bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pelas letras do vazio: as categorias de desaparecidos e ausentes na Argentina dos anos 1970
Authors: Rocha Marina Maria de Lira
Published: July 2010

Este trabalho visa a analisar as categorias de desaparecidos e ausentes, na Argentina, durante os anos de 1975 e 1976, que se materializam em comunicados da época. Procura identificar a formação dos sentidos desses signos e as disputas por sua homogeneização, antes de sua consolidação sob a perspectiva dos organismos de direitos humanos. Fundamenta-se em marcos da teoria bakhtiniana da linguagem e na idéia de ação comunicativa em periódicos elaborada por Eliseo Verón. Busca entender a ligação desses termos entre o público e a publicação, assim como demonstrar a procura por convencer leitores através dessas categorias, dentro de perspectivas ideológicas.
Intervenção fisioterapêutica em adultos roncadores
Authors: Aguiar Francine de , Rech Rosita Espíndola Santos , Kock Kelser de Souza
Published: July 2010

INTRODUÇÃO: O ronco é caracterizado como o som emitido pela vibração dos tecidos moles da faringe, por causa da dificuldade que o ar encontra ao passar pela via aérea superior com obstrução parcial. OBJETIVO: Analisar a eficácia da intervenção fisioterapêutica em adultos roncadores, atendidos na clínica-escola de Fisioterapia da Universidade do Sul de Santa Catarina (Unisul). MÉTODO: Trata-se de uma pesquisa explicativa, quantitativa e quase experimental. Na primeira fase, a amostra foi composta por sete indivíduos residentes da cidade de Tubarão e na segunda fase três participantes fizeram parte da intervenção fisioterapêutica. Os dados foram tratados com estatística descritiva (média e desvio-padrão), inferencial (teste de wilcoxon com p < 0,05) e correlação de Pearson. RESULTADOS: Na primeira fase, relacionando a Escala de Epworth com as variáveis analisadas, as mulheres apresentaram maior propensão ao sono, os indivíduos acima de 50 anos e com IMC > 25 apresentaram maior sonolência excessiva diurna e a qualidade de vida foi menor em indivíduos com maior pontuação na escala. Nos resultados pré e pós-intervenção fisioterapêutica, descritos na segunda fase, dois indivíduos diminuíram a pontuação na Escala de Epworth e um aumentou, houve aumento na pontuação de SF36 relacionado à qualidade de vida, dois indivíduos aumentaram o IMC e um diminuiu, sendo que todos os participantes diminuíram a circunferência do pescoço e a protusão de cabeça. CONCLUSÃO: A fisioterapia pode proporcionar bons resultados no tratamento do ronco, contribuindo com a diminuição da sonolência excessiva diurna e melhora da qualidade de vida.
Proposta de um protocolo para reabilitação vestibular em vestibulopatias periféricas
Authors: Rogatto Adriana Roberta Degressi , Pedroso Laira , Almeida Sara Regina Meira , Oberg Telma Dagmar
Published: July 2010

INTRODUÇÃO: A reabilitação vestibular tem sido reconhecida como tratamento de escolha para pacientes com persistência da vertigem, por causa da disfunção vestibular periférica, proporcionando acentuada melhora na qualidade de vida. Dentre os tratamentos indicados, tem-se os exercícios de Cawthorne e Cooksey, integração sensorial e plataformas com movimentação corpórea. OBJETIVO: O objetivo da pesquisa foi criar um protocolo de exercícios em um balanço, associando os exercícios de Cawthorne e Cooksey à Integração Sensorial. METODOLOGIA: Foi desenvolvido um relato de caso para avaliar uma paciente por meio das seguintes escalas: Escala de Equilíbrio de Berg e Dynamic Gait Índex (DGI) para verificar o equilíbrio; Five Times Sit-to-Stand (FTSTS) para avaliar a atividade de sentar e levantar; Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI) para verificar sintomas de vertigem; Escala de Sintomas após Tratamento Fisioterapêutico (ESATF), que gradua a sintomatologia após exercícios. Foi desenvolvido um protocolo associando as duas técnicas, nas quais os exercícios oculares, cefálicos e de tronco eram associados ao balanço. Foram realizadas 10 das 20 sessões previstas, por causa da frequência irregular do paciente às sessões. RESULTADOS: O paciente melhorou de 19 para 22 pontos na DGI, manteve a pontuação na Berg e melhorou de 74 para 67 pontos na DHI. Na escala FTSTS, diminuiu o tempo de 15 para 14 segundos para realizar atividade de sentar e levantar. Na ESATF, houve oscilação da pontuação. CONCLUSÕES: Após o tratamento, a paciente manteve e obteve melhora no equilíbrio e na capacidade funcional e diminuiu o tempo gasto para realizar a atividade de sentar e levantar cinco vezes de uma cadeira com os membros superiores cruzados. Estudos adicionais com o protocolo proposto devem ser realizados, com um número maior de pacientes e maior assiduidade para haver habituação e reabilitação mais precoce.
Efeito do isostretching na resistência muscular de abdominais, glúteo máximo e extensores de tronco, incapacidade e dor em pacientes com lombalgia
Authors: Macedo Christiane de Souza Guerino , Debiagi Polyana Cortizo , Andrade Fernanda Marçola de
Published: July 2010

