bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hybrid Newton-type methods for reconstructing sound-soft obstacles from a single far field
Authors: Wang Zewen , Li Xiaoxia , Xia Yun
Published: December 2014

The inverse scattering problem considered in this paper is to reconstruct multiple sound-soft obstacles from one incident wave and its far field pattern. Based on the ideas of the Kirsch–Kress method and the hybrid Newton method, three variant Newton-type methods are developed for reconstructing the shape of multiple obstacles. The proposed hybrid Newton-type methods I and II can choose auxiliary curves adaptively, and do not require them to be contained in the unknown multiple obstacles. The proposed hybrid Newton-type method III is simpler than the hybrid Newton method developed by Kress in terms of computational complexity since it adopts quasi-Newton iterations in numerical reconstructions. Results of numerical examples show that the proposed methods, especially the one with both adaptively choosing auxiliary curves and quasi-Newton iterations, are more efficient and stable for reconstructing multiple obstacles.
Fibonacci – Protagonist or Witness? Who Taught Catholic Christian Europe about Mediterranean Commercial Arithmetic?
Authors: Høyrup Jens
Published: December 2014

Leonardo Fibonacci (ca. 1170 - after 1240) during his boyhood went to Bejaïa, learned about the Hindu-Arabic numerals there, and continued to collect information about their use during travels to the Arabic world. He then wrote the Liber abbaci, which with half a century’s delay inspired the creation of Italian abbacus mathematics, later adopted in Catalonia, Provence, Germany etc. Hindu- Arabic numerals, and Arabic mathematics, was thus transmitted through a narrow and unique gate. This piece of conventional wisdom is well known - too well known to be true, indeed. There is no doubt, of course, that Fibonacci learned about Arabic (and Byzantine) commercial arithmetic, and that he presented it in his book. He is thus a witness (with a degree of reliability which has to be determined) of the commercial mathematics thriving in the commercially developed parts of the Mediterranean world. However, much evidence - presented both in his own book, in later Italian abbacus books and in similar writings from the Iberian and the Provençal regions - shows that the Liber abbaci did not play a central role in the later adoption. Romance abbacus culture came about in a broad process of interaction with Arabic non-scholarly traditions, at least until ca. 1350 within an open space, apparently concentrated around the Iberian region.
A Troupe of Six Terracotta Acrobat Figurines found in a Votive Pit at Thmuis
Authors: Bennett James E.
Published: December 2014

Excavations by the University of Hawaii at the Greco-Roman City of Thmuis in 2011 unearthed a group of fragmentary acrobat terracotta figurines in a votive pit located up on the central portion of the tell in grid square R-13 in the heart of the ancient city. Examination of the terracottas and the material from within the pit showed that these figurines dated to the Late Hellenistic Period or the Early Roman Period. They were subsequently ritually deposited in a pit within an abandoned structure around the second half of the 1st Century A.D. The acrobats are modelled in classical Greek style and form part of the genre of figurines and scenes representing Africans that were popular in Egypt during the Greco-Roman Period. These terracotta figurines are the first example of this terracotta mould series to be found in Egypt depicting this pose.
Interactions of Two Fragments of the Human Antimicrobial Peptide LL-37 with Zwitterionic and Anionic Lipid Monolayers
Authors: Dannehl Claudia , Brezesinski Gerald , Möhwald Helmuth
Published: December 2014

The interactions of two fragments of the human antimicrobial LL-37
(LL-32 and LL-20) with lipid monolayers at the soft liquid/air
interface have been characterized. To model the interaction with
mammalian cell membranes, lipid monolayers composed of the
zwitterionic DPPC and DOPC were used. To investigate the interaction
with bacterial cell membranes, lipid monolayers of anionic DPPG and
POPG were used. DPPC and DPPG exhibit a first-order phase transition
from the disordered liquid to the ordered condensed state, whereas
POPG and DOPC monolayers are in the fluid disordered state at all
surface pressures studied. Therefore, the influence of the monolayer
phase state on peptide-lipid interactions can be studied. To obtain
insight into the peptide structure and their influence on phospholipid
membranes, film balance measurements were coupled with surface
sensitive Infrared Reflection-Absorption Spectroscopy (IRRAS). The
results were compared to CD measurements in bulk.

LL-32 is more surface active and can better intercalate into lipid
monolayers than LL-20. Even though LL-32 has no cell-selectivity, our
results show how the peptide interacts differently with zwitterionic
compared to anionic membrane models. The interaction with DPPC
monolayers is based on simple intercalation of the peptides between
the lipid molecules. However, the peptides bind in a two-step process
to DPPG monolayers, which results in a fluidization of the lipid
film. This can be related to a membrane thinning.
Impaired miR449a-induced downregulation of Crhr1 expression in low-birth-weight rats
Authors: Nemoto Takahiro , Kakinuma Yoshihiko , Shibasaki Tamotsu
Published: December 2014

