bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Wiener-Hopf Equation Technique for Solving General Nonlinear Regularized Nonconvex Variational Inequalities
Authors: Balooee Javad , Cho Yeol Je , Kang Mee Kwang
Published: January 2012

In this paper, we introduce and study some new classes of extended general nonlinear regularized non-convex variational inequalities and the extended general nonconvex Wiener-Hopf equations, and by the projection operator technique, we establish the equivalence between the extended general nonlinear regularized nonconvex variational inequalities and the fixed point problems as well as the extended general nonconvex Wiener-Hopf equations. Then by using this equivalent formulation, we discuss the existence and uniqueness of solution of the problem of extended general nonlinear regularized nonconvex variational inequalities. We apply the equivalent alternative formulation and a nearly uniformly Lipschitzian mapping S for constructing some new p-step projection iterative algorithms with mixed errors for finding an element of set of the fixed points of nearly uniformly Lipschitzian mapping S which is unique solution of the problem of extended general nonlinear regularized nonconvex variational inequalities. We also consider the convergence analysis of the suggested iterative schemes under some suitable conditions.

Mathematics Subject Classification (2010)

Primary 47H05; Secondary 47J20, 49J40
Nonlinear coupled fixed point theorems in ordered generalized metric spaces with integral type
Authors: Cho Yeol Je , Rhoades Billy E , Saadati Reza , Samet Bessem , Shatanawi Wasfi
Published: January 2012

In this article, we study coupled coincidence and coupled common fixed point theorems in ordered generalized metric spaces for nonlinear contraction condition related to a pair of altering distance functions. Our results generalize and modify several comparable results in the literature.

2000 MSC: 54H25; 47H10; 54E50.
The genome and proteome of a Campylobacter coli bacteriophage vB_CcoM-IBB_35 reveal unusual features
Authors: Carvalho Carla M , Kropinski Andrew M , Lingohr Erika J , Santos Sílvio B , King Jonathan , Azeredo Joana
Published: January 2012

Background

Campylobacter is the leading cause of foodborne diseases worldwide. Bacteriophages (phages) are naturally occurring predators of bacteria, ubiquitous in the environment, with high host specificity and thus considered an appealing option to control bacterial pathogens. Nevertheless for an effective use of phages as antimicrobial agents, it is important to understand phage biology which renders crucial the analysis of phage genomes and proteomes. The lack of sequence data from Campylobacter phages adds further importance to these studies.

Methods

vB_CcoM-IBB_35 is a broad lytic spectrum Myoviridae Campylobacter phage with high potential for therapeutic use. The genome of this phage was obtained by pyrosequencing and the sequence data was further analyzed. The proteomic analysis was performed by SDS-PAGE and Mass spectrometry.

Results and conclusions

The DNA sequence data of vB_CcoM-IBB_35 consists of five contigs for a total of 172,065 bp with an average GC content of 27%. Attempts to close the gaps between contigs were unsuccessful since the DNA preparations appear to contain substances that inhibited Taq and ϕ29 polymerases. From the 210 identified ORFs, around 60% represent proteins that were not functionally assigned. Homology exists with members of the Teequatrovirinae namely for T4 proteins involved in morphogenesis, nucleotide metabolism, transcription, DNA replication and recombination. Tandem mass spectrometric analysis revealed 38 structural proteins as part of the mature phage particle.

Conclusions

Genes encoding proteins involved in the carbohydrate metabolism along with several incidences of gene duplications, split genes with inteins and introns have been rarely found in other phage genomes yet are found in this phage. We identified the genes encoding for tail fibres and for the lytic cassette, this later, expressing enzymes for bacterial capsular polysaccharides (CPS) degradation, which has not been reported before for Campylobacter phages.
Carcinoma involving the gallbladder: a retrospective review of 23 cases - pitfalls in diagnosis of gallbladder carcinoma
Authors: Giang Tran H , Ngoc Tran TB , Hassell Lewis A
Published: January 2012

Background

Carcinoma of the gallbladder (GBC) clinically mimics benign gallbladder diseases and often escapes detection until advanced stage. Despite the frequency of cholecystectomy, diagnosis of GBC remains problematic in many situations. We sought to identify pathologic features that contribute to the difficulty in recognition of GBC.

Methods

We identified 23 patients (ranged from 45 to 86 years, male to female ratio 1:4.5) with carcinoma involving the gallbladder referred to an academic medical center over a period of 10 years for study. This includes 10 cases of primary GBC, 6 cases of metastatic tumor to gallbladder, 6 cases of directly invasive adenocarcinoma arising elsewhere in the biliary tree, and one case of unidentified origin adenocarcinoma. Primary tumors include adenocarcinoma not otherwise specified (NOS) in 6 cases, papillary adenocarcinoma in 2 cases, and single cases of undifferentiated carcinoma and combined adenocarcinoma and neuroendocrine carcinoma (NEC). Metastatic tumors to gallbladder were from a wide range of primary sites, predominantly the gastrointestinal tract.

Results

These cases illustrate seven potential pitfalls which can be encountered. These include: 1) mistakenly making a diagnosis of adenocarcinoma of gallbladder when only benign lesions such as deeply penetrating Rokitansky-Aschoff sinuses are present (overdiagnosis), 2) misdiagnosing well-differentiated invasive carcinoma with minimal disease as benign disease (underdiagnosis), 3) differentiating between primary NEC of gallbladder and metastasis, 4) confusing primary mucinous adenocarcinoma of gallbladder with pseudomyxoma peritonei from a low grade appendiceal neoplasm disseminated to gallbladder, 5) confusing gangrenous necrosis related to cholecystitis with geographic tumoral necrosis, 6) undersampling early, grossly occult disease, and 7) misinterpreting extracellular mucin pools.

