bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Whale sharks, tunas and Azorean fisherman, BFF?
Authors: Fontes Jorge , McGinty Niall , Machete Miguel , Afonso Pedro
Published: July 2019

Background The Azores archipelago lies at the limit of whale shark (WS) distribution in the North Atlantic, where sporadic sightings of “pintado” (local name) date back to the early tuna fishing operation from the mid XX century. From 1998 and 2008, only nine adult whale shark sightings had been confirmed by the Azores Fisheries Observer Program. However, from 2008 onwards there has been a dramatic increase in the numbers of reported adult individuals around the most southern island of Santa Maria. A recent study found that this increase in sighting frequency was related to an increase in local SST (above 22.5°C), and decrease in chlorophyll-a, with local variation around the large seamounts in the area. While whale sharks and tuna have long been known to associate, the nature and motivation of these associations remains unclear. Moreover the WS-tuna associations in the region remain to be characterized as well as the potential impact of fishing these associations. Approach In this study, we analysed a 13-year observer dataset (1998–2011) from the pole-and-line tuna fisheries from the Azores EEZ to investigate the regional behaviour (distribution in catch abundance and composition) of three tuna species, skipjack, bigeye and albacore during this period. We also examined how these patterns have responded to the environmental drivers, the distribution and abundance of whale sharks and compared whale shark associated fishing events and events targeting free swimming schools. We also detailed an elaborate protocol to guide future research to investigate the impact of fishing the WS-tuna associations and test the “functional bycatch” theory by combining state of the art electronic tracking and behaviour technology with physiological proxies of stress and condition of both whale shark and tuna. Results Changes in the distribution the tuna species were evident with the centre of gravity found closest to the whale shark aggregations in the latter years (2008 in particular) and was independent of fishing effort. Between 2008 and 2011 for the areas where whale sharks have been found we find the associated whale shark fishing events have significantly more individuals of skipjack and bigeye tuna and the area surrounding the eastern islands (Santa Maria etc.) also yielded the highest catches per fishing event. The albacore did not show any significant variation in CPUE for either predictor. Overall, catch rates of tuna were higher and multi-species aggregations were more likely when associated with whale sharks. Conclusions Preliminary results suggest that the presence of WS during the tuna fishing season may have an effect on fishing yields and tuna species composition of catches. It is also apparent that the fishing fleet behaviour could be responding to WS distribution and abundance. Our results support the need to investigate the potential detrimental effects that fishing WS-tuna associations may have on both the WS and tuna.
Will the world's biggest fish get any bigger? Limits to the size of filter-feeding fishes over the last 160 million years
Authors: Meekan Mark G.
Published: July 2019

Background Many taxa of marine animals have increased in size through time, with some of the largest that have ever existed being vertebrate filter-feeders targeting plankton. Present day ecological studies show that the size and body structure of whale sharks is likely to reflect a strategy for gigantothermy that conserves heat while foraging in cool deep waters. However, the temperature of the oceans has changed through time, as has the composition of the guild of large, filterfeeding fishes. What do these changes reveal about the evolution and ecology of whale sharks? Approach I synthesise the results of new analyses of the fossils of filter-feeding fishes that were the largest representatives of their guild over the last 160 million years with ecological studies of whale sharks and filter-feeding whales. This analysis offers an opportunity to examine the evolutionary forces that have shaped the biology of whale sharks. Results Throughout time, bony fishes, sharks and whales that were obligate ram filter-feeders attained similar maximum lengths of around 16–20 m and in the case of the whale shark, body masses equal to, or even greater than, many baleen whales today. This shows that ecological niche and mode of feeding are more important drivers of limits to the body size of fishes than phylogeny. Conclusions The relatively small variation in maximum sizes of the largest ram filter-feeders over the last 165 million years suggests that animals within this guild will not continue to increase insize through evolutionary time, but have already attained sizes constrained by their environment and mode of feeding.
Distribution, abundance and mortality of whale sharks (Rhincodon typus) in coastal and offshore waters of Pakistan (Northern Arabian Sea): Review of a ten year study with information on the successful release of whale sharks entangled in fishing gear
Authors: Moazzam Muhammad , Osmany Hamid B. , Nawaz Rab , Ayub Saba
Published: July 2019

