bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of thermodynamic chemical potential diagrams (µCaO, µCO2) to understand the weathering of cement by a slightly carbonated water
Authors: Blandine A. , Bernard G. , Essaïd B.
Published: November 2008

Cement is a ubiquitous material that may suffer hazardous weathering. The chemical weathering of cement in natural environment is mostly characterized by the leaching of CaO and the addition of CO2. The different weathering zones that develop at the expense of the cement may be predicted by the help of chemical potential phase diagrams; these diagrams simulate the behaviour of systems open to some chemical elements. Some components have a so-called inert status, that is to say the system is closed for these components, their amount in the system remains constant; some other components have a mobile status, that is to say these components can be exchanged with the outside of the system, their amount can vary from one sample zone to another. The mobile components are represented in the model by their chemical potentials (linked to their concentrations) that are variable in the external environment. The main features of the weathering of a cement system open to CaO and CO2 are predicted in a phase diagram with µCaO et µCO2 as diagram axes. From core to rim, one observes the disappearance of portlandite, ettringite and calcium monosulfoaluminate, the precipitation of calcite and amorphous silica, the modification of the composition of the CSH minerals (hydrated calcium silicates) that see a decrease of their c/s ratio (CaO/SiO2) from the core to the rim of the sample. For the CSH minerals, we have separated their continuous solid solution into three compositions defined by different CaO/SiO2 ratios and called phases 1, 2 and 3: CaO = 0.8, 1.1, 1.8 respectively for one mole of SiO2 knowing that H2O varies in the three compositions.
Lesões musculoesqueléticas na temporada de 2006 em atletas da seleção brasileira feminina principal de canoagem velocidade
Authors: Hensel Paula , Perroni Milena Gomes , Leal Junior Ernesto Cesar Pinto
Published: November 2008

OBJETIVO: Este estudo objetivou analisar a incidência, o tipo, a etiologia e a localização anatômica das lesões musculoesqueléticas na Seleção Brasileira de Canoagem Velocidade Feminina na Temporada de 2006. METODOLOGIA: Participaram do estudo as oito atletas da seleção, com média de idade de 19,50 anos (± 3,78); massa corporal média de 58,67 kg (± 5,44) e estatura média de 162,00 cm (± 4,00). RESULTADOS: Após a análise dos dados, obteve-se o índice de 5,06 lesões por atleta a cada 1000 horas de atividade esportiva. Observou-se também que 87,50% das atletas foram acometidas por lesões, com um total de 82,05% de casos reincidentes. As lesões mais freqüentes foram: contratura muscular (48,72%) e tendinite (23,08%). O tronco (56,41%), principalmente na região torácica e tóraco-lombar, e os MMSS (41,03%), principalmente no ombro, foram as regiões mais acometidas. CONCLUSÃO: Por conseqüência do gesto esportivo, a etiologia das lesões foi de origem atraumática devido principalmente a sobrecarga das estruturas anatômicas. Acreditamos que com a caracterização das lesões nesta modalidade esportiva, a fisioterapia desportiva poderá realizar um trabalho preventivo focado nas lesões específicas encontradas, com o objetivo que diminuir sua incidência e reincidência.
Avaliação do ângulo nasolabial após o tratamento ortodôntico com e sem extração dos primeiros pré-molares
Authors: Almeida Flávio Marcos de , Neves Iara Souza , Pereira Tarcísio Junqueira , Siqueira Vânia Célia Vieira de
Published: November 2008

OBJETIVOS: avaliar cefalometricamente as mudanças do ângulo nasolabial em pacientes submetidos ao tratamento ortodôntico com e sem exodontias dos primeiros pré-molares, e correlacionar este ângulo com as alterações na inclinação do incisivo superior, do lábio superior e da base do nariz. METODOLOGIA: a amostra consistiu de telerradiografias iniciais e finais de 30 jovens do gênero feminino, com má oclusão de Classe II, 1º divisão. Quinze foram tratadas com extração dos primeiros pré-molares e quinze sem extrações. Além do ângulo nasolabial, foram avaliadas as inclinações do lábio superior (Ls.PCm.SN7º), do incisivo superior (Is.SN7º) e da base do nariz (PCm.SN7º). RESULTADOS: a posição do lábio superior e a inclinação do incisivo superior foram as únicas medidas que apresentaram um aumento estatisticamente significante, entre os tempos inicial e final, no grupo com extrações. Todas as outras medidas avaliadas, em ambos os grupos, não apresentaram significância estatística. Observou-se uma correlação positiva entre a posição do lábio superior, a base do nariz e o ângulo nasolabial. CONCLUSÕES: 1) ocorreu um aumento significativo no ângulo nasolabial no grupo com exodontia dos primeiros pré-molares, devido, principalmente, às mudanças do lábio superior; 2) o crescimento nasal durante o período do estudo não influenciou nas alterações do ângulo nasolabial; 3) todas as outras medidas analisadas não apresentaram diferenças estatísticas entre os dois grupos, entre os tempos inicial e final; 4) observou-se uma correlação positiva entre o ângulo nasolabial, a inclinação do lábio superior e a base do nariz, em ambos os grupos.
Sexual disorders: demographic and diagnostic profile during one year of a multidisciplinary project
Authors: Abdo Carmita Helena Najjar , Oliveira Sérgio Ricardo Campanella de
Published: November 2008

Taking into consideration a study published 10 years ago on sexual disturbances of students at the University of São Paulo, the importance of the subject is discussed, along with the creation in 1993 of the Sexuality Project at the university hospital of the University of São Paulo School of Medicine. In its first year, this multidisciplinary project attended 140 patients with sexual dysfunctions (associated or not to other clinical manifestations); the majority were younger than 60 years-old, and 80 percent were male.
Clinical and manometric postoperative evaluation of posterior sagital anorectoplasty (PSARP) in patients with upper and intermediate anorectal malformations
Authors: Martins José Luiz , Pinus José
Published: November 2008