Low birth weight (LBW) is related to increased incidence of common cardiovascular and metabolic disorders, and psychopathologies later in life. Recent studies have suggested that maternal malnutrition affects fetal hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis programing although the mechanism is unknown. We demonstrated that LBW offspring delivered from malnourished dams showed prolonged elevated plasma corticosterone concentrations when compared with those of normal-birth-weight (NBW) offspring and impaired downregulation of corticotropin-releasing factor receptor type 1 (CRF-R1, Crhr1) in the anterior pituitary in restraint. Restraint increased expression of miR449a, which we had previously demonstrated to be involved in Crhr1 downregulation, in the anterior pituitary and serum exosomal miR449a contents through glucocorticoids in NBW offspring, but not in LBW offspring. Although plasma corticosterone concentrations were higher at 2000 h than at 0800 h in both LBW and NBW offspring, they were significantly higher in LBW offspring than in NBW offspring at 2000 and 0200 h. There were no significant diurnal changes in miR449a expression levels in the anterior pituitary of either NBW or LBW offspring, but the expression was significantly lower in LBW offspring than in NBW offspring at 1400, 2000, and 0200 h. The expression levels of GAS5, which inhibits glucocorticoid receptor (GR) binding to glucocorticoid-responsive element, in the anterior pituitary of LBW offspring were elevated when compared with those of NBW offspring. The downregulation of GR found in NBW offspring did not occur in restrained LBW offspring. These results indicate that impaired miR449a expression, probably induced by increased GAS5 expression, causes dysregulation of Crhr1 expression in the anterior pituitary, resulting in prolonged HPA axis activation in restrained LBW offspring.
Prediction of root damaging during mechanical shaking of fruit trees
Authors: Láng Z.
Published: December 2014

The possible effect of shaker harvest on root damage of 10-year-old cherry trees was studied on a simple tree structure model. The model was composed of elastic trunk and rigid main roots, the ends of which were connected to the surrounding soil via springs and dumping elements. Equations were set up to be able to calculate the relation between shaking height on the trunk and strain in the roots. To get the data for root break and their elongation at different shaking heights on the trunk, laboratory and field experiments were carried out on cherry trees and on their roots. Having evaluated the measured and calculated data it could be concluded that root damage is to be expected even at 3.6% strain and the risk of it increases with increased trunk amplitudes, i.e.

with the decrease of shaking height

at smaller stem diameters (i.e. in younger plantation), and

if the unbalanced mass of the shaker machine is too large for the given tree size.
‘A (Sensitive New Age Guy) with difference’
Authors: Bakar Kesumawati
Published: December 2014

This paper explores the representations of gender identities in the discourse of 200 online personal advertisements by Malaysian men and women. Using a combination of discourse analytical tools and corpus linguistic techniques this study demonstrates the construal of identity as a complex interaction of identity categorization and attitudinal resources. I-statements and nominal groups (Halliday, 1994; Halliday and Mattheissen, 2004) form my points of entry and linguistic patterns are semantically classified according to attitude (Martin and White, 2005) and Social Actor categorization (Van Leeuwen, 1996, 2008). General patterns construing typical and atypical representations of gender identities were observed by comparing the types of structure, semantics and collocates the data revealed. Results showed that advertisers appear to orient to what is expected in the context of courtship initiation in this particular genre, and are found to produce socially specific verbal practices that correspond to what is sought by men and women in general – e.g. ‘the slim and attractive woman’ and ‘the successful man’. Additionally, findings are also found to challenge hegemonic gender practices, construing counter-stereotypes such as ‘the sensitive man’. More significant however, is the construal of a Malaysian identity type – i.e. ‘the simple person’ – that cuts across gender lines.
O trabalho da enfermeira: a pertinência da categoria analítica do gênero para o seu estudo
Authors: Pereira Wilza Rocha , Bellato Roseney
Published: December 2014

A partir de alguns pressupostos teóricos traçados pelos estudos feministas, procuramos mostrar a pertinência no uso da categoria gênero como valioso instrumento para o estudo de uma profissão eminentemente feminina, como é a enfermagem. Essa categoria pode contribuir para quebrar as estruturas ideológicas fortemente androcêntricas que impedem a visualização e valorização do trabalho da enfermeira.
Utilização das principais plantas medicinais em uma comunidade rural
Authors: Pinheiro Francisco de Assis , Torres Gilson de Vasconcelos , Davim Rejane Marie Barbosa , Xavier Filho Lauro
Published: December 2014

Estudo descritivo-analítico, realizado na comunidade rural de Pitanga da Estrada-PB, objetivando-se estudar as principais plantas medicinais utilizadas pelas mulheres da comunidade e comparar o uso popular com o recomendado na literatura. Observou-se algumas discordâncias no uso popular quando se compara com o recomendado pela literatura e em especial às propriedades terapêuticas ou indicações para o uso.
O consumo de drogas entre os estudantes adolescentes
Authors: Moreira Denis da Silva
Published: December 2014

Este trabalho de pesquisa aborda os aspectos relacionados ao consumo de drogas entre os estudantes de 7º e 8º séries, na faixa etária de 12 a 15 anos, das escolas públicas e particulares da cidade de Alfenas, no ano de 1993. As drogas mais oferecidas e mais usadas foram os solventes voláteis ou inalantes, seguidos da maconha. O local onde a oferta é mais freqüente são os lugares públicos ( ginásios de show, bares, casa de jogos, parques e outros). Constatou-se que 5,5% dos entrevistados já fizeram uso de drogas, sendo motivados pela curiosidade e influência dos amigos. Praticamente todos os estudantes já receberam, através da família e/ou escola, orientação sobre drogas. A escola é a instituição que possui a maior clientela de risco às drogas, ou seja, crianças, adolescentes e jovens e por ser uma das responsáveis na educação e em passar Cultura é a que possui maioras condições de executar um programa de prevenção às drogas.
Em busca de lugares perdidos: assistência ao doente mental revelada através de histórias de vida
Authors: Humerez Dorisdaia Carvalho de
Published: December 2014

