bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Good governance e o Conselho Nacional de Justiça
Authors: Bochenek Antonio César , Dalazoana Vinicius , Rissetti Vinicius Rafael
Published: April 2014

Os sistemas judiciais, no Brasil e em todo o mundo, estão passando por grandes modificações nas últimas décadas. No Brasil, de modo especial após a constituição federal de 1988, verifica-se um importante aumento da judicialização das relações sociais, da política e, consequentemente, da importância da administração da justiça. Além disso, a função judicial tem hoje uma relevante relação com as funções administrativas dos tribunais. Assim, uma satisfatória prestação jurisdicional requer também boas práticas administrativas. Nesse sentido, aumenta progressivamente o número de estudos sobre conceitos e técnicas de good governance nos assuntos públicos. Neste artigo, sustenta-se que a nova compreensão do modelo de justiça necessita da implementação de técnicas e práticas de good governance nos tribunais, conduzidas pelo conselho nacional de justiça, relacionadas principalmente às ideias de transparência, participação, eficácia, eficiência e coerência.
Arenas de produção de políticas públicas: a nova política nacional de saúde mental
Authors: Almeida Júnior João Cauby de
Published: April 2014

A interação entre os Poderes Executivo e Legislativo no processo de produção de políticas públicas apresenta contornos diversificados, que variam segundo as regras inerentes ao sistema político, as estratégias adotadas por esses atores políticos e a capacidade dos grupos sociais organizados de influenciar as decisões políticas relativas a políticas públicas. Não há, portanto, um padrão único de interação entre esses Poderes no processo decisório de políticas públicas. No sistema político brasileiro, o Executivo e o Legislativo são os responsáveis diretos pelo encargo estatal de editar políticas públicas, daí o objetivo deste trabalho de investigar, sob o enfoque neoinstitucionalista, as bases da interação entre esses Poderes na produção da nova política nacional de saúde mental, no período de 1989 a 2001, seu período de consolidação normativa, em meio à correlação de forças que se costuma estabelecer entre eles no processo decisório de políticas públicas.
El control de convencionalidad: análisis en derecho comparado
Authors: Aguilar Cavallo Gonzalo
Published: April 2014

En el caso Almonacid (2006), por primera vez, la Corte Interamericana de Derechos Humanos enunció la doctrina del control de convencionalidad. El control de convencionalidad ha generado un gran debate académico, especialmente en la doctrina constitucional latinoamericana. Una pregunta que surge en este escenario es cuál es la relación entre el control de constitucionalidad y el control de convencionalidad. El derecho comparado nos permitirá aportar argumentos y criterios para abordar esta cuestión.
Poaceae cespitosa e decumbente adubadas com NPK: efeitos na agregação do solo
Authors: Almeida Dácio Jerônimo de , Silva Ivandro de França da , Silveira Flávio Pereira da Mota , Santiago Robeval Diniz , Costa José Ronaldo Calado
Published: April 2014

A desagregação de partículas do solo afeta a sua capacidade produtiva, resultando em processos de compactação, erosão e perdas de nutrientes. Neste estudo, foi avaliada a qualidade e estabilidade dos agregados de um Latossolo Amarelo, em delineamento de blocos ao acaso, representado por Urochloa decumbens e Urochloa brizantha, na presença e ausência de adubação mineral, e por duas formas de amostragem (fileiras e entre as fileiras), em três profundidades de amostragem. As amostras indeformadas de solo coletadas foram destorroadas, passadas em peneira de 9,52 mm e, após secagem, em peneiras de 2,00 mm; 1,00 mm; 0,50 mm e 0,25 mm, obedecendo às seguintes classes de diâmetro: 9,52-2,00 mm; 2,00-1,00 mm; 1,00-0,50 mm e 0,50-0,25 mm, por peneiragem seca. Estes agregados foram, também, separados por peneiragem úmida, sendo, ainda, determinada a argila dispersa e a massa seca de raízes. Os agregados maiores que 2,00 mm apresentaram estabilidade elevada, na camada de 0,00-0,05 m, em comparação aos agregados de menores classes, não havendo efeito do local de amostragem e de adubação sobre o tamanho e estabilidade dos agregados. Concluiu-se não haver diferença entre as duas espécies estudadas, forma de coleta das amostras e adubação, na formação e estabilidade de agregados.
Modelagem matemática e difusividade efetiva de folhas de aroeira durante a secagem
Authors: Goneli André Luís Duarte , Vieira Maria do Carmo , Vilhasanti Henrique da Cruz Benitez , Gonçalves Alexandre Alves
Published: April 2014

