering porphyrin functionalised silica-coated magnetite nanoparticles to THP-1 cells, a human acute monocytic leukaemia cell line. Cells were cultured in RPMI 1640 medium with 25 mM HEPES supplemented with heat-inactivated foetal bovine serum (FBS).

Results

We have synthesised, characterised and analysed in vitro, a new multimodal (magnetic and fluorescent) porphyrin magnetic nanoparticle composite (PMNC). Initial co-incubation experiments performed with THP-1 macrophage cells were promising; however the PMNC photobleached under confocal microscopy study. β-mercaptoethanol (β-ME) was employed to counteract this problem and resulted not only in enhanced fluorescence emission, but also allowed for elongated imaging and increased exposure times of the PMNC in a cellular environment.

Conclusion

Our experiments have demonstrated that β-ME visibly enhances the emission intensity. No deleterious effects to the cells were witnessed upon co-incubation with β-ME alone and no increases in background fluorescence were recorded. These results should present an interest for further development of in vitro biological imaging techniques.
Identification of low-abundance proteins via fractionation of the urine proteome with weak anion exchange chromatography
Authors: Lu Chih-Ming , Wu Yu-Jen , Chen Cheng-Chi , Hsu Jue-Liang , Chen Jiing-Chuan , Chen Jeff Yi-Fu , Huang Chun-Hsiung , Ko Ying-Chin
Published: April 2011

Background

Low-abundance proteins are difficultly observed on the two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2-DE) maps of urine proteome, because they are usually obscured by high-abundance proteins such as albumin and immunoglobulin. In this study, a novel fractionation method was developed for enriching low-abundance proteins by removing high-abundance proteins and progressive elution with salts of various concentrations.

Results

Stepwise weak anion exchange (WAX) chromatography, which applied DEAE-Sephacel resin with non-fixed volume elution, was used to fractionate urine proteome prior to performing 2-DE. Urine proteome was separated into four fractions by progressively eluting the column with 0 M, 50 mM, 100 mM, and 1 M NaCl solutions. Most of the heavy and light immunoglobulin chains appeared in the eluent. After the high-abundance proteins were removed, various low-abundance proteins were enriched and could be easily identified. The potential of this method for obtaining diversified fractionations was demonstrated by eluting the column separately with Na2SO4 and MgCl2 solutions. The 2-DE maps of the fractions eluted with these different salt solutions of identical ionic strength revealed markedly different stain patterns.

Conclusion

The present study demonstrated that this fractionation method could be applied for purposes of enriching low-abundance proteins and obtaining diversified fractionations of urine, and potentially other proteomes.
Factors associated with drug-related harms related to policing in Tijuana, Mexico
Authors: Volkmann Tyson , Lozada Remedios , Anderson Christy M , Patterson Thomas L , Vera Alicia , Strathdee Steffanie A
Published: April 2011

Objective

To assess factors associated with drug-related harms related to policing among injection drug users (IDUs) in Tijuana, Mexico.

Methods

IDUs who were over 18 years old and had injected drugs within the last six months were recruited via respondent-driven sampling and underwent questionnaires and testing for HIV (human immunodeficiency virus), syphilis and TB (tuberculosis). Random effects logistic regression was used to simultaneously model factors associated with five drug-related harms related to policing practices in the prior six months (i.e., police led them to rush injections; affected where they bought drugs; affected locations where they used drugs; feared that police will interfere with their drug use; receptive syringe sharing).

Results

Of 727 IDUs, 85% were male; median age was 38 years. Within the last 6 months, 231 (32%) of IDUs reported that police had led them to rush injections, affected where they bought or used drugs or were very afraid police would interfere with their drug use, or shared syringes. Factors independently associated with drug-related harms related to policing within the last six months included: recent arrest, homelessness, higher frequencies of drug injection, use of methamphetamine, using the local needle exchange program and perceiving a decrease in the purity of at least one drug.