Background Whale sharks are frequently found in the coastal and offshore waters of Pakistan, however, no information on whale shark distribution (seasonal and spatial) was available from this area. Approach A study to investigate the interaction of whale sharks with commercial fisheries gear was initiated. Data on various parameters of dead and live animals observed during 2005 through December 2014 was collected from the coastal and offshore waters of Pakistan. Additionally fishermen were trained to release entangled whale sharks from the fishing gears. Results Whale sharks are commonly found throughout the year all along the coast of Pakistan, however, the area between Ras Malan and Churna Island and the offshore Indus Delta (between Khajar and off Ghora Bari) seem to be two main hotspots for whale sharks. Sharks were mainly abundant during May to June and October to December. Newborn pups were observed during October and November, whereas juveniles were seen during December through March. Data about morphometry and other parameters was collected from a total of 76 dead specimens which were landed mainly at the Karachi Fish Harbour since 2005. In addition, information from 24 live specimens was recorded between 2013 and 2015. It was observed that the main cause of mortality of whale sharks in Pakistan is their entanglement in gillnet fishing gear deployed in coastal and neritic waters. In addition, a few specimens died from entrapment in trawl nets, but very rarely in line gears. In order to conserve the population of whale sharks in Pakistan an awareness programme was started, and fishermen were trained to safely release entangled whale sharks. Through this initiative, a total of 17 whale sharks were safely released from gillnets between October 2013 and December 2015. Conclusion Whale sharks are found throughout the year along the Pakistan coast. They are facing serious threats from fishing operations. Among these, gillnets are the main gear responsible for shark mortality. Through an awareness programme and training, 17 entangled whale sharks were released by fishermen in a span of 27 months.
Sustaining whale shark tourism in a diminishing population
Authors: Reeve-Arnold Katie E. , Kinni Joonas , Newbigging Ross , Pierce Simon J. , Roques Kim
Published: July 2019

Background Tofo, Mozambique has been reported as having a year-round whale shark population (Pierce et. al., 2010). An important facet of Tofo's tourism industry, which forms a large part of the area's income, has grown up around this whale shark population. Sustainable tourist interaction was investigated and a Code of Conduct voluntarily imposed. However a decline in whale shark sightings in Tofo has brought the sustainability of this population and ecotourism approach into question. Approach Commercial whale shark snorkelling trips have been routinely accompanied/participated in from 2008 to present. Photo identification records have been collected to establish residency, seasonality and other sighting trends. Whale shark encounters, tourist and whale shark behaviour and environmental information are routinely recorded. Surveys of tourists were conducted to elucidate motivation, code of conduct compliance, local economical benefit and satisfaction amongst other factors. Results Over the 8 year study period a decline in whale sharks seen on snorkelling trips in Tofo was observed. These data demonstrate a drop from 1.35 whale shark encounters per snorkelling trip, and a 65% chance of an encounter on any given trip (analysed over a 12 mth period in 2011/12) to just 0.54 whale shark encounters per snorkel trip, and just a 35% chance of an encounter on any given trip (over a 12 month period in 2015/16). For the tourism industry this literally translates as replacement of the phrase ‘you are likely to see a whale shark’ with ‘you are not likely to see a whale shark’ on any given snorkelling trip. Both numbers of new sharks seen and re-sightings have fallen. Photo ID collaboration with the international whale shark database shows no evidence that large numbers of Mozambique sharks have migrated to other aggregation sites, suggesting the ecotourism location has not simply shifted. Whale shark specific tourism has become very important to the economy of Tofo and Mozambique as a whole. Interviews of tourists currently in process, will address the satisfaction of those who participate in snorkel trips and the durability of this industry in light of the falling population. Conclusions The whale shark encounter rate in Tofo has significantly declined. However, this need not result in the abortion of this successful ecotourism approach, which has made whale shark conservation financially important in Mozambique. Whale sharks may still be used as an important attractant but tourist satisfaction should/can be maintained, despite reduction in sightings, through diversification of snorkelling goals. These findings develop new approaches to facilitate ongoing whale shark-friendly ecotourism in all locations where whale shark sightings are in decline. This study depicts a way forward which maintains the financial value of whale sharks, so continuing to encourage their conservation and study.
Djibouti – a kindergarten for whale sharks?
Authors: Rowat David R.L. , Leblond Savinien T. , Pardigon Bruno , Vely Michel , Jouannet Daniel , Webster Imogen A.
Published: July 2019

Background An aggregation of juvenile whale sharks were first reported off Arta, Djibouti, in 2003 and formally investigated in 2006. Standardised monitoring started in 2009 to establish the demographics of this aggregation and how it relates to the broader Red Sea and Indian Ocean whale shark population. Approach Photo-identification images have been collected from 2003 to present. Satellite relayed archival tags have been deployed to show longer term movements and tissue samples have been collected for DNA. Plankton and environmental information are routinely recorded. For the last two years digital Photo-IDs were collected by volunteers at the local dive operation to enable a longer annual study period to help establish seasonality and sighting trends. Results During 2003–2015, a total of 503 individual sharks were identified by photo-identification from more than 6300 in-water encounters; a maximum of 181 individuals were recorded in a single year. Overall 85% of sharks identified were males and mean body total length ranged from 3.5–4.3 m among years, with no significant difference between sexes. Sharks which were sighted in more than one year had a mean period of inter-annual residency of 4 years (maximum 11 years, n=3). Using data from 2003–2015, mark and recapture models estimated a gross population of 660–777 with 53–78% of individuals being re-sighted in any one year. Satellite tag data showed tagged individuals left the immediate area and travelled into the Red Sea and Northern Indian Ocean; however, 2 of the 3 PAT tagged sharks were seen off Djibouti in subsequent years. Diving depth data showed all sharks made short duration dives to depths greater than 400 m (maximum 832 m) but that all spent at least 45% of the time within 10 m of the surface and an average of 73% of the time shallower than 40 m. Comparison with plankton and environmental data showed that sharks were associated primarily with high plankton concentrations and swimming crab (possibly Charybdis erythrodactyla) spawning events. Conclusions The Arta area off Djibouti is host to a regular and significant aggregation of whale sharks. The average size of the sharks is smaller than those found in other Indian Ocean coastal aggregations suggesting that this may be an intermediate or kindergarten group from which the sharks will leave as they grow to join other juvenile aggregations. Satellite tracking and photo ID support the movement of sharks into Red Sea aggregations.
Whale shark behavior with swimmers and boats present during tourism activities in the northern Mexican Caribbean
Authors: Trujillo-Córdova Jorge A. , Palomo N. CÁrdenas , Herrera E. Mimila , Mendoza O.F. Reyes
Published: July 2019

