bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Covariation assessment for neutral and emotional verbal stimuli in paranoid delusions
Authors: Díez‐Alegría Cristina , Vázquez Carmelo , Hernández‐Lloreda María J.
Published: July 2008

Objectives

Selective processing of emotion‐relevant information is considered a central feature in various types of psychopathology, yet the mechanisms underlying these biases are not well understood. One of the first steps in processing information is to gather data to judge the covariation or association of events. The aim of this study was to explore whether patients with persecutory delusions would show a covariation bias when processing stimuli related to social threat.

Design and methods

We assessed estimations of covariation in‐patients with current persecutory (CP) beliefs (N = 40), patients with past persecutory (PP) beliefs (N = 25), and a non‐clinical control (NC) group (N = 36). Covariation estimations were assessed under three different experimental conditions. The first two conditions focused on neutral behaviours (Condition 1) and psychological traits (Condition 2) for two distant cultural groups, while the third condition included self‐relevant material by exposing the participant to either protective social (positive) or threatening social (negative) statements about the participant or a third person.

Results

Our results showed that all participants were precise in their covariation estimations. However, when judging covariation for self‐relevant sentences related to social statements (Condition 3), all groups showed a significant tendency to associate positive social interaction (protection themed) sentences to the self. Yet, when using sentences related to social‐threat, the CP group showed a bias consisting of overestimating the number of self‐referent sentences.

Conclusions

Our results showed that there was no specific covariation assessment bias related to paranoid beliefs. Both NCs and participants with persecutory beliefs showed a similar pattern of results when processing neutral or social threat‐related sentences. The implications for understanding of the role of self‐referent information processing biases in delusion formation are discussed.
Protolytic equilibrium in lyophilic nanosized dispersions: Differentiating influence of the pseudophase and salt effects
Authors: Mchedlov-Petrossyan Nikolay O.
Published: July 2008

The so-called apparent ionization constants of various acids (mainly indicator dyes) in versatile organized solutions are analyzed. Aqueous micellar solutions of colloidal surfactants and related lyophilic colloidal systems display a strongdifferentiating influenceon the acidic strength of indicators located in the dispersed pseudophase, i.e., non-uniform changes of pKaon going from water to the given system. This concept allows the influence of such media on acid-base properties of dissolved reagents to be rationalized. It is demonstrated that the differentiating phenomenon is the main reason for limitation of the common electrostatic model of acid-base interactions, and is the principal hindrance to exact evaluations of the interfacial electrical potentials of ionic micelles by means of acid-base indicators. Salt effects, i.e., the influence of supporting electrolytes on the apparent ionization constants of acid-base indicators in the Stern region of ionic micelles, are considered. These salt effects can be conventionally divided into two kinds, namely,general(normal) andspecial(specific) effects. While the first type adds up to screening of the surface charge, the second one consists in micellar transitions caused by hydrophobic counterions.
Elucidation of specific ion association in nonaqueous solution environments
Authors: Hojo Masashi
Published: July 2008

The paper reviews ion aggregation in ionic solution in solvents of low and high permittivity. Although higher ion aggregates from 1:1 type electrolytes in low-pemittivity media (εr < 10) are widely accepted, only a few chemists have recognized the higher ion aggregation in the higher-permittivity media. However, we have clarified that the chemical interaction, such as coordination, can operate between simple anions and cations in nonaqueous solvents (20 < εr < 65) of low solvation ability. Acids (HA) and their conjugate base anions (A-) may react with each other to form homoconjugated species, such as A-(HA)2, in acetonitrile or benzonitrile (i.e., solvents possessing poor hydrogen-bonding donor and acceptor abilities). An analytical method of conductivity data for 1:1 electrolytes has been developed and successfully applied to very complicated systems, in which the ion pair (1:1), triple ions (2:1 and 1:2), and the quadrupole (2:2 association) are involved in a solution at the same time. After observing the direct reaction of some anions (e.g., Cl-) and cations (e.g., Li+) toward a certain species, we interpreted comprehensively the salt effects in chemical equilibria, based on distinct chemical interactions and not merely a vague term, "medium effect". The mechanism of salt effects on solvolysis reactions of the SN1 type in organic-aqueous mixed solvents has been elucidated. We discussed that a reaction manner similar to that in nonaqueous solution can take place even in some "aqueous" solution if the huge network of hydrogen-bonding of bulk water (the number of water, n
w > ~108) is destroyed due to any spatial barriers (such as ions, molecules, surface) or elevated temperature.
Liquid-liquid phase transition in solutions of ionic liquids with halide anions: Criticality and corresponding states
Authors: Butka Annamaria , Vale Vlad Romeo , Saracsan Dragos , Rybarsch Cornelia , Weiss Volker C. , Schröer Wolffram
Published: July 2008

