bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exercise-Induced Activation of NMDA Receptor Promotes Motor Unit Development and Survival in a Type 2 Spinal Muscular Atrophy Model Mouse
Authors: Biondi Olivier , Grondard Clément , Lécolle Sylvie , Deforges Séverine , Pariset Claude , Lopes Philippe , Cifuentes-Diaz Carmen , Li Hung , della Gaspera Bruno , Chanoine Christophe , Charbonnier Frédéric
Published: January 2008

Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is an inborn neuromuscular disorder caused by low levels of survival motor neuron protein, and for which no efficient therapy exists. Here, we show that the slower rate of postnatal motor-unit maturation observed in type 2 SMA-like mice is correlated with the motor neuron death. Physical exercise delays motor neuron death and leads to an increase in the postnatal maturation rate of the motor-units. Furthermore, exercise is capable of specifically enhancing the expression of the gene encoding the major activating subunit of the NMDA receptor in motor neurons, namely the NR2A subunit, which is dramatically downregulated in the spinal cord of type 2 SMA-like mice. Accordingly, inhibiting NMDA-receptor activity abolishes the exercise-induced effects on muscle development, motor neuron protection and life span gain. Thus, restoring NMDA-receptor function could be a promising therapeutic approach to SMA treatment.
Individual Differences in Stressor-Evoked Blood Pressure Reactivity Vary with Activation, Volume, and Functional Connectivity of the Amygdala
Authors: Gianaros Peter J. , Sheu Lei K. , Matthews Karen A. , Jennings J. Richard , Manuck Stephen B. , Hariri Ahmad R.
Published: January 2008

Individuals who exhibit exaggerated blood pressure reactions to psychological stressors are at risk for hypertension, ventricular hypertrophy, and premature atherosclerosis; however, the neural systems mediating exaggerated blood pressure reactivity and associated cardiovascular risk in humans remain poorly defined. Animal models indicate that the amygdala orchestrates stressor-evoked blood pressure reactions via reciprocal signaling with corticolimbic and brainstem cardiovascular-regulatory circuits. Based on these models, we used a multimodal neuroimaging approach to determine whether human individual differences in stressor-evoked blood pressure reactivity vary with amygdala activation, gray matter volume, and functional connectivity with corticolimbic and brainstem areas implicated in stressor processing and cardiovascular regulation. We monitored mean arterial pressure (MAP) and concurrent functional magnetic resonance imaging BOLD signal changes in healthy young individuals while they completed a Stroop color-word stressor task, validated previously in epidemiological studies of cardiovascular risk. Individuals exhibiting greater stressor-evoked MAP reactivity showed (1) greater amygdala activation, (2) lower amygdala gray matter volume, and (3) stronger positive functional connectivity between the amygdala and perigenual anterior cingulate cortex and brainstem pons. Individual differences in amygdala activation, gray matter volume, and functional connectivity with corticolimbic and brainstem circuits may partly underpin cardiovascular disease risk by impacting stressor-evoked blood pressure reactivity.
Deformation Field Morphometry Reveals Age-Related Structural Differences between the Brains of Adults up to 51 Years
Authors: Pieperhoff Peter , Hömke Lars , Schneider Frank , Habel Ute , Shah Nadim J. , Zilles Karl , Amunts Katrin
Published: January 2008

Age-related differences in the anatomical structure of the brains from 51 healthy male subjects (age: 18–51 years) were analyzed by deformation field morphometry in a cross-sectional study. The magnetic resonance images of the brains were nonlinearly registered onto the image of a reference brain: the registration algorithm simulated an elastic deformation of each brain (source brain) so that the voxelwise intensity differences with the reference brain were minimized. A three-dimensional deformation field was calculated for each source brain that encoded the anatomical differences between the source brain and the reference brain. Maps of voxelwise volume differences between each subject's brain and the reference brain were analyzed. They showed age-related differences in anatomically defined regions of interest. Major volume decreases were found in the white matter and nuclei of the cerebellum, as well as in the ventral thalamic nuclei and the somatosensory and motor cortices, including the underlying white matter. These findings suggest that aging between the second and sixth decade predominantly affects subcortical nuclei and cortical areas of the sensorimotor system, forming the cortico-rubro-cerebello-thalamo-cortical pathway. Additionally, a pronounced age-related decline in volume was observed in the rostral anterior cingulate, orbitofrontal, and lateral prefrontal cortices. Almost no differences were observed in the occipital and temporal lobes. The ventricles showed a pronounced widening. Remarkably, these volume differences occur at a relatively early period of the human life span. It may be speculated that these structural differences accompany or precede differences in sensorimotor functions and behavior.
Does It Look Painful or Disgusting? Ask Your Parietal and Cingulate Cortex
Authors: Benuzzi Francesca , Lui Fausta , Duzzi Davide , Nichelli Paolo F. , Porro Carlo A.
Published: January 2008

Looking at still images of body parts in situations that are likely to cause pain has been shown to be associated with activation in some brain areas involved in pain processing. Because pain involves both sensory components and negative affect, it is of interest to explore whether the visually evoked representations of pain and of other negative emotions overlap. By means of event-related functional magnetic resonance imaging, here we compare the brain areas recruited, in female volunteers, by the observation of painful, disgusting, or neutral stimuli delivered to one hand or foot. Several cortical foci were activated by the observation of both painful and disgusting video clips, including portions of the medial prefrontal cortex, anterior, mid-, and posterior cingulate cortex, left posterior insula, and right parietal operculum. Signal changes in perigenual cingulate and left anterior insula were linearly related to the perceived unpleasantness, when the individual differences in susceptibility to aversive stimuli were taken into account. Painful scenes selectively induced activation of left parietal foci, including the parietal operculum, the postcentral gyrus, and adjacent portions of the posterior parietal cortex. In contrast, brain foci specific for disgusting scenes were found in the posterior cingulate cortex. These data show both similarities and differences between the brain patterns of activity related to the observation of noxious or disgusting stimuli. Namely, the parietal cortex appears to be particularly involved in the recognition of noxious environmental stimuli, suggesting that areas involved in sensory aspects of pain are specifically triggered by observing noxious events.
Homosynaptic Long-Term Synaptic Potentiation of the “Winner” Climbing Fiber Synapse in Developing Purkinje Cells
Authors: Bosman Laurens W. J. , Takechi Hajime , Hartmann Jana , Eilers Jens , Konnerth Arthur
Published: January 2008

