bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Utility of the Fibrinogen/C-Reactive Protein Ratio for the Diagnosis of Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation
Authors: Kim Hyun Kyung , Lee Dong Soon , Kang Seong-Ho , Kim Jin Q , Park Seonyang , Cho Han-Ik
Published: November 2006

Although the presence of decreased plasma fibrinogen has been regarded as an indicator of ongoing disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), fibrinogen, which is one of the acute phase reactants, is often increased in the patients with DIC. We investigated the diagnostic and prognostic utility of a new parameter [the fibrinogen/C-reactive protein (CRP) ratio] for predicting DIC in 1,056 patients with suspected DIC and who also had underlying disorders associated with DIC. Among the 535 patients with overt DIC, 46 patients (8.6%) showed low plasma fibrinogen (<100 mg/dl), suggesting that the plasma fibrinogen level is not a sensitive marker for DIC. There was a strong correlation between the increased DIC scores and increased number of patients with low (<104) fibrinogen/CRP ratios. Among the three groups with different serum fibrinogen/fibrin degradation product levels, the fibrinogen/CRP ratio showed a higher difference than did the fibrinogen level. The DIC score was highly correlated with the 28-day mortality and the number of patients with low fibrinogen/CRP ratios. The odds ratio (the relative risk of 28-day mortality) of the low fibrinogen/CRP ratio was 6.15, while the odds ratio of the low fibrinogen level was 2.13. The area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve of the fibrinogen/CRP ratio, when this was used for predicting mortality, showed significantly better discriminative power than did that of the fibrinogen level. This study demonstrates that the fibrinogen/CRP ratio may provide more discriminating power for identifying the patients with active coagulation consumption, and the fibrinogen/CRP ratio has a good predictive value concerning the 28-day mortality in the patients suspected of having DIC. The results of our study suggest that replacement of fibrinogen by the fibrinogen/CRP ratio for calculating the DIC score may lead to enhance diagnostic and prognostic power for DIC.
Congenital Combined Defects of Factor VII: A Critical Review
Authors: Girolami A. , Ruzzon E. , Tezza F. , Allemand E. , Vettore S.
Published: November 2006

Factor VII deficiency is the least rare among uncommon congenital coagulation disorders. The majority of cases are isolated deficiencies. In some cases, FVII deficiency has been found to be associated with the deficiency in another coagulation factor or with non-coagulation-related abnormalities or defects. The evaluation of all published studies on the subject has shown that the FVII defect has been reported in association with FV, FVIII, FIX, FX, FXI and protein C defects. Furthermore, FVII deficiency has been described in association with bilirubin metabolism disorders, mental retardation, microcephaly, epicanthus, cleft palate and persistence of ductus arteriosus. The most interesting association appears to be that with FX. This has been shown to be due to a deletion in part of the long arm of chromosome 13. This arm contains genes coding for both FVII and FX. Interestingly, this combined coagulation defect has been found to be associated with carotid body tumors and several other malformations. Combined defects in blood coagulation often create diagnostic difficulties since results cannot be explained if a single factor deficiency is assumed. For example the combined FVII and FX defect yields a rather peculiar laboratory picture (prolonged prothrombin time and partial thromboplastin time, but normal thrombin time) that could suggest FII or FV or FX single deficiency and not FVII deficiency, indicating the need for specific factor assays whenever data are confusing. Finally, the elevated incidence of mental and skeletal malformations present in these combined defects indicates the need for a careful evaluation of all these patients lest some aspects of the defect are missed.
Health-Related Quality of Life of Predialysis Patients with Chronic Renal Failure
Authors: Fukuhara Shunichi , Yamazaki Shin , Marumo Fumiaki , Akiba Takashi , Akizawa Tadao , Fujimi Satoru , Haruki Shigekazu , Kawaguchi Yoshindo , Nihei Hiroshi , Shoji Takao , Maeda Teiryou
Published: November 2006

Background: Health-related quality of life (HQOL) of predialysis patients with chronic renal failure (CRF) has received less attention than that of dialysis patients. We investigated changes in SF-36 over 1 year and examined associations between clinical parameters and SF-36 in predialysis CRF patients. Methods: Subjects were 471 predialysis CRF patients. SF-36 and clinical parameters were measured every 8 weeks for 48 weeks. Of the 471 subjects, 294 underwent one or more follow-ups. We analyzed the pooled dataset of the 294 CRF patients and 2002 subjects from Japanese general population using analysis of covariance. Results: After adjustment for age and sex, the 1-year declines in SF-36 domains were significantly greater in the predialysis patients than in the general population. For a 10% decline in hematocrit from the baseline survey value, the decline in vitality of SF-36 was 4.5 points (p = 0.003), while for a 10% increase in serum creatinine from the baseline survey value, respective declines in physical functioning, role-physical and mental health were 1.2 (p = 0.004), 1.9 (p = 0.035), and 1.0 points (p = 0.008). Conclusion: Among these predialysis CRF patients, the decline in HQOL was faster than that in the general population, and was associated with an increase in serum creatinine and decline in hematocrit.
Changes in Gene Expression Pattern following Granulocyte Colony-Stimulating Factor Administration to Normal Stem Cell Sibling Donors
Authors: Amariglio Ninette , Jacob-Hirsch Jasmine , Shimoni Avichai , Leiba Merav , Rechavi Gideon , Nagler Arnon
Published: November 2006

Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) is widely used for the mobilization of hematopoietic stem cells from normal donors. The mechanism of induced mobilization has recently been elucidated. Treatment with G-CSF is considered safe; however, long-term effects are largely unknown. The aim of this study was, therefore, to determine whether it leads to significant changes in gene expression modifications. Affymetrix Gene Chip array technology was used. Samples were collected before and at various time points (up to 9 months) after mobilization. The expression levels of 122 genes were transiently modified before and after mobilization (p < 0.05). Fifty-three genes belonging to cell growth, proliferation and communication gene ontology categories were upregulated, while 69 genes were downregulated. Conclusion: The administration of G-CSF is associated with transient DNA and gene expression modifications in the lymphocytes of normal mobilized donors. A long-term follow-up of stem cell donors is recommended.
α⁰-Thalassemia and Related Disorders in Northeast Thailand: A Molecular and Hematological Characterization
Authors: Sae-ung Nattaya , Fucharoen Goonnapa , Sanchaisuriya Kanokwan , Fucharoen Supan
Published: November 2006

α⁰-Thalassemia is the most severe form of α-thalassemia commonly encountered in Asians. To provide relevant information for effective prevention and control of this disorder, we have examined the molecular basis and hematological features of α⁰-thalassemia-related disorders in northeast Thailand. A multiplex polymerase chain reaction for simultaneous detection of the southeast Asian (SEA) and the THAI α⁰-thalassemia determinants was developed and used for screening of 1,541 Thai individuals who were positive at the preliminary screening in an ongoing thalassemia control program. α⁰-Thalassemia deletions were detected in 397 (25.8%) cases, 396 with the SEA deletion and 1 with the THAI deletion. While the latter was found in association with the Hb Constant Spring in a patient with severe Hb H disease, the former was encountered in as many as 12 thalassemia genotypes whose hematological features were comparatively presented. The results obtained should prove useful in carrier screening and prenatal diagnosis programs of this common genetic disorder in the region.
Reduction of Renal Fibrosis as a Result of Liposome Encapsulated Clodronate Induced Macrophage Depletion after Unilateral Ureteral Obstruction in Rats
Authors: Sung Su Ah , Jo Sang Kyung , Cho Won Yong , Won Nam Hee , Kim Hyoung Kyu
Published: November 2006

Background/Aim: Macrophages have been thought to play a role in renal tubulointerstitial fibrosis; recent reports have demonstrated an antifibrotic effect of macrophages in late-stage renal fibrosis. Liposome-encapsulated clodronate (LC) produces a selective and systemic depletion of phagocytic macrophages in vivo. To study the role of initial infiltrating macrophages in renal fibrosis, we compared the effects of pretreatment with LC and a liposome vehicle for control of the severity of renal fibrosis in a unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) rat model. Methods: One day after a single intravenous injection of LC or liposome vehicle, the rats underwent UUO. Following 1, 5, and 14 days, the kidneys were examined to evaluate macrophage infiltration and renal fibrosis. Results: LC depleted macrophages systemically and reduced renal fibrosis associated with UUO; this beneficial effect was accompanied by a decrease of transforming growth factor beta mRNA expression. The osteopontin expression was also reduced by pretreatment with LC. Conclusion: Initial interstitial infiltration of macrophages contributes to tubulointerstitial fibrosis in UUO.
Decreased Thrombotic Tendency in Mouse Models of the Bernard-Soulier Syndrome
Authors: Strassel C. , Nonne C. , Eckly A. , David T. , Leon C. , Freund M. , Cazenave J.-P. , Gachet C. , Lanza F.
Published: November 2006

Objective—

The platelet glycoprotein (GP)Ib-V-IX complex is a receptor required for normal hemostasis deficient in the Bernard-Soulier bleeding disorder. To evaluate the consequences of GPIb-V-IX deficiency in thrombosis we generated mouse models of the disease by targeting the GPIbβ subunit.

Methods and Results—

Complete deletion (GPIbβ
−/−
) or an intracellular truncation (GPIbβΔIC
−/−
) reproduced typical and variant forms of Bernard-Soulier, with absent and partial (20%) expression of the complex on the platelet surface. Both strains exhibited thrombocytopenia and enlarged platelets with abnormal microtubular structures but normal granule composition. They exhibited prolonged tail bleeding times, which were less pronounced in GPIbβΔIC
−/−
. Decreased thrombus formation was observed after blood perfusion over a collagen coated surface at high shear. Resistance to vascular occlusion and an abnormal thrombus composition were observed in a model of FeCl
3
-induced lesion of carotid arteries. In a model of laser-induced lesion of mesenteric arterioles, thrombosis was strongly reduced in GPIbβ
−/−
mice, while a more modest effect was observed in GPIbβΔIC
−/−
animals. Finally, the two strains were protected against death in a model of systemic thromboembolism.

Conclusions—

This study provides in vivo evidence of a decreased thrombotic tendency linked to defective platelet GPIb-V-IX in mouse models of Bernard-Soulier syndrome.
The Roles of Proteinase-Activated Receptors in the Vascular Physiology and Pathophysiology
Authors: Hirano Katsuya
Published: November 2006

Proteinase-activated receptors (PARs) belong to a family of G protein–coupled receptors, thus mediating the cellular effects of proteinases. In the vascular system, thrombin and other proteinases in the coagulation-fibrinolysis system are considered to be the physiologically relevant agonists, whereas PARs are among the most important mechanisms mediating the interaction between the coagulation–fibrinolysis system and the vascular wall. Under physiological conditions, PARs are mainly expressed in endothelial cells, and participate in the regulation of vascular tone, mostly by inducing endothelium-dependent relaxation. PARs in endothelial cells are also suggested to contribute to a proinflammatory phenotypic conversion and an increase in the permeability of vascular lesions. In smooth muscle cells, PARs mediate contraction, migration, proliferation, hypertrophy, and production of the extracellular matrix, thereby contributing to the development of vascular lesions and the pathophysiology of such vascular diseases as atherosclerosis. However, the expression of PARs in the smooth muscle of normal arteries is limited. The upregulation of PARs in the smooth muscle is thus considered to be a key step for PARs to participate in the pathogenesis of vascular lesions. Elucidating the molecular mechanism regulating the PARs expression is therefore important to develop new strategies for the prevention and treatment of vascular diseases.
Hypertensive Intracerebral Hemorrhage in Young People
Authors: Ruiz-Sandoval José L. , Romero-Vargas Samuel , Chiquete Erwin , Padilla-Martínez Juan J. , Villarreal-Careaga Jorge , Cantú Carlos , Arauz Antonio , Barinagarrementería Fernando
Published: November 2006

