bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Avaliação do grau de implantação do Programa de Qualificação da Atenção Hospitalar de Urgência (Qualisus)
Authors: Gusmão-filho Fernando Antônio Ribeiro de , Carvalho Eduardo Freese de , Araújo Júnior José Luiz do Amaral Correia de
Published: July 2010

O presente artigo tem por objetivo avaliar o grau de implantação do Programa de Qualificação da Atenção Hospitalar de Urgência (Qualisus) em três hospitais de alta complexidade do SUS do município do Recife, Pernambuco. Foi realizada uma avaliação normativa, levando-se em conta atributos estruturais e do processo de trabalho relativos às dimensões do acolhimento e direitos dos usuários e da resolutividade diagnóstica e terapêutica dos serviços. O grau de implantação do programa foi avaliado como intermediário nos três hospitais. O artigo detalha e discute os achados referentes ao grau de implantação das ações que compõem o programa nos três serviços.
Influência do capital intelectual na avaliação de desempenho aplicada ao setor hospitalar
Authors: Bonacim Carlos Alberto Grespan , Araújo Adriana Maria Procópio de
Published: July 2010

Este estudo contribui com a adaptação, para as entidades públicas, de uma ferramenta de avaliação de desempenho sedimentada nas empresas privadas. O objetivo é demonstrar como pode ser mensurado o impacto da atividade de ensino no valor econômico agregado por um hospital universitário público à sociedade. Para tanto, o texto foi dividido em quatro partes, além dos aspectos introdutórios, metodológicos e das considerações finais. Inicialmente, será contextualizado o setor hospitalar, mais especificamente os hospitais universitários públicos. Logo após, serão apresentadas as definições, a natureza e mensuração do capital intelectual, seguidas da demonstração dos principais modelos avaliação de desempenho econômico. Finalmente, será apresentado um modelo adaptado, sob o enfoque da gestão baseada no valor, propondo ajuste nos indicadores de retorno e do respectivo investimento, demonstrando os impactos da gestão do capital intelectual e da atividade de ensino no resultado econômico de tais instituições. O estudo foi elaborado por intermédio de uma metodologia consubstanciada em uma pesquisa bibliográfica, sob o prisma do método de procedimento comparativo descritivo. Ressalta-se, por fim, a importância da prestação de contas para a sociedade quanto ao uso do recurso público.
Gestão do desempenho humano: um estudo de caso em um Hospital Geral de Fortaleza (CE)
Authors: Fontenele Maria de Fátima Marrocos
Published: July 2010

A temática deste trabalho apresenta questões sobre a prática da avaliação de desempenho funcional em uma organização pública de saúde. Este eixo de análise ganha destaque a partir das dificuldades de desenvolvimento de sistemas de avaliação com alianças entre políticas de concessão de incentivos financeiros, em um contexto cultural peculiar. Nesse sentido, é necessário admitir os limites dessa ferramenta gerencial. A partir de uma pesquisa qualitativa, utilizou-se um roteiro semiestruturado de perguntas aplicado aos servidores de um hospital geral público do Estado do Ceará. Obteve-se a caracterização do sistema de avaliação de desempenho utilizado pela instituição, podendo-se verificar sua adequação aos modelos propostos na literatura e a pertinência de seus propósitos com as percepções e expectativas dos servidores pesquisados.
Imagens construídas em torno da gravidez
Authors: Martins Maria de Fátima da Silva Vieira
Published: July 2010

O presente artigo surge na sequência de um estudo levado a efeito em seis concelhos do distrito de Braga, onde realizamos entrevistas semiestruturadas a cem mulheres que acabaram de dar à luz numa maternidade do norte do país e cuja residência se situa nos concelhos de Amares, Braga, Póvoa de Lanhoso, Vila Verde, Vieira do Minho e Terras de Bouro. Procuramos identificar as representações destas mulheres relativas à vivência da sua gravidez, em que salientamos que a gênese destas representações está relacionada com uma visão triangular do conceito de saúde, de doença e do corpo e que constituem aspectos extraordinariamente positivos na medida em que algumas contribuem para uma ligação afetiva ao bebê ou vinculação pré-natal. É de salientar que o conhecimento revelado é, muitas das vezes, fruto de crenças culturalmente enraizadas e que devem ser analisadas ou desmistificadas na consulta de vigilância pré-natal.
Saber é prevenir: uma nova abordagem no combate ao câncer de mama
Authors: Kim Daniel Dongiu , Araujo Ana Laura Lima , Tsai Andréia I An , Kojima Fabio Henrique , Takashima Jorge Shiro Inamori , Otsuka Junior Lauro Fumiyuki , Gamboa Ricardo Augusto Bravo , Kimura Ricardo , Sugawara Ricardo Takashi , Tambellini Elaine Fracasso , Silveira Cássio , Oliveira Rute Loreto Sampaio de
Published: July 2010