Conclusions

IDUs who experienced drug-related harms related to policing were those who were most affected by other micro and macro influences in the physical risk environment. Police education programs are needed to ensure that policing practices do not exacerbate risky behaviors or discourage protective behaviors such as needle exchange program use, which undermines the right to health for people who inject drugs.
Natural evolution of desmoplastic fibroblastoma on magnetic resonance imaging: a case report
Authors: Kamata Yusaku , Anazawa Ukei , Morioka Hideo , Morii Takeshi , Miura Keiko , Mukai Makio , Yabe Hiroo , Toyama Yoshiaki
Published: April 2011

Introduction

Desmoplastic fibroblastoma (collagenous fibroma) is a recently described tumor thought to arise predominantly from subcutaneous tissue or skeletal muscle. The natural evolution of this tumor on magnetic resonance imaging has never been described, to the best of our knowledge. We herein report a case of desmoplastic fibroblastoma arising in the thigh and show the longitudinal magnetic resonance imaging findings.

Case presentation

A 60-year-old Japanese man presented with swelling of the medial side of his right thigh, and he complained of nighttime pain and slight tenderness. Magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated a 4 × 4 cm mass in the right thigh. Open biopsy was performed. The mass was diagnosed histologically as a benign fibrous tumor, and we maintained follow-up without surgical therapy. After one year, magnetic resonance imaging showed an increase in tumor size to 4 × 5 cm, but the histologic findings were the same as those obtained one year earlier. Resection was performed with narrow surgical margins. Pathologic diagnosis was desmoplastic fibroblastoma. Two years after surgery, the patient is free from pain and shows no signs or symptoms of recurrence.

Conclusion

The natural evolution of desmoplastic fibroblastoma is characterized by no changes in patterns on magnetic resonance imaging despite increasing size. This finding is clinically helpful for distinguishing desmoplastic fibroblastoma with increasing pain from the desmoid tumor.
An optimized microarray platform for assaying genomic variation in Plasmodium falciparum field populations
Authors: Tan John C , Miller Becky A , Tan Asako , Patel Jigar J , Cheeseman Ian H , Anderson Tim JC , Manske Magnus , Maslen Gareth , Kwiatkowski Dominic P , Ferdig Michael T
Published: April 2011

We present an optimized probe design for copy number variation (CNV) and SNP genotyping in the Plasmodium falciparum genome. We demonstrate that variable length and isothermal probes are superior to static length probes. We show that sample preparation and hybridization conditions mitigate the effects of host DNA contamination in field samples. The microarray and workflow presented can be used to identify CNVs and SNPs with 95% accuracy in a single hybridization, in field samples containing up to 92% human DNA contamination.
Pituitary Incidentaloma: An Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guideline
Authors: Freda Pamela U. , Beckers Albert M. , Katznelson Laurence , Molitch Mark E. , Montori Victor M. , Post Kalmon D. , Vance Mary Lee
Published: April 2011

Objective:

The aim was to formulate practice guidelines for endocrine evaluation and treatment of pituitary incidentalomas.

Consensus Process:

Consensus was guided by systematic reviews of evidence and discussions through a series of conference calls and e-mails and one in-person meeting.

Conclusions:

We recommend that patients with a pituitary incidentaloma undergo a complete history and physical examination, laboratory evaluations screening for hormone hypersecretion and for hypopituitarism, and a visual field examination if the lesion abuts the optic nerves or chiasm. We recommend that patients with incidentalomas not meeting criteria for surgical removal be followed with clinical assessments, neuroimaging (magnetic resonance imaging at 6 months for macroincidentalomas, 1 yr for a microincidentaloma, and thereafter progressively less frequently if unchanged in size), visual field examinations for incidentalomas that abut or compress the optic nerve and chiasm (6 months and yearly), and endocrine testing for macroincidentalomas (6 months and yearly) after the initial evaluations. We recommend that patients with a pituitary incidentaloma be referred for surgery if they have a visual field deficit; signs of compression by the tumor leading to other visual abnormalities, such as ophthalmoplegia, or neurological compromise due to compression by the lesion; a lesion abutting the optic nerves or chiasm; pituitary apoplexy with visual disturbance; or if the incidentaloma is a hypersecreting tumor other than a prolactinoma.
Finding All Stable Pairs and Solutions to the Many-to-Many Stable Matching Problem
Authors: Eirinakis Pavlos , Magos Dimitrios , Mourtos Ioannis , Miliotis Panayiotis
Published: April 2011

