bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Focal Concerns and Police Use of Force
Authors: Crow Matthew S. , Adrion Brittany
Published: October 2011

The use of force by police officers is a regular source of interest among the public, media, scholars, and criminal justice professionals. Tasers have emerged as an important and increasingly popular technology for police departments. Despite the increasing adoption and use of Tasers and the controversy surrounding their use, relatively little prior research examines the factors associated with Taser use by police officers. Guided by the focal concerns theoretical perspective, the current study uses data from a medium-size police department to analyze the factors that influence Taser use. Logistic regression models provide evidence that Taser use is influenced by suspect resistance as well as the race and gender of the suspect involved. Implications for policy and research are discussed.
Parents’ anxieties about the risk of HIV/Aids for their Deaf and hard of hearing adolescents in South Africa: A qualitative study
Authors: Mall Sumaya , Swartz Leslie
Published: October 2011

Adolescents who are Deaf or hard of hearing may be vulnerable to HIV/AIDS. Adolescents’ open communication with parents encourages positive sexuality. The relationship between the Deaf adolescent and their parent could be obstructed by communication difficulties. This article explores parents’ anxieties about HIV risk. We interviewed nine parents of Deaf adolescents in South Africa. We explored their fears of the risk of HIV/AIDS for their children. Participants believed that their children were at risk of HIV infection. Although they did communicate with their children about sexuality and HIV/AIDS, some experienced communication difficulties. Communicative relationships between these adolescents and their parents should be encouraged.
Feasibility of exposure response prevention to treat repetitive behaviors of children with autism and an intellectual disability: A brief report
Authors: Boyd Brian A. , Woodard Cooper R. , Bodfish James W.
Published: October 2011

There is a lack of evidence-based behavioral therapies or pharmacotherapies to treat repetitive behaviors found in autism. Effective behavioral therapies are needed to counter any negative consequences these behaviors may have on the child’s early learning and socialization. The purpose of this proof-of-principle study was to test the feasibility of modifying exposure response prevention, an evidence-based strategy for obsessive–compulsive disorder, to treat the repetitive behaviors found in autism. Five school-aged participants (ages 5–11) diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder participated in the study. Our preliminary findings suggest it is feasible, and potentially efficacious, to modify standard exposure response prevention to treat the specific forms of repetitive behaviors found in individuals with autism and comorbid intellectual disabilities. A larger clinical trial is needed to substantiate these preliminary findings.
So what’s wrong with the EU? Motivations underlying the Eurosceptic vote in the 2009 European elections
Authors: van Spanje Joost , de Vreese Claes
Published: October 2011

In recent decades, ordinary European Union (EU) citizens have been able to express their opinion on the course of the European project on several occasions. Judging from electoral outcomes, there is quite some Euroscepticism among them. What motivations underlie the Eurosceptic vote? Using an extended and comprehensive multidimensional measure of EU attitudes, we investigate which specific attitudes and issue positions were conducive to Eurosceptic voting in the 2009 European Parliament elections. Based on a voter survey in 21 countries, we conclude that concerns about the EU’s ‘democratic deficit’, low perceived utility of the EU for the country, negative affection towards the EU, opposition to EU integration, and an absence of EU identity enhance anti-EU voting. In addition, these effects depend on the dispersion of party positions concerning EU matters, so that the more the parties diverge on EU matters, the stronger the effect becomes of each of the five EU dimensions mentioned on party choice. We conclude by setting these findings in perspective and discussing their implications for the future of the European project.
Reasons to be cheerful? Addressing public perceptions through National Tackling Drugs Week
Authors: Gilling Daniel
Published: October 2011

This article presents the results of a research project exploring the impact on the public of National Tackling Drugs Week, a UK government communications initiative intended to inform about, and build public confidence in, the national drugs strategy. The research shows that the initiative had a limited reach and that its impact was variable: while it could raise confidence, it could also raise concerns about crime, and while it could inform, it could also elicit suspicions of ‘spin’. Acknowledging that the policy aim of building public confidence is now an international one, the discussion counsels against simplistic corporate communications-based solutions to the public confidence problem, suggesting instead that the impact of communication is dependent on other contextual contingencies, and that when communications are employed for confidence-building ends, their prospects would be enhanced if they were two-way rather than one-way, and part of a wider strategy of deliberative democracy.
Inhibition of nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase modifies LPS-induced inflammatory responses of human monocytes
Authors: Schilling Erik , Wehrhahn Janine , Klein Carina , Raulien Nora , Ceglarek Uta , Hauschildt Sunna
Published: October 2011

Recent studies have identified enzymes that use NAD as a substrate, thus contributing to its net consumption. To maintain the intracellular pool, NAD is re-synthesized by a salvage pathway using nicotinamide, the by-product generated by the enzymatic cleavage of NAD. Enzymes involved in NAD re-synthesis include nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (NAMPT) and nicotinamide mononucleotide adenylyltransferase. Our studies show, that NAMPT was substantially up-regulated by LPS in primary human monocytes, suggesting that it may be especially required during the process of monocyte activation. To evaluate the contribution of the NAD rescue pathway to LPS-induced biological responses in human monocytes, we used APO866, a well-characterized inhibitor of NAMPT. Concomitant with the inhibition of NAMPT, LPS-induced TNF-α protein synthesis declined, while TNF-α mRNA levels were minimally affected. Moreover, APO866 strongly decreased the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), increased surface expression of the NAD-consuming enzyme CD38, and modified the production of selective eicosanoids. We further demonstrate that protein ADP-ribosylation was strongly reduced, indicating a possible link between this post-translational protein modification and human monocyte inflammatory responses. Despite a substantial reduction in intracellular NAD levels, activated monocytes were resistant to apoptosis, while resting monocytes were not. Taken together, our data suggest that activated monocytes strongly depend on the NAD salvage pathway to mount an appropriate inflammatory response. Their survival is not affected by NAD-depletion, probably as a result of LPS-mediated anti-apoptotic signals.
Efficacy of Feeding Team Recommendations for Infants/Children Presenting With Signs of Milk Allergy
Authors: Baunach Janice , Malpass Jennifer , Malik Zeenat Q. , Cable Greg
Published: October 2011