No Brasil, dados do Ministério da Saúde apontam o câncer de mama como principal causa de morte em mulheres, apesar dos avanços no diagnóstico e tratamento desta enfermidade. Sucessivas campanhas de esclarecimento à população enfatizaram os meios disponíveis para prevenção: autoexame, exame clínico por profissional da saúde e a mamografia. Apesar da sua importância, estas estratégias isoladamente não reduziram a incidência deste agravo à saúde, já que não atuam nos fatores predisponentes para sua iniciação. O objetivo desse estudo foi desenvolver uma atividade de promoção à saúde através do reforço de conhecimentos existentes e agregação de novas informações sobre o câncer de mama no contexto de Unidade Básica de Saúde. Trata-se de um estudo transversal de intervenção pedagógica em salas de espera de Unidade Básica de Saúde. A intervenção pedagógica foi realizada através de questionário interativo, palestra informativa e discussão livre sobre o tópico, associados à avaliação quantitativa e qualitativa desta intervenção. A abordagem proposta foi positiva, uma vez que houve melhora quantitativa e qualitativa da compreensão do público sobre os temas abordados, boa interatividade entre os palestrantes e o público, e criação de agentes multiplicadores de conhecimento.
A importância do aconselhamento genético na anemia falciforme
Authors: Guimarães Cínthia Tavares Leal , Coelho Gabriela Ortega
Published: July 2010

O aconselhamento genético tem a finalidade de nortear as pessoas sobre a tomada de decisões a respeito da procriação, ajudando-as a entender como a hereditariedade pode colaborar para a ocorrência ou risco de recorrência de doenças genéticas, como é o caso da anemia falciforme. Esta anemia é a doença hereditária de maior prevalência no Brasil, com complicações clínicas que podem prejudicar o desenvolvimento, a qualidade de vida e levar à morte. O presente artigo tem o intuito de elucidar a importância do aconselhamento genético para os portadores de anemia ou traço falciforme, visando salientar as principais características dessa doença, suas complicações e como é feito o diagnóstico e a captação desses doentes. O estudo realizado foi embasado no método bibliográfico, buscando estudos que dissertam sobre esse tipo de anemia e aconselhamento genético, correlacionando-os com as diretrizes e dados do Ministério da Saúde. A partir dos dados encontrados, infere-se a importância do aconselhamento genético para os indivíduos que apresentam a forma heterozigota da anemia falciforme - o traço falcêmico - e destaca-se a necessidade de implantação de programas de diagnóstico precoce e de orientação tanto genética quanto social e psicológica para as pessoas que possuem a doença ou o traço falciforme.
Educação em biossegurança: contribuições pedagógicas para a formação profissional em saúde
Authors: Costa Marco Antonio Ferreira da , Costa Maria de Fátima Barrozo da
Published: July 2010

O estudo, realizado no período 2004-2005, teve como objetivo geral analisar percepções docentes e discentes sobre os processos de ensino-aprendizagem da biossegurança em cursos de nível médio da área de saúde. Teve como foco de coleta de dados seis cursos de nível médio da Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, no Rio de Janeiro. Um total de 82 alunos e doze professores locais pesquisados participaram do estudo. Foi uma pesquisa teórico-empírica, com abordagem qualitativa e utilização de dados quantitativos que emergiram ao longo do processo de trabalho. Os dados foram analisados à luz da multirreferencialidade. Esta investigação justificou-se pela defasagem da biossegurança em relação ao mundo do trabalho e mundo da escola e demandas decorrentes do progresso técnico-científico e da própria evolução social, no que se refere à biossegurança em espaços da saúde. Os resultados obtidos apontaram para uma necessidade sentida de aprimoramento dos processos de ensino em biossegurança em cursos de nível médio da área de saúde, o que poderá contribuir, sobremaneira, para a inclusão da biossegurança nos currículos da educação profissio-nal em saúde.
Financiamento do setor saúde: uma retrospectiva recente com uma abordagem para a odontologia
Authors: Nóbrega Carolina Bezerra Cavalcanti , Hoffmann Rosana Helena Schllitler , Pereira Antonio Carlos , Meneghim Marcelo de Castro
Published: July 2010

As políticas orientadas para a mudança no sistema de saúde ocorreram em três fases: a implantação das Ações Integradas de Saúde (AIS) em 1983; o Sistema Unificado e Descentralizado de Saúde (SUDS) em 1987 e a promulgação da Constituição em 1988, surgindo assim o SUS (Sistema Único de Saúde), uma estrutura organizacional baseada em princípios de cidadania e justiça social. Com o surgimento do SUS, houve a necessidade de definir objetivos e diretrizes estratégicas para o processo de descentralização, tratando dos aspectos das responsabilidades, relações entre os gestores e critérios de transferência de recursos federais para estados e municípios. Desse modo, o objetivo desse trabalho foi realizar uma retrospectiva recente do plano orçamentário destinado à saúde após a reorganização do SUS, realizando também uma abordagem na área da odontologia. Trata-se de um estudo retrospectivo, no qual foram utilizados dados coletados do banco de dados em saúde do Ministério da Saúde do Brasil (DATASUS) no período de 1998 a 2005. Observou-se que pelo menos no que diz respeito a valores de repasse anuais, a situação é positiva, esperando-se dessa forma que a tão sonhada reorganização e estruturação financeira do sistema de saúde brasileiro esteja começando a acontecer.
Nível de conhecimento dos cirurgiões-dentistas de São José dos Campos sobre o uso de anti-inflamatórios não esteróides
Authors: Carvalho Valéria Abrantes Pinheiro , Borgatto Adriano Ferreti , Lopes Luciane Cruz
Published: July 2010

