bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Análise das mudanças dos parâmetros físicos da superfície derivados das queimadas no estado de Rondônia
Authors: Cardozo Francielle Da Silva , Pereira Gabriel , Shimabukuro Yosio Edemir , Moraes Elisabete Caria
Published: December 2014

O objetivo principal deste trabalho consistiu na avaliação dos impactos das queimadas na modificação da temperatura do solo e da radiação de ondas curtas no Estado de Rondônia nos anos de 2000 a 2011, utilizando o RegCM4 para a modelagem dos dados. Este modelo necessita da entrada de dados como o uso e cobertura da terra (com e sem queimadas) e parâmetros físicos como o albedo da superfície (separados em radiação fotossinteticamente ativa e reflectância no infravermelho próximo e médio), o índice de área foliar e a fração de cobertura vegetal. Assim, os mapas de uso da terra foram atualizados a partir do produto MCD12A1 do sensor Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS). Para o mapeamento das queimadas foram utilizadas imagens dos produtos MOD09 e MYD09 do sensor MODIS, a partir do Modelo Linear de Mistura Espectral (MLME), segmentação das imagens fração sombra e edição manual. Os dados do albedo da superfície e da fração de cobertura vegetal foram coletados em campo com o FieldSpec Pro e o índice de área foliar foi obtido dos produtos MYD15A2 e MOD15A2 do sensor MODIS. Os resultados indicaram que as queimadas apresentam uma variabilidade significativa no Estado de Rondônia, com destaque para os anos de 2005, 2010 e 2004 e ocorrem frequentemente em áreas que já possuem algum tipo de uso, como áreas de extrativismo vegetal, pecuária de animais de grande porte e cultivos permanentes diversificados. Os valores de albedo apresentam uma diminuição de 16% na ocorrência de uma queimada, fator que provoca modificações no balanço de radiação de ondas curtas. Estas modificações ocasionam o aumento da temperatura do solo, que podem atingir valores máximos diários superiores a 10°C, provocando alterações significativas em diversas variáveis climatológicas que podem impactar a climatologia local e regional.
Análise da associação entre características topográficas e tipos de ocorrência de processos erosivos ao longo de linha férrea - estudo de caso: malha Paulista - all (SP)
Authors: Souza Natália Da Costa , Gianotti Mariana Abrantes , Larocca Ana Paula Camargo , Quintanilha José Alberto , Almeida Filho Gerson Salviano De
Published: December 2014

A ocorrência de eventos erosivos acelerados associados à implantação de sistemas de transportes é um dos principais problemas socioambientais enfrentados pelas concessionárias brasileiras. Feições erosivas do tipo linear e laminares são observadas tanto ao longo da plataforma, nos cortes e aterros, como fora dela, em caixas de empréstimo, áreas de jazidas exploradas, junto aos pés de aterros e jusante das obras de transposição. Além da compreensão das interações entre fatores condicionantes dos processos erosivos, é necessário estudar isoladamente cada um dos fatores com bastante detalhe para se compreender como, onde e por que a erosão ocorre. Dentre esses fatores, os atributos topográficos ou características das vertentes estão entre uma série de elementos controladores da distribuição dos processos erosivos. Sua importância para o desenvolvimento desses fenômenos advém do fato da topografia controlar a intensidade e direção dos fluxos hídricos pluviais, que por sua vez são os principais agentes erosivos no meio tropical úmido. Nesse contexto, através do uso de tecnologias geoespaciais e medidas estatísticas de associação não-paramétrica, este artigo apresenta uma análise da relação entre diferentes tipos de processos erosivos (classificados de acordo com suas características próprias e graus de gravidade) e seus respectivos valores de declividade e hipsometria das vertentes as quais estão localizados. A área de interesse é restrita às análises e registros de processos erosivos diagnosticados no trecho que interliga as cidades de Mairinque (SP) a Botucatu (SP), totalizando um trajeto de aproximadamente 176 km. A comparação dos resultados permitiu avaliar a importância da variável espacial na problemática tratada. A análise dos testes estatísticos não-paramétricos apontou que existe associação estatisticamente significativa entre as variáveis estudadas. Já as técnicas de geoprocessamento e o uso de informações espaciais, apesar de não fornecerem um valor estatístico que permita inferir a associação entre as variáveis analisadas, possibilitaram a observação da distribuição espacial dos fenômenos de erosão ao longo do trecho da ferrovia, indicando que tal comportamento não aponta, claramente, associação expressiva entre os tipos de processos e as características topográficas consideradas.
Study on cycle-slip detection and repair methods for a single dual-frequency global positioning system (GPS) receiver
Authors: Hieu La Van , Ferreira Vagner G. , He Xiufeng , Tang Xu
Published: December 2014

In this work, we assessed the performance of the cycle-slip detection methods: Turbo Edit (TE), Melbourne-Wübbena wide-lane ambiguity (MWWL) and forward and backward moving window averaging (FBMWA). The TE and MWWL methods were combined with ionospheric total electron content rate (TECR), and the FBMWA with second-order time-difference phase ionosphere residual (STPIR) and TECR. Under different scenarios, 10 Global Positioning System (GPS) datasets were used to assess the performance of the methods for cycle-slip detection. The MWWL-TECR delivered the best performance in detecting cycle-slips for 1 s data. The relative comparisons show that the FBMWA-TECR method performed slightly better than its original version, FBMWA-STPIR, detecting 100% and 73%, respectively. For data with a sample rate of 5 s, the FBMWA-TECR performed better than MWWL-TECR. However, the FBMWA is suitable only for post-processing, which refers to applications where the data are processed after the fact.
Entre adquirir e aprender uma língua: subjetividade e polifonia
Authors: Coracini Maria José
Published: December 2014

