bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The mislabelling of deoxycorticosterone: making sense of corticosteroid structure and function
Authors: Vinson Gavin P
Published: June 2011

Over the 70 or so years since their discovery, there has been continuous interest and activity in the field of corticosteroid functions. However, despite major advances in the characterisation of receptors and coregulators, in some ways we still lack clear insight into the mechanism of receptor activation, and, in particular, the relationship between steroid hormone structure and function remains obscure. Thus, why should deoxycorticosterone (DOC) reportedly be a weak mineralocorticoid, while the addition of an 11β-hydroxyl group produces glucocorticoid activity, yet further hydroxylation at C18 leads to the most potent mineralocorticoid, aldosterone? This review aims to show that the field has been confused by the misreading of the earlier literature and that DOC, far from being relatively inactive, in fact has a wide range of activities not shared by the other corticoids. In contrast to the accepted view, the presence of an 11β-hydroxyl group yields, in corticosterone or cortisol, hormones with more limited functions, and also more readily regulated, by 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase. This interpretation leads to a more systematic understanding of structure–function relationships in the corticosteroids and may assist more rational drug design.
Disfunções neuropsicológicas na doença de Parkinson: estudo de 64 casos
Authors: Barbosa Egberto Reis , Lefèvre Beatriz Helena , Comerlatti Luiz Roberto , Scaff Milberto , Canelas Horácio Martins
Published: June 2011

Foram estudados 64 casos de doença de Parkinson idiopática mediante aplicação de questionário de 30 itens de avaliação neuropsicológica. Os casos com desempenho abaixo do normal e que preenchiam os critérios de demência do Manual de Diagnóstico e Estatística de Distúrbios Mentais, terceira edição (DSM III) foram considerados demenciados. O resultado dessa avaliação mostrou que a taxa de prevalência de demência no grupo de parkinsonianos estudado foi de 18,7%. Pacientes com desempenho abaixo do normal apresentavam oligocinesia em maior grau que o grupo dos normais. Das funções neuropsicológicas, as mais afetadas foram: memória imediata, abstração, gnosia visual, cálculo, função motora dinâmica das mãos, praxia construtiva e memória recente. Discutem-se os dados encontrados e comparam-se com os da literatura.
Aneurismas da artéria coroidéia anterior: aspectos clínicos, anatômicos e cirúrgicos
Authors: Joaquim Marcos Augusto Stávale , Honda Paulo Manabu , Pitelli Sérgio Domingos , Almeida Gilberto Machado de
Published: June 2011

Relatamos 5 casos de doentes portadores de aneurismas da região da artéria coroidéia anterior. Aspectos clínicos, anatômicos e cirúrgicos são discutidos.
Privação de sono REM em um modelo experimental da doença de Parkinson
Authors: Andrade Luiz A. F. , Lima José G. C. , Tufik Sérgio , Bertolucci Paulo H. F. , Carlini E. A.
Published: June 2011

Investigação prévia mostrou que ratos privados de sono (REM SD) mostram acentuação de resposta a agonistas dopaminérgicos. As evidências indicam que essa ação parece ser mediada por supersensibilização de receptores dopaminérgicos pós-sinápticos. Com base nisso, foi feita REM SD em ratos com modelo experimental da doença de Parkinson, nos quais foi feita lesão eletrolítica bilateral de ambas as vias nigro-estriatais. Sete dias após a cirurgia os animais eram submetidos a REM SD por 72 horas. Imediatamente após o final deste período era feita observação em campo aberto para a ambulação, "rearing", "grooming" e latência. Em comparação com ratos não-privados foi observado aumento significativo na ambulação e "rearing", resposta que reapareceu após um segundo período de REM SD, realizado 21 dias após a cirurgia. Estes dados, de melhora de dois parâmetros de modelo experimental da doença de Parkinson, sugerem que a privação de sono pode ser útil nesta doença.
Miastenia grave: avaliação clinica e terapêutica de 55 casos
Authors: Werneck Lineu Cesar , Teive Hélio A. Ghizoni
Published: June 2011

Foram estudados 55 casos de miastenia grave, avaliando os sinais e sintomas clínicos que ocorreram no início e na evolução dos pacientes, bem como os procedimentos diagnósticos e avaliação das medidas terapêuticas utilizadas. No manejo dos pacientes foram utilizados anticolinesterásicos, corticoesteróides, azathioprina, plasmaferese e timectomia, sem que fosse possível encontrar relação estatística significante entre os diferentes procedimentos com respeito à resolução da doença. Dos 55 casos, 9 (16,6%) obtiveram remissão total, 41 (74,5%) permaneceram com a doença ativa necessitando de tratamento sintomático e 5 (9.09%) faleceram. Houve relação estatística significante entre os sinais de insuficiência respiratória, crises miastênicas e timoma somente no grupo de pacientes que faleceram (um por insuficiência respiratória restritiva secundária a cifoescoliose severa, três com timoma e um caso durante a timectomia).
Neurocriptococose na infância: relato de três casos na primeira década de vida
Authors: Fontana Maria Helena , Coutinho Mario Ferreira , Camargo Eduardo dos Santos , Soviero Benito , Lima Susana Seibel Freitas , Matusiak Roberto , Dias Cicero Gomes
Published: June 2011

