bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Políticas de defesa da concorrência e de regulação econômica: as deficiências do sistema brasileiro de defesa da concorrência
Authors: Matias-Pereira José
Published: November 2008

É essencial, numa economia de mercado como a brasileira, que o governo possa contar com dois importantes instrumentos - que interagem e se complementam -, para garantir o crescimento econômico: a legislação antitruste e a política de regulação econômica. Nesse sentido, este artigo - apoiado na denominada Nova Economia Institucional (Williamson, 1975, 1985, 1996; North, 1984, 1997; Olson, 1996; Stiglitz, 1990) -, tem o objetivo de retratar em linhas gerais a política e o sistema de defesa da concorrência no Brasil, bem como avaliar se as decisões do Conselho Administrativo de Defesa Econômica (CADE), a partir da abertura da economia brasileira nos anos noventa, estão contribuindo para o fortalecimento institucional do sistema de defesa da concorrência no Brasil, com destaque para os atos de concentração examinados pós-1994. Concluímos que, o sistema de defesa da concorrência no Brasil necessita de maior celeridade na apreciação de determinados atos, e aperfeiçoar o mecanismo de coordenação dos órgãos do sistema, para consolidar-se institucionalmente no Brasil.
Passivo ambiental: estudo de caso da Petróleo Brasileiro S.A - Petrobrás. A repercussão ambiental nas demonstrações contábeis, em conseqüência dos acidentes ocorridos
Authors: Bertoli Ana Lúcia , Ribeiro Maisa de Souza
Published: November 2008

As demonstrações contábeis são muito importantes para que os acionistas, investidores, fornecedores, financiadores e interessados saibam a situação patrimonial e o resultado da empresa com a qual se relaciona, bem como sua forma de atuação em relação ao meio ambiente, seu comprometimento com a natureza e com a legislação vigente. A ausência dessas informações ou a inexistência de sua segregação pode velar o impacto decorrente de gastos ambientais proativos ou reativos. Os investimentos para a preservação e proteção do meio ecológico têm valores expressivos; no entantoos gastos necessários para fazer face às conseqüências da ausência de medidas preventivas ou falhas operacionais podem atingir volumes muito mais comprometedores em face do patrimônio e do resultado das companhias. As demonstrações contábeis da companhia Petrobrás foram utilizadas como estudo de caso, tendo em vista a obrigatoriedade de publicação e os diversos acidentes ocorridos em 2000 e 2001. O trabalho teve como objetivo apurar o efeito dos impactos ambientais sobre a situação econômico-financeira da empresa. Constatou-se que os efeitos foram significativos e certamente poderiam ser comprometedores, se ocorressem em empresas com estruturas diferenciadas em relação ao porte, à participação do governo no capital e à concentração das atividades.
Repensando o processo de aprendizagem organizacional no agronegócio: um estudo de caso realizado numa cooperativa destaque em qualidade no RS
Authors: Estivalete Vania de Fátima Barros , Löbler Mauri Leodir , Pedrozo Eugênio Ávila
Published: November 2008

O presente artigo tem como objetivo investigar os estilos de aprendizagem gerencial sob a perspectiva de Kolb (1978) e verificar se há relação entre os estilos de aprendizagem e os Motivos Sociais propostos por McClelland (1972). A estratégia metodológica utilizada foi o estudo de caso realizado em uma Cooperativa localizada no interior do Estado do Rio Grande do Sul, destaque em qualidade na região. Os sujeitos da pesquisa são em número de 11, incluindo-se o presidente, a gerência de Recursos Humanos e os gerentes das unidades de negócios que fazem parte do Comitê Gestor da Qualidade. A coleta dos dados foi baseada em fontes documentais, questionários e entrevistas individuais semi-estruturadas. Constatou-se que os gerentes possuidores dos estilos de aprendizagem convergente e acomodador sentem uma maior necessidade de poder, revelando uma necessidade menor de realização. Em contraposição, verificou-se que os possuidores dos estilos divergente e assimilador sentem maior necessidade de realização e menor necessidade de poder. Dada a complexidade do comportamento humano, entende-se que a classificação dos gestores de acordo com determinados estilos e motivos sociais não deve ser considerada de maneira estanque e definitiva, mas como forma de compreendê-lo melhor.
Arterial embolectomy in lower limbs
Authors: Wolosker Nelson , Kuzniec Sérgio , Gaudêncio Alvaro , Salles Luis Ricardo Amaral , Rosoky Ruben , Aun Ricardo , Puech-Leão Pedro
Published: November 2008