Pretende-se discutir e desconstruir as dicotomias aprendizagem/aquisição, língua materna/língua estrangeira, a partir de um corpus extraído de relatos de dez falantes de língua(s) estrangeira(s). Em geral, eles apre(e)deram a(s) língua(s) em situações informais ou, como dizem eles, em situações autodidatas. A análise efetuada tomou por base a perspectiva discursivo-desconstrutivista, que inclui pensadores como Bakhtin, Foucault, Derrida e Lacan. Todos eles partilham concepções como língua(gem), sujeito e cultura. A análise empreendida permitiu perceber que, ao falarem de como aprenderam a(s) língua(s) estrangeira(s), a maioria dos participantes da pesquisa só consideram as estratégias, as metodologias (formais e informais), os meios utilizados para terem acesso à língua-cultura do outro, esquecendo que adentrar a língua do outro pressupõe o desejo que se manifesta no amor da(s) língua(s) e do outro.
Letramento em língua inglesa: uma reflexão bakhtiniana a partir de um estudo de caso
Authors: Guilherme Maria de Fátima Fonseca , Santos João Bôsco Cabral dos
Published: December 2014

Com este trabalho, buscamos refletir e problematizar, numa perspectiva bakhtiniana, e tendo como foco um estudo de caso, como se dá o letramento em língua inglesa, a partir da análise de textos escritos por meio de diários crítico-reflexivos dialogados entre o professor e um licenciando de primeiro período de um Curso de Letras. O diário crítico-reflexivo dialogado é concebido como uma forma de interação verbal entre o professor formador e o professor em-formação, elaborado por este ao final de cada aula. O conteúdo deste diário se refere a uma descrição interpretativa em que o professor em-formação vai descrever, interpretar e relacionar como está vivendo o processo de interação verbal em seus estudos em língua inglesa. Nesse sentido, abordamos noções da arquitetura bakhtiniana, as quais hipotetizamos serem fundadoras desta prática pedagógica em estudo, discutimos analiticamente como o diário crítico-reflexivo, como prática de letramento, pode incidir na formação do (futuro) professor de língua inglesa e, finalmente, relacionamos o referencial teórico bakhtiniano com esta prática dialógica de linguagem traduzida em aspectos metodológicos da/na formação do professor de línguas na universidade.
Letramento na contemporaneidade
Authors: Kleiman Angela B.
Published: December 2014

Neste trabalho examino a relação entre letramento e contemporaneidade, tomando como base para a discussão o letramento no mundo escolar e sua relação com os letramentos de outras instituições do mundo contemporâneo, a fim de determinar as relações entre as finalidades contemporâneas da leitura e da escrita (em outras palavras, o que significa ser letrado na contemporaneidade) e as práticas mobilizadas e as atividades realizadas na escola para atingir essas finalidades. Através de diversos exemplos de situações de ensino e de aprendizagem, são discutidas práticas de letramento digital e textos multimodais, os multiletramentos das culturas impressa e digital, mantendo como pano de fundo da discussão os objetivos e funções do letramento escolar e a formação do professor que quer efetivamente atuar como agente de letramento do mundo contemporâneo.
Refletindo sobre letramento e responsividade na formação docente
Authors: Lima Antônio Carlos Santos de , Santos Lúcia de Fátima , Maior Rita de Cássia Souto
Published: December 2014

Neste artigo, objetivamos problematizar a formação inicial de professores do curso de Letras como sujeitos responsivos em contexto de pesquisa, dentro da perspectiva do letramento, com base em análise das orientações adotadas por uma graduanda, em atividades de leitura e de escrita desenvolvidas com alunos do ensino fundamental. Para tal, utilizamos os conceitos bakhtinianos de dialogicidade e compreensão responsiva ativa, aliados ao conceito de letramento. Isso por entendermos que a formação do professor de língua portuguesa, a partir da inserção do aluno em pesquisas que reflitam sobre sua prática pedagógica, possibilita a ele promover uma prática de ensino com um enfoque em eventos de escrita e leitura vinculados às práticas sociais. Observamos que, a partir dos dados analisados, quando o professor assume a postura de agente de letramento, ele tem condições de responder ativamente às determinações da contemporaneidade.
Práticas de multiletramentos na escola: por uma educação responsiva à contemporaneidade
Authors: Oliveira Maria Bernadete Fernandes de , Szundy Paula Tatianne Carréra
Published: December 2014

Compartilhando com Rojo a assunção de que a filosofia da linguagem do Círculo de Bakhtin está imbuída da leveza de pensamento e plasticidade necessárias para compreensão e análise das práticas de multiletramentos na contemporaneidade, este artigo propõe-se a refletir sobre os significados de educar como ato responsável. Partimos do pressuposto de que uma educação responsável deve, a um só tempo, ser responsiva aos usos das múltiplas linguagens que (re)desenham as performances na contemporaneidade e propiciar o posicionamento crítico sobre esses usos. Relacionamos, então, concepções do Círculo como ideologia, dialogismo, gênero, hibridismo, responsividade, ato responsável, entre outras, com concepções sobre saberes docentes, visões de língua e linguagem construídas nos atravessamentos entre a Linguística Aplicada e os Estudos Culturais e a pedagogia dos multiletramentos desenhada pelo Grupo de Nova Londres para pensar sobre processos de formação responsivos à contemporaneidade.
Um filósofo
Authors: Freitas Leopoldo de
Published: December 2014