Conclusions

Clinical history and a high index of suspicion are prerequisite to detecting GBC. Detection of GBC at an early stage is difficult because the symptoms mimic benign gallbladder diseases. Misinterpretation of subtle microscopic abnormalities contributes diagnostic failures in early cases. Careful attention to any evidence of mural thickening, thorough sampling, particularly in older patients, and close examination of any deeply situated glandular structures are critical. Correlations with radiographic and clinical findings are important helps to avoid misdiagnosis in this commonly resected organ.

Virtual Slides

The virtual slide(s) for this article can be found here: http://www.diagnosticpathology.diagnomx.eu/vs/1443233938651038.
Safety and efficacy of rituximab treatment for vasculitis in hepatitis B virus-associated type II cryoglobulinemia: a case report
Authors: Pasquet Florian , Combarnous François , MacGregor Brigitte , Coppere Brigitte , Mausservey Christelle , Ninet Jacques , Hot Arnaud
Published: January 2012

Introduction

Systemic B-cell depletion and clinical remission of the systemic effects of cryoglobulins have already been achieved using rituximab in hepatitis C virus-positive immunocompetent patients. Conversely, to the best of our knowledge there are no reports in the literature regarding the use of rituximab in hepatitis B virus-associated cryoglobulinemia.

Case presentation

We report here the case of a 60-year-old Caucasian man who presented with hepatitis B virus-associated type II cryoglobulinemia with severe multisystem disease, including membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis with acute renal failure. The vasculitis was refractory to conventional and antiviral therapy but rituximab use led to a fall in cryoglobulin levels and disease control. The B-cell depletion was safe and efficient to induce a complete remission of the disease.

Conclusion

Our case highlights the benefit and the efficacy of rituximab in association with antiviral therapy in small vessel vasculitis related to hepatitis B virus-associated mixed cryoglobulinemia.
Global analysis of DNA methylation in early-stage liver fibrosis
Authors: Komatsu Yoko , Waku Tsuyoshi , Iwasaki Naoya , Ono Wakana , Yamaguchi Chie , Yanagisawa Junn
Published: January 2012

Background

Liver fibrosis is caused by chemicals or viral infection. The progression of liver fibrosis results in hepatocellular carcinogenesis in later stages. Recent studies have revealed the importance of DNA hypermethylation in the progression of liver fibrosis to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the importance of DNA methylation in the early-stage liver fibrosis remains unclear.

Methods

To address this issue, we used a pathological mouse model of early-stage liver fibrosis that was induced by treatment with carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) for 2 weeks and performed a genome-wide analysis of DNA methylation status. This global analysis of DNA methylation was performed using a combination of methyl-binding protein (MBP)-based high throughput sequencing (MBP-seq) and bioinformatic tools, IPA and Oncomine. To confirm functional aspect of MBP-seq data, we complementary used biochemical methods, such as bisulfite modification and in-vitro-methylation assays.

Results

The genome-wide analysis revealed that DNA methylation status was reduced throughout the genome because of CCl4 treatment in the early-stage liver fibrosis. Bioinformatic and biochemical analyses revealed that a gene associated with fibrosis, secreted phosphoprotein 1 (Spp1), which induces inflammation, was hypomethylated and its expression was up-regulated. These results suggest that DNA hypomethylation of the genes responsible for fibrosis may precede the onset of liver fibrosis. Moreover, Spp1 is also known to enhance tumor development. Using the web-based database, we revealed that Spp1 expression is increased in HCC.

Conclusions

Our study suggests that hypomethylation is crucial for the onset of and in the progression of liver fibrosis to HCC. The elucidation of this change in methylation status from the onset of fibrosis and subsequent progression to HCC may lead to a new clinical diagnosis.
Identification of unique expression signatures and therapeutic targets in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Yan Wusheng , Shih Joanna H , Rodriguez-Canales Jaime , Tangrea Michael A , Ylaya Kris , Hipp Jason , Player Audrey , Hu Nan , Goldstein Alisa M , Taylor Philip R , Emmert-Buck Michael R , Erickson Heidi S
Published: January 2012

Background

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC), the predominant histological subtype of esophageal cancer, is characterized by high mortality. Previous work identified important mRNA expression differences between normal and tumor cells; however, to date there are limited ex vivo studies examining expression changes occurring during normal esophageal squamous cell differentiation versus those associated with tumorigenesis. In this study, we used a unique tissue microdissection strategy and microarrays to measure gene expression profiles associated with cell differentiation versus tumorigenesis in twelve cases of patient-matched normal basal squamous epithelial cells (NB), normal differentiated squamous epithelium (ND), and squamous cell cancer. Class comparison and pathway analysis were used to compare NB versus tumor in a search for unique therapeutic targets.

Results

As a first step towards this goal, gene expression profiles and pathways were evaluated. Overall, ND expression patterns were markedly different from NB and tumor; whereas, tumor and NB were more closely related. Tumor showed a general decrease in differentially expressed genes relative to NB as opposed to ND that exhibited the opposite trend. FSH and IgG networks were most highly dysregulated in normal differentiation and tumorigenesis, respectively. DNA repair pathways were generally elevated in NB and tumor relative to ND indicating involvement in both normal and pathological growth. PDGF signaling pathway and 12 individual genes unique to the tumor/NB comparison were identified as therapeutic targets, and 10 associated ESCC gene-drug pairs were identified. We further examined the protein expression level and the distribution patterns of four genes: ODC1, POSTN, ASPA and IGF2BP3. Ultimately, three genes (ODC1, POSTN, ASPA) were verified to be dysregulated in the same pattern at both the mRNA and protein levels.

