bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pre-conception inter-pregnancy interval and risk of schizophrenia
Authors: Gunawardana Lihini , Smith George Davey , Zammit Stanley , Whitley Elise , Gunnell David , Lewis Sarah , Rasmussen Finn
Published: August 2011

It is hypothesised that the risk of schizophrenia may be elevated in children conceived following a short interpregnancy interval, when maternal folate stores are still being replenished. We examined the relationship between inter-pregnancy interval and schizophrenia risk in a longitudinal, population-based cohort. Risk of schizophrenia was increased by approximately 150% in those born following a pregnancy interval of $6 months, but was not increased if the interval after birth of the participant, before conception of the subsequent sibling, was $6 months. These findings support the hypothesis that folate (or other micronutrient) deficiency during fetal development may be an important risk factor for schizophrenia.
The Multiattribute Utility Tree
Authors: Abbas Ali E.
Published: August 2011

This paper introduces the notion of a multiattribute utility tree. This graphical representation decomposes the von Neumann–Morgenstern utility of a multiattribute consequence into a sum of products of indifference probability assessments of binary gambles. The utility tree displays the sequence of gambles required to elicit the utility value of a consequence. In addition, it enables the analyst to conduct consistency checks on the indifference assessments provided by the decision maker and to change the order of the assessments based on her comfort level. Once the indifference assessments are provided, the utility value of a consequence can be obtained by direct rollback analysis. On a continuous domain, the utility tree decomposes the functional form of a multiattribute utility function into a sum of products of normalized conditional utility functions. Each attribute in the expansion is conditioned on the boundary values of the attributes expanded before it. This formulation provides a general method for deriving the functional form of a multiattribute utility function under a wide variety of conditions. It also leads to several new independence concepts such as “boundary independence,” which is a weaker condition than utility independence, and “corner independence,” which makes higher-order independence assertions. Reversing the order of the nodes in the tree relates several widely used notions of utility independence found in the literature.
Cyclical Bid Adjustments in Search-Engine Advertising
Authors: Zhang Xiaoquan (Michael) , Feng Juan
Published: August 2011

Keyword advertising, or sponsored search, is one of the most successful advertising models on the Internet. One distinctive feature of keyword auctions is that they enable advertisers to adjust their bids and rankings dynamically, and the payoffs are realized in real time. We capture this unique feature with a dynamic model and identify an equilibrium bidding strategy. We find that under certain conditions, advertisers may engage in cyclical bid adjustments, and equilibrium bidding prices may follow a cyclical pattern: price-escalating phases interrupted by price-collapsing phases, similar to an “Edgeworth cycle” in the context of dynamic price competitions. Such cyclical bidding patterns can take place in both first- and second-price auctions. We obtain two data sets containing detailed bidding records of all advertisers for a sample of keywords in two leading search engines. Our empirical framework, based on a Markov switching regression model, suggests the existence of such cyclical bidding strategies. The cyclical bid-updating behavior we find cannot be easily explained with static models. This paper emphasizes the importance of adopting a dynamic perspective in studying equilibrium outcomes of keyword auctions.

This paper was accepted by Pradeep Chintagunta and Preyas Desai, special issue editors.

This paper was accepted by Pradeep Chintagunta and Preyas Desai, special issue editors.
Abiraterone Acetate: Vandetanib
Authors: Edwards Michael S. , Solimando Dominic A. , Waddell J. Aubrey
Published: August 2011

The complexity of cancer chemotherapy requires pharmacists be familiar with the complicated regimens and highly toxic agents used. This column reviews various issues related to preparation, dispensing, and administration of antineoplastic therapy, and the agents, both commercially available and investigational, used to treat malignant diseases.
Possible Oseltamivir-Induced Angioedema in a Patient with Chronic Renal Failure
Authors: Callen Erin C. , Kessler Tiffany L. , Peace Jason F.
Published: August 2011

Objective

To report a case of angioedema possibly associated with oseltamivir administration in a patient with chronic renal failure.

Case Summary

A 46-year-old female with an extensive allergy history and multiple co-morbidities, including chronic renal failure, was diagnosed with H1N1 influenza and given prescriptions for oseltamivir and methylprednisolone at an outside emergency department. She was sent home and took the first dose of both medications. The following day, the patient developed tongue swelling and left-sided edema. She discontinued methylprednisolone but continued oseltamivir. Her symptoms continued to worsen with the development of hivelike lesions and significant shortness of breath leading to hospitalization. Upon admission, oseltamivir was discontinued and the patient was started on dialysis. The patient's symptoms gradually improved, and she was discharged on hospital day 8.

Discussion

Oseltamivir was thought to be the causative agent due to the abrupt onset and resolution of symptoms associated with the administration and discontinuation of the medication. Application of the Naranjo probability scale found that oseltamivir was a possible cause of the patient's angioedema.

