bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Comparison of Models to Infer the Distribution of Fitness Effects of New Mutations
Authors: Kousathanas Athanasios , Keightley Peter D
Published: January 2013

Knowing the distribution of fitness effects (DFE) of new mutations is important for several topics in evolutionary genetics. Existing computational methods with which to infer the DFE based on DNA polymorphism data have frequently assumed that the DFE can be approximated by a unimodal distribution, such as a lognormal or a gamma distribution. However, if the true DFE departs substantially from the assumed distribution (e.g., if the DFE is multimodal), this could lead to misleading inferences about its properties. We conducted simulations to test the performance of parametric and nonparametric discretized distribution models to infer the properties of the DFE for cases in which the true DFE is unimodal, bimodal, or multimodal. We found that lognormal and gamma distribution models can perform poorly in recovering the properties of the distribution if the true DFE is bimodal or multimodal, whereas discretized distribution models perform better. If there is a sufficient amount of data, the discretized models can detect a multimodal DFE and can accurately infer the mean effect and the average fixation probability of a new deleterious mutation. We fitted several models for the DFE of amino acid-changing mutations using whole-genome polymorphism data from Drosophila melanogaster and the house mouse subspecies Mus musculus castaneus. A lognormal DFE best explains the data for D. melanogaster, whereas we find evidence for a bimodal DFE in M. m. castaneus.
Morphogenetic characteristics of three Brachiaria brizantha cultivars submitted to nitrogen fertilization
Authors: Silva Marcos F , Porto Edson M. V , Alves Dorismar D , Vitor Cláudio M.T , Aspiazú Ignacio
Published: January 2013

This study aims to evaluate the morphogenetic characteristics of three cultivars of Brachiaria brizantha subjected to nitrogen fertilization. The design was a randomized block in factorial arrangement 4x3; three cultivars of B. brizantha - Marandu, Piatã, Xaraés and four nitrogen levels - 0, 80, 160 and 240 kg/ha, with three replications. The experimental units consisted of plastic pots filled with 5 dm3 of soil. Thereupon the establishment fertilization, varieties were sowed directly in the pots, leaving, after thinning, five plants per pot. Forty-five days after planting, it was done a standardization cut at 10 cm tall. Nitrogen levels were distributed according to the treatments, divided in three applications. The morphogenetic characteristics were evaluated in three tillers per sampling unit and data were submitted to analysis of variance and regression. For all evaluated characteristics there was no interaction between factors cultivar and nitrogen levels, verifying only the effects of nitrogen on the variables leaf appearance rate and phyllochron. The dose 240 kg/ha of N corresponds to the greater leaf appearance rate. Cultivar Marandu shows the higher leaf blade: pseudostem and ratio of leaf elongation rate and elongation pseudostem, which favors higher forage quality.
Fishing strategies among prehistoric populations at Saquarema Lagoonal Complex, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Authors: Guimarães Márica B
Published: January 2013

Two distinct fishing technologies were identified among the shellmound builders of the Saquarema Lagoonal Complex, in the Brazilian state of Rio de Janeiro: bone point technology and worked fish spines. These technologies were related to the acquisition of specific fish resources; Worked fish spines were used in the capture of Micropogonias furnieri (Desmarest), and bone points used for fishing specimens of the Ariidae family. Worked spines technology was predominant between 6,726 cal. years BP and 3,699 cal. years BP, while the bone point technology was dominant after 3,699 cal. years BP. It is believed these different strategies for obtaining fishing resources before 3,699 years cal. BP was related to environmental. Notably the gradual regression of relative sea level occurred during the mid- and late Holocene.
Conservação de pinha com uso de atmosfera modificada e refrigeração
Authors: Mizobutsi Gisele Polete , Silva Juceliandy Mendes da , Mizobutsi Edson Hiydu , Rodrigues Maria Luisa Mendes , Lopes Raul Scal , Fernandes Martielle Batista , Oliveira Fernanda Soares
Published: January 2013

Os frutos da pinheira possuem limitações para sua distribuição a mercados distantes, por causa do rápido amadurecimento, que os torna muito macios, de difícil manuseio sem a ocorrência de danos e de conservação extremamente reduzida. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a influência do filme de policloreto de vinila (PVC), associado às temperaturas de refrigeração, na conservação pós-colheita da pinha. Os frutos foram selecionados, lavados, sanitizados e acondicionados em bandejas de isopor, com, ou sem, envolvimento de película de policloreto de vinila, e conservados a 12 e 25 ºC. Foram avaliados: cor da casca, firmeza, perda de matéria fresca, sólidos solúveis, acidez titulável, açúcares totais e amido. Os frutos conservados a 12 ºC, com policloreto de vinila, mantiveram a coloração verde da casca até o 18º dia, apresentaram menor perda de massa de matéria fresca e firmeza da casca e menor teor de sólidos solúveis e acidez titulável, em relação aos frutos armazenados a 25 ºC. A utilização da embalagem, associada à temperatura de 12 ºC, permite um período seguro de 18 dias de conservação, com adequada manutenção dos atributos físicos e químicos. Os frutos armazenados a 25 ºC conservaram-se por seis dias. A película de PVC, associada ao armazenamento de 12 ºC, pode ser utilizada para atrasar o amadurecimento dos frutos por 18 dias, mantendo sua qualidade. Os frutos que permaneceram armazenados, por seis dias, a 25 ºC com, ou sem, PVC, não apresentaram características físicas e químicas desejáveis.
Initial performance of maize in response to NPK fertilization combined with Herbaspirillum seropedicae
Authors: Baldotto Marihus Altoé , Baldotto Lílian Estrela Borges , Santana Rogério Batista , Marciano Cláudio Roberto
Published: January 2013

