bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Karl Polanyi e o "Grande Debate" entre substantivistas e formalistas na antropologia econômica
Authors: Machado Nuno Miguel Cardoso
Published: May 2012

Na raiz do pensamento Polanyiano, encontra-se a distinção entre economia no sentido substantivo e economia no sentido formal. Com efeito, a concepção substantivista - que define a economia como um processo instituído de interação entre o homem e o ambiente natural e social que o rodeia e resulta em contínua oferta de meios para satisfazer as necessidades humanas - constitui a base do método preconizado pelo autor: a análise institucional. Com tal distinção, Polanyi (1977a) pretende evitar a "falácia economicista" que consiste na identificação automática da economia com sua forma de mercado. Ao contrário, só na moderna economia capitalista é que um "sistema de mercados formadores de preços" desempenha papel fundamental. Essas questões foram alvo de um "Grande Debate" entre as correntes substantivista - encabeçada por Polanyi - e formalista no contexto da disciplina da Antropologia Econômica.
Mudança permanente: fonte de penosidade no trabalho?
Authors: Metzger Jean-Luc
Published: May 2012

Este artigo se propõe a examinar as possíveis condições para a melhoria duradoura da saúde psíquica dos trabalhadores. Para fazê-lo, após ter sintetizado as principais causas imediatas dos problemas psicossociais, recolocamo-los no contexto contemporâneo caracterizado pela renovação incessante dos dispositivos técnicos e de gestão. Assim, compreender os fenômenos dos problemas psicossociais no trabalho implica em se interessar pelos efeitos da mudança permanente. Precisamente, para considerarmos, de forma geral, estes efeitos sobre a saúde, elaboramos uma grade de análise a partir da herança da sociologia do trabalho e da noção de trabalho instituição (proposta por Lallement). Esta grade de análise é, em seguida, utilizada em situações empíricas variadas (hospitais, universidades, empresas multinacionais) para demonstrarmos que a mudança permanente engendra uma polarização dos indivíduos. Certos trabalhadores perdem seu vínculo com o trabalho e assim iniciam um processo de degradação de sua saúde, enquanto outros tiram proveito do movimento e permanecem em boa saúde. Enfim, a mudança perpétua é explicada como resultado de dinâmicas próprias ao campo da gestão e de uma postura reificante específica da abordagem racionalizadora. Assim, a fim de melhorar de forma duradoura a saúde psíquica no trabalho, é necessário intervir no coração das relações sociais.
Grupos de enfrentamento do desgaste mental no trabalho bancário: discutindo saúde mental do trabalhador no sindicato
Authors: Paparelli Renata
Published: May 2012

Este relato de experiência apresenta uma proposta desenvolvida por uma parceria entre o Curso de Psicologia da Pontifícia Universidade Católica de São Paulo (PUC-SP) e o Sindicato dos Bancários de São Paulo, Osasco e Região, desde 2008, no campo da saúde mental relacionada ao trabalho. Esta ação que tem se revelado promissora tanto para os trabalhadores diretamente envolvidos, quanto para o sindicato: os grupos de enfrentamento do desgaste mental no trabalho bancário. Os grupos têm como objetivos principais: desenvolver atividade de acolhimento das pessoas com desgaste mental que procuram o sindicato; compreender o processo de adoecimento no interior das trajetórias de vida e trabalho dos participantes, considerando o momento atual de reestruturação produtiva no setor bancário; contribuir com a construção de ações individuais e coletivas de enfrentamento. O resultado da experiência evidencia a potencialidade de um trabalho como esse quanto à possibilidade de compreensão do processo de adoecimento, bem como quanto à identificação de fatores de desgaste mental na categoria bancária. Além disso, os demais objetivos foram alcançados, intensificando a presença da discussão sobre saúde mental e trabalho no cotidiano do sindicato.
Prevalência de sintomas osteomusculares entre trabalhadores de um Serviço de Nutrição Hospitalar em São Paulo, SP
Authors: Isosaki Mitsue , Cardoso Elisabeth , Glina Débora Miriam Raab , Alves Anna Carolina Di Creddo , Rocha Lys Esther
Published: May 2012

RESUMO OBJETIVO: identificar a prevalência de sintomas osteomusculares entre trabalhadores de um serviço de nutrição de um hospital público. MÉTODO: estudo epidemiológico transversal com aplicação de questionários para 115 trabalhadores (representando 89% do quadro de pessoal) do serviço de nutrição de um hospital de cardiologia, em São Paulo, em 2007. O instrumento utilizado foi baseado no Questionário Nórdico de Sintomas Osteomusculares de Kuorinka et al. (1987) para identificação de dor ou desconforto relacionados ao trabalho, localização e tipo de queixa, além de caracterizar a frequência, a intensidade e a duração dos sintomas. RESULTADOS: a média da idade dos trabalhadores foi de 37 ± 9,8 anos, 81% eram do sexo feminino, 58% possuíam Ensino Médio e o tempo médio de trabalho foi de 9,3 ± 7,5 anos em jornada de trabalho de 40 horas semanais. Do total de participantes, 89% referiram dor ou desconforto relacionados ao trabalho no último ano em membros inferiores (65%), ombros (55%), região lombar (39%), região cervical (37%), mãos/punhos/dedos (29%), coluna (28%), antebraço (28%) e cotovelos (10%). O movimento de andar e transportar carga foi a causa mais citada para os sintomas (31%). CONCLUSÃO: entre os trabalhadores do serviço, a prevalência de sintomas osteomusculares foi alta, principalmente nos membros inferiores e nos ombros. Recomendam-se novas pesquisas que incluam a avaliação do ambiente e das atividades desenvolvidas pelos trabalhadores.
Morbidades referidas por trabalhadoras que produzem joias folheadas em Limeira, SP
Authors: Figueiredo Vanessa Catherina Neumann
Published: May 2012

