bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Project Study of Open Rotor Noise
Authors: Parry A B , Vianello S
Published: April 2012

Open Rotor Noise consists of a number of different noise sources, each of which generates noise over a wide frequency range (one of the main features of contra-rotating turbomachinery). Consequently, parametric studies of relevance to engine and aircraft projects are best conducted over the audible frequency range and appraised in terms of the standard aircraft noise metric of EPNL. In this paper, we undertake a parametric study of open rotor noise in terms of its dependence on both front and rear blade numbers and blade tip speeds. In the first phase of the study blade numbers and tip speeds are varied independently. In the second phase they are varied simultaneously to show the close coupling between the two. The study is based on predictions and, to aid these predictions, extremely fast analytic tools – with some essential simplifications – are used for both the aerodynamics and noise calculations.
Anisotropic Operations
Authors: Weston Mark
Published: April 2012

Deliberately introduced unidirectional material weakening is explored as a means of producing material properties which exploit natural material tendencies rather than as a means to compensate for them. Such anisotropic operations take natural systems as a point of departure for man-made approaches to the augmentation of building performance in the realm of solar shading, but also for the creation of materially complex architectural environments.
Agent Provocateur – BIM in the Academic Design Studio
Authors: Ambrose Michael A.
Published: April 2012

Building Information Modeling challenges academia to question the fundamental roles of abstraction and simulation in design education. Architectural education and practice assume a traditional set of visual conventions at varied scales and levels of detail, that when taken in concert signifies a whole, complete idea of a building, a correspondence between design intent and interpretation, between the representation of ideas and the design of buildings. BIM viewed as provocateur to these assumptions provides potential critical analysis of how architectural design is taught. Academia must seek out new design methodologies for exploring architecture that reflect the representational shift of BIM by developing teaching methods that reprioritize ways of seeing, thinking and making. This paper describes a studio model that seeks out new active methods for exploring architecture that embrace this shift by developing processes that provoke novel ways to reconcile the traditions of abstraction and the opportunities of synthetic simulation.
Live-High Train-Low Altitude Training on Maximal Oxygen Consumption in Athletes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Lancaster Kellie , Smart Neil
Published: April 2012

We quantified the effects of four different protocols of Live-high Train-low altitude training on maximal aerobic capacity. A systematic search of PubMed for published studies, up to July 2010 was performed using appropriate search terms. Eleven studies met inclusion criteria. Combined analysis showed athletes exposed to hypoxia had higher maximal oxygen consumption compared to those undertaking normoxic training, Weighted Mean Difference (WMD) 1.51 ml. kg−1.min−1 [0.44, 2.58, p=0.006]; hemoglobin (WMD) 0.57 mg/dl−1 [0.38, 0.75, p<0.00001], lower maximum heart rate (WMD) −1.77 beats.minute−1 [−3.03, −0.50, p=0.006], and peak exercise blood lactate (WMD) −3.03 mmol. L−1 [−4.57, −1.49, p=0.0001]. Studies utilizing minimum hypoxic exposure of 9.5 hours daily showed a significantly greater weighted mean difference in maximal oxygen consumption WMD 3.45 ml.kg−1.min−1 [0.30, 6.60] p=0.03, in the hypoxic subjects. Protocols using altitudes between 2,500 to 3,500m for a minimum of 9.5 hours daily for at least 2 weeks elicited greatest performance effects.
Recovery of Rowing Sprint Performance after High Intensity Strength Training
Authors: Gee Thomas I. , Olsen Peter D. , Fritzdorf Stephen W. Garland , White Dominic J. , Golby Jim , Thompson Kevin G.
Published: April 2012

This study evaluated the impact of a high-intensity strength training session on rowing sprint performance. Ten male club rowers performed a baseline counter-movement jump (CMJ) and a 250 m rowing ergometer sprint (250 m). Twenty-four hours after baseline, participants performed a high-intensity strength training session (ST) consisting of multi-joint barbell exercises. At 24 h, 48 h and 72 h post-ST, CMJ and 250 m were repeated alongside assessment of plasma creatine kinase (CK) and perceived muscle soreness. At 24 h post-ST 250 m performance decreased significantly (90% CI: 0.3 – 0.7 s), but returned to pre-test values at 48 h. There was a significant decrease in CMJ height at 48 h post ST (90% CI: −0.7 – −4.1 cm). Perceived muscle soreness was significantly greater than baseline at all assessed time points following ST ( p < 0.05). There was a significant increase in CK from baseline to 24 h (90% CI: 146 – 390 U/L). High-intensity strength training was observed to adversely affect 250 m rowing ergometer performance after 24 h and coincided with transient muscle damage.
College Football Success: The Relationship between Recruiting and Winning
Authors: Caro Cary A.
Published: April 2012

College football has grown into a multi-billion dollar industry largely through the advent of the Bowl Championship Series (BCS), television markets, and new network affiliations. Big-time programs generate millions of dollars for the athletic department and for the school through various avenues. Still, for teams to be successful, they must recruit talented athletes. This study examines the relationship between recruiting and on the field success. The automatic qualifying conferences to the BCS are examined through regression analysis to determine the relationship between recruiting success and on-the-field success. Regression analysis indicates that for teams in the SEC, the Big Ten, and the Big Twelve, 63% to 80% of a team's success in their respective conference can be attributed to successful recruiting practices. The implications that these findings have on recruiting budgets and on the path to winning on the field are presented.
Classifying Training Drills Based on Movement Demands in Australian Football
Authors: Loader Jordan , Montgomery Paul G. , Williams Morgan D. , Lorenzen Christian , Kemp Justin G.
Published: April 2012