Conclusion

Health care providers should be aware of the rare but potentially life-threatening angioedema that may be associated with oseltamivir use.
Clopidogrel pharmacogenetics: metabolism and drug interactions
Authors: Close Sandra L.
Published: August 2011

The thienopyridine, clopidogrel bisulfate (clopidogrel), is the most widely prescribed antiplatelet therapy in the world. Clopidogrel, alone or in conjunction with aspirin as part of a dual antiplatelet therapy regimen, is the standard of care for reducing ischemic events in patients with acute coronary syndrome, recent myocardial infarction, recent stroke, or established peripheral artery disease. Initially approved for use in 1997, the label was updated by both the USA Food and Drug Administration and the European Medicines Agency in 2009 to include information regarding cytochrome P450 (CYP) genotype status and concomitant proton pump inhibitor use. Labeling warns of reduced effectiveness in those with impaired CYP2C19 function and to avoid concomitant clopidogrel use with drugs that are strong or moderate CYP2C19 inhibitors, such as omeprazole. The interpretation of this warning and the implementation in clinical practice is not without controversy. The following review provides a summary of the published evidence regarding CYP2C19 function, both genotype status and drug inhibition from concomitant proton pump inhibitors use, and response to clopidogrel.
Regularization and error estimate for a spherically symmetric backward heat equation
Authors: Cheng Wei , Fu Chu-Li , Qin Feng-Juan
Published: August 2011

In this paper, we consider an inverse time problem for a spherically symmetric heat equation. The problem is ill-posed. A spectral method is applied to formulate a regularized solution which is stably convergent to the exact ones. A quite sharp error estimate for the regularized solution is obtained with suitable choice of regularization parameter.
Determination of sets with positive reach by their projection type images
Authors: Golubyatnikov Vladimir , Rovenski Vladimir
Published: August 2011

We introduce new classes of sets extending the class of convex bodies. We show strong inclusions between these classes of bodies. In the case of bodies in Euclidean spaces, we obtain a new characterization of sets with positive reach, prove the Helly type theorem for them, and find applications to geometric tomography. We investigate the problem of determination of sets with positive reach by their projection-type images, and generalize corresponding stability theorems by H. Groemer.
On a finite asymptotic integral transform
Authors: Haidar Nassar H. S.
Published: August 2011

We report on solving the inverse problem of finding the kernel of an asymptotic singular integral operator under which monomial signals that are compactly supported over the closed unit interval [0, 1–] are asymptotic generalized fixed points over the semi-closed unit interval (0, 1]. This operator defines a certain Even-Hilbert Riemann–Lebesgue transformation with a kernel that is double parameterized over a certain momentum Hilbert space. The inversion of this singular transformation is proved to be in the form of an associated Odd-Hilbert Riemann–Lebesgue transformation. The paper contains also proofs for a number of operational properties of this transform, with an identified area for potential applicability in solving certain functional initial-value problems.
Direct and inverse problems of the theory of wave propagation in an elastic inhomogeneous medium
Authors: Sedipkov Aydys A.
Published: August 2011

Theorems of the existence and uniqueness for one class of direct problems are presented. Moreover, an algorithm for the reconstruction of the acoustic impedance is given when the form of the “initial” condition for the direct problem is known.
Mechanical and microstructural properties of polystyrene based composites: positron lifetime spectroscopic and DSC studies
Authors: Altaweel Abdullah Mohammed Ali Mohammed , Raj Jaya Madhu , Chandrashekara Malalvalli Nagarajaiah , Ramya Puttegowda , Sampathkumaran Parthasarathy , Ranganathaiah Chikkakuntappa
Published: August 2011

Polystyrene (PS) based composites respectively with cenosphere (CS) and calcium aluminosilicate (CAS) as fillers were studied using the positron lifetime technique to reveal the correlation between free volume, a microstructural property, and mechanical properties of the composites (tensile strength and tensile modulus). The thermal stability of the composites was determined using differential scanning calorimetry. The results showed that addition of CAS filler lead to a significant improvement in the mechanical properties of the composite, whereas addition of CS resulted in improvement in tensile modulus only. Both PS/CAS and PS/CS composites showed enhancement in thermal stability compared with that of the pure PS matrix. The positron results showed that the average free volume size for the PS/CAS composite (at 40 phr CAS) was reduced significantly compared with that of the pure PS. These results are understood in terms of the influence of silica content, filler-matrix interaction, and particle size.
Complex permittivity measurements of RF plasma polymerized polyterpenol organic thin films employing split post dielectric resonator
Authors: Bazaka Kateryna , Jacob Mohan V.
Published: August 2011

In the fields of organic electronics and biotechnology, applications for organic polymer thin films fabricated using low-temperature non-equilibrium plasma techniques are gaining significant attention because of the physical and chemical stability of thin films and the low cost of production. Polymer thin films were fabricated from non-synthetic terpinen-4-ol using radiofrequency polymerization (13.56 MHz) on low loss dielectric substrates and their permittivity properties were ascertained to determine potential applications for these organic films. Real and imaginary parts of permittivity as a function of frequency were measured using the variable angle spectroscopic ellipsometer. The real part of permittivity (k) was found to be between 2.34 and 2.65 in the wavelength region of 400–1100 nm, indicating a potential low-k material. These permittivity values were confirmed at microwave frequencies. Dielectric properties of polyterpenol films were measured by means of split post dielectric resonators (SPDRs) operating at frequencies of 10 GHz and 20 GHz. Permittivity increased for samples deposited at higher RF energy – from 2.65 (25 W) to 2.83 (75 W) measured by a 20-GHz SPDR and from 2.32 (25 W) to 2.53 (100 W) obtained using a 10-GHz SPDR. The error in permittivity measurement was predominantly attributed to the uncertainty in film thickness measurement.
Chemical and physical properties of self-crosslinked poly(vinyl chloride)/nitrile rubber nanocomposites prepared by melt-mixing process
Authors: Esmizadeh Elnaz , Naderi Ghasem , Ghoreishy Mir Hamid Reza , Bakhshandeh Gholam Reza
Published: August 2011