Artigo publicado em 1889, no jornal O Paiz. Nele, o autor discorre acerca da popularidade que a filosofia de Nietzsche alcançou na Alemanha e França do final do século XIX. Faz lembrar ainda a conflituosa relação entre o filósofo e seu país, transcreve algumas passagens de suas obras, apresenta considerações da crítica francesa a seu respeito e da influência de seu pensamento sobre artistas e literatos, não só europeus, mas também americanos, do norte e do sul.
Cartas de um solitário
Authors: Mello Miguel
Published: December 2014

Artigo publicado em 1901, no diário A imprensa. Este texto constitui a primeira parte aqui transcrita de uma resposta ao texto de Nestor Vitor, F. Nietzsche. Miguel Mello, de maneira irônica e mesmo virulenta, nega que a filosofia de Nietzsche tenha a importância que Nestor Vitor havia lhe atribuído.
Ulisses e Dionísio. Comentário e questionamento sobre a obra de Nietzsche "Origens da Tragédia"
Authors: Araripe Júnior Tristão de Alencar
Published: December 2014

Artigo publicado em 1904, no Almanaque Garnier. Nele, o autor procura abordar a estética do jovem Nietzsche de um ponto de vista histórico genético bastante amplo. Com essa abordagem, faz alguns questionamentos acerca das ideias de apolínio e dionisíaco.
Frederico Nietzsche
Authors: Ribeiro João
Published: December 2014

Artigo publicado em 1904, no Almanaque Garnier. Nele, o autor trata de vários temas da filosofia nietzschiana sem perder de vista o contexto cultural brasileiro. O artigo, segundo o autor, foi motivado pelo falecimento da mãe de Nietzsche. É ainda um dos primeiros textos escritos sobre a filosofia de Nietzsche no Brasil.
Nietzsche no Uruguai, 1890-1910
Authors: Drews Pablo
Published: December 2014

Este artigo mostra a recepção e a influência de Nietzsche no Uruguai durante os anos de 1890 a 1910. Para tal, o artigo se divide em três partes. Em primeiro lugar, se expõem as diferentes vias pelas quais se introduz Nietzsche, como chega? como era lido? quem o lia? A segunda parte investiga as traduções francesas e espanholas que chegaram ao Uruguai. E, por ultimo, se expõem as diferentes revistas culturais da época que abordaram Nietzsche.
The Impact of Peplau's Therapeutic Communication Model on Anxiety and Depression in Patients Candidate for Coronary Artery Bypass
Authors: Zarea Kourosh , Maghsoudi Solmaz , Dashtebozorgi Bahman , Hghighizadeh Mohammad Hossin , Javadi Mostafa
Published: December 2014

Background and Objective:

Anxiety and depression are among the psychological disorders in heart surgeries. Establishing a simple communication is essential to reduce anxiety and depression. Hence, the objective of the present studywas to examine the impact of Peplau therapeutic communication model on anxiety and depression in patients, who were candidate for coronary artery bypass in Al-Zahra Heart Hospital, Shiraz during 2012-2013.

Methods:

This is a clinical trial in which 74 patients were randomly divided into intervention and control groups, each consisted of 37 patients. Anxiety and depression levels were assessed before, and two and four months after intervention using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Seven therapeutic communication sessions were held in four stages. Data were analyzed with the SPSS (version 16) using analysis of covariance.

Results:

The mean anxiety and depression levels decreased in the intervention group after the therapeutic communication (p<0.01). Anxiety scores in the intervention group before and after intervention were 10.23 and 9.38, respectively. While the corresponding scores in the control group were 10.26 and 11.62, respectively. Depression scores in the intervention group before and after intervention were 11 and 9.13, respectively. The corresponding scores in the control group were 11.30 and 12.08, respectively.

Conclusion:

The results demonstrated the positive role of therapeutic communication in reducing anxiety and depression of the patients. Therefore, the therapeutic communication is recommended as a simple, cost effective and efficient method in this area.
Efficacy and Safety of Percutaneous Transhepatic Portal Embolization with Dehydrated Ethanol
Authors: Hanaoka Ryota , Banno Tatsuo , Kato Ryoichi , Akamatsu Hokuto , Toyama Hiroshi
Published: December 2014

Purpose:

The efficacy and safety of percutaneous transhepatic portal embolization (PTPE) with dehydrated
ethanol was determined by measuring the liver lobe volume before and after the procedure.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 38 patients (25 men, 13 women; mean age: 62.0 ± 10.8 years) who underwent PTPE
with dehydrated ethanol between April 2005 and March 2011 participated in this study. Dehydrated ethanol containing
17% lipiodol was injected into the target portal vein branch under balloon occlusion, and the portal vein was subsequently
embolized. The liver lobe volume was measured via contrast-enhanced computed tomography, and the percent increase in
the unembolized lobe volume was then calculated. In addition, PTPE-related complications were surveyed, and the
procedural safety was evaluated.

Results:

The mean percent increase in the unembolized lobe volume after PTPE was 33.8% ± 20.2%. The procedure could
not be completed in one patient because of an insufficient increase in the unembolized lobe volume. No serious post-
PTPE complications were observed.

