bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efeito de diferentes durações do alongamento no desempenho de saltos unipodais
Authors: Marchetti Paulo Henrique , Soares Enrico Gori , Silva Fernando Henrique Domingues Oliveira , Medeiros Iris Ilza de , Reis Neto Ilídio dos , Lopes Charles Ricardo , Uchida Marco Carlos , Bacurau Reury Frank
Published: August 2014

INTRODUÇÃO: A prática de exercícios de alongamento é muito comum como parte do aquecimento em diversas modalidades esportivas, porém, esta prática pode ser negativa para aqueles que desejam o aprimoramento da força e potência muscular, consequentemente, o rendimento dos saltos pode ficar reduzido após exercícios de alongamento, que depende do tempo de duração e intensidade do mesmo.OBJETIVO: Avaliar a influência do tempo de permanência no exercício alongamento sobre o desempenho do drop jump unilateralmente (unipodal).MÉTODOS: A amostra foi composta por 16 adultos jovens hígidos, com larga experiência em saltos. O protocolo de teste consistiu em realizar três drop jumps unipodais máximos a partir de uma plataforma de 15 cm sobre um tapete de salto (Hidrofit(r)), antes e após duas durações (i.e. uma série 3 min. de um lado, e 6 min. para outro, a escolha foi de forma aleatória) de alongamento dos músculos tríceps sural, utilizando uma intensidade entre 70-90% da percepção subjetiva de desconforto. A análise de variância ANOVA (2x2) foi utilizada para verificar diferenças para a altura de salto, tempo de contato e flexibilidade, utilizando um nível de significância de 5%.RESULTADOS: Apresentaram diferenças significativas entre condições pré e pós-alongamento para as durações de 3 e 6 minutos (P=0,002 e P=0,001, respectivamente), com a diminuição na altura máxima do salto. O tempo de contato foi maior apenas para a duração de 6 minutos (P=0,039).CONCLUSÃO: A realização de exercícios de alongamento do músculo tríceps sural por 3 ou 6 minutos de duração resulta na queda do desempenho do drop jumpunipodal, diminuição da altura do salto vertical (para 3 e 6 min. de duração) e tempo de contato (apenas 6' min.), reforçando a necessidade de mais debates na área sobre exercícios de alongamento antes daqueles de potência.
Reprodutibilidade do teste de caminhada e do degrau de 6 minutos em adultos jovens saudáveis
Authors: Davi Simone Fernandes , Arcuri Juliano Ferreira , Labadessa Ivana Gonçalves , Pessoa Bruna Varanda , Costa Joyce Nogueira Ferreira da , Sentanin Anna Cláudia , Lorenzo Valéria Amorim Pires Di
Published: August 2014

INTRODUÇÃO: Os testes caminhada de seis minutos (TC6) e degrau de seis minutos (TD6) são meios de avaliação da capacidade funcional. No entanto, pouco se sabe sobre sua reprodutibilidade em adultos jovens.OBJETIVO: Avaliar a reprodutibilidade relativa e absoluta tanto intra quanto inter-avaliadores do TC6 e TD6 em indivíduos adultos jovens.MÉTODOS: Foram avaliados 33 indivíduos adultos jovens aparentemente saudáveis por meio da espirometria; e realizados os testes TC6 e TD6. Três (T1, T2 e T3) TC6 e TD6 foram feitos em cada indivíduo, sendo o último de cada teste realizado por um avaliador diferente. Para a análise intra-avaliadores foram comparados os desempenhos do T1 e T2 enquanto que a análise inter-avaliadores foi feita pela comparação dos desempenhos do T3 com: T1; T2; e escolha do melhor dos primeiros dois testes. Foi calculado o coeficiente de correlação intra-classe (CCI) como medida da reprodutibilidade relativa; o erro padrão de medida; a diferença mínima detectável; traçados gráficos de Bland-Altman e teste ANOVA para analisar a reprodutibilidade absoluta.RESULTADOS: Observaram-se, nos dois testes funcionais, intra e inter-avaliadores, valores excelentes de reprodutibilidade relativa (CCI>0,75) e a reprodutibilidade absoluta mostrou alto erro.CONCLUSÃO: O TD6 e o TC6 apresentaram reprodutibilidade intra e inter-avaliadores excelente para a população adulto jovem, mas altos valores de erro.
Predição da massa corporal magra de adultos brasileiros através da área muscular do braço
Authors: Serpa Tane Kanope Ferreira , Nogueira Fernando dos Santos , Pompeu Fernando Augusto Monteiro Saboia
Published: August 2014

INTRODUÇÃO: A área muscular do braço (Amb) é componente da massa corporal magra (MCM).OBJETIVO: Propor uma equação para estimativa da MCM através da Amb.MÉTODOS: Quarenta e cinco voluntários masculinos, aparentemente saudáveis, com idade média de 22 ± 3 anos e massa corporal 74,9 ± 8,43 kg, foram distribuídos randomicamente em grupos de validação interna (VI) e validação externa (VE). Tais sujeitos foram submetidos a medidas antropométricas e à hidrometria. Antes dos testes, os sujeitos receberam as seguintes orientações: a) evitar o consumo de cafeína e álcool nas 24 horas precedentes; b) não realizar atividade física extenuante (≥ 5 METs), pelo menos nas 12 horas prévias ao exame e; c) período pós-prandial de quatro horas. A área muscular do braço foi determinada através da equação: Ama= [C-(T .π)]²÷(4 .π).RESULTADOS: O modelo derivado para predição foi: MCM= 9,127 + (0,625 . MC) + (0,139 . Amb); r2= 0,91, EPE= 1,85 kg (2,5% da massa corporal ou MC). Para VE, não houve diferença significativa entre a MCM medida pela eletrobioimpedância e a prevista pela fórmula acima (p=0,350), r²= 0,94, CV%= 2,0%, CCI= 0,97 e EPE= 1,87 kg.CONCLUSÃO: A equação de regressão múltipla derivada permite estimar a MCM de jovens brasileiros do sexo masculino.
Correlação entre a dinamometria e teste funcional em atletas de handebol
Authors: Silva Fabiano Fernandes da , Penido Ciro Augusto Fernandes de Oliveira , Pereira Junior Valter Luis , Souza Renato Aparecido de , Villaverde Antonio Balbin
Published: August 2014