The inoculation with plant growth-promoting bacteria can be a technological approach useful for increasing the production of maize. The objective of this study was to evaluate the initial performance of maize in response to application of doses of NPK combined with the inoculation of the diazotrophic bacteria Herbaspirillum seropedicae in an greenhouse experiment. The experiment consisted of six fertilizer levels: 0, 25, 50, 75, 100 and 200% of the recommended dose of NPK applied to maize inoculated and non-inoculated with H. seropedicae. At 30 days after the treatment application, the growth characteristics and nutritional status of the plants were evaluated. Plant development was influenced by fertilization, but it was enhanced by combination with the bacteria, which resulted in significant increases in the dry mass of shoots (7%) and leaf area (9%) when compared with non-inoculated plants. The results showed increases in the concentration of N (11%), P (30%) and K (17%) of maize plants in response to bacterial inoculation together with NPK compared with plants that were applied fertilize only. The greater consistency and stability response of the host plant to bacterization in the presence of chemical fertilizer indicate a promissory biotechnological approach for improving the initial growth and adaptation of maize to the cultivation environment.
Fertilizantes comerciais e polpa de banana no cultivo in vitro de um híbrido de Phalaenopsis (Orchidaceae)
Authors: Colombo Ronan Carlos , Favetta Vanessa , Faria Ricardo Tadeu de
Published: January 2013

A propagação in vitro de orquídeas é bastante utilizada para a produção de mudas. A busca por meios de cultura alternativos para este fim vem sendo amplamente estudada devido à complexidade dos meios comumente utilizados, como o meio MS. Os híbridos de Phalaenopsis encontram-se dentre as orquídeas mais comercializadas no mundo devido à longevidade e à beleza peculiar de suas flores. Nesse trabalho, objetivou-se avaliar o efeito de formulações de fertilizantes comerciais e adição de polpa de banana 'Nanica' em meio de cultura no cultivo in vitro de um híbrido de Phalaenopsis (P. amabilis x P. equestris). Plântulas germinadas in vitro, em meio MS, foram subcultivadas em meios de cultura à base de fertilizantes comerciais e meio MS modificado com metade da concentração dos macronutrientes. Os meios de cultura foram avaliados com e sem a adição de polpa de banana 'Nanica' (100 g L-1) no estádio de maturação quatro. A base dos meios de cultura foi composta por sacarose (30 g L-1), carvão ativado (1 g L-1) e ágar (9 g L-1). Aos 180 dias foram avaliadas as seguintes variáveis: área foliar, número de folhas e raízes, comprimento de raízes e massas de matérias secas de folhas e raízes. Conclui-se que o tratamento composto por Biofert® acrescido de polpa de banana apresentou os melhores resultados para o desenvolvimento in vitro do híbrido, inclusive apresentando resultados estatisticamente superiores em relação ao meio MS sem banana.
Lesões impalpáveis da mama marcadas com suspensão de carvão: avaliação de aspectos anatomopatológicos, viabilidade de interpretação e resposta inflamatória
Authors: Cavalcanti Teresa Cristina Santos , Malafaia Osvaldo , Nassif Paulo Afonso Nunes , Skare Thelma Larocca , Ogata Daniel Cury , Miguel Marcelo Tizzot , Gomes Larissa Krüger
Published: January 2013

OBJETIVO: Analisar a eficácia da suspensão de carvão inerte na marcação de lesões impalpáveis mamárias e as alterações morfológicas associadas ao seu uso, além de determinar se há ou não prejuízo na interpretação destas lesões pelo patologista. MÉTODOS: Foram atendidos 135 casos de lesões impalpáveis mamárias, previamente marcadas com suspensão de carvão. As lâminas coradas pelo método de HE contendo pigmentos de carvão foram analisadas ao microscópio óptico, onde se realizou avaliação quantitativa e qualitativa da resposta inflamatória e determinação da presença ou não de prejuízo ao diagnóstico anatomopatológico. Os índices avaliados quantitativamente quanto à resposta inflamatória foram as contagens de linfócitos, células gigantes e neutrófilos, todos observados e quantificados em campos de grande aumento. Foi, ainda, avaliada a quantidade e distribuição de carvão presente nas lesões. RESULTADOS: Na avaliação quantitativa e qualitativa da resposta inflamatória observou-se, independente da quantidade de carvão, granulomas a "corpo estranho" em todas as amostras. Em relação à resposta inflamatória linfocitária 5,19% das amostras não apresentaram infiltração linfocítica, sendo que em 82,22% ela era de discreta intensidade e em 12,59% de moderada intensidade. Quanto à resposta inflamatória aguda, observou-se ausência total de exsudação neutrofílica em 42,96% dos espécimes, exsudação neutrofílica discreta em 42,22%, moderada em 11,11% e acentuada, sob forma de microabscessos, em 3,7% dos casos. Nesta série foram observados cinco nódulos de carvão, posicionados paralesionalmente, e que não geraram interferência na análise morfológica. CONCLUSÃO: Este método é marcador eficaz de lesões impalpáveis, de baixo custo, alta efetividade, sem prejuízo à análise histológica, além de ser de fácil execução; é confortável para a paciente e de grande auxílio ao cirurgião e patologista na localização destas lesões.
Influência da icterícia colestática na variação ponderal em modelo experimental
Authors: Vasconcellos Leonardo de Souza , Alberti Luiz Ronaldo , Romeiro Juliana Ribeiro , Petroianu Andy
Published: January 2013

