bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anthropology of development and the challenge of South-South cooperation
Authors: Cesarino Letícia Maria Costa da Nóbrega
Published: September 2012

This article explores some of the challenges and potentials that the emerging phenomenon of South-South cooperation (SSC) might pose to major approaches in the international literature on the anthropology of development. Irrespective of particular politico-conceptual preferences, the latter's analytics have been largely crafted based on ethnographic work about development aid provided by Northern agencies or North-led multilateral organizations. Based on my own fieldwork experience with Brazil's contemporary provision of official technical cooperation in tropical agriculture to various countries in the African continent, I propose a discussion about four sets of themes: Foucauldian approaches to development based on notions of governmentality and discourse; the associated question of politics/depoliticization; the institutional aspect of development cooperation as a national and global industry and bureaucracy; and the question of ethnographic authority and the transit between what David Mosse has referred to as field (relations entertained with informants during fieldwork) and desk (relations entertained with academic peers during ethnographic writing).
Cartografia: estratégias de produção do conhecimento
Authors: Regis Vitor Martins , Fonseca Tania Mara Galli
Published: September 2012

Este artigo trabalha o conceito de cartografia procurando propor um estilo singular de produção do conhecimento que desenvolve a ideia de expansão da vida cunhada por Espinosa. Inicialmente, nós criticamos algumas influências filosóficas de Platão e Descartes no campo das discussões metodológicas como ainda constituintes de modos de vida que tendem à homogeneização calcados na racionalidade moderna. Depois disto, utilizamos o pensamento contemporâneo de autores como Deleuze, Einstein, Heisenberg, Gödel e Prigogine para sugerir que a produção do conhecimento deve afirmar a heterogeneidade da vida, respeitando preceitos éticos, estéticos e políticos.
Efeitos imaginários do diagnóstico de TDA/H na subjetividade da criança
Authors: Legnani Viviane Neves
Published: September 2012

Neste artigo discute-se a avaliação diagnóstica de crianças com Transtorno de Déficit de Atenção e Hiperatividade. O discurso médico aponta a etiologia desse quadro como endógena e orgânica e, para efeito de diagnóstico, utiliza os critérios descritivos do DSM IV. A partir de um Estudo de Caso e, mediante a apresentação de fundamentos teóricos da psicanálise, o texto aqui apresentado propõe que o TDA/H é uma problemática nas funções da atenção, linguagem e motricidade, as quais estão articuladas e dependem da posição subjetiva do sujeito. Nessa visão, o TDA/H pode ser pensado como um sintoma que se endereça, como uma mensagem, ao Outro.
Encontros e desencontros entre adolescência e educação: relato de pesquisa-intervenção
Authors: Coutinho Luciana Gageiro , Souza Saulo Nunes de , Oliveira Bruna Osório
Published: September 2012

O artigo é fruto de uma pesquisa realizada na interface entre a psicanálise e a educação cuja proposta é investigar e intervir sobre a relação do adolescente com a escola hoje. Baseou-se em uma pesquisa-intervenção realizada junto a adolescentes e aos educadores que trabalham diretamente com este segmento, desenvolvida numa escola pública do estado do Rio de Janeiro, localizada no município de Niterói. O trabalho na escola se deu através da realização de oficinas oferecidas aos integrantes de um projeto para alunos com dificuldades na conclusão do ensino fundamental. A construção de categorias de análise permitiu uma organização dos dados e das falas registrados nos relatórios, facilitando a discussão teórica a partir do campo. Dentre diversas questões observadas pela pesquisa, destaca-se a dificuldade dos adolescentes em sustentar um discurso próprio e singular sobre si, o que é reforçado pela proposta da turma especial na qual estão inseridos.
Idealização e onipotência na juventude contemporânea: a drogadicção como ilustração
Authors: Savietto Bianca Bergamo , Cardoso Marta Rezende
Published: September 2012

O foco deste trabalho, dedicado à singularidade da juventude contemporânea, são os possíveis entraves aos processos de subjetivação na passagem da infância à vida adulta. Partindo-se da suposição de possíveis imbricações da dimensão narcísica parental com a filial, é enfatizada a formação das instâncias ideais, particularmente a relação entre ego ideal e ideal do ego, complementada por análise da idealização e da sublimação. Como ilustração das proposições desenvolvidas, é explorado o papel das instâncias ideais, e a dominância do ego ideal na drogadicção. Considera-se que o incremento desta esteja articulado a particularidades dos processos de subjetivação dos jovens da contemporaneidade.
Os jogos de linguagem no discurso infantil: implicações na constituição do letramento oral
Authors: Medeiros Neilson Alves de
Published: September 2012

