bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
β2-Adrenergic Receptor Genetic Variants and Risk of Sudden Cardiac Death
Authors: Sotoodehnia Nona , Siscovick David S. , Vatta Matteo , Psaty Bruce M. , Tracy Russell P. , Towbin Jeffrey A. , Lemaitre Rozenn N. , Rea Thomas D. , Durda J. Peter , Chang Joel M. , Lumley Thomas S. , Kuller Lewis H. , Burke Gregory L. , Heckbert Susan R.
Published: April 2006

Background—

Sympathetic activation influences the risk of ventricular arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death (SCD), mediated in part by the β2-adrenergic receptor (B2AR). We investigated whether variation in the B2AR gene is associated with SCD risk.

Methods and Results—

In this study, 4441 white and 808 black Cardiovascular Health Study (CHS) participants were followed up prospectively for SCD and genotyped for B2AR Gly16Arg and Gln27Glu polymorphisms. The study was replicated in 155 case and 144 control white subjects in a population-based case-control study of SCD, the Cardiac Arrest Blood Study (CABS). In CHS, Gly16 and Gln27 allele frequencies were 62.4% and 57.1% among white and 50.1% and 81.4% among black participants. Over a median follow-up of 11.1 years, 156 and 39 SCD events occurred in white and black participants, respectively. The Gln27Glu variant was associated with SCD risk (
P
=0.008 for general model). SCD risk was higher in Gln27 homozygous participants than in Glu27 carriers (ethnicity-adjusted hazard ratio [HR], 1.56; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.17 to 2.09;
P
=0.003). The increased risk did not differ significantly between white (HR, 1.62; 95% CI, 1.18 to 2.23) and black (HR, 1.23; 95% CI, 0.61 to 2.48) participants, although the confidence interval was wide in blacks. In the CABS replication study, Gln27 homozygous participants similarly had higher SCD risk than Glu27 carriers (odds ratio, 1.64; 95% CI, 1.02 to 2.63;
P
=0.040). Gly16Arg was not associated with SCD risk in either study.

Conclusions—

Gln27 homozygous individuals have an increased risk of SCD in 2 study populations. Our findings suggest that B2AR plays a role in SCD in humans. Study of genetic variation within the B2AR gene may help identify those at increased SCD risk.
Kelvin–Helmholtz Billows in the Eyewall of Hurricane Erin
Authors: Aberson Sim D. , Halverson Jeffrey B.
Published: April 2006

A photograph of vertically aligned Kelvin–Helmholtz billows in the eastern eyewall of Hurricane Erin on 10 September 2001 is presented. The vertical shear instability in the horizontal winds necessary to produce the billows is confirmed with a high-altitude dropwindsonde observation. This shear instability is not known to be common in tropical cyclone eyewalls and is likely only in cases with a very large eyewall tilt. However, research and reconnaissance aircraft pilots need to be aware of the possibility of their existence, along with other types of hazardous conditions, in such rare circumstances.
Eastern North Pacific Hurricane Season of 2004
Authors: Avila Lixion A. , Pasch Richard J. , Beven John L. , Franklin James L. , Lawrence Miles B. , Stewart Stacy R.
Published: April 2006

The 2004 eastern North Pacific hurricane season is reviewed. It was a below-average season in terms of number of systems and landfalls. There were 12 named tropical cyclones, of which 8 became hurricanes. None of the tropical storms or hurricanes made landfall, and there were no reports of deaths or damage. A description of each cyclone is provided, and track and intensity forecasts for the season are evaluated.
An Investigation of Summer Precipitation Simulated by the Canadian Regional Climate Model
Authors: Jiao Yanjun , Caya Daniel
Published: April 2006

In the present paper, a 5-yr baseline integration for the period 1987–91 was carried out over a Pan-Canadian domain to validate the performance of the third-generation Canadian Regional Climate Model (CRCM). The CRCM simulated the large-scale circulation over North America well; it also correctly captured the seasonal variability of surface temperature and reproduced the winter precipitation over North America realistically. However, the CRCM systematically overestimated the summer precipitation over the continent when compared with the observed values.

Extensive experiments have been conducted to trace down the sources of error of summer precipitation. Particular attention has been given to the water-vapor-related physical parameterization processes such as the mass flux convection scheme in the CRCM. Experiments involving spectral nudging of the specific humidity toward the values of large-scale driving data enabled the authors to link overestimation with abundant water vapor accumulated in the lower boundary layer resulting from an excessive amount of moisture stored in the soil. A strong boundary layer mixing process from the third generation of the Canadian Atmospheric General Circulation Model was then implemented into the CRCM along with an adjustment to the soil water holding capacity. A final analysis of a 14-month experiment showed that these modifications significantly improved the simulation of summer precipitation over North America without adversely affecting the simulation of winter precipitation.
Keeping Communism Down on the Farm
Authors: Welch Cliff
Published: April 2006

Drawing on primary and secondary sources, this article discusses the durability of communist ideology in rural Brazil during the second half of the twentieth century. It analyzes the theme in two major periods: the Populist Republic (1945-1964) and the Military Regime (1964-1985). Concluding with a discussion of the first years of the New Republic, it argues that the political mobilization of Brazilian peasants defied the geopolitical logic of the era, which dictated the elimination of communist thought by the conclusion of the cold war.
Do Functional Health Inequalities Decrease in Old Age?
Authors: Herd Pamela
Published: April 2006

Although the relationship between educational attainment and health is well established, there is disagreement about how this relationship changes across the life course. Some studies have shown that educational health disparities widen in middle age and then start to abate in old age, whereas others have shown that health disparities continue to widen in old age. The author used the 1992-2002 Health and Retirement Study to shed new light on this old debate. Because findings of declining health inequalities in old age are often dismissed as a product of mortality selection and cohort effects, this study primarily aimed to address these claims. The author found that cohort effects and mortality selection do not fully explain shrinking educational disparities in functional health in old age. Further work is needed to explore explanations for diminishing health disparities health in old age.
Negotiating Prices for Customized Services
Authors: Roth Stefan , Woratschek Herbert , Pastowski Sven
Published: April 2006

