bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pyridinium-N-phenolate betaine dyes as empirical indicators of solvent polarity: Some new findings
Authors: Reichardt Christian
Published: July 2008

Solutions of the zwitterionic betaine dye 2,6-diphenyl-4-(2,4,6-triphenylpyridinium-1-yl)phenolate (hereinafter calledstandard betaine dye) and its derivatives are solvatochromic, thermochromic, piezochromic, and halochromic. That is, the position of its longest-wavelength intramolecular charge-transfer (CT) absorption band depends on solvent polarity, solution temperature, external pressure, and the type and concentration of salts (ionophores) added to the betaine dye solution. The outstanding large negative solvatochromism of this standard betaine dye has been used to establish UV/vis spectroscopically a comprehensive set of empirical parameters of solvent polarity, calledET(30) resp.ETNvalues, now known for many molecular and ionic solvents as well as for a great variety of solvent mixtures. This report describes relevant physicochemical properties of this standard betaine dye as well as the definition and some more recent practical applications of these solvent polarity parameters, derived from the standard betaine dye and its derivatives. In particular, the perichromism of the standard betaine dye can be used to study the polarity of microheterogeneous solutions (e.g., micelles and other organized media), surfaces (e.g., silica, alumina, cellulose), glasses (e.g., sol-gel systems), and solids (e.g., polymers), and for the construction of chemical sensors. As extension to solvatochromism, the more general term perichromism describes UV/vis band shifts of chromophore-containing solutes which are caused not only by changes in the surrounding solvent sphere, but also by their embedding in other surroundings such as micelles, vesicles, glasses, polymers, solids, interfaces, and surfaces. Some representative examples for such extended applications of the perichromic standard betaine dye are given.
Comparative analysis of electron-phonon relaxation in a semiconducting carbon nanotube and a PbSe quantum dot
Authors: Habenicht Bradley F. , Kilina Svetlana V. , Prezhdo Oleg V.
Published: July 2008

The key features of the phonon-induced relaxation of electronic excitations in the (7,0) zig-zag carbon nanotube (CNT) and the Pb16Se16quantum dot (QD) are contrasted using a time-domain ab initio density functional theory (DFT) simulation. Upon excitation from the valence to the conduction band (CB), the electrons and holes nonradiatively decay to the band-edge in both materials. The paper compares the electronic structure, optical spectra, important phonon modes, and decay channels in the CNT and QD. The relaxation is faster in the CNT than in the QD. In the PbSe QD, the electronic energy decays by coupling to low-frequency acoustic modes. The decay is nonexponential, in agreement with non-Lorentzian line-shapes observed in optical experiments. In contrast to the QD, the excitation decay in the CNT occurs primarily via high-frequency optical modes. Even though the holes have a higher density of states (DOS), they relax more slowly than the electrons, due to better coupling to low-frequency vibrations. Further, the expected phonon bottleneck is not observed in the QD, as rationalized by a high density of optically dark states. The same argument applies to the CNT. The computed results agree well with experimentally measured ultrafast relaxation time-scales and provide a unique atomistic picture of the electron-phonon relaxation processes.
Calixarene receptors of environmentally hazardous and biorelevant molecules and ions
Authors: Kalchenko Vitaly I.
Published: July 2008

In the paper, a report on the rational design of the calixarene receptors bearing ligating, H-donor, H-acceptor fragments at the wide and/or narrow rim of the macrocycle is presented. The calixarenes form supramolecular complexes with various cations, anions, organic molecules, and biomolecules in solution, in the crystalline state and even in the gas phase. The calixarenes or their complexes can be used as materials for radionuclide extraction, construction of chemosensors, and drug design.
Advances in physical chemistry and pharmaceutical applications of cyclodextrins
Authors: Funasaki Noriaki , Ishikawa Seiji , Neya Saburo
Published: July 2008

Cyclodextrins (CDs) attract much attention for industrial applications and academic research. A few experimental methods for determination of the binding constant between CD and a guest molecule were reviewed critically. A hydrophile–hydrophobe matching model for host–guest docking was proposed for estimation of the binding constant and the solution structure of the complex. Rather detailed solution structures of CD complexes were determined by proton NMR spectroscopy, aided by calculations of molecular mechanics and surface areas, and were used to analyze the binding constants. The binding constants of CDs with multi-site guests were analyzed on the basis of their solution structures. The working mechanisms and physicochemical predictions in a few pharmaceutical applications of CDs were proposed on the basis of detailed solution structures and accurate binding constants.
Photonics and molecular design of dye-doped polymers for modern light-sensitive materials
Authors: Ishchenko Alexander A.
Published: July 2008

The advantages of dye-doped polymer matrices over polymers and dyes, separately, are analyzed. The effects of the polymer nature and chemical constitution of organic dyes on the spectral and luminescent properties of these matrices are discussed. The processes of dye aggregation in polymers are characterized, and their influence on the photophysical properties and photochemical stability of dye-doped nonphotoconducting and photoconducting polymers is discussed. The different approaches for the struggle with dye aggregation in polymers are offered. The main paths of energy degradation of electronic excitation in such materials are analyzed. The prospects for the applications of dye-doped polymer materials as passive Q-switches of solid-state lasers, active laser media (ALM), luminescent solar concentrator (LSCs), photovoltaic cells, and electroluminescent (EL) emitters are demonstrated.
Quantitative physicochemical analysis of equilibria on chemically modified silica surfaces
Authors: Kholin Yuriy , Zaitsev Vladimir
Published: July 2008

