bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phase Transitions and Morphology Evolutions during Hydrogen Reduction of MoO3 to MoO2
Authors: Dang Jie , Zhang Guo-Hua , Chou Kuo-Chih
Published: October 2013

In the present work, studies of phase transitions and morphology evolutions during hydrogen reduction of MoO3 to MoO2 were carried out in the temperature range from 678 to 829 K. It was found that no intermediate phase was formed and MoO2 was the unique detectable product during the reduction at 678 K. While above 713 K, an intermediate phase of Mo4O11 was formed. The formation of Mo4O11 was found to obey the consecutive mechanism under the experimental condition. Regarding the morphology evolution of MoO2 during reduction, it was found that in the temperature range from 713 to 733 K, MoO3 was firstly reduced to large spherical or oval Mo4O11 grains, then to small spherical or oval MoO2 ones. From 793 to 829 K, most of MoO3 grains were firstly reduced to large plateshaped Mo4O11 grains, subsequently to small plateshaped MoO2 ones.
Electrochemical Studies of the Corrosion of Pure Fe, Ni and Cr in Molten (Li,Na,K)F
Authors: Xu Y.X. , Wang Y.L. , Zeng C.L.
Published: October 2013

The corrosion of structural materials is a great challenge for the applications of a molten salt reactor using molten fluorides. In this paper, electrochemical behavior of pure Fe, Ni and Cr has been investigated in molten (Li,Na,K)F at 973 K by potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The experimental results indicated that three metals are all in active state at the corrosion potential, with an increase in the corrosion potential by the following order: Cr, Fe, Ni. The free corrosion current density of Ni is more than one order of magnitude lower than that of Fe and Cr. A Warburg impedance was observed in the impedance plots for the corrosion of Cr, but not for Ni and Fe. Ni is the most stable metal, then Fe and Cr, and the corrosion of Cr is controlled by the diffusion of oxidants in the melt.
Sputtering Process Assessment of ITO Film for Multiple Quality Characteristics With One-Sided and Two-Sided Specifications
Authors: Chang Tsang-Chuan , Wang Kung-Jeng , Chen Kuen-Suan
Published: October 2013

The evolution of technology has increased the demand for convenient and user-friendly human–machine interfaces. This demand has driven the rapid development of the touch panel industry. Functioning as a conductive medium, indium tin oxide (ITO) film is a key factor in the quality of touch screens or panels. Because the sputtering process of ITO film includes both STB- and NTB-type quality characteristics, the analysis methodology proposed in the past cannot represent distinct influences or provide the production department with sufficient reference for improvements. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to apply the bilateral index Cpm, which fully reflects process loss and yield, to develop an effective assessment model for the sputtering process with one-sided and two-sided specifications. Traditionally, Cpm can only be used to measure the capability of processes with two-sided specifications. We used the variable transformation method to develop the multi-process capability analysis chart. This chart is capable of measuring process precision and accuracy in relation to both types of quality characteristics. When process capability falls short of required standards, manufacturers can investigate the reasons according to the position of each quality characteristic on the chart. These data provide an important point of reference for proposing improvements to the sputtering process to enhance the quality of ITO film products and increase the competitive advantage and productivity of manufacturers.
Returning to Learning Following a Concussion
Authors: Halstead Mark E. , McAvoy Karen , Devore Cynthia D. , Carl Rebecca , Lee Michael , Logan Kelsey ,   Council on Sports Medicine and Fitness,   Council on School Health, Brenner Joel S. , Demorest Rebecca A. , Halstead Mark E. , Kelly Amanda K. Weiss , Koutures Chris G. , LaBella Cynthia R. , LaBotz Michele , Loud Keith J. , Moffatt Kody A. , Brooks M. Alison , Martin Stephanie S. , Guinn-Jones Madra
Published: October 2013

This Clinical Report was reaffirmed April 2023.

Following a concussion, it is common for children and adolescents to experience difficulties in the school setting. Cognitive difficulties, such as learning new tasks or remembering previously learned material, may pose challenges in the classroom. The school environment may also increase symptoms with exposure to bright lights and screens or noisy cafeterias and hallways. Unfortunately, because most children and adolescents look physically normal after a concussion, school officials often fail to recognize the need for academic or environmental adjustments. Appropriate guidance and recommendations from the pediatrician may ease the transition back to the school environment and facilitate the recovery of the child or adolescent. This report serves to provide a better understanding of possible factors that may contribute to difficulties in a school environment after a concussion and serves as a framework for the medical home, the educational home, and the family home to guide the student to a successful and safe return to learning.
Metabolic differences in healthy first-degree female relatives of type 2 diabetic patients
Authors: Kovács Györgyi , Buday Barbara , Fék Attila , Literáti-Nagy Botond , Pauer József , Pach Péter , Vitai Márta , Péterfai Éva , Korányi László
Published: October 2013

Introduction: Today the prevalence of type 2 diabetes reached an epidemic level. It is known that type 2 diabetes could only be prevented before the manifestation, during the “prediabetic” state, urging the development of diagnostic tests to recognize the group at risk in time. Aim: The authors explored metabolic differences between healthy, normal glucose tolerant, normal insulin resistant females having first degree relatives with and without type 2 diabetes. Method: Healthy, normal insulin sensitive females without (n = 26) and with (n = 18) type 2 diabetic relatives were investigated. Results: Healthy females with first degree diabetic relatives had lower low density lipoproteins and higher high density lipoproteins as well as higher glucose and insulin levels at the 120 min of oral glucose test as compared to those without first degree diabetic relatives. Conclusions: These results suggest that the appearance of insulin resistance is preceded by hepatic insulin resistance and impaired lipid metabolism in the symptom-free prediabetic period of genetically suceptible females. Orv. Hetil., 154 (44), 1747–1753.
Obesity and hypertension
Authors: Simonyi Gábor , Kollár Réka
Published: October 2013