This research analyzes the circumstances under which service providers can benefit from negotiating prices for customized services. In the authors’ model, a service provider offers a service in different degrees of customization. As a pricing mechanism, the service provider either applies a posted-price or a bargaining strategy. Although the posted-price versus bargaining problem has been extensively discussed in the literature, previous work does not address the relevance of customization and has not yet focused on its impact on the pricing mechanism. The model shows that the decision in favor of the bargaining strategy depends on several factors. Consumers’ willingness to pay is typically higher for customized services, which favors the bargaining strategy. In addition, low bargaining costs and low consumer bargaining power make the bargaining strategy even more attractive. According to these results, service providers can benefit from negotiating prices for customized services and posting prices for standardized services.
EVA and Traditional Accounting Measures: Which Metric is a Better Predictor of Market Value of Hospitality Companies?
Authors: Kim Woo Gon
Published: April 2006

This study tests the hypothesis that Economic Value Added (EVA) is more highly associated with hospitality firm values than with traditional performance measures. The purpose of this study is to provide empirical evidence on the relative and incremental information content of EVA and traditional performance measures, earnings, and cash flow. Regression analysis tests the information content of EVA and indicates that earnings are more useful than cash flow in explaining the market value of hospitality firms. EVA itself has very little explanatory power. Incremental information content tests show that EVA makes only a marginal contribution to information content beyond earnings and cash flow. Overall, the results do not support the hypothesis that EVA is superior to traditional accounting measures in association with equity market value.
Negative Word-of-Mouth Communication Intention: An Application of the Theory of Planned Behavior
Authors: Cheng Simone , Lam Terry , Hsu Cathy H. C.
Published: April 2006

The current research employed the Theory of Planned Behavior as a theoretical foundation to test the antecedents of negative word-of-mouth (WOM) communication intention. The hypothesized model proposed that attitude, subjective norm, and perceived behavioral control were associated with the negative WOM communication. The data and hypotheses were examined using structural equation modeling (SEM) by AMOS. Results from the maximum likelihood estimation showed that attitude, subjective norm, and perceived behavioral control were positively related to consumers’ negative WOM communication intention. Findings of this study demonstrated that the Theory of Planned Behavior is applicable in measuring consumers’ negative WOM communication.
Research Note: What Takes Them Out to the Ball Game?
Authors: Schmidt Martin B. , Berri David J.
Published: April 2006

The game of baseball was an integral part of life in 20th-century America. The relation baseball had with its fans, though, evolved as the game moved from quiet pastime to a multibillion dollar business. As the presented evidence will suggest, consumer demand at the close of the 20th century was less about loyalty to ‘our team’ and more about winning. Possible explanations for this trend are greater competition, labor-management strife, free agency, and a general change in the focus of sports away from simple quiet pastimes to one of profit-maximizing business.
Race, Performance, Pay, and Retention Among National Basketball Association Head Coaches
Authors: Kahn Lawrence M.
Published: April 2006

This article estimates racial differences in the retention probability, pay, and performance of National Basketball Association (NBA) coaches over the period from 1996 to 2003. Using a hazard function approach, the author finds small and statistically insignificant racial differences in the exit hazard, conditional on team performance, team payroll, and a variety of coaching quality indicators. There were also statistically insignificant racial differences in the quit and discharge hazards, all else equal. Further, among marginal coaches, the author finds no racial performance differentials, all else equal. Finally, controlling for performance and qualifications, the author finds small and statistically insignificant racial differences in annual compensation, total contractwide compensation, and contract duration. Together, these findings do not suggest that Black NBA coaches are subject to racial discrimination in entry, pay, or retention.
Book Reviews
Authors: Lev Benjamin
Published: April 2006

The range of books reviewed is wide, covering theory and applications in operations research, statistics, management science, econometrics, mathematics, computers, and information systems (no software is reviewed). In addition, we include books in other fields that emphasize technical applications. Publishers who wish to have their books reviewed should send them to Professor Benjamin Lev. We list the books received; not all books received can be reviewed because space is limited. Those who would like to review books are urged to send me their names, addresses, and specific areas of expertise. We commission all reviews and do not accept unsolicited book reviews. Readers are encouraged to suggest books that might be reviewed or to ask publishers to send me copies of such books.

The authors or editors of the books reviewed in this issue are Michael Bartholomew-Biggs, Saul I. Gass, Arjang A. Assad, W. Li, Massimo Paolucci, Roberto Sacile, Suresh Sethi, Hanqin Zhang, Qing Zhang, and William T. Ziemba.
Novel Porphyrin Conjugates with a Potent Photodynamic Antitumor Effect: Differential Efficacy of Mono‐ and Bis‐β‐cyclodextrin Derivatives In Vifro and In Vivo
Authors: Kralova Jarmila , Synytsya Alla , Pouckova Pavla , Koc Michal , Dvorak Michal , Kral Vladimir
Published: April 2006