Time-motion data was used to classify a selection of training drills. Ten midfielders (age=23.8±1.8yr; height=183.9±3.8cm; mass=83.2±5.0 kg) from an Australian Football League team participated in 17 training drills and four quarters of an official competitive match. Heart rate and time-motion data were collected using Global Positioning and Heart Rate Systems. Cluster analysis of mean distance travelled in the seven velocity zones identified three clusters: 1) game-specific conditioning; 2) skill refining/moderate intensity dominant; and 3) skill refining/low intensity dominant. Differences between the three clusters in distance travelled at the speed zones were confirmed using one-way ANOVA. Differences between clusters were also assessed for number of efforts in velocity zones and percentage time in heart rate zones. When compared to drills with a focus on skill refining or performed on a reduced playing area, drills utilising the entire playing field better replicated the movement characteristics of competitive game play.
Inverse Relationship of Marine Aerosol and Dust in Antarctic Ice with Fine-Grained Sediment in the South Atlantic Ocean: Implications for Sea-Ice Coverage and Wind Strength
Authors: Kanfoush Sharon L.
Published: April 2012

This research seeks to test the hypothesis that natural gamma radiation (NGR) from Ocean Drilling Program Site 1094, which displays variability over the last glacial-interglacial cycle similar to dust in the Vostok ice core, reflects fine-grained terrigenous sediment delivered by eolian processes. Grain size was measured on 400 samples spanning 0–20 m in a composite core. Accumulation of the <63μ size fraction at Site 1094 and dust in Vostok exhibit a negative correlation, suggesting the fine sediments are not dominantly eolian. However the technique used for grain size measurements cannot distinguish between terrigenous and biogenous materials; therefore it is possible much fine-grained material is diatoms. An inverse correlation between fine sediments and NGR supports this interpretation, and implies terrigenous materials were at times diluted by microfossils from high biological productivity. Fine marine sediments correlate positively with temperature and negatively with marine aerosol Na+ in Vostok. One plausible explanation is extensive sea-ice of cold intervals steepened ocean-continent temperature gradients, intensified winds, and led to increased transport of dust and marine aerosol to Antarctica yet also reduced biological productivity at Site 1094. Such a reduction despite increases in NGR, potentially representing Fe-rich dust influx, would require light limitation or stratification associated with sea-ice.
Climate Variability of the Northern Argentinean Shelf Circulation: Impact on Engraulis Anchoita
Authors: Auad Guillermo , Martos Patricia
Published: April 2012

A high-resolution ocean model and hydrographic observations are used to characterize the shelf circulation of the northern Argentinean shelf during the study period (1993–2008) and ultimately to explore possible linkages among atmospheric, oceanic, and biological climatic variability. Abundance of larvae and eggs of the local anchovy species, Engraulis anchoita, exhibit a spatial and temporal variability similar to those stocks found in other parts of the world and that we interpret in the context of the particularities of the local circulation and hydrography. Two (statistically) coupled modes of wind stress-surface velocity are described and interpreted in terms of historical and new information. A complex picture emerges in which the intensity of both a thermal shelf front, the alongshore flow, and larvae abundance would be connected and forced by local wind stresses. For all areas examined on the shelf, the larvae/egg abundance would not be very sensitive to short-lived climatic fluctuations (e.g., year-to-year) but they would be indeed to regime shifts. The shallow shelf area bounded by the 39°S and 41°S parallels would expose a clearer linkage between physical and biological variables than that north of 39°S. We attribute this fact to the particular physical conditions found in the southernmost area, which would favor an increased habitat quality for Engraulis anchoita.
A Case Study on Curtailed Tidal Hydrodynamic Modeling along UAE Coast
Authors: Balaji R
Published: April 2012

A curtailed numerical model has been developed to assess the tidal hydrodynamics of entrance of a navigational channel in Abu Dhabi coast, United Arab Emirates. The curtailed model is developed using a finite element based numerical scheme, RMA2 (Donnell et al., 2006). The boundary conditions for the model were extracted from a large scale numerical model covering entire Abu Dhabi coast, developed using TELEMAC (Hervouet, 2000) modeling software. The hydrodynamic results of the curtailed model are validated with that of large scale model. The comparisons of water levels and current velocities obtained from the two models are found to be in agreement, demonstrating the efficiency and accuracy of the curtailed numerical model. The features of the tidal current pattern in the vicinity of the entrance of the navigational channel are also discussed. The details of the numerical scheme, model setup and methodology are presented and discussed in this paper.
Oral Antidiabetic Drugs and Regression from Prediabetes to Normoglycemia: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Phung Olivia J , Baker William L , Tongbram Vanita , Bhardwaj Adarsh , Coleman Craig I
Published: April 2012

Background:

Impaired glucose tolerance, impaired fasting glucose, and elevated hemoglobin A1c are intermediate stages, considered prediabetes, a precursor to overt type 2 diabetes mellitus. Prediabetes is associated with increased risk for cardiovascular disease, independent of diabetes development. Data have shown that various oral antidiabetic drugs can help people regress from prediabetes to normoglycemia.

Objective:

To evaluate the efficacy of oral antidiabetic drugs in promoting regression from prediabetes to normoglycemia.

Methods:

MEDLINE (1950–November 2011), EMBASE (1990–November 2011), and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (indexed September 2011) were systematically searched. A manual search of references from reports of clinical trials and review articles was performed to identify additional relevant studies. Randomized controlled trials 12 weeks or more in duration evaluating any of the oral antidiabetic drugs and studying regression from prediabetes to normoglycemia were included. A random-effects model was used to calculate pooled odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals.

