bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Muscle strength and executive function as complementary parameters for the assessment of impairment in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Barbirato Dannyel , Carvalho Alessandro , Araujo Narahyana Bom de , Martins Jose Vicente , Deslandes Andrea
Published: January 2014

Objective To evaluate the relationship between the quantitative results of functional and cognitive performance of patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) and disease severity; and to study the relationship between patients' functional and cognitive capacity and motor impairment (Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale - UPDRS III). Method Twenty-nine subjects clinically diagnosed with PD were classified into three groups according to disease severity using the modified Hoehn and Yahr Scale (H&Y). They were submitted to functional (Senior Fitness Test) and neuropsychological tests. Stepwise regression analysis showed a significant association between H&Y and upper limb strength (r 2 =0.30; p=0.005) and executive function (r 2 =0.37; p=0.004). In relation to UPDRS III, there was a significant association between lower limb strength (r 2 =0.27; p=0.010) and global cognitive status (r 2 =0.24; p=0.024). Conclusion The implementation of simple tests of functional capacity associated with neuropsychological testing can help to assess disease severity and motor impairment, and can be used to monitor the response to treatment in PD.
Alcohol use problems in migraine and tension-type headache
Authors: Domingues Renan B. , Domingues Simone A. , Lacerda Cássio B. , Machado Tarnara V.C. , Duarte Halina , Teixeira Antônio L.
Published: January 2014

Objective: The aim of this study was to assess alcohol use problems in patients with migraine and tension-type headache. Method: We evaluated 81 patients with migraine and 62 patients with tension-type headache. The identification of alcohol consumption problems was carried out with Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT). Alcohol use problem was defined as an AUDIT score of 8 or above. The headache impact was calculated with headache impact test (HIT-6). Results: The proportions of alcohol use problem among patients with migraine and tension-type headache were 5.2% and 16.1%, respectively (P=0.044). The headache impact was significantly higher with migraine than with tension-type headache (P<0.0001). There was an inverse correlation between headache impact and AUDIT (P=0.043). Conclusions: Our results suggest that migraine patients are less prone to alcohol use problems than tension-type headache patients. One of the possible reasons is that migraine is associated with greater impact than tension-type headache.
Effects of botulinum toxin type A for spastic foot in post-stroke patients enrolled in a rehabilitation program
Authors: Pimentel Leonardo Halley Carvalho , Alencar Francisco José , Rodrigues Leonardo Raphael Santos , Sousa Francisca Cléa Florenço de , Teles João Batista Mendes
Published: January 2014

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of botulinum toxin type A (BTX-A) on spastic foot in stroke patients in a rehabilitation program. Method: Hemiparetic stroke patients (n=21) enrolled in a rehabilitation program were divided into two groups. The first group (n=11) received a total of 300UI BTX-A, and the second group (n=10) received 100 UI BTX-A. All patients were assessed at baseline and 2, 4, 8 and 12 weeks after injection for Modified Ashworth Score, time walking 10 meters, and the Functional Independence Measure (mFIM) motor score. Results: The higher-dose group exhibited a significant improvement in spasticity, and both groups showed an improvement in time walking 10 meters and mFIM, with no significant differences between them. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that gains in gait velocity and functional independence were not correlated to BTX-A dose.
Stimulus-induced rhythmic, periodic, or ictal discharges (SIRPIDs): an intriguing EEG phenomenon
Authors: Silveira Mariana Ribeiro Marcondes da , Andrade Joaquina , Garzon Eliana
Published: January 2014

SIRPIDs, an acronym for stimulus-induced rhythmic, periodic, or ictal discharges, were first named in 2004. This is a pattern observed in continuous electroencephalogram (CEEG) consistently elicited by stimulation in comatose patients. The pathophysiology of SIRPIDs probably involves dysregulation of subcortico–cortical projections, particularly thalamocortical circuit, in a markedly abnormal brain with hyperexcitable cortex. This may explain some studies found an association of prolonged periodic epileptiform discharges (PEDs) activity and a higher incidence of concurrent electrographic seizures and SIRPIDs. An association of SIRPIDs and poor prognosis has already been described. However, it is not yet possible to assert whether these discharges can cause neuronal injury or if they are simply a marker of severe brain injury. Objective of this paper is to review clinical relevance and pathophysiology of SIRPIDs, as well as its role as a brain response in the critically ill patient.
Quantitative EEG evaluation in patients with acute encephalopathy
Authors: Braga Aline Souza Marques da Silva , Assis Bruno Della Ripa Rodrigues , Ribeiro Jamil Thiago Rosa , Polla Patricia Maria Sales , Pereira Breno Jose Hulle , Fonseca Ronaldo Guimaraes , Betting Luiz Eduardo
Published: January 2014

Objective To investigate the use of quantitative EEG (qEEG) in patients with acute encephalopathies (AEs) and EEG background abnormalities. Method Patients were divided into favorable outcome (group A, 43 patients) and an unfavorable outcome (group B, 5 patients). EEGLAB software was used for the qEEG analysis. A graphic of the spectral power from all channels was generated for each participant. Statistical comparisons between the groups were performed. Results In group A, spectral analysis revealed spectral peaks (theta and alpha frequency bands) in 84% (38/45) of the patients. In group B, a spectral peak in the delta frequency range was detected in one patient. The remainder of the patients in both groups did not present spectral peaks. Statistical analysis showed lower frequencies recorded from the posterior electrodes in group B patients. Conclusion qEEG may be useful in the evaluations of patients with AEs by assisting with the prognostic determination.
Regional cerebral blood flow and cognitive function in patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder
Authors: Guo Huirong , Zhao Ning , Li Zheng , Zhu Binhua , Cui He , Li Youhui
Published: January 2014