During the developmental formation of neuronal circuits, redundant synapses are eliminated and persisting synapses strengthened. In the immature cerebellum, climbing fiber–Purkinje cell synapses undergo a pronounced synaptic rewiring, from a multiple innervation around birth to a mono-innervation in adults. An early stage of this process consists in the differentiation of initially equally strong synapses into one “large” and several “small” synaptic inputs. By performing whole-cell recordings in Purkinje cells of rat cerebellar slices, we found that the coincident activation of a Purkinje cell and one of its afferent climbing fibers induces homosynaptic long-term synaptic potentiation (LTP). This LTP requires postsynaptic Ca2+signaling and involves an increase in the single channel conductance of the postsynaptic AMPA receptors. Interestingly, LTP occurs exclusively at large synaptic inputs. It is not observed at small inputs that are eventually eliminated. Thus, we identified a new form of LTP that is expressed uniquely and just for a restricted period of early development in the large climbing fiber inputs. Our results suggest that this LTP mediates the activity-dependent maturation of the “winner” climbing fiber.
ConstitutiveEGFRSignaling in Oligodendrocyte Progenitors Leads to Diffuse Hyperplasia in Postnatal White Matter
Authors: Ivkovic Sanja , Canoll Peter , Goldman James E.
Published: January 2008

Gliogenesis requires the careful orchestration of migration, differentiation, and proliferation of progenitors. Signaling through the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) has been implicated in regulating these processes in a variety of cell types, including neural progenitors. By retroviral infection, we constitutively expressed an EGFR-GFP fusion protein in white matter glial progenitors at postnatal day 3 of the rat forebrainin vivoand analyzed the development of these cells over the subsequent 15 weeks. EGFR-GFP+ cells remained proliferative and migratory, gradually populating the brains ipsilateral and contralateral to the side of viral infection, but never differentiated into mature glia. The accumulation of these cells doubled the total cell density in white matter and led to a 10-fold increase in the abundance of glial progenitors, giving rise to a progenitor “hyperplasia.” The marker profile of infected cells, NG2+, olig2+, PDGFR-α+, nestin+, GFAP−, and CC1−, indicated a close resemblance to oligodendrocyte progenitors. Positive immunostaining for phosphorylated EGFR colocalized with punctate accumulation of EGFR-GFP, indicating that a subset of receptors was engaged in active signaling. Furthermore, EGF was required to observe phospho-tyrosine EGFR immunostaining of glial progenitors in culture. These observations suggest that constitutiveEGFRexpression can inhibit glial differentiation, but requires ligand as well.
Spinal μ-Opioid Receptor-Expressing Dorsal Horn Neurons: Role in Nociception and Morphine Antinociception
Authors: Kline Robert H. , Wiley Ronald G.
Published: January 2008

The role of spinal cord μ-opioid receptor (MOR)-expressing dorsal horn neurons in nociception and morphine analgesia is incompletely understood. Using intrathecal dermorphin-saporin (Derm-sap) to selectively destroy MOR-expressing dorsal horn neurons, we sought to determine the role of these neurons in (1) normal baseline reflex nocifensive responses to noxious thermal stimulation (hotplate, tail flick) and to persistent noxious chemical stimulation (formalin) and (2) the antinociceptive activity of intrathecal and systemic morphine in the same tests. Lumbar intrathecal Derm-sap (500 ng) produced (1) partial loss of lamina II MOR-expressing dorsal horn neurons, (2) no effect on MOR-expressing dorsal root ganglion neurons, and (3) no change in baseline tail-flick and hotplate reflex nocifensive responses. Derm-sap treatment attenuated the antinociceptive action of both intrathecal and systemic morphine on hotplate responses. Derm-sap treatment had two effects in the formalin test: (1) increased baseline nocifensive responding and (2) reduced antinociceptive action of systemic morphine. We conclude that MOR-expressing dorsal horn neurons (1) are not essential for determining nocifensive reflex responsiveness to noxious thermal stimuli, (2) are necessary for full antinociceptive action of morphine (intrathecal or systemic) in these tests, and (3) play a significant role in the endogenous modulation of reflex nocifensive responses to persistent pain in the formalin test. Thus, one would predict that altering the activity of MOR-expressing dorsal horn neurons would be antinociceptive and of interest in the search for new approaches to management of chronic pain.
Amyloid β Oligomers (Aβ1–42Globulomer) Suppress Spontaneous Synaptic Activity by Inhibition of P/Q-Type Calcium Currents
Authors: Nimmrich Volker , Grimm Christiane , Draguhn Andreas , Barghorn Stefan , Lehmann Alexander , Schoemaker Hans , Hillen Heinz , Gross Gerhard , Ebert Ulrich , Bruehl Claus
Published: January 2008

