bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Formação do fonoaudiólogo no município de Salvador e consolidação do SUS
Authors: Lemos Marcio , Bazzo Leda Maria Fonseca
Published: August 2010

A formação dos Recursos Humanos em Saúde (RHS) é reconhecidamente área crítica do processo de reorientação do setor saúde. A construção do SUS apresenta desafios ao processo de formação, em especial, ao se tratar de profissões recentes, como a fonoaudiologia, pois se verifica pouca familiaridade com a saúde coletiva e com históricos de lutas que reafirmaram uma política pública de saúde no Brasil, além da forte tendência ao modelo de atendimento à demanda espontânea e terapêutica reabilitadoras. O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar o perfil da formação do fonoaudiólogo no município de Salvador (BA). Utilizaram-se a análise documental e entrevista com coordenadores, investigando como a área da Saúde Pública está disposta em três cursos. Observouse pouca aderência das instituições de ensino superior (IES) à legislação do campo; reduzido contato dos graduandos com a área da Saúde Coletiva e desarticulação ensino-serviço. A formação do fonoaudiólogo se mostrou incipiente em relação as políticas de consolidação do SUS. Identificar os desafios e oportunidades de mudança na formação dos RHS no âmbito das IES pode se reverter em melhores níveis de assistência à população, qualidade de ensino e expansão do conhecimento dos modelos práticos e teóricos.
Cuidado domiciliar: em busca da autonomia do indivíduo e da família - na perspectiva da área pública
Authors: Lacerda Maria Ribeiro
Published: August 2010

Este texto é um ensaio com o objetivo de refletir sobre a possibilidade da busca da autonomia do indivíduo e da família nos serviços públicos de saúde, através da ação dos profissionais de saúde e, principalmente, da presença da enfermeira no desenvolvimento do cuidado domiciliar. Para realizar o cuidado domiciliar nos sistemas de saúde, principalmente na perspectiva do serviço público, devem ser considerados alguns aspectos referentes à organização e à formação dos profissionais de saúde. O sucesso do cuidado domiciliar está em olhar o indivíduo e sua família em seu contexto, visualizando e considerando seu meio social, suas inserções, seu local de moradia, seus hábitos e relações e qualquer outra coisa ou situação que façam parte de seu existir e estar no mundo. Autonomia, para os indivíduos e familiares terem condições para desenvolverem o cuidado no domicílio numa situação de adoecimento, é a possibilidade de estar capacitado a realizar o cuidado com ajuda do sistema de saúde, com profissionais que ensinem, orientem e acompanhem e principalmente com uma enfermeira que tenha sensibilidade e capacidade técnica-científica para estabelecer metas de cuidado factíveis à realidade de saúde-doença vivenciada.
Contribuição teórico-conceitual para a pesquisa avaliativa no contexto de vigilância da saúde
Authors: Arreaza Antônio Luis Vicente , Moraes José Cássio de
Published: August 2010

O presente artigo revisita inicialmente alguns dos elementos conceituais e operacionais sobre pesquisa avaliativa, em consonância com uma concepção ampliada de qualidade, reunindo saberes e campos de ação no âmbito das práticas de Saúde Pública. Em seguida, buscamos viabilizar o desenho de um modelo teórico tendo em vista a proposta de implementação das ações de vigilância da saúde, como na definição de uma imagem-objetivo da organização e integração das políticas e práticas de saúde sob uma lógica hierarquizada e regionalizada. Por fim, refletimos sobre os devires e desafios em torno da importância da teoria no campo da avaliação em saúde, produzindo saberes e abordagens para construção de modelos lógicos que relevem a complexidade dos objetos de intervenção e sua natureza de prática social transformadora.
Effect of Eutectic Mixture of Local Anesthetics on Pain Perception During Scaling by Ultrasonic or Hand Instruments: A Masked Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Chung Jae‐Eun , Koh Sang‐A , Kim Tae‐Il , Seol Yang‐Jo , Lee Yong‐Moo , Ku Young , Rhyu In‐Chul , Chung Chong‐Pyoung , Koo Ki‐Tae
Published: August 2010

Background: The aims of this study are to evaluate the efficacy of a eutectic mixture of local anesthetic (EMLA) cream on pain perception during scaling and to compare the intensities of pain provoked by hand and ultrasonic instruments.

Methods: Forty subjects with chronic gingivitis or periodontitis were enrolled in the study. In this randomized, split‐mouth, controlled, masked clinical trial, each of the four quadrants in subjects was randomly assigned to receive one of the following protocols: scaling with an ultrasonic scaler with or without the application of the EMLA cream or scaling with a Gracey curet with or without the application of the EMLA cream. Pain levels after each quadrant of scaling were assessed with a visual analog scale (VAS; 0 to 100 mm) and verbal rating score (VRS; 0 to 4). All subjects were recalled to detect any complications after 24 hours.

Results: The mean VAS and VRS when EMLA cream was applied (18.39 ± 14.47 mm and 0.95 ± 0.69) were significantly lower (P <0.001 for VAS and VRS) compared to when EMLA cream was not used (26.54 ± 16.46 mm and 1.30 ± 0.75). The mean VAS and VRS of the ultrasonic scaler group (20.43 ± 16.40 mm and 0.98 ± 0.76) were significantly lower (P = 0.024 for VAS; P = 0.003 for VRS) than those of the Gracey curet group (24.50 ± 15.17 mm and 1.28 ± 0.69). None of the subjects showed adverse effects after EMLA‐cream application.