Background and Purpose—Hypertensive intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) in young people has been the object of only succinct analyses. Therefore, it is unclear whether extrapolation of the information obtained from older patients is also valid for the young. Here we describe young persons with hypertensive ICH and compare them with their older counterparts to determine whether age-related clinical differences exist.

Methods—From 1988 to 2004, we studied 35 consecutive young patients with ICH (60% men; mean age, 33 years; range, 15 to 40 years) for whom the etiology of the brain hemorrhage was hypertension. For clinical comparisons, sex-matched persons with hypertensive ICH, aged >40 years, were randomly selected by a factor of 3:1 (n=105).

Results—Essential hypertension was present in 26 (74%) young patients and secondary hypertension in 9 (26%), with renovascular hypertension being the most common cause (n=5, 55%). Compared with older patients, the young had higher blood pressures, smaller hemorrhage volumes, lower rates of ventricular extensions (for all,P<0.05), and different distribution pattern of ICHs (P=0.05), without cerebellar and lobar locations. Thirty-day mortality was markedly lower in the young than in older persons (P=0.001), nevertheless at the expense of more incapacitating disabilities.

Conclusions—Young people presenting with hypertensive ICH differ in clinical characteristics and have a different prognosis when compared with their older counterparts. These findings suggest underlying age-related differences in disease pathogenesis.
An Expedited Code Stroke Protocol Is Feasible and Safe
Authors: Sattin Justin A. , Olson Scott E. , Liu Lin , Raman Rema , Lyden Patrick D.
Published: November 2006

Background and Purpose—

Stroke recovery critically depends on timely reperfusion. In July 2003, we set a benchmark onset-to-treatment time of ≤2 hours and instituted an expedited code stroke protocol to accomplish this. We aim to show that the protocol is feasible and safe.

Methods—

The expedited protocol includes: Benchmark onset-to-treatment within 2 hours; in-person triage of all code stroke patients; unmixed tissue plasminogen activator at the bedside during evaluation; no delays pending coagulation tests, chest x-ray, or stool guiac unless specifically indicated; and no delays pending formal CT interpretation or written consent.

Results—

Between July 2003 and June 2005, we evaluated 781 patients and treated 103 of 781 (13.2%) with intravenous recombinant tissue plasminogen activator within 3 hours. Of these, we treated 49 of 103 (47.6%) within 2 hours of symptom onset, and 54 of 103 (52.4%) between 2 and 3 hours. The overall risk of symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage was 4 of 103 (3.9%; 95% CI, 1.1%, 9.6%), and not significantly different from 6.4% (
P
=0.42). The hemorrhage risks in those treated within 2 hours of symptom onset and those treated between 2 and 3 hours were not significantly different from each other or from 6.4%.

Conclusions—

The expedited code stroke protocol is feasible and appears safe. Further study is warranted to confirm its safety and determine whether it results in better clinical outcomes.
Finding Spirituality and Nursing Presence
Authors: Rankin Elizabeth A. , DeLashmutt Mary B.
Published: November 2006

The concepts of spirituality and nursing presence are difficult for nursing students to comprehend, identify, and apply. Yet holistic nursing practice obligates nurse educators to teach students about these abstract concepts. The purpose of this article is to describe a nursing faculty’s approach to encourage baccalaureate students to explore and develop an understanding of the concepts of spirituality and nursing presence in light of their clinical practice. A clinical placement in a faith-based community crisis center for the poor and homeless is part of a semester-long, psychiatric/mental health clinical course. At the crisis-center day shelter, students ( N = 188) develop an interactive advocacy relationship with the clients and witness both spiritual care and nursing presence. Seminar-driven, topic-focused discussions foster reflective thinking application of these difficult concepts. Without exception, the students affirm that this is an experience of self-discovery and maturation in understanding spirituality and nursing presence in nursing practice.
Perspectives on Non-profit Mission and Financing in India
Authors: Ravichandran N. , Rajashree S. , Sathyapriya Y. , Jain Ajit
Published: November 2006

India has a long tradition of volunteerism and charity. Movements for liberalisation, social reforms, welfare and development, and conscientisation per se have taken place in this country and continue to do so. The history of social organisation seems to have largely been influenced by a laissez-faire movement on the basis of the promulgation of the theory of minimisation of state intervention on the one hand, and dissemination of the concern of volunteerism on a more planned and organised way on the other. During the colonial period the voluntary movement witnessed the era of the Christian church, Gandhian philosophy and reformist approach. The early post-independence period was the era of religion-based and Gandhian voluntary organisations. An important feature during this period was that the state had provided financial support to NGOs. In the 1960s and 1970s NGOs had grown manifold. In the 1980s NGOs occupied a prominent place in the development sector. Nonetheless, in recent years massive changes have been occurring. Indian experiences have revealed that there is a need for the critique of their own work and contributions. In the era of globalisation, successful implementation of development programmes requires appropriate policy framework, formulation of suitable plan schemes, and effective delivery machinery. This has to be based on appropriate research studies to validate presence, position, challenges and relevance.
Managing NGOs for Better Outcomes and Sustainability
Authors: Khanal D.R.
Published: November 2006