Quantitative physicochemical analysis (QPCA) enables the determination of the stoichiometric compositions and physicochemical parameters of species in equilibrium systems proceeding from the composition-property dependencies. The paper discusses modifications to the routine QPCA procedures required to characterize properties of reagents fixed on surfaces of silica-organic hybrid materials. The cooperative effects and the energetic heterogeneity of fixed reagents are especially important in this context. It follows that the main peculiarities of silica surfaces chemically modified by aliphatic amines are (a) the pronounced energetic heterogeneity of reagents caused by the non-random surface topography, (b) the decrease of the bacisity of amines induced by their interactions with residual surface silanols, and (c) the expressed sensibility of reactions in the near-surface layer to the state of its hydration. The interaction of grafted organic bases with metal ions results in the preferred formation ofbismetal-ligand coordination compounds. Stability constants of complexes are decreased as a consequence of fixation and depend on not only donor but also acceptor ability of a solvent. Also, the denticity of polydentate ligands may decrease as a result of grafting. The changes of protolytic and complexing properties in the case of grafting of weak acids and phosphorus-containing complexons are due to their interactions with other surface groups and the influence of hydration effects in the near-surface layer.
Epistemic and Ethical Duties in Clinical Decision-making
Authors: O'Donohue William , Henderson Deborah
Published: July 2008

In the course of psychotherapy, psychologists need to make important clinical decisions regarding treatment goal selection, measurement procedures, and treatment methods. These decisions can be made without regard to the epistemic and ethical responsibilities that accompany professional status. Epistemic duties are obligations to obtain and have knowledge, while ethical duties are obligations to apply this knowledge accurately. We argue that these epistemic and ethical responsibilities are invoked and can be adequately addressed in the informed consent process. When the informed consent process is violated or done poorly, our epistemic and ethical responsibilities are not met and the client may be harmed. We argue that what the public assumes it is buying from us (and what we purport to sell) are specialised knowledge and skills; when psychologists are not meeting their epistemic duties, what our clients are receiving instead is intuition and performance art. We discuss errors that occur in the course of psychotherapy, as well as how we as professionals must seek to reduce or eliminate them.
The Comprehensive Quality of Life Scale: A Psychometric Evaluation with an Adolescent Sample
Authors: Gullone Eleonora , Cummins Robert A.
Published: July 2008

The term quality of life (QOL) generally refers to the overall evaluation of an individual's life condition, on both objective and subjective dimensions. Quality of life research has focused on global evaluations of life satisfaction in adults. The life quality of adolescents and the performance of central life domains have largely been ignored. This study describes the psychometric properties of the Comprehensive Quality of Life Scale (ComQol) with an adolescent sample. In line with recent conceptualisations of QOL, ComQol assesses subjective and objective QOL on seven life domains. ComQol was administered along with two other self-report instruments (measuring fear and anxiety) to a sample of 264 school-based adolescents aged between 12 and 18 years. The scale yielded life satisfaction data that lay within the normative range for adults. Test-retest reliability and internal consistency analyses indicated that the scale has adequate reliability. In support of convergent validity, fear and anxiety were generally found to be significantly associated with lower levels of life quality. The present study supports the psychometric adequacy of ComQol as an instrument to measure the life quality of adolescents.
A Legacy Neglected: Restating the Case for Single-case Research in Cognitive-Behaviour Therapy
Authors: Blampied Neville M.
Published: July 2008

The dominant research tradition in psychology, including much of cognitive-behaviour therapy, requires that large numbers of subjects be allocated randomly to form treatment groups. Treatment effects typically are assessed by testing a null hypothesis about group mean differences. This paradigm seriously thwarts the development of a science of individual behaviour, inhibits the implementation of the scientist–practitioner model, stifles innovation, impairs accountability, and precludes the scientific investigation of the exceptional or novel case. Single-case research designs, first systematically expounded by Sidman (1960), make it possible to draw scientifically valid conclusions from the investigation and treatment of individuals. Criticisms of the between-groups research paradigm are summarised, the key elements of single-case designs are outlined, and their consistent adoption strongly recommended.
Gender Differences in Health-check Attendance and Intention in Young Adults: An Application of the Health Belief Model
Authors: Munley Gary A. , McLoughlin Angus , Foster Jeremy J.
Published: July 2008

Health-check attendance intention and behaviour in young men and women was compared, and the data used to determine whether health belief model constructs were able to predict such intentions and behaviour. Sixty male and sixty female respondents completed questionnaires asking about past health-check attendance behaviour, future attendance intention, and health beliefs. More females than males had previously attended a general health check, and females had stronger intentions to do so in the future. Regression analyses indicated that health-check attendance intention was predicted for both males and females by responses to cues to action. For females, previous health-check attendance was related to responses to cues to action and perceptions of barriers to attendance. None of the health belief model constructs was found to account for previous attendance behaviour of males. The results of the study support recent calls for health promotion initiatives aimed at men, but suggest that they should target cognitions other than those included within the health belief model.
Posttraumatic Stress Disorder in Sexually Abused Children
Authors: King Neville , Tonge Bruce J. , Mullen Paul , Myerson Nicole , Heyne David , Rollings Stephanie , Muris Peter
Published: July 2008

Child sexual abuse is a highly prevalent problem that frequently occasions the onset of posttraumatic stress disorder in the victimised youngster. Given the success of cognitive-behavioral interventions with adult trauma victims, it has been suggested that this treatment approach be applied to sexually abused children. We review the empirical support for the efficacy and acceptability of cognitive-behavioral strategies in the treatment of sexually abused children. Several clinical practice and research issues are also noted.
Cognitive-behavioural Treatment for Young People Who Have Been Sexually Abused: Developmental Considerations
Authors: Myerson Nicole N. , King Neville J. , Tonge Bruce J. , Heyne David A. , Young Dawn A. , Papadopoulos Helen
Published: July 2008