A secagem de produtos agrícolas é largamente utilizada no mundo, para o controle e a manutenção da sua qualidade. Em se tratando de plantas medicinais e aromáticas, esta importância cresce ainda mais. Assim, o presente trabalho objetivou avaliar a cinética de secagem de folhas de aroeira (Schinus terebinthifolius Raddi), bem como ajustar diferentes modelos matemáticos aos valores experimentais de razão de umidade. As folhas foram colhidas com teor de água inicial de 65% (b.u.), sendo submetidas à secagem sob condições controladas de temperatura (40ºC, 50ºC, 60ºC e 70ºC), até o teor de água aproximado de 10% (b.u.). Seis modelos matemáticos foram ajustados aos dados experimentais citados na literatura específica e utilizados para a representação do processo de secagem de produtos agrícolas. Com base nos resultados obtidos, pôde-se concluir que os modelos de Henderson & Pabis modificado e Midilli foram os que melhor representaram a cinética de secagem das folhas de aroeira. O aumento da temperatura do ar de secagem promoveu maior taxa de remoção de água do produto. O coeficiente de difusão efetivo aumentou com a elevação da temperatura, e sua relação com a temperatura de secagem pôde ser descrita pela equação de Arrhenius, que apresentou energia de ativação para a difusão líquida, durante a secagem, de 74,96 kJ mol-1, para as folhas de aroeira.
Híbridos de trifoliata como porta-enxertos para laranjeira Pêra
Authors: Pompeu Junior Jorgino , Blumer Silvia
Published: April 2014

O limão Cravo (Citrus limonia) tem sido utilizado como o principal porta-enxerto para a laranjeira Pêra (C. sinensis). Entretanto, sua susceptibilidade ao declínio e à morte súbita induziu o uso de porta-enxertos tolerantes a doenças, como as tangerinas Cleópatra (C. reshni) e Sunki (C. sunki) e o citrumelo Swingle (C. paradisi x Poncirus trifoliata), mais susceptíveis à seca que o limão Cravo. As tangerinas são, também, menos resistentes à gomose de Phytophthora, e o citrumeleiro Swingle revelou ser incompatível com a laranjeira Pêra. Na busca por outros porta-enxertos, este estudo objetivou avaliar a precocidade e a produção de frutos, a susceptibilidade à tristeza e ao declínio e a ocorrência de incompatibilidade de laranjeiras Pêra enxertadas em 12 híbridos de trifoliata, no limão Cravo EEL e na laranja Goutou, sem irrigação. Tristeza e declínio são endêmicos na região. Os citrandarins Sunki x English (1628), Changsha x English Small (1710) e duas seleções de Cleópatra x Rubidoux proporcionaram as maiores produções acumuladas, nas três primeiras safras e no total de seis safras avaliadas. Os citrandarins Cleópatra x Rubidoux (1660) e Sunki x Benecke (1697) induziram precocidade de produção, enquanto o citromonia Cravo x Swingle e o citrange C-13 foram os mais tardios. Nenhum dos porta-enxertos causou alternância de produção. As laranjeiras Pêra enxertadas no citrumelo Swingle, citrandarin Cleópatra x Swingle (1654) e em duas seleções de limão Cravo x citrange Carrizo apresentaram sintomas de incompatibilidade, formando linha de goma na região de enxertia. Nenhuma das plantas apresentou sintomas de tristeza ou declínio.
Acúmulo de matéria seca e micronutrientes em mandioca consorciada com bananeira
Authors: Silva Heider Rodrigo Ferreira , Melo Vinicius Lopes , Pacheco Dilermando Dourado , Assis Ygho Jackson Muniz de , Sales Hamilton dos Reis
Published: April 2014

A mandioca é uma importante cultura consorte. Entretanto, existem poucas informações sobre o acúmulo e partição de matéria seca na planta, bem como a demanda de micronutrientes, quando utilizada como espécie intercalar com frutíferas. O estudo foi conduzido em Januária (MG), em 20102011, com o objetivo de avaliar o acúmulo de matéria seca e micronutrientes em mandioca consorciada com bananeira irrigada. Utilizou-se delineamento de blocos ao acaso, com quatro repetições, considerando-se, como tratamentos, 14 épocas de coleta, do plantio até a colheita. Em cada coleta, as plantas foram separadas em parte aérea (caules e folhas) e raízes, para determinação da matéria seca e teores de Cu, Fe, Mn e Zn. O acúmulo de matéria seca e micronutrientes seguiu padrão de crescimento sigmoidal. O acúmulo de matéria seca da parte aérea foi crescente até 200 dias após o plantio (DAP), estabilizandose, posteriormente, até o fim do ciclo de cultivo. Nas raízes, o acúmulo de matéria seca foi contínuo até o fim do ciclo. A partir de 250 DAP, as raízes foram o principal órgão de acúmulo de matéria seca na planta. Para o acúmulo de micronutrientes nas plantas de mandioca, a ordem foi a seguinte: Fe > Zn > Mn > Cu. Concluiu-se que o cultivo de mandioca em consórcio com bananeira é viável, desde que haja adequada disponibilidade dos micronutrientes mais requeridos pelas plantas.
Qualidade fisiológica de sementes de milho doce classificadas pela espessura e largura
Authors: Zucareli Claudemir , Brzezinski Cristian Rafael , Guiscem Josiane Marlle , Henning Fernando Augusto , Nakagawa João
Published: April 2014