O trabalho em questão tem por objetivo conhecer a história de vida de doentes mentais; resgatar suas expectativas, projetos e possibilidades dentro ou fora da instituição psiquiátrica e refletir com base na experiência dos sujeitos, sobre a assistência ao doente mental. Os discursos revelaram a qualidade da vivência nos lugares antes, durante e depois do enlouquecer, sendo que, no depois, os relatos, passam a ter outro significado, mesmo quando o lugar, materialmente, é o mesmo de antes do adoecer. Os sujeitos conseguem sobreviver olhando para o passado, que na maior parte foi também de dificuldades, porém tinham o essencial: desempenhavam papéis aceitos socialmente, compartilhavam no grupo social e antecipavam-se no porvir. Os sujeitos deste estudo expõem o uso de astúcia e esperteza para driblar a ordem a que estão submetidos. Reivindicam o resgate do identitário, do relacional, querem compartilhar, de alguma forma, da vida com os outros e participar das gestões sobre seu destino. Explicitaram também que a vivência do não-lugar não é apenas no hospital psiquiátrico, mas a cultura manicomial que habita as famílias, os ambulatórios, os hospitais-dia, as universidades, as enfermarias psiquiátricas dos hospitais gerais. Desconstruir o manicômio, portanto, será rever a cultura, ou o manicômio mental. Não se trata de um processo apenas no interior da psiquiatria, mas atravessa diferentes dimensões: da política, das leis, da organização social, das instituições disciplinares, enfim, do imaginário coletivo.
Modelo de satisfação ACSI modificado no setor de telefonia móvel
Authors: Moura Andréia Cássia de , Gonçalves Carlos Alberto
Published: December 2014

O propósito do artigo consiste na validação do modelo de satisfação American Customer Satisfaction Index - ACSI modificado - no âmbito do setor de telefonia móvel. O modelo original foi modificado com a inclusão do construto conveniência e da fase qualitativa na pesquisa. O método abrangeu duas fases: exploratória e descritiva. A primeira teve por finalidade a adaptação do modelo ao setor pesquisado, sendo utilizada a técnica dos grupos de foco. Na fase quantitativa foi consultada uma amostra de 606 usuários de celular: clientes das três operadoras atuantes no estado de Minas Gerais. A técnica de modelagem de equações estruturais foi utilizada para análise de plausibilidade do modelo proposto. Os resultados sugerem os seguintes relacionamentos do modelo: Qualidade → Valor Percebido, Qualidade → Satisfação, Valor Percebido → Satisfação, e Satisfação → Lealdade.
Il corso della storia come graduale "emancipazione" della ragione dal "grembo materno" della natura: L'alternativa kantiana a herder
Authors: Longo Mario
Published: December 2014

L'immagine del "grembo materno della natura" da cui la ragione umana si deve emancipare per guadagnare la libertà è usata da Kant in uno scritto polemico contro Herder, Mutmasslicher Anfang der Menschengeschichte (1786), che può essere considerato una risposta al libro decimo delle Ideen zur Philosophie der Geschichte der Menschheit, uscito nel 1785. Seguendo il racconto biblico, anche Kant pone la prima coppia umana in un "giardino", un luogo sicuro e ben fornito di alimenti; ma il vero inizio della storia è fatto consistere nella rottura di questo equilibrio ad opera della ragione che gradualmente si è sottratta alla tutela della natura, imparando un po' alla volta a dominarla. Kant dichiara di condividere l'ideale rousseauiano di una cultura che non neghi la natura dell'uomo ma la promuova in quella che dovrà diventare la sua condizione fondamentale di esistenza, che è la libertà. Pone tuttavia questo ideale come termine finale del processo storico, non come condizione da recuperare nella sua purezza iniziale, ritornando alle origini, come invece appariva nella visione della storia proposta da Herder, che avrebbe su questo punto frainteso il pensiero di Rousseau.
Study of peanut husk ashes properties to promote its use as supplementary material in cement mortars
Authors: Kreiker J. , Andrada C. , Positieri M. , Gatani M. , Crespo E. Q.
Published: December 2014

The properties of peanut husk ashes as a potential supplementary material in cement mortars were studied in the laboratory. The ashes were prepared in an electric furnace at 500, 650 and 800 ºC during 180 minutes and used without further treatment. The characterization of ashes includes X-Ray fluorescence, X-Ray diffraction, SEM, and determination of pozzolanic activity by conductivity. The ashes were tested in mortars as partial substitute of Portland cement, in a rate of 15 % of substitution. The compression strength of mortars was evaluated between 7 and 120 days, for probes prepared using a proportion of cement:sand of 1:3 on weight with water/cement ratio of 0,5 v/v. It was observed that the calcinations conditions influenced the behavior of the ashes, giving better results the ashes obtained at 500 ºC. The compression tests showed values near to 70% at 7 days but higher than 80% after 28 days for mortars prepared with ashes, respect to the cement mortar reference.
Evaluation and Management of the Pediatric Thyroid Nodule
Authors: Guille Jeremy T. , Opoku-Boateng Adwoa , Thibeault Susan L. , Chen Herbert
Published: December 2014

Thyroid nodules are commonly diagnosed in adults. Although rare in children, the risk for thyroid cancer is much higher in the pediatric population compared with adults. Presenting as either a solitary nodule or a multinodular goiter, thyroid nodular disease in children requires a thorough workup that includes a detailed clinical examination comprised of prior history of thyroid disease in the patient or in their family, history of radiation exposure, careful palpation of the thyroid and lymph nodes, blood tests, ultrasonography, and cytological assessment. Thyroid surgery is the gold-standard treatment for pediatric thyroid nodules; nonetheless, the extent of surgery remains controversial. Because surgery is not without risk, the decision matrix necessitates focus on the benefits of surgery for the child contingent upon all the preoperative exams. New diagnostic technology such as molecular testing with fine needle aspiration biopsy may help distinguish between benign and malignant lesions while potentially decreasing surgery for benign disease. The objective of this review is to summarize new concepts in clinical disease management of nodular thyroid disease in the pediatric population, including patient history, medical examination, and diagnosis workup.
Chemotherapy Dose Adjustment for Obese Patients Undergoing Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation: A Survey on Behalf of the Acute Leukemia Working Party of the European Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation
Authors: Shem-Tov Noga , Labopin Myriam , Moukhtari Leila , Ciceri Fabio , Esteve Jordi , Giebel Sebastian , Gorin Norbert-Claude , Schmid Christopher , Shimoni Avichai , Nagler Arnon , Mohty Mohamad
Published: December 2014

Background.