INTRODUÇÃO: São poucas as informações que relacionam testes funcionais com testes mais precisos, como a dinamometria isocinética.OBJETIVO: Correlacionar as variáveis isocinéticas pico de torque (PT), potência média (PM) e trabalho total (TT) de rotadores internos de ombro em atletas de handebol do gênero masculino com o teste funcional de arremesso de medicine ball (AMB).MÉTODOS: Participaram desse estudo 25 atletas amadores de handebol do gênero masculino com idade média 17,72 ± 2,16 anos. A coleta de dados foi realizada em dois dias diferentes, respeitando intervalo mínimo de 48 horas entre as sessões. De maneira aleatória, definida por sorteio, os atletas faziam o teste isocinético ou o teste de AMB. Para o teste de AMB, o atleta deveria arremessar uma medicine ball de3 kg a maior distância possível. Para análise isocinética, foram utilizadas as velocidades de 60°/s e 180°/s avaliando a capacidade muscular dos músculos rotadores internos de ombro. Para análise de associações foram utilizados os testes de correlação de Pearson e regressão linear simples.RESULTADOS: Foram observadas associações moderadas (0,60 ≤ r < 0,70; p<0,05) para as variáveis PT, PM e TT e o teste de AMB na velocidade de 60°/s. Além disso, observaram-se associações altas (r ≥ 0,70; p<0,05) entre as variáveis estudadas na velocidade de 180°/s.CONCLUSÃO: As variáveis isocinéticas PT, PM e TT, de rotadores internos de ombro do braço dominante de atletas de handebol do gênero masculino apresentam correlação moderada a alta com o teste funcional de AMB.
Influência do exercício físico na cognição: uma atualização sobre mecanismos fisiológicos
Authors: Merege Filho Carlos Alberto Abujabra , Alves Christiano Robles Rodrigues , Sepúlveda Carlos Andrés , Costa André dos Santos , Lancha Junior Antônio Herbert , Gualano Bruno
Published: August 2014

Embora um crescente corpo de literatura corrobore o papel benéfico do exercício sobre a cognição, não há consenso sobre os mecanismos que norteiam as adaptações cerebrais agudas e crônicas ao exercício. A presente revisão narrativa tem como objetivo apresentar e discutir os mecanismos pelos quais o exercício afeta o desempenho cognitivo. Agudamente, especula-se que os efeitos do exercício sobre a resposta cognitiva sejam mediados por aumentos no fluxo sanguíneo cerebral e, por conseguinte, no aporte de nutrientes, ou por um aumento na atividade de neurotransmissores. Cronicamente, especula-se que o exercício possa promover adaptações em estruturas cerebrais e plasticidade sináptica que culminariam com melhoras cognitivas. Tais hipóteses são discutidas à luz das evidências científicas disponíveis, tanto em modelos animais quanto em humanos.
Seleção de famílias e progênies de irmãos completos de cana-de-açúcar para atributos tecnológicos e de produção pelo método de REML/BLUP
Authors: Xavier Mauro Alexandre , Perecin Dilermando , Alvim Karen Rodrigues de Toledo , Landell Marcos Guimarães de Andrade , Arantes Flávio Cese
Published: August 2014

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar as famílias e destacar as progênies superiores de cana-de-açúcar oriundas de 38 cruzamentos biparentais para os seguintes atributos: tonelada de colmos por hectare (TCH), toneladas de biomassa por hectare (TBIOH), brix (% caldo da cana), teor de fibra, pureza, pol e açúcar total recuperável (ATR). Os dados foram analisados via modelos mistos REML/BLUP, em que o REML (Máxima Verossimilhança Restrita) permitiu estimar parâmetros genéticos e BLUP (Melhor Predição Linear Não Viciada) permitiu predizer os valores aditivos e genotípicos. A melhor família para os atributos TCH e TBIOH foi a 41, cujos parentais são as cultivares IACSP022019 x CTC9. Na seleção individual para TCH, a planta de n. 3 do bloco 2, do cruzamento 78 foi a que apresentou o melhor resultado. Para TBIOH, a planta n. 33, do bloco 1, da família 41 foi superior. As famílias 40, 41, 43, 68, 69, 79, 91, 92 e 147 foram superiores para as variáveis brix, pol, pureza e ATR, enquanto que as famílias 85, 147, 148, 149, 161, 163, 177, 178, 179 e 183 foram superiores para fibra. A família 147, cujos parentais são IACSP042286 x IACSP963055, mostrou três progênies entre as dez melhores tanto para brix quanto para fibra, o que identifica essa combinação como potencial fonte de progênies para produção de bioenergia.
O MARKETING SOCIAL E A PROMOÇÃO DE MUDANÇAS ESTRUTURAIS NO ALEITAMENTO MATERNO
Authors: MARTINS OLIVA MARIA DOURADO , PAÇO ARMINDA MARIA FINISTERRA DO , MAINARDES EMERSON WAGNER , RODRIGUES RICARDO GOUVEIA
Published: August 2014