As sementes de milho doce apresentam qualidade fisiológica inferior à das sementes de milho comum, devido à influência de várias características, como o tamanho e a forma das sementes. Diante disto, este estudo objetivou avaliar a qualidade fisiológica de sementes de duas cultivares de milho doce (BR-401 e BR-402), classificadas, separadamente, quanto à espessura, por meio de peneiras de crivos oblongos (8/64" x 3/4, 9/64" x 3/4, 10/64" x 3/4, 11/64" x 3/4, 12/64" x 3/4 e 13/64" x 3/4), e quanto à largura, em peneiras de crivos redondos (17/64", 18/64", 19/64", 20/64", 21/64" e 22/64"). Para cada cultivar, os lotes classificados foram comparados com o lote sem classificação, seguindo delineamento inteiramente casualizado, em esquema fatorial 2x7, com quatro repetições. Os parâmetros biométricos avaliados foram: retenção em peneira, massa de 100 sementes e teor de água. A qualidade fisiológica foi determinada por meio da primeira contagem, germinação, teste de frio, envelhecimento acelerado, condutividade elétrica e emergência de plântulas no campo. A classificação em peneiras melhorou a qualidade fisiológica das sementes de milho doce. As sementes com espessura intermediária, para ambas as cultivares, em geral, apresentaram maior vigor. Quanto à largura, sementes maiores, para a cultivar BR-401, e de largura intermediária, para a cultivar BR-402, apresentaram melhor qualidade fisiológica.
Tratamento químico de sementes de trigo
Authors: Hossen Diego de Castro , Corrêa Júnior Edison dos Santos , Guimarães Sérgio , Nunes Ubirajara Russi , Galon Leandro
Published: April 2014

O tratamento de sementes de trigo com inseticidas e fungicidas é importante para proteger as mesmas da incidência de insetos e doenças. Objetivou-se, com este trabalho, avaliar os efeitos de tratamentos químicos sobre a qualidade fisiológica de sementes de trigo. O experimento foi instalado em delineamento inteiramente casualizado, com quatro repetições, em esquema fatorial 2x4, sendo o fator A composto por cultivares de trigo (Quartzo e Pampeano) e o B por inseticidas e fungicidas: testemunha e, para cada 100 kg de sementes, aplicou-se 21 g do ingrediente ativo (i.a.) de tiametoxam; 55 g i.a. de carboxina + thiram e 21 + 55 g i.a. de tiametoxam + carboxina + thiram. O tiametoxam (21 g i.a.) resultou em melhor desempenho, quanto à germinação, índice de velocidade de germinação e peso de massa fresca e seca, para a variedade Quartzo. Ocorreu maior acúmulo de massa seca para a variedade Pampeano, ao se aplicar carboxina + thiram, na dose de 55 g i.a. As duas cultivares apresentaram melhor desempenho, no teste de envelhecimento acelerado, na presença de tiametoxam + carboxina + thiram (21 + 55 g i.a.). O tratamento de sementes proporcionou plântulas mais vigorosas, o que resultará em estandes de plantas mais uniformes, em função da maior percentagem de germinação ou da proteção contra pragas.
Effect of grinding method and particle size distribution on early-age properties of blended cements
Authors: Ghiasvand Ebrahim , Ramezanianpour Amirmohammad , Ramezanianpour Aliakbar , Namian Mostafa , Slami Ramin , Gharechaei Maryam
Published: April 2014

This paper describes the influence of the producing method (inter-grinding and separate grinding) and particle size distribution (PSD) on early-age properties of binary and ternary blended cements. Various experiments were carried out to determine properties of cement paste including normal consistency, time of setting, heat of hydration and calcium hydroxide content. In addition, compressive and flexural strength tests were carried out on cement mortars. The results show that for achieving the same percentage of 45 μm residue in blended cements containing Trass, inter-grinding was less energy demanding than separate grinding (shorter grinding time was required). Moreover, PSD and early-age properties of blended cements with the same percentage of 45 μm residue were not significantly affected by the grinding method. Additionally, the hydration reactions of blended cements were slightly accelerated by the increase of fineness value. Furthermore, the use of cements with high fineness is not economically beneficial owing to its low effect on early-age properties.
Reduction of leachability of sewage sludge by alum treatment
Authors: Maruf Mortula Md. , Atabay Serter , Ali Tarig A. , Ghadban Ahmad A.
Published: April 2014

The sustainable disposal practices of waste materials have drawn much attention in the last two decades. One of the growing disposal practices is the use of land-based application (e.g. fertiliser). However, the application poses concerns of contamination from heavy metals and nutrients. Therefore, there appeared to be a growing necessity for finding appropriate technology to address the concerns related to leaching from sewage sludge. The objective of this paper is to assess the applicability of alum treatment of biologically treated sewage sludge for reduction of leachability. Alum and lime were used for the treatment of sewage sludge. Laboratory-based batch and column tests were conducted to assess the effect of alum treatment on leachability. Batch experimental results indicated that alum treatment was capable of reducing phosphorus and other heavy metal leaching. However, some of the aluminium appeared to have leached into the water. Column experimental results indicated that alum treatment was capable of reducing phosphorus, copper and ammonia leaching from sewage sludge, but indicated an increase in aluminium and chromium leaching. However, the leaching of chromium and copper was at low concentrations, indicating the necessity of further exploration onto sewage sludge from different wastewater treatment plants.
The effect of limestone type and nanosilica on the durability of limestone cement mortars
Authors: Ma Baoguo , Wang Yingbin , Fu Haobing
Published: April 2014

