bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Silver nanodiscs for light scattering in thin epitaxial silicon solar cells: influence of the disc radius
Authors: El Daif O. , Tong L. , Figeys B. , Jain S. , Miljkovic V. D. , Depauw V. , Vercruysse D. , Van Nieuwenhuysen K. , Dmitriev A. , Van Dorpe P. , Gordon I. , Dross F.
Published: November 2012

The effect of silver nanoparticles showing localised plasmonic resonances on the efficiency of thin film silicon solar cells is studied. Silver (Ag) nanodiscs were deposited on the surface of silicon cells grown on highly doped silicon substrates, through hole-mask colloidal lithography, which is a low-cost and bottom-up technique. The cells have no back reflector in order to exclusively study the effect of the front surface on their properties. Cells with nanoparticles were compared with both bare silicon cells and cells with an antireflection coating. We optically observe a resonance showing an absorption increase controllable by the disc radius. We also see an increase in efficiency with respect to bare cells, but we see a decrease in efficiency with respect to cells with an antireflection coating due to losses at wavelengths below the plasmon resonance. As the material properties are not notably affected by the particles deposition, the loss mechanism is an important absorption in the nanoparticles. We confirm this by numerical simulations.
Light Trapping in Hydrogenated Amorphous and Nanocrystalline Silicon Based Thin-Film Solar Cells With Ag/ZnO Back Reflectors
Authors: Yan Baojie , Yue Guozhen , Sivec Laura , Owens-Mawson Jessica , Yang Jeffrey , Guha Subhendu
Published: November 2012

We report on our systematic study of light trapping effects using Ag/ZnO BRs for nc-Si:H solar cells. The texture of Ag and ZnO was optimized to achieve enhancement in photocurrent. The light trapping effect on photocurrent enhancement in solar cells was carefully investigated. Comparing to single-junction solar cells deposited on flat stainless steel substrates, the gain in Jsc by using Ag/ZnO BRs is 57% for nc-Si:H solar cells. This gain in Jsc is much higher than what has been achieved by advanced light trapping approaches using photonic structures or plasmonic light trapping reported in the literature. We achieved a Jsc of 29-30 mA/cm2 in a nc-Si:H single-junction solar cell with an intrinsic layer thickness of ∼2.5 μm. We compared the quantum efficiency of single-junction cells to the classical limit of fully randomized scattering and found that there is a 6-7 mA/cm2 difference between the measured Jsc and the classical limit, in which 3-4 mA/cm2 is in the long wavelength region. However, by taking into consideration the losses from reflection of the top contact, absorption in the doped layers, and imperfect reflection in the BRs, the difference disappears. This implies we have reached the practical limit if the scattering from randomly textured substrates is the only mechanism of light trapping. Therefore, we believe future research for improving photocurrent should be directed toward reducing (i) reflection loss by the top contact, the absorption in ZnO and at the Ag/ZnO interface, and (ii) p layer absorption.
Origami-structures in nature: lessons in designing “smart” materials
Authors: Kresling Biruta
Published: November 2012

Origami – the Japanese term for “paper-folding” – in natural structures such as leaves of trees, fructifications and insect organs, has fascinated scientists and designers for over two decades. Technical origami, at the other hand, that focuses on the mechanical and functional properties of deployable lightweight structures, finds its way into the fields of biology, biomechanics and biomimetic engineering.
Metal Electroplating of Three Dimensional (3D) Electrode in Electrolyte-less Dye Sensitized Solar Cells (ELDSC)
Authors: Ong Duen Yang , Lim Meng Keong , Jin Ziyu , Gan Chee Lip , Leong Kam Chew , Wong C. C.
Published: November 2012

The first Electrolyte-less dye sensitized solar cell (ELDSC) is proposed with the architecture of FTO-TiO2-dye-metal. In the ELDSC design, the most significant contact is the TiO2-dye-metal interface, whereby the metal electrode acts as the charge replenishment layer as well as the external electrode. In previous work, ELDSC has an inferior Fill Factor (FF) due to insufficient metal coverage from top-down physical vapor deposition. In this work, a three dimensional (3D) metal network plated through the mesoporous TiO2 network is achieved through bottom-up metal electroplating. This study focuses on the characteristics of electro deposition onto insulating planar TiO2 as well as mesoporous TiO2 network. For planar TiO2, gold (Au) islands form readily, becoming worm-like structures as they coalesce, subsequently becoming a continuous layer. (The plated metal on the insulating TiO2 layer is made possible by plane defects within the insulator layer that serve as the conductive supply path.) In contrast, electroplating carried out on a FTO-planar TiO2-mesoporous TiO2 substrate results in a 3D Au network within the mesoporous TiO2, where Au cords were observed as the connections among Au islands. This study demonstrates that a continuous metal layer can be electroplated onto an insulating TiO2 layer, borrowing its intrinsic planar defect network. Further, applying the same principle, a 3D metal network can be formed within mesoporous TiO2.
Systematic Process Development for Optimization of Manufacturable Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Weiss J. A. , Zhu L. , Kariuki P. N. , Arfaei B. , Jones W. E. , Borgesen P.
Published: November 2012

The commercial viability of solar power will depend on a careful balance of reliability, efficiency, and overall cost. A systematic approach to the optimization of the latter two for the case of organic solar cells is outlined. This relies among other on the development of a detailed understanding of the charge generation process and the systematic application of analytical tools such as UV-vis, photoluminescence, lifetime measurements, and current-voltage (I-V) curves.
The Spanish Radioactive Waste Management and the associated research ensuring its development from sound technical and scientific basis
Authors: Zuloaga Pablo , Astudillo Julio
Published: November 2012