Objective: To explore the relationship between regional cerebral blood flow (CBF) and cognitive function in obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Method: Single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) was performed for 139 OCD patients and 139 controls, and the radioactivity rate (RAR) was calculated. Cognitive function was assessed by the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST). Results: The RARs of the prefrontal, anterior temporal, and right occipital lobes were higher in patients than controls. For the WCST, correct and classification numbers were significantly lower, and errors and persistent errors were significantly higher in OCD patients. Right prefrontal lobe RAR was negatively correlated with correct numbers, right anterior temporal lobe RAR was positively correlated with errors, and the RARs of the right prefrontal lobe and left thalamus were positively correlated with persistent errors. Conclusion: OCD patients showed higher CBF in the prefrontal and anterior temporal lobes, suggesting that these areas may be related with cognitive impairment.
The FAS fluency test in Brazilian children and teenagers: executive demands and the effects of age and gender
Authors: Dias Natália Martins , Seabra Alessandra Gotuzo
Published: January 2014

The FAS Verbal Fluency Test is widely used in neuropsychological clinical services and research. This study investigated the contributions of different executive functions, age and gender to FAS test performance in a sample of children and teenagers divided into two groups: G1 comprised 263 children aged 6-10 years, and G2 comprised 150 teenagers aged 10-14 years. All participants were assessed using the Cancellation Attention Test, the Auditory Working Memory Test, the Visual Working Memory Test, the Semantic Generation Test, and the Trail Making Test, in addition to the FAS test. For G1, age, auditory working memory and shifting were predictors of FAS performance. For G2, gender, auditory working memory, shifting and inhibition comprised the FAS explanatory model. The study contributed to our understanding of which are the best predictor variables for the FAS test in a Brazilian sample and how executive demands change with age.
Investigation of magnetic resonance imaging texture analysis as an aid tool for characterization of refractory epilepsies
Authors: Baldissin Mauricio Martins , Souza Edna Marina de
Published: January 2014

Refractory epilepsies are syndromes for which therapies that employ two or more antiepileptic drugs, separately or in association, do not result in control of crisis. Patients may present focal cortical dysplasia or diffuse dysplasia and/or hippocampal atrophic alterations that may not be detectable by a simple visual analysis in magnetic resonance imaging. The aim of this study was to evaluate MRI texture in regions of interest located in the hippocampi, limbic association cortex and prefrontal cortex of 20 patients with refractory epilepsy and to compare them with the same areas in 20 healthy individuals, in order to find out if the texture parameters could be related to the presence of the disease. Of the 11 texture parameters calculated, three indicated the existence of statistically significant differences between the studied groups. Such findings suggest the possibility of this technique contributing to studies of refractory epilepsies.
Risk behaviors for eating disorder: factors associated in adolescent students
Authors: Fortes Leonardo de Sousa , Cipriani Flavia Marcele , Ferreira Maria Elisa Caputo
Published: January 2014

INTRODUCTION: Evidence shows that the prevalence of risk behaviors for eating disorders (RBED) among young people has increased in recent years. Body dissatisfaction, excessive exercise, body composition, economic status, and ethnicity may be risk factors for RBED. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the association of body dissatisfaction, psychological commitment to exercise, body fat, nutritional status, economic class, and ethnicity with RBED in adolescents. METHOD: This study included 562 boys and girls aged 10 to 15 years. We used the Eating Attitudes Test (EAT-26) to assess RBED. The Body Shape Questionnaire (BSQ) and the Commitment to Exercise Scale (CES) were used to measure body dissatisfaction and commitment to exercise, respectively. Skin fold thickness was measured to classify body fat according to sex. Weight and height were measured to calculate the body mass index (BMI) and classify participants according to nutritional status. The economic class was recorded according to the Brazilian Economic Classification Criterion. A questionnaire was used to record ethnicity, age and sex. Binary logistic regression was used to determine associations between variables. RESULTS: The results showed an association of RBED with body dissatisfaction, CES scores, and economic class among girls (p < 0.05). Among boys, body dissatisfaction, body fat, and nutritional status were associated with RBED (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Even though body dissatisfaction had the highest odds ratio, other variables were also associated with RBED.
Electroencephalographic findings in panic disorder
Authors: Carvalho Marcele Regine de , Velasques Bruna Brandao , Cagy Mauricio , Marques Juliana Bittencourt , Teixeira Silmar , Nardi Antonio Egidio , Piedade Roberto , Ribeiro Pedro
Published: January 2014

