bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A família como foco dos cuidados de enfermagem em meio hospitalar: um programa educativo
Authors: Martins Maria Manuela , Fernandes Carla Sílvia , Gonçalves Lucia Hisako Takase
Published: December 2012

Relato de uma experiência de programa educativo para enfermeiros sobre atenção à familia em meio hospitalar. O objetivo foi realizar capacitação de enfermeiros para a assistência da família. As estratégias de ensino/aprendizagem adotadas incidiram sobre o Modelo Calgary de Avaliação e Intervenção de Família junto a um grupo de enfermeiros de um hospital geral localizado na região norte de Portugal. Na avaliação subjetiva dos participantes, a esperiência pedagógica foi útil porque conseguiram perceber a necessidade de mudança no cuidado de enfermagem avançando para um enfoque integrado de atenção à familia.
Fresh and matured lamb meat quality fed with sunflower seeds and vitamin E
Authors: Sales Ronaldo Oliveira , Silva Sobrinho Américo Garcia da , Zeola Nivea Maria Brancacci Lopes , Lima Natália Ludmila Lins , Manzi Gabriela Milani , Almeida Fabiana Alves de , Endo Viviane
Published: December 2012

The objective of the study is to evaluate meat quality from Ile de France lamb fed diets supplemented with sunflower seeds and vitamin E. Thirty-two lamb weighing initially 15kg were housed in individual stalls and slaughtered when body weight reached 32kg. The treatments consisted of four experimental diets: D1) sugarcane + concentrate without sunflower seeds; D2) sugarcane + concentrate with sunflower seeds; D3) sugarcane + concentrate without sunflower seeds plus 1000mg vitamin E kg-1 diet dry matter (DM); and D4) sugarcane + concentrate with sunflower seeds and 1000mg vitamin E kg-1 diet DM. The parameters temperature, pH, color, cooking loss, shear force and water holding capacity were determined at maturation times of 0, 7 and 14 days on the Longissimus dorsi muscle. Qualitative characteristics of the meat were not affected by the sunflower seed combined with vitamin E diet; however, pH 24 hours was affected (P<0.05) by the sunflower seed combined with vitamin E diet. Cooking loss was not significantly influenced (P>0.05) by diet or maturation times. On the other hand, shear force and water holding capacity were significantly affected (P<0.05) by the treatments. The use of vitamin E resulted in lamb meat with higher water holding capacity. Maturation time influenced the parameters pH, color and shear force. Lamb meat that matured for 7 days displayed the lowest shear force.
Predisposing factors for peripheral intravenous puncture failure in children
Authors: Negri Daniela Cavalcante de , Avelar Ariane Ferreira Machado , Andreoni Solange , Pedreira Mavilde da Luz Gonçalvez
Published: December 2012

OBJECTIVE: To identify predisposing factors for peripheral intravenous puncture failure in children. METHODS: Cross-sectional cohort study conducted with 335 children in a pediatric ward of a university hospital after approval of the ethics committee. The Wald Chi-squared, Prevalence Ratio (PR) and backward procedure (p≤0.05) tests were applied. RESULTS: Success of peripheral intravenous puncture was obtained in 300 (89.5%) children and failure in 35 (10.4%). The failure rates were significantly influenced by: presence of clinical history of difficult venous access, malnourishment, previous use of peripherally inserted central venous catheter, previous use of central venous catheter, and history of phlebitis or infiltration. In the multivariate model, being malnourished and having previously been submitted to central venous catheterization were the predisposing factors for the failure. CONCLUSION: The failure rate of 10.4% is similar to that identified in analogous studies and was influenced by characteristics of the children and intravenous therapy. In association with this, malnutrition and previous use of a central venous catheter were the most important variables influencing increase in peripheral intravenous puncture failure.
Relational skills: needs experienced by nursing students
Authors: Lopes Rosa Cristina Correia , Azeredo Zaida de Aguiar Sá , Rodrigues Rogério Manuel Clemente
Published: December 2012

OBJECTIVE: to identify the needs of nursing students in the field of relational competencies. METHOD: qualitative study with an exploratory-descriptive nature. The random sample included 62 students in the 2nd year of the nursing undergraduate program of a school located in the central region of Portugal. The inclusion criterion was the nonexistence of clinical teaching. Data were collected through a form designed to assess relational needs; content analysis was used to analyze data. RESULTS: the results indicated that the students' concept of nursing care at this stage of their education is focused on the performance of nursing tasks and techniques instead of on scientific knowledge. Overall, they are aware that greater personal development and better self-knowledge are determinant for their personal and social well-being and for them to become good professionals. CONCLUSION: these results will support the improvement of an intervention program to be developed with these students.
Persons living with AIDS in nurses' social representations: analysis of central, contranormative and attitudinal elements
Authors: Costa Tadeu Lessa da , Oliveira Denize Cristina de , Formozo Gláucia Alexandre , Gomes Antonio Marcos Tosoli
Published: December 2012

OBJECTIVES: to describe and analyze the centrality, the mute zone and the attitudes expressed in nurses' social representations of people with Human Immunodeficiency Virus. METHOD: the subjects were 30 nurses from a university hospital in Rio de Janeiro. The data was collected using a Likert scale. RESULTS: the data pointed to a process of representational change regarding Human Immunodeficiency Virus / Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, with the assumption of a more positive attitude regarding living with this health issue. The hypothesis of the existence of a mute zone in the representation, comprising elements with a contranormative character, was strengthened. CONCLUSION: the influence of the dynamics of social normativity on how the social representations studied are expressed may contribute to a better understanding of its structuring process. It also helps in the analysis of possible gaps among the nurses' discourses and practices in relation to Human Immunodeficiency Virus / Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome.
Factors associated with sleep quality in the elderly receiving chemotherapy
Authors: Mansano-Schlosser Thalyta Cristina , Ceolim Maria Filomena
Published: December 2012