Os autores relatam três casos de neurocriptococose em crianças na primeira década de vida, no Estado do Rio Grande do Sul. O diagnóstico foi estabelecido pelo encontro do fungo Cryptococcus neoformans no líquido céfalo-raquidlano por exame direto com tinta da China e cultura em meio de Sabouraud. As formas de instalação da síndrome neurológica foram aguda, subaguda e crônica. Síndrome de hipertensão intracraniana e hidrocefalia foram complicações observadas durante a evolução da doença, sendo necessária a instalação de derivação ventrículo-peritonial em um caso. Desnutrição foi o processo mórbido associado nos três casos e infecção pelo bacilo da tuberculose em um caso. Terapia específica foi administrada aos três pacientes. Um paciente evoluiu para cura e dois evoluíram para óbito.
Vitimização por homicídios segundo características de raça no Brasil
Authors: Soares Filho Adauto Martins
Published: June 2011

OBJETIVO: Descrever a tendência temporal da mortalidade por homicídio no Brasil. MÉTODOS: Estudo de série temporal dos homicídios no Brasil de 2000 a 2009. As variáveis explicativas foram raça/cor, sexo e escolaridade. Os óbitos foram provenientes do Sistema de Informações de Mortalidade. A análise de tendência foi realizada por meio de regressão polinomial para séries históricas (p < 0,05; intervalo de 95% de confiança). RESULTADOS: A população negra representou 69% das vítimas de homicídios em 2009. O número de homicídios aumentou entre a população negra e diminuiu entre a branca, com tendência de crescimento da taxa nos negros e de redução nos brancos no período. As taxas aumentaram nos grupos de maior e menor escolaridade entre negros, enquanto, entre brancos, reduziram para os de menor nível escolar e mantiveram-se estáveis no grupo com maior nível de escolaridade. Em 2009 negros tiveram maior risco de morte por homicídios do que a população branca, independentemente do nível de escolaridade. Entre 2004 e 2009, as taxas de homicídios na população branca diminuíram e aumentaram na negra. CONCLUSÕES: O risco relativo de homicídios cresce na população negra, sugerindo o aumento das desigualdades. A repercussão das medidas antiarmas no Brasil, implantada em 2004, foi positiva na população branca e discreta na população negra. Raça/cor pode predizer a ocorrência de homicídio.
Índices nutricionais de N e produtividade de milho em diferentes níveis de manejo e de adubação nitrogenada
Authors: Rambo Lisandro , Silva Paulo Regis Ferreira da , Strieder Mércio Luiz , Silva Adriano Alves da , Sangoi Luís , Vieira Vladirene Macedo
Published: June 2011

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a relação entre índices nutricionais de N e a produtividade de grãos de milho, em dois níveis de manejo, sob diferentes doses de adubação nitrogenada. Avaliaram-se os índices nutricionais: teor relativo de clorofila na folha (TRC), índice de suficiênca (IS), teores de N na folha e na planta, e quantidades acumuladas de N na folha e na planta. Os índices foram determinados em diferentes estádios de desenvolvimento vegetativo e durante o espigamento. A relação dos índices com a produtividade foi deteminada em campo, com doses variáveis de adubação nitrogenada, durante dois anos, sob dois níveis de manejo: médio, não irrigado e com doses de N entre 0 e 150 kg ha-1; e alto, irrigado e com doses de N entre 0 e 300 ou entre 0 e 240 kg ha-1. A relação dos teores de N mineral com o teor de N total na folha foi avaliada em casa de vegetação. Os índices nutricionais apresentaram desempenho variável na predição da produtividade do milho e foram influenciados pelo estádio de desenvolvimento das plantas e pelo nível de manejo. Os índices TRC e IS estiveram mais fortemente associados à produtividade. O desempenho dos índices é melhor sob alto nível de manejo da cultura.
Validação de modelo para predição do potencial produtivo de trigo com sensor óptico ativo
Authors: Grohs Daniel Santos , Bredemeier Christian , Poletto Naracelis , Mundstock Claudio Mario
Published: June 2011

O objetivo deste trabalho foi validar um modelo baseado no índice de vegetação por diferença normalizada (NDVI), para a predição da variabilidade espacial da biomassa acumulada na parte aérea e da produtividade de grãos de trigo. Foram realizadas leituras georreferenciadas de NDVI e biomassa, no final do afilhamento, e produtividade. O modelo proposto permitiu relacionar classes de variabilidade espacial do NDVI e da biomassa, com 81% de correspondência entre elas. Entretanto, a relação entre as classes de variabilidade espacial da produtividade e do NDVI foi menor, com 48% de correspondência.
Efeito residual de herbicidas aplicados em pré-emergência em diferentes solos
Authors: Inoue M.H. , Santana C.T.C. , Oliveira JR. R.S. , Possamai A.C.S. , Santana D.C. , Arruda R.A.D. , Dallacort R. , Sztoltz C.L.
Published: June 2011

O objetivo deste trabalho foi monitorar o efeito residual dos herbicidas ametryne, clomazone e diuron, aplicados em pré-emergência, utilizando amostras de um Neossolo Quartzarênico e de um Latossolo Vermelho, com texturas e composições contrastantes. Para isso, foram conduzidos seis bioensaios em casa de vegetação, com amostras de um Neossolo Quartzarênico (textura arenosa) e de um Latossolo Vermelho (textura argilosa). Foi avaliado o efeito residual de ametryne (0, 1,60 e 2,40 kg ha-1), clomazone (0, 0,90 e 1,10 kg ha-1) e diuron (0, 1,60 e 3,20 kg ha-1), por meio de semeadura de bioindicador previamente selecionado (Cucumis sativus ou Brachiaria decumbens) aos 0, 25, 50, 75 e 100 dias após a aplicação (DAA). Verificou-se que ametryne proporcionou 80% de controle até os 40 DAA, independentemente do solo e da dose. O clomazone apresentou efeito residual satisfatório quando aplicado na dose recomendada em solo argiloso, mantendo o controle acima de 80% até os 71 DAA. Em solo arenoso, o controle não foi satisfatório já aos 25 DAA, mesmo na dose recomendada para solo argiloso. Diuron apresentou alta estabilidade em solo argiloso, observando-se controle superior a 91% até os 100 DAA na dose recomendada e controle acima de 80% até os 54 DAA na dose recomendada para solo arenoso. No entanto, em solo arenoso não houve aumento do efeito residual, mesmo com a aplicação da dose recomendada para solo argiloso.
Opinión de universitarios Bolivianos sobre el uso de alcohol en el contexto universitario
Authors: Balda-Cabello Nelly , Silva Edilaine Cristina da
Published: June 2011