Spanish Radioactive Waste Management policy is established by the Government and implemented by ENRESA. The General Plan (GRWP) covers the analysis of the actual and foreseen inventories of spent fuel and all categories of radioactive waste, their present situation, the management strategy and actions identified, as well as funding and financial provisions. Very Low (VLLW) and Low and Intermediate Level Waste (LILW) are disposed of at El Cabril facility, which has two separate disposal areas: one intended for VLLW, based on clay and polyethylene and started up in 2006; and one for LILW conditioned in retrievable concrete containers, commissioned in 1992. Spent fuel (SF) is being stored in pools and in two dry storage installations. The priority is the development of the SF and HLW centralized storage facility. In 2009, the Government launched a call for candidate municipalities, in a public, participative process. In September 2010 a report was sent to the Cabinet, proposing eight volunteer communities, four of them deemed preferred. In the 90’s a deep geological repository (DGR) site identification program was carried out. DGR basic designs and associated performance assessments were developed in three rock types. ENRESA has set a research program that includes research projects in order to strengthen the link between management and scientific basis and improve the performance assessment, directed to the behavior of barriers, fuel or waste forms in different storage and final disposal conditions, and characterization techniques. There is also a participation in connected fields or supporting decision-making, such as advanced separation and transmutation.
Used Fuel Disposition Campaign – Objectives, Mission, Plans and Current Activities
Authors: McMahon Kevin , Swift Peter , Sorenson Ken , Nutt Mark , Peters Mark
Published: November 2012

The safe management and disposition of used nuclear fuel and/or high level nuclear waste is a fundamental aspect of the nuclear fuel cycle. The United States currently utilizes a once-through fuel cycle where used nuclear fuel is stored on-site in either wet pools or in dry storage systems with ultimate disposal in a deep mined geologic repository envisioned. However, a decision not to use the proposed Yucca Mountain Repository will result in longer interim storage at reactor sites than previously planned. In addition, alternatives to the once-through fuel cycle are being considered and a variety of options are being explored under the U.S. Department of Energy’s Fuel Cycle Technologies Program.

These two factors lead to the need to develop a credible strategy for managing radioactive wastes from any future nuclear fuel cycle in order to provide acceptable disposition pathways for all wastes regardless of transmutation system technology, fuel reprocessing scheme(s), and/or the selected fuel cycle. These disposition paths will involve both the storing of radioactive material for some period of time and the ultimate disposal of radioactive waste.

To address the challenges associated with waste management, the DOE Office of Nuclear Energy established the Used Fuel Disposition Campaign in the summer of 2009. The mission of the Used Fuel Disposition Campaign is to identify alternatives and conduct scientific research and technology development to enable storage, transportation, and disposal of used nuclear fuel and wastes generated by existing and future nuclear fuel cycles. The near-and long-term objectives of the Fuel Cycle Technologies Program and its’ Used Fuel Disposition Campaign are presented.
Synthesis of Self-glowing Crystals of Zircon and Zirconia Doped with Plutonium-238 and Terbium
Authors: Burakov Boris E. , Ipatova Julia P. , Petrova Marina A. , Kuznetsova Yana V. , Zamoryanskaya Maria V.
Published: November 2012

Durable crystalline actinide host phases of ceramic waste forms are considered as advanced materials which are prospective for safe use of Pu and minor actinides before their final disposal. Development of self-glowing actinide-doped materials with matrices that are chemically inert and resistant to radiation damage may significantly change the approaches to actinide immobilization. Single crystals of zircon doped with different amount of Tb and 238Pu were synthesized by the flux method. Different non-radioactive crystals of Tb-doped zircon were studied first by cathodoluminescence method in order to identify the optimal content of Tb3+ that provides the highest luminescence emission. Then self-glowing crystals of zircon were grown with the optimal Tb content and small admixture of 238Pu (less than 0.1 wt. %). It was proposed that the valence state of Tb incorporated into zircon crystals can be (3+) and (4+), but only trivalent Tb is responsible for intensive luminescence. It is demonstrated that a small addition of Zr-phosphate to the flux supports Tb incorporation into zircon lattice and stabilizes preferably Tb3+. At the same time the addition of Zr-phosphate caused the crystallization of zirconia as a minor phase. Zircon crystals with very intensive self-glowing were successfully synthesized. The 238Pu content was 0.02 wt.% and the Tb concentration varied between 0.2 and 0.3 wt.%. Zirconia crystals obtained from the same experiment are characterized by weak self-glowing, although the Tb content was only 0.02 wt.%, while the content of 238Pu was comparable to that of zircon, i.e. 0.03 wt. %.
Review of spatial relations between uraninite and coffinite - implications for alteration mechanisms
Authors: Evins Lena Z. , Jensen Keld A.
Published: November 2012

Coffinite (USiO4•nH2O) is a common mineral in uranium ores. It is often observed to replace uraninite during alteration under reducing conditions. However, it has proven difficult to synthesize coffinite in the laboratory and quantitative thermodynamic data for coffinite are lacking. Despite these experimental difficulties, there is ample evidence in nature that many uranium deposits have encountered conditions where formation of coffinite has been favoured over uraninite during postgenetic alteration events. Coffinite is also found as a primary mineral in sandstone uranium deposits. This review elucidates the spatial relation between coffinite and uraninite as seen on different scales with different analytical methods. Some further insight into the mechanism of uraninite alteration in natural, reducing, Si-rich environments is gained and some new arguments put forward, including the question of the effect of impurities and dopants, defects, and grain size. The replacement of uraninite by coffinite is discussed in terms of solid-fluid interaction.
The Characterization of Irradiation Damage in Reactor Graphite Using High Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy and Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Jones A. N. , McDermott L. , Marsden B. J.
Published: November 2012