Conclusions

These data reveal insight into genes and molecular pathways mediating ESCC development and provide information potentially useful in designing novel therapeutic interventions for this tumor type.
Reservoir characterization and inversion uncertainty via a family of particle swarm optimizers
Authors: Fernández Martínez Juan Luis , Mukerji Tapan , García Gonzalo Esperanza , Suman Amit
Published: January 2012

History matching provides to reservoir engineers an improved spatial distribution of physical properties to be used in forecasting the reservoir response for field management. The ill-posed character of the history-matching problem yields nonuniqueness and numerical instabilities that increase with the reservoir complexity. These features might cause local optimization methods to provide unpredictable results not being able to discriminate among the multiple models that fit the observed data (production history). Also, the high dimensionality of the inverse problem impedes estimation of uncertainties using classical Markov-chain Monte Carlo methods. We attenuated the ill-conditioned character of this history-matching inverse problem by reducing the model complexity using a spatial principal component basis and by combining as observables flow production measurements and time-lapse seismic crosswell tomographic images. Additionally the inverse problem was solved in a stochastic framework. For this purpose, we used a family of particle swarm optimization (PSO) optimizers that have been deduced from a physical analogy of the swarm system. For a synthetic sand-and-shale reservoir, we analyzed the performance of the different PSO optimizers, both in terms of exploration and convergence rate for two different reservoir models with different complexity and under the presence of different levels of white Gaussian noise added to the synthetic observed data. We demonstrated that PSO optimizers have a very good convergence rate for this example, and provide in addition, approximate measures of uncertainty around the optimum facies model. The PSO algorithms are robust in presence of noise, which is always the case for real data.
Denoising seismic data using the nonlocal means algorithm
Authors: Bonar David , Sacchi Mauricio
Published: January 2012

The nonlocal means algorithm is a noise attenuation filter that was originally developed for the purposes of image denoising. This algorithm denoises each sample or pixel within an image by utilizing other similar samples or pixels regardless of their spatial proximity, making the process nonlocal. Such a technique places no assumptions on the data except that structures within the data contain a degree of redundancy. Because this is generally true for reflection seismic data, we propose to adopt the nonlocal means algorithm to attenuate random noise in seismic data. Tests with synthetic and real data sets demonstrate that the nonlocal means algorithm does not smear seismic energy across sharp discontinuities or curved events when compared to seismic denoising methods such as f-x deconvolution.
Synthesis and Solid-State Polymerization of Butadiyne Derivatives with Trialkoxyphenylurethane Groups
Authors: Takahashi Rintaro , Nunokawa Tatsuya , Shibuya Tadahiro , Tomita Ryohei , Tatewaki Yoko , Okada Shuji , Kimura Tatsumi , Shimada Satoru , Matsuda Hiro
Published: January 2012

3,4,5-Trialkoxyphenyl isocyanate derivatives, in which alkoxy was dodecyloxy or methoxy, reacted with 4,6-decadiyn-1,10-diol and 5,7-dodecadiyn-1,12-diol, and four butadiyne derivatives with (N-trialkoxyphenyl)urethane groups were successfully synthesized. Their solid-state polymerization stimulated by UV or γ-ray irradiation was investigated. All monomers in crystals were found to be polymerizable. However, conversion was different depending on the compounds. The derivatives from 5,7-dodecadiyn-1,12-diol showed better conversion, suggesting that they have more favorable monomer arrangement for the solid-state polymerization. Polymers of dodecyloxy derivatives could be partially dissolved in chloroform and they showed solvatochromism when hexane was added to the solution. As was expected from the structure of tridodecyloxyphenyl groups introduced, dodecyloxy derivatives gave organogels in various organic solvents in the concentration less than 2 wt %. However, these gels could not be polymerized by UV irradiation, and the monomer alignment was found to be different between crystalline and gel states.
Subphthalocyanine Derivatives Having a Phosphorus Group as an Axial Substituent
Authors: Yamasaki Yasuhiro , Mori Tomohiro
Published: January 2012

The synthesis and properties of novel subphthalocyanines having a phosphorus group as an axial substituent are reported. The excellent solubility of these materials may provide a good production method for optical films without impairing the excellent properties peculiar to the original subphthalocyanines.
HF–Pyridine: A Versatile Promoter for Monoacylation/Sulfonylation of Phenolic Diols and for Direct Conversion of t-Butyldimethylsilyl Ethers to the Corresponding Acetates
Authors: Michigami Kyosuke , Yoshimoto Kazuya , Hayashi Masahiko
Published: January 2012

Monoacylation and trifluoromethanesulfonylation of phenolic diols were achieved by the aid of HF–pyridine, whereas diacylation occurred with pyridine alone. Furthermore, HF–pyridine was found to promote the direct conversion of t-butyldimethylsilyl ethers to the corresponding acetates.
Fluorescence Quenching of Two Conjugated Polyelectrolytes by Natural Amino Acids and Hemeproteins
Authors: Sun Qinfang , Lu Rong , Yu Anchi
Published: January 2012

We found that none of twenty natural amino acids quenches the fluorescence of anionic PTP, but phenylalanine, tryptophan, and tyrosine do quench obviously the fluorescence of cationic PFP. The overlaps between the Q-band absorption spectrum of myoglobin, cytochrome c, and horseradish peroxidase and the fluorescence emission spectrum of PTP indicate that the fluorescence quenching of PTP by hemeproteins is via fluorescence resonance energy transfer, not via photoinduced electron transfer.
Nickel-catalyzed Diastereoselective Reductive Coupling Reaction of Norbornene with Aldehydes in the Presence of Triethylborane
Authors: Ogata Kenichi , Toh Ayumi , Shimada Daisuke , Fukuzawa Shin-ichi
Published: January 2012