Conclusion: Although most patients experienced limited pain during scaling, a significant reduction of pain is achieved by using EMLA cream and ultrasonic scaler.
Preparation and characterization of fouling-resistant photocatalytic metal membrane embedded with self-organized TiO2 nano tube
Authors: Choi Won-Youl , Park No-Suk , Wiesner Mark R. , Kim Jong-Oh
Published: August 2010

A self-organized nano-structured, photocatalytic TiO2 membrane with large surface area of anatase crystallites was successfully fabricated by anodization. The nano-structured anodized TiO2 membrane was characterized using SEM, XRD and TEM techniques and the operational parameters to fabricate such as anodization time and applied anodic potential were also investigated. The anodized TiO2 membrane showed high photocatalytic performance in terms of refractory organics decomposition, bacteria inactivation and membrane permeability, which suggests that problems of conventional photocatalytic treatment and membrane filtration in water and wastewater treatment may be reduced using this combined process.
RO filtration of biologically treated textile and dyeing effluents using ozonation as a pre-treatment
Authors: Wang H. Y. , Guan Y. T. , Mizuno T. , Tsuno H.
Published: August 2010

Bench-scale experiments were conducted to investigate the application of ozonation pre-treatment for biologically treated textile and dyeing wastewater to improve performance of the RO process. Based on ozonation experiments, four specific ozone consumptions (SOC), 0, 0.3, 0.6, 4.0 mg O3/mg DOC0 were chosen for study of the effects of ozonation on the reverse osmosis (RO) process. Membrane flux was recorded. Also, the permeate water quality parameters such as TOC, conductivity were analyzed. In addition, fouled membrane cleaning was studied. The study further examined the nature and mechanisms of membrane fouling using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and the energy dispersive X-ray spectrometer (EDS). The effect of ozonation on RO filtration was found to depend on SOC. The study revealed that significant improvement can be achieved in the efficiency of RO filtration by employing ozonation with 0.6 mg O3/mg DOC0 SOC. Although the product water purity slightly decreased, the ozonation pre-treatment showed advantages at 0.6 mg O3/mg DOC0 SOC for the following: (i) mitigation of flux decline due to membrane fouling; (ii) improvement in foulants cleanability. In addition, hypotheses were put forward to explain the reasons from the aspect of organic matter characteristics changed by ozonation, such as changing on functional groups and molecular weight of organic matter.
A study on the degradation of direct pink by the low-frequency ultrasonic irradiation
Authors: Zheng Huaili , Zhu Guocheng , He Qiang , Hu Peng , Jiao Shijun , Tshukudu Tiroyaone , Zhang Peng
Published: August 2010

The ultrasonic degradation of direct pink was investigated in this study. Parameters affecting ultrasonic degradation degree such as ultrasonic power, pH, bubbling gas and the presence of inorganic salts, were examined. The results showed that the addition of inorganic salts (NaCl, CuSO4) facilitated the degradation of direct pink while the addition of K2CO3 inhibited it. The degradation degree was enhanced significantly in the presence of saturated gases as listed here in decreasing order of effectiveness: argon > air > oxygen > nitrogen. The degradation degree of direct pink was largely influenced by pH value and boosted by acidic condition. The optimum degree could be achieved when pH value was 3.0 or when the sound power was 150 W. However, the degradability decreased notably in alkaline condition. Also, ultrasound/H2O2 technology was used, and the results showed that ultrasound/H2O2 has a better effect on the degradation than ultrasound alone or with H2O2 oxidation. After 120 minutes, the degradation degree could reach 78.0% under the optimum conditions, when the ultrasonic power was 150 W, 50 μL H2O2, CuSO4 and argon atmosphere being added and the initial pH value of the model dye was 3.0.
Magnetic Fe3O4 nanoparticles for adsorptive removal of acid dye (new coccine) from aqueous solutions
Authors: Weng Chih-Huang , Lin Yao-Tung , Yeh Chia-Ling , Sharma Y. C.
Published: August 2010

The ability of magnetic Fe3O4 nanoparticles (MFN) to remove new coccine (NC), an acidic dye, from aqueous solutions was studied. Parameters including ionic strength, pH, and temperature were evaluated. MFN, prepared by precipitation method, exhibits an average particle size of 12.5 nm, specific surface area of 85.5 m2/g, and pHzpc of 5.9. Results of kinetic adsorption experiments indicated that the pseudo-second-order rate of adsorption increased with increasing initial NC concentration. Findings also revealed that the equilibrium data could be fitted into Langmuir adsorption isotherm. The adsorption is favored at low pH, high temperature, and low ionic strength, whereupon a maximum adsorption capacity of 1.11 × 10−4 mol/g was determined for NC. Thermodynamic functions indicated that the adsorption process is spontaneous and exothermic in nature. Tests of regeneration showed that after 5 regeneration cycles the adsorption capacity of NC decreased to 35% to its original capacity.
Use of sewer on-line total solids data in wastewater treatment plant modelling
Authors: Poutiainen H. , Niska H. , Heinonen-Tanski H. , Kolehmainen M.
Published: August 2010