RESUMO INTRODUÇÃO: a cidade de Limeira (SP) se caracteriza por ser um polo de empresas do ramo de joias folheadas e bijuterias, sendo a maior parte da mão de obra composta por mulheres. OBJETIVO: verificar as morbidades referidas por mulheres expostas ao cianeto no setor de bijuterias e joias folheadas na cidade de Limeira em 2007. METEDOLOGIA: estudo transversal realizado com 383 trabalhadoras, comparando-se um grupo de 191 mulheres trabalhadoras em galvanoplastias consideradas qualitativamente expostas ao cianeto com um grupo de 192 mulheres não expostas ao cianeto. Foi aplicado o Índice de Capacidade para o Trabalho, o Questionário de Tolerância de Fagerström e um questionário sociodemográfico e ocupacional. RESULTADOS: O grupo considerado exposto ao cianeto apresentou: menor média de tempo de trabalho no cargo (p = 0,008), maior proporção que trabalha com produtos químicos (p < 0,001), que usa Equipamento de Proteção Individual (p < 0,001), que recebe equipamento das empresas em que trabalham (p < 0,001), menor quantidade de morbidades referidas (p = 0,042), mas maior prevalência de bronquite crônica (p = 0,027), sinusite crônica (p = 0,022) e disfunções da tireoide (p = 0,022). CONCLUSÕES: os resultados apontam para a necessidade de pesquisas de coorte que analisem a associação entre os agravos apresentados e a exposição ao cianeto.
Estado vacinal e conhecimento dos profissionais de saúde sobre hepatite B em um hospital público do nordeste brasileiro
Authors: Silva Flávia Janólio Costacurta Pinto da , Santos Paulo Sérgio Faro , Reis Francisco do Prado , Lima Sônia Oliveira
Published: May 2012

RESUMO OBJETIVO: analisar o estado vacinal e o conhecimento prévio sobre o vírus da hepatite B pelos profissionais de saúde (PS) de um hospital público. MÉTODOS: estudo descritivo de corte transversal, baseado no preenchimento do formulário pelos PS, contemplando: biomédicos, odontólogos, enfermeiros, fisioterapeutas, médicos, técnicos e auxiliares de enfermagem e de laboratório. Para analisar idade, categoria profissional, estado vacinal e conhecimento destes profissionais sobre hepatite B, utilizou-se o teste de qui-quadrado, considerando significante p < 0,05. RESULTADOS: durante quatro meses de 2007, foram questionados 861 profissionais no principal hospital de urgência da rede pública de Sergipe. Houve uma relação estatisticamente significante entre grau de escolaridade e conhecimento acerca da hepatite B pelos PS. Quanto ao estado vacinal dos participantes, constatou-se que 67% declararam estar completamente imunizados, enquanto 21,6% apresentavam-se incompletamente vacinados, 6,2% desconheciam seu estado vacinal e 5,2% não eram vacinados. Entre os de nível superior, 75,3% estavam completamente imunizados, comparados a 64,5% do nível técnico. CONCLUSÃO: os PS com nível superior mostraram mais conhecimento sobre o tema em detrimento dos profissionais com nível técnico, razão que deveria motivar os gestores da saúde a implantar programas de educação continuada, além de desenvolver pesquisas neste âmbito.
Acidentes com material biológico em trabalhadores de enfermagem do Hospital Geral de Palmas (TO)
Authors: Machado Maria do Rosário Mascaro , Machado Fernando de Almeida
Published: May 2012

RESUMO OBJETIVO: identificar os acidentes de trabalho com material biológico ocorridos com os trabalhadores de enfermagem do Hospital Geral de Palmas (HGP) e verificar a ocorrência de subnotificação no Serviço de Segurança do Trabalho (SST) do HGP. MÉTODO: estudo descritivo transversal, com dados coletados por meio de um questionário autoaplicável que foi respondido por 389 profissionais de enfermagem (91% do efetivo) nos meses de agosto e setembro de 2007. RESULTADOS: dentre os profissionais de enfermagem, 178 (45,7%) declararam já ter sofrido acidente com material biológico (55,6% por acidente perfurocortante e 44,4% com fluidos), sendo 106 (59,9%) técnicos de enfermagem, 57 (32%) auxiliares de enfermagem e 15 (8,4%) enfermeiros. Considerando todos os profissionais de enfermagem (n=389), com ou sem antecedente de acidente, os auxiliares constituíram o grupo mais exposto aos riscos de acidentes (54,3%), seguidos pelos técnicos (49,8%) e pelos enfermeiros (21,1%). Dos 178 profissionais que sofreram acidentes, 95 (53,3%) trabalhavam de 1 a 5 anos e 39 (21,9%) há mais de 10 anos. Dentre os 178 profissionais acidentados, apenas 64 registraram o acidente no SST, resultando em 64% de subnotificação. CONCLUSÃO: estes resultados evidenciam a necessidade de reformulação do protocolo de encaminhamento para o atendimento ao acidentado e a participação efetiva dos profissionais de enfermagem nessa reformulação.
Pletismografia respiratória por indutância: estudo comparativo entre calibração por manobra de isovolume e calibração qualitativa diagnóstica em voluntários saudáveis avaliados em diferentes posturas
Authors: Barbosa Renata Cléia Claudino , Carvalho Celso Ricardo Fernandes de , Moriya Henrique Takachi
Published: May 2012