Para avaliar as implicações práticas em relação ao comportamento do aleitamento materno, relativamente à dimensão dos problemas estruturais no âmbito do marketing social, foi desenvolvida uma investigação qualitativa exploratória, fundamentada na perspetiva do Modelo Ecológico Social (Social Ecological Model - SEM), por meio de entrevistas em profundidade com consultoras e conselheiras de lactação em Portugal. O conteúdo dessas entrevistas revelou algumas das principais barreiras ao aleitamento materno, no que respeita aos problemas estruturais e no âmbito do marketing social.
O PAPEL DO BALANCED SCORECARD NA GESTÃO DA INOVAÇÃO
Authors: FREZATTI FÁBIO , BIDO DIÓGENES DE SOUZA , CRUZ ANA PAULA CAPUANO DA , MACHADO MARIA JOSÉ DE CAMARGO
Published: August 2014

Este trabalho objetiva estudar como o balanced scorecard se relaciona com o processo de inovação nas organizações. Como contribuição, expande a utilidade do modelo, especificando estímulos externos, tensões dinâmicas, estratégias de inovação e percepção de sucesso da inovação. Trata-se de um estudo descritivo, desenvolvido por meio de questionário, aplicado a 121 empresas. Para análise de dados, empregaram-se equações estruturais. Quanto aos achados, percebe-se um processo complexo, de longo prazo e vital para as empresas, que têm sua percepção de sucesso influenciada por elementos externos à organização (estímulos externos) e internos (tensão dinâmica e estratégias de inovação). A gestão da inovação torna-se temerária na ausência de mecanismos que equilibrem as tensões evidenciadas pelos indicadores, inclusive conflitantes numa dimensão temporal de longo prazo, e o risco fica ainda maior quando a percepção de sucesso é captada exclusivamente pelos indicadores financeiros de curto prazo.
Familiares cuidadores de usuários de serviço de saúde mental: satisfação com serviço
Authors: Santos Ana Flávia de Oliveira , Cardoso Cármen Lúcia
Published: August 2014

Com a reforma psiquiátrica, os familiares foram chamados a atuar como parceiros no cuidado aos usuários. O papel desempenhado como articuladores da relação serviço-usuário conferiu importância a sua participação na avaliação da qualidade da assistência. O estudo objetivou avaliar a satisfação com o serviço de 54 familiares cuidadores de usuários de serviço substitutivo em saúde mental. Utilizaram-se os instrumentos: Escala de Avaliação da Satisfação dos Familiares em Serviços de Saúde Mental (SATIS-Br) e questionário sociodemográfico. Os dados foram tratados através de estatística descritiva e estatística não-paramétrica. Os cuidadores apresentaram satisfação de moderada a alta. Verificou-se correlação negativa entre satisfação quanto aos resultados do tratamento e a variável idade do usuário (r = -0,37; p = 0,006). Os cuidadores apontaram principalmente a ampliação de atividades no serviço como estratégia de melhora da assistência. Concluiu-se que os serviços substitutivos devem avançar na proposta da intersetorialidade e otimizar recursos próximos à localidade das famílias.
Temporal Variations of Shallow Subtidal Meiofauna in Los Cristianos Bay (Tenerife, Canary Islands, Ne Atlantic Ocean)
Authors: Riera Rodrigo , Nunez Jorge , Brito Maria del Carmen
Published: August 2014

A subtidal meiofaunal assemblage in Los Cristianos Bay, Tenerife, Canary Islands was sampled from May 2000 to April 2001, at 3 m depth. Nematodes dominated overwhelmingly during the study period, ranging from 84.52% in May 2000 to 95.93% in October 2000. Copepods and polychaetes were the second and the third most abundant groups, respectively. Meiofaunal densities showed significant differences throughout the study period, with minimum abundances during the spring-summer months (May-July) and highest densities in winter (January and February). This seasonality is mainly due to the temporal variations of the most abundant species (nematodes Daptonema hirsutum and Pomponema sedecima), with differences in meiofauna species composition and abundance during May and June 2000 as compared to the remaining months of the study period. Environmental variables partly explained meiofaunal community structure, being the sedimentary type of very fine sands the most important, jointly with other variables, such as nitrogen and organic matter content.
O currículo de cursos técnicos de lazer no Brasil: um estudo de caso da formação profissional
Authors: Santos Carla Augusta Nogueira Lima e ,   Centro Universitário de Sete Lagoas (Unifemm), Brasil, Isayama Hélder Ferreira ,   Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Brasil
Published: August 2014

Objetiva diagnosticar e analisar o perfil de formação profissional, por meio do estudo de caso do Centro de Educação Profissional do Amapá (Cepa), que oferece curso técnico em lazer. O percurso metodológico combinou pesquisa bibliográfica, documental e de campo. A pesquisa documental se baseou na análise de projetos político-pedagógicos da instituição e do curso. Na pesquisa de campo, utilizamos a técnica de entrevista semiestruturada com nove docentes e com o coordenador do curso técnico em lazer. Com base nas análises, percebemos que o Cepa apresenta como objetivo a ideia de formar técnicos em lazer para atenderem a demanda do mercado, no entanto, foi possível observar que a abordagem atribuída a essa área não se restringe ao conceito de "mercadoria a ser consumida". Nesse sentido, identificou-se uma preocupação em produzir e ministrar conhecimentos para além das competências técnicas no intuito de uma formação mais cidadã. O perfil do profissional formado contempla saberes teórico-práticos num viés multidisciplinar, na tentativa de qualificar os discentes para intervirem em diferentes espaços de vivência do lazer.
História da pedagogia no Brasil: a contribuição das pesquisas centradas em manuais de ensino
Authors: Kulesza Wojciech Andrzej ,   Universidade Federal da Paraíba (UFPB),  Brasil
Published: August 2014