Se trata de una investigación cualitativa que enfocó el mundo universitario sobre los valores de vida utilizados por los jóvenes para lidiar con los peligros del consumo de alcohol. Fueron realizados grupos de discusión con 46 jóvenes universitarios. Los resultados evidenciaron que la sociedad boliviana es tolerante y permisiva en el consumo de alcohol de universitarios hombres. Los valores y el amor propio, el respeto por sí mismo, la responsabilidad y la capacidad de reflexión constituyeron un marco de actuación regulador, sin embargo no es generalizado.
Consumo de drogas lícitas en estudiantes de enfermería de una universidad privada en Bogotá, Colombia
Authors: López-Maldonado Marta Cecília , Luis Margarita Antonia Villar , Gherardi-Donato Edilaine Cristina da Silva
Published: June 2011

Se realizó un estudio de corte transversal con el fin de establecer el consumo de sustancias psicoactivas licitas en una muestra de 237 estudiantes de la carrera de enfermería de una Universidad privada de la ciudad de Bogotá, Colombia y relacionarla con las variables independientes del estudio: edad, sexo, estado civil, semestre, número de hijos, trabajo, convivencia. Se construyo un cuestionario para obtener información básica sobre: edad, género, estado civil, número de hijos, trabajo y convivencia. Se utilizó el cuestionario de Tolerancia de Fagerström que utiliza una escala de puntuación leve, media y alta, para evaluar la gravedad de la dependencia a la nicotina y el AUDIT versión para autoaplicación con una escala de puntuación que representa un grado bajo, medio y alto de dependencia del alcohol. Se garantizó la confidencialidad mediante el autodiligenciamiento de encuesta anónima. Se realizó un análisis de frecuencia y porcentaje simples. Como relevante en esta población se encontró que el consumo de tabaco es de 24% y el de alcohol de 82%. El nivel de dependencia encontrado para tabaco fue 5 (8,5%) estudiantes con dependencia leve, 42 (72%) con dependencia media y 12 (20%) con alta dependencia. Al relacionar consumo de tabaco y consumo de alcohol se encontró que el 98% de los estudiantes que fumaban consumían alcohol. Se encontró que es más alto el porcentaje de estudiantes que nunca beben en el grupo de no fumadores (23%) que en el de fumadores (1.72%).
Visión de jóvenes Costarricenses, de zonas rurales, en un programa de rehabilitación, sobre el consumo de drogas
Authors: Murillo-Castro Ligia , Miasso Adriana Inocenti
Published: June 2011

Este estudio cualitativo tuvo como objetivo investigar la visión de jóvenes Costarricenses, institucionalizados en dos organizaciones no gubernamentales de Costa Rica, sobre el consumo de drogas ilícitas. Se aplicó la técnica de grupo focal para que los adolescentes expresasen sus sentimientos y sus vivencias acerca del consumo de drogas ilícitas. Entre los resultados se obtuvo que la percepción de los adolescentes sobre sí mismo tiene como enfoque un proceso de cambio y de desarrollo de la identidad y experimentación que los hace tomar decisiones negativas, como es el consumo de drogas. También, se encontró que las relaciones que tienen con sus padres son conflictivas debido a que provienen de hogares disfuncionales y de comunidades marginales. Los amigos representan el apoyo a sus vicisitudes y la inducción del consumo. Se concluye que es necesario que Costa Rica modifique y cree nuevas políticas públicas para mejorar la calidad de vida de este grupo poblacional.
Terapia comunitária como recurso de abordagem do problema do abuso do álcool, na atenção primária
Authors: Giffoni Francinete Alves de Oliveira , Santos Manoel Antônio dos
Published: June 2011

Este estudo teve por objetivo identificar potencialidades da terapia comunitária (TC) como recurso de abordagem do problema do abuso do álcool na atenção primária, sob a perspectiva de um usuário. A pesquisa foi realizada na sede do Projeto Quatro Varas, Fortaleza, CE. Empregou-se a abordagem qualitativa de cunho etnográfico, utilizando entrevista semiestruturada e observação participante. Dos 20 participantes da terapia entrevistados, um foi escolhido para entrevista de aprofundamento. Construíram-se dois núcleos temáticos: os efeitos da terapia na abordagem do alcoolismo e terapia como recurso de apoio social, na abordagem dos problemas relacionados ao uso de álcool. Resultados indicam que o diálogo estabelecido na terapia promove ressignificação da problemática e redirecionamento de itinerários terapêuticos, no sentido da gestão da própria vida e busca da cidadania. Conclui-se que a TC favorece a formação de teia de relações sistêmicas, que amplia a compreensão dos problemas decorrentes do uso de álcool, constituindo-se em efetiva estratégia para sua abordagem no campo da saúde comunitária.
The use of oxybutynin for treating facial hyperhidrosis
Authors: Wolosker Nelson , Campos José Ribas Milanez de , Kauffman Paulo , Munia Marco Antonio , Neves Samantha , Jatene Fábio Biscegli , Puech-Leão Pedro
Published: June 2011