PSARP is currently the most widely-used surgical technique for surgical correction of high and intermediary anorectal malformations, but there is much controversy in the literature about the postoperative evaluation of these cases. We studied 27 cases of anorectal malformations operated with PSARP from clinical and manometric aspects in order to analyze: 1) fecal continence; 2) the relationship between fecal continence and the associated sacral anomalies and; 3) the relationship between the postoperative manometric evaluation and fecal continence. From the analysis of 27 cases of high and intermediary anorectal malformations, we concluded that: 1) fecal continence was achieved in 48.14 percent of the cases; partial fecal continence in 25.92 percent; and fecal incontinence in 25.92 percent of the cases; 2) the presence of fecal incontinence was directly related to the association of sacral anomalies and; 3) anorectal manometry is a useful test to evaluate the patients operated by PSARP, due to the existence of a relationship between the manometric results and the degree of fecal continence.
Platelet aggregation and lipoprotein levels in a patient with familial hypercholescholesterolemia after selective LDL-apheresis
Authors: Pares Madalena Nunes da Silva , D'Amico Elbio Antonio , Kutner José Mauro , Chamone Dalton de Alencar Fischer , Bydlowski Sergio Paulo
Published: November 2008

Platelet aggregation was studied in a patient with familial hypercholesterolemia immediately after aphereis selective for low-density lipoprotein (LDL), a lipid-lowering procedure.This treatment reduced plasmatic levels of total and LDL-cholesterol, apo B, and triglyceride. Increased platelet aggregation was reduced immediately after the apheresis in whole blood as well as in platelet-rich plasma. However, aggregation in washed platelets remained unchanged after LDL-apheresis. In conclusion, in this patient reduction of LDL-cholesterol improved platelet function in the very short term.
Adverse effects of vancomycin in children: a review of 22 cases
Authors: Reis Amélia Gorete Afonso da Costa , Grisi Sandra Josefina Ferraz Ellero
Published: November 2008

Vancomycin has been frequently recommended for the treatment of multi-resistant infections.Twenty-two children undergoing vancomycin treatment were observed. Nine adverse effects were registered in 6 children: eosinophilia in 5 cases, skin rash in 2 cases, and an increase in plasma creatinine in 2 cases. All adverse effects remitted with withdrawal of the drug.
Studies on the components of the contact phase system in patients with acute nonlymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Annichino-Bizzacchi Joyce Maria , Arruda Valder Roberval , Machado Tania Fátima Gomes , Gallizoni Andrea Maria , Ribeiro Cristina Cedran
Published: November 2008

The objective of the present study was to evaluate factors of the plasma kallikrein system in patients with acute nonlymphoblastic leukemia (ANLL), and compare the results to a normal control group. A prospective study was performed in the Tertiary Health Care Institution, Hemocentro, Campinas State University, Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil. Thirty-five patients, diagnosed as ANLL between 1988 and 1991, were considered for participation. Eleven patients were not elegible, according to the exclusion criteria: infection/ septicemia, previous treatment or blood transfusion. The study was performed with 24 ANLL patients, average age 34 years (16-69 years), 14 men and 10 women. Nineteen healthy volunteers, workers from the Hematology Center, average age 32 years (21-59 years), 11 men and 8 women, were the control group. Plasmatic prekallikrein, C1-inhibitor, alpha 2-macroglobulin, activated partial thromboplastin time, prothrombin time, factor XII, factor XI, factor V and prealbumin were measured. Plasmatic prekallikrein (p=0.02) and prealbumin (p=0.03) were significantly decreased, and prothrombin time increased (p=0.003) in the patient group when compared to the control. Significant correlation (r=0.49, critical value=0.43, p<0.05) between prekallikrein and prealbumin, and between prothrombin time and factor V (r=0.54, critical value=0.44, p<0.05) was demonstrated in the patient group. No correlation was found between parameters analysed and circulant blast count or leukemia subgroups. Statistical analysis was performed by theWilcoxon test. Correlation between the parameters was also verified. These results suggest activation of the contact system or impaired liver synthesis in patients with ANLL, and could contribute to disease complications.
del 11(q23) as a prognostic factor of iron overload in refractory anemia with ringed sideroblasts
Authors: Chauffaille Maria de Lourdes Lopes Ferrari , Stéfano José Tadeu , Valério Rosana Maria , Romeo Maura , Rodrigues Maria Madalena , Kerbauy José
Published: November 2008

We present the case of a patient with MDS RARS subtype with loss of part of the long arm of chromosome 11 del 11(q23). This a cytogenetic abnormality that occurs in 7% to 20% of RARS cases not related to poor prognosis. It seems that this deletion is a marker of iron overload in MDS.
Spontaneous rupture of the esophagus: report of two cases
Authors: Esgaib Ali Said , Eda Carlos Joji Ima , Oliveira Rogério lgnácio de , Ghefter Mário Cláudio , Lyra Roberto de Menezes , Guidugli Ruggero Bernardo , Oliveira Jr. Nilson Roberto Ribeiro de
Published: November 2008