A prescrição abusiva de medicamentos na odontologia constitui um desafio aos programas de saúde pública que visam corrigir a prescrição inadequada de fármacos. Os anti-inflamatórios não esteróides (AINE) podem alteram a eficácia dos anti-hipertensivos, elevando a pressão arterial, sobretudo em pacientes idosos e/ou com hipertensão arterial sistêmica (HAS). O objetivo foi avaliar o nível de conhecimentos dos cirurgiões-dentistas (CD) da rede pública da saúde da Prefeitura Municipal de São José dos Campos (PMSJC) sobre a prescrição de AINE a pacientes com HAS. Trata-se de estudo descritivo, realizado por meio de questionário aplicado aos 92 CD da PMSJC. Os resultados foram analisados estatisticamente utilizando-se os testes de Wald e de Fisher. A associação entre as variáveis foi estudada por meio da razão de chances (OR) com p-valor<0,05. Os resultados mostraram que o nível de conhecimento para a prescrição de AINE para pacientes com HAS foi insuficiente e as interações medicamentosas entre AINE e anti-hipertensivos são desconhecidas pela quase totalidade da amostra. Concluiu-se que os cursos de atualização em odontologia não estão suprindo as necessidades dos CD no âmbito da farmacoterapia.
Percepção de professores de odontologia no processo de ensino-aprendizagem
Authors: Lazzarin Helen Cristina , Nakama Luiza , Cordoni Júnior Luiz
Published: July 2010

Há necessidade de se pesquisar a formação didático-pedagógica do professor universitário e a qualidade da educação superior em decorrência das demandas da sociedade em mudança e da implantação das diretrizes curriculares nacionais. Analisa-se a percepção de docentes do curso de graduação em odontologia da Universidade Estadual de Londrina a respeito do papel do professor no processo ensino-aprendizagem. Adotou-se a abordagem qualitativa e a entrevista semiestruturada para a geração de dados. O estudo revelou que o professor tem um papel fundamental no processo de ensino-aprendizagem, sendo considerado responsável pela transmissão do conhecimento. As estratégias de ensino-aprendizagem se baseiam em exposições orais. Grande parte dos professores só teve formação didático-pedagógica nos cursos de mestrado e/ou doutorado, que não capacitam suficientemente os docentes para o exercício do magistério. A maioria dos professores não possui formação específica em educação. Conclui-se que há uma necessidade de rever tanto a formação quanto a atualização didático-pedagógica do professor universitário para que se possa buscar uma formação generalista, humanista, crítica e reflexiva do estudante.
Estudo da prevalência de fluorose dentária em Aracaju
Authors: Carvalho Ricardo Wathson Feitosa de , Valois Roberta Barreto Vieira , Santos Cléa Núbia Albuquerque , Marcellini Paulo Sérgio , Bonjardim Leonardo Rigoldi , Oliveira Cristiane Costa da Cunha , Barretto Sandra Regina , Gonçalves Suzane Rodrigues Jacinto
Published: July 2010

Com o objetivo de determinar a prevalência de fluorose dentária em Aracaju (SE), 196 escolares foram submetidos a exame clínico bucal, utilizando o índice de Dean. Pôde ser concluído que a prevalência de fluorose dentária em escolares de cinco a quinze anos do município de Aracaju (SE) foi de 8,16%, não implicando risco à saúde pública. Porém, estudos semelhantes devem ser realizados com periodicidade regular, além de orientação aos órgãos responsáveis pela fluoretação da água, para que os níveis considerados ótimos para essa região sejam respeitados, prevenindo assim o surgimento de tal ocorrência.
Circular camera array system for 3‐D displays based on the reconstruction of parallax rays
Authors: Takahashi Hideya , Miyatake Shuhei , Aida Tahito , Yamada Kenji
Published: July 2010

Abstract—A circular camera system employing an image‐based rendering technique that captures light‐ray data needed for reconstructing three‐dimensional (3‐D) images by using reconstruction of parallax rays from multiple images captured from multiple viewpoints around a real object in order to display a 3‐D image of a real object that can be observed from multiple surrounding viewing points on a 3‐D display is proposed. An interpolation algorithm that is effective in reducing the number of component cameras in the system is also proposed. The interpolation and experimental results which were performed on our previously proposed 3‐D display system based on the reconstruction of parallax rays will be described. When the radius of the proposed circular camera array was 1100 mm, the central angle of the camera array was 40°, and the radius of a real 3‐D object was between 60 and 100 mm, the proposed camera system, consisting of 14 cameras, could obtain sufficient 3‐D light‐ray data to reconstruct 3‐D images on the 3‐D display.
Production-Data Analysis—Challenges, Pitfalls, Diagnostics
Authors: Ilk D.. , Anderson D.M.. M. , Stotts G.W.J.. W.J. , Mattar L.. , Blasingame T.A.. A.
Published: July 2010

The analysis of production data to determine reservoir characteristics, completion effectiveness, and hydrocarbons in place has become very popular in recent years. Although production analysis (PA) for reservoir characterization is approaching the popularity of pressure-transient analysis (PTA), there are few consistent diagnostic methods in practice for the analysis of production data. Many of the diagnostic methods for production-data analysis are little more than observation-based approaches—and some are essentially rules of thumb.