O presente trabalho objetiva discutir o papel que os jogos de linguagem possuem no desenvolvimento de gêneros textuais orais, também responsáveis pela inserção da criança em práticas letradas. Para tanto, discutiremos as noções de jogos de linguagem e de gêneros textuais, buscando identificar nesses fenômenos as diversas vias de acesso ao letramento como processo multidimensional. Com isso, adotaremos uma investigação de cunho interpretativista, observando dados referentes a um corpus coletado em sala de aula da Educação Infantil, com crianças na faixa etária de quatro anos de idade. Nossos resultados apontam a presença de jogos de linguagem nos gêneros orais que se apresentam em sala de aula. Isso nos leva a crer que as práticas letradas demandam o uso de jogos de linguagem, uma vez que eles viabilizam a diversidade de formas de utilização da língua.
Bayesian learning and predictability in a stochastic nonlinear dynamical model
Authors: Parslow John , Cressie Noel , Campbell Edward P. , Jones Emlyn , Murray Lawrence
Published: September 2012

Bayesian inference methods are applied within a Bayesian hierarchical modeling framework to the problems of joint state and parameter estimation, and of state forecasting. We explore and demonstrate the ideas in the context of a simple nonlinear marine biogeochemical model. A novel approach is proposed to the formulation of the stochastic process model, in which ecophysiological properties of plankton communities are represented by autoregressive stochastic processes. This approach captures the effects of changes in plankton communities over time, and it allows the incorporation of literature metadata on individual species into prior distributions for process model parameters. The approach is applied to a case study at Ocean Station Papa, using particle Markov chain Monte Carlo computational techniques. The results suggest that, by drawing on objective prior information, it is possible to extract useful information about model state and a subset of parameters, and even to make useful long‐term forecasts, based on sparse and noisy observations.
Utilization of Recycled Polypropylene‐Acrylate Grafted Nonwoven for the Removal of Oil from Water
Authors: Li Shaoning , Wei Junfu , Wang Lei , Wang Ao , Yang Hang , Nie Yuexia
Published: September 2012

To solve water pollution caused by oil spillage, a new sorbent was prepared by radiation‐induced graft polymerization. Acrylate monomer was introduced to polypropylene nonwoven and hydrophobic groups were introduced by the grafting method. The grafting degree of sorbent was determined as a function of monomer concentration and solvent solubility for monomer. Fourier transform‐infrared spectra and static contact angle measurements were used to characterize the chemical changes of the polypropylene nonwoven surface. The grafted sorbent showed a fast sorption rate and a maximum sorption capacity of 13.56 g/g for diesel oil, while the original polypropylene nonwoven was only 7.48 g/g. In addition, retention measurement and the reusability test were conducted to evaluate the suitability of the polypropylene‐acrylate grafted nonwoven for the treatment of oil spillage.
Adsorption of Cu(II) from Aqueous Solution by Wine Processing Waste Sludge
Authors: Liu Cheng‐Chung , Chen Yue‐Ming , Wang Ming‐Kuang , Lin Yu‐An
Published: September 2012

Wine processing waste sludge (WPWS) has been shown to be an effective sorbent for sorption of nickel, lead, and chromium, but the sorption of copper (Cu) in aqueous solution by WPWS has not been conducted. The objective of this study was to explore the sorption mechanism of WPWS for copper. Infrared analysis revealed carboxyl was the major functional group in WPWS. The WPWS sorption isotherms of copper were only well described by Langmuir sorption isotherm. The maximum adsorption capacity (Qm) was 14.26 mg/g at 50 °C. A pseudo‐second‐order sorption kinetic model successfully described the kinetics of copper sorption onto WPWS. The Gibb free energies (ΔG°) ranged from −20.69 to −24.29 kJ mol‐1, and the ΔH° and ΔS° were 5.048 kJ mol‐1 and 91.05 J mol‐1 K‐1, respectively. The trend of the intra‐particular diffusion rate is the opposite of the adsorption constant of the pseudo‐second‐order equation.
Detection, Occurrence and Fate of Emerging Contaminants in Agricultural Environments
Authors: Snow Daniel D. , Cassada David A. , Bartelt–hunt Shannon L. , Li Xu , Zhang Yun , Zhang Yuping , Yuan Qi , Sallach J. Brett
Published: September 2012

A review of the literature published in 2011 including 70 papers on topics ranging from analytical methods, to occurrence and environmental fate of emerging contaminants in agricultural environments is presented. This review is divided into the following sections: Introduction, Analytical Methods for Emerging Contaminants, Passive Samplers and Screening Methods, Steroids in Agricultural Environments, Veterinary Pharmaceuticals in Agricultural Environments, Antibiotic Resistance Genes, and Prions as Emerging Contaminants.
Student Retention and Persistence to Graduation: Effects of an Introductory Life Calling Course
Authors: Conner Shanna L. , Daugherty Douglas A. , Gilmore Megan N.
Published: September 2012

The researchers examined the effect of a course, Introduction to Life Calling (LDR150), on retention and persistence to graduation at a private, Midwestern university. The course emphasizes self-assessment, student-faculty engagement, personal values, and the student's developing sense of Life Calling. The subjects consisted of 3338 students who entered the university between fall 2001 and fall 2005, including 638 course participants who composed the experimental group. A significant relationship was observed between course participation and graduating status. Multivariate analysis suggests that the relationship between the course and graduation is small, relative to the effect of SAT and ACT scores. The findings are discussed in light of the many factors that commingle with student retention and graduation in higher education. A well-rounded introductory course such as LDR150 may represent another valuable resource for students and universities in the pursuit of student success.
ESRD Networks
Authors: Wish Jay B. , Meyer Klemens B.
Published: September 2012