Results:

Thirteen studies (N = 11,600 participants) were included in the metaanalysis. Use of oral antidiabetic drugs in prediabetic patients was shown to double the odds of achieving normoglycemia compared to controls (OR 2.03, 95% CI 1.54 to 2.67). When individual classes of oral antidiabetic drugs were evaluated, use of thiazolidinediones (OR 2.33, 95% CI 1.93 to 2.81) and α-glucosidase inhibitors (OR 2.02, 95% CI 1.26 to 3.24) was associated with significantly increased odds. However, biguanides (OR 2.04) and sulfonylureas (OR 1.84) failed to reach statistical significance (p = 0.06 and p = 0.39, respectively).

Conclusions:

In patients with prediabetes, oral antidiabetic drugs were associated with increased odds of regression to normoglycemia versus placebo/control. Only thiazolidinediones and α-glucosidase inhibitors provided a statistically significant increase in odds of regressing to normoglycemia.
Is Statin-Associated Cognitive Impairment Clinically Relevant? A Narrative Review and Clinical Recommendations
Authors: Rojas-Fernandez Carlos H , Cameron Jean-Christy F
Published: April 2012

Objective:

To explore the impact of statin use on cognition.

Data Sources:

A literature search was performed using MEDLINE (1950-November 2011), EMBASE (1980-November 2011), and the Cochrane Library (1960-November 2011) using the search terms “cognition/drug effects,” “delirium, dementia, amnestic, cognitive disorders/chemically induced,” “memory disorders/chemically induced,” “hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA reductase inhibitors/adverse effects,” and “hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA reductase inhibitors.” A bibliographic search on included references was also conducted.

Study Selection and Data Extraction:

Studies were included for analysis if they were conducted in humans and examined the impact of statin use on cognition as either a primary or secondary endpoint; case reports and case series were also included for analysis.

Data Synthesis:

Reports of statin-associated cognitive impairment were found primarily in observational studies (eg, case reports/series). One randomized controlled trial demonstrated that simvastatin impaired some measures of cognition compared to placebo. Conversely, in the majority of randomized controlled trials and observational studies, statins were found to have either a neutral or beneficial effect on cognition. Preliminary data suggest that statins that are less lipophilic (ie, pravastatin and rosuvastatin) may be less likely to contribute to cognitive impairment due to limited penetration across the blood-brain barrier. These drugs would be a logical alternative in cases where cognitive impairment secondary to another statin is suspected.

Conclusions:

Despite several reports of statin-associated cognitive impairment, this adverse effect remains a rare occurrence among the totality of the literature. If statin-associated cognitive impairment is suspected, a trial discontinuation can reveal a temporal relationship. Switching from lipophilic to hydrophilic statins may resolve cognitive impairment. The vascular benefits and putative cognitive benefits outweigh the risk of cognitive impairment associated with statin use; therefore, the current evidence does not support changing practice with respect to statin use, given this adverse effect.
Low-Temperature Hydrothermal Metamorphic Mineralization of Island-Arc Volcanics, South Apuseni Mountains, Romania
Authors: Miron George Dan , Neuhoff Philip S. , Amthauer Georg
Published: April 2012

The island-arc volcanics situated in the eastern part of the Căpîlnaş-Techereu nappe (South Apuseni Mountains, Romania) were studied to evaluate the temperature, fluid properties, and mineral chemistry during low-temperature metamorphism. Detailed observations of metamorphic mineral assemblages were conducted using powder X-ray diffraction and electron microprobe. The metamorphism involved albitization of plagioclase feldspar and the formation of mafic phyllosilicates, zeolites, and other hydrous Ca-Al-silicate minerals. Mafic phyllosilicates consisted of transitional dioctahedral-trioctahedral smectites, mixed-layer chlorite-smectite (C/S, 6–96% chlorite), and discrete chlorite. The zeolites were analcime, stilbite ± stellerite, heulandite, laumontite, epistilbite, and mordenite. Also present, as secondary minerals filling amygdales and veins, are prehnite, pumpellyite, and secondary amphibole. Two mineral assemblages were identified which provide important information about metamorphic conditions (temperature, reaction progress, and fluid properties): (1) heulandite + analcime + quartz; and (2) laumontite + albite + quartz + prehnite + pumpellyite ± amphibole. The types of and relations between minerals in the first assemblage suggest the occurrence of low-temperature hydrothermal metamorphism in the zeolite facies at ~125°C, whereas the second assemblage was metamorphosed at 200°C. The composition and variability of the mineral assemblages in the study area suggest that, due to slow reaction rates, the low-temperature transformations and mineral assemblages were influenced not only by temperature but also by local rock composition, fluid-rock ratio, and fluid chemistry.
Response Surface Optimization for Activation of Bentonite Using Microwave Irradiation
Authors: Petrović Srdjan , Rožić Ljiljana , Vuković Zorica , Novaković Tatjana , Stanisavljev Dragomir
Published: April 2012