Apparently, there are some worrying phenomena picking up momentum in the NGOs movement in Nepal. With the increased organisational networking of NGOs, the expectations of people have risen immensely without commensurate benefits, leading to widening contradictions in the society rather than facilitating the mainstreaming of the underprivileged. The establishment or encouragement to NGOs on caste or ethnicity lines has led to induce such a tendency to a greater extent. It is interesting to note that violent conflict began and intensified in those areas where the networking of NGOs has been very strong. Similarly, the excessive dependency on donors, apart from discouraging self-help practices at the community level, has made sustainability of such organisations a major problem. This has also led to the imposition of terms and conditions by donors, thus directly or indirectly serving the donor's interest rather than facilitating a process of empowering the poor. Such a problem has compounded because of an absence of transparency in NGO programmes. There is no strong mechanism in the government to monitor the inflow of funds and channels through which money is spent. Many NGOs simply are stationed in the capital or in other accessible areas with the aim of somehow absorbing the funds available from INGOs or other donors. All these have increasingly created credibility problems. These are directly or indirectly associated with the problems of management. Therefore, the management of the NGOs for enhancing their credibility is a major challenge at the moment in Nepal, needing thorough analysis and investigation. The proposed article intends to fulfil that objective.
Stop “Going Over” Exams! The Multiple Benefits of Team Exams
Authors: Stark Gary
Published: November 2006

This article describes the use of team exams as a means of postexam feedback and explains the benefits of their use. Team exams are a simple procedure for those who use exams in their classrooms. Team exams can be a valuable experiential exercise in management classes but offer educational benefits in any class. Among the benefits of team exams are accurate feedback and active engagement of students in postexam review. Team exams can also serve to check the validity of exam questions and reduce the angst often associated with “going over” exams.
Getting More out of Team Projects: Incentivizing Leadership to Enhance Performance
Authors: Ferrante Claudia J. , Green Steve G. , Forster William R.
Published: November 2006

This study addresses changes in student perceptions when team leaders are incentivized. Although the benefits of groupwork have been thoroughly studied and documented, minimizing dysfunctional teamwork may prove difficult because of leadership incentives, social loafing, and organizational justice implications. Using an innovative pedagogical design, this study found that team members experienced fewer dysfunctional behaviors, and teams with incentivized leaders had better performance. These findings may have implications for management educators.
Increased mitochondrial mass characterizes the survival defect of HIV-specific CD8+ T cells
Authors: Petrovas Constantinos , Mueller Yvonne M. , Dimitriou Ioannis D. , Altork Susan R. , Banerjee Anupam , Sklar Peter , Mounzer Karam C. , Altman John D. , Katsikis Peter D.
Published: November 2006

What governs the increased apoptosis sensitivity of HIV-specific CD8+ T cells is poorly understood. Here, we examined the involvement of mitochondria in this apoptosis. Remarkably higher mitochondrial mass (MM) was found in HIV-specific compared with CMV-specific CD8+ T cells from HIV+ patients and this could not be attributed to their different differentiation status. MMHigh phenotype characterized those CD8+ T cells from HIV+ patients that are sensitive to spontaneous and CD95/Fas-induced apoptosis. CD38 expression did not correlate with high MM, whereas Bcl-2 levels were significantly reduced in both CD38+ and CD38− HIV-specific CD8+ T cells. Although CD38+ HIV-specific CD8+ T cells were more susceptible to apoptosis, CD38 expression does not explain on its own the selective apoptosis sensitivity of HIV-specific CD8+ T cells, as CD38− HIV-specific CD8+ T cells were more apoptotic than CD38+ CMV-specific ones. Proapoptotic HIV-specific CD8+ T cells were CD38+Bcl-2LowMMHigh. Copolarization of mitochondria with CD95/Fas capping, very early in CD95/Fas-induced apoptosis of HIV-specific CD8+ T cells, suggests that mitochondria act as an amplification step for this apoptosis. Thus, an extensive mitochondrial network contributes to apoptosis sensitivity of CD8+ T cells and, when this occurs together with reduced levels of Bcl-2 and chronic activation, determines the proapoptotic state of HIV-specific CD8+ T cells.
SDX-308, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agent, inhibits NF-κB activity, resulting in strong inhibition of osteoclast formation/activity and multiple myeloma cell growth
Authors: Feng Rentian , Anderson Gülsüm , Xiao Guozhi , Elliott Gary , Leoni Lorenzo , Mapara Markus Y. , Roodman G. David , Lentzsch Suzanne
Published: November 2006

Multiple myeloma is characterized by increased osteoclast activity that results in bone destruction and lytic lesions. With the prolonged overall patient survival achieved by new treatment modalities, additional drugs are required to inhibit bone destruction. We focused on a novel and more potent structural analog of the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug etodolac, known as SDX-308, and its effects on osteoclastogenesis and multiple myeloma cells. SDX-101 is another structural analog of etodolac that is already used in clinical trials for the treatment of B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (B-CLL). Compared with SDX-101, a 10-fold lower concentration of SDX-308 induced potent (60%-80%) inhibition of osteoclast formation, and a 10- to 100-fold lower concentration inhibited multiple myeloma cell proliferation. Bone resorption was completely inhibited by SDX-308, as determined in dentin-based bone resorption assays. SDX-308 decreased constitutive and RANKL-stimulated NF-κB activation and osteoclast formation in an osteoclast cellular model, RAW 264.7. SDX-308 effectively suppressed TNF-α–induced IKK-γ and IκB-α phosphorylation and degradation and subsequent NF-κB activation in human multiple myeloma cells. These results indicate that SDX-308 effectively inhibits multiple myeloma cell proliferation and osteoclast activity, potentially by controlling NF-κB activation signaling. We propose that SDX-308 is a promising therapeutic candidate to inhibit multiple myeloma growth and osteoclast activity and that it should receive attention for further study.
Alcoholic pancreatitis: mechanisms of viral infections as cofactors in the development of acute and chronic pancreatitis and fibrosis
Authors: Jerrells Thomas R , Vidlak Debbie , Strachota Jennifer M
Published: November 2006