Measurements of the liquid-liquid phase diagrams of solutions of the ionic liquids (ILs) 1-dodecyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride (C12mimCl) in arenes (benzene, toluene, o-xylene, tetraline) and 1-tetradecyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride (C14mimCl) in CCl4 are reported and compared with those of solutions of trihexyl-tetradecyl-phosphonium halides (P666 14Cl, P666 14Br) in hydrocarbons and 1-alkyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborates (CnmimBF4) in alcohols and water. The phase diagrams of solutions of tetrapentyl-ammonium bromide (N5555Br) in water and KI in SO2 are also discussed. Except for the KI/SO2 system, which features a lower critical solution point (LCSP), all systems have an upper critical solution point (UCSP) and show corresponding-states behavior. The experimental data are compared with results from simulations and theory concerning the model fluid of charged hard spheres in a dielectric continuum, termed restricted primitive model (RPM). The analysis in terms of of RPM variables shows agreement with the location of the critical point (CP) of the model with noticeable systematic deviations. However, for protic solvents, the CP becomes an LCSP, while in aprotic solvents the CP is a UCSP as expected for Coulomb systems. This indicates that in aprotic solvents, the phase transition is essentially determined by the Coulomb interactions, while in the solutions in protic solvents with hydrogen bonds, both Coulomb and solvophobic interactions are important.
Functional Analysis in a Bicultural Context
Authors: Evans Ian M. , Paewai Mahalia K.
Published: July 2008

One of the dilemmas in behavioural assessment is the extent to which both specific functional analyses and more general case formulations are dependent on professional judgement and thus subject to bias. While in theory the functional analysis represents hypotheses about controlling variables which can then be subjected to empirical test, the clinical reality is that many such hypotheses are only loosely evaluated, post-hoc, by virtue of the success, or otherwise, of treatment. The role of cultural variables in the development and testing of hypothesised functional relationships is thus particularly difficult to evaluate. This paper suggests guidelines for evaluating the cultural context of behavioural assessment in clinical practice. The proposed criteria are seen as having relevance in assessing clients of both dominant and nondominant cultures. In Aotearoa / New Zealand these issues are examined within a bicultural framework. Legal and moral imperatives defining a partnership between two peoples mandate additional considerations for sound clinical assessment. The practical implications of these issues for ensuring a culturally sensitive application of behavioural assessment principles are examined according to psychometric standards, principles of behaviour change, and ethics.
Abductive Method and Clinical Assessment in Practice
Authors: Ward Tony , Vertue Frances M. , Haig Brian D.
Published: July 2008

Clinical reasoning is one of the central components of psychological assessment. The identification of a client's psychological difficulties and the subsequent depiction of their onset, development, and interrelationships enables clinicians to plan treatment in a systematic and effective manner. In a recent paper (Ward & Haig, 1997), we presented an abductive theory of method and showed how it offered a useful framework for highlighting and integrating the major phases of psychological assessment. These phases involve detecting clinical phenomena, postulating psychological mechanisms, developing a case formulation, and evaluating a case formulation. In this paper we outline the abductive theory and elaborate on the related clinical dimensions of assessment, while illustrating them with an ongoing case example.
Construct Validation and Clinical Assessment
Authors: Haig Brian D.
Published: July 2008

This paper undertakes a conceptual and methodological examination of construct validation from the viewpoint of a scientific realist philosophy of science. It is argued that there is an important need to revise our thinking about the methodology of construct validation and to incorporate the revisions into clinical psychological practice. After a brief characterisation of construct validation, the paper points out the inadequacies of operationalism and cautions against the heavy appeal to definitions in science. Thereafter, psychology's standard construct validation strategies of hypothetico-deductive testing and null hypothesis significance testing are criticised, and the importance of abductive reasoning for construct validation is spelled out.
A Descriptive Model of the Relapse Process in Disqualified Drivers
Authors: Wilson Leonie , Ward Tony , Bakker Leon
Published: July 2008

Driving-while-disqualified (DWD) offenders represent a significant proportion of the driving offender population, and contribute to a significant drain on governmental and societal resources. The reoffence or relapse process of recidivist DWD offending has been somewhat neglected in the past, and this paper represents a first attempt at developing an empirically generated model of this phenomenon. In this study, we undertook a grounded theory analysis of offence chain information obtained from 28 male recidivist DWD offenders. The grounded theory analysis resulted in the development of a 15-stage model of the relapse process of recidivist DWD offenders. The model identifies and describes the sequence of psychological, behavioural, and environmental factors, including mediating variables that contribute to DWD reoffending. The model was then applied to 14 new offence chains to examine its level of saturation, content validity, and inter-rater reliability. The results suggest that the model has provisional validity and adequate inter-rater reliability, and achieved a high level of saturation. The strengths and value of the model are discussed, as are its clinical and research implications.
Murray Sidman: An Appreciative Introduction
Authors: Blampied Neville M.
Published: July 2008

The purpose of this article is to introduce readers to Dr Murray Sidman. He has made a number of fundamental and distinctive, but perhaps neglected, contributions to the behaviour therapy enterprise, from its emergent years to the present. It is also an attempt to engender an appreciation of the continuing significance and relevance of Sidman's research and scholarship to matters of contemporary and enduring concern for behaviour therapists.
Coercion in Educational Settings
Authors: Sidman Murray
Published: July 2008

