bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Financial Intermediation and Macroeconomic Analysis
Authors: Woodford Michael
Published: November 2010

Understanding phenomena such as the recent financial crisis, and possible policy responses, requires the use of a macroeconomic framework in which financial intermediation matters for the allocation of resources. Neither standard macroeconomic models that abstract from financial intermediation nor traditional models of the “bank lending channel” are adequate as a basis for understanding the recent crisis. Instead we need models in which intermediation plays a crucial role, but in which intermediation is modeled in a way that better conforms to current institutional realities. In particular, we need models that recognize that a market-based financial system—one in which intermediaries fund themselves by selling securities in competitive markets, rather than collecting deposits subject to reserve requirements—is not the same as a frictionless system. I sketch the basic elements of an approach that allows financial intermediation and credit frictions to be integrated into macroeconomic analysis in a straightforward way. I show how the model can be used to analyze the macroeconomic consequences of the recent financial crisis and conclude with a discussion of some implications of the model for the conduct of monetary policy.
Tales from the bench: laboratory diagnosis of malaria
Authors: Edwards Hilary
Published: November 2010

This is a practical laboratory overview of current detection methods for malaria parasites, suitable for use in developing countries.
The role of NMR in the study of partially ordered materials: Perspectives and challenges
Authors: Domenici Valentina
Published: November 2010

The development of NMR techniques applied in the last 10 years to partially oriented systems, and in particular to liquid crystals (LCs), is the object of this brief perspective. The evolution of NMR methods (i.e., new NMR pulse sequences) and the improvement of both theoretical models and mathematic tools for the analysis of NMR data (specifically, for partially ordered systems) allowed scientists to extend their research to increasingly complex materials, such as dendrimers, polymers, and membranes, and to investigate unique phenomena, such as field-induced alignment and confining effects. Furthermore, the fast development of nanoscience and biomedicine is offering a rich variety of new “physical chemical” problems related to partially ordered materials. Starting from a brief perspective of recent works on thermotropic and lyotropic LCs based on different NMR methods, new challenges in this field will be drawn. Moreover, recent selected research works will be discussed in detail with particular emphasis on: (i) the effect of high magnetic fields on the supramolecular structure of chiral liquid-crystalline phases, such as the SmC*, TGBA*, and “de Vries”-type SmA* phases, by means of solid-state 2H NMR; (ii) the slow dynamics in the isotropic phase of bent-core LCs (BLCs) and of liquid single-crystal elastomers evidenced by 2H NMR relaxation studies; and (iii) the influence of the LC environment on the conformational properties of rod-like mesogens studied by high-resolution solid-state 13C NMR methods. This work aims to offer an occasion of reflection on this field of physical chemistry with a glance at future trends and challenges in view of the celebration of the International Year of Chemistry, 2011.
Fatty liver and global cardiometabolic risk
Authors: Szollár Lajos
Published: November 2010

A nem alkoholos zsírmáj betegség (NAFLD = nonalcoholic fatty liver disease) az „iparilag fejlett” országok felnőtt lakosságának 30%-ában észlelhető. Előrehaladott, súlyosabb formája a nem alkoholos steatohepatitis (NASH = nonalcoholic steatohepatitis), amelyből az esetek 20%-ában cirrhosis alakul ki, a kialakult cirrhosis mintegy 30–40%-a májeredetű halálhoz, elsősorban hepatocellularis carcinomához vezethet. Az NAFLD-t sokan a metabolikus szindróma májbeli manifesztációjának tartják, e két jelenség kapcsolatát tekintjük át, különös tekintettel a hasi elhízás, az inzulinrezisztencia, az oxidatív stressz és a csökkent antioxidáns védelem kóroki szerepére. A májsejtek trigliceridtartalmának növekedése együtt jár az egész szervezet, illetve a máj inzulinrezisztenciájával. Klasszikus tyúk–tojás probléma: a lipidlerakódás oka az inzulinrezisztencia, vagy az inzulinrezisztencia az ectopiás lipidfelhalmozódás következménye? A patogenetikai történések egy lehetséges sorrendje: megnövekedett zsírsavfluxus, a májbeli zsírsavkínálat növekedése → VLDL-túltermelődés, atherogen dyslipidaemia → a zsírsavak fokozott oxidációja és peroxidációja, enormis szabadgyök-terhelés → az antioxidáns védekezőrendszer kimerülése → a gyulladást és az immunválaszt kiváltó mediátorok „cunamiszerű” kiáramlása → a fibrosis progresszióját elősegítő transzkripciós és transzlációs változások → carcinogenesis. Az NAFLD és a metabolikus szindróma egyaránt része a globális kardiometabolikus kockázatnak, így lényeges a korai felismerés, és – amennyiben lehetséges a kezelés – ez ma a metabolikus szindróma részelemeinek kezelési ajánlásaiban testesül meg. Orv. Hetil., 2010,
47,
1946–1950.
Gestão de custos aplicada a hospitais universitários públicos: a experiência do Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto da USP
Authors: Bonacim Carlos Alberto Grespan , Araujo Adriana Maria Procópio de
Published: November 2010

