bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantitative Porosity Studies of Archaeological Ceramics by Petrographic Image Analysis
Authors: Reedy Chandra L. , Anderson Jenifer , Reedy Terry J.
Published: July 2014

Pores in archaeological ceramics can form in a number of different ways, and reflect both deliberate choices and uncontrollable factors. Characterizing porosity by digital image analysis of thin sections holds a number of advantages as well as limitations. We present the results of experiments aimed at improving this method, focusing on high-resolution scans of entire thin sections. We examine the reproducibility of pore measurements by petrographic image analysis of ceramic thin sections using laboratory-prepared specimens of clay mixed with sand of known amount and size. We outline protocols for measuring Total Optical Porosity, using the Image-Pro Premier software package. We also briefly discuss use of pore size and pore shape (aspect ratio and roundness) in characterizing archaeological ceramics. While discerning reasons for observed amounts, sizes, and shapes of pores is an extremely complex problem, the quantitative analysis of ceramic porosity is one tool for characterizing a ware and comparing a product to others. The methods outlined here are applied to a case study comparing historic bricks from the Read House in New Castle, Delaware; the porosity studies indicate that different construction campaigns used bricks from different sources.
Novel hydroxyapatite-based consolidant and the acceleration of hydrolysis of silicate-based consolidants
Authors: Naidu Sonia , Liu Chun , Scherer George W.
Published: July 2014

This paper discusses the effectiveness of hydroxyapatite (HAP) as an inorganic consolidant for physically weathered Indiana Limestone, and as a coupling agent between limestone and a silicate consolidant. A double application is investigated, in which samples are coated with HAP followed by a commercially available silicate-based consolidant (Conservare® OH-100). To artificially weather limestone, a thermal degradation technique was utilized. Diammonium hydrogen phosphate (DAP) salt was reacted with limestone, alone and with cationic precursors, to produce HAP films. The dynamic elastic modulus, water sorptivity and tensile strength of the treated stones were evaluated. HAP was found to be an effective consolidant for weathered Indiana Limestone, and its performance was enhanced by addition of millimolar quantities of calcium chloride. However, HAP was not useful as a coupling agent; a double treatment with DAP is more effective than sequential treatment with DAP and Conservare®.
Synthesis of Submicron-Sized, Monodisperse Spherical V2O5 Particles
Authors: Yamamoto S. , Takano M. , Shimakawa Y.
Published: July 2014

We have succeeded in preparing submicron-sized monodisperse spherical V2O5 particles by hydrolysis of vanadium isopropoxide (VO(OiPr)3) in acetone/pyridine (Py) mixture solution for the first time. These particles had almost perfect spherical shape and were non-agglomerated. Their size could be easily controlled from 200 to 800 nm by changing the concentration of pyridine while keeping narrow size distribution (standard deviation, ca. 7%). Elemental and Fourier Transform Infrared analyses revealed that these particles have a composition of V2O5.xPy.yH2O (x ≈ 0.8, y ≈ 0.9) independent of their size. X-ray diffraction studies revealed that these particles have layered structure similar to that of V2O5.nH2O xerogel with an interlayer spacing of ca. 1.05 nm independent of their size, possibly due to the intercalation of H2O and pyridine between the V2O5 sheets.
Metal content and distribution in surface sediments in an industrial region
Authors: SCHNEIDER ISMAEL L. , TEIXEIRA ELBA C. , RODRIGUES MARIA LUCIA K. , ROLIM SILVIA B.A.
Published: July 2014

The present study aimed to evaluate Cu, Cr, Ni, Zn, Pb, Mn, Al, and Fe contents, as well as their geochemical partitioning in Sinos River basin sediments in southern Brazil. This basin is a densely populated area with a substantial number of industries, especially metallurgy, electroplating works, steel mills, petrochemicals, and tanneries. The total metal concentrations were determined by X-ray fluorescence and the sediment phase concentrations were determined by applying the BCR-701 sequential extraction method proposed by the Community Bureau of Reference of the European Community, using ICP/OES. The contents extracted by a solution of 0.5 mol/L HCl were also considered. Metal contents were evaluated in the sediment fraction <63 µm. Results in the industrialized and densely populated region showed an increase in the total concentrations of Cu, Cr, Zn, and Pb, and in the potentially mobile fractions for Cu, Cr, Zn and Ni sequentially extracted. Cr stood out particularly in the Portão stream, showing 1,286 mg/kg as a result of the total concentration, considering the tannery region influence.
In vitro antioxidant capacity of tea of Echinodorus grandiforus, “leather hat,” in Wistar rat liver
Authors: LUNARDI RAFAELA F. , WOHLENBERG MARIANE , MEDEIROS NIARA , AGOSTINI FABIANE , FUNCHAL CLÁUDIA , DANI CAROLINE
Published: July 2014

