bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tongue contour for /s/ and /?/ in children with speech sound disorder
Authors: Wertzner Haydée Fiszbein , Francisco Danira Tavares , Pagan-Neves Luciana de Oliveira
Published: August 2014

PURPOSE: To describe the tongue shape for /s/ and /∫/ sounds in three different groups of children with and without speech sound disorder. METHODS: The six participants were divided into three groups: Group 1 - two typically developing children, Group 2 - two children with speech sound disorder presenting any other phonological processes but not the ones involving the production of the /∫/ and Group 3 - two children with speech sound disorder presenting any phonological processes associated to the presence of the phonological process of palatal fronting (these two children produced /∫/ as /s/) aged between 5 and 8 years old, all speakers of Brazilian Portuguese. The data were the words /'∫avi/ (key) and /'sapu/ (frog). Tongue contour was individually traced for the five productions of each target word. RESULTS: The analysis of the tongue contour pointed to evidences that both /s/ and /∫/ were produced using distinct tongue contours for G1 and G2. The production of these two groups was more stable than G3. The tongue contour for /s/ and /∫/ from the children in G3 was similar, indicating that their production was undifferentiated. CONCLUSION: The use of the ultrasound applied to the speech analysis was effective to confirm the perceptual analysis of the sound made by the speech-language pathologist.
The lexical development of children with hearing impairment and associated factors
Authors: Penna Leticia Macedo , Lemos Stela Maris Aguiar , Alves Cláudia Regina Lindgren
Published: August 2014

PURPOSE: This study aimed at analyzing the association between the lexical development of children with hearing impairment and their psychosocial and socioeconomic characteristics and medical history. METHODS: An analytic transversal study was conducted in an Auditive Health Attention Service. One hundred and ten children from 6 to 10 years old using hearing aids and presenting hearing loss that ranged from light to deep levels were evaluated. All children were subjected to oral, written language and auditory perception tests. Parents answered a structured questionnaire to collect data from their medical history and socioeconomic status, and questionnaires about the features of the family environment and psychosocial characteristics. Multivariate analysis was performed by logistic regression, being the initial model composed by variables with p<0,20 in the univariate analysis. In the final model, we adopted a significance level of 5%. RESULTS: The final model of the multivariate analysis showed an association between the performance on the vocabulary test and the results of phonemic discrimination test (OR=0.81; 95%CI 0.73-0.89). CONCLUSION: The results show the importance of stimulating the auditory processing, particularly the phonemic discrimination skill, throughout the rehabilitation process of children with hearing impairment. This stimulation can enhance lexical development and minimize the metalanguage and learning difficulties often observed in these children.
National Policy on Health Care Hearing: an evaluative study from covering services and diagnostic procedures
Authors: Silva Luciana Santos Gerosino da , Gonçalves Cláudia Giglio de Oliveira , Soares Vânia Muniz Néquer
Published: August 2014

PURPOSE: To evaluate the National Policy on Hearing Health Care (PNASA) based on the coverage of specialized services and diagnostic procedures in hearing health care in Brazil. METHODS: This is an evaluation study focused on the coverage of specialized services that offer moderate- and high-complexity diagnostic procedures by region and in Brazil as a whole. We analyzed the data for the period of 2004-2011 collected from the Unified Health System's Informatics Department database (DATASUS), under the link "Information on health" and tabulated using the software Tabwin. While collecting data from this platform, we selected "procedures for diagnostic purposes", and the selected way of organization was "diagnoses in otorhinolaryngology/audiology" of moderate and high complexity. We estimated coverage and evolution of the number of procedures according to the country's five geographic macroregions. RESULTS: We identified an increase of 113% in service coverage and of 61% in the quantity of moderate- and high-complexity hearing health diagnostic procedures throughout the country. The northern region had an increase of 78% in the number of procedures, higher than all other regions. However, a proportionally larger number of procedures were performed in the southeast. We identified a significant increase in the number of examinations of otoacoustic emissions (OAE) for hearing triage, transient-evoked OAE and distortion product, as well as of diagnostic reassessments of hearing loss in patients older than 3 years. CONCLUSION: There has been an increase in services and actions in hearing health care in Brazil since PNASA was implemented, but regional inequalities in the distribution of these services still persist.
Interface between Intellectual Disability and Mental Health: hermeneutic review
Authors: Surjus Luciana Togni de Lima e Silva , Campos Rosana Teresa Onocko
Published: August 2014

A literature review was conducted aiming to understand the interface between the Intellectual Disability and Mental Health fields and to contribute to mitigating the path of institutionalizing individuals with intellectual deficiencies. The so-called dual diagnosis phenomenon remains underestimated in Brazil but is the object of research and specific public policy internationally. This phenomenon alerts us to the prevalence of mental health problems in those with intellectual disabilities, limiting their social inclusion. The findings reinforce the importance of this theme and indicate possible diagnostic invisibility of the development of mental illness in those with intellectual disabilities in Brazil, which may contribute to sustaining psychiatric institutionalization of this population.
HIV risk practices by female sex workers according to workplace
Authors: Damacena Giseli Nogueira , Szwarcwald Célia Landmann , Souza Júnior Paulo Roberto Borges de
Published: August 2014