OBJECTIVE: to evaluate the characteristics of sleep and the factors associated with the quality of sleep in elderly patients receiving outpatient chemotherapy treatment. METHOD: cross-sectional study with 140 elderly patients (51.2% female, average age 69.8 years) with stage III or stage IV cancer (67.9%), undertaken in a university hospital in the state of São Paulo in 2010. The following instruments were used: sociodemographic and clinical characterization questionnaire, validated by specialists; Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index; Piper Fatigue Scale-reviewed; and a scale for the subjective measurement of pain. RESULTS: the majority of the elderly (62.9%) had a score compatible with poor sleep quality. On average, the duration of sleep was 388.0 minutes, latency was 44.6 minutes and efficiency of 83.8%. Through multiple logistic regression analysis, an increase of 21% in the probability of having poor sleep quality was observed for each single-point increase in the intensity of the pain. CONCLUSION: nursing interventions aiming to promote better sleep quality for elderly patients with cancer must include measures for pain control.
Framing the difficulties resulting from implementing a Participatory Management Model in a public hospital
Authors: Bernardes Andrea , Cummings Greta , Évora Yolanda Dora Martinez , Gabriel Carmen Silvia
Published: December 2012

OBJECTIVE: This study aims to address difficulties reported by the nursing team during the process of changing the management model in a public hospital in Brazil. METHODS: This qualitative study used thematic content analysis as proposed by Bardin, and data were analyzed using the theoretical framework of Bolman and Deal. RESULTS: The vertical implementation of Participatory Management contradicted its underlying philosophy and thereby negatively influenced employee acceptance of the change. The decentralized structure of the Participatory Management Model was implemented but shared decision-making was only partially utilized. Despite facilitation of the communication process within the unit, more significant difficulties arose from lack of communication inter-unit. Values and principals need to be shared by teams, however, that will happens only if managers restructure accountabilities changing job descriptions of all team members. CONCLUSION: Innovative management models that depart from the premise of decentralized decision-making and increased communication encourage accountability, increased motivation and satisfaction, and contribute to improving the quality of care. The contribution of the study is that it describes the complexity of implementing an innovative management model, examines dissent and intentionally acknowledges the difficulties faced by employees in the organization.
Attitudes of nursing professionals towards suicidal behavior: influence of emotional intelligence
Authors: Carmona-Navarro Mª Carmen , Pichardo-Martínez Mª Carmen
Published: December 2012

OBJECTIVE: To assess attitudes and the influence of emotional intelligence is the objective of this work. METHOD: Nursing professionals answered a questionnaire that assessed the attitude towards suicide and emotional intelligence. RESULTS: The results show a general adverse attitude towards suicidal behavior. The moral dimension of suicide makes the differences between mental health and emergency professionals. CONCLUSIONS: Possessing a higher degree of mental health training and a high level of emotional intelligence is associated with a more positive attitude towards patients with suicidal behavior. The formation and development of emotional skills are essential for care delivery to patients with suicidal behavior.
Poder Judiciário e Competição Política: as eleições de 2010 e a lei da "ficha-limpa"
Authors: Falcão Joaquim , Oliveira Fabiana Luci de
Published: December 2012

O objetivo é discutir a percepção do brasileiro em relação ao papel do Poder Judiciário no processo de competição política e as consequências desta percepção para a governança eleitoral. Para isso, exploramos as eleições ocorridas em outubro de 2010 e o episódio da lei da "ficha limpa". Ao contrário da maioria dos estudos correntes que focam na percepção do Judiciário como instituição única, abordamos as especificidades da justiça eleitoral como poder político e prestador de serviço público - lembrando que a justiça eleitoral atua não apenas resolvendo litígios mas organizando e realizando o processo eleitoral. Adicionamos novos elementos empíricos a uma questão antiga: o brasileiro confia ou desconfia do Poder Judiciário? Nosso argumento é de que quando se trata da organização e fiscalização das eleições, o brasileiro confia no Judiciário como garantidor da realização e lisura do processo eleitoral. Mas quando se trata da resolução de conflitos, o brasileiro tende a desconfiar do Judiciário - lento, caro e de difícil acesso. O nível educacional é decisivo para determinar esta percepção - quanto maior o nível educacional, mais favorável a visão do Judiciário. A base para a discussão é dada pelos resultados de um survey conduzido pela FGV Direito Rio uma semana após o segundo turno das eleições de outubro de 2010.
Como avaliar a deliberação online?: um mapeamento de critérios relevantes
Authors: Sampaio Rafael Cardoso , Barros Samuel Anderson Rocha , Morais Ricardo
Published: December 2012