Oxidative stress has been considered as one of the factors responsible for hepatic diseases, which sometimes require new ways of treatment. The present study aimed to evaluate the in vitro antioxidant capacity of the tea of Echinodorus grandiforus (“leather hat” plant) in rat liver. Different preparations of tea were evaluated for phenolic composition, antioxidant activity by DPPH assay and ability to inhibit lipid peroxidation induced by copper sulfate. The antioxidant activity was assessed in liver tissue treated with sodium azide in the presence or absence of tea by assays for lipid peroxidation (TBARS), protein oxidation (carbonyl) and the antioxidant enzymes catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD). The results show that different preparations of tea are important sources of polyphenols and contain theobromine, catechin and vitexin. Furthermore, the results indicate that this tea exhibits an antioxidant activity by its ability to scavenge DPPH radical. Different preparations of tea prevented damage to lipids and proteins induced by sodium azide, as well as assisting in restoring CAT and SOD activities. Thus, it can be seen that E. grandiforus tea had antioxidant activity in serum and liver being able to prevent oxidative damages generated by sodium azide.
Nebivolol reduces central blood pressure in stage I hypertensive patients: experimental single cohort study
Authors: Vaz-de-Melo Renan Oliveira , Giollo-Júnior Luiz Tadeu , Martinelli Débora Dada , Moreno-Júnior Heitor , Mota-Gomes Marco Antônio , Cipullo José Paulo , Yugar-Toledo Juan Carlos , Vilela-Martin José Fernando
Published: July 2014

CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVES: Assessment of central blood pressure (BP) has grown substantially over recent years because evidence has shown that central BP is more relevant to cardiovascular outcomes than peripheral BP. Thus, different classes of antihypertensive drugs have different effects on central BP despite similar reductions in brachial BP. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of nebivolol, a β-blocker with vasodilator properties, on the biochemical and hemodynamic parameters of hypertensive patients.DESIGN AND SETTING: Experimental single cohort study conducted in the outpatient clinic of a university hospital.METHODS: Twenty-six patients were recruited. All of them underwent biochemical and hemodynamic evaluation (BP, heart rate (HR), central BP and augmentation index) before and after 3 months of using nebivolol.RESULTS: 88.5% of the patients were male; their mean age was 49.7 ± 9.3 years and most of them were overweight (29.6 ± 3.1 kg/m2) with large abdominal waist (102.1 ± 7.2 cm). There were significant decreases in peripheral systolic BP (P = 0.0020), diastolic BP (P = 0.0049), HR (P < 0.0001) and central BP (129.9 ± 12.3 versus 122.3 ± 10.3 mmHg; P = 0.0083) after treatment, in comparison with the baseline values. There was no statistical difference in the augmentation index or in the biochemical parameters, from before to after the treatment.CONCLUSIONS: Nebivolol use seems to be associated with significant reduction of central BP in stage I hypertensive patients, in addition to reductions in brachial systolic and diastolic BP.
A construção de argumentos em aulas de ciências: o papel dos dados, evidências e variáveis no estabelecimento de justificativas
Authors: Sasseron Lucia Helena , Carvalho Anna Maria Pessoa de
Published: July 2014

Nosso foco, neste trabalho, recai sobre ações em aulas de ciências que contribuem para a construção de argumentos, sobretudo o trabalho com dados, evidências e variáveis para a construção de justificativas. Nosso referencial teórico principal é o padrão de argumento de Toulmin (TAP-1958/2006). Analisamos a transcrição da gravação de duas aulas de ciências ocorridas em um 4º ano do Ensino Fundamental. A análise inicial permitiu evidenciar os argumentos construídos coletivamente nestas aulas. A partir deste dado, pudemos identificar de que maneira cada elemento do TAP era construído, considerando, ao mesmo tempo, o trabalho desenvolvido pela professora. Chama a atenção que a construção do argumento ocorre em uma ordem não intuitiva: a professora não parte da construção de uma alegação, mas a alegação constitui-se como decorrência da análise de diversas situações; fornecendo-nos evidências de que o processo por ela utilizado é um processo de investigação sobre dados empíricos.
Physics teachers' perspectives on High School national curriculum policies
Authors: Ferraz Gleice , Rezende Flavia
Published: July 2014

This study aimed to identify, in the context of an activity developed in online course for continuing education and from the theoretical approach of Mikhail Bakhtin, the discursive appropriation of PCNEM by high school physics teachers who work in different regional realities. The analysis indicated a positive perspective by teachers related to PCNEM, in addition to full accordance with the main path indicated by the legislation: the contextualized teaching. Despite the differences between educational regions we could not identify explicit signs of how these differences impacted the appropriation of terms found in PCNEM. The silence of teachers in relation to non-methodological aspects of physics teaching shapes their perspectives and also emphasizes the concern for didactic transposition of the content required by the curriculum, leaving out the question of why we have this curriculum and not other.
New record of Akashiwo sanguinea(Dinophyta) in the tropical estuarine waters of Northeastern Brazil (Western Atlantic)
Authors: Koening ML , Flores Montes MJ , Eskinazi Leça E , Tiburcio ASXS
Published: July 2014

This study reports the occurrence and the effect of the environmental factors on the spatial and temporal distribution of the dinoflagellate Akashiwo sanguinea (Hirasaka) Hansen & Moestrup in estuarine waters of northeastern Brazil. Samples were collected at seven stations from March 2007 to February 2008 during high tide and low tide, using Van Dorn bottles. The samples were immediately fixed with Lugol and analyzed with the Utermöhl method. Water samples were also collected for the identification of the hydrological characteristics of the area. Akashiwo sanguinea occurred throughout the annual cycle and at all sampling sites with densities ranging between 5 and 410 x 103cells.L–1. The highest densities were recorded at low tide, especially during the months of the rainy season (July: 210 x 103 cells.L–1; August: 410 x 103cells.L–1). Density values were within the normal range and blooms were not detected. Despite being common in the area, the species showed preference for sites with high concentrations of orthophosphate and total dissolved phosphorus and with salinity in the mesohaline regime.
Diet and helminths of Enyalius brasiliensis (Lacertilia, Iguania, Leiosauridae) in an Atlantic Rainforest remnant in southeastern Brazil
Authors: Dorigo TA , Maia-Carneiro T , Almeida-Gomes M , Siqueira CC , Vrcibradic D , Van Sluys M , Rocha CFD
Published: July 2014