Microwave irradiation as a means for heating bentonites during acid activation has been investigated in the past but it has never been optimized for industrial applications. The purpose of this study was to apply a factorial 23 experimental design to a Serbian bentonite in order to determine the influence of microwave heating on the acid-activation process. The effect of acid activation under microwave irradiation on the textural and structural properties of bentonite was studied as a model reaction. A mathematical, second-order response surface model (RSM) was developed with a central composite design that incorporated the relationships among various process parameters (time, acid concentration, and microwave heating power) and the selected process response of specific surface area of the bentonite. The ranges of values for the process parameters chosen were: time, 5–21 min; acid concentration, 2–7 M; and microwave heating power, 63–172 W. The effect of individual variables and their interaction effects on the textural and structural properties of the bentonite were determined. Statistical analysis showed that the duration of microwave irradiation was less significant than the other two factors. The model showed that increasing the time and acid concentration improved the textural properties of bentonites, resulting in increased specific surface area. This model is useful for setting an optimum value of the activation parameters for achieving the maximum specific surface area. An optimum specific surface area of 142 m2g−1 was achieved with an acid concentration of 5.2 M, activation time of 7.4 min, and microwave power of 117 W.
Writing: Explicating and unfolding condensed textual practices in art and design
Authors: Hall Sean
Published: April 2012

Short forms of communication are increasingly dominating writing (and reading) practices. From advertising slogans and narrative summaries to different forms of mirco-blogging and micro-pitching, this article examines how the current social and cultural positionality of the writer has
acted to condense the event of writing, the processes of writing, and the final state of the written work when complete. It then examines how the designer and the artist (situated as writer and reader) might respond to these changes in terms of creative practice.
REVIEWS
Authors: Butler Sarah , Cunliffe-Charlesworth Dr Hilary
Published: April 2012

Writing and Research in Design and Technology at Parsons School of Design

Writing Pad, Sheffield Hallam University
Mangling practices: Writing reflections
Authors: Jefferies Janis
Published: April 2012

The idea of the practitioner as researcher is everywhere. So is the idea of reflective practice. These ideas … are now so hackneyed and commodified that they have almost come to mean all things to all people. […] A spectator approach to action research is widely practised
in education and corporate settings, especially by those who are positioned as the providers and supporters of practitioners’ research. Self-styled elites preside over others doing their action research, and make judgements using normative criteria about what progress has been made and
how it should be judged. (McNiff, 2002a, 6)

The notion of ‘auto-ethnography’ makes explicit a commitment to a self-reflexive way of knowing and straddles a wide range of cultural (and increasingly) scientific disciplines and interests as well as encompassing a variety of theoretical
and methodological approaches. In practical terms, a journal, diary, field notes, blog is a means by which one records a ‘feel’ for the practice-based work whether through individually situated work or in collaboration with others. This article muses and reflects on what this process
might mean and what its impact could be on the future of practice-based work.
Deterministic and Stochastic Neuronal Contributions to Distinct Synchronous CA3 Network Bursts
Authors: Takano Hajime , McCartney Melissa , Ortinski Pavel I. , Yue Cuiyong , Putt Mary E. , Coulter Douglas A.
Published: April 2012

Computational studies have suggested that stochastic, deterministic, and mixed processes all could be possible determinants of spontaneous, synchronous network bursts. In the present study, using multicellular calcium imaging coupled with fast confocal microscopy, we describe neuronal behavior underlying spontaneous network bursts in developing rat and mouse hippocampal area CA3 networks. Two primary burst types were studied: giant depolarizing potentials (GDPs) and spontaneous interictal bursts recorded in bicuculline, a GABAAreceptor antagonist. Analysis of the simultaneous behavior of multiple CA3 neurons during synchronous GDPs revealed a repeatable activation order from burst to burst. This was validated using several statistical methods, including high Kendall's coefficient of concordance values for firing order during GDPs, high Pearson's correlations of cellular activation times between burst pairs, and latent class analysis, which revealed a population of 5–6% of CA3 neurons reliably firing very early during GDPs. In contrast, neuronal firing order during interictal bursts appeared homogeneous, with no particular cells repeatedly leading or lagging during these synchronous events. We conclude that GDPs activate via a deterministic mechanism, with distinct, repeatable roles for subsets of neurons during burst generation, while interictal bursts appear to be stochastic events with cells assuming interchangeable roles in the generation of these events.
Hitting the target: where do molecularly targeted therapies fit in the treatment scheduling of neuroendocrine tumours?
Authors: Karpathakis Anna , Caplin Martyn , Thirlwell Christina
Published: April 2012

Neuroendocrine tumours (NETs) are a rare and heterogeneous group of tumours whose incidence is increasing and their prevalence is now greater than that of any other upper gastrointestinal tumour. Diagnosis can be challenging, and up to 25% of patients present with metastatic disease. Following the recent FDA approval of two new molecularly targeted therapies for the treatment of advanced pancreatic NETs (pNETs), the first in 25 years, we review all systemic therapies and suggest where these newer targeted therapies fit in the treatment schedule for these challenging tumours. Clinical trial data relating to the routine use of sunitinib and everolimus in low–intermediate-grade pNETs are summarised alongside newer molecularly targeted agents undergoing clinical assessment in NETs. We particularly focus on the challenge of optimal scheduling of molecularly targeted treatments around existing systemic and localised treatment such as chemotherapy or radiotargeted therapy. We also discuss application of current evidence to subgroups of patients who have not so far been directly addressed such as those with poorer performance status or patients receiving radical surgery who may benefit from adjuvant treatment.
Ocorrência e fatores de risco associados à infecção por Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis em caprinos e ovinos do semiárido paraibano
Authors: Andrade José Sóstenes L. , Azevedo Sérgio S , Teles José Andreey A. , Higino Silvano S.S. , Azevedo Edisio O
Published: April 2012