OBJECTIVE To investigate differences in HIV infection- related risk practices by Female Sex Workers according to workplace and the effects of homophily on estimating HIV prevalence. METHODS Data from 2,523 women, recruited using Respondent-Driven Sampling, were used for the study carried out in 10 Brazilian cities in 2008-2009. The study included female sex workers aged 18 and over. The questionnaire was completed by the subjects and included questions on characteristics of professional activity, sexual practices, use of drugs, HIV testing, and access to health services. HIV quick tests were conducted. The participants were classified in two groups according to place of work: on the street or indoor venues, like nightclubs and saunas. To compare variable distributions by place of work, we used Chi-square homogeneity tests, taking into consideration unequal selection probabilities as well as the structure of dependence between observations. We tested the effect of homophily by workplace on estimated HIV prevalence. RESULTS The highest HIV risk practices were associated with: working on the streets, lower socioeconomic status, low regular smear test coverage, higher levels of crack use and higher levels of syphilis serological scars as well as higher prevalence of HIV infection. The effect of homophily was higher among sex workers in indoor venues. However, it did not affect the estimated prevalence of HIV, even after using a post-stratification by workplace procedure. CONCLUSIONS The findings suggest that strategies should focus on extending access to, and utilization of, health services. Prevention policies should be specifically aimed at street workers. Regarding the application of Respondent-Driven Sampling, the sample should be sufficient to estimate transition probabilities, as the network develops more quickly among sex workers in indoor venues.
Cumulative mortality of Aedes aegypti larvae treated with compounds
Authors: Torres Sandra Maria , Cruz Nadine Louise Nicolau da , Rolim Vitor Pereira de Matos , Cavalcanti Maria Inês de Assis , Alves Leucio Câmara , Silva Júnior Valdemiro Amaro da
Published: August 2014

OBJECTIVE To evaluate the larvicidal activity of Azadirachta indica, Melaleuca alternifolia, carapa guianensis essential oils and fermented extract of Carica papaya against Aedes aegypti (Linnaeus, 1762) (Diptera: Culicidae). METHODS The larvicide test was performed in triplicate with 300 larvae for each experimental group using the third larval stage, which were exposed for 24h. The groups were: positive control with industrial larvicide (BTI) in concentrations of 0.37 ppm (PC1) and 0.06 ppm (PC2); treated with compounds of essential oils and fermented extract, 50.0% concentration (G1); treated with compounds of essential oils and fermented extract, 25.0% concentration (G2); treated with compounds of essential oils and fermented extract, 12.5% concentration (G3); and negative control group using water (NC1) and using dimethyl (NC2). The larvae were monitored every 60 min using direct visualization. RESULTS No mortality occurred in experimental groups NC1 and NC2 in the 24h exposure period, whereas there was 100% mortality in the PC1 and PC2 groups compared to NC1 and NC2. Mortality rates of 65.0%, 50.0% and 78.0% were observed in the groups G1, G2 and G3 respectively, compared with NC1 and NC2. CONCLUSIONS The association between three essential oils from Azadirachta indica, Melaleuca alternifolia, Carapa guianensis and fermented extract of Carica papaya was efficient at all concentrations. Therefore, it can be used in Aedes aegypti Liverpool third larvae stage control programs.
Cross-cultural validity of the demand-control questionnaire: Swedish and Brazilian workers
Authors: Hökerberg Yara Hahr Marques , Reichenheim Michael Eduardo , Faerstein Eduardo , Passos Sonia Regina Lambert , Fritzell Johan , Toivanen Susanna , Westerlund Hugo
Published: August 2014

OBJECTIVE To evaluate the cross-cultural validity of the Demand-Control Questionnaire, comparing the original Swedish questionnaire with the Brazilian version. METHODS We compared data from 362 Swedish and 399 Brazilian health workers. Confirmatory and exploratory factor analyses were performed to test structural validity, using the robust weighted least squares mean and variance-adjusted (WLSMV) estimator. Construct validity, using hypotheses testing, was evaluated through the inspection of the mean score distribution of the scale dimensions according to sociodemographic and social support at work variables. RESULTS The confirmatory and exploratory factor analyses supported the instrument in three dimensions (for Swedish and Brazilians): psychological demands, skill discretion and decision authority. The best-fit model was achieved by including an error correlation between work fast and work intensely (psychological demands) and removing the item repetitive work (skill discretion). Hypotheses testing showed that workers with university degree had higher scores on skill discretion and decision authority and those with high levels of Social Support at Work had lower scores on psychological demands and higher scores on decision authority. CONCLUSIONS The results supported the equivalent dimensional structures across the two culturally different work contexts. Skill discretion and decision authority formed two distinct dimensions and the item repetitive work should be removed.
Deported Mexican migrants: health status and access to care
Authors: Fernández-Niño Julián Alfredo , Ramírez-Valdés Carlos Jacobo , Cerecero-Garcia Diego , Bojorquez-Chapela Ietza
Published: August 2014