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a influência da icterícia colestática na variação ponderal. MÉTODOS: Foram utilizados 64 ratos adultos, distribuídos em seis grupos: F1 (n=6) - fêmeas normais, F2 (n=6) - fêmeas laparotomizadas, F3 (n=20) - fêmeas ictéricas, M1 (n=6) - machos normais, M2 (n=6) - machos laparotomizados, M3 (n=20) - machos ictéricos. A icterícia foi obtida com ligadura e secção do ducto biliopancreático. Os pesos dos animais foram registrados semanalmente, durante sete semanas. No 14º dia de experimento, dosaram-se as bilirrubinas séricas e os hormônios gonadais. Após a sétima semana, realizou-se estudo histológico do fígado. RESULTADOS: Os animais dos grupos F3 e M3 apresentaram bilirrubinas elevadas e diminuição da massa corpórea, quando comparados com os demais grupos. As diferenças ponderais foram significativas a partir da quarta semana entre as fêmeas e da quinta semana entre os machos. Nos animais ictéricos houve aumento do estradiol e diminuição da progesterona e da testosterona total. Septos de fibroses perivenular e periportal, colangite e hiperplasia de ductos biliares ocorreram no fígado dos animais ictéricos. Nenhum animal apresentou cirrose. CONCLUSÃO: Ocorreu redução do peso corpóreo murino em presença de icterícia colestática em ambos os sexos.
Escola e didática desenvolvimental: seu campo conceitual na tradição da teoria histórico-cultural
Authors: Puentes Roberto Valdés , Longarezi Andréa Maturano
Published: January 2013

O artigo discute, sob a base da filosofia marxista e da psicologia histórico-cultural, escola e didática, numa perspectiva que tem no desenvolvimento integral do estudante sua tese fundamental. O texto percorre conceitos que, em sua globalidade, estabelecem os princípios que norteiam essa concepção de educação e de ensino, baseada na formação do pensamento teórico: educação, escola, desenvolvimento, pensamento teórico, didática desenvolvimental, atividade de ensino e aprendizagem, entre outros. Fundamenta o campo conceitual da escola e da didática desenvolvimental, a partir da sistematização e análise desses conceitos e das relações a eles intrínsecas. Esse constructo permite afirmar que a didática desenvolvimental tem o ensino intencional como seu objeto, a aprendizagem como condição e o desenvolvimento das neoformações e da personalidade integral do estudante como objetivo. Sob esse enfoque, depreende-se, pois, que a didática se projeta e se efetiva na relação indissociável ensino-aprendizagem-desenvolvimento.
As relações entre saúde e trabalho dos agentes de combate às endemias da Funasa: a perspectiva dos trabalhadores
Authors: Guida Hilka Flavia Saldanha , Souza Kátia Reis de , Santos Maria Blandina Marques dos , Silva Solange Maria Carvalho Lima da , Silva Valéria Pereira
Published: January 2013

O presente artigo analisa as relações entre saúde e trabalho dos agentes de combate às endemias (ACEs) da Fundação Nacional de Saúde (Funasa), lotados no município de Nova Iguaçu-RJ, que foram reintegrados ao quadro da administração pública após terem sido dispensados. Os objetivos principais deste estudo foram compreender a história da luta destes trabalhadores por reconhecimento social e justiça, cujo desfecho foi a readmissão ao trabalho, bem como conhecer os efeitos adversos na saúde em razão das condições da atividade de combate a endemias. Adotou-se como base metodológica os estudos participativos e, complementarmente, o enfoque da educação popular, realizando grupos de discussão com os trabalhadores. Trata-se, por conseguinte, de uma pesquisa de cunho pedagógico, na qual o diálogo é a relação fundamental. Dos temas identificados nos grupos de discussão obteve-se um repertório de problemas e questões que evidenciaram as más condições de trabalho e a desregulamentação de políticas de saúde voltada para os trabalhadores. Os próprios trabalhadores reconhecem a precarização de seu trabalho, conferindo grande responsabilidade à interferência da política. Referiram-se ainda a um período de incertezas, sofrido pela indefinição de responsabilidades entre os níveis de governo, durante o período de descentralização político-administrativa, e seus efeitos negativos na saúde. Mencionaram o possível aspecto de toxicidade dos inseticidas e os seus riscos de contaminação. Foram sinalizadas sugestões que podem ser adotadas, de modo a propiciar melhores condições de trabalho e de saúde.
Homens e cuidados de saúde em famílias empobrecidas na Amazônia
Authors: Gutierrez Denise Machado Duran , Minayo Maria Cecília de Souza , Oliveira Kátia Neves Lenz César de
Published: January 2013

Investigamos o lugar do homem em relação aos cuidados com saúde, em famílias de baixa renda no contexto amazônico. Utilizamos 11 entrevistas com eles e suas famílias e com 21 profissionais de Saúde sobre eles e observação dos contextos em que vivem e dos processos de utilização e atendimento dos serviços. Os dados empíricos foram analisados em seu conteúdo sob a perspectiva cultural do holismo-individualismo. Verificamos que os homens cuidam predominantemente da saúde de si e da família a partir dos papéis socialmente tradicionais que lhes são atribuídos. O cuidado de si para eles é, em geral, emergencial, superficial e mediado pela mulher. Já o cuidado com os outros está voltado para o cumprimento do papel de provedor. Fogem desse padrão, homens em que predomina a cultura indígena e jovens com visão social e familiar mais moderna. Via de regra, os parentes reforçam as principais tendências culturais do comportamento masculino a respeito dos cuidados com a saúde. Os profissionais, por sua vez, tendem a desqualificar as reivindicações masculinas, buscando equivocadamente combater o machismo, e falham em reconhecer diferenças pautadas em repertórios culturais.
Matadouros públicos e saúde ambiental em Sergipe
Authors: Silva Genival Nunes , Madi Rubens Riscala , Melo Cláudia Moura de , Fonseca Vania
Published: January 2013