Este trabalho teve como objetivo determinar a ocorrência e os fatores de risco associados à infecção por Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis em caprinos e ovinos do semiárido da Paraiba. De 640 animais examinados, 7,7% (49/640) apresentavam evidências clínicas de linfadenite caseosa. Em 59,2% (29/49) destes animais havia apenas as cicatrizes de abscessos anteriormente rompidos; em 40,8% (20/49) dos animais, os abscessos estavam intactos. Desses 20 animais, 13 (65%) caprinos apresentaram 14 abscessos, enquanto que sete (35%) ovinos apresentaram oito abscessos. Em ambas as espécies, o linfonodo pré-escapular foi o mais acometido. No exame microbiológico, constatou-se que C. pseudotuberculosis foi o agente mais frequentemente isolado, em 15 (68,2%) amostras; em uma (4,5%) foi isolado Staphylococcus coagulase negativa; uma (4,5%) Enterococcus sp.; uma (4,5%) o Proteus mirabilis e Pseudomonas aeruginosa; e em quatro (18,2%) amostras não houve crescimento bacteriano. O modelo final de regressão logística mostrou que animais provenientes de rebanhos em que seus proprietários deixavam os abscessos romperem naturalmente tiveram maior chance de apresentar linfadenite caseosa (odds ratio =8,19; IC 95% =1,75-38,25; p=0,008). Conclui-se que os caprinovinocultores da região devem adotar medidas profiláticas em seus rebanhos, como abertura e drenagem precoce dos abscessos superficiais e destino adequado do conteúdo. Tais medidas, associadas à inspeção periódica do rebanho, descarte de animais doentes e não introdução de animais infectados, contribuirão significativamente para o controle desta infecção.
Microbiologia de swabs retais e otológicos em carnívoros silvestres do zoológico do Parque Estadual de Dois Irmãos, Pernambuco
Authors: Lima Débora Costa Viegas de , Siqueira Daniel Barreto , Mota Rinaldo Aparecido , Rameh-de-Albuquerque Luciana Carla , Souza Dênisson Silva , Santos André de Souza , Silva Leonildo Bento Galiza da
Published: April 2012

O estudo epidemiológico de patógenos em populações selvagens no ambiente in situ e ex situ é fundamental para implementação de programas de prevenção, controle e monitoramento de enfermidades e para elaboração de políticas públicas de saúde pública e animal. O estudo foi realizado no zoológico do Parque Estadual de Dois Irmãos no período de janeiro a julho de 2011 onde foram coletados swabs anais e otológicos referentes a 29 carnívoros silvestres cativos do zoológico. Dos swabs otológicos analisados, 1/29 (3,4%) foi positivo para Malassezia pachy dermatis no exame direto. No exame microbiológico dos swabs otológicos, observou-se maior freqüência para bactérias do gênero Bacillus 16/29 (55,2%), seguida de Sta phylococcus 15/29 (51,7%), Escherichia coli 7/29 (24,1%), Streptobacillus 1/29 (3,4%), Micrococcus 1/29 (3,4%) e Klebsiella 1/29 (3,4%). Com relação ao exame presuntivo para o gênero Salmonella a partir das amostras de swab retal, observou-se positividade para seis raposas (Cerdocyon thous) e um guaxinim (Procyon cancrivorus). O isolamento de Salmonella spp. em C. thous e em P. cancrivorus indica um risco à saúde pública, principalmente para os profissionais do zoológico que trabalham diretamente com esses animais. Essa pesquisa reforça a importância da criação de estratégias de vigilância epidemiológica voltadas para a prevenção, controle e monitoramento de potenciais reservatórios de agentes etiológicos de doenças infecciosas e parasitárias no ambiente dos zoológicos.
Alterações hematológicas em cães (Canis lupus familiaris) após tratamento com eletroacupuntura
Authors: Esper Greyson Vitor Zanatta , Fernandes Roberta Ribeiro , Zardo Alessandra Maria Lemos Pontes , Cavalheri Vagner Michel , Razente Rodolfo André , Noro Mirela
Published: April 2012

A acupuntura, é uma terapia que cada vez mais adquire uma credibilidade no mundo ocidental, a sua indicação pode ser para pacientes anêmicos e imunossuprimidos, e outras afecções. O experimento foi realizado com oito cães adultos, sendo 4 fêmeas e 4 machos. O estudo consistiu em análise das concentrações das células vermelhas e brancas avaliado em 4 tratamentos: controle (T0), acupuntura (T1), eletroacupuntura unilateral (T2) e eletroacupuntura bilateral (T3). Os acupontos utilizados foram intestino grosso 4, intestino grosso 11 e estômago 36. Todos os animais passaram por todos os tratamentos com um intervalo de 7 dias para cada tratamento. Os hemogramas séricos foram verificados 20 minutos antes do início do tratamento (M0), logo após o tratamento (M1), e 60 minutos (M2) e 120 minutos (M3) após o tratamento. O resultado da série vermelha não foi significativo, mas notou-se somente uma diminuição significativa da concentração média corpuscular (CHCM) (p<0,05) no tratamento T1 no M1 em comparação aos outros tratamentos; notou-se também uma redução significativa (p<0,05) na concentração plaquetária de T1, T2 e T3 em comparação ao grupo controle. A eletroacupuntura pode levar a uma trombocitopenia, quando estimulado estes pontos, provavelmente por um estímulo parassimpaticomimético.
Tratamento cirúrgico do divertículo de Zenker: diverticulopexia versus diverticulectomia
Authors: Aandreollo Nelson Adami , Lopes Luiz Roberto , Brandalise Nelson Ary , Camargo Marcelo Amade , Coelho-Neto João de Souza
Published: April 2012

