bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diarréia por parasitas
Authors: Motta Maria Eugênia Farias Almeida , Silva Gisélia Alves Pontes da
Published: August 2006

A diarréia é uma causa importante de morbimortalidade nos países em desenvolvimento. Os agentes etiológicos mais comuns são os vírus e as bactérias. Este artigo tem o objetivo de analisar a ocorrência de diarréia como manifestação clínica de parasitose. Discute-se quais os protozoários e os helmintos que podem causar diarréia, as bases científicas atuais que explicam os mecanismos fisiopatológicos que desencadeiam a diarréia, bem como os exames complementares e o tratamento adequado para cada parasita implicado.
Duração e fatores associados ao aleitamento materno em crianças menores de 24 meses de idade no estado de Pernambuco
Authors: Vasconcelos Maria Gorete Lucena de , Lira Pedro Israel Cabral de , Lima Marília de Carvalho
Published: August 2006

OBJETIVOS: avaliar a duração do aleitamento materno em crianças menores de 24 meses de idade no estado de Pernambuco e verificar a associação de fatores com o aleitamento materno total. MÉTODOS: corte transversal com 852 crianças até 24 meses de idade que fizeram parte da amostra de 2078 menores de cinco anos selecionada para a II Pesquisa Estadual de Saúde e Nutrição. Os dados foram coletados no período de fevereiro a maio de 1997. Utilizou-se a análise de sobrevivência para cálculo da mediana do aleitamento materno e das associações com a situação do domicílio, renda per capita, escolaridade materna, consultas no pré-natal, orientação sobre aleitamento materno, tipo de parto e peso ao nascer. RESULTADOS: através de análise de sobrevivência verificou-se que a duração mediana do aleitamento materno exclusivo, predominante e total foi de 24, 77 e 112 dias, respectivamente. A duração mediana do aleitamento materno total foi significantemente mais prolongada entre as crianças que residiam na Região Metropolitana do Recife (148 dias), cujas mães percebiam um rendimento familiar per capita acima de dois salários mínimos (201 dias), que haviam freqüentado seis ou mais consultas no pré-natal (129 dias) e recebido orientação sobre aleitamento materno durante o pré-natal (126 dias). O peso ao nascer, a alfabetização materna e o tipo de parto não influenciaram significativamente o aleitamento total. CONCLUSÕES: verificou-se um crescimento na duração do aleitamento materno em Pernambuco, particularmente na Região Metropolitana do Recife, demonstrando ser o pré-natal um dos fatores de oportunidade para orientar e incentivar às mães a amamentarem seus filhos.
Saúde pública e ética na era da medicina genômica: rastreamentos genéticos
Authors: Bandeira Flavia Miranda Gomes de Constantino , Gomes Yara de Miranda , Abath Frederico Guilherme Coutinho
Published: August 2006

O presente artigo tem como objetivo contextualizar o campo da saúde pública diante dos grandes avanços da biotecnologia e genética aplicada, destacando elementos para a problematização do tema tais como benefícios e questões éticas relacionados aos rastreamentos genéticos. O Projeto Genoma Humano gerou várias expectativas, dentre elas, a possibilidade de rastrear genes associados a doenças e comportamentos, e mais ainda, de intervir geneticamente no ser humano, levantando preocupações relativas ao renascimento da eugenia, ao aconselhamento genético, e ao uso da informação genética como critério de acesso aos planos de saúde e postos de trabalho. Uma discussão de todos esses tópicos é essencial para que a saúde pública seja beneficiada com as informações obtidas através da análise genômica das populações.
Prevalência de anemia e hipovitaminose A em puérperas do Centro de Atenção à Mulher do Instituto Materno Infantil Prof. Fernando Figueira, IMIP: um estudo piloto
Authors: Lopes Renan Éboli , Ramos Karla da Silva , Bressani Cristiane Campello , Arruda Ilma Kruse de , Souza Ariani Impieri de
Published: August 2006

