bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Alteration of gene expression profiles during mycoplasma-induced malignant cell transformation
Authors: Zhang Shimin , Tsai Shien , Lo Shyh-Ching
Published: May 2006

Background

Mycoplasmas are the smallest microorganisms capable of self-replication. Our previous studies show that some mycoplasmas are able to induce malignant transformation of host mammalian cells. This malignant transformation is a multistage process with the early infection, reversible and irreversible stages, and similar to human tumor development in nature. The purpose of this study is to explore mechanisms for this malignant transformation.

Methods

To better understand mechanisms for this unique process, we examined gene expression profiles of C3H cells at different stages of the mycoplasma-induced transformation using cDNA microarray technology. A total of 1185 genes involved in oncogenesis, apoptosis, cell growth, cell-cycle regulation, DNA repair, etc. were examined. Differences in the expression of these genes were compared and analyzed using the computer software AtlasImage.

Results

Among 1185 genes screened, 135 had aberrant expression at the early infection stage, 252 at the reversible stage and 184 at the irreversible stage. At the early infection stage, genes with increased expression (92 genes) were twice more than those with decreased expression (42 genes). The global gene expression at the reversible stage appeared to be more volatile than that at any other stages but still resembled the profile at the early infection stage. The expression profile at the irreversible stage shows a unique pattern of a wide range of expression levels and an increased number of expressing genes, especially the cancer-related genes. Oncogenes and tumor suppressors are a group of molecules that showed significant changes in expression during the transformation. The majority of these changes occurred in the reversible and irreversible stages. A prolonged infection by mycoplasmas lead to the expression of more cancer related genes at the irreversible stage.

Conclusion

The results indicate that the expression profiles correspond with the phenotypic features of the cells in the mycoplasma induced transformation process. The early mycoplasma infection stage shares a common phenomenon with many other acute infections, genes with increased expression significantly outnumbering those with decreased expression. The reversible stage is a transition stage between benignancy and malignancy at the molecular level. Aberrant expression of oncogenes and tumor repressors plays a key role in mycoplasma-induced malignant transformation.
Zebrafish endoderm formation is regulated by combinatorial Nodal, FGF and BMP signalling
Authors: Poulain Morgane , Fürthauer Maximilian , Thisse Bernard , Thisse Christine , Lepage Thierry
Published: May 2006

In the zebrafish embryo, the mesoderm and endoderm originate from common precursors and segregate during gastrulation by mechanisms that are largely unknown. Understanding how the signalling pathways that regulate endoderm and mesoderm formation interact is crucial to understanding how the germ layers are established. Here, we have analysed how the FGF and BMP pathways interact with Nodal signalling during the process of endoderm formation. We found that activation of the FGF/ERK pathway disrupts endoderm formation in the embryo and antagonizes the ability of an activated form of Tar/Acvr1b to induce endoderm at the animal pole. By contrast, inhibition of FGF signalling increases the number of endodermal precursors and potentiates the ability of Tar*/Acvr1b to induce endoderm at the animal pole. Using a pharmacological inhibitor of the FGF receptor, we show that reducing FGF signalling partially rescues the deficit of endoderm precursors in bon mutant embryos. Furthermore, we found that overexpression of BMPs compromises endoderm formation, suggesting that formation of endoderm precursors is negatively regulated by BMPs on the ventral side. We show that simultaneous inhibition of the FGF/Ras and BMP pathways results in a dramatic increase in the number of endoderm precursors. Taken together, these data strongly suggest that BMP and FGF-ERK pathways cooperate to restrict the number of endodermal progenitors induced in response to Nodal signalling. Finally, we investigated the molecular basis for the FGF-MAPK-dependent repression of endoderm formation. We found that FGF/ERK signalling causes phosphorylation of Casanova/Sox32, an important regulator of endoderm determination, and provide evidence that this phosphorylation attenuates its ability to induce sox17. These results identify a molecular mechanism whereby FGF attenuates Nodal-induced endodermal transcription factors and highlight a potential mechanism whereby mesoderm and endoderm fates could segregate from each other.
Application of UV-Vis and resonance Raman spectroscopy to study bleaching and photoyellowing of thermomechanical pulps
Authors: Jääskeläinen Anna-Stiina , Saariaho Anna-Maija , Vyörykkä Jouko , Vuorinen Tapani , Matousek Pavel , Parker Anthony W.
Published: May 2006

The chemistry of thermomechanical pulp bleaching and brightness reversion was studied. First, UV-Vis reflectance spectroscopy was used to obtain information on the reactive structures in pulp. Based on these data, a Raman excitation wavelength was chosen close to the absorption bands of the chromophores formed to take advantage of the resonance enhancement (resonance Raman spectroscopy). Fluorescence was rejected with a picosecond Kerr gate. The results revealed that coniferyl aldehyde structures were partly removed by alkaline peroxide bleaching and these structures were further degraded during light exposure. However, this reaction was obviously not responsible for chromophore formation in the pulp. On the other hand, based on the resonance Raman spectra, formation of quinonoid structures, possibly para-quinones, was a more prominent explanation for the brightness reversion.
Chemical reaction of alkoxysilane molecules in wood modified with silanol groups
Authors: Tingaut Philippe , Weigenand Oliver , Mai Carsten , Militz Holger , Sèbe Gilles
Published: May 2006