Abnormal accumulation of soluble oligomers of amyloid β (Aβ) is believed to cause malfunctioning of neurons in Alzheimer's disease. It has been shown that Aβ oligomers impair synaptic plasticity, thereby altering the ability of the neuron to store information. We examined the underlying cellular mechanism of Aβ oligomer-induced synaptic modifications by using a recently described stable oligomeric Aβ preparation called “Aβ1–42globulomer.” Synthetically prepared Aβ1–42globulomer has been shown to localize to neurons and impairs long-term potentiation (Barghorn et al., 2005). Here, we demonstrate that Aβ1–42globulomer does not affect intrinsic neuronal properties, as assessed by measuring input resistance and discharge characteristics, excluding an unspecific alteration of membrane properties. We provide evidence that Aβ1–42globulomer, at concentrations as low as 8 nm, specifically suppresses spontaneous synaptic activity resulting from a reduction of vesicular release at terminals of both GABAergic and glutamatergic synapses. EPSCs and IPSCs were primarily unaffected. A detailed search for the precise molecular target of Aβ1–42globulomer revealed a specific inhibition of presynaptic P/Q calcium currents, whereas other voltage-activated calcium currents remained unaltered. Because intact P/Q calcium currents are needed for synaptic plasticity, the disruption of such currents by Aβ1–42globulomer may cause deficits in cellular mechanisms of information storage in brains of Alzheimer's disease patients. The inhibitory effect of Aβ1–42globulomer on synaptic vesicle release could be reversed by roscovitine, a specific enhancer of P/Q currents. Selective enhancement of the P/Q calcium current may provide a promising strategy in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease.
Glutamate Spillover Modulates GABAergic Synaptic Transmission in the Rat Midbrain Periaqueductal Grey via Metabotropic Glutamate Receptors and Endocannabinoid Signaling
Authors: Drew Geoffrey M. , Mitchell Vanessa A. , Vaughan Christopher W.
Published: January 2008

Glutamate spillover regulates GABAergic synaptic transmission at several CNS synapses via presynaptic ionotropic and metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs). We have previously demonstrated that activation of group I–III mGluRs inhibits GABAergic transmission in the midbrain periaqueductal gray (PAG), a region involved in organizing behavioral responses to threat, stress, and pain. Here, we examined the role of glutamate spillover in the modulation of GABAergic transmission in the PAG. Using whole-cell recordings from rat PAG slices, we found that evoked IPSCs were reduced by the nonspecific glutamate transport blockersdl-threo-β-benzyloxyaspartic acid (TBOA) andl-trans-pyrrolidine-2,4-dicarboxylic acid, but not by the glial GLT1-specific blocker dihydrokainate. In contrast, TBOA had no effect on evoked IPSCs when glutamate uptake into the postsynaptic neuron was selectively impaired. TBOA increased the paired-pulse ratio of evoked IPSCs and reduced the rate but not the amplitude of spontaneous miniature IPSCs. The effect of TBOA on evoked IPSCs was abolished by the broad-spectrum mGluR antagonist (2S)-2-amino-2-[(1S,2S)-2-carboxycycloprop-1-yl]-3-(xanth-9-yl) propanoic acid (100 μm), reduced by the mGluR5-specific antagonist 2-methyl-6-(phenylethynyl)pyridine hydrochloride (MPEP) and mimicked by the mGluR1/5 agonist (RS)-3,5-dihydroxyphenylglycine (DHPG). Furthermore, the effects of both TBOA and DHPG were reduced by the cannabinoid CB1 receptor antagonist 1-(2,4-dichlorophenyl)-5-(4-iodophenyl)-4-methyl-N-1-piperidinyl-1H-pyrazole-3-carboxamide (AM251). Finally, although MPEP and AM251 had no effect on single evoked IPSCs, they increased evoked IPSCs during repetitive stimulation. These results indicate that neuronal glutamate transporters limit mGluR5 activation and endocannabinoid signaling, but may be overwhelmed during conditions of elevated glutamate release. Thus, neuronal glutamate transporters play a key role in regulating endocannabinoid-mediated cross talk between glutamatergic and GABAergic synapses within the PAG.
Molar pregnancy
Authors: Savage Philip
Published: January 2008

Key content

Molar pregnancies are rare, occurring at a rate of approximately 1 for every 700 live births.

Most cases of molar pregnancy are diagnosed in the first trimester by ultrasound or as early pregnancy losses.

The initial management is by evacuation and registration with one of the follow‐up services, which are based in Sheffield, Dundee and at Charing Cross Hospital, London.

Approximately 15% of cases of complete moles and 0.5% of cases of partial moles require further treatment with chemotherapy: second evacuations are generally unhelpful.

The cure rate for molar pregnancies, including for those women requiring chemotherapy, is >99%.

Learning objectives

To learn about the aetiology and diagnosis of molar pregnancy.

To be aware of the initial management and importance of patient registration.

To be able to discuss the diagnosis with women, including an outline of indications and practicalities of chemotherapy.

Ethical issues

Calling the condition ‘persistent trophoblast disease’ rather than ‘cancer’ is appropriate, given the near 100% cure rate.

Please cite this article as: Savage P. Molar pregnancy. The Obstetrician & Gynaecologist 2008;10:3–8.
Inherited gynaecological cancer syndromes
Authors: Devlin Lisa A , Morrison Patrick J
Published: January 2008

Key content

Gynaecological cancer can be inherited in a mendelian fashion as part of a cancer susceptibility syndrome.

Identification of ‘genetic cancer’ is essential so that cancer surveillance can be implemented or prophylactic surgery carried out in at‐risk family members.

Molecular screening is time consuming and expensive and must be targeted at families who are likely to harbour a molecular defect.

Cancer surveillance is still recommended in moderate to high‐risk families who have not had a molecular defect identified.

A germline mutation in a BRCA or mismatch repair gene has been approved for preimplantation genetic diagnosis by the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA).