Some studies have reported the importance of electroencephalography (EEG) as a method for investigating abnormal parameters in psychiatric disorders. Different findings in time and frequency domain analysis with regard to central nervous system arousal during acute panic states have already been obtained. This study aimed to systematically review the EEG findings in panic disorder (PD), discuss them having a currently accepted neuroanatomical hypothesis for this pathology as a basis, and identify limitations in the selected studies. Literature search was conducted in the databases PubMed and ISI Web of Knowledge, using the keywords electroencephalography and panic disorder; 16 articles were selected. Despite the inconsistency of EEG findings in PD, the major conclusions about the absolute power of alpha and beta bands point to a decreased alpha power, while beta power tends to increase. Different asymmetry patterns were found between studies. Coherence studies pointed to a lower degree of inter-hemispheric functional connectivity at the frontal region and intra-hemispheric at the bilateral temporal region. Studies on possible related events showed changes in memory processing in PD patients when exposed to aversive stimuli. It was noticed that most findings reflect the current neurobiological hypothesis of PD, where inhibitory deficits of the prefrontal cortex related to the modulation of amygdala activity, and the subsequent activation of subcortical regions, may be responsible to trigger anxiety responses. We approached some important issues that need to be considered in further researches, especially the use of different methods for analyzing EEG signals. Keywords: Electroencephalography, panic disorder, neurobiology, brain mapping.
The broad autism phenotype in parents of individuals with autism: a systematic review of the literature
Authors: Cruz Lidia Prata , Camargos-Junior Walter , Rocha Fabio Lopes
Published: January 2014

The broad autism phenotype (BAP) is a milder manifestation of the defining symptoms of the syndrome in individuals without autism. This study conducted a systematic review of studies about behavioral characteristics of interpersonal relationships, communication and rigidity, as well as about three cognitive models, Theory of Mind, central coherence and executive function, in parents of individuals with autism. The indexed databases were LILACS, IBECS, Web of Science, and MEDLINE, and the studies retrieved were published between 1991 and March 2012. Parents of individuals with autism have more difficulties in interpersonal relationships and in pragmatic language use and have more rigidity traits. The inclusions of the cognitive theories in the group of BAP characteristics were inconclusive.
Neuropsychological assessment before and after radiotherapy in a child with an intracranial tumor: case report
Authors: Lopes Alessandra Pereira , Teldeschi Alina Lebreiro , Miele Flavia , Mesquita Cintia , Borges Manuela Correa , Coutinho Gabriel , Mattos Paulo
Published: January 2014

INTRODUCTION: Brain tumors are the most common solid tumors and the second largest group of neoplasms diagnosed in childhood. Treatment includes surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. However, radiotherapy can cause complications, e.g., cognitive deficits. CASE DESCRIPTION: We describe the case of a child diagnosed with a brain tumor evaluated before and after radiotherapy to investigate cognitive decline after treatment. The results showed a decline in Intelligence Quotient (IQ) scores and reversal of the predominance of verbal and nonverbal skills. After radiotherapy, the subject showed slowness, academic deficits, and difficulties learning new information. COMMENTS: Even though the post-treatment evaluation showed scores compatible with the average, comparison between pre- and post-treatment evaluations demonstrated the impact of radiotherapy on the subject's cognitive profile. These results highlight the importance of evaluating patients who undergo radiotherapy before and after treatment and understanding neuropsychological scores associated with the subjects' complaints.
Potencial climático para a produção de uvas em sistema de dupla poda anual no estado do Paraná
Authors: Ricce Wilian da Silva , Caramori Paulo Henrique , Roberto Sérgio Ruffo
Published: January 2014

A cultura da videira tem potencial para produção contínua logo após pequeno período de descanso entre safras, porém os riscos climáticos podem limitar essa prática. O objetivo foi avaliar o potencial climático para o cultivo de duas safras anuais e a estimativa da severidade de míldio, em função de diferentes épocas de poda, e da exigência em graus-dia de diferentes genótipos de uvas (Vitis spp.), no estado do Paraná. Foram avaliados os riscos de geada, o balanço hídrico climatológico normal e a severidade potencial de ocorrência de míldio utilizando dados de 21 estações meteorológicas do Instituto Agronômico do Paraná. A ocorrência de geadas limita a época de cultivo da videira nas regiões centro, sul e leste. O excesso hídrico é observado em todo o estado. Genótipos que necessitam 1.800°C dia entre a poda e a colheita somente podem ser utilizados em sistema de dupla safra anual nas regiões mais quentes do estado. Não é possível a obtenção de duas safras anuais quando se utilizam genótipos de videiras que exigem mais de 2.000°C dia. Nas regiões mais frias, somente genótipos que necessitam 1.000 a 1.200°C dia podem ser utilizados. Em função do potencial de severidade do míldio, indica-se o cultivo de uvas rústicas ou americanas para as regiões centro, sul e leste, enquanto nas regiões sudoeste, oeste, norte e noroeste indica-se o cultivo das uvas finas ou europeias, porém sem descartar a necessidade de controle da doença nas fases fenológicas mais suscetíveis.
The modified Mann-Kendall test: on the performance of three variance correction approaches
Authors: Blain Gabriel Constantino
Published: January 2014

The Mann-Kendall test has been used to detect climate trends in several parts of the Globe. Three variance correction approaches (MKD, MKDD and MKRD) have been proposed to remove the influence of serial correlation on this trend test. Thus, the main goal of this study was to evaluate the probability of occurrence of types I and II errors associated with these three approaches. The results obtained by means of Monte Carlo simulations and from a case of study allowed us to drawn the following conclusions: All approaches are capable of meeting the adopted significant level when they are applied to trend-free uncorrelated series. The approaches are as powerful as the original MK test when they are applied to uncorrelated series. Regarding serially correlated series it was verified that: (i) the performance of the MKDD and MKRD are comparable; (ii) both approaches may not be able to preserve the adopted significance level and (iii) although the MKD is capable of preserving the adopted significance level, it is less powerful than the MKDD and MKRD. Thus, there is a trade-off between the power of the three approaches and their capability of meeting the nominal significance level. Accordingly, we recommend the use of at least two approaches -MKD and MKDD(MKRD)- to evaluate the presence of trends in a given dataset.
Resfriamento artificial na conservação da qualidade comercial de grãos de milho armazenados
Authors: Quirino José Ronaldo , Melo Aniela Pilar Campos de , Veloso Valquíria da Rocha Santos , Albernaz Karina Cordeiro , Pereira Jaqueline Magalhães
Published: January 2014