Conclusion:

These data suggest that PTPE with dehydrated ethanol is a safe and effective method for enlarging the
planned residual liver volume before extensive liver resection.
Psychic Pain in Chronic School Failure/Learning Disabilities: Evidence from a Projective Technique
Authors: S. Nikolopoulos Dimitris , Chatira Kalliopi
Published: December 2014

The present study attempts to investigate the existence of psychic pain in young learners experiencing chronic school failure/learning disabilities. Using a projective technique, the participants were asked to express the thoughts, feelings, dreams and wishes of an ‘imaginary’ child of their own age. LD individuals: a mentioned terrifying nightmares, and b. did not ‘admit’ their LD, even though in subsequent questions the majority admitted a projection of their own thoughts and feelings onto the ‘imaginary’ child. A high proportion of ‘average/good’ academic performance individuals answered more positively. The response pattern of LD individuals in our projective task not only reveals the magnitude of the psychic pain experienced by LD individuals but also offers a unique depiction of the way in which each of these individuals experience the psychic pain. The feeling of ‘helplessness’ stemming from chronic LD, combined with other related negative experiences during the sensitive years of personality development, add up to severe psychological pressure like that
described in the psychological trauma literature.
Microdamage generation by tapered and cylindrical mini-screw implants after pilot drilling
Authors: Taing-Watson Emily , Katona Thomas R. , Stewart Kelton T. , Ghoneima Ahmed , Chu Gabriel T. M. , Kyung Hee-Moon , Liu Sean S.
Published: December 2014

Objective: 

To investigate the relationship between mini-screw implant (MSI) diameter (1.6 vs 2.0 mm) and shape (tapered vs cylindrical) and the amount of microdamage generated during insertion.

Materials and Methods: 

Thirty-six cylindrical and 36 tapered MSIs, 6 mm long, were used in this study. Half of each shape was 1.6 mm in diameter, while the other half was 2.0 mm. After pilot drilling, four and five MSIs were inserted, respectively, into fresh cadaveric maxillae and mandibles of dogs. Bone blocks containing the MSIs were sectioned and ground parallel to the MSI axis. Epifluorescent microscopy was used to measure overall cortical thickness, crack length, and crack number adjacent to the MSI. Crack density and total microdamage burden per surface length were calculated. Three-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to test the effects of jaw, and MSI shape and diameter. Pairwise comparisons were made to control the overall significance level at 5%.

Results: 

The larger (2.0 vs 1.6 mm) cylindrical MSIs increased the numbers, lengths, and densities of microcracks, and the total microdamage burden. The same diameter cylindrical and tapered MSIs generated a similar number of cracks and crack lengths. More total microdamage burden was created by the 2.0-mm cylindrical than the 2.0-mm tapered MSIs. Although higher crack densities were produced by the insertion of 1.6-mm tapered MSIs, there was no difference in total microdamage burden induced by 1.6-mm tapered and 1.6-mm cylindrical MSIs.

Conclusions: 

Pilot drilling is effective in reducing microdamage during insertion of tapered MSIs. To prevent excessive microdamage, large diameter and cylindrical MSIs should be avoided.
Infrared spectroscopy, nano-mechanical properties, and scratch resistance of esthetic orthodontic coated archwires
Authors: da Silva Dayanne Lopes , Santos Emanuel , de Souza Camargo Sérgio , de Oliveira Ruellas Antônio Carlos
Published: December 2014

Objective: 

To evaluate the material composition, mechanical properties (hardness and elastic modulus), and scratch resistance of the coating of four commercialized esthetic orthodontic archwires.

Materials and Methods: 

The coating composition of esthetic archwires was assessed by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Coating hardness and elastic modulus were analyzed with instrumented nano-indentation tests. Scratch resistance of coatings was evaluated by scratch test. Coating micromorphologic characteristics after scratch tests were observed in a scanning electron microscope. Statistical differences were investigated using analysis of variance and Tukey post hoc test.

Results: 

The FTIR results indicate that all analyzed coatings were markedly characterized by the benzene peak at about 1500 cm−1. The coating hardness and elastic modulus average values ranged from 0.17 to 0.23 GPa and from 5.0 to 7.6 GPa, respectively. Scratch test showed a high coating elasticity after load removal with elastic recoveries >60%, but different failure features could be observed along the scratches.

Conclusion: 

The coatings of esthetic archwires evaluated are probably a composite of polyester and polytetrafluoroethylene. Delamination, crack propagation, and debris generation could be observed along the coating scratches and could influence its durability in the oral environment.
Efficacy and Safety of Canagliflozin, an Inhibitor of Sodium–Glucose Cotransporter 2, When Used in Conjunction With Insulin Therapy in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Neal Bruce , Perkovic Vlado , de Zeeuw Dick , Mahaffey Kenneth W. , Fulcher Greg , Ways Kirk , Desai Mehul , Shaw Wayne , Capuano George , Alba Maria , Jiang Joel , Vercruysse Frank , Meininger Gary , Matthews David ,   on behalf of the CANVAS Trial Collaborative Group
Published: December 2014

OBJECTIVE

There are limited data about the effects of sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors when used with insulin. We report the efficacy and safety of canagliflozin in patients with type 2 diabetes using insulin.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

The CANagliflozin CardioVascular Assessment Study is a double-blind, placebo-controlled study that randomized participants to placebo, canagliflozin 100 mg, or canagliflozin 300 mg once daily, added to a range of therapies. The primary end point of this substudy was the change in HbA1c from baseline at 18 weeks among patients using insulin; 52-week effects were also examined.