Chemical reaction between silanol-modified wood and methyltrimethoxysilane (MTMS) was carried out using two different approaches with dibutyltin dilaurate (DBTDL) or ethylamine (EtNH2) as catalysts. Modifications were characterised by Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, as well as solid-state 13C and 29Si cross-polarisation with magic-angle spinning nuclear magnetic resonance (CP-MAS NMR) spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive X-ray (SEM-EDX) analysis. Silanol-modified wood was obtained by carbamoylation reaction with 3-isocyanatopropyltriethoxysilane (IPTES) and subsequent hydrolysis of the triethoxysilane end groups. 29Si CP-MAS NMR spectroscopy indicated that SiOH groups existed mostly in the form of mono- and di-condensed structures in wood, whatever the level of modification (low or high). The attachment of methyltrimethoxysilane (MTMS) molecules to silanol sites was apparently achieved when ethylamine was used as a catalyst. The reacted MTMS remaining in wood was found to exist mostly in the form of polysiloxane polymers (or oligomers), as shown by 29Si CP-MAS NMR results. Reactions performed with unmodified wood were much less effective, thereby demonstrating the importance of the IPTES pre-treatment.
Dimensional stability of MDF panels produced from heat-treated fibres
Authors: Garcia Rosilei A. , Cloutier Alain , Riedl Bernard
Published: May 2006

The objectives of this study were to improve the dimensional stability of medium-density fibreboard (MDF) by heat treatment and to determine the effects of the treatment on the mechanical properties and vertical density profile of the panels. MDF panels were produced from untreated fibres and fibres treated at two different temperatures (150 and 180°C) for 15, 30 and 60 min. Panels produced from heat-treated fibres showed an important reduction in thickness swelling and water absorption after water soaking. Linear expansion and contraction were not improved by the treatment. Thickness swelling after repeated cycles of adsorption and desorption increased, while thickness shrinkage under the same conditions was not changed by the treatment. The springback of panels after repeated cycles of adsorption and desorption was not improved, either. Statistical analyses did not show significant differences in the modulus of rupture, modulus of elasticity and internal bond strength of panels following heat treatment. No significant effect was found for the vertical density profile of panels following heat treatment, although the profiles for panels produced from heat-treated fibres were flatter than those produced from untreated fibres.
Strengthening the Validity of Population‐Based Suicide Rate Comparisons: An Illustration Using U.S. Military and Civilian Data
Authors: Eaton Karen M. , Messer Stephen C. , Garvey Wilson Abigail L. , Hoge Charles W.
Published: May 2006

The objectives of this study were to generate precise estimates of suicide rates in the military while controlling for factors contributing to rate variability such as demographic differences and classification bias, and to develop a simple methodology for the determination of statistically derived thresholds for detecting significant rate changes. Suicide rate estimates were calculated for the military population and each service branch over 11 years, directly standardized to the 2000 U.S. population. Military rates were highly comparable across branches and were approximately 20% lower than the civilian rate. Direct adjustment essentially controlled for the demographic confounds in this sample. Applying the Poisson‐based method, we demonstrate that suicide rate fluctuations as large as 20–40% in any year may be attributed to random error.
Emprego do método bacteriológico nos programas de controle da tuberculose
Authors: Niero Rinaldo
Published: May 2006

Foram feitas considerações sobre a escolha do método bacteriológico no diagnóstico da tuberculose pulmonar em Saúde Pública, mostrando que o mesmo preenche condições de ordem epidemiológica, econômica e social, sugeridas pelos programas nacionais de controle da tuberculose.
Variabilidade de goethita e hematita via dissolução redutiva em solos de região tropical e subtropical
Authors: Inda Junior Alberto Vasconcellos , Kämpf Nestor
Published: May 2006

Dezenove amostras de horizontes B latossólicos, uma de B plíntico, uma de B incipiente e uma de horizonte Cr foram submetidas a dissoluções seletivas da goethita e da hematita por ditionito-citratro-bicarbonato de sódio a 20 ºC em intervalos de tempo entre 5 e 3.840 minutos. O diâmetro médio do cristal (DMC), área superficial específica (ASE) e substituição do ferro por Al (substituição por Al3+) da goethita e da hematita nas amostras foram estimados, por difratometria de raios X (DRX), em subamostras não tratadas e em subamostras tratadas selecionadas ao longo das dissoluções seletivas. O controle das fases de goethita e hematita que persistiram após cada etapa da dissolução seletiva foi realizado pelo método da difratometria diferencial de raios X (DDRX). A cinética dissolutiva dos cristais foi descrita por meio da segmentação das curvas de dissolução do ferro no tempo em intervalos em que o comportamento dissolutivo foi linear. As taxas de dissolução nos diferentes segmentos lineares foram estimadas a partir do coeficiente angular da reta relativa a cada segmento. Em amostras goethíticas latossólicas, a metodologia discriminou diferentes fases de goethita (populações heterogêneas) quanto à substituição por Al3+, DMC e ASE e ofereceu condições para classificar o grau de estabilidade da goethita em baixa, média, alta e muito alta estabilidade. Amostras goethíticas oriundas de ambientes pedogênicos jovens e amostras hematíticas latossólicas caracterizaram-se pela maior homogeneidade de seus cristais, classificados como de baixa e média estabilidade. Nas amostras goethíticas, a proporção de cristais com maior estabilidade (alta substituição por Al3+ e cristalinidade) em cada população mostrou associação positiva com a proporção de gibbsita em relação a caulinita nas amostras. A hematita apresentou menor resistência à dissolução por redução em relação à goethita, exceto quando a última combinou baixa substituição por Al3+ e alta ASE. A caracterização de populações heterogêneas de goethita pode ampliar a utilização deste óxido como indicador de processos pedogênicos em solos poligenéticos, bem como contribuir para um melhor entendimento do comportamento químico e físico desses solos.
Resistência hidráulica da crosta formada em solos submetidos a chuvas simuladas
Authors: Brandão Viviane dos Santos , Silva Demetrius David da , Ruiz Hugo Alberto , Pruski Fernando Falco , Schaefer Carlos Ernesto G.R. , Martinez Mauro Aparecido , Menezes Sady Júnior Martins da Costa de
Published: May 2006