Este artigo explora os critérios utilizados nas pesquisas da área de Deliberação Online. Através de uma ampla revisão de literatura, foram selecionados os 59 artigos que elencam os indicadores a serem medidos em discussões na internet. Nestes artigos, foram encontrados, ao todo, 369 critérios, com média de 6,25 por artigo e desvio padrão de 2,69. Em um segundo momento, o esforço da pesquisa se deu no agrupamento de tais critérios em categorias mais amplas e conectadas aos princípios deliberativos. Os critérios foram então resumidos a 8 categorias, a saber: Justificação, Reciprocidade, Reflexividade, Respeito, Pluralidade, Igualdade, Informação e Tópico. Conclui-se que, apesar dos muitos critérios utilizados, não se trata de uma dispersão dos estudos de deliberação online. Este resultado está ligado às diferentes correntes teóricas da democracia deliberativa, à difícil operacionalização dos critérios, à necessidade de critérios específicos para os diferentes contextos e objetos de análise e, em vários casos, à simples diferença de taxonomia.
Improved assessment of wheat seeds vigor
Authors: Carvalho Tereza Cristina de , Krzyzanowski Francisco Carlos , Ohlson Osvaldo de Castro , Panobianco Maristela
Published: December 2012

The tetrazolium test is widely used for seed vigor assessment of various plant species. For wheat, however, there is no methodology specifically recommended. This study aimed at determining an efficient procedure to evaluate vigor of wheat seeds by this test; besides allowing the establishment of seed quality classes. Thus, four different wheat seed lots were assessed by determining the moisture content and through tests of germination, accelerated aging, and field seedling emergence. The following methodologies were assessed: 1) longitudinal bisection of seed, with subsequent placement of the two halves on filter paper moistened with a 1.0% tetrazolium solution, at 30º C, for 2 h; 2) longitudinal bisection, with subsequent immersion of one seed half into a 1.0% tetrazolium solution, at 30º C, for 3 h; and 3) longitudinal bisection, with subsequent immersion of one seed half into a 0.075% tetrazolium solution, at 40º C, for 2 h. It was concluded that the tetrazolium test is more efficient in evaluating wheat seed vigor when performed with immersion of one half of the seed into a 0.075% tetrazolium solution (40º C, for 2 h) or a 0.1% tetrazolium solution (30º C, during 3 h); allowing to sort seeds into four quality classes.
Construção de espaços de escuta, diagnóstico e análise coletiva de problemas de saúde pública com a linguagem teatral: o caso das oficinas de jogos teatrais sobre a dengue
Authors: Oliveira Denise Figueira de , Mendonça Cínthia Cristina Resende , Meirelles Rosane Moreira Silva de , Coutinho Claudia Mara Lara Melo , Araújo-Jorge Tania Cremonini , Luz Mauricio Roberto Motta Pinto da
Published: December 2012

As características históricas, sociais e ecológicas da dengue têm motivado ações de educação em saúde visando medidas preventivas. Ações educativas e comunitárias que partam do contexto da população envolvida têm sido apontadas como cruciais. No presente estudo, investigou-se a utilização da linguagem teatral como estratégia para caracterizar as concepções de educadores envolvidos na prevenção da dengue, por meio de Oficinas de Jogos Teatrais. A linguagem teatral foi escolhida por ser dialógica, estabelecer relação com a inventividade da ciência, estimular a colaboração e provocar a ação espontânea dos participantes. A análise dos resultados evidenciou o relato dos educadores sobre a sensação de isolamento profissional bem como a desconfiança quanto à credibilidade do poder executivo. Concluímos que é possível utilizar experiências teatrais para organizar espaços propícios à análise coletiva de situações ligadas a problemas de saúde pública, estimulando ações cooperativas por parte dos educadores.
Sistema internacional de hegemonia conservadora: o fracasso da Rio + 20 na governança dos limites planetários
Authors: Viola Eduardo , Franchini Matías
Published: December 2012

Em um artigo seminal, Rockström et al. (2009) inauguraram uma nova forma de abordar os problemas ambientais. A abordagem das fronteiras planetárias aparece como um instrumento analítico fundamental para avaliar a governança global do ambiente e, em um sentido mais profundo, para refletir sobre o rumo civilizatório da humanidade. O nosso objetivo nesse artigo, é fazer uma avaliação da Rio+20 utilizando como critério a governança global das fronteiras planetárias. No caminho, fazemos especial referência ao papel do Brasil na Cúpula. Nossa conclusão principal é que a Rio+20 foi um fracasso desde o ponto de vista da definição de um espaço de operação segura para a humanidade e que ele é expressão de um sistema internacional bloqueado e dominado por forças conservadoras. Nesse cenário, o Brasil aparece como uma potência ambiental subdesenvolvida (underachiever environmental power): a combinação de um enorme capital ambiental físico com um deficiente capital ambiental social.
Rio+20 ou Rio-20?: crônica de um fracasso anunciado
Authors: Guimarães Roberto Pereira , Fontoura Yuna Souza dos Reis da
Published: December 2012

Passadas quatro décadas da Conferência de Estocolmo sobre o Meio Ambiente Humano, e decorridos apenas alguns meses da Rio+20, parece apropriado analisar o caminho percorrido a partir de Rio-92 e os desafios, em grande parte frustrados, da conferência recém concluída no Rio de Janeiro. Para tais propósitos, são analisados os avanços e retrocessos da agenda global de desenvolvimento sustentável, do processo preparatório e dos resultados alcançados no Rio em Junho de 2012, como também das ameaças provocadas pela nova agenda de segurança estratégica após os eventos de 11 Setembro de 2001 e pela crise econômica e financeira que já dura praticamente uma década. O artigo conclui com as perspectivas da agenda internacional nos próximos anos.
Environmental impact assessment, from Rio-92 to Rio+20 and beyond
Authors: Sánchez Luis E. , Croal Peter
Published: December 2012