RESULTS

Individuals receiving insulin at baseline were randomized to receive placebo (n = 690), canagliflozin 100 mg (n = 692), or canagliflozin 300 mg (n = 690). These individuals were 66% male and had a median age of 63 years, mean HbA1c of 8.3% (67 mmol/mol), BMI of 33.1 kg/m2, estimated glomerular filtration rate of 75 mL/min/1.73 m2, fasting plasma glucose of 9.2 mmol/L, and a median daily insulin dose of 60 IU. Most individuals were using basal/bolus insulin. Reductions in HbA1c with canagliflozin 100 and 300 mg versus placebo were −0.62% (95% CI −0.69, −0.54; −6.8 mmol/mol [95% CI −7.5, −5.9]; P < 0.001) and −0.73% (95% CI −0.81, −0.65; −8.0 mmol/mol [95% CI −8.9, −7.1]; P < 0.001) at 18 weeks and −0.58% (95% CI −0.68, −0.48; −6.3 mmol/mol [95% CI −7.4, −5.2]) and −0.73% (95% CI −0.83, −0.63; −8.0 mmol/mol [95% CI −9.1, −6.9]) at 52 weeks. There were significant falls in fasting plasma glucose, body weight, and blood pressure at both time points and there was a greater incidence of hypoglycemia, genital mycotic infections, and hypovolemia with both canagliflozin doses.

CONCLUSIONS

Canagliflozin added to insulin therapy improved glycemic control and decreased body weight. There was a greater frequency of several anticipated side effects, although few led to discontinuation of treatment.
Fatigue behavior of laser clad round steel bars
Authors: Tuominen J. , Näkki J. , Poutala J. , Miettinen J. , Peltola T. , Vuoristo P. , Rasehorn I. , Alam M. M. , Kaplan A. F. H.
Published: December 2014

Laser cladding is an overlay welding method to manufacture high performance, fusion bonded metal, and metal matrix composite coatings on metallic substrates with low dilution. Owing to steep thermal gradients, rapid solidification, and possible mismatch in coefficients of thermal expansion between the coating and the substrate, laser cladding induces large tensile residual stresses in coating layer, potentially affecting the service life of clad component under external load-induced stresses. In this study, four-point bending and torsion fatigue tests were conducted on relatively large round laser clad steel bars to determine the effect of laser cladding on fatigue strength. Quenched and tempered 42CrMo4 steel clad with Inconel 625 and S355 structural steel clad with Stellite 21 were subjected to various stress levels for relatively large number of cycles with and without postweld heat treatment (PWHT). The results indicated that Stellite 21 decreased the fatigue life of S355 at all the applied loads, whereas Inconel 625 increased the fatigue life of 42CrMo4 at high loads but decreased at low loads. Applied PWHT did not show any positive influence on fatigue life.
Markers of Increased Aeration in the Paranasal Sinuses and Along the Skull Base: Association between Anatomic Variants
Authors: Rereddy Shruthi K. , Johnson David M. , Wise Sarah K.
Published: December 2014

Background

There may be substantial variation in paranasal sinus pneumatization across patients and between right and left sides. Patients with extensive sinus aeration, especially of the sphenoid sinus and along the skull base, often have protrusion of critical structures into the pneumatized sinus cavities, which potentially places these structures at risk during sinus surgery.

Objective

To evaluate associations between anatomic markers of increased paranasal sinus aeration along the skull base and to determine whether the presence of certain markers predicts other critical anatomic variants.

Methods

Submillimeter axial computed tomography (CT) scans and associated triplanar reconstructions from 100 subjects were reviewed for the presence of 22 anatomic variants by two separate evaluators. Twelve of these variants were selected as markers of increased pneumatization. Average numbers of markers were compared with t-tests; associations between markers were evaluated by logistic regression analyses. The Holm-Bonferroni method was used to correct for multiple tests.

Results

Five anatomic variants were associated with increased paranasal sinus pneumatization as define by total number of markers of pneumatization: anterior ethmoid artery below the skull base, dehiscent/protruding internal carotid artery (ICA), dehiscent/protruding optic nerve (ON), pneumatized pterygoid recess, and middle turbinate (MT) concha bullosa (all p < .02). Significant associations were found between pneumatized pterygoid recesses and dehiscent or protruding ONs (odds ratio [OR] 3.06, p = .0120), dehiscent or protruding ICAs (OR 6.64, p < .0001), and anterior ethmoid arteries below the skull base (OR 2.65, p = .0189). Significant association was also found between dehiscent or protruding ONs and dehiscent or protruding ICAs (OR 3.57, p = .0047).

Conclusion

The markers of increased pneumatization and anatomic associations identified is study have important implications for surgeons planning and undertaking operative approaches in and around the sinuses.
Clinical Effects of Middle Turbinate Resection after Endoscopic Sinus Surgery: A Systematic Review
Authors: Choby Garret W. , Hobson Candace E. , Lee Stella , Wang Eric W.
Published: December 2014

Background

The middle turbinate (MT) is a structure that is often carefully preserved during endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) in an effort to preserve nasal physiology and serve as an anatomic landmark. However, resection is performed in select cases because of involvement of the MT in the inflammatory process, obstruction, or instability. Therefore, significant controversy exists among surgeons regarding the indications for proceeding with MT resection in ESS. This study evaluates clinical outcomes of MT resection after ESS.

