bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Safeguard Assessment in Nuclear Power Plants (NPPs) Operations Using Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and Production Function
Authors: Woo Tae-Ho , Lese Un-Chul
Published: June 2011

The safeguard assessment has been investigated for the nuclear material in the nuclear power plants (NPPs). It is important to keep the secure operation in NPPs against possible terror attacks. The random sampling of Monte-Carlo method is used for the quantification of the basic events in 5 kinds of interested NPPs. Using the matrix form analysis, the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) is applied as the maximum pair values with multiplications which is decided by reactor characteristics. The range of the secure operation is between 0.006167 and 0.004680 as relative numbers in the lifetime of 60 years. This means the highest value in the range of secure power operation is about 1.3177 times higher than the lowest one. The consistency has the highest consistent values in 14th and 26th years as the lowest values of the C.I. (Consistency Index) and C.R. (Consistency Ratio). The value of Nuclear Production Function (NPF) of the Cobb-Douglas function has the maximum value of 0.642836 and the minimum value of 0.0932656, where the refueling period is specialized as the power production change. So, the highest value in the secure power operation is 6.8925 times higher than that of the lowest power operation in this study. Finally, the nuclear safeguard protocol (NSP) is constructed for the safe operation successfully.
The Periodic Table of the Polyhedral Universe
Authors: Burt Michael
Published: June 2011

With the introduction of ‘sponge polyhedra’, the polyhedral universe has exploded to ‘cosmological proportions’.

‘The Periodic Table of the Polyhedral Universe’ was conceived to provide an overview, deal with it's evolving complexity and to gain insights into it's defining topological-symmetrical – structural properties, their hierarchical characteristics and order.

Arranged on the basis of primary parameters, considered to be Val., Σα & g, a Cartesian environment is constructed in which every polyhedron has a unique point representation and all shared properties are posing as mathematically embraced location patterns.

The article claims to resolve the apparent dichotomy between space lattice configurations and polyhedral tessellations, thus permitting the lattices to share in the ‘Periodic Table’ and benefit from its insights.
A Framework for Financial Analysis of Offshore Wind Energy
Authors: Ozkan Deniz , Duffey Michael R.
Published: June 2011

The financial viability of an offshore wind project is dependent on many interrelated, site-specific factors. However, existing analysis tools in the public domain are not adequate to comprehensively evaluate proposed offshore projects for involved parties including potential investors, developers, and policy makers. Each site requires unique optimization of the physical design (for turbines, support structures, and farm parameters) to calculate a minimum cost of energy. Also specific to each offshore project are: 1) local deregulated power networks which impact revenues and penalty costs in the bidding process; 2) complex financing structures with multiple participants; 3) monetization of environmental impacts specific to energy sold/generated in a power network, including avoided emissions of displaced generations; 4) uncertain permitting and payment schedules which impact commissioning costs. This paper presents an Offshore Wind Integrated Cost model (OFWIC) that attempts to comprehensively include these factors. It summarizes the model architecture, describes implementation issues, and discusses case study results for a proposed offshore site near Cape Cod, Massachusetts. Because the comprehensive cost calculations can provide insights beyond those of existing, public domain methodologies, further research on this type of model may be warranted.
Sustaining Innovation in Information Technology Entrepreneurship with a Sufficiency Economy Philosophy
Authors: Savetpanuvong Phannaphatr , Tanlamai Uthai , Lursinsap Chidchanok
Published: June 2011

The use of a sustainable innovation strategy, as employed by the information technology entrepreneurships outlined in this study, has led to firm sustainability. By applying the Sufficiency Economy Principle, the original model of the Innovation Strategy Tetrahedron (IST) is augmented with sustainability. Key premises for a sustainable innovation strategy include: a concern for societal and environmental impacts, fair competition and equality of stakeholder treatment as well as building long-term customer relationships with integrity, appropriate use of resources, diversification to reduce risk, and timely entrance into different market cycles. In this paper, we analyze three firms using our proposed model: the Sustainable Innovation Strategy Tetrahedron (SIST). The analysis showed that during turbulent times, the entrepreneurs with a sustainable innovation strategy were not best-in-class in terms of profitable performers; however, they had three sustainability approaches in common: to scale innovation up from within and scale innovation out through networking; to scope up on core competences in short waves of innovation and scope out for new, long waves of innovation; and to speed up innovation in a fast market cycle and maintain moderate speed in a slow cycle. The result of each firm's SIST is shown using mixed reality technology in a three-dimensional model. The visual representations reveal that the superior firm sustained its innovation through balancing scale, scope, and speed strategies.
Simulation of Non-Darcy Porous Media Flow According to the Barree and Conway Model
Authors: Wu Yu-Shu , Lai Bitao , Miskimins Jennifer L.
Published: June 2011

Non-Darcy porous media flow has been traditionally handled using the Forchheimer equation. However, recent experimental studies have shown that the Forchheimer model is unable to fit laboratory results at high flow rates. On the other hand, the non-Darcy flow model, proposed by Barree and Conway, is capable of describing the entire range of relationships between flow rate and potential gradient from low- to high-flow rates through proppant packs. In this paper, we present a numerical model by incorporating the Barree and Conway model into a general-purpose reservoir simulator for modeling single-phase and multiphase non-Darcy flow in porous and fractured media. The numerical formulation is based on the TOUGH2 methodology, i.e., spatial integral-finite-difference discretization, leading to an unstructured grid, followed by time discretization carried out with a backward, first-order, finite-difference method. The final discrete nonlinear equations are handled fully implicitly by Newton iteration. In the numerical approach, flow through fractured rock is handled using a general multi-continuum approach, applicable to both continuum and discrete fracture conceptual models. In an effort for model validation, we use analytical solutions to verify our numerical model results for both single-phase and multiphase non-Darcy flow. In addition, the numerical model is applied for well testing analysis of transient non-Darcy flow toward a well.
The Hydrodynamics of Grit Particles Moving round a Bend Using CFD Modelling
Authors: Patel Titiksh , Gill Laurence W.
Published: June 2011