Established by Federal law in 1978, the ESRD Networks are regional nonprofit organizations that contract with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to provide quality oversight services to chronic dialysis facilities. The governing bodies and medical review boards of each network are populated by volunteer professionals and patients. The medical review boards drive the quality agenda for each network, addressing specific local barriers to improvement. The network contract deliverables are defined by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services in a scope of work document (SOW) that is generally revised with each 3-year contracting cycle. The current SOW has not been revised since the implementation of the new Conditions for Coverage for dialysis facilities in 2008 or the implementation of a bundled payment system and quality incentive program for dialysis providers in 2011. The future success of the ESRD Network Program will depend upon adequate funding, data accessibility to drive rapid-cycle quality improvement efforts, and partnerships with other stakeholder groups to address the continuum of care of patients with CKD. The Forum of ESRD Networks has developed a strategic plan that aligns the priorities of the networks with the National Quality Strategy. The integration of these objectives into the next SOW will augment the relevance of the network program to the ESRD stakeholder community as the networks move from a task-oriented approach to a system-improvement approach to quality oversight.
Common Infections in Kidney Transplant Recipients
Authors: Karuthu Shamila , Blumberg Emily A.
Published: September 2012

Infections are a major cause of morbidity and mortality in kidney transplant recipients. To some extent, these may be preventable. Careful pretransplant screening, immunization, and post-transplant prophylactic antimicrobials may all reduce the risk for post-transplant infection. However, because transplant recipients may not manifest typical signs and symptoms of infection, diagnoses may be confounded. Furthermore, treatment regimens may be complicated by drug interactions and the need to maintain immunosuppression to avoid allograft rejection. This article reviews common post-transplant infections, including prophylactic, diagnostic, and treatment strategies, providing guidance regarding care of kidney transplant patients with infection.
Naive art as a story about the ethno/cultural identity of Slovaks in Serbia: The example of Kovacica
Authors: Blagojevic Gordana
Published: September 2012

In this paper, painting is observed as a source for studying the ethnic and
cultural identity of Slovaks in Serbia, with the retrospective view to the
painters from Kovacica. During the second half of the 20th century there were
60 Slovakian artists in Serbia who dealt with the Naive Art, and 46 of them
were from Kovacica. Today, in this majority Slovakian village in Serbia there
are 30 people of both sexes who deal with the Naive Art. What do the members
of the Slovak ethnic group tell us about their community through their art?
Many motives from folk life can be observed in the paintings of Slovakian
naive artists. However, the village is not often shown as it is today, but as
it was remembered or depicted by the predecessors. On the other hand,
multiple social and political changes during the second half of the 20th
century, which have continued until today, influenced and changed village
life, and also the subject matter of the Art.
Social and family life of the Serbs in Vojvodina at the beginning of the 20th century
Authors: Sokolovska Valentina , Tripkovic Gordana
Published: September 2012

The willingness to improve the lives of the Serbs by using education
primarily, led Tihomir Ostojic and the associates of Matica srpska to make an
attempt to distinguish analytically the real state of Serbian ethnicity in
the scope of economy, social life, moral and physical solidarity. That is
how, we are proud to say, the first sociological survey in Vojvodina was
created, and conducted in 1903. Gifted with scientific intuition and
knowledge, the creators of the survey set the methodological rules
professionally, hence, they conducted a research which, considering all its
characteristics, can be compared to the principles and demands of
contemporary sociological research. Questionnaire, the way the survey is
named, provides the insight into the daily life of the Serbian peasantry
within the scope of economy, hygiene, morale, education; the insight into the
role of founded cooperatives, and much more. However, the primary goal of
this survey is to analyze the desires of the readers, in order to improve and
adjust the Books for the people and the other publications of Matica srpska
to the population.
Smith’s understanding of relation between national identity and myth of election
Authors: Sljukic Srdjan
Published: September 2012

The British scientist Anthony D. Smith, one of the best-known contemporary
researchers of the problems of nation and nationalism, pays special attention
to the issue of national identity. In this paper the author tries to present
and evaluate Smith?s understanding of the relation between national identity
and myth of election (as one of the most important national myths). At the
end of the paper, the importance of Smith?s views for explanation and
understanding of the contemporary Balkan conflicts is pointed out.
Vogler's Method of Singing
Authors: Corneilson Paul
Published: September 2012

For Melverda Padget Hook
The Estimation of Quality Refining Slag for the Brass Gas-Slag Refining
Authors: Bydałek A. , Biernat S.
Published: September 2012

The Estimation of Quality Refining Slag for the Brass Gas-Slag Refining

This article contains information concerning of the analysis the possibility of defining refinery qualities of the slag based thermophysical and thermodynamical data. The paper presents a model of slag refining processes and a method of determining the reduction capability of slag solutions. Slag was analysed with the use of the DTA methods for the brass melting conductions. The study of computer program including the satisfactory number of data there are used in to the design a modern device rotating head used for gas-slag refining. It was achieved that the refining gas and fluxes were distributed ever by the rotating head. High effectiveness of the gas-slag refining processes was proved for the brass.
Costs Analysis of Iron Casts Manufacturing
Authors: Kukla S.
Published: September 2012