The frequency of hypertension and obesity is gradually growing in Hungary. At present 68.5% of men and 78% of women are obese. Hypertension and obesity are the most important risk factors of morbidity and mortality from cardiovascular disease. The relationship between increased sympathetic activity and hypertension is well known. Waist circumference and body fat mass correlate significantly with sympathetic activity, in which hyperlipidemia plays also a role. The increased activity of renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system via its vascular and renal effects also contributes to an increase of blood pressure. Increased sympathetic activity with decreasing vagal tone accompanying the imbalance of the autonomous nervous system is independent and significant risk factor of cardiovascular events including sudden cardiac death. Orv. Hetil., 154 (44), 1736–1742.
Epidemiology and treatment of chronic heart failure; use of bisoprolol
Authors: Nagy Viktor
Published: October 2013

The prevalence of chronic heart failure in Hungary is 1.6% in the adult population, but it occurs in 15–20% of subjects over 80 years of age. The base of treatment of heart failure is the blockade of the neuro-hormonal system, which includes the use of angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (angiotensin receptor blockers in case of angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors intolerance), beta receptor blockers and mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists. Because of their negative inotropic effect, beta blockers were neglected for a long time from the treatment of heart failure. However, during the past decades several studies have demonstrated that beta blockers decrease mortality in patients with heart failure. The effectiveness of bisoprolol in reducing mortality has also also been documented in a number of studies. Orv. Hetil., 154 (44), 1731–1734.
Crioterapia no pós-parto: tempo de aplicação e mudanças na temperatura perineal
Authors: Francisco Adriana Amorim , Oliveira Sonia Maria Junqueira Vasconcellos de , Leventhal Lucila Coca , Bosco Caroline de Souza
Published: October 2013

Estudo descritivo com dados de dois ensaios clínicos realizados em 2008 e 2009 em uma maternidade de uma instituição filantrópica da cidade de São Paulo. Teve como objetivo descrever a temperatura perineal após a aplicação de bolsa de gelo no pós-parto normal. Três grupos com 38 puérperas cada (n=114) receberam aplicação perineal de bolsa de gelo entre 2 e 48h após o parto. Os achados indicaram que com 10 min de crioterapia as médias da temperatura perineal atingiram de 13,3 a 15,3oC, com pequena redução de temperatura ao final de aplicações de 15 e 20 minutos (2,4 e 2,7o, respectivamente). Após resfriamento por 10 min., as mulheres referiram frio e alívio e, depois de 15 a 20 min., dormência e anestesia local. Conclui-se que 10 minutos de aplicação foram suficientes para reduzir a temperatura perineal aos níveis recomendados para analgesia (10-15oC).
Padronização das atividades em centro cirúrgico oncológico segundo a Classificação das Intervenções de Enfermagem
Authors: Possari João Francisco , Gaidzinski Raquel Rapone , Fugulin Fernanda Maria Togeiro , Lima Antônio Fernandes Costa , Kurcgant Paulina
Published: October 2013

Este estudo teve como objetivos identificar em um centro cirúrgico especializado em oncologia, as atividades de enfermagem realizadas no período transoperatório, classificar e validar as atividades em intervenções, segundo a Classificação das Intervenções de Enfermagem (NIC). O levantamento das atividades foi realizado por meio dos registros e da observação direta da assistência de enfermagem, nos quatro turnos de trabalho. As atividades foram classificadas em intervenções de enfermagem da NIC utilizando-se a técnica mapeamento cruzado. O elenco de intervenções foi validado por profissionais de enfermagem, em oficinas de trabalho. Identificaram-se 49 intervenções: 34 de cuidados diretos e 15 de cuidados indiretos. O reconhecimento das intervenções de enfermagem permite medir o tempo despendido na sua execução, variável fundamental para quantificar e qualificar a carga de trabalho dos profissionais de enfermagem.
O significado do trabalho para os profissionais de um serviço substitutivo de saúde mental
Authors: Araújo Meiriele Tavares , Montenegro Lívia Cozer , Alves Marília , Brito Maria José Menezes
Published: October 2013

O Centro de Atenção Psicossocial tem sido visto como uma nova estratégia de atendimento ao portador de transtorno mental por possuir particularidades no cotidiano de trabalho que influenciam diretamente as práticas desenvolvidas pelos profissionais de saúde que nele atuam. Por meio de um estudo de caso qualitativo, realizaram-se entrevistas gravadas com 13 profissionais de diferentes categorias, a fim de conhecer o significado do trabalho para os profissionais que atuam em um Centro de Atenção Psicossocial da cidade de Belo Horizonte. Para análise dos dados foi utilizada a técnica de análise de conteúdo, com os seguintes resultados: a satisfação dos profissionais que atuam no centro de atenção psicossocial devido ao novo modelo de atenção à saúde mental baseada na proposta antimanicomial; a realização no trabalho pelo fato de conseguirem a reinserção social dos indivíduos com transtorno mental e os meios para o alcance da sua autonomia.
Estudantes do ensino médio e o conhecimento em HIV/AIDS: que mudou em dez anos?
Authors: Val Luciane Ferreira do , Silva José Augusto de Souza , Rincón Laura Alarcón , Lima Renata Holanda dos Anjos , Barbosa Ricardo Luís , Nichiata Lucia Yazuko Izumi
Published: October 2013