Caregivers have reported feeding difficulties in approximately 25% to 40% of infants/toddlers that comprise a variety of signs/symptoms, though many of these are transient and resolve without significant medical intervention. Feeding problems, however, have been reported to persist in 3% to 10% of children, resulting in the caregivers seeking professional guidance. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of feeding team recommendations for infants and young children presenting with signs of milk allergies. Retrospective chart reviews were conducted, with associated follow-up phone surveys. Study participants met criteria based on presenting symptoms of possible milk allergy and received recommendations of milk-free diet and/or allergy testing. A total of 85 medical records were reviewed. Of the 85, 53% (45/85) met inclusion criteria for review; however, only 46% (39/85) were available for follow-up. Of the 39 patients available for follow-up, a milk-free diet was recommended for 67% (26/39), and 69% (18/26) of these families followed through with the recommendations. Of those 18 patients who followed the recommendations, 83% (15/18) reported improvement of symptoms. Our data suggest that recommendations resulting from comprehensive feeding team evaluations of infants and children with suspected milk protein allergies can, when followed, result in improvement of patient symptoms.
A Geriatric Multidisciplinary and Tailor-Made Hospital-At-Home Method in Nursing Home Residents With Hip Fracture
Authors: Gregersen Merete , Zintchouk Dmitri , Borris Lars Carl , Damsgaard Else Marie
Published: October 2011

Introduction: Nursing home residents represent a large proportion of patients hospitalized with hip fracture. Generally, residents do not achieve the same physical ability level as before their fracture and have an increased risk of death within few days after discharge. This study aims to compare 2 new approaches to geriatric intervention in residents with hip fracture. Materials and Methods: In nursing home residents aged 65 or older with hip fracture, 85 received a newly developed standardized rehabilitation intervention undertaken by the geriatric orthopedic team (GO team) from December 1, 2006 to November 30, 2007. This standardized method was compared with a further developed tailor-made intervention method performed by the GO team in 153 residents from February 1, 2008 to January 31, 2010. Both the interventions began at hospital admission and until 30 days after surgery. Outcomes were length of hospital stay (LOS), difference in physical ability, 90-day acute readmission, 30-day mortality, and 90-day mortality. Results: The tailor-made intervention method reduced the readmission rate (14% vs 26%) compared with the standardized intervention method (odds ratio [OR] = 0.47 [95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.23, 0.94]). Tailor-made intervention reduced 30-day mortality (8% vs 19%) compared with standardized intervention (OR = 0.42 [95% CI: 0.18, 0.97]). Improving 90-day survival could not be demonstrated (81% vs 73%; OR = 0.72 [95% CI: 0.37, 1.40]). Median LOS was 2 days in both the groups. A total of 7 follow-up visits were performed with tailor-made intervention versus 3 visits with standardized intervention. In both the groups, the physical ability decreased significantly within the first 30 postoperative days, with no difference between groups (β = 1.01 [95% CI: 0.82, 1.24]).Conclusion: A multidisciplinary and tailor-made geriatric intervention in nursing home residents has a positive effect on readmission rate and short-term mortality. Still, it is not obvious which part of the tailor-made intervention is most crucial.
Mutation of the gastric hydrogen-potassium ATPase alpha subunit causes iron-deficiency anemia in mice
Authors: Krieg Lara , Milstein Oren , Krebs Philippe , Xia Yu , Beutler Bruce , Du Xin
Published: October 2011

Iron is an essential component of heme and hemoglobin, and therefore restriction of iron availability directly limits erythropoiesis. In the present study, we report a defect in iron absorption that results in iron-deficiency anemia, as revealed by an N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea–induced mouse phenotype called sublytic. Homozygous sublytic mice develop hypochromic microcytic anemia with reduced osmotic fragility of RBCs. The sublytic phenotype stems from impaired gastrointestinal iron absorption caused by a point mutation of the gastric hydrogen-potassium ATPase α subunit encoded by Atp4a, which results in achlorhydria. The anemia of sublytic homozygotes can be corrected by feeding with a high-iron diet or by parenteral injection of iron dextran; rescue can also be achieved by providing acidified drinking water to sublytic homozygotes. These findings establish the necessity of the gastric proton pump for iron absorption and effective erythropoiesis.
Reduced-intensity conditioning with combined haploidentical and cord blood transplantation results in rapid engraftment, low GVHD, and durable remissions
Authors: Liu Hongtao , Rich Elizabeth S. , Godley Lucy , Odenike Olatoyosi , Joseph Loren , Marino Susana , Kline Justin , Nguyen Vu , Cunningham John , Larson Richard A. , del Cerro Paula , Schroeder Linda , Pape Lisa , Stock Wendy , Wickrema Amittha , Artz Andrew S. , van Besien Koen
Published: October 2011