OBJETIVOS: este estudo avaliou a prevalência de anemia e hipovitaminose A em puérperas no Instituto Materno Infantil Prof. Fernando Figueira - IMIP. MÉTODOS: estudo descritivo tipo corte transversal com uma amostra de 72 puérperas que já se encontravam de alta hospitalar. RESULTADOS: a idade variou entre 12 e 41 anos, com mediana de 22,5 anos. Observou-se bom nível de escolaridade, embora sete delas referissem três ou menos anos de estudo. Uso de algum tipo de suplemento contendo ferro durante a gestação foi informado por 48 mulheres. Observou-se que 43,1% apresentaram concentração de hemoglobina menor que 10,0 g/dL e 65,3% menor que 11,0 g/dL. Microcitose ocorreu em 14 pacientes (19,4%), não havendo casos de macrocitose. Os níveis de hipovitaminose A foram elevados: 25,0% apresentaram retinol abaixo de 20 µg/dL. Observou-se uma tendência de associação entre puérperas não anêmicas e normocitose (volume corpuscular médio x anemia); tomando o ponto de corte para anemia de 11,0 g/dL houve associação positiva entre anemia durante a gestação e uso de compostos ferrosos. CONCLUSÕES: a prevalência de anemia foi elevada, embora a freqüência de microcitose tenha sido baixa. A prevalência de hipovitaminose A foi alta, alcançando níveis considerados como problema de saúde pública no Brasil.
Freqüência de testagem rápida para o HIV durante a admissão para o parto em puérperas no Instituto Materno Infantil Prof. Fernando Figueira, IMIP
Authors: Morimura Maria Celina Rocha , Mendes Manoella Dantas Costa , Souza Ariani Imperi de , Alencar Luiz Cláudio Arraes de
Published: August 2006

OBJETIVOS: determinar a prevalência da testagem anti-HIV no pré-natal e internamento para o parto e identificar fatores associados à realização e recebimento do resultado dos testes em parturientes. MÉTODOS: estudo descritivo, com 400 puérperas atendidas no Centro de Atenção à Mulher do IMIP Instituto Materno Infantil Prof. Fernando Figueira, IMIP. RESULTADOS: chegaram à admissão para o parto sem o resultado do teste anti-HIV, 154 (38,5%) mulheres. Dessas, foi solicitado "teste rápido" em 134 (87,0%), porém só foram colhidos em 130 (84,5%). Observou-se que: o número de consultas realizadas no pré-natal, (p=0,001) o número de profissionais que atenderam a mulher no pré-natal e a escolaridade (p=0,006) tiveram associação significativa com a realização do exame anti-HIV no pré-natal, mas não com o recebimento do mesmo. O aconselhamento e oferecimento do teste tanto no pré-natal como na admissão para o parto também apresentaram associação significativa com a realização do anti-HIV durante o pré-natal. CONCLUSÕES: a prevalência de testagem anti-HIV no pré-natal e/ou na triagem foi satisfatório no aspecto quantitativo, porém o recebimento do resultado tanto no pré-natal quanto na admissão para o parto , bem como o aconselhamento pós-teste, foi aquém do recomendado.
Diarréia por rotavírus em crianças desnutridas hospitalizadas no Instituto Materno Infantil Prof. Fernando Figueira, IMIP
Authors: Cauás Renata Cavalcanti , Falbo Ana Rodrigues , Correia Jailson de Barros , Oliveira Kaline Maria Maciel de , Montenegro Fernanda Maria Ulisses
Published: August 2006