Estudo exploratório, descritivo, comparativo, com abordagem quantitativa, cujo objetivo foi comparar o conhecimento de estudantes do ensino médio de duas escolas estaduais públicas de Peruíbe, SP, Brasil, sobre o Vírus da Imunodeficiência Humana (HIV) e da Síndrome da Imunodeficiência Adquirida (aids), nos anos de 1999 e 2010. Nos dois anos, na população estudada predominaram estudantes do sexo feminino, menores de 18 anos, solteiros e de cor branca. Foi encontrada diferença estatisticamente significativa quanto ao conhecimento sobre HIV/aids entre os grupos estudados. Verificou-se que mesmo havendo intervalo de dez anos entre os estudos, os dois grupos de estudantes não se consideraram vulneráveis ao HIV e apresentaram dúvidas quanto ao conhecimento correto sobre o tema, o que indica a necessidade de sua abordagem contínua com adolescentes jovens.
Construção de um Vê de Gowin para análises de produções acadêmicas de Enfermagem
Authors: Silva César Cavalcanti da , Oliveira Ana Karla Sousa de , Egry Emiko Yoshikawa , Lima Neto Eufrásio de Andrade , Anjos Ulisses Umbelino dos , Silva Ana Tereza Medeiros Cavalcanti da
Published: October 2013

O artigo apresenta uma ferramenta da Aprendizagem Significativa denominada V de Gowin e a possibilidade de seu uso em um processo de desempacotamento de produções acadêmicas de Enfermagem. Objetiva construir uma proposta de alteração da ferramenta com a utilização dos elementos que compõem a trajetória processual da Teoria da Intervenção Práxica da Enfermagem em Saúde Coletiva (TIPESC) e analisar uma dissertação produzida nesta área de conhecimento. Trata-se de um estudo descritivo e exploratório que apresenta o V de Gowin, propondo alterações no seu domínio metodológico. Constatou-se a possibilidade de utilização para análises de produções acadêmicas de enfermagem deste instrumento heurístico que já se mostrou útil para apoiar processos de ensino e aprendizagem e analisar produções acadêmicas na área, pela capacidade de captar e interpretar qualquer fenômeno articulado aos processos de produção e reprodução social.
Satisfação das usuárias quanto à atenção prestada à criança pela rede básica de saúde
Authors: Modes Priscilla Shirley Siniak dos Anjos , Gaiva Maria Aparecida Munhoz
Published: October 2013

Estudo descritivo avaliativo, pautado no modelo donabediano de avaliação em saúde, que avaliou a satisfação das mães e/ou responsáveis de crianças menores de um ano de idade quanto à atenção prestada pelas Unidades Básicas de Saúde de Cuiabá - Mato Grosso. A coleta de dados transcorreu entre outubro e dezembro de 2010, e se deu por meio de questionário aplicado a 127 responsáveis pelas crianças. Os dados foram analisados segundo estatística descritiva. Os resultados mostraram que todas as crianças têm acesso ao acompanhamento de crescimento e desenvolvimento, contudo nem todas as unidades verificam os parâmetros antropométricos. Verificou-se que o enfermeiro é o profissional que mais utiliza a Caderneta de Saúde da Criança e que o atendimento de saúde prestado às crianças foi avaliado pelas usuárias como regular e a atuação dos profissionais como boa. O grau de satisfação foi associado às orientações sobre prevenção de acidentes, violência e problemas respiratórios, bem como à existência de um espaço para discutir preocupações sobre a criança durante a consulta e ao recebimento gratuito de medicamentos.
Percepcao do usuario sobre a droga em sua vida
Authors: Gabatz Ruth Irmgard Bartschi , Johann Michele , Terra Marlene Gomes , Padoin Stela Maris de Mello , Silva Adao Ademir da , Brum Jane Lilian
Published: October 2013

O abuso de drogas tornou-se um grave problema de saúde pública, tanto pela sua epidemiologia como pelas suas consequências no meio social, sendo o tratamento considerado um desafio. Objetivou-se conhecer a percepção dos usuários sobre as drogas. A pesquisa é de abordagem qualitativa, descritiva exploratória. Os dados foram produzidos por meio de uma entrevista com oito usuários de álcool e outras drogas, em tratamento em uma Comunidade Terapêutica de um município de pequeno porte da Região Noroeste do Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. Foi realizada a análise de conteúdo temática. Os resultados mostraram que a busca dos usuários pelas drogas está relacionada com a incapacidade de lidar com as crises e frustrações; ainda, pode levá-los a perder objetos, valores e a própria família. Concluiu-se que é importante desenvolver essa temática na formação do enfermeiro para que este possa prestar um cuidado humanizado e efetivo.
Caracterização da exposição de população a organoclorados: uma aplicação da análise de cluster
Authors: Guimarães Raphael Mendonça , Asmus Carmen Ildes Rodrigues Fróes , Burdorf Alex
Published: October 2013