Costs Analysis of Iron Casts Manufacturing

The article presents the issues of costs analysis of iron casts manufacturing using automated foundry lines. Particular attention was paid to departmental costs, conversion costs and costs of in-plant transport. After the Pareto analysis had been carried out, it was possible to set the model area of the process and focus on improving activities related to finishing of a chosen group of casts. In order to eliminate losses, the activities realised in this domain were divided into activities with added value, activities with partially added value and activities without added value. To streamline the production flow, it was proposed to change the location of workstations related to grinding, control and machining of casts. Within the process of constant improvement of manufacturing processes, the aspect of work ergonomics at a workstation was taken into account. As a result of the undertaken actions, some activities without added value were eliminated, efficiency was increased and prime costs of manufacturing casts with regard to finishing treatment were lowered.
Microstructure and Thermomechanical Properties of Magnesium Alloys Castings
Authors: Lichý P. , Cagala M.
Published: September 2012

Microstructure and Thermomechanical Properties of Magnesium Alloys Castings

Magnesium alloys thanks to their high specific strength have an extensive potential of the use in a number of industrial applications. The most important of them is the automobile industry in particular. Here it is possible to use this group of materials for great numbers of parts from elements in the car interior (steering wheels, seats, etc.), through exterior parts (wheels particularly of sporting models), up to driving (engine blocks) and gearbox mechanisms themselves. But the use of these alloys in the engine structure has its limitations as these parts are highly thermally stressed. But the commonly used magnesium alloys show rather fast decrease of strength properties with growing temperature of stressing them. This work is aimed at studying this properties both of alloys commonly used (of the Mg-Al-Zn, Mn type), and of that ones used in industrial manufacture in a limited extent (Mg-Al-Sr). These thermomechanical properties are further on complemented with the microstructure analysis with the aim of checking the metallurgical interventions (an effect of inoculation). From the studied materials the test castings were made from which the test bars for the tensile test were subsequently prepared. This test took place within the temperature range of 20°C - 300°C. Achieved results are summarized in the concluding part of the contribution.
The Comparison of Selected Methods of Cast Iron Spheroidization in Industrial Conditions
Authors: Válek T. , Šimon P. , Střílková L.
Published: September 2012

The Comparison of Selected Methods of Cast Iron Spheroidization in Industrial Conditions

Production of spheroidal graphite cast iron is today quite mastered technology. There are many methods achieving the nodular graphite morphology. Each of these methods have specific characteristics and requirements to technical support, properties and the type of applied modifier. Selection of the spheroidization method is dependent on foundry disposition, production character, economic balance, quality requirements, etc. In case of centrifugally casting the core, which fills body and neck of the roll, is created by ductile iron. Considering the sophisticated production of centrifugally cast rolls for hot rolling mills it is necessary to ensure a high reproducibility and reliability of ductile cast iron production quality in the bulk range of 9-18 t per tapping. These conditions are in the Roll Foundry in Vítkovicke Slevarny, spol. s r.o. provided and verified mastered overpour method and the newly injection of cored wire in the melt.
Heat Treatment of AlZn10Si7MgCu Alloy and its Effect on Change of Mechanical Properties
Authors: Pezda J.
Published: September 2012

Heat Treatment of AlZn10Si7MgCu Alloy and its Effect on Change of Mechanical Properties

The most important parameters which predetermine mechanical properties of a material in aspects of suitability for castings to machinery components are: tensile strength (Rm), elongation (A5, hardness (HB) and impact strength (KCV). Heat treatment of aluminum alloys is performed to increase mechanical properties of the alloys mainly. The paper comprises a testing work concerning effect of heat treatment process consisting of solution heat treatment and natural ageing on mechanical properties and structure of AlZn10Si7MgCu alloy moulded in metal moulds. Investigated alloy was melted in an electric resistance furnace. Run of crystallization was presented with use of thermal-derivative method (ATD). This method was also implemented to determination of heat treatment temperature ranges of the alloy. Performed investigations have enabled determination of heat treatment parameters' range, which conditions suitable mechanical properties of the investigated alloy. Further investigations will be connected with determination of optimal parameters of T6 heat treatment of the investigated alloy and their effect on change of structure and mechanical/technological properties of the investigated alloy.
Structure of X5CrNi18-10 and S355NL Steels after Remelting with the Electric Arc
Authors: Adamiak S.
Published: September 2012

Structure of X5CrNi18-10 and S355NL Steels after Remelting with the Electric Arc

The work presents the results of the research and tests of the surface machining of the S355NL and X5CrNi18-10 steels with the concentraded stream of heat with the usage of the GTAW method. The surface layers of the tested steels were remelted with the electric arc using the current of the electric arc 50, 100, 150 and 200A. The machining was done in the atmosphere of argon with the constant speed of the welding head. A microscope examination was performed of the obtained structure and measurements of depth, width and hardness of the received surface layer were performed. Moreover the relation between the current of the electric arc and geometry of the remelted layers with their microhardness was examined.
The Influence of Ingate Size on the Lost Foam Casting Process
Authors: Pacyniak T. , Kaczorowski R.
Published: September 2012