Learning objectives

To learn about the main cancer susceptibility syndromes associated with gynaecological cancer.

To learn when to refer women.

To learn about the molecular testing available.

To learn about the cancer risks associated with germline mutations in BRCA and mismatch repair genes.

To learn about the options available to those with a germline mutation in a cancer susceptibility gene, showing high penetrance for particular types of cancer.

Ethical issues

The results of an individual's genetic test have implications for all family members.

Genetic testing has implications with regard to insurance policies.

Please cite this article as: Devlin LA, Morrison PJ. Inherited gynaecological cancer syndromes. The Obstetrician & Gynaecologist 2008;10:9–15.
Recurrent urinary tract infection in gynaecological practice
Authors: Harris Neil , Teo Roderick , Mayne Christopher , Tincello Douglas
Published: January 2008

Key content

Urinary tract infection (UTI) is the result of interaction between host defences and bacterial pathogenic mechanisms.

Recurrent UTI can be associated with urinary tract abnormalities.

Urinary tract imaging is useful in a minority of women to identify pathological, structural or functional abnormalities.

Adequate fluid intake, topical estrogens and prophylactic antibiotics can be useful in the management of recurrent infections.

Symptoms often reappear despite adequate treatment.

Learning objectives

To understand the pathogenesis of recurrent UTI in women.

To appreciate the value and limitations of urinary tract imaging.

To develop an appropriate management strategy.

Ethical issues

Women with dipstick haematuria, but without bacteriological confirmation of a UTI, should be referred for urological evaluation.

There is no evidence that the risk of altering antibiotic resistance patterns through the use of prophylactic antibiotics outweighs the advantage of reducing UTI in susceptible individuals.

Please cite this article as: Harris N, Teo R, Mayne C, Tincello D. Recurrent urinary tract infection in gynaecological practice. The Obstetrician & Gynaecologist 2008;10:17–21.
Contraception in the under‐16s: issues of confidentiality and choice of methods
Authors: Vanhegan Gillian
Published: January 2008

Key content

The rate of teenage pregnancy in Britain is the highest in Europe.

Long‐acting reversible methods of contraception are highly suitable for young women, including under‐16s.

Fraser competence must be established in under‐16s.

It is essential that consultations are confidential and ‘young people‐friendly’.

Learning objectives

To learn about the current statistics for teenage pregnancy in the UK.

To understand how to deliver information on contraception in a manner acceptable to young women.

To learn about the range of contraceptive methods available to young women and their suitability.

To learn how to hold a user‐friendly consultation with a teenager.

Ethical issues

Doctors often see sexually active teenagers without their parents' knowledge and are required to provide them with information about contraception.

Can informed consent be obtained from a very young woman for administration of an invasive method of contraception?

An awareness of local child protection policies is important.

Please cite this article as: Vanhegan G. Contraception in the under‐16s: issues of confidentiality and choice of methods. The Obstetrician & Gynaecologist 2008;10:22–26.
NHS Connecting for Health and the National Programme for Information Technology
Authors: Khong Su‐Yen , Currie Ian , Eccles Simon
Published: January 2008

Key content

NHS Connecting for Health aims to introduce modern computer systems into the National Health Service (NHS) nationally to integrate patient care.

The NHS Care Records Service (NHS CRS) comprises national (the ‘Spine’) and local databases.

The maternity Do Once and Share (DOAS) programme looks specifically at the needs of maternity units through locally based action teams.

Learning objectives

To understand how engagement with clinicians and representatives from the RCOG will be paramount in the successful development of the National Programme for Information Technology (NPfIT) in maternity care.

To learn about the Secondary Uses Service (SUS), which uses anonymous patient data to study public health trends, efficacy of treatments and planning of NHS needs.

Ethical issues

What concerns will there be regarding breach in patient confidentiality with accessibility to electronic health records, particularly in obstetrics and gynaecology?

Please cite this article as: Khong S‐Y, Currie I, Eccles S. NHS Connecting for Health and the National Programme for Information Technology. The Obstetrician & Gynaecologist 2008;10:27–32.
Congenital abnormalities: failure to detect and treat
Authors: Loughna Pamela
Published: January 2008

Key content

Not all congenital abnormalities can be detected by routine screening.

The primary reason for litigation in this area is failure to offer termination of pregnancy as a result of failure to diagnose a problem.

Learning objectives

To be aware that prenatal screening for anomalies is not restricted to screening for trisomy 21.

To be aware of the limitations of the current UK screening programme.

To be aware that difficulties encountered in achieving a satisfactory screening test must be recorded and the mother informed.

Ethical issues

Prenatal diagnosis is not a ‘seek‐and‐destroy’ mission.

Optimum management may, however, include termination of pregnancy.

Please cite this article as: Loughna P. Congenital abnormalities: failure to detect and treat. The Obstetrician & Gynaecologist 2008;10:33–37.
Recent developments in HIV and women's health
Authors: Kelly Brenda , Morrison Joanne , Hurley Pauline
Published: January 2008

Key content

In the UK, the proportion of HIV‐positive pregnant women diagnosed before delivery is around 95%.

The benefits of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) in reducing mother‐to‐child transmission are undisputed; however, there are potentially adverse effects on maternal and fetal/neonatal health.

Vaginal delivery may be considered for HIV‐positive pregnant women with undetectable viral loads who are on HAART.

Hormonal contraception can be affected by drug–drug interactions with HAART or nonantiretroviral medication that HIV‐positive women may be taking.

Although HAART can alter the natural history of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN), annual cervical cytology is still recommended.

Learning objectives

To be aware of the different types of HAART, their use and associated maternal, fetal and neonatal toxicities.

To be able to critically evaluate the place of prelabour elective caesarean section in light of recent developments in viral load testing and HAART.