Highly diastereoselective reductive coupling reaction was achieved between an aldehyde and a norbornene to afford an alcohol compound using a nickel/phosphine catalyst system in the presence of a reducing agent. The combination of a PCy3 ligand and triethylborane as the reducing agent proved effective for the reaction. A wide range of aldehydes were found to participate in the reaction with high diastereoselectivities.
Severe hyperkalaemia peripartum with magnesium sulphate
Authors: Morton Adam
Published: January 2012

A case of severe hyperkalaemia peripartum in the setting of magnesium sulphate infusion is presented. Health professionals involved in the care of high-risk pregnancies should be aware of this rare association.
Tuberculosis prevalence at autopsy: a study from North India
Authors: Punia Rajpal Singh , Mundi Irneet , Mohan Harsh , Chavli K H , Harish Dasari
Published: January 2012

Tuberculosis (TB) is an important cause of morbidity and mortality. This study attempts to determine the prevalence of TB in autopsies. Of 768 autopsies, 39 cases were diagnosed as TB. These were retrieved and re-examined. It was noted that in a significant number of patients with TB was only revealed after autopsy. This has important implications as they may well have been a source of transmission to the general public and health-care providers.
Endangered Species & Biodiversity: A Classroom Project & Theme
Authors: Lauro Brook
Published: January 2012

Students discover the factors contributing to species losses worldwide by conducting a project about endangered species as a component of a larger classroom theme of biodiversity. Groups conduct research using online endangered- species databases and present results to the class using PowerPoint. Students will improve computer research abilities as well as develop organizational, writing, and public-speaking skills. This topic can be used for most educational levels by adjusting the difficulty of the content.
Identifying nutrition sensitive spectral changes in various winter wheat samples
Authors: Szalay K. , Deákvári J. , Firtha F. , Tolner I. , Csorba Á. , Fenyvesi L.
Published: January 2012

The hyperspectral imaging spectroscopy is a promising future tool in the field of optical remote sensing and it creates new perspective for modern information management in site specific agricultural production. One can determine quantitative relationships between the environmental and physiological parameters of vegetation cover and the soil quality parameters as well as the features of the reflectance spectra by the newgeneration data monitoring and sampling method. These reflectance spectra have characteristics of the different crops and provide with the possibility of accurate classification and detection. The objective was to present the technological capabilities of hyperspectral imaging and show some exprimental results of nutrient sensitive changes in the winter wheat spectra. There were found two characteristic wavelength ranges: the 500 to 800 nm for wheat kernel samples and the 1650 nm to 1800 nm for wheat ear samples where fertilizer treatments showed definite trend on the basis of the normalized reflectance spectra.
Reproductive traits and seed dynamics at two environmentally contrasting annual plant communities: From fieldwork to theoretical expectations
Authors: Lebrija-Trejos Edwin , Lobato Maria-Cristina Cardiel , Sternberg Marcelo
Published: January 2012

Current research has determined that traits involved in reproductive strategies and processes of seed dynamics should be studied together, and under varying environments, in order to clarify their roles in the ecology of plant communities. Here, we analyzed reproductive traits (allocation to reproduction, efficiency of seed production, and seed size) at the community level and their relationships to seed dynamics (seed production, dispersal, storage, loss, and germination) in a Mediterranean and a semiarid ecosystem in Israel. The results showed that aboveground biomass production was two-fold greater in the Mediterranean community compared to the semiarid. Conversely, relative reproductive allocation in the semiarid community almost doubled that of the Mediterranean. Seed size and seed output correlated negatively but, despite large differences in seed production between communities (73% higher in the semiarid site), average seed size was similar between sites. Seed losses in the semiarid community were significantly greater than those in the Mediterranean (80% vs. 13%), and contrasting seed-density patterns between the communities were noted. Despite small seed sizes, dispersal was of low importance and did not differ between communities. Our results show that whereas some plant traits are reflected at the community level according to theoretical functional predictions, others fail to follow the expected patterns due to variations in the relative importance of environmental constraints and the existence of alternative strategies for coping with them.
Fale com eles! o trabalho interpretativo e a produção de consenso na pesquisa qualitativa em saúde: inovações a partir de desenhos participativos
Authors: Campos Rosana Onocko
Published: January 2012

O objetivo deste artigo é discutir uma forma de se trabalhar com pesquisa qualitativa interpretativa, a partir de técnicas participativas, incluindo validação e produção de consenso, e a construção de narrativas. As narrativas, construídas pelos pesquisadores, seguindo os núcleos argumentais, tornam o material denso, mantendo-se fiel à história. Em um segundo momento, esta narrativa é apresentada aos sujeitos entrevistados (momento hermenêutico), com a função de validar os dados e produzir efeitos de intervenção. Estes efeitos de narratividade são evidenciados no aprofundamento das questões ou temas pouco desenvolvidos na primeira discussão. No processo de interpretação, não se buscam significados por trás do texto, senão que se procura colocar o mundo (nossas questões) na frente dele, não negando com isso a existência do latente, mas optando-se pelo manifesto em virtude do posicionamento ético-político da própria pesquisa (implicação e olhar avaliativo dos sujeitos da pesquisa). Por fim, a construção de consenso é revista para se adequar aos princípios da inclusão e da diversidade, e se chega a ele via espaço de heterogeneidade de participantes, que chamamos de oficina de construção de consenso, com discussão, revisão de posicionamentos, encontros e discordâncias. Aponta-se o valor de mediação do testemunho de pacientes e familiares como uma forma especial de empoderamento.
O enfoque qualitativo na avaliação do consumo alimentar: fundamentos, aplicações e considerações operacionais
Authors: Bosi Maria Lúcia Magalhães , Prado Shirley Donizete , Lindsay Ana Cristina , Machado Márcia Maria Tavares , Carvalho Maria Claudia da Veiga Soares
Published: January 2012