O resfriamento artificial é uma ferramenta para conservação da qualidade de grãos nas regiões tropicais. Este trabalho foi realizado com o propósito de verificar o efeito da refrigeração artificial do ar, por meio de aeração, na preservação da qualidade de grãos de milho em armazém graneleiro horizontal, de fundo "V". Para o experimento foram utilizados dois septos, sendo um resfriado artificialmente (12ºC), com capacidade de 28 mil toneladas, e o outro aerado com ar natural, com capacidade de 29 mil toneladas. As amostragens foram realizadas, em ambos os septos, durante a carga, aos 60 e 120 dias após a primeira etapa de resfriamento e durante a expedição dos grãos. Durante o armazenamento, as amostragens foram realizadas considerando-se a posição e a profundidade da massa de grãos de milho. A avaliação qualitativa consistiu na determinação dos seguintes parâmetros: peso de mil grãos, temperatura da massa de grãos, teor e acidez de óleo, identificação de fungos, teor de aflatoxina, índice de infestação de insetos e porcentagem de grãos infestados. O resfriamento artificial promoveu a diminuição da temperatura da massa de grãos, independentemente das condições de temperatura e umidade do ar externo. A aeração artificial, com ar frio, preservou os parâmetros atribuídos à qualidade dos grãos e proporcionou redução na percentagem de grãos infestados e na população de insetos-praga na massa do produto. Assim, a utilização do resfriamento artificial no armazenamento de grãos de milho em regiões tropicais é eficaz na manutenção da qualidade dos grãos e no manejo de insetos e patógenos.
Trocas gasosas e estresse oxidativo em plantas de algodoeiro supridas com silício e infectadas por Ramularia areola
Authors: Curvêlo Carmen Rosa da Silva , Rodrigues Fabrício Ávila , Pereira Lucas Felisberto , Silva Leandro Castro , DaMatta Fábio Murilo , Berger Paulo Geraldo
Published: January 2014

Considerando o efeito positivo do silício (Si) na melhoria do desempenho fisiológico de várias espécies de plantas quando infectadas por patógenos, este trabalho teve como meta investigar o efeito desse elemento na capacidade fotossintética e no metabolismo antioxidativo de plantas dos cultivares de algodoeiro NuOpal e BRS Buriti, supridas ou não com Si, durante o processo infeccioso de Ramularia areola. A infecção por R. areola afetou negativamente a taxa líquida de fixação do CO2 (A), a condutância estomática (g s), a transpiração e a razão entre concentração interna e ambiente de CO2 nas plantas dos cultivares NuOpal e BRS Buriti não supridas com Si em relação às plantas supridas com esse elemento. Na presença do Si, houve aumento em A e g s além das concentrações de clorofila a, clorofila b e carotenóides nas plantas dos dois cultivares. A concentração foliar de Si aumentou, o que contribuiu para decrescer em 38% a área abaixo da curva do progresso da mancha de ramulária nas plantas supridas com Si, em relação às plantas não supridas com esse elemento. O fornecimento de Si às plantas de algodoeiro dos dois cultivares aumentou a atividade da dismutase do superóxido (SOD), da peroxidase do ascorbato (APX) e da lipoxigenase (LOX), mas houve redução na atividade da catalase (CAT) e na concentração de peróxido de hidrogênio (H2O2) e de aldeído malônico (MDA), houve ainda uma maior perda de eletrólitos. A atividade da glutationa redutase (GR) foi maior nas plantas do cultivar BRS Buriti supridas com Si, enquanto que nas plantas do cultivar NuOpal houve aumento da atividade da glutationa redutase apenas aos 21 dias após inoculação (dai). Conclui-se que a capacidade fotossintética e o sistema antioxidativo das plantas supridas com Si sofreram menor impacto durante o processo infeccioso de R. areola.
Desempenho de genótipos de aveia branca em resposta ao estresse por alumínio
Authors: Silveira Solange Ferreira da Silveira , Hawerroth Maraisa Crestani , Luche Henrique de Souza , Oliveira Danyela de Cassia , Sousa Rogério Oliveira de , Maia Luciano Carlos da , Oliveira Antonio Costa de
Published: January 2014

A aveia branca (Avena sativa L.) é uma cultura que tem um papel importante no sistema de produção de grãos e integração lavoura-pecuária, no entanto, em algumas regiões brasileiras, o pleno estabelecimento e desenvolvimento dessa cultura, bem como o aumento de produtividade são inviabilizados pelo excesso de alumínio (Al) nos solos. A avaliação de caracteres de plântulas de aveia desenvolvidas sob cultivo hidropônico com adoção de solução nutritiva mínima pode ser eficiente para classificar genótipos sensíveis e tolerantes ao Al. Este trabalho objetivou avaliar o desempenho de 10 genótipos de aveia submetidos ao estresse por Al, baseando-se na análise da retomada do crescimento da raiz, com uso de solução mínima e identificando quais caracteres se mantêm correlacionados. Foram adotadas diferentes doses de Al (0, 3, 6, e 9 mg L-1 de Al). Com uso de solução mínima, a dose de 6 mg L-1 de Al é a mais adequada na diferenciação de genótipos sensíveis e tolerantes. Dentre os genótipos estudados, UFRGS 14, UFRGS 19 e URS Guapa são os mais tolerantes e UPFA 20, UPF 18 e IAC 7, os mais sensíveis ao Al. Com o objetivo de classificar genótipos de aveia entre sensíveis e tolerantes ao Al, nenhuma outra variável pode ser utilizada em substituição à retomada do crescimento da raiz.
Acute limb ischemia secondary to radiation-induced arteritis: case report
Authors: Souza Jose Emerson dos Santos , Cavalcante Leonardo Pessoa , Bernardes Marcos Velludo , Parisati Marcos Henrique , Lacerda Patricia de Souza , Pereira Raquel Magalhaes
Published: January 2014