Nuclear graphite components are produced from polycrystalline artificial graphite manufactured from binder and filler coke material with approximately 20% porosity. During the operational lifetime of a nuclear reactor the graphite moderator is subjected to fast neutron irradiation which contributes to changes in material and physical properties such as thermal expansion co-efficient, young’s modulus and dimensional change. These changes are directly driven by irradiation induced changes to the crystal structure as reflected through the bulk microstructure. Therefore it is important that irradiation changes and there implications on component property changes are understood. Work carried out under the FP7 CARBOWASTE consortium under work package three is underway to characterize both structural and radiological damage in graphite. This study examines a range of irradiated graphite samples removed from the British Experimental Pile Zero (BEPO) reactor. Raman spectroscopy and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) have been used to compare the effect of increased irradiation Fluence on graphite microstructure. Irradiation induced crystal defects and changes in crystallite size are observed using TEM and related to Raman Spectroscopy, comparisons are also made to virgin nuclear grade graphite.
The osmosis-induced swelling and NaNO3 leaching of radioactive and artificially aged Eurobitum bituminized waste
Authors: Mariën An , Valcke Elie , Bleyen Nele , Smets Steven
Published: November 2012

The behavior of Eurobitum bituminized radioactive waste under geological disposal conditions is studied in water uptake tests at the Belgian Nuclear Research Centre SCK•CEN to assess the feasibility of geological disposal for the long-term management of this waste. The hydro-mechanical behavior of this waste is affected by the continuous evolution of the rheological properties of bitumen due to radio-oxidation (i.e. ageing).

The effect of the bitumen ageing degree on the kinetics of the water uptake, swelling and NaNO3 leaching is investigated in water uptake tests with ∼30 years old radioactive samples and inactive samples that were artificially aged. The first results of swelling and NaNO3 leaching of (i) radioactive samples that have been hydrated for more than 2 years at a constant total stress of 2.2 MPa, and (ii) a thermally aged sample that has been hydrated for ∼1.5 years under nearly zero effective stress conditions, revealed lower swelling and higher leach rates for these samples compared to non-aged samples. The effect of ageing on the osmotic efficiency of bitumen as a semi-permeable membrane is less pronounced when swelling of the samples is limited, and changes in time, probably because of the formation of low porosity layers, which seems to mask the difference in bitumen membrane efficiency of aged and non-aged bituminized waste.
From corporates and media to state control
Authors: Coopey Richard
Published: November 2012

Richard Coopey introduces this special issue of Popular Music History: From corporates and media to state control: International perspectives on the music business
Análise quantitativa de parâmetros biofísicos de bacia hidrográfica obtidos por sensoriamento remoto
Authors: Oliveira Leidjane Maria Maciel de , Montenegro Suzana Maria Gico Lima , Antonino Antônio Celso Dantas , Silva Bernardo Barbosa da , Machado Célia Cristina Clemente , Galvíncio Josiclêda Domiciano
Published: November 2012

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar quantitativamente os parâmetros biofísicos obtidos por sensoriamento remoto, para a área de abrangência da Bacia Hidrográfica do Rio Tapacurá, em Pernambuco. Utilizaram-se imagens do TM‑Landsat 5 de 10/7/1989, 6/7/2005 e 29/8/2007. As imagens foram registradas pela correção geométrica polinomial de primeira ordem. Foram realizadas as etapas de calibração radiométrica, reflectância, albedo planetário e transmissividade e, subsequentemente, geraram-se cartas temáticas de albedo e de temperatura da superfície, e do índice de vegetação melhorado ("enhanced vegetation index", EVI). O albedo da superfície apresentou valores médios crescentes entre as imagens obtidas em 1989 e 2005, o que indica expansão territorial urbana. A imagem de 29/8/2007 mostrou maior temperatura da superfície, seguida das temperaturas mostradas nas imagens de 10/7/1989 e 6/7/2005, e os maiores valores foram os das malhas urbanas. A imagem de 1989 mostrou o maior valor médio de EVI, o que indica ter havido, naquela data, maior presença de vegetação.
Geotecnologias aplicadas à avaliação de parâmetros biofísicos do Pantanal
Authors: Andrade Ricardo Guimarães , Sediyama Gilberto Chohaku , Paz Adriano Rolim da , Lima Evaldo de Paiva , Facco Alexandro Gomes
Published: November 2012

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar parâmetros biofísicos de superfície do Bioma Pantanal com a aplicação de geotecnologias. Foram utilizados o algoritmo Sebal ("surface energy balance algorithm for land"), imagens do sensor Modis ("moderate‑resolution imaging spectroradiometer") e o mapa de classes de uso e cobertura da terra. Os resultados obtidos para NDVI, temperatura da superfície, albedo, fluxo de calor sensível diário, saldo de radiação diário e evapotranspiração real diária foram consistentes com dados de literatura para os diferentes usos e cobertura da terra, e corroboram a eficiência da capacidade analítica e sinóptica das estimativas do Sebal. Tais resultados mostram o potencial de geotecnologias na implementação de modelos ou algoritmos voltados para a compreensão da dinâmica de processos biofísicos de interação solo‑planta‑atmosfera do Pantanal.
Interpoladores geoestatísticos na análise da distribuição espacial da precipitação anual e de sua relação com altitude
Authors: Carvalho José Ruy Porto de , Assad Eduardo Delgado , Pinto Hilton Silveira
Published: November 2012