OBJETIVO: Comparar dois métodos de calibração da pletismografia respiratória por indutância (PRI) em três posturas diferentes. MÉTODOS: Foram avaliados 28 indivíduos saudáveis (18 mulheres e 10 homens), com média de idade de 25,4 ± 3,9 anos. Todos os indivíduos foram submetidos a isovolume maneuver calibration (ISOCAL, calibração por manobra de isovolume) e qualitative diagnostic calibration (QDC, calibração diagnóstica qualitativa) em ortostatismo, sedestação e decúbito dorsal. Foi utilizada ANOVA e a disposição gráfica de Bland-Altman para a avaliação da concordância dos métodos de calibração. RESULTADOS: Os valores da constante de proporcionalidade (K) foram significativamente distintos entre ISOCAL e QDC nas três posturas avaliadas: 1,6 ± 0,5 vs. 2,0 ± 1,2, em decúbito dorsal; 2,5 ± 0,8 vs. 0,6 ± 0,3, em sedestação; e 2,0 ± 0,8 vs. 0,6 ± 0,3, em ortostatismo (p < 0,05 para todos). CONCLUSÕES: Nossos resultados sugerem que QDC não é um método acurado para a calibração da PRI. Os valores de K obtidos por ISOCAL mostram que a PRI deve ser calibrada para cada postura avaliada.
Temporal variation in the biomass and nutrient status of Azolla filiculoides Lam. (Salviniaceae) in a small shallow dystrophic lake
Authors: Trindade Claudio Rossano Trindade , Albertoni Edélti Faria , Palma-Silva Cleber
Published: May 2012

AIM: This study determined the temporal variation of the biomass and the concentrations of carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus in Azolla filiculoides Lam. in a small (0.5 ha) shallow dystrophic lake located in the city of Rio Grande (Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil). METHOD: Sampling was conducted monthly between November 2000 and October 2001. The macrophytes were collected randomly in three replicates with a circular collector 0.3 m in diameter and subsequently washed with tap water and oven-dried at 60 ºC for determination of the dry weight and the nutrient status (i.e., carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus). Primary productivity was estimated by the variation in biomass among successive samples. RESULTS: A. filiculoides was present in the lake throughout the year and occupied between 50 and 80% of the surface area. The biomass values ranged from 34.2 g DW.m-2, recorded in May (autumn), to 170.9 g DW.m-2 in January (summer). The highest rate of primary productivity was 3.3 g DW.m-2.d-1, observed in June. The concentrations of carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus in the plant ranged between 403 and 551 g.kg-1, 13.4 and 25.7 g.kg-1 and 0.5 and 1.9 g.kg-1, respectively. The water N:P ratio ranged between 19:1 and 368:1. CONCLUSION: The coverage of the surface of the lake by A. filiculoides throughout the study period and the nutritional status of the plant demonstrate the importance of the cycling of nutrients by macrophytes in this aquatic environment. The higher N:P ratio in the water column, compared with other neighboring environments without macrophytes, shows that the enrichment of the lake may result from the biological N-fixation activity produced by A. filiculoides.
The evolution of large-truss road bridges in NSW, Australia
Authors: Glencross-Grant Rex
Published: May 2012

This paper describes the evolution of large-truss road bridges in New South Wales (NSW), Australia, citing specific examples of various genres. In particular, the high proportion of iron bridges constructed in northern NSW over approximately a 25-year period from around 1870 is highlighted. The proportion here was greater than the rest of NSW for the same period. Various postulates are canvassed as to why that might have been so. With the onset of periods of financial astringency, the engineering profession had to adapt and make changes to take account of worsening economic conditions and political imperatives of the times. Typical of such major changes at the time was a dramatic swing from substantive iron road bridges to much more slender, but astutely designed, timber truss bridges. These colonially designed, but US-influenced, ‘lean and mean’ timber bridges were a far cry from the earlier, stockier, high-maintenance versions that were inherited from British/European designs. In some respects, such innovative local design was a symbolic way of releasing the restraining shackles of the colonial past and the growth of a nation. For over 40 years, these new style timber bridges, of various forms of successive improvement, dominated bridge construction in NSW to the extent that NSW was euphemistically known as the ‘timber bridge state’. It was not until innovations and improvements were made in steel production, steel fixing and concrete technology in the early 1930s that the newer materials started to replace timber.
The career of engineer Vladimir Bodiansky
Authors: Frapier Christel
Published: May 2012

Through an examination of the career of Russian-born engineer Vladimir Bodiansky (1894–1966), this paper considers the gradual change in the status of engineers in France in the 1930s and after World War II, focusing on the issue of the intellectual property rights of company-employed engineers. It recounts the career of this important, though relatively unknown, figure in French architectural and engineering history who began his career as a civil engineer, turning to aeronautical engineering during the 1920s and to the building industry in the 1930s. His early passion for aviation explains, in part, both his professional path and his architectural accomplishments. However, it was really his encounter with architects Marcel Lods and Le Corbusier that marked a turning point in the career of this engineer whose supreme quest, following his first architectural construction projects in collaboration with the builder Eugène Mopin, was industrialisation of the construction industry. He is most widely recognised for his work as technical director of Atelier de Bâtisseurs, the technical design office he founded with Le Corbusier in 1945.
The effect of electric field on interaction of glycine with (6,0) single-walled boron nitride nanotube
Authors: Farmanzadeh Davood , Ghazanfary Samereh
Published: May 2012