O presente trabalho objetivou apresentar os resultados da aplicação da análise de agrupamento (cluster) para a caracterização da exposição a organoclorados, através de variáveis relacionadas ao tempo e à dose de exposição. Características de 354 sujeitos de uma população exposta a resíduos de pesticidas organoclorados relacionadas ao tempo e à dose de exposição foram submetidas à análise de cluster para separá-las em subgrupos. Foi realizada a análise de cluster hierárquico. Para avaliar a precisão da classificação, foram comparadas a variabilidade intragrupo e a variabilidade inter-grupos através do teste de ANOVA para cada dimensão. A estratégia de agregação foi realizada pelo método de Ward. Para criação dos clusters, foram comparadas as variáveis associadas à exposição e às rotas de contaminação. As informações referentes às doses estimadas de ingesta do composto foram usadas para ponderar os valores de tempo de exposição a cada uma das rotas, de forma a obter valores proxy de intensidade de exposição. Os resultados indicaram 3 clusters: o cluster 1 (n = 45), com características de maior exposição; o cluster 2 (n = 103), de exposição intermediária, e o cluster 3 (n = 206), de menor exposição. As análises bivariadas realizadas com os grupos evidenciaram que são grupamentos com diferença estatisticamente significativa. Este estudo evidenciou a aplicabilidade da análise de cluster para categorizar populações expostas a organoclorados, e aponta para a relevância de estudos tipológicos que possam contribuir para uma melhor classificação de sujeitos expostos a agentes químicos, condição típica dos estudos de epidemiologia ambiental, para uma mais ampla compreensão dos aspectos etiológicos, preventivos e terapêuticos da contaminação.
Densidade energética da dieta de trabalhadores de São Paulo e fatores sociodemográficos associados*
Authors: Canella Daniela Silva , Bandoni Daniel Henrique , Jaime Patrícia Constante
Published: October 2013

Objetivo: Analisar a densidade energética (DE) da dieta de trabalhadores da cidade de São Paulo e sua associação com características sociodemográficas, bem como avaliar a relação entre DE e ingestão de nutrientes. Métodos: Estudo transversal que avaliou a dieta de 852 trabalhadores, por meio de recordatório de 24 horas, sendo um recordatório aplicado a todos os indivíduos e um segundo para subamostra, a fim de corrigir a variabilidade intrapessoal. A DE da dieta foi calculada por três métodos: inclusão de todos os alimentos sólidos e das bebidas, excluindo apenas água (DE 1); inclusão de todos os alimentos sólidos e bebidas calóricas que contêm, no mínimo, 5 kcal/100g (DE 2); inclusão de todos os alimentos sólidos e exclusão de todas as bebidas (DE 3). Para analisar a relação entre a DE e as variáveis sociodemográficas utilizou-se regressão linear, e a relação entre DE e nutrientes foi avaliada por meio do coeficiente de correlação de Pearson. Resultados: Para a dieta dos trabalhadores, os valores de DE observados foram 1,18 kcal/g, 1,22 kcal/g e 1,73 kcal/g, considerando-se os métodos DE 1, DE 2 e DE 3, respectivamente. Nos modelos múltiplos de regressão, apenas a variável idade apresentou associação negativa com todos os métodos de DE. Para a DE 3, houve incremento da DE para indivíduos não brancos. Dentre os nutrientes estudados, o único que não apresentou correlação significativa foi a proteína, para DE 3 (p = 0,899). Conclusão: Os adultos jovens tinham uma alimentação com maior DE, sendo um grupo prioriatário para intervenções nutricionais. Além disso, independente do método de cálculo, há correlação entre a DE e os nutrientes da dieta.
Agregação de fatores de risco para doenças e agravos crônicos não transmissíveis em adultos de Florianópolis, SC
Authors: Costa Filipe Ferreira da , Benedet Jucemar , Leal Danielle Biazzi , Assis Maria Alice Altenburg de
Published: October 2013

Objetivo: Investigar o padrão de combinações de comportamentos de risco para doenças crônicas não transmissíveis e identificar os fatores sociodemográficos associados às combinações que excedem a prevalência esperada. Métodos: Inquérito com 1.996 adultos, residentes em domicílios servidos por linhas telefônicas fixas, no ano de 2005, em Florianópolis, SC. Os comportamentos investigados foram o tabagismo, consumo de álcool, inatividade física no lazer e consumo irregular de frutas. O padrão de simultaneidade dos comportamentos de risco foi avaliado pela razão entre a prevalência esperada e observada de cada uma das 16 possibilidades de combinação. O conjunto de comportamentos que excedeu a prevalência esperada constituiu o principal desfecho investigado. A regressão logística binomial e multinomial foi utilizada para avaliar a associação dos padrões de combinação e simultaneidade com variáveis sociodemográficas. Resultados: 43% dos homens e 36,6% das mulheres acumularam dois ou mais fatores de risco. Três (19,2%; IC 95% 16,7 - 21,7) e cinco (9,8%; IC 95% 8,0 - 11,6) combinações de comportamento excederam a prevalência esperada, respectivamente, entre os homens e as mulheres. Mulheres menos escolarizadas e de idade mais avançada apresentaram maior chance de agregação dos comportamentos de risco. Conclusão: Apesar de os homens apresentarem prevalências mais elevadas tanto dos comportamentos de risco isoladamente quanto das combinações dos mesmos, as mulheres apresentaram maior número de padrões que tenderam a se agregar além do esperado. O conhecimento sobre o padrão de combinação dos comportamentos de risco pode auxiliar no desenvolvimento de estratégias mais efetivas de promoção da saúde.
Perfil de vítimas e tratamento de lesões por causas externas segundo atendimento pelo Centro de Reabilitação Municipal de Uberlândia, MG – Causas externas e fisioterapia
Authors: Lemos Carla Andréa Gondim , Jorge Miguel Tanús , Ribeiro Lindioneza Adriano
Published: October 2013