Arterial embolisms in the lower limbs occur frequently, and are of great interest to the vascular surgeon. The authors studied 159 cases of arterial embolisms in lower limbs from January 1991 to July 1993. Ages varied from 12 to 98, with a mean of 58. Eighty patients were male and 78 were female. In most cases, etiology of the embolus was well-established, and mainly caused (78 percent) by atrial fibrillation. Occlusion was most frequent in the femoral artery (53.4 percent). All patients presented severe lower limb ischemia, but not gangrene, on admission. The duration of ischemia, between the onset of symptoms and the liberation of arterial flow, was in most patients (67.9 percent) less than 24 hours. All patients were submitted to lower limb embolectomy with the Fogarty catheter, of which 70.9 percent were done through the femoral artery. Fasciotomy was performed on 48 patients due to a compartimental syndrome. Nineteen patients died immediately after operation; 68.4 percent due to heart failure. Twenty-three (16.4 percent) of the 140 surviving patients (150 operated limbs) were submitted to amputations after the occlusion of artery branches, which had undergone embolectomies. One hundred and twenty-seven limbs (84.6 percent) were preserved in 117 patients (83.5 percent). Eleven cases (7.3 percent) required repeated surgery with the Fogarty catheter. The patients with muscle tenderness, paralysis, or ischemia lasting longer than 24 hours had worse results in relation to the preservation of the limb (p<0.05). We conclude that patients who present lower limb embolisms, are in good clinical condition, and who do not have any necrosis in the limbs, have good outcomes as to limb preservation, along with low complication rates, after embolectomy with the Fogarty catheter. Limb preservation was significantly higher in patients who did not present muscle tenderness, and who had normal motor activity and a ischemia duration of less than 24 hours.
Gallstone ileus as a cause of upper intestinal obstruction
Authors: Szajnbock Israel , Lorenzi Fernando , Rodrigues Jr. Aldo Junqueira , Zantut Luis Fernando Correa , Poggetti Renato Sérgio , Steinman Eliana , Birolini Dario
Published: November 2008

Gallstone ileus, a mechanical intestinal obstruction caused by the passage of a gallstone into the intestinal lumen through a fistula, although not common, deserves to more carefully studied due to its morbidity and mortality. Its incidence among older-age groups explains its association with chronic and degenerative diseases, which increase the complexity of the treatment choice.The need and appropriateness of a surgical approach to a cholecystenteric fistula to solve the obstructive emergency, in a one or two stage procedure, has been discussed in the literature. It has also been reported that gallstone ileus is an uncommon cause of upper intestinal obstruction. Intestinal obstruction is seen more frequently after a gallstone impacts at the ileocecal valve. The authors report a case of gallstone ileus as a cause of upper intestinal obstruction and discuss its diagnosis and treatment.
Internal validity, dimensionality and performance of the Body Shape Questionnaire in a group of Brazilian college students
Authors: Di Pietro Monica , Silveira Dartiu Xavier da
Published: November 2008

OBJECTIVE: To adapt the Body Shape Questionnaire for use in the Brazilian population; to study the internal validity and the dimensionality of the scale when used in a non- clinical Brazilian population. METHOD: A cross- sectional study was accomplished comprising 164 students in the first 3 years of the School of Medicine conveniently selected at the Universidade Federal de São Paulo. The 34- item Body Shape Questionnaire version and a questionnaire to assess demographic and anthropometric information were used. RESULTS: The internal consistency of the Body Shape Questionnaire measured by Cronbach's alpha was 0.97, indicating that the questions of the scale converge to the same construct. The factor analysis of the scale resulted in a four- dimension solution accounting for 66.4% of the total data variability. Regarding the final score of Body Shape Questionnaire, the mean score was 58.7 ± 25.1 for men and 89.7 ± 31.3 for women. DISCUSSION: We found statistically significant gender differences in the means of the Body Shape Questionnaire scores. Women showed higher dissatisfaction than did men as to their appearance as measured by the Body Shape Questionnaire. The adapted version of the scale seems to maintain the characteristics of the original scale.
Generation and alleviation of sonic booms from rail tunnels
Authors: Vardy A. E.
Published: November 2008

The origins of sonic booms emitted from railway tunnel portals are described, and simple design expressions are provided to enable their amplitudes to be estimated, especially for the common case of relatively short tunnels. The paper is targeted primarily at designers wishing to make initial assessments without any need for specialist software or specialist expertise. However, many references are provided to sources of more advanced information. It is shown why the amplitudes of the disturbances tend to increase with tunnel length in the case of slab-track tunnels, but to decrease with length in the case of ballast-track tunnels. The potential effectiveness of various remedial measures is described, especially at tunnel entrances and exits. Some remedial methods would also improve comfort levels for passengers on trains in tunnels, but this is largely fortuitous because the sonic boom effect is influenced primarily by rates of change of pressure whereas passenger comfort is influenced primarily by absolute changes in pressure.
Karachi in 2020: approaching planning as a project
Authors: Ahmed N.
Published: November 2008

Pakistan's ongoing Karachi strategic development plan 2020 (KSDP 2020) approaches city planning as a project. The overall assignment, comprising vision building, articulation of objectives, situation analysis and development of planning scenarios, was undertaken from a project-oriented standpoint. It poses a challenge to the various stakeholders in the city, including city planners. Empirical research has established several urban development trends in the city. These include large-scale real estate projects with the assistance of foreign venture capitalists, mega transportation projects in the form of expressways and light rail transit, large schemes of landscape development, swift conversion and demolition of heritage properties and land sale ventures for housing projects. Almost all the projects have been announced on an ad hoc basis without any relevance to current or past urban planning guidelines. This paper examines the plan-making process undertaken for KSDP 2020. It analyses the planning approach with respect to internally defined objectives, stated procedures and findings. Based on specific case studies, the paper highlights the nature of the relationship between the various projects and the existing planning attempt, which is perceived as a project by the city administration. The paper presents an overall critique of whether city planning can be applied as a project across the outlined parameters.
A simulation model for generating alternative scenarios
Authors: Ottensmann J. R.
Published: November 2008