Acute and chronic pancreatitis is associated with alcohol abuse, but symptomatic pancreatitis develops in only a small proportion of persons (10–20%) who abuse alcohol. This apparent paradox has led to the notion that additional cofactors are involved in the development of alcoholic pancreatitis. Potential cofactors, such as diet and smoking, have been suggested, but there are no compelling epidemiologic data to support this idea. A number of viruses and some bacteria have been shown to infect the pancreas and produce pancreatitis. One important mediator of pancreatitis in persons with a compromised immune system is a viral infection. The increased susceptibility of immunocompromised persons to viral pancreatitis led to the hypothesis, described in this paper, that the well-known immunosuppression associated with alcohol abuse would result in a more severe viral pancreatitis in mice, which are provided ethanol, than in control animals. To test this hypothesis, C57BL/6 mice were infected with a virulent strain of coxsackievirus B3, which preferentially induces pancreatitis, or with a strain that is naturally avirulent. The study findings presented in this paper show that ethanol consumption alone does not produce pancreas damage but results in a more severe and prolonged pancreatitis after infection with a virulent virus and interestingly, after infection with the avirulent strain of virus. This was associated with an increased number of viruses in the pancreas and spleen, which correlated with decreased humoral immune responses to the virus.
Membrane Reinsertion of a Myristoyl-Peptidyl Anchored Extracellular Domain Growth Hormone Receptor
Authors: Bowles C. E. , Wilkinson I. , Smith R. A. G. , Moir A. J. G. , Montgomery H. , Ross R. J. M.
Published: November 2006

The actions of GH are mediated through a cell surface cytokine receptor. We previously demonstrated that naturally occurring truncated membrane bound GH receptors (GHRs) can block GH receptor signaling. We have now investigated whether recombinant extracellular GHR can be conjugated to a myristoylated-peptide (mp) tail and inserted into cell membranes to modulate GHR signaling. Recombinant human extracellular domain (1–241) GHR was expressed in Escherichia coli, purified, and refolded from cell lysate. The free C-terminal cysteine was then reduced and conjugated to an activated preformed mp tail. The properties of the purified tailed GHR (GHR-mp) were then compared with those of the untailed purified GHR 1–241. Fluorescence-activated cell sorter analysis and cell surface binding assays demonstrated that GHR-mp inserted into the cell surface membranes of CHO cells, whereas untailed GHR 1–241 showed no insertion. In a cell-based bioassay GHR-mp partially inhibited wild-type GHR signaling, whereas GHR 1–241 had no effect. Truncated extracellular domain GHR can, when specifically modified with a membrane-localizing mp unit, insert into cell surface membranes and modulate GHR signaling.
Insulin Represses Phosphoenolpyruvate Carboxykinase Gene Transcription by Causing the Rapid Disruption of an Active Transcription Complex: A Potential Epigenetic Effect
Authors: Hall Robert K. , Wang Xiaohui L. , George Leena , Koch Stephen R. , Granner Daryl K.
Published: November 2006

Insulin represses gluconeogenesis, in part, by inhibiting the transcription of genes that encode rate-determining enzymes, such as phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK) and glucose-6-phosphatase (G-6-Pase). Glucocorticoids stimulate expression of the PEPCK gene but the repressive action of insulin is dominant. Here, we show that treatment of H4IIE hepatoma cells with the synthetic glucocorticoid, dexamethasone (dex), induces the accumulation of glucocorticoid receptor, as well as many transcription factors, coregulators, and RNA polymerase II, on the PEPCK gene promoter. The addition of insulin to dex-treated cells causes the rapid dissociation of glucocorticoid receptor, polymerase II, and several key transcriptional regulators from the PEPCK gene promoter. These changes are temporally related to the reduced rate of PEPCK gene transcription. A similar disruption of the G-6-Pase gene transcription complex was observed. Additionally, insulin causes the rapid demethylation of arginine-17 on histone H3 of both genes. This rapid, insulin-induced, histone demethylation is temporally related to the disruption of the PEPCK and G-6-Pase gene transcription complex, and may be causally related to the mechanism by which insulin represses transcription of these genes.
Pre-invasive cervical disease and uterine cervical cancer in Brazilian adolescents: prevalence and related factors
Authors: Monteiro Denise Leite Maia , Trajano Alexandre José Baptista , Silva Kátia Silveira da , Russomano Fábio Bastos
Published: November 2006

The objective was to describe the prevalence and factors associated with uterine cervical cancer (CA) and high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSIL) in adolescents. A cross-sectional study was carried out with 702 sexually active adolescents treated at a general hospital in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, from 1993 to 2002. Screening was performed by cytopathology and colposcopy and confirmation by biopsy. Exposure variables were socio-demographic characteristics and those related to reproductive health, habits, and sexual behavior. Adjusted odds ratios were estimated using multivariate logistic regression analysis. Based on histopathology, the prevalence of HSIL/CA was 3% (95%CI: 1.8-4.6). There was one case of invasive cancer. With each additional pregnancy, the odds of HSIL/CA increased by 2.2 (95%CI: 1.1-4.4). Age was also associated with this outcome, doubling the odds of acquiring this degree of disease with each year of age (OR = 2.0; 95%CI: 1.2-3.4). The prevalence of lesions suggests the importance of including sexually active adolescent females in cervical cancer screening programs aimed at early detection and treatment of these lesions.
Local implementation of the Family Health Program in Brazil
Authors: Magalhães Rosana , Senna Mônica de Castro Maia
Published: November 2006

