Community health worker training for infant hearing health: effectiveness of distance learning.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a distance training program in infant hearing health to community health workers (CHWs). DESIGN: Pre- and post- tests were administered to two groups of subjects following the use of an interactive CD-ROM for tele-educational training. STUDY SAMPLE: Two groups of subjects were used: Group I (GI) consisted of 43 CHWs who had previously participated in at least one training activity involving hearing health, and Group II (GII) were 47 CHWs who had received no prior training in hearing health. RESULTS: CHWs retained a significant amount of training content. There was not significant correlation between the global post-training questionnaire score and performance on the simulation activity (GI: r = 0.11, p = 0.698 and GII: r = 0.29, p = 0.074), and the simulation activity performance was significantly better among GI CHWs (p = 0.05). CONCLUSION: The CHWs' training in infant hearing health using an interactive tele-educational tool was effective, as the CHW demonstrated significant short-term information retention and applied such data in hypothetical situations representative of their daily activities.

Trauma ocular por explosão acidental de disco compacto / Ocular trauma due to accidental compact disc outburst

Apesar de rara, a ocorrência de lesão ocular devido à explosão acidental de disco compacto pode ser responsável por graves lesões no globo ocular. No presente artigo é relatado caso de perfuração corneana com trauma cristaliniano causado pela quebra intencional de disco compacto. Trata-se de paciente com 44 anos, sexo feminino, médica, avaliada em caráter de urgência com queixas de BAV, fotofobia, lacrimejamento e sensação de corpo estranho no OD, iniciados após presenciar quebra intencional de disco compacto. Apresentava perfuração corneana central, com sinal de Seidel positivo e lesão de cápsula anterior do cristalino com opacificação cortical anterior subjacente. A AV corrigida no OD era de 0,1. Tratada com lente de contato hidrofílica terapêutica e instilações tópicas regulares de solução antibiótica e hipotensora ocular, evoluiu com cicatrização da lesão corneana e estabilização da opacidade do cristalino. Decorridos 24 meses do trauma, sua refração encontrava-se semelhante aos valores prévios ao acidente e a acuidade visual era de 1,0 (-1).

Despite being rare, ocular injury due to a compact disc burst can be responsible for severe ocular damage. We present in this article a case of corneal perforation in addition to lens trauma caused by intentional compact disc break. A 44 year old female physician was examined complaining of visual acuity decrease, light sensitivity, tearing and foreign body sensation on OD after watching a compact disc being broken intentionally. In the first examination, she had a corneal perforation with aqueous humor leakage, anterior lens capsule lesion and anterior cortical opacity. The visual acuity was 0.1. She was treated with a therapeutic soft contact lens and the regular use of topical antibiotic and hypotension solutions, evolving with the healing of the corneal injury and lens opacity stabilization. Twenty four months later, the OD refraction was similar to that measured before the trauma and the visual acuity was 1.0 (-1).

Strabismus surgery learning for Ophthalmology residents of university service.

PURPOSE: To verify Ophthalmology resident's and supervisor's perceptions regarding learning and teaching strabismus surgery. DESIGN: Descriptive Study. SUBJECTS: 1(st) and 2(nd) year residents. Each resident studied the standard strabismus surgery technique on a CD-ROM, then performed a rabbit rectus muscle recession and a strabismus surgery on a patient. A structured questionnaire was handed to the residents, and the authors made observations including variables referring to the surgical technique applied, self-evaluation of this technique and if appropriate training was given. RESULTS: Thirty-eight questionnaires were analysed. All 1(st) year residents (R1) had had some difficulty remembering the surgery sequence and 69.6% of 2(nd) year residents (R2). Concerning the surgical material handling, 93.3% of R1 and 52.2% of R2 had had any difficulty. The residents reported that during the surgery in humans, 50% remembered the experimental stage and that this training completely fulfilled their needs for 47% and partially for other 47%. CONCLUSION: Experimental surgery, more practice opportunities and resident's supervision may improve the teaching of strabismus surgery.