OBJETIVOS: verificar a freqüência do rotavírus em crianças de zero a cinco anos com doença diarréica e desnutrição moderada e grave, hospitalizadas no Instituto Materno Infantil Prof. Fernando Figueira (IMIP). MÉTODOS: foi realizado um estudo série de casos durante o período de agosto de 2004 e junho de 2005. No total fizeram parte do estudo 50 crianças. Utilizou-se um questionário pré-codificado e foi montado um banco de dados no software Epi-info 6.0. As amostras de fezes foram analisadas quanto à presença do rotavírus, através de técnicas de imunoensaio enzimático. RESULTADOS: verificou-se que a freqüência do rotavírus na doença diarréica do grupo estudado foi de 24,0%. Em geral as famílias eram pobres, 96,0% delas com renda familiar per capita inferior a R$150,00. Com relação às crianças dois terços (60,4%) receberam leite materno por um período inferior a três meses e 10% delas nunca haviam sido vascinadas. CONCLUSÕES: o estudo traz contribuição para o conhecimento da etiologia da diarréia na criança com desnutrição, no entanto, se faz necessária a realização de estudos com um maior número de crianças para que os resultados possam ser mais conclusivos.
A new sympatric region for distinct karyotypic forms of Hoplias malabaricus (Pisces, Erythrinidae)
Authors: Born G. G. , Bertollo L. A. C.
Published: August 2006

Specimens of Hoplias malabaricus from Lagoa Carioca, an isolated lake of the Rio Doce State Park (state of Minas Gerais, Brazil), were cytogenetically studied. The diploid number was found to be constant, i.e., 2n = 42 chromosomes, although two karyotypic forms were found: karyotype A, characterized by 22M + 20SM chromosomes, observed only in a male specimen, and karyotype B, characterized by 24M + 16SM + 2ST and 24M + 17SM + 1ST chromosomes in female and male specimens, respectively. This sex difference found in karyotype B is related to an XX/XY sex chromosome system. Another female specimen of H. malabaricus, also carrying karyotype A, had previously been found in the same lake. The available data indicate that two sympatric cytotypes of H. malabaricus exist in the Lagoa Carioca, with cytotype A occurring at a lower frequency and differing from cytotype B by undifferentiated sex chromosomes.
Reproductive relationships and degree of synapsis in the polytene chromosomes of the Drosophila buzzatii species cluster
Authors: Machado L. P. B. , Madi-Ravazzi L. , Tadei W. J.
Published: August 2006

The process of speciation occurs through the evolution of any of several forms of reproductive isolation between taxa, including inviability of hybrids. In this work, strains derived from allopatric populations of Drosophila buzzatii cluster species were experimentally crossed in order to evaluate their reproductive and cytogenetic relationships, and to contribute toward understanding the reproductive isolation in this group of sibling species. Although intrastrain crosses were highly fertile, we consider it relevant to discuss the differences in intra- and interspecific fertility and fecundity here. Among 30 interspecific crosses, about 63% were partially or completely sterile. Fifty three percent of interspecific F1 crosses (female and male F1 crossed) were also partially or completely sterile, in contrast to only one out of 24 intraspecific F1 crosses that was partially sterile. An analysis of hybrid polytene chromosomes revealed complete synapsis, except in the microchromosomes (VI) and in the proximal region of the X chromosome. The intraspecific divergence observed in this study and the variable degree of chromosome pairing shown here reveal part of the complexity of the speciation process pertinent to Drosophila buzzatii cluster, which is consistent with different traits studied in this cluster.
Zooplankton biomass of reservoirs in different trophic conditions in the State of São Paulo, Brazil
Authors: Sendacz S. , Caleffi S. , Santos-Soares J.
Published: August 2006

This paper reports on a study involving an estimate of the biomass of rotifers, cladocerans, and cyclopoid and calanoid copepods found in reservoirs in different trophic conditions, comparing and relating numerical density data and pointing out differences between the dry and rainy seasons. In terms of numerical densities, both reservoirs were dominated by rotifers, although cladocerans represented a higher biomass in the oligotrophic environment in both seasons. In the eutrophic environment, higher biomass values were found for cyclopoids during the dry season and for cladocerans during the rainy one. Different biomass patterns were observed relating to both the trophic conditions and the rainy and dry seasons.
The importance of forest disturbance for the recruitment of the large arborescent palm Attalea maripa in a seasonally-dry Amazonian forest
Authors: Salm Rodolfo
Published: August 2006