In the present study we investigated the photosensitizing properties of two novel mono‐ and bis‐cyclodextrin tetrakis (pentafluorophenyl) porphyrin derivatives in several tumor cell lines and in BALB/c mice bearing subcutaneously transplanted syngeneic mouse mammary carcinoma 4T1. Both studied sensitizers were localized mainly in lysosomes and were found to induce cell death by triggering apoptosis in human leukemic cells HL‐60. In 4T1 and other cell lines both apoptotic and necrotic modes of cell death occurred depending on drug and light doses. Mono‐cyclodextrin porphyrin derivative P(β‐CD)l exhibited stronger in vitro phototoxic effect than bis‐cyclodextrin derivative P(β‐CD)2. However, in vivo P(β‐CD)2 displayed faster tumor uptake with maximal accumulation 6 h after application, leading to complete and prolonged elimination of subcutaneous tumors within 3 days after irradiation (100 J cm‐2). In contrast, P(β‐CD)1 uptake was slower (48 h) and the reduction of tumor mass was only transient, reaching the maximum at the 12 h interval when a favorable tumor‐to‐skin ratio appeared. Thus, P(β‐CD)2 represents a new photosensitizing drug displaying fast and selective tumor uptake, strong antitumor activity and fast elimination from the body.
Simultaneous Two‐photon Excitation of Photofrin in Relation to Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Karotki Aliaksandr , Khurana Mamta , Lepock James R. , Wilson Brian C.
Published: April 2006

Photodynamic therapy (PDT), the use of light‐activated drugs (photosensitizers), is an emerging treatment modality for tumors as well as various nononcologic conditions. Single‐photon (1‐γ) PDT is limited by low specificity of the photo‐sensitizer, leading to damage to healthy tissue adjacent to the diseased target tissue. One solution is to use simultaneous two‐photon (2‐γ) excitation with ultrafast pulses of near‐IR light. Due to the nonlinear interaction mechanism, 2‐γ excitation with a focused beam is localized in three dimensions, allowing treatment volumes on the order of femtoliters. We propose that this will be valuable in PDT of age‐related macular degeneration (AMD), which causes blindness due to abnormal choroidal neovasculature and which is currently treated by 1‐γ PDT. Here, Photofrin has been used as the photosensitizer to demonstrate proof‐of‐principle of 2‐γ killing of vascular endothelial cells in vitro. The 2‐γ absorption properties of Photofrin were investigated in the 750–900 nm excitation wavelength range. It was shown that 2‐γ excitation dominates over 1‐γ excitation above 800 nm. The 2‐γ absorption spectrum of Photofrin in the 800–900 nm excitation wavelength range was measured. The 2‐γ cross section decreased from about 10 GM (1 GM = 10‐5 cm4 s/photon) at 800 nm to 5 GM at 900 nm. Adherent YPEN‐1 endothelial cells were then incubated with Photofrin for 24 h and then treated by PDT at 850 nm where the 1‐γ contribution was negligible. Cell death was monitored with the use of 2‐γ scanning laser microscopy. The light doses required for killing were high (6300 J cm‐2 for ∼50% killing), but 2‐γ cytotoxicity was unequivocally demonstrated. Although Photofrin is, per se, not a good choice for 2‐γ PDT due to its low 2‐γ cross section, this work provides baseline data to guide the development of novel photosensitizers with much higher 2‐γ cross sections (>100 GM), which will be required for 2‐γ PDT of AMD (and other conditions) to be clinically practical.
Perceptions and electric senoidal current stimulation
Authors: Pimentel Julia Manzano , Petrillo Renata , Vieira Mirna Migliacci F. , Giuliano Lydia Maria Pereira , Tierra-Criollo Carlos Julio , Braga Nadia Iandoli de Oliveira , Nóbrega João Antonio Maciel , Manzano Gilberto Mastrocola
Published: April 2006

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the relationship between perceptions and electrical senoidal current stimulation (ESCS). METHOD: The study population comprise 100 healthy volunteers. ESCS of 5 Hz and 2 kHz were applied to the left index finger at one and 1.5 sensory threshold. Following each stimulus train a list of eight words (four related to thin fiber sensations and four related to thick fiber sensations) was presented to the subjects who were asked to choose the three words closer to the experienced sensation. Each chosen word was given a score 1; final results were obtained by the sum of the scores for the words related to thin and thick fiber systems for each situation. RESULTS: For 5 Hz ESCS at one and 1.5 sensory threshold thin fibers had significantly higher scores than thick fibers; for 2 kHz ESCS, thick fibers had significantly higher scores. CONCLUSION: These results show that there is a relation between different sensations and ESCS of different frequencies.
Imunoistoquímica em oligodendrogliomas
Authors: Hilbig Arlete
Published: April 2006

Os oligodendrogliomas (OL) são tumores gliais caracterizados histologicamente pela presença de núcleo redondo e homogêneo com halo claro perinuclear. A diferenciação microscópica desses tumores com neurocitoma central, DNT e algumas vezes com ependimoma de células claras pode ser difícil. O estudo imunoistoquímico com marcadores glial e neuronal tem sido utilizado e pode auxiliar no diagnóstico diferencial. O objetivo do presente estudo foi determinar a diferenciação neuronal e glial por meio de técnica imunoistoquímica utilizando anticorpos de rotina em tumores com características microscópicas de OL. Foram estudados 42 pacientes com idade entre 4 e 60 anos. Dez apresentavam sinais de maior malignidade (anaplásico). Trinta e três casos (78,5%) mostraram positividade para GFAP, sendo em 10 focal e 6 casos com expressão intensa. Doze casos (28,5%) apresentaram positividade para NSE e/ou sinaptofisina, demonstrando alguma diferenciação neuronal, principalmente focal. Trinta e quatro casos (80,9%) foram positivos para S-100 e três casos (7,1%) foram positivos focalmente para NeuN. Concluimos que áreas focais de diferenciação neuronal e/ou glial podem estar presente em OL típicos e, portanto, é necessário cautela no diagnóstico diferencial em amostras pequenas de tumor. A positividade difusa para marcadores neuronais deve sugerir o diagnóstico de neurocitoma central.
Cefaléia do tipo tensional episódica: avaliação clínica de 50 pacientes
Authors: Matta André Palma da Cunha , Moreira Filho Pedro Ferreira
Published: April 2006