The many-to-many stable matching problem (MM), defined in the context of a job market, asks for an assignment of workers to firms satisfying the quota of each agent and being stable, pairwise or setwise, with respect to given preference lists or relations. In this paper, we propose a time-optimal algorithm that identifies all stable worker–firm pairs and all stable assignments under pairwise stability, individual preferences, and the max-min criterion. We revisit the poset graph of rotations to obtain an optimal algorithm for enumerating all solutions to the MM and an improved algorithm finding the minimum-weight one. Furthermore, we establish the applicability of all aforementioned algorithms under more complex preference and stability criteria. In a constraint programming context, we introduce a constraint that models the MM and an encoding of the MM as a constraint satisfaction problem. Finally, we provide a series of computational results, including the case where side constraints are imposed.
Potential upstream regulators and downstream targets of AMP-activated kinase signaling during oocyte maturation in a marine worm
Authors: Stricker Stephen A
Published: April 2011

Unlike in mice, where the onset of oocyte maturation (germinal vesicle breakdown, GVBD) is blocked by cAMP and triggered by AMP-activated kinase (AMPK), oocytes of the marine nemertean wormCerebratulusundergo GVBD in response to cAMP elevations and AMPK deactivation. Since the pathways underlying AMPK's effects on mammalian or nemertean GVBD have not been fully defined, follicle-free nemertean oocytes were treated with pharmacological modulators and subsequently analyzed via immunoblotting methods using phospho-specific antibodies to potential regulators and targets of AMPK. Based on such phosphorylation patterns, immature oocytes possessed an active LKB1-like kinase that phosphorylated AMPK's T172 site to activate AMPK, whereas during oocyte maturation, AMPK and LKB1-like activities declined. In addition, given that MAPK can deactivate AMPK in somatic cells, oocytes were treated with inhibitors of ERK1/2 MAPK activation. However, these assays indicated that T172 dephosphorylation during maturation-associated AMPK deactivation did not require MAPK and that an observed inhibition of GVBD elicited by the MAPK kinase blocker U0126 was actually due to ectopic AMPK activation rather than MAPK inactivation. Similarly, based on tests using an inhibitor of maturation-promoting factor (MPF), T172 dephosphorylation occurred upstream to, and independently of, MPF activation. Alternatively, active MPF and MAPK were necessary for fully phosphorylating a presumably inhibitory S485/491 site on AMPK. Furthermore, in assessing signals possibly linking AMPK deactivation to MPF activation, evidence was obtained for maturing oocytes upregulating target-of-rapamycin activity and downregulating the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor Kip1. Collectively, these findings are discussed relative to multiple pathways potentially mediating AMPK signaling during GVBD.
Brain spect in the pre-surgical evaluation of epileptic patients preliminary results
Authors: Buchpiguel Carlos A. , Cukiert Arthur , Hironaka Fausto H. , Cerri Giovani G. , Magalhães Alvaro E. A. , Marino Jr. Raul
Published: April 2011

Pre-surgical evaluation of epileptic patients consists of neurological examination, intensive electroencephalographic (EEG) monitoring and anatomical studies (CT and MRI). Functional methods such as PET and SPECT imaging are now used more frequently. We have studied pre-operatively 15 adult epileptic patients (8 female, 7 male) using a rotational scintillation camera interfaced to a dedicated computer. The tomographic images were obtained 15 minutes after intravenous injection of 99mTc_HMPAO. All had MRI scanning and intensive EEG monitoring which generally included seizure recording. Five patients had progressive lesions (3 meningiomas, 2 astrocytomas). In 10 patients, neuroradiological studies did not show the presence of progressive lesions (2 normal scans and 8 cases with inactive lesions). Two patients with meningioma showed hypoperfusion at the lesion site while the third patient had a marked hyperperfusion which might correlate with the clinical diagnosis of epilepsia partialis continua. In the astrocytoma patients SPECT scans showed hypoperfusion at the lesion site. Data obtained from the 10 patients without progressive CNS lesions showed: (a) in 4, SPECT findings correlated well with the anatomical findings; (b) in 5 instances, SPECT was able to disclose additional functional deficits; (c) in one case, there was no SPECT correlate of a discrete anatomical lesion. In 5 of these cases with no progressive lesions (n=10) SPECT findings were useful as a complementary tool in determining the clinical or surgical management of these patients. Despite the small number and hete-rogenicity of the present sample, SPECT seems to be an useful tool as part of the clinical workup of epileptic patients who are candidates for epilepsy surgery.
Effects of stimulation intensity, gender and handedness upon auditory evoked potentials
Authors: Camposano Susana , Lolas Fernando
Published: April 2011