Appropriate chemotherapy dosing for obese patients with malignant diseases is a significant challenge because limiting chemotherapy doses in these patients may negatively influence outcome. There is a paucity of information addressing high-dose chemotherapy in obese patients undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT).

Methods.

The Acute Leukemia Working Party of the European Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation (EBMT) designed an electronic survey to assess current practice of dose adjustment of chemotherapy in obese patients undergoing HSCT.

Results.

A total of 56 EBMT centers from 27 countries responded to the online survey. Overall, 45 centers declared that they routinely adjust chemotherapy doses for obese patients (80.5%), and only 11 (19.5%) declared they do not adjust dose. Among the former group, most used body mass index as the parameter for defining obesity (28 centers, 62%). The method for determining the weight for chemotherapy calculation was actual body weight (ABW) in 16 centers, ideal body weight (IBW) in 10 centers, IBW plus 25% of the difference between IBW and ABW in 16 centers, and other methods for the rest. Among centers that used dose adjustment, 44% also capped the dose at 2 m2 for a chemotherapy dose based on body surface area (BSA), whereas 56% did not cap. Interestingly, most of the centers (9 of 11) that did not adjust dose for weight also did not cap the BSA at 2 m2.

Conclusion.

This EBMT survey revealed large diversity among transplant centers regarding dose-adjustment practice for high-dose conditioning chemotherapy. Our next step is to analyze outcomes of transplantation according to dose-adjustment practice and, subsequently, to formulate a methodology for future prospective studies.
Evidence of a Role for Fibroblast Transient Receptor Potential Canonical 3 Ca2+ Channel in Renal Fibrosis
Authors: Saliba Youakim , Karam Ralph , Smayra Viviane , Aftimos Georges , Abramowitz Joel , Birnbaumer Lutz , Farès Nassim
Published: December 2014

Transient receptor potential canonical (TRPC) Ca2+-permeant channels, especially TRPC3, are increasingly implicated in cardiorenal diseases. We studied the possible role of fibroblast TRPC3 in the development of renal fibrosis. In vitro, a macromolecular complex formed by TRPC1/TRPC3/TRPC6 existed in isolated cultured rat renal fibroblasts. However, specific blockade of TRPC3 with the pharmacologic inhibitor pyr3 was sufficient to inhibit both angiotensin II- and 1-oleoyl-2-acetyl-sn-glycerol–induced Ca2+ entry in these cells, which was detected by fura-2 Ca2+ imaging. TRPC3 blockade or Ca2+ removal inhibited fibroblast proliferation and myofibroblast differentiation by suppressing the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK1/2). In addition, pyr3 inhibited fibrosis and inflammation-associated markers in a noncytotoxic manner. Furthermore, TRPC3 knockdown by siRNA confirmed these pharmacologic findings. In adult male Wistar rats or wild-type mice subjected to unilateral ureteral obstruction, TRPC3 expression increased in the fibroblasts of obstructed kidneys and was associated with increased Ca2+ entry, ERK1/2 phosphorylation, and fibroblast proliferation. Both TRPC3 blockade in rats and TRPC3 knockout in mice inhibited ERK1/2 phosphorylation and fibroblast activation as well as myofibroblast differentiation and extracellular matrix remodeling in obstructed kidneys, thus ameliorating tubulointerstitial damage and renal fibrosis. In conclusion, TRPC3 channels are present in renal fibroblasts and control fibroblast proliferation, differentiation, and activation through Ca2+-mediated ERK signaling. TRPC3 channels might constitute important therapeutic targets for improving renal remodeling in kidney disease.
Realidade aumentada no ensinode vias metabólicas
Authors: Vega Garzón Juan Carlos , Magrini Márcio Luiz , Costa Caetano Da , Galembeck Eduardo
Published: December 2014

Um quebra-cabeças da glicólise em papel tem sido utilizado como estratégia para o ensino de metabolismo. Essa forma de jogo em papel demanda um número grande de instrutores e limita o acompanhamento das dificuldades apresentadas pelos alunos. A tecnologia denominada Realidade Aumentada (RA) foi empregada para favorecer o uso da estratégia de montagem de vias metabólicas em classes numerosas e armazena dados de utilização, que fornecem feedback para alunos e professores. Cartas com estruturas moleculares são lidas por um aplicativo instalado em dispositivos móveis que exibem informações como a estrutura 3D das moléculas, pistas para a montagem da sequência correta da via metabólica e resultados da progressão na atividade. A utilização de RA possibilitou maior autonomia para os estudantes resolverem os exercícios propostos e fornece dados de avaliação de desempenho que permite compreender, e posteriormente sanar, as dificuldades apresentadas pelos alunos.
Testamento Vital - Manifestações de Vontade Prévia Sobre o Fim da Própria Vida
Authors: Flavius Antonio Bueno Rubira
Published: December 2014