Com o objetivo de estudar os aspectos clínicos, a história familiar e o impacto da dor nas atividades laborativas, foi conduzido estudo de série de casos de 50 pacientes portadores de cefaléia do tipo tensional episódica (CTTE). Foram avaliados 40 mulheres e 10 homens, com idade média de 30 (±12) anos. Dor constrictiva esteve presente em 40 pacientes (80%). O enjôo foi o principal fenômeno acompanhante (20%). A dor bilateral predominou; entretanto, a localização unilateral também esteve presente (10%). Embora classicamente descrita como uma dor leve, observou-se que a CTTE pode se manifestar como crises de forte intensidade (16%). A história familiar foi positiva em 12 pacientes (24%). O impacto nas atividades laborativas foi detectado em 14% da amostra. Os achados a respeito das características da dor estão de acordo com a literatura. O impacto representado pela CTTE a nível individual e na sociedade deve, entretanto, ser reconsiderado.
Cerebellar glioblastoma multiforme in an adult
Authors: Mattos João Paulo , Marenco Horacio Armando , Campos José Maria , Faria Andréa Vasconcellos , Queiroz Luciano Souza , Borges Guilherme , Oliveira Evandro de
Published: April 2006

Cerebellar glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is a rare tumor. This is the third case published in Brazilian literature and, the last one has been described more than 15 years ago. The aggressive behavior of GBM prompts for fast treatment, which can be hampered by the fact that the diagnosis of GBM requires a high degree of suspicion. We describe a case of GBM in a 46 years old man. In conjunction, we present a literature review including particular issues, clinical data, advances in imaging studies, pathological characteristics, treatment options and the behavior of such malignant tumor.
Fratura de mandíbula: análise de 293 pacientes tratados no Hospital de Clínicas da Universidade Federal de Uberlândia
Authors: Patrocínio Lucas Gomes , Patrocínio José A. , Borba Bruno Henrique Carrijo , Bonatti Bruno De Santi , Pinto Lauro Figueira , Vieira Juliana Villela , Costa José Mariano Carvalho
Published: April 2006

A fratura de mandíbula ocupa o segundo lugar entre as fraturas dos ossos da face, tendo havido aumento significativo de casos nos últimos anos. A não-identificação e o tratamento inadequado podem levar à deformidade estética ou funcional permanente. OBJETIVO: Avaliar os casos submetidos à redução de fratura de mandíbula no Hospital de Clínicas da Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, entre janeiro de 1974 e dezembro de 2002. FORMA DE ESTUDO: coorte historica. PACIENTES E MÉTODO: Duzentos e noventa e três pacientes foram submetidos à redução de fratura de mandíbula e retrospectivamente foram avaliados segundo fatores relacionados a: paciente, trauma, quadro clínico e tratamento cirúrgico. RESULTADOS: Houve uma clara tendência de aumento do número de fraturas de mandíbula ao longo dos anos. Houve um predomínio no sexo masculino (4:1), com pico de ocorrência entre 20 a 29 anos. As principais causas de fratura da mandíbula neste estudo foram acidentes de trânsito e violência, perfazendo juntas 72,4%. Cento e trinta e cinco pacientes apresentavam fratura única. Os sítios mais acometidos foram, em ordem decrescente, sínfise, côndilo, ângulo, corpo, ramo e processo coronóide. Foram realizadas redução incruenta (28), cruenta (213) e associação das duas (11 pacientes), sendo que 56,8% dos pacientes foram tratados nos primeiros 3 dias e 50,4% recebeu a alta hospitalar até o primeiro pós-operatório. Cerca de 10% dos pacientes apresentaram complicações, sendo osteomielite a mais freqüente. CONCLUSÃO: A incidência de fraturas de mandíbula foi marcadamente maior no sexo masculino, durante a terceira década de vida. A causa mais comum foi o acidente de trânsito e as regiões mais atingidas foram sínfise e côndilo. As fraturas isoladas de mandíbula ocorreram em mais de metade dos casos. A maioria dos pacientes foi tratada nos primeiros três dias e recebeu alta até o primeiro pós-operatório. A redução cruenta foi tratamento mais comumente empregado. A complicação mais freqüente foi a osteomielite.
Avaliação da pressão inspiratória em crianças com aumento do volume de tonsilas
Authors: Pires Melissa Guerato , Di Francesco Renata Cantisani , Grumach Anete Sevciovic , Mello Jr. João Ferreira de
Published: April 2006

Crianças com aumento do volume de tonsilas palatina e faríngea freqüentemente apresentam anormalidades respiratórias tais como ronco, respiração oral e apnéia do sono. Sabe-se que a obstrução de vias aéreas superiores e conseqüentemente a respiração oral podem resultar em problemas pulmonares. OBJETIVO: Avaliar a pressão inspiratória em crianças com obstrução de vias aéreas superiores devido ao aumento do volume de tonsilas. FORMA DE ESTUDO: clínico com coorte transversal. MATERIAL E MÉTODO: Nós avaliamos 37 crianças (4-13 anos, ambos os sexos) com aumento do volume de tonsilas que seriam submetidas à cirurgia de Adenoamigdalectomia na Divisão de Otorrinolaringologia da Universidade de São Paulo no mesmo período. O grupo controle foi composto de 28 crianças sem aumento de volume tonsilar que foram submetidas aos mesmos testes. A pressão Inspiratória foi obtida pelo uso do manovacuômetro. RESULTADOS: Observamos uma menor pressão inspiratória no grupo com aumento do volume de tonsilas. A média do grupo com aumento do volume das tonsilas foi 14,607 cm/H2O e do grupo normal foi de 27,580 cm/H2O (P< 0,001). CONCLUSÃO: O aumento de volume de tonsilas palatina e faríngea foi associado a uma menor pressão inspiratória, resultando em um aumento do esforço respiratório e do trabalho dos músculos envolvidos.
Rinossinusite crônica em pacientes infectados pelo vírus da imunodeficiência humana: avaliação clínica e radiológica
Authors: Miziara Ivan Dieb , Araujo Filho Bernardo Cunha , La Cortina Rodrigo Cataldo de , Romano Fabrício R. , Lima Adriana S.
Published: April 2006