Para avaliar a redução da taxa de infiltração em solos sujeitos ao encrostamento decorrente da aplicação de chuvas simuladas, foi realizado um experimento em esquema fatorial 5 x 6, sendo cinco solos (Argissolo Vermelho, Argissolo Vermelho-Amarelo, Latossolo Vermelho-Amarelo, Neossolo Flúvico e Neossolo Quartzarênico) e seis energias cinéticas de chuva (0, 525, 1051, 2102, 3153 e 4204 J m-2), com três repetições. A partir dos dados de taxa de infiltração da água no solo e da espessura da crosta, determinadas por micromorfometria, calcularam-se a condutividade e a resistência hidráulica da crosta. Todos os solos apresentaram redução da taxa de infiltração, quando a energia cinética de chuva simulada aplicada aumentou. A resistência hidráulica da crosta aumentou com a energia cinética (especialmente para os solos Argissolos Vermelho-Amarelos e Vermelho) até atingir um valor máximo, a partir do qual ocorreu diminuição, atribuída ao desgaste erosivo da crosta provocado pelo aumento do escoamento superficial, associado aos maiores valores de energia cinética da chuva simulada. Por meio de análise de regressão múltipla, foram determinadas a relação da resistência hidráulica da crosta com a energia cinética da chuva e as características químicas e físicas de cada solo. A variável resistência hidráulica da crosta mostrou-se adequada a ser utilizada nos modelos infiltração da água no solo para descrever a influência do encrostamento neste processo.
Mineralogia e química de três solos de uma toposseqüência da bacia sedimentar do Alto Solimões, Amazônia ocidental
Authors: Lima Hedinaldo Narciso , Mello Jaime Wilson Vargas de , Schaefer Carlos Ernesto G.R. , Ker João Carlos , Lima Augusto Miguel Nascimento
Published: May 2006

Pouco se conhece sobre os atributos mineralógicos e químicos dos solos da região do Alto Solimões, em comparação aos solos do Médio e Baixo Amazonas, mais estudados. No Alto Solimões, pela maior proximidade do ambiente andino, há maior possibilidade de enriquecimento dos solos. Este trabalho teve por objetivo ampliar o conhecimento dos solos dessa região por meio da caracterização de atributos mineralógicos e químicos de três solos de uma toposseqüência na região de Benjamin Constant (AM), próximo à fronteira Brasil-Peru. Tais solos situam-se das partes mais elevadas até a várzea, sendo classificados como Argissolo Amarelo Ta alumínico abrupto, Plintossolo Argilúvico alumínico abrúptico e Neossolo Flúvico Ta eutrófico. Os resultados mostram que estes solos possuem maior riqueza de nutrientes e de minerais alteráveis, com menor grau de intemperismo, em comparação aos solos mais bem drenados da parte oriental da Amazônia, derivados de sedimentos mais antigos ou de rochas cristalinas. Os baixos teores de Fe e Mn no Plintossolo em todas as frações analisadas, em comparação aos demais solos da toposseqüência, indicam o predomínio de processos de remoção nesse ambiente, enquanto, no Neossolo Flúvico, a remoção é superada pela deposição de novos sedimentos, possibilitando a ocorrência em teores elevados de Fe e Mn. Os valores de capacidade máxima de adsorção de fosfato são baixos nos horizontes superficiais, tornando-se elevados nos horizontes subsuperficiais mais ricos em argila ou com ocorrência de plintita, podendo representar, em caso de erosão, um fator limitante ao cultivo agrícola.
Síndrome de burnout e fatores associados: um estudo epidemiológico com professores
Authors: Carlotto Mary Sandra , Palazzo Lílian dos Santos
Published: May 2006

O estudo apresenta os resultados obtidos em uma investigação sobre a síndrome de burnout em professores de escolas particulares de uma cidade da região metropolitana de Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. Trata-se de um estudo epidemiológico que buscou identificar o nível da síndrome de burnout, verificando possíveis associações com variáveis demográficas, laborais e fatores de estresse percebidos no trabalho. A população do estudo estava composta por 217 professores, dos quais, participaram 190 sujeitos (87,5%). Como instrumento de pesquisa, utilizou-se o MBI para medir burnout, associado a um questionário para o levantamento das demais variáveis. Os resultados obtidos revelaram que professores apresentam nível baixo nas três dimensões que compõem burnout: exaustão emocional, despersonalização e diminuição da realização pessoal no trabalho. Variáveis demográficas não apresentaram relação com as dimensões de burnout, sendo que, das variáveis profissionais, a carga horária e a quantidade de alunos atendidos foram as que mostraram associação com a dimensão de exaustão emocional. Mau comportamento dos alunos, expectativas familiares e pouca participação nas decisões institucionais foram os fatores de estresse que apresentaram associação com as dimensões de burnout.
Uso de métodos contraceptivos entre mulheres com vida sexual ativa em São Leopoldo, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil
Authors: Carreno Ioná , Dias-da-Costa Juvenal Soares , Olinto Maria Teresa Anselmo , Meneghel Stela
Published: May 2006