Background Whale shark watching and swimming are two of the most popular activities for tourists in the northern Mexican Caribbean. Each year since 2002, these activities have had an exponential growth, which could represent a hazard for whale sharks. It is important to monitor the tourism effect on whale shark behavior to take sustainable management measures concerning the use of this natural resource. Approach Whale shark behavior monitoring was conducted from June to September in 2014 and 2015. In order to know the effects of tourism activities and their influence on feeding behaviors and diving paths shown by whale sharks, we conducted surveys to observe whale shark behavior with and without tourism activities (swimmers and boats). Results The monitoring effort in 2014 and 2015 for whale shark surface behavior includes 571 minutes on video, of which 414 minutes include whale shark behavior during tourism activities, and 157 minutes without tourists present. In 2014, 26 whale sharks were observed without tourism activity, and 56% of these sharks showed ram feeding behavior near the surface from the beginning to the end of the observation. 42 whale sharks were observed with tourism; at the beginning of the observation 48% of these sharks presented ram feeding behavior near the surface, but this behavior decreased to 29% to the end of the observation. In 2015, only 7 whale sharks were observed without tourism interactions; 57% had ram feeding behavior from the beginning to the end of the observations. 51 whale sharks were observed with tourism interactions, where 31% of these sharks had ram feeding behavior at the beginning of the survey, but it decreased to 27% by the end of the survey. For 2014, the main behavior was ram feeding behavior. In 2015, the main behavior showed by whale sharks during tourism interactions was diving path behavior (37%). Conclusions Tourism activity might have an effect on whale shark behavior and on surface sightings, indicating a decrease in the surface feeding time in one of the most important feeding aggregations for whale sharks in the northern Mexican Caribbean. Precautionary measures are necessary for adaptive management of tourism activities and the whale sharks in this area.
Caregiver reactions and social provisions among family members caring for home-dwelling patients with cancer in the palliative phase: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Fjose Marianne , Eilertsen Grethe , Kirkevold Marit , Grov Ellen K.
Published: July 2019

Objective: Studies focusing on the impact of caregiving for older adult home-dwelling patients with cancer in the palliative phase, particularly the burdens on different family caregiver groups, are limited. The objective of this study was to assess and compare caregiver reactions and social provisions among different family caregiver groups in Norway.Methods: The sample consisted of 58 family members caring for 26 home-dwelling older adult patients with advanced cancer. The Caregiver Reaction Assessment and Social Provisions Scale were used to assess the caregiver reactions and social support, respectively. The analyses were performed using descriptive statistics.Results: Significant differences were revealed between the family caregiver groups in the following three dimensions of the Caregiver Reaction Assessment: impact on schedule, lack of family support and impact on health. Significant differences were revealed between the family caregiver groups in the following two dimensions of the Social Provisions Scale: nurturance and attachment.Conclusions: In our study, children and children-in-law caring for widowed patients and spouses were the most vulnerable family caregivers. We recommend assessing the caregiver situation of all available family members caring for older adult patients with advanced cancer to identify the most vulnerable caregivers.
Access to Elective Orthopaedic Surgery After the Affordable Care Act Medicaid Expansion: The New York State Experience
Authors: Williamson Tyler R. , Paoli Albit R. , Hutzler Lorraine , Zuckerman Joseph , Bosco Joseph
Published: July 2019

Background:

As part of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, states were given the option of expanding Medicaid coverage to include adults younger than age 65 years with income at or below 138% of the federal poverty level. Although this expansion was intended to provide health care coverage to an estimated 20 million Americans, several studies have shown increased coverage does not equate to increased access to care by specialty providers.

Methods:

We queried the New York Statewide Planning and Research Cooperative System database and identified all patients who underwent the 10 most common elective orthopaedic surgeries from January 1, 2012, through March 31, 2016. Medicaid monthly enrollment for the 4-year study period was obtained from NY Department of Health Medicaid Managed Care Enrollment Reports.

Results:

Our query identified 700,159 patients who underwent the investigated orthopaedic surgeries. Of these, 60,786 were Medicaid recipients. During the 4-year study period, Medicaid enrollment and the number of procedures reimbursed by Medicaid increased significantly (P < 0.001 for both).