The influence of limestone type and nanosilica on the resistance of cement to the thaumasite form of sulfate attack (TSA) was systematically investigated. The sulfate attack of mortar specimens was evaluated using visual examination and mass, density and strength measurements. Samples were selected from the surface of prisms after 12 months of immersion and examined using X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The results show that the prisms immersed in magnesium sulfate solution all showed signs of degradation. Limestone cement mortar is susceptible to TSA at 5°C. In mortar with high magnesium limestone, the damage was greater than in mortar with calcareous limestone. Prisms with nanosilica showed better performance than non-nanosilica prisms and this seems to be independent of limestone type. No obvious damage was observed in specimens exposed to sodium sulfate solution.
Modeling and Simulation of Emergency Service Facilities Location
Problem Under Fuzzy Environment
Authors: Guo Zixue , Qi Meiran
Published: April 2014

The emergency service facilities location is one of the most important issues in the emergency management.
This study focused on the location set covering problem (LSCP) for emergency service facilities under fuzzy
environment. On the basis of defining the signed distance of trapezoidal fuzzy number, the ranking rules of trapezoidal
fuzzy number are defined, the model of emergency service facilities location with fuzzy restraints is proposed, and the
solution algorithm for the emergency service location based on the ordering rules of trapezoidal fuzzy number is given.
Finally, a numerical simulation is used to illustrate the application of the method, which shows that the algorithm is
feasible and advantageous.
Rectangle Positioning Algorithm Simulation Based on Edge Detection and
Hough Transform
Authors: Xie Ping , Zhou Jiang
Published: April 2014

This paper proposes a new algorithm to extract the rectangle in images. It’s goal is to meet the requirement of
the truck’s compartment positioning and assure that some works are done inside the truck’s compartment. Firstly, the
Canny operator is used to calculate the edge of the image, because it is sensitive to the image texture features. Secondly,
the Canny edge is transformed with the Hough transform algorithm. The peak points in the Hough parameter space
indicate the straight lines which may be the elements of the compartment. The sides of the rectangle are the straight lines
which meet the conditions of the actual size of the compartment. Finally, the four vertices of the rectangle are solved in
accordance with the geometric constraint of rectangle. The simulation experiment shows that the algorithm is effective.
Simulation & Optimization of the Gear System of a 6-DOF Manipulator
Using Flexible Dynamic of ANSYS
Authors: Li Bin , Yao Xifan , Li Yongxiang , Tan Wei , Lou Huidong , Ge Dongyuan
Published: April 2014

This paper presents a novel way for a structural dynamic simulation analysis on a three-dimensional (3-D)
finite element (FE) model of a 6-DOF Manipulator using ANSYS Workbench 13.0 that allows integrated optimization.
The load between driving and driven gear is delivered by elastic frictional contact, which leads to some non-liner contact
problems, and the contact problems are solved according to the FE parametric programming method. This study
particularly focused on investigating static, dynamic, and fatigue behaviors of the gear system in a 6-DOF robot
mechanism, which is modeled using SolidWorks software. Moreover, the ANSYS Workbench was used to determine the
stress distribution, deformation and fatigue behaviors of the mechanism, and finally to carry out the optimization
simulation analysis of its materials together with structural geometry. As a result, the design experience accumulated will
be very useful for the future product design in terms of guidelines for even more complex mechanical systems or more
complex boundary conditions.
An Improved Ant Colony Optimization Algorithm with Crossover Operator
Authors: Guo Junen , Diao Wenguang
Published: April 2014

Ant colony algorithm has been widely applied to lots of fields, such as combinatorial optimization, function
optimization, system identification, network routing, robot path planning, data mining and large-scale integrated
circuit design of integrated wiring, etc. And it achieved good results. But it still has one weak point which is the slowing
convergence speed. To aim at the lacks, an improved ACO is presented. This paper studies a kind of improved ant
colony algorithm with crossover operator which makes crossover operator among better results at the end of each
iteration. The experiment results indicate that the improved ACO is effectual.
A Simulation Model of the Automotive Power System Based on the Finite
State Machine
Authors: Li Hongbin , Li Dong
Published: April 2014

In order to validate the performance of the AMT (Automated Mechanical Transmission) control system by
simulation experiment, a simulation model that can express the dynamic characteristic of the automotive power system
during every phase of the vehicle driving process based on the finite state machine was proposed. Then a hard-in-loop
half-real simulation system was established taking the simulation model as kernel. It was shown by the results of
simulation experiments that the model could simulate the automotive power system effectively and could be used to
evaluate the AMT control system.
Potential Greenhouse Gas Mitigation through Temperate Tree-Based Intercropping Systems
Authors: Evers Andrew K. , Bambrick Amanda , Lacombe Simon , Dougherty Michael C. , Peichl Matthias , Gordon Andrew M. , Thevathasan Naresh V. , Whalen Joann , Bradley Robert L.
Published: April 2014