The 1992 Rio Earth Summit was of paramount importance in the consolidation and international dissemination of environmental impact assessment, officially recognized as a tool for informed decision-making towards sustainable development (Principle 17, Rio Declaration) and for protection of biodiversity (Article 14, Convention on Biological Diversity). A significant development afterwards was the strengthening of strategic environmental assessment in the design of policies, plans and programs. Both forms of impact assessment can establish the necessary connections between one goal of the Rio+20 Conference - reaching an agreement on the transition to a green economy - and the underpinning decision making processes. Although the Rio+20 Summit has faced challenges to acknowledge its potential, impact assessment should be strengthened in support of both government and business decisions.
Conflitos socioambientais no extrativismo da aroeira (Schinus terebebinthifolius Raddi), Baixo São Francisco - Sergipe/Alagoas
Authors: Jesus Nádia Batista de , Gomes Laura Jane
Published: December 2012

Esta pesquisa analisou os conflitos socioambientais envolvidos no extrativismo da aroeira no Baixo São Francisco, Sergipe e Alagoas. A pesquisa aconteceu entre os anos de 2001 e 2011, por meio da realização de entrevistas com os atores envolvidos e pesquisa documental. As informações foram analisadas quanto à conduta diante do extrativismo e tipificação dos conflitos. A ausência de normatização para o manejo da espécie é o fator central gerador do conflito que se dá pela apropriação e acesso à aroeira. Os pescadores que são também extrativistas coletam a espécie como um recurso econômico e as empresas processadoras - exportadoras como mercadoria. Existem conflitos entre esferas de governo quanto às competências para normatização do licenciamento e fiscalização da atividade. Constatou-se a necessidade de formulação de uma gestão florestal sustentável para a espécie na qual se garanta o diálogo e cooperação entre os atores envolvidos.
Análise da vulnerabilidade da microrregião de Itajubá por meio do IVG com vistas à mitigação dos impactos causados pelas mudanças climáticas
Authors: Tibúrcio Luiz Henrique , Corrêa Marcelo de Paula
Published: December 2012

A vulnerabilidade dos municípios que compõem a microrregião de Itajubá, MG, Brasil, foi avaliada por meio da regionalização do Índice de Vulnerabilidade Geral - IVG, metodologia desenvolvida pela Fiocruz com base em indicadores socioeconômicos, epidemiológicos e climáticos. O resultado aponta para o fator socioeconômico como principal contribuinte para a vulnerabilidade na região. A análise de eventos extremos de precipitação, utilizada como indicador climático, mostrou que a variabilidade do clima foi um fator expressivo de vulnerabilidade em 30% dos municípios. A baixa qualidade dos dados epidemiológicos na escala analisada, sobretudo as taxas de incidência, foi o principal fator complicador para regionalização do IVG.
Numerical simulation of the mechanical performance of deep beam
Authors: Madureira E. L. , Ávila J.I.S.L.
Published: December 2012

The purpose of this paper is the analysis of the mechanical performance of concrete deep beams. To overcome the shortcomings inherent to the pioneer models, the finite element approximation on a non linear orthotropic model is employed. The obtained results showed that the practiced range on steel reinforcement did not influence, significantly, the beam performance, and one testifies a behavior, in the overall way, pursuant the fashion accepted in the scientific literature on the subject. Nevertheless, it should be detached that the material failure resulted from the concrete crushing on beneath load region, in addition to the occurrence of horizontal tensile stress and "snap back", at the upper edge in the center region, for the beams of greatest height.
Shear strength of reinforced concrete circular cross-section beams
Authors: Teixeira P. W. G. N. , Maffei C. E. M. , Guazzelli M. C.
Published: December 2012

A proposed adequation of NBR 6118, Item 7.4, related to shear strength of reinforced concrete beams is presented with aims to application on circular cross-section. The actual expressions are most suitable to rectangular cross-section and some misleading occurs when applied to circular sections at determination of VRd2, Vc and Vsw, as consequence of bw (beam width) and d (effective depth) definitions as well as the real effectiveness of circular stirrups. The proposed adequation is based on extensive bibliographic review and practical experience with a great number of infrastructure elements, such as anchored retaining pile walls, where the use of circular reinforced concrete members is frequent.
A study on the behavior of beam-column connections in precast concrete structures: experimental analysis
Authors: Kataoka M. N. , Ferreira M. A. , El Debs A. L. H. C.
Published: December 2012

Due to the large increase in the use of precast concrete structures in multistory buildings, this work covers a study on the behavior of beam-column connection with emphasis on the continuity provided by the slab reinforcement. Two prototypes were tested, each one with a different detail of the continuity reinforcement distribution. In both connections, the steel area used on the concrete cover of the hollow core slab was the same, varying the amount of bars that passed through the column and the ones that were placed adjacent to the column. The experimental results showed that the connection with bars adjacent to the column presented stiffness increase and a better cracking control. According to the classification the two tested connections can be considered semi-rigid.
Stability of a strip foundation on a sand embankment over mine tailings
Authors: HOSSAIN M.S. , FOURIE A.
Published: December 2012