BACKGROUND: Facial hyperhidrosis is a disease that may lead patients to serious emotional disturbances. Video-assisted thoracic sympathectomy provides excellent resolution of facial hyperhidrosis, but is associated with certain complications. The most frequent and important complication is compensatory hyperhidrosis. Especially in patients who have undergone resection of the second thoracic ganglion, the risk of severe compensatory hyperhidrosis is higher, which may cause dissatisfaction with the procedure. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of the use of low doses of oxybutynin in treating facial hyperhidrosis as well as the level of patient satisfaction with its use. METHODS: 25 patients with facial hyperhidrosis were treated with oxybutynin. The patients underwent 2 evaluations: before and after treatment. These evaluations were used to assess the patients' clinical improvement and quality of life. RESULTS: We observed that more than 75% of the patients evolved with an improvement in facial hyperhidrosis, and 52% of them presented a great improvement. CONCLUSION: Treatment of facial hyperhidrosis with oxybutynin is a good alternative to sympathectomy, since it presents good results and improves quality of life, in addition to not exposing patients to the risk of experiencing the side effects of sympathectomy
Reacções cutâneas adversas aos inibidores do receptor do factor de crescimento epidérmico: estudo de 14 doentes
Authors: Santiago Felicidade , Gonçalo Margarida , Reis José Pedro , Figueiredo Américo
Published: June 2011

FUNDAMENTOS: O cetuximab e o erlotinib, inibidores do receptor do factor de crescimento epidérmico, provocam frequentemente reacções cutâneas adversas peculiares. OBJETIVOS: Caracterizar do ponto de vista clínico-evolutivo as reacções cutâneas adversas e avaliar a sua abordagem terapêutica. METODOLOGIA: Entre março/2005 e setembro/2009 foram seguidos 14 doentes com idade média de 59,6 anos, em tratamento com cetuximab (7) ou erlotinib (7), por neoplasia pulmonar (10) ou colorrectal (4). Retrospectivamente foi avaliado o padrão clínico evolutivo de reacção cutânea, o intervalo entre a introdução do fármaco e o início dos sintomas e a resposta ao tratamento. RESULTADOS: Doze doentes apresentaram erupção papulopustulosa predominantemente na face, decote e dorso, em média 13,5 dias após o início do fármaco. Efectuaram tratamento oral com minociclina ou doxiciclina e tópico com metronidazol, peróxido de benzoílo e/ou corticoide. Ocorreu melhoria das lesões em todos os doentes. Cinco doentes, em média oito semanas após o início da terapia, apresentaram granulomas piogénicos periungueais, em quatro casos associados a paroníquia, melhorados com tratamento tópico (antibióticos, corticoides e antissépticos). Observou-se xerose em alguns doentes e, de forma isolada, outros efeitos adversos, como telangiectasias e angiomas, alterações dos cabelos e cílios e nevos melanocíticos eruptivos. Na maioria dos doentes, a terapêutica com o inibidor do receptor do factor de crescimento epidérmico foi mantida. CONCLUSÃO: Com o crescente uso destas terapêuticas-alvo, torna-se obrigatório reconhecer e tratar os seus efeitos cutâneos adversos, assegurando uma intervenção atempada de forma a permitir a manutenção desta terapêutica
Cutaneous tuberculosis and squamous-cell carcinoma
Authors: Ljubenovic Milanka S , Ljubenovic Dragisa B , Binic Ivana I , Jankovic Aleksandar S , Jancic Snezana A
Published: June 2011

The incidence of all forms of cutaneous tuberculosis, including lupus vulgaris (the most common form) decreased progressively in developed countries during the twentieth century, this change being attributed to improved living standards and specific therapy. Despite the decrease in cutaneous tuberculosis, some cases are still found and correct diagnosis and management are fundamental, both for the patients and for public health. Long lasting, misdiagnosed or untreated cutaneous tuberculosis may lead to different forms of cancer. This case report involves a 74-year old male farmer with lupus vulgaris on his face. During anti-tuberculosis treatment he developed a tumor on his forehead, which was histologically confirmed as a squamous cell carcinoma
Papilomatose cutânea florida e acantose nigricante maligna reveladoras de neoplasia gástrica
Authors: Brinca Ana , Cardoso José Carlos , Brites Maria Manuel , Tellechea Óscar , Figueiredo Américo
Published: June 2011

Apresenta-se o caso clínico de um doente de 57 anos, previamente saudável, sem sintomatologia sistêmica, que, num curto intervalo de tempo, desenvolve múltiplas lesões semelhantes a verrugas virais no tronco, membros e face, lesões típicas de acantose nigricante nas grandes pregas e uma queratodermia difusa palmar com paquidermatoglifia. Os exames complementares de diagnóstico revelaram uma neoplasia gástrica metastizada. Apesar da instituição da terapêutica, com efeito transitório na neoplasia e nas lesões cutâneas, o doente viria a falecer em 14 meses. Salientamos a associação destas três dermatoses paraneoplásicas num mesmo paciente: papilomatose cutânea florida, acantose nigricante maligna e tripe palms que parecem ter um mecanismo patogênico comum
À la recherche d'une écoute: la clinique psychanalytique dans la banlieue de la citoyenneté
Authors: Vilhena Junia de , Moreira Ana Cleide Guedes , Novaes Joana de Vilhena , Bittencourt Maria Inês Garcia de Freitas
Published: June 2011

Cet article propose une discussion sur le travail psychanalytique dans des communautés économiquement défavorisées. Face à des patients présentant des agencements subjectifs très différents de ceux qui ont originairement fait l´objet de la théorie psychanalytique, nous proposons d´utiliser le concept de confusion de langues de Ferenczi pour penser les problèmes posés par les différents modèles qui guident les rapports sociaux en jeu dans des sociétés très sélectives, de façon à mettre en relief les différentes dimensions de la souffrance psychique, en particulier la dimension psycho-sociale.
O suporte informacional da controladoria para o processo decisório da distribuição física de produtos
Authors: Moura Verônica de Miglio , Beuren Ilse Maria
Published: June 2011