In this work, we provide guidelines for the analysis of production data, as well as identify common pitfalls and challenges. Although PTA and production-data analyses have the same governing theory (and solutions), we must recognize that pressure transient data are acquired as part of a controlled experiment, performed as a specific event [e.g., a pressure-buildup (PBU) test]. In contrast, production data are generally considered to be surveillance/monitoring data—with little control and considerable variance occurring during the acquisition of the production data. We note that since both PA and PTA have the same governing relations, it is possible "in theory" that the same deliverables of PTA can be obtained using PA.

This paper attempts to provide a state-of-the-technology review of current production-data-analysis techniques/tools—particularly tools to diagnose the reservoir model and assess the reservoir condition. The reservoir model is diagnosed mainly by examining the character exhibited by the data [that is the evidence of transient flow (e.g., quarter-slope might indicate a finite-conductivity fracture, or half-slope might indicate radial/pseudoradial flow)]. In addition, one can also assess the reservoir condition by inspecting the character of production data, which can confirm the evidence of boundary-dominated flow such that unit slope may indicate the boundary-dominated-flow regime and, therefore, in-place fluid volume can be estimated.

This work also identifies the challenges and pitfalls of PA—and we try to provide guidance toward best practices and best tools. To complement this mission, we use relevant field examples to address specific issues, and we illustrate the value and function of production-data analysis for a wide range of reservoir types and properties. In this work, we propose the use of a sequence of raw and enhanced data plots for the diagnostic analysis of production data. We strongly believe that a comprehensive and systematic approach for production-data diagnosis has significant importance for the analysis and forecast of production performance.
In-Situ Phase Pressures and Fluid Saturation Dynamics Measured in Waterfloods at Various Wettability Conditions
Authors: Brautaset Amund , Ersland Geir , Graue Arne
Published: July 2010

During waterfloods of six outcrop chalk core-plug samples prepared at various wettabilities, simultaneous local pressures and in-situ fluid saturations were measured. Using high-spatial-resolution magnetic-resonance imaging (MRI) to image fluid saturations and pressure taps with semipermeable disks to measure individual phase pressures allowed calculations of relative permeabilities and the dynamic capillary pressure curves for the imbibition processes. A second objective was to identify individual-fluid saturation changes caused by spontaneous imbibition and viscous displacement to determine the local recovery mechanism and to calculate local recovery factors and in-situ Amott-Harvey indices. The obtained results contribute to improved description and understanding of multiphase-fluid flow in porous media, including in situ measurements of relative permeabilities, dynamic capillary pressure curves, Amott-Harvey Indices, and local oil-recovery mechanisms.
Vorticity-Based Perpendicular-Bisector Grids for Improved Upscaling of Two-Phase Flow
Authors: Mahani H.. , Evazi M..
Published: July 2010

Highly detailed geological models, which are primary inputs for reservoir simulators, necessitate a reduction in the number of grid-blocks used in the solution of flow equations. However, preparing a coarse-scale model that can mimic the fine-scale behavior is challenging. Cartesian grids suffer from some shortcomings, such as in adaptation with geological and geometrical features and the grid-orientation effect that motivates the use of unstructured grids. Different methods have been used for this purpose, but none is robust enough. This justifies further research.

In this paper, we propose a novel unstructured-grid-generation scheme that uses the vorticity of fluid flow in porous media as the determining parameter for background-grid generation. It entails simulating single-phase flow on the fine grid and obtaining the velocity field and, subsequently, the vorticity map. Vorticity is then used to generate the background grid that plays an essential role in the generation of a desired final coarse grid. At this stage, users need to determine the value of some parameters, such as maximum and minimum spacing, vorticity cutoff, and vorticity-intensity degree. The advancing-front method and Delaunay triangulation are then used to provide the triangular and Voronoi perpendicular-bisector (PEBI) grid. The developed technique, which aims to capture both flow and geologic details, produces grids with higher resolutions at critical vorticity areas, such as around layer boundaries, and with lower resolution where vorticity is negligible, such as in homogeneous regions.

This technique is applied to two channelized and heterogeneous models, and the results are presented. Two-phase-flow simulations are performed on the generated coarse grids, and the results are compared with those of fine-scale grid and uniformly generated coarse grids. The results show a greater accuracy compared with uniformly gridded models.
Analytical Upgridding Method To Preserve Dynamic Flow Behavior
Authors: Hosseini Seyyed Abolfazl , Kelkar Mohan
Published: July 2010

A geocellular model contains millions of gridblocks and needs to be upscaled before the model can be used as an input for flow simulation. Available techniques for upgridding vary from simple methods such as proportional fractioning to more complicated methods such as maintaining heterogeneities through variance calculations. All these methods are independent of the flow process for which simulation is going to be used, and are independent of well configuration. We propose a new upgridding method that preserves the pressure profile at the upscaled level.

It is well established that the more complex the flow process, the more detailed the level of heterogeneity needed in the simulation model. In general, ideal upscaling is the process that preserves the "pressure profile" from the fine-scale model under the applicable flow process. In our method, we upgrid the geological model using simple flow equations in porous media. However, it should be remembered that to obtain a better match between fine scale and coarse scale, we also need to use appropriate upscaling of the reservoir properties.