A incorporação da temática ambiental na saúde pública fez florescer mais recentemente a expressão saúde ambiental, relacionada à degradação do meio ambiente na escala mundial, como reflexo da atividade humana cujas consequências afetam a saúde da população. A produção de alimentos para consumo humano, além de afetar o meio natural, pode afetar, também, a saúde humana, devido ao processo de produção e comercialização. O abate de gado bovino, uma das principais fontes de proteína animal utilizada no Brasil, embora tenha legislação reguladora, muitas vezes é uma atividade que degrada o meio ambiente e compromete a saúde dos trabalhadores da cadeia produtiva e dos consumidores. Este estudo teve como objetivo geral identificar e avaliar os riscos ao meio ambiente e a saúde humana em decorrência da implantação e operação de matadouros públicos nos 75 municípios do Estado de Sergipe. Para o alcance desse objetivo, foram quantificados os matadouros municipais implantados e em operação no Estado, analisadas as condições físicas, sanitárias e tecnológicas, a existência de licenciamento ambiental e de supervisão veterinária do gado e das condições de abate e armazenamento da carne. Os dados foram levantados por observação direta em campo e junto ao cadastro da Administração Estadual do Meio Ambiente de Sergipe. O estudo concluiu haver danos significativos ao meio natural, especialmente aos recursos hídricos e risco bastante alto à saúde dos trabalhadores no matadouro e dos consumidores que recebem um produto sem controle de qualidade e sem qualquer tipo de inspeção sanitária.
Limites da autonomia e da autodefesa indígena: experiências mexicanas
Authors: Gledhill John
Published: January 2013

Este trabalho analisa a situação atual das lutas dos povos indígenas mexicanos para alcançarem a autodeterminação e transcenderem os limites do multiculturalismo neoliberal. Após examinar as relações entre a radicalização das demandas indígenas e as transformações do Estado mexicano, a análise centra-se na história recente de uma comunidade indígena nahua no litoral do estado de Michoacán, que tem uma longa e bem-sucedida história de defesa de suas terras comunais, e numa comunidade purépecha no planalto central do mesmo estado, que tem sido sua aliada. A violência de atores externos, que aflige estas comunidades, revela as consequências da penetração em todos os níveis de governo do crime organizado, mas a análise também mostra como a capacidade das comunidades indígenas para resistirem pode ser prejudicada pela sua desarticulação interna pelas mesmas forças, num clima de impunidade em que a violência paramilitar pode avançar uma variedade de interesses econômicos regionais e transnacionais.
Quincas Borba: um romance em crise
Authors: Gledson John
Published: January 2013

Este texto e o que se segue a ele reproduzem, quase sem mudanças, duas conferências que proferi na Universidade de São Paulo, em 10 e 12 de maio de 2011, a convite de Hélio Guimarães e Vagner Camilo, do Departamento de Letras Clássicas e Vernáculas e do Programa de Pós-Graduação em Literatura Brasileira. Agradeço de coração a oportunidade que me deram de expor minhas ideias diante de um auditório tão simpático e estimulante. As mudanças são mínimas, e insignificantes - não tirei o tom de fala, que faz parte das duas exposições. Apenas acrescentei as referências necessárias e juntei um parágrafo final à segunda conferência, pois a rigor me pareceu que faltava uma conclusão. Será um pouco especulativa, mas como ambas as conferências fazem parte de processos de pesquisa em andamento, até convém que assim seja. Finalmente, devo dizer que estou planejando juntar às edições excelentes dos textos dos romances e contos expostos no site , criado e organizado por Marta de Senna, da Fundação Casa de Rui Barbosa, o texto completo da versão em folhetins de Quincas Borba, junto com uma identificação das citações que só aparecem nessa versão, que são muitas. Isto, para facilitar o acesso a um texto tão interessante e central à evolução do romancista, já que as duas edições da edição da Comissão Machado de Assis são difíceis de achar (e a nossa será mais completa, incluindo o texto da entrega de 15 de abril de 1887, descoberta por Ana Cláudia Suriani da Silva). Devo terminar esse trabalho em maio de 2012, ao mais tardar.
Um zoológico de significados: a função dos animais em alguns textos de Machado de Assis
Authors: Silva Eduardo Viana da
Published: January 2013

Este artigo apresenta o uso de animais como símbolos e metáforas em alguns textos de Machado de Assis, com ênfase nos romances Quincas Borba e Memórias póstumas de Brás Cubas, além de no conto "A Sereníssima República". Procura-se articular como Machado de Assis utiliza a figura dos animais na construção de sua narrativa, inserindo-a no contexto da literatura universal, no que diz respeito à imagem dos animais.
Influence of substrate in rendering with crushed fine aggregates
Authors: de Souza Kazmierczak Claudio , Arnold Daiana Cristina Metz
Published: January 2013