We conducted a 45 patient prospective study of reduced-intensity conditioning (RIC) and transplantation of unrelated umbilical cord blood (UCB) and CD34+ stem cells from a haploidentical family member. Median age was 50 years; weight was 80 kg. Fifty-eight percent had active disease. Neutrophil engraftment occurred at 11 days (interquartile range [IQR], 9-15) and platelet engraftment at 19 days (IQR, 15-33). In the majority of patients, early haploidentical engraftment was replaced by durable engraftment of UCB by 100 days, with regular persistence of minor host and/or haplo-hematopoiesis. Percentage of haplochimerism at day 100 correlated with the haplo-CD34 dose (P = .003). Cumulative incidence of acute GVHD (aGVHD) was 25% and chronic GVHD (cGVHD) was 5%. Actuarial survival at 1 year was 55%, progression-free survival (PFS) was 42%, nonrelapse mortality (NRM) was 28%, and relapse was 30%. RIC and haplo-cord transplantation results in fast engraftment of neutrophils and platelets, low incidences of aGVHD and cGVHD, low frequency of delayed opportunistic infections, reduced transfusion requirements, shortened length of hospital stay, and promising long-term outcomes. UCB cell dose had no impact on time to hematopoietic recovery. Therefore, UCB selection can prioritize matching, and better matched donors can be identified rapidly for most patients. This study is registered at http://clinicaltrials.gov as NCI clinical trial no. NCT00943800.
Reproducibility and day time bias correction of optoelectronic leg volumetry: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Engelberger Rolf P , Blazek Claudia , Amsler Felix , Keo Hong H , Baumann Frédéric , Blättler Werner , Baumgartner Iris , Willenberg Torsten
Published: October 2011

Background

Leg edema is a common manifestation of various underlying pathologies. Reliable measurement tools are required to quantify edema and monitor therapeutic interventions. Aim of the present work was to investigate the reproducibility of optoelectronic leg volumetry over 3 weeks' time period and to eliminate daytime related within-individual variability.

Methods

Optoelectronic leg volumetry was performed in 63 hairdressers (mean age 45 ± 16 years, 85.7% female) in standing position twice within a minute for each leg and repeated after 3 weeks. Both lower leg (legBD) and whole limb (limbBF) volumetry were analysed. Reproducibility was expressed as analytical and within-individual coefficients of variance (CVA, CVW), and as intra-class correlation coefficients (ICC).

Results

A total of 492 leg volume measurements were analysed. Both legBD and limbBF volumetry were highly reproducible with CVA of 0.5% and 0.7%, respectively. Within-individual reproducibility of legBD and limbBF volumetry over a three weeks' period was high (CVW 1.3% for both; ICC 0.99 for both). At both visits, the second measurement revealed a significantly higher volume compared to the first measurement with a mean increase of 7.3 ml ± 14.1 (0.33% ± 0.58%) for legBD and 30.1 ml ± 48.5 ml (0.52% ± 0.79%) for limbBF volume. A significant linear correlation between absolute and relative leg volume differences and the difference of exact day time of measurement between the two study visits was found (P < .001). A therefore determined time-correction formula permitted further improvement of CVW.

Conclusions

Leg volume changes can be reliably assessed by optoelectronic leg volumetry at a single time point and over a 3 weeks' time period. However, volumetry results are biased by orthostatic and daytime-related volume changes. The bias for day-time related volume changes can be minimized by a time-correction formula.
Defining the optimal dose of radiation in leukemic patients with extramedullary lesions
Authors: Song Jin Ho , Son Seok Hyun , Lee Ju Hwan , Chung Su Mi , Jang Hong Seok , Choi Byung Ock
Published: October 2011

Background

Analysis of the clinical response of extramedullary lesions in leukemic patients treated with radiation therapy (RT) and defining the optimal dose of radiation.

Methods

Forty-two extramedullary lesions found in 24 leukemic patients treated with RT were reviewed. The radiation was delivered usually 2 Gy/day, up to a median of 20 Gy (range: 18.0-40.8). The clinical response and symptom palliation effect were analyzed. The factors affecting the response were also included in the analysis.

Results

After a median time of 7.9 weeks, the overall response rate was 76.2%. A complete response (CR) was achieved in 35.7%, a partial response in 40.5%. The symptom was relieved in 85.7% sites. The overall response rate was better in patients whose initial tumor size was smaller than 10 cm2 (p = 0.010) or who were treated with more than 25 Gy (p = 0.031). The overall CR rate was also higher in those who had smaller tumors (smaller than 6 cm or 30 cm2) (p = 0.015), or when the tumor was located in soft tissue (p = 0.029).

Conclusions

Extramedullary lesions in leukemic patients can be successfully treated with RT. The tumor response rate was excellent and symptom relief was achieved in almost all patients. There was a better response to treatment when the tumor was small or it was located in soft tissue. Although, there was no definite correlation between volume reduction and total dose, it seems that higher total dose more of than 25 Gy is needed for better response.
Abrogation of contaminating RNA activity in HIV-1 Gag VLPs
Authors: Valley-Omar Ziyaad , Meyers Ann E , Shephard Enid G , Williamson Anna-Lise , Rybicki Edward P
Published: October 2011

Background

HIV-1 Gag virus like particles (VLPs) used as candidate vaccines are regarded as inert particles as they contain no replicative nucleic acid, although they do encapsidate cellular RNAs. During HIV-1 Gag VLP production in baculovirus-based expression systems, VLPs incorporate the baculovirus Gp64 envelope glycoprotein, which facilitates their entry into mammalian cells. This suggests that HIV-1 Gag VLPs produced using this system facilitate uptake and subsequent expression of encapsidated RNA in mammalian cells - an unfavourable characteristic for a vaccine.