OBJECTIVE - To study the diagnosis, prognosis and management of spontaneous rupture of the esophagus. DESIGN: This is a retrospective study through the analysis of two cases with delayed diagnosis and subsequent treatment at the Track Surgery Service. LOCALE: The study was performed at the Thoracic Surgery Unit of the Hospital do Servidor Público Estadual Francisco Morato de Oliveira in the city of São Paulo. This is a specialized service. PARTICIPANTS: The two patients reported on had suffered spontaneous rupture of the esophagus. They were transferred to the Thoracic Surgery Unit because of the worsening of their condition in the previous institution which they had been admitted into. MEASUREMENT: The two patients with esophagus pleural fistula received similar treatment, initially advocated by Kanashin in Russia and Hauer-Santos in the United States, which consists of washing the fistula and using continuous pleural aspiration. RESULTS: Although both patients had to spend a long period of time in hospital, their evolution was satisfactory with the treatment adopted, and the fistula closed. CONCLUSION: The authors conclude that the method of lavage of the mediastinum and continuous pleural aspiration, in patients who after spontaneous rupture of the esophagus developed a pleural esophagus fistula due to belated diagnosis, is an alternative and satisfactory therapy. Furthermore, in order to have the best outcome, an early diagnosis is recommended and thoracostomy as the surgical procedure, with primary suture.
Estudo inicial da degradação "in vitro" de poli (L-co-DL ácido lático) sintetizado em laboratório
Authors: Motta A.C. , Duek E.A.R.
Published: November 2008

O copolímero poli (L-co-DL ácido lático), PLDLA, tem se destacado no campo das próteses temporárias, porque o seu tempo de degradação é bastante compatível com aquele requerido no caso de fraturas ósseas. Neste trabalho, estudou-se a degradação "in vitro" de dispositivos processados na forma de placas do copolímero PLDLA sintetizado em laboratório. As placas do PLDLA foram imersas numa solução tampão fosfato (pH = 7,4) em um banho termostatizado a 37 ºC ± 1ºC, durante especificados períodos (0, 2, 4, 8, 16, e 30 semanas), e avaliadas pelas seguintes técnicas: cromatografia de permeação em gel (GPC), calorimetria diferencial de varredura (DSC), microscopia eletrônica de varredura (MEV) e ensaios de flexão por três pontos. Foi observado, através do estudo "in vitro", que o processo de degradação afeta a massa molecular desde a segunda semana de estudo. As análises das curvas de DSC demonstram que o material, inicialmente amorfo, apresenta vestígios de cristalinidade durante o processo de degradação, enquanto que as análises de TGA demonstram que a estabilidade térmica do copolímero só é afetada após 16 semanas de estudo. A análise por meio de MEV mostrou que o dispositivo passa de denso para poroso após 18 semanas de estudo "in vitro". O ensaio de resistência à flexão mostrou que o copolímero consegue reter mais de 80 % de sua resistência após período de 4 meses de imersão, um resultado bastante compatível com aquele requerido para consolidação óssea.
Propriedades reológicas e microestruturais de eletrólito de ZrO2/Y2O3
Authors: Taroco H.A. , Basaglia R. M. F. , Domingues R. Z. , Brant M. , Matencio T.
Published: November 2008

Para reduzir a temperatura de operação das pilhas a combustível de óxido sólido (PaCOS), estruturas com filmes finos de eletrólito depositados, por aerografia, sobre suportes de anodo porosos foram desenvolvidas. As barbotinas, empregadas para fabricação dos filmes, foram preparadas a partir de suspensões com pós de zircônia estabilizada com ítria (ZEI), solventes, dispersantes, ligantes e plastificantes apropriados. Neste trabalho, foi feito o estudo da influência dos ligantes sobre a estabilidade das suspensões e as propriedades microestruturais dos filmes de ZEI. Três barbotinas foram elaboradas com composições diferentes de ligantes (0,5; 1,0 e 2,0 % p/p). Todas apresentaram comportamento de fluidos pseudoplásticos e tixotrópicos, de acordo com medidas de viscosidade e taxa de cisalhamento. Os filmes foram sinterizados a 1500 ºC/6h. As micrografias eletrônicas de varredura (MEV) foram tratadas através do programa Quantikov para determinar a porosidade do filme e o tamanho médio de grão da ZEI. Os filmes apresentaram porosidade adequada para serem empregados como eletrólito das PaCOS (entre 0,2 e 0,4 % ) e tamanho médio de grão entre 2,0 e 6,0 µm. A técnica de aerografia é adequada para fabricar eletrólito de ZEI para PaCOS.
Avaliação de revestimentos para proteção contra a descarbonetação de tijolos refratários MgO-C durante o aquecimento de panelas de aciaria
Authors: Lima A.N.C. , Trommer R.M. , Zimmer A. , Vicenzi J. , Bragança S.R. , Boschetti J. , Bergmann C.P.
Published: November 2008

Este trabalho tem como objetivo avaliar a proteção contra a descarbonetação de diferentes revestimentos de pintura de tijolos refratários MgO-C usados em panelas de aciaria. A oxidação de tijolos refratários MgO-C leva à perda de espessura dos tijolos e, conseqüentemente, à diminuição da vida útil dos mesmos. Neste trabalho, foram testados três tipos de revestimentos (A, B e C), preparados em laboratório, os quais foram aplicadas sobre tijolos MgO-C. Estes revestimentos foram testados em relação à proteção contra a descarbonetação nas temperaturas de 850, 950 e 1050ºC. A partir dos resultados obtidos, verificou-se que a aplicação de revestimentos para pintura sobre refratários MgO-C apenas minimiza a descarbonetação, já que estes revestimentos vitrificam em temperaturas superiores ao início da oxidação. Além disso, notou-se que a espessura da camada descarbonetada é diretamente proporcional à temperatura de queima. Entre os revestimentos avaliados, o que apresentou melhores resultados foi o C, devido as suas características de escorrimento e viscosidade, além de vitrificar em temperatura inferior a dos revestimentos A e B.
Propriedades elétricas e microestrutura de Céria dopada com Gd+3 e Y+3 para aplicação como eletrólitos em pilhas a combustível
Authors: Crochemore Guilherme B. , Antunes Fábio C. , Souza Dulcina P. F. de
Published: November 2008