O objetivo da pesquisa, a partir da qual foi elaborado este artigo, consiste em averiguar o suporte informacional da Controladoria para o processo decisório da Logística, com vistas à função de distribuição física dos produtos. Neste sentido, selecionou-se três empresas, a partir de uma relação das empresas de capital aberto do estado de Santa Catarina, obtida junto à homepage da Comissão de Valores Mobiliários - CVM, que possuem uma Controladoria enquanto órgão administrativo e um setor de Logística. Constatou-se que a Controladoria exerce suas funções a fim de contribuir para a otimização dos resultados globais da empresa, contudo não necessariamente gerencia o sistema de informações contábeis-gerenciais nas mesmas. Portanto, conclui-se que os relatórios contábeisgerenciais gerados pela Controladoria com vistas à função da distribuição física de produtos, em geral, não são emitidos de forma específica para o processo decisório da Logística, visto que esta particularidade somente ocorre a partir do momento em que a Controladoria gerencia o sistema de informações. Nas empresas pesquisadas esta função é atribuída à Controladoria em apenas uma delas.
Suggestions for Teaching the Application of Eye Movements in EMDR
Authors: Shapiro Elan
Published: July 2011

The Clinical column is a regular Journal of EMDR Practice and Research feature in which master clinicians answer a question posed by a reader who is requesting assistance with clinical challenges. In this issue’s column, the response is written by Elan Shapiro, who is a psychologist near Haifa, Israel; an EMDR institute facilitator; and an approved EMDR Europe consultant. Readers can send questions for future issues to journal@emdria.org.
Electro-thermal treatment optimization of high concentration ammonia nitrogen by gaseous oxidation in liquid phase (GOLP)
Authors: Cao Li Mei , Yang Ji , Jia Jin Ping
Published: June 2011

This study is focused on optimizing the treatment parameters for high concentration ammonia using gaseous oxidation in liquid phase (GOLP). The conversion of ammonia was achieved electro-thermally over mono-crystalline silicon supported CoOx catalyst. The experimental results demonstrated that factors including the co-anions, pH of the solutions, air flowrate and the current showed apparent influences on the ammonia removal. The higher the Cl− concentration and/or current, the better the efficiency of ammonia degradation. The increase of the air flowrate would increase the ammonia removal accordingly. And it was also observed that the pH declined during the ammonia conversion, and the neutral and alkaline pH were beneficial to the ammonia removal. The preliminary cost analysis based on lab data was also provided for future reference.
Cementitious porous pavement in stormwater quality control: pH and alkalinity elevation
Authors: Kuang Xuheng , Sansalone John
Published: June 2011

A certain level of alkalinity acts as a buffer and maintains the pH value in a stable range in water bodies. With rapid urban development, more and more acidic pollutants flow to watersheds with runoff and drop alkalinity to a very low level and ultimately degrade the water environment. Cementitious porous pavement is an effective tool for stormwater acidic neutralization. When stormwater infiltrates cement porous pavement (CPP) materials, alkalinity and pH will be elevated due to the basic characteristics of cement concrete. The elevated alkalinity will neutralize acids in water bodies and maintain the pH in a stable level as a buffer. It is expected that CPP materials still have a certain capability of alkalinity elevation after years of service, which is important for CPP as an effective tool for stormwater management. However, few previous studies have reported on how CPP structures would elevate runoff alkalinity and pH after being exposed to rainfall-runoff for years. In this study, three groups of CPP specimens, all exposed to rainfall-runoff for 3 years, were used to test the pH and alkalinity elevation properties. It was found that runoff pH values were elevated from 7.4 to the range of 7.8–8.6 after infiltrating through the uncoated specimens, and from 7.4 to 8.5–10.7 after infiltrating through aluminum-coated specimens. Runoff alkalinity elevation efficiencies are 11.5–14.5% for uncoated specimens and 42.2% for coated specimens. The study shows that CPP is an effective passive unit operation for stormwater acid neutralization in our built environment.
A performance evaluation of three membrane bioreactor systems: aerobic, anaerobic, and attached-growth
Authors: Achilli A. , Marchand E. A. , Childress A. E.
Published: June 2011

Water sustainability is essential for meeting human needs for drinking water and sanitation in both developing and developed countries. Reuse, decentralization, and low energy consumption are key objectives to achieve sustainability in wastewater treatment. Consideration of these objectives has led to the development of new and tailored technologies in order to balance societal needs with the protection of natural systems. Membrane bioreactors (MBRs) are one such technology. In this investigation, a comparison of MBR performance is presented. Laboratory-scale submerged aerobic MBR (AMBR), anaerobic MBR (AnMBR), and attached-growth aerobic MBR (AtMBR) systems were evaluated for treating domestic wastewater under the same operating conditions. Long-term chemical oxygen demand (COD) and total organic carbon (TOC) monitoring showed greater than 80% removal in the three systems. The AnMBR system required three months of acclimation prior to steady operation, compared to one month for the aerobic systems. The AnMBR system exhibited a constant mixed liquor suspended solids concentration at an infinite solids retention time (i.e. no solids wasting), while the aerobic MBR systems produced ∼0.25 g of biomass per gram of COD removed. This suggests a more economical solids management associated with the AnMBR system. Critical flux experiments were performed to evaluate fouling potential of the MBR systems. Results showed similar critical flux values between the AMBR and the AnMBR systems, while the AtMBR system showed relatively higher critical flux value. This result suggests a positive role of the attached-growth media in controlling membrane fouling in MBR systems.
Constructed wetland as a low cost and sustainable solution for wastewater treatment adapted to rural settlements: the Chorfech wastewater treatment pilot plant
Authors: Ghrabi Ahmed , Bousselmi Latifa , Masi Fabio , Regelsberger Martin
Published: June 2011