Este artigo apresenta a experiência de implantação da metodologia de custos baseada em atividades (ABC) do Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto da Universidade de São Paulo, por meio de um estudo de caso, num período de cinco anos. As características dos hospitais universitários de alta tecnologia, tais como atividades docente-assistenciais e serviços básicos de saúde, fazem com que seus custos sejam mais elevados do que os de hospitais não universitários. Na sua trajetória institucional, o HCFMRP-USP não possuía uma metodologia consistente de mensuração e avaliação dos custos de sua atividade assistencial. No entanto, dificuldades de financiamento de suas atividades, associadas a uma completa reestruturação em seu modelo de atendimento vinculado ao Sistema Único de Saúde, impulsionaram a adoção do mapeamento de custos por atividades, para demonstrar, de forma adequada, como pode ser mensurado o impacto do ensino nos custos assistenciais, visto que a agenda democrática nacional tem reivindicado transparência, accountability e, fundamentalmente, eficiência na gestão dos recursos públicos
A utilização de uma rede neural artificial para previsão da incidência da malária no município de Cantá, estado de Roraima
Authors: Cunha Guilherme Bernardino da , Luitgards-Moura José Francisco , Naves Eduardo Lázaro Martins , Andrade Adriano Oliveira , Pereira Adriano Alves , Milagre Selma Terezinha
Published: November 2010

INTRODUÇÃO: A malária é uma doença endêmica na Amazônia Legal Brasileira, apresentando riscos diferentes para cada região. O Município de Cantá, no Estado de Roraima, apresentou para todo o período estudado, um dos maiores índices parasitários anuais do Brasil, com valor sempre maior que 50. O presente estudo visa à utilização de uma rede neural artificial para previsão da incidência da malária nesse município, a fim de auxiliar os coordenadores de saúde no planejamento e gestão dos recursos. MÉTODOS: Os dados foram coletados no site do Ministério da Saúde, SIVEP - Malária entre 2003 e 2009. Estruturou-se uma rede neural artificial com três neurônios na camada de entrada, duas camadas intermediárias e uma camada de saída com um neurônio. A função de ativação foi à sigmoide. No treinamento, utilizou-se o método backpropagation, com taxa de aprendizado de 0,05 e momentum 0,01. O critério de parada foi atingir 20.000 ciclos ou uma meta de 0,001. Os dados de 2003 a 2008 foram utilizados para treinamento e validação. Comparam-se os resultados com os de um modelo de regressão logística. RESULTADOS: Os resultados para todos os períodos previstos mostraram-se que as redes neurais artificiais obtiveram um menor erro quadrático médio e erro absoluto quando comparado com o modelo de regressão para o ano de 2009. CONCLUSÕES: A rede neural artificial se mostrou adequada para um sistema de previsão de malária no município estudado, determinando com pequenos erros absolutos os valores preditivos, quando comparados ao modelo de regressão logística e aos valores reais.
Atividade predatória dos fungos nematófagos Duddingtonia flagrans, Monacrosporium thaumasium e Artrobotrys robusta sobre larvas infectantes de Strongyloides stercoralis
Authors: Braga Fabio Ribeiro , Silva André Ricardo e , Araújo Juliana Milani , Carvalho Rogério Oliva , Araújo Jackson Victor de , Frassy Luiza Neme
Published: November 2010

INTRODUÇÃO: Strongyloides stercoralis é um nematoide que infecta grande parte da população mundial. MÉTODOS: O objetivo deste trabalho foi comparar a capacidade predatória dos fungos nematófagos Duddingtonia flagrans (AC001), Monacrosporium thaumasium (NF34) e Arthrobotrys robusta (I-31) sobre larvas infectantes (L3) de Strongyloides stercoralis em condições laboratoriais no meio ágar-água 2%. RESULTADOS: Ao final do experimento, os percentuais de redução de L3 de Strongyloides stercoralis observados foram de: 83,7% (AC001); 75,5% (NF34) e 73,2% (I-31). CONCLUSÕES: Os fungos nematófagos foram capazes de capturar e destruir in vitro as L3, podendo ser utilizados como controladores biológicos de Strongyloides stercoralis.
Parasitismo em humano por Amblyomma sp (Acari: Ixodidae), na cidade de Recife, estado de Pernambuco
Authors: Ramos Rafael Antonio do Nascimento , Galindo Mariana Karolina Freitas , Santana Marília de Andrade , Faustino Maria Aparecida da Glória , Alves Leucio Câmara
Published: November 2010

INTRODUÇÃO: Os ixodídeos pertencentes ao gênero Amblyomma são encontrados no Brasil, sendo de grande importância em Saúde Pública por representarem risco na transmissão de patógenos. MÉTODOS: Este trabalho relata um caso de parasitismo em humano por Amblyomma sp, ocorrido na Cidade de Recife, Pernambuco. RESULTADOS: O parasitismo foi observado em uma senhora onde os ectoparasitos encontravam-se fixados em suas pernas e pés. CONCLUSÕES: Este tipo de achado é incomum e constitui o primeiro relato do parasitismo em humano por Amblyomma sp, no Estado de Pernambuco.
Growth performance and body composition of giant trahira fingerlings fed diets with different protein and energy levels
Authors: Veras Galileu Crovatto , Salaro Ana Lucia , Zuanon Jener Alexandre Sampaio , Carneiro Antonio Policarpo Souza , Campelo Daniel Abreu Vasconcelo , Murgas Luis David Solis
Published: November 2010