We describe a neural network model of a municipal wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) in which on-line total solids (TS) sewer data generated by a novel microwave sensor is used as a model input variable. The predictive performance of the model is compared with and without sewer data and with modelling with a traditional linear multiple linear regression (MLR) model. In addition, the benefits of using neural networks are discussed. According to our results, the neural network based MLP (multilayer perceptron) model provides a better estimate than the corresponding MLR model of WWTP effluent TS load. The inclusion of sewer TS data as an input variable improved the performance of the models. The results suggest that increased on-line sensing of WWTPs should be stressed and that neural networks are useful as a modelling tool due to their capability of handling the nonlinear and dynamic data of sewer and WWTP systems.
Stormwater quality models: performance and sensitivity analysis
Authors: Dotto C. B. S. , Kleidorfer M. , Deletic A. , Fletcher T. D. , McCarthy D. T. , Rauch W.
Published: August 2010

The complex nature of pollutant accumulation and washoff, along with high temporal and spatial variations, pose challenges for the development and establishment of accurate and reliable models of the pollution generation process in urban environments. Therefore, the search for reliable stormwater quality models remains an important area of research. Model calibration and sensitivity analysis of such models are essential in order to evaluate model performance; it is very unlikely that non-calibrated models will lead to reasonable results. This paper reports on the testing of three models which aim to represent pollutant generation from urban catchments. Assessment of the models was undertaken using a simplified Monte Carlo Markov Chain (MCMC) method. Results are presented in terms of performance, sensitivity to the parameters and correlation between these parameters. In general, it was suggested that the tested models poorly represent reality and result in a high level of uncertainty. The conclusions provide useful information for the improvement of existing models and insights for the development of new model formulations.
Electrochemical disinfection of secondary wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) effluent
Authors: Pérez G. , Gómez P. , Ibañez R. , Ortiz I. , Urtiaga A. M.
Published: August 2010

In this work the electrochemical disinfection of the effluent of a secondary wastewater treatment plant is investigated. In the experimental work, performed on-site with real effluents of the WWTP located in Vuelta Ostrera (Cantabria, Spain), boron-doped diamond (BDD) electrodes were employed. The initial concentration of E. coli in the effluent of the WWTP varied in the range 1.3 × 104–5.2 × 105  cfu/mL. The influence of two operation variables on the kinetics of E. coli deactivation was investigated: i) The applied current density was varied in the range J = 40–120 mA/cm2, showing first order kinetics, and linear dependency of the apparent kinetic constant with the applied current density; and ii) the chloride concentration was varied in the range 60–1,050 mg/L, showing that increasing chloride content also enhanced the kinetics of the E. coli deactivation. The latter parameter is particularly important in coastal areas, as in the case of the present study. The formation of disinfection by-products (DBPs) was followed by measuring the content of trihalomethanes (THMs) that nevertheless was maintained below 100 μg/L, so it can be concluded that the formation of DBPs is not a disadvantage of electrochemical disinfection of secondary effluents of WWTP.
Assessment of the limiting step of mass transfer in n-hexadecane biodegradation in a bubble column reactor
Authors: Quijano Guillermo , Huerta-Ochoa Sergio , Gutiérrez-Rojas Mariano
Published: August 2010

A mathematical model was developed to assess limiting step of mass transfer in the n-hexadecane (HXD) biodegradation by a microbial consortium. A double Monod kinetic (oxygen and HXD) for biomass production was successfully used to describe the experimental data. Good fitting (r2 = 0.92) between the model solution and experimental data was obtained. The overall mass transfer coefficients for HXD, kLaHXD, and oxygen, kLaO2, were experimentally determined and biosurfactant production was indirectly determined through surface tension measurements in the aqueous phase. It was observed that a surface tension reduction from 65 (0 h of culture) to 47 mN m−1 (240 h of culture) was related to a decrease of 52% in the HXD droplet diameter and to an increase of 63% in kLaHXD, respect the initial values. Conversely, kLaO2 was repressed up to 37% compared to the initial value. The maximum rate analysis based on the mathematical model showed that HXD transfer was up to 5-fold lower than its consumption. On the contrary, oxygen transfer was always higher than its consumption. Thus, the limiting step under the working conditions was the HXD transfer to the aqueous phase. However, slight reductions in kLaO2 could result in oxygen transfer limitations during the last 60 h of the cultures.
Dynamic studies of nitrophenols adsorption on perfil in a fixed-bed column: application of single and two resistance model
Authors: Yaneva Zvezdelina , Koumanova Bogdana , Meshko Vera
Published: August 2010

The mechanism of 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) and 2,4-dinitrophenol (2,4-DNP) adsorption on perfil—natural mineral taken from Bulgarian deposits, in a fixed-bed column was investigated. The single component experiments were conducted at constant initial sorbate concentration, volumetric flow rate, temperature and pH. The effect of adsorbent bed depth (Z 1, 2, 3, 6 cm) and sorbate nature on the adsorption capacity, mass transfer parameters and mechanisms was studied. The equilibrium behaviour of the system 4-NP-perfil was described by Langmuir, Freundlich and Redlich-Peterson models. The single resistance Thomas model, including Reynolds-Richards and Walter solutions, and the two-resistance Arnold model were applied for mathematical modeling of the experimental data. The comparative analyses indicated that external mass transfer was the rate limiting mechanism during the initial adsorption stages, while intraparticle diffusion was dominant in the middle and high concentration ranges. The effect of axial dispersion on the dynamics of adsorption was evaluated.
Fate and spatial variations of polybrominated diphenyl ethers in the deposition within a heavily urbanized area: case of Paris (France)
Authors: Muresan B. , Lorgeoux C. , Gasperi J. , Moilleron R.
Published: August 2010