Conclusions:

Affordable Care Act–supported Medicaid expansion was associated with an increase in Medicaid enrollment and a concomitant increase in the utilization of orthopaedic surgery by Medicaid beneficiaries in New York State.
Fellow Versus Resident: Graduate Medical Education and Patient Outcomes After Anterior Cervical Diskectomy and Fusion Surgery
Authors: Galetta Matthew S. , Fang Taolin , Goyal Dhruv K.C. , Divi Srikanth N. , Schroeder Gregory D. , Kepler Christopher K. , Vaccaro Alexander R.
Published: July 2019

Introduction:

The effect of spine fellow versus orthopaedic surgery resident assistance on outcomes in anterior cervical diskectomy and fusion (ACDF) has not been well studied. The objective of this study was to determine differences in patient health-related outcomes based on the level of surgical trainees.

Methods:

Consecutive cases of ACDF (n = 407) were reviewed at a single high-volume institution between 2015 and 2017 and were separated into two groups based on whether they were fellow-assisted or resident-assisted. Demographic and clinical variables were recorded, and health-related quality of life was evaluated using the Short Form-12 (SF-12) survey. The SF-12, visual analog scale pain score, and neck disability index were compared between the two groups. Surgery level, surgical time, preoperative Charlson Comorbidity Index, estimated blood loss, equivalent morphine use, perioperative complications, and 30-day readmission were also recorded. Patient outcomes were compared using an unpaired t-test as well as multivariate linear regression, controlling for age, sex, body mass index, Charlson Comorbidity Index, presurgical visual analog scale, SF-12, and neck disability index. Results were reported with the 95% confidence interval.

Results:

Spine surgery fellows and orthopaedic surgery residents participated in 228 and 179 ACDF cases, respectively. No notable demographic differences between the two groups were found. A higher proportion of three or more level ACDF surgeries assisted by fellows versus residents was found. Estimated blood loss was greater in fellow-assisted ACDF cases. Both surgery time and total time in the room were also longer in the fellow-assisted ACDF group. No 30-day readmissions were found in either groups, and only one case of acute hemorrhagic anemia was found in the fellow-assisted group. Overall, postoperative complications were higher in the resident group; however, no difference with regard to intraoperative complications between groups was found.

Discussion:

This study shows that patient health-related outcomes are similar in ACDF cases that were fellow-assisted versus resident-assisted. However, fellow-assisted ACDF cases were associated with more blood loss and longer surgery time.
Flexibility of Polymers Defined and Related to Dynamic Friction
Authors: Brostow Witold , Lobland Haley E. Hagg , Hong Hee Jae , Lohse Sven , Osmanson Allison T.
Published: July 2019

We have quantitatively defined flexibility of polymers. Flexibility Y is not an inverse of the brittleness B, rather, the two equations are compared. The expression for flexibility includes the specific volume and the summation of the strengths of chemical bonds-a concept introduced by Linus Pauling. The flexibility is plotted as a function of dynamic friction, resulting in a representative single curve for polymers.
Determinants of Households’ Agricultural and Energy Associated Greenhouse Gases Emissions among Smallholders in Western Kenya
Authors: Mwaura F. M. , Ngigi M. , Obare G.
Published: July 2019

Global efforts in reducing greenhouse gases (GHG) emissions and mitigating the impacts of climate change necessitates prioritization of developing effective strategies for estimating per capita carbon footprint, forecasting and addressing the major drivers. A survey was administered among 380 agricultural households in western Kenya with specific objectives of i) to utilize various emissions indices to establish total households emissions, ii) to establish households production and consumption related GHGs’ emissions and iii) determine socio-economic factors influencing per adult equivalent GHGs’ emissions at the households. Four cluster Sub-counties including Mt. Elgon, Bumula, Bungoma North and Sabatia were purposively sampled as influenced by agro-ecological, socio-economic, agricultural production and biomass energy sourcing characteristics for the study. A pre-set questionnaire was used to collect demographic, agricultural production, and energy sourcing and utilization information. Using the survey, households various agricultural activities and levels of utilization of agricultural inputs and energy sources were quantified. The quantified values were multiplied by respective emission’s factor derived from global statistics to estimate total emission. Enteric emissions accounted for 98 percent of livestock management associated GHGs. Every household emitted 2922kg CO2 Equivalent (Eq) from livestock management per annum. Maize associated GHGs emission in 2017 was 12817kg CO2 Eq with 81, 13 and 6 percent linked to residue decomposition, organic soil management and soil nutrient replenishment respectively. Maize production, biomass cooking energy, livestock management and lighting accounted for 47, 37, 13 and 3 percent respectively of total household emissions. Factors that significantly influenced adult equivalent GHGs emissions were consumption expenditure (P<0.01), household size (P<0.01), maize yield (P<0.01) and geographical locations. Efforts to reduce households GHGs emissions need to address adoption of clearner cooking and lighting energy, efficiency in livestock production and use of inorganic farming inputs for crop production.
Capacity Building for Sustainable Development: The Experience of Developing a Professional Diploma in Energy-Efficient Buildings
Authors: Muhaisen Ahmed S. , Asfour Omar S. , Schuss Matthias
Published: July 2019