CFD modelling has been used to investigate the secondary flow phenomenon and its effect on grit particles carried in curved open channel flow. A CFD model was calibrated against a case study and then validated against data from a physical model with a 30° bend. The flow was calculated by solving the full Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes equations and Reynolds Stress turbulence models with a finite-volume method; the air-water interaction at the free surface was simulated using a Volume of Fluid multi-phase model. The hydrodynamics of grit particles (63 to 2000 μm) moving round a bend was then modelled using Discrete Phase Modelling which was further calibrated using experimental data on grit movement from the physical model. Further parametric investigations were carried out using the numerical model on curved open channels for various angles of bend, flow rates, channel widths and radii of curvature to assess their effect on secondary flows.
Four-Phase Eulerian-Eulerian Model for Prediction of Multiphase Flow in Cyclones
Authors: Meier H. F. , Vegini A. A. , Mori M.
Published: June 2011

The purpose of this work is to present a new code, the CYCLO-EE3, which is based on computational fluid dynamics (CFD) techniques. The model used is based on the Eulerian-Eulerian approach and it is composed of several time differential equations in a 3-D-space domain with a 3-D symmetric cyclone inlet. The solid phase is treated like a hypothetical fluid and drag forces between phases are responsible for the gas-solid interaction. The CYCLO- EE3 code makes possible the use of up to three solid phases, each one with size of particle, density and specific volumetric fraction. The mathematical model is completed using a hybrid turbulence model composed of the combination of the (k-e) standard model and Prandtl's longitudinal mixing model to represent the turbulence of the gas phase. The model is solved using the finite volume method with staggered grids in the cylindrical coordinate system. The numerical results allowed prediction of the pressure drop and the collection efficiency as well as the complete fluid dynamic behavior of the gas-solid flow for the cyclone. The collection efficiency and pressure drop from an experimental study reported by literature were used to validate the model. A comparison between the experimental data and the numerical results shows that the CYCLO-EE3 code predicts the results well.
Prevalence of Electronic Health Records in U.S. Hospitals
Authors: Abraham Jean M. , McCullough Jeff S. , Parente Stephen T. , Gaynor Martin S.
Published: June 2011

This work provides prevalence estimates for electronic health record (EHR) systems within U.S. hospitals in 2008. Specifically, we identify the set of information technology (IT) applications that provide the technological pre‐conditions for hospitals′ achievement of meaningful use. We estimate a set of descriptive and multivariate analyses to identify the organizational attributes that are significantly related to EHR adoption. In addition to considering IT applications individually, we consider the cumulative adoption by hospitals. Our results suggest that most U.S. hospitals continue to lack the technological pre‐conditions for achieving meaningful use. Approximately 72% of hospitals had adopted three or fewer of these key applications. Furthermore, we observe some evidence of complementarities between IT and other production inputs. Finally, ownership status, system affiliation, and geographic location are all significantly related to IT adoption. These results provide a useful benchmark for pending IT investments resulting from health reform.
A Standard, Knowledge Integrated Consultation Document for Pediatric HIV Information Exchange
Authors: Patra Debkumar , Mukherjee Jayanta , Majumdar Arun K. , Majumdar Bandana , DasBhattacharya Sangeeta , Paul Soubhik
Published: June 2011

HIV/AIDS is one of life‐threatening diseases over which human currently does not have enough control. Study and research on HIV and its prevention are being carried out by different organizations. However, they are mostly area specific, thereby, failing to provide a nation‐wide or region‐wide overview of HIV infection. One of the major bottlenecks in having a wider study is the lack of interoperability among systems managing HIV patient information. Besides, such lack of interoperability also hinders forming larger HIV care network where telemedicine could be accomplished more effectively. We have addressed this interoperability issue through HL7 clinical document architecture (CDA), a document‐based messaging standard for clinical interaction. This article introduces a document architecture that conforms to HL7 CDA standard and contains all relevant information of a pediatric HIV patient. We extended the existing architecture of CDA consultation note in three dimensions: (1) HIV specific content, (2) HIV specific knowledgebase and (3) HIV specific presentation of content and knowledge. An example CDA consultation note is demonstrated following the proposed extension.
Field‐Testing a PC Electronic Documentation System using the Clinical Care Classification© System with Nursing Students
Authors: Mannino Jennifer E. , Feeg Veronica D.
Published: June 2011

Schools of nursing are slow in training their students to keep up with the fast approaching era of electronic healthcare documentation. This paper discusses the importance of nursing documentation, and describes the field‐testing of an electronic health record, the Sabacare Clinical Care Classification (CCC©) system. The PC‐CCC©, designed as a Microsoft Access® application, is an evidence‐based electronic documentation system available via free download from the internet. A sample of baccalaureate nursing students from a mid‐Atlantic private college used this program to document the nursing care they provided to patients during their sophomore level clinical experience. This paper summarizes the design, training, and evaluation of using the system in practice.
Book Reviews
Authors: Rand Graham K.
Published: June 2011