To be aware of potential drug–drug interactions that can reduce the efficacy of hormonal contraception in HIV‐positive women.

To appreciate the potential impact of HAART and the recently developed human papillomavirus vaccines on the natural history of CIN in HIV‐positive women.

To know where to find up‐to‐date information on drug–drug interactions and clinical vaccine trials relating to HIV.

Ethical issues

Clear communication about the potential risks and benefits of strategies to reduce mother‐to‐child transmission is critical to enable HIV‐positive pregnant women to reach informed decisions about their care.

Please cite this article as: Kelly B, Morrison J, Hurley P. Recent developments in HIV and women's health. The Obstetrician & Gynaecologist 2008;10:42–48.
@ TOG
Authors: Barnfield Sonia , Edey Katharine , Keay Stephen
Published: January 2008

In this issue of @TOG, we look at a variety of international obstetrics and gynaecology society websites, focusing on those in the English language.
Solubilidade do silício em solos: influência do calcário e ácido silícico aplicados
Authors: Camargo Mônica Sartori de , Korndörfer Gaspar Henrique , Pereira Hamilton Seron
Published: January 2008

O silício tem sido muito utilizado na agricultura brasileira, especialmente após sua inclusão na legislação de fertilizantes e corretivos. Poucos são os estudos, no entanto, sobre sua solubilidade em solos tropicais, que é importante para sua utilização. Foi avaliado silício solúvel de solos de cerrado muito argilosos (LVd, LVAd, NVef), de textura média (PVAe, LVd, LVAd) e arenoso (RQo) incubados com calcário (0, 2, 4 e 6 Mg ha-1) e ácido silícico (0 e 400 mg kg-1Si) e quatro repetições. As amostras dos solos foram secas, passadas em peneira ABNT 50 (0.297 mm) acondicionadas em potes (250 g) com os tratamentos e incubados por 90 dias (80 % da capacidade de campo). O ácido acético 0,5 mol L-1(AA) extraiu mais silício em relação à água (A) e CaCl2 0,01 mol L-1(CC). Os teores de Si foram maiores nos solos muito argilosos seguidos daqueles de textura média e arenoso e maiores no horizonte B que no horizonte A dos latossolos. Houve efeito apenas das doses de calcário que reduziram a acidez potencial, aumentaram o pH (CaCl2) e os teores de Ca e silício extraível em AA para todos os solos. Houve aumento nos teres de silício extraível por CC e A nos solos de textura média e arenoso e diminuição nos solos muito argilosos por efeito da calagem. Verifica-se a necessidade de estudos com plantas para seleção de extratores adequados para avaliar a disponibilidade de silício, especialmente em solos oxídicos, onde o aumento de pH tem efeito negativo sobre a solubilidade de silício.
Estimativa de bem-estar de frango de corte em função da concentração de amônia e grau de luminosidade no galpão de produção
Authors: Owada Adriana N. , Nääs Irenilza de A. , Moura Daniella J. de , Baracho Marta dos S.
Published: January 2008

O Brasil é um importante país exportador de carne de frango, e grande parte de seu destino são países com restrições específicas de alojamento, relacionadas ao bem-estar das aves. Um dos poluentes aéreos freqüentemente encontrados em altas concentrações nos aviários, principalmente em ambientes fechados, é a amônia. Existem evidências de que o bem-estar de frangos de corte pode ser comprometido pela exposição contínua a esse poluente dentro dos galpões de alojamento. Este trabalho visou a estimar o bem-estar para frangos de corte alojados, a partir de atributos específicos do ambiente térmico e da densidade de aves, em função da concentração de amônia e luminosidade no ambiente de alojamento, utilizando a Teoria dos Conjuntos Fuzzy. Os resultados mostraram que o melhor valor de bem-estar (0,89 na escala: 0-1), aproximadamente 90% do ideal, foi encontrado nas condições que associam o ambiente térmico ideal, com densidade entre 13-15 aves m-2, com valores de concentração de amônia no ambiente abaixo de 5 ppm, e com luminosidade ambiente próxima de 1 lx. Utilizando o método preditivo, foi possível estimar o bem-estar de frangos de corte com relação à concentração de amônia no galpão e a sua luminosidade.
Curvas de distribuição de efluentes do íon nitrato em amostras de solo deformadas e indeformadas
Authors: Rossi Paulo , Miranda Jarbas H. , Duarte Sérgio N.
Published: January 2008

Devido à grande importância em se avaliar o destino e o transporte de íons no solo, o presente trabalho teve o objetivo de obter os parâmetros de transporte do nitrato no solo, como a velocidade da água nos poros (v), o fator de retardamento (R), a dispersividade (lambda) e o coeficiente de dispersão (D), em solos de diferentes texturas e em amostras deformadas e indeformadas. O ensaio foi conduzido empregando as amostras deformadas e indeformadas oriundas de dois perfis distintos de solos, coletadas à profundidade de 0-20 cm, com aplicação de solução de nitrato de cálcio contendo 50 mg L-1 de NO3-. Após a obtenção dos parâmetros de transporte, ajustados pelo programa computacional CXTFIT, notou-se que as curvas de efluentes preparadas com solos a partir de amostra deformada superestimaram os valores dos parâmetros avaliados, com exceção da dispersividade, quando comparados à amostra indeformada, para os dois tipos de solo.
Seleção dos indicadores da qualidade das águas superficiais pelo emprego da análise multivariada
Authors: Andrade Eunice M. de , Araújo Lúcia de F. P. , Rosa Morsyleide F. , Disney Walt , Alves Aurilea B.
Published: January 2008