Earthmoving equipment working on a progressively placed cover layer over mine tailings often experiences catastrophic ‘rotational' (or ‘punch-through') failure, with potential for loss of the equipment and harm to the operator. Although the performance of foundations on a homogeneous sand or clay slope is routinely calculated and investigated, comprehensive investigation of a thin, stronger slope overlying a softer layer is scarce. This paper reports the results of centrifuge model tests undertaken to provide insight into strip foundation behaviour during penetration, with freedom in horizontal displacement and rotation, adjacent to a sand embankment (cover layer), into a weaker clay layer (representing mine tailings). Variables were the set-back of the edge of the foundation from the crest of the slope, the height of the slope relative to the foundation size, and the normalised strength of the lower clay layer. Soil movement was captured continuously by a digital camera, and subsequently quantified through particle image velocimetry (PIV) analysis. The load–penetration responses were separately recorded. The effect of normalised set-back ratio (λ = b/B), slope height (η = H/B) and clay strength (sus/γcB) on the evolving soil flow mechanisms and the penetration resistance profile is discussed in the context of the likelihood and severity of failure. Rotational failure, with a peak in penetration resistance followed by some reduction, occurred for all cases investigated except for a higher set-back of λ = 1·5. The severity of failure was greater the closer the proximity of the footing to the slope crest, and the greater the height of the slope, whereas it reduced as the normalised strength of the lower layer increased. Typical critical failure occurred in clear shear planes pushing a (nominally) rigid block of soil, with the shape of a hemisphere followed by a wedge, towards the slope.
NEON terrestrial field observations: designing continental‐scale, standardized sampling
Authors: Kao Rebecca Hufft , Gibson Cara M. , Gallery Rachel E. , Meier Courtney L. , Barnett David T. , Docherty Kathryn M. , Blevins Kali K. , Travers Patrick D. , Azuaje Elena , Springer Yuri P. , Thibault Katherine M. , McKenzie Valerie J. , Keller Michael , Alves Luciana F. , Hinckley Eve-Lyn S. , Parnell Jacob , Schimel David
Published: December 2012

Rapid changes in climate and land use and the resulting shifts in species distributions and ecosystem functions have motivated the development of the National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON). Integrating across spatial scales from ground sampling to remote sensing, NEON will provide data for users to address ecological responses to changes in climate, land use, and species invasion across the United States for at least 30 years. Although NEON remote sensing and tower sensor elements are relatively well known, the biological measurements are not. This manuscript describes NEON terrestrial sampling, which targets organisms across a range of generation and turnover times, and a hierarchy of measurable biological states. Measurements encompass species diversity, abundance, phenology, demography, infectious disease, ecohydrology, and biogeochemistry. The continental‐scale sampling requires collection of comparable and calibrated data using transparent methods. Data will be publicly available in a variety of formats and suitable for integration with other long‐term efforts. NEON will provide users with the data necessary to address large‐scale questions, challenge current ecological paradigms, and forecast ecological change.
Anxiety and the Influences of Flow, Trauma, and Fantasy Experiences on Dancers
Authors: Thomson Paula , Jaque S. Victoria
Published: December 2012

This study investigated the psychological effects of anxiety on professional and pre-professional dancers ( n = 73), in particular the relationships between anxiety and flow, past traumatic events, and fantasy. Results demonstrated that anxiety was statistically related to increased age, total traumatic events, increased fantasy proneness, with no association to flow. All dancers experienced moderate-to-high global flow experiences, and 75.3% of the dancers endorsed high autotelic experiences (an ability to regularly transform potential threats into positive flow experiences). In a stepwise linear regression analysis, together past traumatic events and fantasy explained 19.4% of the variance for anxiety. Greater mean scores for total traumatic events and lower autotelic flow experiences were found in the dancers with pathological levels of anxiety. Since 23.3% of the dancers endorsed clinical levels of anxiety (panic), further understanding regarding panic and anxiety in a dancer population is recommended, specifically the predictive role fantasy proneness and past traumatic experiences may play in anxiety symptomatology.
Suicide and Homicide Bereavement among African Americans: Implications for Survivor Research and Practice
Authors: Sharpe Tanya L. , Joe Sean , Taylor Katie C.
Published: December 2012

Suicide and homicide are among the leading causes of death for young African-American men; however, little is known about how family members cope with these types of deaths. This exploratory phenomenological study examines the traumatic loss and coping experiences of a purposive convenience sample of 12 immediate African-American surviving family members with a combined experience of 13 deaths, 8 suicides and 5 homicides. Novel aspects of suicide and homicide survivor phenomenon were identified, including Survivor Responses and Reactions, Coping Strategies, and Survivor Service Needs. The implications for research and for those providing services to surviving African-American families are discussed.
The thermodynamic database COST MP0602 for materials for high-temperature lead-free soldering
Authors: Kroupa A. , Dinsdale A. , Watson A. , Vrestal J. , Zemanova A. , Broz P.
Published: December 2012

The current state of thermodynamic modelling in the field of high-temperature
lead-free soldering is presented. A consistent thermodynamic database,
containing 18 elements (Ag, Al, Au, Bi, Co, Cu, Ga, Ge, Mg, Ni, P, Pb, Pd,
Sb, Sn, Ti and Zn) has been created. The thermodynamic data for the most of
the important binary and selected ternary systems were checked and included
into the database. The database was tested using major commercial software
packages. Such reliable and sophisticated software coupled to reliable
thermodynamic databases are necessary prerequisites for application of
thermodynamics in advanced alloys design.
Thermodynamic reassessment of the La-Mn system
Authors: Wang Y. , Hu B. , Liu S. , Du Y.
Published: December 2012

The binary La-Mn system is investigated by CALPHAD approach. The experimental
phase diagram and thermodynamic data available in the literature are
critically reviewed and assessed using the thermodynamic models for the Gibbs
energies of individual phases. A set of consistent thermodynamic data for the
La-Mn system is obtained by optimization of the selected experimental data.
The miscibility gap is no more existent in the optimized phase diagram. The
calculated phase diagram agrees well with the experimental data.
A medieval motif of beneficence and related folklore parallels: Alms and sale of saints
Authors: Petrovic Sonja
Published: December 2012