In this paper, we present the first results on the geochemical cycle of PolyBrominated Diphenyl Ethers (or PBDE) in the Paris Region (France). In order to provide information about the distribution and mobility of eight PBDE congeners, we first determined the level of contamination of different environmental compartments: i.e. atmosphere, soils and waters. Atmospheric PBDE deposition was estimated from a site located in the centre of Paris. Surface soils (0–10 cm) were collected from multiple wooded, rural and urban locations through the Paris Region (12,000 km2). To complete our investigation, we measured PBDE concentrations/contents in the runoff from an urban catchment and settleable particles from the Seine River. Hence, gained results showed that in the superficial soils, the highest concentrations of highly brominated congeners were measured in the vicinity of the most urbanized areas whereas less brominated congeners were widespread in the whole Paris Region. This could be explained by the higher affinity of highly brominated congeners for the solid phase substrata coupled with the fact that the atmospheric deposition occurred mainly through particle deposition (close to 90% of the total atmospheric deposition). To the opposite, the less brominated congeners from the superficial soils were readily transferred to the dissolved phase of runoff and could reach more distant terrestrial and aquatic systems. Finally, a mass transfer was established at the scale of the Paris metropolitan city (105 km2). It showed that the cycle of PBDE in this particular urban area is highly dynamic with multiple sources and sinks, and rapid transfers between the ecosystem compartments.
Relation between utero‐placental and feto‐placental circulations: a longitudinal study
Authors: Flo Kari , Wilsgaard Tom , Acharya Ganesh
Published: August 2010

Objective. To explore the relation between total utero‐placental (TQuta) and feto‐placental (Quv) blood flows and establish longitudinal reference ranges for the TQuta/Quv ratio and the mean uterine artery and umbilical artery pulsatility (UtaPI/UAPI) and resistance index (UtaRI/UARI) ratios. Design. Prospective longitudinal observational study. Setting. University hospital in Norway. Population. Fifty‐three low‐risk pregnant women. Methods. Uterine artery and umbilical vein blood flow was measured using Doppler ultrasonography at 4‐weekly intervals from 22+0 to 39+6 weeks of gestation. Main outcome measures. Ratios between utero‐placental and feto‐placental volume blood flows and between indices of uterine and umbilical artery impedance. Results. The TQuta/Quv ratio had a significant association with the gestational age (p < 0.00001) and decreased with advancing gestation during the second half of pregnancy. The mean UtaPI/UAPI (p = 0.094) and mean UtaRI/UARI (p = 0.323) ratios were not significantly associated with gestational age and remained relatively constant. There was no significant association between TQuta and Quv (p = 0.72), mean UtaPI and UAPI (p = 0.56), or mean UtaRI and UARI (p = 0.57). Conclusion. The gestational‐age‐related changes in the utero‐placental and feto‐placental circulations do not appear to be affected by each other under physiological conditions. We have established longitudinal reference ranges for the utero‐placental and feto‐placental blood flow and impedance ratios during the second half of pregnancy.
MRI Evaluation of Anterolateral Soft Tissue Impingement of the Ankle
Authors: Ferkel Richard D. , Tyorkin Max , Applegate Gregory R. , Heinen Gregory T.
Published: August 2010

Background: The usefulness of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been questioned in evaluating patients with chronic ankle sprain pain. The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness and reliability of routine MR imaging in the diagnosis of anterolateral soft tissue impingement. Materials and Methods: Inclusion criteria required that the MR examinations be performed by the same musculoskeletal radiologist after the most recent scanner upgrade and using a dedicated ankle/hindfoot coil. The surgical and MRI reports of 24 patients who had an arthroscopic diagnosis of anterolateral soft tissue impingement of the ankle were tabulated and categorized. Unlike previous studies, sagittal T1 and Short Tau Inversion Recovery (STIR) images were used primarily in the diagnosis of these lesions. Results: Using this technique, we report a 78.9% accuracy in diagnosis, a sensitivity of 83.3% and a specificity of 78.6%. Fifty-eight percent of patients had an associated diagnosis, which in 33% of patients altered our surgical plan. Conclusion: Although not indicated in all cases of anterolateral ankle impingement, we advocate the use of MR imaging in complicated clinical presentations where the exclusion of additional pathology in the ankle or subtalar joint, and the confirmation of anterolateral soft tissue impingement would be beneficial.

Level of Evidence: III, Case Control Study
Is it Necessary to Re-Fuse a Non-Union of a Hallux Metatarsophalangeal Joint Arthrodesis?
Authors: Hope Matthew , Savva Nicholas , Whitehouse Sarah , Elliot Robin , Saxby Terry S.
Published: August 2010