Foi realizado um estudo transversal de base populacional em São Leopoldo, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil, com objetivo de analisar o uso de métodos contraceptivos. A amostra envolveu 867 mulheres de 20 a 60 anos com vida sexual ativa. Entre as mulheres que referiram atividade sexual, 627 (61,1%) referiram utilizar algum método contraceptivo. Entre as mulheres de 20 a 49 anos, 48,8% referiram utilizar anticoncepcionais orais; 18,7%, ligadura tubária; 17,3%, preservativos masculinos; e 7,3%, dispositivo intra-uterino. Entre as 186 mulheres de 50 a 60 anos que referiram vida sexual ativa, o método mais prevalente foi a ligadura tubária com 79,6%. Foi observada uma modificação de efeito em relação à prevalência de anticoncepcionais orais, idade e escolaridade, evidenciando uma menor prevalência nas mulheres de 20 a 29 anos e com baixa escolaridade. Assim, os achados da análise em São Leopoldo apontam para uma diversidade na prevalência do uso de métodos contraceptivos, inclusive não fazendo distinção na ocorrência de laqueadura tubária de acordo com variáveis sócio-econômicas, mas ainda revelam a necessidade de propiciar-se escolhas tecnicamente mais adequadas às mulheres mais jovens e com baixa escolaridade.
Microbiological evaluation of sugarcane juice sold at street stands and juice handling conditions in São Carlos, São Paulo, Brazil
Authors: Oliveira Aline Cristine Garcia , Seixas Antonio Sergio Spano , Sousa Cristina Paiva , Souza Clovis Wesley Oliveira
Published: May 2006

Fresh sugarcane juice is sold by street vendors without any heat treatment in São Carlos, São Paulo, Brazil. Twenty-four samples of point-of-sale juice were tested by standard methods to determine heterotrophic bacteria, total and thermo-tolerant coliform counts, Salmonella, and parasites in the juice. 25% of samples showed poor sanitary conditions, with thermo-tolerant coliform levels higher than allowed by Brazilian standards. Salmonella spp. and parasites were absent in all samples. Thermo-tolerant coliforms were detected on the hands of 37% of juice handlers, and heterotrophic bacterial counts reached 2.0 x 10³ cfu/per hand. Escherichia coli was detected in one hand sample, and no Salmonella spp. was detected. Screening questionnaires were used to interview the vendors, and 62% of interviewees were either unfamiliar with or failed to adopt adequate hygiene for food handling.
La reforma de los servicios de salud en México y la dinamización y politización de los intereses: una aproximación
Authors: Abrantes Pêgo Raquel
Published: May 2006

La propuesta de este artículo es discutir el proceso de reforma en los servicios de salud puesta en práctica en México a partir de 1982 y que todavía está en curso. Ese proceso de reforma será estudiado como un fenómeno socio-político cuya dinámica y naturaleza son resultados de conflictos pasados y presentes que se articulan alrededor de proyectos técnico-asistenciales, expresión de determinadas visiones del futuro. El trabajo empezó por considerar la propia estructura de poder históricamente constituida a través de la acción del Estado en el sector salud la cual promovió a determinados grupos sociales, estimuló su desarrollo y los incorporó en sus estructuras de poder, al mismo tiempo que marginó y reprimió a otros. En un segundo momento, el trabajo reconstituyó empíricamente la 'historia social' de la reforma, esto es, la dinamización de los intereses y de los conflictos en torno de la mejor configuración del sector salud.
Estimativa da volatilidade de projetos de bens minerais
Authors: Lima Gabriel A. C. , Suslick Saul B.
Published: May 2006

A volatilidade dos projetos de bens minerais depende do seu fluxo de caixa futuro e, por isso, deve ser estimada usando-se as suas características econômico-financeiras e operacionais intrínsecas, ao invés de séries históricas. Em muitos casos, por inexistência de informações sobre o futuro do projeto, assume-se que a sua volatilidade seja igual à dos preços dos bens minerais (preço do ouro, petróleo, etc). Mas essa abordagem pode fornecer resultados incorretos. Para contornar essas limitações, esse trabalho estima a volatilidade de projetos de mineração e petróleo com base nas projeções de seu fluxo de caixa, considerando-se que o preço do bem mineral seja uma variável incerta e se comporte, ao longo do tempo segundo dois processos estocásticos: 1) movimento geométrico Browniano e 2) movimento de reversão à média. Um dos principais resultados desse modelo é que a volatilidade do projeto é igual à do preço, somente no caso de projetos com baixos custos operacionais e/ou preços elevados.
Distribution patterns of Neotropical primates (Platyrrhini) based on Parsimony Analysis of Endemicity
Authors: Goldani A. , Carvalho G. S. , Bicca-Marques J. C.
Published: May 2006

The Parsimony Analysis of Endemicity (PAE) is a method of historical biogeography that is used for detecting and connecting areas of endemism. Based on data on the distribution of Neotropical primates, we constructed matrices using quadrats, interfluvial regions and pre-determinated areas of endemism described for avians as Operative Geographic Units (OGUs). We codified the absence of a species from an OGU as 0 (zero) and its presence as 1 (one). A hypothetical area with a complete absence of primate species was used as outgroup to root the trees. All three analyses resulted in similar groupings of areas of endemism, which match the distribution of biomes in the Neotropical region. One area includes Central America and the extreme Northwest of South America, other the Amazon basin, and another the Atlantic Forest, Caatinga, Cerrado and Chaco.
Larval development of Brachidontes solisianus (Bivalvia, Mytilidae): with notes on differences between its hinge system and that of the mollusk Perna perna
Authors: Monteiro-Ribas W. , Rocha-Miranda F. , Romano R. C. , Quintanilha J.
Published: May 2006