Analisa três linhas de pesquisa, desenvolvidas neste século, focadas em manuais de pedagogia em circulação no Brasil. Após descrever seus instrumentos de pesquisa, é discutida a consistência de seus resultados, particularmente no que se refere às classificações dos manuais elaboradas pelas pesquisas. A partir dos tipos de manuais definidos por essas pesquisas, procura-se avaliar as possibilidades futuras desses programas de pesquisa, especialmente no que tange à ampliação de seus recortes temporais e espaciais. Do ponto de vista da história da pedagogia, argumenta-se sobre a maior potencialidade das pesquisas nessa área cuja categorização dos manuais contemple os modelos escolares historicamente adotados pela escola brasileira.
The Association of Hospital Spending Intensity and Cancer Outcomes: A Population-Based Study in an Asian Country
Authors: Chang Ting-Shou , Huang Kuang-Yung , Chang Chun-Ming , Lin Chun-Hsuan , Su Yu-Chieh , Lee Ching-Chih
Published: August 2014

Background.

Different results are reported for the relationship between regional variation in medical spending and disease prognosis for acute illness and for cancer. Our objective was to investigate the association between hospital medical care spending intensity and mortality rates in cancer patients.

Methods.

A total of 80,597 patients with incident cancer diagnosed in 2002 were identified from the National Health Insurance Research Database of Taiwan, Republic of China. The Cox proportional hazards model was used to compare the 5-year survival rates of patients treated at hospitals with different spending intensities after adjusting for possible confounding and risk factors.

Results.

After adjustment for patient characteristics, treatment modality, and hospital volume, an association was found between lower hospital spending intensity and poorer survival rates. The 5-year survival rate expressed by hazard ratios was 1.36 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.30–1.43, p < .001) for colorectal cancer, 1.18 (95% CI: 1.08–1.29, p < .001) for lung cancer, 1.13 (95% CI: 1.05–1.22, p = .002) for hepatoma, 1.16 (95% CI: 1.07–1.26, p < .001) for breast cancer, and 1.23 (95% CI: 1.10–1.39, p = .001) for prostate cancer.

Conclusion.

Our preliminary findings indicate that higher hospital spending intensity was associated with lower mortality rates in patients being treated for lung cancer, breast cancer, colorectal cancer, prostate cancer, hepatoma, or head and neck cancer. The cancer stages were unavailable in this series, and more research linked with the primary data may be necessary to clearly address this issue.
Real-World Study of Everolimus in Advanced Progressive Neuroendocrine Tumors
Authors: Panzuto Francesco , Rinzivillo Maria , Fazio Nicola , de Braud Filippo , Luppi Gabriele , Zatelli Maria Chiara , Lugli Francesca , Tomassetti Paola , Riccardi Ferdinando , Nuzzo Carmen , Brizzi Maria Pia , Faggiano Antongiulio , Zaniboni Alberto , Nobili Elisabetta , Pastorelli Davide , Cascinu Stefano , Merlano Marco , Chiara Silvana , Antonuzzo Lorenzo , Funaioli Chiara , Spada Francesca , Pusceddu Sara , Fontana Annalisa , Ambrosio Maria Rosaria , Cassano Alessandra , Campana Davide , Cartenì Giacomo , Appetecchia Marialuisa , Berruti Alfredo , Colao Annamaria , Falconi Massimo , Delle Fave Gianfranco
Published: August 2014

Everolimus is a valid therapeutic option for neuroendocrine tumors (NETs); however, data in a real-world setting outside regulatory trials are sparse. The aim of this study was to determine everolimus tolerability and efficacy, in relation to previous treatments, in a compassionate use program. A total of 169 patients with advanced progressive NETs treated with everolimus were enrolled, including 85 with pancreatic NETs (pNETs) and 84 with nonpancreatic NETs (non-pNETs). Previous treatments included somatostatin analogs (92.9%), peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT; 50.3%), chemotherapy (49.7%), and PRRT and chemotherapy (22.8%). Overall, 85.2% of patients experienced adverse events (AEs), which were severe (grade 3–4) in 46.1%. The most frequent severe AEs were pneumonitis (8.3%), thrombocytopenia (7.7%), anemia (5.3%), and renal failure (3.5%). In patients previously treated with PRRT and chemotherapy, a 12-fold increased risk for severe toxicity was observed, with grade 3–4 AEs reported in 86.8% (vs. 34.3% in other patients). In addition, 63.3% of patients required temporarily everolimus discontinuation due to toxicity. Overall, 27.8% of patients died during a median follow-up of 12 months. Median progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were 12 months and 32 months, respectively. Similar disease control rates, PFS, and OS were reported in pNETs and non-pNETs. In the real-world setting, everolimus is safe and effective for the treatment of NETs of different origins. Higher severe toxicity occurred in patients previously treated with systemic chemotherapy and PRRT. This finding prompts caution when using this drug in pretreated patients and raises the issue of planning for everolimus before PRRT and chemotherapy in the therapeutic algorithm for advanced NETs.
A Community-Based Multicenter Trial of Pharmacokinetically Guided 5-Fluorouracil Dosing for Personalized Colorectal Cancer Therapy
Authors: Patel Jai N. , O'Neil Bert H. , Deal Allison M. , Ibrahim Joseph G. , Sherrill Gary B. , Olajide Oludamilola A. , Atluri Prashanti M. , Inzerillo John J. , Chay Christopher H. , McLeod Howard L. , Walko Christine M.
Published: August 2014

Background.