Background: The standard treatment for a non-union of the hallux metatarsophalangeal joint fusion has been to revise the fusion. Revision fusion is technically more demanding, often involving bone grafting, more substantial fixation and prolonged period of immobilization postoperatively. We present data to suggest that removal of hardware and debridement alone is an alternative treatment option. Materials and Methods: A case note review identified patients with a symptomatic non-union after hallux metatarsophalangeal joint (MTPJ) fusion. It is our practice to offer these patients revision fusion or removal of hardware and debridement. For the seven patients that chose hardware removal and were left with a pseudarthrosis, a matched control group was selected from patients who had had successful fusions. Three outcome scores were used. Hallux valgus and dorsiflexion angles were recorded. Results: One hundred thirty-nine hallux MTPJ arthrodeses were carried out. Fourteen non-unions were identified. The rate of nonunion in males and following previous hallux MTPJ surgery was 19% and 24%, respectively. In females undergoing a primary MTPJ fusion, the rate was 2.4%. Twelve non-union patients were reviewed at 27 months (mean). Eleven patients had elected to undergo removal of hardware and debridement. Four patients with pseudarthrosis were unhappy with the results and proceeded to either revision fusion or MTPJ replacement. Seven non-union patients, who had removal of hardware alone, had outcome scores marginally worse compared to those with successful fusions. Conclusion: Removal of hardware alone is a reasonable option to offer as a relatively minor procedure following a failed arthrodesis of the first MTPJ. This must be accepted on the proviso that in this study four out of 11 (36%) patients proceeded to a revision first MTPJ fusion or first MTPJ replacement. We also found that the rate of non-union in primary first MTPJ fusion was significantly higher in males and those patients who had undergone previous surgery.

Level of Evidence: III, Retrospective Comparative Series
Distal Chevron Osteotomy with Distal Soft Tissue Procedure for Moderate to Severe Hallux Valgus Deformity
Authors: Bai Long Bin , Lee Keun Bae , Seo Chang Young , Song Eun Kyoo , Yoon Taek Rim
Published: August 2010

Background: Distal chevron osteotomy has been widely employed to treat mild to moderate hallux valgus deformity. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the outcomes of distal chevron osteotomy with a distal soft tissue procedure for the correction of moderate to severe hallux valgus. Materials and Methods: We reviewed 76 patients (86 feet) that underwent distal chevron osteotomy with a distal soft tissue procedure for symptomatic moderate to severe hallux valgus deformity. At a mean followup of 31 months, all patients were evaluated using subjective, objective and radiographic measurements. Results: Ninety-four percent of the patients were very satisfied or satisfied. Average AOFAS score improved from 54.7 points preoperatively to 92.9 at final followup. Average hallux valgus angle changed from 36.2 degrees preoperatively to 12.4 degrees at final followup, and average first-second intermetatarsal angle changed from 17.1 to 7.3 degrees. Average tibial sesamoid position changed from 2.4 preoperatively to 1.2 at final followup. Dorsal angulation of the head was observed in two feet, and plantaflexion of the head in four feet. There were no cases of avascular necrosis of the metatarsal head. Conclusion: Our results indicate that distal chevron osteotomy with a distal soft tissue procedure provides an effective and reliable means of correcting moderate to severe hallux valgus deformity, and that it does so with high levels of patient satisfaction and low incidence of complications.

Level of Evidence: IV, Retrospective Case Series
Novel Reconstruction of a Static Medial Ligamentous Complex in a Flatfoot Model
Authors: Tan Giselle J. , Kadakia Anish R. , Thiele Ramon A. Ruberte , Hughes Richard E.
Published: August 2010

Background: Little progress has been made addressing reconstruction of the static medial ligamentous structures of the foot. The purpose of this investigation was to reconstruct a flatfoot deformity with a novel static medial ligamentous complex (MLC) and evaluate its ability to correct talar head subluxation and radiographic deformity in a cadaveric model. Materials and Methods: Eight fresh frozen cadaveric specimens underwent cyclic preconditioning and static axial loading. Loading was applied to the intact foot, the severe flatfoot, and the reconstructed MLC foot. Anteroposterior (AP) and lateral radiographs were taken at each stage. The talo-first metatarsal angle, medial cuneiform height, talocalcaneal angle, and the calcaneal pitch angle were measured on the lateral views and the talo-first metatarsal angle was measured on the anteroposterior views. Results: Compared with the intact foot, the flatfoot showed significant change in the AP talo-first metatarsal angle ( p = 0.001), the lateral talo-first metatarsal angle ( p = 0.002), the medial cuneiform height ( p = 0.007), the talocalcaneal angle ( p = 0.03), and the calcaneal pitch angle ( p = 0.018). After MLC reconstruction, there was a significant change in the AP talo-first metatarsal angle ( p = 0.001), the lateral talo-first metatarsal angle ( p = 0.002), and the medial cuneiform height ( p = 0.007) and these values were not significantly different than the intact foot. The talocalcaneal angle and the calcaneal pitch angle remained significantly undercorrected after static MLC reconstruction. Conclusion: Static MLC reconstruction was effective in correcting several key radiographic parameters in a cadaveric flatfoot model. Clinical Relevance: The surgical technique evaluated here may be useful as a new soft tissue reconstructive procedure for treating adult flatfoot.
Treatment of Chronic Tophaceous Gout with a Wound Vacuum-Assisted Device
Authors: Kemp Travis J. , Hirose Christopher B. , Coughlin Michael J. , Otto Raymond
Published: August 2010

Level of Evidence: V, Expert Opinion
Bacteriological Profile of Tracheal Aspirates of the Patients Attending Neuro-hospital Nepal
Authors: Koirala Pratirodh , Bhatta Dwij Raj , Ghimire Prakash , Pokhrel Bharat Mani , Devkota Upendra
Published: August 2010