In the Middle Ages, beneficence, alms and charity represented vivid reality
and literary topic. Motifs and topoi of beneficence are formed according to
poetic and generic rules, they adapt to particular lives and types of saints,
and become part of models of sanctity. The motif of the saint who sells
himself into slavery in order to achieve the ideal of beneficence and virtue
is noted in the apocryphal Acts of Thomas the Apostle in India, and in lives
of St. Saint Sava the Serbian, St. Serapionn the Sindonite, St. Paulinus of
Nola, and St. Peter the Merciful. The same motif is noted in Serbian
Folktales in altered form, where it is manifested as inversion and
assimilation of the model of sale of saints. Further comparative research of
medieval literature and folklore should shed more light on these and other
relations.
Gunduliceva proslava u Beogradu 1938. godine
Authors: Djordjevic Bojan
Published: December 2012

nema
Recepcija srpske knjizevnosti u Rumuniji u poslednje dve decenije
Authors: Nedelku Oktavija
Published: December 2012

nema
Novel Small-Molecule PGC-1α Transcriptional Regulator With Beneficial Effects on Diabetic db/db Mice
Authors: Zhang Li-Na , Zhou Hua-Yong , Fu Yan-Yun , Li Yuan-Yuan , Wu Fang , Gu Min , Wu Ling-Yan , Xia Chun-Mei , Dong Tian-Cheng , Li Jing-Ya , Shen Jing-Kang , Li Jia
Published: December 2012

Peroxisome proliferator–activated receptor-γ coactivator-1α (PGC-1α) has been shown to influence energy metabolism. Hence, we explored a strategy to target PGC-1α expression to treat metabolic syndromes. We developed a high-throughput screening assay that uses the human PGC-1α promoter to drive expression of luciferase. The effects of lead compound stimulation on PGC-1α expression in muscle cells and hepatocytes were investigated in vitro and in vivo. A novel small molecule, ZLN005, led to changes in PGC-1α mRNA levels, glucose uptake, and fatty acid oxidation in L6 myotubes. Activation of AMP-activated protein kinase was involved in the induction of PGC-1α expression. In diabetic db/db mice, chronic administration of ZLN005 increased PGC-1α and downstream gene transcription in skeletal muscle, whereas hepatic PGC-1α and gluconeogenesis genes were reduced. ZLN005 increased fat oxidation and improved the glucose tolerance, pyruvate tolerance, and insulin sensitivity of diabetic db/db mice. Hyperglycemia and dyslipidemia also were ameliorated after treatment with ZLN005. Our results demonstrated that a novel small molecule selectively elevated the expression of PGC-1α in myotubes and skeletal muscle and exerted promising therapeutic effects for treating type 2 diabetes.
Angiotensin 1-7 as Means to Prevent the Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Marcus Yonit , Shefer Gabi , Sasson Keren , Kohen Fortune , Limor Rona , Pappo Orit , Nevo Nava , Biton Inbal , Bach Michal , Berkutzki Tamara , Fridkin Matityahu , Benayahu Dafna , Shechter Yoram , Stern Naftali
Published: December 2012

We studied the effects of chronic angiotensin 1-7 (Ang 1-7) treatment in an experimental model of the metabolic syndrome, i.e., rats given high-fructose/low-magnesium diet (HFrD). Rats were fed on HFrD for 24 weeks with and without Ang 1-7 (576 µg/kg/day, s.c., Alzet pumps). After 6 months, Ang 1-7–treated animals had lower body weight (−9.5%), total fat mass (detected by magnetic resonance imaging), and serum triglycerides (−51%), improved glucose tolerance, and better insulin sensitivity. Similar metabolic effects were also evident, albeit in the absence of weight loss, in rats first exposed to HFrD for 5 months and then subjected to short-term (4 weeks) treatment with Ang 1-7. Six months of Ang 1-7 treatment were associated with lower plasma renin activity (−40%) and serum aldosterone (−48%), less hepatosteatatitis, and a reduction in epididymal adipocyte volume. The marked attenuation of macrophage infiltration in white adipose tissue (WAT) was associated with reduced levels of the pP65 protein in the epididymal fat tissue, suggesting less activation of the nuclear factor-κB (NFκB) pathway in Ang 1-7–treated rats. WAT from Ang 1-7–treated rats showed reduced NADPH-stimulated superoxide production. In single muscle fibers (myofibers) harvested and grown ex vivo for 10 days, myofibers from HFrD rats gave rise to 20% less myogenic cells than the Ang 1-7–treated rats. Fully developed adipocytes were present in most HFrD myofiber cultures but entirely absent in cultures from Ang 1-7–treated rats. In summary, Ang 1-7 had an ameliorating effect on insulin resistance, hypertriglyceridemia, fatty liver, obesity, adipositis, and myogenic and adipogenic differentiation in muscle tissue in the HFrD rats.
Detrimental Effects of Diet-Induced Obesity on τ Pathology Are Independent of Insulin Resistance in τ Transgenic Mice
Authors: Leboucher Antoine , Laurent Cyril , Fernandez-Gomez Francisco-José , Burnouf Sylvie , Troquier Laetitia , Eddarkaoui Sabiha , Demeyer Dominique , Caillierez Raphaëlle , Zommer Nadège , Vallez Emmanuelle , Bantubungi Kadiombo , Breton Christophe , Pigny Pascal , Buée-Scherrer Valérie , Staels Bart , Hamdane Malika , Tailleux Anne , Buée Luc , Blum David
Published: December 2012