Os fatores antrópicos e naturais que determinam a qualidade das águas superficiais na Bacia do Baixo Acaraú foram identificados pelo emprego da técnica de Análise Fatorial/Análise da Componente Principal (AF/ACP). Foram realizadas quatro campanhas no período de fev./2003 a mar./2004, em sete pontos de amostragem localizados ao longo do Rio Acaraú. Foram analisados 25 parâmetros físico-químicos e bacteriológicos. Pelo emprego da AF/ACP, identificou-se que o modelo de melhor ajuste para expressar a qualidade das águas na Bacia do Baixo Acaraú foi aquele composto por quatro fatores, explicando 82,1% da variância total. O primeiro fator representa a componente de sólidos em suspensão, expressando o processo de erosão e escoamento superficial. O segundo fator é definido por uma componente de nutrientes associados aos esgotos sanitários, às áreas agrícolas e a outras fontes de poluição difusa; o terceiro fator é indicativo da ação antrópica (componente orgânica), enquanto o quarto representa os sais solúveis que expressam o processo natural do intemperismo das rochas. Outro ponto observado é que a análise fatorial não resultou em grande redução no número de variáveis, uma vez que o melhor ajuste do modelo ocorreu com a inclusão de 18 das 25 variáveis analisadas.
ANATI QUANTI: software de análises quantitativas para estudos em anatomia vegetal
Authors: Aguiar T.V. , Sant'anna-Santos B.F. , Azevedo A.A. , Ferreira R.S.
Published: January 2008

Em diversos estudos interdisciplinares em que a Anatomia Vegetal é utilizada, análises quantitativas complementares são necessárias. Geralmente, a avaliação micromorfométrica é feita manualmente e/ou utilizando programas computacionais de análise de imagens não específicos. Este trabalho teve como objetivo desenvolver um programa específico para Anatomia Vegetal quantitativa e testar sua eficiência e aceitação por usuários. A solução foi elaborada na linguagem Java, visando maior mobilidade em relação ao sistema operacional a ser usado. O software desenvolvido foi denominado ANATI QUANTI e testado pelos alunos, pesquisadores e professores do Laboratório de Anatomia Vegetal da Universidade Federal de Viçosa (UFV). Todos os entrevistados receberam fotos para efetuarem medições no ANATI QUANTI e comparar com os resultados obtidos utilizando o software disponível. Os voluntários, através de questionários previamente formulados, destacaram as principais vantagens e desvantagens do programa desenvolvido em relação ao software disponível. Além de ser mais específico, simples e ágil do que o software disponível, o ANATI QUANTI é confiável, atendendo à expectativa dos entrevistados. Entretanto, há necessidade de acrescentar recursos adicionais, como a inserção de novas escalas, o que aumentaria a gama de usuários. O ANATI QUANTI já está em uso nas pesquisas desenvolvidas por usuários na UFV. Por ser um software livre e de código aberto, será disponibilizado na internet gratuitamente.
Caracterização morfológica de espécies de trapoeraba (Commelina spp.) utilizando a análise multivariada
Authors: Rocha D.C. , Rodella R.A. , Martins D.
Published: January 2008

As espécies Commelina benghalensis, C. villosa, C. diffusa e C. erecta são conhecidas como trapoeraba e, freqüentemente, são confundidas entre si, dificultando o controle químico, o que pode provocar prejuízos econômicos e danos ambientais. O presente trabalho teve como objetivo selecionar características morfológicas que possibilitem facilitar a identificação dessas espécies, utilizando a técnica de análise multivariada. Foram avaliadas 12 características morfológicas descritivas e 13 quantitativas, utilizando-se os métodos de análise de agrupamento e análise de componentes principais. As espécies apresentaram alto grau de dissimilaridade, sobretudo em relação às características descritivas, destacando-se: hábito da planta, pilosidade do caule e da folha, entre outros. As características quantitativas também mostraram poder discriminatório. Características que apresentaram alto valor taxonômico foram selecionadas para compor a chave de identificação para as quatro espécies de Commelina.
Avaliação de equipamentos de aplicação de herbicidas em operação de repasse em cana-de-açúcar e segurança para o trabalhador
Authors: Machado Neto J.G. , Machado R.F.
Published: January 2008

Objetivou-se com este trabalho classificar em seguras ou inseguras as condições de trabalho de aplicação da formulação comercial de paraquat a 0,5% e de abastecimento dos tanques em operação de repasse em cultura de cana-de-açúcar com os pulverizadores costal manual, costal pressurizado e Pulmipur manual; determinar o efeito das variações na operação de repasse em quatro usinas de açúcar e álcool com o pulverizador costal pressurizado sobre as exposições dos trabalhadores ao paraquat; determinar a eficácia de equipamentos de proteção individual nessas condições de trabalho; e avaliar a intensidade da deriva e a eficácia de acessórios protetores de deriva. As exposições dérmicas e respiratórias dos trabalhadores foram avaliadas e utilizadas para calcular a margem de segurança (MS). Os valores de MS foram utilizados para classificar essas condições de trabalho em seguras (MS > 1) ou em inseguras (MS < 1). Para avaliar a deriva das aplicações na cultura e a eficácia dos protetores de deriva, foram estudados os tratamentos: formulação comercial de paraquat a 0,5% na calda, aplicada com o costal manual, sem e com o chapéu de proteção de deriva; com o costal pressurizado, sem e com a planilha de proteção de deriva; formulação comercial de paraquat pura com o Pulmipur; formulação comercial de glyphosate a 1% com o costal pressurizado e com a planilha, e puro com o Pulmipur; e testemunha sem aplicação. As duas atividades com o Pulmipur proporcionam as maiores exposições dérmicas, devido ao manuseio da formulação, e são inseguras sem o uso dos EPIs e seguras com estes. As atividades com o pulverizador costal manual ou pressurizado são seguras com ou sem os EPIs. As grandes diferenças nas EDs dos trabalhadores se devem às diferenças no tempo de trabalho diário e no número de trabalhadores nas equipes entre as usinas de açúcar e álcool. O protetor de deriva tipo chapéu é eficaz no controle da deriva na aplicação do paraquat, e a planilha, não.
Conceituando o capital social em relação a crianças e jovens: é diferente para meninas?
Authors: Morrow Virginia
Published: January 2008