O objetivo deste trabalho foi quantificar a contribuição da variável auxiliar altitude, na estimativa da distribuição espacial da precipitação anual média no Estado de São Paulo. A estatística quadrado médio do erro (QME) foi usada em dois conjuntos de observações de precipitação anual média (1957 a 1997): o completo, com 1.027 observações, e o reduzido, com 445. Bolsões de precipitação foram perfeitamente definidos nos mapas de variabilidade espacial que utilizaram o conjunto completo de dados, e indicaram a existência de possíveis microclimas. O interpolador geoestatístico de krigagem ordinária apresentou desempenho 82 vezes mais preciso que o interpolador do inverso do quadrado da distância, quando o QME foi usado como critério de comparação para o conjunto de dados completo. Para o conjunto reduzido, essa magnitude foi de duas vezes. Os erros de estimação obtidos por krigagem ordinária foram menores no conjunto completo, enquanto os obtidos por cokrigagem ordinária foram menores no reduzido. Isso indica que esses interpoladores devem ser usados para determinação da distribuição espacial da precipitação anual média. O uso da altitude como variável auxiliar beneficia o interpolador de cokrigagem ordinária e define microrregiões mais uniformes quanto à distribuição espacial da precipitação anual média.
Correlação de variáveis espectrais e estoque de carbono da biomassa aérea de sistemas agroflorestais
Authors: Bolfe Édson Luis , Batistella Mateus , Ferreira Marcos César
Published: November 2012

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a correlação entre variáveis espectrais e o estoque de carbono da biomassa aérea de sistemas agroflorestais da região de Tomé‑Açu, PA. Foram testados 24 índices de vegetação de três grupos (razão simples, diferença normalizada e complexos), gerados a partir de imagens do sensor TM/Landsat‑5, adquiridas em 2008. As variáveis obtidas foram correlacionadas, por meio de regressão linear simples, ao estoque de carbono de quatro classes de sistemas agroflorestais, de diferentes idades e composições florísticas. As correlações obtidas entre as variáveis espectrais e o estoque de carbono foram significativas em 47% dos índices testados e variaram de acordo com as diferenças de biomassa nos sistemas analisados. As melhores correlações foram obtidas pelos índices de vegetação de razão simples e de diferença normalizada, em sistemas agroflorestais jovens, e pelos índices de vegetação complexos, em sistemas agroflorestais mais antigos.
Estimativa de área de soja por classificação de imagens normalizada pela matriz de erros
Authors: Antunes João Francisco Gonçalves , Mercante Erivelto , Esquerdo Júlio César Dalla Mora , Lamparelli Rubens Augusto de Camargo , Rocha Jansle Vieira
Published: November 2012

O objetivo deste trabalho foi estimar a área plantada com soja por meio da normalização da matriz de erros gerada a partir da classificação supervisionada de imagens TM/Landsat‑5. Foram avaliados oito municípios no Estado do Paraná, com dados referentes à safra de 2003/2004. As classificações foram realizadas por meio dos métodos paralelepípedo e máxima verossimilhança, dando origem à "máscara de soja". Os valores do índice Kappa dos oito municípios ficaram acima de 0,6. As estimativas de área de soja, corrigidas por matriz de erros, apresentaram alta correlação com as estimativas oficiais do estado e com as estimativas geradas a partir de um método alternativo denominado "expansão direta". A estimativa de área de soja por meio da normalização da matriz de erros apresenta menor custo e pode subsidiar métodos convencionais na estimativa menos subjetiva de safras.
Estimativa de áreas com culturas de verão no Paraná, por meio de imagens multitemporais EVI/Modis
Authors: Johann Jerry Adriani , Rocha Jansle Vieira , Duft Daniel Garbellini , Lamparelli Rubens Augusto Camargo
Published: November 2012

O objetivo deste trabalho foi estimar e mapear as áreas com as culturas de soja e milho, no Paraná, com uso de imagens multitemporais EVI/Modis. Foram avaliados os anos‑safra de 2004/2005 a 2007/2008. Em razão da alta dinâmica temporal e da heterogeneidade de datas de semeadura das culturas no estado, foram utilizadas cenas que contemplavam as fases de pré‑plantio e de desenvolvimento inicial das culturas, para gerar a imagem de mínimo EVI (IMIE), e cenas que consideravam o pico vegetativo das culturas, para gerar a imagem de máximo EVI (IMAE). Estas imagens foram utilizadas para gerar a composição colorida RGB (R, IMAE; GB, IMIE), o que permitiu a confecção de máscara das áreas com soja e milho. As estimativas das áreas de máscara por município foram comparadas com dados oficiais de produção agrícola municipal, tendo-se observado bons ajustes (R²>0,84, d>0,95, c>0,85) entre os dados. Para a avaliação da exatidão espacial das máscaras, imagens Landsat‑5/TM e AWiFS/IRS foram usadas como referência para construção da matriz de erros. Os resultados obtidos são indicativos de que a metodologia proposta é altamente eficiente e pode ser utilizada para mapeamento dessas culturas.
Índices de vegetação Modis aplicados na discriminação de áreas de soja
Authors: Risso Joel , Rizzi Rodrigo , Rudorff Bernardo Friedrich Theodor , Adami Marcos , Shimabukuro Yosio Edemir , Formaggio Antônio Roberto , Epiphanio Rui Dalla Valle
Published: November 2012