In Book Reviews, we review an extensive and diverse range of books. They cover theory and applications in operations research, statistics, management science, econometrics, mathematics, computers, and information systems. In addition, we include books in other fields that emphasize technical applications. The editor would be pleased to receive e-mails from those willing to be reviewers, with an indication of specific areas of interest. If you are aware of a specific book that you would like to review, or that you think should be reviewed, please contact the editor.
Polynomial Matrix Inequality and Semidefinite Representation
Authors: Nie Jiawang
Published: July 2011

Consider a convex set [Formula: see text], where G(x) is a symmetric matrix whose every entry is a polynomial or rational function, 𝒟 ⫅ ℝn is a domain on which G(x) is defined, and [Formula: see text] means G(x) is positive semidefinite. The set S is called semidefinite representable if it equals the projection of a higher dimensional set that is defined by a linear matrix inequality (LMI). This paper studies sufficient conditions guaranteeing semidefinite representability of S. We prove that S is semidefinite representable in the following cases: (i) 𝒟 = ℝn, G(x) is a matrix polynomial and matrix sos-concave; (ii) 𝒟 is compact convex, G(x) is a matrix polynomial and strictly matrix concave on 𝒟 (iii) G(x) is a matrix rational function and q-module matrix concave on 𝒟. Explicit constructions of semidefinite representations are given. Some examples are illustrated.
On the Convergence Rate for Stochastic Approximation in the Nonsmooth Setting
Authors: Lim Eunji
Published: July 2011

We consider a stochastic approximation (SA) method for finding the minimizer of a function f, which is convex but nondifferentiable at the minimizer. Due to the nondifferentiability at the minimizer, f is allowed to increase at a positive rate in a neighborhood of the minimizer. From this property, we show that the nth estimate for the minimizer generated by the SA procedure converges at a rate of 1/n in the mean, which is significantly faster than the classical convergence rates for differentiable functions f. We also discuss an example from an inventory control system that exhibits a convex but nondifferentiable cost function.
Perfect Information Games with Upper Semicontinuous Payoffs
Authors: Purves Roger A. , Sudderth William D.
Published: July 2011

It has been shown that every n-person, perfect information game with no chance moves and bounded, lower semicontinuous payoffs has a subgame perfect ϵ-equilibrium in pure strategies. Here the same is proved when the payoffs are bounded and upper semicontinuous.
On the continuous transformations between genus-3 minimal surfaces approximants
Authors: Leoni Stefano , Baburin Igor A.
Published: June 2011

A continuous, genus-preserving transformation relating four minimal surfaces –P,G,DandH– was suggested within a common trigonal group-subgroup pair (P-3c1–P321). Periodic nodal surfaces (PNS) were used as approximants of minimal surfaces to illustrate the transition path. ThemeanandGausscurvatures of PNS were calculated in order to quantify their similarity to minimal surfaces. Theinhomogeneityof the Gauss curvature distributions on PNS was used to producetilingsdirectly on the surfaces. Such tilings on theP,GandDsurfaces can be easily related to three-dimensional nets important in structural chemistry (rhr, analcime, sodalite frameworks, respectively). A tiling on theHsurface gave rise to a completely new 3,4-coordinated net.
Cerumen as a potential risk for transmission of Hepatitis B virus
Authors: Gholami-Parizad Elaheh , Taherikalani Morovat , Mozaffar-Sabet Noor-Amir , Asmar Mahdi , Gholami-Parizad Skandar , Khosravi Afra , Emaneini Mohammad , Asadollahi Parisa
Published: June 2011

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) transmission via blood and other body fluids from infected individuals to healthy people has been largely demonstrated. However, in the current literature, there is little information available on the potential role of cerumen in HBV transmission.Cerumen and blood were collected from 70 patients infected with HBV and 70 volunteer healthy people were selected as the control group, and the samples were evaluated by ELISA and Real-time PCR.All the patients proved positive for HBsAg and anti HBc total. Sixty-one of the 70 cerumen samples of cases (82.1%) and 5 (7%) of controls were positive for HBV DNA with ranges from 1.53 × 102 to 2.9 × 108 and 1.3 × 102–2.6 × 105/ml, respectively. In three patients, the level of HBV DNA in cerumen was higher than that in the serums. The patients who were positive for HBeAg showed a higher rate of HBVDNA in the serum and cerumen.The results of this study showed the level of HBV DNA as a probably indicator of high risk transmission factor, which was present in the cerumen of chronic hepatitis B patients in west of Iran.
Characterization of Staphylococcus aureus strains isolated from raw milk of bovine subclinical mastitis in Tehran and Mashhad
Authors: Sahebekhtiari Navid , Nochi Zahra , Eslampour Mohammad , Dabiri Hossein , Bolfion Mehdi , Taherikalani Morovat , Khoramian Babak , Zali Mohammad , Emaneini Mohammad
Published: June 2011

Staphylococcus aureus is considered one of the most important food borne pathogens.A total of 111 isolates of S. aureus were cultured from raw milk samples during January 2009 to June 2009 from Tehran and Mashhad. The coagulase gene polymorphism and the prevalence of classical enterotoxin genes of S. aureus strains were determined by PCR-RFLP (restriction fragment length polymorphism) and Multiplex-PCR. Disk diffusion method was used to determine the susceptibility of isolates to antimicrobial agents as instructed by Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute.Sixty-seven % of the isolates harboured one or more enterotoxin genes. The most prevalent gene was sec, found in 59 % of the isolates. Approximately 8% of the isolates were positive for sea, seb and sed genes. Only one isolate had see gene. The rate of coexistence of enterotoxin genes was 14%. All S. aureus isolates were susceptible to ciprofloxacin, gentamicin, imipenem, minocycline, oxacillin and vancomycin. They were resistant to ampicillin (64%), penicillin (56%), clindamycin (22%), tetracycline (22%), doxycycline (19%), teicoplanin (13%), rifampin (2%) and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (2%). On the basis of coagulase gene analysis of 111 S. aureus isolates, the PCR products of 56 isolates were digested with Alu I that produced three distinct patterns.These data indicate the high prevalence of enterotoxigenic S. aureus in raw bovine milk in Tehran and Mashhad, and highlight the importance of proper quality control of dairy products for public health.
Tratamento conservador e timectomia na miastenia grave: resultados avaliados a curto e longo prazos
Authors: Assis José Lamartine de , Marchiori Paulo E. , Zambón Antonio A. , Scaff Milberto
Published: June 2011