Coercion is defined as the control of behaviour through (a) punishment or the threat of punishment, or (b) negative reinforcement — the removal of punishment. The question under discussion is whether coercion is an effective and a desirable basis for applied behaviour analysis, particularly in educational settings. Because coercive control has always been characteristic of society in general, the problem requires consideration of all facets of our culture. Behaviour analysts who use or recommend coercive techniques of therapy, behaviour modification, teaching, parenting, and so on, must be viewed in that context. In many areas of society, the practice of coercion has been refined and perfected to an extent that applied behaviour analysis has never approached. Applied behavioural research therefore contributes nothing new when it applies coercive methodology. Also, coercion produces side effects that may be even less desirable than the original problem behaviour. The occasional need to use coercion to deal with emergencies does not justify the advocacy of coercion as a principle of therapy. What basic and applied behaviour analysts can offer that is new and constructive are positive reinforcement techniques for teaching new behaviour and stimulus-control techniques for establishing cognitive repertoires.
Parenting Issues and Behaviour Problems of Young Children in a Community Sample
Authors: Ralph Alan , Haines Anne , Harvey Jennifer , McCormack Cara , Sherman Dione
Published: July 2008

Forty parents of children aged between 1 and 8 years were recruited by means of an exhaustive telephone survey of a defined suburban area in regional Queensland. Following recruitment, parents were mailed a family survey comprising measures of parenting and child behaviour problems. The sample represents almost 50% of parents of young children in the defined area. Forty-four per cent of parents in the sample reported numbers of child behaviours as problems that exceeded recommended clinical cut-off scores based on data reported in other studies. Thirty per cent of parents reported problems occurring at an intensity that exceeded clinical cut-off scores. Fathers who completed the questionnaires reported significantly more problems than mothers, although the ratio of mothers to fathers in the sample was 3:1. However, there was no difference between the reported behaviours of boys or girls. Parent characteristics that were highly correlated with reported child behaviour problems were overreactivity; stress, anxiety, and depression; and parental satisfaction with their parenting style. Family and other demographic variables appeared to play less significant roles. The results are discussed in the context of the challenge of delivering effective early-intervention parenting programs to large numbers of parents.
Deciding to Change: Enhancing Client Motivation to Change Behaviour
Authors: Ryder David
Published: July 2008

Cognitive behaviour therapy concentrates on strategies to assist clients in changing their thoughts and/or their behaviour. The aim of this paper is to discuss research findings from the addictions field indicating that an effective approach to therapy is to enhance motivation for change. Research into stages and processes of change, decision making, and motivational interviewing is reviewed. The paper concludes by suggesting ways in which this research can be used by therapists to increase the likelihood that clients will engage in change and maintain change over time.
The Efficacy of Information-giving in Cognitive-behavioural Treatment for Panic Disorder
Authors: Rees Clare S. , Richards Jeffrey C. , Smith Leigh M.
Published: July 2008

Despite its inclusion as a basic component of the cognitive-behavioural treatment for panic disorder, the effects of the provision of information about panic anxiety have not been separately assessed. This study compared information-giving with self-monitoring of panic alone, on panic-related variables and negative affect for 40 people with panic disorder. In comparison to self-monitoring alone, information-giving together with self-monitoring was associated with reductions in anticipatory fear of panic and negative affect, but not panic frequency. These results suggest that provision of information about panic anxiety is an important component of the cognitive-behavioural approach to panic disorder in reducing anxious and depressive affect. The other cognitive-behavioural components of this intervention are required to impact upon specific panic parameters.
Cognitive-behavioural Treatment of Blood-Injury-Injection Phobia: A Case Study
Authors: Thompson Alanda
Published: July 2008

This single case study examined the treatment of blood-injury-injection (BII) phobia in a 14-year-old female. Thirteen 1-hour sessions of cognitive behavioural therapy were conducted. The intervention included a combination of exposure, applied tension, and cognitive restructuring in an effort to produce clinically significant reductions in anxiety and fainting in response to BII stimuli. Results did indeed show dramatic reductions in subjective distress in BII situations from baseline to post-treatment. This was supported by small reductions in phobic anxiety and general anxiety on self-report measures. In contrast to baseline, fainting did not occur during treatment. The subject rated cognitive restructuring as the most effective treatment component for the latter half of therapy. It is suggested that, to date, the importance of cognitive therapy for the treatment of BII phobia has been overlooked.
Normative Data for an Australian Clinical Sample on the Home Situations Questionnaire — Modified Version (HSQ-M)
Authors: Matthey Stephen , Barnett Bryanne
Published: July 2008

An extension of the Home Situations Questionnaire is described (HSQ-M), and normative data for an Australian clinical sample are reported. Reports were obtained from both female (339) and male (143) informants on 403 children aged between 3 and 12 (287 boys, 116 girls) from nine centres in Sydney. Clinicians from these centres predicted the likely findings on the HSQ-M, and their expectations were not wholly supported by the data. Boys were reported to have more problem situations than girls by fathers but not by mothers, and boys were reported as having greater situation severity than girls by mothers but not by fathers. While these differences were statistically significant, they were not clinically significant. Contrary to expectations, fathers reported similar levels of home situation difficulty to mothers. The data provide useful information for targeting situations that would meet the need of parents in parenting groups, and for supplementing the assessment tools used by clinicians working with families.
Functional Analysis of Intermittently Reinforced Behaviour: A Case Study
Authors: Tustin Don
Published: July 2008