The interaction between glycine molecule with (6, 0) zigzag model of
single-walled boron nitride nanotube (BNNT) with H-terminated at the open
ended, has been investigated in the presence and absence of the external
electric field (EF), using the DFT-B3LYP/6-31G
Age-related skin changes
Authors: Levakov Aleksandra , Vuckovic Nada , Djolai Matilda , Mocko-Kacanski Mihaela , Bozanic Snezana
Published: May 2012

Age-related skin changes can be induced by chronological ageing, manifested
in subcutaneous fat reduction, and photo-ageing eliciting increased elastotic
substance in the upper dermis, destruction of its fibrilar structure,
augmented intercellular substance and moderate inflammatory infiltrate.
Forty-five biopsy skin samples of the sun-exposed and sun-protected skin were
analyzed. The patients were both males and females, aged from 17 to 81 years.
The thickness of the epidermal layers and the number of cellular living
layers is greater in younger skin. The amount of keratohyaline granules is
enlarged in older skin. Dermoepidermal junction is flattened and the presence
of elastotic material in the dermis is pronounced with age. The amount of
inflammatory infiltrate is increased, the fibrous trabeculae are thickened in
older skin and the atrophy of the hypodermis is observed. Chronological
ageing alters the fibroblasts metabolism by reducing their life span,
capacity to divide and produce collagen. During ageing, the enlargement of
collagen fibrils diminishes the skin elasticity.
Comparison of glycolytic enzyme and isoenzyme activity in breast cancers and dysplasia
Authors: Bajin-Katic Katica
Published: May 2012

The study was aimed at assessing the total enzyme activity and the profile of
breast cancer and dysplasia on the human material. In addition, the validity
of data was evaluated from the aspect of improving diagnostics. Lactate
dehydrogenase activity, as well as the profile of its isoenzymes, pyruvate
kinase and hexokinase, were measured. The study included 60 samples of breast
cancer, out of which 20 were benign breast tumours and 40 were 1st and 2nd
degree dysplasia of the breast. The samples were collected from the patients
operated at the Institute for Oncology of Faculty of Medicine in Sremska
Kamenica. Lactate dehydrogenase isoenzymes were separated by the vertical
polyacrylamide gel disc electrophoresis according to the slightly modified
Brewer and Ashworth?s method. The activity of all the tested enzymes was
measured under the conditions of linear kinetics in the function of time and
enzyme concentration. Lactate dehydrogenase-5 was found in 88% of the
analyzed breast cancer samples, whereas it was not detected in breast
dysplasia. Pyruvate kinase (4.-isoenzyme) was about 50 times higher and the
activity of hexokinase was 3 times higher in breast cancer than in breast
dysplasia. Lactate dehydrogenase-5 and pyruvate kinase (4.-isoenzyme) are
particularly important and reliable markers of malignity. The results
obtained for quantitative and qualitative changes in the enzyme activity can
be used to improve diagnostics and early diagnostics of malignant breast
neoplasm.
Application of cephalometric analysis for determination of vertical dimension of occlusion: A literature review
Authors: Strajnic Ljiljana , Stanisic-Sinobad Darinka
Published: May 2012

Introduction. Optimal reconstruction of vertical dimension of occlusion is
crucial for functional and physiognomic rehabilitation of edentulous
patients. This article is aimed at presenting attitudes and studies on
application of cephalometric analysis in obtaining optimal vertical dimension
of occlusion. The review of literature presents the studies which analyse the
possibilities of cephalometric analysis aimed at improving the clinical
methods for vertical dimension of occlusion determination in treatment of
edentulous patients. The research carried out so far can roughly be divided
into: cephalometric vertical dimension of occlusion evaluation in dentulous
patients performed to determine precise indicators of vertical dimension of
occlusion and to establish cephalometric standards for practical application
in prosthodontics; the method of producing pre-extraction cephalometric
registries involves the production of cephalometric radiographs for potential
prosthodontic patients in dental pre-extraction period which are kept for
reference to be used in later therapy; the cephalometric method of
registering the position of physiologic rest position of the mandible
involves measuring cephalometric parameters in cephalometric radiographs made
when the mandible is in physiologic rest position; cephalometric evaluation
of vertical dimension of occlusion in complete denture therapy after clinical
determination of intemaxillary relationship is recommended for timely
detection of possible mistakes, with a possibility of correction in the
process of complete denture production; and cephalometric analysis in
edentulous patients with old complete dentures for a planned vertical
dimension of occlusion extension. Conclusion. Data from the literature give
no proof of a scientific and universally accepted method for precise
determination of vertical dimension of occlusion, which is a point many
authors agree upon. Different methods proposed for vertical dimension of
occlusion determination in everyday practice are usually recommended in
combination with other methods. Determination of individual, morphological
vertical dimension of occlusion indicators by cephalometric analysis is, in
this sense, one of the directions for finding a better solution when planning
an artificial occlusion complex.
Orthodontic-surgical therapy of retained upper canine
Authors: Mirkovic Sinisa , Sarcev Ivan , Bajkin Branislav , Tadic Ana , Djurdjevic-Mirkovic Tatjana
Published: May 2012