Dois grupos de pacientes com miastenia grave adquirida foram analisados evolutivamente, para se verificar a influência da terapêutica no comportamento da doença. Dezenove foram timectomizados (grupo I) e 14 tratados por métodos conservadores (grupo II). Ambos os grupos foram homogeneizados demograficamente. Estabeleceram-se parâmetros que pudessem avaliar a história natural da doença e variáveis com o objetivo maior de análise comparativa na recuperação dos pacientes. Houve influência significativa quanto à utilização de quaisquer terapêuticas individualmente. Ambos os grupos tiveram comportamento semelhante quanto à resposta clínica final. A análise (U-Mann-Whitney) mostrou que os grupos provêm da mesma população. Embora ocorram diferenças quanto a individualidades das variáveis analisadas, a análise discriminante efetuada mostrou-se não significativa, nas doenças de longa evolução.
Fatores de risco da enxaqueca na faixa etária de 7 a 15 anos
Authors: Carvalho Deusvenir de Souza , Zukerman Eliova , Hanuch Suzanmeire Negro Minatti , Levyman Célio , Lima José Geraldo Camargo
Published: June 2011

A comparação de dois grupos de crianças (grupo A, com enxaqueca e grupo B, controle, sem cefaléia) com idade de 7 a 15 anos mostrou quanto à ocorrência de distúrbio de sono, dor abdominal recorrente, cinetose, hiperatividade, vertigens, dores do crescimento, vômitos cíclicos, pseudoangina e antecedente familiar de cefaléia em geral e/ou enxaqueca que: predomina no grupo A, dor abdominal recorrente, cinetose, vertigens, hiperatividade, vômitos cíclicos, em ambos os sexos; distúrbio de sono no sexo masculino e dores do crescimento, no feminino; antecedente familiar de cefaléia em geral e/ou enxaqueca. Pseudoangina não mostrou diferença significante. Discute-se a possibilidade de serem considerados esses fatores como fatores de risco para o diagnóstico de enxaqueca.
Manifestações cursivas e gelásticas das epilepsias
Authors: Guerreiro Carlos A. M. , Silveira Diosely C. , Guerreiro Marilisa M.
Published: June 2011

Os autores descrevem dois pacientes com manifestações gelásticas e sete pacientes com manifestações cursivas de crises epilépticas, documentadas com eletrencefalograma intercrítico e tomografia computadorizada craniana. Todos os pacientes apresentavam crises parciais complexas seguidas ou não de crises tô-nico-clônicas generalizadas. Discutem o tema a respeito da fisiopatologia e questionam a importância nosológica destas formas de epilepsias.
Liquido cefalorraqueano na síndrome de imunodeficiência adquirida: análise de 50 casos
Authors: Spina-França A. , Livramento J. A. , Machado L. R. , Bacheschi L. A. , Nóbrega J.P. S.
Published: June 2011

Foi estudado sistematizadamente o LCR de 50 pacientes com AIDS que apresentavam sintomatologia passível de ser atribuída a comprometimento do SNC. Somente 5 apresentavam o quadro do LCR dentro dos limites normais. Em um, ocorriam células neoplásicas (linfoma); em 10, Cryptococcus neoformans; reações imunológicas foram positivas para sífilis em três e para toxoplasmose em 4. Um dos casos de criptococose apresentava simultaneamente toxoplasmose e desenvolveu sífilis, ulteriormente. Em outro dos casos de criptococose durante a evolução surgiram leveduras do gênero Candida. Considerando os achados, são discutidos quanto ao LCR aspectos: da reação inflamatoria na vigência de imunodeficiência; do comprometimento da BHE; do comprometimento do SNC; de efeitos de massa que podem ocorrer, como aqueles provocados por tumores e granulomas.
Síndrome de Guillain-Barrè após varicela: relato de caso
Authors: Arruda Walter Oleschko , Aguiar Luis R. C. , Sandoval Paulo R. Miranda
Published: June 2011

Os autores relatam caso grave de síndrome de Guillain-Barré após quadro inicial de varicela em rapaz de 13 anos. Como complicações este paciente desenvolveu quadriplegia flácida com insuficiência respiratória, hipertensão arterial, taquicardia e importante neuropatía sensitiva periférica (disestesia dolorosa). Comenta-se a relação entre quadros virais benignos e o desenvolvimento de polirradiculoneurite aguda, assim como o possível mecanismo imunopatogênico envolvendo fatores humorais e celulares.
Anfotericina B no tratamento da neurocriptococose em pacientes submetidos a transplante renal
Authors: Nóbrega J. P. S.
Published: June 2011