Disputas grosso modo infundadas entre defensores dos enfoques qualitativo e quantitativo têm impedido o reconhecimento dos benefícios das aplicações combinadas de ambos os métodos em um mesmo estudo, ou seja, de uma abordagem multidimensional e integrada. Não obstante, em anos recentes, o campo da Nutrição em Saúde Coletiva vem vivenciando um aumento na condução de estudos orientados não apenas pela mensuração, mas pela combinação de métodos qualitativos e quantitativos. Com efeito, o enfoque qualitativo tem muito a contribuir para a investigação do consumo alimentar, dentre vários outros objetos e temáticas, nas quais sobressai a importância do aprofundamento da compreensão da produção subjetiva, expressa em crenças, atitudes e comportamentos. Este artigo resume a natureza, os fundamentos e a utilidade do enfoque qualitativo em pesquisas no âmbito da alimentação e nutrição, esclarecendo como esses métodos têm sido ou podem ser usados para estudar os complexos problemas que se apresentam nesse campo, circunscrevendo a discussão ao âmbito dos estudos sobre consumo alimentar. A integração de ambos os métodos, qualitativo e quantitativo, mediante a complementaridade metodológica, pode minimizar os limites do emprego de cada enfoque de forma isolada.
Interconexões entre Linguística Aplicada e práticas de atenção à saúde: linguagem e identidades na prevenção de DSTs/Aids entre travestis profissionais do sexo
Authors: Borba Rodrigo
Published: January 2012

Este artigo propõe aproximar a Linguística Aplicada de um contexto pouco estudado nos estudos da linguagem no Brasil: a prevenção de DST/Aids. Com base em uma perspectiva não essencialista das relações entre linguagem e identidades sociais, discute-se a importância de atentarmos ao uso de linguagem nesse contexto e descreve-se a construção interacional de identidades em intervenções para distribuição de preservativos entre travestis que se prostituem em uma região urbana do sul do Brasil. Os dados indicam que, durante as intervenções, Sandra e Márcia, mulheres em gênero e sexo, engajam-se em interações nas quais utilizam intertextos identitários associados a identidades não tradicionais e, assim, produzem o efeito de adequação de suas identidades às travestis e ao contexto interacional onde se inserem. Argumenta-se que linguagem, identidade e intertextualidade são construtos fundamentais para entendermos esse contexto interacional e para o combate à disseminação de DST/Aids.
Entre o conformismo e o sonho: percepções de mulheres em situação de vulnerabilidade social à luz das concepções de Amartya Sen
Authors: Magalhães Kelly Alves , Cotta Rosângela Minardi Mitre , Gomes Karine de Oliveira , Franceschinni Sylvia do Carmo Castro , Batista Rodrigo Siqueira , Soares Jéferson Boechat
Published: January 2012

O estudo objetivou analisar a percepção de mulheres em situação de vulnerabilidade social, sobre seus sonhos e as formas de enfrentamento das adversidades presentes em seu cotidiano, buscando perceber como a situação de pobreza, segundo as concepções de Amartya Sen, interferiam em sua atitude perante a vida. Trata-se de um estudo qualitativo, realizado em agosto e setembro de 2007, no município de Paula Cândido-MG. Foram entrevistadas 110 mulheres (10%) cadastradas no Programa Bolsa Família, selecionadas aleatoriamente. Os dados foram coletados por meio de questionário semiestruturado e analisados por meio da técnica de análise temática. Verificou-se que o desejo por uma "vida melhor" foi, em última instância, o maior sonho das mulheres entrevistadas, sendo o conjunto "educação-trabalho-dinheiro" o meio mais citado para se alcançar uma vida digna. Contudo, a baixa escolaridade, o trabalho precário e informal e a má remuneração constituíram obstáculos à realização de seus sonhos. Diante de tais adversidades, a atitude das entrevistadas variou desde o conformismo e desesperança até o autorreconhecimento de sua situação como sujeito no mundo, capaz de sonhar e acreditar na possibilidade de realização de suas aspirações, utilizando suas habilidades e recursos para lutar por uma "vida melhor". Ressalta-se que uma política de combate à pobreza - como o PBF - deve buscar a expansão das capacidades humanas, articulando-se com ações estruturais, a fim de atingir o objetivo último do referido programa: a emancipação sustentada das famílias beneficiadas e sua inclusão social.
Estudo dos modelos assistenciais praticados por operadoras de planos privados de saúde
Authors: Freitas Rosiene Maria de , Cherchiglia Mariângela Leal , Lana Francisco Carlos Félix , Malta Deborah Carvalho , Andrade Eli Iola Gurgel
Published: January 2012