In this article, poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC)/acrylonitrile butadiene rubber (NBR)/clay nanocomposites were melt-mixed using the computerized Brabender plasticorder. During preparation of the nanocomposites self-crosslinking (crosslinking without aid of any crosslinking agent) occurs and affects all properties of a sample. The extent of crosslinking reaction depends on the processing temperature, rotor speed and mixing temperature and it increased with increasing each of mixing parameters. The mechanism of the self-crosslinking reaction was examined by the Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy test. The morphology of the materials was characterized using X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscope. The swelling test and tensile test were applied to distinguish the effects of self-crosslinking phenomena on physical properties of NBR/PVC nanocomposites. Dynamic mechanical thermal analysis tests of nanocomposites were also performed to study the physical properties, such as glass transition temperature (T
g). The results showed that the crosslinking reaction made a material more strong with high modulus and tensile strength. Thus, it can be deduced that crosslinks convert the NBR/PVC nanocomposites to stiffer materials that are less penetrable by the solvent. The results drawn from the loss tangent (tan δ) curves of nanocomposite samples can be used as further evidence for the above conclusions.
Microwave-assisted ionic liquid phase synthesis of phthalonitrile polymers
Authors: Selvakumar Palaniappan , Sarojadevi Muthusamy , Sundararajan Pudupadi
Published: August 2011

A novel, efficient methodology for the synthesis of phthalonitrile derivatives was investigated, using ionic liquid (IL) and microwave media as well as both simultaneously. Phthalonitrile monomers containing imide linkages were prepared from the reaction between aromatic dianhydrides, 3,3′,4,4′-benzophenonetetracarboxylic dianhydride (BPTA), pyromellitic dianhydride (PMDA), 4,4′-(hexafluroisopropylidene) diphthalic anhydride (6FDA), 3,3′,4,4′-biphenyltetracarboxylic dianhydride (BTDA) and the end-capping agent 4-(3-aminophenoxy)phthalonitrile through the imidization reaction. The use of the IL1-butyl-3-methyl imidazoliumchloride as a solvent significantly increased the rate and yield of the reaction. The use of microwave irradiation and reaction parameters significantly shortened the reaction time while enhancing the purity. The polymerization of the prepared phthalonitrile monomers was carried out with 3 wt% of aromatic diamine 4,4′-oxydianiline (ODA) curing agent under microwave irradiation. It is shown that condensation was successfully carried out using the recyclable IL medium under microwave irradiation.
Ultrasound assisted process of PA6/clay nanocomposites: mechanical, rheological and barrier properties
Authors: Swain Sarat K.
Published: August 2011

Polymer/clay nanocomposites were prepared by the single screw extruder with an attached die to an ultrasound of variable amplitude. The structure and morphology of nanocomposites were studied by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Mechanical properties such as Young’s modulus, elongation, breaking stress, toughness, yield stress and yield stain of ultrasonically treated nanocomposites were changed significantly in comparison to untreated nanocomposites. From rheology data, it was found that the complex viscosities of nanocomposites were increased with clay loading and decreased after ultrasonic treatment. It was found that both clay and ultrasonic intensity played a vitalrole in the dispersion of clay in the polymer matrix. From the differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) results it was found that the addition of clay in the nylon 6 matrix leads to a decrease of crystallization and this property increased ultrasonic amplitude. The oxygen permeability of PA6/clay nanocomposites was measured and it was found that a substantial reduction in oxygen permeability was observed by increasing clay loading.
A comparative study of polyelectrolyte induced metachromasy
Authors: Nandini Ratnakar , Vishalakshi Bedalamole
Published: August 2011

The interaction of two cationic dyes, namely crystal violet (CV), with anionic polyelectrolytes, namely sodium carrageenate (NaCar) and sodium heparinate (NaHep), has been investigated by spectrophotometric method. The polymers induced metachromasy in the dye resulting in the shift of the absorption maxima of the dyes towards shorter wavelengths. The stability of the complexes formed between crystal violet and sodium carrageenate was found to be greater than that formed between crystal violet and sodium heparinate. This fact was further confirmed by reversal studies using alcohols, urea surfactants and electrolytes. The interaction parameters revealed that binding between crystal violet and sodium carrageenate was mainly due to electrostatic interaction while that between crystal violet and sodium heparinate is found to involve both electrostatic and hydrophobic forces.
Applicability of time temperature superposition principle to an immiscible blend of polyphenyleneoxide and polyamide
Authors: Hardikar Narendra A. , Bobba Somasekhar , Jha Roshan
Published: August 2011

The immiscible blend of polyphenyleneoxide (PPO) and polyamide (PA) is used in several applications exposed to high temperature. The complexity of numerical modeling of such materials is dependent on their thermorheological behavior with significant simplification possibilities, if the material is found to follow the time temperature superposition (TTS) principle and show thermorheological simplicity (TRS). Hence as a precursor to selecting accurate constitutive modeling approach, the paper investigates the applicability of the TTS principle and the nature of thermorheological behavior to the blend. Dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA)frequency scans were performed in the range of 0.1–100 rad/s from 0°C to 210°C at 10°C intervals. Temperature dependency was observed on the Cole-Cole plot pointing to the thermorheological complexity and the need for vertical shift factors. 2-D minimization algorithm was used to shift the isotherms horizontally and vertically to obtain master curves. Except, in the vicinity of glass transition temperature T

g
, the isotherms overlap to form a master curve, but further analysis considering various conditions indicate that in a strict sense TTS is not applicable to the blend when both storage G′ and loss modulus G″ are considered. However, a continuous master curve of storage modulus spanning 31 decades of time is obtained using horizontal shifting alone when loss modulus is neglected. Further testing is required to ascertain if relaxation modulus can be approximated with storage modulus alone before taking recourse to characterization methods developed for thermorheologically complex (TRC) materials.
Structural and electrical characterization of plasticized PVA: AgI polymer electrolyte
Authors: Prajapati Govind K. , Roshan Rupesh , Gupta Prem N.
Published: August 2011