The objective of this work was to determine the proper levels of protein and energy in diets of Hoplias lacerdae fingerlings. The dietary crude protein (CP) and gross energy (GE) levels for fingerlings of giant trahira were evaluated in a completely randomized 4x3 factorial design with 35, 39, 43 and 47% CP and 4,100, 4,300 and 4,500 kcal kg-1 of GE, and four replicates. The survival rate was 99.22%, and a linear improvement on the performance parameters was detected after increasing diet crude protein levels. Feed conversion ratio decreased with increasing levels of dietary protein and energy in the diets. A significant interaction between crude protein and gross energy was observed over body protein and mineral matter. Body lipid has increased linearly as gross energy in the diet increased. The retention of crude protein and energy showed a linear increasing with rising of crude protein levels in the diet. Crude protein level at 47% provides the best performance and energy retention, independently of the gross energy levels in the diet.
Propagação in vitro de Baptistonia pubes (Lindl.) Chiron & V.P. Castro (Oncidium pubes Lindl.) (Orchidaceae)
Authors: Ferreira Alessandro Wagner Coelho , Lima Maria Inês Salgueiro , Faria Ricardo Tadeu de , Ribeiro Jose Pedro Nepomuceno , Casali Carlos Aparecido
Published: November 2010

Baptistonia pubes é uma epífita que ocorre na Floresta Atlântica do Brasil, no Paraguai e norte da Argentina. É considerada espécie vulnerável e ameaçada de extinção. Nossos objetivos foram avaliar a eficácia da germinação de suas sementes e o crescimento em dois pHs utilizando-se dois meios de cultura: Murashige-Skoog (modificado - (MS)) e meio nutritivo à base de banana nanica acrescido de NPK 20-20-20 (Plant Prood®) (BAN) variando-se as concentrações de nutrientes e pH para a germinação e para o crescimento inicial das plântulas. As sementes germinaram em média 15 dias após a inoculação, em todas as condições. A porcentagem de germinação variou entre 2,6 a 11,6%, sendo que a maior porcentagem ocorreu no pH=5,2 BAN e a menor no pH=6,2 MS/2. O meio BAN foi mais eficiente na germinação. Os pHs, em cada meio, alteraram significativamente as médias das sementes germinadas. As plântulas cresceram mais no meio nutritivo à base de banana nanica no pH = 5,2.
Resolução lamelar num novo microscópio eletrônico de varredura
Authors: Kestenbach Hans-Jürgen , Nocite Nádia C. P. S. , Gregório F° Rinaldo , Loos Joachim , Petermann Jürgen
Published: November 2010

RESUMO: Trabalhando com elétrons de baixa energia (na faixa de 1keV), o novo microscópio eletrônico de varredura dispensa a etapa de metalização e permite a observação direta da estrutura lamelar de polímeros semicristalinos, sem a necessidade de preparação de amostras. São apresentados exemplos da morfologia lamelar do PVDF em função das condições de processamento e da temperatura de cristalização, em filmes contendo as fases a, b e g. Um outro exemplo revela o crescimento inicial da camada transcristalina que se formou ao longo de uma fibra de polietileno de ultra-alto peso molecular embutida em matriz de polietileno de alta densidade.
Aproveitamento industrial do umbu: processamento de geléia e compota
Authors: Folegatti Marília I. S. , Matsuura Fernando C. A. U. , Cardoso Ricardo L. , Machado Sérly S. , Rocha Andréa S. , Lima Renata R.
Published: November 2010

O umbu (Spondias tuberosa Arr. Cam.) é uma fruta nativa da Região Nordeste do Brasil. Ainda não devidamente caracterizado, particularmente no que se refere ao seu potencial para industrialização, o umbu demanda pesquisas. Atualmente, esses frutos são consumidos restritamente na região Nordeste, principalmente na forma in natura, preparados como refresco, sorvete ou "umbuzada" (polpa do umbu cozida com leite e açúcar). Objetivou-se com este trabalho adequar a tecnologia convencional de processamento de geléia e compota para o umbu, avaliando a aceitação sensorial e as características físico-químicas desses produtos. Para o processamento de geléia, utilizaram-se duas proporções polpa/açúcar: 50:50 e 40:60, e três concentrações de sólidos insolúveis da polpa: 0%, 50% e 100% do teor de sólidos original da polpa. Para a compota, elaboraram-se produtos com diferentes teores de sólidos solúveis finais, 25°Brix, 30°Brix e 35°Brix, adicionados de 1% de cloreto de cálcio. As polpas, geléias e compotas dos diferentes tratamentos foram submetidas a análises físicas, físico-químicas, químicas e sensoriais. No processamento da geléia de umbu, os produtos obtidos apresentaram valores de acidez total titulável entre 0,60% e 0,90% e de sólidos soúveis totais entre 66,3°Brix e 68,6°Brix. Os tratamentos com proporção polpa:açúcar 50:50 foram significativamente (p < 0,05) mais bem aceitos quanto aos atributos aparência, cor e textura. Para o produto compota de umbu, os tratamentos com 30°Brix e 35°Brix obtiveram maior aceitação sensorial. O aproveitamento do umbu na forma de geléia ou compota mostrou-se possível, tendo os produtos desenvolvidos apresentado boa aceitação sensorial.
Produção científica em avaliação psicológica no contexto escolar
Authors: Oliveira Katya Luciane de , Santos Acácia Aparecida Angeli dos , Noronha Ana Paula Porto , Boruchovitch Evely , Cunha Cláudia Araújo da , Bardagi Marucia Patta , Domingues Simone F. da Silva
Published: November 2010