O advento dos inibidores de protease, aumentando a sobrevida dos pacientes infectados com HIV aumentou a procura destes pacientes por médicos otorrinolaringologistas, já que 40% a 70% deles podem apresentar alguma alteração otorrinolaringológica. OBJETIVIVOS: Objetivamos, nesse estudo, comparar os achados radiológicos e sintomatologia nasossinusal entre pacientes infectados com HIV e pacientes com AIDS, com rinossinusite crônica. A literatura sobre o assunto é revisada e discutida. FORMA DE ESTUDO: clínico prospectivo com coorte transversal. CASUÍSTICA E MÉTODOS: Prospectivamente, 39 pacientes em uso de drogas antiretrovirais foram divididos em 2 grupos: pacientes com diagnóstico de AIDS (grupo I) e aqueles apenas infectados pelo HIV (grupo II). Estes grupos foram comparados clinicamente, quanto à contagem de células CD4+ e avaliação tomográfica dos seios paranasais. RESULTADOS: Os pacientes dos grupos I e II apresentaram média de células CD4+ de 118 cél/10-9l e 377 cél/10-9l, respectivamente. Na comparação dos achados tomográficos pelo sistema de Lund e Mackay, o grupo I apresentou escore médio de 12 e o grupo II apresentou média de escore de 5,63 (p<0,001), sendo a febre e a secreção pós-nasal mais prevalente no grupo I (p<0,001). CONCLUSÃO: A prevalência da sinusite crônica nos pacientes infectados pelo HIV foi de 12%. Os sintomas da rinossinusite foram similares nos pacientes sem AIDS e com AIDS, com exceção da presença de febre. Os pacientes com AIDS apresentaram alterações radiológicas mais extensas do que os pacientes HIV positivos.
Triatoma sordida: considerações sobre o tempo de vida das formas adultas e sobre a oviposição das fêmeas
Authors: Souza José Maria Pacheco de , Rodrigues Vera Lúcia C. C. , Rocha e Silva Eduardo Olavo da
Published: April 2006

Foram observados 53 exemplares do T. sordida que chegaram à fase alada, oriundos de 110 ovos; os machos eram em número de 22 e as fêmeas 31. Os tempos médios de duração da fase de ninfa não foram estatisticamente diferentes entre os sexos, sendo 174,6 e 170,6 dias respectivamente para machos e fêmeas. O tempo médio de vida na fase alada foi significativamente maior para as fêmeas, com 503 dias para estas e 284 para os machos. O período de oviposição correspondeu a 86,42% do tempo de fase alada das fêmeas, com a postura tendo maior intensidade na primeira metade desta fase. Cada fêmea pôs em média 570,8 ovos, variando a postura de 0,68 a 1,97 ovos por dia.
Determinação de níveis normais de colinesterase plasmática e eritrocitária
Authors: Siqueira Maria Elisa Pereira Bastos de , Fernícola Nilda Alícia Gallego Gándara de , Borges Eustáquio Linhares
Published: April 2006

Foram determinados níveis de colinesterase plasmática e eritrocitária em 57 indivíduos, de idades entre 18 a 37 anos, estudantes da Universidade de São Paulo (Brasil), por meio de dois métodos: o de Michel, H. O. e o de Caraway, W. T. para o estabelecimento de valores médios "normais". Pelo método de Michel, foi encontrado um valor médio de 0,83 deltapH/h para a colinesterase eritrocitária e de 1,11 deltapH/h para a enzima do plasma. Pelo método de Caraway, foi obtido um valor de 77 U.
Hipovitaminose A em filhos de migrantes nacionais em trânsito pela capital do Estado de São Paulo, Brasil. Estudo clínico-bioquímico
Authors: Roncada Maria José , Wilson Donald , Lui Netto Adamo , Berretta Netto Olderigo , Kalil Aldonia C. , Nunes Maria de Fátima , Okani Eliza Tieko
Published: April 2006

Realizaram-se exames clínico-nutricionais e bioquímicos em 109 crianças, de 2 a 7 anos de idade, filhos de migrantes nacionais em trânsito pela Central de Triagem e Encaminhamento (CETREN), na Capital do Estado de São Paulo, Brasil, em que se pesquisaram sinais clínicos de xeroftalmia e níveis sanguíneos de caroteno e vitamina A. As conclusões apontaram existir hipovitaminose A a nível bioquímico, no grupo estudado, não constituindo a xeroftalmia um problema de saúde pública.
Arriboflavinose clínica em pré-escolares, filhos de migrantes em trânsito pela Central de Triagem e Encaminhamento, na capital do Estado de São Paulo, Brasil
Authors: Wilson Donald , Roncada Maria José , Berretta Netto Olderigo , Lui Netto Adamo , Kalil Aldonia C. , Nunes Maria de Fátima
Published: April 2006

Foi realizado um levantamento clínico entre 109 pré-escolares, filhos de migrantes em trânsito pela Central de Triagem e Encaminhamento (CETREN), tendo-se constatado altíssima prevalência de arriboflavinose. A única medida factível foi a administração de riboflavina a todas as crianças examinadas.
Ocorrência de diabetes melito em mulheres com hiperglicemia em gestação prévia
Authors: Silva Márcia Rocha Gabaldi , Calderon Iracema de Mattos Paranhos , Gonçalves Luciana Colnago , Aragon Flávio Ferrari , Padovani Carlos Roberto , Pimenta Walkyria de Paula
Published: April 2006