The Iuci2 urban simulation model simulates new urban development for a large region in central Indiana (USA) that includes multiple metropolitan areas. The model has been developed for use by persons without specialised expertise. It is freely distributed and may be downloaded from the Internet. Land use data for the model have been estimated from satellite imagery. Aggregate logit models have been estimated and are used to predict the probabilities of land being converted from non-urban to residential and employment-related uses for 1609-meter grid cells. A key feature of the model is the capability to generate alternative development scenarios reflecting a range of policy choices and assumptions regarding future development, ranging from the imposition of development restrictions to changes in densities of development to different overall rates of population growth. The model and its capabilities to produce alternative scenarios have been applied in a variety of planning contexts.
Literacy skills of bachelor of education (primary) students
Authors: Thwaite Anne
Published: November 2008

This article describes a project which identified the skills and abilities in written literacy of preservice teachers, as well as their needs in this area. An intervention to address their needs is evaluated and its outcomes assessed, using a combination of quantitative and qualitative analyses. Results show that it is possible to improve these students’ literacy skills and awareness even with such a short intervention as is described here. However, the intervention was most successful in dealing with lower-level linguistic variables such as punctuation and spelling, in contrast to higher-level text and paragraph structures.
Pilot Study on Treatment of Wastewater from an Ethylene Plant with Membrane Bioreactor Technology
Authors: Qin Jian-Jun , Oo Maung Htun , Dutková Guihe , Tao Eberhard , Kekre Kiran Arun , Cashion Bryan , Wenta Robert
Published: November 2008

Pilot studies were conducted with an anoxic/aerobic concept membrane bioreactor (MBR) technology and a
hollow fiber Petro® MBR system with capacity of 12 m3/d was operated continuously (24-hour) during the study. Trials
on different membrane fluxes were conducted to obtain the sustainable flux while mixed liquor suspended solid (MLSS)
was maintained at 9-11 g/L. The results of the MBR pilot trials showed that no obvious fouling of the membrane was
found when the plant was operated at the flux of 12 L /m2/h (LMH) over 3 months and 15 LMH over one month during
the pilot study. Design guidelines such as hydraulic retention time (HRT), sludge retention time (SRT), anoxic and aeration
volume ratio, re-circulation flow rate and air scouring were obtained for a full-scale plant. It was concluded that
treatment of wastewater from an ethylene plant without addition of any chemicals using MBR technology is feasible. The
product quality consistently met the requirement for discharge and was suitable for the feed of further reverse osmosis
(RO) post-treatment.
Study on an Anti Power-Stealing Monitoring System for a Rural Power Grid in China
Authors: Duan Qichang , Duan Pan
Published: November 2008

Power-stealing phenomena not only make the power industry suffer a tremendous economic loss, but also threaten the security and reliability of some rural electric networks in China.In this paper, an anti power-stealing monitoring system is developed, which contains a remote anti power-stealing terminal, a GPRS and Internet network, and a monitoring center. The anti power-stealing terminals are developed based on STPM01 and module GR47, which are installed in remote villages to detect power-stealing and measure power consumption. Power comparison methods and electricity energy comparison methods are used to confirm power-stealing. Information from anti power-stealing terminals is sent to the monitoring center through GPRS and the Internet.The monitoring system now is in operation in the Qingtongxia rural electric network, and results indicate that it is an effective way to discover power-stealing events using different power-stealing methods.
L-Index Modulated Voltage Source Converter
Authors: Dike Damian O , Mahajan Satish M
Published: November 2008

A strategy is presented for the self-tuning of a voltage source converter (VSC) based Flexible AC Transmission Systems (FACTS) according to the prevailing system condition. L-index, which is a power system voltage stability status indicator, and its associated parameters are used to automatically regulate the modulation signal of the VSC. This will lead to a proportionate adjusting of the magnitude of the current injected into, or absorbed from, the interconnected load bus by the FACTS device. This regulating scheme will enhance seamless and optimal reactive power compensation by utilizing the dynamic operational nature of present day distressed power system networks. Results obtained using this method when applied to selected load buses of the IEEE 14 bus system under varying practical scenarios showed its capability to appropriately control FACTS devices operation to accommodate system changing conditions. It is hoped that the outcome of this work will provide efficient tools for the determination of power system status, ensure optimal utilization of the dynamic reactive power compensation devices and reduce system outages.
Effects of Different Coagulation Temperatures on the Texture and Yield of Soy Paneer (Tofu)
Authors: Mhatre Sujata S , Jain Sanjay Kumar , Murdia Lalit Kumar , Jain Hemant Kumar
Published: November 2008

Studies were conducted to find the effects of coagulation temperatures on yield and quality of tofu coagulated with calcium sulfate. Instrumental Textural Analyzer was used to measure the textural properties such as hardness, cohesiveness, adhesiveness, springiness and chewiness of tofu. It was found that hardness, cohesiveness, adhesiveness, springiness, chewiness and yield increase with coagulation temperature. The developed regression equations can be used for predicting these properties in the experimental range satisfactorily.
Study on Immobilization Methods of Acetylcholinesterase
Authors: Sun Xia , Wang Xiangyou , Liu Zhe
Published: November 2008