This article describes the application of cognitive behavioural therapy to three sexually abused young people. We emphasise developmental influences and the nuances of the therapeutic approach. An exposure-based treatment approach was used with the youths. A multimodal assessment evaluation was conducted at pretreatment and posttreatment, and at a 3-month follow-up. Results on outcome measures indicated a positive therapeutic effect for the youths.
Buchbesprechung/Book Review
Authors: Lackner K.
Published: July 2008

No Abstract available
Direct nucleic acid-based detection of MRSA from clinical specimens1
Authors: Reischl Udo , Holzmann Thomas
Published: July 2008

Over the past few years a dramatic increase in the methicillin resistance of S. aureus isolates has been observed worldwide. Infections with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) are accompanied by higher rates of morbidity and mortality, extended length of stay and increased overall costs. Large-scale hygienic measures are necessary to prevent the spread of the resistant isolates to patients not yet infected or colonized by MRSA. It has been demonstrated that the sooner such measures are taken, the smaller the probability of transmission to other patients. To achieve this result requires rapid identification of MRSA carriers. Even more recent culture-based detection methods can provide results only after 24 h. The use of modern PCR-supported detection methods opens the possibility to record findings within only a few hours. While the original test concepts, which are based on the separate detection of the mecA gene and various markers for S. aureus, have proven to be a good culture verification test, they are of limited usefulness for the rapid and meaningful direct detection of MRSA in clinical specimens. Recently developed, innovative test concepts based on the targeted detection of the integration of a so-called SCCmec element (a gene cluster typically also harboring the methicillin-resistance transmitting mecA-gen) in the S. aureus genome are better suited for this purpose. At present there exist a number of commercial test systems as well as a multitude of test concepts developed in-house, all of which are based on this fundamental principle. Although these assays usually display high levels of sensitivity (90–100%), specificity (93–99%) and positive predictive values above 95%, their negative predictive values are usually distinctly lower (80–95%). Meanwhile, with the increasingly broader use of these test methods several disturbance variables have been identified that can lead to false positive or false negative results. In view of these limits a combination of PCR-supported and cultural detection methods would appear to present a sensible policy.
Globaltest versus Profil: Wird das endogene Thrombinpotential das etablierte Thrombophiliescreening ablösen? Pro. / Global coagulation assays versus differentiated testing: will endogenous thrombin potential replace established thrombophilia screening? Pro.
Authors: Eichinger Sabine
Published: July 2008

No Abstract available
Pflanzliche Sterole: Risikofaktoren für kardiovaskuläre Erkrankungen? / Plant sterols: Cardiovascular risk factors?
Authors: Silbernagel Günther , März Winfried
Published: July 2008

Pflanzliche Sterole werden als pharmakologisch aktive Substanzen zur Cholesterinsenkung verwendet. Durch den regelmäßigen Konsum von Produkten, die mit pflanzlichen Sterolen angereichert sind, kommt es zu einer moderaten Erhöhung der Plasmakonzentration an pflanzlichen Sterolen. Eine sehr seltene Krankheit, die Sitosterolämie, ist charakterisiert durch Xanthome und eine massiv erhöhte Konzentration an pflanzlichen Sterolen im Plasma. Da Patienten mit Sitosterolämie mitunter bereits im Jugendalter von koronarer Herzkrankheit betroffen sind, wird darüber diskutiert, ob pflanzliche Sterole möglicherweise auch bei einer moderaten Erhöhung ihrer Plasmakonzentration atherogen wirken könnten. Folglich herrscht auch keine einheitliche Meinung darüber, ob durch die Einnahme pflanzlicher Sterole zum Zweck der Cholesterinsenkung das kardiovaskuläre Risiko reduziert werden kann.

Neben ihrer Bedeutung als Cholesterinsenker spielen pflanzliche Sterole zusammen mit verschiedenen anderen Cholesterinmetaboliten eine wichtige Rolle bei der Untersuchung des Cholesterinstoffwechsels. Durch die Quantifizierung dieser Sterole im Plasma können Rückschlüsse auf die Cholesterinaufnahme aus dem Darm und die körpereigene Cholesterinsynthese gezogen werden.

Die vorliegende Arbeit bietet einen Überblick über das Thema „Pflanzliche Sterole“. Es wird auf den Cholesterinstoffwechsel, die Sitosterolämie und auf die Verwendung von pflanzlichen Sterolen als Cholesterinsenker eingegangen. Im speziellen wird die Rolle der pflanzlichen Sterole und des Cholesterinstoffwechsels in der Atherogenese beleuchtet. Abschließend wird der Frage nach dem Stellenwert der labormedizinischen Bestimmung pflanzlicher Sterole nachgegangen.
Fortschritte in der Diagnostik von Varizella Zoster und Stellenwert der Impfung / Advances in varicella zoster virus diagnostics and importance of vaccination
Authors: Wittek Miriam
Published: July 2008

Das Varizella-Zoster-Virus (VZV) gehört zu einem der acht bisher bekannten humanpathogenen Herpesviren.

Während Windpocken (Primärinfektion) eine typische Erkrankung im Kindes- und Jugendalter sind, tritt der Zoster (endogene Reaktivierung) gehäuft bei älteren Menschen jenseits des fünften Lebensjahrzehnts auf. Der Zoster, auch Gürtelrose genannt, ist eine neurokutane Entzündungskrankheit, die als endogene Reaktivierung der latent in den (Hinterwurzel-) Ganglienzellen persistierenden Varizella-Zoster-Viren definiert ist.