Our study aimed to add information about the diet and endoparasites of Enyalius brasiliensis from an Atlantic Rainforest remnant in the state of Rio de Janeiro, southeastern Brazil. Regarding diet, E. brasiliensis consumed arthropods, with caterpillars and beetles being the most important preys. Regarding helminth parasites, overall prevalence was low (9.5%), with 238 nematodes of the genus Physaloptera found in the stomach of one specimen and one nematode of the genus Rhabdias inside the lung of another. Our results corroborate the observations of previous studies that indicate that lizards of the genus Enyalius tend to feed mainly on relatively large-bodied arthropods and to harbour depauperate endoparasite fauna.
The orchid-bee faunas (Hymenoptera: Apidae) of ‘Reserva Ecológica Michelin’, ‘RPPN Serra Bonita’ and one Atlantic Forest remnant in the state of Bahia, Brazil, with new geographic records
Authors: Nemésio A
Published: July 2014

The orchid bee faunas of two private natural preserves, ‘Reserva Particular do Patrimônio Natural da Serra Bonita’ (RSB) and ‘Reserva Ecológica Michelin’ (REM), and a forest fragment inside the campus of the ‘Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz’, were surveyed for the first time. All three areas constitute Atlantic Forest remnants in the southern portion of the state of Bahia, Brazil. A total of 1,782 males belonging to 32 species were actively collected with insect nets during 90 hours of field work from November, 2009, to January, 2012. Euglossa cyanochlora Moure, 1996—one of the rarest orchid bee species—was found at RSB and REM, the latter representing the northernmost record for this species. Euglossa cognata, Moure, 1970 was found at RSB, the northernmost record for this species in the Atlantic Forest and the only recent record for this species at the northern border of Jequitinhonha river.
Baseline micronuclei and nuclear abnormalities frequencies in native fishes from the Paraná River (Argentina)
Authors: Furnus GNA , Caffetti JD , García EM , Benítez MF , Pastori MC , Fenocchio AS
Published: July 2014

This work aims to establish baseline frequencies of micronuclei (MN) and nuclear abnormalities (NA) in native fish species collected in situ from the Paraná River. For this purpose, the micronucleus test was applied in peripheral blood erythrocytes from specimens obtained from samplings collected at two localities (Posadas and Candelaria, Misiones, Argentina) during the period 2007-2010. The results were statistically analyzed using the Kruskal Wallis test. Data from nine fish species were obtained, among which Steindachnerina brevipinna(Characiformes) revealed the highest baseline frequency of MN and NA, showing statistically significant differences with regard to the other analyzed species. These results are the first report of baseline MN and NA frequencies for native fish species studied and could be useful for future comparisons with data of fishes belonging to other environments.
The climatic rhythm and blooms of cyanobacteria in a tropical reservoir in São Paulo, Brazil
Authors: Ogashawara I , Zavattini JA , Tundisi JG
Published: July 2014

The present study sought to develop a methodology to analyse water quality based on the concepts and methods of climate and climatology. Accordingly, we attempted to relate hydro- and limnometeorological techniques and methodologies to a rhythmic analysis technique developed within the context of the Brazilian geographical climatology. Our goal was to assess and analyse cyanobacterial blooms, the main index of water quality for the reservoirs of the “Alto Tietê” Basin and, consequently, the Metropolitan Region of São Paulo, an area of high environmental complexity due to its high degree of development and high population density. The meteorological data used were collected by the Institute of Astronomy, Geophysics and Atmospheric Sciences at the University of São Paulo meteorological station, and the limnological data were collected through the Hydrological Monitoring System implemented by SABESP in the Billings and Guarapiranga Reservoirs and the laboratory of the same entity. The rhythmic and integrated analysis showed that the process of cyanobacterial blooms is dependent on a combination of meteorological factors as temperature and wind intensity that may disrupt the stability of the reservoir, providing the conditions necessary for the development of cyanobacteria during the stabilisation process. The pace of the Atlantic Polar Front Entrance during the winter in São Paulo is a limiting factor for the growth of cyanobacteria because of their high frequency, thus maintaining the balance of the reservoir throughout this period. The weather types those could cause a instability in the water column were: Cold Front entrance (66.67%), conflict between masses (22.22%) and the Tropical Instability Line (11.11%). The possibility for prevention and forecasting periods advise when these reservoirs should not be used, mainly with regard to recreational activities.
Seasonal variation of biotic and abiotic parameters in parallel neotropical fishponds
Authors: Sipaúba-Tavares LH , Seto LM , Millan RN
Published: July 2014