OBJETIVO: Verificar a freqüência com que ocorria intolerância à glicose (diabetes melito e tolerância à glicose diminuída) em mulheres cuja gestação foi acompanhada e avaliada quanto à tolerância à glicose. MÉTODOS: Num período de até 12 anos da gestação-alvo, de um total de 3.113 gestantes acompanhadas em um serviço de obstetrícia, 551 foram selecionadas por meio de um processo randômico, proporcional à representação dos grupos. Foram avaliadas 529, assim constituídas: 250 normotolerantes à glicose, grupo IA; 120 com hiperglicemia diária, grupo IB; 72 com o teste oral de tolerância à glicose alterado, grupo IIA; e 87 com o teste oral de tolerância à glicose alterado e hiperglicemia diária, grupo IIB. A avaliação constava da medida da glicemia de jejum, que entre 110 e 125 mg/dL, era seguida pelo teste oral de tolerância à glicose. RESULTADOS: A freqüência de ocorrência de diabetes foi 1,6, 16,7, 23,6 e 44,8% nos grupos IA, IB, IIA e IIB, respectivamente (IA <[IB=IIA]<IIB; p<0,05). Tal diferença entre os grupos se manteve nos primeiros quatro biênios. As mulheres do grupo IA diferiram das dos demais grupos em idade, paridade e história familiar de diabetes. CONCLUSÃO: Glicemias (perfil glicêmico) elevadas assim como o teste oral de tolerância à glicose alterado durante a gestação são igualmente eficazes em predizer o futuro desenvolvimento de diabetes materno; quando ambos os testes são alterados, tal prognóstico se agrava significativamente.
Occupational accidents among middle and high school students of the state of São Paulo, Brazil
Authors: Fischer Frida M , Martins Ignez S , Oliveira Denize C , Teixeira Liliane R , Latorre Maria do Rosario D , Cooper Sharon P
Published: April 2006

OBJECTIVES: To estimate the prevalence of occupational injuries and identify their risk factors among students in two municipalities. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in public schools of the municipalities of Santo Antonio do Pinhal and Monteiro Lobato, Brazil. A stratified probabilistic sample was drawn from public middle and high schools of the study municipalities. A total of 781 students aged 11 to 19 years participated in the study. Students attending middle and high school answered a comprehensive questionnaire on living and working conditions, as well as aspects of work injuries, and health conditions. Multiple logistic regression models were fitted to estimate risk factors of previous and present occupational injuries. RESULTS: Of 781 students, 604 previously had or currently have jobs and 47% reported previous injuries. Among current workers (n=555), 38% reported injuries on their current job. Risk factors for work injuries with statistically significant odds ratio >2.0 included attending evening school, working as a housekeeper, waiter or brickmaker, and with potentially dangerous machines. CONCLUSIONS: The study results reinforce the need of restricting adolescent work and support communities to implement social promotion programs.
Mortes por suicídio: diferenças de gênero e nível socioeconômico
Authors: Marín-León Leticia , Barros Marilisa B A
Published: April 2006

OBJETIVO: Descrever a tendência da mortalidade por suicídio e o perfil sociodemográfico, identificando diferenças de sexo e nível socioeconômico. MÉTODOS: Analisou-se a tendência das taxas brutas de suicídio, em Campinas, SP, no período 1976-2001, segundo o sexo. Para a análise sociodemográfica dos óbitos, no período de 1996-2001, foi utilizado o Banco de Dados de Óbitos de Campinas. Para a análise das diferenças socioeconômicas utilizou-se abordagem ecológica, em que as 42 áreas de abrangência das unidades básicas dos serviços de saúde foram agrupadas em quatro estratos homogêneos. Calcularam-se taxas padronizadas por idade (método direto). RESULTADOS: Comparando a outros países, a mortalidade por suicídio no município foi baixa (<5 ób/100.000 hab). A sobremortalidade masculina foi superior a 2,7 suicídios masculinos para cada suicídio feminino. Em 1980-1985 as maiores taxas foram observadas nos adultos de 55 anos e mais; já em 1997-2001 as taxas são mais elevadas nos adultos de 35-54 anos. Entre os homens, os meios mais utilizados são o enforcamento (36,4%) e as armas de fogo (31,8%). Entre as mulheres predomina o envenenamento (24,2%), seguido pelas armas de fogo e enforcamento (21,2% cada); este último ocorreu predominantemente no domicílio (75,7%); já as mortes por arma de fogo e envenenamento ocorreram em maior proporção em hospitais. Diferentemente dos homicídios, os suicídios não apresentam aumento progressivo das taxas com a diminuição do nível socioeconômico. CONCLUSÕES: As taxas são baixas, oscilando com aumentos e declínios sucessivos, sem tendência continua de crescimento ou redução. Os riscos de morte por suicídio são maiores nos homens e não aumentam com a redução do nível socioeconômico.
Brazilian doctors' perspective on the second opinion strategy before a C-section
Authors: Osis Maria José Duarte , Cecatti José Guilherme , Pádua Karla Simônia de , Faúndes Anibal
Published: April 2006

OBJECTIVE: To describe the opinion of doctors who participated in the Latin American Study on Cesarean section in Brazil regarding the second opinion strategy when faced with the decision of performing a C-section. METHODS: Seventy-two doctors from the hospitals where the study took place (where the second opinion was routinely sought) and 70 from the control group answered a pre-tested self-administered structured questionnaire. Descriptive tables were prepared based on the frequency of relevant variables on opinion of physicians regarding: effectiveness of the application of the second opinion strategy; on whether they would recommend implementation of this strategy and reasons for not recommending it in private institutions; feasibility of the strategy implementation and reasons for not considering this implementation feasible in private institutions. RESULTS: Half of the doctors from the intervention hospitals (50%) and about two thirds of those in the control group (65%) evaluated the second opinion as being or having the potential of being effective/very effective in their institutions. The great majority of those interviewed from both intervention and control hospitals considered this strategy feasible in public (87% and 95% respectively) but not in private hospitals (64% and 70% respectively), mainly because in the latter the doctors would not accept interference from a colleague in their decision-making process. CONCLUSION: Although the second opinion strategy was perceived as effective in reducing C-section rates, doctors did not regard it feasible outside the public health system in Brazil.
Mortalidade por câncer em trabalhadores da indústria da borracha de São Paulo
Authors: Neves Hélio , Moncau José Eduardo Cajado , Kaufmann Paulo Roberto , Wünsch Filho Victor
Published: April 2006