Objetivou-se determinar a influência do método Isostretching na resistência muscular do glúteo máximo, abdominais e extensores de tronco, incapacidade e dor de pacientes com lombalgia. MATERIAL E MÉTODOS: Este estudo caracterizou-se como um ensaio clínico aleatório, constituído de 18 mulheres, entre 18 e 25 anos, com dor cinco ou mais na escala visual análoga (EVA) na região lombar, no mínimo três vezes por semana, randomizadas em grupo ativo e controle. Foram excluídas as submetidas a tratamentos fisioterápicos ou que tenham passado por cirurgia recente e com outras patologias. As pacientes foram avaliadas (avaliadores cegos) no início, após 10 e 20 sessões, pelo questionário Roland-Morris, EVA e Teste de Repetição Máxima em um minuto para abdominais, extensores de tronco e glúteo máximo. Para a análise estatística, foi aplicado o teste de Shapiro Wilk, Teste t de Student e ANOVA. RESULTADOS: A comparação entre os valores iniciais e finais no grupo ativo para a análise da resistência dos músculos abdominais, glúteo máximo, extensores de tronco, incapacidade e dor apresentou p = 0,00 e no grupo controle p = 0,02 para o glúteo máximo. A análise dos três momentos de avaliação no grupo ativo evidenciou para a resistência dos músculos abdominais, glúteo máximo e dor p = 0,00, incapacidade p = 0,01 e para os extensores de tronco p = 0,80 e o grupo controle não evidenciou alteração. CONCLUSÃO: O Isostretching mostrou-se eficiente para diminuir a incapacidade e dor, bem como para o aumento da resistência muscular de abdominais, glúteo máximo e extensores de tronco de pacientes com lombalgia.
Correlação das escalas de avaliação utilizadas na doença de Parkinson com aplicabilidade na fisioterapia
Authors: Mello Marcella Patrícia Bezerra de , Botelho Ana Carla Gomes
Published: July 2010

INTRODUÇÃO: A doença de Parkinson (DP) é uma patologia neurológica crônica e degenerativa do sistema nervoso central que acomete os gânglios da base, cujas características principais são tremor, rigidez e bradicinesia. Com o progresso terapêutico, desenvolveram-se várias escalas visando monitorar a evolução da doença e a eficácia de tratamentos. O objetivo deste estudo de revisão bibliográfica é caracterizar as principais escalas usadas para a avaliação da DP, discutindo sua aplicabilidade à prática fisioterapêutica. MATERIAIS E MÉTODO: Levantamento bibliográfico a partir de bases de dados como Scielo, Medline, Lilacs, PubMed, entre 1990 a 2005. RESULTADOS: Seis escalas são abordadas: Escala dos Estágios de Incapacidade de Hoehn e Yahr; Escala Unificada de Avaliação da DP (UPDRS); Escala de Sydney; Questionário da DP (PDQ-39); Qualidade de vida (PSN); Escala de atividade de Parkinson (PAS). Destacando-se a PDQ-39 pela percepção do paciente sobre sua qualidade de vida. A PAS é a que melhor atende aos objetivos específicos da fisioterapia, pois avalia os principais problemas de mobilidade funcional. Além das escalas de Hoehn e Yahr e a UPDRS, por sua confiabilidade, pois podem ser usadas por fisioterapeutas para melhor avaliação do estado clínico-funcional do paciente. CONCLUSÃO: A necessidade de monitorar a evolução dos pacientes e os resultados de intervenção fisioterapêutica exige do fisioterapeuta o conhecimento para utilizar medidas sistematizadas e de fácil aplicabilidade para avaliar pacientes com DP. Cabe a esse profissional optar pela que permita uma tomada de decisão clínica compatível com seu local de trabalho, com as necessidades do paciente e com o meio em que ele vive.
Fisiomotricidade e limiares de dor: efeitos de um programa de exercícios na autonomia funcional de idosas osteoporóticas
Authors: Castro Karla Virgínia Bezerra de , Silva André Luiz dos Santos , Lima Jacqueline Maria Maranhão Pinto , Nunes Walter Jacinto , Calomeni Maurício Rocha , Silva Vernon Furtado da
Published: July 2010

INTRODUÇÃO: A atividade física é importante para a manutenção da autonomia funcional do homem e crucial em idosos. Todavia, alguns fatores, como a dor, limitam a participação deles em programas de atividade física. OBJETIVO: Investigar se, em função de um programa de atividades físicas estruturado de maneira a limitar a dor, poder-se-ia garantir a aderência de idosas sofrendo de osteoporose/osteopenia e, dessa forma, promover melhoras na autonomia funcional destas. DESENVOLVIMENTO: A amostra foi composta por 30 mulheres, entre 65 e 70 anos, divididas em dois grupos definidos em função de um diagnóstico de dor. MATERIAIS E MÉTODOS: Aplicou-se um programa definido pelo termo fisiomotriz, de baixo impacto, caracterizado por lentidão nas mudanças articulares, progredindo em quatro níveis que foram distribuídos em 48 encontros. Os dados da dor e da autonomia funcional, obtidos por meio do teste de dor em escala analógica visual e do protocolo de GDLAM foram estudados por estatística descritiva e inferencial, com o índice ALFA ± 0,05. O instrumento foi uma Análise de Variância de Kruskal Wallis com índice Qui-quadrado (Chi²). RESULTADOS: Os resultados revelaram melhora da autonomia funcional e diminuição de dor relatada pelas participantes, fato que consequentemente implementou a aderência destas até ao final do programa. CONCLUSÃO: Conclui-se que o programa fisiomotriz, aplicado em idosas com osteopenia e/ou osteoporose, foi uma forma eficaz na promoção da melhora de sua autonomia funcional, que pode ser atribuída, pelo menos em parte, à diminuição de dor antes relatada pelas idosas.
Benefícios do condicionamento cardiorrespiratório em crianças ou adolescentes com paralisia cerebral
Authors: Batista Kérima Giamarim , Lopes Priscila de Oliveira , Serradilha Simone Mitie , Souza Grazielle Aurelina Fraga de , Bella Geruza Perlato , Souza Regina Célia Turrola de
Published: July 2010