The paper presents the detailed design and some preliminary results obtained from a study regarding a wastewater treatment pilot plant (WWTPP), serving as a multistage constructed wetland (CW) located at the rural settlement of ‘Chorfech 24’ (Tunisia). The WWTPP implemented at Chorfech 24 is mainly designed as a demonstration of sustainable water management solutions (low-cost wastewater treatment), in order to prove the efficiency of these solutions working under real Tunisian conditions and ultimately allow the further spreading of the demonstrated techniques. The pilot activity also aims to help gain experience with the implemented techniques and to improve them when necessary to be recommended for wide application in rural settlements in Tunisia and similar situations worldwide. The selected WWTPP at Chorfech 24 (rural settlement of 50 houses counting 350 inhabitants) consists of one Imhoff tank for pre-treatment, and three stages in series: as first stage a horizontal subsurface flow CW system, as second stage a subsurface vertical flow CW system, and a third horizontal flow CW. The sludge of the Imhoff tank is treated in a sludge composting bed. The performances of the different components as well as the whole treatment system were presented based on 3 months monitoring. The results shown in this paper are related to carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus removal as well as to reduction of micro-organisms. The mean overall removal rates of the Chorfech WWTPP during the monitored period have been, respectively, equal to 97% for total suspended solids and biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5), 95% for chemical oxygen demand, 71% for total nitrogen and 82% for P-PO4. The removal of E. coli by the whole system is 2.5 log units.
Effects of Potassium and Magnesium in the Enhanced Biological Phosphorus Removal Process Using a Membrane Bioreactor
Authors: Choi Hee‐Jeong , Yu Sung‐Whan , Lee Seung‐Mok , Yu Seung‐Young
Published: July 2011

This study assessed the role of potassium (K+), magnesium (Mg2+), and calcium (Ca2+) ions in the enhanced biological phosphorus removal (EBPR) from wastewaters using a membrane bioreactor (MBR). A linear relationship in the anaerobic and aerobic/anoxic phases for Puptake versus Prelease was obtained using the known equation ΔPuptake = a × ΔPrelease+ b, where the constants “a” and “b” were found to be 0.44 and 8.40, respectively. Both potassium and magnesium were soluble with phosphate in the anaerobic phase, but they accumulated again during the successive aerobic/anoxic phase. The linear correlation coefficients (R2) of K+/PO4‐P and Mg2+/PO4‐P were calculated as 0.6682 and 0.8884, respectively. The molar ratio of CK/P during anaerobic phosphorus release was observed to be 0.20 mol/mol, whereas CMg/P was 0.21 mol/mol. Furthermore, unlike potassium and magnesium, calcium was not co‐transported with phosphorus during the release and uptake processes.
Decomposition of Acetone by Hydrogen Peroxide/Ozone Process in a Rotating Packed Contactor
Authors: Ku Young , Huang Yun‐Jen , Chen Hua‐Wei , Hou Wei‐Ming
Published: July 2011

The direct use of ozone (O3) in water and wastewater treatment processes is found to be inefficient, incomplete, and limited by the ozone transfer between the gas‐liquid interface because of its low solubility and instability in aqueous solutions. Therefore, rotating packed contactors were introduced to improve the transfer of ozone from the gaseous phase to the solution phase, and the effect of several reaction parameters were investigated on the temporal variations of acetone concentration in aqueous solution. The decomposition rate constant of acetone was enhanced by increasing the rotor speed from 450 to 1800 rpm. Increasing the hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)/O3 molar ratios accelerated the decomposition rate until a certain optimum H2O2/O3 molar ratio was reached; further addition of H2O2 inhibited the decomposition of acetone, possibly because excessive amounts of H2O2 added might serve as a scavenger to deplete hydroxyl free radicals.
The Organization of Thanatology
Authors: Doka Kenneth J. , Heflin-Wells E. Neil , Martin Terry L. , Redmond Lula M. , Schachter Sherry R.
Published: June 2011

This article explores, using Wilensky's Model of Professionalization, the emergence of professional organizations within the thanatology. The authors review the history of four organizations—The Foundation of Thanatology, Ars Moriendi, The Forum for Death Education and Counseling (now the Association for Death Education and Counseling: A Thanatology Organization [ADEC]), and The International Work Group on Death, Dying, and Bereavement (IWG). The authors speculate on some of the reasons that the first two failed while IWG and ADEC remain viable—While noting challenges that these remaining thanatological organizations will experience as they seek to continue to stay relevant.
The Returns to Education in Entrepreneurship: Heterogeneity and Non-Linearities
Authors: Iversen Jens , Malchow-Møller Nikolaj , Sørensen Anders
Published: July 2011

The returns to education in self-employment are addressed in four different specifications of the relationship between log income and years of schooling. The specifications range from a standard Mincer equation with a constant percentage increase in income for an additional year of schooling to the most flexible specification with dummy variables for different combinations of years of schooling and fields of study. Based on the more flexible specifications, important non-linearities and heterogeneity in the returns to education in self-employment are found. These results are robust across different estimation methods: OLS, Heckit correction models handling sample selection, and IV dealing with the potential endogeneity of years of schooling. Moreover, the results are robust to the use of different sample years, different definitions of self-employment, and different income measures for the self-employed.
Ethical Aspects of Research on Ethnic/Immigrant Entrepreneurship
Authors: Vinogradov Evgueni
Published: July 2011

While numerous empirical studies on entrepreneurship among immigrants and ethnic minorities have been conducted all over the Western world, virtually no attention has been paid to ethical aspects of such studies. The purpose of this paper is to identify ethically ambiguous issues regarding research on ethnic/immigrant entrepreneurship, as well as propose methods for addressing such issues. The ethical issues and relevant solutions have been derived from empirical studies on immigrants and ethnic minorities in the fields of medicine, psychology, anthropology, sociology, and marketing, as well as from interviews with five of the leading contributors to the field of ethnic/immigrant entrepreneurship.