Methods

An English language search of the PubMed and Ovid databases was conducted for publications examining clinical outcomes of MT resection after ESS performed for chronic rhinosinusitis. Two authors independently examined the articles to identify those meeting inclusion criteria. Any differences over which studies to include were resolved by discussion and consensus. Bias assessment was conducted using the Cochrane Collaboration bias tool for randomized controlled trials and the Newcastle–Ottawa bias tool for cohort and case–control studies.

Results

After initial screening, search results revealed 71 articles that warranted detailed evaluation. After applying inclusion criteria, 9 studies were selected. A total of 2123 patients were included among the studies. All studies were controlled. Within the limited available data, olfaction scores may be improved in the MT resection patients compared with MT preservation patients. No difference between the groups was noted for quality of life outcomes, nasal airway resistance, or rates of postoperative frontal sinusitis. In regard to postoperative endoscopic examinations, some studies note greater improvement in the MT resection group compared with the MT preservation group, while others were equivalent.

Conclusion

Although some studies show outcome benefit in MT resection patients compared with MT preservation patients, several others show no difference. When MT resection was appropriately indicated, no studies showed detrimental effects compared with MT preservation in their designated outcomes. Additional more stringent studies are warranted.
Objective Radiographic Density Measurements of Sinus Opacities are not Strong Predictors of Noninvasive Fungal Disease
Authors: Killeen Daniel E. , Sedaghat Ahmad R. , Cunnane Mary E. , Gray Stacey T.
Published: December 2014

Background

High-density paranasal sinus opacities are often deemed consistent with fungal elements. No studies of objective quantitative radiographic density measures have been performed to support this assertion.

Methods

A consecutive series of 120 patients with chronic rhinosinusitis who underwent maxillary antrostomy with microbiological evaluation of contents within 60 days of sinus computed tomography scanning was investigated. Radiographic density characteristics of opacities in cultured maxillary sinuses (minimum, maximum, average, and standard deviation of Hounsfield units [HU std ]) were recorded. Receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curves were used to analyze the accuracy of radiographic characteristics in predicting fungal opacities.

Results

Of 133 maxillary sinus opacities, 22 were ultimately consistent with noninvasive fungal disease: 11 allergic fungal rhinosinusitis and 11 fungal balls. Fungal balls had higher-density components and were more heterogeneous and allergic fungal mucin was generally more radiodense. These findings were reflected by statistically significant ROC curves for maximum HU (p = 0.019) and HU std = 0.023) for fungal balls and for average HU (p = 0.002) for allergic fungal mucin. A maximum HU cutoff of 334.0 detected fungal balls with 90.9% sensitivity and 72 specificity. An average HU cutoff of 42.9 HU detected allergic fungal mucin with 100% sensitivity and 46.3% specificity, although specificity improved to 73.2% with inclusion of nasal polyposis as a second requirement.

Conclusion

Higher average HU more accurately predicts allergic fungal mucin whereas heterogeneity/high-density components more accurately predict fungal balls. No objective radiographic density measure, in isolation, is both sensitive and specific in predicting noninvasive fungal sinusitis.
Olfactory Outcomes after Endoscopic Pituitary Surgery with Nasoseptal “Rescue” Flaps: Electrocautery versus Cold Knife
Authors: Hong Sang Duk , Nam Do-Hyun , Park JunOh , Kim Hyo Yeol , Chung Seung-Kyu , Dhong Hun-Jong
Published: December 2014

Background

Olfaction has been shown to have a large impact on patients’ lives. Endoscopic pituitary surgery is associated with potentially significant damage to olfactory tissues. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of cauterization on olfactory function when performing endoscopic pituitary surgery with a nasoseptal “rescue” flap.

Methods

A retrospective review was performed of prospectively collected data. Olfaction was the primary outcome and was measured using the subjective visual analog scale (VAS; 0-100) and Cross-Cultural Smell Identification Test (CC-SIT) before and 3 months after surgery. Significant olfactory deficit was defined as >20% loss compared with preoperative functions. Patients who underwent an endoscopic transsphenoidal approach with NSRFs for pituitary adenoma from June 2012 to March 2013 were included. Included patients were divided into two groups; group 1 underwent rescue flaps raised by monopolar cautery and group 2 underwent rescue flaps by cold knife.

Results

Forty-nine patients were included in this study. There were 19 patients in group 1 and 30 patients in group 2. There was no significant difference in subjective olfactory change between the two groups (p = 0.386; group 1, 13.68 ± 17.7, versus group 2, 6.83 ± 8.25). However, 5 of 19 patients (26.3%) had significant olfactory loss in group 1 and 1 of 30 (3.3%) in group 2. This difference was statistically significant (p = 0.027). None of the patients showed a significant decrease in CC-SIT score.

Conclusion

Raising the rescue flap by cold knife could reduce the rate of hyposmia compared with using an electrocautery postoperatively.
Allergic Rhinitis Phenotypes Based on Bronchial Hyperreactivity to Methacholine
Authors: Ciprandi Giorgio , Ricciardolo Fabio Luigi Massimo , Schiavetti Irene , Cirillo Ignazio
Published: December 2014

Background

Allergic rhinitis (AR) and asthma may be associated, bronchial hyperreactivity (BHR) is quite common in AR patients. Methacholine (MCH) is a stimulus able to elicit BHR, as many other ones. Phenotyping AR is an up-to-date issue.

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate whether MCH bronchial challenge is able to differentiate patients with AR.