The implementation of energy-efficiency measures in building design is an essential strategy in the context of sustainable development; however, this requires plans for capacity building to improve the capabilities of engineers working in the construction sector. The role of higher education institutions in this context is essential. In the Gaza Strip, the issue of energy efficiency in buildings has gained increased attention on undergraduate and graduate education levels; however, there is a lack of specialised programs to address this issue based on a holistic design approach. Thus, a survey was carried out with local specialists and engineers using a workshop and questionnaire to investigate the potential of a proposed professional diploma in energy-efficient buildings. The study used a mixed qualitative and quantitative approach to examine the importance, topics and potential impact of this program in the Gaza Strip. The study concluded that such a program is essential for Gaza considering the ongoing electricity shortage and the future need for sustainable development plans. The study recommends implementation, evaluation and development of such a program in the rest of Palestinian governorates as a response to the current and future energy challenges.
Sustainable Development Goals Synergies/Trade-offs: Exploring Long- and Short-Run Impacts of Economic Growth, Income Inequality, Energy Consumption and Unemployment on Carbon Dioxide Emissions in South Africa
Authors: Ngankam Bertrand Tessa
Published: July 2019

This study examines the short- and long-run impacts of economic growth and unemployment (SDG 8), energy consumption (SDG 7) and income inequality (SDG 10) on CO2 emissions in South Africa over the period 1980-2012 to establish potential synergy/trade-off to achieve these goals. We use the autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) approach to cointegration technique. Our results show that the promotion of economic growth (SDG 8) as well as the reduction in energy consumption/increase in energy efficiency (SDG 7) can be achieved in synergy with the reduction of CO2 emissions (SDG 13). On the other hand, our results suggest a trade-off between reducing unemployment rate or achieving productive employment and decent work (SGD 8) and mitigating CO2 emissions (SDG 13). Neither a synergy nor trade-off (neutral relationship) is found between the reduction of income inequality (SDG 10) and the reduction of CO2 emissions (SDG 13). Our findings highlight the importance of mainstreaming SDG’s policy interactions to achieve sustainable development goals, while also stressing the potential for South Africa to achieve low-carbon development should economic growth be decoupled from carbon-intensive energy use through policies that promote access and effective use of clean energy. The transition to clean energy is therefore emphasized and relevant factors underpinning such as transition should be explored further.

Highlights

This study examines the short- and long-run impacts of economic growth and unemployment (SDG 8), energy consumption (SDG 7) and income inequality (SDG 10) on CO2 emissions in South Africa

The autoregressive distributed lag approach to cointegration is employed

A synergy is established between the promotion of economic growth (SDG 8) and the reduction of CO2 emissions (SDG 13), and between the reduction in energy consumption/increase in energy efficiency (SDG 7) and the reduction of CO2 emissions (SDG 13)

A trade-off is confirmed between reducing unemployment rate or achieving productive employment and decent work (SDG 8) and mitigating CO2 emissions (SDG 13)

A neutral relationship is found between the reduction of income inequality (SDG 10) and the reduction of CO2 emissions (SDG 13)

Policymakers need to mainstream SDG’s policy interactions to achieve sustainable development goals

South Africa can achieve low-carbon development should economic growth be decoupled from carbon-intensive energy use through policies that promote access and effective use of clean energy
Novel Application of Balloon Tamponade in Management of Acute Lower Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage
Authors: Neeki Michael , Raj Vikram , Archambeau Benjamin , Arabian Sarkis , Farabi Hussain Farabi Hussain
Published: July 2019

We present a case of acute lower gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding in the emergency department, in which specialists were not emergently available to render their support. A quick intervention using balloon tamponade technique with a Minnesota tube helped stabilize the patient until intensive care, gastroenterology, and surgical specialists could intervene. We also review previous cases from the literature in which a balloon tamponade method was used to control GI hemorrhage. Our novel application of the Minnesota tube is important for emergency physicians to consider for cases of acute lower GI bleeding, particularly in emergent presentations when specialists are not readily available in-hospital.
Extravasation from a Misplaced Intraosseous Catheter
Authors: Sampson Christopher
Published: July 2019

A 75-year old female presented in cardiac arrest with a right tibial intraosseous (IO) catheter through which prehospital medications were administered. The catheter, which had been placed by emergency medical services, was noted in the emergency department to be misplaced and was removed. Due to extravasation of the medications, the patient suffered localized tissue necrosis and eventually required skin grafting. This case illustrates the importance of confirming appropriate IO placement.
Abdominal Pain in the Elderly: An Unusual Case of Chronic Mesenteric Ischemia in the Emergency Department
Authors: Lacey Julieta , Hughes Robert , Noble Vicki
Published: July 2019

Chronic mesenteric ischemia (CMI) is a rare cause of abdominal pain with the potential for significant morbidity and mortality. An infrequently described complication of CMI is acalculous cholecystitis. Historically, acalculous cholecystitis is thought to be multifactorial and usually occurs in the setting of severe illness. In CMI, the etiology is more likely chronic ischemia to the gallbladder leading to inflammation. We present a case of acalculous cholecystitis that presented insidiously in a patient with CMI.
Munson’s Sign: An Obvious Finding to Explain Acute Vision Loss
Authors: Gold Jake , Chauhan Vijai , Rojanasthien Siripong , Fitzgerald Jennifer
Published: July 2019