Strabismus surgery learning for Ophthalmology residents of university service / Aprendizado cirúrgico de estrabismo para residentes de Oftalmologia de serviço universitário

PURPOSE: To verify Ophthalmology resident's and supervisor's perceptions regarding learning and teaching strabismus surgery. DESIGN: Descriptive Study. METHODS: Subjects: 1st and 2nd year residents. Each resident studied the standard strabismus surgery technique on a CD-ROM, then performed a rabbit rectus muscle recession and a strabismus surgery on a patient. A structured questionnaire was handed to the residents, and the authors made observations including variables referring to the surgical technique applied, self-evaluation of this technique and if appropriate training was given. RESULTS: Thirty-eight questionnaires were analysed. All 1st year residents (R1) had had some difficulty remembering the surgery sequence and 69.6% of 2nd year residents (R2). Concerning the surgical material handling, 93.3% of R1 and 52.2% of R2 had had any difficulty. The residents reported that during the surgery in humans, 50% remembered the experimental stage and that this training completely fulfilled their needs for 47% and partially for other 47%. CONCLUSION: Experimental surgery, more practice opportunities and resident's supervision may improve the teaching of strabismus surgery.

OBJETIVO: Verificar percepções do residente de Oftalmologia e do supervisor em relação ao método de ensino e ao aprendizado cirúrgico de estrabismo. DESENHO: Estudo descritivo. MÉTODOS: Participantes: residentes do 1º (R1) e 2º (R2) ano. Cada residente estudou a técnica cirúrgica padrão em CD-ROM, então, realizou um retrocesso de músculo reto de coelho albino, e em sequência, cirurgia de correção de estrabismo em pacientes. Foi aplicado questionário estruturado aos residentes, e registradas observações do aprendizado pelo supervisor, incluindo-se variáveis referentes à aplicação da técnica cirúrgica de estrabismo, autoavaliação do domínio da técnica e do treinamento recebido. RESULTADOS: Foram estudados 38 questionários. Todos R1 relataram ter pouca ou média dificuldade em relação à lembrança da sequência de passos do procedimento e 69,6% dos R2. No manuseio do instrumental 93,3% dos R1 relataram algum grau de dificuldade e 52,2% dos R2. Os residentes relatam que no momento cirúrgico lembram do que foi ensinado na fase experimental (50%), e que este treinamento atende totalmente suas necessidades para 47% dos residentes e em parte para outros 47%. CONCLUSÃO: Cirurgia experimental, mais oportunidades práticas e supervisão dos residentes pode aprimorar o ensinamento cirúrgico de estrabismo.

Structuring software anthropometric variables on CD Rom as a facilitator of the process of design of work situations.

The environment where everyday activities are developed, these should be appropriate and the individual who will execute them, for greater efficiency of their work and even if you feel safe, comfortable and satisfied when interacting with that space, expending less energy to this interaction. Given this context, this study aims to structure a software with the results obtained in the field, from anthropometric measure to subsidize the furniture industry in manufacturing of furniture, definition work situations, considering the different anthropometric measurements made between 2001 and 2010, using data from this sample of adults aged 18 to 65 years old and children between 6 and 11 years old. It was convenient to make the software with a site, only instead of staying on the Web has been recorded on CD Rom. Tests with the prototype allow navigation through the structure of the software. The data needed to implement the remaining modules were also raised. Issues related to system layout and usability of the interface also were not considered, because it is an initial prototype.

Development of a CD-ROM on written language for the continuing education of elementary school teachers

Distance education has emerged to minimize the anxiety of many professionals who need to update their knowledge, but do not have the time and opportunity to travel to educational centers. Objectives: To describe the development of a CD-ROM to provide distance continuing education to basic school teachers that addresses issues related to written language. Material and Methods: Previously, a script was developed with themes related to the acquisition and development of written language. Subsequently, a technical team transformed the texts in multimedia language. Results: The titles of each content area addressed are available on buttons and links. The files can be viewed in a linear sequence, allowing the teacher to start learning at the desired moment and go straight to the file that he or she wants to access. Videos that show practical applications of the concepts available in text are included. Conclusions: Brazil is a developing country. The use of technologies for education reduces cultural isolation among education professionals. It is necessary to focus on making teaching materials for distance education. In order to provide an effective learning environment, the learners reality should be considered. A multidisciplinary team should prepare the materials. The development of educational material for distance education on the acquisition and development of written language seems not only appropriate, but also warranted to provide professional growth opportunity for teachers who need time flexibility and/or live far away from academic centers.