The hypothesis that forest disturbance is important for the recruitment of the large arborescent palms Attalea maripa was tested with a natural experiment in the Pinkaití site (7º 46'S; 51º 57'W), a seasonally-dry Amazonian forest. A 8,000 m long trail, that crosses, in its lower half, an open forest along the Pinkaití stream bottomlands and, on its upper half, a dense forest on a hill, was divided in 160 0.15 ha (50x30 m) sampling units. At each unit, adult palms were counted and percentage of canopy openness was measured with a concave spherical densiometer. The palms were nearly five times more abundant at the bottomlands, whose forest had a canopy 14.8% more open than that of the hill; supporting the hypothesis that disturbance is important for their recruitment.
Répteis do campus da Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, RS, Brasil
Authors: Santos Tiago Gomes dos , Kopp Katia Alcione , Spies Marcia Regina , Trevisan Rafael , Cechin Sonia Zanini
Published: August 2006

Este trabalho apresenta um inventário das espécies de répteis que ocorrem no campus da Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM) e arredores. A listagem está baseada em expedições mensais de campo entre novembro de 2001 e outubro de 2002 e exame do material da Coleção Herpetológica do Departamento de Biologia da UFSM. Das 36 espécies listadas, 20 foram registradas no campo e 16 foram registradas pelo exame da coleção.
Do sólido ao fluido: contradição organizacional e paradoxo na reconstrução de identidade
Authors: Ghadiri Djahanchah (Sacha) P. , Davel Eduardo
Published: August 2006

Com o objetivo de estimular novos entendimentos acerca de paradoxos e contradições discursivas, a presente pesquisa examina como a identidade é formada e transformada, dentro e ao redor de contextos organizacionais. Desenvolve-se um esquema conceitual em que a identidade é construída e reconstruída a partir da percepção e evocação de imagens, textos, impressões, julgamentos, e situações que expressam algo sobre indivíduos e sobre aqueles com quem esses indivíduos interagem. Tal esquema é ilustrado com base em eventos fictícios, inspirados por um estudo numa empresa do setor moveleiro. De modo geral, esse estudo presume que a identidade nas organizações pode ser melhor compreendida prestando-se mais atenção ao processo de (re)construção de identidade num plano individual e interpessoal de análise. A pesquisa sugere que um melhor entendimento da (re)construção da identidade nesse plano pode contribuir para (a) desafiar a forma como a identidade tem sido (tradicional e teoricamente) abordada nas organizações; (b) iluminar processos de reflexão, regulação e intervenção da identidade de membros organizacionais no dia-a-dia de trabalho, e (c) estimular novos entendimentos sobre a relação que alguns paradoxos comuns e contradições discursivas da vida organizacional têm com a identidade.
Impacts of drought and temperature stress on coffee physiology and production: a review
Authors: DaMatta Fábio M. , Ramalho José D. Cochicho
Published: August 2006

Overall, drought and unfavourable temperatures are the major climatic limitations for coffee production. These limitations are expected to become increasingly important in several coffee growing regions due to the recognized changes in global climate, and also because coffee cultivation has spread towards marginal lands, where water shortage and unfavourable temperatures constitute major constraints to coffee yield. In this review, we examine the impacts of such limitations on the physiology, and consequently on the production of mainly Coffea arabica and C. canephora, which account for about 99 % of the world coffee bean production. The first section deals with climatic factors and the coffee plant’s requirements. The importance of controlling oxidative stress for the expression of drought and cold tolerance abilities is emphasized in the second section. In the third section, we examine the impacts of drought on cell-water relations, stomatal behaviour and water use, photosynthesis and crop yield, carbon and nitrogen metabolism, root growth and characteristics, and on drought tolerance. In the fourth section, the impacts of low positive and high temperatures on coffee physiology are discussed; some insights about effects of negative temperatures are also presented. Finally, the last section deals with shading in harsh environments as a mean of buffering climatic fluctuations, as well as of increasing environmental sustainability in coffee exploitation.
Cytology, biochemistry and molecular changes during coffee fruit development
Authors: De Castro Renato D. , Marraccini Pierre
Published: August 2006