No Brasil, as causas externas são responsáveis por grande número de incapacidades. A maioria das pesquisas tem dado ênfase à mortalidade e à demanda de atendimentos hospitalares, pouco se sabendo sobre a evolução das vítimas não fatais. O objetivo do presente estudo foi conhecer o perfil das vítimas e as características das lesões por causas externas, o tratamento fisioterapêutico e a evolução funcional de pacientes atendidos em um centro público de reabilitação. Os dados foram colhidos, prospectivamente, por entrevistas com os pacientes que ingressaram no Centro de Reabilitação Municipal (CEREM) de Uberlândia, de janeiro a julho de 2005. A maioria dos pacientes era do sexo masculino e predominaram aqueles de 20 a 59 anos, com baixas renda e escolaridade; as principais causas das lesões foram as quedas e os acidentes de trânsito; quase a metade dos eventos ocorreram em vias públicas e as fraturas foram comuns, principalmente em membros superiores. Os recursos fisioterapêuticos mais utilizados foram a cinesioterapia, a eletroterapia e a termoterapia por adição, e a maioria dos tratamentos iniciados foi concluída. O perfil dos pacientes que procuram o CEREM devido a lesões por causas externas parece refletir, sobretudo, aquele das pessoas que sofrem tais lesões. Recursos fisioterapêuticos relativamente simples mostraram-se suficientes para uma boa evolução dos pacientes.
"Delivering Operationally Efficient Platforms Using Inherently Safer Design"
Authors: Gordon Brian J. , Duncanson Robert K.
Published: October 2013

This paper demonstrates the systems and processes to be implemented to achieve an operationally efficient platform, with the lowest manpower requirement, whilst using inherently safer design principles. Manning of the platform has a significant impact on the cumulative risk to the individual and also impacts on operational costs. Therefore, the challenge is to embed inherently safer principles across all elements of the project, to ensure the risks to individuals and the environment is considered and is ALARP.

Achieving operational efficiency requires challenges to many, "business as usual", Project practices. It requires the optimisation of offshore man-hours and maximization of availability, through the elimination or simplification of equipment and processes in order to minimise complexity. Project discipline is required to ensure the inclusion of only justified equipment to meet the required functionality and negate the continual addition of unnecessary equipment. Other aspects to be considered are the elimination of defects, maintainability, and initiatives to reduce leak potential, in order to deliver optimal residual risk.

It is clear from numerous incidents around the world, that equipment failures and the inability of people to react to a Major Accident Event, demonstrates that "inherently safer" passive systems are a better approach than reactive systems. This approach improves reliability and availability whilst reducing requirement for personnel intervention.

Efficient operations with the lowest possible risk to individuals can be achieved by the implementation of an inherently safer approach and the establishment of appropriate Operational Philosophies. This approach potentially leads to minimum manning or a "Not Permanently Attended Installation". It can also be demonstrated that costs of reducing the risks are not grossly disproportionate to the benefits that may be achieved.

This paper is based on the experiences gained by Woodside Energy Ltd through major field developments in the Australian North West Shelf Region e.g. Angel development.

(Key words:- Inherently Safer, Operational Efficiency, Not Normally Manned Installation, Not Permanently Attended Installation, Angel Platform, OPEX).

Note:- Any views or opinions expressed in this paper are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of Woodside.
The Role of Exercise in Reducing the Risks of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Hopkins Sarah A , Artal Raul
Published: October 2013

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is the most common medical complication of pregnancy and is particularly prevalent among obese women. Both GDM and obesity confer significant comorbidities for the mother and her offspring, including perinatal complications, excessive fetal growth and long-term risks for maternal and offspring obesity and diabetes. Exercise has well-documented health benefits and reduces peripheral insulin resistance in nonpregnant individuals, a major risk factor for the development of diabetes. Observational studies conducted in large population-based cohorts suggest that women who are the most active before pregnancy are less insulin-resistant in late pregnancy and have lower rates of GDM. This article will review the evidence supporting a role for exercise in the prevention of GDM, the management of glycemic control in women with established GDM, and the reduction of GDM-associated maternal and offspring health consequences. Wherever possible, the discussion will focus on studies carried out on obese women. However, there are many areas where strong evidence is lacking in obese populations, and it may be inferred from similar studies performed in normal weight pregnant women.
Use of Psychotropic Medication during Pregnancy and the Postpartum Period
Authors: Pearlstein Teri
Published: October 2013

Women with active psychiatric disorders who become pregnant face treatment dilemmas. Although results from studies are inconsistent, small but significant, risks on birth outcomes occur with exposure to untreated disorders, as well as to psychotropic medications. Prenatal antidepressant medication exposure may increase the risk for spontaneous miscarriage, preterm birth, cardiac malformations, persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn and postnatal adaptation syndrome. The use of valproate is contraindicated during pregnancy due to teratogenicity and neurocognitive delay and deficits. This review of selected studies will highlight some of the current issues with the use of psychotropic medications during pregnancy and the postpartum period.
Primary Therapy in Breast Cancer: What Have We Learned from Landmark Trials?
Authors: Bozza Claudia , Osa Etin-Osa , Puglisi Fabio
Published: October 2013