Ernsthafte Komplikationen, die im Zusammenhang mit dem Zoster beschrieben werden, treten vor allem bei älteren und immunsupprimierten Patienten auf. Diese können sich an Haut, Auge, Ohr, an verschiedenen inneren Organen sowie am zentralen und peripheren Nervensystem manifestieren. Ein fortschreitendes Nachlassen der VZV-spezifischen zellvermittelten Immunität ist mit dem Alter assoziiert, ebenso wie der gleichzeitige Anstieg von Inzidenz und Schweregrad einer Zosterinfektion sowie das Auftreten einer postzosterischen Neuralgie (PZN).

Die postzosterische Neuralgie (PZN), die einen chronischen Schmerzzustand beschreibt, stellt die häufigste Komplikation des Zosters dar. Im Fall einer eindeutigen klinischen Situation (Prodromalschmerzen, charakteristische Hauteffloreszenzen (Eruptionen, Bläschen), dermatomabhängige Schmerzen) werden keine laboratoriumsdiagnostischen Nachweisverfahren benötigt. Aber gerade bei Patienten, die keine „Zoster-typische Klinik“ aufzeigen, kann eine schnelle Diagnosesicherung durch verschiedene Nachweismethoden hilfreich sein, um schnellstmöglich eine antivirale Therapie einzuleiten. Es wird empfohlen, diese so früh wie möglich, d.h. innerhalb von 72 Stunden nach Auftreten der ersten Effloreszenzen, zu beginnen. Das Hauptziel der Therapie sollte die Kontrolle und Reduktion des akuten Zosterschmerzes, die verkürzte Virusreplikation, die Verhinderung der Ausbreitung der Hautläsionen sowie die Prävention der postzosterischen Neuralgie und weiterer ernsthafter Komplikationen sein. In der vorliegenden Arbeit werden Vor- und Nachteile verschiedener Nachweisverfahren (Mikroskopie, Immunofluoreszenztechnik, DNA-Nachweisverfahren, Virusisolierung und Serologie) beschrieben. Eine attenuierte VZV-Lebendvakzine wurde entwickelt, um Herpes Zoster und die PZN bei über 60- jährigen zu verhindern (Shingles Prevention Study). Es wird ein Überblick über die Epidemiologie, Pathogenese, klinischen Aspekte, Komplikationen, therapeutischen Möglichkeiten sowie die Prävention eines Herpes Zoster gegeben.
Erkennung von bakteriellen Resistenzmechanismen in der täglichen Diagnostik / Recognition of bacterial resistance mechanisms in routine diagnostics
Authors: Gatermann Sören , Kaase Martin
Published: July 2008

Die Erkennung bakterieller Resistenzmechanismen kann in vielen Fällen Grundlage für therapeutische Empfehlungen bieten. Die Ableitung eines Resistenzmechanismus aus den Messdaten einer In-vitro-Resistenzbestimmung ist nicht trivial und erfordert neben dem Wissen um typische Muster auch zusätzliche Untersuchungen. Die vorliegende Arbeit gibt eine Übersicht über häufige Mechanismen, deren Erkennung und die daraus abzuleitenden therapeutischen Konsequenzen. Besprochen werden insbesondere die Methicillin-(Oxacillin)-Resistenz und die Makrolid-/Lincosamidresistenz bei Staphylokokken, die Erkennung und Bedeutung von Extended-Spectrum-β-Laktamasen (ESBL) und AmpC-β-Laktamasen bei Enterobakterien und einige grundsätzliche Mechanismen bei nicht fermentativen gramnegativen Stäbchen. In tabellarischer Darstellung werden mögliche Phänotypen und ihre Interpretation nebeneinander gestellt. Die Interpretationen sind auch in einem Programm verfügbar (http://memiserf.medmikro.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/ResId).
Development and Validation of Aviation Causal Contributors for Error Reporting Systems (ACCERS)
Authors: Baker David P. , Krokos Kelley J.
Published: July 2008

Objective: This investigation sought to develop a reliable and valid classification system for identifying and classifying the underlying causes of pilot errors reported under the Aviation Safety Action Program (ASAP). Background: ASAP is a voluntary safety program that air carriers may establish to study pilot and crew performance on the line. InASAP programs, similar to the Aviation Safety Reporting System, pilots self-report incidents by filing a short text description of the event. The identification of contributors to errors is critical if organizations are to improve human performance, yet it is difficult for analysts to extract this information from text narratives. A taxonomy was needed that could be used by pilots to classify the causes of errors. Method: After completing a thorough literature review, pilot interviews and a card-sorting task were conducted in Studies 1 and 2 to develop the initial structure of the Aviation Causal Contributors for Event Reporting Systems (ACCERS) taxonomy. The reliability and utility of ACCERS was then tested in studies 3a and 3b by having pilots independently classify the primary and secondary causes of ASAP reports. Results: The results provided initial evidence for the internal and external validity of ACCERS. Pilots were found to demonstrate adequate levels of agreement with respect to their category classifications. Conclusions: ACCERS appears to be a useful system for studying human error captured under pilot ASAP reports. Future work should focus on how ACCERS is organized and whether it can be used or modified to classify human error in ASAP programs for other aviation-related job categories such as dispatchers. Application: Potential applications of this research include systems in which individuals self-report errors and that attempt to extract and classify the causes of those events.
A Self-Report Critical Incident Assessment Tool for Army Night Vision Goggle Helicopter Operations
Authors: Renshaw Peter F. , Wiggins Mark W.
Published: July 2008