This paper discusses the influence of brick water absorption on the performance of renders made of basalt crushed fine aggregates. Six mortar admixtures in a 1:1:6 proportion (cement:lime:crushed fine aggregate), with three particle size distributions and two proportions of microfines were produced. The physical characteristics of these mortars, susceptibility to cracking (especially due to shrinkage) and bond strength of the rendering mortars applied over brick walls measuring 60 × 60 cm were determined. The study indicates that water absorption of the substrates is very important for shrinkage and adhesion strength of mortars made of manufactured fine aggregates. Bricks with higher initial rate of absorption increase the bond strength. On the other hand, bricks with higher water absorption (but lower initial rate of absorption) have higher shrinkage and cracking. With higher microfines proportion, the mortar increases bond strength but demands higher water content, resulting in higher shrinkage and cracking.
Failure investigation of a drilled shaft stabilised slope
Authors: Liao Jen-Cheng , Lin San-Shyan , Yang Sheng-Der
Published: January 2013

In this paper, failure of a drilled shaft stabilised slope during basement excavation of an office building in Taipei city, Taiwan, is investigated. Four and two stages of excavation along the respective east and west sides of the site were planned. A row of drilled shafts was installed along each side before excavation. Severe slope movement occurred and extended outside the project area on both sides during excavation due to a weak clay layer overlying bedrock, unpredicted local trough between the soil/rock interface and improper design of the drilled shafts. Study of the possible reasons for failure includes monitoring results evaluation and numerical studies by means of the computer code Plaxis.
Cyclic shear response of fibre-reinforced cemented paste backfill
Authors: Festugato L. , Fourie A. , Consoli N. C.
Published: January 2013

In order to investigate techniques to improve tailings backfill stability in stopes, the cyclic shear response of fibre-reinforced cemented mine tailings was studied. Cyclic simple shear tests were conducted on fibre-reinforced and non-reinforced cemented mine tailings. The tailings, produced from gold mining, are classified as sandy silt with traces of clay. Portland cement (5%) and polypropylene fibres (zero and 0·5%) were added to the material. Under monotonic shear conditions, the addition of fibres confers hardening behaviour to the cemented material. Under shear strain controlled cyclic conditions, fibres increased the shear stress values of the cemented samples after successive load cycles. The agreement of the strength envelopes of both monotonic and cyclic stress paths, under different cyclic loading conditions, allows the use of the same strength parameters of mixtures analysed under different loading conditions.
Determining Pore Level Mechanisms of Alkaline Surfactant Polymer Flooding using a Micromodel
Authors: AlDousary Salem
Published: January 2013

Primary recovery methods such as water flooding recover as much as 50% of the original oil in place and therefore end up leaving remaining oil that is less likely to be produced behind in the reservoir. In fractured reservoirs, the recovery efficiency is even lower as water prefers to channel leaving a considerable amount of uswept reservoir. New techniques have been introduced in order to access this unrecoverable potential; these techniques are assembled in what is called Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR). Enhanced oil recovery processes play a major role in increasing the recovery efficiency and extracting the inaccessible oil that has been trapped in a reservoir. One type of enhanced oil recovery applicable to waterflood reservoirs is alkali surfactant polymer (ASP) flooding. Polymer flooding (PF) and alkaline/surfactant/polymer (ASP) flooding have been known and in practice for more than 20 years. These processes have shown successful results during large-scale implementations in China, for instance. ASP flooding is a form of chemical enhanced oil recovery (EOR) that allows operators to extend reservoir pool life and extract incremental reserves currently inaccessible by conventional EOR techniques such as water flooding. The combination of all three chemicals is synergetic. The surfactant is ultimately used to lower the interfacial tension between the oil and the injected water. The alkali reacts with the acidic portion of oil to produce in-situ soap (surfactant) and the polymer increases the injection water viscosity to reduce the possibility of channeling and viscous fingering during the process. The objective of this study is to grasp a better understanding of the mechanisms of ASP flooding will by conducting several experiments in carbonate micromodels. A micromdel is a two dimensional porous medium created by etching a pore network into silicon. Pore-level mechanisms are observed directly using a micromodel. The challenge is to understand how the combination of alkali, surfactant, and polymer allows us to best access the matrix and efficiently sweep the oil. Therefore, a screeting study was conducted to evaluate diverse surfactants of concentrations ranging from 0.5 to 5.0 % by measuring the interfacial tensions in order to select one compatible with light crude oil (27°API). Both secondary and tertiary flooding of the ASP slug was tested at realistic flood rates of 0.1 m/day Darcy velocity. Greater flow rates were later attempted to maximize recovery, within the reasonable pressure range that the micromdel can handle, to maximize recovery. The results are presented in the form of image analysis of microscopic pictures taken at different locations to estimate the oil recovery. The ASP displacement experiments conducted yields reasonable improvement of recovery for all cases.
Simplified Modelling of Downhole Pressure Surges for Bingham Fluids in Tripping Operations
Authors: Gjerstad Kristian
Published: January 2013

Flow of Bingham fluids in plane Couette-Poiseuille flow is studied. We present a set of analytically flow equations for flow between parallel plates/slots in a most compact form, and use this set as a basis for developing simpler flow equations. The new equations approximate the full analytical solution over a wide range of flow rates, and they are explicit in the frictional pressure gradient. Thus, they are well suited for application in fast dynamic flow models, where the implicit analytical solution is not applicable. We illustrate the application of the new equations in a dynamic model of the tripping operation in oil well drilling. The accuracy is shown to be absolutely satisfactory. Such a model may be coupled with control system theory and parameter estimation techniques, which enables automatic pressure control and adaptation of unknown model parameters.
Assessment of knowledge, attitude and practice regarding water, sanitation and hygiene for people living with HIV/AIDS
Authors: Beyene Hunachew , Hailu Dejene
Published: January 2013