Introduction. Therapy of impacted teeth is undoubtedly one of the most
intriguing issues for the experts in the field of dentistry. General dental
practitioners, as well as specialists in the field of pediatric dentistry,
periodontology, orthodontics and particularly oral and maxillofacial surgery
have been facing this challenge throughout past several years. Each of these
experts can contribute to solving this problem; however, each of them alone
can solve only a limited number of cases. Discussion and Conclusion. Since
recently, the fate of impacted tooth has been determined mainly by the
competence, experience and skill of the orthodontist to apply light traction
in an appropriate direction once the tooth has been made surgically exposed.
Oral surgeon and orthodontist should share the responsibility for a patient
with impaction as they together have the necessary skill and competence
required for an effective therapy. In addition, dental age of the child is to
be taken into consideration, as well as his/her overall health status and
potential interference with other anomalies of dental arch.
Sudden hearing loss: Our experiences in treatment with vasoactive and corticosteroid therapy
Authors: Zivic Ljubica , Zivic Danijela , Djonovic Nela
Published: May 2012

Introduction. Sudden hearing loss is a clinical entity of ambiguously defined
aetiology manifested by hearing loss of more than 30 dB on three contiguous
frequencies occurring within 72 hours. The lack of standard therapy protocol
led to the use of variety of different therapies, thus making difficult
objective quantification of their effect. Objective. The aim of the study was
to present our experience in the treatment of sudden hearing loss with
administration of vasoactive and corticosteroid therapy. Methods. Our
research included 59 hospitally treated patients with a sudden hearing loss.
During the period 1995-2004, 37 patients were treated using vasoactive agents
(xanthinol nicotinate and pentoxifylline), and from 2004-2009, 22 patients
were treated using parenteral corticosteroids (dexamethasone). All patients
had unilateral sensorineural hearing loss of different level at frequencies
from 500-4000 Hz, while other diagnostic procedures (laboratory tests,
internist and neurology examinations, X-ray) were within normal limits.
Evaluation of therapy effect was done by follow-up of hearing threshold
changes and subjective complaints. Results. The results showed that full
recovery was achieved in patients with a mild and not fully severe hearing
loss, with the majority of those (73%) under corticosteroid treatment. In
these patients recovery was also achieved more rapidly. A partial recovery of
hearing was detected in patients with hearing loss of more than 80 dB, and
mostly in patients treated with corticosteroids. Conclusion. Although
statistical evaluation does not indicate significant differences between the
application of vasoactive drugs or corticosteroids, clinical findings support
advantages of corticosteroid therapy. Treatment of hearing loss, although
controversial, requires change of some up-to-now used agents. Advantages
should go in favour of contricosteroids.
Simvastatin influence on carotid atherosclerotic disease regression
Authors: Vasic Dragan , Radmili Oliver , Davidovic Lazar , Vranes Milica
Published: May 2012

Introduction. The measurement of intima-media thickness (IMT) of carotid
arteries has emerged as the method of choice for determining the anatomic
extent of atherosclerosis and assessing cardiovascular progression. Statins
are used in the primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular and
cerebrovascular disorders so as to reduce morbidity and mortality. Objective.
To evaluate the effects of treatment with simvastatin in patients with
elevated cholesterol levels and increased values of carotid arteries IMT.
Methods. The study of 275 patients (155 male and 115 female, aged 37-79
years, mean 60.86 years) was performed from January 2008 - January 2010 at
the Vascular and Endovascular Surgery Clinic of the Clinical Centre of
Serbia. All patients were treated with simvastatin administered once a day
for 6 months. Results. Simvastatin treatment resulted in a statistically
signuficant decrease of the IMT thickness of the right common carotid artery.
There was no statistically significant reduction in the IMT of the left
common carotid artery as well as in the IMT of the right and left internal
carotid arteries. Conclusion. Long-term simvastatin treatment results in the
regression or slowing down atherosclerosis in symptomatic, as well as in
asymptomatic patients with a lower grade of carotid stenosis (IMT below 2.5
mm).
Endoscopic treatment of gastric and duodenal angiodysplasias by elastic rings ligation
Authors: Grgov Sasa , Stamenkovic Perica , Janjic Dejan
Published: May 2012

Introduction. The most frequently applied methods of endoscopic treatment of
angiodysplasias, such as argon plasma coagulation, multipolar coagulation and
heater probe, proved to be effective with certain shortcomings and the
possibility of complications. There are very scarce data in the literature
about the treatment of angiodysplasias with endoscopic ligature. Objective.
The aim of the study was to examine the efficacy and safety of endoscopic
treatment of gastric and duodenal angiodysplasias by ligation with elastic
rings. Methods. In 12 patients (10 male and 2 female, mean age 65.9 years)
the endoscopic ligation of gastric and duodenal angiodysplasias was applied.
Eight patients (66.6%) had solitary angiodysplasias in the stomach, two
patients (16.6%) had solitary angiodysplasias in the descending part of the
duodenum and two patients (16.6%) had multiple angiodysplasias in the stomach
and duodenum. Two patients (16.6%) had active bleeding from angiodysplasias,
while 10 patients (83.3%) had recent bleeding. We used the Cook Endoscopy
system with 4 or 6 elastic rings for endoscopic ligation of angiodysplasias.
Patients were under follow-up after 2-3 days, 30 days and then every 6 months
following the endoscopic ligation of angiodysplasias. Results. Active
bleeding from angiodysplasias was stopped in two patients (100%) by
endoscopic ligation with elastic rings. The average number of applied
ligation sessions in our 12 patients was 1.6, with an average of 1.8
ligatures per session. There were no complications after ligation of
angiodysplasias. Recurrence of bleeding occurred in one patient (8.3%) with
multiple gastric and duodenal angiodysplasias. The average period of
follow-up of patients was 22.8?17.6 months. Conclusion. Endoscopic ligation
with elastic rings can be effective and safe for treatment especially of
solitary gastric and duodenal angiodysplasias.
Near-hanging with outliving period: Pathoforensic aspects
Authors: Zivkovic Vladimir , Nikolic Slobodan
Published: May 2012