Methods

HIV-1 Gag VLPs encapsidating reporterchloramphenicol acetyl transferase(CAT) RNA, were made in insect cells using the baculovirus expression system. The presence of Gp64 on the VLPs was verified by western blotting and RT-PCR used to detect and quantitate encapsidated CAT RNA. VLP samples were heated to inactivate CAT RNA. Unheated and heated VLPs incubated with selected mammalian cell lines and cell lysates tested for the presence of CAT protein by ELISA. Mice were inoculated with heated and unheated VLPs using a DNA prime VLP boost regimen.

Results

HIV-1 Gag VLPs produced had significantly high levels of Gp64 (~1650 Gp64 molecules/VLP) on their surfaces. The amount of encapsidated CAT RNA/μg Gag VLPs ranged between 0.1 to 7 ng. CAT protein was detected in 3 of the 4 mammalian cell lines incubated with VLPs. Incubation with heated VLPs resulted in BHK-21 and HeLa cell lysates showing reduced CAT protein levels compared with unheated VLPs and HEK-293 cells. Mice inoculated with a DNA prime VLP boost regimen developed Gag CD8 and CD4 T cell responses to GagCAT VLPs which also boosted a primary DNA response. Heating VLPs did not abrogate these immune responses but enhanced the Gag CD4 T cell responses by two-fold.

Conclusions

Baculovirus-produced HIV-1 Gag VLPs encapsidating CAT RNA were taken up by selected mammalian cell lines. The presence of CAT protein indicates that encapsidated RNA was expressed in the mammalian cells. Heat-treatment of the VLPs altered the ability of protein to be expressed in some cell lines tested but did not affect the ability of the VLPs to stimulate an immune response when inoculated into mice.
Association study of monoamine oxidase A/B genes and schizophrenia in Han Chinese
Authors: Wei Yi-Liang , Li Cai-Xia , Li Sheng-Bin , Liu Yao , Hu Lan
Published: October 2011

Background

Monoamine oxidases (MAOs) catalyze the metabolism of dopaminergic neurotransmitters. Polymorphisms of isoforms MAOA and MAOB have been implicated in the etiology of mental disorders such as schizophrenia. Association studies detected these polymorphisms in several populations, however the data have not been conclusive to date. Here, we investigated the association of MAOA and MAOB polymorphisms with schizophrenia in a Han Chinese population.

Methods

Two functional single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), rs6323 of MAOA and rs1799836 of MAOB, were selected for association analysis in 537 unrelated schizophrenia patients and 536 healthy controls. Single-locus and Haplotype associations were calculated.

Results

No differences were found in the allelic distribution of rs6323. The G allele of rs1799836 was identified as a risk factor in the development of schizophrenia (P = 0.00001). The risk haplotype rs6323T-rs1799836G was associated with schizophrenia in female patients (P = 0.0002), but the frequency difference was not significant among male groups.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that MAOB is a susceptibility gene for schizophrenia. In contrast, no significant associations were observed for the MAOA functional polymorphism with schizophrenia in Han Chinese. These data support further investigation of the role of MAO genes in schizophrenia.
Catalytic Asymmetric Synthesis of Isoxazoline-N-oxides through Conjugate Addition–Cyclization under Phase-Transfer Conditions
Authors: Kano Taichi , Yamamoto Akihiro , Song Sunhwa , Maruoka Keiji
Published: October 2011

Catalytic asymmetric synthesis of various isoxazoline-N-oxides having a tetrasubstituted carbon has been accomplished by asymmetric phase-transfer conjugate addition of bromomalonate to nitroolefins and subsequent ring-closing O-alkylation. The obtained isoxazoline-N-oxide was readily converted to the corresponding oxime, isoxazoline, and lactam without loss of optical purity.
Delay Management with Rerouting of Passengers
Authors: Dollevoet Twan , Huisman Dennis , Schmidt Marie , Schöbel Anita
Published: October 2011

The question of delay management (DM) is whether trains should wait for a delayed feeder train or should depart on time. In classical DM models, passengers are assumed to take their originally planned routes. After the wait-depart decisions are made, passengers will certainly change to the best-possible route according to these decisions. In this paper, we propose a model where such a rerouting of passengers is incorporated in the DM process.

To describe the problem, we represent it as an event-activity network similar to the one used in classical DM, with some additional events to incorporate origin and destination of the passengers. We present an integer programming formulation of this problem. Furthermore, we discuss the variant in which we assume fixed costs for maintaining connections, and we present a polynomial algorithm for the special case of only one origin-destination pair that we later use to derive a strong lower bound for the integer program. Finally, computational experiments based on real-world data from Netherlands Railways show that significant improvements with respect to the passengers' traveling times can be obtained by taking the rerouting of passengers into account in the model.
Contribution of cathepsin L to secretome composition and cleavage pattern of mouse embryonic fibroblasts
Authors: Tholen Stefan , Biniossek Martin L. , Geßler Anna-Lena , Müller Sebastian , Weißer Juliane , Kizhakkedathu Jayachandran N. , Reinheckel Thomas , Schilling Oliver
Published: October 2011