The results of this study indicate that research on immigrant and ethnic minority entrepreneurs requires specific methodology that differs from the approaches applied in the mainstream entrepreneurship research. Evidence against ethical universalism has been found in the literature reviewed. The review of the empirical studies revealed a number of potential ethical problems which are important for conducting research on immigrants and ethnic minorities. Lower average levels of education, unfamiliarity with local culture and social context, economic dependency, links to the home country and coethnic community, special legal position, and linguistic disadvantages have been identified as potential sources of ethical ambiguity. Methods for ethical research conduct have been proposed. The need for explicit discussion of the ethical issues in the articles published in international journals has been highlighted.
Effects of dopants on the isothermal decomposition kinetics of potassium metaperiodate
Authors: Muraleedharan Karuvanthodi , Kannan Parambil , Devi Ganga
Published: July 2011

The isothermal decomposition and kinetics of potassium metaperiodate (KIO4)
were studied by thermogravimetry as a function of the concentration of
dopants. The thermal decomposition of KIO4 proceeds mainly through two
stages: an acceleration period up to ? = 0.50 and a decay stage. The thermal
decomposition data for both doped and untreated KIO4 were found to be best
described by the Prout-Tompkins Equation. The ? - t data of doped and
untreated samples of KIO4 were subjected to isoconversional studies for the
determination of the activation energy values. The isoconversional studies of
the isothermal decomposition of untreated and doped samples of KIO4 indicated
that the thermal decomposition of KIO4 proceeds through a single kinetic
model, the Prout-Tompkins model, throughout the entire range of conversion,
as opposed to earlier observations.
A novel platinum-based nanocatalyst at a niobia-doped titania support for the hydrogen oxidation reaction
Authors: Elezovic Nevenka , Babic Biljana , Radmilovic Velimir , Gajic-Krstajic Ljiljana , Krstajic Nedeljko , Vracar Ljiljana
Published: July 2011

The kinetics of the hydrogen oxidation reaction (HOR) was studied at Pt
nanoparticles supported on niobia-doped titania (Pt/N-T). The catalyst
support, with the composition of 0.05NbO2.5-?-0.995TiO2 (0<?<1), was
synthesized by a modified sol-gel procedure and characterized by the BET and
X-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques. The specific surface area of the support
was found to be 70 m2 g-1. The XRD analysis revealed the presence of the
anatase TiO2 phase in the support powder. No peaks indicating the existence
of Nb-compounds were detected. Pt/N-T nanocatalyst was synthesized by the
borohydride reduction method. Transmission electron microscopy revealed a
quite homogenous distribution of the Pt nanoparticles over the support, with
a mean particle size of about 3 nm. The electrochemical active surface area
of Pt of 42?4 m2 g-1 was determined by the cyclic voltammetry technique. The
kinetics of the HOR was investigated by linear sweep voltammetry at a
rotating disc electrode in 0.5 mol dm-3 HClO4 solution. The determined value
of the Tafel slope of 35 mV dec-1 and an exchange current density of 0.45 mA
cm-2 per real surface area of the Pt are in good accordance with those
already reported in the literature for the HOR at polycrystalline Pt and Pt
nanocatalysts in acid solutions. This new catalyst exhibited better activity
for the HOR in comparison with Pt nanocatalyst supported on Vulcan? XC-72R
high area carbon.
Biomarkers of Renal Function and Cognitive Impairment in Patients With Diabetes
Authors: Murray Anne M. , Barzilay Joshua I. , Lovato James F. , Williamson Jeff D. , Miller Michael E. , Marcovina Santica , Launer Lenore J. ,   for the Action to Control Cardiovascular Risk in Diabetes Memory in Diabetes (ACCORD-MIND) Substudy Investigators
Published: June 2011

OBJECTIVE

Kidney disease is associated with cognitive impairment in studies of nondiabetic adults. We examined the cross-sectional relation between three measures of renal function and performance on four measures of cognitive function in the Action to Control Cardiovascular Risk in Diabetes Memory in Diabetes (ACCORD-MIND) study.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

The relationships among estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <60 mL/min/1.73 m2 (n = 2,968), albumin/creatinine ratio (ACR) ≥30 μg/mg (n = 2,957), and cystatin C level >1.0 mg/L (n = 532) with tertile of performance on the Mini-Mental State Examination, Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT), Digit Symbol Substitution Test (DSST), and Stroop Test of executive function were measured.

RESULTS

In adjusted logistic regression models, ACR ≥30 μg/mg was associated with performance in the lowest tertile, compared with the highest two tertiles, on the RAVLT (odds ratio 1.30, 95% CI 1.09–1.56, P = 0.006), equivalent to 3.6 years of aging, and on the DSST (1.47, 1.20–1.80, P = 0.001), equivalent to 3.7 years of aging. Cystatin C >1.0 mg/L was borderline associated with the lowest tertile on the DSST (1.81, 0.93–3.55, P = 0.08) and Stroop (1.78, 0.97–3.23, P = 0.06) in adjusted models. eGFR was not associated with any measure of cognitive performance.