Pharmacokinetically guided (PK-guided) versus body surface area-based 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) dosing results in higher response rates and better tolerability. A paucity of data exists on PK-guided 5-FU dosing in the community setting.

Patients and Methods.

Seventy colorectal cancer patients, from one academic and five community cancer centers, received the mFOLFOX6 regimen (5-FU 2,400 mg/m2 over 46 hours every 2 weeks) with or without bevacizumab at cycle 1. The 5-FU continuous-infusion dose was adjusted for cycles 2–4 using a PK-guided algorithm to achieve a literature-based target area under the concentration-time curve (AUC). The primary objective was to demonstrate that PK-guided 5-FU dosing improves the ability to achieve a target AUC within four cycles of therapy. The secondary objective was to demonstrate reduced incidence of 5-FU-related toxicities.

Results.

At cycles 1 and 4, 27.7% and 46.8% of patients achieved the target AUC (20–25 mg × hour/L), respectively (odds ratio [OR]: 2.20; p = .046). Significantly more patients were within range at cycle 4 compared with a literature rate of 20% (p < .0001). Patients had significantly higher odds of not being underdosed at cycle 4 versus cycle 1 (OR: 2.29; p = .037). The odds of a patient being within range increased by 30% at each subsequent cycle (OR: 1.30; p = .03). Less grade 3/4 mucositis and diarrhea were observed compared with historical data (1.9% vs 16% and 5.6% vs 12%, respectively); however, rates of grade 3/4 neutropenia were similar (33% vs 25%–50%).

Conclusion.

PK-guided 5-FU dosing resulted in significantly fewer underdosed patients and less gastrointestinal toxicity and allows for the application of personalized colorectal cancer therapy in the community setting.
Effects of fly ash, retarder and calcination of magnesia on properties of magnesia–phosphate cement
Authors: Li Yue , Sun Jia , Li Jiaqi , Shi Tongfei
Published: August 2014

Magnesia–phosphate cement (MPC) is a new type of cementing material composed of magnesia powder, phosphate and boric acid retarder in a given proportion. In order to study the influence of calcined magnesia, fly ash and boric acid retarder on the performance of MPC under different conditions, magnesia was calcined and mixed with fly ash and retarder in various mixtures to prepare different MPC samples. The compressive strength, hydration mechanism and microstructure of MPC were assessed. The results show that, within a certain range, the compressive strength of MPC increases with increasing calcination temperature and increasing holding time of the calcined magnesia. The addition of fly ash improves the microstructure of MPC and, in a certain range, the compressive strength of MPC increases with an increase in fly ash content. Boric acid reduces the compactness of MPC, thus decreasing the compressive strength.
Biological removal of nitrate with arsenic adsorption
Authors: Schmidt Jordan J. , Gagnon Graham A.
Published: August 2014

Nitrate, arsenic and vanadium are all potential groundwater contaminants. Various resource constraints can make conventional treatment methodologies, such as ion exchange and membrane processing, challenging to implement for small utilities. This research examined the potential of biological denitrification with Paracoccus denitrificans and adsorption to ferric hydroxide precipitates to simultaneously remove nitrate and either arsenic or vanadium. Continuous bench-scale testing found that average nitrate removal of up to 60% was obtained. The continuous bench-scale testing also found that arsenic and vanadium were both removed by way of adsorption to ferric hydroxide precipitates. The average per cent removal for arsenic and vanadium were 81·5% and 91·1% when 2 mg/L of iron was added. In fact, arsenic concentrations were below 10 μg/L following addition of 2 mg/L of iron. This bench-scale system demonstrates the potential of integrating bio-adsorption for co-contaminant removal, which could hold promise for small communities requiring an innovative approach to simultaneously remove contaminants.
Pollen limitation and flower abortion in a wind‐pollinated, masting tree
Authors: Pearse Ian S. , Koenig Walter D. , Funk Kyle A. , Pesendorfer Mario B.
Published: August 2014

Pollen limitation is a key assumption of theories that explain mast seeding, which is common among wind‐pollinated and woody plants. In particular, the pollen coupling hypothesis and pollination Moran effect hypothesis assume pollen limitation as a factor that synchronizes seed crops across individuals. The existence of pollen limitation has not, however, been unambiguously demonstrated in wind‐pollinated, masting trees. We conducted a two‐year pollen supplementation experiment on a masting oak species, Quercus lobata. Supplemental pollen increased acorn set in one year but not in the other, supporting the importance of pollen coupling and pollination Moran effect models of mast seeding. We also tracked the fate of female flowers over five years and found that the vast majority of flowers were aborted for reasons unrelated to pollination, even in the presence of excess pollen. Pollen limitation can reduce annual seed set in a wind‐pollinated tree, but factors other than pollen limitation cause the majority of flower abortion.
Effects of Segmentation and Skeletonization Algorithms on Pore Networks and Predicted Multiphase-Transport Properties of Reservoir-Rock Samples
Authors: Idowu N.A.. A. , Nardi C.. , Long H.. , Varslot T.. , Øren P.E.. E.
Published: August 2014