Os avanços científicos nas áreas da medicina, nutrição, sanitária e educacional proporcionam a pacientes diagnosticados com doenças terminais o aumento da sobrevida, porém, também os fazem refletir sobre o desejo de terminalidade das suas vidas de forma digna, sem serem submetidos a tratamentos médicos que sobrepõe seu ideal de morrer com dignidade. O presente artigo tem como objetivo discutir os aspectos gerais e legais da Resolução do Conselho Federal de Medicina (CFM) nº 1.995/2012 que dispõe sobre as diretivas antecipadas de vontade dos pacientes. Trata-se de um estudo de caráter qualitativo/descritivo-exploratório, desenvolvido através de uma revisão de literatura publicada em formato físico e virtual, em revistas cientificas, web sites de reconhecido valor científico e congressos especializados. Com ênfase na discussão dos conflitos médicos, éticos, emocionais e familiares que envolvem o atendimento dos desejos do paciente, previamente manifestados, conclui-se que o Testamento Vital, documento onde são registradas as vontades antecipadas para o fim da vida, é o que permite a um paciente uma morte digna, evitando tratamentos, desnecessários para o prolongamento artificial da vida, muitas vezes com benefícios ínfimos.
Estudo Preliminar da Fauna Necrófaga de Interesse Forense Associada a Fatores Abióticos no Município de Natal/RN
Authors: Jackeline de Lima Torreão Cerejeira  , Thiago Gomes Varela Guerreiro  , Ana Paula de Oliveira Freitas
Published: December 2014

O estudo proposto refere-se a uma área em crescente desenvolvimento no país, conhecida como Entomologia Forense. Por ser uma área relativamente nova dentro das Ciências Forenses, são escassos os registros da biodiversidade necrófaga em Natal/RN. Esta pesquisa realizou um levantamento das principais famílias de interesse forense, associando-as ao fator abiótico “insolação”, verificando como os fatores “sol” e “sombra” podem interferir no processo de sucessão ecológica e decomposição. Para isso foram expostas iscas de carne bovina decomposta, em área de mata do 7º Batalhão de Engenharia de Combate de Natal/RN. O experimento ocorreu durante o outono, sendo expostas 02 armadilhas sob a condição de sol e 02 sob a condição de sombra. Coletou-se um total de 429 exemplares nas quatro armadilhas, sendo 343 dípteros muscoides adultos e 30 artrópodes pertencentes a outras famílias (formigas e abelhas) e 56 não foram identificadas ou estavam deterioradas. Sendo assim, enfatiza-se a importância deste e de outros estudos mais aprofundados sobre a fauna necrófaga nessa região, visto que o presente trabalho foi apenas uma introdução no conhecimento dos fatores sol/sombra como interferentes no processo de decomposição e abundância de insetos nessa área de mata da região.
Reflexões Sobre a Exclusão Social no Sistema Prisional e Suas Consequências na Reintegração Social
Authors: Daniela Helena Batacline  , Rubens Correia Junior
Published: December 2014

O presente artigo tem como objetivo refletir sobre a exclusão social do sentenciado do Estado de São Paulo e suas consequências na reintegração social. Diante das incoerências encontradas entre a realidade prisional e a Lei de Execução Penal, este estudo busca compreender os efeitos da exclusão social. É preciso a compreensão da pessoa rotulada como criminosa e atuar interdisciplinarmente na perspectiva de reintegração social. Salienta-se a posição contrária aos termos “tratamento, recuperação, ressocialização, reabilitação e reintegração” do preso dada a conotação de que a conduta criminosa é expressão de algum desajuste ou desvio de conduta por parte apenas do autor, retirando a responsabilidade da sociedade. O estudo se encontra fundamentado em pressupostos teóricos baseados na Psicologia Jurídica. Portanto, o método de abordagem utilizada foi levantamento bibliográfico integrativo.
Novas Tecnologias de Imagem e a sua Influência na Diminuição da Exposição de Pacientes à Radiação
Authors: Alessandra Martinez Ribeiro  , Rogério José Scandiuzzi
Published: December 2014

A preocupação com a quantidade de Raios X à qual os pacientes são expostos durante os exames radiográficos fez com que a classe odontológica e os órgãos reguladores de saúde adotassem medidas para conter o uso excessivo de radiografias de forma administrativa. O Código de Ética Odontológica pode guiar e orientar cirurgiões-dentistas, operadoras de planos de saúde, entidades e profissionais auxiliares a trabalharem de maneira harmoniosa para a saúde do paciente. Uma das maneiras de ajudar os profissionais e as operadoras a alcançarem esse objetivo é empregar as novas tecnologias por imagens que estão disponíveis no mercado. Essas tecnologias podem ajudar no melhor relacionamento entre pacientes, profissionais e empresas de saúde além de reduzir a exposição radiográfica. O intuito desse artigo é aconselhar os cirurgiões-dentistas e as operadoras de que o acesso a essas tecnologias traz vantagens a todos os envolvidos na busca por uma Odontologia de qualidade.
Effects of climate and nutrient load on the water quality of shallow lakes assessed through ensemble runs by PCLake
Authors: Nielsen Anders , Trolle Dennis , Bjerring Rikke , Søndergaard Martin , Olesen Jørgen E. , Janse Jan H. , Mooij Wolf M. , Jeppesen Erik
Published: December 2014