Fonte de Energia Alternativa, Renovável e Limpa é um tema cada vez mais presente no dia a dia da atual sociedade mundial. Pilhas a combustível surgem como uma opção real para tornar as fontes alternativas um dos principais modos de geração de energia em futuro próximo. Zircônia estabilizada com 8% mol de ítria (ZEI8) é o material mais utilizado como eletrólito em pilha a combustível de óxido sólido (PaCOS), por apresentar condutividade iônica e estabilidade química em atmosferas oxidante e redutora que permitem à pilha apresentar bom rendimento quando operando em torno de 1000ºC. Céria dopada com terras raras tem recebido atenção especial devido a sua elevada condutividade elétrica, o que possibilita uma temperatura de operação de PaCOS entre 500 e 800 °C. Neste trabalho, a condutividade elétrica de céria dopada com ítria e gadolínia é discutida em função das microestruturas obtidas em diferentes condições de sinterização. Resultados de zircônia estabilizada com 8 %mol de ítria, também, são apresentados com o objetivo de usá-los como uma referência. A condutividade elétrica do grão de céria dopada, individualmente, com 10 %mol Y2O3 e 12,5 %mol Gd2O3 é maior que da ZrO2 dopada com 8 %mol Y2O3. Contudo, a condutividade do contorno de grão de céria dopada é muito sensível às condições de sinterização, especificamente, à temperatura e ao tempo de patamar, podendo ser mais do que uma ordem de grandeza inferior à condutividade do grão. A elevada sensibilidade da condutividade do contorno de grão de céria dopada com as condições de sinterização está relacionada com a formação e distribuição de segunda fase no contorno. A formação dessa fase depende do tipo de dopante sendo favorecida pela presença de Y2O3.
Filmes de diamante CVD em grandes áreas obtidos por crescimentos sucessivos em etapas
Authors: Alves A.R. , Amorim A. , Eichenberger Neto J. , Trava-Airoldi V.J. , Corat E.J. , Moro J.R.
Published: November 2008

Buscou-se a redução da tensão intrínseca causada pelas impurezas que se agregam no processo de crescimento de um filme de diamante obtido por deposição química a partir da fase vapor (CVD, do inglês Chemical Vapor Deposition) em um reator de filamento quente (HFCVD), sobre um substrato de silício <100> de 250 µm de espessura em uma superfície de deposição de grande área (45 cm²), através da imersão da amostra, em uma solução saturada de H2SO4 e CrO3 e, em seguida, em uma solução 1:1 de H2O2:NH4OH. Após esse procedimento, nova etapa de crescimento era realizada. O filme de diamante CVD foi identificado e caracterizado por espectroscopia de espalhamento Raman (RSS, do inglês Raman Scattering Spectroscopy) e microscopia eletrônica de varredura (SEM, do inglês Scanning Electron Microscopy). A aplicação dessa técnica mostrou bons resultados, uma vez que, em relação a resultados obtidos anteriormente, se duplicou a espessura do filme de diamante CVD depositado, obtendo menor tensão residual sobre o filme de diamante. Foram obtidos filmes de diamante CVD de espessura de 60 mm, com alta qualidade e uniformidade.
Prevalência de refluxo gastroesofágico em pacientes com doença pulmonar avançada candidatos a transplante pulmonar
Authors: Fortunato Gustavo Almeida , Machado Mirna Mota , Andrade Cristiano Feijó , Felicetti José Carlos , Camargo José de Jesus Peixoto , Cardoso Paulo Francisco Guerreiro
Published: November 2008

OBJETIVO: Avaliar o perfil funcional do esôfago e a prevalência de refluxo gastroesofágico (RGE) em pacientes candidatos a transplante pulmonar. MÉTODOS: Foram analisados prospectivamente, entre junho de 2005 e novembro de 2006, 55 pacientes candidatos a transplante pulmonar da Santa Casa de Misericórdia de Porto Alegre. Os pacientes foram submetidos a esofagomanometria estacionária e pHmetria esofágica ambulatorial de 24 h de um e dois eletrodos antes de serem submetidos ao transplante pulmonar. RESULTADOS: A esofagomanometria foi anormal em 80% dos pacientes e a pHmetria revelou RGE ácido patológico em 24%. Os sintomas digestivos apresentaram sensibilidade de 50% e especificidade de 61% para RGE. Dos pacientes com doença pulmonar obstrutiva crônica, 94% apresentaram alteração à manometria, e 80% apresentaram hipotonia do esfíncter inferior, que foi o achado mais freqüente. Pacientes com bronquiectasias apresentaram a maior prevalência de RGE (50%). CONCLUSÕES: O achado freqüente em pacientes com doença pulmonar avançada é RGE. Na população examinada, a presença de sintomas digestivos de RGE não foi preditiva de refluxo ácido patológico. A contribuição do RGE na rejeição crônica deve ser considerada e requer estudos posteriores para seu esclarecimento.
Gravidez em paciente com microlitíase alveolar pulmonar grave
Authors: Souza Filho José Osmar Bezerra de , Silveira Cristiane Maria Cavalcante , Cunha Aline Barreto da , Pinheiro Valéria Goes Ferreira , Feitosa Francisco Edson de Lucena , Holanda Marcelo Alcântara
Published: November 2008