Networks of large pores connected by narrower throats (pore networks) are essential inputs into network models that are routinely used to predict transport properties from digital rock images. Extracting pore networks from microcomputed-tomography (micro-CT) images of rocks involves a number of steps: filtering, segmentation, skeletonization, and others. Because of the amount of clay and its distribution, the segmentation of micro-CT images is not trivial, and different algorithms exist for achieving this. Similarly, several methods are available for skeletonizing the segmented images and for extracting the pore networks. The nonuniqueness of these processes raises questions about the predictive power of network models. In the present work, we evaluate the effects of these processes on the computed petrophysical and multiphase-flow properties of reservoir-rock samples.

By use of micro-CT images of reservoir sandstones, we first apply three different segmentation algorithms and assess the effects of the different algorithms on estimated porosity, amount of clay, and clay distribution. Single-phase properties are computed directly on the segmented images and compared with experimental data. Next, we extract skeletons from the segmented images by use of three different algorithms. On the pore networks generated from the different skeletons, we simulate two-phase oil/ water and three-phase gas/oil/water displacements by use of a quasistatic pore-network model.

Analysis of the segmentation results shows differences in the amount of clay, in the total porosity, and in the computed singlephase properties. Simulated results show that there are differences in the network-predicted single-phase properties as well. However, predicted multiphase-transport properties from the different networks are in good agreement. This indicates that the topology of the pore space is well preserved in the extracted skeleton. Comparison of the computed capillary pressure and relative permeability curves for all networks with available experimental data shows good agreements.

By use of a segmentation that captures porosity and microporosity, we show that the extracted networks can be used to reliably predict multiphase-transport properties, irrespective of the algorithms used.
Quality of Life, Perceptions of Change, and Psychological Well-Being of the Elderly Population in Small Rural Towns in the Midwest
Authors: Cantarero Rodrigo , Potter James
Published: August 2014

This study examines the quality of life of the elderly residents of two rural Nebraska towns, both having experienced a large increase in population. The study examines how the residents' perception of changes in the community affect their view of quality of life, and identifies determinants of psychological well-being for these elderly residents. The results are compared to the non-elderly residents of these two communities for purposes of contrast. A face-to-face survey of the residents addressed physical, social/cultural, economic, and service issues. Both correlation and regression were used to analyze the data. The quality of life of the elderly residents in our study, in terms of satisfaction with the various components of general well-being–home and neighborhood, accessibility and adequacy of services (including transportation), health and safety–were very positive or satisfactory; this applies equally to the non-elderly population, with the exception of access to public transportation.
Men's Experiences of Grandfatherhood: A Welcome Surprise
Authors: Stgeorge Jennifer M. , Fletcher Richard J.
Published: August 2014

The present-day involvement of men in many facets of childrearing stands in contrast to previous eras when men accepted that the major task of fathering was to provide a secure income to support the family. This imperative often required long hours away from the family. However, when men whose contact with children has been limited due to work and cultural constraints retire, their newly acquired lifestyle may bring fresh opportunities for involvement with grandchildren. An important question therefore concerns the impact of caring for young children on men's perceptions of their role as grandfathers. This interview study explores the experiences of 19 Australian grandfathers. The analysis found themes that relate to relationships and change, as well as themes concerning core beliefs and existential questions. The findings demonstrate the potential for insight into family relationships and personal growth in older age when studying the topic of grandparenting and caring from the male perspective.
The Experience of Being an Old Never-Married Single: A Life Course Perspective
Authors: Band-Winterstein Tova , Manchik-Rimon Carmit
Published: August 2014

Purpose of the study:

To explore the aging experience of the “over 60” group of singles who have never been married and have no children. How they experience their aging process in terms of their singlehood and vice versa.

Design and Methods:

A qualitative-phenomenological approach was adopted. In-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with 16 participants aged 60 to 87.

Results:

Four major themes emerged: (a) “How come I stayed single?” (b) Between loneliness, aloneness and solitude. (c) “I have to take care of myself in old age.” (d) The self behind prejudices and stereotypes.

Implications:

As the normative expectation is to live with partners, children, and grandchildren, they need to account for their alternative choice and give meaning to being a never married single. This meaning is expressed by constructing their self-identity and accepting their way of life.
The Influence of Students' Pre-College Characteristics, High School Experiences, College Expectations, and Initial Enrollment Characteristics on Degree Attainment
Authors: Pike Gary R. , Hansen Michele J. , Childress Janice E.
Published: August 2014

The present research examined the extent to which pre-college characteristics, high school experiences, college expectations, and initial enrollment characteristics were related to graduation from college. Data from admission applications, the ACT Compass survey, and initial enrollment measures for Fall 2004 and Fall 2005 first-time students were analyzed. Because almost one-third of the students had missing data, multiple imputation procedures were utilized. Results revealed that several measures of student characteristics, high school experiences, college expectations, and initial enrollment characteristics were consistently related to degree attainment. Other variables were related to a single degree-attainment measure. These results demonstrated that pre-matriculation data can be used to identify at-risk students, identify risk factors, and provide institution-specific benchmarks for evaluating efforts to improve degree attainment.
College First-Year Seminars: What are We Doing, What Should We Be Doing?
Authors: Reid Karen M. , Reynolds Ralph E. , Perkins-Auman Peggy G.
Published: August 2014