Complex ecological models are used to predict the consequences of anticipated future changes in climate and nutrient loading for lake water quality. These models may, however, suffer from nonuniqueness in that various sets of model parameter values may yield equally satisfactory representations of the system being modeled, but when applied in future scenarios these sets of values may divert considerably in their simulated outcomes. Compilation of an ensemble of model runs allows us to account for simulation variability arising from model parameter estimates. Thus, we propose a new approach for aquatic ecological models creating a more robust prediction of future water quality. We used our ensemble approach in an application of the widely used PCLake model for Danish shallow Lake Arreskov, which during the past two decades has demonstrated frequent shifts between turbid and clear water states. Despite marked variability, the span of our ensemble runs encapsulated 70–90% of the observed variation in lake water quality. The model exercise demonstrates that future warming and increased nutrient loading lead to lower probability of a clear water, vegetation‐rich state and greater likelihood of cyanobacteria dominance. In a 6.0°C warming scenario, for instance, the current nutrient loading of nitrogen and phosphorus must be reduced by about 75% to maintain the present ecological state of Lake Arreskov, but even in a near‐future 2.0°C warming scenario, a higher probability of a turbid, cyanobacteria‐dominated state is predicted. As managers may wish to determine the probability of achieving a certain ecological state, our proposed ensemble approach facilitates new ways of communicating future stressor impacts.
Population models for social species: lessons learned from models of Red‐cockaded Woodpeckers (Picoides borealis)
Authors: Zeigler Sara L. , Walters Jeffrey R.
Published: December 2014

Behavior can have major impacts on the population dynamics of social species and should be incorporated into demographic models to realistically evaluate population trends and extinction risk. We compared the predictions of a stage‐ and age‐based matrix model, an individual‐based model (IBM, developed in the program Vortex), and a spatially explicit individual‐based model (SEPM) with the actual dynamics of a population of Red‐cockaded Woodpeckers (RCW; Picoides borealis) in the Sandhills of North Carolina, USA. Predictions, including population size, composition, and growth rate, differed the most from actual population characteristics for models that did not incorporate social structure. The SEPM most closely predicted actual population dynamics, underestimating the population by 2.3%. This model, specifically developed to simulate RCW population dynamics, contains many of the features that we assert are important for adequately incorporating social behavior into demographic and population modeling. These features include the ability to (1) differentiate individuals based on their stage class, (2) capture the dynamics of the population at both the individual and group level, (3) incorporate the positive or negative effects of subdominants, (4) include environmental and demographic stochasticity, and (5) capture dispersal and other spatial factors. The RCW SEPM, although currently species‐specific, provides a strong blueprint for how population models for social species could be constructed in the future when data allow.
Beyond reducing fire hazard: fuel treatment impacts on overstory tree survival
Authors: Collins Brandon M. , Das Adrian J. , Battles John J. , Fry Danny L. , Krasnow Kevin D. , Stephens Scott L.
Published: December 2014

Fuel treatment implementation in dry forest types throughout the western United States is likely to increase in pace and scale in response to increasing incidence of large wildfires. While it is clear that properly implemented fuel treatments are effective at reducing hazardous fire potential, there are ancillary ecological effects that can impact forest resilience either positively or negatively depending on the specific elements examined, as well as treatment type, timing, and intensity. In this study, we use overstory tree growth responses, measured seven years after the most common fuel treatments, to estimate forest health. Across the five species analyzed, observed mortality and future vulnerability were consistently low in the mechanical‐only treatment. Fire‐only was similar to the control for all species except Douglas‐fir, while mechanical‐plus‐fire had high observed mortality and future vulnerability for white fir and sugar pine. Given that overstory trees largely dictate the function of forests and services they provide (e.g., wildlife habitat, carbon sequestration, soil stability) these results have implications for understanding longer‐term impacts of common fuel treatments on forest resilience.
Ground-water flow analysis in the slope above Shum Wan Road, Hong Kong
Authors: Nandy S. , Jiao J. J.
Published: December 2014

On August 13, 1995, a slope above Shum Wan Road failed due to high rainfall and caused a 30-m section of Nam Long Shan Road to collapse. The slope consists of weathered tuffs with a clay layer on the surface of the failure. A hydrogeological study was carried out by saturated finite difference grid model, MODFLOW, for the slope at the Shum Wan Road area. From the ground-water model, it was found that the ground-water level reached three meters below the ground surface during failure. The model is sensitive to recharge and specific yield. The presence of the clay layer helped to maintain a high ground-water level. Stability analyses were performed using SLOPE/W. The result of stability analyses showed that the factor of safety, F, decreased due to the rising initial water table. On the 31st of July, the factor of safety was 1.41, and dropped down to 1.01 on the 3rd of August. The factor of safety again rose back to 1.31 on the 8th of August and it finally dropped down to 0.99 on the morning of the 13th of August. The present study showed that the antecedent rainfall had some influence on stability of the slope. The amount of water in the form of seepage, which drained out from the seepage surface from the lower part of the slope, is quantified and found to be 790 m 3 . Preventive measures can be taken by inserting horizontal pipes in the slope to drain out the ground water in the form of seepage or by covering the slope with shortcrete or chunam.
Impact of Nitrogen Rate on Maize Yield and Nitrogen Use Efficiencies in Northeast China
Authors: Qiu S. J. , He P. , Zhao S. C. , Li W. J. , Xie J. G. , Hou Y. P , Grant C. A. , Zhou W. , Jin J. Y.
Published: December 2014