Esta pesquisa objetivou analisar a produção científica em avaliação psicológica no contexto escolar publicada em 234 artigos de sete periódicos científicos indexados. A análise baseou-se em alguns critérios da metaciência, a saber, autoria, temática, discurso e análise dos tipos de avaliações. Os resultados evidenciaram que em alguns periódicos há maior concentração de publicações sobre a temática, acentuada nos últimos anos. A participação feminina foi predominante na autoria dos artigos e detectou-se ampla diversificação nos propósitos e contextos nos quais os testes psicológicos têm sido usados. Quanto ao tipo de avaliação, os instrumentos psicométricos foram os mais utilizados, sendo freqüente, também, o emprego de entrevistas e observação. A técnica projetiva foi empregada em apenas 2,3% das investigações. Sugere-se que outros estudos similares sejam realizados, visando a monitorar a expansão da área de avaliação psicológica no Brasil.
An experimental evaluation of the effectiveness of beach ashtrays in preventing marine contamination
Authors: Widmer Walter Martin , Reis Rodrigo Arantes
Published: November 2010

In this study, hypotheses concerning the use of beach ashtrays were experimentally tested. Results indicated that the mean rate of abandonment of this equipment was low (1.5%). The mean amount of cigarette stubs (3.4 items/ashtray) was greater than mean amounts of other types of litter. People with different socioeconomic profiles had different perceptions regarding the issues associated with beach debris. These results indicated that beach ashtrays could be useful to prevent the contamination of these environments and that differences in socioeconomic characteristics of beachgoers could partially explain the differences in perceptions regarding the presence of waste on the beaches. This information could now be used by coastal managers to plan strategies to reduce the marine contamination.
Substrate type as a selective tool against colonization by non-native sessile invertebrates
Authors: Cangussu Leonardo C , Altvater Luciana , Haddad Maria Angélica , Cabral Ana Caroline , Heyse Halina Linzmeier , Rocha Rosana M
Published: November 2010

Different substrates of varying composition, color, texture and orientation may selectively influence recruitment of sessile invertebrates and thereby influence the resultant community. Thus substrates may act as a barrier to the establishment of non-indigenous species (NIS). In southern Brazil, granite is the main rock forming natural rocky walls that are available for encrusting organisms. In this study we tested whether granite selectively influences recruitment and impedes colonization by introduced and cryptogenic species that are already established on artificial substrates within the region. Plates of rough cut granite and of polyethylene were made available each month under a pier at a yacht club in Paranaguá Bay. A community is already established on concrete columns and fiber glass floats on the piers. After one, two and twelve months, the faunal composition of the plates was compared between the two treatments and other artificial substrates. Granite was recruited by all the seven introduced species found in the Bay and by 18 of 26 cryptogenic species and therefore is ineffective as a barrier to NIS colonization.
Prevalência e fatores de risco para sibilância no primeiro ano de vida
Authors: Lima João Antonio Bonfadini , Fischer Gilberto Bueno , Sarria Edgar Enrique , Mattiello Rita , Solé Dirceu
Published: November 2010

OBJETIVO: Determinar a prevalência e os fatores de risco para sibilância em lactentes com até um ano de idade e residentes na cidade de Porto Alegre (RS). MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal, parte de um projeto multicêntrico e multinacional. Os pais ou responsáveis dos lactentes foram entrevistados em unidades básicas de saúde ou durante visitas domiciliares. Utilizamos um questionário padronizado e validado para uso no Brasil. Potenciais fatores de risco foram avaliados mediante um modelo de regressão de Poisson com estimativa robusta de variância, utilizando-se o teste de Wald para determinar a significância de cada variável no modelo. RESULTADOS: Foram incluídos 1.013 lactentes. A maioria era do sexo masculino (53%), e a média de idade foi de 13,5 ± 1,2 meses. Houve pelo menos um episódio de sibilância em 61% dos lactentes, e houve recorrência do sintoma em pelo menos três ocasiões em um terço daqueles lactentes. A média de idade no início dos episódios de sibilância foi de 5,16 meses (mediana, 5 meses). Mais de 40% dos lactentes com sibilância visitaram serviços de urgência em função desse sintoma, e 17% tiveram pelo menos uma hospitalização por essa causa no primeiro ano de vida. Na análise multivariada, os fatores de risco para sibilância foram os seguintes: sexo masculino, história de pneumonia, tabagismo na gravidez, frequência a creches, baixo nível de escolaridade da mãe, desmame precoce, número elevado de resfriados, primeiro quadro viral antes dos 3 meses, presença de irmãos e história familiar de asma. CONCLUSÕES: A prevalência de sibilância em lactentes no município de Porto Alegre é elevada. Vários fatores de risco para sibilância em lactentes foram identificados.
Do Sequential Chest Radiographs Prompt Changes in Therapy for Home Mechanical Ventilation Children Admitted for Pneumonia?
Authors: Kun Wynton W. , Kun Sheila S. , Keens Thomas G.
Published: November 2010