RACIONAL: Divertículo faringoesofágico, conhecido como de Zenker, é herniação adquirida na mucosa faríngea através de um defeito muscular entre as fibras oblíquas do músculo constritor inferior da faringe e as transversas do músculo cricofaríngeo. OBJETIVO: estudo retrospectivo, não randomizado, compararando os resultados da diverticulopexia e diverticulectomia, ambas associadas à miotomia do músculo cricofaríngeo, no tratamento do divertículo de Zenker. MÉTODOS: Quarenta pacientes foram submetidos a tratamento cirúrgico entre 1989 e 2003, dos quais 38 (95%) foram seguidos. Vinte e oito eram do sexo masculino (70%) e 12 femininos, com média de idade de 62,5 anos (21 a 85 anos). Vinte e quatro pacientes (60%) foram submetidos à diverticulopexia ou elevação, e 16 à diverticulectomia ou ressecção, através de cervicotomia esquerda, com miotomia do músculo cricofaríngeo. RESULTADOS: Resultados excelentes (Visick I), foram verificados em 84,6% dos pacientes submetidos à diverticulectomia e 66,6% dos pacientes submetidos à diverticulopexia. Na análise global de todos os casos estudados, 27 (11 ressecções e 16 elevações - 72,9%) apresentaram Visick I; 8 (2 ressecções e 6 elevações - 21,6%) apresentaram Visick II; e 2 (elevações - 5,4%) apresentaram Visick III. Não foi registrado nenhum caso na classificação de Visick IV. A incidência de complicações pós-operatórias registrada nos dois grupos foi semelhante (P>0,05). Foi verificado a presença de neoplasia maligna em um caso submetido a ressecção (2,5%). CONCLUSÃO: A diverticulopexia com miotomia do músculo cricofaríngeo é mais indicada em doentes geriátricos, pequenos divertículos e doentes com risco operatório elevado. A diverticulectomia é boa opção em grandes divertículos e doentes jovens, para prevenir o risco de transformação maligna. Esta casuística mostrou melhores resultados com a diverticulectomia em comparação com a diverticulopexia.
Estudo da expressão citofotométrica do marcador tumoral Caspase-3 no adenocarcinoma de cólon
Authors: Tajra João Batista Monteiro , Malafaia Osvaldo , Czeczko Nicolau Gregori , Santos Eduardo Antonio Andrade dos , Ribas Carmen Autralia Paredes Marcondes , Wagaa-Gasser Ana Maria , Naufel Jr Carlos Roberto , Inácio Cristiano Machado
Published: April 2012

RACIONAL: O adenocarcinoma de cólon é a segunda causa mais comum de morte por câncer em homens e mulheres, sendo responsável por mais de cinco milhões de mortes por ano. No momento do diagnóstico apenas 70% dos tumores são ressecáveis, 75% são curáveis e 25% poderão ter recorrência da doença. A apoptose é uma das responsáveis pelo equilíbrio homeostático entre as células. Durante o desenvolvimento do processo de degeneração maligna celular o desequilíbrio na apoptose é considerado um dos principais marcos neoplásicos. A caspase-3 é uma das mais importantes moléculas na apoptose, sendo sua efetora principal. Sua expressão e prognóstico têm sido relatados em vários estudos e revisões com seu papel valorizado desde o surgimento do pólipo até a sua transformação maligna, com a taxa de apoptose diminuindo progressivamente. OBJETIVOS: Avaliar a expressão citofotométrica computadorizada do marcador Caspase-3 no adenocarcinoma de cólon; avaliá-lo nas fases evolutivas na classificação modificada de Dukes e comparar sua expressão nos tumores do lado direito e esquerdo do cólon. MÉTODOS: Utilizaram-se 19 casos de câncer recuperados de blocos de parafina confirmados por hematoxilina-eosina e submetidos à técnica imunoistoquímica da estreptavidina-biotina com anticorpo policlonal anti-caspase-3. Após este processo as lâminas marcadas foram submetidas à leitura pelo sistema SAMBA com o software IMUNNO 4.00. Foram analisados três índices: marcagem (Label index), heterogeneidade e densidade óptica. Utilizaram-se a marcagem individual, avaliação da expressão do marcador e grupos definidos de tumores com classificação Dukes e pelo lado do tumor. RESULTADOS: A média do índice de marcagem da caspase-3 foi de 85,24 e da densidade óptica de 39,55. Na classificação Dukes de 12 tipos B tiveram índice de marcagem de 86,20 e a densidade óptica de 37,72 e para os 7 tipos C a área de marcagem foi de 85,66 e a densidade óptica foi de 42,71 não sendo possível identificar diferença em relação a classificação de Dukes. Quanto ao lado do tumor os 11 tumores à esquerda tiveram índice de marcagem de 86,65 e densidade óptica de 43,29 e os 8 à direita tíndice de marcagem de 83,29 e densidade óptica de 39,44 não sendo possível observar diferença estatística significante. CONCLUSÕES: A caspase-3 possui alta expressão individual revelando-se marcador de boa utilidade no estudo do adenocarcinoma de cólon e da fase pró-apoptóica da sua tumorigênese pelo seu alto grau de índice de marcagem e densidade óptica. Em relação à classificação Dukes não houve diferença entre os tipos B e C, como também em relação ao lado direito e esquerdo do cólon.
Bezoar de madeira em trato gastrointestinal: relato de caso e revisão da literatura
Authors: Marra Jair Gimenez , Sobrinho Ary Leite de Campos , Rebaza Kreisky de Los Santos , Aratani Josenalda Félix Flores , Curvo Eloísa Almeida
Published: April 2012

