Determinantes da participação e sucesso das micro e pequenas empresas em compras públicas: uma análise empírica

RESUMO Tendo como base discussões recentes sobre as relações entre estratégia e desempenho no setor público, no presente trabalho analisam-se os condicionantes da participação e do sucesso de micro e pequenas empresas (MPE) em compras públicas a partir de alterações na legislação, favorecendo tais grupos. Adota-se uma abordagem de natureza quantitativa e desenvolve-se um conjunto de hipóteses, que são testadas usando uma base de dados única, com informações detalhadas de 542 contratos de compras realizados por um órgão da administração pública federal brasileira, entre 2005 e 2011. Os resultados demonstraram que as mudanças institucionais, promovidas por uma nova regulamentação, contribuíram significativamente para o aumento na participação de MPE nos processos de licitações do órgão pesquisado, porém não alteraram a probabilidade de êxito dessas empresas nos certames públicos, colocando em perspectiva a eficácia da legislação implantada. Adicionalmente, os resultados sugeriram que fatores estratégicos, associados ao ambiente competitivo, aos atributos transacionais e às capacidades inerentes aos participantes, influenciam seu acesso e as chances de sucesso em compras públicas.

Assessment of distribution and evolution of mechanical dyssynchrony in a porcine model of myocardial infarction by cardiovascular magnetic resonance.

BACKGROUND: We sought to investigate the relationship between infarct and dyssynchrony post- myocardial infarct (MI), in a porcine model. Mechanical dyssynchrony post-MI is associated with left ventricular (LV) remodeling and increased mortality. METHODS: Cine, gadolinium-contrast, and tagged cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) were performed pre-MI, 9 ± 2 days (early post-MI), and 33 ± 10 days (late post-MI) post-MI in 6 pigs to characterize cardiac morphology, location and extent of MI, and regional mechanics. LV mechanics were assessed by circumferential strain (eC). Electro-anatomic mapping (EAM) was performed within 24 hrs of CMR and prior to sacrifice. RESULTS: Mean infarct size was 21 ± 4% of LV volume with evidence of post-MI remodeling. Global eC significantly decreased post MI (-27 ± 1.6% vs. -18 ± 2.5% (early) and -17 ± 2.7% (late), p < 0.0001) with no significant change in peri-MI and MI segments between early and late time-points. Time to peak strain (TTP) was significantly longer in MI, compared to normal and peri-MI segments, both early (440 ± 40 ms vs. 329 ± 40 ms and 332 ± 36 ms, respectively; p = 0.0002) and late post-MI (442 ± 63 ms vs. 321 ± 40 ms and 355 ± 61 ms, respectively; p = 0.012). The standard deviation of TTP in 16 segments (SD16) significantly increased post-MI: 28 ± 7 ms to 50 ± 10 ms (early, p = 0.012) to 54 ± 19 ms (late, p = 0.004), with no change between early and late post-MI time-points (p = 0.56). TTP was not related to reduction of segmental contractility. EAM revealed late electrical activation and greatly diminished conduction velocity in the infarct (5.7 ± 2.4 cm/s), when compared to peri-infarct (18.7 ± 10.3 cm/s) and remote myocardium (39 ± 20.5 cm/s). CONCLUSIONS: Mechanical dyssynchrony occurs early after MI and is the result of delayed electrical and mechanical activation in the infarct.

Robust synchronization of coupled circadian and cell cycle oscillators in single mammalian cells.

Circadian cycles and cell cycles are two fundamental periodic processes with a period in the range of 1 day. Consequently, coupling between such cycles can lead to synchronization. Here, we estimated the mutual interactions between the two oscillators by time-lapse imaging of single mammalian NIH3T3 fibroblasts during several days. The analysis of thousands of circadian cycles in dividing cells clearly indicated that both oscillators tick in a 1:1 mode-locked state, with cell divisions occurring tightly 5 h before the peak in circadian Rev-Erbα-YFP reporter expression. In principle, such synchrony may be caused by either unidirectional or bidirectional coupling. While gating of cell division by the circadian cycle has been most studied, our data combined with stochastic modeling unambiguously show that the reverse coupling is predominant in NIH3T3 cells. Moreover, temperature, genetic, and pharmacological perturbations showed that the two interacting cellular oscillators adopt a synchronized state that is highly robust over a wide range of parameters. These findings have implications for circadian function in proliferative tissues, including epidermis, immune cells, and cancer.