The endolysosomal cysteine endoprotease cathepsin L is secreted from cells in a variety of pathological conditions such as cancer and arthritis. We compared the secretome composition and extracellular proteolytic cleavage events in cell supernatants of cathepsin L-deficient and wild-type mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs). Quantitative proteomic comparison of cell conditioned media indicated that cathepsin L deficiency affects, albeit in a limited manner, the abundances of extracellular matrix (ECM) components, signaling proteins, and further proteases as well as endogenous protease inhibitors. Immunodetection corroborated that cathepsin L deficiency results in decreased abundance of the ECM protein periostin and elevated abundance of matrix metalloprotease (MMP)-2. While mRNA levels of MMP-2 were not affected by cathepsin L ablation, periostin mRNA levels were reduced, potentially indicating a downstream effect. To characterize cathepsin L contribution to extracellular proteolysis, we performed terminal amine isotopic labeling of substrates (TAILS), an N-terminomic technique for the identification and quantification of native and proteolytically generated protein N-termini. TAILS identified >1500 protein N-termini. Cathepsin L deficiency predominantly reduced the magnitude of collagenous cleavage sites C-terminal to a proline residue. This contradicts cathepsin L active site specificity and indicates altered activity of further proteases as a result of cathepsin L ablation.
Gold nanoparticles in the clinical laboratory: principles of preparation and applications
Authors: Azzazy Hassan M.E. , Mansour Mai M.H. , Samir Tamer M. , Franco Ricardo
Published: October 2011

In order to meet the challenges of effective healthcare, the clinical laboratory is constantly striving to improve testing sensitivity while reducing the required time and cost. Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) are proposed as one of the most promising tools to meet such goals. They have unique optophysical properties which enable sensitive detection of biomarkers, and are easily amenable to modification for use in different assay formats including immunoassays and molecular assays. Additionally, their preparation is relatively simple and their detection methods are quite versatile. AuNPs are showing substantial promise for effective practical applications and commercial utilization is already underway. This article covers the principles of preparation of AuNPs and their use for development of different diagnostic platforms.
Gh is produced by the testis of Japanese eel and stimulates proliferation of spermatogonia
Authors: Miura Chiemi , Shimizu Yosuke , Uehara Maho , Ozaki Yuichi , Young Graham , Miura Takeshi
Published: October 2011

Gh plays important roles in development, somatic growth and gametogenesis in vertebrates. To determine the physiological role of Gh in reproduction in male teleosts, the expression of genes encoding Gh and the two Gh receptors (Ghrs) during spermatogenesis, and the action of Ghin vitrowas examined using the Japanese eel (Anguilla japonica).gh,ghr1andghr2mRNA transcripts were detected in all spermatogenic stages.In situhybridization showed the presence ofghr1andghr2mRNA in the germ cells. Immunohistochemistry using an antiserum against eel Gh indicated that Gh protein was localized to Sertoli cells surrounding the germ cells in early spermatogenesis. Recombinant eel Gh induced spermatogonial proliferation in a testis organ culture system, an effect that was independent from the production of steroid hormones or Igf1. This study identifies a role for eel Gh in the regulation of early spermatogenesis, particularly in the mitotic phase of spermatogenesis, that is not mediated by either steroid hormones or Igf1 production.
The political economy of corruption in Brazil
Authors: Silva Marcos Fernandes da
Published: October 2011

This article is the first part of a research on corruption in Brazil and it is theoretical. Despite this, it provides an economic interpretation of corruption using Brazil as a case study. The main objective of this research is to apply some microeconomic tools to understand the "big corruption"�. However, I am going to show that corruption is not simply a kind of crime. Rather, it is an ordinary economic activity that arises in some institutional environments. Firstly, some corruption cases in Brazil will be described. This article is aimed at showing that democracy itself does not ensure control over corruption. Secondly, I am going to do a very brief survey of institutional changes and controls over corruption in some Western Societies in which I am going to argue that corruption, its control and its illegality depend on institutional evolution by streamlining the constitutional and institutional framework. Thirdly, I am going to explain how some economic models could be adopted for a better understanding of corruption. Finally, I will present a multiple-self model applied to the public agent (politician and bureaucrat) constrained by institutions and pay-off systems.
Observations on the Brazilian presidency, democracy, and governance
Authors: von Mettenheim Kurt E.
Published: October 2011

This article presents the first results of research on the organization and administration of the Brazilian presidency and problems of democratic governance in Brazil. Biases of Euro-centrism in current views of presidentialism, democracy, governance, and representation are criticized and new comparative analysis of political experiences in the Americas called for. Initial analysis of the Brazilian presidency reveals a unique combination of executive-led electoral representation and muddling through governance since the transition from military rule.
Consórcios intermunicipais de saúde no estado de São Paulo: situação atual
Authors: Junqueira Ana Thereza Machado , Mendes Áquilas Nogueira , Cruz Maria do Carmo Meirelles T.
Published: October 2011

O artigo apresenta os resultados de um levantamento realizado sobre a situação dos consórcios intermunicipais de saúde no estado de São Paulo, analisando-os em quatro aspectos básicos: base jurídica e estruturação administrativa, serviços prestados, formas de financiamento e recursos humanos.
Adjuvantes e assistência de ar em pulverizador de barras sobre a deposição da calda e controle de Phakopsora pachyrhizi (Sydow & Sydow)
Authors: Aguiar Júnior Hélio Oliveira , Raetano Carlos Gilberto , Prado Evandro Pereira , Pogetto Mário Henrique Ferreira do Aamaral Dal , Christovam Rafael de Souza , Gimenes Marcelo Júnior
Published: October 2011