Left handers and women show less anatomical brain asymmetry, larger corpus callosum and more bilateral representation of specific functions. Sensory and cognitive components of cortical auditory evoked potentials (AEF) have been shown to be asymmetric in right handed males and to be influenced by stimulus intensity. In this study the influence of sex, handedness and stimulus intensity upon AEP components is investigated under basal conditions of passive attention. 14 right handed males, 14 right handed females, 14 left handed males, and 14 left handed females were studied while lying awake and paying passive attention to auditory stimulation (series of 100 binaural clicks, duration 1 msec, rate 1/sec, at four intensities). Cz, C3 and C4 referenced to linked mastoids and right EOG were recorded. Analysis time was 400 msec, average evoked potentials were based on 100 clicks. Stimulus intensity and gender affect early sensory components (P1N1 and N1P2) at central leads, asymmetry is influenced only by handedness, right handers showing larger P1N1 amplitudes over the right hemisphere.
Hiperalimentação enteral em traumatismos crânio-encefálicos agudos reposição ou dietoterapia?
Authors: Schelp Arthur , Pellizon Angela , Burini Roberto
Published: April 2011

Os autores apresentam revisão geral sobre a fisiopatogenia do trauma, ressaltando os estados de hipereatabolismo e hipermetabolismo, suas consequências nutricionais, com as particularidades do trauma encefálico. São feitas, também, considerações sobre as vias, composição e volumes das dietas enterais a serem administradas a pacientes com trauma agudo encefálico, assim como são apontadas questões a serem melhor elucidadas.
Meningite bacteriana no período neonatal evolução clínica e complicações em 109 casos: clinical evolution and complications in 109 cases
Authors: Feferbaum Rubens , Vaz Flávio A. C. , Krebs Vera L. Jornada , Diniz Edna M. de Albuquerque , Ramos Sônia R. T. S. , Manissadjian Antranik
Published: April 2011

As meningites bacterianas apresentam características peculiares durante o período neonatal. A infecção bacteriana que se assesta no SNC, em fase rápida de crescimento, ocasiona complicações e sequelas graves, na maioria das crianças que contraem a doença, prejudicando seu desenvolvimento neuropsicomotor. A análise de 109 crianças com meningite bacteriana neonatal no período janeiro/1977-abril/1987 demonstrou mortalidade de 34,8%. Na maioria dos casos não foram observados fatores de risco relacionados a antecedentes peri-natais e 80,5% dessas crianças foram caracterizadas como recém-nascido de termo. Os sinais mais encontrados à internação foram convulsões (53,2%), fontanela abaulada (37,6%) e apnéia (20,2%); os sintomas mais frequentes foram depressão sensorial (64,2%), recusa alimentar (64,2%), febre (50,5%) e irritabilidade (35,8%). As complicações verificadas durante a internação foram, por ordem de frequência, ventriculite (34,9%), SSIHAD (27,5%), coleção subdural (8,3%), abscesso cerebral (4,6%) e enfarte cerebral (2,8%). A presença de SSIHAD e de ventriculite foram associadas a maior mortalidade. Das 71 crianças que sobreviveram à doença 44 (62%) apresentaram-se com exame neurológico alterado e 29 (40,8%) com hidrocefalia que exigiu a instalação de sistema de derivação ventrículo-peritoneal em 18 (62%) dos casos. O seguimento neurológico dessas crianças é imprescindível, pois poderá haver modificação no prognóstico a longo prazo.
Chorea as a sign of systemic lupus erythematosus activity: case report
Authors: Caramelli P. , Toledo S.M. , Marchiori P.E. , Barbosa E.R. , Scaff M.
Published: April 2011