Foram estudados 35 casos de neurocriptococose, 17 dos quais em pacientes submetidos a transplante renal. O objetivo foi avaliar a resposta terapêutica observada no grupo de pacientes transplantados renais com neurocriptococose, com ênfase à função renal, submetidos a esquema medicamentoso que inclui a anfotericina B. A resposta observada foi comparada aos resultados obtidos no grupo dos demais pacientes com a mesma infecção, submetidos ao mesmo esquema medicamentoso, porém sem insuficiência renal prévia. Dos 35 pacientes, 10 faleceram nos primeiros dias do tratamento e, assim, 25 foram efetivamente tratados para neurocriptococose. Destes 25, 18 apresentavam outra condição clínica associada, sendo esta transplante renal em 15 deles. Os medicamentos utilizados basicamente foram a anfotericina B intravenosa e intra-raqueana associada à 5-fluorocitosina via oral. Sete pacientes faleceram durante o tratamento. Assim, dos 35 pacientes que inicialmente compunham a casuística, 17 faleceram (48,57%) e 18 foram tratados com sucesso, nenhum deles apresentando recidiva. As intercorrências observadas durante o tratamento são discutidas e é feita correlação dos dados obtidos neste estudo aos disponíveis na literatura. A análise dos resultados obtidos permite ressaltar: a necessidade do surgimento de medicamentos mais eficazes e menos tóxicos para a terapêutica da neurocriptococose, sendo até o momento a anfotericina B o principal medicamento existente; o esquema terapêutico atualmente indicado consiste na associação anfotericina B e 5-fluorocitosina, havendo vantagens na utilização simultânea da anfotericina B pelas vias intravenosa e intra-raqueana. A análise dos resultados permite concluir por não haver contra-indicação ao uso da anfotericina B por via intravenosa em transplantados renais com neurocriptococose.
Chronic progressive external ophthalmoplegia: I. A quantitative histochemical study of skeletal muscles
Authors: Dias-Tosta Elza
Published: June 2011

This study quantitates the major morphological and cytochemical changes in limb muscle biopsies from 37 patients with the, syndrome of chronic progressive external ophthalmoplegia (CPEO). The aim was to assess the value of limb muscle biopsy in the diagnosis of this syndrome; to define the myopathological changes and to determine whether there were any specific clinico-pathological correlations. Patients were divided into three clinical groups - 11 patients with CPEO with facial and/or limb muscle weakness; 10 with CPEO with facial and/or limb muscle weakness and a positive family history; 16 with CPEO with one or more of the following: pigmentary retinopathy, cerebellar ataxia, pyramidal signs and peripheral neuropathy. The following parameters were measured: the proportions of histochemical fibre types, the muscle fibre areas and the percentage of muscle fibres showing increased oxidative enzyme activity. Pooled results for each of the clinical categories were compared. Statistical analysis of fibre areas and the percentage of fibres with increased oxidative enzyme activity, showed that group 2 differed from the others (p < 0.05). Patients in group 2 showed the highest incidence of type 1 fibre hypertrophy, type 2A atrophy and the lowest incidence of fibres with increased oxidative activity. Fibre type disproportions occurred in all three groups but the differences were not significant.
Cerebromeningeal hemorrhage: analysis of autopsies performed over a 10-year period
Authors: Martelli Nelson , Colli Benedicto Oscar , Assirati Jr. João Alberto , Machado Hélio Rubens
Published: June 2011

A study was conducted on the medical records of 353 patients who died of a subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) and who were submitted to autopsy over the last 10 years. SAH was associated with arterial hypertension in 180 (51%) cases, with ruptured aneurysms in 102 (28.9%), and with other pathologies in 71 (20.1%). The patients with hemorrhage associated with arterial hypertension were mostly males, and those with hemorrhage due to aneurysms were mostly females. Of the patients with aneurysms, 36 (35.3%) had aneurysms in the anterior communicating artery, 30 (29.4%) in the internal carotid artery, and 23 (22.6%) in the middle cerebral artery. Among the patients with aneurysms who suffered rebleeding and vasospasm, 59.1% and 61.5%, respectively, were classified as grade I and II upon admission, and all evolved toward grade IV after these complications, Vasospasm predominated from the 3rd to the 10th day after hemorrhage, and rebleedine from the 9 to 16th day and both were most frequent among patients with aneurysms of the anterior communicant artery. Sixty eight percent of the patients with aneurysms died during the first 9 days after hemorrhage. Because of our conduct was to operate systematically late, a considerable number of patients lost the oportunity to be treated surgically with possible favorable evolution due to vasospasm or rebleeding.
A hypothetical immunemediated unifying mechanism for the Holmes-Adie syndrome
Authors: Costa C. M. de Castro , Hees J. Van , Vale D. C. do
Published: June 2011

The Holmes-Adie syndrome consists of pupillotonia, arreflexia and autonomic dysfunction. Some explanations for these different symptoms have been attempted, centred upen neuropathological and electrophysiological findings. A hypothetical immunemediated mechanism, as in the Guillain Barré syndrome, is presented in this paper for explaining the three chief symptoms of the syndrome.
Oxcarbazepine and spasticity: further observations
Authors: Bittencourt Paulo Rogério M.
Published: June 2011

The previously described anti-spastic effect of oxcarbazepine and 10,11-dihydro-10-hydroxycarbamazepine was found accidentally in 2 patients undergoing a double-blind comparative study lor evaluation of antiepileptic effect. In this study oxcarbazepine was given orally in doses of 300-2700 mg daily to one patient with transverse myelitis and to two patients with multiple sclerosis, all of whom had clinically disabling spasticity in the form of difficulty in walking, lower limb rigidity, spastic contractions of the lower limbs and ankle clonus. Anti-spastic effect was observed at doses between 600-1200 mg daily and consisted in a substantial decrease in the above symptoms of spasticity. The anti-spastic effect appears at a dose immediately below that which produces nausea, dizziness and somnolence.
Chagas disease in the State of Pernambuco, Brazil: analysis of admissions and mortality time series
Authors: Braz Suellen Carvalho de Moura , Melo Myllena de Fátima Alheiros Dias , Lorena Virginia Maria Barros de , Souza Wayner Vieira de , Gomes Yara de Miranda
Published: June 2011