In commercial coffee species (Coffea arabica and Coffea canephora), fruit development is a lengthy process, characterized by tissue changes and evolutions. For example, soon after fecundation and up to mid development, the fruit is mainly constituted of the pericarp and perisperm tissue. Thereafter, the perisperm gradually disappears and is progressively replaced by the endosperm (true seed). Initially present in a "liquid" state, the endosperm hardens as it ripens during the maturation phase, as a result of accumulation of storage proteins, sucrose and complex polysaccharides representing the main reserves of the seed. The last step of maturation is characterized by the dehydration of the endosperm and the color change of the pericarp. Important quantitative and qualitative changes accompany fruit growth, highlighting the importance of its study to better understand the final characteristics of coffee beans. Following a description of the coffee fruit tissues, this review presents some data concerning biochemical, enzymatic and gene expression variations observed during the coffee fruit development. The latter will also be analyzed in the light of recent data (electronic expression profiles) arising from the Brazilian Coffee Genome Project.
Genetics of coffee quality
Authors: Leroy Thierry , Ribeyre Fabienne , Bertrand Benóit , Charmetant Pierre , Dufour Magali , Montagnon Christophe , Marraccini Pierre , Pot David
Published: August 2006

Coffee quality, in the present context of overproduction worldwide, has to be considered as a main selection criterion for coffee improvement. After a definition of quality, and an overview of the non genetic factors affecting its variation, this review focuses on the genetic factors involved in the control of coffee quality variation. Regarding the complexity of this trait, the different types of quality are first presented. Then, the great variation within and between coffee species is underlined, mainly for biochemical compounds related to quality (caffeine, sugars, chlorogenic acids, lipids). The ways for breeding quality traits for cultivated species, Coffea arabica and Coffea canephora are discussed, with specific challenges for each species. For C. arabica, maintaining a good quality in F1 intraspecific hybrids, introgressed lines from Timor hybrid, and grafted varieties are the main challenges. For C. canephora, the improvement is mainly based on intraspecific and interspecific hybrids, using the whole genetic variability available within this species. An improvement is obtained for bean size, with significant genetic gains in current breeding programmes. The content in biochemical compounds related to cup quality is another way to improve Robusta quality. Finally, ongoing programmes towards the understanding of the molecular determinism of coffee quality, particularly using coffee ESTs, are presented.
Experiência inicial com o uso de adesivo tissular contendo trombina para tratamento do pseudo-aneurisma femoral
Authors: Pinto Daniel Mendes , Dias Júnior José Olimpio , Fonseca Bernardo Lopes Cançado , Moreialvar Rodrigo Daniel , Bez Leonardo Ghizoni , Lopes Caetano de Sousa
Published: August 2006

O pseudo-aneurisma (PSA) após cateterização femoral tem sido diagnosticado com regularidade em serviços com grande movimento de intervenções percutâneas, com incidência variando de 0,05 a 6%. PSA femorais pequenos podem ser acompanhados até a resolução espontânea. As opções de tratamento são: compressão guiada por ultra-som, injeção de trombina para trombose do PSA e tratamento cirúrgico. A injeção percutânea de trombina tem a vantagem de ser um procedimento indolor e rápido. Podem ser utilizados trombina isolada ou preparados contendo trombina associada a fibrinogênio e fatores de coagulação. A experiência inicial dos autores de cinco casos tratados com injeção de adesivo tissular contendo trombina mostrou resultado satisfatório em quatro; um caso necessitou tratamento cirúrgico. Não houve sucesso com uso isolado de trombina humana, porém, ocorreu trombose imediata após injeção de preparado de trombina associada a fibrinogênio/fator XIII. Neste artigo, são discutidas as opções de tratamento dos PSA femorais e a técnica do uso de trombina percutânea.
Remoção de introdutor arterial pós-intervenção coronária percutânea: médico residente versus enfermeiro especializado
Authors: Solano José Del Carmen , Meireles George Cesar Ximenes , Abreu Luciano Mauricio de , Forte Antonio Artur da Cruz , Sumita Marcos Kiyoshi , Hayashi Jorge Hideki
Published: August 2006