Measuring cytoskeleton and cellular membrane mechanical properties by atomic force microscopy.

Atomic force microscope is an invaluable device to explore living specimens at a nanometric scale. It permits to image the topography of the sample in 3D, to measure its mechanical properties and to detect the presence of specific molecules bound on its surface. Here we describe the procedure to gather such a data set on living macrophages.

Electronic couplings and on-site energies for hole transfer in DNA: systematic quantum mechanical/molecular dynamic study

The electron hole transfer (HT) properties of DNA are substantially affected by thermal fluctuations of the π stack structure. Depending on the mutual position of neighboring nucleobases, electronic coupling V may change by several orders of magnitude. In the present paper, we report the results of systematic QM/molecular dynamic (MD) calculations of the electronic couplings and on-site energies for the hole transfer. Based on 15 ns MD trajectories for several DNA oligomers, we calculate the average coupling squares 〈 V2 〉 and the energies of basepair triplets X G+ Y and X A+ Y, where X, Y=G, A, T, and C. For each of the 32 systems, 15 000 conformations separated by 1 ps are considered. The three-state generalized Mulliken-Hush method is used to derive electronic couplings for HT between neighboring basepairs. The adiabatic energies and dipole moment matrix elements are computed within the INDO/S method. We compare the rms values of V with the couplings estimated for the idealized B -DNA structure and show that in several important cases the couplings calculated for the idealized B -DNA structure are considerably underestimated. The rms values for intrastrand couplings G-G, A-A, G-A, and A-G are found to be similar, ∼0.07 eV, while the interstrand couplings are quite different. The energies of hole states G+ and A+ in the stack depend on the nature of the neighboring pairs. The X G+ Y are by 0.5 eV more stable than X A+ Y. The thermal fluctuations of the DNA structure facilitate the HT process from guanine to adenine. The tabulated couplings and on-site energies can be used as reference parameters in theoretical and computational studies of HT processes in DNA

Studying the micro-angels approach to micro-investment decisions

Purpose: The paper analyzes the micro-angels investment behaviour, looking both to the criteria used in the selection of their investment projects and to the characteristics of their guidance role during the investment period. Design/Methodology/Approach: The paper focuses on a double bottom line movement of French micro-angels clubs that has been operating since 1983. Our primary source of data is an online survey carried out during March 2012, asking members of clubs all over France for different aspects of their procedures. Findings: Our findings suggest that micro-angels are interested in small, socially or environmentally friendly projects having the potential to contribute to the development of their neighbourhood. We find that women are even more interested than men in such projects. Educated micro-angels value entrepreneurial motivation and understanding of the project more than less-educated micro-angels. We also point out the factors that micro-angels consider important in accompanying enterprises. Here we find that gender makes little difference. However, retired micro-angels value financial diagnosis made conjointly with entrepreneurs, while both active micro-angels and educated micro-angels value more the use of their network to help micro-entrepreneurs. Practical/Social Implications: Given the potential benefits of micro-angels investing and guiding the development of micro-enterprises, a social micro-angel investment on a major scale in developing countries could help in tackling some of the problems faced by the development of microfinance, such as the over-indebtedness of micro-entrepreneurs. Practitioners and new initiatives would gain from understanding what adaptations need to be made. Originality/value: We expect to add to the venture capital theory to take into account non-economic motives.

Beneficial effects of strontium ranelate compared to alendronate on bone micro-structure - a 2-year study