The tracheostomized patients are colonized mostly by gram negative bacteria which lead to either tracheobronchitis or bronchopneumonia. This study was conducted to isolate and identify the potential pathogen causing post tracheostomy infection. A cross-sectional study was conducted during April 2008 to February 2009 based at Neuro Center, Kathmandu. Tracheal aspirates of 50 patients having fever more than 38°C were collected and analyzed for bacterial content. Out of the 50 cases, 45(90%) cases showed bacterial growth. Sixty-seven isolates were identified; with 20(44.4%) poly-microbial cases. Pseudomonas aeruginosa and enteric gram negative bacteria were predominant bacteria (n=27, 40.3%) followed by Staphylococcus aureus (n=7, 10.4%), other Gram negative bacteria (n=4, 5.9%) and Viridans Streptococci (n=2, 2.9%). Pseudomonas aeruginosa were most sensitive to the Amikacin (n=22, 81.4%) and Ciprofloxacin (n=19, 70.3%). All Pseudomonal isolates were resistant to the Cefotaxime. Enteric Gram Negative bacteria (EGNB) were most sensitive to Amikacin and Chloramphenicol (20, 74.0%) and all were resistant to Ampicillin and Cephalexin. All the gram positive bacteria isolated were sensitive to Vancomycin. Among the total isolates, 24 (88.8%) of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, 21 (66.6%) of enteric gram negative bacteria, and 5 (55.5%) of Gram positive bacteria were multidrug resistant (MDR). The study reported alarming condition of MDR in tracheal aspirates. So surveillance for source of multidrug resistant bacteria would be beneficial for intervention of infection related to it. Key words: Tracheal aspirates, polymicrobial growth, Multidrug resistant bacteria (MDR)10.3126/ijls.v4i0.3496International Journal of Life Sciences Vol.4 2010 pp.60-65
Organic-Inorganic Hybrid Silica Material Derived from a Monosilylated Grubbs-Hoveyda Ruthenium Carbene as a Recyclable Metathesis Catalyst
Authors: Borja Guadalupe , Pleixats Roser , Alibés Ramón , Cattoën Xavier , Man Michel Wong Chi
Published: August 2010

The synthesis of a monosilylated Grubbs-Hoveyda ruthenium alkylidene complex is described, as well as the preparation and characterization of the corresponding material by sol-gel cogelification with tetraethoxysilane (TEOS) and the assay of this recyclable supported catalyst in ring-closing diene and enyne metathesis reactions under thermal and microwave conditions.
Remote Sensing and Geospatial Technological Applications for Site-specific Management of Fruit and Nut Crops: A Review
Authors: Panda Sudhanshu Sekhar , Hoogenboom Gerrit , Paz Joel O.
Published: August 2010

Site-specific crop management (SSCM) is one facet of precision agriculture which is helping increase production with minimal input. It has enhanced the cost-benefit scenario in crop production. Even though the SSCM is very widely used in row crop agriculture like corn, wheat, rice, soybean, etc. it has very little application in cash crops like fruit and nut. The main goal of this review paper was to conduct a comprehensive review of advanced technologies, including geospatial technologies, used in site-specific management of fruit and nut crops. The review explores various remote sensing data from different platforms like satellite, LIDAR, aerial, and field imaging. The study analyzes the use of satellite sensors, such as Quickbird, Landsat, SPOT, and IRS imagery as well as hyperspectral narrow-band remote sensing data in study of fruit and nut crops in blueberry, citrus, peach, apple, etc. The study also explores other geospatial technologies such as GPS, GIS spatial modeling, advanced image processing techniques, and information technology for suitability study, orchard delineation, and classification accuracy assessment. The study also provides an example of a geospatial model developed in ArcGIS ModelBuilder to automate the blueberry production suitability analysis. The GIS spatial model is developed using various crop characteristics such as chilling hours, soil permeability, drainage, and pH, and land cover to determine the best sites for growing blueberry in Georgia, U.S. The study also provides a list of spectral reflectance curves developed for some fruit and nut crops, blueberry, crowberry, redblush citrus, orange, prickly pear, and peach. The study also explains these curves in detail to help researchers choose the image platform, sensor, and spectrum wavelength for various fruit and nut crops SSCM.
Flame-Spray-Made Undoped Zinc Oxide Films for Gas Sensing Applications
Authors: Tamaekong Nittaya , Liewhiran Chaikarn , Wisitsoraat Anurat , Phanichphant Sukon
Published: August 2010

Using zinc naphthenate dissolved in xylene as a precursor undoped ZnO nanopowders were synthesized by the flame spray pyrolysis technique. The average diameter and length of ZnO spherical and hexagonal particles were in the range of 5 to 20 nm, while ZnO nanorods were found to be 5–20 nm wide and 20–40 nm long, under 5/5 (precursor/oxygen) flame conditions. The gas sensitivity of the undoped ZnO nanopowders towards 50 ppm of NO2, C2H5OH and SO2 were found to be 33, 7 and 3, respectively. The sensors showed a great selectivity towards NO2 at high working temperature (at 300 °C), while small resistance variations were observed for C2H5OH and SO2, respectively.
Non Invasive Sensors for Monitoring the Efficiency of AC Electrical Rotating Machines
Authors: Zidat Farid , Lecointe Jean-Philippe , Morganti Fabrice , Brudny Jean-François , Jacq Thierry , Streiff Frédéric
Published: August 2010