OBJETIVO: Comparar os resultados da retirada de introdutor arterial pelo enfermeiro especializado em Unidade de Hemodinâmica e pelo médico residente em Cardiologia Intervencionista em pacientes submetidos à intervenção coronária percutânea. MÉTODOS: Trata-se de registro prospectivo em 100 pacientes submetidos à intervenção coronária percutânea, no período de setembro a outubro de 2004, divididos em dois grupos: Grupo A (GA) - enfermeiro (n = 48 pacientes) - e Grupo B (GB) - médico residente (n = 52 pacientes). Hematoma pequeno foi definido como inchaço palpável no local da punção menor que 2 cm; hematoma moderado, com 2 a 6 cm de diâmetro; e hematoma grande, maior que 6 cm de diâmetro. A dose de heparina foi de 100 UI/kg. Os introdutores foram retirados após controle do tempo de coagulação ativado (TCA < 180 segundos), e foi realizada compressão manual por 15 minutos. RESULTADOS: A idade dos pacientes foi de 59,54 ± 11,1 anos (GA) e 61,7 ± 10,4 anos (GB), com predomínio do sexo masculino (GA = 75% e GB = 58%). Os introdutores foram 7 French. O tempo de compressão manual foi de 19,4 ± 3,1 minutos no GA e 19,6 ± 3,1 minutos no GB (P = 0,76). Ocorreram oito hematomas no GA (sete pequenos e um moderado) e nove hematomas no GB (sete pequenos e dois moderados), P = não-significante. Os hematomas foram tratados clinicamente, sem complicações. CONCLUSÃO: A retirada de introdutor arterial, após intervenções coronárias percutâneas, pode ser realizada pelo enfermeiro especializado em Unidade de Hemodinâmica ou pelo médico residente em Cardiologia Intervencionista com segurança e sem complicações maiores.
Influence of iodoform on antimicrobial potential of calcium hydroxide
Authors: Estrela Carlos , Estrela Cyntia Rodrigues de Araújo , Hollanda Augusto César Braz , Decurcio Daniel de Almeida , Pécora Jesus Djalma
Published: August 2006

The purpose of this research was to verify the influence of Iodoform on antimicrobial potential of calcium hydroxide. S. aureus, E. faecalis, P. aeruginosa, B. subtilis, C. albicans were the biological indicators. The substances tested were: calcium hydroxide + saline; calcium hydroxide + Iodoform + saline; Iodoform + saline. For the agar diffusion test, 18 Petri plates with 20 ml of BHI agar were inoculated with the microbial suspensions. Fifty-four cavities were made and filled with the substances tested. The diameters of microbial inhibition were then measured. In direct exposure test, 162 #50 sterile absorbent paper points were immersed in the experimental suspensions for 5 min, and covered with the pastes. At intervals of 24, 48 and 72 hours, the paper points were immersed in 10 ml of Letheen Broth, followed by incubation at 37°°C for 48h. Microbial growth was evaluated by turbidity of the culture medium. A 0.1 ml inoculum obtained from the Letheen Broth was transferred to 7 ml of BHI, and incubated at 37°°C for 48h. Bacterial growth was again evaluated by turbidity of the culture medium. The calcium hydroxide associated with the saline or the iodoform plus saline showed antimicrobial effectiveness in both experimental methods. The iodoform paste presented antimicrobial ineffectiveness for the agar diffusion test on all biological microorganisms and for the direct exposure test on B. subtilis and on the mixture.
Fluoride content of UHT milks commercially available in Bauru, Brazil
Authors: Buzalaf Marília Afonso Rabelo , Pessan Juliano Pelim , Fukushima Rejane , Dias Andréia , Rosa Helena Maria
Published: August 2006