How many chest radiographs prompt changes in therapy for home mechanical ventilation (HMV) patients admitted to the hospital for pneumonia? Since HMV patients are more complex than those with simple community-acquired pneumonia, it is not known how many chest radiographs are needed for optimal management. To answer this, we reviewed all HMV patients admitted for pneumonia from July 2007 through June 2008. Demographic data, sequential chest radiographs, and changes in respiratory orders within 24 hours were recorded. Childrens Hospital Los Angeles followed 180 HMV patients. Twenty-eight patients (16%) were admitted (36 readmissions). Twenty-five of these patients (90%) required full-time HMV. Eighteen patients (64%) had the diagnosis of chronic lung disease. On discharge, 24 patients (66%) had residual pneumonia on chest radiographs. We conclude that HMV patients averaged five chest radiographs per pneumonia admission. Two-thirds of the chest radiographs did not prompt subsequent changes in respiratory therapy. More than one-third of the chest radiographs found no interval changes. The majority of discharges were not contingent on resolution of the chest radiographs findings. We speculate that the frequency of chest radiographs could be less and that chest radiographs were not the sole predictors of changes in respiratory treatment or the decision to discharge.
Improving Glycemic Control in Older Adults Using a Videophone Motivational Diabetes Self-Management Intervention
Authors: Hawkins Shelley Y.
Published: November 2010

Older adults experience the greatest burden of diabetes. Resources must be available and accessible to empower older adults to perform diabetes self-care. The purpose of this study was to evaluate a videophone motivational interviewing (MI) diabetes self-management education (DSME) intervention to improve glycemic control of rural older adults. Sixty-six participants (mean age = 64.9 years, range 60–81) with uncontrolled diabetes were enrolled in a 6-month videophone intervention. Experimental group participants (n = 34) received weekly, then monthly, videophone MI DSME calls, whereas control participants (n = 32) received monthly videophone healthy-lifestyle education calls. Although both groups experienced a decreased HbA1c, there was a statistically significant difference in experimental group mean values (p = .015), but not the control group (p = .086). The experimental group demonstrated statistically significant increases in diabetes knowledge (p = .023) and diabetes self-efficacy (p = .002). Experimental group participants with high self-efficacy in contrast to low self-efficacy had a statistically significant decrease in HbA1c (p = .043).
Quality of Life Model: Predictors of Quality of Life Among Sick Older Adults
Authors: Halvorsrud Liv , Kirkevold Marit , Diseth Åge , Kalfoss Mary
Published: November 2010

The aim of this study was to explore how depressive symptoms, physical function, health satisfaction, age, and environmental conditions predict quality of life (QoL) in a conceptual model based on the Wilson and Cleary’s Model (WCM). A stratified sample by age, gender, and living area was drawn from the Norwegian population of older adults receiving community health care (mean age of 78.6 years, 94.4% living at home, 5.6% living in nursing homes). The study is part of a larger international study. Face-to-face interviews were conducted using the WHOQoL-Old, the WHOQoL-Bref Environment domain, the Geriatric Depression Scale, the Short Form SF-12, and sociodemographic and health questions. A path analysis (structural equation modeling) showed that the overall model provided empirical evidence for linkages in the WCM. QoL was manifested by significant direct effects of environmental conditions and health satisfaction. In addition, environmental conditions had indirect effects on QoL, in particular via depressive symptoms and health satisfaction. This model may help nurses in community health care to collect and assess information, to suggest suitable interventions, and to guide decision making.
The Genetics of Political Attitudes and Behavior: Claims and Refutations
Authors: Joseph Jay
Published: November 2010

Some political scientists have argued in recent years that twin research shows that genetic factors play an important role in shaping political attitudes, ideologies, and behavior. Moreover, some researchers claim to have identified genes for political traits at the molecular level. The author argues that the main theoretical assumption of the twin method, which holds that monozygotic and dizygotic twin pairs experience equal environments, is untenable. Therefore, the results of twin studies can be completely explained by nongenetic factors. The author also argues that recent gene discovery claims in political science are unlikely to be replicated. He concludes that because genetic interpretations of twin study results are confounded by environmental factors, political scientists have no reason to revise previous socialization theories of political traits.
Effect of Experimental Diabetes and STZ on Male Fertility Capacity. Study in Rats
Authors: Navarro‐Casado L. , Juncos‐Tobarra M. A. , Cháfer‐Rudilla M. , de Onzoño L. Íñiguez , Blázquez‐Cabrera J. A. , Miralles‐García J. M.
Published: November 2010

ABSTRACT: To assess the effect of experimental Type 1 diabetes on male fertility, male Sprague Dawley rats were injected with either streptozotocine (STZ) to induce diabetes or with citrate buffer as controls. Diabetic animals and 2 control groups (STZ‐resistant and buffer‐injected rats) were sacrificed at 2 different times after injection: 6 weeks (6W) and 20 weeks (20W). We analyzed serum testosterone (sTT), epididymal sperm parameters, and weight of testicles and epididymides, and carried out a histological evaluation of testicular tissue. Diabetic animals presented a significant increase in teratozoospermia (20W, P < .01) and a decrease in sTT (P < .01), tubular diameter (6W, P < .05), and testicular (6W, P < .01) and epididymal (P < .01) weight. STZ‐resistant animals showed significantly decreased sTT (6W, P < .01), epididymal weight (6W, P < .05), and sperm count (6W, P < .01) compared with buffer–injected controls. Experimental STZ diabetes increases teratozoospermia and decreases sTT, testicular weight (reverting at medium‐term), and epididymal weight.
Replication Needed to Distinguish Alterations in Cell Ratios, the Frequency of Individual Stages of the Cycle of the Seminiferous Epithelium, or the Appearance of Abnormalities in the Testes of Rodents, Rabbits, or Humans
Authors: Berndtson William E.
Published: November 2010