Increasing awareness of global climate change has pressured agricultural producers to reduce greenhouse gas
(GHG) emissions while at the same time encouraging them to maintain food production needed for an increasing population.
Tree-based intercropping (TBI) systems are believed to be useful in climate change mitigation, especially in temperate
regions, due to their potential to reduce GHG emissions from agricultural practices. The purpose of this paper is therefore
to review some of the research conducted on GHG mitigation in TBI in southern Ontario and Quebec, Canada. Research
conducted at the University of Guelph Agroforestry Research Station (GARS) indicated that TBI systems had the
potential to lower N2O emissions by 1.2 kg ha-1 y-1 compared to a conventional agricultural field cropping system. Trees
can assimilate residual nitrate (NO3-) left from nitrogen (N) fertilizer applications, thereby leaving less NO3- available for
denitrification and subsequently reducing N2O losses. Carbon sequestration is also enhanced in TBI systems as carbon (C)
is stored in both above and below ground tree components. Soil Organic Carbon (SOC) is higher in systems incorporating
trees because tree litter decomposes slowly, therefore reducing CO2 loss to the atmosphere. The C sequestration potential
of TBI systems and the possibility to include fast-growing tree species for bioenergy production in TBI systems make it a
valid solution to mitigate climate change in temperate regions. The opportunity of C trading credits to offset the costs of
implementing a TBI system and provide additional income to farmers could facilitate the adoption of TBI amidst agricultural
producers in temperate regions.
Factors Affecting Online Groupwork Interest: A Multilevel Analysis
Authors: Du Jianxia , Xu Jianzhong , Fan Xitao
Published: April 2014

The purpose of the present study is to examine the personal and contextual factors that may affect students' online groupwork interest. Using the data obtained from graduate students in an online course, both student- and group-level predictors for online groupwork interest were analyzed within the framework of hierarchical linear modeling analysis. The findings show that most of the variance in the outcome variable of online groupwork interest was at the student level, with online groupwork interest being positively associated with learning-oriented reasons, but negatively associated with student attitude toward online individual work. At the group level, peer-oriented reasons, learning-oriented reasons, and monitoring motivation were shown to be significant predictors for online groupwork interest. The implications of the empirical findings and future research directions were discussed.
Using Structural Equation Modeling to Validate Online Game Players' Motivations Relative to Self-Concept and Life Adaptation
Authors: Yang Shu Ching , Huang Chiao Ling
Published: April 2014

This study aimed to validate a systematic instrument to measure online players' motivations for playing online games (MPOG) and examine how the interplay of differential motivations impacts young gamers' self-concept and life adaptation. Confirmatory factor analysis determined that a hierarchical model with a two-factor structure of Social-engaging and Social-disengaging MPOG has better factorial validity than one-factor and two-factor models. The study found that individuals who play online games with Social-engaging MPOG are more likely to have a healthy self-concept and life adaptation, whereas players who have Social-disengaging MPOG have poorer self-concepts and experience a significant, negative, and indirect effect on life adaptation through their self-concept.
Family Policy and Inequalities in Health in Different Welfare States
Authors: Fosse Elisabeth , Bull Torill , Burström Bo , Fritzell Sara
Published: April 2014

This article focuses on differences in health and welfare outcomes for families with children in three European countries, discussed in relation to national policies for child and family welfare. Data consist of policy documents and cross-national surveys. The document analysis was based on policy documents that described government policies. The statistical analyses utilize data from the European Social Survey. For the analyses in this article, a sub-sample of child families was selected from the countries Slovenia, Sweden, and the United Kingdom. Data showed that England's policy has mainly addressed socially disadvantaged groups and areas. Sweden and Slovenia are mainly developing universal policies. The United Kingdom has high scores for subjective general health, but a steep income gradient in the population. Parents in England experience the highest level of at-risk-of-poverty. Sweden generally scores well on health outcomes and on level of at-risk-of-poverty, and the gradient in self-rated general health is the mildest. Slovenia has the weakest economy, but low levels of inequality and low child at-risk-for-poverty scores. The Slovenian example suggests that not only the level of economic wealth, but also its distribution in the population, has bearings on health and life satisfaction, not least on the health of children.
Big Pharma and the Problem of Disease Inflation
Authors: Gabriel Joseph M. , Goldberg Daniel S.
Published: April 2014

Over the course of the past decade, critics have increasingly called attention to the corrosive influence of the pharmaceutical industry on both biomedical research and the practice of medicine. Critics describe the industry's use of ghostwriting and other unethical techniques to expand their markets as evidence that medical science is all-too-frequently subordinated to the goals of corporate profit. While we do not dispute this perspective, we argue that it is imperative to also recognize that the goals of medical science and industry profit are now tightly wed to one another. As a result, medical science now operates to expand disease definitions, lower diagnostic thresholds, and otherwise advance the goals of corporate profit through the redefinition and expansion of what it means to be ill. We suggest that this process has led to a variety of ethical problems that are not fully captured by current critiques of ghostwriting and other troubling practices by the pharmaceutical industry. In our conclusion, we call for physicians, ethicists, and other concerned observers to embrace a more fundamental critique of the relationship between biomedical science and corporate profit.
The Role of International NGOs in Health Systems Strengthening: The Case of Timor-Leste
Authors: Mercer Mary Anne , Thompson Susan M. , de Araujo Rui Maria
Published: April 2014

Achieving the United Nations Millennium Development Goals for health will require that programs supporting health in developing countries focus on strengthening national health care systems. However, the dominant neoliberal model of development mandates reduced public spending on health and other social services, often resulting in increased funding for nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) at the expense of support for government systems. East Timor, later Timor-Leste, is an example of a post-crisis country where international NGO efforts were initially critical to providing relief efforts to a traumatized population. Those groups were not prepared to help develop and support a standardized Timorese national health plan, however, and the cost of their support was unsustainable in the long term. In response, local authorities designed and implemented a post-crisis NGO phase-over plan that addressed risks to service disruption and monitored the process. Since then, some NGOs have worked collaboratively with the Ministry of Health to support specific efforts and initiatives under a framework provided by the ministry. Timor-Leste has shown that ministries of health can facilitate an effective transition of NGO support from crisis to development if they are allowed to plan and manage the process.
Beyond Accreditation: A Multi-Track Quality-Enhancing Strategy for Primary Health Care in Low-and Middle-Income Countries
Authors: Saleh Shadi S. , Alameddine Mohamad S. , Natafgi Nabil M.
Published: April 2014