OBJECTIVE To describe the health status and access to care of forced-return Mexican migrants deported through the Mexico-United States border and to compare it with the situation of voluntary-return migrants. METHODS Secondary data analysis from the Survey on Migration in Mexico’s Northern Border from 2012. This is a continuous survey, designed to describe migration flows between Mexico and the United States, with a mobile-population sampling design. We analyzed indicators of health and access to care among deported migrants, and compare them with voluntary-return migrants. Our analysis sample included 2,680 voluntary-return migrants, and 6,862 deportees. We employ an ordinal multiple logistic regression model, to compare the adjusted odds of having worst self-reported health between the studied groups. RESULTS As compared to voluntary-return migrants, deportees were less likely to have medical insurance in the United States (OR = 0.05; 95%CI 0.04;0.06). In the regression model a poorer self-perceived health was found to be associated with having been deported (OR = 1.71, 95%CI 1.52;1.92), as well as age (OR = 1.03, 95%CI 1.02;1.03) and years of education (OR = 0.94 95%CI 0.93;0.95). CONCLUSIONS According to our results, deportees had less access to care while in the United States, as compared with voluntary-return migrants. Our results also showed an independent and statistically significant association between deportation and having poorer self-perceived health. To promote the health and access to care of deported Mexican migrants coming back from the United States, new health and social policies are required.
Especialidade médica: escolhas e influências
Authors: Sousa Ivy Quirino de , Silva Catarina Pereira da , Caldas Cezar Augusto Muniz
Published: August 2014

Objetivou-se identificar as especialidades mais desejadas pelos alunos de Medicina do Centro Universitário do Estado do Pará (Cesupa) e fatores determinantes dessa escolha. Trata-se de um estudo transversal, descritivo e analítico, realizado mediante aplicação de questionários a alunos do primeiro, quarto e sexto anos, no período de novembro de 2012 a março de 2013. A maioria dos alunos era do sexo masculino (59,2%), com média de idade de 22 ± 2 anos, possuindo renda familiar acima de dez salários mínimos e apresentando pelo menos um parente médico. As principais especialidades escolhidas foram: Cirurgia Plástica (10,4%), Endocrinologia (15,7%), e Oftalmologia (14,0%) no primeiro, quarto e sexto anos, respectivamente. O principal fator influenciador na escolha no primeiro ano foi a influência dos pais (17,2%), e no quarto e sexto anos o fator financeiro, com 15,8% e 22,8%, respectivamente. Conclui-se que muitos fatores influenciam a escolha de especialidades, sendo necessário buscar formas de atrair alunos para áreas de caráter mais generalista.
Exame do CREMESP como indicador da qualidade do ensino médico
Authors: Mota Alice , Carvalho Beatriz , Candido Ludmilla , Lomanto Raisa , Maia Thaís
Published: August 2014

INTRODUÇÃO: O Brasil vive um período de crescimento do número de escolas médicas, atrelado à redução da qualidade do ensino, estruturas universitárias e hospitalares precárias e alunos mal preparados para a prática médica. Em 2012, o exame do Conselho Regional de Medicina do Estado de São Paulo (Cremesp) tornou-se obrigatório para a obtenção de registro profissional. Dos recém-formados em São Paulo, 54% tiveram escore insuficiente após responder a questões correspondentes às áreas básicas da medicina. OBJETIVO: Avaliar fatores relacionados ao mau desempenho dos recém-formados no exame do Cremesp em 2012. METODOLOGIA: Foi realizada revisão bibliográfica a partir de fontes dos bancos Bireme, Scielo, PubMed e do site do Cremesp. "Escolas médicas" e "educação médica" foram os descritores em ciências da saúde utilizados. A reportagem intitulada "54,5% dos recém-formados em Medicina foram reprovados no exame do Cremesp" foi a base para o trabalho. De março a abril de 2013, analisaram-se artigos publicados a partir de 2007. RESULTADOS: Na última década, o número de médicos aumentou 21%, enquanto a população geral cresceu apenas 12%. Cerca de 63% dos alunos que realizaram o exame do Cremesp em 2012 avaliaram que o curso de Medicina deveria ser mais exigente. Pelo menos 16 faculdades de Medicina obtiveram, por três anos consecutivos, conceitos sofrível ou ruim no Enade. Em estudo desenvolvido entre acadêmicos de Medicina, 39% dos universitários dedicavam oito horas semanais ou mais a atividades extracurriculares. A precariedade do ensino médico brasileiro tem causas multifatoriais. Isto pode interferir no aumento do número de casos de iatrogenia e no questionamento sobre a necessidade de implantar outros métodos de avaliação do ensino médico, como testes de progresso. É preciso, portanto, compreender que uma educação médica de qualidade contribui para que os avanços econômicos caminhem pari passu com os sociais, sendo necessário repensar o modelo vigente para direcionar a vontade política e a gestão adequada de investimentos.
Nutrição mineral de hortaliças: horizontes e desafios para um agrônomo
Authors: Fontes Paulo CR
Published: August 2014