Development of an educational software for the learningof obstetric anatomy addressed to nursing

Computational technology, such as software, computer program, has been a great tool for the Teaching-Learning process, mainly in Health Sciences. The aim of this study was to develop software (didactic CD‑ROM)on the Learning process of Obstetric Anatomy for Nursing by means of a judicious choice (Portuguese andEnglish languages) of 107 anatomical keywords related to the Obstetrics and sites related to the theme.This CD-ROM (Macromedia Dreamweaver® a computational tool), addressed to the Learning of ObstetricAnatomy for Nursing, could provide logical apprehension of obstetric anatomical terms from didactic texts,images and sites from Web. The educational software development favors an interaction between experts ofHuman Anatomy, Pedagogy and Computer Science. Computing tools applied to Health Sciences are useful topromote knowledge on virtual environments and to complement the Learning of Obstetric Anatomy.

Development of a CD-ROM on written language for the continuing education of elementary school teachers.

UNLABELLED: Distance education has emerged to minimize the anxiety of many professionals who need to update their knowledge, but do not have the time and opportunity to travel to educational centers. OBJECTIVES: To describe the development of a CD-ROM to provide distance continuing education to basic school teachers that addresses issues related to written language. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Previously, a script was developed with themes related to the acquisition and development of written language. Subsequently, a technical team transformed the texts in multimedia language. RESULTS: The titles of each content area addressed are available on buttons and links. The files can be viewed in a linear sequence, allowing the teacher to start learning at the desired moment and go straight to the file that he or she wants to access. Videos that show practical applications of the concepts available in text are included. CONCLUSIONS: Brazil is a developing country. The use of technologies for education reduces cultural isolation among education professionals. It is necessary to focus on making teaching materials for distance education. In order to provide an effective learning environment, the learners reality should be considered. A multidisciplinary team should prepare the materials. The development of educational material for distance education on the acquisition and development of written language seems not only appropriate, but also warranted to provide professional growth opportunity for teachers who need time flexibility and/or live far away from academic centers.

Aplicação multimídia interativa e educativa sobre saúde bucal orientada a idosos / Multimedia oriented to the education on oral health of the elderly

Diante do quadro delineado pelos levantamentos epidemiológicos, bem como pelos diversos estudos a respeito da saúde bucal do idoso brasileiro, e considerando-se: a ineficiência das políticas públicas existentes, em melhorar essa realidade; a escassez de materiais educacionais apropriados, que se adaptem às necessidades, dificuldades e características da população idosa, foi desenvolvida uma aplicação de multimídia educativa orientada a idosos sobre saúde bucal, para ser utilizada como instrumento de disseminação de conhecimentos nessa área. Para tal, para a apresentação do conteúdo, elegeu-se o CD como mídia, o qual poderá ser utilizado em um monitor que suporte resolução de 1024 x 768 ou proporcional, com mouse, ou em um touchscreen, a opção sugerida como mais adequada diante de algumas dificuldades inerentes à terceira idade. Após pesquisa na literatura, determinou-se um roteiro que contemplasse temas do interesse e da necessidade dessa população. Dividiu-se o conteúdo final elaborado em módulos, subdivididos em tópicos. A interface e a navegação foram desenvolvidas respeitando-se o perfil do idoso e para isso determinou-se que fossem simples e acessíveis, para facilitar a interação do computador com o idoso. A aplicação dispõe de recursos de navegação para que os usuários possam ver o conteúdo em ritmo próprio de aprendizagem, avançando nos módulos e tópicos conforme o próprio interesse. Para facilitar o entendimento, utilizou-se uma linguagem fácil e informal e as informações são transmitidas acompanhadas predominantemente de imagem de vídeo, áudio, fotos e desenhos gráficos estáticos e animados, utilizando-se também de analogias. As legendas e textos adicionados foram elaborados com letras grandes e as informações da aplicação são transmitidas, simultaneamente, em forma de texto ou legenda, acompanhados de som e imagens, com recursos que permitem que o volume do som seja regulado segundo necessidades particulares de cada um. Desta forma, abre-se a...