Methods

A total of 298 patients (277 males, mean age 28.9 years), suffering from AR were evaluated. Sensitization, rhinitis duration, values for bronchial function (forced vital capacity [FVC], forced expiratory volume [FEV] 1, forced expiratory flow [FEF] 25-75, and FEV 1 /FVC ratio), MCH bronchial challenge, visual analog scale (VAS) for nasal and bronchial symptoms perception, and fractioned exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) were evaluated.

Results

BHR-positive patients (22.8%) had significantly more frequent mite allergy (p = 0.025), longer AR duration (p < 0.001), lower FEV 1 ( p = 0.003), FEV1 /FVC (p < 0.001), FEF25–75 ( p < 0.001), higher (p < 0.001), and higher VAS values for both nasal and bronchial symptoms (p < 0.001 for both) in comparison with BHR-negative patients. FeNO can be considered a good predictor for BHR in AR patients (area under the curve, 0.90) with 27.0 ppb as cutoff.

Conclusions

The present study demonstrates that BHR to MCH could define two distinct phenotypes in AR patients. It could be clinically relevant as BHR-positive patients have initial impairment of lung function, impaired FeNO values, a worsening of respiratory symptoms perception.
Shear Behaviour of Reinforced Concrete Members under Uniform Loads
Authors: Uzel Almýla , Bentz Evan C. , Collins Michael P.
Published: December 2014

In nature, most loads act as uniformly distributed loads. However, during the last 60 years of experimental research on the shear behaviour of RC members, only a small number of tests involved beams subjected to uniform loads. Recent research on members subjected to uniform loading has shown that there is considerable difference in shear behaviour between uniformly and point loaded members. Furthermore, whether the uniformly distributed loading is applied on the tension or compression face of the member is important from the standpoint of shear design. This paper will present the results of an experimental program along with results from the literature and suggest analysis methods, which can accurately predict shear strength of RC members under uniform loads.
Elastic Local Buckling Strength of Stiffened Plate under Bending Shear Stress
Authors: Yanagishita Yoshihiro , Ikarashi Kikuo
Published: December 2014

It is possible to increase the local buckling strength and improve the plastic deformation capacity of H-shaped beams by applying stiffeners to web plate with large width–thickness ratios. In this study, we consider the web plate the end of the beam to be a stiffened plate and examine the elastic buckling strength using the energy method. In addition, we discuss the fundamental buckling characteristics of the stiffened web plate and the effective stiffener shape for stiffening the end of web plate with large width–thickness ratios.
Bond assessment of corroded steel bars in structural concrete
Authors: Prieto Miguel , Tanner Peter , Andrade Carmen
Published: December 2014

The present paper proposes a semi-empirical formulation accounting for both pull-out and splitting failures for assessing bond of corroded and non-corroded steel bars. This formulation is obtained by means of multiple linear regression analysis of a database of more than 650 tests of corroded and non-corroded bond tests, including tests performed in a former study [1] and data from literature. The database used includes a wide range of influencing variables regarding to bond, such as bar diameter, concrete strength, concrete cover, anchorage length, confinement ratio and cross-section loss due to corrosion. Several statistical criteria have been used to analyse the proposed formulation and the influence of the explanatory variables. Also a comparison with several formulations, including the proposal of Fib Model Code 2010 for corroded bars is performed. This formulation could be used in the structural assessment of corroded reinforced concrete members.
Hybridization Technique in Tartary Buckwheat (Fagopyrum tataricum Gaertn)
Authors: Joshi Bal K. , Bimb Hari P. , Okuno Kazutoshi
Published: December 2014

N/ANepal Agric. Res. J. Vol. 9, 2009, pp. 118-128DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/narj.v9i0.11650
Effects of Exchange Rates on Employment in Canada
Authors: Huang Haifang , Pang Ke , Tang Yao
Published: December 2014

Under a flexible exchange rate regime, the Canadian economy is constantly affected by fluctuations in exchange rates. This paper focuses on the effect of the exchange rate on employment in Canada. We find that appreciation of the Canadian dollar has significant effects on employment in manufacturing industries; such effects are mostly associated with the export-weighted exchange rate, but not the import-weighted exchange rate. Meanwhile, the exchange rate has little effect on jobs in non-manufacturing industries. Because the manufacturing sector accounts for only about 10 percent of employment in Canada, the overall effect of the exchange rate on employment is small. In addition, we quantify the loss of manufacturing employment associated with a commodity market boom, during which the Canadian dollar tends to appreciate. Our estimates suggest that when commodity prices increase by 15.77 percent (one standard deviation of annual change in commodity prices between 1994 and 2010), manufacturing employment in Canada decreases by 0.8 percent, which is about 0.08 percent of the total employment.
Firm-Sponsored Classroom Training: Is It Worth It for Older Workers?
Authors: Dostie Benoit , Léger Pierre Thomas
Published: December 2014

We use longitudinal linked employer-employee data and find that the probability of participating in firm-sponsored classroom training diminishes with age. Although the standard human capital investment model predicts such a decline, we also consider the possibility that the wage and productivity impacts of training decline with age. Taking into account endogenous training decisions, we find that the training wage premium diminishes only slightly with age. However, estimates of the impact of training on productivity decrease dramatically with age, suggesting that incentives for firms to invest in classroom training are much lower for older workers.
What Is a Minimum Wage For? Empirical Results and Theories of Justice
Authors: Green David A.
Published: December 2014