Functional analysis is used to identify potential reinforcers by generating hypotheses about possible functions of a behaviour. Current methods of functional analysis emphasise observations of events, especially consequences, that occur in the immediate environment of the behaviour. While these methods are well suited for assessing behaviour that is reinforced frequently, they are less appropriate for assessing behaviour that is reinforced only intermittently. A new method for conducting functional analysis is presented that is designed to assess intermittently reinforced behaviour. The new method is illustrated using data that were gathered from an extension of a standard problem-solving format. Data are interpreted using the principle of revealed preference that arose from behavioural economics. The revealed preference method is illustrated using information provided by a client with a dependent personality disorder.
Assertive Community Treatment for Persons with Severe Mental Disorders: A Controlled Treatment Outcome Study
Authors: Hamernik Elizabeth , Pakenham Kenneth I.
Published: July 2008

The present study evaluated the efficacy of an Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) program for the seriously mentally ill. Outcomes of the program were assessed at baseline and 12-month follow-up and were compared with that of a control group, which received standard community care. Thirty-six subjects with serious mental disorders participated in the study. Dependent measures included number of hospital admissions and hospital bed days per year, life skills, quality of life, and psychiatric symptoms. Results of 2 x 2 (treatment/control group x baseline / 12-month follow-up) repeated measures ANOVAs indicated that, after 1 year, both treatments lead to a significant reduction in hospital admissions and bed days, and to improvement in life skills. ACT subjects evidenced a greater decrease in psychiatric symptoms compared to control group subjects. In general, markedly more ACT subjects showed reliable clinical change in life skills, quality of life, and psychiatric symptoms than control subjects. Although the ACT did produce greater clinical change than standard case management, it did not produce statistically greater improvement across most domains of functioning in the short term.
Assessment of Sexually Abused Children
Authors: Herbert Martin
Published: July 2008

A great deal is at stake for children who are sexually abused; not only in the here-and-now, but also the possibility of long-term blight in their future relationships and mental health. This puts a heavy responsibility on the professionals who are required to investigate, and further assess for treatment or other interventions, cases where sexual maltreatment is confirmed or suspected. The multidimensional, multicomponent elements that make up an assessment (in particular, the ASPIRE process) are described here in terms of their practical and theoretical implications. The difficulties of finding reliable and valid methods (be they interviews or psychometric instruments) for this onerous task are discussed.
Child Sexual Abuse: An Overview
Authors: Mullen Paul E. , King Neville J. , Tonge Bruce J.
Published: July 2008

This overview examines the nature, prevalence, and impact of child sexual abuse. Associations and potential risk factors are identified, thus showing that child sexual abuse is not randomly distributed through the population. Finally, we discuss the ways in which clinicians and researchers have conceptualised the impact of child sexual abuse. A social and developmental model is outlined.
Sexually Abused Children: A Commentary
Authors: Ollendick Thomas H.
Published: July 2008

In this brief commentary, issues associated with the definition, assessment, treatment and prevention of Child Sexual Abuse (CSA) are highlighted. It is concluded that much has been learned regarding CSA in recent years and there is reason to hope that we will do better in the future. Studies presented in this special issue document some of these advances. Still, CSA continues to occur with alarming frequency and our treatment programs are only beginning to address the many issues associated with such traumatic experiences. Furthermore, developmental issues have been largely ignored and prevention of CSA remains an illusory goal. We can, and must, do better.
Buchbesprechung
Authors: Kiehntopf M.
Published: July 2008

No Abstract available
Aktuelle Verfahren zum Nukleinsäure gestützten Direktnachweis von MRSA / Direct nucleic acid-based detection of MRSA in clinical specimens
Authors: Reischl Udo , Holzmann Thomas
Published: July 2008

In den letzten Jahren ist weltweit eine dramatische Zunahme der Methicillin-Resistenz bei Staphylococcus aureus-Isolaten zu beobachten. Infektionen mit Methicillin-resistenten Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) gehen mit erhöhter Morbidität, Mortalität, längerer Liegedauer und erhöhten Kosten einher. Um eine Ausbreitung dieser resistenten Isolate auf bisher nicht mit MRSA infizierte bzw. kolonisierte Patienten zu verhindern, sind umfangreiche hygienische Maßnahmen notwendig. Je schneller diese Maßnahmen ergriffen werden, desto geringer ist nachweislich auch die Übertragungswahrscheinlichkeit auf andere Patienten. Um das zu erreichen, ist eine rasche Identifizierung von MRSA-Trägern notwendig. Auch neuere kulturbasierte Nachweisverfahren können Ergebnisse meist erst nach 24 Stunden liefern. Mit dem Einsatz von modernen PCR-gestützten Nachweisverfahren eröffnet sich die Möglichkeit einer Befundübermittlung innerhalb weniger Stunden. Die ursprünglichen Testkonzepte, die auf einem getrennten Nachweis des mecA-Gens und verschiedener Marker für S. aureus basieren, haben sich als Kulturbestätigungstest gut bewährt – für den schnellen und aussagekräftigen Direktnachweis von MRSA aus klinischem Probenmaterial sind sie jedoch nur eingeschränkt geeignet. Für diesen Zweck stehen neuerdings innovative Testkonzepte zur Verfügung, die auf dem gezielten Nachweis der Integration eines sogenannten SCCmec-Elements (ein Gencluster, das typischerweise auch das Methicillinresistenz-vermittelnde mecA-Gen beinhaltet) im S. aureus-Genom beruhen. Inzwischen existieren einige kommerzielle Testsysteme sowie eine Vielzahl von eigenentwickelten Testkonzepten, die auf diesem Grundprinzip basieren. Auch wenn hier in der Regel hohe Sensitivitäten (90–100%), Spezifitäten (93–99%) und negativ prädiktive Werte über 95% beobachtet werden, so liegen die positiv prädiktiven Werte meist deutlich niedriger (80–95%). Mit dem zunehmend breiteren Einsatz dieser Testverfahren sind inzwischen auch einige Störgrößen identifiziert worden, die zu falsch positiven oder falsch negativen Ergebnissen führen können. Angesichts dieser Grenzen erscheint nach wie vor eine Kombination aus PCR-gestützten und kulturellen Nachweisverfahren als sinnvoll.
Globaltest versus Profil: Wird das endogene Thrombinpotential das etablierte Thrombophiliescreening ablösen? Contra / Global coagulation assays versus differentiated testing: will endogenous thrombin potential replace established thrombophilia screening? Contra.
Authors: Lindhoff-Last E.
Published: July 2008