This article discusses the implementation of the Family Health Program in the municipalities of Camaragibe, Aracaju, São Gonçalo, and the Federal District of Brazil, aiming to identify possible interfaces between the program's shaping and different incentives structures, the local health system's case-resolving capacity, experiences with social participation, and accountability mechanisms. The article shows that aspects related to the constitution of local health systems in terms of the quantitative and qualitative supply of services, technical and management training within the Municipal Health Department, investment in other levels of care, and local political traditions are crucial variables for understanding the diversity of experiences in the implementation of the Family Health Program.
Sistemas de Información en Salud: de sistemas cerrados a la ciudadanía social. Un desafío en la reducción de desigualdades en la gestión local
Authors: Alazraqui Marcio , Mota Eduardo , Spinelli Hugo
Published: November 2006

La forma tradicional de concepción de los Sistemas de Información en Salud (SIS) presenta innúmeros problemas en dar soporte a la gestión local orientada a la reducción de desigualdades en salud. ¿Cómo diseñar un SIS en el nivel local y cuáles serían sus características? Entendemos a los SIS como sistemas abiertos, complejos y en los que somos parte constitutiva de los mismos. La hipótesis es que un SIS que dé soporte a la gestión local debe ser concebido como un conjunto procesual de elementos formado por dato, información, conocimiento, comunicación y acción (DICCA). El dato es una estructura compleja constituida por cinco componentes. La información es un conjunto de datos procesados; mientras que en la producción de conocimiento existe una comprensión del fenómeno y de apropiación por parte del sujeto. La comunicación es el eje articulador de los conceptos anteriores con la acción. Las acciones estratégicas y comunicativas deben ser jerarquizadas en la gestión local. La propuesta está orientada a que los SIS den soporte a la gestión en la eliminación de desigualdades en salud y en la construcción de una sociedad de inclusión.
Os riscos dos acidentes de trânsito na perspectiva dos moto-boys: subsídios para a promoção da saúde
Authors: Veronese Andréa Márian , Oliveira Dora Lúcia Leidens Corrêa de
Published: November 2006

Esta nota resulta de uma pesquisa qualitativa realizada na cidade de Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil, com o objetivo de explorar o fenômeno "risco do acidente de trânsito" na perspectiva de moto-boys. O estudo foi embasado nas teorias sociológicas sobre risco, em especial, as que enfatizam o caráter sócio-cultural dos seus significados. As informações foram coletadas por meio de grupos focais e analisadas seguindo os passos da Teoria Fundamentada nos Dados. Segundo os moto-boys, os riscos do acidente de trânsito são inerentes ao cotidiano de trabalho e produzidos por interesses pessoais e sociais, no sentido das demandas por dinheiro, velocidade e urgência. Os moto-boys tentam controlar esses riscos utilizando estratégias de autocuidado. Considerando a alta incidência de acidentes de trânsito envolvendo moto-boys em Porto Alegre, parece que tais estratégias têm sido pouco eficazes. A nota argumenta que os acidentes de trânsito envolvendo moto-boys são acidentes de trabalho e, portanto, as ações de promoção da saúde que investem na sua prevenção precisam extrapolar o grupo de indivíduos que pilotam as motocicletas, sendo dirigidas também a clientes e patrões de serviços de telentrega.
Desempenho de um sistema de irrigação por microaspersão, instalado a nível de campo
Authors: Barreto Filho Antônio de Almeida , Dantas Neto José , Matos Jose Arimatéia de , Gomes Everaldo Mariano
Published: November 2006

Este trabalho foi desenvolvido na Escola Agrotécnica Federal de Sousa, PB, com a finalidade de se avaliar o desempenho de um sistema de irrigação localizada tipo microaspersão. Avaliaram-se, em três subunidades deste projeto (A, B e C) a variação de pressão e de vazão, os coeficientes de uniformidade e a eficiência de aplicação. Foram observadas elevadas variações de vazão e de pressão em duas subunidades avaliadas. A uniformidade de irrigação apresentou resultados elevados, sendo classificado como excelente; por outro lado a eficiência de aplicação de água nas subunidades A e C foi aceitável, enquanto na subunidade B foi menor que o mínimo recomendável, que seria de 80,0%, para microaspersão, fato que pode ser atribuído as elevadas variações absolutas de pressão e de vazão observadas em todas as laterais desta subunidade.
Características e dimensões do volume de um solo molhado sob gotejamento superfical e subsuperficial
Authors: Nogueira Carlos César Pereira , Coelho Eugênio Ferreira , Leão Moisés Custódio Saraiva
Published: November 2006

Objetivou-se, com este trabalho, estabelecer comparações entre os bulbos molhados por gotejadores localizados na superfície do solo, e enterrados no final do ciclo da irrigação, além de avaliar modelos matemáticos para estimativa das dimensões desses volumes molhados. O estudo foi conduzido em um solo Podzólico Vermelho-Amarelo, em Fortaleza, CE. Em ambos os casos, foi aplicado simultaneamente, o volume de 4,33 x 10-3 m³ (4,33 L) de água numa vazão de 7,22 x 10-7 m³ s-1 (2,6 L h-1). O monitoramento da dinâmica da água no solo foi realizado através de tensiômetros. Ao final de dois ciclos de irrigação observou-se, no volume molhado sob gotejamento enterrado, um teor de água disponível variando entre 44 a 29% maior que no caso do emissor superficial. Dentre os modelos testados o de Schwartzmass & Zur apresentou melhor correlação com as determinações experimentais.
Resposta do milho a diferentes dosagens de nitrogênio e fósforo aplicados ao solo
Authors: Lucena Lúcia de Fátima Castro , Oliveira Francisco Assis de , Silva Ivandro de França da , Andrade Alberício Pereira de
Published: November 2006