Aims: In a head-to-head study, we compared the effects of strontium ranelate (SrRan) and alendronate (ALN), anti-osteoporotic agents with antifracture efficacy, on bone microstructure, a component of bone quality, hence of bone strength. Methods: In a randomised, double-dummy, double-blind controlled trial, 88 postmenopausal osteoporotic women were randomised to SrRan 2g/day or ALN 70mg/week for 2 years. Microstructure of the distal radius and distal tibia were assessed by HR-pQCT after 3,6,12,18 and 24 months of treatment. Primary endpoint was HR-pQCT variables relative changes from baseline. An ITT analysis was applied. Results: Baseline characteristics were similar in both groups (mean ±SD): age: 63.6±7.5 vs. 63.7±7.6 yrs; L1-L4T Score: -2.7±0.8 vs. -2.8±0.8g/cm², Cortical Thickness (CTh), trabecular bone fraction (BV/TV) and cortical density=721±242 vs. 753±263μm, 9.5±2.5 vs. 9.3±2.7%, and 750±87 vs. 745±78mg/cm3 respectively. Over 2 yrs, distal radius values changes were within 1 to 2% without significant differences except cortical density. In contrast distal tibia CTh, BV/TV, trabecular and cortical densities increased significantly more in the SrRan group than in the ALN group (Table). No significant between-group differences were observed for the remaining measured parameter (trabecular number, trabecular spacing, and trabecular thickness). After 2 years, L1- L4 and hip aBMD increases were similar to results from pivotal trials (L1-L4:+6.5% and +5.6%;total hip:+4.1% and +2.9%, in Sr- Ran and ALN groups, respectively). In the SrRan group, bALP increased by a median of 18% (p<0.001) and sCTX decreased by a median of -16% (p=0.005) while in the ALN group, bALP and CTX decreased by median of -31% (p<0.001) and -59% (p<0.001) respectively. Relative changes from baseline to last observation (%) SrRan ALN Estimated between group difference p value CTh (μm) 6.29±9.53 0.93±6.23 5.411±1.836 0.004 BV/TV (%) 2.48±5.13 0.84±3.81 1.783±0.852 0.040 Trabecular density (mgHA/cm3) 2.47±5.07 0.88±4.00 1.729±0.859 0.048 Cortical density (mgHA/cm3) 1.43±2.77 0.36±2.14 1.137±0.530 0.045 The two treatments were well tolerated. Conclusions: Within the constraints related to HRpQCT technology, it appears that strontium ranelate has greater effects than alendronate on distal tibia cortical thickness, trabecular and cortical bone densities in women with postmenopausal osteoporosis after two years of treatment. A concomitant significant increase in bone formation marker is observed in the SrRan group.

Mechanical Properties of a Photopolymerizable Hydrogel for Intervertebral Disc Replacement.

We report on the modelling and experimental validation of a photopolymerizable hydrogel for a Nucleus Pulposus replacement.

Molecular role of Cx37 in advanced atherosclerosis: a micro-array study.

Recently, we showed that connexin37 (Cx37) protects against early atherosclerotic lesion development by regulating monocyte adhesion. The expression of this gap junction protein is altered in mouse and human atherosclerotic lesions; it is increased in macrophages newly recruited to the lesions and disappears from the endothelium of advanced plaques. To obtain more insight into the molecular role of Cx37 in advanced atherosclerosis, we used micro-array analysis for gene expression profiling in aortas of ApoE(-/-) and Cx37(-/-)ApoE(-/-) mice before and after 18 weeks of cholesterol-rich diet. Out of >15,000 genes, 106 genes were significantly differentially expressed in young mice before diet (P-value of <0.05, fold change of >0.7 or <-0.7, and intensity value >2.2 times background). Ingenuity pathway analysis (IPA) revealed differences in genes involved in cell-to-cell signaling and interaction, cellular compromise and nutritional disease. In addition, we identified 100 genes that were significantly perturbed after the cholesterol-rich diet. Similar to the analysis on 10-week-old mice, IPA revealed differences in genes involved in cell-to-cell signaling and interaction as well as to immuno-inflammatory disease. Furthermore, we found important changes in genes involved in vascular calcification and matrix degradation, some of which were confirmed at protein level by (immuno-)histochemistry. In conclusion, we suggest that Cx37 deficiency alters the global differential gene expression profiles in young mice towards a pro-inflammatory phenotype, which are then further influenced in advanced atherosclerosis. The results provide new insights into the significance of Cx37 in plaque calcification.

Sub-acute delayed failure of subthalamic DBS in Parkinson's disease: the role of micro-lesion effect.

OBJECTIVE: To study delayed failure after subthalamic nucleus (STN) deep brain stimulation in Parkinson's disease (PD) patients. METHODS: Out of 56 consecutive bilaterally STN-implanted PD patients, we selected subjects who, after initial clinical improvement (1 month after surgery), lost benefit (delayed failure, DF). RESULTS: Five patients developed sub-acutely severe gait disorders (DF). In 4/5 DF patients, a micro-lesion effect, defined as improvement without stimulation, was observed; immediate post-operative MRI demonstrated electrode located above or behind to the STN. CONCLUSIONS: Patients presenting micro-lesion effect should be carefully monitored, as this phenomenon can mask electrodes misplacement and evolution in DF

Mechanical ventilation and clinical practice heterogeneity in intensive care units: a multicenter case-vignette study.