Objective: The present study sought to examine the utility of a self-report tool that was designed as a partial substitute for a face-to-face cognitive interview for critical incidents involving night vision goggles (NVGs). Background: The use of NVGs remains problematic within the military environment, as these devices have been identified as a factor in a significant proportion of aircraft accidents and incidents. The self-report tool was structured to identify some of the cognitive features of human performance that were associated with critical incidents involving NVGs. The tool incorporated a number of different levels of analysis, ranging from specific behavioral responses to broader cognitive constructs. Method: Reports were received from 30 active pilots within the Australian Army using the NVG Critical Incident Assessment Tool (NVGCIAT). Results: The results revealed a correspondence between specific types of NVG-related errors and elements of the Human Factors Analysis and Classification System (HFACS). In addition, uncertainty emerged as a significant factor associated with the critical incidents that were recalled by operators. Conclusion: These results were broadly consistent with previous research and provide some support for the utility of subjective assessment tools as a means of extracting critical incident-related data when face-to-face cognitive interviews are not possible. Application: In some circumstances, the NVGCIAT might be regarded as a substitute cognitive interview protocol with some level of diagnosticity.
Human Error and Commercial Aviation Accidents: An Analysis Using the Human Factors Analysis and Classification System
Authors: Shappell Scott , Detwiler Cristy , Holcomb Kali , Hackworth Carla , Boquet Albert , Wiegmann Douglas A.
Published: July 2008

Objective: The aim of this study was to extend previous examinations of aviation accidents to include specific aircrew, environmental, supervisory, and organizational factors associated with two types of commercial aviation (air carrier and commuter/ on-demand) accidents using the Human Factors Analysis and Classification System (HFACS). Background: HFACS is a theoretically based tool for investigating and analyzing human error associated with accidents and incidents. Previous research has shown that HFACS can be reliably used to identify human factors trends associated with military and general aviation accidents. Method: Using data obtained from both the National Transportation Safety Board and the Federal Aviation Administration, 6 pilot-raters classified aircrew, supervisory, organizational, and environmental causal factors associated with 1020 commercial aviation accidents that occurred over a 13-year period. Results: The majority of accident causal factors were attributed to aircrew and the environment, with decidedly fewer associated with supervisory and organizational causes. Comparisons were made between HFACS causal categories and traditional situational variables such as visual conditions, injury severity, and regional differences. Conclusion: These data will provide support for the continuation, modification, and/or development of interventions aimed at commercial aviation safety. Application: HFACS provides a tool for assessing human factors associated with accidents and incidents.
Formal Analysis and Automatic Generation of User Interfaces: Approach, Methodology, and an Algorithm
Authors: Heymann Michael , Degani Asaf
Published: July 2008

Objective: We present a formal approach and methodology for the analysis and generation of user interfaces, with special emphasis on human-automation interaction. Background: A conceptual approach for modeling, analyzing, and verifying the information content of user interfaces is discussed. Methods: The proposed methodology is based on two criteria: First, the interface must be correct — that is, given the interface indications and all related information (user manuals, training material, etc.), the user must be able to successfully perform the specified tasks. Second, the interface and related information must be succinct — that is, the amount of information (mode indications, mode buttons, parameter settings, etc.) presented to the user must be reduced (abstracted) to the minimum necessary. Results: A step-by-step procedure for generating the information content of the interface that is both correct and succinct is presented and then explained and illustrated via two examples. Conclusions: Every user interface is an abstract description of the underlying system. The correspondence between the abstracted information presented to the user and the underlying behavior of a given machine can be analyzed and addressed formally. Applications: The procedure for generating the information content of user interfaces can be automated, and a software tool for its implementation has been developed. Potential application areas include adaptive interface systems and customized/personalized interfaces.
Operational Aspects of Cooperative Systems – Organisation, Operation and Financing of Innovative Telematics Services (Betriebsaspekte kooperativer Systeme – Organisation, Betrieb und Finanzierung innovativer Telematik-Dienste)
Authors: Ortgiese Michael , Hubschneider Hans
Published: July 2008

In addition to technology, the areas of organisation, operation and financing present a central challenge for the introduction of new service concepts. Cooperative systems are currently under development from a technical viewpoint, but sustainable operation concepts are missing. The article highlights central aspects and analyses current real-life examples.
Telematics Issues in California's VII Testbed (Telematikaspekte im kalifornischen VII Feldtest)
Authors: Dickey Susan , VanderWerf Joel
Published: July 2008

The VII California project has developed a testbed of infrastructure-connected wireless access points on urban arterials and expressways. This paper discusses the use of the testbed for research and development of technologies and applications related to vehicle-infrastructure integration. The focus of this paper is on protocol design, connectivity to traffic signal state, external information sources, and system management. Experience gathered from the testbed will contribute to future field-test deployments, application design, scalability predictions, and input to broader system design and standardization efforts.
Autonomes Fahren – Erkenntnisse aus der DARPA Urban Challenge (Autonomous Driving – Insights from the DARPA Urban Challenge)
Authors: Berger Christian , Rumpe Bernhard
Published: July 2008

Mit der Urban Challenge hat die DARPA Ende 2007 ihr erklärtes Ziel erreicht, nachzuweisen, dass autonomes Fahren prinzipiell möglich ist. In diesem Artikel wird skizziert, welcher Stand tatsächlich erreicht wurde und welche Herausforderungen nun bearbeitet werden wollen.
GPU basierte Verfahren zur interaktiven Simulation und Darstellung von Fluid-Effekten (A GPU Framework for Interactive Simulation and Rendering of Fluid Effects)
Authors: Krüger Jens Harald
Published: July 2008