Facing the framework outlined by epidemiological surveys and by several studies regarding the oral health of the elderly population, and considering: the inefficiency of the existing public policies, in improve this situation, the shortage of appropriate educational materials, suited to the needs, difficulties and characteristics of the elderly population, it was developed a multimedia oriented to the education on oral health of the elderly, to be used as a tool for dissemination of knowledge in this area. To this end, for the presentation of content, the CD was chosen as media, it can be used in a monitor that supports resolutions of 1024 x 768 or proportional, with a touchscreen or mouse, the option suggested as the most appropriate based on some inherent difficulties for the elderly. After researching the literature, it was determined a guide that encompassed topics of interest and need of this population. Divided the final content developed in modules, divided into topics. The interface and navigation have been developed respecting the profile of the elderly and it was determined that they were simple and accessible to facilitate computer interaction with the elderly. The application comes with navigation features so that users can view content at their own pace of learning, advancing in the modules and topics as self-interest. To facilitate understanding, it was used a simple and informal language and the information is transmitted predominantly followed by video image, audio, photos drawings and static and animated graphics, using analogies also. The captions and added texts have been prepared with large letters and the application information is transmitted simultaneously in text or legend form, followed by sound and images, with features that allow the sound volume to be regulated according to the particular needs of each one. Thus, it opens the opportunity for older people with a visual, hearing, cognitive disability and illiterates and / or...

Educação continuada para agentes comunitários de saúde do Estado de Rondônia: uma abordagem fonoaudiológica sobre a saúde do idoso / Continuing education for community health agents of Rondonia State: a Speech-Language and Hearing approach about the elderly health

O agente comunitário de saúde (ACS) tem um papel fundamental no trabalho com a comunidade e na implementação do sistema de saúde brasileiro vigente devido seu contato direto com a população, a qual se apresenta crescente quanto ao número de pessoas idosas e às alterações inerentes ao envelhecimento. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar um programa de educação continuada para os ACS do município Monte Negro, Estado de Rondônia, quanto aos conhecimentos sobre o processo de envelhecimento e suas patologias relacionadas à área da Fonoaudiologia. A amostra foi composta por 29 indivíduos, sendo estes solicitados a preencher um questionário semi-estruturado, contendo conhecimentos relacionados à Fonoaudiologia e ao processo de envelhecimento, em um momento pré e pós realização do curso de capacitação, além de preencher um questionário socioeconômico validado. Para a análise do questionário sobre conhecimentos fonoaudiológicos e processos do envelhecimento foram convidados cinco avaliadores, que atuam em diferentes áreas do conhecimento em Fonoaudiologia, para responder o questionário oferecido aos ACS, posterior pontuação e análise do mesmo. Como resultados pode-se observar que a análise socioeconômica mostrou que 89,65% da amostra encontram-se na classe baixa superior, 79,31% residem na área rural e 44,83% possuem ensino médio completo. Após o programa de capacitação, apenas uma área da Fonoaudiologia sofreu piora da pontuação (Motricidade Orofacial) sendo que as demais apresentaram melhora na pontuação, havendo diferença estatisticamente significativa em duas áreas (Audiologia; Fala e Linguagem). Já com relação ao CD-ROM, a elaboração ocorreu em duas etapas, sendo a preparação do material escrito e a elaboração junto ao designer durante os meses após a realização do curso. Desta forma, conclui-se que o curso de capacitação atingiu seus objetivos transmistindo conhecimentos aos ACS para que possam atuar junto...

The community health agents (CHA) has a role in the community working and in the implementation of the current Brazilian health system because they are in direct contact with the population, which presents a growing number of elderly people and changes inherent to aging. The aim of this study was to evaluate a training program for CHA from Monte Negro, State of Rondonia, about aging and its aspects related in Speech-language and Hearing Pathology knowledge. The sample was constituted by 29 individuals, who were asked to complete a semi-structured questionnaire, containing knowledge related to Speech-language and Hearing Pathology and the aging process at a time before and after completion of the training course, and then filled a validated questionnaire about their socioeconomic status. For the knowledge analysis of speech-language and hearing questionnaire regarding aging processes participated five reviewers, who work in different areas of expertise in Speech-language and Hearing Pathology, to answer the questionnaire offered to CHA for later scoring and assessment. The results showed the socioeconomic analysis showed 89.65% of the sample was in the higher lower class, 79.31% lived in the rural area and 44.83% have completed high school. After the training program that only an area presented a worsening score (Orofacial Motricity) and the others showed an improvement, while statistically significant difference occurred only in two areas (Audiology; Speech and Language). Regarding to the CD-ROM development, its elaboration occurred in two phases, the writing and its designing preparation during the months after the end of the course. Thus, its been concluded that the training program met its objectives for the CHA forwarding knowledge for who needs to work with the community by providing quality of life improvements. The preparation of the CD-ROM was important to record the content offered as well as to a subsequent query.

Analysis of nursing dissertations and theses on mental health, Brazil, 1979-2007.