No Abstract available
Risk of needlestick injuries during medical school1
Authors: Wicker Sabine , Rabenau Holger F.
Published: July 2008

Introduction: Healthcare workers (HCWs) are exposed to bloodborne pathogens (e.g., contaminated devices). In the healthcare environment, needlestick injuries (NSI) represent a major risk factor in the transmission of hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Medical students are at risk of occupational exposure to bloodborne viruses following needlestick injuries during medical education. Reporting of needlestick injuries is an important step for initiating early prophylaxis or treatment. In the case of a bloodborne infection, pursuant to insure law could result in a claim. The objective of the present study was to describe occupational blood exposure of medical students through needlestick injuries.

Methods: Sixth-year medical students were invited to complete an anonymous questionnaire.

Results: In our study, 58.8% (n=183/311) of medical students recalled at least one needlestick injury during their studies. Overall, 284 needlestick injuries were reported. Only 38.3% of medical students reported all NSI to the appropriate hospital personnel. The main reason (54.0%) for not reporting NSI was being ashamed of having an NSI.

Conclusions: Occupational exposure to blood is a common problem among medical students. Efforts are required to ensure greater awareness among medical students about the risk of bloodborne pathogens. Proper training in procedures and how to act in case of injury should be offered to reduce the number of needlestick injuries.
The puzzle of the hepatitis B genotype distribution and evolution in Africa / Das Rätsel der Verbreitung und Evolution der Hepatitis B-Genotypen in Afrika
Authors: Olinger Christophe M.
Published: July 2008

The hepatitis B virus (HBV) is currently estimated to chronically infect almost 400 million people worldwide of which 65 millions live on the African continent. Based on the nucleotide distance between complete genomes, the circulating hepatitis B strains have been classified into different genotypes and subtypes most of which present a specific geographic distribution. Numerous phylogenetic studies have determined the genotypes and subtypes of HBV circulating in Africa, and have revealed a surprising picture. The most prevalent genotype found was genotype E, mostly in sub-Saharan Africa followed by genotype A distributed in sub-Saharan Africa but also in the South and East of Africa, and genotype D, which was mostly found in North Africa. While the evolutionary history of genotype A has seen an obvious diversification with the appearance of several subtypes, genotype E did not undergo a similar evolutionary history. In fact, genotype E and A co-circulate in several countries but although genotype A strains show a high diversity from country to country, the diversity among genotype E strains found in the same countries is very low. While this low diversity suggests a recent appearance of genotype E in Africa it is paradoxical to the fact that the same genotype is found on more than a third of the African continent. This review summarizes the current knowledge about the HBV genotypes circulating in Africa and laboratory diagnosis.
Vitamin D-Mangel: Ein globales Gesundheitsproblem / Vitamin D deficiency: a global health problem
Authors: Pilz Stefan , Dobnig Harald , Fahrleitner-Pammer Astrid , Polt Günter , März Winfried
Published: July 2008

Ein Vitamin D-Mangel findet sich bei ungefähr der Hälfte der Weltbevölkerung, was hauptsächlich auf eine reduzierte Sonnenexposition (Ultraviolett-B Einstrahlung) der Haut zurückzuführen ist, welche für die Vitamin D-Produktion erforderlich ist. Die orale Aufnahme von Vitamin D ist generell zu gering, um einen ausreichenden Vitamin D-Status aufrecht zu halten. In den letzten Jahren wurde gezeigt, dass die meisten Zellen und Gewebe des Körpers den Vitamin D-Rezeptor exprimieren, was die Hypothese unterstützt, dass Vitamin D über seine Bedeutung für die Gesundheit des Knochen- und Skelettsystems hinaus ein breites Wirkungsspektrum in diversen Organen hat. Epidemiologische Daten zeigen, dass niedrige 25-Hydroxyvitamin D-Konzentrationen, die als bester Indikator des Vitamin D-Status angesehen werden, in Beziehung zu zahlreichen Erkrankungen, u.a. Herz-Kreislauf-Erkrankungen, malignen oder Autoimmunerkrankungen stehen, wobei die Kausalität dieser Zusammenhänge noch bewiesen werden muss. Interventionsstudien sind daher für den Nachweis erforderlich, ob die Vitamin D-Supplementierung einen Effekt für die Prävention und/oder Behandlung diverser chronischer Erkrankungen hat. Vitamin D-Supplementierung hat ein großes Potential für die Verbesserung des Gesundheitsstatus der Bevölkerung, da die Prävalenz des Vitamin D-Mangels sehr hoch ist und eine entsprechende Supplementierung einfach, preiswert und nebenwirkungsarm durchgeführt werden kann.
Errors in the Heat of Battle: Taking a Closer Look at Shared Cognition Breakdowns Through Teamwork
Authors: Wilson Katherine A. , Salas Eduardo , Priest Heather A. , Andrews Dee
Published: July 2008