Introduction. Hanging usually ends in death, and about 80% of victims are
found dead at the scene of the hanging. However, sometimes the hanging
victims overlive for some time, and sometimes even survive the hanging.
Objective. The aim was to determine the causes of death in nearhanging cases,
in people who have been outliving hanging for some time, to explain the
pathophysiological mechanisms leading to death, and to identify prognostic
factors for this outcome. Methods. Retrospective autopsy study was performed
for a twelve-year period. There were only seven cases of near hanging. The
sample was analyzed according to gender, age, circumstances of death, and
autopsy findings of all observed subjects. The relevant data were collected
from autopsy records, police reports and heteroanamnestic interviews.
Results. The sample consisted of five men and two women, average age
48.3?19.9 years (29-81 years). The average outliving period was 3.8?2.6 days
(from 7 hours to 7 days). Six people were admitted to hospital in the state
of deep coma. In six cases cardiopulmonary arrest occurred after the hanging
attempt and all were reanimated for a shorter or longer time until admission
at hospital. Conclusion. Survival after attempted suicide by hanging occurs
extremely rarely. In all the cases, the immediate cause of death after
attempted hanging was ischemic brain injury, with a significant and
pronounced oedema. In all the cases observed, regardless of the presence or
absence of injuries of soft and hard structures of the neck, there was a
ligature mark on the neck skin. Acute hemorrhagic gastritis with melaena was
present in a significant number of reported cases of near-hanging.
Unusual case of successful hand replantation with bad functional outcome: A case report
Authors: Milenkovic Sasa , Paunkovic Ljiljana , Visnjic Milan , Kovacevic Predrag
Published: May 2012

Introduction. Traumatic hand amputation is a very severe and rare injury.
Replantation and revascularization surgery requires the existence of
specialized centres and well-educated teams of microsurgeons. In places where
there are no such specialized centres for this kind of surgery, traumatic
hand amputation is a major concern and quite a challenge, and a successfully
performed replantation is a great accomplishment. Case Outline. We report a
case of a successfully survived replanted hand in a 35-year-old male patient
with unfortunately bad end result of the treatment. The patient with the
amputated left hand (disarticulation) had a surgery 4 hours after injury. The
urgent surgical procedure required a debridement, the excision of the first
row of the carpal bones, external fixation of the wrist, vascular
anastomoses, nerve repair, tenorrhaphy, skin sutures and decompression skin
incisions. The successful operation did not have a successful post-operative
course due to the patient?s psychiatric problems and lack of rehabilitation
at the psychiatric institution where the treatment was continued. Conclusion.
Successful surgical performance can unfortunately be ruined due to inadequate
further treatment course or the wrong selection for such a demanding surgery.
The survival of the amputated hand can be achieved surgically, but achieving
refunctioning does not always depend on surgery. It also depends on the very
patient, his motivation, rehabilitation, as well as on the proper selection
for such a demanding and complex surgical procedure.
Identification of volatile aroma compounds in processed cheese analogues based on different types of fat
Authors: Vítová Eva , Loupancová Blanka , Sklenářová Kateřina , Divišová Radka , Buňka František
Published: May 2012

The simple and rapid solid-phase micro-extraction method using gas chromatography was used for the identification and quantification of volatile aroma compounds in various types of processed cheese analogues produced from different types of fat (butter, butter oil, coconut oil, palm oil, and sunflower oil). In total, 31 organic compounds belonging to five chemical groups were identified, with the alcohols and fatty acids quantitatively predominant. The contents of the aroma compounds (the so-called aroma profiles) of the analogues and corresponding fats used as raw materials were compared. Significant differences (p < 0.05) were found between samples. The highest total content of aroma compounds was found in coconut oil analogue ((547.30 ± 9.82) mg kg−1), the lowest in palm oil analogue ((372.01 ± 16.16) mg kg−1). The concentrations of aroma compounds in fats were substantially lower (p < 0.05) than in analogues. Hence, the largest number of aroma analogues came from Edam cheese used for production as a protein source.
Recent Advances in Iridium-Catalyzed Asymmetric Hydrogenation: New Catalysts, Substrates and Applications in Total Synthesis
Authors: Ganić Adnan , Rageot Denise , Tröndlin Lars , Pfaltz Andreas
Published: May 2012

Iridium-catalyzed asymmetric hydrogenation has emerged as a highly efficient method for the synthesis of enantiomerically pure compounds. This account summarizes our recent efforts in this field. We have developed a new type of P,O-ligand that was successfully applied to the asymmetric
hydrogenation of ?,?-unsaturated carbonyl compounds. Furthermore we have demonstrated the potential of known iridium catalysts in the hydrogenation of ?,?-unsaturated boronic esters. And finally we could demonstrate the utility of iridium-catalyzed asymmetric hydrogenation
in the formal synthesis of the natural product Platensimycin.
Mass Spectrometric QUAL/QUAN Approaches for Drug Metabolism and Metabolomics
Authors: Tonoli David , Varesio Emmanuel , Hopfgartner Gérard
Published: May 2012