The Influence of Ingate Size on the Lost Foam Casting Process

The article presents analysis of the influence of ingate size on the Lost Foam casting process. In particular, analysis of simulation tests has been carried out to determine the ingate size influence on the rate of filling of the mould cavity, pressure in the gas gap and size of the gas gap. A specially prepared mathematical model of the process and an original calculation algorithm were used in simulation tests of full-mould casting. The tests have indicated that the increase of the ingate size results in the increase of filling rate and increase of pressure of gases in the gas gap. However, significant influence on mould cavity filling occurs only when the ingate size is less than ~1 cm2.
The Influence of the Shape of the Reaction Chamber on Spheroidisation of Cast Iron Produced in the Lost Foam Casting Process with Use of the Inmold Method
Authors: Just P. , Pacyniak T.
Published: September 2012

The Influence of the Shape of the Reaction Chamber on Spheroidisation of Cast Iron Produced in the Lost Foam Casting Process with Use of the Inmold Method

The article presents the results of the research on the influence of the shape of reaction chamber on spheroidisation of cast iron produced with use of the inmold method. The amounts of nodular graphite precipitates in castings produced with the use of different reaction chambers have been compared.
The Structure of the Silumin Coat on Alloy Cast Steels
Authors: Szymczak T.
Published: September 2012

The Structure of the Silumin Coat on Alloy Cast Steels

The work presents the analysis results of the structure of the coat obtained by dipping in silumin AlSi5 of two grades of alloy cast steel: GX6CrNiTi18-10 (LH18N9T) and GX39Cr13 (LH14). The temperature of the silumin bath was 750±5°C, and the hold-up time of the cast steel element τ = 180 s. The absolute thickness of the coat obtained in the given conditions was g = 104 μm on cast steel GX6CrNiTi18-10 and g = 132 μm on GX39Cr13. The obtained coat consisted of three layers of different phase structure. The first layer from the base "g1" was constructed of the phase AlFe including Si and alloy additives of the tested cast steel grades: Cr and Ni (GX6CrNiTi18-10) and Cr (GX39Cr13). The second layer "g1" of intermetallic phases AlFe which also contains Si and Cr crystallizes on it. The last, external layer "g2" of the coat consists of the silumin containing the intermetallic phases AlFeSi which additionally can contain alloy additives of the cast steel. It was shown that there were no carbides on the coat of the tested cast steels which are the component of their microstructure, as it took place in the case of the coat on the high speed steels.
Abrasive Wear Resistance of Cast Iron with Precipitates of Spheroidal VC Carbides
Authors: Kawalec M. , Olejnik E.
Published: September 2012

Abrasive Wear Resistance of Cast Iron with Precipitates of Spheroidal VC Carbides

The paper presents the results of abrasive wear resistance tests carried out on high-vanadium cast iron with spheroidal VC carbides. The cast iron of eutectic composition was subjected to spheroidising treatment using magnesium master alloy. The tribological properties were examined for the base cast iron (W), for the cast iron subjected to spheroidising treatment (S) and for the abrasion-resistant steel (SH). Studies have shown that high-vanadium cast iron with both eutectic carbides and spheroidal carbides has the abrasion resistance twice as high as the abrasion-resistant cast steel. The spheroidisation of VC carbides did not change the abrasion resistance compared to the base high-vanadium grade.
The Analysis of the Influence of the Polystyrene Patterns Shaping Parameters on the Resistance Properties
Authors: Pacyniak T. , Buczkowska K. , Bogus W.
Published: September 2012

The Analysis of the Influence of the Polystyrene Patterns Shaping Parameters on the Resistance Properties

This work presents the technology of making foam plastics patterns used in casting as well as the final shaping stand. The analysis of the sintering process was carried out aiming at determining the influence of the pressure and the time of sintering on the flexural strength properties. The analysis of the research results confirmed that when the sintering pressure grows to the value of Pa =1,7 bar the flexural strength also increases, when the pressure value is higher than that, the degradation of the material takes place and the strength properties decrease.
Applications of Monitoring of Electric Power Parameters to Performance Evaluation of a Model Vacuum-Assisted Moulding Installation
Authors: Ziółkowski E. , Brzeziński M. , Wrona R. , Smyksy K. , Zyzak P.
Published: September 2012

Applications of Monitoring of Electric Power Parameters to Performance Evaluation of a Model Vacuum-Assisted Moulding Installation