Ziel dieser Arbeit ist die Entwicklung von Konzepten und Methoden zur interaktiven visuellen Simulation von Fluid-Phänomenen auf PC-Grafikkarten (GPUs). Für die numerische Simulation auf GPUs wurde eine GPU-Abstraktionsschicht entwickelt, die Operatoren für Lineare Algebra bereitstellt. Damit wurden komplexere Algorithmen, z.B. Löser für große lineare Gleichungssysteme, realisiert und zur effizienten numerischen Lösung von Differentialgleichungen auf der GPU verwendet. Zur Modellierung von Strömungsstrukturen wurden neue Interaktionstechniken entwickelt. Für die Darstellung der dynamischen Phänomene wurden partikel- und texturbasierte Volume-Rendering-Techniken erforscht. Durch das Zusammenspiel mit der Simulation auf der GPU lassen sich realistische 3D-Effekte sehr schnell generieren und visualisieren.
Variabilidade genética e seleção para caracteres de crescimento da seringueira
Authors: Costa Reginaldo Brito da , Resende Marcos Deon Vilela de , Gonçalves Paulo de Souza , Chichorro José Franklim , Roa Raul Alffonso Rodrigues
Published: July 2008

O presente estudo objetivou estimar parâmetros e valores genéticos para os caracteres altura e diâmetro de progênies de seringueira, pelo método de modelos mistos (procedimento REML/BLUP). Progênies de meio-irmãos foram estabelecidas em área do município de Dois Irmãos do Buriti (MS), sob delineamento de blocos ao acaso, com 28 tratamentos (progênies), cinco repetições e dez plantas por parcela. A coleta dos dados foi realizada em março de 2004. Aos 12 meses de idade foram avaliados os caracteres altura e diâmetro. Nas herdabilidades individuais no sentido restrito para altura (0,1877) e diâmetro (0,1809), bem como nas herdabilidades médias no sentido restrito de progênies para altura (0,3385) e diâmetro (0,4124) observaram-se boas magnitudes. Ganhos genéticos preditos na ordem de 14,04% a 16,54% foram obtidos para o caráter altura e 25,76% a 91,78% para o caráter diâmetro. Os resultados estimulam a continuidade do programa de melhoramento genético, com a possibilidade de maximização dos ganhos nas gerações seguintes.
Correlações e análise de trilha em girassol
Authors: Amorim Edson Perito , Ramos Nilza Patrícia , Ungaro Maria Regina Gonçalves , Kiihl Tammy A. M.
Published: July 2008

Catorze genótipos de girassol foram utilizados para estimar valores de correlação entre treze características agronômicas em Campinas (SP), Brasil. A análise de trilha foi empregada para particionar os valores de correlação em efeitos diretos e indiretos, sobre a produtividade de grãos. Valores de correlação positivos e significativos foram obtidos entre a produtividade de grãos e as características diâmetro do capítulo (r=0,63) e massa de mil grãos (r=0,55). O diâmetro do capítulo, a porcentagem de grãos normais e a massa de mil grãos tiveram efeitos diretos positivos sobre a produtividade de grãos, podendo ser utilizados na seleção indireta, devido à sua fácil medição.
Crescimento e desenvolvimento de cinco espécies de plantas daninhas do gênero Amaranthus
Authors: Carvalho Saul Jorge Pinto de , López-Ovejero Ramiro Fernando , Christoffoleti Pedro Jacob
Published: July 2008

O objetivo deste trabalho foi analisar o crescimento e o desenvolvimento de cinco plantas daninhas do gênero Amaranthus, em condições não-competitivas. As espécies estudadas foram: A. deflexus, A. hybridus, A. retroflexus, A. spinosus e A. viridis. Foram realizadas oito avaliações periódicas de crescimento, espaçadas em 10 dias, iniciando-se aos 20 dias após semeadura (DAS). As variáveis avaliadas por planta foram: área foliar, massa seca das raízes, ramos, folhas, flores + frutos e total; obtendo-se, a partir desta última, as taxas de crescimento absoluto e relativo. Também foram avaliadas as etapas fenológicas de desenvolvimento das plantas. A. deflexus foi a espécie com ciclo vegetativo mais curto, menor acúmulo de massa seca e área foliar. Por outro lado, A. retroflexus e A. hybridus foram as que alcançaram os maiores valores para essas variáveis. A. viridis foi a de melhor adaptabilidade ecológica para as condições em que o experimento foi desenvolvido, pois, além de acumular grande quantidade de massa seca e área foliar, observaram-se rápido desenvolvimento vegetativo e crescimento absoluto. Esses resultados sugerem que A. viridis é uma espécie com alto potencial de interferência nas culturas agrícolas, proporcionado pelo uso eficiente dos recursos de crescimento fornecidos pelo ambiente durante os estádios iniciais de crescimento.
Variabilidade espacial do número médio de perfilhos e rendimento da cultura de trigo
Authors: Roman Mari , Uribe-Opazo Miguel Angel , Nóbrega Lúcia Helena Pereira , Johann Jerry Adriani
Published: July 2008