The development of new polymeric systems with high ionic conductivity is one of the main objectives in the field of polymer materials with application point of view. In the present work, Ag+ion conducting solvent free composite polymer electrolyte thin films have been prepared using polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) as host polymer and polyethylene glycol (PEG) as plasticizer by standard solution cast technique. The structural characteristics of the prepared films have been obtained from X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns. Maximum room temperature ionic conductivity of order of 10-5S cm-1 is obtained using complex admittance (B-G) spectroscopy. The temperature dependent conductivity shows two distinct regions of Arrhenius type thermally activated behavior before and after glass transition temperature. Dielectric constant, ε′ and dielectric loss, ε″ of the samples increases with temperature which is similar in behavior as that of conductivity. The activation energy for ion conduction has been calculated from temperature dependent conductivity curve and its minimum value is found to be 0.30 eV for PVA-PEG-20% AgI polymer electrolyte sample. High value of transference number shows that samples are ionic in nature which is confirmed by Wagner’s polarization technique.
Constructing a Scientist: Expert Authority and Public Images of Rachel Carson
Authors: Hecht David K.
Published: August 2011

This article uses the voluminous public discourse around Rachel Carson and her controversial bestseller Silent Spring to explore Americans' views on science and scientists. Carson provides a particularly interesting case study because of intense and public debates over whether she was a scientist at all, and therefore whether her book should be granted legitimacy as science. Her career defied easy classification, as she acted variously as writer, activist, and environmentalist in addition to scientist. Defending her work as legitimate science, which many though not all commentators did, therefore became an act of defining what both science and scientists could and should be. This article traces the variety of nonscientific images and narratives readers and writers assigned to Carson, such as "reluctant crusader" and "scientist-poet." It argues that nonscientific attributes were central to legitimating her as both admirable person and admirable scientist. It explores how debates over Silent Spring can be usefully read as debates over the desirability of putatively nonscientific attributes in the professional work of a scientist. And it examines the nature of Carson's very democratized image for changing notions of science and scientists in 1960s United States politics and culture.
Inside and Outside Chinatown: Chinese Elites in Exclusion Era California
Authors: Marcus Kenneth H. , Chen Yong
Published: August 2011

Chinese elites who were exempted from the Exclusion Act of 1882 became important figures in interethnic dialogue in the West. This article focuses on herbalists and missionaries, who were often able to cross boundaries of race, geography, and gender through their professions. In comparing the experiences of these elites in Los Angeles with their counterparts in San Francisco—the two cities in California with the highest Chinese populations by 1890—the authors demonstrate how a limited degree of inclusion was possible during a period of extreme discrimination and race hatred. The examination of photographs, newspaper articles and advertisements, memoirs, and other materials provides a way to understand the class dimensions of the Exclusion Act in late nineteenth- and early twentieth-century California.
Binding of activating transcription factor 6 to the A5/Core of the rat insulin II gene promoter does not mediate its transcriptional repression
Authors: Amyot Julie , Benterki Isma , Fontés Ghislaine , Hagman Derek K , Ferdaoussi Mourad , Teodoro Tracy , Volchuk Allen , Joly Érik , Poitout Vincent
Published: August 2011

Pancreatic β-cells have a well-developed endoplasmic reticulum due to their highly specialized secretory function to produce insulin in response to glucose and nutrients. It has been previously reported that overexpression of activating transcription factor 6 (ATF6) reduces insulin gene expression in part via upregulation of small heterodimer partner. In this study, we investigated whether ATF6 directly binds to the insulin gene promoter, and whether its direct binding represses insulin gene promoter activity. A bioinformatics analysis identified a putative ATF6 binding site in the A5/Core region of the rat insulin II gene promoter. Direct binding of ATF6 was confirmed using several approaches. Electrophoretic mobility shift assays in nuclear extracts from MCF7 cells, isolated rat islets and insulin-secreting HIT-T15 cells showed ATF6 binding to the native A5/Core of the rat insulin II gene promoter. Antibody-mediated supershift analyses revealed the presence of both ATF6 isoforms, ATF6α and ATF6β, in the complex. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assays confirmed the binding of ATF6α and ATF6β to a region encompassing the A5/Core of the rat insulin II gene promoter in isolated rat islets. Overexpression of the active (cleaved) fragment of ATF6α, but not ATF6β, inhibited the activity of an insulin promoter–reporter by 50%. However, the inhibitory effect of ATF6α was insensitive to mutational inactivation or deletion of the A5/Core. Therefore, although ATF6 binds directly to the A5/Core of the rat insulin II gene promoter, this direct binding does not appear to contribute to its repressive activity.
A novel two-promoter-one-gene system of the chorionic gonadotropin β gene enables tissue-specific expression
Authors: Adams Christian , Henke Alexander , Gromoll Jörg
Published: August 2011