Nutrição mineral busca entender a complexa interação entre o inorgânico e o orgânico: a vida vegetal. Enumero alguns exemplos de temas e assuntos momentâneos relacionados à área de Nutrição Mineral em interfaces com diversas áreas do conhecimento e que podem ocorrer ao nível de molécula, célula, tecido, órgão e planta inteira. Procuro no presente texto enfocar as competências ou os atributos exigidos ao engenheiro agrônomo na atual "sociedade do conhecimento". Adicionalmente, procuro pincelar um tema atual de Nutrição Mineral que trata da avaliação e diagnose do estado de nutrientes das plantas, especialmente de nitrogênio, em tempo real, tema que tenho concentrado os meus últimos trabalhos. Para diagnosticar a deficiência mineral que a planta tem é fundamental conhecer a planta que tem a deficiência. Ao se realizar o diagnóstico nada é absolutamente certo até ser comprovado. Pelo diagnóstico não é possível determinar a quantidade requerida de nutrientes, mas o estado de nutrientes da planta no momento da amostragem, ou seja, a necessidade ou não de adubar a cultura com determinado nutriente. Após a diagnose há procedimentos para estimar a dose do fertilizante. A ação contínua à diagnose deve ser a recomendação ou a prescrição do programa de adubação da cultura seguida de aferição da mesma em termos de porcentual de acerto, ganho econômico e preservação ambiental. Tais procedimentos precisam ser realizados de forma sistêmica e acoplados ao sistema de produção acertado com o produtor/olericultor.
Nitrogen accumulation and monitoring by strawberry stock plants for runner tips production
Authors: Andriolo Jerônimo L , Janisch Djeimi I , Dal Picio Miriane , Schmitt Odair J , Lerner Maíne A
Published: August 2014

The composition and concentration of the nutrient solution can affect growth of strawberry stock plants and runner tips production. The aim of this research was to determine runner tips production and nitrogen (N) accumulation by strawberry stock plants grown under five N concentrations in the nutrient solution and its relationships with chlorophyll meter readings. From September 2010 to March 2011, strawberry stock plants of cultivar Oso Grande and Camino Real were grown on sand polyethylene bags. Nitrogen was supplied by nutrient solutions at concentrations of 5.12 (C1), 7.6 (C2), 10.12 (C3), 12.62 (C4) and 15.12 (C5) mmol L-1. Runner tips bearing at least one expanded leaf were collected weekly and counted. The chlorophyll index (ICF) was measured fortnightly using a digital chlorophyll meter on the last second full expanded leaf of stock plant. A polynomial relationship was adjusted between the chlorophyll index and the N concentration in leaflets, which can be used for monitoring the N status of this crop. Leaflets and petioles are the organs of the strawberry stock plants with the higher N accumulation and runner tips production is not affected by N concentrations of the nutrient solution in the range of 5.12 to 15.12 mmol L-1.
Produtividade e acúmulo de nitrato nos frutos da abóbora "Tetsukabuto" em função da adubação nitrogenada
Authors: Pôrto Mônica LA , Puiatti Mário , Fontes Paulo CR , Cecon Paulo R , Alves Jailson C
Published: August 2014

A abóbora híbrida tipo "Tetsukabuto" apresenta crescente importância no Brasil, sobretudo no estado de Minas Gerais mas, poucos estudos têm sido conduzidos em relação à adubação. Assim, o objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a produtividade e o acúmulo de nitrato na abóbora híbrida tipo "Tetsukabuto" (cv. Suprema) submetida à adubação nitrogenada. O experimento foi conduzido no delineamento em blocos casualizados, em esquema fatorial 2x5, constituído de duas fontes (sulfato de amônio e nitrato de amônio), cinco doses (0; 50; 100; 200 e 400 kg ha-1de N) e quatro repetições. Foram avaliados o número de frutos/planta, massa média de frutos, produtividade da cultura e acúmulo de nitrato nos frutos. Não foram verificados efeitos significativos de fontes e da interação entre fontes e doses de N sobre as características produtivas, mas essas foram aumentadas em função das doses de N aplicadas. Os valores de máximo número de frutos/planta (6,9 unidades), máxima massa média de frutos (1,76 kg/fruto) e máxima produtividade de frutos (17,16 t ha-1) foram obtidos nas doses 339, 217 e 260 kg ha-1 de N, respectivamente. As doses de máxima eficiência econômica de N foram de 251 e 238 kg ha-1, resultando em produtividades de frutos de 17,15 e 17,07 t ha-1, para o sulfato de amônio e nitrato de amônio, respectivamente. Não foi verificado aumento do teor de nitrato nos frutos com o emprego das doses de N na forma de sulfato de amônio. Entretanto, o teor de nitrato nos frutos apresentou incremento linear em função das doses de N na forma de nitrato de amônio, verificando-se, com a dose máxima, teor de nitrato na matéria fresca de fruto de 406 mg kg-1, valor que não representa risco para a saúde humana.
Índice SPAD para o diagnóstico do estado de nitrogênio na cultura do pepino japonês em ambiente protegido
Authors: Pôrto Mônica LA , Puiatti Mário , Fontes Paulo CR , Cecon Paulo R , Alves Jailson C
Published: August 2014

O índice SPAD para o diagnóstico do estado de nitrogênio das culturas tem sido muito estudado nos últimos anos. O objetivo do trabalho foi avaliar o emprego do índice SPAD para o diagnóstico do estado de nitrogênio na cultura do pepino japonês (híbrido Taisho) em ambiente protegido. O experimento foi conduzido no delineamento em blocos casualizados, em esquema fatorial 2x5, constituído de duas fontes (sulfato de amônio e nitrato de amônio) e cinco doses (0; 75; 150; 300 e 600 kg ha-1) de nitrogênio, com quatro repetições. No início do florescimento, o teor de clorofila total, índice SPAD e teor de nitrogênio foram determinados na quarta folha completamente expandida, a partir do ápice das plantas. Não foram verificados efeitos significativos de fontes e da interação entre fontes e doses de nitrogênio sobre as características avaliadas. Entretanto, o teor de clorofila total, índice SPAD e teor de nitrogênio aumentaram de forma quadrática em função das doses de nitrogênio. Os níveis críticos foliares estimados de teor de clorofila total, índice SPAD e teor de nitrogênio responsáveis pela máxima produtividade da cultura do pepino japonês foram de 6,01 mg g-1 de matéria fresca, 52,33 unidades SPAD e 4,78 dag kg-1 de matéria seca, respectivamente. Houve correlação linear e positiva das características avaliadas entre si. O índice SPAD, determinado no início da fase reprodutiva, pode ser usado no diagnóstico do estado de nitrogênio da cultura do pepino japonês.
Subirrigation automated by capacitance sensors for salvia production
Authors: Ferrarezi Rhuanito S , Iersel Marc W van , Testezlaf Roberto
Published: August 2014