Este trabalho estudou a variabilidade espacial do número médio de perfilhos e rendimento da cultura do trigo, em uma área de 22,62 ha, no município de Cascavel (PR), considerando 89 pontos amostrais com distância de 50 m entre si. Foi realizado o levantamento do número médio de perfilhos por planta aos 30 e 60 dias após a semeadura (DAS) e o rendimento da cultura. Os dados foram analisados com técnicas geoestatísticas para estudo da estrutura de variabilidade espacial e posterior estimação de valores para locais não amostrados pelo interpolador por krigagem. Ocorreram diferenças no número de perfilhos médios aos 30 e 60 DAS, devido ao excesso de chuva em curto intervalo de tempo, provocando a morte de perfilhos após 30 DAS. Observaram-se, no número médio de perfilhos aos 30 e 60 DAS, respectivamente, fraca e forte dependência espacial. O rendimento foi de moderada dependência espacial, existindo correlação espacial entre as variáveis em estudo.
Produtividade e podridão parda em couve-flor de inverno influenciadas pelo nitrogênio e boro
Authors: Camargo Mônica Sartori de , Mello Simone da Costa , Foltran Dulcinéia Elizabete , Carmello Quirino Augusto de Camargo
Published: July 2008

A podridão parda é um problema comum em couve-flor que ocasiona sintomas semelhantes à deficiência de B. Sua ocorrência está associada, especialmente, ao nitrogênio e boro, mas há escassez de informações no Brasil. O experimento foi realizado de março a junho de 2006 em blocos casualizados com quatro repetições. O objetivo foi avaliar o efeito de doses de nitrogênio (100, 150, 200 e 250 kg ha-1) e boro (0 e 3 kg ha-1) na produtividade e na incidência de podridão parda da couve-flor ‘Júlia’ cultivada em Argissolo Vermelho-Amarelo, em Tietê (SP). A massa, o diâmetro das cabeças e a produtividade total tiveram valores médios satisfatórios: 0,782 kg, 17,74 cm e 15,64 t ha-1 respectivamente. O diâmetro das cabeças não foi influenciado pelos tratamentos, com média de 17,74 cm. As doses crescentes de N aumentaram linearmente a massa, a produtividade total e o teor de N nas cabeças. A aplicação de B aumentou seu teor na cabeça, a produtividade comercial e reduziu a podridão parda. Houve correlação negativa entre o teor de B nas cabeças com a incidência da podridão parda. A adubação com B para a couve-flor cultivada em solo com teor médio desse micronutriente foi necessária para reduzir esse distúrbio fisiológico.
Basil plants growth and essential oil yield in a production system with successive cuts
Authors: May André , Bovi Odair Alves , Maia Nilson Borlina , Barata Lauro Euclides Soares , Souza Rita de Cassia Zacardi de , Souza Eduardo Mattoso Ramos de , Moraes Andrea Rocha Almeida de , Pinheiro Mariane Quaglia
Published: July 2008

This work studied the growth of basil plants and the effect of successive cuts on the total yield and quality of the essential oil, throughout the crop cycle. Steady increases were observed in the dry weight of the aerial part and in the essential oil yield, during the cultivation cycle. Intensive cultivation and successive cuts could improve the agronomical and industrial yield in each harvest.
Taxas de decomposição e de liberação de macronutrientes da palhada de aveia preta em plantio direto
Authors: Crusciol Carlos Alexandre Costa , Moro Edemar , Lima Eduardo do Valle , Andreotti Marcelo
Published: July 2008

A palhada das plantas de cobertura mantida sobre o solo em plantio direto é uma reserva importante de nutrientes a ser liberada para as culturas subseqüentes, principalmente em regiões de clima tropical, devido às altas taxas de decomposição dos resíduos. O trabalho foi desenvolvido em condições de campo, durante 1998, no Município de Marechal Cândido Rondon, na Região Oeste do Estado do Paraná. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a taxa de decomposição e a velocidade de liberação de macronutrientes da palhada de aveia preta, na Região Oeste do Estado do Paraná. O delineamento experimental foi em blocos casualizados, com quatro repetições. As plantas foram manejadas aos trinta dias após a emergência. A persistência de palhada e a liberação de nutrientes do resíduo de aveia preta foram avaliadas 0, 13, 35 e 53 dias após a rolagem e dessecação. A taxa de decomposição da aveia foi constante (restando 34% do teor inicial) e inversamente proporcional à relação C/N com valor inicial de 34 e final de 50. A maior parte do K é liberada logo após o manejo da aveia preta, restando na última coleta apenas 2% do teor inicial. N, P, Ca e S são liberados de forma gradual, restando na última avaliação, respectivamente, 55%, 42%, 48% e 47% da quantidade acumulada. O K seguido do N são os nutrientes disponibilizados em maior quantidade no solo, atingindo máxima velocidade de liberação entre 10 e 20 dias após o manejo da fitomassa de aveia preta.
Coloração verde nas folhas da cultura do alho vernalizado em resposta à adubação nitrogenada
Authors: Backes Clarice , Lima Claudinei Paulo de , Godoy Leandro José Grava de , Villas Bôas Roberto Lyra , Imaizumi Isao
Published: July 2008

O experimento foi desenvolvido em campo com o objetivo de avaliar a viabilidade do monitoramento da adubação nitrogenada em cobertura, na cultura do alho vernalizado, por meio de medidas indiretas da intensidade de coloração verde nas folhas (medidor de clorofila SPAD), relacionando-as com o estado nutricional das plantas e com a produção de bulbos. O delineamento experimental utilizado foi o de blocos ao acaso, compreendendo seis doses de nitrogênio (0; 20; 40; 80; 160; 320 kg ha-1) com cinco repetições. O N foi aplicado parceladamente em cobertura aos 20 e 75 dias após a emergência. Foram obtidos os dados de intensidade de coloração verde (ICV) e teor de N das folhas, massa média, produção total e classificação de bulbos, segundo o tamanho. A concentração de N e a ICV foram influenciadas pelas doses de N. Houve correlação significativa entre a ICV e o teor de N nas folhas e também entre a produção de bulbos e a ICV e entre a produção e o teor de N. O valor máximo de ICV foi alcançado com a dose de 250 kg ha-1 e a produtividade máxima e a massa média de bulbos foram obtidas na dose de 268 kg ha-1 o que pela proximidade desses valores revelam que o medidor de clorofila pode ser utilizado para recomendação da adubação nitrogenada na cultura do alho. Com a dose de 237 kg ha-1 de N, obteve-se maior rendimento em R$.
Disponibilidade de energia radiante em um sistema agroflorestal com seringueiras: produtividade do feijoeiro
Authors: Righi Ciro Abbud , Bernardes Marcos Silveira
Published: July 2008