Radiation-induced arteritis is a rare but well-known complication of radiotherapy. This report describes the case of a 34-year-old woman with uterine cervical cancer who was diagnosed with left iliofemoral deep vein thrombosis (DVT) 2 years after radiotherapy, and 2 months later, during the treatment of DVT with effective anticoagulation, developed an episode of acute arterial ischemia of the left lower limb secondary to a long subocclusive lesion of the external iliac artery. The patient was treated with angioplasty and stenting of the lesion and recovered uneventfully after the endovascular procedure.
Comparacoes preliminares entre a histologia virtual ultrassonografica in vivo e os achados histopatologicos da placa carotidea produto de endarterectomia
Authors: Menezes Fabio Husemann , Silveira Thiago do Carmo , Silveira Sandra Aparecida Ferreira , Salles-Cunha Sergio Xavier , Metze Konradin , Menezes Ana Silvia Carvalho de
Published: January 2014

CONTEXTO: A doença aterosclerótica da carótida extracraniana é uma das principais causas evitáveis de acidente vascular cerebral isquêmico (AVCi), sendo este a segunda causa mais comum de morte nos países desenvolvidos. Nos grandes estudos sobre a cirurgia carotídea, a indicação estava embasada fundamentalmente no grau de estenose arterial. Analisar somente o grau de estenose, entretanto, não revela todas as características da placa, na medida em que a morfologia e a composição da placa complementam a avaliação da doença carotídea avançada e são fundamentais para a análise e o acompanhamento da maioria das placas carotídeas tratadas clinicamente. OBJETIVO: Correlacionar a caracterização dos componentes da placa de ateroma pela histologia virtual ultrassonográfica (HVUS) com a histologia. MÉTODOS: As imagens pré-operatórias obtidas por ultrassonografia transcutânea de 12 placas de ateroma de bifurcação carotídea foram submetidas a um programa de computador, o qual correlacionou os níveis de cinza com os prováveis componentes da placa da bifurcação carotídea (HVUS). Estes achados foram correlacionados com o exame anatomopatológico das placas coletadas pela cirurgia de endarterectomia. RESULTADOS: O coeficiente de correlação de Pearson para os conteúdos de lipídeos e músculo/tecido fibroso foram, respectivamente, R=0,83 para gordura e R=0,91 para músculo/tecido fibroso. Quanto ao cálcio e ao sangue, foram R=0,05 e R=0,19, respectivamente. CONCLUSÕES: O presente trabalho corrobora a literatura demonstrando que a histologia virtual computadorizada baseada em ultrassonografia transcutânea apresenta boa correlação com os achados da histologia quanto ao conteúdo da placa. Maiores estudos para a padronização da técnica e o aperfeiçoamento do programa de análise permitirão maior uso clínico deste método.
Risk factors and prevalence of newborn hearing loss in a private health care system of Porto Velho, Northern Brazil
Authors: Oliveira Juliana Santos de , Rodrigues Liliane Barbosa , Aurélio Fernanda Soares , Silva Virgínia Braz da
Published: January 2014

OBJECTIVE: To determine the prevalence of hearing loss and to analyze the results of newborn hearing screening and audiological diagnosis in private health care systems. METHODS Cross-sectional and retrospective study in a database of newborn hearing screening performed by a private clinic in neonates born in private hospitals of Porto Velho, Rondônia, Northern Brazil. The screening results, the risk for hearing loss, the risk indicators for hearing loss and the diagnosis were descriptively analyzed. Newborns cared in rooming in with their mothers were compared to those admitted to the Intensive Care Unit regarding risk factors for hearing loss. RESULTS: Among 1,146 (100%) enrolled newborns, 1,064 (92.8%) passed and 82 (7.2%) failed the hearing screening. Among all screened neonates, 1,063 (92.8%) were cared in rooming and 83 (7.2%) needed intensive care; 986 (86.0%) were considered at low risk and 160 (14.0%) at high risk for hearing problems. Of the 160 patients identified as having high risk for hearing loss, 83 (37.7%) were admitted to an hospitalized in the Intensive Care Unit, 76 (34.5%) used ototoxic drugs and 38 (17.2%) had a family history of hearing loss in childhood. Hearing loss was diagnosed in two patients (0.2% of the screened sample). CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of hearing loss in newborns from private hospitals was two cases per 1,000 evaluated patients. The use of ototoxic drugs, admission to Intensive Care Unit and family history of hearing loss were the most common risk factors for hearing loss in the studied population.
Food pattern and nutritional status of children with cerebral palsy
Authors: Lopes Patrícia Ayrosa C. , Amancio Olga Maria S. , Araújo Roberta Faria C. , Vitalle Maria Sylvia de S. , Braga Josefina Aparecida P.
Published: January 2014