Com o intuito de melhorar a cobertura da pulverização e diminuir as perdas na produtividade da cultura da soja, o estudo objetivou avaliar o efeito da adição de adjuvantes à calda combinado ou não ao uso da assistência de ar sobre a deposição da pulverização, controle de Phakopsora pachyrhizi H. Sydow & P. Sydow, perdas de produção (peso de 1000 grãos) e produtividade da cultura (kg ha-1). Dois experimentos a campo foram conduzidos na cultura da soja, variedade Conquista, safra agrícola 2008/09. Um deles no delineamento em blocos ao acaso com três doses de adjuvantes associados a um marcador cúprico combinadas a dois níveis de ar na barra de pulverização (0 e 29 km h-1), totalizando 6 tratamentos e 4 repetições. Outro experimento foi instalado no mesmo local do anterior. O delineamento experimental utilizado foi o de blocos ao acaso com 7 tratamentos: fungicida e dois adjuvantes associados ao fungicida, combinados a dois níveis de ar na barra de pulverização (0 e 29 km h-1), mais testemunha, e 4 repetições. Após a pulverização do fungicida piraclostrobina + epoxiconazole com diferentes tecnologias, procedeu-se a avaliação da severidade da doença através da estimativa da área abaixo da curva de progresso da doença (AACPD) e da produtividade da cultura da soja. A assistência de ar na velocidade máxima gerada pelo ventilador (29 km h-1), combinada ao fungicida piraclostrobina + epoxiconazole mais o adjuvante organosiliconado Silwet L-77 contribuiu para melhor controle da ferrugem asiática, proporcionando incremento na produtividade e no peso de 1000 grãos.
Exceso de peso, aspectos económicos, políticos y sociales en el mundo: un análisis ecológico
Authors: González-Zapata Laura Inés , Estrada-Restrepo Alejandro , Álvarez-Castaño Luz Stella , Álvarez-Dardet Carlos , Serra-Majem Lluis
Published: October 2011

Se analizaron las prevalencias de exceso de peso, según índice de masa corporal (IMC), en adultos y su asociación con algunas variables demográficas, socioeconómicas e índice de democracia. Se realizó un diseño ecológico que consideró un total de 105 países, con datos de IMC de 2000 a 2006. Las demás variables se obtuvieron en correspondencia con el año del dato de estado nutricional, o su referente más cercano. Se utilizaron los puntos de corte de la Organización Mundial de la Salud (OMS) para IMC. Se calcularon correlaciones de Spearman y modelos de regresión múltiple. El sobrepeso y la obesidad se correlacionaron en ambos sexos con la disponibilidad energética y con el Índice de Desarrollo Humano (IDH) y sus variables constitutivas. En cuanto a las variables relacionadas con democracia, la correlación fue inversa y más fuerte con el nivel ponderal de los hombres. En conclusión, indicadores de condiciones de vida más favorables en los países se asociaron de forma directa con mayores prevalencias de exceso de peso poblacional, con comportamientos diferentes en función del género.
Características da assistência ao trabalho de parto e parto em três modelos de atenção no SUS, no Município de Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brasil
Authors: Vogt Sibylle Emilie , Diniz Simone Grilo , Tavares Carlos Mendes , Santos Nagela Cristine Pinheiros , Schneck Camilla Alexsandra , Zorzam Bianca , Vieira Débora de Andrade , Silva Kátia Silveira da , Dias Marcos Augusto Bastos
Published: October 2011

Estudo transversal com 831 gestantes, de risco habitual, sobre o manejo do trabalho de parto num Centro de Parto Normal (CPN), num hospital vencedor do título "Galba de Araújo" (HG) e numa maternidade com modelo assistencial prevalente (HP). O uso da ocitocina no CPN foi de 27,9%, no HG 59,5% e no HP 40,1%, enquanto a amniotomia foi realizada em 67,6%, 73,6% e 82,2% das mulheres, respectivamente. A realização da episiotomia foi menor nas modalidades com incorporação de práticas humanizadas: 7,2% no CPN e 14,8% no HG versus 54,9% no HP. A prática de oferta liberal no HG resultou numa taxa de analgesia superior (54,4%) à do HP (7,7%). O percentual de internação dos recém-nascidos e o de parto a fórceps foram mais altas no HP, mas não houve diferenças para o índice de Apgar e para a taxa de cesárea. Os resultados sugerem resistência ao uso seletivo de intervenções em todos os modelos assistenciais, embora favoreçam o CPN como estratégia no controle das intervenções durante o trabalho de parto e parto nas gestantes de risco habitual sem prejuízos para as mulheres e os recém-nascidos.
Computer-assisted telephone interviewing (CATI): using the telephone for obtaining information on reproductive health
Authors: Cecatti Jose Guilherme , Camargo Rodrigo P. S. , Pacagnella Rodolfo Carvalho , Giavarotti Thaís , Souza João Paulo , Parpinelli Mary Angela , Osis Maria José Duarte
Published: October 2011

The objective of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of using computer assisted telephone interviewing (CATI) as a method for obtaining information on reproductive health in Brazil. A total of 998 eligible women for the study were selected to answer a questionnaire through computer- assisted telephone interviewing undertaken by trained interviewers. The outcomes of each telephone contact attempt were described. Differences between groups were assessed using the χ2 test. Phone contact was made in 60.3% of the attempts and 57.5% of the interviews were completed. The success rate improved with the decrease in time from hospitalization to interview and with the higher numbers of telephones available. A total of 2,170 calls were made, comprising of one to sixteen attempts per woman. The majority of situations where extra calls were necessary were due to the number being busy or to the fact that the woman was not available at the time of the call. CATI can prove be a valuable procedure for obtaining information on reproductive health among Brazilian women, particularly for relatively recent events and when more than one alternative telephone number is available.
Saberes e atitudes dos adolescentes frente à contracepção
Authors: Mendes Stéfani de Salles , Moreira Raissa Mariah F , Martins Christine Baccarat G , Souza Solange Pires S , Matos Karla Fonseca de
Published: October 2011