The present study was carried out to evaluate the phytoplankton community and water quality in four parallel fishponds (FP1 to FP4) during one year. Some abiotic parameters of water column and phytoplankton was sampled in four sites, one in each fishpond. Similarity analysis showed that FP2 fishpond was markedly different for the others ponds with regard to phytoplankton community. Conductivity, orthophosphate, temperature, TSS and hardness parameters were significantly different (p<0.05) between fishponds and all limnological parameters were significantly different (p<0.01) among period (months). Organic matter and phosphorus of the sediment were significantly different (p<0.01) only among fishponds. In current study Chlorophyceae and Bacillariophyceae occurred in most months. Cyanobacteria density in April and May was higher in all fishponds, at FP3 represented 71.4% in April and FP1 represented 78.7% in May of total reported, with chlorophyll-a content lower than 41 mg.L−1. The physical and chemical parameters of fishponds water constituted relations between the parameters and algae occurrence. The present study however, indicated that Cyanobacteria was more frequent in the fishponds after the fish grow-out period (April), and the water quality should be monitored more frequently in this period, due to the high total phosphorus, orthophosphate and chlorophyll-acontents.
New records of amphoroid diatoms (Bacillariophyceae) from Cachoeira River, Northeast Brazil
Authors: Cavalcante KP , Tremarin PI , Ludwig TAV
Published: July 2014

Amphoroid taxa have been revised in recent decades. Many species formerly assigned to Amphora have been transferred to other recently proposed genera, as Seminavis (Naviculaceae) and Halamphora (Catenulaceae). In Brazil, there are few studies focused on amphoroid taxonomy. This study presents a taxonomic investigation of five uncommon amphoroid taxa from Brazilian diatom flora: Seminavis pusilla, S. strigosa, Amphora ectorii, Halamphora ghanensis and Halamphora sp. Seminavis strigosa is identical in valve morphology and morphometrical data to Amphora twenteana, and its synonymy is proposed. Seminavis pusilla, poorly found in Brazilian waters, has expanded its distribution. Halamphora ghanensis is a new record to American continent while Amphora ectorii are new to Brazilian aquatic systems. Halamphora sp. has distinct ultrastructural features in relation to similar species and is probably new for science.
Etnobotânica de plantas medicinais em comunidades ribeirinhas do Município de Manacapuru, Amazonas, Brasil
Authors: Vásquez Silvia Patricia Flores , Mendonça Maria Silvia de , Noda Sandra do Nascimento
Published: July 2014

A utilização de plantas medicinais é uma prática comum entre as populações humanas. O presente trabalho teve por objetivo efetuar levantamento etnobotânico sobre o conhecimento e uso das plantas medicinais em quatro comunidades ribeirinhas do Município de Manacapuru. Foram coletadas informações de 164 moradores locais, selecionados aleatoriamente, por meio de entrevistas semi-estruturadas, observações participantes e visitas guiadas. Os problemas de saúde citados foram classificados de acordo com a Classificação Estatística Internacional de Doenças e Problemas Relacionados à Saúde (CID-10) e índices de concordância foram utilizados para identificar os principais usos de cada espécie. Identificaram-se 171 plantas medicinais, pertencentes a 65 famílias. Lamiaceae (14 espécies), Asteraceae (9 espécies), Fabaceae e Euphorbiaceae (8 espécies) foram as famílias mais comuns. As espécies mais citadas foram Mentha arvensis (hortelã), Ruta graveolens (arruda) e Citrus sinensis (laranja). As folhas foram as partes da planta mais utilizadas e a decocção da folha o procedimento mais comum usado para preparar medicamentos. Os problemas mais comuns citados foram doenças do aparelho digestivo, doenças do aparelho respiratório e problemas com sintomas não classificados. Plantas com índices de concordância maior que 25% foram Plectranthus amboinicus, Chenopodium ambrosioides, Citrus aurantiifolia, Acmella oleracea, Plectranthus barbatus, Mentha arvensis, Citrus sinensis, Lippia origanoides, Lippia alba, Cymbopogon citratus e Ruta graveolens. Estes resultados confirmam que as populações que vivem em Manacapuru ainda utilizam plantas medicinais como uma das formas de tratar suas doenças mais frequentes.
Adolescent drivers in Brazil: prevalence and associated factors estimated from the National Adolescent School-based Health Survey (PeNSE 2012)
Authors: Duarte Elisabeth Carmen , Garcia Leila Posenato
Published: July 2014

INTRODUCTION: There is evidence that adolescent drivers can represent risks to themselves, to passengers and to society in general. OBJECTIVE: To estimate the prevalence of history of driving among adolescent students (under the age of 18) and associated factors, in Brazil, in 2012. METHODS: This study analyzed data from the National Adolescent School-based Health Survey (PeNSE), held in 2012. The prevalence of history (at least once in the past 30 days) of driving motorized vehicles (cars, motorcycles or boats) by students aged less than 18 years old, as well as crude and adjusted odds ratios (OR) related to frequent driving (four or more times in the past 30 days) as the outcome, were estimated. RESULTS: Among the 106,621 interviewed students, 27.0% (95%CI 22.9 - 31.5) reported having driven a motorized vehicle, and 12.9% (95%CI 10.0 - 16.5) reported being a frequent driver (four or more times). Factors associated with frequent driving were: older age, male, mothers with higher schooling, living in a household with fewer members, living in the North and Northeast regions, living with someone who has a motorcycle or a car, when their school is not located in a state-capital, drinking alcohol and not wearing a seatbelt. CONCLUSION: The higher prevalence of history of driving among adolescent students in Brazil and the identified associated factors might help authorities to prioritize policies and to reinforce the adherence to traffic legislation among specific groups.
Experimentation and use of cigarette and other tobacco products among adolescents in the Brazilian state capitals (PeNSE 2012)
Authors: Barreto Sandhi Maria , Giatti Luana , Oliveira-Campos Maryane , Andreazzi Marco Antonio , Malta Deborah Carvalho
Published: July 2014