A microlitíase alveolar pulmonar (MAP) é uma doença rara que atinge ambos os pulmões, caracterizada pela presença de pequenos cálculos (fosfato de cálcio) nos espaços alveolares. Relatamos o caso de uma paciente do sexo feminino, de 26 anos, cujo diagnóstico foi confirmado com base nos achados marcantes na radiografia de tórax e tomografia computadorizada de alta resolução. A paciente, gestante de 28 semanas, retornou ao hospital 10 meses após o diagnóstico apresentando insuficiência respiratória hipoxêmica e com distúrbio ventilatório restritivo grave à espirometria. Após completadas 32 semanas e 4 dias de gestação, foi submetida aparto cesariano, com sucesso para mãe e filha. A MAP tem evolução clínica variável. Tem provável caráter autossômico recessivo e associação com história familiar positiva. A etiologia é incerta, e muitos autores especulam que haja um defeito enzimático local responsável pelo acúmulo intra-alveolar de cálcio. Relatos de pacientes com MAP que engravidaram são excepcionais, sendo o presente caso o primeiro descrito no Brasil. O curso dessa doença costuma ser lentamente progressivo, e os pacientes geralmente falecem devido à insuficiência cardiorrespiratória. O presente caso ilustra a necessidade de se oferecer aconselhamento genético e orientações sobre o risco de gravidez às pacientes, especialmente em casos de doença avançada. Atualmente, a única terapia efetiva é o transplante pulmonar.
Sedimentology, dynamics and debris flow potential of Champadevi River, southwest Kathmandu, Nepal
Authors: Tamrakar Naresh Kazi , Prajapati Achut , Manandhar Suman
Published: November 2008

Mountainous and hilly regions are potential for debris flows, one of the major forms of natural disasters, which cause serious damage in downstream areas. The southwestern region of the Kathmandu Valley experienced catastrophic flows in the Champadevi River and its two tributaries (the Aitabare and the Raute Rivers) in July 2002. These rivers were investigated for morphologic, hydraulic and sedimentary characteristics to evaluate potential of debris flow in the area. The Raute and the Aitabare Rivers have tendency of headward erosion due to abrupt drop of gradient down the scarp of the alluvial fan deposit composed of unconsolidated matrix-supported gravel and mud. Because of this tendency, the rivers erode their substrate and banks, and contribute slope movements by sheding a huge amount of clasts and matrix. Therefore, instability condition of rivers and unconsolidated material available in the river courses potentially contribute for debris flow. The tractive shear stresses in the Aitabare, the Raute and the Champadevi Rivers (1.27, 1.60 and 0.48 KPa, respectively) exceeds twice the critical shear stresses required to transport 90th-percentile fraction of the riverbed material (0.14, 0.18 and 0.11 KPa). The stream powers (10.8, 17.2 and 5.1 m-kN/s/m2) of these rivers also greatly exceed the critical stream powers (0.21, 0.35 and 0.18 m-kN/s/m2) required to initiate traction transport. Because the tractive shear stresses and the stream powers that are achieved during bankfull flow are several times larger than the corresponding critical values, even the flow having stream power exceeding the critical stream power may potentially generate debris flow.   doi: 10.3126/bdg.v10i0.1416 Bulletin of the Department of Geology, Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu, Nepal, Vol. 10, 2007, pp. 9-20
GIS-based quantitative landslide hazard prediction modelling in natural hillslope, Agra Khola watershed, central Nepal
Authors: Thapa Prem Bahadur , Esaki Tetsuro
Published: November 2008

The influence of geological and geomorphological variables were spatially integrated to develop landslide hazard prediction model in the Agra Khola watershed of central Nepal where a large number of landslides triggered off due to extreme weather event of July 19-21, 1993. A quantitative technique of multivariate analysis was performed to predict elements or observations of landslides successfully into different hazard levels in the area. The predicted landslide hazard was validated and spatially relevancy of the prediction is established. The GIS-based prediction model possessed objectivity and reproducibility, and also improved the landslide hazard mapping in the natural hillslope. doi: 10.3126/bdg.v10i0.1421   Bulletin of the Department of Geology, Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu, Nepal, Vol. 10, 2007, pp. 63-70
Bioengineering measures for stabilising cut slopes of Dipayal-Mallekh road, Far Western Nepal
Authors: Ojha Gobinda , Shrestha Raju
Published: November 2008

The Dipayal-Mellekh road is considered as one of the major infrastructures of the northern region of Doti District as it is only the motorable access. The road extends for about 40 km and is 8 m wide. It passes through six Village Development Committees. This paper describes possibility of using Plantation as a treatment option to safeguard the road and reduce long term maintenance. The study shows that roadside slope instabilities and erosion problems exist in the road alignment due to presence of highly weathered rocks and high cut slope angles. On the basis of slope length, slope angle, material drainage, and site moisture condition, the erosion control measures were suggested. Jute netting with grass lines plantation, site seedling of shrub and trees, vegetated gabion wall, brush layering, palisades, live check dam and fascines are recommended bio-engineering measures for controlling instabilities and erosion problems along the road.   doi: 10.3126/bdg.v10i0.1423     Bulletin of the Department of Geology, Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu, Nepal, Vol. 10, 2007, pp. 79-88
Evaluation of gravel for concrete and road aggregates, Rapti River, Central Nepal Sub-Himalaya
Authors: Maharjan Surendra , Tamrakar Naresh Kazi
Published: November 2008