O estudo foi conduzido no ano agrícola de 1996, em condições de sequeiro, em um Latossolo Vermelho-Amarelo distrófico (LV) no município de Areia, PB, com o objetivo de se avaliar os efeitos das dosagens de nitrogênio (40, 80, 120 e 160 kg ha-1 de N) e de fósforo (60, 120, 180 e 240 kg ha-1 de P2O5) sobre algumas características da cultura do milho, cultivar BR 5033. Utilizou-se o delineamento experimental de blocos ao acaso, em esquema fatorial 4² + 2 tratamentos adicionais (zero de N e zero de P2O5) com três repetições. Foram avaliados os dados referentes às variáveis: diâmetro caulinar, número de grãos/espiga, peso de espiga com e sem palha, e rendimento de grãos pela cultura. O rendimento da cultura respondeu positivamente ao N e P2O5, até as dosagens de 111,1 kg ha-1 e 197,6 kg ha-1, respectivamente.
Avaliação de métodos de determinação de água disponível e manejo da irrigação em terra roxa sob cultivo de algodoeiro herbáceo
Authors: Souza Carlos Cleide de , Oliveira Francisco Assis de , Silva Ivandro de França da , Amorim Neto Malaquias da Silva
Published: November 2006

Desenvolveu-se o presente trabalho em casa de vegetação do DSER/CCA/UFPB, município de Areia, PB, objetivando-se a avaliação de dois métodos de determinação da faixa de água disponível no solo (AD), sendo um direto (MD) e outro de laboratório (ML) e o efeito da utilização de três níveis de AD, a 10, 25 e 40%, como indicativo para o manejo da irrigação na cultura do algodoeiro herbáceo (Gossypium hirsutum L. r. latifolium Hutch). O delineamento experimental adotado foi o de blocos ao acaso, com distribuição em esquema fatorial 2 x 3, com três repetições. Conforme a análise de variância, a faixa de água disponível no solo, para a cultura do algodoeiro, encontrada através da utilização do MD, supera significativamente (p < 0,01) a obtida pelo ML. O manejo das irrigações do algodoeiro com base em 40% da AD, determinado pelo MD, proporciona os maiores resultados de evapotranspiração, de área foliar e acumulação de fitomassa na parte aérea da cultura. Observou-se, ainda, interação métodos x níveis de AD, para todas as variáveis estudadas.
Transporte do amônio em colunas com agregados de um latossolo vermelho distrófico
Authors: Coelho Fábio Cunha , Ruiz Hugo Alberto , Ferreira Paulo Afonso , França Gonçalo Evangelista de , Araújo Cícero Antônio de Souza , Duarte Marcelo Alírio
Published: November 2006

Para descrever o transporte do íon amônio em diferentes classes de agregados de um Latossolo Vermelho distrófico realizou-se um experimento de laboratório cujos tratamentos corresponderam a um fatorial 3 x 5, sendo: três fontes de NH4+ [(NH4)2SO4, NH4Cl e NH4NO3] e cinco classes de agregados (2,0-1,0; 1,0-0,5; 0,5-0,25; 0,25-0,105; e <0,105 mm). A unidade experimental foi constituída de uma coluna de vidro saturada, sob vácuo, com uma solução de CaCl2 0,005 mol L-1. Aplicou-se, a seguir, a solução saturante até percolação constante, seguida de um pulso de sete volumes de poros da respectiva fonte a 0,01 mol L-1 de NH4+ (Co) para cada classe de agregados. Foram coletadas frações correspondentes a 0,3 volume de poros do efluente (p) determinando-se as concentrações de NH4+ (C). Calculou-se a relação C/Co para cada fração p, traçando-se curvas experimentais de eluição. Os maiores valores dos fatores de retardamento ocorreram nos agregados de menor tamanho, indicando maior retenção do amônio; na maioria dos tratamentos ocorreu superposição das curvas obtidas por meio dos modelos teóricos, o que indicou que o transporte do amônio no solo se deu, predominantemente, por dispersão. Os ânions acompanhantes apresentaram efeitos semelhantes sobre a lixiviação do NH4+, nas diferentes classes de agregados.
Suscetibilidade de gotejadores ao entupimento de causa biológica
Authors: Resende Ronaldo Souza , Coelho Rubens Duarte , Piedade Sônia Maria de Stéfano
Published: November 2006

Avaliou-se a suscetibilidade de cinco tipos de gotejadores ao processo de entupimento de origem biológica, testando-se os seguintes modelos da marca comercial Netafim: Streamline 100, Ram 17L, Dripline 2000, Tiran 17 e Typhoon 20; para tanto, utilizou-se delineamento estatístico em blocos ao acaso em parcela subdividida, constituído de cinco tratamentos (modelo de gotejador) na parcela e tempo de funcionamento (9 níveis) na subparcela com quatro repetições. A água utilizada no ensaio provinha de fonte hídrica superficial, utilizada para irrigação, e dela foram isolados diversos gêneros de bactérias, multiplicadas em meio de cultura e utilizadas para manter um nível populacional de bactéria no reservatório da bancada de ensaio superior a 50.000 UFC mL-1, através de inoculações efetuadas quando o número de células decaía a esse patamar. Em intervalos de tempo de funcionamento do sistema de 240 h, a vazão de cada gotejador era medida totalizando um tempo de 2160 h de operação. Os resultados apontaram diferenças entre os emissores avaliados quanto à ocorrência do entupimento, tendo os modelos Ram e Streamline apresentado os menores níveis de redução de vazão, em relação aos modelos Tiran e Dripline.
Variação do grau de dormência em sementes de Stylosanthes scabra de três regiões ecogeográficas do estado de Pernambuco
Authors: Queiroz Rosilda de Melo , Matos Valderez Pontes , Anunciação Filho Clodoaldo J. da
Published: November 2006