This work, which is part of a study program on meroplankton larvae, aims to gain more in-depth knowledge about planktonic larvae. This study began with the mollusk Brachidontes solisianus (Bivalvia - Mytilidae), which is abundant on the rocky shores of the Cabo Frio region (state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil). Brachidontes solisianus larvae were grown under controlled conditions for a period of 26 days and were fed with Isochrysis galbana and Tetraselmis chui. The temperature was kept at 26 °C and the saltiness at 28‰. Images of the larvae were taken daily with a light camera and measured with a micrometric lens until settlement occurred. The average size of the first D-shaped veliger stage was 90 µm in length and 70 µm in height, while the size in the last stage before settlement (pediveliger) was 273 µm in length and 257 µm in height. The comparative study of the hinge system involved the most abundant intertidal species of the study area: Brachidontes solisianus and Perna perna. The B. solisianus species were found to have more visible denticles at the extremities of the provinculum, whereas the denticles of the P. perna species occur along the entire provinculum.
Tratamento das lesões de aorta nos traumatismos torácicos fechados
Authors: Mioto Neto Boulanger , Aun Ricardo , Estenssoro André Echaime Valentsissis , Puech-Leão Pedro
Published: May 2006

OBJETIVO: Rever a casuística, etiologia, lesões associadas, tipos de tratamento e evolução das lesões da aorta por trauma torácico fechado. MÉTODOS: Estudo retrospectivo em prontuário dos pacientes atendidos no Pronto-Socorro do Hospital das Clínicas da Universidade de São Paulo e tratados pelo Grupo de Cirurgia Vascular de janeiro de 2001 a junho de 2004. Foram analisados 10 pacientes, todos do sexo masculino, sendo sete com técnica endovascular e três com técnica operatória aberta. RESULTADOS: Quanto à localização, foram observadas oito lesões da aorta descendente junto ao istmo, uma lesão da aorta descendente na transição tóraco-abdominal e uma dissecção traumática da aorta. O intervalo de tempo para o tratamento cirúrgico foi, em média, de 10,62 ± 3,45 horas para os que receberam tratamento endoluminal e 28 ± 32,39 para os operados de forma convencional. Já o período de internação total variou de 9 a 180 dias (média de 23,33 ± 6,66 dias para os tratados com endoprótese e 42,55 ± 52,7 para os operados de forma convencional). Foram utilizadas uma endoprótese Excluder®, uma Apolo® e cinco Talent®. Dos pacientes operados, dois utilizaram bomba átrio femoral. Ocorreram dois óbitos, um entre os operados de forma convencional e um entre os operados com endopróteses. CONCLUSÕES: As lesões da aorta em casos de trauma torácico fechado são pouco freqüentes e geralmente associadas a um grande número de lesões associadas. O diagnóstico precoce e preciso é fundamental para a evolução do paciente. A correção com endopróteses nos pacientes estáveis do ponto de vista hemodinâmico apresenta-se como solução eficaz.
Uma nova opção para contenção no tratamento do linfedema em crianças
Authors: Artíbale Maria Elisa Simões , Godoy José Maria Pereira de , Godoy Maria de Fátima Guerreiro , Braile Domingo Marcolino
Published: May 2006

Um das principais dificuldades encontradas no tratamento do linfedema em crianças são os mecanismos de contenção. O objetivo do presente estudo é relatar uma experiência inicial com meias de gorgurão em criança. Descrevem-se as dificuldades encontradas no tratamento do linfedema em uma criança e mostra-se uma alternativa de contenção, que é a meia de gorgurão.
Modelo experimental de aneurisma sacular de artéria ilíaca comum com pericárdio bovino em suínos
Authors: França Luís Henrique Gil , Pereira Adamastor Humberto , Perini Sílvio César , Argenta Rodrigo , Aveline Celso Curcio , Mollerke Roseli de Oliveira , Soares Marcos Eugenio , Nóbrega Fernanda , Ferreira Márcio Poletto
Published: May 2006

OBJETIVO: Desenvolver um novo modelo experimental de pseudoaneurisma sacular de artéria ilíaca comum com o uso de remendo de pericárdio bovino em suínos. MÉTODO: Foram utilizados dois suínos da raça Landrace, com peso de 30 kg e do sexo feminino. Os animais foram submetidos a anestesia geral e a laparotomia com acesso extraperitoneal da aorta infra-renal e artérias ilíacas. Após heparinização sistêmica e pinçamento, foram efetuadas arteriotomia longitudinal e sutura do pericárdio bovino em formato de bolsa previamente confeccionada. Os animais permaneceram confinados por 3 semanas e então foram submetidos a arteriografia para avaliação da perviedade do aneurisma e, posteriormente, sacrificados. RESULTADO: Os animais sobreviveram ao experimento e apresentaram aneurismas pérvios no momento do sacrifício. Não houve ocorrência de ruptura de aneurismas. CONCLUSÃO: O modelo proposto é viável e tem potencial para ser utilizado no estudo e desenvolvimento de novas próteses endovasculares.
Autogenous Bone Graft With or Without a Calcium Sulfate Barrier in the Treatment of Class II Furcation Defects: A Histologic and Histometric Study in Dogs
Authors: Deliberador Tatiana M. , Nagata Maria J.H. , Furlaneto Flávia A.C. , Melo Luiz G.N. , Okamoto Tetuo , Sundefeld Maria L.M.M. , Fucini Stephen E.
Published: May 2006

Background: The purpose of this study was to histologically evaluate the healing of surgically created Class II furcation defects treated using an autogenous bone (AB) graft with or without a calcium sulfate (CS) barrier.