This bibliographic study analyzes scientific texts published in the CEPEn database in the mental health field (1979-2007). A total of 280 abstracts were investigated, of which 208 were Master's theses. The individuals investigated in these studies were professionals (57), patients (50), and professors and/or students (18). Among the themes addressed between 2000 and 2007 were the following: Nursing Care in Mental Health (40), Perception in Mental Health (37); and Transversality in Mental Health Care (27). This study provided an overview of the scientific research produced in the mental health field in Brazilian nursing graduate programs. We expect this study to elicit reflections concerning mental health care practice and enable new approaches for nursing promoting health and the prevention of diseases in order to enable patients to recover their citizenship, autonomy and quality of life.

Recursos de informática na terapia fonoaudiológica de crianças do espectro autístico / Computerized resources in language therapy with children of the autistic spectrum

TEMA: uso da tecnologia de informática na terapia de linguagem com crianças do espectro autístico. OBJETIVO: verificar a interferência do uso de computadores e programas específicos na terapia fonoaudiológica de crianças autistas em seu perfil comunicativo e desempenho sócio-cognitivo. MÉTODO: 23 crianças entre 3 e 12 anos foram filmadas individualmente, antes e depois de um bloco de dez sessões com o uso de jogos de informática, em situações regulares de terapia fonoaudiológica, brincando com diversos tipos de jogos, à sua escolha, com a terapeuta, totalizando duas filmagens de cada criança. RESULTADOS: as seguintes características foram descritas pelas terapeutas para as situações com o uso do computador: mais atento, mais iniciativas de comunicação, mais contato ocular, mais interativo, mais verbalizações, mais pedidos de informação e de ação. Foi possível identificar progressos qualitativos e quantitativos, embora sem significância estatística. Esses progressos foram observados num período de tempo mais curto do que o usualmente utilizado para esse tipo de comparação, e esse parece um resultado promissor. CONCLUSÃO: não foi possível realizar comparações ou associações mais controladas, pois os grupos estudados foram muito heterogêneos, o que dificulta conclusões mais consistentes. Ficou evidente que os sujeitos apresentaram reações diferentes à proposta de utilização dos recursos de informática durante a terapia fonoaudiológica.

BACKGROUND: the use of computerized technology in language therapy with children of the autistic spectrum. AIM: to assess the interference of using computers and specific programs during language therapy in the functional communicative profile and socio-cognitive performance of children of the autistic spectrum. METHOD: 23 children with ages ranging between 3 and 12 years were individually video recorded prior to and after a set of 10 regular language therapy sessions (i.e. a total of two video samples per subject) using computerized games according to the child's choice. RESULTS: the following expressions were used by the therapists to describe the children's performance during the use of computers: more attentive, more communicative initiatives, more eye contact, more interactive, more verbalizations, more attention and more action requests. Qualitative and quantitative progresses were identified, although without statistical significance. Those progresses were observed after a time period that is smaller than the usually applied to this kind of comparison and it seems to be a promising result. CONCLUSION: more controlled associations and comparisons were not possible due to the groups' heterogeneity and therefore more consistent conclusions are not possible. It was clear that the subjects presented different reactions to the use of computerized resources during language therapy.

Analysis of Nursing Dissertations and Theses on Mental Health, Brazil, 1979-2007 / Análise das dissertações e teses de enfermagem sobre saúde mental, Brasil, 1979-2007 / Análisis de las disertaciones y tesis de enfermería sobre salud mental, Brasil, 1979-2007

This bibliographic study analyzes scientific texts published in the CEPEn database in the mental health field (1979-2007). A total of 280 abstracts were investigated, of which 208 were Master’s theses. The individuals investigated in these studies were professionals (57), patients (50), and professors and/or students (18). Among the themes addressed between 2000 and 2007 were the following: Nursing Care in Mental Health (40), Perception in Mental Health (37); and Transversality in Mental Health Care (27). This study provided an overview of the scientific research produced in the mental health field in Brazilian nursing graduate programs. We expect this study to elicit reflections concerning mental health care practice and enable new approaches for nursing promoting health and the prevention of diseases in order to enable patients to recover their citizenship, autonomy and quality of life.