Objective: We developed a theoretically based taxonomy for classifying shared cognition breakdowns related to teamwork which contribute to fratricide incidents. Background: Fratricide on the battlefield is an inescapable cost of war. A number of technological advancements have been made in terms of combat identification systems to reduce the risk of these incidents. However, fratricide continues to occur at alarming rates. Method: We take a human-centered approach to understanding errors leading to fratricide incidents by focusing on shared cognition. We turn to the literature and provide the theoretical foundations for an error classification taxonomy to improve understanding of why fratricide incidents occur. Results: Based on our review of the literature, we identified a number of problem areas leading to fratricide incidents. However, many of the cited contributing factors were broad terms (e.g., poor coordination) and did little to tell us why the breakdown occurred and where improvements are needed. Therefore, we chose to focus on one specific area — teamwork breakdowns — and discuss in depth how these breakdowns contribute to fratricide. Conclusion: In this paper, we take a first step toward proposing a taxonomy that allows for the diagnostic assessment of what causes teamwork breakdowns in fratricide. We understand that a taxonomy is only as good as the data available and encourage richer case studies from which to learn. Application: To apply this taxonomy in an operational setting, we provide a set of behavioral markers that can be used to identify teamwork breakdowns on the battlefield.
Effect of Workload History on Task Performance
Authors: Cox-Fuenzalida Luz-Eugenia
Published: July 2008

Objective: This study investigated the effects of workload history (specifically, sudden shifts in workload) on performance. Background: In 1993 the National Research Council identified workload transition as an important concern for human factors researchers. The study of workload history suggests that what an individual has been doing prior to a point in time has an effect on subsequent performance. One trend emerging from workload history studies is that a general decrement in performance is most likely to occur following a decrease in task demand. Method: The 198 participants were randomly assigned to a high-to-low or low-to-high condition. Participants performed a version of the Bakan Vigilance Task while correct responses, response times, and total errors were recorded. Results: Results supported previous research suggesting a workload decrease results in a performance decrement. More importantly, this study reports that either a sudden increase or decrease could lead to a loss in accuracy and a slowing of response time in a longer time course. Conclusion: An explanation of the decrement is offered in terms of adaptation models. In addition, a follow-up study suggested that the decrement is a result of something inherent in the workload shift rather than an effect of fatigue. Application: Workload history (more specifically, a workload shift) has significant implications for many work environments. These implications are particularly salient in occupations where individuals are confronted with varying levels of workload demand, especially safety-sensitive occupations.
Perceived and Actual Grasp Forces on Cylindrical Handles
Authors: Cochran David J. , Chen Yuxiang , Ding Xuedong
Published: July 2008

Objective: To compare the grasp force and the perceived grasp force, as a percentage of the maximum voluntary contraction (MVC), on cylindrical handles and describe a functional relationship between the two. Background: Repeated forceful exertions during work are associated with musculoskeletal disorders, and direct measurement of those forces is often difficult. Estimates are frequently made based on the judgments of force relative to the maximum grasp force capability of the individual. Method: Participants exerted grasp forces on five sizes of cylindrical handles. Pressure values at 16 locations (12 on the fingers and 4 on the distal ends of the metacarpal bones) were measured. Participants were asked to exert what they perceived to be specific percentages (in 10% increments) of their maximum grasp force on each of the five handles. Results: A linear relationship between perceived and actual grasp force was found up to the point of about 80% of perceived MVC. Above that point, the relationship became quadratic. A piecewise regression model was developed to fit the entire range of perceived grasp forces in one model. Conclusion: Grasp force is linear and consistent up until the perceived percentage MVC reaches 80%. After that point the relationship becomes quadratic. Application: In actual application, for grasp on cylindrical handles, practitioners can use a linear relationship between perceived percentage MVC and actual percentage MVC for perceived percentages of 80% or less. Above 80%, the piecewise quadratic relationship should be used.
Designing for Attention With Sound: Challenges and Extensions to Ecological Interface Design
Authors: Watson Marcus O. , Sanderson Penelope M.
Published: July 2008

Objective: We explore whether ecological interface design (EID) principles can be applied to the design of an auditory display for anesthesia monitoring. Background: EID examples focus almost exclusively on visual displays. In the anesthesia work environment, however, auditory displays may provide better individual and team awareness of patient state. Method: Using a work domain analysis of physiological monitoring in anesthesia, we identify information to display. Using the skills, rules, and knowledge distinction we identify cognitive control needed. Using semantic mapping we map physiological variables and constraints to auditory dimensions. Results: EID principles do not address when information should be displayed and to whom. An attentional mapping stage helps to specify answers to these questions so that a workable auditory display for anesthesia monitoring is achieved. Conclusion: EID principles of representing work domain functional structure and minimizing resource-demanding cognitive control are necessary but insufficient to specify requirements for an effective auditory display. Also needed are analyses of control tasks, strategies, and the social organization of work. Such analyses are an integral part of the broader cognitive work analysis framework from which EID emerged. Application: Actual or potential uses of this research include the design of displays that support continuous peripheral awareness in collaborative multimodal work environments.
Scalable Data Dissemination for Inter-Vehicle-Communication: Aggregation versus Peer-to-Peer (Skalierbare Informationsverbreitung für die Fahrzeug-Fahrzeug-Kommunikation: Aggregation versus Peer-to-Peer)
Authors: Lochert Christian , Rybicki Jedrzej , Scheuermann Björn , Mauve Martin
Published: July 2008