INTRODUÇÃO: O treinamento cardiorrespiratório tem mostrado efeitos positivos para a população com paralisia cerebral, melhorando a capacidade funcional e reduzindo o gasto energético e os riscos cardiovasculares. OBJETIVO: Investigar os efeitos do treinamento aeróbico na pressão arterial, distância percorrida e no consumo máximo de oxigênio. MÉTODOS: Participaram do estudo oito crianças e adolescentes com paralisia cerebral do tipo hemiparética e diparética espástica (G1) e oito do grupo controle (G2), pareados por sexo e idade. Todos foram avaliados pelo teste de Cooper, no qual foi aferida a pressão arterial inicial e final, distância percorrida e cálculo do VO2 máx. O G1 participou de um programa que constava de alongamentos e treinamento em esteira durante 24 sessões. RESULTADOS: Houve melhora significativa após o treinamento do G1 na distância percorrida, VO2 máx e pressão arterial sistólica inicial. Na comparação entre grupos observou-se diferença estatisticamente significativa na distância percorrida e VO2 máx pré e pós-tratamento, pressão arterial sistólica (PAS) inicial pós e PAS final pós-tratamento. Após o período de destreinamento, não houve perda significativa da melhora nas variáveis do G1, exceto do VO2 máx. CONCLUSÃO: O treinamento aeróbico pode trazer benefícios cardiorrespiratórios para a população com paralisia cerebral do tipo hemiparética e diparética espástica, podendo ser incluído dentro de um programa de reabilitação.
Enriching nutritive value of cassava root by yeast fermentation
Authors: Boonnop Krisada , Wanapat Metha , Nontaso Ngarmnit , Wanapat Sadudee
Published: July 2010

Cassava (Manihot esculenta) is extensively cultivated throughout the tropics and subtropics regions due to its ability to grow in diverse soil conditions and minimal management. Experiments were made to study the cassava root fermentation by yeasts in order to enhance the nutritive value of their products (fresh pulp and chips). Both cassava chip (CC) and fresh cassava root pulp (FCR) samples were fermented by Saccharomyces cerevisiae in solid-liquid media fermentation conditions during 132 hours and dried at 30ºC. Products were analyzed for proximate composition, mineral composition, essential aminoacids and antinutrient content. There were increases (p < 0.01) in protein (30.4% in CC and 13.5% in fermented cassava root -FCR) and fat contents (5.8% in CC and 3.0% in FCR). S. cerevisiae fermented cassava products had very low hydrocyanic acid (HCN) contents (CC, 0.5 mg kg-1 and FCR, 47.3 mg kg-1). There was a remarkable increase in lysine content in the fermented cassava chip (FCC). The best acceptability and organoleptic attributes (color, texture and aroma) of enriched cassava chip were achieved after 132h of bioprocessing. The results of this study suggest that FCC can be nutritionally improved with S. cerevisiae for animal feeding.
Extraction, partial characterization and susceptibility to Hg2+ of acid phosphatase from the microalgae Pseudokirchneriella subcapitata
Authors: Jonsson Claudio Martín , Aoyama Hiroshi
Published: July 2010

Pseudokirchneriella subcapitata is a unicellular green algae widely distributed in freshwater and soils. Due to its cosmopolitan characteristic, its use is recommended by national and international protocols in ecotoxicity studies. The alteration of phosphatase activities by agriculture pollutants like heavy metals has been extensively used as a biomarker in risk assessment and biomonitoring. In this study, we compared the extraction of acid phosphatase from P. subcapitata by different procedures and we studied the stability, substrates specificity, kinetics and the effect of Hg2+ in the crude extract. The freezing and thawing technique associated with probe sonication was the most suitable method of extraction. The enzyme was stable when frozen at -20ºC for at least six months, showed an optimum pH of 5 and a Km value of 0.27 mM for p-nitrophenylphosphate (pNPP) as substrate. Some natural organic substrates were cleaved by a similar extent as the synthetic substrate pNPP. Short term exposure (24 hours) to Hg2+ had little effect but inhibition of the specific activity was observed after 7 days with EC50 (concentration of Hg2+ that promotes 50% decrease of specific activity) value of 12.63 μM Hg2+.
Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal communities in native and in replanted Araucaria forest
Authors: Moreira Milene , Baretta Dilmar , Tsai Siu Mui , Cardoso Elke Jurandy Bran Nogueira
Published: July 2010

Araucaria angustifolia is an important Brazilian conifer, but it is endangered of extinction due to excessive logging. The objective of the present case study was to survey data on the diversity of AMF in Araucaria angustifolia forests, and to learn whether it is possible to discriminate between the AMF communities associated with natural, introduced, and impacted-by-anthropogenic-action ecosystems. Three ecosystems representative of the Campos do Jordão (São Paulo State, Brazil) region were selected, as follows: (i) a native climax forest, with predominance of Araucaria trees, without anthropogenic interference (NF), (ii) Araucaria forest introduced in 1959 (RE), and (iii) Araucaria forest introduced in 1958, submitted to accidental fire in July 2001 (RF). Sampling of rhizosphere soil was performed at a 0-20 cm depth around each Araucaria tree, and 2 m from the trunk, in the months of May and October, 2002. AMF spores were separated from the soil, counted, and taxonomically identified, while the roots were evaluated for mycorrhizal colonization. The ecological indices R (Richness), Is (Simpson's dominance index) and H (Shannon's diversity index) were calculated. All the data were submitted to univariate (two-way ANOVA) and correspondence analysis (CA). Considering both samplings and the three areas, twenty-six AMF species were found, distributed among five genera, Acaulospora and Glomus being the most frequent ones. There were no differences among the three areas for R, Is, and H. CA demonstrated that there is a spatial separation among the three areas, and the AMF that preferentially associated with each area.
Microsatellite markers for identification of a group of italian olive accessions
Authors: Muzzalupo Innocenzo , Stefanizzi Francesca , Salimonti Amelia , Falabella Rosanna , Perri Enzo
Published: July 2010