The New World monkey (NWM),Callithrix jacchus, a preferred model in medical research, displays an interesting endocrine regulation of reproduction: LH, the heterodimeric glycoprotein hormone, is functionally replaced by the chorionic gonadotropin (CG), a hormone indispensable for establishment of pregnancy in humans and normally expressed in the placenta. In the marmoset pituitary, the expression of the β-subunit (CGB) gene is regulated similar to human LH β-subunit, but its placental regulation is unknown. This study intended to decipher the underlying mechanism of tissue-specific expression ofCGBin the marmoset placenta. We identified a new placental transcriptional start site, described a new, previously undiscovered exon, and define a novel placental core promoter in the marmosetCGBgene. This promoter contains a TATA box and binding sites for activating protein 2 and selective promoter factor 1, the latter acting synergistically by forming a regulation cassette. Differential first exon usage directed the tissue-specific expression. Methylation analyses revealed a tissue-specific pattern in the placental promoter indicating additional epigenetic regulation of gene expression. Our findings point toward a hitherto unknown evolutionary plasticity in the LH/CG hormonal system in NWM, which could be used as a model to study human CGB regulation in clinical pathologies.
Effect of temperature on the reproduction of Bracon vulgaris Ashmead (Hymenoptera: Braconidae), a parasitoid of the cotton boll weevil
Authors: Ramalho Francisco S. , Wanderley Paulo A. , Malaquias José B. , Fernandes Francisco S. , Nascimento Antônio R.B. , Zanuncio José C.
Published: August 2011

This research studied the effect of temperature on the reproduction of Bracon vulgaris Ashmead, an ectoparasitoid of cotton boll weevil ( Anthonomus grandis Boheman) at constant temperatures of 20, 25 and 30ºC, 70 ± 10% RH and a photophase of 14 h. Females of the parasitoid produced a greater number of eggs when exposed to 25ºC (124.65 eggs) in relation to those exposed to 20 (43.40 eggs) and 30ºC (49.60 eggs). The number of parasitized larvae per female of B. vulgaris at 25ºC (71.75) was greater than at 20ºC (31.40) and 30ºC (25.15). The daily intrinsic rates of increase (r m) were - 0.007 at 20ºC, 0.07 at 25ºC and 0.03 at 30ºC, revealing that the temperature of 25ºC produced increases of 1,100 and 133% in the value r m in relation to temperatures of 20 and 30ºC, respectively. In programs of biological control of the boll weevil using innoculative releases, adult females of B. vulgaris with approximately five (at 25 or 30ºC) or 20 day old (at 20ºC) should be used; when using innundative releases, adult females of B. vulgaris , with ages between 11 and 31; 9 and 29 or 3 and 14 days, respectively, at 20, 25 or 30ºC should be used.
Chemical migration during soil water retention curve evaluation
Authors: Pires Luiz F. , Villanueva Felipe C.A. , Dias Nivea M.P. , Bacchi Osny O. Santos , Reichardt Klaus
Published: August 2011

Wetting and drying (W-D) cycles can induce important elemental migrations in soils. The main purpose of this work was to study the possible existence of soil chemical elemental migrations in samples submitted to repeated W-D cycles during evaluations of soil water retention curve (SWRC). The experimental measurements were carried out by Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (AAS) for Ca2+, Mg2+ and K+ on samples of three different Brazilian tropical soils (Geric Ferralsol, Eutric Nitosol and Rhodic Ferralsol). Results demonstrate an increase in the electrical conductivity of the water extracted from the samples and significant losses of Ca2+, Mg2+ and K+ during the applications of up to nine W-D cycles. It was also observed differences in SWRC for all soils when samples submitted to the application of several W-D cycles were compared with samples not submitted to it. These differences occurred at the region of both structural and textural pores. A possible explanation for these results could be the soil chemical migration during the sequences of W-D cycles, which can affect the soil structure development.
(Des)conforto de trabalhadores de enfermagem: uma questão de (in)justiça social
Authors: Barreto Silvana dos Santos , Pereira Maurílio Nunes , Santos Jaqueline do Amaral , Neves Eloita Pereira
Published: August 2011

Estudo exploratório descritivo realizado com 52 trabalhadores de enfermagem de um hospital universitário buscou identificar os níveis de conforto em relação ao trabalho e ao cuidado recebido pelo cliente, as necessidades e propostas para aumentar o conforto. A análise das entrevistas semi-estruturadas mostrou que a maioria dos respondentes (79% e 85%) referiu níveis alto e médio de conforto em relação ao trabalho e ao cuidado. O conforto estava relacionado ao reconhecimento por parte do cliente e relacionamento harmônico com a equipe. Identificamos desconforto em relação à estrutura precária e recursos insuficientes, e a necessidade de ter melhores condições de trabalho para proporcionar assistência adequada. Concluímos que a atenção às necessidades dos profissionais levará a maior conforto e satisfação no trabalho.
Comportamento de cordeiros em pastejo de azevém (Lolium multiflorum) em diferentes fases fenológicas submetidos à adubação nitrogenada
Authors: Pellegrini Luiz Giovani de , Monteiro Alda Lúcia Gomes , Neumann Mikael , Carvalho Paulo César de Faccio , Silva Ana Luisa Palhano , Lustosa Sebastião Brasil Campos , Pellegrin Ana Carolina Ribeiro Sanquetta de
Published: August 2011