Keratoconus is a progressive disorder affecting the cornea, which causes the cornea to become weakened and conical in appearance. The resultant decrease in structural integrity of the cornea predisposes affected individuals to acute corneal hydrops, a break in Descemet’s membrane, the deepest layer of the cornea, resulting in pain and acute vision loss. We present here a case of this little-known cause of acute vision loss, and an example of Munson’s sign, which is a v-shaped protrusion of the lower eyelid on downward gaze that is characteristic of advanced keratoconus. We hope to highlight Munson’s sign as a simple identifier of keratoconus in an otherwise undiagnosed individual suspected of having acute corneal hydrops.
Situs Inversus: Inferior-Lateral ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction on Right-Sided Electrocardiogram
Authors: Hamam Mohamed , Klausner Howard
Published: July 2019

Dextrocardia is a rare anatomical anomaly in which the heart is located in the patient’s right hemithorax with its apex directed to the right. Although it usually does not pose any serious health risks, patients with undiagnosed dextrocardia present a diagnostic challenge especially in those presenting with chest pain. Traditional left-sided electrocardiograms (ECG) inadequately capture the electrical activity of a heart positioned in the right hemithorax, which if unnoticed could delay or even miss an acute coronary syndrome diagnosis. Here, we present a case of a patient with dextrocardia presenting with chest pain and diagnosed with ST-elevation myocardial infarction using a right-sided ECG.
Ventricular Tachycardia Storm Presenting as Vague Complaints to the Emergency Department
Authors: Kamboj Ravneet , Bunch Andy , Bernstein Robert , Counselman Francis
Published: July 2019

We present the case of a 75-year-old man with vague symptoms and hypotension found to be in electrical storm secondary to sustained ventricular tachycardia. The patient did not respond to intravenous amiodarone, magnesium, lidocaine, or four cardioversion attempts. This case illustrates the challenges in managing patients with electrical storm presenting to the emergency department.
Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole-Induced Bradycardia, Renal Failure, AV-Node Blockers, Shock and Hyperkalemia Syndrome
Authors: Diribe Nnaemeka , Le Jacqueline
Published: July 2019

BRASH (bradycardia, renal failure, atrioventricular-node blockers, shock, and hyperkalemia) syndrome is a recently coined term for a condition that describes the severe bradycardia and shock associated with hyperkalemia in patients on atrioventricular (AV)-node blocking agents. The proposed pathophysiology involves a precipitating event that exacerbates renal dysfunction with resulting AV-node blocker and potassium accumulation that act synergistically to precipitate bradycardia and hypotension. This syndrome may be refractory to the usual management of bradycardia. This case describes BRASH syndrome precipitated by trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole.
Influência da temperatura e luminosidade na germinação de sementes das espécies: Selenicereus setaceus, Hylocereus undatus e Hylocereus polyrhizus
Authors:   Universidade Federal da Fronteira Sul, Ruths Rodrigo , Bonome Lisandro Tomas da Silva , Tomazi Yasmin , Siqueira Diogo José , Moura Gabriela Silva , Lima Cláudia Simone Madruga
Published: July 2019

A pitaia é uma frutífera tropical, pertencente à família Cactaceae, com elevado potencial produtivo, nutritivo, econômico e social para a agricultura familiar, sendo uma cultura ainda pouco conhecida e com escassas informações sobre as condições que afetam a germinação das diferentes espécies de pitaia. Assim, o trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar a influência da temperatura e da luminosidade na germinação de sementes de três genótipos de pitaia. Para avaliar o efeito da temperatura na qualidade fisiológica das sementes foram utilizadas as espécies Selenicereus setaceus (pitaia-do-cerrado), Hylocereus undatus (casca vermelha e polpa branca) e Hylocereus polyrhizus (casca vermelha rosada e polpa vermelha) submetidas à germinação em sete temperaturas (15 °C, 20 °C, 25 °C, 30 °C e 35 °C, e em temperaturas alternadas: 15-25 ºC e 20-30 ºC, todas com fotoperíodo de 12 horas). As avaliações realizadas foram: porcentagem de germinação, índice de velocidade de germinação e tempo para ocorrência de 50% de germinação. Para a avaliação da influência da luminosidade, as sementes foram acondicionadas em frasco envolto por papel alumínio, a fim de proteger as sementes de qualquer contato com luminosidade, e armazenadas em refrigerador em temperatura de 10 ± 2 °C por 365 dias. Após, foram submetidas ao tratamento com e sem luz e mantidas em BOD por 11 dias, quando se realizou a contagem das plântulas normais. As temperaturas para o máximo desempenho fisiológico das sementes das três espécies de pitaia foram de 25 °C e 20-30 ºC. Por outro lado, a temperatura mais desfavorável foi de 35 °C. A espécie Selenicereus setaceus apresentou maior percentual de germinação e vigor em todas as temperaturas avaliadas. As espécies avaliadas demonstraram ser fotoblásticas positivas.
Atributos do solo e produtividade do milho cultivado em sucessão a plantas de cobertura de inverno
Authors:   Instituto Federal Farroupilha, Campus São Vicente do Sul., Michelon Cleudson José , Junges Emanuele , Casali Carlos Alberto ,   niversidade Tecnológica Federal do Paraná Campus Dois Vizinhos., Pellegrini João Batista Rossetto ,   Instituto Federal Farroupilha, Campus Frederico Westphalen., Neto Lethícia Rosa ,   Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM), Oliveira Zanandra Boff de ,   Universidade Federal de Santa Maria Campus Cachoeira do Sul., Oliveira Marília Boff de ,   Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM)
Published: July 2019