INTRODUCTION: Nicotine dependence establishes itself more rapidly among adolescents than among adults. Tobacco occupies the fourth place in the rank of main risk factors for non-communicable diseases in the continent. Studies reveal that other forms of tobacco use have increased among adolescents. METHODS: Were included the 9th grade students from the 26 State Capitals and the Federal District. who were participants of the National Adolescent School-based Health Survey (PeNSE), in 2012. Factors independently associated with experimentation and regular use of cigarettes were investigated by means of multinomial logistic regression, using as reference "never tried a cigarette". The use of other tobacco products included cigar, pipe, narghile and others. RESULTS: Of the in the 61,037 participants in the 26 Brazilian capitals and the Federal District, 22.7% (95%CI 21.7 - 23.5) had experimented cigarettes, 6.1% (95%CI 5.6 - 6.6) are regular smokers and 7.1% (95%CI 6.5 - 7.7) had used other tobacco products, with half of them also being regular smokers. The chances of experimenting and being a regular smoker increased with age and according to the frequency of weekly exposure to other smokers. These chances were also higher among students who worked, who lived in monoparental families or without their parents, and those who felt that their parents would not mind if they smoked. CONCLUSION: Results reinforce the association between social disadvantages and experimenting and regular smoking. In addition, the use of other tobacco products is worthy of attention and may lead to regular smoking.
Bullying in Brazilian school children: analysis of the National Adolescent School-based Health Survey (PeNSE 2012)
Authors: Malta Deborah Carvalho , Porto Denise Lopes , Crespo Claudio Dutra , Silva Marta Maria Alves , Andrade Silvania Suely Caribé de , Mello Flavia Carvalho Malta de , Monteiro Rosane , Silva Marta Angélica Iossi
Published: July 2014

OBJECTIVE: To describe the victimization and bullying practice in Brazilian school children, according to data from the National Adolescent School-based Health Survey and to compare the surveys from 2009 and 2012. METHODS: This is a cross-sectional study with univariate and multivariate analyzes of the following variables: to have been treated badly by colleagues, to have been bullied and to have bullied other children. The following independent variables were analyzed: age, sex, race/color, type of school, maternal education. Prevalence rates were compared between the editions of 2009 and 2012 of the survey. RESULTS: Of all the adolescents analyzed, 27.5% have not been treated well by peers at school, with greater frequency among boys (OR = 1.50), at the age of 15 years (OR = 1.29) and 16 (OR = 1.41), public school students (OR = 2.08), black (OR = 1.18) and whose mothers had less education; 7.2% reported having been bullied, with a greater chance in younger students (13 years old), male (OR = 1.26), black (OR = 1.15) and indigenous (OR = 1.16) and whose mothers had less education; 20.8% reported to have bullied other children, with a greater chance for older students, at the age of 14 (OR = 1.08) and 15 years (OR = 1.18), male (OR = 1.87), black (OR = 1.14) and yellow (OR = 1.15), children of mothers with higher education, private school students. There was an increase of bullying in the Brazilian capitals, from 5.4 to 6.8%, between 2009 and 2012. DISCUSSION: The occurrence of bullying reveals that the Brazilian school context is also becoming a space of reproduction of violence, in which it is crucial to act intersectorally and to articulate social protection networks, aiming to face this issue.
Sexual behavior among Brazilian adolescents, National Adolescent School-based Health Survey (PeNSE 2012)
Authors: Oliveira-Campos Maryane , Nunes Marília Lavocart , Madeira Fátima de Carvalho , Santos Maria Goreth , Bregmann Silvia Reise , Malta Deborah Carvalho , Giatti Luana , Barreto Sandhi Maria
Published: July 2014

OBJECTIVE: This study describes the sexual behavior among students who participated in the National Adolescent School-based Health Survey (PeNSE) 2012 and investigates whether social inequalities, the use of psychoactive substances and the dissemination of information on sexual and reproductive health in school are associated with differences in behavior. METHODOLOGY: The response variable was the sexual behavior described in three categories (never had sexual intercourse, had protected sexual intercourse, had unprotected sexual intercourse). The explanatory variables were grouped into socio- demographic characteristics, substance use and information on sexual and reproductive health in school. Variables associated with the conduct and unprotected sex were identified through multinomial logistic regression, using "never had sexual intercourse" as a reference. RESULTS: Over nearly a quarter of the adolescents have had sexual intercourse in life, being more frequent among boys. About 25% did not use a condom in the last intercourse. Low maternal education and work increased the chance of risky sexual behavior. Any chance of protected and unprotected sex increased with the number of psychoactive substances used. Among those who don't receive guidance on the prevention of pregnancy in school, the chance to have sexual intercourse increased, with the largest magnitude for unprotected sex (OR = 1.41 and OR = 1.87 ). CONCLUSION: The information on preventing pregnancy and STD/AIDS need to be disseminated before the 9th grade. Social inequalities negatively affect risky sexual behavior. Substance use is strongly associated with unprotected sex. Information on the prevention of pregnancy and STD/AIDS need to be disseminated early.
Situations of violence experienced by students in the state capitals and the Federal District: results from the National Adolescent School-based Health Survey (PeNSE 2012)
Authors: Malta Deborah Carvalho , Mascarenhas Márcio Dênis Medeiros , Dias Antônio Ribeiro , Prado Rogério Ruscitto do , Lima Cheila Marina , Silva Marta Maria Alves da , Silva Júnior Jarbas Barbosa da
Published: July 2014