Cultivar characterization for fruit trees certification requires fast, efficient and reliable techniques. Microsatellite markers (SSR) were used in the molecular characterization of 23 genotypes of Olea europaea subsp europaea. The DNA from the olive cultivars was analyzed using nine pre-selected SSR primers (GAPU59, GAPU71A, GAPU71B, GAPU103A, UDO99-01, UDO99-12, UDO99-28 and UDO99-39) and revealed 29 alleles, which allowed each genotype to be identified. In the dendrogram, the nine primers allowed the 23 olive genotypes to be grouped into subgroups corresponding to the same cultivar denominations. SSR markers proved to be efficient and reliable for the molecular characterization of Italian olive cultivars.
Microsporogenesis in Brachiaria bovonei (Chiov.) Robyns and B. subulifolia (Mez) Clayton (Poaceae)
Authors: Risso-Pascotto Claudicéia , Pagliarini Maria Suely , Valle Cacilda Borges do
Published: July 2010

Some African species of Brachiaria have been introduced into the Americas and became the most important forage for pastures in the tropics. New cultivars can be obtained either from direct selections from the natural existing variability in the germplasm collections or from interspecific hybridizations. Polyploidy is predominant in the genus Brachiaria and correlated with apomixis which complicates hybridization. The objective of cytological studies underway on the Brachiaria germplasm collection at Embrapa Beef Cattle is to determine the chromosome number and meiotic behavior of accessions. For the breeding of Brachiaria species, compatible sexual and apomictic accessions need to be identified. Microsporogenesis was evaluated in two accessions of Brachiaria bovonei (BO01 and BO05) and one accession of B. subulifolia (SU01). BO01 is pentaploid (2n = 5x = 45), BO05 is tetraploid (2n = 4x = 36), and SU01 is hexaploid (2n = 6x = 54), derived from x = 9. Meiotic abnormalities typical of polyploids, characterized by precocious chromosome migration to the poles in metaphases, laggard chromosomes in anaphases, and micronuclei in telophases and tetrads, were recorded in high frequency in all the accessions generating unbalanced gametes. Both accessions of B. bovonei presented chromosome stickiness. The results are discussed in the view of the Brachiaria breeding program objectives.
Subjectivity and Sexuality Production in Women Living With HIV/Aids: a Sociopoetic Production
Authors: Almeida Arisa Nara Saldanha de , Silveira Lia Carneiro , Silva Maria Rocineide Ferreira da , Araújo Michell Ângelo Marques , Guimarães Terezinha Andrade
Published: July 2010

The study aims to apprehend the subjectivity production possibilities concerning sexuality in a group of women living with HIV/aids, based on the sociopoetic method. The subjects were nine women with HIV/aids attended at the public referral hospital for infectious diseases in Fortaleza-CE. The results appoint that sexuality appears in several dimensions: in the sexual act, in knowing their own body, in professional accomplishment, in feelings of desire and love, besides the feeling of freedom. We concluded that sexuality is present in the individual's totality; it is not limited to the sexual act, but goes much further and is characterized as a dynamic reality
Autonomy in Nursing Students’ Process of Knowledge Construction: the Educational Chat as a Teaching Tool
Authors: Silva Ana Paula Scheffer Schell da , Pedro Eva Néri Rubim
Published: July 2010

This documental study has the qualitative approach of a case study. It analyzes how autonomy has been developed in nursing students’ process of knowledge construction, in a context mediated by the use of educational chat in Learning Management Systems (LMS). The analyzed materials were eight discussions promoted by students, professors, and monitors in the chat session of TelEduc® LMS. The software NVivo® was used to categorize data and Content Analysis for the analysis of information. Data analysis used Freire as a reference point, revealing that nursing students need to develop their autonomy by acknowledging their incompleteness. Professors can aid this process by problematizing and developing critical dialogical relations. The potential of the educational chat as a pedagogical tool is highlighted because it encourages students to autonomously seek knowledge.
Patient Destination after Discharge from Intensive Care Units: Wards or Intermediate Care Units?
Authors: Silva Maria Claudia Moreira da , Sousa Regina Marcia Cardoso de , Padilha Katia Grillo
Published: July 2010

This study characterizes patients hospitalized in Intensive Care Units (ICUs) of hospitals that have intermediate units (IU) regarding their demographic and clinical data and identifies factors related to discharge from these units. This prospective longitudinal study involved 600 adult patients hospitalized in general ICUs in four hospitals in São Paulo, SP, Brazil. Demographic and clinical characteristics were similar to those found in other studies addressing patients hospitalized in ICUs. Factors associated with discharge from ICU to IU were: age ≥60 years, diseases related to the nervous, circulatory or respiratory systems, originated from the IU, and Simplified Acute Physiologic Score II (SAPS II), Logistic Organ Dysfunction (LODS) and Nursing Activities Scores (NAS) at admission and discharge from the ICU. Age and risk of death at admission in the ICU, according to SAPS II, stood out as indicators of discharge to IUs in the Multiple Logistic Regression analysis.
Food Consumption and Iron Intake of Pregnant and Reproductive Aged Women
Authors: Sato Ana Paula Sayuri , Fujimori Elizabeth , Szarfarc Sophia Cornbluth , Borges Ana Luiza Vilela , Tsunechiro Maria Alice
Published: July 2010