Several local mining sites of sand and gravel have been operating for decades in the Rapti River. River gravels are consumed in Hetauda, Narayanghad and areas in India near the border between Nepal and India. Until now little known about consumers concerning about quality of gravel. The present study was carried out to evaluate quality of river gravel to know its suitability for aggregate (raw material for concrete and road). The samples of river gravel were analysed for petrographic, physical, mechanical and chemical properties. Samples were categorised as quartzite group, carbonate group and granite group according to British Standard Institution (BSI). Among these, samples of quartzite group were found dominant. Image analysis of gravel showed that clasts were well graded. The majority of the samples had rounded, high sphericity and oblate triaxial clasts. The surface texture of clasts was rough to smooth. In terms of shape, workability of gravel was satisfactory. Gravel samples possessed low water absorption value (0.69 to 1.12%) and low effective porosity. Dry density of samples ranged from 2460 to 2680 kg/m3. Aggregate impact values of samples (14.2 to 16.1%) showed good soundness. Los Angeles abrasion test also showed consistent hardness of each of the samples as uniformity factor did not exceed 0.2. Magnesium sulphate values ranged between 4.46% and 7.29% suggesting good resistance against chemical weathering and frosting. Comparing with the existing Nepal Standard, British Standard and American Standard of Testing Material, the studied samples were suitable for concrete and road aggregates.   doi: 10.3126/bdg.v10i0.1425      Bulletin of the Department of Geology, Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu, Nepal, Vol. 10, 2007, pp. 99-106
NO2 Detection Using Microcantilever Based Potentiometry
Authors: Qazi Muhammad , Koley Goutam
Published: November 2008

A highly sensitive and novel sensor platform for gases and volatile chemicals using microcantilever based potentiometry is reported. A resonant cantilever is used to detect the changes in surface work functions of functionalized substrates caused by adsorption of target gas molecules. Surface work function (SWF) changes were measured for different functionalization layers made of transition metal oxide thin films with the flow of NO2. The rate of change in SWF for In2O3 and SnO2 were found to be ~80 and ~100 μV/sec, respectively, for 70 ppm NO2. A sensitivity of 64 μV/sec for SWF change was also found for 70 ppm NO2 concentration for isolated clusters of ZnO nanowires, indicating that this technique is applicable even for nano-clusters of sensing materials where amperometric detection is impossible due to material discontinuity. NO2 detection as low as 400 ppb was possible using highly insulating In2O3 and SnO2 thin films (resistivity > 1 TΩ/⎕). Two different forms of nano scale graphite were compared with the transition oxide based functionalization layer for sensing sub-ppm NO2 sensing. It was observed that nanostructured graphite (NG) shows much higher sensitivity and lower response time than transition metal oxides.
Vitamin D, Parathyroid Hormone, and Acroosteolysis in Systemic Sclerosis
Authors: BRAUN-MOSCOVICI YOLANDA , FURST DANIEL E. , MARKOVITS DORON , ROZIN ALEXANDER , CLEMENTS PHILIP J. , NAHIR ABRAHAM MENAHEM , BALBIR-GURMAN ALEXANDRA
Published: November 2008

Objective

Sclerodactyly with acroosteolysis (AO) and calcinosis are prominent features of systemic sclerosis (SSc), but the pathogenesis of these findings is poorly understood. Vitamin D and parathyroid hormone (PTH) have a crucial role in bone metabolism and resorption and may affect AO and calcinosis. We assessed vitamin D and PTH in patients with SSc.

Methods

Medical records of 134 consecutive patients with SSc (American College of Rheumatology criteria) followed at the rheumatology department during the years 2003–2006 were reviewed for clinical assessment, laboratory evaluation [including 25(OH) vitamin D, calcium, phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase, PTH, creatinine, and albumin]; imaging data confirming AO and/or calcinosis. Patients followed routinely at least once a year were included (81 patients). Of these, 60 patients’ medical records were found to have complete, relevant clinical, laboratory, and radiographic imaging.

Results

Thirteen patients had diffuse disease and 47 limited disease — 51 women and 9 men, 44 Jews and 16 Arabs; mean age 55 ± 14 years; disease duration 8 ± 6 years. AO with or without calcinosis was observed in 42 patients (70%). Vitamin D deficiency was found in 46% of patients (16 out of 44 Jewish patients, 10 out of 16 Arab patients). PTH was elevated in 21.7% of patients. Significant correlations were observed between acroosteolysis and PTH (p = 0.015), calcinosis (p = 0.009), and disease duration (p = 0.008), and between PTH and vitamin D levels (p = 0.01). All patients had normal serum concentrations of calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and albumin, and liver and kidney functions.

Conclusion

In this group of Mediterranean patients with SSc, the incidence of vitamin D deficiency and secondary hyperparathyroidism was surprisingly high. This finding correlated with the occurrence of AO and calcinosis. Low levels of vitamin D may reflect silent malabsorption and might be a risk factor for secondary hyperparathyroidism and bone resorption. Traditional dress habits and low exposure to sun may contribute to vitamin D deficiency in an Arab population but do not explain all the findings. The pathogenesis of these findings needs to be corroborated in other SSc populations.
Predictors of Adherence to an Integrated Multimodal Program for Fibromyalgia
Authors: DOBKIN PATRICIA L. , IONESCU-ITTU RALUCA , ABRAHAMOWICZ MICHAL , BARON MURRAY , BERNATSKY SASHA , SITA AURELIO
Published: November 2008

Objective

To describe treatment adherence to a multimodal integrated program for patients with fibromyalgia (FM), identify predictors of adherence to treatment recommendations, and examine the relationship between adherence and patient outcomes.

Methods

Sixty-three patients with FM were followed while participating in a 3-month outpatient program including physiotherapy, occupational therapy, nursing, and cognitive-behavior therapy. Patients completed a battery of psychosocial questionnaires pre- and post-treatment. At the end of each month of the treatment, patients completed 2 adherence questionnaires (for general and specific adherence) and 1 questionnaire about barriers to adherence to treatment. Generalized estimating equations extension of multivariable linear regression analyses for repeated measures examined predictors of general and specific adherence. Conventional linear regression analyses examined the relationships of general adherence with post-treatment FM disability and pain intensity.

Results

In general, adherence to treatment recommendations was good (mean general adherence score of 62 points, on a 0 to 100 scale), with no significant changes in mean level of general or specific adherence over the 3-month period. The main predictor for both general and specific adherence was barriers to adherence to treatment. Increased general adherence was significantly associated with lower pain at post-treatment.