Vacuum conditions in foundry installations are generated using electric-driven vacuum pumps. The purpose of the experiment is to evaluate the performance of a vacuum-assisted system for compaction of moulding sand basing on registered plots of selected electric power parameters of the power-supplying system of the pumps. Model testing done on an experimental vacuum system installation, power-supplied from a system incorporating the recorders of instantaneous current and voltage values. Following the numerical procedure, the experimental data are analysed to yield mathematical relationships between the variations of the generated vacuum pressure levels and variations of selected electric power parameters. Registered and computed values of selected parameters: instantaneous and RMS voltage and current values, active, reactive and apparent power levels and power coefficient allow for diagnosing the adequacy and reliability of the system operation. According to the authors, the applied monitoring of the power parameters of a vacuum-assisted installation may become an effective and easy practical method of evaluating the performance of such installations, used also in foundry plants.
Global Muscle Strength But Not Grip Strength Predicts Mortality and Length of Stay in a General Population in a Surgical Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Lee Jeanette J. , Waak Karen , Grosse-Sundrup Martina , Xue Feifei , Lee Jarone , Chipman Daniel , Ryan Cheryl , Bittner Edward A. , Schmidt Ulrich , Eikermann Matthias
Published: September 2012

Background

Paresis acquired in the intensive care unit (ICU) is common in patients who are critically ill and independently predicts mortality and morbidity. Manual muscle testing (MMT) and handgrip dynamometry assessments have been used to evaluate muscle weakness in patients in a medical ICU, but similar data for patients in a surgical ICU (SICU) are limited.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the predictive value of strength measured by MMT and handgrip dynamometry at ICU admission for in-hospital mortality, SICU length of stay (LOS), hospital LOS, and duration of mechanical ventilation.

Design

This investigation was a prospective, observational study.

Methods

One hundred ten patients were screened for eligibility for testing in the SICU of a large, academic medical center. The Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) II score, diagnoses, and laboratory data were collected. Measurements were obtained by MMT quantified with the sum (total) score on the Medical Research Council Scale and by handgrip dynamometry. Outcome data, including in-hospital mortality, SICU LOS, hospital LOS, and duration of mechanical ventilation, were collected for all participants.

Results

One hundred seven participants were eligible for testing; 89% were tested successfully at a median of 3 days (25th–75th percentiles=3–6 days) after admission. Sedation was the most frequent barrier to testing (70.6%). Manual muscle testing was identified as an independent predictor of mortality, SICU LOS, hospital LOS, and duration of mechanical ventilation. Grip strength was not independently associated with these outcomes.

Limitations

This study did not address whether muscle weakness translates to functional outcome impairment.

Conclusions

In contrast to handgrip strength, MMT reliably predicted in-hospital mortality, duration of mechanical ventilation, SICU LOS, and hospital LOS.
Contribution to canine babesiosis in the Czech Republic
Authors: Konvalinová Jarmila , Rudolf Ivo , Šikutová Silvie , Hubálek Zdeněk , Svobodová Vlasta , Svoboda Miroslav
Published: September 2012

From March to November 2010, a total of 68 samples of blood from 41 hunting and working dogs that never left the Czech Republic were examined. Some dogs were sampled repeatedly. Blood samples were examined by polymerase chain reaction for the presence of DNA of piroplasms with negative results. Specific IgG antibodies against Babesia canis were detected by indirect immunofluorescence test, and five dogs (12.21%) were seropositive. Titres ranged from 50 to 200. One dog was positive in two samplings within 3 months. The highest number of positive samples was taken in June. The results of this study suggest a likely contact of the examined dogs with the parasite; although in 2005, a total of 340 adult unfed Dermacentor reticulatus ticks in 34 pools screened by PCR for babesiae were negative.
Effect of growth intensity of bulls on the microstructure of musculus longissimus lumborum and meat quality
Authors: Młynek Krzysztof , Janiuk Izabela , Dzido Alicja
Published: September 2012

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of growth intensity of 43 bulls with different growth intensity (< 900 and ≥ 900 g/day) on the microstructure of musculus longissimus lumborum. Commercial crosses of Polish Lowland black-and-white cows with Charolais and Limousin bulls were used in this study; within the particular genetic groups the hybrids had similar slaughter weight (447.6 and 517.2 kg) and age (526 and 606 days), respectively. The share of fibres with active tetrazole dehydragenase in the more intensively growing animals was smaller. For fibres with myofibrillar ATPase activity, the intensively growing animals produced higher standard deviation values than the other groups. Further analysis of the muscular tissue in this group revealed that out of the 24 muscles, 9 had giant fibres. In comparison with the less intensively growing animals, the muscles of the bulls that gained more than 900 g/day in weight were found to contain significantly less glycogen (P ≤ 0.01) and, consequently, the meat was less acidic. The difference of the pH ranged from 0.19 in the case of pH24 (P ≤ 0.01) to 0.06 for pH48 (P ≤ 0.01). It should be noted that the intensively growing animals were found to have a relatively high pH variability (SD = 0.69 and 0.49, respectively). The pH24 and pH48 values, as well as pH variability show that the meat of this group was dark, firm and dry.
Seasonal influence on the thyroid gland in healthy dogs of various breeds in different weights
Authors: Fialkovičová Mária , Mardzinová Silvia , Benková Marta , Mojžišová Jana , Gaálová Monika , Sesztáková Edina
Published: September 2012