INTRODUCTION: A time series study of admissions, deaths and acute cases was conducted in order to evaluate the context of Chagas disease in Pernambuco. METHODS: Data reported to the Information Technology Department of the Brazilian National Health Service between 1980 and 2008 was collected for regions and Federal Units of Brazil; and microregions and municipalities of Pernambuco. Rates (per 100,000 inhabitants) of hospitalization, mortality and acute cases were calculated using a national hospital database (SIH), a national mortality database (SIM) and the national Information System for Notifiable Diseases (SINAN), respectively. RESULTS: The national average for Chagas disease admissions was 0.99 from 1995 to 2008. Pernambuco obtained a mean of 0.39 in the same period, with the highest rates being concentrated in the interior of the state. The state obtained a mean mortality rate of 1.56 between 1980 and 2007, which was lower than the national average (3.66). The mortality rate has tended to decline nationally, while it has remained relatively unchanged in Pernambuco. Interpolating national rates of admissions and deaths, mortality rates were higher than hospitalization rates between 1995 and 2007. The same occurred in Pernambuco, except for 2003. Between 2001 and 2006, rates for acute cases were 0.56 and 0.21 for Brazil and Pernambuco, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Although a decrease in Chagas mortality has occurred in Brazil, the disease remains a serious public health problem, especially in the Northeast region. It is thus essential that medical care, prevention and control regarding Chagas disease be maintained and improved.
Prevalence of cholelithiasis in patients with chagasic megaesophagus
Authors: Crema Eduardo , Silva Ellen Caroline Rosa Resende , Franciscon Priscila Melo , Rodrigues Júnior Virmondes , Martins Júnior Aiodair , Teles Celso Júnior Oliveira , Silva Alex Augusto
Published: June 2011

INTRODUCTION: The prevalence of cholelithiasis in the general population ranges from 9 to 18%. This prevalence is known to be higher in the presence of parasympathetic nerve damage of the biliary tract either due to surgery (vagotomy) or neuronal destruction (Chagas disease). The objective of this study was to evaluate the association of cholelithiasis and chagasic or idiopathic megaesophagus. METHODS: The ultrasound scans of 152 patients with megaesophagus submitted to cardiomyotomy and subtotal esophagectomy surgery were evaluated. The presence of cholelithiasis was compared between chagasic and idiopathic esophagopathy and ultrasound and clinical findings were correlated with age, sex and race. RESULTS: A total of 152 cases of megaesophagus, including 137 with chagasic megaesophagus and 15 with idiopathic megaesophagus, were analyzed. The mean age was 56.7 years (45-67) in the 137 patients with chagasic megaesophagus and 35.6 years (27-44) in the 15 cases of idiopathic megaesophagus, with a significant difference between the two groups (p < 0.0001). The group with chagasic megaesophagus consisted of 59 (43%) women and 78 (56.9%) men, while the group with idiopathic megaesophagus consisted of 8 (53.3%) women and 7 (46.6%) men, showing no significant difference between the groups. Of the 137 patients with confirmed chagasic megaesophagus, 39 (28.4%) presented cholelithiasis versus one case (6.6%) in the 15 patients with idiopathic megaesophagus. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of cholelithiasis is high in patients with chagasic megaesophagus and preoperative ultrasound should be performed routinely in these patients in order to treat both conditions during the same surgical procedure.
In vitro conservation of Piper aduncum and Piper hispidinervum under slow-growth conditions
Authors: Silva Tatiane Loureiro da , Scherwinski-Pereira Jonny Everson
Published: June 2011

The objective of this work was to evaluate in vitro storage of Piper aduncum and P. hispidinervum under slow-growth conditions. Shoots were stored at low temperatures (10, 20 and 25°C), and the culture medium was supplemented with osmotic agents (sucrose and mannitol - at 1, 2 and 3%) and abiscisic acid - ABA (0, 0.5, 1.0, 2.0 and 3.0 mg L-1). After six-months of storage, shoots were evaluated for survival and regrowth. Low temperature at 20ºC was effective for the in vitro conservation of P. aduncum and P. hispidinervum shoots. In vitro cultures maintained at 20ºC on MS medium showed 100% survival with slow-growth shoots. The presence of mannitol or ABA, in the culture medium, negatively affected shoot growth, which is evidenced by the low rate of recovered shoots.
Performance of 'Oneco' mandarin on six rootstocks in South Brazil
Authors: Gonzatto Mateus Pereira , Kovaleski Alisson Pacheco , Brugnara Eduardo Cesar , Weiler Roberto Luis , Sartori Ivar Antônio , Lima Jurandir Gonçalves de , Bender Renar João , Schwarz Sergio Francisco
Published: June 2011