Many define an equitable health care system as one that provides logistical and financial access to “quality” care to the population. Realizing that fact, many low- and middle-income countries started investing in enhancing the quality of care in their health care systems, recently in primary health care. Unfortunately, in many instance, these investments have been exclusively focused on accreditation due to available guidelines and existing accrediting structures. A multi-track quality-enhancing strategy (MTQES) is proposed that includes, in addition to promoting resource-sensitive accreditation, other quality initiatives such as clinical guidelines, performance indicators, benchmarking activities, annual quality-enhancing projects, and annual quality summit/meeting. These complementary approaches are presented to synergistically enhance a continuous quality improvement culture in the primary health care sector, taking into consideration limited resources available, especially in low- and middle-income countries. In addition, an implementation framework depicting MTQES in three-phase interlinked packages is presented; each matches existing resources and quality infrastructure. Health care policymakers and managers need to think about accreditation as a beginning rather than an end to their quest for quality. Improvements in the structure of a health delivery organization or in the processes of care have little value if they do not translate to reduced disparities in access to “quality” care, and not merely access to care.
When Constitutional Justice Has the Last Word on Health Care: The Case of Chile
Authors: Fajuri Alejandra Zúñiga
Published: April 2014

The Chilean health care system is in crisis. Since the recent ruling of the Constitutional Court that declared the risk rating (actuarial insurance) of private health insurers unconstitutional, all of the social actors related to health care have tried to agree on a legislative reform that would overcome the existing highly segmented and inequitable system, which is a legacy of Pinochet's dictatorship. Here we demonstrate how the social and political demands for legislative reform in the health care sector have been supported by the decisions of the courts. To achieve its goals of reducing equity gaps in health and ending the judicialization of health care (claims for protection represent almost 70% of total resources of the courts), the National Congress of Chile is trying to create a new national health insurance system that guarantees the right to a minimum level of health care. Part of this effort involves obtaining the constitutional approval of the courts. In Chile, justice has the final word on health care.
Evaluation of Urinalyses Ordered for Diagnosis of Urinary Tract Infections at an Inpatient Psychiatric Hospital
Authors: Cogdill Brittany R. , Ross Clint A. , Hurst John M. , Garrison Kelli L. , Drayton Shannon J. , Wisniewski Christopher S.
Published: April 2014

Objective:

A retrospective study was conducted to assess the diagnosis and treatment of urinary tract infections (UTIs) using urinalyses (UA)s at a psychiatric hospital.

Method:

Patients admitted between July 2010 and June 2011 receiving at least one UA during inpatient psychiatric hospitalization were included. Pregnant patients and those with a UA receiving antibiotic treatment in the emergency department were excluded. The primary objective of the study was to characterize and assess the appropriateness of UAs ordered for the diagnosis of UTIs. Secondary objectives included analyzing frequency of cultures obtained, appropriateness of empiric antibiotics, and de-escalation of therapy if warranted.

Results:

Thirty-nine percent ( n = 891/2292) of patients admitted received a UA at least once during their hospitalization. Of 203 patients further evaluated, 78% were asymptomatic, 11% were older than 65 years of age with altered mental status (AMS) or dementia, and 11% had typical UTI symptoms. Thirty-one patients were given antibiotics for a UTI during their stay, with a majority of those being asymptomatic ( n = 19/31).

Conclusions:

A significant proportion of UAs ordered at a psychiatric hospital were inappropriate. When patients were treated, empiric antibiotic selection and length of treatment were appropriate in most instances.
Patterns of Cortical Activation following Motor Tasks and Psychological-Inducing Movie Cues in Heroin Users: An fMRI Study
Authors: Jiang Yan-Ling , Tian Wei , Lu Gang , Rudd John A. , Lai K. F. , Yeung L. Y. , Wai Maria S. M. , Li Yuan Yuan , Huang Ming Long , Yew David T.
Published: April 2014

Objective:

Drug abuse and addiction are worldwide health problems. However, few studies have used fMRI to investigate the effect of chronic heroin use on brain activation. This is a study along this line.

Method:

fMRI positive sites in the brain were recorded during different motor and sensory activities.

Results:

Following motor activities, heroin users had more sites globally activated in the brain than in normal volunteers, with ex-heroin users being least reactive. Conversely, a “heroin puffing” movie produced more activation in ongoing-heroin and ex-heroin users than in the normal individuals, whereas a movie with explicit sexual content was less stimulatory in both groups of heroin users compared to normal individuals.

Conclusions:

These significant findings relative to the function of specific brain nuclei are discussed.
Diagnoses of Psychiatric Disorders in Hypothetical Patients by Non-Psychiatric Physicians in Japan
Authors: Kishi Yasuhiro , Kurosawa Hisashi , Horikawa Naoshi , Hatta Kotaro , Meller William
Published: April 2014

Objective:

This study was undertaken to investigate non-psychiatric physicians' diagnoses of hypothetical patients in clinical scenarios with comorbid medical and psychiatric disease in Japan.