Primary anticancer therapy is currently accepted as a therapeutic option for patients with early-stage breast cancer. Its objectives are to increase the chance of achieving a conservative surgery and, similar to adjuvant chemotherapy, to reduce the risk of distant recurrence. The prognostic significance of obtaining a pathological complete response has been evaluated in several randomized clinical trials and meta-analyses. Growing evidence suggests that pathological complete response may act as a valid predictor of overall survival. Of note, a significant association between pathological complete response and outcome has especially been observed in patients with HER2-positive and triple-negative (hormonal receptors negative and HER2-negative) breast cancer. This review focuses on recent trials of neoadjuvant treatment with specific attention to HER2-negative disease.
Mineral composition of different basil (Ocimum spp.) genotypes
Authors: Licina Vlado , Jelacic Slavica , Beatovic Damir , Antic-Mladenovic Svetlana
Published: October 2013

This experiment investigated mineral composition of 13 basil genotypes
(Ocimum spp.) in order to find varieties supporting human dietary intake of
essential minerals and to evaluate basil genotypes which could serve for
herbal production as raw material in pharmaceutical or food processing
industry. In addition, this study tested a potential risk of the accumulation
of heavy metals during the commercial production of basil on agricultural
soil. Mineral composition of basil genotypes was found to be in association
with its genetic potential, where some of them can be used in human nutrition
as an additional source of several minerals, particularly micronutrients (Fe,
Mn, Zn), which generally improve human immune system. Iron-rich basil
genotypes were identified in this experiment, like Compact (3576.0 mg/kg),
with Lattuga (1585.6 mg/kg) and Blue spice (1167.9 mg/kg) genotypes,
containing more than 1000 mg/kg of Fe in herbal part on dry basil (d.m.).
This attract a special attention as a source of iron, especially for humans
with low Fe intake, and consequently, for people with low level of
hemoglobin. Basil grown on agricultural soil was tested on the accumulation
of heavy metals (Cu, Co, Cu, Ni, Cr, Pb), which were not found to be
excessive in herbal parts of the plants. Cluster analysis (CA) distinguished
Ocmium spp. genotypes in two separate groups. Despite of significant
differences among the genotypes, content of Fe, Mn, Co, Cr, Ni and Pb made a
clear distinction between the clusters.
Structural, spectral and thermal properties of 2,2’-iminodipyridinium(+) trihydrogen pyromellitate
Authors: Poleti Dejan , Rogan Jelena , Radovanovic Lidija , Rodic Marko
Published: October 2013

The title compound, (Hdipya)(H3pyr), where Hdipya is protonated
2,2?-dipyridilamine and H3pyr is monoanion of pyromellytic acid (H4pyr), was
obtained from the reaction mixture containing Zn(II) ions, dipya, Na4pyr
(the molar ratio 2 : 2 : 1) and HNO3. The products (micro- and
single-crystalline) were characterized by X-ray structure determination,
FT-IR spectroscopy and TG/DSC analysis. The most striking structural feature
of (Hdipya)(H3pyr) are short inter- and extremely short intramolecular
hydrogen bonds. These bonds mutually connect cations and anions making thin
layers parallel to the crystallographic (223) plane. Also, quite unusual,
linear proton-bound polymeric {H(H2pyr)-}n anions were identified in the
structure. The results of crystal structure determination are compared with
FT-IR and TG/DSC data. The low position of nas(COO) vibration at 1660 cm-1
is in accordance with strong hydrogen bonding. This value can be used as a
measure of C=O bond order, which is calculated to be 1.81.
Performance of models based on a linear regression and neural networks
Authors: Radonja Pero
Published: October 2013

In this paper the comparison of models based on a linear regression and
neural networks is presented. The analyzed models are the generalized profile
function models, GPFM. The GPFM provides approximations of the individual
models (individual stem profile models) of the objects using only two basic
measurements. The performances of the obtained GPFM, by using the linear
regression relations and neural networks are compared by a test platform in
MATLwith a simple graphic user interface. It is shown that application of
both linear regression and neural networks provides the efficient and robust
generalized model with very good performances.
Development of the system for abdominal aortic aneurysm mechanical properties research using “Bubble Inflated” method
Authors: Milankovic Ivan , Mijailovic Nikola , Koncar Igor , Nikolic Dalibor , Filipovic Nenad , Peulic Aleksandar
Published: October 2013

The main goal of this paper was to determine the biomechanical parameters of
abdominal aortic aneurysm using the Bubble Inflated method. In other words,
the main task of this paper was to develop a system which would be able to
increase the pressure of physiological saline which affects blood vessel
tissue and causes its deformation. This deformation is recorded using a
camera and providing data at each moment about pressure values which affect
tissue and were detected by using a pressure sensor.
The Impact of PCAOB AS5 and the Economic Recession on Client Portfolio Characteristics of the Big 4 Audit Firms
Authors: Schroeder Joseph H. , Hogan Chris E.
Published: October 2013

We examine the impact of PCAOB Auditing Standard No. 5 (AS5) and the economic recession on risk characteristics and degree of auditor/client misalignment in the publicly traded client portfolios of Big 4 firms. AS5 and the economic recession both likely resulted in an increase in audit firm personnel capacity as well as a decline in current and future revenue prospects, leading to concerns that the Big 4 firms may pursue clients that present greater risk to the portfolio. We find that the overall portfolio in 2009 presents greater financial risk, attributable to the impact of the recession on continuing clients. A net decrease in audit and auditor business risks is also attributable to continuing clients over this period, as increases for new clients are offset by reductions due to departing clients. Overall, the results, which should be of interest to regulators, indicate that Big 4 firms continued to balance their portfolio with risk in mind.