Methods: The second, third, and fourth mandibular premolars (P2, P3, and P4) of six mongrel dogs were used in this study. Class II furcation defects (5 mm in height × 2 mm in depth) were surgically created and immediately treated. Teeth were randomly divided into three groups: group C (control), in which the defect was filled with blood clot; group AB, in which the defect was filled with AB graft; and group AB/CS, in which the defect was filled with AB graft and covered by a CS barrier. Flaps were repositioned to cover all defects. The animals were euthanized 90 days post‐surgery. Mesio‐distal serial sections were obtained and stained with either hematoxylin and eosin or Masson's trichrome. Histometric, using image‐analysis software, and histologic analyses were performed. Linear and area measurements of periodontal healing were evaluated and calculated as a percentage of the original defect. Percentage data were transformed into arccosine for statistical analysis (analysis of variance; P <0.05).

Results: Periodontal regeneration in the three groups was similar. Regeneration of bone and connective tissue in the furcation defects was incomplete in most of the specimens. Statistically significant differences were not found in any of the evaluated parameters among the groups.

Conclusion: Periodontal healing was similar using surgical debridement alone, AB graft, or AB graft with a CS barrier in the treatment of Class II furcation defects.
Dietary Supplementation of Omega‐3 Fatty Acid and Circulating Levels of Interleukin‐1β, Osteocalcin, and C‐Reactive Protein in Rats
Authors: Vardar‐Şengül Saynur , Buduneli Nurcan , Buduneli Eralp , Kardeşler Levent , Baylas Haluk , Atilla Gül , Lappin David , Kinane Denis F.
Published: May 2006

Background: In this study, we evaluated the effects of two different regimes of dietary supplementation of omega‐3 fatty acid on serum levels of interleukin‐1 beta (IL‐1β), osteocalcin (OC), and C‐reactive protein (CRP) in experimental periodontitis.

Methods: Experimental periodontitis was induced by repeated injections of Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Thirty‐nine adult male Sprague‐Dawley rats were divided into four study groups as follows: an LPS positive control group; a saline (negative) control group; and two different groups with omega‐3 fatty acid dietary supplementation, one in which we gave the supplement subsequent to disease induction (TO3) and the other in which the agent was started prior to and continued subsequent to LPS injections (P + TO3). In the TO3 group, omega‐3 fatty acid administration was performed for 14 days following induction of experimental periodontitis. In the P + TO3 group, omega‐3 fatty acid was given for 14 days prior to the start of LPS injections and was continued for another 14 days subsequent to the induction of experimental periodontitis. On day 15 of the first LPS injection, serum samples were obtained and rats were sacrificed. Serum samples were analyzed for IL‐1β, OC, and CRP concentrations by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Defleshed jaws were analyzed morphometrically for alveolar bone loss. Data were evaluated statistically by non‐parametric tests.

Results: LPS injection resulted in statistically significantly more bone loss compared to the saline control group (P <0.05). None of the omega‐3 fatty acid administration groups showed evidence that this fatty acid was effective in preventing LPS‐induced alveolar bone loss. TO3 and P + TO3 groups revealed significantly higher IL‐1β and OC levels than the LPS group (P <0.05). The study groups exhibited no significant differences in the serum CRP levels.

Conclusions: Omega‐3 fatty acid administration does not seem to influence circulating levels of CRP. The significantly increased serum OC level observed in both omega‐3 fatty acid regimes is curious and could have an effect on bone turnover, as could the further significant increase in serum IL‐1β, which could counteract any osteoblastic induction by OC through promotion of osteoclast activity. The lack of a therapeutic benefit of omega‐3 fatty acid in this study, despite the effects on OC and IL‐1β, is difficult to explain, and further studies are required to more fully assess the potential role of this fatty acid in periodontal treatment.
Maxillary Sinus Septa: Prevalence, Height, Location, and Morphology. A Reformatted Computed Tomography Scan Analysis
Authors: Kim Min‐Jung , Jung Ui‐Won , Kim Chang‐Sung , Kim Kee‐Deog , Choi Seong‐Ho , Kim Chong‐Kwan , Cho Kyoo‐Sung
Published: May 2006

Background: The sinus lift technique may be difficult to perform if an aberrant sinus anatomy is encountered during surgical exposure, such as when a septum is present on the sinus floor. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence, size, location, and morphology of maxillary sinus septa in the atrophic/edentulous and non‐atrophic/dentate maxillary segments.

Methods: The sample population consisted of 100 patients (41 women and 59 men, with a mean age of 50 years, ranging between 19 and 87 years) for whom treatment was being planned for implant‐supported restorations. Reformatted computerized tomograms (CT) from 200 sinuses were analyzed using imaging software.