ABSTRACT:The typical levels of inherent variability among untreated sexually mature rodents, rabbits, or men were determined for several endpoints used to characterize spermatogenesis. The latter included germ cell: germ cell and germ cell: Sertoli cell ratios, the frequency of specific stages of the cycle of the seminiferous epithelium, and the appearance of a variety of testicular abnormalities. Based on this variability, the number of replicates needed to provide future experiments of a predictable power and sensitivity was estimated. Replication requirements differed greatly as a function of species and/or among specific endpoints within a single species. In addition, the replication needed to provide robust experiments was substantially greater than that employed in most investigations. The application of these findings during the design and interpretation of future experiments was discussed.
Measuring Occupational Balance: A Theoretical Exploration of Two Approaches
Authors: Anaby Dana R. , Backman Catherine L. , Jarus Tal
Published: November 2010

Background. Occupational balance is a fundamental yet complex concept in occupational therapy requiring empirical study.Purpose. To advance the theoretical discussion of occupational balance, its measurement and relationship to well-being.Methods. In part one of this 2-phase study, 122 adults completed a bipolar measure of occupational balance, the Cross Impact Matrix (CIM) of the Personal Project Analysis and two well-being measures: the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS) and Positive and Negative Affect Scales (PANAS). In part two, 24 adults completed the Inter-goal Relations Questionnaire (IRQ), a unipolar measure of occupational balance (harmony) and imbalance (conflict), plus the SWLS and PANAS.Findings. Neither the CIM scores nor IRQ occupational balance/harmony were associated with well-being whereas the IRQ occupational imbalance/conflict was significantly associated with SWLS.Implications. Dimensions of occupational balance (conflict and harmony) may be best measured separately. To promote well-being attention can be given to reducing conflict across occupations.
Opioid and Benzodiazepine Use in End-Stage Renal Disease
Authors: Wyne Ahraaz , Rai Raman , Cuerden Meaghan , Clark William F. , Suri Rita S.
Published: November 2010

Background and objectives

Chronic pain and psychiatric disorders are common in dialysis patients, but the extent to which opioids and benzodiazepines are used is unclear. We conducted a systematic review to determine the: (1) prevalence of opioid and benzodiazepine use among dialysis patients; (2) reasons for use; (3) effectiveness of symptom control; and (4) incidence of adverse events.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

Two authors reviewed all relevant citations in MEDLINE/EMBASE/CINAHL/BIOSIS Previews/Cochrane and hand-searched bibliographies. Studies after 1990 reporting prevalence estimates for opioid and/or benzodiazepine use in ≥50 dialysis patients were included.

Results

We identified 15 studies from 12 countries over 1995 to 2006. Sample size ranged from 75 to 12,782. Prevalence of opioid and benzodiazepine use was variable, ranging from 5 to 36% (95% CI, 4.1 to 45.5%; n = 10) and 8 to 26% (95% CI, 7.1 to 27.3%; n = 9), respectively. Prevalence was positively correlated with years on dialysis. Five studies reported on the same cohorts but gave different prevalence estimates. One study verified medication use through patient interviews. Reasons for use were reported in one study. Effectiveness of pain control varied from 17 to 38%, and 72 to 84% of patients with significant pain had no analgesia (n = 2). No study rigorously examined for adverse events.

Conclusions

The prevalence of opioid and benzodiazepine use in dialysis patients is highly variable between centers. Further information is needed regarding the appropriateness of these prescriptions, adequacy of symptom control, and incidence of adverse effects in this population.
Facilitating information system development with panoramic view on data
Authors: Lavbic Dejan , Lajovic Iztok , Krisper Marjan
Published: November 2010

The increasing amount of information and the absence of an effective tool for
assisting users with minimal technical knowledge lead us to use associative
thinking paradigm for implementation of a software solution - Panorama. In
this study, we present object recognition process, based on context + focus
information visualization techniques, as a foundation for realization of
Panorama. We show that user can easily define data vocabulary of selected
domain that is furthermore used as the application framework. The purpose of
Panorama approach is to facilitate software development of certain problem
domains by shortening the Software Development Life Cycle with minimizing the
impact of implementation, review and maintenance phase. Our approach is
focused on using and updating data vocabulary by users without extensive
programming skills. Panorama therefore facilitates traversing through data by
following associations where user does not need to be familiar with the query
language, the data structure and does not need to know the problem domain
fully. Our approach has been verified by detailed comparison to existing
approaches and in an experiment by implementing selected use cases. The
results confirmed that Panorama fits problem domains with emphasis on data
oriented rather than ones with process oriented aspects. In such cases the
development of selected problem domains is shortened up to 25%, where
emphasis is mainly on analysis, logical design and testing, while omitting
physical design and programming, which is performed automatically by Panorama
tool.
VPN solutions and network monitoring to support virtual teams work in virtual enterprises
Authors: Roşu Marius , Drăgoi George
Published: November 2010