Chorea may occur as a neurological manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus and is often associated with detection of antiphospholipid antibodies. No evidence of chorea as a sign of lupus activity has been established. We describe a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus associated with antiphospholipid antibodies who developed chorea, which has been considered a sign of lupus activity.
Miopatias distais: análise clínica, laboratorial, eletromiográfica, histológico-histoquímica de oito casos
Authors: Werneck Lineu C. , Marrone Carlo D. , Scola Rosana H.
Published: April 2011

As miopatias distais são entidades raras e de difícil classificação. Descrevemos oito casos de miopatias distais, cinco do sexo masculino e três do feminino, em que, o início dos sintomas ocorreu aos 10 anos em cinco e aos 20 em três. O início dos sintomas se deu na musculatura distal dos membros inferiores e a seguir dos membros superiores, posteriormente afetando as porções proximais dos quatro membros. As enzimas séricas de origem muscular mostraram discreta elevação em cinco casos, moderada em um e importante em dois. As eletromiografias sugeriram miopatia primária em quatro, desinervação em dois e era de tipo neuromiopático em outro. As biópsias musculares revelaram sinais de envolvimento misto (miopatia e desinervação) em dois casos, miopatia crônica ativa em cinco e miopatia crônica em um. Quatro casos apresentavam vacúolos com conteúdo positivo na fosfatase ácida, em dois do tipo marginado. Seis casos mostraram importante aumento focal da fosfatase ácida, sugerindo patogenia com importante participação lisosomal. Dois dos casos foram classificados como miopatia distal autossômica recessiva variante de Welander; dois, como autossômica recessiva tipo Miyoshi; dois, como autossômica recessiva com vacúolos marginados (Myzuzawa e Nonaka); e dois, na classificação de miscelânea.
Tuberculosis in patients with chronic renal failure
Authors: Paula Flávio Jota de , Azevedo Luiz Sérgio Fonseca de , Ianhez Luiz Estevam , Romão Júnior João Egidio , Chocair Pedro Renato , Sabbaga Emil
Published: April 2011

Nine cases of tuberculosis (TB) were diagnosed among 800 uremic patients, followed-up during 11 years, a prevalence of 1125%, 2.5 times higher than that in the general population. Six patients (66.7%) had lymph node involvement (4 cervical and 2 mediastinal). Three patients (33.3%) had pulmonary involvement (2 pleuro-pulmonary and 1 bilateral apical pulmonary). Eight patients were undergoing dialysis and 1 was pre-dialytic. The duration of dialysis ranged from 1 to 60 months. Three patients had previously received immunosuppressive drugs for unsuccessful renal transplantation. Daily fever was present in all but one patient; he was asymptomatic and TB was suspected after routine chest radiography. Biopsy was the diagnostic procedure in 7 patients (77.8%), four by direct cervical lymph node biopsy, 2 by mediastinal, performed by mediastinoscopy and 1 by pleural biopsy. In 2 other patients TB was confirmed by the presence of tubercle bacilli; in sputum (1 patient) and in a bronchial flushing specimen (the other patient). Triple therapy was used in all patients (isoniazid and ethambutol in all), plus rifampicin in 8 and streptomycin in 1. One patient had jaundice and another had optical neuritis. Five patients were cured. The other four died during treatment of causes unrelated to TB or its treatment.
Estudos "in vitro" dos níveis de resistência do Plasmodium falciparum a drogas, de 1983 a 1986
Authors: Santos M. A. V. , Couto A. A. , Oliveira S. G. , Rosário V. E.
Published: April 2011