This paper investigates the scalable dissemination of data between vehicles. The application context of this work is traffic information systems where cars are not only consumers but also producers of information. The key challenge in those systems is to ensure scalability in an environment where data is provided and requested by all participating vehicles in a large area. We discuss two fundamentally different approaches to this problem: using direct communication between cars and compressing the data via aggregation versus relying on infrastructure. The latter approach can further be divided into client-server and peer-to-peer systems. We outline all three approaches and highlight their advantages and disadvantages.
Composição de microminerais em cultivares de feijão e aplicações para o melhoramento genético
Authors: Ribeiro Nerinéia Dalfollo , Jost Evandro , Cerutti Taiguer , Mazieiro Sandra Maria , Poersch Nerison Luiz
Published: July 2008

O objetivo desse trabalho foi determinar a composição de microminerais em cultivares de feijão obtidas em dois locais, com vistas à avaliação dos efeitos da interação cultivares x locais e à identificação de cultivares para uso direto ou para derivações. Os minerais - ferro, zinco, cobre, manganês e boro, foram determinados em grãos de 19 cultivares de feijão, obtidos na safra de 2004/2005, em dois municípios do Estado do Rio Grande do Sul. Os grãos de feijão foram constituídos em maior parte por ferro (71,5 mg kg-1), seguido pelo zinco (30,0 mg kg-1), manganês (18,9 mg kg-1), cobre (9,5 mg kg-1) e boro (8,3 mg kg-1). Interações cultivares x locais significativas foram observadas em relação ao teor de zinco e ao rendimento de grãos. Observou-se na cultivar Guateian 6662 alto teor de microminerais, independentemente do local de cultivo, sendo indicada na biofortificação de dietas e para derivações no programa de melhoramento.
Adaptabilidade e estabilidade fenotípica em soja avaliada pelo método de Toler
Authors: Morais Lizz Kezzy de , Moura Mara Fernandes , Vencovsky Roland , Pinheiro José Baldin
Published: July 2008

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar 69 genótipos de soja com diferentes ciclos de maturação em diferentes ambientes nos Estados de Mato Grosso e Mato Grosso do Sul utilizando o método de regressão não-linear proposto por TOLER (1990). O método propõe enquadrar os genótipos em cinco grupos, conforme o padrão de resposta A, B, C, D e E. Verificou-se que nas estimativas de qualidade ambiental houve diferenças em seus valores, permitindo inferir sobre os piores e melhores ambientes, Pedra Preta foi detectado como ambiente de melhor qualidade, com a maior estimativa, o que contribui para o aumento da média geral de ambientes. Ao classificar os genótipos com base na produtividade e no padrão de resposta verificou-se que genótipos com padrão de resposta duplamente desejável (grupo A, padrão convexo), atingiram produtividade alta com destaque para a linhagem FMT-42313 de ciclo precoce. Os genótipos de padrão E (padrão côncavo) não atingiram patamares satisfatórios de produtividade média como MSOY-8550 e Crixás. A produtividade dos genótipos com padrão de resposta unissegmentado (B, C e D) foi variável, sendo a maioria enquadrados no grupo C, com resposta linear simples não desviando da resposta média dos ambientes, destacando-se a cultivar Conquista, com produtividade média e pouca variabilidade quando cultivada em ambientes distintos. O método proporciona vantagens estatísticas para a pesquisa sobre adaptabilidade e estabilidade de genótipos de soja, uma vez que discrimina esses materiais de base genética estreita em grupos de genótipos com diferentes padrões de resposta.
Avaliação de híbridos de milho obtidos do cruzamento entre linhagens com diferentes níveis de degradabilidade da matéria seca
Authors: Mendes Marcelo Cruz , Von Pinho Renzo Garcia , Pereira Marcos Neves , Faria Filho Edmir Marques , Souza Filho Alano Xavier de
Published: July 2008