I undertake a Rawlsian political economy exercise—namely, one in which economic institutions are judged by how well they match principles in theories of distributive justice. I contend that such an exercise is integrally related to empirical economics because most theories of justice emphasize respect, which, in turn, depends on how wages and employment are actually assigned in an economy. I explore these ideas in relation to the minimum wage. This leads to a different emphasis on what minimum wage–related outcomes need study, and to a claim that minimum wage setting is related to standards of fairness.
Predicting the corrosion tendency of α-brass in acidic and alkaline tap water
Authors: Nawaz Anaum , Deen Kashif M. , Farooq Ameeq , Ahmed Rafiq , Khan I. H.
Published: December 2014

This study focuses on the electrochemical behavior of brass in acidic and alkaline tap water. Both conditions were studied using corrosion potential, cyclic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. Weight loss experiments were also performed to validate corrosion behavior. It was evaluated from corrosion potential values and Pourbaix diagrams that brass surface was aggressively attacked at lowpHdue to dissolution of zinc-rich phase and solvation of cuprite and zincate at highpHby breakdown of the passive film. Under near neutral conditions the increase in charge transfer resistance corresponded to formation of a stable passive film. Brass exhibited peculiar behavior atpH1 and 12 by showing low charge transfer resistance due to preferential attack of zinc and solvation of copper/zinc rich phases, respectively, as validated by impedance spectroscopy.
Physical, chemical and microbiological analysis of the water quality of Rawal Lake, Pakistan
Authors: Hassan Mehreen , Hanif Sana
Published: December 2014

What better gift of nature would be than good quality water? In order to assess the quality of water of Rawal Lake, following research was carried out. Rawal lake is a source of drinking water supplied to many areas of Rawalpindi and Islamabad the capital city of Pakistan. Water of this lake is being highly polluted by the local communities alongside the lake through solid waste dumping. Samples of surface water were collected, tested and analyzed in the laboratory on the basis of physical, chemical and microbiological parameters. The results showed uncertainties in many of the selected parameters. Microbiological analysis revealed high contamination of E. coli, fecal coliform and total coliform in the samples proving it unfit for drinking. It was found that the concentration of all physical parameters such as nitrates, chloride, pH and conductivity were within the normal limits. The level of heavy metals like lead, iron, chromium etc. was also found low. Turbidity at some points exceeded the maximum acceptable limit as per WHO statement. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/ijarit.v4i1.21087 Int. J. Agril. Res. Innov. & Tech. 4 (1): 28-31, June, 2014
Effect of different sowing dates on yield of tomato genotypes
Authors: Hossain MF , Ara N , Islam MR , Hossain J , Akhter B
Published: December 2014

The experiment was conducted at Agricultural Research Station, Thakurgaon, Bangladesh during October 2009 to March 2010 to observe the effect of sowing dates on yield of tomato genotypes. Three sowing dates viz. October 1, October 15 and October 30 were considered as factor A and tomato variety viz., BARI Tomato-2, BARI Tomato-3, BARI Tomato-4, BARI Tomato-9 and BARI Hybrid Tomato-4 considered as factor B. The experiment was laid out in RCBD (Factorial) with three replications. Early flowering (52.40 days) as well as early fruit harvesting (119.13 days) was occurred in October 1 sowing, where as sowing on October 30 resulted in delayed flowering (71.73 days) and fruit harvesting (140.67 days), respectively. Number of fruits per plant was also the highest (27.40) in October 1 sowing and the lowest (13.73) was in October 30 sowing. Seed sowing of October 1 was found better in respect of yield (74.75 tha-1) compared to October 15 (58.55 tha-1) and October 30 (24.60 tha-1) sowing. Among the variety, BARI Tomat-2 produced the highest (68.12 tha-1) marketable yield followed by BARI Tomato-9 (56.16 tha-1) and BARI Tomato-3 while BARI Tomato-4 gave the lowest (36.91 tha-1) marketable yield. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/ijarit.v4i1.21090 Int. J. Agril. Res. Innov. & Tech. 4 (1): 40-43, June, 2014
Changes in seed weight in response to different sources: sink ratio in oilseed rape
Authors: Iglesias Francisco M , Miralles Daniel J
Published: December 2014

Little knowledge exists about the degree of source, sink and source: sink limitations on mean seed weight in oilseed rape (Brassica napus L.). The objective of this work was to analyze the nature and magnitude on seed weight response to assimilate availability during the effective seed-filling period in oilseed rape. Three Argentinean varieties, Eclipse, Impulse, and Master, were grown under field conditions, and at the beginning of the effective seed filling period, a broad range of source: sink manipulation combinations were produced. Source manipulations consisted of two incoming radiation (R) level reductions: 0% (Rn) and ~50% (Rs) combined with three different sources: sink treatments were applied: C, control; PR, ~50% pod removal, and D, 100% defoliation. Rs significantly reduced yield (15%) and MSW (12%) with respect to Rn, without significant effects on the rest of the sub yield components. Source:sink manipulation treatments significantly affected all yield components. PR diminished yield by 29%, reducing ca. 40% seeds pl-1 by reductions pods pl-1 (41%) with respect to Rn, whereas PR increased MSW by 19%, counterbalancing the reduction in seeds pl-1 and thereby in yield. When considering different seed positions along the main raceme, Rs reduced MSW by 12% independently of seed positions onto the raceme. On the contrary, PR increased MSW in average 17% with respect to C. Results reported here suggest that oilseed rape has source: sink co-limitation during the effective seed filling period, which is apparently higher than wheat and lower than maize. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/ijarit.v4i1.21091 Int. J. Agril. Res. Innov. & Tech. 4 (1): 44-52, June, 2014