In this paper, two acetylcholinesterase (AChE) immobilization methods on the surface of a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) were compared. AChE-employed homogenate from chicken brain was home-made in the laboratory. The immobilization methods employed a cross-linking method with glutaraldehyde as a cross-linking agent, bovine serum albumin (BSA) as a protectant, and sol-gel method with tetraethoxysilane (TEOS). AChE was immobilized on chitosan membranes by these two immobilization methods. Then the enzyme membrane was fixed on the surface of GCE to prepare an AChE-GCE amperometric biosensor for the detection of organophosphorus pesticide. Measuring the activity of immobilization AChE by the oxidation current of thiocholine (TCh), produced by hydrolysis of the acetylthiocholine iodide (ATChI) substrate, the results showed that the activity of AChE-employed sol-gel method with TEOS was higher than the cross-linking method with glutaraldehyde. Biosensor sensitivity and reproducibility were statistically evaluated for the different immobilization methods and the most suitable immobilization procedure was selected.
Chemistry in Serbian journals in the second half of the 19th century
Authors: Cvjeticanin Stanko , Halasi Ruza , Halasi Tibor , Adamov Jasna
Published: November 2008

The aim of this paper is selection and analysis of articles with chemistry content in selected Serbian journals in the second half of the 19th century, which were aimed towards general public, in order to get insight into the level and quality of additional chemistry informing of readers. Two journals were selected, that contained entertaining, literature and scientific content ('Sedmica' and 'Vila'), and two other, with entertainment and literature nature ('Danica' and 'Matica'). The analyzed journals primarily addressed the general public and played an important role in readers' information and education. Historical method was applied in this research. The above-mentioned journals were analyzed separately, with the short historical survey. Complete editions of these journals were analyzed, and the selection of articles was made according to the textual content or the title itself. The chemistry content presented in these journals is of the great variety. Among other things, interesting comments of the chemical schoolbooks are found, as well as lectures on science.
Electrocatalytic properties and stability of titanium anodes activated by the inorganic sol-gel procedure
Authors: Panic Vladimir , Nikolic Branislav
Published: November 2008

The properties of activated titanium anodes, RuO2-TiO2/Ti and RuO2--TiO2-IrO2/Ti, prepared from oxide sols by the sol-gel procedure, are reviewed. RuO2 and TiO2 sols were synthesized by forced hydrolysis of the corresponding chlorides in acid medium. The morphology of the prepared sols was investigated by transmission electron microscopy. The chemical composition of the RuO2 sol was determined by X-ray diffraction and thermogravimetric analysis. The loss of electrocatalytic activity of a RuO2-TiO2/Ti anode during an accelerated stability test was investigated by examination of the changes in the electrochemical characteristics in the potential region of the chlorine and oxygen evolution reaction, as well as on the open circuit potential. These electrochemical characteristics were investigated by cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and polarization measurements. The changes in electrochemical characteristics of the anode prepared by the sol-gel procedure were compared to the changes registered for an anode prepared by the traditional thermal decomposition of metal chlorides. The comparison indicated that the main cause for the activity loss of the sol-gel prepared anode was the electrochemical dissolution of RuO2, while in the case of thermally prepared anode the loss was mainly caused by the formation of an insulating TiO2 layer in the coating/Ti substrate interphase. The results of an accelerated stability test on RuO2-TiO2/Ti and RuO2--TiO2-IrO2/Ti anodes showed that the ternary coating is considerably more stable than the binary one, which is the consequence of the greater stability of IrO2 in comparison to RuO2.
Microstructured surfaces engineered using biological templates: A facile approach for the fabrication of superhydrophobic surfaces
Authors: Losic Dusan
Published: November 2008

The fabrication of microstructured surfaces using biological tem- plates was investigated with the aim of exploring of a facile and low cost approach for the fabrication of structured surfaces with superhydrophobic properties. Two soft lithographic techniques, i.e., replica moulding and nano-imprinting, were used to replicate the surfaces of a biological substrate. Leaves of the Agave plant (Agave attenuate), a cost-free biological template, were used as a model of a biosurface with superhydrophobic properties. The replication process was performed using two polymers: an elastomeric polymer, poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS), and a polyurethane (PU) based, UV-curable polymer (NOA 60). In the first replication step, negative polymer replicas of the surface of leaves were fabricated, which were used as masters to fabricate positive polymer replicas by moulding and soft imprinting. The pattern with micro and nanostructures of the surface of the leaf possesses superhydrophobic properties, which was successfully replicated into both polymers. Finally, the positive replicas were coated with a thin gold film and modified with self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) to verify the importance of the surface chemistry on the hydrophobic properties of the fabricated structures. Wetting (contact angle) and structural (light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy) characterization was performed to confirm the hydrophobic properties of the fabricated surfaces (>150?), as well as the precision and reproducibility of the replication process.
Thermal-hydraulic Fortran program for steady-state calculations of plate-type fuel research reactors
Authors: Khedr Ahmed
Published: November 2008