The aim of our study was to evaluate the influence of seasonal ambient temperature on the thyroid gland function in terms of serum total thyroxine (TT4), free thyroxine (fT4), total triiodothyronine (TT3), and canine thyroid stimulating hormone (cTSH) concentrations in healthy dogs of various breeds living outdoors and to compare them with those living indoors in flats and houses. The monitoring was conducted for 5 years and our study included 162 indoor dogs and 148 outdoor dogs of both sexes from 2 to 12 years of age, categorised into 3 groups according to their body weight: large (n = 17), medium (n = 16) and small (n = 17) breeds. Comparison of the seasonal serum TT4 and fT4 concentrations in both the indoor and outdoor dogs confirmed their fluctuation in relation to the ambient temperature in all weight groups with the lowest average of TT4 and fT4 concentrations recorded in summer and the highest ones in winter. In dogs kept outdoors, the fluctuation of hormone values was significant (P< 0.05). Seasonal serum cTSH fluctuation was found to be significant (P< 0.05) only in the medium breeds living outdoors, but their concentrations did not exceed the reference ranges. The 5-year monitoring of serum TT3 in indoor and outdoor dogs of large, medium, and small breeds clearly showed that its concentrations were not influenced by varying ambient temperature. The study provides for the first time evidence that serum TT4 and fT4 concentrations in dogs kept outdoors directly depend on ambient temperature. This correlation was also expressed by mathematical equations.
Penelope Aubin and Narratives of Empire
Authors: Kozaczka Edward J.
Published: September 2012

In Count de Vinevil and Lucinda, Penelope Aubin maps queer experiences among women onto her consideration of nascent British imperialism in order to protest and expose the limits of expansionist conservative discourses. Treating Aubin’s texts as an occasion for reimagining literature’s role in producing alternative modes of imperial and libidinal desire, I claim that, like many Tory women writers of her time, Aubin’s convoluted narrative structure purposefully matches the complications of sociopolitical reality. Aubin moves from a critique of patriarchal mercantilism in Vinevil to what I call a queer critique of triumphalist epistemologies and imperialism in Lucinda. Far from being small steps on the way to the modern novel, Aubin’s experimental writings represent brave attempts to redefine eighteenth-century womanhood and shape more inclusive British worlds.
Influence of Hamstring and Abdominal Muscle Activation on a Positive Ober's Test in People with Lumbopelvic Pain
Authors: Tenney H. Rich , Boyle Kyndall L. , DeBord Aaron
Published: September 2012

Purpose: To assess the immediate effect of hamstring and abdominal activation on pain levels as measured by the Numeric Pain Scale (NPS) and hip range of motion as measured by Ober's Test in people with lumbopelvic pain. Methods: Thirteen participants with lumbopelvic pain and positive Ober's Tests completed an exercise developed by the Postural Restoration Institute™ to recruit hamstrings and abdominal muscles. Results: There was a significant increase in passive hip-adduction angles (p<0.01) and decrease in pain (p<0.01) immediately after the intervention. Conclusion: Specific exercises that activate hamstrings and abdominal muscles appear to immediately improve Ober's Test measurements and reduce pain as measured by the NPS in people with lumbo-pelvic pain. Hamstring/abdominal activation, rather than iliotibial band stretching, may be an effective intervention for addressing lumbopelvic pain and a positive Ober's Test.
Validity and Reliability of the Swedish Version of the Activities-specific Balance Confidence Scale in People with Chronic Stroke
Authors: Forsberg Anette , Nilsagård Ylva
Published: September 2012

Purpose: To evaluate the validity and reliability of the Swedish version of the Activities-specific Balance Confidence (ABC) scale in people >1 year after stroke. Method: In a multi-centre study design, using initial cross-sectional data collection with follow-up, the timed up-and-go (TUG) test, 10 m timed walk (10TW), and 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT) were performed; ABC scale and Short Form 36 Health Survey (SF-36) were completed; and falls history data were collected during one session. One week later, the ABC scale was sent to participants for a second rating. Spearman correlation coefficients were calculated, and reliability was assessed via the intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) and Cronbach alpha. Results: A convenience sample of 67 people was included (mean age 68 y). The median score for the ABC scale changed from 57 at the first rating to 43 at the second; 19 participants (28%) reported falls during the previous 3 months. Scores on the ABC scale were moderately correlated with the TUG (r=−0.48), 10TW (r=−0.52), 6MWT (r=0.45), and SF-36 physical component summary score (r=0.43). Internal consistency was high for the ABC scale at test and retest (α=0.95–0.97). The ICC was 0.82 (95% CI, 0.72–0.88). Conclusions: The Swedish version of the ABC scale is a valid and reliable measure for investigating balance confidence in people >1 year after stroke.
Physiotherapists and Physiotherapy Student Placements across Regions in Ontario: A Descriptive Comparison
Authors: Norman Kathleen E. , Booth Randy , Chisholm Brock , Ellerton Cindy , Jelley Wilma , MacPhail Ann , Mooney Paula E. , Mori Brenda , Taipalus Lisa , Thomas Bronwen K.
Published: September 2012