OBJECTIVE: To describe violent events experienced by school-aged adolescents in school, around the school and in the family context, and to compare the results of the National Adolescent School-based Health Survey of 2009 and 2012. METHODS: Indicators related to violence involving teenagers were analyzed. The prevalence rates and confidence intervals of 95% were calculated for events of interest according to gender and type of school (public or private) and regions. RESULTS: Prevalence rates were: insecurity in the route between home-school (9.1%), insecurity in school (8.0%), physical assault in the last 12 months (18.2%), engaging in fights in the last 12 months (20.7%), fighting with a cold weapon (8.3%), fighting with firearms (6.9%), physical assault by a family member (11.6%) and having been seriously injured in the last 12 months (10.3%). The situations of violence were more prevalent among male students from public schools. The comparison with the 2009 survey showed increased prevalence in all the variables studied. CONCLUSION: Teenagers are exposed to different forms of violence, and the data from the National Survey of School Health can support the planning of preventive actions.
Trends in prevalence of overweight and obesity in adults in 26 Brazilian state capitals and the Federal District from 2006 to 2012
Authors: Malta Deborah Carvalho , Andrade Silvania Caribé , Claro Rafael Moreira , Bernal Regina Tomie Ivata , Monteiro Carlos Augusto
Published: July 2014

OBJECTIVE: To describe the annual evolution of the prevalence of overweight and obesity in the adult population of the 26 Brazilian state capitals and the Federal District from 2006 to 2012. METHODS: Annual interviews (around 54,000 per year) from VIGITEL (Surveillance System of Risk and Protective Factors for Chronic Non-Communicable Diseases through Telephone Interviews) were used. Self-reported weight and height were used to estimate body mass index and nutritional status. Prevalence estimates of overweight and obesity are presented according to gender, age and schooling and to each city. Linear regression model was used to evaluate the time trend of prevalence. RESULTS: Prevalence of overweight in adults in the 27 cities monitored by VIGITEL increased from 43.2% (2006) to 51.0% (2012), with an annual increase rate of 1.37%. Prevalence of obesity increased from 11.6% to 17.4%, with an annual increase rate of 0.89%. The study showed a statistically significant increase in the prevalence of overweight in all cities, and for both genders, all age groups and all levels of schooling. Similar trends were also verified for obesity. CONCLUSIONS: If the trends verified from 2006 to 2012 are maintained, in ten years, around two-thirds of the adults in Brazilian state capitals will be overweight, and a quarter will be obese. This perspective requests urgent response from government and intersectoral actions to combat the obesogenic environment.
The Peer Aggressive and Reactive Behaviors Questionnaire (PARB-Q): evidence of validity in the Brazilian context
Authors: Borsa Juliane Callegaro , Bandeira Denise Ruschel
Published: July 2014

Objective: To evaluate the psychometric properties of the Brazilian version of the Peer Aggressive and Reactive Behaviors Questionnaire (PARB-Q), a self-report instrument comprising two independent scales that assess aggressive behavior and reactions to peer aggression. Method: A total of 727 elementary schoolchildren aged 8-13 years (52% boys) were included. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were used to evaluate the factor structure. Results: The Brazilian version of the PARB-Q was consistent with the original version. The results of the exploratory factor analyses (EFA) indicated a one-factor solution for the first scale (Peer Aggression Scale) and a three-factor solution (Reactive Aggression, Seeking Teacher Support, and Internalizing Reaction) for the Reaction to Peer Aggression Scale. The confirmatory analyses for both scales yielded good fit indices. Conclusion: The results of the statistical analyses suggested adequate psychometric properties and satisfactory validity and reliability of the Brazilian version of the PARB-Q, making it a useful tool for assessing aggressive behavior as well as children's reactions to aggression by their peers.
Translation and adaptation of the Child Posttraumatic Cognitions Inventory (cPTCI) to Brazilian Portuguese
Authors: Lobo Beatriz de Oliveira Meneguelo , Brunnet Alice Einloft , Silva Thiago Loreto Garcia da , Santos Lafaiete Moreira dos , Gauer Gustavo , Arteche Adriane Xavier , Kristensen Christian Haag
Published: July 2014

Introduction: Experiencing a traumatic event is a risk factor for the development of mental illness, especially posttraumatic stress disorder. A child's appraisals of a traumatic event may play a prominent role in the development or maintenance of the disorder. Therefore, subjective responses should be evaluated to understand the impact of a traumatic event on a child's life. This study translated and adapted the Child Posttraumatic Cognitions Inventory (cPTCI) for use in linguistic and cultural contexts in Brazil. Methods: The process included translation, back-translation, language expert evaluation and expert committee's evaluation. Results: Content validity index scores were good for all dimensions after evaluation by two judges and one reformulation. The back-translation of the final version also showed that the cPTCI items in Brazilian Portuguese maintained the same meanings of the original in English. This version was tested in a sample of the target population, and all the items were above the cut-off point (minimum = 3.6; maximum = 4.0). Conclusions: This study was successful in producing a Brazilian version of the cPTCI. Further studies are underway to examine the reliability and the factorial and concurrent validity of cPTCI subscales.
High Temperature Corrosion Resistance of Pt-Based Superalloys in 0.2% SO2-N2 Gas
Authors: Potgieter Johannes H. , Maledi Nthabiseng B.
Published: July 2014