Este artigo descreve um projeto de pesquisa que explorou a relevância da definição de Putnam (1993) de capital social (como algo que consiste de redes sociais, normas de confiança, reciprocidade, engajamento cívico e participação em comunidades) com crianças e jovens de áreas socialmente desfavorecidas. O artigo também apresenta dados de um estudo sociológico empírico que buscou explorar o significado e a relevância de diferentes aspectos do "capital social" para jovens de 12 a 15 anos que vivem em duas áreas carentes de uma cidade no sudeste da Inglaterra. Baseia-se em descrições que os jovens fazem de seu dia-a-dia e concentra-se em quatro elementos: relatos sobre os pais e a centralidade das mães, diferenças de gênero em relatos sobre o significado e a natureza da amizade, diferenças de gênero em experiências de espaços do bairro e recursos locais e diferenças de gênero nas aspirações dos jovens para o futuro.
Randomized trial of total fundoplication and fundal mobilization with or without division of short gastric vessels: a short-term clinical evaluation
Authors: Farah José Francisco de Mattos , Grande José Carlos Del , Goldenberg Alberto , Martinez Júlio César , Lupinacci Renato Arione , Matone Jacques
Published: January 2008

PURPOSE: Evaluate short results after fundoplication procedure, concerning the division of short gastric vessels. METHODS: A prospective randomization of 90 patients with indication for hiatoplasty and total fundoplication with fundus mobilization was performed. They were divided into two groups: no SGV division (group A, n= 46) and with SGV division (Group B, n=44), although in both groups the gastric fundus was mobilized to perform a floppy valve. Early outcome with clinical follow up (1 year) was observed. RESULTS: Both groups were similar regarding preoperative parameters and severity of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). No difference in morbidity was observed during hospital stay. Nevertheless, the median operating time was 80,2 minutes in group A and 94,1 minutes (p=0,021) in Group B. Transitory dysphagia during the first year was significantly lower in group B (46,6% versus 23,2%, p=0,012). However, in 12 months clinical outcome was similar in both groups (clinical symptoms of GERD, persistent dysphagia and reoperations). CONCLUSION: There was no improvement in routine division of SGV in total fundoplication procedure when the gastric fundus was mobilized.
Influence of stimulus frequency on blockade induced by pancuronium and rocuronium: study on rats phrenic nerve-diaphragm preparation
Authors: Braga Angélica de Fátima de Assunção , Munoz Derli Conceição , Braga Franklin Sarmento da Silva , Araujo Daniele Ribeiro de , Potério Glória Maria Braga , Mantovani Mario
Published: January 2008

PURPOSE: To evaluate the influence of two stimulation frequencies on the installation of neuromuscular blockade produced by pancuronium and rocuronium on the rat diaphragm. METHODS: Diaphragms were submitted to an indirect frequency stimulation of 0.1 and 1Hz (Groups I and II, respectively). Subgroups were formed (n=5) according to the neuromuscular blocker employed (pancuronium-2µg/ml and rocuronium-4µg/ml). The twitch height depression was evaluated at 5, 15 and 30 minutes after adding the neuromuscular blocker. RESULTS: The decrease in twitch height was greater (p<0.01) with a frequency of 1Hz at all time periods studied both in preparations that are blocked with pancuronium and in those that are blocked with rocuronium. CONCLUSION: The frequency of stimulation interferes significantly with the installation of neuromuscular blockade produced by pancuronium and rocuronium, since the reduction in amplitude of the rat diaphragm response was greater for 1Hz frequencies, at all periods studied.
Preoperative embolization of the splenic artery in patients that underwent splenectomy for immune thrombocytopenic purpura
Authors: Baú PlínioCarlos , Cavazolla Sílvio Adriano , Souza Hamilton Petry , Garicochea Bernardo
Published: January 2008

Transfusion of platelets, red blood cells, or both is usually necessary immediately after splenic artery ligature in patients with immune thrombocytopenic purpura who undergo splenectomy. PURPOSE: To investigate whether preoperative embolization of the splenic artery reduced the need for transfusion of platelets, red blood cells, or both. METHODS: Twenty- seven consecutive patients that underwent splenectomy for purpura between October 1999 and March 2006 performed by the same surgical team were enrolled. The first 17 patients did not undergo embolization and were compared with the next 10 patients, who composed the embolization group. RESULTS: The platelet count in the embolization group rose from a mean 7000 u/µl before to 75000 u/µl after the procedure. There was no need for platelet or red blood cell transfusion in the embolization group; in the group without preoperative embolization, 11 patients (p=0.001) required platelet transfusion and 8 (p=0.01), red blood cell transfusion. CONCLUSION: Embolization of the splenic artery before splenectomy is a safe method to avoid blood transfusions in patients with ITP.
Ação educativa sobre queimaduras infantis para familiares de crianças hospitalizadas
Authors: Gimeniz-Paschoal Sandra Regina , Nascimento Edinalva Neves , Pereira Débora Morais , Carvalho Fausto Flor
Published: January 2008