Este estudo objetivou identificar a adoção, pelas operadoras, de modelos assistenciais que busquem a integralidade do cuidado, a partir da indução pela Agência Nacional de Saúde Suplementar (ANS). O universo foi composto por operadoras de planos de saúde atuantes no estado de Minas Gerais, nas modalidades autogestão, filantropia, medicina de grupo e cooperativa médica. As empresas foram descritas a partir dos cadastros da ANS. Foi realizada entrevista telefônica assistida por computador - ETAC - para obtenção de dados sobre o acesso dos beneficiários aos serviços, estruturação da rede e implantação de modelos segundo linhas materno-infantil, adulto/idoso, cardiovascular e neoplasias. Foram constatadas 182 empresas em atividade no estado; 108 foram elegíveis para o estudo; 27,1% das operadoras informaram ter implantado programas de cuidado na linha materno-infantil; 22,2%, na linha de cuidado ao adulto/idoso e 9,2% em neoplasias. Inadequadas estruturas internas e o pequeno porte da maioria das operadoras podem explicar, em parte, a dificuldade de implantação e modelos de atenção mais cuidadores. Ressalta-se a ampla margem de inovações ainda existente para a introdução dessas práticas por parte das operadoras.
Laser 830nm na viabilidade do retalho cutâneo de ratos submetidos à nicotina
Authors: Neves Lais Mara Siqueira das , Marcolino Alexandre Marcio , Prado Rodrigo Paschoal , Thomazini José Antônio
Published: January 2012

OBJETIVO: Investigar os possíveis efeitos da laserterapia com laser diodo 830nm ao se contrapor a ação da nicotina na viabilidade do retalho cutâneo em ratos. MÉTODOS: Foram utilizados 16 ratos Wistar, distribuídos em 2 grupos de 8: Grupo 1- submetido à técnica cirúrgica, para obtenção dos retalhos cutâneos randômicos de base cranial, com injeção subcutânea de nicotina em uma dose de 2mg/Kg/dia, uma semana antes e uma semana após o procedimento cirúrgico e simulação da radiação laser; Grupo 2- similar ao grupo 1, cujos retalhos cutâneos randômicos de base cranial foram submetidos à irradiação do laser imediatamente após a cirurgia e nos 4 dias subsequentes. Após a eutanásia, as áreas de necrose e de tecido viável foram examinadas através do método de pesagem do Gabarito de Papel e pelo método semi-automático de análise de imagens (Mini-Mop®). RESULTADOS: Os resultados foram analisados estatisticamente através do teste ANOVA. Os valores de porcentagem de área de necrose através do método de análise mostraram uma diminuição da área de necrose no grupo 2 onde foi aplicado laser. CONCLUSÃO: O laser 830nm foi eficaz na melhora da viabilidade do retalho cutâneo em ratos submetido à ação da nicotina. Nível de evidência II: Estudos terapêuticos - Investigação dos resultados do tratamento.
Fertigação do algodoeiro utilizando efluente doméstico tratado
Authors: Sousa Neto Osvaldo N , Andrade Filho Jerônimo , Dias Nildo da S , Rebouças Jonatas R. L , Oliveira Francisco R. A de , Diniz Adriana A
Published: January 2012

Conduziu-se um experimento no Campus da Universidade Federal Rural do Semiárido em Mossoró, RN, com o objetivo de avaliar o comportamento do algodoeiro (Gossypium hirsutum L. raça latifolium Hatch) cultivar 8H, quanto ao aspecto crescimento, quando irrigado com efluentes domésticos tratados. O delineamento experimental adotado foi o de blocos casualizados com parcelas subdivididas e sendo testadas, nas parcelas, as diluições do efluente doméstico [25% - T1, 50% - T2, 75% - T3 e 100% de água residuária- T4 e água de abastecimento + adubação mineral do solo - T5] em dois solos de texturas contrastantes (Latossolo Vermelho Amarelo - S1 e Cambissolo - S2). A irrigação com água residuária influenciou significativamente o crescimento das plantas de algodoeiro, em referência ao índice de velocidade de emergência, à percentagem de germinação à altura de plantas, ao diâmetro caulinar e número de folhas e à área foliar e massa seca de parte aérea, crescendo com o aumento da proporção de uso do efluente doméstico. Houve efeito positivo do acúmulo de nutrientes no solo aplicados via fertirrigação sobre as variáveis estudadas. A fertirrigação com efluente doméstico tratado pode substituir a adubação convencional do algodoeiro.
Tratamentos superficiais visando à melhoria da aderência entre gesso e taliscas de bambu
Authors: Silva Cibelle G , Barbosa Normando P , Oliveira Marilia P. de
Published: January 2012

O gesso é um aglomerante com aplicações sobretudo na fabricação de placas de forro, elementos decorativos e em paredes divisórias. No entanto, utilizando-se de uma baixa relação água/gesso e procedimentos tais como vibração, torna-se possível obter resistências mecânicas compatíveis para outras aplicações na construção civil, como é o caso de elementos estruturais. A investigação reportada no presente trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar, experimentalmente, a possibilidade de se melhorar o compósito estudado. Foram realizados tratamentos para redução da absorção de água pelas taliscas, por meio da utilização de extrato vegetal B Carbon, resina polimérica e piche. Na tentativa de melhorar a aderência na interface gesso/bambu foram utilizados adesivo epóxi, massa plástica e piche, além de confeccionados corpos de prova de gesso reforçados com taliscas de bambu, tratadas com diferentes produtos, cuja eficiência foi avaliada em ensaios mecânicos. Observou-se que, para ocorrer uma boa aderência na interface do compósito, são necessários tratamentos complementares que reduzam os efeitos da instabilidade dimensional.
Avaliação do tratamento da discopatia degenerativa cervical pela artrodese via anterior utilizando placas associadas a cages ou cages em peek isoladamente
Authors: Hübner André Rafael , Mendes Marcelo Ribeiro , Queruz Jean Carlo Frigotto , Dambrós Jean Marcel , Suárez Álvaro Diego Heredia , Spinelli Leandro de Freitas
Published: January 2012