Pt-based superalloys are a new generation of materials intended to be used in various high temperature
applications. Effluent gases emitted to the environment during combustion operations can lead to degradation of high
temperature materials with deleterious effects on mechanical integrity and the corrosion of alloys. This paper focuses on
sulphidation of one quaternary, and four ternary, Pt-based superalloys of various chemical compositions. Pt-based
superalloys were exposed at 900°C in a reducing environment. The alloys were compared to coated and uncoated
Ni-based superalloys (NBSAs). X-Ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Raman spectroscopy
were used to characterize corrosion products that formed. The Pt-based superalloys exhibited higher corrosion resistance
than NBSAs as a result of the formation of a protective Al2O3 scale, whereas NBSAs suffered internal sulphidation and
formed Cr and Ni sulphide corrosion compounds. The formation of brittle needle-like phases and the transformation of the
NiAl phase to Ni3Al, led to early failure of the coated alloy. Pt-based superalloys alloyed with Co showed poor corrosion
resistance as a result of depletion of alloying elements.
Asymptotically optimal induced decompositions
Authors: Halász Veronika , Tuza Zsolt
Published: July 2014

Solving a problem raised by Bondy and Szwarcfiter [J. Graph Theory, 72
(2013), 462-477] we prove that if the edge set of a graph G of order n can be
decomposed into edge-disjoint induced copies of the path P4 or of the paw
K4?P3, then the complement of G has at least cn3/2 edges. This lower bound is
tight apart from the actual value of c, and completes the determination of
asymptotic growth for the graphs with at most four vertices. More generally
the lower bound cn3/2 holds for any graph without isolated vertices which is
not a complete multipartite graph; but a linear upper bound is valid for any
complete tripartite graph.
A NEMO-HWSN solution to support 6LoWPAN network mobility in hospital wireless sensor network
Authors: Shahamabadi Mohammadreza , Ali Borhanuddin , Noordin Nor , Rasid Mohd , Varahram Pooria , Jara Antonio
Published: July 2014

IPv6 Low-power Personal Area Networks (6LoWPANs) have recently found renewed
interest because of the emergence of Internet of Things (IoT). Mobility
support in 6LoWPANs for large-scale IP-based sensor technology in future IoT
is still in its infancy. The hospital wireless network is one important
6LoWPAN application of the IoT, it keeps continuous monitoring of vital signs
of moveing patients. Proper mobility management is needed to maintain
connectivity between patient nodes and the hospital network. In this paper,
first we survey IPv6 mobility protocols and propose a solution for a hospital
architecture based on 6LoWPAN technology. Moreover, we discuss an important
metric like signaling overload to optimize the power consumption and how it
can be optimized through the mobility management. This metric is more
effective on the mobile router as a coordinator in network mobility since a
mobile router normally constitutes a bottleneck in such a system. Finally, we
present our initial results on a reduction of the mobility signaling cost and
the tunneling traffic on the mobile PAN.
An efficient wormhole attack detection method in wireless sensor networks
Authors: Wu Guowei , Chen Xiaojie , Yao Lin , Lee Youngjun , Yim Kangbin
Published: July 2014

Wireless sensor networks are now widely used in many areas, such as military,
environmental, health and commercial applications. In these environments,
security issues are extremely important since a successful attack can cause
great damage, even threatening human life. However, due to the open nature of
wireless communication, WSNs are liable to be threatened by various attacks,
especially destructive wormhole attack, in which the network topology is
completely destroyed. Existing some solutions to detect wormhole attacks
require special hardware or strict synchronized clocks or long processing
time. Moreover, some solutions cannot even locate the wormhole. In this
paper, a wormhole attack detection method is proposed based on the
transmission range that exploits the local neighborhood information check
without using extra hardware or clock synchronizations. Extensive simulations
are conducted under different mobility models. Simulation results indicate
that the proposed method can detect wormhole attacks effectively and
efficiently in WSNs.
The performance analysis of direct/cooperative transmission to support QoS in WLANs
Authors: Weng Chien-Erh , Wen Jyh-Horng , Chen Hsing-Chung , Yang Lie
Published: July 2014

In the past decades, cooperative communications schemes have gained
significant attention in wireless networks. The cooperative scheme leads to
longer transmission time which can considerably degrade the system
performance. We evaluate the saturation throughput and saturation delay of
the Markov chain model with direct/cooperative schemes to support QoS in
WLANs. Simulation results show that differentiating the contention window
size is better than differentiating the arbitration interframe space in
terms of throughput and delay.
How well is firn densification represented by a physically based multilayer model? Model evaluation for Devon Ice Cap, Nunavut, Canada
Authors: Gascon Gabrielle , Sharp Martin , Burgess David , Bezeau Peter , Bush Andrew B.G. , Morin Samuel , Lafaysse Matthieu
Published: July 2014