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o desempenho do índice de vegetação realçado (EVI) e do índice de vegetação da diferença normalizada (NDVI) - ambos do sensor "moderate resolution imaging spectroradiometer" (Modis) -, para discriminar áreas de soja das áreas de cana‑de‑açúcar, pastagem, cerrado e floresta, no Estado do Mato Grosso. Foram utilizadas imagens adquiridas em dois períodos: durante a entressafra e por ocasião do pleno desenvolvimento da cultura da soja. Para cada classe analisada, foram selecionadas 31 amostras de mapas de referência e avaliadas as diferenças nos valores de cada índice de vegetação, para a classe soja, foram avaliadas frente às demais classes, por meio do teste de Tukey‑Kramer. Em seguida, foram avaliadas as diferenças entre os índices de vegetação, por meio do teste de Wilcoxon pareado. O NDVI apresentou melhor desempenho na discriminação das áreas de soja na entressafra, particularmente com uso das imagens do dia do ano (DA) 161 a 273, enquanto o EVI apresentou melhor desempenho no período de pleno desenvolvimento da cultura, especificamente com uso das imagens de DA 353 a 33. Portanto, o melhor resultado para classificação da soja, no Estado do Mato Grosso, via séries temporais do sensor Modis, pode ser obtida por meio do uso combinado do NDVI na entresssafra e do EVI no pleno desenvolvimento da soja.
Análise de componentes principais de atributos químicos e físicos do solo limitantes à produtividade de grãos
Authors: Santi Antônio Luis , Amado Telmo Jorge Carneiro , Cherubin Maurício Roberto , Martin Thomas Newton , Pires João Leonardo , Flora Lisandra Pinto Della , Basso Claudir José
Published: November 2012

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar, por meio da análise dos componentes principais, a redução na dimensionalidade de atributos químicos e físicos do solo para a compreensão da variabilidade espacial e temporal da produtividade de culturas de grãos. A área experimental, de 54 ha, é manejada em agricultura de precisão há oito anos. Com base em seis mapas de colheita (soja - safra 2000/2001; milho - 2001/2002; soja - 2002/2003; trigo - 2003; soja - 2003/2004; e milho - 2004/2005), a área foi dividida em três zonas de produtividade de grãos (alta, média e baixa). Foram definidos 15 pontos georreferenciados representativos, para determinação de atributos químicos e físicos do solo, o que totalizou 63 variáveis analisadas. Entre os atributos químicos, o elevado teor de K no solo é o que melhor explica a variabilidade espacial da produtividade das culturas de grãos, provavelmente em razão do desbalanço das relações Ca:K e Mg:K. A zona de baixa produtividade apresentou baixa qualidade física do solo. Neste caso, a infiltração de água no solo, isoladamente, é a variável que melhor explica o desempenho das culturas de grãos. A análise dos componentes principais dos atributos químicos e físicos do solo é estratégia eficiente para explicar a variabilidade espacial e temporal da produtividade de culturas de grãos.
Integração de modelos espaciais e temporais para predições de níveis freáticos extremos
Authors: Manzione Rodrigo Lilla , Marcuzzo Francisco Fernando Noronha , Wendland Edson Cezar
Published: November 2012

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar cenários de níveis freáticos extremos, em bacia hidrográfica, por meio de métodos de análise espacial de dados geográficos. Avaliou-se a dinâmica espaço‑temporal dos recursos hídricos subterrâneos em área de afloramento do Sistema Aquífero Guarani. As alturas do lençol freático foram estimadas por meio do monitoramento de níveis em 23 piezômetros e da modelagem das séries temporais disponíveis de abril de 2004 a abril de 2011. Para a geração de cenários espaciais, foram utilizadas técnicas geoestatísticas que incorporaram informações auxiliares relativas a padrões geomorfológicos da bacia, por meio de modelo digital de terreno. Esse procedimento melhorou as estimativas, em razão da alta correlação entre altura do lençol e elevação, e agregou sentido físico às predições. Os cenários apresentaram diferenças quanto aos níveis considerados extremos - muito profundos ou muito superficiais - e podem subsidiar o planejamento, o uso eficiente da água e a gestão sustentável dos recursos hídricos na bacia.
Modelo multicritério aditivo na geração de mapas de suscetibilidade à erosão em área rural
Authors: Valladares Gustavo Souza , Gomes Andréa da Silva , Torresan Fabio Enrique , Rodrigues Cristina Aparecida Gonçalves , Grego Célia Regina
Published: November 2012

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a geração de um mapa de suscetibilidade à erosão, em área rural, no Município de Guararapes, SP, por meio de modelo multicritério aditivo. Foram utilizados mapas digitais dos temas: relevo (declividade e comprimento das rampas); pedologia (obtida em campo); uso e cobertura das terras da região; e interpretação do modelo digital de elevação. Os mapas digitais foram tratados em ambiente de sistema de informação geográfica, por meio do método multicritério aditivo, e validados pelo modelo da equação universal de perda de solo (USLE). Foram geradas cinco classes de suscetibilidade à erosão: baixa, moderada, alta, muito alta e altíssima. O mapa de risco obtido por multicritério aditivo teve boa correspondência com o modelo USLE. O mapa de suscetibilidade à erosão pode ser aplicado ao planejamento agrícola e ambiental da área rural do Município de Guararapes.
Variabilidade espacial do solo e da biomassa epígea de pastagem, identificada por meio de geostatística
Authors: Grego Célia Regina , Rodrigues Cristina Aparecida Gonçalves , Nogueira Sandra Furlan , Gimenes Flávia Maria Andrade , Oliveira Alex de , Almeida Caio Gusmão Ferrer de , Furtado André Luiz dos Santos , Demarchi João José Assumpção de Abreu
Published: November 2012