CONCLUSIONS

In diabetic people with HbA1c >7.5% at high risk for cardiovascular disease, decreased cognitive function was associated with kidney disease as measured by ACR, a measure of microvascular endothelial pathology, and cystatin C, a marker of eGFR.
Approximation in weighted Orlicz spaces
Authors: Akgün Ramazan , Israfilov Daniyal
Published: July 2011

We prove some direct and converse theorems of trigonometric approximation in weighted Orlicz spaces with weights satisfying so called Muckenhoupt’s A
p condition.
Generalized q-Baskakov operators
Authors: Aral Ali , Gupta Vijay
Published: July 2011

In the present paper we propose a generalization of the Baskakov operators, based on q integers. We also estimate the rate of convergence in the weighted norm. In the last section, we study some shape preserving properties and the property of monotonicity of q-Baskakov operators.
Numerical Analysis of Test Embankment on Soft Ground Using Multi-Laminate Type Model with Destructuration / Analiza Numeryczna Nasypu Drogowego Posadowionego Na Gruncie Słabonosnym Z Zastosowaniem Modelu Wielopłaszczyznowego Z Destrukturyzacja
Authors: Cundi M.
Published: July 2011

A multi-laminate constitutive model for soft soils incorporating structural anisotropy is presented. Stress induced anisotropy of strength, which is present in multi-laminate type constitutive models, is augmented by directionally distributed overconsolidation. The model is presented in the elastic-plastic version in order to simulate strength anisotropy of soft clayey soils and destructuration effects. Performance of the model is shown for some element tests and for the numerical simulation of a trial road embankment constructed on soft clays at Haarajoki, Finland. The numerical calculations are completed with the commercial finite element code capable to perform coupled static/consolidation analysis of soils. Problems related to the initiation of in situ stress state, conditions of preconsolidation, as well as difficulties linked to estimation of the model parameters are discussed. Despite simple assumptions concerning field conditions and non-viscous formulation of the constitutive model, the obtained final results are of a sufficient accuracy for geotechnical practice.
The Results of Analyses of Deep Excavation Walls Using two Different Methods of Calculation / Wyniki Analiz Obudów Głebokich Wykopów Uzyskane Z Dwóch Róznych Metod Obliczeniowych
Authors: Krasinski A. , Urban M.
Published: July 2011

Deep excavation walls can be analyzed and calculated by using classical methods (currently rarely in use due to their many simplifications) or numerical methods. Among the numerical methods we can distinguish a simplified approach, in which the interaction between soil and a wall structure is modelled by a system of elasto-plastic supports, and the finite-element method (FEM) in which the soil is modelled with mesh of elements. It is a common view that if we want to analyze only wall constructions, the first, simplified method of calculation is sufficient. The second method, FEM, is required if we want to further analyze the stress and strain states in the soil and the influence of the excavation on the surrounding area. However, as it is demonstrated in the paper, important differences may appear in the calculation results of both methods. Thus, the safety design of a deep excavation structure depends very much on the choice of calculating method.
Digital Images with 3D Geometry from Data Compression by Multi-scale Representations of B-Spline Surfaces
Authors: Koch K.
Published: June 2011

Digital Images with 3D Geometry from Data Compression by Multi-scale Representations of B-Spline Surfaces

To build up a 3D (three-dimensional) model of the surface of an object, the heights of points on the surface are measured, for instance, by a laser scanner. The intensities of the reflected laser beam of the points can be used to visualize the 3D model as range image. It is proposed here to fit a two-dimensional B-spline surface to the measured heights and intensities by the lofting method. To fully use the geometric information of the laser scanning, points on the fitted surface with their intensities are computed with a density higher than that of the measurements. This gives a 3D model of high resolution which is visualized by the intensities of the points on the B-spline surface. For a realistic view of the 3D model, the coordinates of a digital photo of the object are transformed to the coordinate system of the 3D model so that the points get the colors of the digital image. To efficiently compute and store the 3D model, data compression is applied. It is derived from the multi-scale representation of the dense grid of points on the B-spline surface. The proposed method is demonstrated for an example.
A New Type of Current Conveyor and its Application in Fully Balanced Differential Current-Mode Elliptic Filter Design
Authors: Zhang Qiujing , Wang Chunhua , Sun Jingru , Du Sichun
Published: July 2011

A New Type of Current Conveyor and its Application in Fully Balanced Differential Current-Mode Elliptic Filter Design

This paper introduces a new type of CMOS-based current conveyor: current controlled fully balanced second generation current conveyor (CFBCCII) element which has a pair of differential Y terminals, a pair of differential X terminals and two pairs of Z terminals. The proposed circuit offers electronic tuning possibilities by means of a current adjustable intrinsic resistance at its X terminal. An elliptic filter realization is described as an example for its application in a current-mode fully balanced filter design, where the intrinsic resistors in CFBCCIIs are used for the electronic tuning of the characteristic filter frequency.
Coh-Metrix
Authors: Graesser Arthur C. , McNamara Danielle S. , Kulikowich Jonna M.
Published: June 2011

Computer analyses of text characteristics are often used by reading teachers, researchers, and policy makers when selecting texts for students. The authors of this article identify components of language, discourse, and cognition that underlie traditional automated metrics of text difficulty and their new Coh-Metrix system. Coh-Metrix analyzes texts on multiple measures of language and discourse that are aligned with multilevel theoretical frameworks of comprehension. The authors discuss five major factors that account for most of the variance in texts across grade levels and text categories: word concreteness, syntactic simplicity, referential cohesion, causal cohesion, and narrativity. They consider the importance of both quantitative and qualitative characteristics of texts for assigning the right text to the right student at the right time.