A liquid chromatography–high-resolution mass spectrometry platform was used for simultaneous qualitative and quantitative (QUAL/QUAN) acquisition, enabling drug metabolism and metabolomics investi- gations. Plasma study samples were monitored for three different groups of patients
at a single time-point (1 h after drug administration): one group received acetaminophen (APAP), one group received both APAP and ketorolac and one group was a control group. The quantification of APAP and two of its metabolites (APAP-glucuronide and APAP-cysteine) was performed on a fast
acquisition quadrupole-Time-Of-Flight (50–100 ms duty cycle, resolving power of 30,000) compatible with UHPLC time constraints. High-resolution Selected Reaction Monitoring was used for quantification of APAP and its metabolites from 50–10,000 ng/mL using a 50 ?L plasma
aliquot. Average measured concentrations were for APAP 6,650 ng/mL vs 6,160 ng/mL, APAP-CYS concentrations were 154.2 ng/mL vs 140.6 ng/mL and APAP-GLU concentrations 8,750 ng/mL vs 8,430 ng/mL between the group that received only APAP (n = 11) and the group that received APAP in combination
with ketorolac (n = 11). No major differences were observed between the two groups of patients, as it would be expected due to the differing metabolism pathway for both substances. For the qualitative aspect, a metabolomics data processing platform with biological QC samples was applied to
the study samples to search for unanticipated metabolites and biomarkers related to APAP and ketorolac metabolism. Multivariate analysis (i.e. Principle Component Analysis), variables grouping tools (i.e. PCVG) and high-resolution MS(/MS) spectra from the MSALL acquisition
strategy enabled the profiling and characterization of circulating metabolites of APAP in plasma such as APAP-sulfate, APAP-mercapturate as well as ketorolac.
High Spatial Resolution Quantitative Imaging by Cross-calibration Using Laser Ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry and Synchrotron Micro-X-ray Fluorescence Technique
Authors: Wang Hao A.O. , Grolimund Daniel , Van Loon Luc R. , Barmettler Kurt D , Borca Camelia N. , Aeschlimann Beat , Günther Detlef
Published: May 2012

High spatial resolution, quantitative chemical imaging is of importance to various scientific communities, however high spatial resolution and robust quantification are not trivial to attain at the same time. In order to achieve microscopic chemical imaging with enhanced quantification
capabilities, the current study links the independent and complementary advantages of two micro-analytical techniques – Synchrotron Radiation-based micro X-ray Fluorescence (SR-microXRF) and Laser Ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (LA-ICPMS). A cross-calibration approach
is established between these two techniques and validated by one experimental demonstration. In the presented test case, the diffusion pattern of trace level Cs migrating into a heterogeneous geological medium is imaged quantitatively with high spatial resolution. The one-dimensional line
scans and the two-dimensional chemical images reveal two distinct types of geochemical domains: calcium carbonate rich domains and clay rich domains. During the diffusion, Cs shows a much higher interfacial reactivity within the clay rich domain, and turns out to be nearly non-reactive in
the calcium carbonate domains. Such information obtained on the micrometer scale improves our chemical knowledge concerning reactive solute transport mechanism in heterogeneous media. Related to the chosen demonstration study, the outcome of the quantitative, microscopic chemical imaging contributes
to a refined safety assessment of potential host rock materials for deep-geological nuclear waste storage repositories.
Zebrafish Bioassay-guided Microfractionation for the Rapid in vivo Identification of Pharmacologically Active Natural Products
Authors: Challal Soura , Bohni Nadine , Buenafe Olivia E. , Esguerra Camila V. , De Witte Peter A. M. , Wolfender Jean-Luc , Crawford Alexander D.
Published: May 2012

The rapid acquisition of structural and bioactivity information on natural products (NPs) at the sub- milligram scale is key for performing efficient bioactivity-guided isolations. Zebrafish offer the possibility of rapid in vivo bioactivity analysis of small molecules at the microgram
scale – an attractive feature when combined with high-resolution fractionation technologies and analytical methods such as UHPLC-TOF-MS and microflow NMR. Numerous biomedically relevant assays are now available in zebrafish, encompassing most indication areas. Zebrafish also provide
the possibility to screen bioactive compounds for potential hepato-, cardio-, and neurotoxicities at a very early stage in the drug discovery process. Here we describe two strategies using zebrafish bioassays for the high-resolution in vivo bioactivity profiling of medicinal plants, using
either a one-step or a two-step procedure for active compound isolation directly into 96-well plates. The analysis of the microfractions by microflow NMR in combination with UHPLC-TOF-MS of the extract enables the rapid dereplication of compounds and an estimation of their microgram quantities
for zebrafish bioassays. Both the one-step and the two-step isolation procedures enable a rapid estimation of the bioactive potential of NPs directly from crude extracts. In summary, we present an in vivo , microgram-scale NP discovery platform combining zebrafish bioassays with microscale
analytics to identify, isolate and evaluate pharmacologically active NPs.
Indole Alkaloids Synthesis via a Selective Cyclization of Aminocyclopropanes
Authors: De Simone Filippo , Waser Jérôme
Published: May 2012