Trata-se de estudo bibliográfico, com o objetivo de analisar os textos científicos, divulgados na base de dados CEPEn, na área de saúde mental (1979-2007). O total de resumos estudados foi 280, dos quais 208 constituíam-se de dissertações de mestrado. Os sujeitos que se destacaram foram os profissionais (57) e pacientes (50). Dentre as temáticas abordadas evidenciaram-se (2000-2007): o cuidado de enfermagem em saúde mental (40) e a percepção em saúde mental (37). Este trabalho possibilitou visualização panorâmica acerca da produção científica em saúde mental nos cursos de pós-graduação em enfermagem, no Brasil. Espera-se, aqui, que o estudo suscite reflexões acerca das práticas de cuidado em saúde mental e possibilite novas abordagens em enfermagem, com vistas à promoção da saúde e prevenção de agravos que favoreçam a cidadania, autonomia e qualidade de vida dos sujeitos envolvidos.

Se trata de un estudio bibliográfico, con el objetivo de analizar los textos científicos divulgados en la base de datos CEPEn en el área de salud mental (1979-2007). El total de resúmenes estudiados fueron 280, de los cuales 208 eran disertaciones de maestría. Los sujetos que se destacaron fueron los profesionales (57) y pacientes (50). Entre las temáticas abordadas se evidenciaron (2000-2007): el Cuidado de Enfermería en Salud Mental (40) y la Percepción en Salud Mental (37). Este trabajo posibilitó obtener una visión panorámica sobre la producción científica en salud mental en los cursos de Posgraduación en Enfermería en Brasil. Esperamos que el estudio incentive la reflexión sobre las prácticas de cuidado en salud mental y posibilite nuevos abordajes en enfermería con el objetivo de promover la salud y prevenir daños, de forma a favorecer la ciudadanía, la autonomía y la calidad de vida de los sujetos envueltos.

Comparison between two tomographic sections in the diagnosis of external root resorption.

OBJECTIVES: To assess the accuracy of coronal and sagittal CT sections to detect cavities simulating root resorption. MATERIAL AND METHODS: 60 mandibular incisors were embedded in plaster bases, and cavities with 0.6, 1.2 or 1.8 mm in diameter and 0.3, 0.6 or 0.9 mm in depth (small, medium and large cavities) were drilled on the buccal surfaces with high-speed round burs with diameters of 0.6, 1.2 and 1.8 mm to simulate external inflammatory root resorption. Simulations in the cervical, middle and apical thirds of each tooth root were made randomly. The Dental Scan software was used to obtain 1-mm-thick axial images from direct scanning, which were reconstructed in the coronal and sagittal planes using 3D software (Syngo FastView). Each series was loaded into the software. Fourteen images of each tooth were reconstructed in the coronal plane and 14 in the sagittal plane. A total of 1,652 images were obtained for analysis. Series information, tooth number and the plane reconstructed were stored. The images generated were saved on a CD-ROM together with the visualization software (Syngo FastView). Images were analyzed by a previously calibrated blinded, radiologist. Cochran's Q test was conducted separately for each region analyzed followed by pair-wise comparison by the McNemar test (p=0.05). RESULTS: No statistically significant difference (p>0.05) was observed in the diagnosis of simulated resorption between the apical, middle, and coronal thirds. When the axial plane was assessed separately, diagnoses were statistically different (p<0.05) among the three root thirds. The apical third differed significantly (p<0.05) from the cervical and middle thirds. Diagnostic errors were more often observed in the apical third compared to the cervical and middle thirds. Mid-sized cavities revealed no statistically significant differences (p>0.05) between planes, irrespective of the third in which the resorptions were located. CONCLUSION: When tomographic sections are requested for the diagnosis of buccal or lingual external root resorption, sagittal sections afford the best image characterization of the resorption process.

Comparison between two tomographic sections in the diagnosis of external root resorption