BACKGROUND: Observational studies on mechanical ventilation (MV) show practice variations across ICUs. We sought to determine, with a case-vignette study, the heterogeneity of processes of care in ICUs focusing on mechanical ventilation procedures, and whether organizational patterns or physician characteristics influence practice variations. METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional multicenter study using the case-vignette methodology. Descriptive analyses were calculated for each organizational pattern and respondent characteristics. An Index of Qualitative Variation (IQV, from 0, no heterogeneity, to a maximum of 1) was calculated. RESULTS: Forty ICUs from France (N = 33) and Switzerland (N = 7) participated; 396 physicians answered our case-vignettes. There was major heterogeneity of management processes related to MV within and across centers (mean IQV per center 0.51, SD 0.09). We observed the lowest variability (mean IQV per question < 0.4) for questions related to intubation procedure, ventilation of acute respiratory distress syndrome and the use of the semirecumbent position. We observed a high variability (mean IQV per question > 0.6) for questions related to management of endotracheal tube or suctioning, management of sedation and analgesia, and respect of autonomy. Heterogeneity was independent of respondent characteristics and of the presence of written procedures. There was a correlation between the processes associated with the highest variability (mean IQV per question > 0.6) and the annual volume of ICU admission (r = 0.32 (0.01 to 0.58)) and MV (r = 0.38 (0.07 to 0.63)). Within ICUs there was a large heterogeneity regarding knowledge of a local written procedure. CONCLUSIONS: Large clinical practice variations were found among ICUs. High volume centers were more likely to have heterogeneous practices. The presence of a local written procedure or respondent characteristics did not influence practice variation.

Micro-organismos da subclasse Coccidia: resistência e implicações para o processamento de materiais de assistência à saúde

Este estudo teórico propõe uma reflexão sobre a resistência intrínseca da subclasse Coccidia, particularmente o gênero Cryptosporidium, considerado como um agente potencialmente patogênico para pacientes imunocomprometidos, e suas repercussões na prática assistencial. Atualmente, as diretrizes internacionais e nacionais aprovam como procedimento seguro a desinfecção química de alto nível de endoscópios digestivos, após sua limpeza. No entanto, estudos evidenciaram que micro-organismos da subclasse Coccidia, especificamente o Cryptosporidium, responsável por infecção entérica, são mais resistentes que as micobactérias e não são inativados pelos desinfetantes químicos de alto nível, exceto pelo Peróxido de Hidrogênio a 6% e 7,5%, formulação ainda não disponível no Brasil. Conclui-se que a legislação deve incluir este agente entre os micro-organismos teste para aprovação de desinfetantes químicos de alto nível e que as autoridades sanitárias devem se esforçar para garantir que os estabelecimentos de assistência à saúde tenham acesso a produtos eficazes contra o Cryptosporidium.

The automatic selection of ventilation parameters during the initial phase of mechanical ventilation.

OBJECTIVE: To test a method that allows automatic set-up of the ventilator controls at the onset of ventilation. DESIGN: Prospective randomized crossover study. SETTING: ICUs in one adult and one children's hospital in Switzerland. PATIENTS: Thirty intubated stable, critically ill patients (20 adults and 10 children). INTERVENTIONS: The patients were ventilated during two 20-min periods using a modified Hamilton AMADEUS ventilator. During the control period the ventilator settings were chosen immediately prior to the study. During the other period individual settings were automatically determined by the ventilatior (AutoInit). MEASUREMENTS AND RESULTS: Pressure, flow, and instantaneous CO2 concentration were measured at the airway opening. From these measurements, series dead space (V(DS)), expiratory time constant (RC), tidal volume (VT, total respiratory frequency (f(tot), minute ventilation (MV), and maximal and mean airway pressure (Paw, max and Paw, mean) were calculated. Arterial blood gases were analyzed at the end of each period. Paw, max was significantly less with the AutoInit ventilator settings while f(tot) was significantly greater (P < 0.05). The other values were not statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS: The AutoInit ventilator settings, which were automatically derived, were acceptable for all patients for a period of 20 min and were not found to be inferior to the control ventilator settings. This makes the AutoInit method potentially useful as an automatic start-up procedure for mechanical ventilation.