Optimizing N fertilization is important to improve both maize (Zea maysL.) yield and nitrogen use efficiencies (NUEs). A 3‐yr maize field experiment (2008–2010) was conducted to evaluate the response of grain yield, aboveground biomass, plant N concentration, N uptake, and NUEs to fertilizer N rates from 0 to 280 kg N ha−1at three different rain‐fed Haplic Phaeozem soils (FAO classification) in Northeast China. When N application rate increased from 70 to 280 kg N ha−1across all site‐years, N recovery efficiency, N agronomic efficiency, N internal efficiency and N partial factor productivity decreased from 76.5 to 9.0%, 25.3 to 0.1 kg kg−1, 70.7 to 40.8 kg kg−1, and 145.6 to 22.8 kg kg−1, respectively. Differences observed among the years and experimental sites were primarily caused by variability in rainfall and soil characteristics. The maximal grain yield of 11.0 Mg ha−1was achieved at an N rate of 210 kg N ha−1with normal rainfall. Nitrogen application beyond the optimal N rate did not consistently increase grain yield, and caused a decrease in NUEs. The range of optimal N rate for maize grain yield fell between 140 and 210 kg N ha−1at the three sites from 2008 to 2010 in Northeast China based on the best fitted models (quadratic, linear plus plateau, and quadratic plus plateau). The results provide guidelines for selecting N application rates to optimize both maize yield and NUEs in Northeast China.
Quantitative Trait Loci Mapping and Molecular Breeding for Developing Stress Resilient Maize for Sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: Semagn Kassa , Beyene Yoseph , Babu Raman , Nair Sudha , Gowda Manje , Das Biswanath , Tarekegne Amsal , Mugo Stephen , Mahuku George , Worku Mosisa , Warburton Marilyn L. , Olsen Mike , Prasanna B. M.
Published: December 2014

The International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT), in partnership with several public and private institutions, is working to develop and deploy improved maize (Zea mays L.) germplasm that is drought tolerant, nitrogen use efficient (NUE), and disease resistant for sub‐Saharan Africa (SSA), using conventional pedigree selection and molecular breeding. Here, we provide an overview of the progress made on (i) quantitative trait loci (QTL) analysis for drought, NUE, and maize lethal necrosis (MLN); (ii) development of production markers for maize streak virus (MSV) and MLN resistance; and (iii) marker‐assisted recurrent selection (MARS) and genomic selection (GS) for developing drought tolerant maize germplasm. We identified several small to moderate effect QTL associated with grain yield and anthesis‐silking interval under low N, managed drought, and optimum environments, but only a few small to moderate effect QTL were detected in multiple genetic backgrounds. Thus, CIMMYT is conducting the largest public MARS and GS projects in SSA. A recent comparative study of pedigree selection, MARS and GS undertaken across 8 to 10 bi‐parental populations, demonstrated the superior performance of both MARS and GS schemes over pedigree selection. More than 90% of current commercial maize germplasm was found to be highly susceptible to MLN disease. Preliminary mapping studies identified three major QTL for MLN disease resistance, and two are being used for pilot line conversion using marker‐assisted backcrossing (MABC). For MSV, pilot marker‐assisted selection is ongoing, using three single nucleotide polymorphic (SNP) markers to select a major QTL on chromosome 1. Development of drought tolerant and NUE maize varieties must include MLN resistance in eastern Africa, and we strongly suggest to maize breeders to introgress promising genomic regions for MLN resistance using either conventional or molecular methods.
Evaluation of antioxidant activity of Melittis melissophyllum L. extracts
Authors: Grujic Slavica , Stojanovic Gordana , Mitic Violeta , Stankov-Jovanovic Vesna , Dzamic Ana , Alimpic Ana , Marin Petar
Published: December 2014

The antioxidant activities of methanol and ethanol (10%, 30%, 50% and 96%)
extracts of the aerial parts of Melittis melissophyllum L. were determined by
DPP H, ABTS and FRAP assays. The content of flavonoids and phenols was also
investigated. The total phenolic content in the extracts was determined using
Folin-Ciocalteu assay; their amounts ranged between 63.5 and 111.7 mg
GAeqv/g, while the concentrations of flavonoids were from 7.33 to 56.00 mg
Queqv/g. IC50 values of the DPP H scavenging effect were from 0.109 to 0.664
mg/mL. The DPP H scavenging effect of the extracts was determined and the
obtained IC50 values were from 0.109 to 0.664 mg/mL of solution. The values
of ABTS radical activity were from 0.45 to 0.89 mg ascorbic acid/g. The FRAP
value was within the range 0.160-0.382 mmol Fe/mg. The obtained values were
analyzed by means of multivariate analysis, employing a hierarchical cluster
analysis and between-groups linkage. The presented results confirmed that M.
melissophyllum possesses good antioxidant properties and may serve as a
promising source of natural antioxidants.
Effect of phenol on germination capacity and polyphenol oxidase, peroxidase and catalase activities in lettuce
Authors: Tadic Vojin , Petric Marija , Milosevic Snezana , Cingel Aleksandar , Raspor Martin , Spasojevic Dragica , Tadic Jovan
Published: December 2014

In this study we examined the activities of polyphenol oxidase (PPO) and
antioxidant enzymes, peroxidase (POX) and catalase (CAT) during lettuce seed
germination at different concentrations of phenol. Out of eleven varieties of
lettuce, four were chosen according to their germination tolerance to phenol
as follows: plants exhibiting high (Ljubljanska ledenka - LJL and Nansen - N)
and low toleranace (Little Gem - LG and Majska kraljica - MK). A decrease in
germination efficiency after exposure to LD50 of phenol was determined for
these four varieties. The effects of phenol treatment on POX, CAT and PPO
activities were determined after 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8 days of growth at LD50
concentrations. A trend of increased peroxidase activity was observed in
seeds grown on LD50 of phenol compared to control seeds. A significant
increase in CAT activity was observed at the beginning of treatment for MK,
LG and N in seeds grown on phenol as well as in control seeds. A trend of
increased PPO activity was observed in all control seeds. We also
investigated the affinity of PPO for two different substrates that were used
for the determination of enzyme activity. Our results show that LJL and N are
the varieties most tolerant to growth on phenol. Here we report on the
activities of their antioxidant enzymes and PPO during seed germination.
Antifungal activity of Helichrysum italicum (Roth) G. Don (Asteraceae) essential oil against fungi isolated from cultural heritage objects
Authors: Stupar Milos , Ljaljevic-Grbic Milica , Dzamic Ana , Unkovic Nikola , Ristic Mihailo , Vukojevic Jelena
Published: December 2014