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o efeito de nitrogênio (N) em pastagem de azevém (Lolium multiflorum Lam.), manejada à mesma altura em pastejo contínuo, sobre o comportamento ingestivo de cordeiros de corte. Utilizaram-se o azevém com quatro doses de N, empregando-se ureia comercial (45% de N) com aplicação única, sendo: 0 kg/ha de N; 75 kg/ha de N; 150 kg/ha de N; e 225 kg/ha de N. O período de avaliação foi de 63 dias, dividido em três períodos de 21, que corresponderam aos estágios de desenvolvimento das plantas desde a fase vegetativa até o florescimento. Em cada período os dias foram divididos em três turnos de avaliação comportamental: manhã (6:30 às 10:30), meio-dia (10:31 às 14:30) e tarde (14:31 às 18:30). Na análise dos períodos, os animais diminuíram a atividade de ócio em 0,3 min a cada dia de avanço no ciclo da pastagem, independentemente do turno de avaliação. Já para o consumo de água, não houve diferença entre as fases fenológicas (média de 1,8 min por dia). Os cordeiros reduziram o tempo de ruminação em 0,612; 0,660; e 0,060 min a cada dia de utilização da pastagem nos turnos da manhã (6 : 30 - 10 : 30), meio-dia (10:31 -14:30) e tarde (14:31 - 18:30), respectivamente, ao passo que para o pastejo os tempos destinados a essa atividade aumentaram 0,726; 1,104; e 0,354 min, respectivamente. Com relação às doses de N, não houve interferência (P > 0,05) sobre as atividades de ruminação (126,6 min) e consumo de água (10,5 min). Observou-se comportamento linear crescente (P < 0,05) para ócio em 0,108 min e decrescente para pastejo em 0,198 min para cada kg de N aplicado na pastagem. O estágio fenológico do azevém influenciou as atividades comportamentais dos cordeiros.
Casca do fruto da mamoneira como substrato para as plantas
Authors: Lopes Guilherme E. Machado , Vieira Henrique Duarte , Jasmim Janie Mendes , Shimoya Aldo , Marciano Cláudio Roberto
Published: August 2011

A casca do fruto da mamoneira (CFM) é um resíduo gerado, em grande quantidade, no beneficiamento da mamona. O objetivo desta pesquisa foi avaliar as características físicas e químicas da CFM e seu efeito, como substrato, para plantas. A avaliação das características da CFM foi realizada em um experimento fatorial (2x3), constituído da combinação de dois tipos de casca (CFM in natura e compostada) e três granulometrias (peneiras 3, 5 e 10 mm de malha), em delineamento de blocos ao acaso. Os teores de macro e micronutrientes, condutividade elétrica (CE), pH, densidade seca (DS), densidade úmida (DU), porosidade total (PT) e espaço de aeração (EA) foram avaliados. A avaliação da CFM como substrato para plantas foi realizada, utilizando-se mudas de tomateiro (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) e estacas de pingo-de-ouro (Duranta repens L.) como espécies indicadoras. Para o cultivo de mudas de tomateiro, a CFM, na granulometria de 3 mm, in natura, ou compostada, foi misturada com Plantmax® em cinco proporções [0:100; 25:75; 50:50; 75:25; 100:0 (v/v)]. Para o enraizamentode pingo-de-ouro, estacas foram plantadas em CFM, in natura, ou compostada, de três granulometrias (3, 5 e 10 mm). A CFM compostada, na granulometria de 3 mm, apresentou as características físicas mais adequadas. A CFM in natura apresentou efeitos negativos, sendo inadequada como substrato. A CFM compostada permitiu obter 100% de germinação e mudas normais de tomateiro, bem como estacas enraizadas de pingo- de- ouro, podendo, portanto, ser utilizada como substrato, pura, ou em misturas.
A implementação de inovação radical em empresas maduras
Authors: Leifer Richard , O'Connor Gina Colarelli , Rice Mark
Published: August 2011

A cada dia surgem mais provas da importância da inovação radical ou revolucionária na determinação do sucesso das empresas, em longo prazo, no mercado competitivo atual. Embora esse reconhecimento tenha estado presente em muitas empresas sólidas, existem dúvidas no que diz respeito à maneira segundo a qual a inovação deve ser implementada. O presente artigo baseia-se em um estudo longitudinal de 12 projetos de inovação radical em 10 empresas maduras de grande porte, no período de seis anos. O ciclo de vida dos projetos de inovação radical é diferente daquele de projetos incrementais, devido ao grande número de incertezas e descontinuidades. Tais características exigem que os projetos de inovação radical sejam gerenciados de forma diversa daquela aplicada aos projetos incrementais. Demonstramos sete fatores estratégicos decisivos para realizar-se a implementação bem-sucedida da inovação radical.
A pesquisa que faz diferença
Authors: Ford Eric W. , Duncan W. Jack , Bedeian Arthur G. , Ginter Peter M. , Rousculp Matthew D. , Adams Alice M.
Published: August 2011

Os pesquisadores da administração lamentam o fato de que seu trabalho tenha tão pouco impacto na prática gerencial. Os gerentes, por sua vez, procuram conhecimento que possa ajudá-los a melhorar a performance organizacional, mas raramente consultam os trabalhos universitários - frequentemente tidos como incompreensíveis e irrelevantes para os desafios cotidianos. Para que a pesquisa em administração possa fazer diferença para os gerentes são necessárias parcerias mutuamente benéficas que envolvam os gerentes e os pesquisadores e que sejam apoiadas por suas respectivas organizações. Ilustramos a importância da pesquisa da administração relevante para a prática valendo-se de quatro importantes contribuições, juntos, estes casos não somente demonstram como esse tipo de parceria pode produzir conhecimento relevante para a prática, mas também promovem insights para aumentar a probabilidade de ocorrência de encontros produtivos.
Desenvolvimento dos relacionamentos entre comprador e vendedor
Authors: Dwyer F. Robert , Schurr Paul H. , Oh Sejo
Published: August 2011

A teoria e a prática do marketing se concentraram persistentemente nas trocas entre compradores e vendedores. Infelizmente, a maior parte da pesquisa e um número excessivo de estratégias de marketing tratam as trocas entre compradores e vendedores como eventos singulares e não como relacionamentos contínuos. Os autores descrevem um arcabouço para o desenvolvimento de relacionamentos entre comprador e vendedor que permite uma visão privilegiada para a formulação de estratégias de marketing e para o estímulo a novas áreas de pesquisa.
Objeção de consciência e aborto: direitos e deveres dos médicos na saúde pública
Authors: Diniz Debora
Published: August 2011