The safety assessment of research and power reactors is a continuous process covering their lifespan and requiring verified and validated codes. Power reactor codes all over the world are well established and qualified against real measuring data and qualified experimental facilities. These codes are usually sophisticated, require special skills and consume a lot of running time. On the other hand, most research reactor codes still require much more data for validation and qualification. It is, therefore, of benefit to any regulatory body to develop its own codes for the review and assessment of research reactors. The present paper introduces a simple, one-dimensional Fortran program called THDSN for steady-state thermal-hydraulic calculations of plate-type fuel research reactors. Besides calculating the fuel and coolant temperature distributions and pressure gradients in an average and hot channel, the program calculates the safety limits and margins against the critical phenomena encountered in research reactors, such as the onset of nucleate boiling, critical heat flux and flow instability. Well known thermal-hydraulic correlations for calculating the safety parameters and several formulas for the heat transfer coefficient have been used. The THDSN program was verified by comparing its results for 2 and 10 MW benchmark reactors with those published in IAEA publications and a good agreement was found. Also, the results of the program are compared with those published for other programs, such as the PARET and TERMIC.
Localization of the gamma-radiation sources using the gamma-visor
Authors: Ivanov Kirill , Ponomaryev-Stepnoi Nikolai , Stepennov Boris , Teterin Yury , Teterin Anton , Kharitonov Vladimir
Published: November 2008

The search of the main gamma-radiation sources at the site of the temporary storage of solid radioactive wastes was carried out. The relative absorbed dose rates were measured for some of the gamma-sources before and after the rehabilitation procedures. The effectiveness of the rehabilitation procedures in the years 2006-2007 was evaluated qualitatively and quantitatively. The decrease of radiation background at the site of the temporary storage of the solid radioactive wastes after the rehabilitation procedures allowed localizing the new gamma-source.
Decommissioning of the ASTRA research reactor: Dismantling the auxiliary systems and clearance and reuse of the buildings
Authors: Meyer Franz , Steger Ferdinand , Steininger Roland
Published: November 2008

The paper presents work performed in the last phase of the decommissioning of the ASTRA research reactor at the Austrian Research Centers Seibersdorf. Dismantling the pump room installations and the ventilation system, as well as the clearance of the buildings is described. Some conclusions and summary data regarding the timetable, material management, and the cost of the entire project are also presented.
A class of discrete spectra of non-Pisot numbers
Authors: Stankov Dragan
Published: November 2008

We investigate the class of ?1 polynomials evaluated at q defined as: A(q) = { ?0 + ?1q + ? ? ? + ?mqm : ?i ? {-1, 1}} and usually called spectrum, and show that, if q is the root of the polynomial xn - xn-1 - ? ? ? - xk+1 + xk + xk-1 + ? ? ? + x + 1 between 1 and 2, and n > 2k + 3, then A(q) is discrete, which means that it does not have any accumulation points.
Recombinant activated factor VII in the treatment of intractable non-surgical bleeding following major vascular procedures
Authors: Koncar Igor , Savic Nebojsa , Davidovic Lazar , Simic Dusica , Markovic Dejan , Sindjelic Radomir
Published: November 2008

INTRODUCTION A recombinant form of activated factor VII (rFVIIa) is a haemostatic drug that is approved for use in haemophiliacs with antibodies to factor VIII or factor IX. Most recent studies and clinical experience have shown that rFVIIa (NovoSeven ?, Novo Nordisk A/S, Denmark) gives extreme haemostatic effect in patients with severe "non-haemophilic" bleeding produced after trauma and major surgery. OBJECTIVE We present our preliminary experience of the use of rFVIIa in vascular surgery when conventional haemostatic measures are inadequate. METHOD There were 32 patients divided into five groups: Group I - 14 patients with ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms; Group II - 10 patients with thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms; Group III - 5 patients with retroperitoneal tumors involving great abdominal vessels; Group IV - 2 patients with portal hypertension and Group V - one patient with iatrogenic injury of brachial artery and vein during fibrinolytic treatment, because of myocardial infarction. RESULTS Clinical improvement was detected following treatment in 29 patients. Bleeding was successfully controlled as evidenced by improved haemodynamic parameters and decreased inotropic and transfusion requirements. CONCLUSION In vascular patients more liberal use of rFVIIa is limited, because no randomized controlled trial has proved its efficacy and safety in such patients; while also keeping in mind that the price of a 4.8 mg of rFVIIa is $4,080. We recommend the use of rFVIIa in vascular surgery only during and after operative treatment of thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms, ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms, retroperitoneal tumors involving the aorta and/or inferior vena cava, as well as portal hypertension, when non-surgical massive uncontrolled bleeding are present.
Beneficial effects of spa treatment on functional status and quality of life of patients with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Mustur Dusan , Vesovic-Potic Vladislava , Vujasinovic-Stupar Nada , Ille Tatjana
Published: November 2008