In order to be competitive enterprises continuously implement ICT strategies
& architectures to improve manufacture, research, products quality, sales,
services and costs control. All large enterprises have a local area network,
a virtual private network, an Intranet and Internet, servers and workstations
for operations, administration and management working together for the same
objective: profits. The virtual enterprise and the virtual team?s concepts
are discussed in this article. This work analyzes the network architecture
for geographically dispersed enterprises (seen as virtual enterprises) as
support for virtual project development by virtual teams work. In addition,
the paper presents an enterprise networks monitoring solution using open
source software (OSS).
Ontology-based multi-label classification of economic articles
Authors: Vogrincic Sergeja , Bosnic Zoran
Published: November 2010

The paper presents an approach to the task of automatic document
categorization in the field of economics. Since the documents can be
annotated with multiple keywords (labels), we approach this task by applying
and evaluating multi-label classification methods of supervised machine
learning. We describe forming a test corpus of 1015 economic documents that
we automatically classify using a tool which integrates ontology construction
with text mining methods. In our experimental work, we evaluate three groups
of multi-label classification approaches: transformation to single-class
problems, specialized multi-label models, and hierarchical/ranking models.
The classification accuracies of all tested classification models indicate
that there is a potential for using all of the evaluated methods to solve
this task. The results show the benefits of using complex groups of
approaches which benefit from exploiting dependence between the labels. A
good alternative to these approaches is also single-class naive Bayes
classifiers coupled with the binary relevance transformation approach.
Advanced indexing technique for temporal data
Authors: Stantic Bela , Topor Rodney , Terry Justin , Sattar Abdul
Published: November 2010

The need for efficient access and management of time dependent data in modern
database applications is well recognized and researched. Existing access
methods are mostly derived from the family of spatial R-tree indexing
techniques. These techniques are particularly not suitable to handle data
involving open ended intervals, which are common in temporal databases. This
is due to overlapping between nodes and huge dead space found in the
database. In this study, we describe a detailed investigation of a new
approach called ?Triangular Decomposition Tree? (TD-Tree). The underlying
idea for the TD-Tree is to manage temporal intervals by virtual index
structures relying on geometric interpretations of intervals, and a space
partition method that results in an unbalanced binary tree. We demonstrate
that the unbalanced binary tree can be efficiently manipulated using a
virtual index. We also show that the single query algorithm can be applied
uniformly to different query types without the need of dedicated query
transformations. In addition to the advantages related to the usage of a
single query algorithm for different query types and better space complexity,
the empirical performance of the TD-tree has been found to be superior to its
best known competitors.
Analysis of the bioavailability of Cr(III) and Cr(VI) based on the determination of chromium in Mentha piperita by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry
Authors: Djogo Svetlana , Razic Slavica , Manojlovic Dragan , Slavkovic Latinka
Published: November 2010

Mentha piperita L. (Lamiace) was cultivated under the controlled laboratory
conditions in the presence of varying levels of trivalent and hexavalent
chromium in order to determine its capacity to control chromium uptake and
its tolerance limit. The plants were grown in pots at 25?C with controlled
soil moisture (about 80 % of the water retention capacity). The soil was
treated with increasing concentrations of Cr(NO3)3 (40, 80, 120, and 200 mg
kg-1) and K2Cr2O7 (2.5, 5, 10, and 15 mg kg-1). A control group of plants was
grown without the addition of chromium to the soil. For each concentration,
three acidity levels were tested: natural, one pH unit below and one above
the natural acidity of the soil (pH2 = 6, pH1 = 5 and pH3 = 7). The plant
samples were digested according to the standard procedure and chromium
content was determined by GFAAS. For all plants, the transportation index was
calculated and the results (expressed in mg kg-1) at pH1, pH2 and pH3,
respectively, were: 0.21-0.80, 0.06-1.06 and 0.04-0.52. The recoveries were
good (72.73-115.3 %) as evidenced by the analysis of certified reference
materials (NIST SRM 8433 - Corn Bran and NIST SRM 1547 - Peach Leaves). The
mobility of chromium through the plants tissues is discussed in regard to its
competition with iron and manganese for transport binding sites; hence Mn and
Fe were also determined.
Synthesis and characterization of some N-substituted amides of salicylic acid
Authors: Lupea Xenia , Padure Mirabela
Published: November 2010

The synthesis of some N-substituted aromatic amides in the salicylic acid series was achieved, by direct reaction between primary amines and salicylic acid in inert organic solvent, in the presence of PCl3. The compounds that were obtained, partially not described in literature, were characterized by chemical-physical methods.
The availability of base elements (Ca, Mg, Na, K) in some important soil types in Serbia
Authors: Jakovljevic Miodrag , Kostic Nikola , Antic-Mladenovic Svetlana
Published: November 2010

In this paper results are presented of agrochemical and mineralogical analyses of 14 types of important soils in Serbia (Vojvodina and Central Serbia) and total content and availability of base alkali elements (Ca, Mg Na, K) are determined. Total element content was as follows: Ca 2.22%; K 1.77%; Na 0.85% and Mg 0.61%. Total content of alkali metals in the soils investigated and their variations within and between the soil types, is in very good/close correlation with contents of primary and secondary minerals as well as their rates of weathering. Taking in account the average availabilities the most abundant is calcium with 947 mg/100 g, whilst the averages of the other elements (Mg, K and Na) are quite similar and are about of 40 mg/100 g of soil. The results obtained have shown that the soils investigated are well to moderate provided with K, Ca and Mg and that their deficit could not be expected in plant nutrition, apart for some plants/cultures in the case of magnesium due to occasionally higher Ca/Mg and K/Mg ratios.
Population dynamics of Azotobacter chroococcum in sugarbeet rhizosphere depending on mineral nutrition
Authors: Mrkovacki Nastasija , Mezei Snezana , Cacic Nikola
Published: November 2010