OBJECTIVES To assess the food intake pattern and the nutritional status of children with cerebral palsy. METHODS Cross-sectional study with 90 children from two to 12.8 years with cerebral palsy in the following forms: hemiplegia, diplegia, and tetraplegia. Nutritional status was assessed by weight, height, and age data. Food intake was verified by the 24-hour recall and food frequency questionnaire. The ability to chew and/or swallowing, intestinal habits, and physical activity were also evaluated. RESULTS For 2-3 year-old age group, the mean energy intake followed the recommended range; in 4-6 year-old age group with hemiplegia and tetraplegia, energy intake was below the recommended limits. All children presented low intake of carbohydrates, adequate intake of proteins and high intake of lipids. The tetraplegia group had a higher prevalence of chewing (41%) and swallowing (12.8%) difficulties compared to 14.5 and 6.6% of children with hemiplegia, respectively. Most children of all groups had a daily intestinal habit. All children presented mild physical activity, while moderate activity was not practiced by any child of the tetraplegia group, which had a significantly lower height/age Z score than those with hemiplegia (-2.14 versus -1.05; p=0.003). CONCLUSIONS The children with cerebral palsy presented inadequate dietary pattern and impaired nutritional status, with special compromise of height. Tetraplegia imposes difficulties regarding chewing/swallowing and moderate physical activity practice.
Effect of concurrent training on risk factors and hepatic steatosis in obese adolescents
Authors: Antunes Barbara de Moura M. , Monteiro Paula Alves , Silveira Loreana Sanches , Cayres Suziane Ungari , Silva Camila Buonani da , F. Júnior Ismael Forte
Published: January 2014

OBJECTIVE To analyze the effects of a 20-week concurrent training on the variables of body composition, lipid profile, and fatty liver diagnosis in obese adolescents. METHODS An open clinical trial was carried out with 34 obese adolescents aged between 12 and 15 years. Total body fat, trunk fat mass, total cholesterol and its fractions (HDL, LDL and VLDL), and triglycerides were analyzed; an upper abdominal ultrasound was performed in order to diagnose fatty liver. The participants underwent concurrent training (association of weight training with aerobic training) three times per week, lasting one hour for 20 weeks. Statistical analysis included paired Studentâ€(tm)s t-test and frequency analysis in order to verify the relative and absolute reductions of fatty liver diagnosis, being significant p<0.05. RESULTS The studied adolescents showed statistically significant improvement in body composition, with a decrease of total body fat percentage, total fat mass, trunk fat, and an a increase in the lean body mass. They also presented reduced size of liver lobes, decrease in total cholesterol and in LDL-cholesterol, with a lower prevalence of fatty liver. CONCLUSIONS The concurrent training was effective for promoting significant improvements in body fat composition and lipid profile variables, besides reducing fatty liver prevalence rate.
Teasing and weight-control behaviors in adolescent girls
Authors: Leme Ana Carolina B. , Philippi Sonia Tucunduva
Published: January 2014

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the association between weight teasing, body satisfaction and weight control behaviors. METHODS: Cross-sectional study based on adaptation and validity research of a North American questionnaire for adolescent girls about physical activity, nutrition, body image, perceptions, and behaviors. The variables used to conduct the study were weight control behaviors, body satisfaction and presence of teasing by family members. Descriptive analyses were carried out by chi-square test, being significant p<0.05. RESULTS: A total of 159 adolescent girls, with 16.2±1.3 years old were enrolled in this study. Of the total, 60.1% reported that family members did not tease them. The teasing was associated with weight dissatisfaction (p<0.001), body shape (p=0.006), belly (p=0.001), waist (p=0.001), face (p=0.009), arms (p=0.014) and shoulders (p=0.001). As a consequence, there was association with unhealthy weight control behaviors (p<0.001), vomiting (p=0,011), diet (p=0.002) and use of laxatives (p=0.035). CONCLUSIONS: The teasing about body image by family members was associated with risk for unhealthy weight control behaviors in female adolescents.
Low body weight/thinness, overweight and obesity of children and adolescents from a Brazilian region of low economic status
Authors: Guedes Dartagnan Pinto , Almeida Francisléia Nascimento , M. Neto Jaime Tolentino , Maia Maria de Fátima de M. , Tolentino Thatiana Maia
Published: January 2014

OBJECTIVE: To assess the prevalence of low body weight/thinness, overweight and obesity in a representative sample of children and adolescents from a Brazilian region with low economic development. METHODS: A total of 982 girls and 986 boys, aged seven to 17 years old and assisted by Segundo Tempo Program, from Montes Claros, Minas Gerais, Brazil, were included in the study. Low body weight/thinness, overweight and obesity were defined based on body mass cut-off indexes recommended by the International Obesity Task Force. The prevalence of the nutritional status according to sex and age was compared by chi-square test. RESULTS: In girls, the frequency of low body weight/thinness, overweight and obesity was 4.1, 18.4 and 3.8%, respectively; in boys, these percentages were 6.3, 13.2 and 2.9%, respectively. The low body weight/thinness for girls raised from 2.7% (7-10 years old) to 5.5% (15-17 years old); the body weight excess (overweight and obesity) decreased from 30.1 to 16.2% for the same age groups. In boys, the corresponding trends were from 3.2 to 9.4% for low body weight/thinness, and from 23.4 to 9.2%, for body weight excess. CONCLUSIONS: The data indicate that, even in a region with low economic status, the body weight excess was the main problem associated with nutritional health. The high overweight and obesity prevalence rates indicate the need of public policies for promoting healthy feeding behaviors and physical activity.
Food intake and nutritional status of preschool from maroon communities of the state Alagoas, Brazil
Authors: Leite Fernanda Maria de B. , Ferreira Haroldo da Silva , Bezerra Myrtis Katille de A. , Assunção Monica Lopes de , Horta Bernardo Lessa
Published: January 2014