INTRODUÇÃO: Bezoares são concreções de material animal, vegetal ou mineral retidas do tubo digestivo, sendo mais comuns fitobezoares e tricobezoares. Eles são causadores de várias doenças digestivas, incluindo obstruções, intussuscepções, sangramentos, perfurações, além de enteropatias, pancreatites, apendicites, icterícia obstrutiva e outras. OBJETIVO: Fazer revisão de literatura e apresentar um caso de paciente psiquiátrica com volumoso bezoar de madeira. RELATO DO CASO: Mulher de 20 anos portadora de distúrbio neuropsiquiátrico tem história de ingestão de palitos de fósforos e lápis de cor durante quatro anos. Foi admitida com queixa de plenitude, dor abdominal e vômitos. Ao exame apresentava-se hipocorada, emagrecida, abdômen levemente distendido e doloroso. Estudo radiológico revelou numerosa quantidade de corpo estranho impactado na região gástrica atingindo porção proximal do intestino delgado. Realizado tratamento com óleo mineral e soro fisiológico através de gavagem, sendo eliminado grande número de fitobezoares nas fezes. CONCLUSÃO: A associação da patologia bezoar com distúrbios psiquiátricos é relevante, podendo apresentar recorrências. Estes pacientes sempre que possível devem ser tratados de modo conservador, sendo a endoscopia o método de escolha, apesar de estar limitada à natureza e a quantidade dos bezoares. A remoção cirúrgica tem na gastrotomia anterior longitudinal e a ordenha cautelosa o procedimento de escolha.
Considerações ergonômicas para aplicação de mídia em ambientes educacionais para crianças do ensino fundamental
Authors: Garcez Joyce Lara Araújo da Fonseca , Maciel Francimar Rodrigues , Cardoso Vânia Maria Batalha
Published: April 2012

As tecnologias educacionais têm se aprimorando, cada vez mais de maneira funcional. A importância desses ambientes virtuais na atualidade, em se tratando de um tempo informatizado, tem grande destaque quanto ao uso educacional, para o entretenimento e no ofício. Tendo em vista a importância da utilização de novas tecnologias na educação, como uma alternativa pedagógica, envolvendo o lúdico e alguns assuntos voltados para a Educação Ambiental, é que esta pesquisa tem por objetivo analisar a aplicabilidade ergonômica em interfaces digitais educacionais para crianças do ensino fundamental. Considerando a ergonomia uma ciência capaz de levantar questões de melhoria ligadas ao sistema ferramenta - interface - usuário, os registros comportamentais, entrevistas, análises da tarefa, observações sistemáticas e assistemáticas ocorreram em um laboratório multimídia com a finalidade de análise de fatores interfaciais e cognitivos que limitam o usuário na interação e realização de ações em interfaces midiáticas.
A cross-sectional study of factors underlying the risk of female nurses' suffering abuse by their partners
Authors: Rodríguez-Borrego María-Aurora , Vaquero-Abellán Manuel , Rosa Liana Bertagnolli da
Published: April 2012

This study aimed to identify factors underlying the risk of suffering abuse by a partner. A cross-sectional study of 622 female nurses was accomplished, randomly chosen at their place of work, at a hospital and health centers. We used a self-administered validated questionnaire that covered psychological, physical and sexual abuse, complemented by a set of sociodemographic questions. The nurses at most risk of being abused by their partners were those who supported their family by their own salary (Odds Ratio: 2.41 [0.63-9.15]), those who lived with dependents (Odds Ratio: 4.27 [1.43-2.78]) and had a partner from social class IIIa (Odds Ratio: 2.62 [1.37-5.00]). The data appear to indicate financial independence as a risk factor for this type of abuse.
Application of a domicile-based exercise program for shoulder rehabilitation after breast cancer surgery
Authors: Petito Eliana Louzada , Nazário Afonso Celso Pinto , Martinelli Simone Elias , Facina Gil , De Gutiérrez Maria Gaby Rivero
Published: April 2012

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of an exercise program for the recuperation of the range of motion (ROM) of the shoulder. This is a quasi-experimental study developed at the Mastology Outpatient Clinic of the Federal University of São Paulo - Brazil, from August 2006 to June 2008, with 64 breast cancer patients undergoing surgery. The intervention consisted of: preoperative evaluation of the ROM, verbal and written guidance, demonstration and implementation of the exercises and revaluation at the outpatient follow-up appointments until the 105th postoperative day (PO). From the 7th PO a significant increase was observed in the ROM, which continued until the 105th PO. The minimum time for recovery was 105 days for the women undergoing mastectomy, and 75 days for those undergoing quadrantectomy. There was satisfactory adherence of 78.6% of the women. The domicile program was effective for the recovery of ROM in the study population, benefiting women who can not attend a presential program.
Nursing in the hospital accreditation process: practice and implications in the work quotidian
Authors: Manzo Bruna Figueiredo , Ribeiro Helen Cristiny Teodoro Couto , Brito Maria José Menezes , Alves Marília
Published: April 2012

The aim of this study was to investigate the role and influence of nursing in the hospital accreditation process. It is a qualitative study, conducted in a private hospital of Belo Horizonte. The study subjects were nine nurses and 15 nursing technicians. Data collection was through semi-structured interviews, which were subjected to content analysis. The results showed that the role of the nursing team in the accreditation involves care, administrative, educational and research issues. The study subjects presented different perceptions regarding the influence of the accreditation process in their work. The positive aspects of personal growth and valorization of the curriculum were highlighted as well as negative aspects such as stress and little professional valorization. Therefore, it is necessary that the professionals understand the logic of the process and act with a view to the interdisciplinarity and overcoming the fragmentation of care, thus achieving integral healthcare and the quality of care desired.
Risk factors for syphilis in young women attending a family health program in Vitória, Brazil
Authors: Miranda Angélica Espinosa , Figueiredo Nínive Camilo , Pinto Valdir Monteiro , Page Kimberly , Talhari Sinésio
Published: April 2012