INTRODUCTION Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic constantly deteriorating disease of unpredictable clinical course, with exacerbations, remissions and damaged joints. It leads to the loss of self-sufficiency, independence in performing many daily activities, decrease of working ability and invalidity. Beside physical factors, which are regarded as most responsible for the poorer quality of life of RA patients, psychological changes are also significant, such as the feeling of helplessness, hopelessness and depression. The goal of the treatment of patients with RA is to decrease illness symptoms, slow down the development of illness progression, improvement of physical functioning and provision of expert help to the RA patients to adapt to life. OBJECTIVE The aim of the study was to assess the influence of spa therapy on the functional condition and life quality of RA patients. METHODS The study involved 69 patients with RA (51 female and 18 male, on average aged 55.2?11.4 years, with illness duration 12.5?7.5 years), and were a part of a cohort from Norway, suffering of inflammatory rheumatism. All the patients came for four-week rehabilitation at the Institute for Physical Medicine, Rehabilitation and Rheumatology "Dr. Simo Milosevic" in Igalo, Montenegro. The RA patients underwent treatment with mud compresses, mud, mineral and pearl baths, as well as with underwater shower massage (balneotherapy) kinesitherapy and certain forms of electrotherapy with analgesic effects. The evaluation was done on admission and after completed physical therapy when we assessed RA patients' functional condition and quality of life. The functional condition was determined using the Modified Health Assessment Questionnaire (MHAQ), and the quality of life using the Medical Outcomes Study Short Form 36-item Questionnaire (SF-36), which encompassed eight life domains. RESULTS After completion of 28-dayspa therapy, RA patients showed a significant improvement in functional condition. Their quality of life was significantly improved in all dimensions of SF-36 Questionnaire (p<0.01), and the functional status (MHAQ score) was also significantly better (p<0.01). CONCLUSION Balneotherapy, together with climatic factors in Igalo, leads to a significant improvement of functional status and quality of life in patients suffering from RA.
Silver-coated dacron prosthesis in the treatment of infection in arterial surgery: Case reports
Authors: Nenezic Dragoslav , Matic Predrag , Gajin Predrag , Ilijevski Nenad , Popov Petar , Jocic Dario , Milicic Miroslav , Radak Djordje
Published: November 2008

INTRODUCTION Although the incidence is low, infection of prosthetic vascular graft bears a high incidence of serious complications including 25-75% mortality rate and 40-75% limb loss. The standard treatment of vascular graft infection consists of excision of the prosthesis, wound debridement and extraanatomic revascularization. Conservative treatment might be an option in a limited number of patients. We present three cases of surgical and conservative treatment of vascular graft infection. CASE OUTLINE Case 1: A patient developed silver-coated graft infection after femorodistal arterial reconstruction performed because of critical limb ischemia. In the early postoperative period, massive skin and subcutaneous tissue necrosis developed, with the graft being exposed. After two months of persistent debridement and wound toilette, the defect was covered with a Thiersch skin graft. Case 2: PTFE graft infection in the right groin followed reconstruction of the isolated common femoral artery aneurysm. This graft was replaced with a silver-coated graft in situ. Reinfection of the proximal end of the implanted silver-coated graft occurred and the graft was exposed. After repeated debridement and wound toilette, the exposed prosthesis was covered with granulomatous tissue, and the wound healed. Case 3: A year after anastomotic pseudoaneurysm resection in the left groin, prosthesis was exposed following wound infection. This graft was substituted with a silver-coated graft in situ. The wound healed primarily. CONCLUSION These three cases demonstrate that under some circumstances vascular prosthesis infection can be successfully treated conservatively without graft removal, and also by in situ replacement using silver-coated graft.
Two names of a city: Strumica - Tiberioupolis
Authors: Stefoska Irena
Published: November 2008

In medieval sources the name of the contemporary city of Strumica is found in two versions: Strumica or Tiberiupolis. While the Slavic toponym has been well authenticated in the sources, the appearance and the use of the Tiberiupolis as the synonym of Strumica has remained a puzzle for researchers. In her paper the author attempts to discuss the existence of the toponym Tiberiupolis which was first encountered in written sources of the 11th century. Both the Slavic and the Byzantine version of the city name have somewhat been connected with the cult of the Fifteen Holy Martyrs spread and observed in the Strumica region. Regardless of whether Strumica was ever called Tiberiupolis, the city and the episcopacy in several instances, only in local (church) sources, appeared under this name between the 11th and 14th century. The fact that Tiberiupolis was used by the church allows one to assume that due to the symbolism the name entails, best expressed through the cult of the Fifteen Holy Martyrs from Tiberiupolis, it was significant to the local clergy. By supporting and perpetuating the memory of the deeds and suffering of the martyrs, the church performed its mission of spreading Christian values in a predominantly Slavic region as Strumica and its surroundings in the Middle Ages. .
Domentijanova prosopografija
Authors: Cirkovic Sima
Published: November 2008

(francuski) L'identification des personnes mentionn?es par leur nom dans les textes des Vies de saint Simeon et saint Sava par Domentijan sert de pr?texte a une critique de la tradition manuscrite de ces deux ?uvres. On suit l'apparition de ces m?mes noms dans les ?crits tardifs ayant repris les deux textes de Domentijan (anciennes chroniques serbes et g?n?alogies). Il s'efforce d'expliquer les raisons pour lesquelles on en arrive dans les manuscrits divers de cet auteur, par ailleurs bien informe, a une confusion s'agissant du patriarche qui a ordonne Sava le premier archev?que. Dans certains manuscrits figurent le nom de Germain II (1220-1240), qui n'?tait pas contemporain de Theodore Lascaris, et dans d'autres celui de Manuel Ier (1217-1222) qui a effectivement participe a l'ordination de Sava. Enfin, on commente les donn?es chronologiques sur l'ordination dans les textes des ?poques plus tardives. .
Saint Petka the hosia - Saint Petka the martyr
Authors: Subotin-Golubovic Tatjana
Published: November 2008