The new method is currently developed for single-phase flow; however, we used it for both single-phase and two-phase flows for 2D and 3D cases. The method differs fundamentally from the other methods that try to preserve heterogeneities. In those methods, gridblocks are combined that have similar velocities (or other properties) by assuming constant pressure drop across the blocks. Instead, we combine the gridblocks that have similar pressure profiles, although to release some of our assumptions such as having constant velocities in gridblocks, we balance our equation with the K2 term. The procedure is analytical and, hence, very efficient, but preserves the pressure profile in the reservoir. The gridblocks (or layers) are combined in a way so that the difference between fine- and coarse-scale pressure profiles is minimized. In addition, we also propose two new criteria that allow us to choose the optimum number of layers more accurately so that a critical level of heterogeneity is preserved. These criteria provide insight into the overall level of heterogeneity in the reservoir and the effectiveness of the layering design.

We compare the results of our method with proportional layering and the King et al. method (King et al. 2006) and show that, for the same number of layers, the proposed method captures the results of the fine-scale model better. We show that the layer merging not only depends on the variation in the permeability between the gridblocks (K2 term), but also on the relative magnitude of the permeability values by combining 1/K2 and K2 terms.
Production Performance of a Constant-Pressure Well in an Orthogonally Fractured Reservoir
Authors: Hagoort Jacques
Published: July 2010

We have analyzed the production performance of a constant-pressure well in a naturally fractured reservoir made up of orthogonal matrix blocks. The fractured reservoir is modeled as a doubleporosity reservoir, in which interporosity flow is represented by an exact analytical transient influx function. Three distinct production modes can be recognized: Modes I, II, and III. In Mode I, the reservoir boundary is seen after flow in the matrix blocks has stabilized. In Mode II, this occurs while flow in the matrix blocks is still in the infinite-acting stage. In Mode III, the reservoir boundary is already seen before the influx from the matrix blocks has effectively set off. The effect of the natural fractures becomes increasingly evident with increasing mode number: from almost absent in Mode I, to significant in Mode II, and to dominant in Mode III. Mode I shows the best production performance, Mode III the worst. Each production mode can be subdivided into a number of distinct flow regimes. The production profiles in each of these regimes and the regime boundaries can be approximated by simple analytical formulas. These formulas may be used for production forecasting and for analyzing historical production decline.
Trace Element Speciation in Evaporation Pond Reclamation Assessments
Authors: Thimm H.F.
Published: July 2010

Current procedures for the reclamation of evaporation ponds and otherindustrial lagoons require the analysis of pond sediments for a variety oftrace elements specified by the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment (CCME). In general, trace element limits for this CCME list are setby the provinces (e.g., Tier 1 & 2 in Alberta, Levels A, B, and C in British Columbia). Failure to meet the specifications usually results in arequirement for risk assessment.

A problem often encountered with risk assessment is that the speciation oftrace elements exceeding the standards in the CCME list cannot be deduced fromthe analyses alone, because the CCME or government approved analyticalprocedures measure total concentrations, without regard for the chemical formin which an element of interest exists. This chemical speciation, however, canvery strongly affect toxicity, solubility and leachability, and availability toplants of the element.

In many cases, the favoured speciation of trace elements in evaporationponds can be calculated from geochemical thermodynamics, using pH and thereduction potential as master variables to obtain stability diagrams. Thesetechniques require the analysis of the pond water and pond sludge centrifugate.The practical use of the technique is illustrated in an example from anindustrial facility in Alberta, where it was shown that certain contaminantshad reacted to form stable and innocuous materials.

Introduction

The decommissioning of ponds and pits at gas plants and other facilities hasbeen a relatively high priority item for petroleum operators in the last tenyears. In addition to problems that may arise with respect to salinity andorganic contamination, trace elements may usually be expected to be present inpond sediments. The guidelines of the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment (CCME) require analysis for a variety of trace elements, althoughthe setting of critical values is left to the provinces. Failure to meet thecriteria set will often result in a requirement for risk assessment.

Unfortunately, the information to be gained from routine analysis of pondsediments can be misleading in this respect. The guidelines refer to totalconcentrations, and the analytical techniques for measuring these arerecommended in the appropriate government publications. These methods willusually determine elements such as lead without regard for the originalspeciation of the metals. Speciation, however, is of critical importance whenrisks are being evaluated.
The Use of Some Geochemical Methods in Evaporation Pond Reclamation Assessments
Authors: Thimm H.F. , Seibert L.D.
Published: July 2010

Current procedures for the reclamation of evaporation ponds and otherindustrial lagoons require the analysis of pond sediments for a variety oftrace elements specified by the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment (CCME). In general, trace element limits for this CCME list are setby the provinces (e.g., Tier 1 & 2 in Alberta, Levels A, B, and C in British Columbia). Failure to meet the specifications usually results in arequirement for risk assessment.

The use of certain geochemical techniques, such as complete inorganicidentification, rare earth fingerprints, and the use of chondrite plots, can beused to augment the CCME investigations. They permit the separation ofcontaminant elements from elements that occur naturally above CCME standards.Conclusions can also be drawn about the soil stratification around the lagoon.These techniques are established in geochemistry, but have not, to date, beenwidely applied in petroleum environmental investigations. In an example from agas plant in Alberta, the use of these techniques are illustrated. Theexamination of chondrite plots from pond bottom samples suggested thatstratification was not horizontal, thus introducing considerable heterogeneityinto analytical results. The non-horizontal stratification was confirmed bydrilling and well log examination. As a consequence, a number of elements, although technically exceeding the CCME guidelines, could be assigned tonatural background, with an according reduction in environmental liability.