This study compares the eating habits and consumption of natural and fortified iron sources in pregnant and reproductive aged women. This cross-sectional study was developed in a health center located in São Paulo, SP, Brazil. We studied 61 women, of which 30 were pregnant. A food frequency questionnaire and a 24-hour recall instrument were used. The main natural sources of iron were beans and greens, although fortified foods were also an important source. There was little statistically significant difference between the food consumption of pregnant and non-pregnant women. Inadequate intake of iron, folate and calcium was observed in both groups. Non-pregnant women meet the iron recommendation, considering the iron added in fortified foods, though pregnant women do not. These results suggest the need for mixed strategies: food fortification, iron supplements for pregnant women and nutritional instruction for women in general.
Kangaroo Mother Method: Mothers' Experiences and Contributions to Nursing
Authors: Arivabene João Carlos , Tyrrell Maria Antonieta Rubio
Published: July 2010

This research aimed to describe mothers' experiences, analyzing them in the light of the principles of the Kangaroo Mother Method (KMM), and discuss the mothers' contributions based on the meanings of these experiences for nursing actions. In data collection, a questionnaire was used that characterized the mothers' socioeconomic profile and, through focus groups, stories were obtained about the benefits of these experiences, which supported the construction of the following categories: survival and recovery of the baby; the mothers' daily life modified by the KMM and valuation of affective family bonds in the KMM. The experiences are related to increased bonding between mother and baby, reduction of the infant's time of separation from the family, besides leading to increased competition and confidence in the parents to take care of their child, even before discharge, improving the mother's relation with the family, inside the family and with the team that takes care of the baby.
Perception of Family Functioning Among Relatives of Women Who Survived Breast Cancer: Gender Differences
Authors: Biffi Raquel Gabrielli , Mamede Marli Vilela
Published: July 2010

The aim of this study was to know how female and male family members perceive their family dynamics after breast cancer. Barnhill's proposal of a healthy family functional model served as the theoretical framework for this qualitative research. The data was obtained through interviews and submitted to content analysis. The results showed that, in the adaptation process to breast cancer, both genders use clear communication in order to achieve family balance and present interactions characterized by mutual and individual feelings. The responsibility for maintaining the family is attributed to the daughters, whereas the male elements show more disorganization with regard to family functions. The bond between family members of both genders who are affected by breast cancer shows important interactions in the identity process.
Public Policy and Market Competition: How the Master Settlement Agreement Changed the Cigarette Industry
Authors: Ciliberto Federico , Kuminoff Nicolai V
Published: July 2010

This paper investigates the large and unexpected increase in cigarette prices that followed the 1997 Master Settlement Agreement (MSA). We integrate key features of rational addiction theory into a discrete-choice model of the demand for a differentiated product. We find that following the MSA firms set prices on a more elastic region of their demand curves. Using these estimates, we predict prices that would be charged under a variety of industry structures and pricing rules. Under the assumptions of firms perfect foresight and constant marginal costs, we fail to reject the hypothesis that firms collude on a dynamic pricing strategy.
The Economics of Female Genital Cutting
Authors: Chesnokova Tatyana , Vaithianathan Rhema
Published: July 2010

The practice of female genital cutting (FGC) has a long history in Africa and it is thought that over 130 million females alive today have undergone the practice. In this paper, we model FGC as a pre-marital investment. We show how the rat-race nature of the marriage market may result in inefficiently high equilibrium levels of FGC. We argue that in this case, regulation results in a (potential) Pareto improvement and that even weak regulation can be effective in eradicating FGC.
Liberalization of abortion and reduction of abortion related morbidity and mortality in Nigeria
Authors: OKONTA PATRICK I. , EBEIGBE PETER N. , SUNDAY‐ADEOYE ILEOGBEN
Published: July 2010

This study aimed at determining the knowledge and perception of physicians in Nigeria on abortion related deaths, and also to find out if they will support the liberalization of abortion as a means of reducing deaths from unsafe abortion. Physicians' willingness to offer abortion services was also explored. A self‐administered questionnaire was distributed to a convenience sample of physicians in Delta state of Nigeria. Physicians were equally divided on whether legal liberalization of abortion would significantly reduce maternal mortality in Nigeria. Only 13.4% of the doctors were willing to offer abortion services if legally liberalized. The majority of the doctors considered promoting abstinence from pre‐marital sex and contraceptive use as best effective strategies for reducing abortion‐related deaths. However, liberalization of abortion law in Nigeria was not considered a very effective strategy.
Risk of impaired glucose tolerance in normal weight hirsute women during four years observation
Authors: ANDRIES MAGDALENE , GLINTBORG DORTE , ANDERSEN MARIANNE
Published: July 2010

Hirsutism is a common disorder affecting 5–20% of women in reproductive age. Only limited follow‐up data exist regarding the prognosis for glucose tolerance and metabolic risk factors in hirsutism. Sixty‐nine Caucasian hirsute women underwent a clinical examination and an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) during 1997–2002 (baseline) and during 2003–2004 (re‐evaluation). The observation period was (median; range) 4 (2–7) years. During re‐evaluation, body mass index (BMI) was 24.9 (22.4–29.0) kg/m2 and total Ferriman‐Gallwey score was 10 (7–15) (median; 25–75% quartile). The women had unchanged BMI compared to baseline but increased fasting and 2 hour glucose levels. Impaired OGTT outcome during follow‐up was seen in 14/66 (21.2%) women, 5/66 (7.6%) developed diabetes. Women who took oral contraceptives had a significantly decreased area under the curve (AUC) for insulin during follow‐up, whereas AUC glucose levels increased. The present data supported a high risk of diabetes in only moderately overweight hirsute women.
Evaluation of factors contributing to uterine scar formation after laparoscopic myomectomy
Authors: KUMAKIRI JUN , KIKUCHI IWAHO , KITADE MARI , KUMAKIRI YUKO , KURODA KEIJI , MATSUOKA SHOZO , TOKITA SACHIKO , TAKEDA SATORU
Published: July 2010