OBJETIVO: Avaliar as mortes por câncer em trabalhadores da indústria da borracha de acordo com o tamanho da empresa. MÉTODOS: Coorte histórica com 9.188 trabalhadores masculinos, matriculados em sindicato de trabalhadores da indústria de borracha do Estado de São Paulo entre 1975 e 1985, sobreviventes em janeiro de 1990 e acompanhados até o final de 2000. As mortes por câncer foram comparadas internamente à coorte, cujos membros foram subdivididos em estratos por porte e sub-ramo da empresa, setor de trabalho e qualificação profissional. A abordagem por conjuntos de risco e regressão logística condicional foi utilizada para o cálculo dos riscos relativos, ajustados por idade, tempo desde o primeiro emprego e tempo de trabalho na indústria da borracha. RESULTADOS: Quando comparados aos empregados de grandes empresas, trabalhadores de pequenas empresas mostraram excesso de mortes por todos tipos de câncer (RR=2,33; IC 95%: 0,90-6,03); tumores de estômago (RR=3,47; IC 95%: 2,57-4,67) e do trato aero-digestivo superior (RR=2,49; IC 95%: 1,78-3,48). Identificou-se excesso de mortes por câncer nos trabalhadores dos setores de manutenção (RR=2,23; IC 95%: 0,73-6,76); expedição, armazenamento e transporte (RR=2,97; IC 95%: 0,77-11,38); e produção (RR=3,51; IC 95%: 1,07-11,57), comparados aos trabalhadores dos setores administrativos. CONCLUSÕES: Os resultados mostram evidências de aumento do risco de tumores de estômago e do trato aero-digestivo superior e, possivelmente, por câncer em geral em trabalhadores de empresas de pequeno porte da indústria da borracha quando comparados aos trabalhadores das grandes empresas.
Molecular typing of Candida albicans strains isolated from nosocomial candidemia
Authors: Branchini Maria Luiza Moretti , Geiger Débora de Cassia Pires , Fischman Olga , Pignatari Antonio Carlos
Published: April 2006

Yeasts of the genus Candida have been recognized as important microorganisms responsible for nosocomial fungemia. Six blood-stream and two intravenous central catheter C. albicans strains were isolated from eight patients and studied by electrophoretic karyotyping of chromosomal DNA by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis. Seven chromosomal DNA profiles were identified. Two patients showed isolates with the same profile, suggesting nosocomial transmission. Karyotyping of C. albicans revealed an excellent discriminatory power among the isolates and may therefore be useful in the study of nosocomial candidemia.
Plague surveillance in Brazil: 1983 - 1992
Authors: Almeida Alzira Maria Paiva de , Cintra Leal Nilma , Carvalho Francisco Gomes de , Dantas Sobrinho José , Almeida Célio Rodrigues de
Published: April 2006

Plague caused by Yersinia pestis, has persisted in Brazil in several natural foci spread throughout rural areas in the States of Ceara, Paraiba, Pernambuco, Piaui, Rio Grande do Norte, Alagoas, Bahia, Minas Gerais and Rio de Janeiro. Nationwide surveillance of plague in Brazil based on serological testing started in 1983. We now present an update report of the examinations carried out in our laboratory from 1983 to 1992. The passive hemagglutination test for antibodies against fraction 1A antigen of Y. pestis and the passive hemagglutination inhibition control were employed for testing a total of 220,769 sera. Samples analyzed included 2,856 sera from clinically diagnosed plague cases or suspects, 49,848 sera from rodents of 24 species and 2 species of small wild carnivores (marsupials), 122,890 sera from dogs, and 45,175 sera from cats. Specific antibodies were found in 92 (3.22%) human sera; 143 (0.29%) sera from rodents of 8 species and from the two species of marsupials, 1,105 (0.90%) sera from dogs and 290 (0.64%) sera from cats. The presence of significant levels of specific anti-F1A antibodies among rodents and wild or domestic carnivores (dogs and cats) indicates that all the Brazilian plague foci remain active in spite of the absence of human cases in some of them.
Intestinal spirochetosis: first cases reported in Brazil and the use of immunohistochemistry as an aid in histopathological diagnosis
Authors: Brito T. de , Sandoval Marina P. , Silva Ana G. , Saad R. C. , Colaiacovo W.
Published: April 2006

Colonization of the colon and rectum by intestinal spirochetes is detected for the first time in Brazil in 4 of 282 (1.41%) patients who had undergone sigmoidoscopy and/or colonoscopy with a histopathological diagnosis of chronic non specific-colitis. This frequency is probably understimated, since surgically obtained specimens were not considered in the present study. Histopathological diagnosis was performed using routine stains like hematoxylin-eosin which showed the typical, of 3-µm thick hematoxyphilic fringe on the brush border of the surface epithelium, and by silver stains like the Warthin-Starry stain. Immunohistochemical procedures using two, polyclonal, primary antibodies, one against Treponema pallidum and the other against Leptospira interrogans serovar copenhageni serogroup Icterohaemorrhagiae cross-reacted with spirochetal antigen/s producing a marked contrast of the fringe over the colonic epithelium, preserving the spiral-shaped morphology of the parasite. In one case with marked diarrhea, immunohistochemistry detected spirochetal antigen/s within a cell in an intestinal crypt, thus demonstrating that the infection can be more widely disseminated than suspected using routine stains. Immunohistochemical procedures, thus, greatly facilitate the histological diagnosis of intestinal spirochetosis and may contribute to a better understanding of the pathogenesis of the disease. Transmission and scanning electron microscopy performed in one case showed that the spirochete closely resembled the species designated as Brachyspira aalborgi.
Hepatic fascioliasis: case report and review
Authors: Abdul-Hadi Salha , Contretas Rosa , Tombazzi Claudio , Alvarez Marta , Melendez Maribel
Published: April 2006