OBJETIVO: Descrever e analisar os saberes e atitudes dos adolescentes sobre a contracepção. MÉTODOS: Estudo descritivo com análise quantitativa, compreendendo uma amostra de 499 adolescentes de cinco escolas estaduais de Cuiabá, MT, utilizando-se um questionário fechado. Os dados foram processados e analisados pelo programa Epi-Info, com análises bivariadas. RESULTADOS: Entre os adolescentes estudados, constatou-se que 36% têm vida sexual ativa, sendo o uso atual de algum método contraceptivo presente em 77% das meninas e 66% dos meninos; com relação aos métodos contraceptivos mais conhecidos pelos adolescentes, 55% declararam conhecer o preservativo juntamente com os anticoncepcionais orais e injetáveis; identificou-se entre os adolescentes sexualmente ativos que apenas 40% dos meninos e 58% das meninas conversam sempre com seus namorados(as)/parceiros(as) sobre maneiras de evitar a gravidez; 54% das meninas e 40% dos meninos declararam que quem deve usar o método contraceptivo deve ser tanto o homem quanto a mulher; a fonte de indicação dos métodos contraceptivos foram os amigos(as) para 22% dos meninos e os médicos para 36% das meninas. CONCLUSÕES: Apesar de os adolescentes apresentarem alguns conhecimentos e atitudes adequadas em relação à contracepção, ainda há a necessidade de ações de prevenção e orientação sexual, tendo em vista o relato de pouco diálogo entre os parceiros, a não adoção de métodos de prevenção em todas as relações sexuais e a ocorrência de gravidez.
Vigilância sanitária, participação social e cidadania
Authors: Oliveira Ana Maria Caldeira , Dallari Sueli Gandolfi
Published: October 2011

O objetivo deste estudo é descrever e analisar as representações sociais dos conselheiros de saúde sobre a temática da vigilância sanitária. A pesquisa qualitativa de representação social foi adotada como metodologia, sendo utilizada a técnica de entrevista baseada em roteiro semiestruturado. Os dados obtidos com a realização das entrevistas foram analisados pela técnica do Discurso do Sujeito Coletivo. Através dos discursos, os conselheiros de saúde demonstraram conhecer a vigilância sanitária e reconhecerem sua importância para as práticas de Saúde Pública. Demonstraram também, estarem aptos a participar do processo de formulação da Política Municipal de Vigilância Sanitária. O estudo conclui que a vigilância sanitária, principalmente na esfera local, precisa se apropriar dos conselhos de saúde como espaços públicos capazes de legitimar e dar transparência às suas ações, discutindo as necessidades da coletividade democraticamente com a sociedade, sendo possível, dessa forma, construir a cidadania ao mesmo tempo em que se assegura o direito à proteção da saúde.
Conselhos de saúde: controle social e moralidade
Authors: Batagello Rodrigo , Benevides Luciana , Portillo Jorge Alberto Cordón
Published: October 2011

A estrutura formada pelos conselhos de saúde representa um exemplo de como a democracia participativa é fundamental na legitimação das decisões sobre a gestão da saúde pública. A atuação desses conselhos avança para além da deliberação técnica e jurídica, alcançando a dimensão dos conflitos morais, onde elas são reorientadas à luz de uma ordem de deliberações que pode ser denominada moral. O estudo da Teoria das Ordens de Comte-Sponville pode auxiliar na compreensão da ordem moral no papel desempenhado pelos conselhos de saúde, bem como permite avaliar os desafios que se colocam para a manutenção e para a eficácia dessa estrutura na concretização das políticas de saúde no Brasil. O autor faz referência às ordens tecnocientífica e jurídico-política e destaca a necessidade de limitar estas ordens por meio da moralidade. A partir desse modelo teórico e da contribuição de autores nacionais, o presente artigo tenta compreender a estrutura adotada pelos conselhos de saúde e a ordem específica de manifestação do controle social.
Pecuarização na Amazônia e consumo de carne: o que está por trás?
Authors: Prado Gabriela Bordini , Ribeiro Helena
Published: October 2011

O artigo discute o avanço da fronteira agropecuária para dentro da floresta Amazônica, motivado, em grande parte, pelo aumento do consumo de carne bovina e por sua ineficiência na produção de proteínas. A metodologia constou de levantamento bibliográfico e de dados secundários e de campo no município de Xapuri, Acre, onde o fenômeno da pecuarização é bastante intenso, inclusive na Reserva Extrativista Chico Mendes. Em Xapuri, foram entrevistados diferentes atores sociais sobre a motivação para a introdução da pecuária no município e na reserva Chico Mendes. Resultados indicaram fatores históricos, de mercado econômico e de consumo como os principais propulsores. A redução do consumo de carne e seus derivados poderia diminuir a pressão sobre a floresta Amazônica, bem como políticas de incentivo às atividades extrativas.
Leveduras do gênero Candida isoladas de sítios anatomicamente distintos de profissionais militares em Cuiabá (MT), Brasil
Authors: Leite Júnior Diniz Pereira , Yamamoto Ana Caroline Akeme , Martins Evelin Rodrigues , Teixeira Acy Fátima Rodrigues , Hahn Rosane Christine
Published: October 2011