OBJETIVOS: Avaliar comparativamente o tratamento da discopatia degenerativa cervical por discectomia e artrodese cervical via anterior utilizando placas associadas a cages ou cages em PEEK isoladamente. MÉTODOS: Foi realizado um estudo retrospectivo comparativo entre dois grupos de pacientes operados pela técnica de discectomia e artrodese cervical via anterior. Foram selecionados aleatoriamente 70 pacientes, 35 operados com o método de fixação com placas associadas a cages - denominado Grupo I - e 35 com o cage em PEEK isoladamente - Grupo II. Realizou-se anamnese, exame físico, escores de dor (escala visual e analógica da dor) e função (critérios de Odom's, SF-36, Indice de incapacidade do pescoço) o pré e pós-operatório e exames de imagem. RESULTADOS: Houve predominância de pacientes do sexo feminino em ambos os grupos, com média de idade de 55 anos no Grupo I e 47 no Grupo II. Ambos os grupos apresentaram distribuição semelhante quanto ao número de níveis operados, assim como nas complicações encontradas e escores de dor, cervicalgia e SF36 no pré e pós-operatório. Houve 97.1% de fusão com 94.3% de bons resultados no Grupo I e 100% de fusão, com 97 % de bons resultados no Grupo II. CONCLUSÕES: O estudo comparativo da utilização de placas com cages e cages em PEEK isoladamente apresentou resultados semelhantes e satisfatórios para os grupos estudados, não se constatando superioridade ou inferioridade de um método com relação ao outro.
Avaliação clínica da infiltração facetaria no tratamento da dor lombar crônica por síndrome facetaria: estudo prospectivo
Authors: Silva Thiago Miller Santana , Coutinho Filho Bartolomeu Ribeiro , Barsotti Carlos Eduardo Gonçales , Santos Francisco Prado Eugênio dos , Galves Jefferson Alves , Oliveira Carlos Eduardo Algavez Soares de
Published: January 2012

OBJETIVO: Avaliar os resultados do bloqueio facetário lombar com anestésico local e corticóide em pacientes com lombalgia crônica por síndrome facetária. MÉTODOS: Realizou-se um estudo prospectivo em 30 pacientes com lombalgia crônica por síndrome facetária, os quais foram submetidos à infiltração facetária com bupivacaína a 0,25% e acetato de metilpredinisolona sob controle radioscópico, e foram seguidos e avaliados seguindo as escalas Visual Analógica da Dor, Oswestry Disability Index e os Critérios de MacNab nos quais 17 foram do sexo feminino e 13 do sexo masculino. RESULTADOS: Foi observada diminuição significativa (p<0,05) da dor pela Escala Visual Analógica. Obtivemos 73,3% de resultados satisfatórios na primeira semana, 63,3% no primeiro mês, 43,3% em 3 meses, e 36,6% no final de 6 meses. O índice de complicações foi muito baixo. CONCLUSÃO: O bloqueio facetário utilizando corticóide e anestésico local se mostrou-se efetivo, seguro e de fácil realização. No entanto houve recidiva em mais de 50% dos casos dentro de 6 meses.
O que eu não faço mais na cirurgia da coluna vertebral: pesquisa entre cirurgiões de coluna brasileiros
Authors: Defino Helton L .A , Herrero Carlos Fernando P. S , Zardo Erasmo de Abreu
Published: January 2012

OBJETIVO: Apresentar o resultado de pesquisa realizada entre 257 cirurgiões de coluna sobre os principais procedimentos cirúrgicos que não são mais utilizados para o tratamento das doenças traumáticas, degenerativas e deformidades da coluna vertebral. MÉTODO: Os participantes da pesquisa responderam a um questionário abrangendo o tratamento das diferentes doenças traumáticas, degenerativas e deformidades dos segmentos cervical, torácico e lombar, sendo que cada quesito apresentava três opções de resposta: não faço mais, nunca utilizei e ainda utilizo. RESULTADOS: Os cirurgiões entrevistados eram oriundos de 22 estados brasileiros, 97% eram do sexo masculino com idade variando de 28 a 72 anos de idade (média 43,16 anos ±11,54 anos), e com 0 a 23 anos de atuação na área da cirurgia da coluna vertebral. A formação básica dos cirurgiões entrevistados era Ortopedia em 78,2% e Neurocirurgia em 20,2%. CONCLUSÃO: A avaliação das respostas dos questionários evidencia a mudança de atitude terapêutica e abandono de técnicas classicamente utilizadas no tratamento das doenças da coluna vertebral, influência da formação básica do cirurgião na escolha do tratamento das doenças da coluna vertebral e grande espectro de opções terapêuticas entre os cirurgiões entrevistados considerando o tempo de experiência na área de atuação, idade e formação básica.
Considerate constructors scheme: Glenfarg water treatment works
Authors: Murray Mike , Forbes Doug , Mason Steve
Published: January 2012

The project to modify Glenfarg water treatment works by Scottish Water, working in conjunction with its partners Black and Veatch Ltd and Scottish Water Solutions, received a gold award and ‘the ultimate accolade’ of ‘The Most Considerate Site 2009’ at the considerate constructors scheme (CCS) awards. Although previous projects undertaken by Scottish Water have achieved high considerate constructor scores, Glenfarg exceeded previous projects' standards. This level of performance was delivered across the eight categories of the scheme: considerate, environment, cleanliness, good neighbour, respectful, safe, responsible and accountable. The steps the project team took under each of these categories to deliver the project are reviewed in this paper. The paper also outlines some of the challenges the project team faced while delivering such a high level of performance. Furthermore, the paper makes particular reference to ‘soft’ management skills and the development of a project organisational culture that emphasised pride and passion through engagement of the workforce. Overall, the paper presents valuable insights into how performing beyond the CCS requirements remains a dynamic and ongoing activity for all parties involved with the scheme.
Genes and song: genetic and social connections in fragmented habitat in a woodland bird with limited dispersal
Authors: Pavlova Alexandra , Amos J. Nevil , Goretskaia Maria I. , Beme Irina R. , Buchanan Katherine L. , Takeuchi Naoko , Radford James Q. , Sunnucks Paul
Published: January 2012