A cross-sectional study was conducted to assess the water, sanitation, and hygiene status and the knowledge, attitude and practice of home-based care clients of People Living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) regarding water, sanitation and hygiene (WSH). Interviews and observation of WSH facilities were carried out on 331 randomly selected PLWHA in Hawassa City, Southern Ethiopia. Though the latrine coverage was high, 43% use latrines not easily accessible, 31% use contaminated latrines and 73.4% of the latrines lacked hand-washing facilities. Thirty-four per cent did not have a reliable source of water and 196 (59%) of the households stored water at home for more than one day. Women were more likely to practice personal hygiene as compared to their men counterparts. Although a good level of knowledge and favourable attitudes about WSH related health problems were observed, two-thirds of the participants believed that diarrhoeal infection is not preventable. HIV/AIDS and WSH programmes need to be integrated for better intervention activities in Ethiopia.
Accelerating uptake of household latrines in rural communities in the Volta region of Ghana
Authors: Keraita Bernard , Jensen Peter Kjær Mackie , Konradsen Flemming , Akple Maxwell , Rheinländer Thilde
Published: January 2013

This study was done in four rural communities in Ghana to assess uptake of household latrines. A total of 156 household interviews, 16 focus group discussions and 8 in-depth interviews with key informants were conducted. Study findings show that only 8.5% of households were using improved sanitation facilities with more than 75% of the households relying on open defecation and communal trench latrines. Knowledge of technological options was very limited and the cost for preferred latrines was unaffordable. Though health-related benefits motivated household latrine uptake, those related to personal security, privacy, social status and convenience were ranked higher. Sanitation uptake was constrained mainly by finances, poor sanitation promotion and general biophysical factors. High costs of latrine construction could be reduced by introducing cheaper technological options, using low-cost construction materials and labor contributions from households. Financing models like microcredit financing can also be explored and adapted for use in Ghana. We recommend the use of approaches aimed at behavior change while giving households a range of technological options such as community led total sanitation (CLTS). Hence, despite the low coverage of improved sanitation in rural Ghana, there exist real opportunities to accelerate sanitation uptake.
Evaluation of sanitation and wastewater treatment technologies: case studies from India
Authors: Starkl M. , Stenström T. A. , Roma E. , Phansalkar M. , Srinivasan R. K.
Published: January 2013

This paper reports about the results of an evaluation of selected sanitation systems in India. The following sanitation systems were evaluated: septic tanks, communal Ecosan systems, biogas toilets, solid immobilized biofilters, multiple stage filtration and decentralized wastewater treatment systems (DEWATS). The evaluation has been based on an initial assessment looking at whether the systems comply with their intended benefits, and more in depth evaluations on cultural, economic and/or hygienic aspects where the initial assessment has not provided sufficient knowledge. The evaluation showed that all sanitation systems were well accepted by the users. The highest hygienic risk is present in septic tanks, where sludge handling poses a high risk for persons handling it.
Pointwise definable models of set theory
Authors: Hamkins Joel David , Linetsky David , Reitz Jonas
Published: January 2013

A pointwise definable model is one in which every object is definable without parameters. In a model of set theory, this property strengthens V = HOD, but is not first-order expressible. Nevertheless, if ZFC is consistent, then there are continuum many pointwise definable models of ZFC. If there is a transitive model of ZFC, then there are continuum many pointwise definable transitive models of ZFC. What is more, every countable model of ZFC has a class forcing extension that is pointwise definable. Indeed, for the main contribution of this article, every countable model of Gödel-Bernays set theory has a pointwise definable extension, in which every set and class is first-order definable without parameters.
Evaluation of significantly modified water bodies in Vojvodina by using multivariate statistical techniques
Authors: Vujovic Svetlana , Kolakovic Srdjan , Becelic-Tomin Milena
Published: January 2013

This paper illustrates the utility of multivariate statistical techniques for
analysis and interpretation of water quality data sets and identification of
pollution sources/factors with a view to get better information about the
water quality and design of monitoring network for effective management of
water resources. Multivariate statistical techniques, such as factor analysis
(FA)/principal component analysis (PCA) and cluster analysis (CA), were
applied for the evaluation of variations and for the interpretation of a
water quality data set of the natural water bodies obtained during 2010 year
of monitoring of 13 parameters at 33 different sites. FA/PCA attempts to
explain the correlations between the observations in terms of the underlying
factors, which are not directly observable. Factor analysis is applied to
physico-chemical parameters of natural water bodies with the aim
classification and data summation as well as segmentation of heterogeneous
data sets into smaller homogeneous subsets. Factor loadings were categorized
as strong and moderate corresponding to the absolute loading values of >0.75,
0.75-0.50, respectively. Four principal factors were obtained with
Eigenvalues >1 summing more than 78 % of the total variance in the water data
sets, which is adequate to give good prior information regarding data
structure. Each factor that is significantly related to specific variables
represents a different dimension of water quality. The first factor F1
accounting for 28 % of the total variance and represents the hydrochemical
dimension of water quality. The second factor F2 accounting for 18% of the
total variance and may be taken factor of water eutrophication. The third
factor F3 accounting 17 % of the total variance and represents the influence
of point sources of pollution on water quality. The fourth factor F4
accounting 13 % of the total variance and may be taken as an ecological
dimension of water quality. Cluster analysis (CA) is an objective technique
to identify natural groupings in the set of data. CA divides a large number
of objects into smaller number of homogenous groups on the basis of their
correlation structure. CA combines the data objects together to form the
natural groups involving objects with similar cluster properties and
separates the objects with different cluster properties. CA showed
similarities and dissimilarities among the sampling sites and explain the
observed clustering in terms of affected conditions. Using FA/PCA and CA have
been identified water bodies that are under the highest pressure. With regard
to the factors identified water bodies are: for factor F1 (Plazovic, Bosut,
Studva, Zlatica, Stari Begej, Krivaja), for factor F2 (Krivaja, Keres), for
factor F3 (Studva, Zlatica, Tamis, Krivaja i Keres) and for factor F4
(Studva, Zlatica, Krivaja, Keres).
25-Hydroxyvitamin D in Obese Youth Across the Spectrum of Glucose Tolerance From Normal to Prediabetes to Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: de las Heras Javier , Rajakumar Kumaravel , Lee SoJung , Bacha Fida , Holick Michael F. , Arslanian Silva A.
Published: January 2013