OBJECTIVES: The aims of the present study were to evaluate the fluoride (F) concentrations in whole, defatted and chocolate milks commercially available in Brazil and to estimate the daily F intake from these sources. MATERIAL AND METHODS: F concentrations were determined for 23 brands of milks, after HMDS-facilitated diffusion, using a F ion-specific electrode. Possible F ingestion per kg body weight was estimated, based on suggested volumes of formula consumption, for infants aging 1 to 12 months. RESULTS: F concentrations ranged from 0.02 to 1.6 µg/mL F for all brands analyzed. Whole and defatted milks had the lowest F concentrations, ranging from 0.02 to 0.07 µg/mL. With respect to chocolate milks, three brands had F concentrations above 0.5 µg/mL. Some brands of chocolate milks exceeded the dose regarded as the threshold level for the development of dental fluorosis, without taking into account other sources of fluoride intake. CONCLUSION: The high fluoride concentrations found in some brands of chocolate milks in the present study indicate that many products may be important contributors to the total fluoride intake, reinforcing the need of assaying fluoride content of foods and beverages consumed by small children.
Evaluation of microcurrent electrical nerve stimulation (MENS) effectiveness on muscle pain in temporomandibular disorders patients
Authors: Zuim Paulo Renato Junqueira , Garcia Alicio Rosalino , Turcio Karina Helga Leal , Hamata Marcelo Matida
Published: August 2006

The effect of Microcurrent Electrical Nerve Stimulation (MENS) was evaluated and compared with occlusal splint therapy in temporomandibular disorders (TMD) patients with muscle pain. Twenty TMD patients were divided into four groups. One received occlusal splint therapy and MENS (I); other received splints and placebo MENS (II); the third, only MENS (III) and the last group, placebo MENS (IV). Sensitivity derived from muscle palpation was evaluated using a visual analogue scale. Results were submitted to analysis of variance (p<0.05). There was reduction of pain level in all groups: group I (occlusal splint and MENS) had a 47.7% reduction rate; group II (occlusal splint and placebo MENS), 66.7%; group III (MENS), 49.7% and group IV (placebo MENS), 16.5%. In spite of that, there was no statistical difference (analysis of variance / p<0.05) between MENS and occlusal splint therapy regarding muscle pain reduction in TMD patients after four weeks.
Repercussões do pneumoperitônio na amplitude da excursão diafragmática em suínos
Authors: Normando Valéria Marques Ferreira , Brito Marcus Vinicius Henriques , Araújo Júnior Francisco Alves de , Albuquerque Breno Costa Maciel
Published: August 2006

OBJETIVO: Estudar as repercussões causadas pelo pneumoperitônio induzido com dióxido de carbono na mobilidade diafragmática de suínos. MÉTODOS: Foram utilizados aleatoriamente 14 suínos machos, da raça Landrace, pesando entre cinco e sete quilos, com 30 a 45 dias de idade. A amostra foi dividida igualitariamente em um grupo com pneumoperitônio realizado com 10 mmHg durante 60 minutos (n = 7) e em outro com pneumoperitônio com 15 mmHg durante 60 minutos (n = 7). Após a indução anestésica, os animais foram intubados e mantidos sob monitoração do volume corrente associada à análise não invasiva da amplitude diafragmática com o uso da ultra-sonografia da hemicúpula diafragmática direita. RESULTADOS: Em ambos os grupos foi observada restrição da amplitude diafragmática somente durante o procedimento. Não houve diferença estatística entre os níveis de pressão estudados. CONCLUSÃO: Houve restrição da amplitude diafragmática durante a insuflação da cavidade abdominal, a qual se mostrou independente do nível pressórico compreendido na faixa de 10 a 15 mmHg, durante o período de tempo estudado.
Marcadores moleculares no câncer de pulmão: papel prognóstico e sua relação com o tabagismo
Authors: Duarte Ricardo Luiz de Menezes , Paschoal Marcos Eduardo Machado
Published: August 2006