Foram realizados 171 testes de sensibilidade (microtécnica) com cepas de Plasmodium falciparum da Região Amazônica brasileira para cloroquina, mefloquina, amodiaquina e quinino. Os testes tiveram duração de 24 horas com as drogas preparadas na hora da realização de cada teste. Os resultados mostraram elevada resistência a cloroquina (83%) e sensibilidade em quase a totalidade das amostras testadas para mefloquina (97,7%). Para amodiaquina e quinino observou-se sensibilidade em 51,0% e 56,5% das cepas, respectivamente. Este estudo demonstra a emergência de um possível foco de resistência do Plasmodium falciparum a mefloquina, em Tucuruí.
Strain variation in the infectivity of Schistosoma mansoni for Biomphalaria glabrata
Authors: Dias Luiz Candido de Souza , Bruce John I. , Coles Gerald C.
Published: April 2011

Five strains of Schistosoma mansoni resistant and susceptible to schistosomicides were studied for infectivity of 2 strains of Biomphalaria glabrata one of Puerto Rican origin and the other of Brazilian origin. Puerto Rican strains of S. Mansoni developed more slowly and had a lower infectivity in Brazilian B. glabrata than did the Brazilian S. mansoni. However, Brazilian S. Mansoni developed as well in Puerto Rican snails as in Brazilian snails, indicating that drug resistant strains could easily be moved by travel of infected persons from one area to another.
Indicadores das condições nutricionais na região do Polonoroeste: I. Aspectos metodológicos e características socioeconómicas
Authors: Spinelli M.A. dos Santos , Silva R.R. da , Albuquerque M.C.W. , Yokoo E.M. , Guimarães L.V.
Published: April 2011

O trabalho apresenta os princípios metodológicos que nortearam a organização da Pesquisa Inquérito Nutricional no Polonoroeste. Foram incluídas, também as informações sobre as características sócio-econômicas e sanitárias das famílias estudadas em 1985 na zona urbana de Cáceres-MT. Destas 74% eram radicadas em Cáceres e 13,5% provinham de outros estados ou de outros países, sendo que 76,2% residiam em zona urbana. Quanto a categoria social e renda 52% eram urbanos e 51,0% recebia menos de 2 salários mínimos. O inquérito não atingia os 2 setores mais pobres e populosos da cidade onde as condições são piores e onde vive a maioria da população que migrou mais recentemente para Caceres.
Conhecimento dos alunos que ingressam no curso de auxiliar de enfermagem em relação ao ser profissional e as suas atribuições
Authors: Fidelis Wania Maria Zangirolano , Muramatsu Clarice Heiko
Published: April 2011

Este estudo de natureza descritiva e exploratória tem como objetivo verificar o conhecimento dos alunos que ingressam no Curso de Auxiliar de Enfermagem em relação ao profissional e suas atribuições. Como resultado, constatou-se que para os alunos o ser e o fazer do auxiliar de enfermagem envolvem o relacionamento interpessoal, responsabilidade, conhecimento teórico-científico e competência.
O enfermeiro no cuidado à vítima de trauma com dor: o quinto sinal vital
Authors: Ribeiro Norma Cecília Alves , Barreto Simonize Cunha Cordeiro , Hora Edilene Curvelo , Sousa Regina Márcia Cardoso de
Published: April 2011

Estudo qualitativo que avaliou o conhecimento do enfermeiro acerca da dor na vítima de trauma. Desenvolvido em um hospital público, por meio da aplicação de questionário e teste de conhecimento e tratados pela Análise de Conteúdo. A amostra compreendeu 27 enfermeiros, em sua quase totalidade de mulheres (92,6%), idade média 31 ±10,3 anos e maioria com formação inferior a 1 ano (51,8%). Os resultados evidenciaram a dor como sensação desagradável, sinal de alerta e uma experiência subjetiva. A avaliação da dor é vista por aspectos subjetivos e objetivos. A maioria (59,3%) desconhece os instrumentos de avaliação e dentre os que conhecem a escala numérica foi a mais referida. As estratégias de controle de dor mencionadas foram medidas em farmacológicas, não farmacológicas e combinadas. Todos os enfermeiros consideraram a avaliação da dor importante e um caminho para o tratamento humanizado e qualificado, que orienta a conduta terapêutica e restabelece o bem-estar do paciente.
Propriedades coletivas, cooperativismo e economia solidária no Brasil
Authors: Morais Edson Elias de , Lanza Fabio , Santos Luis Miguel Luzio dos , Pelanda Sílvia Schroeder
Published: April 2011