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o efeito de diferentes plantas de cobertura de inverno na fertilidade do solo e produtividade da cultura do milho. O experimento foi conduzido por três safras agrícolas, de 2011 a 2014. Os tratamentos utilizados foram as plantas de coberturas de inverno ervilhaca, aveia preta, tremoço azul, nabo forrageiro, azevém e ervilha forrageira cultivadas isoladamente, além dos consórcios aveia preta com ervilhaca, aveia preta com nabo forrageiro e ervilhaca, aveia preta com nabo forrageiro e uma parcela controle, sem uso de plantas de cobertura (Pousio). O delineamento experimental foi de blocos ao acaso com três repetições. Em três safras agrícolas foram avaliados os atributos químicos e físicos do solo, o rendimento de massa seca da parte aérea das plantas de cobertura e o rendimento de grãos do milho cultivado em sucessão. A ervilha forrageira produziu mais matéria seca na safra 2011/2012, enquanto os consórcios aveia + ervilhaca e aveia + nabo + ervilhaca produziram mais nas safras de 2012/2013 e 2013/2014. O rendimento de grãos de milho foi maior em sucessão a fabáceas e consórcios na safra 2011/2012 e em sucessão a aveia + ervilhaca + nabo e tremoço nas safras 2012/2013 e 2013/2014. O cultivo de plantas de cobertura por três anos consecutivos resultou em incremento nos teores de matéria orgânica e na disponibilidade de fósforo e potássio no solo.
Enraizamento de estacas caulinares de Passiflora actinia Hook: concentrações de IBA e formas de aplicação
Authors:   Universidade Federal do Paraná, Tomazzoli Maíra Maciel , Fagundes Cintia de Moraes , Amatussi Juliana de Oliveira , Breiter Bruna Santos Klein , Zuffellato-Ribas Katia Christina
Published: July 2019

O maracujá-do-mato (Passiflora actinia Hook) é utilizado como porta-enxerto para diferentes espécies de maracujá devido à sua tolerância à baixas temperaturas. Objetivou-se neste trabalho avaliar a eficiência da técnica de estaquia caulinar na propagação vegetativa de P. actinia em função de concentrações de ácido indol butírico (IBA) e método de aplicação. O experimento foi conduzido em casa de vegetação da Universidade Federal do Paraná, no período de agosto a outubro de 2016. Estacas semilenhosas com 10 cm de comprimento foram tratadas com 0, 1.500 e 3.000 mg Kg-1/mg L-1 de IBA na forma de talco e em solução, plantadas em tubetes, o substrato foi vermiculita. Após 60 dias, foram avaliadas a porcentagem de enraizamento, presença de calos, sobrevivência, brotações novas, número de raízes/estacas e comprimento médio da maior raiz. A maior porcentagem de enraizamento (85,94%) e número de raízes/estaca foram encontradas nos tratamentos com IBA na forma de talco, nas concentrações de 3.000 mg kg-1 e 1.500 mg Kg-1, respectivamente. A estaquia de P. actinia é um método de propagação eficiente. O uso de IBA, em ambas as formas de aplicação, promoveu de forma eficiente o enraizamento da espécie, sendo recomendada a aplicação na concentração de 1.500 mg Kg-1 ou mg L-1.
Níveis de infestação de Zaprionus indianus (Diptera: Drosophilidae) em diferentes frutos hospedeiros
Authors:   Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, RS, Brasil., Vieira Júlia Gabriela Aleixo , Wollmann Jutiane , Schlesener Daniele Cristine Hoffmann , Mendes Sávio Ritta , Garcia Flávio Roberto Mello
Published: July 2019

A mosca-do-figo, Zaprionus indianus Gupta, 1970 (Diptera: Drosophilidae) é uma espécie generalista, mas importante economicamente na cultura do figo, onde é considerada praga primária. Esse estudo teve como objetivo verificar os níveis de infestação natural de Z. indianus em frutos de amora, araçá, fisális, goiaba, mirtilo, morango e pitanga na região sul do Brasil. Os índices foram calculados por meio do número de moscas emergidas por fruto e do número de moscas por massa (kg) de fruto. Os maiores índices de infestação (mosca/kg) foram verificados em amoras (1295), araçás (1253) e pitangas (1016), enquanto que para o segundo índice (M/n) os maiores índices foram verificados em goiabas (26,17), araçás (11,87) e morangos (10,27). Frutos coletados diretamente da planta foram mais infestados em relação a frutos coletados no solo, o que pode ser devido ao ataque inicial de Drosophila suzukii (Matsumura, 1931) (Diptera: Drosophilidae) e Anastrepha spp., pragas já disseminadas na região.
Identidad territorial, agro y políticas públicas. Reflexiones históricas sobre las desigualdades regionales en la Argentina hasta mediados del siglo XX
Authors: Girbal-Blacha Noemí María
Published: July 2019