Evaluation of how accurately snowpack models can capture hydrological processes in firn is critical to determining how well they will simulate future glacier mass-balance changes. Here we compare simulations using the Crocus snowpack model with the evolving firn stratigraphy recorded in 14 cores drilled at four elevations in the accumulation zone of Devon Ice Cap, Canada, during the 2004–12 period of rapid summer warming. Simulations were forced with a combination of surface observations and reanalysis data. Simulations resulted in positive model bias in near-surface density, and negative bias in density at depth compared to observations. Results point to the importance of incorporating heterogeneous percolation in firn in order to improve the representation of meltwater flow, better reproduce observed firn density and temperature profile evolution, and improve simulations of glacier mass balance during periods of climate warming.
Conceptual thoughts on continuum damage mechanics for shallow ice shelves
Authors: Keller Arne , Hutter Kolumban
Published: July 2014

We consider a theory for shallow ice shelves that includes an isotropic damage variable. A zeroth-order shallow-shelf approximation allows a simple yet consistent treatment of both ice dynamics and damage evolution. We find that the damage variable (like temperature) has, in general, to vary with depth; a purely two-dimensional membrane theory can only be considered a rough approximation for isothermal ice shelves.
Outcome of Vesiciureteric Reflux After Primary Fulguration of Posterior Urethral Valves
Authors: Pervez M. M. Masud , Hasina Kaniz , Huq Md. Ashraf Ul , Nooruzzaman Md. , Hanif Abdul
Published: July 2014

Introduction: Congenital obstruction of the urethra is one of the most devastating anomalies to occur in the urinary tract and one of the few that are life-threatening in the neonatal period. Posterior urethral valve (PUV) is the most frequent cause of urethral obstruction in male child. These lesions usually result in lifelong disabilities with incontinence and decreased renal function despite optimal medical management. Primary fulguration without upper tract diversion is the preferred modality of treatment in most cases of PUV. Regular follow-up is needed to check completion of valve fulguration, renal function, status of hydronephrosis, vesicoureteric reflux (VUR), urinary tract infection (UTI), and bladder function.Materials and methods: We conducted interventional study among 30 purposively selected patients of PUV in the Department of Pediatric surgery, Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH), Dhaka, over a period of 16 months from December 2009 to March 2011. Age of study subjects varied from 2 days to 14 years. Among the 30 patients, 16 were children in the age group between 1year to14 years (53.3%), 11(36.7%) were infants and the rest 03(10%) were neonates. Most of the patients presented with weak urinary stream, dribbling of urine, straining at micturition, UTI and palpable bladder. All children were subjected to ultrasonography(USG),blood urea, serum creatinine, routine urine examination and culture studies. Structured questionnaire was used to collect information regarding improvement of VUR and renal functional status before & after primary fulguration of PUV.Results: Average serum creatinine level was found gradually decreased in subsequent follow up in comparison with the previous one. This difference of creatinine level was found statistically significant in t test (p<0.01). Average blood urea nitrogen (BUN) was also decreased which was found statistically significant (p<0.05). VUR was present in 63.3% cases. Non- VUR was found in 60% cases on right side and 50% cases on left side. On the third follow-up  after 3 months it became 73.3% on right side and 63.3% on left side. Positive correlation found in Pearson correlation test about the changes of reflux grades before and after fulguration was significant at the level of 0.01(p<0.001). It was significant on both left and right kidneys. Positive correlation found in Pearson correlation test about the changes of GFR before and after fulguration was also significant at the level of 0.01(p <0.001). Collected data was cleaned, edited and analyzed with the help of software SPSS window version 15.0.Conclusion: In this study, VUR disappeared in some cases and decreased in majority of the cases by 3 months after adequate restoration of urethral patency. Renal function came to normal range in two thirds of the cases.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jpsb.v2i2.19542
Assesment of The Effect of Multimodal Preemptive Analgesia in Children
Authors: Nooruzzaman Md. , Pervez MM Masud , Akan Md. Abu Bakar , Anisuzzaman M , Islam Md. Nazrul , Shahinoor AM
Published: July 2014

Background: Preemptive analgesia, an evolving clinical concept, involves the introduction of an analgesic regimen before the onset of noxious stimuli, with the goal of preventing sensitization of the nervous system to subsequent stimuli that could amplify pain. Pain is inevitable after any surgery. Surgery offers the most promising setting for preemptive analgesia because the timing of noxious stimuli is known.Materials & Methods: This prospective double blind study included 60 children (30 in each group), undergoing major surgery under general anesthesia. Each patient in the study group (Group II) received pre-emptive analgesia (Local anesthesia, per-rectal diclofenac just prior to surgery, per-rectal paracetamol 2 hours prior to surgery) and regular pattern of postoperative pain intervention with per rectal diclofenac and per rectal or oral paracetamol in different phases of postoperative pain management up to 48 hours. On the other hand, each patient of control group (Group I) received pre-emptive analgesia (Local anesthesia & per-rectal diclofenac) regular pattern of postoperative pain intervention with per-rectal diclofenac in different phases of postoperative pain up to 48 hours. The degree of postoperative pain was assessed by universal pain assessment tools (VAS) at defined intervals.Results: Most children in the study group (Group II) has significantly better postoperative pain control with only mild pain at 4th postoperative hours. It is obvious that less pain in Group-II due to synergistic effect of paracetamol and diclofenac. In the control group (Group I) there was persistence of mild pain throughout the observation period i.e. up to 48 postoperative hours. The breakthrough pain occurred more in latter group, two patients needed rescue analgesia. Whereas no patient experienced breakthrough pain requiring rescue analgesia in study group (Group II).Conclusion: Therefore this study concludes that administrations of multimodal pre-emptive analgesia control pain more effectively in children in view of both the degree of pain control and sustainability of pain free state.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jpsb.v2i2.19545