The modern concept of first-year seminars was introduced in 1972. Ninety-four percent of America's accredited 4–year colleges and universities offered a seminar by 2002. First-year seminar defines a fairly diverse instructional construct, but the goal remains to improve student retention rates. Research trends indicate a positive and almost always statistically significant relationship between seminar participation, college achievement, and higher persistence rates. However, existing studies reflect a variety of methodological issues. These studies tend to make causal assertions despite potential confounds and few consider the theoretical basis for the content of this construct called a first-year seminar. The purpose of this investigation was to begin defining the parameters of what first-year seminar means. Case study methodology was used to identify the common components and how they could relate to a theoretical framework.
Early Identification and Characterization of Students Who Drop Out in the First Year at University
Authors: Baars G. J. A. , Arnold I. J. M.
Published: August 2014

At Erasmus School of Economics about 40% of the students in the bachelor program Economics and Business drop out in the first academic year. We examined whether it is feasible (a) to identify on the basis of their participation and achievement in the first 2 (out of 10) examinations students who drop out in the first year, and (b) to characterize these students by motivational aspects. Of all students who started the bachelor program Economics and Business between 2007 and 2009 ( n = 1576) the results on the first 2 (out of 10) exams in the first year were collected. Students were divided into subgroups based on their participation and performance on these exams. For each subgroup the percentage of first-year dropout was determined. Subgroups were compared on motivational aspects. Both students who did not participate in the first 2 exams and students who did not pass at least 1 of these exams had a very high probability of dropping out in the first year. Moreover, these students had the lowest intrinsic motivation at the start of their studies. Based on these observations we conclude that early identification and characterization of students who drop out in the first year is feasible.
The Role of Socioeconomic Factors in the Prediction of Persistence in Puerto Rico
Authors: Dika Sandra L.
Published: August 2014

While research literature suggests that socioeconomic factors play a role in predicting educational attainment, very little research has been done to examine these relationships using data from Puerto Rico. A logistic regression approach was adopted to investigate the extent to which family and school socioeconomic factors predict retention from first to second year of college, after controlling for previous academic preparation, utilizing existing data from over 6,000 student records in one public institution in Puerto Rico. As expected, previous academic preparation variables were statistically significant in the prediction of retention, along with attendance at a public high school, while family socioeconomic factors did not appear to play a significant role. However, there were some notable differences between significant factors for men and women. Implications include the need for further research on the influence of socioeconomic factors on educational attainment in Puerto Rico.
How Parents of Teens Store and Monitor Prescription Drugs in the Home
Authors: Friese Bettina , Moore Roland S. , Grube Joel W. , Jennings Vanessa K.
Published: August 2014

Qualitative interviews were conducted with parents of teens to explore how parents store and monitor prescription drugs in the home. Most parents had prescription drugs in the house, but took few precautions against teens accessing these drugs. Strategies for monitoring included moving the drugs to different locations, remembering how many pills were left, and how medication containers were positioned. Reasons given for not securing drugs were that parents did not think that their teens would be interested in their prescription drugs and did not believe that they could be used to get high. This study highlights the need for parents to be educated about securing prescription drugs, the dangers of non-medical prescription drug use by teens, and which drugs might be used for non-medical purposes.
Learning Reading Strategies with Online Discussion
Authors: Liu I-Fang , Ko Hwa-Wei , Wu Sheng-Yi
Published: August 2014

Teachers experience difficulty demonstrating prediction strategies and leading discussions in traditional classrooms. It is also unclear whether online discussion can contribute to reading comprehension. The purpose of this study is to create an online reading system to investigate whether learners can acquire reading strategies and enhance their reading comprehension through online discussion. Because students who are simultaneously immersed in two learning practices may experience cognitive overload, this combined strategy instruction system was compared to single strategy instruction systems that allow only one learning practice at a time, either prediction or discussion. A total of 110 5th-grade students participated in this study. The results revealed that single strategy instruction was more beneficial to students' reading comprehension, and the reasons combined strategy instruction was less efficient are discussed. Students' prediction types and the quality of discussion between the two instructions were also reported.
Video Game Strategies as Predictors of Academic Achievement
Authors: Hamlen Karla R.
Published: August 2014

The purpose of this study was to investigate relationships between strategies students use to overcome challenges in both video games and homework assignments, and whether or not these are predictors of academic performance in school. Data were collected through an online survey of students, primarily in middle and high school, assessing both video game play strategies and homework strategies. Two separate multiple regression analyses were conducted to examine relationships between video game play strategies and school GPA, and between homework strategies and school GPA. The first regression analysis investigating video game strategies and GPA was significant, F(11, 71) = 2.666, p = .006, with five individual strategies being significantly related to GPA. The second analysis investigating homework strategies and GPA was not significant, F(7, 75) = 1.332, p = .247, with no individual strategies being significantly related to GPA. Findings suggest that future research should explore whether use of just-in-time help-seeking strategies in video games may be a stronger predictor of academic achievement than students' homework strategies.
Contribution of Liraglutide in the Fixed-Ratio Combination of Insulin Degludec and Liraglutide (IDegLira)
Authors: Buse John B. , Vilsbøll Tina , Thurman Jerry , Blevins Thomas C. , Langbakke Irene H. , Bøttcher Susanne G. , Rodbard Helena W.
Published: August 2014

OBJECTIVE

Insulin degludec/liraglutide (IDegLira) is a novel combination of insulin degludec (IDeg) and liraglutide. This trial investigated the contribution of the liraglutide component of IDegLira versus IDeg alone on efficacy and safety in patients with type 2 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

In a 26-week, double-blind trial, patients with type 2 diabetes (A1C 7.5–10.0% [58–86 mmol/mol]) on basal insulin (20–40 units) and metformin with or without sulfonylurea/glinides were randomized (1:1) to once-daily IDegLira + metformin or IDeg + metformin with titration aiming for fasting plasma glucose between 4 and 5 mmol/L. Maximum allowed doses were 50 dose steps (equal to 50 units IDeg plus 1.8 mg liraglutide) and 50 units for IDeg. The primary end point was change in A1C from baseline.