Data Availability: Data are publicly available from sources identified in the paper.
Validation of the Karasek-Job Content Questionnaire to Measure Job Strain in Vietnam
Authors: Hoang Thi Giang , Corbière Marc , Negrini Alessia , Pham Minh Khuê , Reinharz Daniel
Published: October 2013

The objective of this study was to validate the Karasek-Job Content Questionnaire in Vietnamese. A translation/back-translation of the questionnaire was performed prior to its administration to 344 health personnel in Vietnam. Several psychometric properties of the Vietnamese version of the Karasek-Job Content Questionnaire were assessed. A valid Vietnamese version of the Karasek-Job Content Questionnaire was produced, composed of five subscales based on the original theoretical model: Psychological demands, Social support at work, Decision latitude-Autonomy, Decision latitude—Authority, and Skill discretion. Internal consistency and reliability coefficients for each subscale of the questionnaire were satisfactory. The correlations with depression and work absence indicators were weak but statistically significant, as expected. The Vietnamese version of the Karasek-Job Content Questionnaire will help Vietnamese researchers and clinicians appropriately evaluate and document the job strain of workers in Vietnamese workplaces.
Factorial Structure and Convergent and Discriminant Validity of the E (Empathy) Scale
Authors: Tran Ulrich S. , Laireiter Anton-Rupert , Neuner Christine , Schmitt David P. , Leibetseder Max , Szente-Voracek Sara Leyla , Voracek Martin
Published: October 2013

The Empathy (E) scale has been proposed as a theoretically and psychometrically more satisfying alternative to existing self-report measures of empathy. Its four scales (facets) cover both components (cognitive vs. emotional) and both reality statuses (fictitious vs. real-life) of empathy in pairwise combinations. Confirmatory factor analyses of the E-scale in an Austrian community sample ( N = 794) suggested that one prior assumption, namely the mutual orthogonality of these facets, may partly need revision; particularly, the E-scale facets seemed to reflect more strongly differences in the reality statuses than in the components of empathy. Utilizing numerous informative psychological traits, the scale's convergent and discriminant validity were examined. E-scale scores were consistently predicted by sex-related and relationship-related constructs and measures of antisocial attitudes and behavior. Among the Big Five personality dimensions, openness emerged as a major positive correlate of empathy. Sex and age were demographic correlates of E-scale scores (higher in women and the younger). Findings were discussed with regards to the definition and measurement of empathy.
Predicting Precompetitive State Anxiety: Using the 2 × 2 Achievement Goal Framework
Authors: Li Chiung-Huang
Published: October 2013

The goal was to examine the predictiveness of achievement goals for self-confidence, cognitive anxiety, and somatic anxiety using a prospective design. 160 high school athletes completed the 2 × 2 Achievement Goals Questionnaire for Sport after daily practice and the Revised Competitive State Anxiety Inventory–2 before an official competition. Using hierarchical regression analyses, mastery-approach goals were found as positive predictors of self-confidence and negative predictors of cognitive and somatic anxiety. In contrast, performance- and mastery-avoidance goals positively predicted cognitive and somatic anxiety. Also, performance-avoidance goals negatively predicted self-confidence. Generally, athletes who pursued task mastery and improvement of competence were less physically and cognitively anxious and more self-confident. However, athletes felt tense, worried, and had lower confidence when they endorsed avoidance forms of achievement goals.
Sex Differences in Dimensions of Impulsivity in a Non-Clinical Sample
Authors: Lage Guilherme Menezes , Albuquerque Maicon Rodrigues , Fuentes Daniel , Corrêa Humberto , Malloy-Diniz Leandro Fernandes
Published: October 2013

Impulsivity has been more closely associated with men than with women because men are more often involved in illegal behaviors. The few studies that have investigated sex differences in impulsivity have used self-report questionnaires and have obtained contradictory results. Two computerized behavioral tests were administered to 125 healthy undergraduate students (75 women, M age 23.8 yr.; 50 men, M age 25.0 yr.). Men exhibited higher scores on motor impulsivity, but there were no significant differences between men and women on attentional and non-planning impulsivity scores. These findings are discussed in terms of the relationship between impulsivity and low- and high-order control.
Variables Affecting Athletes' Retention of Coaches' Feedback
Authors: Januário Nuno M. S. , Rosado António F. , Mesquita Isabel
Published: October 2013

Athletes' retention of information conveyed in coaches' feedback during training was examined, considering the nature of the information transmitted by each coach (extensions, total number of ideas transmitted, and total number of repeated ideas), athletes' characteristics, (ages, genders, school levels, and practice levels), and athletes' perceptions (relevance and acceptance of coaches' information, task motivational levels, and athletes' attention levels). Participants were 193 athletes (79 boys, 114 girls; 9 to 13 years of age) and 6 coaches. Feedback was both audio and video recorded and all athletes were interviewed. All coaches' feedback and athletes' recollections were subjected to content analysis. Information was completely retained in 31.60% of feedback episodes. Athletes' mean per-episode information retention was 63.0%. Three variables appeared to be predictive of athletes' retention: athletes' practice levels (β = –.25), attention to coaches' provision of feedback (β = .17), and the number of different ideas transmitted by each coach (β = −.90).
Defensive Strategies in Rugby Union
Authors: Hendricks Sharief , Roode Brad , Matthews Bevan , Lambert Michael
Published: October 2013