Purpose: To describe the distribution and type of physiotherapy student placements in one year relative to the number of practising physiotherapists of Ontario. Methods: Site information about physiotherapy students' clinical placements in Ontario in 2010 was obtained from Academic Coordinators of Clinical Education. Worksite information about physiotherapists who reported providing direct patient care at a primary employment site in Ontario and at least 600 practice hours in their annual renewal was obtained from the College of Physiotherapists of Ontario. Each placement and each physiotherapist was attributed to one of Ontario's 14 local health integration networks (LHINs). For each LHIN, a ratio of student placements to practising physiotherapists was calculated, using summed counts. Counts of placement types by setting, patient mix, and practice area were also calculated for each LHIN. Results: The 5 LHINs in which the university programmes are located had high placement:physiotherapist ratios, from 0.92 to 0.38. The other 9 LHINs had lower ratios, the 3 lowest at approximately 0.15. There was a wide mix of clinical placement types across LHINs. Conclusion: Physiotherapists' participation in physiotherapy students' clinical education varied widely among Ontario regions. Future research could explore whether regional differences are persistent, why they occur, and whether they should be reduced.
Gamma Knife surgery in the treatment paradigm for foramen magnum meningiomas
Authors: Zenonos Georgios , Kondziolka Douglas , Flickinger John C. , Gardner Paul , Lunsford L. Dade
Published: September 2012

Object

Microsurgical management of foramen magnum meningiomas (FMMs) can be associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Stereotactic radiosurgery may be an efficient and safe alternative treatment modality for such tumors. The object of this study was to increase the documented experience with Gamma Knife surgery (GKS) for FMMs and to delineate its role in an overall management paradigm.

Methods

The authors report on their experience with 24 patients harboring FMMs managed with GKS. Twelve patients had primary symptomatic tumors, 5 had asymptomatic but enlarging primary tumors, and 7 had recurrent or residual tumors after a prior surgery.

Results

Follow-up clinical and imaging data were available in 21 patients at a median follow-up of 47 months (range 3–128 months). Ten patients had measurable tumor regression, which was defined as an overall volume reduction > 25%. Eleven patients had no further tumor growth. Two patients died as a result of advanced comorbidities before follow-up imaging. One patient was living 8 years after GKS but had no clinical evaluation. Ten of 17 symptomatic patients with at least 6 months of follow-up had symptom improvement, and 7 remained clinically stable. Smaller tumors were more likely to regress. No patient suffered an adverse radiation effect after radiosurgery.

Conclusions

Gamma Knife surgery was a safe management strategy for small, minimally symptomatic, or growing FMMs as well as for residual tumors following conservative microsurgical removal.
Brain tissue oxygen monitoring after severe traumatic brain injury in children: relationship to outcome and association with other clinical parameters
Authors: Stippler Martina , Ortiz Veronica , Adelson P. David , Chang Yue-Fang , Tyler-Kabara Elizabeth C. , Wisniewski Stephen R. , Fink Ericka L. , Kochanek Patrick M. , Brown S. Danielle , Bell Michael J.
Published: September 2012

Object

Minimizing secondary brain injuries after traumatic brain injury (TBI) in children is critical to maximizing neurological outcome. Brain tissue oxygenation monitoring (as measured by interstitial partial pressure of O2 [PbO2]) is a new tool that may aid in guiding therapies, yet experience in children is limited. This study aims to describe the authors' experience of PbO2 monitoring after TBI. It was hypothesized that PbO2 thresholds could be established that were associated with favorable neurological outcome, and it was determined whether any relationships between PbO2 and other important clinical variables existed.

Methods

Forty-six children with severe TBI (Glasgow Coma Scale score ≤ 8 after resuscitation) who underwent PbO2 and brain temperature monitoring between September 2004 and June 2008 were studied. All patients received standard neurocritical care, and 24 were concurrently enrolled in a trial of therapeutic early hypothermia (n = 12/group). The PbO2 was measured in the uninjured frontal cortex. Hourly recordings and calculated daily means of various variables including PbO2, intracranial pressure (ICP), cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP), mean arterial blood pressure, partial pressure of arterial O2, and fraction of inspired O2 were compared using several statistical approaches. Glasgow Outcome Scale scores were determined at 6 months after injury.

Results

The mean patient age was 9.4 years (range 0.1–16.5 years; 13 girls) and 8554 hours of monitoring were analyzed (PbO2 range 0.0–97.2 mm Hg). A PbO2 of 30 mm Hg was associated with the highest sensitivity/specificity for favorable neurological outcome at 6 months after TBI, yet CPP was the only factor that was independently associated with favorable outcome. Surprisingly, instances of preserved PbO2 with altered ICP and CPP were observed in some children with unfavorable outcomes.

Conclusions

Monitoring of PbO2 demonstrated complex interactions with clinical variables reflecting intracranial dynamics using this protocol. A higher threshold than reported in studies in adults was suggested as a potential therapeutic target, but this threshold was not associated with improved outcomes. Additional studies to assess the utility of PbO2 monitoring after TBI in children are needed.