The τ pathology found in Alzheimer disease (AD) is crucial in cognitive decline. Midlife development of obesity, a major risk factor of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes, increases the risk of dementia and AD later in life. The impact of obesity on AD risk has been suggested to be related to central insulin resistance, secondary to peripheral insulin resistance. The effects of diet-induced obesity (DIO) on τ pathology remain unknown. In this study, we evaluated effects of a high-fat diet, given at an early pathological stage, in the THY-Tau22 transgenic mouse model of progressive AD-like τ pathology. We found that early and progressive obesity potentiated spatial learning deficits as well as hippocampal τ pathology at a later stage. Surprisingly, THY-Tau22 mice did not exhibit peripheral insulin resistance. Further, pathological worsening occurred while hippocampal insulin signaling was upregulated. Together, our data demonstrate that DIO worsens τ phosphorylation and learning abilities in τ transgenic mice independently from peripheral/central insulin resistance.
Postpregnancy Glycemic Control and Weight Changes in Type 1 Diabetic Women
Authors: Cyganek Katarzyna , Hebda-Szydlo Alicja , Skupien Jan , Janas Izabela , Walczyk Joanna , Lipowska Anna , Borys Sebastian , Malecki Maciej T.
Published: December 2012

OBJECTIVE

Pregnancy in type 1 diabetes requires excellent glycemic control. Most pregnant type 1 diabetic women achieve normoglycemia; however, there is scarce data on their postdelivery characteristics. We aimed to examine postpregnancy glycemic control and weight changes in type 1 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We identified and followed (median 20 months) 254 women with singleton pregnancies receiving postdelivery medical care at a single institution.

RESULTS

Study subjects were 28.3 ± 4.7 years of age (mean ± SD), with a diabetes duration of 12.0 ± 7.7 years. Mean A1C before conception was 6.9 ± 1.4%, and preconception weight and BMI were 64.4 ± 10.0 kg and 23.9 ± 3.3 kg/m2, respectively. Mean A1C decreased during pregnancy, reaching 5.7 ± 0.8% in the third trimester. We observed a mean weight gain of 14.4 ± 6.5 kg during pregnancy. Within 6 months after delivery, A1C increased by 0.8% (P < 0.0001) compared with the last trimester, and body weight and BMI were 4.4 kg and 2.5 kg/m2 higher (P < 0.0001) compared with the preconception baseline. A1C further deteriorated by 0.8% until the end of follow-up. For women in the “pregnancy planning” program (n = 117), A1C >12 months after delivery was worse compared with before conception (7.1 vs. 6.5%, P = 0.0018), whereas in women with unplanned pregnancies, it was similar to the pregestational levels (7.3 vs.7.4%, P = 0.59). Weight and BMI in the entire study group did not return to prepregnancy levels and were 2.5 kg (P = 0.0079) and 0.9 kg/m2 higher (P = 0.0058).

CONCLUSIONS

In this clinical observation, type 1 diabetic women showed postpregnancy deterioration in glycemic control and were unable to return to prepregnancy weight. Type 1 diabetic women seem to require special attention after delivery to meet therapeutic targets.
Serum Fructosamine and Glycated Albumin and Risk of Mortality and Clinical Outcomes in Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Shafi Tariq , Sozio Stephen M. , Plantinga Laura C. , Jaar Bernard G. , Kim Edward T. , Parekh Rulan S. , Steffes Michael W. , Powe Neil R. , Coresh Josef , Selvin Elizabeth
Published: December 2012

OBJECTIVE

Assays for serum total glycated proteins (fructosamine) and the more specific glycated albumin may be useful indicators of hyperglycemia in dialysis patients, either as substitutes or adjuncts to standard markers such as hemoglobin A1c, as they are not affected by erythrocyte turnover. However, their relationship with long-term outcomes in dialysis patients is not well described.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We measured fructosamine and glycated albumin in baseline samples from 503 incident hemodialysis participants of a national prospective cohort study, with enrollment from 1995–1998 and median follow-up of 3.5 years. Outcomes were all-cause and cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality and morbidity (first CVD event and first sepsis hospitalization) analyzed using Cox regression adjusted for demographic and clinical characteristics, and comorbidities.

RESULTS

Mean age was 58 years, 64% were white, 54% were male, and 57% had diabetes. There were 354 deaths (159 from CVD), 302 CVD events, and 118 sepsis hospitalizations over follow-up. Both fructosamine and glycated albumin were associated with all-cause mortality; adjusted HR per doubling of the biomarker was 1.96 (95% CI 1.38–2.79) for fructosamine and 1.40 (1.09–1.80) for glycated albumin. Both markers were also associated with CVD mortality [fructosamine 2.13 (1.28–3.54); glycated albumin 1.55 (1.09–2.21)]. Higher values of both markers were associated with trends toward a higher risk of hospitalization with sepsis [fructosamine 1.75 (1.01–3.02); glycated albumin 1.39 (0.94–2.06)].