Conclusion

The items described in the questionnaire for barriers to treatment are the main problem when it comes to adhering to a multimodal treatment program for FM. Healthcare professionals are advised to discuss these barriers directly with patients and assist in overcoming them.
Associations Between FCGR3A Polymorphisms and Susceptibility to Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Metaanalysis
Authors: LEE YOUNG HO , JI JONG DAE , SONG GWAN GYU
Published: November 2008

Objective

To investigate whether the Fcγ receptor (FCGR) polymorphism confers susceptibility to rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

We conducted metaanalyses on the associations between FCGR polymorphisms and RA susceptibility as determined using (1) allele contrast, (2) recessive models, (3) dominant models, and (4) contrast of homozygotes, using fixed or random effects models.

Results

A total of 10 separate comparisons were considered, which comprised 6 European and 4 Asian population samples. Metaanalysis of FCGR3A polymorphism revealed a significant association between the VV genotype and the risk of developing RA relative to the VF+FF genotype (OR 1.256, 95% CI 1.045–1.510, p = 0.015), with no evidence of between-study heterogeneity (p = 0.167). In subjects of European descent, a stronger association was observed between the VV geno-type and RA than for the FF genotype (OR 1.374, 95% CI 1.101–1.714, p = 0.005). In Asians, no such association was found. Metaanalysis of the VV vs FF genotype revealed a significantly increased OR in Europeans (OR 1.399, 95% CI 1.107–1.769, p = 0.005), but not in Asians. No association was found between RA and the FCGR2A and FCGR3B polymorphisms in all subjects and in European and Asian populations, except for the NA22 vs NA11 of FCGR3B in Europeans.

Conclusion

No relation was found between the FCGR2A polymorphism and susceptibility to RA in Europeans or Asians. The FCGR3A polymorphism was found to be associated with RA in Europeans but not in Asians. The FCGR3B polymorphism was associated with RA susceptibility in Europeans.
Genetic Variation in C-Reactive Protein (CRP) Gene May Be Associated with Risk of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and CRP Concentrations
Authors: SHIH P. BETTY , MANZI SUSAN , SHAW PENNY , KENNEY MARGARET , KAO AMY H. , BONTEMPO FRANKLIN , BARMADA M. MICHAEL , KAMMERER CANDACE , KAMBOH M. ILYAS
Published: November 2008

Objective

The gene coding for C-reactive protein (CRP) is located on chromosome 1q23.2, which falls within a linkage region thought to harbor a systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) susceptibility gene. Recently, 2 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) in the CRP gene (+838, +2043) have been shown to be associated with CRP concentrations and/or SLE risk in a British family-based cohort. Our study was done to confirm the reported association in an independent population-based case-control cohort, and also to investigate the influence of 3 additional CRP tagSNP (−861, −390, +90) on SLE risk and serum CRP concentrations.

Methods

DNA from 337 Caucasian women who met the American College of Rheumatology criteria for definite (n = 324) or probable (n = 13) SLE and 448 Caucasian healthy female controls was genotyped for 5 CRP tagSNP (−861, −390, +90, +838, +2043). Genotyping was performed using restriction fragment length polymorphism-polymerase chain reaction, pyrosequencing, or TaqMan assays. Serum CRP levels were measured using ELISA. Association studies were performed using the chi-squared distribution, Z-test, Fisher’s exact test, and analysis of variance. Haplotype analysis was performed using EH software and the haplo.stats package in R 2.1.2.

Results

While none of the SNP were found to be associated with SLE risk individually, there was an association with the 5 SNP haplotypes (p < 0.001). Three SNP (−861, −390, +90) were found to significantly influence serum CRP level in SLE cases, both independently and as haplotypes.

Conclusion

Our data suggest that unique haplotype combinations in the CRP gene may modify the risk of developing SLE and influence circulating CRP levels.
The Minimally Important Difference for the Fatigue Visual Analog Scale in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis Followed in an Academic Clinical Practice
Authors: KHANNA DINESH , POPE JANET E. , KHANNA PUJA P. , MALONEY MICHELLE , SAMEDI NOOSHIN , NORRIE DEBBIE , OUIMET GILLIAN , HAYS RON D.
Published: November 2008

Objective

To estimate the minimally important difference (MID) for a fatigue visual analog scale (VAS) using patient-reported anchors (fatigue, pain, and overall health).

Methods

Patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA; n = 307) had 2 clinic visits at a median of 5.9 months apart. They completed a fatigue VAS (0–10 scale) and the retrospective anchor items, “How would you describe your overall fatigue/pain/overall health since the last visit?” with response options: Much worsened, Somewhat worsened, Same, Somewhat better, or Much better. The fatigue anchor was used for primary analysis and the pain/overall health anchors for sensitivity analyses. The minimally changed group was defined by those reporting they were somewhat better or somewhat worsened.

Results

The mean [standard deviation (SD)] age was 59.4 (13.2) years, disease duration was 14.1 (11.5) years, and 83% of patients were women. The baseline mean (SD) Health Assessment Questionnaire–Disability Index score was 0.84 (0.75). The baseline fatigue VAS score was 4.2 (2.9) and at followup was 4.3 (2.8) [mean change of −0.07 (2.5); p = not significant]. The fatigue change score (0–10 scale) for Somewhat better and Somewhat worsened for the fatigue anchor averaged −1.12 and 1.26, respectively. Using the pain anchor, the fatigue change score for Somewhat better and Somewhat worsened averaged −0.87 and 1.13; and using the global anchor, the fatigue change score for Somewhat better and Somewhat worsened averaged −0.82 and 1.17, respectively. Effect size estimates using 3 anchors were small for the Somewhat better (range 0.27–0.39) and Somewhat worsened (0.40–0.44) groups, but larger than for the no-change group (0.03–0.08).