O feijoeiro (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) adapta-se bem à radiação difusa, possibilitando seu cultivo em sistemas consorciados. O sistema agroflorestal (SAF) de seringueira (Hevea spp.) e feijoeiro é relatado em diversos países tropicais, com diversas vantagens em termos de produtividade e retorno econômico. Porém, os processos fisiológicos envolvidos na interação entre as duas espécies não estão devidamente compreendidos. Neste estudo, visou-se compreender os efeitos da modificação do ambiente pelas árvores na produtividade do feijoeiro, cultivado em SAF, em função de sua distância. Observo-se que a produtividade do feijoeiro está direta e positivamente relacionada à irradiância disponível, sendo diminuída com a proximidade das árvores. Assim, a mensuração ou estimativa da irradiância pode ser utilizada na predição do desempenho da leguminosa em SAF. O SAF proposto é adequado, visto que o excesso de radiação à cultura intercalar é atenuado pelas seringueiras durante o outono; no inverno, quando não ocorre este excesso, as seringueiras atenuaram menor porcentagem devido à queda de suas folhas. Não foram observadas diferenças no índice de colheita devido ao sombreamento; este, porém foi de 0,54 na semeadura de outono e de 0,38 na de inverno, parecendo ser característico para a cultura e a época de colheita.
O papel da imunofluorescência direta na fisiopatologia e no diagnóstico diferencial da estomatite aftóide recorrente
Authors: Wilhelmsen Niels Salles Willo , Weber Raimar , Miziara Ivan Dieb
Published: July 2008

A estomatite aftóide recorrente é doença caracterizada por aparecimento periódico de aftas na mucosa oral, cuja etiologia e fisiopatologia não estão bem explicadas. Estudos recentes com imunofluorescência direta mostram resultados controversos. Alguns revelam que o distúrbio básico está relacionado à imunidade humoral, enquanto outros apontam alterações da imunidade celular. Formas atípicas de estomatite aftóide podem fazer diagnóstico diferencial com doenças vésico-bolhosas como pênfigo vulgar. OBJETIVO: Verificar a presença de imunecomplexos na mucosa de pacientes com estomatite aftóide e utilidade do método no diagnóstico diferencial com dermatopatias bolhosas. CASUÍSTICA E MÉTODO: 23 pacientes portadores de estomatite aftóide, de modo prospectivo, foram incluídos no estudo. Todos foram submetidos à biópsia de mucosa sob anestesia local para retirada de dois fragmentos. Um deles foi enviado para exame histológico e, outro, para ser realizada a imunofluorescência direta. RESULTADOS: As 23 amostras no exame histológico revelaram processo inflamatório inespecífico ulcerado. As amostras enviadas para imunofluorescência resultaram negativas e apenas uma revelou presença de complemento em membrana basal. CONCLUSÃO: Baseado em nossos resultados, concluímos que pacientes portadores de EAR não apresentam depósitos de imunecomplexos na mucosa da cavidade bucal e a imunofluorescência é útil no diagnóstico diferencial entre a doença e dermatopatias bolhosas.
Avaliação por imagem nos candidatos ao implante coclear: correlação radiológico-cirúrgica
Authors: Lima Júnior Luiz Rodolpho Pena , Rocha Marina David , Walsh Priscilla Vargas , Antunes Camila André , Calhau Clara Maria Dias Ferreira
Published: July 2008

No pré-operatório da cirurgia de Implante Coclear (IC) o estudo por imagem adquire importância fundamental, proporcionando ao cirurgião segurança na indicação e realização da cirurgia. A avaliação ideal compreende a associação entre Tomografia Computadorizada (TC) e Ressonância Nuclear Magnética (RNM). OBJETIVO: Avaliar a acurácia dos exames de imagem como preditores de possíveis complicações durante o ato cirúrgico. Desenho do Estudo: Corte transversal. MATERIAL E MÉTODOS: Foram avaliados por prontuários, 104 pacientes submetidos à cirurgia de IC de maio de 2003 a outubro de 2006. Estes passaram por uma seleção multidisciplinar pré-operatória, e radiológica por TC associada ou não à RNM. RESULTADOS: Excluiu-se 4 pacientes sem registro de exames radiológicos, resultando 100 pacientes. Estes foram divididos em dois grupos: grupo A (TC) apresentou acurácia 69,69%, sensibilidade 36,36%; especificidade 86,36%; Valor Preditivo Positivo (VPP) 57,14%; Valor Preditivo Negativo (VPN) 73,07% e o B (TC e RNM) acurácia 80,59%, sensibilidade 38,46%; especificidade 90,74%; VPP 50,0%; VPN 85,96%. CONCLUSÕES: A avaliação radiológica pré-operatória do IC mostrou-se importante, sendo capaz de identificar alterações anatômicas, evitando, ou ao menos, preparando o cirurgião para possíveis complicações. Esse estudo demonstrou que a avaliação associada com TC e RNM pôde ser considerada superior à TC isoladamente.