Objective. To evaluate factors contributing to uterine scar formation after laparoscopic myomectomy (LM) and to estimate whether uterine scarring indicated risk of uterine rupture. Design. Retrospective study. Setting. University‐affiliated hospital. Population. A total of 692 patients who underwent second‐look laparoscopy (SLL) after LM. Method. Video‐tape recording during SLL to evaluate the conditions of uterine suture wound healing, with univariate and logistic regression analysis. Main outcome measures. Correlation between scar formation and operative findings at LM. Factors influencing scar formation in 305 patients with an enucleated solitary myoma. Results. SLL revealed that 628 patients (90.8%) had a normal uterus and 64 patients (9.2%) had a scarred uterus. Deformation of the endometrium found by preoperative imaging and complete myometrial penetration during LM had a positive correlation and the number of enucleated myomas a negative correlation with scar formation. Significant factors associated with scar formation were complete myometrial penetration (odds ratio, 2.53; 95% confidence interval, 1.30–4.93; p = 0.006) and enucleation of a subserosal myoma (odds ratio, 0.23; 95% confidence interval, 0.08–0.70; p = 0.009). Of the 98 patients who delivered, none suffered a uterine rupture regardless of the presence of a uterine scar. Conclusions. Uterine scar formation after LM correlated with the degree of myometrial penetration. However, the presence of a uterine scar did not appear to influence the delivery outcome.
Evaluation of a brief cognitive intervention in patients with signs of postnatal depression: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: WIKLUND INGELA , MOHLKERT PAMELA , EDMAN GUNNAR
Published: July 2010

The effectiveness of a brief intervention based on individual cognitive behavioral counseling in mothers with signs of postnatal depression was evaluated. Patients undergoing a complicated delivery were invited to participate. Women who scored above a cut‐off level (>12) on Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) were randomized to either a brief individual cognitive behavioral counseling comprising three weekly 1 hour sessions (n = 33) or standard care (n = 34). Measures of postnatal depression were collected from EPDS, 1 month after birth and 1 month after treatment. Both groups showed a significant decline from baseline to follow‐up, mean scores declined from 16.9 to 7.6 (intervention group) vs. 13.6 to 9.9 (control group; p < 0.001). There was a significant interaction effect (Group*Time) between the intervention and the control group showing a more rapid decline of EPDS scores for the intervention group (p < 0.001). The results suggest that brief cognitive behavioral counseling is an effective treatment in women at risk for developing postnatal depression.
Cannabis Use in Patients with a First Psychotic Episode and Subjects at Ultra High Risk of Psychosis: Impact on Psychotic- and Pre-Psychotic Symptoms
Authors: Machielsen Marise , van der Sluis Suzanne , de Haan Lieuwe
Published: July 2010

Objectives: Co-morbidity with cannabis use disorder is common in patients with a psychotic disorder and is associated with adverse outcome. This study aimed to determine prevalence of cannabis use disorder among patients with a psychotic disorder and subjects at ultra high risk of psychosis and to study the influence of cannabis use on severity of (pre-)psychotic symptomatology, psychosocial functioning and variables related to the course of the disorder in these patients.

Methods: In this study 169 consecutively assessed patients with a psychotic disorder were included as well as 59 consecutively assessed subjects at ultra high risk of psychosis.

Results: 45% of the patients with a psychotic disorder and 27% of the UHR patients were diagnosed with a co-morbid cannabis use disorder. Patients with cannabis use disorders did not differ from patients without cannabis use disorder in severity of psychotic symptoms. However, excluding patients with substance use disorder other than cannabis use disorder resulted in higher scores on positive symptom levels for patients with cannabis use disorder compared to patients without any substance use disorder. Regarding ultra high risk patients, subjects with cannabis use disorder did not differ from subjects without cannabis use disorder on severity of pre-psychotic symptomatology. However, a negative correlation was found between the amount of cannabis used recently and scores on the pre-psychotic negative subscale.

Conclusion: Our results suggest a specific association between cannabis abuse and psychotic symptomatology.
Meta-Analysis of Relapse Prevention Antidepressant Trials in Depressive Disorders
Authors: Glue Paul , Donovan Mary Rocco , Kolluri Sheela , Emir Birol
Published: July 2010

Objective: Continuation therapy with antidepressants is recommended for depressed patients who have responded to initial treatment. We quantified its efficacy in preventing relapse of depression in a meta-analysis of 54 double-blind placebo-controlled relapse prevention studies (patient n = 9268).

Method: Relapse prevention studies in primary depression and depression subtypes were identified in a systematic literature search. The primary efficacy comparison was relapse rates between active and placebo arms calculated as odds ratios (ORs) using Review Manager version 5.0. Effects of patient age, drug class, diagnostic system and duration of therapy on ORs was examined, along with ORs calculated using different statistical methods.

Results: Continuation antidepressants produced robust reduction in relapse (OR = 0.35; 95%CI 0.32–0.39). Pooled ORs were not affected by patient age, drug class, depression subtype or treatment duration, and were similar when calculated by different statistical methods. Patients with primary depression diagnosed by earlier diagnostic systems had slightly lower ORs than those diagnosed using DSM criteria.

Conclusions: This meta-analysis emphasizes the importance of continuation treatment following acute response in depressive disorders. The robust findings of relapse prevention designs contrast with acute antidepressant efficacy studies, and may be due to enrichment of the patient population.
Changing Epidemiology of Intentional Antidepressant Drug Overdose in Victoria, Australia
Authors: Wong Anselm , Taylor David McD , Ashby Karen , Robinson Jeff
Published: July 2010

Aim: To determine the epidemiology of intentional antidepressant drug overdose (OD), over an extended time period, in Victoria, Australia.

Methods: Retrospective epidemiological study of all cases reported to the Victorian Emergency Minimum Dataset (VEMD) January 1998 to December 2007 and calls to the Victorian Poisons Information Centre (VPIC) June 2005 to September 2008.