O objetivo deste trabalho foi identificar a estrutura de dependência espacial de atributos do solo e sua interferência na produção de biomassa epígea de pastagem de capim‑marandu (Urochloa brizantha). Amostras de Latossolo Vermelho‑Amarelo foram coletadas em rede de pontos georreferenciados, para a determinação de atributos físicos e químicos do solo e da produção de biomassa epígea da pastagem, no verão e outono de 2010/2011. Verificou-se dependência espacial das variáveis, por meio de análise geoestatística com construção e ajuste de semivariogramas, interpolação por krigagem ordinária e espacialização em mapas de isolinhas. A dependência espacial ocorreu para alguns atributos físicos e químicos do solo (areia, densidade, resistência à penetração, infiltração, pH, MO, P, K, Ca, Mg, H+Al, Al, CTC e V), e para a biomassa da pastagem medida nas estações verão e outono. A análise espacial de atributos físicos do solo permite identificar áreas degradadas da pastagem. A biomassa da pastagem é mais influenciada pelos atributos físicos do solo do que pelos químicos.
Mycosis fungoides and Sézary syndrome: clinical, histopathological and immunohistochemical review and update
Authors: Yamashita Thamy , Abbade Luciana Patricia Fernandes , Marques Mariangela Esther Alencar , Marques Silvio Alencar
Published: November 2012

This paper reviews the diagnostic and classificatory concepts of mycosis fungoides and Sézary syndrome in light of the latest normative publications. It describes the great variability of the clinical expression of mycosis fungoides in its early stages as well as the histopathological and immunohistochemical aspects that help with diagnosis. The diagnostic criteria required for characterizing Sézary syndrome and the staging system used for both mycosis fungoides and Sézary syndrome are described.
Endemic pemphigus in the peruvian Amazon: epidemiology and risk factors for the development of complications during treatment
Authors: Ramos Willy , Chacon Gina Rocio , Galarza Carlos , Gutierrez Ericson Leonardo , Smith Maria Eugenia , Ortega-Loayza Alex Gerardo
Published: November 2012

BACKGROUND: Pemphigus is an autoimmune blistering disease. According to a report, in areas of endemic pemphigus foliaceus (EPF) in Peru there are cases of pemphigus vulgaris with epidemiologic, clinical and histopathologic characteristics similar to those of "endemic pemphigus vulgaris" (EPV) in Brazil. OBJECTIVES: To determine the clinical and epidemiologic characteristics of endemic pemphigus and the risk factors of patients for developing complications during treatment. METHODS: A study was carried out from July 2003 to March 2008. The study population was 60 patients with EPF and 7 patients with EPV evaluated in hospitals and clinics in the Peruvian Amazon and Lima. A multivariate analysis was carried out using binary logistic regression. RESULTS: The average age of EPF patients was 31.4 years; 55% were men; 60% presented the generalized clinical variant. Non-compliance with the treatment was seen in 57.1% of the patients. Thirty-five percent presented complications (e.g. pyodermitis and pyelonephritis) during treatment. The risk factors for developing complications during treatment were non-compliance with the treatment and having the generalized clinical form. In the EPV group, the average age was 21.7 years; 71.4% were men. All patients presented with the mucocutaneous clinical variant and the initial presentation consisted of oral mucosa lesions; 71.4% presented complications during treatment, pyodermitis being the most frequent. CONCLUSIONS: Non-compliance with the treatment and the generalized clinical form are risk factors for the development of complications during treatment of patients with EPF. Peru indeed has EPV cases with epidemiologic characteristics similar to EPF. Living in a rural area may represent a risk factor for the development of complications during treatment of patients with EPV.
HLA-B27 frequency in a group of patients with psoriatic arthritis
Authors: Ruiz Danilo Garcia , Azevedo Mário Newton Leitão de , Lupi Omar
Published: November 2012

BACKGROUND: HLA-B27 is associated with spondyloarthritis, a group of diseases that includes psoriatic arthritis. OBJECTIVES: To describe the HLA-B27 frequency in a group of Brazilian patients with psoriatic arthritis and correlate its presence or absence with their clinical manifestations. METHODS: Cross-sectional study with 44 psoriatic arthritis patients of a Rheumatology clinic. Demographic and social data were recorded, as were skin and joints clinical examination. HLA-B27 was tested. All data were processed descriptively and comparatively by appropriate software. Parametric and non parametric tests were used with 5% statistical significance. RESULTS: HLA-B27 was negative in 32 of the 44 patients (72,7%). Most of them were male, Caucasian, living in Rio de Janeiro, with plaque type psoriasis and average age of 52,9 years. There was statistical significant correlation between positive HLA-B27 and male gender (p=0,004). Negative HLA-B27 had a tendency to correlate with hands and wrists arthritis (p=0,07). There was an inverse significant correlation between HLA values and Schöber's test (p=0,02). CONCLUSION: Although HLA-B27 is negative in most of patients, it is significantly associated to male gender and inversely correlated with Schöber's test.
Antimicrobial resistance profile of Staphylococcus aureus isolates obtained from skin and soft tissue infections of outpatients from a university hospital in Recife -PE, Brazil
Authors: Caraciolo Fabiana Beserra , Maciel Maria Amélia Vieira , Santos Josemir Belo dos , Rabelo Marcelle Aquino , Magalhães Vera
Published: November 2012