Introduction

In addition to problems that may arise from salt and organic contaminationduring pond decommissioning studies, trace elements are often detected in pondsediments. Analysis is required for a variety of trace elements specified bythe guidelines of the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment (CCME).Critical values for the elements of concern are set by individual provinces.This fact has given rise to a set of criteria such as Alberta Tier 1 and British Columbia Levels A, Band C, which are summarized in Table 1. Both the Tier 1 and B.C. Level A criteria in essence represent natural backgroundvalues, to be expected in most of the agricultural soils of the provincesconcerned. Failure to meet these criteria, depending on land use, often resultsin a requirement for risk assessment.
Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury: Compensation during Gait using Hamstring Muscle Activity
Authors: Catalfamo Paola Formento , Aguiar Gerardo , Curi Jorge , Braidot Ariel
Published: July 2010

Previous research has shown that an increase in hamstring activation may compensate for anterior tibial transalation (ATT) in patients with anterior cruciate ligament deficient knee (ACLd); however, the effects of this compensation still remain unclear. The goals of this study were to quantify the activation of the hamstring muscles needed to compensate the ATT in ACLd knee during the complete gait cycle and to evaluate the effect of this compensation on quadriceps activation and joint contact forces. A two dimensional model of the knee was used, which included the tibiofemoral and patellofemoral joints, knee ligaments, the medial capsule and two muscles units. Simulations were conducted to determine the ATT in healthy and ACLd knee and the hamstring activation needed to correct the abnormal ATT to normal levels (100% compensation) and to 50% compensation. Then, the quadriceps activation and the joint contact forces were calculated. Results showed that 100% compensation would require hamstring and quadriceps activations larger than their maximum isometric force, and would generate an increment in the peak contact force at the tibiofemoral (115%) and patellofemoral (48%) joint with respect to the healthy knee. On the other hand, 50% compensation would require less force generated by the muscles (less than 0.85 of maximum isometric force) and smaller contact forces (peak tibiofemoral contact force increased 23% and peak patellofemoral contact force decreased 7.5% with respect to the healthy knee). Total compensation of ATT by means of increased hamstring activity is possible; however, partial compensation represents a less deleterious strategy.
A 7-Year Prospective Study of Sense of Humor and Mortality in an Adult County Population: The Hunt-2 Study
Authors: Svebak Sven , Romundstad Solfrid , Holmen Jostein
Published: July 2010

Objective:

To prospectively explore the significance of sense of humor for survival over 7 years in an adult county population.

Methods:

Residents in the county of Nord-Trøndelag, Norway, aged 20 and older, were invited to take part in a public health survey during 1995–97 (HUNT-2), and 66,140 (71.2 %) participated. Sense of humor was estimated by responses to a cognitive ( N = 53,546), social ( N = 52,198), and affective ( N = 53,132) item, respectively, taken from the Sense of Humor Questionnaire (SHQ). Sum scores were tested by Cox survival regression analyses applied to gender, age, and subjective health.

Results:

Hazard ratios were reduced with sense of humor (continuous scale: HR = 0.73; high versus low by median split: HR = 0.50) as contrasted with increase of HR with a number of classical risk factors (e.g., cardiovascular disease: HR = 6.28; diabetes: HR = 4.86; cancer: HR = 4.18; poor subjective health: HR = 2.89). Gender proved to be of trivial importance to the effect of sense of humor in survival. Subjective health correlated positively with sense of humor and therefore might have presented a spurious relation of survival with humor, but sense of humor proved to reduce HR both in individuals with poor and good subjective health. However, above age 65 the effect of sense of humor on survival became less evident.

Conclusion:

Sense of humor appeared to increase the probability of survival into retirement, and this effect appeared independent of subjective health. Age under 65 mediated this effect, whereas it disappeared beyond this age.
Screening for Major Depression in Post-Myocardial Infarction Patients: Operating Characteristics of the Beck Depression Inventory-II
Authors: Huffman Jeff C. , Doughty Christopher T. , Januzzi James L. , Pirl William F. , Smith Felicia A. , Fricchione Gregory L
Published: July 2010

Objective:

To assess the operating characteristics of the Beck-Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) and the BDI-II cognitive subscale (BDI-II-cog) in screening for major depression (MDD) in post-myocardial infarction (MI) patients.

Methods:

Between October 2003 and July 2005, 131 post-MI patients admitted to an urban academic medical center completed the BDI-II and a semi-structured interview for depression within 72 hours of symptom onset. Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, overall correct classification, and likelihood ratios for various cutoff values on both scales were evaluated by comparing scores to interview diagnosis of MDD. Receiver-operator curves (ROC) were also calculated and area under the curve (AUC) measured.

Results:

The optimal cutoff value for the BDI-II was > 16, with a sensitivity of 88.2% and a specificity of 92.1%. Cutoff values of > 3 or > 4 were both acceptable for the BDI-II-cog (sensitivity = 88.2% and 82.4%, respectively; specificity = 81.6% and 88.6%, respectively). AUC was 0.96 for the BDI-II and 0.89 for the cognitive subscale.