Na recomendação de um híbrido para produção de silagem, não basta apenas considerar a produção de matéria seca; é necessário também que a silagem tenha alta degradabilidade efetiva (DEF) da matéria seca da planta inteira. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar as características agronômicas, bromatológicas e de degradabilidade ruminal da matéria seca de híbridos comerciais de milho recomendados para a produção de silagem e de híbridos experimentais provenientes do cruzamento entre linhagens de alta e baixa degradabilidade. Foi avaliado o desempenho de 23 híbridos de milho, sendo dezoito híbridos experimentais e cinco comerciais, indicados para silagem. O experimento foi instalado no ano agrícola 2003/2004, com delineamento experimental de blocos casualizados, com três repetições e a parcela experimental constituída de quatro linhas de 5,0 metros. As plantas foram colhidas a 20 cm do solo, no estádio da linha de leite na metade do grão (farináceo/duro). As silagens foram incubadas in situ por 0, 6, 12, 24 e 96 horas, no rúmen de três vacas fistuladas e a degradabilidade efetiva foi calculada assumindo taxa de passagem de -0,05%/hora. Foi observado que entre as cultivares avaliadas, há híbridos com grande potencial para a produção de silagem de qualidade com alta degradabilidade da matéria seca de planta inteira (DEF), independentemente da textura do grão; é correto o uso da estratégia de sintetizar híbridos visando à alta degradabilidade efetiva da matéria seca da planta inteira (DEF) utilizando linhagens que apresentam alta DEF. A baixa correlação da degradabilidade efetiva com características agronômicas e bromatológicas, evidencia a necessidade de maior utilização da DEF na seleção de híbridos de milho, visando à produção de silagem de qualidade.
Potato potential yield based on climatic elements and cultivar characteristics
Authors: Pereira André Belmont , Villa Nova Nilson Augusto , Ramos Valdir Josué , Pereira Antonio Roberto
Published: July 2008

There is currently a great deal of interest in estimating crop productivity as a function of climatic elements by means of different crop weather models. An agrometeorological model is presented based on carbon dioxide assimilation maximum rates for C3 plants, fraction of photosynthetically active radiation, air temperature, photoperiod duration, and crop parameters under tropical climate conditions. Such crop parameters include leaf area and harvest indexes, dry matter content of potato tubers, and crop cycles to estimate potato potential yields. Field data from observed productivity obtained with the cultivar Itararé (IAC-5986), grown under adequate soil water supply conditions at four different regions in the State of São Paulo (Itararé, Piracicaba, Tatuí, and São Manuel), Brazil, were used to test the model. The results revealed an excellent performance of the agrometeorological model in study, with an underestimation of irrigated potato productivity less than 10%.
Comparação de parâmetros de crescimento e de desenvolvimento de dois biótipos de arroz vermelho com genótipos de arroz irrigado
Authors: Streck Nereu Augusto , Michelon Simone , Kruse Nelson Diehl , Bosco Leosane Cristina , Lago Isabel , Marcolin Elio , Paula Gizelli Moiano de , Samboranha Flávia Kaufmann
Published: July 2008

Caracterizar o crescimento e desenvolvimento de biótipos de arroz vermelho pode ajudar no seu controle e no melhoramento para aumentar a competitividade do arroz cultivado com esta planta daninha. O objetivo deste trabalho foi quantificar parâmetros de crescimento e desenvolvimento de dois biótipos de arroz vermelho e compará-los com genótipos de arroz irrigado. Desenvolveu-se um experimento de campo em Santa Maria (RS), durante o ano agrícola 2004/2005 com cinco épocas de semeadura. O delineamento experimental utilizado foi o inteiramente casualizado com quatro repetições no esquema bifatorial (genótipos e épocas de semeadura). A unidade experimental foi um balde de 12 litros com dez plantas. Os genótipos utilizados foram: IRGA 421, IRGA 416, IRGA 417, IRGA 420, BR-IRGA 409, BRS 7 TAIM e EPAGRI 109 (tipo moderno), EEA 406 (tipo tradicional), um híbrido, arroz vermelho casca amarela com arista (AVCAA) e arroz vermelho casca preta com arista (AVCPA). A data dos principais estágios de desenvolvimento da escala de COUNCE, área foliar, comprimento de panícula, estatura de planta, filocrono, número final de folhas no colmo principal e perfilhamento foram avaliados em cinco plantas por balde. Nos biótipos de arroz vermelho geralmente observa-se ciclo de desenvolvimento médio em relação aos genótipos cultivados, sendo o biótipo AVCAA de ciclo mais longo que o biótipo AVCPA. Os biótipos de arroz vermelho tiveram área foliar, estatura, panícula e filocrono maiores que os genótipos modernos de arroz. O perfilhamento dos biótipos de arroz vermelho foi variável e dependente da época de semeadura.
Aplicação foliar de molibdênio, produtividade e qualidade fisiológica de sementes de feijoeiro irrigado
Authors: Ascoli Alexandre Araújo , Soratto Rogério Peres , Maruyama Wilson Itamar
Published: July 2008

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o efeito de doses e épocas de aplicação de molibdênio, por via foliar, na produtividade e qualidade fisiológica de sementes do feijoeiro ‘Pérola’ irrigado, cultivado em Neossolo Quatizarênico. Os tratamentos foram constituídos pela aplicação de quatro doses de Mo (0, 40, 80 e 160 g ha-1), aplicadas em duas épocas: 15 ou 26 dias após a emergência das plântulas (DAE). A aplicação de Mo via foliar aumentou a produtividade de sementes e a matéria seca da parte aérea de plântulas do feijoeiro irrigado, cultivado em solo arenoso, independentemente da época de aplicação (15 ou 26 DAE). A germinação das sementes do feijoeiro foi aumentada pela aplicação de Mo aos 26 DAE. Na avaliação do vigor das sementes de feijão, pelo teste de primeira contagem, constatou-se efeito negativo da aplicação de Mo via foliar. A aplicação foliar de Mo aumentou a produtividade do feijoeiro e promoveu a obtenção de sementes que originaram plântulas com maior desenvolvimento inicial.