Com o presente trabalho, objetivou-se avaliar a variabilidade genética de populações de Stylosanthes scabra (Alfafa do Nordeste) como resultado de estratégia adaptativa a diferentes ambientes das regiões Mata, Agreste e Sertão do Estado de Pernambuco. Grande variabilidade interpopulacional foi encontrada quanto à percentagem de germinação de sementes não escarificadas. As populações procedentes do Sertão, quando comparadas às da Mata e Agreste, apresentaram capacidade de germinação inferior sugerindo, assim, que adquiriram condições favoráveis à dormência, como provável resposta às adversidades ambientais daquela região.
Sobrecompactación del suelo agricola parte I: influencia diferencial del peso y del número de pasadas
Authors: Jorajuria Daniel , Draghi Laura
Published: November 2006

Han sido objetivos principales de este trabajo, tanto el discriminar la responsabilidad de las variables independientes, peso y número de pasadas, en la distribución vertical de la compactación inducida, como obtener evidencia que permita decidir la conveniencia entre conjuntos ligeros que rueden muchas veces sobre la superficie trabajada, o conjuntos más grandes y pesados que resuelvan la tarea con menos pasajes. Se trabajó sobre un suelo de textura fina, con alta humedad presente. Las variables experimentales independientes configuraron dos tratamientos, tractor pesado y ligero, y tres diferentes número de pasadas, 1, 5 y 10, resultaron en seis subtratamientos de diferente intensidad de tráfico, más una parcela testigo sin tráfico. Los resultados no mostraron diferencias entre los tratamientos pesado y ligero, en el rango más superficial evaluado, sin embargo siempre fueron muy significativas las diferencias si se considera el rango de mayor profundidad. Disminuciones del rendimiento del pastizal del orden de 7 a 25% fueron medidas en las zonas adyacentes a las huellas, mientras que esas pérdidas ascendieron al rango de 52 a 76% dentro de la impronta dejada por las huellas del tráfico. Se pudo concluir que, el número de pasadas reiteradas sobre la misma senda, puede emular, e incluso reemplazar, al factor peso sobre el eje, en la responsabilidad principal de inducir compactaciones en el subsuelo. Diez pasadas, es el número crítico de rodadas, a partir del cual se pierden las ventajas de traficar con un tractor ligero, como alternativa a uno pesado con menos pasadas.
Compactación del suelo durante la cosecha forestal: evolución de las propiedades físicas
Authors: Balbuena Roberto Hernán , Terminiello Antonino Marcelo , Claverie Jorge Alejandro , Casado Juan Pablo , Marlats Raúl
Published: November 2006

Se realizaron ensayos en campo con el objeto de evaluar los efectos y la persistencia de la compactación inducida por diferentes intensidades de tránsito durante la cosecha forestal en una población de álamos (Populus sp.). Se trabajó con un tractor de tracción simple de 73,5 kW y un acoplado, con una masa de 4,2 Mg y 2,7 Mg, respectivamente. Se establecieron 3 tratamientos de tránsito: 1, 5 y 10 pasajes sobre una misma senda, contrastados con un testigo sin tránsito. Luego de cada tratamiento, y 3 años después de realizados los mismos, se efectuaron determinaciones de penetrometría, densidad aparente y humedad gravimétrica. Hubo incrementos significativos de resistencia a la penetración para los tratamientos con tránsito, alcanzando el de mayor intensidad valores entre el 76 y el 16 % en los primeros 40 cm de profundidad. La densidad aparente tuvo una tendencia similar limitada a una menor profundidad. Luego de 3 años, los efectos persistían a nivel subsuperficial, para el índice de cono en los sectores tránsitados con respecto a los no transitados, encontrándose diferencias significativas para el tratamiento de 10 pasajes respecto al de 1 pasaje hasta 50 cm. Aún con cargas por eje de 3 Mg, el incremento de la intensidad de tránsito induce compactación a nivel subsuperficial que persiste en el tiempo.
Deteminação do limite de liquidez em dois tipos de solo, utilizando-se diferentes metodologias
Authors: Souza Cristiano Márcio Alves de , Raful Leidy Zulys Leyva , Vieira Luciano Baião
Published: November 2006

Neste trabalho desenvolveu-se um estudo sobre a da determinação do limite de liquidez em dois Latossolos, um com textura muito argilosa, proveniente da cidade de Viçosa, MG, e outro com textura franco-argilo-arenosa, oriundo da cidade de Paraopeba, MG. Foram utilizados quatro métodos de determinação: o de Casagrande padrão, o de Casagrande com um ponto, o de penetrômetro de cone e o de penetrômetro de cone com um ponto. Analisou-se o limite de liquidez de ambos os solos, sendo que o proveniente de Viçosa apresentou maior valor que o de Paraopeba, em todos os métodos. Dos métodos utilizados no solo muito argiloso, apenas o de penetrômetro de cone com um ponto apresentou diferença significativa, enquanto para o solo franco-argilo-arenoso não houve diferença significativa entre os métodos de determinação do limite de liquidez; assim, quanto maior a porcentagem da fração tamanho argila no solo, maior é sua influência nos métodos de determinação do limite de liquidez.