OBJECTIVE: To assess the dietary intake and the nutritional status of children from Alagoas maroon communities. METHODS: Cross-sectional study involving 724 children (12-60 months) from 39 Alagoas maroon communities. The nutritional status was investigated by anthropometric, biochemical (hemoglobin) and food consumption indicators. RESULTS: The prevalence of anemia, stunting and obesity were, respectively, 48.0, 9.7 and 6.0%. The children had a monotonous eating pattern and a considerable prevalence of inadequate intake of zinc (17.0%), folate (18.1%), iron (20.2%) and vitamins A (29.7%) and C (34.3%). Compared to the other socioeconomic classes, the E class children had lower average consumption (p<0.05) for energy, carbohydrate, vitamins A and C, folate, iron, zinc and phosphorus. CONCLUSIONS: Anemia is a serious Public Health problem. The prevalence of chronic malnutrition and obesity were similar to those observed for the children in the State as a whole, where a nutritional transition process is occuring. There was a high prevalence of inadequate food intake risk for zinc, folate, iron and vitamins A and C, suggesting the need for nutritional education actions.
Spatial distribution of low birthweight infants in Taubaté, São Paulo, Brazil
Authors: Nascimento Luiz Fernando C. , Costa Thais Moreira , Zöllner Maria Stella A. da C.
Published: January 2014

OBJECTIVE: To identify the spatial pattern of low birth weight infants in the city of Taubaté, São Paulo, Southeast Brazil. METHODS: Ecological and exploratory study, developed with the data acquired from the Health Department of Taubaté, regarding the period from January 1st 2006 and December 31st 2010. Birth certificates were used to obtain the data from infants weighing less than 2500g. A digital basis of census tracts was applied and the Global Moran index (IM) was estimated. Thematic maps were built for the distribution of low birth weight, health centers and tracts, according to the priority care (Moran map). The adopted statistical significance was α=5% and TerraView software conducted the spatial analysis. RESULTS: There were 18,915 live births during the study period, with 1,817 low birth weight infants (9.6%). The low birth weight infants' prevalence during the period ranged from 9.3 to 9.8%. A total of 1,185 infants with known addresses, compatible with the digital base (65.2% of low birth weight infants), were included. The IM for low birth weight was 0.12, with p<0.01; regarding the health centers distribution, IM was -0.07, with p=0.01. The Moran map identified 11 census tracts with high priority for intervention by health managers, located in the outskirts of the city. CONCLUSIONS: The spatial analysis identified the low birth weight distribution by census tracts and the sectors with a high priority for intervention.
Evaluation of employees in public day care centers knowledge about breastfeeding and complementary feeding
Authors: Souza Joelânia Pires de O. , Prudente Amanda Moura , Silva Dyene Aparecida , Pereira Leandro Alves , Rinaldi Ana Elisa M.
Published: January 2014

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the knowledge of public day care centers employees about breastfeeding and complementary feeding. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted in 15 public day care centers randomly selected in the city of Uberlandia, Southeast Brazil. A questionnaire applied to school principals, teachers, educators and general services assistants (GSA) included demographic and socioeconomic variables and questions about knowledge on breastfeeding, complementary feeding besides employees' perceptions about these subjects. Kruskal-Wallis with multiple comparison and chi-square tests were used to compare variables by professional category. RESULTS: 304 employees participated in the study. The highest percentages of correct answers were noted for questions about exclusive breastfeeding: definition - 97% (n=296) and duration - 65% (n=199). Regarding complementary feeding, 61% (n=187) correctly answered about the appropriate age to introduce it, with a lower percentage for meat (56%; n=170) and sugar (16%; n=50). Concerning employees' perceptions, 9% (n=29) believed that there is weak breast milk, 79% (n=241) and 51% (n=157) reported the negative influence of bottle feeding and pacifier use on breastfeeding. Among the interviewed subjects, 77% (n=234) answered that they had a positive influence on the quality of the food given to the children. There were no differences in the answers according to professional category, except for the negative influence of pacifiers on breastfeeding. CONCLUSIONS: Employees of public day care centers knew more about breastfeeding than about complementary feeding. Educational activities about breastfeeding and complementary feeding are necessary for day care centers employees.
Auditory brainstem response in neonates: influence of gender and weight/gestational age ratio
Authors: Angrisani Rosanna M. Giaffredo , Bautzer Ana Paula D. , Matas Carla Gentile , Azevedo Marisa Frasson de
Published: January 2014