The objective of this work was to assess the effect of six rootstocks on yield, fruit quality, and growth of 'Oneco' mandarin during the first seven harvesting seasons, in Butiá, Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil. The rootstocks evaluated were: 'Swingle' citrumelo (Citrus paradisi × Poncirus trifoliata), 'Caipira' orange (C. sinensis), 'Troyer' citrange (C. sinensis × P. trifoliata), 'Rangpur' lime (C. limonia), 'Volkamer' lemon (C. volkameriana), and 'Flying Dragon' trifoliata orange (P. trifoliata var. monstrosa). Plants budded onto 'Flying Dragon' had the lowest vegetative development, which indicates the dwarfing characteristics of this rootstock, and had the highest mean production efficiency, despite low yield. Plants grafted on 'Volkamer' lemon and 'Rangpur' lime had the highest alternate bearing. Under the experimental conditions evaluated, the most adequate rootstocks for mandarin 'Oneco' are 'Swingle' citrumelo and 'Troyer' citrange, regarding fruit yield and quality.
Meta-análise da digestibilidade ileal de aminoácidos e minerais em suínos alimentados com dietas contendo enzimas
Authors: Lehnen Cheila Roberta , Lovatto Paulo Alberto , Andretta Ines , Kipper Marcos , Hauschild Luciano , Rossi Carlos Augusto
Published: June 2011

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar, por meio da meta-análise, o efeito da fitase e da xilanase sobre a digestibilidade ileal aparente (DIa) de aminoácidos, cálcio e fósforo, em suínos em fase de crescimento. A base de dados consistiu de 21 artigos publicados entre 1998 e 2009, no total de 82 tratamentos e 644 suínos. A meta-análise foi realizada por análise gráfica, de correlação, de variância-covariância. As concentrações de fósforo fítico e as frações fibra em detergente neutro, fibra em detergente ácido e lignina em detergente ácido, nas dietas, apresentaram correlações baixas e negativas com a DIa do cálcio, fósforo e aminoácidos. A adição de fitase às dietas aumentou em 2% a DIa da arginina, em 14% a do cálcio e em 34% a do fósforo. A DIa da arginina, fenilalanina, isoleucina e lisina foi 3,3% superior em suínos alimentados com dietas com xilanase, em relação às dietas sem a enzima. O fósforo fítico e as fibras, nas dietas, reduzem a DIa do cálcio, do fósforo e dos aminoácidos essenciais. O uso de fitase e xilanase, nas dietas, melhora o aproveitamento de cálcio, fósforo e alguns aminoácidos. No entanto, o excesso de cálcio e fósforo nas dietas reduz a ação da fitase sobre a digestibilidade ileal dos nutrientes.
Desenvolvimento de gramados submetidos à aplicação de retardadores de crescimento em diferentes condições de luminosidade
Authors: Maciel C.D.G. , Poletine J.P. , Raimondi M.A. , Rodrigues M. , Ribeiro R.B. , Costa R.S. , Maio R.M.D.
Published: June 2011

Com o objetivo de avaliar o desenvolvimento das gramas Bermuda (Cynodon dactylon), Esmeralda (Zoysia japonica) e São Carlos (Axonopus compressus) submetidas a subdoses de herbicidas e reguladores de crescimento em duas condições de luminosidade, três experimentos foram conduzidos em estufa plástica em Paraguaçu Paulista-SP, de setembro a dezembro de 2006. Para cada espécie de grama, o delineamento experimental utilizado foi o inteiramente casualizado, em esquema fatorial 6 x 2, com quatro repetições; foram estudados dois reguladores de crescimento (trinexapac-ethyl e ethephon) e três herbicidas aplicados em subdoses (clethodim, imazethapyr e metsulfuron-methyl) e uma testemunha sem aplicação. Todos os tratamentos foram avaliados em duas condições de luminosidade, representadas por ausência de sombreamento (0%) e sombreamento parcial (50%). Os resultados obtidos aos 63 dias após aplicação evidenciaram que o trinexapac-ethyl (250 g ha¹), clethodim (12 g ha-1) e imazethapyr (12 g ha-1) apresentaram-se como os melhores retardadores do desenvolvimento vegetativo das gramas C. dactylon (65,8, 29,6 e 18,7%), Z. japonica (66,2, 40,7 e 49,7%) e A. compressus (56,5, 10,3 e 17,2%) e da emissão de inflorescências de C. dactylon (100,0, 95,9 e 89,6%), em baixa e alta luminosidade. Os tratamentos ethephon (300 g ha-1) e metsulfuron-methyl (3,6 g ha-1) destacaram-se como as melhores opções para redução do desenvolvimento vegetativo (15,5 e 26,7%) e da matéria seca das raízes (34,7 e 33,9%) da grama São Carlos (A. compressus), quando comparados ao trinexapac-ethyl. Para gramados de C. dactylon e Z. japonica, em condições em que a preservação da estética é fundamental, os herbicidas clethodim e imazethapyr podem substituir o regulador de crescimento trinexapac-ethyl, em razão do menor dano visual no gramado. Novos estudos com reguladores de crescimentos e subdoses de herbicidas devem ser conduzidos com outras gramas cultivadas, de forma a viabilizar recomendações eficientes e seguras, com embasamento em informações científicas geradas em condições brasileiras.
Diversidade e sensibilidade de Cyperus ferax ao herbicida Penoxsulam
Authors: Panozzo L.E. , Agostinetto D. , Vignolo G. , Galon L. , Ferreira E.A. , Silva L.J. , Moraes P.V.D.
Published: June 2011