BACKGROUND: Staphylococcus aureus has a notable ability to acquire resistance to antibiotics, and methicillin resistance represents a growing public health problem. Methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) has also become important outside the hospital environment, particularly in the United States. In Brazil, since 2005, cases of community skin infections caused by MRSA have been reported, but resistance studies involving outpatients are scarce. OBJECTIVE: To know the resistance profile of S. aureus involved in skin and soft tissue infections of patients seen at the Dermatology outpatient clinic of a university hospital in Recife, Pernambuco State, northeastern Brazil. METHODS: Prospective study involving 30 patients with skin and soft tissue infections, seen at the Dermatology outpatient clinic from May until November 2011. To evaluate the susceptibility of S. aureus to antibiotics, the disk diffusion method and oxacillin screening agar were used. RESULTS: From a total of 30 samples of skin lesions, 19 (63%) had positive culture for S. aureus. The following resistance patterns of S. aureus were observed: penicillin, 95%; tetracycline, 32%; erythromycin, 21%; gentamicin, 16%; cefoxitin, 11%; oxacillin, 11%; trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, 11%; chloramphenicol, 11%; clindamycin, 5% ; and ciprofloxacin, 0%. One of the identified MRSA was obtained from a patient without risk factors for its acquisition, and was resistant, beyond to the beta-lactams, only to tetracycline. CONCLUSIONS: With regard to the resistance patterns of S. aureus, resistances to tetracycline, erythromycin and gentamicin were the highest. It was documented, for the first time in Pernambuco, a case of skin infection caused by community-associated MRSA.
The impact of acne vulgaris on quality of life and psychic health in young adolescents in Greece: results of a population survey
Authors: Tasoula Eleni , Gregoriou Stamatis , Chalikias John , Lazarou Dimitris , Danopoulou Ifigenia , Katsambas Andreas , Rigopoulos Dimitris
Published: November 2012

BACKGROUND: Acne vulgaris can severely affect social and psychological functioning. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of acne vulgaris and its severity on Quality of Life of young adolescents in Greece. METHODS: We conducted a questionnaire based survey among 1560 adolescent between the ages of 11 and 19 years old and 1531 of these were completed. Adolescents with acne filled all the questions including the Children Dermatology Life Quality Index. Adolescents without acne filled the questions about age, family history of acne, stress and smoking. Data were analyzed with Pearson Chi Square test. RESULTS: Acne prevalence was 51.2% affecting both sexes equally. Self reported mild acne was present in 71.2% and moderate-severe acne in 28.8% of the study population. The mean age of the study population was 15.77y. The median score of Children Dermatology Life Quality Index was 4.02. The impact of acne on quality of life is associated with the severity of the acne (p<0.0001). Patients with moderate/severe acne experience greater psychosocial and emotional impairment (p<0.0001). Body image is modified proportionally to the severity of acne (p<0.0001). Symptoms and treatment of acne are factors that also influence their quality of life. Girls and boys are equally affected. Stress and heredity are correlated with acne and its severity (p<0.0001). We didn't find any correlation between smoking and acne. CONCLUSION: Acne affects Quality of Life of young adolescents in Greece. The impact is proportional to the severity of acne. More severe acne is associated with greater effect on quality of life with implications for self esteem, body image and relationships with others.
Multiple metastatic basal cell carcinoma with concurrent metastatic pleomorphic sarcoma in chronic lymphedema area: case report
Authors: Oliveira Giuliano da Paz , Girão Régio José Santiago , Soares Cléverson Teixeira , Mello Junior Edgard Jose Franco
Published: November 2012

Chronic lymphedema presents as interstitial fluid retention due to a failure in the lymphatic system drainage. The affected region becomes more vulnerable immunologically and predisposed to the onset of neoplasms. Basal Cell Carcinoma is the most common sort of neoplasm, nevertheless it rarely metastisizes. Sarcomas are malignant mesenchymal neoplasms, locally aggressive, which can spread. Here is reported an infrequent case of multiple basal cell carcinoma, synchronous to a poorly differentiated pleomorphic sarcoma, both spreading to lymph nodes and arising from tissue compromised by chronic lymphedema.
Gnatophyma: a rare form of rosacea
Authors: Macedo Ana Carolina Lisboa de , Sakai Fernanda Dias Pacheco , Vasconcelos Rossana Cantanhede Farias de , Duarte Artur Antonio
Published: November 2012

Phyma is the last stage of rosacea and is due to chronic inflammation and edema. It can affect nose (rhinophyma), chin (gnatophyma), forehead (metophyma), ears (otophyma) and eyelids (blepharophyma). Rhinophyma is the most frequent location and there are few reports about gnatophyma. We report the case of a female patient, 41 years old, who had an infiltrated, erythematous, edematous plaque around the chin and lower lip for two years. Histopathology showed perivascular lymphocytic infiltrate, hypertrophied follicles and sebaceous glands, dilated vessels and fibrosis. She was treated with oral tetracycline, oral ivermectin and metronidazole cream with a satisfactory response. The clinical, histopathological and therapeutic response correlation confirmed the diagnosis of gnatophyma, a rare variant of phyma.
Dermoscopic clues in the diagnosis of amelanotic and hypomelanotic malignant melanoma
Authors: Steglich Raquel Bissacotti , Meotti Carolina Degeon , Ferreira Mariana Silveira , Lovatto Louise , Carvalho André Vicente Esteves de , Castro Carlos Gustavo Carneiro de
Published: November 2012