The cult of the holy recluse Paraskeve (Petka) of Epibatai (October 14th) was translated to medieval Serbia by the middle of the XIII century at the latest, as attested by the oldest Serbian transcription of her service (Archive of the Serbian Academy of Sciences and Arts no. 361). However, there are two other martyrs of the same name - Paraskeve of Rome (July 26th) of Paraskeve of Ikonium (October 28th). The three holy women of the same name undeniably caused a confusion which has also been reflected in a number of Serbian manuscripts. This text deals with two Serbian copies of the service from manuscript no. 516 from the National Library of Sofia (end of XIII - beginning of XIV century; November 8th) and manuscript no. 34 from the collection of the monastery of Decani (end of XIV - beginning of XV century). Both services, regardless of the dates to which they are assigned, are dedicated to Paraskeve the martyr. A careful comparison of the two services showed that there was a cross-over of services dedicated to two martyrs. Particularly interesting are the combined canons, in the odes of which part of the troparia are dedicated the holy woman from Ikonium and part to the martyr saint from Rome. Differentiation was achieved by adopting contents from the vitae of both martyrs in question. Textological differences are also apparent in the translations of parts of the service common to the services of both saints. Structural, textological and differences in content can be observed in a comparative analysis of both services. In part, this study relies also on the Serbian transcription of the service for July 26th dedicated to Paraskeve of Rome (Sofia, National Library no. 118). This service is also dedicated to the martyr Paraskeve. The material presented in this paper indicates all the complexity associated with the cults of three eponymous saints - the three holy Paraskeves (Petkas). .
Validity of the Developmental Test of Visual-Motor Integration Supplemental Developmental Test of Visual Perception
Authors: Brown Ted , Rodger Sylvia
Published: November 2008

Visual perceptual skills of school-age children are often assessed using the Supplemental Developmental Test of Visual Perception of the Developmental Test of Visual-Motor Integration. The study purpose was to consider the construct validity of this test by evaluating its scalability (interval level measurement), unidimensionality, differential item functioning, and hierarchical ordering of its items. Visual perceptual performance scores from a sample of 356 typically developing children (171 boys and 185 girls ages 5 to 11 years) were used to complete a Rasch analysis of the test. Seven items were discarded for poor fit, while none of the items exhibited differential item functioning by sex. The construct validity, scalability, hierarchical ordering, and lack of differential item functioning requirements were met by the final test version. Since 7 test items did not fit the Rasch analysis specifications, the clinical value of the test is questionable and limited.
Effects of a Computer-Assisted Language Intervention in a Rural Nevada Center
Authors: Krumpe Jo Anne , Harlow Steven
Published: November 2008

A computer-assisted language intervention, Fast For Word-Language (FFW–L), was tested at a rural Nevada center in a group of children (Grades 2–12) referred by parents and teachers to assess enhancement of language skills. Given conflicting results from previous studies, language scores were measured using Clinical Evaluation of Language Fundamentals, Third Edition (CELF–3) before and after the FFW–L intervention. 58 children's CELF–3 postintervention scores were adjusted for age-specific expected changes and compared with pretest scores. Adjusted scores increased in both receptive and expressive domains of the CELF–3. Children with prior diagnoses of language and/or learning impairment did not differ from other referrals on adjusted CELF–3 adjusted gain scores after treatment. Thus the Fast ForWord–Language intervention may benefit a much broader group of children referred by parents and teachers for language or reading problems.
Snoring, Breathing Pauses, and Nightmares
Authors: Schredl Michael
Published: November 2008

The present study investigated the correlations among snoring, breathing pauses during sleep, and nightmare frequency in a sample of 444 healthy individuals. Breathing pauses, but not snoring, were associated with heightened nightmare frequency. Whereas the hypothesis that shortage of oxygen directly causes nightmares is not supported by the literature, novel internal stimuli might affect dream content.
Fixation Identification in Centroid versus Start-Point Modes Using Eye-Tracking Data
Authors: Falkmer Torbjörn , Dahlman Joakim , Dukic Tania , Bjällmark Anna , Larsson Matilda
Published: November 2008

Fixation-identification algorithms, needed for analyses of eye movements, may typically be separated into three categories, viz. (i) velocity-based algorithms, (ii) area-based algorithms, and (iii) dispersion-based algorithms. Dispersion-based algorithms are commonly used but this application introduces some difficulties, one being optimization. Basically, there are two modes to reach this goal of optimization, viz., the start-point mode and the centroid mode. The aim of the present study was to compare and evaluate these two dispersion-based algorithms. Manual inspections were made of 1,400 fixations in each mode. Odds ratios showed that by using the centroid mode for fixation detection, a valid fixation is 2.86 times more likely to be identified than by using the start-point mode. Moreover, the algorithm based on centroid mode dispersion showed a good interpretation speed, accuracy, robustness, and ease of implementation, as well as adequate parameter settings.
Effect of a 9-Wk. after-School Multiskills Club on Fundamental Movement Skill Proficiency in 8- to 9-Yr.-Old Children: An Exploratory Trial
Authors: Foweather Lawrence , McWhannell Nicola , Henaghan Jayne , Lees Adrian , Stratton Gareth , Batterham Alan M.
Published: November 2008