Results: 5467 VEMD cases were analysed. 3169 (57.9%) cases involved selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and 1149 (21%) involved tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs). Sertraline (1252, 22.9% cases) was the most common drug. During 2001, the peak year of OD, there were 8.8 OD/100 000 population in the SSRI group and 3.8 OD/100 000 population in the TCA group. Trends over the study period showed increasing SSRI and ‘other’ newer antidepressant prescription rates and decreases for TCA and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOI). However, the risks of OD in all drug classes were similar and OD/100 000 prescriptions trended downwards for all drug classes over time. 1833 VPIC calls were analysed. Calls relating to SSRIs were the most common yet SSRI OD was associated with significantly fewer symptoms (p < 0.001) and fewer patients with Poisoning Severity Score classifications of moderate or severe (p < 0.01).

Conclusions: Antidepressant OD patterns are changing. Antidepressant OD incidence is following prescribing trends. The risk of OD is similar for all drug classes. Absolute numbers of OD and OD/100 000 prescriptions are decreasing for all drug classes.
DETERMINATION OF GEOGRAPHIC POSITION OF OBJECT BY APPLYING 3D POLAR OBSERVATIONS
Authors: Zakarevičius Algimantas , Aksamitauskas Vladislovas Česlovas , Jakučionis Algimantas , Stanionis Arminas
Published: July 2010

The geographic position of an object is determined by geodetic latitude, geodetic longitude, geodetic and normal height, and height of the object above the surface of the earth. To determine the geographic position of an object, a technologic scheme is recommended: by applying 3D polar observations, the 3D Cartesian coordinates of the object in the local horizontal coordinate system (for example, with an airport runway tied system) are determined; local horizontal 3D Cartesian coordinates are recomputed into the system of geocentric equatorial 3D Cartesian coordinates; the geodetic coordinates (geodetic latitude, geodetic longitude, and geodetic height) are computed from the geocentric equatorial 3D Cartesian coordinates; based on information about geodetic height and the digital geoid model, the normal height of the object is computed; and object height above the earth is computed from normal height and the digital terrain model. Algorithms for the realisation of this technologic scheme are presented.

Santrauka

Objekto geografine padetis apibūdinama geodezine platuma, geodezine ilguma, geodeziniu bei normaliniu aukščiais ir objekto aukščiu virš Žemes paviršiaus. Objekto geografinei padečiai nustatyti rekomenduojama tokia technologine schema: taikant erdvinius polinius matavimus, nustatomos objekto erdvines stačiakampes koordinates vietineje (pvz., oro uosto) horizontineje koordinačiu sistemoje; vietines horizontines erdvines stačiakampes koordinates perskaičiuojamos i geocentriniu ekvatoriniu erdviniu stačiakampiu koordinačiu sistema; pagal geocentrines ekvatorines erdvines stačiakampes koordinates apskaičiuojamos geodezines koordinates (geodezine platuma, geodezine ilguma ir geodezinis aukštis); žinant geodezini aukšti ir turint skaitmenini geoido modeli, skaičiuojamas objekto normalinis aukštis; turint normalini aukšti ir skaitmenini reljefo modeli, apskaičiuojamas objekto aukštis virš Žemes paviršiaus. Pateikiami algoritmai šiai technologinei schemai realizuoti.
DYNAMIC FOCUSING OF ELECTROACOUSTIC ARRAYS IN NON‐DESRUCTIVE CONTROL COMPOSITE MATERIALS
Authors: Pileckas Eugenijus
Published: July 2010

Nowadays the application possibilities for composite materials for aviation are increasing, and monitoring their quality during production and exploitation is becoming more and more relevant. Acoustic non‐destructive control technologies provide promising possibilities for monitoring and analysing the characteristics and parameters of composites. This paper discusses an acceptable modelling method based on acoustic images of composite material analysis using a dynamic beam focusing method of an acoustic antenna array. Santrauka Vis plačiau naudojant kompozitines medžiagas aviacijoje aktualeja ir ju kokybes būsenos stebejimas konstrukciju gamybos ir eksploatacijos metu. Akustines neardomosios kontroles technologijos atveria, mūsu nuomone, perspektyvias kompozitiniu medžiagu charakteristiku bei ju parametru stebejimo ir tyrimo galimybes. Straipsnyje nagrinejamas priimtinas kompozitiniu medžiagu tyrimui akustiniu vaizdu formavimo būdas, panaudojant akustines antenu gardeles dinamini spindulio fokusavimo būda.
MODERN QUANTUM TECHNOLOGIES OF INFORMATION SECURITY AGAINST CYBER‐TERRORIST ATTACKS
Authors: Korchenko Oleksandr , Vasiliu Yevhen , Gnatyuk Sergiy
Published: July 2010

In this paper, the systematisation and classification of modern quantum technologies of information security against cyber‐terrorist attack are carried out. The characteristic of the basic directions of quantum cryptography from the viewpoint of the quantum technologies used is given. A qualitative analysis of the advantages and disadvantages of concrete quantum protocols is made. The current status of the problem of practical quantum cryptography use in telecommunication networks is considered. In particular, a short review of existing commercial systems of quantum key distribution is given. Santrauka Šiame darbe susistemintos ir suklasifikuotos informacijos sauguma užtikrinančios moderniosios kvantines technologijos, skirtos apsisaugoti nuo kompiuteriu teroristu ataku. Remiantis kvantinemis technologijomis, aprašyta pagrindiniu kvantines kriptografijos krypčiu charakteristika. Pateikti konkrečiu kvantiniu protokolu kokybines analizes privalumai ir trūkumai. Taip pat aptartas telekomunikaciniuose tinkluose naudojamos dabartines kvantines kriptografijos problemos statusas. Pateikta trumpa kvantiniu raktu pasiskirstymo dabartinese komercinese sistemose apžvalga.
Microprospección arqueológica en Giribaile (Vilches, Jaén). Protocolo de trabajo
Authors: Gutiérrez Soler Luis María
Published: July 2010