Methods:

The non-psychiatric physicians were asked to diagnose eight clinical scenarios describing several typical behavioral health problems in the medical settings.

Results:

A total of 155 non-psychiatric physicians participated. Many physicians had problems correctly diagnosing depression and hypoactive delirium with medically ill patients.

Conclusions:

It is time to incorporate new efficient and effective approaches, such as collaborative care system and proactive delirium prevention programs, to improve overall behavioral health diagnosis and treatment, rather than relying on the rapid recognition of behavioral health problems in primary care/general medical settings.
Moisture management properties of plain knitted fabrics made of natural and regenerated cellulose fibres
Authors: Novakovic Milada , Putic Lana , Bizjak Matejka , Stankovic Snezana
Published: April 2014

Moisture management is a complicated process which is known to be influenced
by a variety of fabric characteristics such as fibre nature (hydrophilic or
hydrophobic), porosity and thickness. There are different aspects of the
moisture management properties of textile materials since water transport in
textile materials can be in the form of liquid and vapour. The ability of
textile materials to transfer water vapour allows the human body to keep
thermal balance due to evaporation. With stronger physical activity of a
person when the body produces a large amount of heat, the skin perspiration
increases (in order to regulate the body temperature) and liquid sweat should
be taken from the skin, otherwise it will worsen the sense of comfort. The
aim of this research was to investigate the factors influencing moisture
management properties of plain knitted fabrics at the three scale levels,
i.e. microscopic (fibre type), mesoscopic (yarn geometry) and macroscopic
(fabric porosity) levels. Plain knitted fabrics were produced from the
two-assembled hemp, cotton and viscose yarns under controlled conditions so
as to be comparable in basic construction characteristics, but varying in
yarns geometry. Evaporative resistance test reflecting vapour transport and
water distribution test reflecting liquid transport in the knitted fabrics
were conducted. To determine the statistical importance of the results,
analysis of variance (ANOVA) was applied. As a consequence of the geometry
and deformation behaviour of the fibres used and spinning techniques applied,
the yarns differed in both packing density and surface geometry, thus
determining the pore distribution. Due to loose structure of the cotton yarn,
the cotton knitted fabric was characterised by the lowest free open surface
(macroporosity) exhibiting the lowest both water vapour and liquid
permeability. Although having the highest macroporosity, the water vapour and
liquid transport capability of the hemp knitted fabric was lower than that of
the viscose knit. The best moisture management properties of the viscose
knitted fabric were resulted from viscose affinity for water absorption and
increased surface area of the viscose yarn. The results obtained proved that
variations in any of the hierarchical structure levels can modify moisture
transport ability of textile fabrics. Therefore, the moisture management
properties of textile materials can be guided in a desired direction by the
appropriate selection of fibres and careful design of yarn structure.
Is Warren Buffett's Commentary on Accounting, Governance, and Investing Practices Reflected in the Investment Decisions and Subsequent Influence of Berkshire Hathaway?
Authors: Bowen Robert M. , Rajgopal Shivaram , Venkatachalam Mohan
Published: April 2014

We examine (1) whether the accounting, governance, and investing practices of Berkshire Hathaway investees are consistent with Warren Buffett's public statements on what constitutes good accounting, governance, and investing practices and (2) whether these practices are associated with Berkshire's initial “selection” or Buffett's subsequent “influence.” Compared to control firms, we find that Berkshire investees are highly likely to follow Buffett's investment philosophy, somewhat likely to follow his preferred accounting, disclosure, and compensation policies, but unlikely to follow the board-related governance practices that we can measure. Second, we find some evidence that the business practices of future Berkshire investees are more aligned with Buffett's beliefs in the pre-investment period compared to control firms. Third, we find relatively modest evidence that investees improve a few of their business practices subsequent to Berkshire's initial investment. However, and overall, Buffett does not appear to be especially influential in the subsequent accounting, governance, and investing decisions of Berkshire investees, likely because he has already taken into account the attributes he cares most about in the initial investment decision.

Data Availability: Except for the Gunning Fog Index and family firm status, other data in this study are available from commercial providers, e.g., CDA/Spectrum Institutional Money Manager Holdings, Compustat, CRSP.
Effects of Physical Therapist–Guided Quadriceps-Strengthening Exercises for the Treatment of Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome: A Systematic Review
Authors: Kooiker Laura , Van De Port Ingrid G.L. , Weir Adam , Moen Maarten H.
Published: April 2014

Study Design

Systematic literature review.

Objective

To summarize the evidence for physical therapist–guided quadriceps-strengthening exercises as a treatment for patellofemoral pain syndrome.

Background

Although quadriceps strengthening is often included in the plan of care for patellofemoral pain syndrome, a systematic review published in 2003 found only limited evidence that exercise was more effective than no exercise for this common condition.

Methods

The PubMed, Embase/MEDLINE, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases, from inception to January 9, 2014, were searched for randomized controlled trials comparing the use of quadriceps-strengthening exercises to interventions consisting of advice/information or a placebo. Outcomes of interest were pain measures and function, as measured with self-report questionnaires. The methodological quality of the randomized controlled trials was assessed with the Physiotherapy Evidence Database scale. Results were summarized using a best-evidence synthesis and graphically illustrated using forest plots without meta-analysis.