Subirrigation is typically controlled using timers to periodically irrigate plants based on a pre-determined schedule. The objective of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of capacitance-type sensors to monitor substrate water content and to control subirrigation automatically for salvia production in greenhouse. Additionally, we quantified the effect of different substrate volumetric water content (VWC) on growth of plants cultivated in 15-cm diameter × 13.75-cm height pots. Automation was performed using three EC-5 capacitance soil moisture sensors per experimental unit, connected to a system with a CR10X data logger, AM16/32 multiplexer, SDM-CD16AC relay driver and NK-2 submersible pumps. Substrate moisture readings were taken every 15 minutes, and plants were irrigated only if the readings dropped below pre-set VWC thresholds. We evaluated five levels of substrate VWC (0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4 and 0.5 m3 m-3), with two replications, in a completely randomized design. The system effectively monitored and recorded VWC, and controlled irrigation accordingly. Substrate VWC ranged from 0.1 to 0.41, 0.2 to 0.39, 0.3 to 0.41, 0.4 to 0.43 and 0.5 to 0.53 m3 m-3, in ascending order of the treatments, with the highest values recorded after irrigation events. The number of irrigation events, total volume of nutrient solution applied, net photosynthesis, dry weight, number of branches and leaves, shoot height, leaf area, canopy light interception, and leaf chlorophyll content all increased significantly with the increase in VWC (p<0.0001). The VWC of 0.5 m3m-3 provided the highest plant growth (p<0.0001). Capacitance sensors can be used to both monitor soil moisture and control subirrigation for salvia production in soilless substrate, reducing the possibility of water stress caused by daily irrigation schedule using timers.
Produção de biomassa e óleo essencial em mil folhas cultivada sob telas coloridas
Authors: Pinto José EBP , Ferraz Elza O , Bertolucci Suzan KV , Silveira Helbert RO , Santos Aurislaine R , Silva Giselly M
Published: August 2014

Objetivou-se avaliar a produção de biomassa, óleo essencial, pigmentos e carboidratos em plantas de mil-folhas sob malhas coloridas. As plantas foram cultivadas em cinco ambientes: pleno sol, sob Aluminet(r) e malhas preta, azul e vermelha (50% de irradiância). O experimento foi realizado em delineamento inteiramente casualizado, com quatro repetições e quatro plantas por parcela, sendo uma planta por vaso. As avaliações foram realizadas em duas épocas de colheita, a primeira aos 120 dias e a segunda aos 180 dias após o plantio (rebrota). O acúmulo máximo de biomassa seca da parte aérea (36,8 g planta-1) e rendimento de óleo (4,45 g planta-1) ocorreram sob pleno sol, na segunda colheita. O principal constituinte do óleo foi o camazuleno, o qual apresentou faixa de variação entre 19,9 e 46,9%. O cultivo ao pleno sol proporcionou maior acúmulo de biomassa e rendimento de óleo essencial. Houve diferenças qualitativas e quantitativas dos constituintes do óleo essencial dentre os tratamentos.
Different water volumes in the substrate and temperatures for germination of cabacinha seeds
Authors: Araújo Paulo C , Alves Edna U , Ursulino Marina M , Araújo Luciana R , Silva Rosemere S
Published: August 2014

Cabacinha (Luffa operculata) is a species that has been used empirically in folk medicine against sinusitis. The fruits have important pharmaceutical substances and studies related to its germination are not available, justifying the determination of the appropriate conditions that make possible the germination of its seeds. Thus, we evaluated the influence of different volumes of water in substrate and temperatures on germination and vigor of cabacinha. The treatments consisted of moistened substrate with water volumes equal to 2.0; 2.5; 3.0 and 3.5 times its weight of the dry paper and the seeds were kept in germination regulated at constant temperatures of 25, 30 and 35°C and 20-30°C alternating. The percentage and speed of germination, hypocotyl and roots of the plants were evaluated. The experimental design was completely randomized with treatments arranged in a 4x4 factorial (volumes of water x temperatures), in 4 replications of 25 seeds. The constant temperature of 30°C and the water volume of 2.0 times the weight of dry substrate is the best combination to lead the germination tests of cabacinha seeds.
Abundance and Richness of Cryptic Species of theWillistoniGroup ofDrosophila(Diptera: Drosophilidae) in the Biomes Caatinga and Atlantic Forest, Northeastern Brazil
Authors: Garcia Ana Cristina Lauer , Silva Diva Maria Izabel De Oliveira , Monteiro Amanda Gabriela Felix , Oliveira Geórgia Fernanda , Montes Martín Alejandro , Rohde Cláudia
Published: August 2014