BACKGROUND: The high prevalence of STDs among women indicates the need to implement approaching techniques, case detection and prevention of new cases. OBJECTIVES: To describe the frequency of risk factors for syphilis and assess attitudes towards sexual risk in a population of young women in Vitória, ES. METHODS: Cross-sectional, population-based study, performed in Vitória. Interviews were held and VDRL and MHA-TP were investigated in blood samples. RESULTS: Among the 904 eligible women (18-29 years) sampled from the Family Health Program (FHP), 11 were diagnosed with syphilis, a prevalence of 1.2% (CI95% 0.5-1.9). Median age was 23 years (interquartile range 20-26 years); 65.7% of participants were in high school or college and 85.4% lived with their family or sexual partner. Factors associated with syphilis included: lower educational level (<8 years of schooling) [Adjusted Odds Ratio aOR=4.3 (CI 95% 1.01-17.99)]; >1 lifetime sexual partners [(aOR) =6.50 (CI95% 1.37-30.82)], and history of a previously diagnosed STD [aOR=10.3 (CI95% 2.37-44.33)]. Two thirds (67.7%) of the women surveyed agreed that it is not easy to tell their sexual partner they do not want to have sex without condoms; 52.3% thought it is difficult to use condoms in all sexual intercourses, and 36.2% said they cannot do anything if their partner refuses to use condoms. CONCLUSIONS: Using the FHP as an approach to perform routine VDRL can contribute to decreasing the vulnerability of these women and help control congenital syphilis.
Achados na triagem imitanciométrica e de processamento auditivo em escolares
Authors: Etges Camila Lucia , Reis Mariana Citton Padilha dos , Menegotto Isabela Hoffmeister , Sleifer Pricila , Soldera Cristina Loureiro Chaves
Published: April 2012

OBJETIVOS: verificar os achados da triagem imitanciométrica e dos testes da avaliação simplificada de processamento auditivo em escolares. MÉTODO: participaram da pesquisa alunos de 1ª a 4ª séries, de sete a dez anos de idade, de uma escola de ensino público de Porto Alegre. Foram avaliados 130 escolares na triagem imitanciométrica, que foi constituída por timpanometria e pesquisa do reflexo acústico ipsilateral e avaliação simplificada do processamento auditivo, incluindo testes de localização sonora, memória sequencial para sons verbais e memória sequencial para sons não verbais. RESULTADOS: na triagem imitanciométrica 43,08% dos escolares passaram, tendo a curva tipo A como mais frequente. O reflexo acústico em 4000 Hz teve percentual de presença inferior comparado com os demais. Passaram nos testes da avaliação simplificada do processamento auditivo 76,15% das crianças. Além disso, foi observado que o teste no qual os escolares obtiveram pior desempenho foi o de memória sequencial para sons verbais. Falharam na triagem imitanciométrica e na avaliação simplificada de processamento auditivo 12,3% dos escolares. CONCLUSÃO: a curva timpanométrica tipo A foi a mais frequente na população estudada. Na avaliação simplificada do processamento auditivo a maioria dos sujeitos passou, tendo maior frequência de acertos no teste de localização sonora. Não houve associação estatística entre o resultado da triagem imitanciométrica e o resultado da avaliação simplificada de processamento auditivo.
Plant ramifications inspire branched lightweight composites
Authors: Haushahn Tobias , Schwager Hannes , Neinhuis Christoph , Speck Thomas , Masselter Tom
Published: April 2012

The junctions between stems and branches in arborescent monocotyledons and columnar cacti are structurally and functionally poorly understood to date. Therefore, the functional anatomy and morphology of these junctions as well as the arrangement and biomechanics of mechanically relevant tissues were investigated. Both plant groups share distinctive anatomical features. Due to restricted secondary growth, newly formed tissues connecting stem and branch clasp around the main shoot, resulting in a “flange-mounted” structure. In addition, an indentation or a distinct necking forming a specific shape characterizes the area of attachment. As a result, the distribution of mechanical stresses is modified by increasing the resistance against high stresses upon static and presumably also upon dynamic loading. The mechanically important fibrous bundles or wood lamellae are collinearly aligned with the occurring stresses leading to a lateral shift of the stress trajectories and a shape adjustment. This particular branching type shows a remarkable potential to improve joints in braided fiber-reinforced composites. In the near future, a fully automated fabrication of biomimetic branched composites will be possible. First promising demonstrators have already been produced on lab scale.
Moisture conditions in timber cladding: field trial data for Sitka spruce
Authors: Davies Ivor , Fairfield Charles , Stupart Alastair , Wilson Peter
Published: April 2012

Exposure trials on timber cladding are valuable for informing facade designers. This paper describes a trial using Sitka spruce (Picea sitchensis). Sitka spruce is the only UK-grown timber available in sufficient volume to supply the growing cladding market, but its suitability is unclear. Data indicated that the moisture content range in timber cladding was wider than generally accepted. The minimum of around 10% moisture content appeared to be similar for all details tested. The maximum was influenced by construction detailing but was around 30%. From a theoretical standpoint, the range, and rate, of moisture content fluctuation observed meant that the commonly quoted average value was largely irrelevant. The mode was a more representative statistic; most of the data were skewed towards the wood's fibre saturation point. Sitka spruce is, therefore, at risk of fungal decay and is only suitable as external cladding in the UK if treated with preservative.