OBJECTIVE

To 1) determine if plasma 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D) concentrations differ among obese youth with normal glucose tolerance (NGT) versus prediabetes versus type 2 diabetes and 2) assess the relationships between 25(OH)D and in vivo insulin sensitivity and β-cell function in this cohort.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Plasma 25(OH)D concentrations were examined in banked specimens in 9- to 20-year-old obese youth (n = 175; male 42.3%, black 46.3%) (NGT, n = 105; impaired glucose tolerance [IGT], n = 43; type 2 diabetes, n = 27) who had in vivo insulin sensitivity and secretion measured by hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic and hyperglycemic clamp techniques and had an assessment of total body composition and abdominal adiposity.

RESULTS

The mean age and BMI of the subjects were 14.3 ± 2.1 years and 35.7 ± 5.6 kg/m2, respectively. BMI, plasma 25(OH)D, and the proportion of vitamin D–deficient and –insufficient children did not differ across the three groups. Furthermore, there was no association between 25(OH)D and in vivo insulin sensitivity or β-cell function relative to insulin sensitivity (disposition index) in all groups combined or in each group separately.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data in obese youth show 1) no differences in plasma 25(OH)D concentrations across the glucose tolerance groups and 2) no relationship between 25(OH)D and in vivo insulin sensitivity and β-cell function relative to insulin sensitivity in any of the groups. It remains uncertain if enhancement of the vitamin D status could improve pathophysiological mechanisms of prediabetes and type 2 diabetes in obese youth.
Prevalence of Morphometric Vertebral Fractures in Patients With Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Zhukouskaya Volha V. , Eller-Vainicher Cristina , Vadzianava Volha V. , Shepelkevich Alla P. , Zhurava Irina V. , Korolenko Galina G. , Salko Olga B. , Cairoli Elisa , Beck-Peccoz Paolo , Chiodini Iacopo
Published: January 2013

OBJECTIVE

Several studies showed low bone mineral density (BMD) and elevated risk of symptomatic fractures in patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D). To our knowledge, there has been no investigation on the prevalence of asymptomatic vertebral fractures (VFx) in T1D. In the current study, we assessed BMD and the prevalence of VFx in T1D.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We evaluated 82 T1D patients (26 males and 56 females, aged 31.1 ± 8.6 years, BMI 23.5 ± 3.3 kg/m2, disease duration 12.8 ± 8.3 years) and 82 controls (22 females and 60 males, aged 32.9 ± 5.8 years, BMI 23.9 ± 4.8 kg/m2). Spinal and femoral BMD (as Z-score, Z-LS and Z-FN, respectively) and the prevalence of VFx were evaluated by dual X-ray absorptiometry.

RESULTS

T1D patients had lower Z-LS and Z-FN than controls (−0.55 ± 1.3 vs. 0.35 ± 1.0, P < 0.0001, and −0.64 ± 1.1 vs. 0.29 ± 0.9, P < 0.0001, respectively) and a higher prevalence of VFx (24.4 vs. 6.1%, P = 0.002). Age, diabetes duration, age at diabetes manifestation, glycosylated hemoglobin, Z-LS, Z-FN, and the prevalence of chronic complications were similar for patients with and without VFx. In the logistic regression analysis, the presence of VFx was associated with the presence of T1D but not with lumbar spine BMD. Whereas moderate or severe VFx was associated with low lumbar spine BMD in the whole combined group of T1D patients and controls, there was no association between moderate or severe VFx and lumbar spine BMD in the T1D group.

CONCLUSIONS

T1D patients have low BMD and elevated prevalence of asymptomatic VFx, which is associated with the presence of T1D independently of BMD.
Identification of Minimal Clinically Important Difference Scores of the PedsQL in Children, Adolescents, and Young Adults With Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Hilliard Marisa E. , Lawrence Jean M. , Modi Avani C. , Anderson Andrea , Crume Tessa , Dolan Lawrence M. , Merchant Anwar T. , Yi-Frazier Joyce P. , Hood Korey K. ,   for the SEARCH for Diabetes in Youth Study Group
Published: January 2013

OBJECTIVE

To establish minimal clinically important difference (MCID) scores representing the smallest detectable change in quality of life (QOL), using the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) Generic Core and Diabetes Module among youth with diabetes and their parents, and to identify demographic and clinical correlates of QOL change over 1 year.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Participants in the SEARCH for Diabetes in Youth Study aged >5 years and parents of youth aged <18 years completed PedsQL surveys at their initial and 12-month study visits. MCIDs for each PedsQL module were calculated using one standard error of measurement. Demographic and clinical characteristics associated with QOL change were identified through multiple linear and logistic regression analyses.