O artigo discute a objeção de consciência por médicos, tendo por situação concreta os serviços de aborto legal no Brasil. O artigo apresenta as duas principais interpretações do dispositivo da objeção de consciência (tese da incompatibilidade e tese da integridade), para analisá-las à luz da realidade brasileira do aborto legal em serviços de referência na rede pública de saúde. A partir dessas duas teses, propõe uma terceira, a da justificação, como forma de orientar o exercício do direito à objeção de consciência entre médicos nesses serviços. Essa reflexão pode contribuir tanto para a organização das equipes nos serviços de aborto legal quanto para a formação de futuros médicos que atenderão mulheres em serviços de emergência obstétrica.
Evolução do consumo de crack em coorte com histórico de tratamento
Authors: Dias Andréa Costa , Araújo Marcelo Ribeiro , Laranjeira Ronaldo
Published: August 2011

OBJETIVO: Analisar a evolução do consumo entre usuários de crack com histórico de tratamento. MÉTODOS: Uma coorte de, originalmente, 131 dependentes de crack admitidos em uma enfermaria de desintoxicação em São Paulo, SP, entre 1992 e 1994, foi re-entrevistada em três ocasiões: 1995-1996, 1998-1999 e 2005-2006. As variáveis averiguadas foram: dados demográficos, comportamento sexual de risco, padrões de consumo de crack e outras substâncias, prisões, desaparecimentos e óbitos. Na análise estatística empregou-se o teste de qui-quadrado, a regressão logística multinomial e regressão de Cox. RESULTADOS: Dos pacientes avaliados, 43 estavam abstinentes do crack (12 meses ou mais), 22 eram usuários, 13 estavam presos, dois desaparecidos e 27 estavam mortos. Foram identificados três grupos com trajetórias distintas de consumo pós-alta. Comportamento seguro com uso de preservativo foi identificado como fator relacionado ao grupo de abstinentes estáveis (p = 0,001). Teste HIV positivo na internação (p = 0,046); consumo de cocaína aspirada no último ano (p = 0,001) e tempo de uso de cocaína aspirada na vida (mais de 132 meses) (p = 0,000) foram fatores relacionados a uso de longo termo. Uso pregresso de cocaína endovenosa aumentou em 2,5 vezes as chances de óbito em 12 anos (p = 0,031) (IC95%: 1,08; 5,79). CONCLUSÕES: A recorrência e persistência do consumo nos anos pós-alta de tratamento refletem novas modalidades de uso do crack. Por outro lado, padrões de abstinência estável apontam a viabilidade dos processos de recuperação relativos ao uso de crack.
Infecção pelo vírus da hepatite C em gestantes em Mato Grosso do Sul, 2005-2007
Authors: Pinto Clarice Souza , Martins Regina Maria Bringel , Andrade Sonia Maria Oliveira de , Stief Alcione Cavalheiro Faro , Oliveira Roberto Dias de , Castro Ana Rita Coimbra Motta de
Published: August 2011

O estudo teve por objetivo estimar a prevalência da infecção e genótipo do vírus da hepatite C (HCV), bem como determinar a subnotificação de casos. O total de 115.386 gestantes atendidas pelo Programa Estadual de Proteção à Gestante de Mato Grosso do Sul foi submetido à coleta de sangue para a detecção de anti-HCV, de 2005 a 2007. A prevalência da infecção pelo HCV foi de 1,07 casos/1.000. As amostras positivas foram submetidas à detecção do HCV-RNA e genotipadas. O genótipo 1 foi encontrado em 73% das amostras, 24,3% pertenciam ao genótipo 3 e 2,7% ao genótipo 2. A subnotificação de casos de hepatite C foi de 35,5%.
Selection of shrimp breeders free of white spot syndrome and infectious hypodermal and hematopoietic necrosis
Authors: Mello Junior Carlos Cesar de , Delsol Gael Yvan Leclercq , Motte Emmerik , Escobar Virna Alexia Cedeño , Rey Pedro Filipe , Martins Mauricio Laterça , Arana Luis Alejandro Vinatea , Mello Giovanni Lemos de , Farias Alvaro Pestana de , Arguello Xavier Antonio Serrano , Maridueña John Erick Montaño
Published: August 2011

The objective of this work was to select surviving breeders of Litopenaeus vannamei from white spot syndrome virus (WSSV) outbreak, adapted to local climatic conditions and negatively diagnosed for WSSV and infectious hypodermal and hematopoietic necrosis virus (IHHNV), and to evaluate if this strategy is a viable alternative for production in Santa Catarina, Brazil. A total of 800 males and 800 females were phenotypically selected in a farm pond. Nested-PCR analyses of 487 sexually mature females and 231 sexually mature males showed that 63% of the females and 55% of the males were infected with IHHNV. Animals free of IHHNV were tested for WSSV, and those considered double negative were used for breeding. The post-larvae produced were stocked in nine nursery tanks for analysis. From the 45 samples, with 50 post-larvae each, only two were positive for IHHNV and none for WSSV. Batches of larvae diagnosed free of virus by nested-PCR were sent to six farms. A comparative analysis was carried out in growth ponds, between local post-larvae and post-larvae from Northeast Brazil. Crabs (Chasmagnathus granulata), blue crabs (Callinectes sapidus), and sea hares (Aplysia brasiliana), which are possible vectors of these viruses, were also evaluated. The mean survival was 55% for local post-larvae against 23.4% for post-larvae from the Northeast. Sea hares showed prevalence of 50% and crabs of 67% of WSSV.
Bioindicators of soil quality in coffee organic cultivation systems
Authors: Pimentel Márcio Sampaio , De-Polli Helvécio , Aquino Adriana Maria de , Correia Maria Elizabeth Fernandes , Rouws Janaina Ribeiro Costa
Published: August 2011