Cryptic species meet the biological definition of species, but are morphologically identical or quite similar. Several ecological studies underestimate richness and neglect important information on cryptic species, as they are rather difficult to identify. Among insects, drosophilids of the willistoni subgroup, which includes Drosophila willistoni Sturtevant, Drosophila paulistorum Dobzhansky & Pavan, Drosophila equinoxialis Dobzhansky, Drosophila tropicalis Burla & da Cunha, Drosophila insularis Dobzhansky, and Drosophila pavlovskiana Kastritsis & Dobzhansky, are good examples of cryptic species. Although several studies have shown that this subgroup is one of the most abundant in the Neotropical region, no identification to species level has been reported for areas where these individuals live in sympatry. This study evaluates the seasonal oscillations in abundance of this subgroup in biomes with contrasting vegetation and rainfall regimes: the Caatinga and the Atlantic Forest, in northeastern Brazil. Approximately 39,000 drosophilids were captured in 24 collections, of which 18,000 belonged to the willistoni subgroup. The most abundant were D. willistoni, D. paulistorum, and D. equinoxialis, in this order. D. equinoxialis was recorded in only one of the environments surveyed, represented by few individuals. In all environments, individuals of the willistoni subgroup were more abundant in the rainy season, when richness often was higher. The results underline the importance of humidity and of temperature for the subgroup willistoni and indicate the ecological versatility of some of its species.
Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation as a Bridge to Chemotherapy in an Orthodox Jewish Patient
Authors: Meltzer Ellen C. , Ivascu Natalia S. , Acres Cathleen A. , Stark Meredith , Furman Richard R. , Fins Joseph J.
Published: August 2014

Objective.

Venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) for cardiopulmonary support offers survival possibilities to patients who otherwise would succumb to cardiac failure. Often referred to as “a bridge to recovery,” involving a ventricular assist device or cardiac transplantation, this technology only affords temporary cardiopulmonary support. Physicians may have concerns about initiating VA-ECMO in patients who, in the absence of recovery or transfer to longer-term therapies, might assert religious or cultural objections to the terminal discontinuation of life-sustaining therapy (LST). We present a novel case of VA-ECMO use in an Orthodox Jewish woman with potentially curable lymphoma encasing her heart to demonstrate the value of anticipating and preemptively resolving foreseeable disputes.

Patient.

A 40-year-old Hasidic Orthodox Jewish woman with lymphoma encasing her right and left ventricles decompensated from heart failure before chemotherapy induction. The medical team, at an academic medical center in New York City, proposed VA-ECMO as a means for providing cardiopulmonary support to enable receipt of chemotherapy. Owing to the patient's religious tradition, which customarily prohibits terminal discontinuation of LST, clinical staff asked for an ethics consultation to plan for initiation and discontinuation of VA-ECMO.

Interventions.

Meetings were held with the treating clinicians, clinical ethics consultants, family, religious leaders, and cultural liaisons. Through a deliberative process, VA-ECMO was reconceptualized as a bridge to treatment and not as an LST, a designation assigned to the chemotherapy on this occasion, given the mortal threat posed by the encasing tumor.

Conclusion.

Traditional religious objections to the terminal discontinuation of LST need not preclude initiation of VA-ECMO. The potential for disputes should be anticipated and steps taken to preemptively address such conflicts. The reconceptualization of VA-ECMO as a bridge to treatment, rather than as an LST, can allow patients with objections to the terminal discontinuation of LST to receive interventions, such as chemotherapy, that might otherwise be precluded by critical physiology.
Spontaneous Regression of Crizotinib-Associated Complex Renal Cysts During Continuous Crizotinib Treatment
Authors: Klempner Samuel J. , Aubin Golnaz , Dash Atreya , Ou Sai-Hong Ignatius
Published: August 2014

This study describes the development and regression of crizotinib-associated complex renal cysts (CACRCs) in a female patient with ALK-positive advanced non-small cell lung cancer with an ongoing complete response while on continuous crizotinib treatment. The clinical context of crizotinib use requires frequent imaging studies; therefore observation is probably the best approach to CACRC management in asymptomatic patients. The natural history of CACRCs remains unknown, and large-scale longitudinal follow-up studies of these cysts are eagerly awaited.
Taking animal tracking to new depths: synthesizing horizontal–vertical movement relationships for four marine predators
Authors: Bestley Sophie , Jonsen Ian D. , Hindell Mark A. , Harcourt Robert G. , Gales Nicholas J.
Published: August 2014

In animal ecology, a question of key interest for aquatic species is how changes in movement behavior are related in the horizontal and vertical dimensions when individuals forage. Alternative theoretical models and inconsistent empirical findings mean that this question remains unresolved. Here we tested expectations by incorporating the vertical dimension (dive information) when predicting switching between movement states (“resident” or “directed”) within a state‐space model. We integrated telemetry‐based tracking and diving data available for four seal species (southern elephant, Weddell, antarctic fur, and crabeater) in East Antarctica. Where possible, we included dive variables derived from the relationships between (1) dive duration and depth (as a measure of effort), and (2) dive duration and the postdive surface interval (as a physiological measure of cost). Our results varied within and across species, but there was a general tendency for the probability of switching into “resident” state to be positively associated with shorter dive durations (for a given depth) and longer postdive surface intervals (for a given dive duration). Our results add to a growing body of literature suggesting that simplistic interpretations of optimal foraging theory based only on horizontal movements do not directly translate into the vertical dimension in dynamic marine environments. Analyses that incorporate at least two dimensions can test more sophisticated models of foraging behavior.
Feasibility and Effectiveness of a Community-Based Smoking Cessation Intervention in a Racially Diverse, Urban Smoker Cohort
Authors: Asvat Yasmin , Cao Dingcai , Africk Joel J. , Matthews Alicia , King Andrea
Published: August 2014