Understanding the processes leading to population declines in fragmented landscapes is essential for successful conservation management. However, isolating the influence of disparate processes, and dispersal in particular, is challenging. The Grey Shrike‐thrush, Colluricincla harmonica, is a sedentary woodland‐dependent songbird, with learned vocalizations whose incidence in suitable habitat patches falls disproportionally with decline in tree cover in the landscape. Although it has been suggested that gaps in tree cover might act as barriers to its dispersal, the species remains in many remnants of native vegetation in agricultural landscapes, suggesting that it may have responded to habitat removal and fragmentation by maintaining or even increasing dispersal distances. We quantified population connectivity of the Grey Shrike‐thrush in a system fragmented over more than 120 years using genetic (microsatellites) and acoustic (song types) data. First, we tested for population genetic and acoustic structure at regional and local scales in search of barriers to dispersal or gene flow and signals of local spatial structuring indicative of restricted dispersal or localized acoustic similarity. Then we tested for effects of habitat loss and fragmentation on genetic and acoustic connectivity by fitting alternative models of mobility (isolation‐by‐distance [the null model] and reduced and increased movement models) across treeless vs. treed areas. Birds within ∼5 km of each other had more similar genotypes and song types than those farther away, suggesting that dispersal and song matching are limited in the region. Despite restricted dispersal detected for females (but not males), populations appeared to be connected by gene flow and displayed some cultural (acoustic) connectivity across the region. Fragmentation did not appear to impact greatly the dispersal of the Grey Shrike‐thrush: none of the mobility models fit the genetic distances of males, whereas for females, an isolation‐by‐distance model could not be rejected in favor of the models of reduced or increased movement through treeless gaps. However, dissimilarities of the song types were more consistent with the model of reduced cultural connectivity through treeless areas, suggesting that fragmentation impedes song type sharing in the Grey Shrike‐thrush. Our paper demonstrates that habitat fragmentation hinders important population processes in an Australian woodland bird even though its dispersal is not detectably impacted.
Small‐scale grassland assembly patterns differ above and below the soil surface
Authors: Price Jodi N. , Hiiesalu Inga , Gerhold Pille , Pärtel Meelis
Published: January 2012

The existence of deterministic assembly rules for plant communities remains an important and unresolved topic in ecology. Most studies examining community assembly have sampled aboveground species diversity and composition. However, plants also coexist belowground, and many coexistence theories invoke belowground competition as an explanation for aboveground patterns. We used next‐generation sequencing that enables the identification of roots and rhizomes from mixed‐species samples to measure coexisting species at small scales in temperate grasslands. We used comparable data from above (conventional methods) and below (molecular techniques) the soil surface (0.1 × 0.1 × 0.1 m volume). To detect evidence for nonrandom patterns in the direction of biotic or abiotic assembly processes, we used three assembly rules tests (richness variance, guild proportionality, and species co‐occurrence indices) as well as pairwise association tests. We found support for biotic assembly rules aboveground, with lower variance in species richness than expected and more negative species associations. Belowground plant communities were structured more by abiotic processes, with greater variability in richness and guild proportionality than expected. Belowground assembly is largely driven by abiotic processes, with little evidence for competition‐driven assembly, and this has implications for plant coexistence theories that are based on competition for soil resources.
Optimization of co-solvent addition in supercritical fluid extraction of fat with carbon dioxide
Authors: Ivanov Dusica , Colovic Radmilo , Beljkas Bojana , Levic Jovanka , Sredanovic Slavica
Published: January 2012

This investigation is concerned with supercritical fluid extraction (SFE)
using CO2, as an analytical technique for total fat extraction from food and
feed samples. Its most significant advantages are safety, cleanness, and
shorter extraction time. The main limitation of this technique includes the
difficulty of extracting polar lipids due to the non-polar character of the
solvent (CO2) used for the extraction. The influence of ethanol as a
co-solvent on the SFE of mash pig feed was investigated in this paper. Total
fat content was determined by SFE and Soxhlet method for ten commercially
available mesh pig feeds. Yields of the fat extracted by both methods were
plotted one against the other and compared. Statistically significant
difference (p ? 0.05) has been found only between the total fat obtained by
the Soxhlet extraction and SFE by pure CO2. Based on the mathematical model,
maximum yield of the extracted fat is achieved at an ethanol addition of 0.67
ml/g of sample, when the other parameters are the same as recommended by the
producer?s procedure.
Effect of ground paprika and its oleoresin on marinated chicken breast meat quality
Authors: Jokanovic Marija , Dzinic Natalija , Tomovic Vladimir , Savatic Snezana , Tasic Tatjana , Ikonic Predrag , Sojic Branislav
Published: January 2012

The still-marinating process is a simplified technology used to tenderize and
to improve the flavour, colour and juiciness of meat products. The effects of
marinade type, addition of ground paprika (P) or paprika oleoresin (O), on
the instrumental and sensory properties of cooked marinated chicken fillets
were investigated. It was observed that marinade uptake was greater (P >
0.05) for the fillets marinated with paprika oleoresin. Cooking loss was
lowest for experimental group O, and signifycantly lower (P<0.05) comparing
to control group. Determined L