This paper presents a non invasive method for estimating the energy efficiency of induction motors used in industrial applications. This method is innovative because it is only based on the measurement of the external field emitted by the motor. The paper describes the sensors used, how they should be placed around the machine in order to decouple the external field components generated by both the air gap flux and the winding end-windings. The study emphasizes the influence of the eddy currents flowing in the yoke frame on the sensor position. A method to estimate the torque from the external field use is proposed. The measurements are transmitted by a wireless module (Zig-Bee) and they are centralized and stored on a PC computer.
EAF Steel Slag Filters for Phosphorus Removal from Milk Parlor Effluent: The Effects of Solids Loading, Alternate Feeding Regimes and In-Series Design
Authors: Bird Simon C. , Drizo Aleksandra
Published: August 2010

Electric arc furnace (EAF) steel slag filters were investigated for their efficiency at reducing the concentration of phosphorus (P) from dairy farm wastewater in Vermont. The primary objective for this study was to examine the use of in series design on filters’ performance in P removal from dairy farm wastewater at subzero temperatures. Other research objectives were to investigate operational parameters such as the effects of total suspended solids (TSS) daily mass loading rates and of alternating feeding and resting periods on EAF steel slag filters’ TSS, dissolved reactive phosphorus (DRP) and total phosphorus (TP) removal efficiencies and filter system life-span. The utilization of in series filter design increased filter DRP removal efficiency by 35%. In series design also allows for alternating feeding and resting periods, which resulted in a 16%, 57% and 74% increase in TSS, DRP and TP removal efficiencies, respectively, by the first filter in series over a single period. Additionally, the system life span was extended 3.25 fold (from 52 to 169 day). Based on this research, we recommend alternate feeding and resting cycles and in series design to be integrated in the design of EAF steel slag filter systems for highly concentrated agricultural effluents in cold climates.
Combination of Slag, Limestone and Sedimentary Apatite in Columns for Phosphorus Removal from Sludge Fish Farm Effluents
Authors: Chazarenc Florent , Filiatrault Melissa , Brisson Jacques , Comeau Yves
Published: August 2010

Laboratory scale studies have repeatedly reported high P-retention in slag, a by-product of the steel manufacturing industry. Thus, it has emerged as a potential material to increase P-removal from constructed wetlands (CWs). However, several limitations were highlighted by field experiments, including the high pH of treated water and clogging. We hypothesized that the addition of sedimentary rocks to slag would preserve P-removal properties while reducing the pH of treated water. Four 2.5 L-columns were filled with 100% apatite (column A); a 50% weight each mixture of limestone with apatite (column B); 10% steel slag located at the inlet, plus 45% limestone mixed with 45% apatite (column C); and a mixture of steel slag (10%), limestone (45%) apatite (45%) (column D). A synthetic effluent (26 mg P/L) and a reconstituted sludge fish farm effluent containing 97 mg/L total suspended solids (TSS), 220 mg/L chemical oxygen demand (COD) and 23.5 mg P/L phosphorus (P) were applied sequentially during 373 and 176 days, under saturated flow conditions and 12–24 hours hydraulic residence time (HRT), respectively. Treatment performance, P-removal, pH and calcium (Ca2+) were monitored. Results indicated that columns that contained 10% weight steel slag resulted in a higher P retention capacity than the columns without steel slag. The highest P removal was achieved in column C, containing a layer of slag in the inlet zone, 45% apatite and 45% limestone. Feeding the columns with a reconstituted fish farm effluent led to biofilm development, but this had little effect on the P-removal. A combination of slag and sedimentary rocks represents a promising filtration material that could be useful downstream of CWs to further increase P-removal.
Comment administrer la nature ?
Authors: Simon Gilbert
Published: August 2010

« Administrer la nature », ces termes semblent antinomiques. L’homme a une certaine idée de la nature et s’efforce de la faire prévaloir. Les politiques de protection de la nature, récentes, ont connu d’indéniables succès : des espèces et des espaces au bord de l’extinction ont été sauvés. Mais elles ont montré leurs limites tant que leur rationalité était calquée sur celles des activités économiques. L’administration actuelle de la nature a l’ambition de faire intégrer ses objectifs dans toutes les politiques publiques et privées. La France tente en 2010 de se donner les moyens d’enrayer la perte de sa biodiversité. Mais à l’échelle planétaire, l’augmentation forte de l’empreinte écologique due à la démographie et au développement apporte plutôt une note pessimiste.
Base Sequence Context Effects on Nucleotide Excision Repair
Authors: Cai Yuqin , Patel Dinshaw J. , Broyde Suse , Geacintov Nicholas E.
Published: August 2010

Nucleotide excision repair (NER) plays a critical role in maintaining the integrity of the genome when damaged by bulky DNA lesions, since inefficient repair can cause mutations and human diseases notably cancer. The structural properties of DNA lesions that determine their relative susceptibilities to NER are therefore of great interest. As a model system, we have investigated the major mutagenic lesion derived from the environmental carcinogen benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P),
10S (+)‐trans-anti‐B[a]P‐N2‐dG in six different sequence contexts that differ in how the lesion is positioned in relation to nearby guanine amino groups. We have obtained molecular structural data by NMR and MD simulations, bending properties from gel electrophoresis studies, and NER data obtained from human HeLa cell extracts for our six investigated sequence contexts. This model system suggests that disturbed Watson‐Crick base pairing is a better recognition signal than a flexible bend, and that these can act in concert to provide an enhanced signal. Steric hinderance between the minor groove‐aligned lesion and nearby guanine amino groups determines the exact nature of the disturbances. Both nearest neighbor and more distant neighbor sequence contexts have an impact. Regardless of the exact distortions, we hypothesize that they provide a local thermodynamic destabilization signal for repair.
Jesus the village psychiatrist: A summary
Authors: Capps Donald
Published: August 2010