There is considerable interest in the use of essential oils as alternative
methods to control micromycetes from cultural heritage objects. We
investigated the chemical composition and antifungal activity of the
essential oil of Helichrysum italicum. The main components of the oil were
?-curcumene (22.45%), ?-pinene (15.91 %) and neryl acetate (7.85 %). H.
italicum essential oil showed moderate antifungal activity against fungi
isolated from cultural heritage objects. The most susceptible fungi to oil
treatment were Epicoccum nigrum and Penicillium sp., while the most resistant
was Trichoderma viride. The H. italicum essential oil showed demelanizing
activity against Aspergillus niger.
Vitamin A and the nervous system
Authors: Pavlovic Dragan , Markisic Merdin , Pavlovic Aleksandra , Lackovic Maja , Bozic Marija
Published: December 2014

Vitamin A is essential for the early development and normal functioning of
the brain throughout life. A deficiency of vitamin A is one of the leading
causes of morbidity and mortality in developing countries, and subclinical
deficiency is probably present worldwide. The main active molecule in vitamin
A is retinoic acid, which is involved in vision, the immune system, skin
health, olfaction and cognition (learning, memory, spatial functions,
olfaction, etc.) through processes of neuroplasticity and neurogenesis.
Vitamin A is involved in the regulation of about one-sixth of the human
genome. It has non-genomic actions in protein translation and paracrine
actions. Retinal vitamin A aldehyde is crucial for day and night vision. The
best-known manifestation of hypovitaminosis A is night blindness but in more
severe cases, it causes blindness. In the hypothalamus, vitamin A, with
information from the retina, acts in circadian and seasonal regulation.
Increased retinoic acid levels in the blood are associated with increased
risk of depression, and lower levels have been connected with Alzheimer?s
disease, Parkinson?s disease, cerebral ischemia, autistic spectrum disorders
and schizophrenia. Higher doses and longer periods of treatment pose the
threat of hypervitaminosis A. Vitamin A and its analogs are a promising new
class of therapeutic agents in a wide spectrum of disorders, albeit with a
narrow therapeutic window.
An assessment of the causes of lower gastrointestinal bleeding in a children’s hospital in northeastern Romania
Authors: Gimiga Nicoleta , Burlea Marin , Diaconescu Smaranda , Olaru Claudia
Published: December 2014

The aims of this five-year retrospective study was to investigate the common
etiologies, clinical, biological and pathological patterns of lower
gastrointestinal bleeding in children from a hospital center in northeastern
Romania. We included in the study 118 children with lower gastrointestinal
hemorrhage or two consecutive positive fecal occult blood tests. Patients
were divided into three age groups (0-2 years, 3-10 years, 11-18 years) and
the findings were reported separately for each group. Gastrointestinal
bleeding was more common among 3-10-year-old children. Hematochezia was the
most common form of presentation (54.2%), followed by rectorrhagia (40.7%).
Each patient underwent a colonoscopy with bioptic mapping. The most common
colonoscopy finding was solitary colorectal polyps in 39 cases (33.1%),
followed by suggestive aspects for ulcerative colitis in 26 patients (22.0%);
only 15 (12.7%) were histologically confirmed. Endoscopic polypectomy was
performed in all cases. We report two perforations and one hemorrhage that
required surgery.
Evaluation of serum biochemical marker concentrations and survival time in dogs with protein-losing enteropathy
Authors: Equilino Mirjam , Théodoloz Vincent , Gorgas Daniela , Doherr Marcus G. , Heilmann Romy M. , Suchodolski Jan S. , Steiner Jörg M. , Burgener DVM Iwan A.
Published: December 2014

Objective—To evaluate serum concentrations of biochemical markers and survival time in dogs with protein-losing enteropathy (PLE).

Design—Prospective study.

Animals—29 dogs with PLE and 18 dogs with food-responsive diarrhea (FRD).

Procedures—Data regarding serum concentrations of various biochemical markers at the initial evaluation were available for 18 of the 29 dogs with PLE and compared with findings for dogs with FRD. Correlations between biochemical marker concentrations and survival time (interval between time of initial evaluation and death or euthanasia) for dogs with PLE were evaluated.

Results—Serum C-reactive protein concentration was high in 13 of 18 dogs with PLE and in 2 of 18 dogs with FRD. Serum concentration of canine pancreatic lipase immunoreactivity was high in 3 dogs with PLE but within the reference interval in all dogs with FRD. Serum α1-proteinase inhibitor concentration was less than the lower reference limit in 9 dogs with PLE and 1 dog with FRD. Compared with findings in dogs with FRD, values of those 3 variables in dogs with PLE were significantly different. Serum calprotectin (measured by radioimmunoassay and ELISA) and S100A12 concentrations were high but did not differ significantly between groups. Seventeen of the 29 dogs with PLE were euthanized owing to this disease; median survival time was 67 days (range, 2 to 2,551 days).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Serum C-reactive protein, canine pancreatic lipase immunoreactivity, and α1-proteinase inhibitor concentrations differed significantly between dogs with PLE and FRD. Most initial biomarker concentrations were not predictive of survival time in dogs with PLE.