As espécies do gênero Cyperus, pertencentes à família Cyperaceae, destacam-se entre as principais plantas daninhas nas regiãos orizícolas do Rio Grande do Sul (RS). Objetivou-se com este trabalho avaliar a diversidade de Cyperus ferax nas regiões orizícolas do RS e os níveis de sensibilidade dessa espécie ao herbicida penoxsulam. Para isso, conduziu-se experimento em casa de vegetação, na Faculdade de Agronomia Eliseu Maciel, em delineamento experimental completamente casualizado, com quatro repetições. Cada unidade experimental (parcela) foi composta por vaso com capacidade de 0,55 dm³ de solo, onde foram estabelecidas sete plantas. Os tratamentos foram arranjados em esquema fatorial; o fator A avaliou os locais de coleta (origem) de sementes de C. ferax, infestante das lavouras de arroz irrigado do RS, e o fator B, a suscetibilidade ao herbicida penoxsulam (125 g ha-1), comparativamente à testemunha sem aplicação. Existe diferença entre acessos de C. ferax quanto à sensibilidade ao herbicida penoxsulam. Os biótipos de C. ferax oriundos de lavouras de arroz irrigado da Depressão Central apresentam, em geral, maior acúmulo de massa seca da parte aérea e área foliar. Os biótipos C. ferax ocorrentes em lavouras de arroz do Rio Grande do Sul podem ser divididos em dois grupos, segundo características morfológicas.
Resposta biológica de ratos alimentados com resíduo da fermentação de batata (Solanumtuberosum L.)
Authors: Patias Luciana Dapieve , Penna Neidi Garcia , Hecktheuer Luisa Helena Rychecki , Callegaro Maria da Graça Kolinski , Poitevin Fábia Silveira , Seerig Sibele Ribas Mendes , Comarella Carine Gláucia , Unfer Taís Cristina
Published: June 2011

O presente trabalho teve por objetivo determinar a composição centesimal do tubérculo de batata in natura a ser utilizado no processo de destilação para a produção de etanol e do resíduo sólido resultante da fermentação deste tubérculo. Com base na composição do resíduo, avaliou-se o efeito da sua utilização na substituição de diferentes teores de fibra alimentar de uma dieta padrão, na resposta biológica de ratos. Para a avaliação dos efeitos biológicos, foram utilizados 32 ratos Wistar divididos em quatro grupos. Um dos grupos de animais recebeu a dieta padrão para ratos em crescimento, e os demais grupos receberam esta dieta com substituição de 25, 50 ou 100% de sua fibra alimentar pela fibra do resíduo. Durante o período experimental (23 dias), foram avaliados o consumo, o ganho de peso, o coeficiente de eficiência alimentar (CEA), a produção de fezes secas e úmidas, pH e excreção de nitrogênio fecal. No final do ensaio, foram avaliados o peso do fígado e da gordura epididimal, níveis sanguíneos de triglicerídeos, colesterol total, colesterol HDL e proteínas totais. O resíduo apresentou uma composição centesimal de 8,2% de proteína, 16,7% de fibra alimentar, 62,8% de carboidratos e 288Kcal. Os resultados obtidos no ensaio biológico sugerem que o resíduo sólido da fermentação de tubérculos de batata pode ser empregado como fonte de nutrientes, com base na substituição da fração fibra de uma dieta padrão AIN-93, sem comprometer o desenvolvimento dos ratos e os parâmetros bioquímicos analisados.
Comparação entre usuários de crack e de outras drogas em serviço ambulatorial especializado de hospital universitário
Authors: Vargens Renata Werneck , Cruz Marcelo Santos , Santos Manoel Antônio dos
Published: June 2011

O crescimento do consumo de crack e o perfil dos usuários no Brasil estão bem documentados, mas faltam estudos na cidade do Rio de Janeiro. Conhecer o perfil sociodemográfico e padrão do uso de drogas desses usuários é fundamental para direcionar recursos, efetivamente. Foram estudados pacientes acolhidos no Programa de Estudos e Assistência ao Uso Indevido de Drogas (Projad) do Instituto de Psiquiatria da Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, entre março de 2007 e setembro de 2008, e analisadas as diferenças entre pacientes com e sem relato de uso de crack na vida. Usuários de crack são significativamente mais jovens e solteiros. Apesar do predomínio de baixa escolaridade e desemprego, esses resultados não foram significativos. Houve crescimento de usuários de crack que procuraram tratamento. Este é o primeiro estudo científico apontando a expansão do consumo de crack no Rio de Janeiro e pode subsidiar a implementação de políticas públicas.
El consumo de drogas como una práctica cultural dentro de las pandillas
Authors: Guzmán-Facundo Francisco Rafael , Pedrão Luiz Jorge , Lopez-García Karla Selene , Alonso-Castillo María Magdalena , Esparza-Almanza Santiaga Enriqueta
Published: June 2011

Actualmente el fenómeno social del narcotráfico y la violencia relacionada a la drogas ha minimizado las implicaciones del consumo de drogas en pandillas. Este artículo se basa en entrevistas semi-estructuradas a profundidad de un estudio realizado con jóvenes de pandillas del área Metropolitana de Nuevo León, México, con el objetivo de reflexionar y analizar el consumo de drogas como práctica cultural dentro de las pandillas. En la búsqueda del significado, lo primero que se muestra es el inicio de los miembros de pandillas en el consumo de drogas, y se describe la forma en que las drogas le son presentadas por la familia y/o los amigos miembros de la pandilla. Posteriormente se describe el significado del uso de drogas en la vida cotidiana de las pandillas y se observa en qué medida su uso es aceptable y normalizado.
Imunopatologia da dermatite de contato alérgica
Authors: Martins Luis Eduardo Agner Machado , Reis Vitor Manoel Silva dos
Published: June 2011

A dermatite de contato alérgica é consequência de uma reação imune mediada por células T contra químicos de baixo peso molecular, denominados haptenos. É uma condição frequente que ocorre em todas as raças e faixas etárias e afeta a qualidade de vida de seus portadores. O mecanismo imunológico desta doença vem sendo revisto nas últimas décadas com significativo avanço no seu entendimento. A metabolização e o caminho dos haptenos, bem como a formação e o mecanismo de ação das células responsáveis tanto pela reação quanto pelo seu término, são discutidos neste artigo