Population dynamics of Azotobacter chroococcum has been studied in the rhizosphere of a sugarbeet hybrid inoculated with Azotobacter strains 5, 8 and 14. Simultaneously we examined the effects of four levels of nitrogen fertilization (non-fertilized control, 50, 100, 150 and 200 kg N/ha) and the applications of manure and harvest residues. Samples were taken three times in May, July and October. The experiment included inoculated and non-inoculated variants at all four levels of fertilization, in five replicates.
Predictors of the Use of Physical Therapy Services Among Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Iversen Maura D. , Chhabriya Ritu K. , Shadick Nancy
Published: November 2010

Background

Although physical therapy is a proven and recommended intervention for managing rheumatoid arthritis (RA), few studies have explored correlates of physical therapy service use among people with RA.

Objective

The purposes of this study were: (1) to describe physical therapy use among people with RA and (2) to identify biopsychosocial factors associated with physical therapy use. It was expected that use of physical therapy services would be lower than previously reported, considering recent medical advancements, and that including contextual factors may lead to identification of new factors associated with physical therapy use.

Design

This was a cohort study.

Methods

Of 1,032 patients prospectively recruited from a large hospital registry, 772 completed baseline and laboratory assessments, received a physical examination, and completed a 1-year follow-up survey regarding physical therapy service use. Measures included: demographics (ie, age, sex, marital status, race, employment, disability status, insurance, income, comorbidities, and education), disease duration, RA medications, self-efficacy (assessed with the Arthritis Self-Efficacy Scale), social support (assessed with the Berkman-Syme Social Network Index), function (assessed with the Multi-Dimensional Health Assessment Questionnaire), and disease activity (assessed with the Rheumatoid Arthritis Disease Activity Index). Self-reported use of physical therapy (yes/no) was assessed at the 1-year follow-up. A staged regression approach, based on a theoretical model, was used to select and enter variables into the regression to develop a parsimonious set of predictors.

Results

The patients were well educated and had modestly high incomes, and most had health insurance. Approximately 15.3% of the patients used physical therapy services during the designated follow-up period. Using multivariable modeling, the most significant predictors of physical therapy service use were moderate to high disease activity (odds ratio [OR]=1.4, 95% confidence interval [CI]=1.1–1.8), less than a college education (OR=0.5, 95% CI=0.2–0.8), greater social networks (OR=2.1, 95% CI=1.3–3.5), and being on disability (OR=2.4, 95% CI=1.3–4.6).

Limitations

The limitations of this study were use of a convenience sample and the potential for misclassification of physical therapy service use.

Conclusions

Patients with less than college education were less likely to receive physical therapy services, and those with more active disease, those who were on disability, and those who had greater social networks were more likely to receive physical therapy services.
Relationship Separation and Mental Health Problems: Findings from a 30-Year Longitudinal Study
Authors: Gibb Sheree J. , Fergusson David M. , Horwood L. John
Published: November 2010

Objective: To examine the associations between relationship separation and a range of mental health problems including depression, anxiety disorders, alcohol abuse/dependence, cannabis abuse/dependence, and total number of mental health problems.

Method: Data were drawn from a 30-year longitudinal study of a birth cohort of individuals born in Christchurch, New Zealand. Associations between separation and mental health problems were examined using two types of regression models: population-averaged generalized estimating equation models and fixed effects models. Associations were adjusted for a wide range of fixed and time-dynamic potential covariate factors.

Results: After due allowance was made for confounding, separation was associated with depression, suicidal behaviour, and the total number of mental health problems (rate ratios range 1.7–3.4, median 3.2). These associations were apparent both when separation was used as the dependent variable and when the mental health problems were used as the dependent variables. In contrast, separation was not significantly associated with anxiety disorders, alcohol abuse/dependence, or illicit drug abuse/dependence when due allowance was made for confounding. Associations between separation and mental health problems were not significantly different for men and women.

Conclusions: Separation of a cohabiting relationship is associated with increased rates of depression, suicidal behaviour, and total mental health problems. However, it was not possible to determine the causal direction of the relationship between separation and mental health problems. Future studies may need to employ approaches other than observational research designs in order to address issues of causality.
Balamuthia mandrillaris brain abscess successfully treated with complete surgical excision and prolonged combination antimicrobial therapy
Authors: Doyle Joseph S. , Campbell Emer , Fuller Andrew , Spelman Denis W. , Cameron Rhoda , Malham Gregory , Gin Douglas , Lewin Sharon R.
Published: November 2010

Amoebic encephalitis is an uncommon and usually fatal condition. This case describes successful treatment of a Balamuthia mandrillaris brain abscess using prolonged antimicrobial agents with complete excision. It illustrates the risk of dissemination from cutaneous to cerebral amoebic lesions, potential progression with corticosteroid therapy, and the prospect for curative excision.