OBJECTIVES: To assess the accuracy of coronal and sagittal CT sections to detect cavities simulating root resorption. MATERIAL AND METHODS: 60 mandibular incisors were embedded in plaster bases, and cavities with 0.6, 1.2 or 1.8 mm in diameter and 0.3, 0.6 or 0.9 mm in depth (small, medium and large cavities) were drilled on the buccal surfaces with high-speed round burs with diameters of 0.6, 1.2 and 1.8 mm to simulate external inflammatory root resorption. Simulations in the cervical, middle and apical thirds of each tooth root were made randomly. The Dental Scan software was used to obtain 1-mm-thick axial images from direct scanning, which were reconstructed in the coronal and sagittal planes using 3D software (Syngo FastView). Each series was loaded into the software. Fourteen images of each tooth were reconstructed in the coronal plane and 14 in the sagittal plane. A total of 1,652 images were obtained for analysis. Series information, tooth number and the plane reconstructed were stored. The images generated were saved on a CD-ROM together with the visualization software (Syngo FastView). Images were analyzed by a previously calibrated blinded, radiologist. Cochran's Q test was conducted separately for each region analyzed followed by pair-wise comparison by the McNemar test (p=0.05). RESULTS: No statistically significant difference (p>0.05) was observed in the diagnosis of simulated resorption between the apical, middle, and coronal thirds. When the axial plane was assessed separately, diagnoses were statistically different (p<0.05) among the three root thirds. The apical third differed significantly (p<0.05) from the cervical and middle thirds. Diagnostic errors were more often observed in the apical third compared to the cervical and middle thirds. Mid-sized cavities revealed no statistically significant differences (p>0.05) between planes, irrespective of the third in which the resorptions were located. CONCLUSION: When tomographic sections are requested for the diagnosis of buccal or lingual external root resorption, sagittal sections afford the best image characterization of the resorption process.

Computerized resources in language therapy with children of the autistic spectrum.

BACKGROUND: The use of computerized technology in language therapy with children of the autistic spectrum. AIM: To assess the interference of using computers and specific programs during language therapy in the functional communicative profile and socio-cognitive performance of children of the autistic spectrum. METHOD: 23 children with ages ranging between 3 and 12 years were individually video recorded prior to and after a set of 10 regular language therapy sessions (i.e. a total of two video samples per subject) using computerized games according to the child's choice. RESULTS: The following expressions were used by the therapists to describe the children's performance during the use of computers: more attentive, more communicative initiatives, more eye contact, more interactive, more verbalizations, more attention and more action requests. Qualitative and quantitative progresses were identified, although without statistical significance. Those progresses were observed after a time period that is smaller than the usually applied to this kind of comparison and it seems to be a promising result. CONCLUSION: More controlled associations and comparisons were not possible due to the groups' heterogeneity and therefore more consistent conclusions are not possible. It was clear that the subjects presented different reactions to the use of computerized resources during language therapy.

The Virtual Man Project's CD-ROM "Voice Assessment: Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology & Medicine", Vol.1.

UNLABELLED: The CD-ROM "Voice Assessment: Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology & Medicine" was developed as a teaching tool for people interested in the production of the spoken or sung human voice. Its content comprises several subjects concerning the anatomy and physiology of spoken and sung voice. A careful assessment becomes necessary in order to ensure the effectiveness of teaching and learning educational materials, whether related to education or health, within the proposal of education mediated by technology. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of the Virtual Man Project's CD-ROM "Voice Assessment: Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology & Medicine", as a self-learning material, in two different populations: Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology students and Lyrical Singing students. The participants were instructed to study the CD-ROM during 1 month and answer two questionnaires: one before and another one after studying the CD-ROM. The quantitative results were compared statistically by the Student's t-test at a significance level of 5%. RESULTS: Seventeen out of the 28 students who completed the study, were Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology students, while 11 were Lyrical Singing students (dropout rate of 44%). Comparison of the answers to the questionnaires before and after studying the CD-ROM showed a statistically significant increase of the scores for the questionnaire applied after studying the CD-ROM for both Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology and Lyrical Singing students, with p<0.001 and p<0.004, respectively. There was also a statistically significant difference in all topics of this questionnaire for both groups of students. CONCLUSION: The results concerning the evaluation of the Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology and Lyrical Singing students' knowledge before and after learning from the CD-ROM allowed concluding that the participants made significant improvement in their knowledge of the proposed contents after studying the CD-ROM. Based on this, it is assumed that this didactic material is an effective instrument for self-learning of this population.

The Virtual Man Project's CD-ROM "Voice Assessment: Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology & Medicine", Vol.1