RESULTS

The sample comprised 5,004 youth (mean age, 12.5 ± 4.7 years; mean diabetes duration, 3.4 ± 3.7 years). Of 100 possible points, PedsQL total score MCIDs for youth with type 1 and type 2 diabetes, respectively, were Generic Core, 4.88, 6.27 (parent) and 4.72, 5.41 (youth); Diabetes Module, 4.54, 6.06 (parent) and 5.27, 5.96 (youth). Among 1,402 youth with a follow-up visit, lower baseline QOL, male sex, private insurance, having type 1 diabetes, longer diabetes duration, and better glycemic control predicted improvements in youth- and parent-reported PedsQL total scores over 1 year. Clinically meaningful (≥1 MCID) improvements in total score for at least one PedsQL module were predicted by private insurance, lower BMI, and lower A1C at baseline.

CONCLUSIONS

These diabetes-specific reference points to interpret clinically meaningful change in PedsQL scores can be used in clinical care and research for youth with type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
Prospective Association Between Inflammatory Markers and Progression of Coronary Artery Calcification in Adults With and Without Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Alman Amy C. , Kinney Gregory L. , Tracy Russell P. , Maahs David M. , Hokanson John E. , Rewers Marian J. , Snell-Bergeon Janet K.
Published: January 2013

OBJECTIVE

The role of inflammation in the increased risk of cardiovascular disease in type 1 diabetes is unclear. We examined the association of inflammation and progression of coronary artery calcification (CAC)—a marker of subclinical atherosclerosis—in adults with and without type 1 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A nested case-control study was performed within the prospective cohort of the Coronary Artery Calcification in Type 1 Diabetes (CACTI) study. Participants underwent two CAC measurements ∼2.5 years apart. Case subjects (n = 204) were those with significant progression of CAC. Control subjects (n = 258) were frequency-matched to case subjects on diabetes status, sex, age, and baseline CAC status. Inflammatory marker assessments were performed on stored blood samples from baseline. A principal components analysis (PCA) was performed and a composite score derived from that analysis. The composite score was constructed by assigning a value of 1 for each PCA component where at least one of the markers exceeded the 75th percentile (range 0–4). Conditional logistic regression was used for the matching strategy.

RESULTS

The first two components of the PCA were modestly (odds ratio 1.38 [95% CI 1.08–1.77] and 1.27 [1.02–1.59], respectively) associated with CAC progression after adjustment for other risk factors. The composite score was more strongly associated with CAC progression for those with elevated markers in three or four of the principal components compared with those with none.

CONCLUSIONS

Measures of inflammation were associated with progression of CAC in a population of adults with and without type 1 diabetes.
Visit-to-Visit Blood Pressure Variability Is a Novel Risk Factor for the Development and Progression of Diabetic Nephropathy in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Okada Hiroshi , Fukui Michiaki , Tanaka Muhei , Matsumoto Shinobu , Mineoka Yusuke , Nakanishi Naoko , Asano Mai , Yamazaki Masahiro , Hasegawa Goji , Nakamura Naoto
Published: January 2013

OBJECTIVE

Recent study has suggested that not only the presence of hypertension but also the variability in systolic blood pressure (SBP) are risk factors for vascular disease and organ damage. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between visit-to-visit variability in SBP and change in urinary albumin excretion (UAE) or development of albuminuria in patients with type 2 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We measured SBP in 354 consecutive patients at every visit during 1 year and calculated the coefficient of variation (CV) of SBP. We performed a follow-up study to assess change in UAE or development of albuminuria, the mean interval of which was 3.76 ± 0.71 years. Then, we evaluated relationships of variability of SBP to diabetic nephropathy using multiple regression analysis and multiple Cox regression model.

RESULTS

Multiple regression analysis demonstrated that CV of SBP was independently associated with change in UAE (β = 0.1758; P = 0.0108). Adjusted Cox regression analyses demonstrated that CV of SBP was associated with an increased hazard of development of albuminuria; hazard ratio was 1.143 (95% CI 1.008–1.302).

CONCLUSIONS

Visit-to-visit variability in SBP could be a novel risk factor for the development and progression of diabetic nephropathy in patients with type 2 diabetes.
Status of tuberculosis in bovine animals raised by tuberculosis infected patients in Western Chitwan, Nepal
Authors: Pandey G , Dhakal S , Sadaula A , KC G , Subedi S , Pandey KR , Dhakal IP
Published: January 2013

INTRODUCTION: Bovine tuberculosis (bTB) is an important public health concern worldwide. This study was conducted to determine the status of bTB in animals raised by tuberculosis patients in Western Chitwan, Nepal. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This cross-sectional study was conducted from August, 2011 to January, 2012. A total of 100 bovines (cattle and buffalo) raised in 60 farms of tuberculosis patients were tested with single intradermal tuberculin test considering various animal factors. Well designed questionnaire survey was taken with 70 tuberculosis patients of same 60 families focusing knowledge, awareness and various practices related to bovine tuberculosis. RESULTS: Overall 15% bovines were positive for tuberculosis (13.6% cattle and 15.4% buffaloes). Age of animal was significantly associated with tuberculosis (p<0.05) while sex and species were not. 24% tuberculosis patients had raw milk consuming habit while very few of them (9%) were aware of zoonotic aspect of bovine tuberculosis. CONCLUSIONS: There is high chance of tuberculosis transmission form animals to humans or vice versa. Further detailed study is needed in large scale with stronger intersectoral collaboration of medical and veterinary health sector to determine the scale of problem and find out prevention and control strategies against zoonotic tuberculosis. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ijim.v1i2.7407 Int J Infect Microbiol 2012;1(1):49-53