This exploratory study examined the effects of a 9-wk. after-school multiskills club on fundamental movement skill proficiency in 8- to 9-yr.-old children. Two schools were randomly assigned to either a control ( n = 15 children) or multiskill club ( n = 19 children) condition. The multiskill club received 18 coaching sessions designed to improve fundamental movement skills. The control group followed normal routines. 7 skills were assessed using process-oriented measures with video analysis. Participation in the multiskill club yielded significant improvements in proficiency at posttest only in static balance, while potentially practically important improvements were observed in performance of the catch, throw, and kick skills. The after-school multiskill club offered a viable opportunity for movement skill acquisition, but any such programme would need to run for a longer duration to assess whether this type of activity could benefit all skills.
Effects of Luminance Ratio in a Liquid-Crystal Display on Discrimination of Separation by Elderly People
Authors: Huang Kuo-Chen
Published: November 2008

In a 2006 study the influence of spacing between vertical lines, exposure time, and number of vertical lines on visual performance was identified. The present study further explored the effects of luminance ratio on discrimination of separation. Analysis showed the luminance ratio of target vertical lines affected the visual performance of both younger and elderly people. The luminance ratio was greater, as was accuracy; however, accuracy might not become greater when the luminance ratio was too high. Further, the effect of the number of vertical lines on accuracy was significant, as was consistent with the 2006 study. Two interactive two-way effects were found, group × luminance ratio and luminance ratio × number of vertical lines.
Effects of a Physical Education Program on Children's Attitudes and Emotions Associated with Sport Climbing
Authors: Ceciliani Andrea , Bardella Luca , Grasso Maria Letizia , Zabonati Annalisa , Robazza Claudio
Published: November 2008

This study examined the effects of climbing ladders, wall bars, perches, and ropes in changing students' attitudes and emotions associated with sport climbing. The tasks were part of a physical education instructional curriculum of primary schools in Italy. Boys and girls ( N = 80), ages 10 to 11 years, were involved in a 10-lesson intervention during their curricular lesson. Participants were from six normal classes ranging in size from 16 to 18 children. Three classes were assigned randomly to an experimental group and the other three to a control group. The experimental group performed challenging climbing tasks, while the control group engaged in other physical activities. Analysis of variance indicated that scores on the Climbing Pictures Test differed significantly after the intervention, with children in the experimental group scoring lower on avoidance of climbing situations and higher on positive emotions.
Relation of Perfectionism with Athletes' Burnout: Further Examination
Authors: Chen Lung Hung , Chen Mei-Yen , Kee Ying Hwa , Tsai Ying-Mei
Published: November 2008

The purpose was to examine the different aspects of perfectionism and athletes' burnout. College athletes ( N = 320) with mean age of 19.7 yr. ( SD = 1.4) completed the Chinese version of the Multiple Perfectionism Scale for Sport and the Eades' Athlete Burnout Inventory. Results indicated that perfectionism could be separated into adaptive and maladaptive perfectionism. Adaptive perfectionism was linked to reduced athletes' burnout while maladaptive perfectionism was associated with athletes' burnout. In addition, significant interaction was found between adaptive perfectionism and maladaptive perfectionism on athletes' burnout. Results suggest that high maladaptive perfectionism and low adaptive perfectionism corresponds to higher scores on athletes' burnout. Perfectionism should not be treated as an all-or-nothing disposition. The extent of athlete burnout can vary with the interaction effects of the two types of perfectionism. In terms of practical implications in intervention work, coaches and sport psychologists should try to reduce athletes' maladaptive perfectionism and increase adaptive perfectionism.
Eating Behaviour, Body Image, and Self-Esteem of Adolescent Girls in Malaysia
Authors: Soo Kah Leng , Shariff Zalilah Mohd , Taib Mohd Nasir Mohd , Samah Bahaman Abu
Published: November 2008

This cross-sectional study was undertaken with 489 secondary school girls, ages 15–17 years, to examine disordered eating behaviours of adolescent girls in Malaysia and to estimate associations with body weight, body-size discrepancy, and self-esteem. Dietary restraint, binge eating, body image, and self-esteem were assessed using the Restrained Eating scale of the Dutch Eating Behaviour Questionnaire, the Binge Scale Questionnaire, the Contour Drawing Rating Scale, and the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, respectively. Pearson correlations estimated associations between variables. There were 3.1% underweight, 9.8% at risk of being overweight, and 8.6% overweight girls. A total of 87.3% were dissatisfied with their own body size. Dietary restraint and binge eating were reported by 36.0% and 35.4%, respectively. Body Mass Index ( r = .34, p < .01) and body-size dissatisfaction ( r = .24, p < .01) were significantly associated with dietary restraint and binge eating, but self-esteem ( r = −.20, p < .001) was significantly associated only with binge eating.