Results: The prevalence of one or more septa per sinus was found to be 26.5% (53/200), 31.76% (27/85), and 22.61% (26/115) in the overall study population and the atrophic/edentulous and the non‐atrophic/dentate maxillary segments, respectively. In the analysis of the anatomic location of the septa within the sinus, it was revealed that 15 (25.4%) were located in the anterior region, 30 (50.8%) in the middle region, and 14 (23.7%) in the posterior region. The measured heights of the septa varied among the different areas. The mean heights of the septa were 1.63 ± 2.44, 3.55 ± 2.58, and 5.46 ± 3.09 mm in the lateral, middle, and medial areas, respectively.

Conclusions: It can be inferred that there is a wide anatomical variation in the prevalence, size, location, and morphology of maxillary sinus septa, irrespective of the degree of atrophy. Therefore, to prevent the likelihood of complications arising during sinus augmentation procedures, a thorough and extensive understanding of the anatomic structures inherent to the maxillary sinus is indispensable.
Supragingival Plaque May Modify the Effects of Subgingival Bacteria on Attachment Loss
Authors: Tezal Mine , Scannapieco Frank A. , Wactawski‐Wende Jean , Grossi Sara G. , Genco Robert J.
Published: May 2006

Background: Bacterial interactions in response to local and systemic factors may explain important features of the pathogenesis of periodontal disease. This study evaluates the role of supragingival plaque level on the relationship between subgingival microorganisms and the risk of attachment loss.

Methods: The study population consisted of 386 white women aged 45 years and older who had at least seven teeth. Subgingival plaque samples were taken from the mesio‐buccal surface of six maxillary and six mandibular teeth using paper point technique. The samples were pooled, and immunofluorescence microscopy was performed to identify the following target microorganisms: Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans (Aa), Tannerella forsythensis (Tf), Campylobacter rectus (Cr), Prevotella intermedia (Pi), Capnocytophaga species (Cs), Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg), Eubacterium saburreum (Es), and Fusobacterium nucleatum (Fn). The presence or absence of supragingival plaque and clinical attachment loss (CAL) were assessed at the same 12 sites where subgingival plaque samples were taken. The association of each microorganism with CAL was tested using multiple logistic regressions controlling for age, smoking status, and diabetes. Odds ratios (OR) and their 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated.

Results: At low supragingival plaque levels, only the presence of Pg was significantly associated with CAL (OR: 6.41, 95% CI: 1.30 to 31.70); all remaining microorganisms were also associated with increased but non‐significant risk of CAL. At high supragingival plaque levels, the presence of Tf (OR: 2.40, 95% CI: 1.42 to 4.04) and Pg (OR: 3.71, 95% CI: 1.63 to 8.42) was significantly associated with increased risk of attachment loss. By contrast, the presence of Cs (OR: 0.55, 95% CI: 0.30 to 1.01) and Es (OR: 0.35, 95% CI: 0.15 to 0.82) was associated with decreased risk of attachment loss. Fn, Pi, and Cr were not significantly associated with CAL at either low or high supragingival plaque levels.

Conclusions: This study suggests that the association of certain subgingival microorganisms with CAL changes in relation to supragingival plaque levels in older adult women. It also suggests that the overall effect of dental plaque is a function of the balance between pathogenic and other microorganisms that colonize this environment. Therefore, all microorganisms in the biofilm, including those with no apparent association with overt disease and those with negative associations, may play roles in the pathogenesis of periodontal diseases.
Evaluation of SHAW Model in Simulating Energy Balance, Leaf Temperature, and Micrometeorological Variables within a Maize Canopy
Authors: Xiao Wei , Yu Qiang , Flerchinger Gerald N. , Zheng Youfei
Published: May 2006

Understanding and simulating plant canopy conditions can assist in better acknowledgment of plant microclimate characteristics, its effect on plant processes, and the influence of management and climate scenarios. The ability of the Simultaneous Heat and Water (SHAW) model to simulate the surface energy balance and profiles of leaf temperature and micrometeorological variables within a maize canopy and the underlying soil temperatures was tested using data collected during 1999 and 2003 at Yucheng, in the North China Plain. The SHAW model simulates the near‐surface heat and water movement driven by input meteorological variables and observed plant characteristic (leaf area index [LAI], height, and rooting depth). For 1999, the model accurately simulated air temperature and relative humidity in the upper one‐third of the canopy, but overpredicted midday temperature in the lower canopy. For 2003, although the surface energy balance was simulated quite well, radiometric canopy surface temperature and midday leaf temperature in the upper portion of the canopy were overpredicted, by approximately 5°C. Model efficiency (the fraction of variation in observed values explained by the model) for leaf temperature in the lower two‐thirds of the canopy ranged from 0.82 to 0.90, but fell to 0.38 for the uppermost canopy layer. Weaknesses in the model were identified and potentially include: the use of K‐theory to simulate turbulent transfer within the canopy; and simplifying assumptions with regard to long‐wave radiation transfer within the canopy. Model modifications are planned to address these weaknesses.
Wheat Seeding Rate Influences Herbicide Performance in Wild Oat (Avena fatua L.)
Authors: O'Donovan John T. , Blackshaw Robert E. , Harker K. Neil , Clayton George W.
Published: May 2006