Conclusions:

Effective depression screening is important in post-MI patients because of depression's independent association with morbidity and mortality following MI. Our results suggest that the BDI-II and its cognitive subscale are effective tools for screening for MDD in post-MI patients.
Hepatitis C and Depressive Symptoms: Psychological and Social Factors Matter More Than Liver Injury
Authors: Wilson Michael P. , Castillo Edward M. , Batey Andrew M. , Sapyta Jeffrey , Aronson Sari
Published: July 2010

Objective:

Given that the hepatitis C virus (HCV) crosses the blood-brain barrier, biological factors are commonly blamed for the high rates of mood disturbance in HCV-infected patients. However, no study assessing the potential contribution of psychosocial factors to depression in HCV has yet been conducted.

Methods:

A cross-sectional survey of 65 patients was undertaken to identify biological, psychological, and sociological contributions to depression. Biological, psychological, and sociological variables were tested for their association with depressive symptomatology as measured by the BDI-II. Separate analyses were conducted on health-related quality of life (HRQOL), as measured by the SF-36, in order to confirm findings in previous work.

Results:

Psychosocial variables assessed in the study, such as less social functioning, less religious faith, less ability to work, less salary, personal suicide attempt, worse reaction to diagnosis, and feeling “stressed out” were all associated with higher depression scores and lower HRQOL. Biological variables, including viral load, liver enzyme levels, INR, and stage of liver fibrosis on biopsy, were not associated with higher depression or lower HRQOL.

Conclusions:

The amount of disease as measured by laboratory abnormalities such as viral load, liver function tests, liver biopsy, and INR do not provide much useful information about a patient's depressive symptoms. Instead, these depressive symptoms are more influenced by psychological and social factors. Psychosocial support may therefore be beneficial to HCV patients.
Factors Predicting Adherence with Psychiatric Follow-up Appointments for Patients Assessed by the Liaison Psychiatric Team in the Emergency Department
Authors: Agyapong Vincent I. O. , Rogers Cathy , MacHale Siobhan , Cotter David
Published: July 2010

Background:

Several factors may predict adherence with psychiatric follow-up appointment for patients seen in the emergency department (ED) by liaison psychiatric teams. Awareness of these factors would allow for interventions targeted at vulnerable groups.

Aim:

To examine the factors which could predict adherence with psychiatric follow-up appointments for patients assessed in the ED by the liaison psychiatric team.

Methods:

The records of all patients assessed over a 3-month period by the liaison psychiatric team in the emergency department of Beaumont Hospital who were then referred for follow-up to their community mental health team were examined for relevant demographic and clinical variables. Phone contact was then made with the teams to which patients had been referred, to confirm the appointments made and if the patients had attended for their follow-up appointment. The data was analyzed with SPSS (version 17) using descriptive statistics and logistic regression.

Results:

Overall, 56% of the patients were found to have attended their follow-up appointments. Being previously known to psychiatric services was the only statistically significant predictor of adherence with out-patient appointments; with an odds ratio of 7 and p-value of 0.034 when controlling for other variables.

Conclusion:

Patients who are not known to psychiatric services prior to assessment in the emergency department may need a more proactive outreach if compliance with psychiatric follow-up appointments is to be improved.
Strategic Use of Debt in Flemish Municipalities
Authors: Goeminne Stijn , Smolders Carine
Published: July 2010

This paper discusses the literature on strategic use of debt models and tests the seminal models of Persson & Svensson (1989) and Alesina & Tabellini (1990) on a dataset of Flemish municipalities. The literature on strategic deficit and debt behaviour originates from the question whether or not incumbent policymakers run higher budget deficits than they would if they were confident of re-election. In this paper, we introduce a vote function to estimate the probability of electoral defeat and present evidence of strategic debt in line with Persson & Svensson (1989), but only for leftist governments with expected vote percentages below 49%. There is no indication that rightist governments without re-election prospects are sensitive to strategic debt behaviour.
Mesenchymal Stem Cells Enhance Allogeneic Islet Engraftment in Nonhuman Primates
Authors: Berman Dora M. , Willman Melissa A. , Han Dongmei , Kleiner Gary , Kenyon Norman M. , Cabrera Over , Karl Julie A. , Wiseman Roger W. , O'Connor David H. , Bartholomew Amelia M. , Kenyon Norma S.
Published: July 2010

OBJECTIVE

To test the graft-promoting effects of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in a cynomolgus monkey model of islet/bone marrow transplantation.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Cynomolgus MSCs were obtained from iliac crest aspirate and characterized through passage 11 for phenotype, gene expression, differentiation potential, and karyotype. Allogeneic donor MSCs were cotransplanted intraportally with islets on postoperative day (POD) 0 and intravenously with donor marrow on PODs 5 and 11. Recipients were followed for stabilization of blood glucose levels, reduction of exogenous insulin requirement (EIR), C-peptide levels, changes in peripheral blood T regulatory cells, and chimerism. Destabilization of glycemia and increases in EIR were used as signs of rejection; additional intravenous MSCs were administered to test the effect on reversal of rejection.