Este estudio histórico se propone abordar -en el escenario de la Argentina Moderna y hasta mediados del siglo XX- las característi-cas de la organización del territorio en tanto parte de la identidad nacional, la acción del Estado y su burocracia técnica, así como el alcance de las políticas públicas agrarias, conceptualmente defi-nidas. El objetivo es dar cuenta de los desequilibrios regionales, en un país que concentra alrededor de las tres cuartas partes de su población, su infraestructura y su producción agraria y agroin-dustrial en una cuarta parte del territorio. Una situación que logra trascender los cambios políticos y gubernamentales ocurridos. Conocer sus causas y consecuencias es parte del desafío que se emprende en estas páginas.

This historical research intends to tackle – in Modern Argentina and until the mid-twentieth century - the characteristics of the territorial organization as part of the national identity, the State action and its technical bureaucracy together with the scope of the agrarian public policies, conceptually identified. The aim is to show the regional inequalities in a country that concentrates about three-quarters of its population, its infrastructure and its agrarian production and agro-industrial in one quarter of the territory. A situtation that moves beyond political and governmental changes. One of the challenges of these pages is to know the causes and consequences.
Evolución histórica de la protección ambiental en la minería en España
Authors: Ramírez Sánchez-Maroto Carlos
Published: July 2019

En este trabajo se analiza la gestación de la normativa de protección ambiental relacionada con las actividades mineras, así como disposiciones específicas mineras que se fueron aprobando y tuvieron incidencia para reducir los efectos negativos al medio natural. Las normativas mineras que se aprobaron en la Edad Moderna preveían algunas medidas a fin de evitar perjuicios a la agricultura, ganado y a pueblos en el entorno de actividades mineras. En el siglo XIX, con un Estado liberal, se fueron aprobando lentamente a partir de mitad de siglo diversas leyes y reglamentos mineros, debido a conflictos sociales, que introdujeron medidas con efectos de protección a la salud y al medio natural. Con un mayor grado de intervencionismo estatal en el siglo XX se fueron aprobando, en un contexto de presión de grupos sociales afectados, diversas normas sectoriales de protección a ríos y arroyos. La Ley de Minas vigente introdujo que se aprobase por decreto el fijar las condiciones imperativas de protección del ambiente, siendo el origen del primer Real Decreto de restauración de actividades mineras de 1982.

This paper analyzes the gestation of environmental protec-tion regulations related to mining activities, as well as specific mining provisions that were approved and had an impact to reduce the negative effects to the natural environment. The mining regulations that were approved in the Modern Age envisaged some measures in order to avoid damage to agri-culture, livestock and to villages in the environment of mining activities. In the XIX century, with a liberal State, several laws and mining regulations were slowly being adopted from the middle of the century, due to social conflicts, which introduced measures with health and natural protection effects. With a greater de-gree of state interventionism in the XX century, in a context of pressure from affected social groups, various sectoral rules for the protection of rivers and streams were approved. The Law of Mines in force introduced that it was approved by decree to fix the imperative conditions of protection of the environ-ment, being the origin of the first Royal Decree of restoration of mining activities of 1982.
Percepción competencial del emprendimiento en personas con discapacidad. Un estudio comparativo
Authors: Olaz Capitán Angel José , Ortiz García Pilar
Published: July 2019

El propósito de este trabajo es identificar a través de la comparativa entre dos colectivos: personas con discapacidad que desarrollan actividades de emprendimiento y el de técnicos de la Administración Regional relacionados con este ámbito qué dimensiones y aspectos competenciales favorecen y / o limitan la actividad emprendedora de las personas con algún tipo de discapacidad física y/o sensorial. Desde una perspectiva metodológica cualitativa y en base a muestras estructurales, el análisis se desarrolló a través de dos herramientas: la Técnica Nominal de Grupo para identificar dimensiones de análisis y el test Emotional Competence Intelligence para ponderar qué competencias psicosociales eran claves en la comprensión del fenómeno. Tras el análisis en cada uno de estos colectivos este trabajo concluye estableciendo las oportunas conclusiones comparativas.

The aim of this work is to identify through the comparison between two groups: people with disabilities who develop entrepreneurship activities and technicians of the Regional Administration related to this area which dimensions and competencies favour and / or limit the entrepreneurial activity of people with some kind of physical and / or sensory disability. From a qualitative methodological perspective and based on structural samples, the analysis was developed through two tools: the Nominal Group Technique to identify dimensions of analysis and the Emotional Competence Intelligence test to assess which psychosocial competences were key in understanding the phenomenon. After the analysis in each of these groups this work concludes establishing the appropriate comparative conclusions.