This paper was a response to a panel discussion on the author’s book, Jesus the village psychiatrist, published by Westminster John Knox Press, Louisville, KY, 2008 which formed part of the Society of Biblical Literature’s Psychology and Biblical Studies Section, 21–24 November 2009, New Orleans, LA. The response consisted of an explanation of somatoform disorders, a summary of the book and the following case studies: the case of Fraulein Elisabeth, the case of paralytics, the case of blind persons, the demon-possessed boy, the case of the woman with a haemorrhage, the healings of lepers and the woman who cared for Jesus. The paper concluded with a discussion on words and their power to cure. It illustrated how symptomatology had changed from paralysis in the 19th century to chronic fatigue in the first half of the 20th century to stress today.
Clinically effective CK-MB reporting
Authors: Vivekanandan S , Swaminathan R
Published: August 2010

The clinical utility of measuring the Muscle Brain (MB) isoenzyme of creatine kinase (CK) in the diagnosis of myocardial injury is well established. CK/CK-MB measurement in combination or CK-MB alone is widely used and reporting the results of CK-MB in absolute unit is the common current practice. CK-MB is widely measured by "Immunoinhibition" in India, which gives falsely elevated CK-MB results in the following circumstances: Central nervous system damage, childbirth, macro CK-immunoglobulin complex, in patients with carcinoma of various organs, such as prostate carcinoma and other adenocarcinomas. But, reporting %CK-MB rather than the absolute CK-MB results assists in detection of macroCK (or CK variants), associated proliferative and autoimmune pathologies and their prognosis.
Longwave indirect effect of mineral dusts on ice clouds
Authors: Min Q. , Li R.
Published: August 2010

Abstract. In addition to microphysical changes in clouds, changes in nucleation processes of ice cloud due to aerosols would result in substantial changes in cloud top temperature as mildly supercooled clouds are glaciated through heterogenous nucleation processes. Measurements from multiple sensors on multiple observing platforms over the Atlantic Ocean show that the cloud effective temperature increases with mineral dust loading with a slope of +3.06 °C per unit aerosol optical depth. The macrophysical changes in ice cloud top distributions as a consequence of mineral dust-cloud interaction exert a strong cooling effect (up to 16 Wm−2) of thermal infrared radiation on cloud systems. Induced changes of ice particle size by mineral dusts influence cloud emissivity and play a minor role in modulating the outgoing longwave radiation for optically thin ice clouds. Such a strong cooling forcing of thermal infrared radiation would have significant impacts on cloud systems and subsequently on climate.
From hydrological modelling to decision support
Authors: Haberlandt U.
Published: August 2010

Abstract. Decision support for planning and management of water resources needs to consider many target criteria simultaneously like water availability, water quality, flood protection, agriculture, ecology, etc. Hydrologic models provide information about the water balance components and are fundamental for the simulation of ecological processes. Objective of this contribution is to discuss the suitability of classical hydrologic models on one hand and of complex eco-hydrologic models on the other hand to be used as part of decision support systems. The discussion is based on results from two model comparison studies. It becomes clear that none of the hydrologic models tested fulfils all requirements in an optimal sense. Regarding the simulation of water quality parameters like nitrogen leaching a high uncertainty needs to be considered. Recommended for decision support is a hybrid metamodel approach, which comprises a hydrologic model, empirical relationships for the less dynamic processes and makes use of simulation results from complex eco-hydrologic models through second-order modelling at a generalized level.
Aerosol profiling using the ceilometer network of the German Meteorological Service
Authors: Flentje H. , Heese B. , Reichardt J. , Thomas W.
Published: August 2010

Abstract. The German Meteorological Service (DWD) operates about 52 lidar ceilometers within its synoptic observations network, covering Germany. These affordable low-power lidar systems provide spatially and temporally high resolved aerosol backscatter profiles which can operationally provide quasi 3-D distributions of particle backscatter intensity. Intentionally designed for cloud height detection, recent significant improvements allow following the development of the boundary layer and to detect denser particle plumes in the free tropospere like volcanic ash, Saharan dust or fire smoke. Thus the network builds a powerful aerosol plume alerting and tracking system. If auxiliary aerosol information is available, the particle backscatter coefficient, the extinction coefficient and even particle mass concentrations may be estimated, with however large uncertainties. Therefore, large synergistic benefit is achieved if the ceilometers are linked to existing lidar networks like EARLINET or integrated into WMO's envisioined Global Aerosol Lidar Observation Network GALION. To this end, we demonstrate the potential and limitations of ceilometer networks by means of three representative aerosol episodes over Europe, namely Sahara dust, Mediterranean fire smoke and, more detailed, the Icelandic Eyjafjoll volcano eruption from mid April 2010 onwards. The DWD (Jenoptik CHM15k) lidar ceilometer network tracked the Eyjafjoll ash layers over Germany and roughly estimated peak extinction coefficients and mass concentrations on 17 April of 4–6(± 2) 10-4 m−1 and 500–750(± 300) μg/m−3, respectively, based on co-located aerosol optical depth, nephelometer (scattering coefficient) and particle mass concentration measurements. Though large, the uncertainties are small enough to let the network suit for example as aviation advisory tool, indicating whether the legal flight ban threshold of presently 2 mg/m3 is imminent to be exceeded.