OBJETIVO: Analisar o potencial informativo de uma ação educativa sobre queimaduras infantis com responsáveis por crianças internadas em ambiente hospitalar. MÉTODOS: Foram aplicados questionários estruturados, antes e imediatamente após a ação educativa, que incluiu intervenções verbais e folheto educativo, em 37 acompanhantes de crianças e adolescentes internados no Setor Público de Pediatria de dois hospitais de uma cidade do interior do Estado de São Paulo. As informações obtidas antes e após a ação educativa foram comparadas, utilizando-se o teste estatístico do quiquadrado e considerando-se significante p<0,05. RESULTADOS: Na comparação pré- e pós-ação educativa, notou-se aumento de 95% para 100% na indicação da residência como local mais propício para ocorrência de queimaduras infantis; de 46% para 78% na indicação da faixa etária mais acometida (zero a três anos); de 76% para 78% no gênero mais acometido (masculino); de 43% para 78% na indicação do principal agente agressor (água quente); de 32% para 78% na região corporal mais atingida (tórax); e de 89% para 97% na possibilidade de prevenção da queimadura infantil. CONCLUSÕES: A ação educativa mostrou bom potencial informativo pela elevação do percentual de respostas corretas em todos os aspectos apresentados, sugerindo sua utilidade no contexto hospitalar e em outros locais, como unidades de atenção primária e secundária à saúde e instituições de educação infantil e superior.
Incidência de stress e fontes estressoras em esposas de portadores da síndrome de dependência do álcool
Authors: Lima Raitza Araújo dos Santos , Amazonas Maria Cristina Lopes de Almeida , Motta Juliana Amazonas Gouveia
Published: January 2008

Esta pesquisa investigou a incidência de stress e suas fontes em esposas de portadores da síndrome de dependência do álcool, utilizando o Inventário de Sintomas de Stress de Lipp e uma entrevista semi-estruturada com 31 mulheres de maridos atendidos em uma clínica para dependentes químicos do interior do estado de Pernambuco, Brasil. Concluiu-se que 93,53% das esposas apresentaram stress, sendo 70,96% com sintomas psicológicos, 19,35% com sintomas físicos e 3,22% com sintomas físicos e psicológicos. Como fontes externas de stress, foram identificadas: sobrecarga por assumir todas as responsabilidades na família, falta de apoio em relação à dependência do marido, e agressões verbais por parte dele. Quanto às internas: não perceber alternativas que ajudem na recuperação do marido, sentimento de raiva ao vê-lo alcoolizado, e tensão e preocupação quando ele sai de casa. Ficou clara, então, a necessidade de desenvolver programas de prevenção e manejo do stress para essa população.
Economic injury level for sugarcane caused by the spittlebug Mahanarva fimbriolata (Stål) (Hemiptera:Cercopidae)
Authors: Dinardo-Miranda Leila Luci , Pivetta João Paulo , Fracasso Juliano Vilela
Published: January 2008

The sugarcane spittlebug, Mahanarva fimbriolata (Stål), is currently one of the most important pests of the sugarcane crop in Brazil. In spite of its economic importance, advances in the management of this pest have been limited by the lack of information on the economic injury level. In this study, the economic injury level for M. fimbriolata was estimated in a field experiment, over areas harvested in September, applying thiamethoxam at 200 g a.i. ha-1 or imidacloprid at 720 g a.i. ha-1. In one of the experiments, insecticide applications were made at pest infestation values of 4.2 (11/12/04), 7.1 (01/11/05), or 16.3 (01/18/05) insects m-1, and in experiment 2 when pest populations were 5.6 (11/12/04), 8.5 (01/11/05), or 15.3 (01/11/05) insects m-1. Control plots without insecticide were maintained. After the applications, spittlebug infestations were estimated monthly, and the experiments were harvested in September 2005. Spittlebug control with the application of insecticides resulted in stalk and sugar yield increases in relation to the control, for both experiments. Applications performed under smaller infestations resulted in higher yields than applications made under higher populations. There were no differences between insecticides in one of the experiments; in the other, however, thiamethoxan contributed to greater yield increases than imidacloprid. Insecticide applications made under lower infestations resulted in greater profits. Regression analyses allowed the estimation of the pest economic injury level to be between 2 to 3 insects m-1 for the conditions of this experiment.
Production of single superphosphate labeled with 34S
Authors: Rossete Alexssandra Luiza Rodrigues Molina , Carneiro Josiane Meire Toloti , Bendassolli José Albertino , Tavares Claudineia Raquel Oliveira , Sant'Ana Filho Carlos Roberto
Published: January 2008

Single superphosphate is currently one of the mostly used fertilizers as an alternative source for phosphorus and sulphur. Sulphur presents four stable isotopes (32S, 33S, 34S, and 36S) with natural abundances of 95.00; 0.76; 4.22; and 0.014% in atoms, respectively. Single superphosphate labeled with the 34S isotope was obtained from a chemical reaction in stoichiometric amounts between Ca(H2PO4)2 and Ca34SO4.2H2O. Calcium sulphate (Ca34SO4.2H2O) was enriched with 5.85 ± 0.01 atoms % of 34S. The Ca(H2PO4)2 reagent was obtained from a reaction between CaCl2.2H2O and H3PO4. The reaction between the Ca(H2PO4)2 thus produced and the labeled Ca34SO4.2H2O compound was then performed to obtain the 34S-labeled single surperphosphate. The thermal decomposition of the labeled superphosphate for the production of gaseous 34SO2 was carried out under a vacuum line at 900ºC in the presence of NaPO3. The isotopic determination of S (atoms % of 34S) was carried out on an ATLAS-MAT model CH-4 mass spectrometer. The production yield of Ca(H2PO4)2 and labeled single superphosphate were approximately 97 and 99% respectively, and the purity level of the labeled single superphosphate was estimated as 96%. No isotopic fractionation was observed in the production process of 34S-labeled single superphosphate.