Results

Seven studies were included in the literature review. These studies reported strong evidence that isolated quadriceps strengthening is more effective in reducing pain and improving function than advice and information alone. In addition, compared to advice and information or placebo, there was strong evidence that quadriceps-strengthening exercises combined with other interventions may be more effective in reducing pain immediately postintervention and after 12 months, but not in improving function.

Conclusion

The literature provides strong evidence for the use of quadriceps-strengthening exercises, with or without other interventions, for the treatment of patellofemoral pain syndrome.

Level of Evidence

Therapy, level 1a-. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2014;44(6):391–402. Epub 25 April 2014. doi:10.2519/jospt.2014.4127
Management of a Patient With Chronic Low Back Pain and Multiple Health Conditions Using a Pain Mechanisms–Based Classification Approach
Authors: Hensley Craig P. , Courtney Carol A.
Published: April 2014

Study Design

Case report.

Background

Pain can lead to a significant reduction in quality of life. A pain mechanisms–based classification scheme has been outlined to improve management of patients with pain, but studies describing its use are limited. Evidence for physical therapy interventions in those with chronic pain and multiple health conditions is also lacking. This case report describes management of a patient with chronic pain and multiple health conditions.

Case Description

A 29-year-old man presented with a 3-year history of low back pain and 11-month history of lower extremity paresthesia. Current health conditions included left-sided hemiparesis secondary to a stroke, pancreatic kidney transplant, left-sided blindness, and osteoporosis secondary to hyperparathyroidism. Inability to walk to school and sit through class, and pain-related sleep disruption were the primary activity and participation restrictions. Outcome measures included the numeric pain rating scale, global rating of change, Oswestry Disability Index, and pain medication usage. A score of 12 on the Leeds assessment of neuropathic symptoms and signs (LANSS) pain scale indicated the presence of neuropathic pain, but other pain mechanisms were also hypothesized to be present. Treatment was designed to improve patient goals considering these pain mechanisms.

Outcomes

The patient was seen for 20 visits over 6 months. Ten months after the initial evaluation, the patient's Oswestry Disability Index scores improved by more than 50% and the patient achieved all initially stated goals without pain medication.

Discussion

A pain mechanisms-based approach assisted in the management of a patient with chronic pain and multiple health conditions. Using this approach may enhance clinical decision making when managing individuals with chronic pain.

Level of Evidence

Therapy, level 4. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2014;44(6):403–414. Epub 25 April 2014. doi:10.2519/jospt.2014.4861
Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm in a Patient With Low Back Pain
Authors: Van Wyngaarden Joshua J. , Ross Michael D. , Hando Benjamin R.
Published: April 2014

Study Design

Resident's case problem.

Background

The purpose of this report was to describe (1) the clinical reasoning that led a clinician to identify an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) in a patient with low back pain requiring immediate medical referral, and (2) an evidence-based approach to clinical evaluation of patients with suspected AAA.

Diagnosis

The patient was unable to identify a specific mechanism of injury for his low back pain, lacked aggravating/easing factors for his symptoms, and complained of night pain and an inability to ease his symptoms with position changes. While the patient's symptoms remained unchanged during physical examination of the lumbar spine and hip, abdominal palpation revealed a strong, nontender pulsation over the midline of the upper and lower abdominal quadrants. Due to concern for an AAA, the patient was immediately referred to his physician. Subsequent computed tomography imaging revealed a prominent AAA, which measured up to 5.5 cm in greatest dimension and extended from below the renal arteries to the bifurcation of the iliac arteries. The patient initially deferred surgical intervention but eventually consented 6 months later, after repeat computed tomography imaging revealed that the AAA had progressed to 6.7 cm in greatest dimension.

Discussion

It is essential for physical therapists to be familiar with a diagnostic pathway to help identify AAA in patients presenting with apparent musculoskeletal complaints. Knowledge of the risk factors for AAA, understanding how to screen for nonmusculoskeletal symptoms, and a basic competence in abdominal palpation and how to interpret findings will help with the clinician's clinical decision making.

Level of Evidence

Differential diagnosis, level 4. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2014;44(7):500–507. Epub 25 April 2014. doi:10.2519/jospt.2014.4935
Boarding School, Academic Motivation and Engagement, and Psychological Well-Being
Authors: Martin Andrew J. , Papworth Brad , Ginns Paul , Liem Gregory Arief D.
Published: April 2014

Boarding school has been a feature of education systems for centuries. Minimal large-scale quantitative data have been collected to examine its association with important educational and other outcomes. The present study represents one of the largest studies into boarding school conducted to date. It investigates boarding school and students’ motivation, engagement, and psychological well-being (e.g., life satisfaction, interpersonal relationships)—controlling for sociodemographic, achievement, personality, and school covariates. The main sample comprised 5,276 high school students (28% boarding students; 72% day students) from 12 high schools in Australia. A subsample of 2,002 students (30% boarding students; 70% day students) had pretest data, enabling analyses of gains or declines in outcomes across the school year. Results indicated predominant parity between boarding and day students on most outcome factors, some modest positive results favoring boarding students, and no notable differences in gains or declines on outcomes between boarders and day students over the course of one academic year. Implications for researchers, the boarding sector, parents, and students are discussed.