The objective of this work was to assess the effect of different coffee organic cultivation systems on chemical and biological soil characteristics, in different seasons of the year. The following systems were evaluated: coffee intercropped with one (CJ1), two (CJ2) or three (CJ3) pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan) alleys; coffee planted under full sun (CS); area planted with sweet pepper and snap bean in a conventional tillage system (AC); and secondary forest area (FFR). Row spacing in CJ1, CJ2, CJ3 and CS was 2.0x1.0, 2.8x1.0, 3.6x1.0, and 2.8x1.0 m, respectively. Soil samples were collected at 10-cm depth, during the four seasons of the year. The results were subjected to analysis of variance, principal component analysis, and redundancy analysis. There was an increase in edaphic macrofauna, soil basal respiration, and microbial quotient in the summer. Total macrofauna density was greater in CJ2 followed by CJ3, CS, CJ1, AC and FFR; Coleoptera, Formicidae, and Isoptera were the most abundant groups. There are no significant differences among the areas for soil basal respiration, and the metabolic quotient is higher in CJ1, CJ3, and FFR. Microbial biomass carbon and the contents of K, pH, Ca+Mg, and P show greater values in AC.
Aplicação de boro em bananeira
Authors: Nomura Edson Shigueaki , Teixeira Luiz Antonio Junqueira , Boaretto Rodrigo Marcelli , Garcia Valéria Augusta , Fuzitani Eduardo Jun , Damatto Junior Erval Rafael , Saes Luís Alberto , Mattos Junior Dirceu de
Published: August 2011

A fertilização de bananeiras com micronutrientes é pouco estudada, principalmente a aplicação de boro (B) que apresenta funções ligadas ao desenvolvimento de meristemas apicais. Desta forma, o objetivo do presente trabalho foi estudar as respostas da adubação com B em diferentes doses e formas de aplicação em bananeira 'Grande Naine'. Utilizou-se delineamento experimental em esquema fatorial com três doses (0,85; 1,70 e 3,40 g planta-1) e três formas de aplicação do fertilizante (solo, folhas e orifício do perfilho desbastado), utilizando-se de ácido bórico como fonte de B, mais uma testemunha sem aplicação de B. Avaliaram-se os efeitos dos tratamentos na disponibilidade do B no solo, no desenvolvimento, no estado nutricional e na produção de frutos das bananeiras. A aplicação de B no solo e nas folhas aumentou a disponibilidade do micronutriente na camada superficial do solo (entre 1,0-1,5 mg kg-1, para a maior dose do nutriente) e correspondente aumento até 20-40 cm, como resultado da lixiviação. A contribuição da adubação foliar no aumento do teor no solo deveu-se à lavagem e ao escorrimento da solução fertilizante das folhas para a superfície do solo. Por outro lado, não houve efeito do B quando aplicado no orifício do perfilho desbastado (~0,3 mg kg-1 de B). Também, verificou-se que não houve efeitos da aplicação de B no desenvolvimento da bananeira (altura e diâmetro do pseudocaule) medidos após a emissão da inflorescência. Nas amostragens quinzenais, os teores foliares de B, quando aplicado no orifício do perfilho desbastado, foram maiores e prolongaram-se por até um mês após a aplicação na bananeira. Porém, na última amostragem foliar (emissão da inflorescência), não houve efeito da forma de aplicação nos teores foliares de B (~20 mg kg-1). Não foram observados efeitos da fertilização na produção de frutos em função das doses e formas de aplicação do B, porém a aplicação no orifício do perfilho desbastado promoveu acúmulo do micronutriente no cacho. Nas condições deste trabalho, concluiu-se que a aplicação de B não influenciou no desenvolvimento e na produção da bananeira 'Grande Naine' em função das doses e formas de aplicação do micronutriente.
Qualidade de maçãs 'Fuji Suprema' submetidas a diferentes tipos de dano mecânico
Authors: Hendges Marcos Vinicius , Steffens Cristiano André , Antoniolli Lucimara Rogéria , Amarante Cassandro Vidal Talamini do , Zanardi Odimar Zanuso
Published: August 2011

Objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o efeito do dano mecânico por impacto, compressão e corte sobre a qualidade de maçãs 'Fuji Suprema' mantidas em condição ambiente. Os tratamentos avaliados foram: controle (sem dano mecânico), dano mecânico por impacto, dano mecânico por compressão e dano mecânico por corte. Os diferentes danos não influenciaram na firmeza de polpa e no ângulo 'hue' da casca. O dano por corte proporcionou frutos com menor acidez titulável, nove dias após a aplicação do dano. Frutos submetidos ao dano por impacto apresentaram maior teor de sólidos solúveis, quinze dias após a aplicação dos danos. Os danos por impacto e corte causaram o menor valor de L da polpa em todas as avaliações, evidenciando o escurecimento da polpa. Contudo, este efeito não foi observado na epiderme. Todos os frutos danificados por corteapresentaram podridão após nove dias da aplicação dos danos.De maneira geral, pode-se concluir que, nas intensidades testadas, maçãs 'Fuji Suprema' submetidas ao dano por impacto e corte apresentam prejuízos em sua qualidade, pois ocorre escurecimento da polpa no local do dano. Além disso, o dano por corte reduz a vida pós-colheita dos frutos, facilitando a ocorrência de podridões.