The clinical identification of amelanotic malignant melanoma (AMM) and hypomelanotic malignant melanoma (HMM) becomes difficult due to the lack of pigmentation and to the diverse clinical presentations. Dermoscopy is very useful in these cases, increasing the level of suspicion of malignancy. We report 4 cases of amelanotic malignant melanoma and hypomelanotic malignant melanoma with characteristic dermoscopic findings. Dermoscopy under polarized light demonstrates vascular polymorphism, globules and milky-red areas, in addition to chrysalis and multiple blue-gray dots.
Gamasoidosis illustrated: from the nest to dermoscopy
Authors: Wambier Carlos Gustavo , Wambier Sarah Perillo de Farias
Published: November 2012

Gamasoidosis (acariasis, avian-mite dermatitis or bird-mite dermatitis) is a challenging diagnosis that is becoming more common because of the frequent use of window air conditioners in tropical countries. These devices may serve as shelters for nests of urban birds such as pigeons. Dermatologists should become familiar with this infestation to establish the correct diagnosis and treatment.
Case for diagnosis
Authors: Mesquita Kleyton de Carvalho , Costa Izelda Maria Carvalho
Published: November 2012

Pyodermatitis-pyostomatitis vegetans is a rare mucocutaneous dermatosis characterized by pustular and vegetating lesions of the skin and oral mucosa. It is considered a highly specific marker for inflammatory bowel diseases. The authors describe a case of pyodermatitis-pyostomatitis vegetans in a pediatric patient who presented marked clinical improvement after beginning treatment with oral corticosteroids, azathioprine, and dapsone. Bowel surveillance is mandatory, since the dermatosis is associated with inflammatory bowel diseases in more than 70% of patients, especially ulcerative colitis.
Risk factors for hidradenitis suppurativa: a pilot study
Authors: Schmitt Juliano Vilaverde , Bombonatto Giovana , Martin Manoela , Miot Hélio Amante
Published: November 2012

The hidradenitis suppurativa is a chronic debilitating inflammatory disease whose etiology is not fully understood. We conducted a pilot case-control study matched by sex and age with other dermatological patients to analyze possible risk factors associated with this disease. We included 15 cases and 45 controls, 67% were women. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis identified significant association with smoking, higher body mass index and family history. The use of hormonal contraceptives was less frequent in women with hidradenitis.
Adaptação multicêntrica do guia para a gestão autônoma da medicação
Authors: Campos Rosana Teresa Onocko , Palombini Analice de Lima , Silva André do Eirado , Passos Eduardo , Leal Erotildes Maria , Serpa Júnior Octávio Domont de , Marques Cecília de Castro e , Gonçalves Laura Lamas Martins , Santos Deivisson Vianna Dantas dos , Surjus Luciana Togni de Lima e Silva , Arantes Ricardo Lugon , Emerich Bruno Ferrari , Otanari Thais Mikie de Carvalho , Stefanello Sabrina
Published: November 2012

O uso crescente de psicofármacos e o baixo empowerment dos usuários mostram-se críticos à qualificação da assistência em Saúde Mental no Brasil. Este estudo, abrangendo três cidades brasileiras, objetivou a elaboração do Guia Brasileiro da Gestão Autônoma da Medicação (GGAM-BR), com base na tradução e adaptação de guia desenvolvido no Canadá; e a avaliação dos efeitos do uso do GGAM-BR na formação de trabalhadores de saúde mental. Constituíram-se grupos de intervenção (GIs) para compartilhamento das experiências com tratamento medicamentoso, a partir dos temas propostos no guia; e foram realizados grupos focais antes e após os GIs. Importantes mudanças em relação ao texto original do guia Canadense foram implementadas, levando em conta a realidade brasileira. Constatou-se que o GGAM-BR constitui estratégia potente de fomento à participação ativa dos usuários na gestão do tratamento e do serviço, incidindo positivamente na formação de trabalhadores.
O professor coordenador pedagógico nas escolas estaduais paulistas: da articulação pedagógica ao gerenciamento das reformas educacionais
Authors: Fernandes Maria José da Silva
Published: November 2012

Este artigo apresenta os principais resultados de uma pesquisa concluída que teve como objeto de estudo a função de coordenação pedagógica na rede estadual paulista, com destaque para o trabalho do professor coordenador pedagógico (PCP). A partir de um estudo bibliográfico-documental, analisamos as principais resoluções publicadas pela Secretaria de Estado da Educação de São Paulo no período de 1996 a 2010. Para a definição do período de análise, foram consideradas as sucessivas medidas educacionais de natureza neoliberal ocorridas na referida rede de ensino. A partir das resoluções selecionadas, foram estabelecidas algumas categorias de análise relacionadas à função: denominação, justificativa e atribuições legais; requisitos necessários para os professores coordenadores e critérios de escolha; avaliação do trabalho realizado e bibliografia básica solicitada nos processos seletivos. A análise dos documentos legais permite identificar a apropriação da função pelas reformas educacionais recentes, reconhecendo as implicações para o trabalho docente e para a organização da escola. Influenciadas por princípios gerencialistas e performáticos, as reformas educacionais promoveram profundas alterações na natureza do trabalho do professor coordenador pedagógico, o qual, de articulador no âmbito da escola, passou a ser legalmente o sujeito responsável pela disseminação das medidas oficiais e pelo controle das atividades docentes.