CONCLUSIONS

Serum fructosamine and glycated albumin are risk factors for mortality and morbidity in hemodialysis patients.
Self-Reported Physical Fitness in Frail Older Persons: Reliability and Validity of the Self-Assessment of Physical Fitness (SAPF)
Authors: Weening-Dijksterhuis Elizabeth , de Greef Mathieu H. G. , Krijnen Wim , van der Schans Cees P.
Published: December 2012

In very old and/ or frail older people living in long-term care facilities, physical inactivity negatively affects activities of daily living. The main reason to assess older adults' perceived fitness is to establish the relation with their beliefs about their ability to perform physical activity adjusted to daily tasks. The Self-Assessment of Physical Fitness scale was developed to address these needs. The aim of this study was to estimate the test-retest reliability and construct validity of the scale. 76 elderly people ( M age = 86.0 yr., SD = 6.3) completed the test. Cronbach's α was .71. One-week test-retest reliability ICC's ranged from .66 (SAPF aerobic endurance and SAPF balance) to .70 (SAPF sum score). Concurrent validity with the Groningen Fitness Test for the Elderly was fair to moderate. Despite the limited number of participants ( N = 76), results suggest that the scale may be useful as an assessment of perceived fitness in older adults.
Prehabilitation and Quality of Life Three Months after Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Pilot Study
Authors: Brown Kent , Brosky Joseph A. , Topp Robert , Lajoie A. Scott
Published: December 2012

Knee osteoarthritis (OA), which affects over 27 million Americans, decreases the individual's quality of life through decreasing mobility, deconditioning, reducing functional ability, and increasing knee pain. The present aim was to assess whether such patients engaging in exercise prior to surgery (“prehabilitation”; preoperative exercise intervention) rate higher quality of life 3 mo. after their surgery compared with ratings by patients who did not engage in prehabilitation. Standard populations consist of OA patients that do not participate in any preoperative exercise programs, such as a prehabilitation exercise intervention. 18 knee osteoarthritis patients were randomly assigned to a control or a prehabilitation group. The latter group participated in an exercise intervention three times per week, once at home and twice at the physical therapy lab, for 8 wk. prior to their surgery. The control group participated in their usual preoperative care prescribed by the physician for all patients. Eight health-related quality of life domains were assessed at 3 mo. post surgery. These preliminary findings suggest efficacy of prehabilitation in facilitating quality of life of total knee arthroplasty (TKA) patients 3 mo. after surgery.
Influence of Practice with Within-Trials and Inter-Trials Changes of Target Velocity in Improving Movement Correction
Authors: Ikudome Sachi , Ishii Yasumitsu , Nakamoto Hiroki , Kanehisa Hiroaki , Mori Shiro
Published: December 2012

In the present study, the influences of two practice methods on movement correction during interceptive action was examined. Fourteen men practiced intercepting a moving virtual target. One group practiced on a target that changed velocity from 4 to 8 m/sec. during the trial (within-trials change group). The other group practiced under Slow and Fast conditions, in which the initial velocity (4 or 8 m/sec.) remained constant (inter-trials change group). After the practice, both groups showed similar decreases in temporal errors in interception of an acceleration target. However, the within-trials change group showed non-corrected movements, whereas the inter-trials change group showed corrective movements. Thus, the practice methods for within-trials and inter-trials change resulted in different corrective strategies to acceleration target.
Jordan–3: Measuring Visual Reversals in Children as Symptoms of Learning Disability and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Authors: Jordan Brian T. , Martin Nancy , Austin J. Sue
Published: December 2012

The purpose of this research was to establish new norms for the Jordan–3 for children ages 5 to 18 years. The research also investigated the frequency of visual reversals in children previously identified as having reading disability, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and broader learning disabilities. Participants were regular education students, ages 5 through 18 years, and special education students previously diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, reading disability, or broader learning disability. Jordan–3 Accuracy and Error raw scores were compared to assess if there was a significant difference between the two groups. Mean Accuracy and Error scores were compared for males and females. Children with learning disability and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder had higher reversals when compared to regular education children, which lends continued support to the Jordan–3 as a valid and reliable measure of visual reversals in children and adolescents. This study illustrates the utility of the Jordan–3 when assessing children who may require remediation to reach their academic potential.
On Cayley graphs of completely 0-simple semigroups
Authors: Wang Shoufeng , Li Yinghui
Published: December 2012

We give necessary and sufficient conditions for various vertex-transitivity of Cayley graphs of the class of completely 0-simple semigroups and its several subclasses. Moreover, the question when the Cayley graphs of completely 0-simple semigroups are undirected is considered.
A note on ideals in synaptic algebras
Authors: Pulmannová Sylvia
Published: December 2012

The notion of a synaptic algebra was introduced by David Foulis. Synaptic algebras unite the notions of an order-unit normed space, a special Jordan algebra, a convex effect algebra and an orthomodular lattice. In this note we study quadratic ideals in synaptic algebras which reflect its Jordan algebra structure. We show that projections contained in a quadratic ideal from a p-ideal in the orthomodular lattice of projections in the synaptic algebra and we find a characterization of those quadratic ideals which are generated by their projections.
Quantum teleportation and quantum epistemic semantics
Authors: Beltrametti Enrico , Chiara Maria , Giuntini Roberto , Sergioli Giuseppe
Published: December 2012

Quantum information gives rise to some puzzling epistemic problems that can be interestingly investigated from a logical point of view. A characteristic example is represented by teleportation phenomena, where knowledge and actions of observers (epistemic agents) play a relevant role. By abstracting from teleportation, we propose a simplified semantics for a language that consists of two parts:
1)the quantum computational sub-language, whose sentences α represent pieces of quantum information (which are supposed to be stored by some quantum systems)2)the classical epistemic sub-language, whose atomic sentences have the following forms: agent
a
has a probabilistic information about the sentence α; agent
a
knows the sentence α.

Interestingly enough, some conceptual difficulties of standard epistemic logics can be avoided in this framework.