El interés por desarrollar métodos de prospección arqueológica cada vez más rigurosos y precisos constituye el objeto de interés de este protocolo de trabajo. Desde hace décadas se vienen desarrollando estudios experimentales en todo el mundo, especialmente en el Mediterráneo. La microprospección arqueológica está interesada en introducir estos buenos comportamientos metodológicos, como el análisis estadístico de las colecciones de superficie, en la práctica arqueológica española. La búsqueda de unas condiciones de observación lo más homogéneas posible, el control espacial de los sistemas de registro y la explicación de los métodos empleados constituyen la base de esta propuesta centrada en los estudios de sitio. La intervención arqueológica llevada a cabo en 2004-2005 en el oppidum ibérico de Giribaile ilustra los resultados obtenidos en este estudio de caso, permitiendo mejorar el conocimiento de la complejidad interna y la secuencia cronológica del sitio. La microprospección, basada en muestreos arqueológicos sistemáticos, trata de adaptar y mejorar la teoría clásica de la prospección de superficie, basada en registros intensivos, a las condiciones particulares de la investigación.
La necrópolis de Can Gambús-1 (Sabadell, Barcelona). Nuevos conocimientos sobre las prácticas funerarias durante el Neolítico medio en el Noreste de la Península Ibérica
Authors: Roig Jordi , Coll Joan Manel , Gibaja Juan Francisco , Chambon Philippe , Villar Vàngelis , Ruiz Jordi , Terradas Xavier , Subirà Maria Eulàlia
Published: July 2010

Presentamos el conjunto de inhumaciones de Can Gambús-1, de cronología neolítica y asociadas a la denominada “Cultura de los Sepulcros de Fosa” (finales del V a inicios del IV milenio cal BC). El objetivo principal es informar de las novedades relativas a los procedimientos de construcción de las fosas y a los materiales empleados en la cobertura de las sepulturas, además del tratamiento dado a algunos de los cadáveres. Ello ha sido posible gracias al excepcional estado de conservación de dichas sepulturas, a su riguroso proceso de excavación arqueológica y a su estudio antropológico y taxonómico detallado a partir de todas las evidencias disponibles. Asimismo, se presentan los ajuares recuperados en las inhumaciones cuya riqueza es notable en comparación con la de otros contextos funerarios similares. Probablemente este dato esté relacionado con la presencia exclusiva de individuos adultos entre los inhumados.
Las Lunas, Yuncler (Toledo). Un depósito de materiales metálicos del Bronce Final en la Submeseta Sur de la Península Ibérica
Authors: Urbina Martínez Dionisio , García Vuelta Óscar
Published: July 2010

Se exponen los resultados del primer estudio realizado sobre un nuevo conjunto de materiales metálicos del Bronce Final recuperado a finales de 2008 en las excavaciones arqueológicas del yacimiento de Las Lunas (Yuncler, Toledo, España). La localización geográfica del hallazgo, lejos de las principales zonas de dispersión conocidas para este tipo de conjuntos, la singularidad de los objetos que integra, y las relaciones atlánticas y mediterráneas que evidencian sus materiales, lo convierten en un ejemplo destacado para el estudio de este período en el centro de la Península Ibérica.
Secuencias gráficas Paleolítico-Postpaleolítico en la Sierra de San Pedro. Tajo internacional. Cáceres
Authors: Bueno Ramírez Primitiva , De Balbín Behrmann Rodrigo , Barroso Bermejo Rosa , Carrera Ramírez Fernando , Alfonso Carballo Juana , Alonso Vasco Jesús , Barbado Carreras Juan José , Berzas Bravo Gonzalo , Martín Expósito M.ª Ángeles , Salgado Cilleros Patricia
Published: July 2010

El equipo de la UAH viene desarrollando sucesivos proyectos de valoración patrimonial en el Tajo Internacional centrados en la cultura megalítica.
Nuestras prospecciones a partir de la exposición teórica de un modelo predictivo que considera la presencia de pinturas al aire libre, hacen de la Sierra de San Pedro uno de los más importantes conjuntos de la pintura esquemática de la Península Ibérica. Su desarrollo paralelo a los yacimientos con grabados al aire libre del Tajo Internacional dibuja un complejo entramado de símbolos con un importante papel en la definición de los territorios megalíticos.
La identificación de figuras paleolíticas coincide con recurrencias similares documentadas en los yacimientos al aire libre del occidente peninsular, apuntando al recurso al pasado como uno de los argumentos de reivindicación y uso de territorios tradicionales.
Inflammation in the Central Nervous System and Th17 Responses Are Inhibited by IFN-γ–Induced IL-18 Binding Protein
Authors: Millward Jason M. , Løbner Morten , Wheeler Rachel D. , Owens Trevor
Published: July 2010

Inflammatory responses are essential for immune protection but may also cause pathology and must be regulated. Both Th1 and Th17 cells are implicated in the pathogenesis of autoimmune inflammatory diseases, such as multiple sclerosis. We show in this study that IL-18–binding protein (IL-18bp), the endogenous inhibitor of the Th1-promoting cytokine IL-18, is upregulated by IFN-γ in resident microglial cells in the CNS during multiple sclerosis-like disease in mice. Test of function by overexpression of IL-18bp in the CNS using a viral vector led to marked reduction in Th17 responses and robust inhibition of incidence, severity, and histopathology of disease, independently of IFN-γ. The disease-limiting action of IL-18bp included suppression of APC-derived Th17-polarizing cytokines. IL-18bp thus acts as a sensor for IFN-γ and can regulate both Th1 and Th17 responses in the CNS.