FUNDAMENTOS: Alguns fungos são habitantes do organismo humano e podem vir a causar alguma doença, quando há condições propícias para seu desenvolvimento. Infecções por leveduras são comuns e frequentes em pele e mucosas; contudo, espécies emergentes têm alterado o perfil epidemiológico. A habilidade de colonizar diversos sítios anatômicos tem sido associada à patogenicidade do gênero Candida, quando as condições ambientais são particularmente favoráveis. No caso de climas quentes e úmidos, os atritos sofridos pela pele ou as defesas imunitárias debilitadas podem fazer com que as leveduras deixem de ser comensais para se tornarem organismos patógenos. OBJETIVO: Diagnosticar candidíases em profissionais militares e avaliar a frequência dessas infecções nesses indivíduos. MÉTODOS: Os materiais clínicos analisados foram semeados em duplicata nos meios Sabouraud Dextrose-ágar (Difco) e Mycosel (Difco). Identificaram-se os agentes etiológicos por meio da observação de tubo germinativo, microcultivo e caracteres fisiológicos, assimilação de fontes de carbono (auxanograma) e fermentação de fontes de carbono (zimograma). RESULTADOS: De um total de 197 pacientes estudados, 91 (46,2%) apresentaram quadros clínicos de candidíases. A região genitocrural foi considerada a mais acometida (47,7%), seguida pelas regiões interdactilares (mãos e pés, 27,8%). C. albicans, C. parapsilosis, C. tropicalis, C. glabrata e espécies emergentes, como C. krusei e C. guilliermondii, foram identificadas. CONCLUSÃO: No ambiente de trabalho, o uso de calçados e de uniformes por longos períodos de tempo, associado ao estresse e à sudorese, foi considerado fator predisponente para o desenvolvimento das infecções fúngicas.
Micoses superficiais e os elementos da resposta imune
Authors: Criado Paulo Ricardo , Oliveira Cristiane Beatriz de , Dantas Kátia Cristina , Takiguti Filomena Amaro , Benini Luciana Vasconcellos , Vasconcellos Cidia
Published: October 2011

As micoses superficiais são prevalentes em todo o mundo, geralmente ocasionadas por dermatófitos e restritas à camada córnea. A resposta imunológica do hospedeiro às infecções dos fungos dermatófitos depende basicamente das defesas do hospedeiro a metabólitos do fungo, da virulência da cepa ou da espécie infectante e da localização anatômica da infecção. Serão revistos alguns dos fatores da defesa imunológica do hospedeiro que influenciam na eficácia da resposta imune. Em especial, a participação dos receptores de padrão de reconhecimento (PRRs), tais como os receptores toll-like ou os da família lectina (DC-SIGN e dectin-2), que participam da resposta imune inata, conferindo-lhe especificidade e definindo o padrão da resposta imune como um todo. O predomínio celular ou humoral da resposta imune definirá o quadro clínico e o prognóstico da infecção, levando à cura ou cronicidade
Mulheres adultas com acne apresentam maior risco de elevação de triglicerídeos ao uso de isotretinoína oral
Authors: Schmitt Juliano Vilaverde , Tavares Mariana , Cerci Felipe Bochnia
Published: October 2011

A isotretinoína apresenta restrições relacionadas a efeitos no perfil lipídico. Revisaram-se 90 pacientes tratados, em busca de fatores predisponentes a essas alterações. Houve elevação significativa do colesterol e triglicerídeos. Os pacientes em que estes últimos mostraram essa alteração foram, em sua maioria, do sexo feminino, predileção que não ocorria com as alterações iniciais. Mulheres com acne persistente talvez representem população de risco para tais efeitos colaterais
Caso para diagnóstico
Authors: Salaro Cristina Paula , Tchernev Georgi
Published: October 2011

Paciente do sexo masculino de 55 anos com placas e nódulos infiltrados exuberantes em membro inferior esquerdo há seis meses. Cardiopatia, nefropatia e endocrinopatia associadas. O exame histopatológico, acrescido da imunoistoquímica, confirma linfoma cutâneo difuso de células B. Marcadores CD-20, CD-79a e Ki-67 foram positivos. A quimioterapia com ciclofosfamida, adriamicina e vincristina promoveu remissão parcial
Efeitos das características granulométricas e mineralógicas da sílica contida no itabirito compacto adicionada em um sinter feed hematítico para sinterização
Authors: Padula Victor Pereira , Pereira Carlos Alberto , Vieira Cláudio Batista , Pimenta Hamilton Porto , Vieira Maria Beatriz
Published: October 2011

A maior participação de minérios contendo uma maior quantidade de sílica de diferentes origens no beneficiamento e, por sua vez, no processo de sinterização é uma tendência natural, conseqüência da mudança no perfil do run-of-mine. No sinter, a sílica tem o papel importante de garantir um volume adequado de escória e propiciar uma resistência mecânica satisfatória para as operações de manuseio, transporte e para seu uso nos altos-fornos. Nesse contexto, o objetivo desse trabalho foi caracterizar uma fonte de sílica (itabirito compacto) avaliando sua influência nas frações nucleantes, intermediárias e aderentes de um sinter feed hematítico anidro sobre as propriedades físicas e metalúrgicas do sínter produzido em escala-piloto, além da produtividade e do consumo de combustível na sinterização piloto.