RESULTS

MSC phenotype and a normal karyotype were observed through passage 11. IL-6, IL-10, vascular endothelial growth factor, TGF-β, hepatocyte growth factor, and galectin-1 gene expression levels varied among donors. MSC treatment significantly enhanced islet engraftment and function at 1 month posttransplant (n = 8), as compared with animals that received islets without MSCs (n = 3). Additional infusions of donor or third-party MSCs resulted in reversal of rejection episodes and prolongation of islet function in two animals. Stable islet allograft function was associated with increased numbers of regulatory T-cells in peripheral blood.

CONCLUSIONS

MSCs may provide an important approach for enhancement of islet engraftment, thereby decreasing the numbers of islets needed to achieve insulin independence. Furthermore, MSCs may serve as a new, safe, and effective antirejection therapy.
Global Natural Gas Outlook
Authors: Moore D.W.
Published: July 2010

This reference is for an abstract only. A full paper was not submitted for this conference.

The natural gas industry is undergoing significant fundamental changes as it transitions from a regional to global market. The United States hashistorically had limited interaction with the rest of the world in importing natural gas, due to sizeable North America reserves. However, as large gas producing fields mature and decline in production, while the demand for clean fuels for power generation grows, US imports outside of North America are expected to increase dramatically. Current gas imports are primarily via pipeline from Canada, however, in the future, the US is expected to import liquefied natural gas (LNG) from many parts of the world.

Similarly, with growing gas demands Europe and Asia dependence on imported gas is expected to grow significantly. This will require investment in new pipeline projects to increase transit capacity for gas across adjacent regions. Also, import needs are driving huge LNG supply projects in Africa, the Middle East and Asia-Pacific.

Security of gas supplies is increasingly a focus area for governments of these regions. LNG will increase linkages for natural gas around the world. Will the desired gas supply security be achieved?

In this presentation of ExxonMobil's "Industry Gas Outlook", we will review the recent growth of the natural gas industry for historical context, where we are today, and the exciting challenges the global gas industry faces to find and deliver needed supplies.
Cytomegalovirus Antibodies Amongst Immunocompromised (HIV) Patients At Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) Idi - Araba, Lagos
Authors: Akinbami AA , Akanmu AS , Adeyemo TA , Wright KO , Dada MO , Dosunmu AO
Published: July 2010

Background: CMV infection constitutes a real risk of pathogenecity in immunocompromised patient. HIV- infectedpatients who require transfusion are at high risk of developing symptomatic CMV infection when they are transfusedwith CMV-infected donor blood. This study intends to determine CMV infection risk in correlation with bloodtransfusion in a population of HIV- infected patientsMethods: The study was carried out amongst clients attending HIV clinic at Lagos University Teaching Hospital(LUTH), who were recruited consecutively. Replacement blood donors of the hospital were recruited as controls. Atotal of 10mls of blood sample was collected per consenting participant. The serum obtained from 5ml of blood wasassayed for CMV IgG/IgM using an enzyme- linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) based Kit whilst full blood countand CD4 cell counts were also performed on the remaining 5mls.Results: A total of 129 HIV-infected were studied. All (100%) were IgG anti-CMV positive. 8 (6.6%) were IgM anti-CMV positive. This difference was found to be statistically significant P=0.004, (P<0.05). Of 122 replacement blooddonor controls, 118 (96%) of them were IgG anti-CMV positive whilst 26 (19.5%) of 121 were IgM anti-CMVpositive.The mean CD4+ cell count of HIV-infected patients was (234 ± 173.181). Previous history of bloodtransfusion did not affect CMV antibody positivity directly.Conclusion: The seroprevalence of CMV is very high in HIV-infected patients, which is comparable to theseroprevalence amongst the general population The use of leukoreduced blood units for anaemic HIV infectedpatients, is recommended.Keywords: Seroprevalence; CMV IgG/IgM; ELISA; healthy blood donors; HIV-infected patients.DOI: 10.3329/jom.v11i2.5462J MEDICINE 2010; 11 : 151-154
A Case of 25 Year Old Dwarf with Classic Cockayne Syndrome
Authors: Mohammed Fazle Rabbi , Chowdhury FR , Nur Zannatun , Shams MZ , Alam MB , Ahasan HAMN
Published: July 2010

A 25 year old, short stature man of non-consanguineous parents, attended with acute respiratory tract infectionalong with progressive difficulties in walking, hearing and vision. He had the complaints of growth retardation, poorfeeding, listless attitude and delayed milestones of development since one year of age. At presentation, he was noncooperative, IQ below 50; height and weight were below 5th percentile. He had progeria with enophthalmos, cataract,corneal opacity, miotic pupils, tremor, ataxia, in-coordination of movement, diminished tendon reflexes, unsteadygait, bilateral sensory neural deafness and hepatomegaly. Lateral skull X-ray showed cortical calcification. MRI ofbrain revealed bilateral dentate nucleus and basal ganglia calcification, generalized cerebral and cerebellaratrophy and ventricular dilatation. Typical clinical and imaging findings clinched the diagnosis of classic CockayneSyndrome; which is a rare, autosomal recessive, DNA repair deficient, multisystem disorder. It has no cure and theprognosis is poor.Keywords: Classic Cockayne syndrome; Dwarfism; Basal ganglia calcification; Cerebral atrophyDOI: 10.3329/jom.v11i2.5470J MEDICINE 2010; 11 : 186-188