A well documented case of hepatic fascioliasis (HF), successfully treated with triclabendazole, is reported. Predominant clinical manifestations were fever, marked eosinophilia and abdominal pain. Triclabendazole was given as two single oral doses of 10 mg/kg each. Neither side effects nor clinical or parasitological relapses were seen after three months of follow up Based on this experience and few other similar reports in the literature, triclabendazole might be a valid therapeutical alternative in the treatment of human fascioliasis.
Immunological status of ENL (Erythema Nodosum Leprosum) patients: its relationship to bacterial load and levels of circulanting IL-2R
Authors: Vieira Leila M.M. , Sampaio Elisabeth P. , Nery José A.C. , Duppre Nadia C. , Albuquerque Edson CA , Scheinberg Morton A , Sarno Euzenir N
Published: April 2006

Recent data suggest that the clinical course of reactional states in leprosy is closely related to the cytokine profile released locally or systemically by the patients. In the present study, patients with erythema nodosum leprosum (ENL) were grouped according to the intensity of their clinical symptoms. Clinical and immunological aspects of ENL and the impact of these parameters on bacterial load were assessed in conjunction with patients' in vitro immune response to mycobacterial antigens. In 10 out of the 17 patients tested, BI (bacterial index) was reduced by at least 1 log from leprosy diagnosis to the onset of their first reactional episode (ENL), as compared to an expected 0.3 log reduction in the unreactional group for the same MDT (multidrug therapy) period. However, no difference in the rate of BI reduction was noted at the end of MDT among ENL and unreactional lepromatous patients. Accordingly, although TNF-alpha (tumor necrosis factor) levels were enhanced in the sera of 70.6% of the ENL patients tested, no relationship was noted between circulating TNF-alpha levels and the decrease in BI detected at the onset of the reactional episode. Evaluation of bacterial viability of M. leprae isolated from the reactional lesions showed no growth in the mouse footpads. Only 20% of the patients demonstrated specific immune response to M. leprae during ENL. Moreover, high levels of soluble IL-2R (interleukin-2 receptor) were present in 78% of the patients. Circulating anti-neural (anti-ceramide and anti-galactocerebroside antibodies) and anti-mycobacterial antibodies were detected in ENL patients' sera as well, which were not related to the clinical course of disease. Our data suggest that bacterial killing is enhanced during reactions. Emergence of specific immune response to M. leprae and the effective role of TNF-alpha in mediating fragmentation of bacteria still need to be clarified.
Scorpion sting epidemiology in Montes municipality of the State of Sucre, Venezuela: geographic distribution
Authors: Sousa Leonardo de , Bonoli Stefano , Quiroga Mercedes , Parrilla Pedro
Published: April 2006

Scorpion stings were surveyed in the Montes Municipality of the State of Sucre, Venezuela, aiming to extend the information on these poisonous accidents by characterizing their geographic distribution. From 1980 to 1990, 184 cases of scorpion stings were recorded with an incidence rate of 38.6 cases per 10,000 inhabitants. The locality of San Fernando presented the highest incidence (68.3(0)/000) of poisonous accidents. The highest percentages of severe cases were recorded in the towns of Arenas (27%), San Lorenzo (21%), and Cocollar (19%), which are located at the foot of the Turimiquire Mountains. This region is a dispersion area of scorpions of the Tityus genus. Our results show that this region of the State of Sucre is endemic for scorpion stings which are an important public health problem.
Human enterovirus infection in stray dogs. Some aspects of interest to public health
Authors: Waldman Eliseu Alves , Moreira Regina C. , Saez Sueli G. , Souza Denise F.C. , Carmona Rita de C.C. , Takimoto Sueko , Cortes Valdson de A.
Published: April 2006

To investigate the possible role of domestic animals as reservoirs of human enteroviruses, we studied 212 stray dogs captured in different areas of the municipality of São Paulo. The captured animals were divided into 19 groups of 10 to 20 dogs each; faeces of 126 of the 212 dogs were processed for enterovirus isolation. The following viruses were isolated from 12 dogs: poliovirus type 1 (2 dogs), poliovirus type 3 (1 dog), echovirus type 7 (8 dogs) and echovirus type 15 (1 dog). Of the 12 infected animals, four had specific homotypic neutralizing antibody titres > 16. All 212 animals were tested for the presence of neutralizing antibodies to human enteroviruses. The frequency of neutralizing antibodies present in titres of > 16 was 10.3%, 3,8% and 4.3% for vaccinal prototypes of polioviruses 1, 2 and 3 respectively; 1,9%, 1.4% and 1.5% for wild prototypes of the same viruses, 11.3% for echovirus 7, and 2.4% for echovirus 15. The proportion of dogs with neutralizing antibodies varied with the virus studied. Some indication of the susceptibility of dogs to infection with human enteroviruses was demonstrated, and the importance of this fact for the Plan for Global Eradication of the Wild Poliovirus is discussed.
Gastrointestinal translocation as a possible source of candidemia in an AIDS patient
Authors: Colombo Arnaldo Lopes , Branchini Maria Luiza , Geiger Débora , Schimidt Ana Lucia , Pignatari Antonio Carlos Campos , Fischman Olga
Published: April 2006

Apart from cryptococcosis and histoplasmosis, which are mycoses contained by T cell-mediated mechanisms of host defense, fungemia is rarely found in AIDS patients. The frequency of fungemia due to Candida spp. has been reported to be as low as 1 %. We report a non-neutropenic AIDS patient who presented a candidemia which probably arose from her gastrointestinal tract.