Conclusion

The MID for fatigue VAS is between −0.82 for −1.12 for improvement and is 1.13 to 1.26 for worsening on a 0–10 scale in a large RA clinical practice, and is similar to that seen in RA clinical trials. This information can aid in interpreting fatigue VAS in day-to-day care in clinical practice
Screens we see, societies we unknow
Authors: González-Sánchez Jorge A.
Published: November 2008

How does technology interact with the way in which we relate with information, communication and knowledge? The integration of these three dimensions conforms the nucleus of the symbolic ecologies. Throughout history, these symbolic ecologies have been constructed and transformed by its relation with technical artifacts and knowhow, understood as a technological vector. The problem should not be posed over screens as interfaces of more complex devices, but upon the specific relationships of information, communication and knowledge framed by those actually devoted to generate it for the use of those who are not able to do it.

¿Cómo interactúa la tecnología en la forma en que nos relacionamos con la información, la comunicación y, el conocimiento? La integración de estas tres dimensiones constituye el núcleo de las «ecologías simbólicas». En toda la historia, éstas se han construido y transformado por efecto de su relación con dispositivos técnicos y saberes, que podemos considerar como un vector tecnológico. El problema no debe plantearse en las pantallas como interfaces de dispositivos más complejos, sino en las relaciones específicas de información, de comunicación y de conocimiento que aquéllos que sí generan conocimiento desarrollan para quienes no lo hacen.
Apocalyptics: means and ends
Authors: Fernández-Martínez María Teresa
Published: November 2008

The author proposes a controversial theory, although the benefits of using the media and the new technologies in education have been taken for granted, in fact they are not unquestionable. This paper analyzes the supposed advantages of these means as well as the reasons usually given to justify the fact that up to now there have been no visible results of efficiency. The author reaches the conclusion that means are mistaken for ends and are considered as a main content of the syllabus instead of just one tool among several others.

Se propone en este trabajo una tesis cunado menos polémica en una publicación como ésta dedicada a los medios: la de que los beneficios de los medios de comunicación y las nuevas tecnologías en la enseñanza se han aceptado como incuestionables cuando en realidad no lo son. Para ello, se analizan con justificaciones las supuestas ventajas de estos medios así como las razones que suelen exponerse para defender el hecho de que hasta la fecha no haya habido resultados visibles de su eficacia, llegando a la conclusión de que se han confundido medios con fines al establecerse como contenido estrella de las programaciones educativas aquello que no debería ser sino un instrumento más.
Journalistic design, the critic reading key of the press
Authors: Martínez-Fresneda-Osorio Humberto
Published: November 2008

The progressive influence of the mass media in the educating of society makes it necessary to be alert and to observe very closely how the communication process is carried out. Moreover, we need to be aware of the imbalances produced in the dialogue between the sender and the receiver which can lead to interference which alters the message transmitted, and which could lead to the manipulation of news. Journalistic design has become an invisible agent of this process of communication that the mass media use to transmit messages more effectively.

La progresiva influencia de los medios de comunicación en la formación de la sociedad hace que sea necesario estar alerta y observar muy de cerca como éstos realizan el proceso de comunicación. Más aún, si somos conscientes que los desequilibrios que se producen en ese diálogo entre emisor y receptor pueden llevar a situaciones viciadas que alteren la transmisión del mensaje y fomenten la manipulación informativa. El diseño periodístico se ha convertido en un agente invisible de este proceso de comunicación que los medios utilizan para transmitir de manera más eficaz sus mensajes.
Community dimension of media literacy
Authors: Abellán-Fabrés Gemma , Mayugo-i-Majó Carme
Published: November 2008

Some theoretical contributions to the Media Literacy set up the dialogue, the exchange and the renegotiation of meanings as a starting point for interaction and knowledge. In all these approaches, the environment becomes a vital factor, because in its position we find the social interrelations and the possibility of learning in a collective and/or community way. In our societies, media are holding a big space in people’s social sphere. At the same time it is acquiring more critical competence towards contents reception, the knowledge and the use of media skills bring new languages to the citizenship to explore its surroundings, promoting the mutual knowledge and the social cohesion, keys for social change.

Algunas aportaciones teóricas a la Educación en Comunicación priorizan el diálogo, el intercambio y la renegociación de significados como base para la interacción y el conocimiento. En estos enfoques, el entorno se convierte en un elemento vital, ya que ahí se dan las interrelaciones sociales y la posibilidad de aprender de manera colectiva y/o comunitaria. Actualmente, los medios de comunicación ocupan buena parte de la esfera social de los individuos. A parte de dotarla de más capacidad crítica en la recepción de contenidos, el conocimiento y uso de herramientas mediáticas provee a la ciudadanía de nuevos lenguajes para explorar su entorno, fomentando el conocimiento mutuo y la cohesión social, motores para la transformación social.
Leave of Absence and Medical Student Placement Into Graduate Medical Education by Race and Ethnicity
Authors: Nguyen Mytien , Mason Hyacinth R. C. , Russell Regina , Fancher Tonya , Chaudhry Sarwat I. , Desai Mayur M. , Boatright Dowin
Published: April 2024

This study examines the association between taking a leave of absence from medical school and placement into graduate medical education (GME) by race and ethnicity.
Protecting Privacy of Pregnant and LGBTQ+ Research Participants
Authors: Clayton Ellen Wright , Bland Harris T. , Mittendorf Kathleen F.
Published: April 2024

This Viewpoint summarizes existing federal regulations aimed at protecting research data, describes the challenges of enforcing these regulations, and discusses how evolving privacy technologies could be used to reduce health disparities and advance health equity among pregnant and LGBTQ+ research participants.