Field experiments were conducted at three locations in Alberta for 3 yr to determine if spring wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) seeding rate (75 and 150 kg ha−1) influenced the effects of recommended and reduced herbicide rates on wild oat (Avena fatua L.) shoot biomass, wild oat seed in the soil seed bank, and wheat yield and net economic return. Wild oat biomass and seed in the soil seed bank decreased nonlinearly at both seeding rates as herbicide rates increased. The herbicides were more effective in reducing wild oat shoot biomass and seed in the soil seed bank when wheat was seeded at the higher rate. The lowest wheat yields and net economic returns occurred when no herbicides were applied and both variables increased nonlinearly with increasing herbicide rate. In most cases, wheat yield and net economic return were greater at the higher seeding rate. On average, wheat yield improved by 19% and net economic return by 16% when wheat was seeded at the higher rate. The results indicate that seeding wheat at relatively high rates can contribute positively to herbicide performance and result in better wild oat management and higher wheat yields and economic returns. In some cases, there was little difference between applying the herbicides at 75 or 100% of the recommended rate but reducing rates below 75% almost always resulted in higher wild oat shoot biomass and seed, and reduced yields and net economic returns, even at the higher wheat seeding rate.
Use of diet pills and other dieting aids in a college population with high weight and shape concerns
Authors: Celio Christine I. , Luce Kristine H. , Bryson Susan W. , Winzelberg Andrew J. , Cunning Darby , Rockwell Roxanne , Celio Doyle Angela A. , Wilfley Denise E. , Taylor C. Barr
Published: May 2006

Objective

The current study examines diet aid use among college women at risk for eating disorders and explores characteristics associated with diet aid use.

Method

Participants were 484 college women <30 years from 6 universities in the San Francisco Bay Area (SF) and San Diego who were at risk for developing eating disorders. A checklist assessed diet pill, fat blocker, diuretic, laxative, and other diet aid use over the past 12 months.

Results

Thirty‐two percent of the college women reported using a diet aid. Diet aid use was double the rate in San Diego (44%) compared with SF (22%) (p = .000). Weight and shape concerns were higher among diet aid users than among nonusers across sites.

Conclusion

A significant number of college women at risk for eating disorders are using diet aids. We recommend that clinicians inquire about diet aid use among college‐aged patients. © 2006 by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Int J Eat Disord 2006)
Caenorhabditis elegans as a screening tool for the endothelial cell‐derived putative aging‐related proteins detected by proteomic analysis
Authors: Ha Moon Kyung , Soo Cho Jeong , Baik Ok‐Ryun , Lee Kwang Hoon , Koo Hyeon‐Sook , Chung Kee Yang
Published: May 2006

Endothelial cells go through progressive pathophysiologic modification as cellular senescence progresses. In vitro, endothelial cell senescence is accompanied by failure of proliferation and by perturbations in gene and protein expressions. Moreover, this cellular senescence in culture has been proposed to reflect processes that occur in the organism in vivo and free radical theory is accepted to be the most plausible explanation for this process. We have screened proteins involved in both cellular senescence and reactive oxygen species induced condition using 2‐D gel analysis and found that ubiquitin carboxyl terminal hydrolase L1, peroxyredoxin 2, peroxyredoxin 4, fatty acid binding proteins (FABPs), and 5'‐AMP‐activated protein kinase beta‐1 subunit were candidate aging‐related proteins. To evaluate in vivo function of these proteins, Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) knock‐down system using RNA interference was applied. Aging‐specific expression of lipofucsin and the lifespan of knocked‐down C. elegans were observed to assess the outcome. Interestingly, the inhibition of the genes led to short lifespan and earlier accumulation of lipofucsin with increasing age when compared with the wild type. These results suggest that the above genes may be related to cellular senescence process in determining the longevity in C. elegans and that gene inactivation renders animals susceptible to oxidative stress.
Principle‐based ethics and nurses' attitudes towards artificial feeding
Authors: Day Lisa , Drought Theresa , Davis Anne J
Published: May 2006

Nurses often institute artificial feeding for patients who would otherwise starve Recently, the courts in the United States have favoured withholding or withdrawing feedings from patients who currently refuse or previously gave some indication they would refuse artificial nutrition and hydration This paper investigates under what circumstances nurses feel justified in withholding artificial nutrition and hydration Structured interviews were conducted with 40 cancer care nurses from two sites, and 40 dementia care nurses from two sites The interviews were based on two vignettes, one involving an alert patient with terminal cancer, the other a patient suffering end‐stage Alzheimer's dementia, and were analysed for themes coinciding with principles of deontological ethics Investigators found that autonomy, beneficence and non‐maleficence most often guided nurses' decisions to withhold or implement artificial feeding
An interviewing style for nursing assessment
Authors: Brown Sarah Jo
Published: May 2006

The research literature on health care interviewing styles is reviewed A antique of the traditional provider question‐client answer style is offered, and an alternative style, the conversational interview, is advocated as more client‐focused and less interpersonally controlling The potential of the conversational interview to produce an accurate shared understanding of the client's health status is discussed
Satisfaction and cardiac lifestyle
Authors: Castelein Phyllis , Kerr Janet Ross
Published: May 2006

A descriptive, correlational approach was used to examine the relationship between success with a recommended cardiac lifestyle and satisfaction with a cardiac rehabilitation programme 1 year following completion The Cardiac Lifestyle Questionnaire (CLQ) and the Programme Satisfaction Questionnaire (PSQ) evaluated success in eight lifestyle dimensions and four satisfaction areas Seventy‐two participants (85 7%) returned questionnaires Successful lifestyle dimensions included exercise, tobacco, alcohol and weight, diet, stress and hypertension were unsuccessful Two open‐ended programme satisfaction questions revealed that ‘caring’ and ‘individualized’ approaches were most favoured by participants These provide direction for high‐quality care in cardiac rehabilitation programmes Discriminant analysis did not yield a statistically significant separation of groups relative to cardiac lifestyle on the basis of programme satisfaction areas