Success in rugby union competition is dependent partly on the defensive strategies of a team. Despite this, little empirical evidence exists about effective defensive strategies used during play. This study attempted to identify defensive characteristics associated with increased likelihood of a successful outcome in rugby union, while considering the game situation. Twenty-one matches of the 2010 Super 14 competition were analysed, amounting to 2,394 coded tackle contacts. The likelihood of the defending team winning the breakdown (the post-tackle contact situation where opposing teams compete for possession of the ball) increased as the match progressed. Defensive speed, measured as the speed of the defence in response to the attacking line, was a statistically significant predictor of breakdown wins and preventing the attacking team from advancing towards the gain line. Identifying the relative effectiveness of such strategies allows understanding of rugby match behaviour and may be applied to improve organisation, design, training, teaching and learning the game.
Steady-state analysis for a class of hyperbolic systems with boundary inputs
Authors: Bartecki Krzysztof
Published: October 2013

Results of a steady-state analysis performed for a class of distributed parameter systems described by hyperbolic partial differential equations defined on a one-dimensional spatial domain are presented. For the case of the system with two state variables and two boundary inputs, the analytical expressions for the steady-state distribution of the state variables are derived, both in the exponential and in the hyperbolic form. The influence of the location of the boundary inputs on the steady-state response is demonstrated. The considerations are illustrated with a practical example of a shell and tube heat exchanger operating in parallel- and countercurrent-flow modes.
Discrete-time switching state-space controller of DC drive
Authors: Sieklucki Grzegorz , Bisztyga Barbara , Sykulski Rajmund , Zdrojewski Antoni , Orzechowski Tadeusz
Published: October 2013

Control synthesis with state variables constraints for the DC drive is considered. Constraints are defined for the specific operating states of the DC motor during starting and braking in the presence of selected specific conditions. The control signal is based on the reference values and current state of the motor. The inverse dynamics method is applied. Closed-loop control law is realized by means of switching state-space controller.
Improved direct torque control of induction motors using adaptive observer and sliding mode control
Authors: Kouchih Djilali , Tadjine Mohamed , Boucherit Mohamed Seghir
Published: October 2013

This paper presents the synthesis of an adaptive observer which is used for the improvement of the direct torque control of induction motor drives. The observer detects stator flux components in two-phase stationary reference frame, rotor speed and stator resistance by measure of the stator terminal voltages and currents. The observer is adapted using a simple algorithm which does not imply a high computational load. Stability analysis based on Lyapunov theory is performed in order to guarantee the closed loop stability. Simulation tests under load disturbance and stator resistance variation are provided to evaluate the consistency and performance of the proposed control technique in the low and high speeds.
Morphometry of the aortic arch and its branches
Authors: Manole A.M. , Iliescu D.M. , Rusali A. , Bordei P.
Published: October 2013

Our study was conducted by the evaluation of angioCT’s performed on a GE LightSpeed VCT64 Slice CT Scanner. The measurements were performed on the aortic arch at the following levels: at the origin of the aorta, the middle part of the ascending aorta, prior to the origin of the brachiocephalic arterial trunk and after the origin of the left subclavian artery. We measured the caliber of the aortic arch arteries and the data are correlated and reported by gender. The diameter of the ascending aorta was between 27 to 28.9 mm in females and in males from 25.8 to 37.6 mm. The diameter of the aorta within the middle segment of the ascending part was between 28-30.2 mm in females and in males from 26.1 to 34.6. The diameter of the aortic arch prior to the origin of the brachiocephalic arterial trunk was between 26.4 to 29.4 mm in females and in males from 25.8 to 37.5 mm. The diameter of the aortic arch after the origin of the left subclavian artery was in a range of 20.4 to 28.4 mm, which corresponds to the limits found in males while in females the aortic diameter was between 21.3 to 24.1 mm. The brachiocephalic trunk diameters were 8.3 to 15.5 mm in females and in males was 9.1 to 14.5 mm. The right common carotid artery had a diameter of 4-8 mm diameter in males and in females ranged from 4.7 to 5.5 mm. The right subclavian artery showed a caliber of 5.7 to 7.5 mm in females and in males from 5.9 to 10.1. The left common carotid artery diameter was 4.6 to 5.7 mm in females and males the diameter was between 5.2 to 7.4 mm. The left subclavian artery had a diameter of 6-10 mm in females and in males ranged from 7.7 to 12.8 mm. We found that the distance between the ascending part of the aorta and the descending segment ranged from 33.3 to 38.5 mm in females and in males from 40 to 68.6 mm. We measured the distance that exists at the crossing of the aortic arch with the left branch of the pulmonary trunk, finding that in females this distance is 3 to 10.3 mm and in males from 3 to 12.5 mm.
Six year old with isolated sphenoidal mucocele and ophthalmopathy – a case report
Authors: Lupascu M. , Comsa Gh. I.
Published: October 2013

Sphenoid sinus affections in children are very rare occurrences due to the late development of the sinus and treatment may present quite a challenge even to the most skillful surgeon because of the small nasal fossae. Due to the often vague and uncharacteristic symptomatology sphenoid sinus disease is misdiagnosed and the treatment is delayed, sometimes with serious complications that are life threatening if not properly managed. We present the case of a six year old patient with a mucocele affecting an unusually large sphenoid sinus with concomitant Graves-like ophthalmopathy that has been treated through functional endoscopic sinus surgery but also needed prolonged cortisonic treatment.