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the influence of gender and weight/gestational age ratio on the Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR) in preterm (PT) and term (T) newborns. METHODS: 176 newborns were evaluated by ABR; 88 were preterm infants - 44 females (22 small and 22 appropriate for gestational age) and 44 males (22 small and 22 appropriate for gestational age). The preterm infants were compared to 88 term infants - 44 females (22 small and 22 appropriate for gestational age) and 44 males (22 small and 22 appropriate for gestational age). All newborns had bilateral presence of transient otoacoustic emissions and type A tympanometry. RESULTS: No interaural differences were found. ABR response did not differentiate newborns regarding weight/gestational age in males and females. Term newborn females showed statistically shorter absolute latencies (except on wave I) than males. This finding did not occur in preterm infants, who had longer latencies than term newborns, regardless of gender. CONCLUSIONS: Gender and gestational age influence term infants' ABR, with lower responses in females. The weight/gestational age ratio did not influence ABR response in either groups.
Atmospheric pollutants and hospital admissions due to pneumonia in children
Authors: Negrisoli Juliana , Nascimento Luiz Fernando C.
Published: January 2014

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the relationship between exposure to air pollutants and hospitalizations due to pneumonia in children of Sorocaba, São Paulo, Brazil. METHODS: Time series ecological study, from 2007 to 2008. Daily data were obtained from the State Environmental Agency for Pollution Control for particulate matter, nitric oxide, nitrogen dioxide, ozone, besides air temperature and relative humidity. The data concerning pneumonia admissions were collected in the public health system of Sorocaba. Correlations between the variables of interest using Pearson cofficient were calculated. Models with lags from zero to five days after exposure to pollutants were performed to analyze the association between the exposure to environmental pollutants and hospital admissions. The analysis used the generalized linear model of Poisson regression, being significant p<0.05. RESULTS: There were 1,825 admissions for pneumonia, with a daily mean of 2.5±2.1. There was a strong correlation between pollutants and hospital admissions, except for ozone. Regarding the Poisson regression analysis with the multi-pollutant model, only nitrogen dioxide was statistically significant in the same day (relative risk - RR=1.016), as well as particulate matter with a lag of four days (RR=1.009) after exposure to pollutants. CONCLUSIONS: There was an acute effect of exposure to nitrogen dioxide and a later effect of exposure to particulate matter on children hospitalizations for pneumonia in Sorocaba.
Antioxidant vitamins in the context of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in obese children and adolescents
Authors: Ued Fábio da Veiga , Weffort Virgínia Resende S.
Published: January 2014

OBJECTIVE: To review the literature on the importance of antioxidant vitamins, analyzed in the context of dietary intake, its plasma levels, and its current use as a supplementation treatment in obese children and adolescents with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. DATA SOURCES: The articles were identified in Lilacs, Ibecs, SciELO, PubMed/Medline, and Scopus databases. To conduct the survey, the "fatty liver" descriptor was associated to the following words: "children", "antioxidants" and "vitamins". The search was limited to articles written in Portuguese, Spanish and English, with publication date until December, 2012. DATA SYNTHESIS: Six studies were selected. The survey revealed a low dietary intake and low antioxidant vitamins serum levels in this population. The changes in lifestyle, with adequate dietary intake of vitamins, and the increase in physical activity were associated with a significant improvement in liver histology and in laboratory tests. Vitamin supplementation also improved the disease progression markers, as the alanine aminotransferase serum levels and the histological characteristics of lobular inflammation and hepatocellular damage. However, these improvements were not statistically significant in all studies. CONCLUSIONS: There is insufficient evidence to recommend or to refute antioxidant supplementation in patients with simple steatosis or steatohepatitis. The changes in lifestyle seem to be, at the present time, the more advisable therapy.
Unroofed coronary sinus in a patient with neurofibromatosis type 1
Authors: Bender Luciano Pereira , Meyer Maria Rita F. , Rosa Rafael Fabiano M. , Rosa Rosana Cardoso M. , Trevisan Patrícia , Zen Paulo Ricardo G.
Published: January 2014

OBJECTIVE: To report the uncommon association between neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) and unroofed coronary sinus. CASE DESCRIPTION: Girl with four years and six months old who was hospitalized for heart surgery. The cardiac problem was discovered at four months of life. On physical examination, the patient presented several café-au-lait spots in the trunk and the limbs and freckling of the axillary and groin regions. Her father had similar skin findings, suggesting the NF1 diagnosis. The cardiac evaluation by echocardiography disclosed an atrial septal defect of unroofed coronary sinus type. This cardiac finding was confirmed at surgery. The procedure consisted of the atrial septal defect repair with autologous pericardium. COMMENTS: NF1 is a common autosomal dominant disorder caused by mutations in the NF1 gene. Among the NF1 findings, congenital heart defects are considered unusual. In the literature review, there was no association between NF1 and unroofed coronary sinus, which is a rare cardiac malformation, characterized by a communication between the coronary sinus and the left atrium, resultant from the partial or total absence of the coronary sinus roof. It represents less than 1% of atrial septal defect cases. More reports are important to determine if this association is real or merely casual, since NF1 is a common condition.
Testis tumor associated to microlithiasis
Authors: Jesus Lisieux Eyer de , Maciel Felipe , Monnerat Andrea Lima C. , Fernandes Marcia Antunes , Dekermache Samuel
Published: January 2014

OBJECTIVE: To discuss the relationship between testicular microlithiasis and testis tumors in children and to consider the chances of testis preserving surgery in specific cases. CASE DESCRIPTION: Pre-adolescent presenting testicular microlithiasis and a larger left testis, corresponding to a cystic testicular tumor. The tumor was excised, with ipsilateral testis preservation. Histology diagnosed a testis dermoid tumor. COMMENTS: The relationship between testis tumors and testicular microlithiasis is ill defined in children. Pediatric urologists need to develop specific follow-up protocols for pre-pubertal children.