RESULTS

A total of 413 patients were randomized (mean A1C 8.8% [73 mmol/mol]; BMI 33.7 kg/m2). IDeg dose, alone or as part of IDegLira, was equivalent (45 units). A1C decreased by 1.9% (21 mmol/mol) with IDegLira and by 0.9% (10 mmol/mol) with IDeg (estimated treatment difference −1.1% [95% CI −1.3, −0.8], −12 mmol/mol [95% CI −14, −9; P < 0.0001). Mean weight reduction with IDegLira was 2.7 kg vs. no weight change with IDeg, P < 0.0001. Hypoglycemia incidence was comparable (24% for IDegLira vs. 25% for IDeg). Overall adverse events were similar, and incidence of nausea was low in both groups (IDegLira 6.5% vs. IDeg 3.5%).

CONCLUSIONS

IDegLira achieved glycemic control superior to that of IDeg at equivalent insulin doses without higher risk of hypoglycemia and with the benefit of weight loss. These findings establish the efficacy and safety of IDegLira and the distinct contribution of the liraglutide component.
Reconstruction of historical noise exposure data for environmental epidemiology in Switzerland within the SiRENE project
Authors: Karipidis Ioannis , Vienneau Danielle , Habermacher Manuel , Köpflii Micha , Brink Mark , Probst-Hensch Nicole , Röösli Martin , Wunderli Jean-Marc
Published: August 2014

In 2014 the three-year interdisciplinary study SiRENE (Short and Long Term Effects of Traffic Noise Exposure) was launched in Switzerland. The goal of SiRENE is to investigate acute, short- and long-term e_ects of road, railway and aircraft noise exposure on annoyance, sleep disturbances and cardio-metabolic risk.

The study is based on a detailed Swiss-wide assessment of transportation noise exposure, including diurnal distributions. The exposure analysis comprises current as well as historical exposure calculations for up to 20 years in the past.

We present the major challenges of compiling sufficient data to support a Swiss-wide model for all buildings and including all transport infrastructure as a basis for the subsequent SiRENE sound exposure analysis for the years 2011, 2001 and 1991. The task is particularly challenging for the early years due to poor data quality and/or lack of availability. We address the integration of geo-referenced input datasets from various sources and time periods, the assignment of tra_c noise exposure from façade points to dwelling units, as well as the processing of traffic information and statistics. Preliminary results of the noise exposure calculations are presented.
Usefulness of Composite Restoration in Direct Esthetic Closure of Midline Gap
Authors: Chałas Renata , Orłowski Mirosław , Sękowska Anna
Published: August 2014

Introduction. Midline gap (diastema) is a space between two teeth, commonly between two incisors. The treatment can be provided by orthodontic, conservative (restorative) or prosthetic methods.

Aim. The aim of the study was an assessment of using direct composite restoration in aesthetic closing of diastema.

Material and methods. The space correction between teeth was performed among female and male adult patients with diastema of 3 to 6 mm. The microhybrid resin composite was used for the composite build-ups with a help of celluloid or silicon matrix due to its good handling properties and shade matching, and polishability properties.

Results. Depending on the size of diastema, the partial or total closing was done to achieve the cosmetic effect. The obtained clinical results were highly assessed both by dentists and patients. It was possible to obtain optimal aesthetic results with resin composite restorations only.

Conclusions. The simple closure of diastema with direct composite reconstructions can result in successful outcome and patient's satisfaction.
Multidimensional Risk Management for Underground Electricity Networks
Authors: Garcez Thalles V. , Szufel Przemyslaw
Published: August 2014

In the paper we consider an electricity provider company that makes decision on allocating resources on electric network maintenance. The investments decrease malfunction rate of network nodes. An accidental event (explosion, fire, etc.) or a malfunctioning on underground system can have various consequences and in different perspectives, such as deaths and injuries of pedestrians, fires in nearby locations, disturbances in the flow of vehicular traffic, loss to the company image, operating and financial losses, etc. For this reason it is necessary to apply an approach of the risk management that considers the multidimensional view of the consequences. Furthermore an analysis of decision making should consider network dependencies between the nodes of the electricity distribution system. In the paper we propose the use of the simulation to assess the network effects (such as the increase of the probability of other accidental event and the occurrence of blackouts of the dependent nodes) in the multidimensional risk assessment in electricity grid. The analyzed effects include node overloading due to malfunction of adjacent nodes and blackouts that take place where there is temporarily no path in the grid between the power plant and a node. The simulation results show that network effects have crucial role for decisions in the network maintenance – outcomes of decisions to repair a particular node in the network can have significant influence on performance of other nodes. However, those dependencies are non-linear. The effects of network connectivity (number of connections between nodes) on its multidimensional performance assessment depend heavily on the overloading effect level. The simulation results do not depend on network type structure (random or small world) – however simulation outcomes for random networks have shown higher variance compared to small-world networks.