The continuous progress in medicinal chemistry requires more versatile synthetic strategies for the generation of large libraries of active compounds and their analogues. As a result, the research for new effective cyclization and cycloaddition reactions is an essential task in organic
chemistry. In 2008 we developed the first catalytic formal homo-Nazarov reaction starting from activated cyclopropanes. Herein we report the extension of the catalytic formal homo-Nazarov cyclization to aminocyclopropanes. Highly diastereoselective cyclizations were obtained via an acyliminium
intermediate generated through opening of the cyclopropane. An excellent control over the regioselectivity of either the C–C or C–N cyclization in the case of free indoles as nucleophilic partners was achieved. The utility of the developed methodology was demonstrated by the generation
of the polycyclic scaffolds of Aspidosperma and Gonioma natural products starting from a common intermediate. Based on this method, a formal total synthesis of the alkaloid aspidospermidine and the total synthesis of the alkaloid goniomitine are presented. Finally, the scope
and limitations of our methodology are discussed on an extended range of vinyl-cyclopropyl ketones with cyclic or acyclic carbamates, as well as ethers as donor groups on the cyclopropane.
The Homosocial Construction of Alternative Masculinities: Men in Indie Rock Bands
Authors: Houston Taylor Martin
Published: May 2012

This study explores the construction of masculinities and homosocial relationships within alternative subcultures. Through in-depth interviews, I researched men in “indie” rock bands that were redefining homosocial relationships in order to construct alternative masculinities within the indie rock subculture. The study's findings demonstrate that while the men upheld certain hegemonic gender norms inside and outside the scene, within the subculture they report constructing alternative masculinities through homosocial interactions and gender strategies involving their bodies and performances. This study provides an example of how gender is fluid within specific social locations and contexts. Furthermore, it emphasizes the idea that multiple masculinities are constructed within society and that homosocial relations can be places for challenging hegemonic masculinity rather than reinforcing them.
Formation of ice-shelf moraines by accretion of sea water and marine sediment at the southern margin of the McMurdo Ice Shelf, Antarctica
Authors: Fitzsimons Sean , Mager Sarah , Frew Russell , Clifford Andrew , Wilson Gary
Published: May 2012

A combination of ground-penetrating radar surveys, physical sedimentology and ice composition measurements has been used to characterize ice and sediment accreted to the southern margin of the McMurdo Ice Shelf, Antarctica. The radar data and surface observations show that the ice-shelf margin consists of strongly layered debris-rich ice that contains marine sediment and fossils. A modified Rayleigh-based distillation system has been used to model the isotopic fractionation from sea water to ice in a closed system. The model of ice formation is consistent with formation during almost complete freezing of a sea-water reservoir. By contrast, ice on the upstream side of the grounding line has formed during the early stages of freezing in which a small fraction of the sea-water reservoir has frozen. The model results and the presence of delicate, well-preserved marine fossils are interpreted as evidence of anchor ice formation on the seabed, and rafting of glaciomarine sediment into the bottom of the ice shelf. We argue that repeated accretion of sea water and marine sediment has produced a stacked sequence of ice and glaciomarine debris that forms shore-parallel ice-cored moraines.
Development of Genomic Resources in the Species of Trifolium L. and Its Application in Forage Legume Breeding
Authors: Ravagnani Adriana , Abberton Michael T. , Skøt Leif
Published: May 2012

Clovers (genus Trifolium) are a large and widespread genus of legumes. A number of clovers are of agricultural importance as forage crops in grassland agriculture, particularly temperate areas. White clover (Trifolium repens L.) is used in grazed pasture and red clover (T. pratense L.) is widely cut and conserved as a winter feed. For the diploid red clover, genetic and genomic tools and resources have developed rapidly over the last five years including genetic and physical maps, BAC (bacterial artificial chromosome) end sequence and transcriptome sequence information. This has paved the way for the use of genome wide selection and high throughput phenotyping in germplasm development. For the allotetraploid white clover progress has been slower although marker assisted selection is in use and relatively robust genetic maps and QTL (quantitative trait locus) information now exist. For both species the sequencing of the model legume Medicago truncatula gene space is an important development to aid genomic, biological and evolutionary studies. The first genetic maps of another species, subterranean clover (Trifolium subterraneum L.) have also been published and its comparative genomics with red clover and M. truncatula conducted. Next generation sequencing brings the potential to revolutionize clover genomics, but international consortia and effective use of germplasm, novel population structures and phenomics will be required to carry out effective translation into breeding. Another avenue for clover genomic and genetic improvement is interspecific hybridization. This approach has considerable potential with regard to crop improvement but also opens windows of opportunity for studies of biological and evolutionary processes.
Short-Term Solar Irradiance Forecasting Model Based on Artificial Neural Network Using Statistical Feature Parameters
Authors: Wang Fei , Mi Zengqiang , Su Shi , Zhao Hongshan
Published: May 2012

Short-term solar irradiance forecasting (STSIF) is of great significance for the optimal operation and power predication of grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) plants. However, STSIF is very complex to handle due to the random and nonlinear characteristics of solar irradiance under changeable weather conditions. Artificial Neural Network (ANN) is suitable for STSIF modeling and many research works on this topic are presented, but the conciseness and robustness of the existing models still need to be improved. After discussing the relation between weather variations and irradiance, the characteristics of the statistical feature parameters of irradiance under different weather conditions are figured out. A novel ANN model using statistical feature parameters (ANN-SFP) for STSIF is proposed in this paper. The input vector is reconstructed with several statistical feature parameters of irradiance and ambient temperature. Thus sufficient information can be effectively extracted from relatively few inputs and the model complexity is reduced. The model structure is determined by cross-validation (CV), and the Levenberg-Marquardt algorithm (LMA) is used for the network training. Simulations are carried out to validate and compare the proposed model with the conventional ANN model using historical data series (ANN-HDS), and the results indicated that the forecast accuracy is obviously improved under variable weather conditions.