Objectives. We evaluated the feasibility, acceptability, and effectiveness, in addition to the effects of a psychoeducation-based orientation on smoking cessation knowledge for Courage to Quit (CTQ), an evidence-based smoking cessation intervention disseminated to racially diverse, urban community sites in Chicago, Illinois.

Methods. Smokers (n = 1494; 55% African American) enrolled in 6-session full (n = 945) or 3-session short (n = 549) versions of CTQ in 2008 to 2012.

Results. Orientation improved knowledge of efficacious and nonefficacious treatments. Acceptability was outstanding: more than 90% of participants would recommend CTQ. Feasibility was good: completion rates were 53% in the full and 75% in the short programs. Intent-to-treat quit rates were 19% in the full and 17% in the short programs (completer quit rates were 36% and 22%, respectively). Among completers, smoking cessation medication use was associated with higher quit rates. There were no racial disparities: African Americans and Whites showed similar completion and quit rates. Predictors of successful quitting were higher readiness to quit and smoking cessation medication use.

Conclusions. CTQ is moderately successful in the short term as delivered in community-based settings for urban-dwelling, largely minority smokers. Further evaluation of longer-term outcomes and cost effectiveness is warranted.
Suicidality Among Veterans: Implications of Sexual Minority Status
Authors: Blosnich John R. , Mays Vickie M. , Cochran Susan D.
Published: August 2014

Using the California Quality of Life surveys, we examined suicidal ideation and attempts in 129 lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) veterans and in 315 heterosexual veterans in 2008–2009 and 2012–2013. Although there were no significant differences in the past 12-month suicidal ideation and lifetime attempts, LGB veterans had higher odds of lifetime suicidal ideation than heterosexual veterans (adjusted odds ratio = 3.00; 95% confidence interval = 1.38, 6.53). Suicide assessment and prevention efforts in LGB veterans could benefit from a life-course perspective regarding suicide risk.
Asian American and Pacific Islander Military Veterans in the United States: Health Service Use and Perceived Barriers to Mental Health Services
Authors: Tsai Jack , Whealin Julia M. , Pietrzak Robert H.
Published: August 2014

Objectives. We (1) compared use of various health services nationally between Asian American and Pacific Islander (AA/PI) veterans and veterans of other racial/ethnic groups and (2) specifically compared perceived barriers and stigma related to mental health services.

Methods. Using bivariate and multivariable statistics, we analyzed a population-weighted sample of 8315 veterans from the 2010 National Survey of Veterans and a random sample of 567 recent veterans from Hawaii.

Results. A total of 1.5% of veterans were AA/PI compared with 0.4% a decade ago. Compared with other veterans, AA/PI veterans reported higher socioeconomic status and better mental health, although these findings may be specific to AA veterans. Adjusting for sociodemographic and health differences, we found no differences in health service use or perceived barriers or stigma related to mental health services.

Conclusions. AA/PIs are a small but fast-growing racial/ethnic group within the veteran population that deserves attention. Although veteran status may be protective against some barriers to mental health care found in the general AA/PI population, efforts to reduce barriers to health care among veterans should be continued.
Providing Culturally Competent Services for American Indian and Alaska Native Veterans to Reduce Health Care Disparities
Authors: Noe Timothy D. , Kaufman Carol E. , Kaufmann L. Jeanne , Brooks Elizabeth , Shore Jay H.
Published: August 2014

Objectives. We conducted an exploratory study to determine what organizational characteristics predict the provision of culturally competent services for American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) veterans in Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health facilities.

Methods. In 2011 to 2012, we adapted the Organizational Readiness to Change Assessment (ORCA) for a survey of 27 VA facilities in the Western Region to assess organizational readiness and capacity to adopt and implement native-specific services and to profile the availability of AI/AN veteran programs and interest in and resources for such programs.

Results. Several ORCA subscales (Program Needs, Leader’s Practices, and Communication) statistically significantly predicted whether VA staff perceived that their facilities were meeting the needs of AI/AN veterans. However, none predicted greater implementation of native-specific services.