The CD-ROM "Voice Assessment: Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology & Medicine" was developed as a teaching tool for people interested in the production of the spoken or sung human voice. Its content comprises several subjects concerning the anatomy and physiology of spoken and sung voice. A careful assessment becomes necessary in order to ensure the effectiveness of teaching and learning educational materials, whether related to education or health, within the proposal of education mediated by technology. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of the Virtual Man Project's CD-ROM "Voice Assessment: Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology & Medicine", as a self-learning material, in two different populations: Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology students and Lyrical Singing students. The participants were instructed to study the CD-ROM during 1 month and answer two questionnaires: one before and another one after studying the CD-ROM. The quantitative results were compared statistically by the Student's t-test at a significance level of 5 percent. RESULTS: Seventeen out of the 28 students who completed the study, were Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology students, while 11 were Lyrical Singing students (dropout rate of 44 percent). Comparison of the answers to the questionnaires before and after studying the CD-ROM showed a statistically significant increase of the scores for the questionnaire applied after studying the CD-ROM for both Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology and Lyrical Singing students, with p<0.001 and p<0.004, respectively. There was also a statistically significant difference in all topics of this questionnaire for both groups of students. CONCLUSION: The results concerning the evaluation of the Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology and Lyrical Singing students' knowledge before and after learning from the CD-ROM allowed concluding that the participants made significant improvement in their knowledge of the proposed contents after studying the CD-ROM. Based on this, it is assumed that this didactic material is an effective instrument for self-learning of this population.

Ensino a Distância: elaboração de um CDROM para capacitação de professores quanto à comunicação humana e seus distúrbios / Distance Education: development of a CDROM for use as a teaching resource in the training of teachers regarding the human communication

O professor tem papel fundamental na qualidade de vida das crianças, considerando que a educação está intimamente relacionada à saúde. O ambiente escolar contribui para a evolução da comunicação e da linguagem, tanto oral como escrita. Atualmente, a informática tem invadido todas as áreas do conhecimento, tendo um papel preponderante na disponibilização do saber. Utilizando-se de multimídias, a Educação a Distância tem sido uma realidade comum, em que diversas tecnologias de comunicação e informação são utilizadas no desenvolvimento profissional e humano. O objetivo deste trabalho foi elaborar e apresentar um CDROM na área da Fonoaudiologia, enfocando aspectos do desenvolvimento e das possíveis alterações da Comunicação Humana, além de avaliar sua qualidade quanto ao conteúdo e aos recursos tecnológicos. Este material foi desenvolvido para ser utilizado como recurso didático na capacitação de professores da educação infantil e do ensino fundamental. O desenvolvimento do CDROM Comunicação Humana: processos e distúrbios. O que o professor precisa saber! foi realizado em 4 etapas: análise, design e desenvolvimento, implementação e avaliação. A fase de avaliação foi desenvolvida para atingir 3 objetivos: avaliar o aspecto técnico no material, verificando sua execução e possíveis incompatibilidades; a qualidade do conteúdo e das estratégias utilizadas; e a adequação instrucional e estética. O CDROM foi elaborado considerando aspectos importantes sobre o conteúdo abordado, priorizando a interatividade, para que a exploração do material pudesse ser realizada de maneira agradável e motivante. Com isso, os professores, a partir de novos conhecimentos adquiridos, poderão estimular a linguagem dos seus alunos em sala de aula. O material foi avaliado por professores do Ensino Fundamental e da Educação Infantil que consideraram o CDROM Excelente em todos os aspectos abordados. Conclui-se, que as fases de análise e planejamento demandaram o maior tempo e que a parceria...

The teacher has a fundamental role in the quality of life of children, considering that education is closely related to health. The school environment contributes to the evolution of communication and language, both oral and written. Nowadays the Internet is present in all areas and it has an important function in the provision of knowledge. Using multimedia, the Distance Education has been a common reality, in which many technologies of communication and information are used in professional and human development. The objective of this study was to prepare and introduce a CDROM in the area of speech therapy, focusing on development and possible changes in human communication, and to evaluate the quality in content and technology resources. This material was developed for use as a teaching resource in the training of teachers of child rearing and elementary school. The development of the CDROM "Human Communication: processes and disorders. What the teacher needs to know!" was performed in 4 stages: analysis, design and development, implementation and evaluation. The assessment phase is designed to achieve 3 goals: to evaluate the technical aspect of the material, verifying their implementation and potential conflicts, the quality of content and the strategies used, and the instructional adequacy and esthetics. The CDROM was done taking into consideration important aspects of the content, emphasizing the interactivity, so that the exploration of the material could be performed in a pleasant and motivating way. Thus, the teachers, from new knowledge, could stimulate the language of their students in the classroom. The material was evaluated by teachers of child rearing and elementary school, and it was considered "Excellent" in all aspects. It follows that the phases of analysis and planning demanded the most time and that the partnership between teachers, therapists and professionals of technology was essential to the successful outcome of the material...