A discussão a seguir partiu das reflexões a respeito do desenvolvimento capitalista e a constituição das propostas atuais da economia solidária, que podem ser caracterizadas como uma forma de organização produtiva com autogestão, democracia participativa, sustentabilidade ambiental e promovem uma nova sociabilidade entre os sujeitos envolvidos. Os estudos são oriundos de investigações bibliográficas, bem como pesquisa de campo em experimento de economia solidária no meio rural na região noroeste do Paraná. Os resultados da observação, análises e interpretações indicam novas perspectivas, a partir da propriedade coletiva, para o enfrentamento das contradições oriundas do desenvolvimento capitalista.
Geração de renda: enfoque nas mulheres pobres e divisão sexual do trabalho
Authors: Carloto Cássia Maria , Gomes Anne Grace
Published: April 2011

Este trabalho apresenta uma discussão a respeito dos projetos de geração de renda voltados para as mulheres pobres. Busca refletir sobre que possibilidades oferecem, enquanto política pública, para a autonomia financeira e a quebra de padrões baseados na tradicional divisão sexual do trabalho ancorada na falsa dicotomia público-privado. Traz também um debate sobre a pobreza entre as mulheres já que a perspectiva desses projetos é aumentar os ganhos da família a partir da focalização nas mulheres.
Condição feminina de mulheres chefes de família em situação de vulnerabilidade social
Authors: Pinto Rosa Maria Ferreiro , Micheletti Fátima Aparecida Barbosa de Oliveira , Bernardes Luzana Mackevícius , Fernandes Joice Maria Pacheco Antonio , Monteiro Gisela Vasconcellos , Silva Magda Lucia Novaes , Barreira Tânia Maria Horneaux de Mendonça , Makhoul Aparecida Favorêto , Cohn Amélia
Published: April 2011

O estudo efetuou uma aproximação com a história de mulheres residentes na região central de Santos para compreender sua condição de vida, estratégias de sobrevivência e representações sobre o papel feminino e a construção de sua identidade como mulher. Utilizou-se da história oral para captar os elementos mais significativos da trajetória vivida por nove mulheres por meio de entrevistas realizadas no domicílio. A história delas mostrou processos de rupturas e continuidades, a fragilidade da população sob o efeito dos processos de vulnerabilidade e exclusão, revelando a condição feminina de mulheres em situação de vulnerabilidade social.
El estanco de carne y su crisis en Buenos Aires colonial desde una visión comparativa
Authors: Dupuy Andrea
Published: April 2011

La carne vacuna en diversas ciudades de Hispanoamérica colonial formaba parte de la dieta básica de la población. Y desde la conformación de los primeros núcleos poblacionales, su provisión se encontraba mediada por el estanco, sistema de abastecimiento monopólico, cuyo principal objetivo era asegurar el eficiente suministro de alimentos a la ciudad. En el presente escrito procuraremos mostrar que el estanco no funcionaba aún desde sus inicios, de manera totalmente eficiente, sino que presentaba fisuras, las que desembocarán, de facto primero y luego, ya formalmente, desde mediados del XVIII, en el sistema de libre competencia. Precisamente, el mercado de abasto era parte de una estructura económica mayor que, sin duda, influía y se veía influida por él. Es por eso que consideramos la importancia de abordar, en este caso desde el ámbito institucional, las características de este mercado en una coyuntura histórica específica. Las fuentes con las que se trabajará serán fundamentalmente las Actas del Cabildo referidas al abasto colonial.
Uma República na Constituinte (1985-1988)
Authors: Versiani Maria Helena
Published: April 2011

Este artigo intenta apresentar alguns valores correlacionados à ideia de "República" presentes em um repertório de práticas políticas que tiveram lugar na sociedade brasileira, na segunda metade da década de 1980. Particularmente, são observados certos princípios que pareceram conferir uma identidade comum a diferentes movimentos organizados, nesse período, em torno da luta pró-participação da sociedade na definição dos rumos políticos do Brasil República.