Conclusions. Our findings may aid in developing strategies for adopting and implementing promising native-specific programs and services for AI/AN veterans, and may be generalizable for other veteran groups.
Improving Trends in Gender Disparities in the Department of Veterans Affairs: 2008–2013
Authors: Whitehead Alison M. , Czarnogorski Maggie , Wright Steve M. , Hayes Patricia M. , Haskell Sally G.
Published: August 2014

Increasing numbers of women veterans using Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) services has contributed to the need for equitable, high-quality care for women. The VA has evaluated performance measure data by gender since 2006. In 2008, the VA launched a 5-year women’s health redesign, and, in 2011, gender disparity improvement was included on leadership performance plans. We examined data from VA Office of Analytics and Business Intelligence quarterly gender reports for trends in gender disparities in gender-neutral performance measures from 2008 to 2013. Through reporting of data by gender, leadership involvement, electronic reminders, and population management dashboards, VA has seen a decreasing trend in gender inequities on most Health Effectiveness Data and Information Set performance measures.
Seizing of Gas Turbine Vane Fixing Bolts Made of X22CrMoV12–1
Authors: Riesenbeck S. , Neidel A.
Published: August 2014

It is known from field experience that gas turbine vane fixing bolts, made from high-alloy chromium steel, got stuck in their mating bores and often caused problems upon disassembly. Many of them had to be drilled out rather than removed normally. Several metallurgical in­vestigations determined excessive surface oxidation to be the physical cause for the seizing of the bolts. It was recom­mended to change the bolt material from high-alloy steel to a nickel base superalloy with significantly higher oxidation resistance than steel in order to prevent surface scaling and seizure.
Characterization of the Crack Initiation and Crack Propagation Behavior of Welded Steels by Means of the Replica Technique
Authors: Panzenböck M. , Horn A. , Posch G. , Clemens H.
Published: August 2014

The replica technique was applied to evaluate crack initiation and crack propagation behavior of welded joints on high strength structural steel with a minimum yield strength of 690MPa. Wöhler tests (cyclic loading tests) on these high strength welded joints, supported by the replica technique, show, that at a given particular stress amplitude, crack initiation occurs in several areas of the heat affected zone. At high stress amplitudes, the failure occurs in the intercritical zone, whereas stress amplitudes near the endurance limit lead to a failure within the coarse grained zone. This can be attributed to the crack initiation and propagation behavior within these individual zones. Evidence for this can very well be provided by means of the microstructure replica technique described in this article.
Characterization of Oxidation Protection Coatings for High Temperature Applications by Means of Nanoindentation and Scanning Electron Microscopy Methods
Authors: Webler R. , Neumeier S. , Göken M.
Published: August 2014

Oxidation protection coatings are required for thermally highly stressed components such as turbine blades in aircraft engines. Cyclic oxidation experiments were performed on a NiCoCrAlY protective coating of a nickel-based superalloy and hardness and modulus of elasticity (mechanical properties) were determined by nanoindentation before and after the experiments. Microstructure and chemical composition were characterized by means of scanning electron microscopy. Here, the focus is on the phase identification by combining electron backscatter diffraction and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. Findings indicate that the chemical composition strongly influences the mechanical properties.
Emerging Mechanistic Insights into AAA Complexes Regulating Proteasomal Degradation
Authors: Förster Friedrich , Schuller Jan , Unverdorben Pia , Aufderheide Antje
Published: August 2014

Emerging Mechanistic Insights into AAA Complexes Regulating Proteasomal Degradation
The Impact of Moss Species and Biomass on the Growth of Pinus sylvestris Tree Seedlings at Different Precipitation Frequencies
Authors: Stuiver Babs , Wardle David , Gundale Michael , Nilsson Marie-Charlotte
Published: August 2014

Boreal forests are characterized by an extensive moss layer, which may have both competitive and facilitative effects on forest regeneration. We conducted a greenhouse experiment to investigate how variation in moss species and biomass, in combination with precipitation frequency, affect Pinus sylvestris seedling growth. We found that moss species differed in their effects on seedling growth, and moss biomass had negative effects on seedlings, primarily when it reached maximal levels. When moss biomass was maximal, seedling biomass decreased, whereas height and above- relative to below-ground mass increased, due to competition for light. The effect that moss biomass had on seedling performance differed among the moss species. Hylocomium splendens and Polytrichum commune reduced seedling growth the most, likely because of their taller growth form. Seedlings were not adversely affected by Sphagnum girgensohnii and Pleurozium schreberi, possibly because they were not tall enough to compete for light and improved soil resource availability. Reduced precipitation frequency decreased the growth of all moss species, except P. commune, while it impaired the growth of seedlings only when they were grown with P. commune. Our findings suggest that changes in moss species and biomass, which can be altered by disturbance or climate change, can influence forest regeneration.
Occupational Risks and Pregnancy and Infant Health Outcomes in Florida Farmworkers
Authors: Runkle Jennifer , Flocks Joan , Economos Jeannie , Tovar-Aguilar J. , McCauley Linda
Published: August 2014

The agricultural industry has some of the highest incidence rates and numbers of occupational injuries and illnesses in the United States. Injuries and illnesses in agriculture result from accidents, falls, excessive heat, repetitive motion and adverse pesticide exposure. Women working in agriculture are exposed to the same hazards and risks as their male counterparts, but can face additional adverse impacts on their reproductive health. Yet, few occupational risk assessment studies have considered the reproductive health of female farmworkers. The objective of this community-based participatory research study was to conduct a retrospective, cross-sectional survey to collect information on workplace conditions and behaviors and maternal, pregnancy and infant health outcomes among a sample of female nursery and fernery farmworkers in Central Florida. Survey results showed that nursery workers were more likely to report health symptoms during their pregnancy than fernery workers. We also observed a self-reported increased risk of respiratory illness in the first year of life for infants whose mothers worked in ferneries. Our findings confirm that agricultural work presents potential reproductive hazards for women of childbearing age.