Estudos epidemiológicos têm demonstrado um nexo causal entre tabagismo e carcinoma de pulmão. Embora a maioria dos cânceres de pulmão esteja associada com tabagismo, somente uma minoria de grandes tabagistas desenvolve essa malignidade, o que leva ao conceito de que fatores genéticos afetam a susceptibilidade individual. As principais alterações moleculares no câncer de pulmão são: genes de supressão tumoral, proto-oncogenes e fatores de crescimento, atividade da telomerase e status de metilação de promotores. Fatores estimuladores da angiogênese (fator de crescimento endotelial vascular) e fatores relacionados à proliferação e apoptose de células tumorais (receptor para fator de crescimento epidérmico, p53, K-ras, retinoblastoma, BCL-2) são bem conhecidos. Vários desses fatores genéticos foram investigados, porém nenhum deles apresentou seletividade no que diz respeito à importância prognóstica ou eficácia terapêutica. Estratégias terapêuticas para o tratamento do câncer de pulmão devem considerar essas alterações genéticas precoces para promover o seu reparo ou eliminar as células tumorais.
Prevalence study of signs and symptoms of temporomandibular disorder in Brazilian college students
Authors: Oliveira Anamaria Siriani de , Dias Elton Matias , Contato Rogério Guimarães , Berzin Fausto
Published: August 2006

The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence and severity of temporomandibular disorders (TMD) in Brazilian college students. A questionnaire was administered to 2,396 students. Seventy-three percent of women (mean age 21.94 ± 5 years) and 27% of men (mean age 22.41 ± 4.8 years) answered the questionnaire. The anamnestic index was used to classify the volunteers according to TMD severity degree. The results showed a higher percentage of men without TMD (43.74%) (p < 0.05, Chi-square test). The women exhibited some degree of severity (73.03%) at a higher frequency than men (56.26%). No significant differences were observed between sexes for a same TMD severity degree (p > 0.05). The results indicated TMD prevalence in Brazilian college students similar to that presented in other studies found in the literature reviewed. Longitudinal studies are recommended to follow the prevalence and health care needs in this population.
HPV in oral squamous cell carcinomas of a Brazilian population: amplification by PCR
Authors: Rivero Elena Riet Correa , Nunes Fabio Daumas
Published: August 2006

Human Papilomaviruses (HPV) are a group of viruses associated with benign and malignant lesions of cutaneous and mucosal epithelia. Some "high risk" HPV types, especially HPV 16 and 18, are strongly correlated with cervical and anogenital cancers and are also related to the genesis of oral squamous cell carcinomas (OSCC). The aim of this work was to investigate the incidence of HPV infection in 40 paraffin-embedded or fresh specimens of OSCC, using PCR amplification of the viral DNA. Literature based primers (GP5+/GP6+) were used in order to amplify HPV DNA from the L1 gene, present in more than 22 types of HPV. A condyloma case with HPV 16 and 18 detected by in situ hybridization was used as a positive control. Amplification of HPV was observed only in the positive control. No squamous cell carcinoma cases showed DNA viral amplification. Absence of HPV DNA amplification by PCR in the analyzed specimens of OSCCs suggests that this virus not always plays a role in the carcinogenesis process. Discrepancy with some studies found in the literature may be related to methodology or population differences.
Effects of Tissucol™ and epsilon aminocaproic acid in the healing process following dental extraction in dehydrated rats
Authors: Okamoto Tetuo , Alves-Rezende Maria Cristina Rosifini , Cláudio Carolina Chiantelli , Rodrigues Thaís da Silveira , Okamoto Roberta
Published: August 2006

A histological study was conducted of the alveolar bone healing process following tooth extraction of dehydrated rats after the implantation of fibrin adhesive (TISSUCOL™) associated to previous irrigation of the wound with a 5% epsilon aminocaproic acid solution (EACA). Seventy two rats were used, divided into three groups receiving different treatments after the surgical procedure. In group I, the gingival mucosa was sutured after extraction of the right upper incisor. In groups II and III, chronic dehydration was produced by water deprivation for 9 days (3 days in the preoperative period and 6 days in the postoperative period). In the animals of Group II, after tooth extraction, the gingival mucosa was sutured in the same way as performed in group I. In group III, after extraction, the dental socket was irrigated with 5% EACA, followed by implantation of the fibrin adhesive (TISSUCOL™). The mucosa was sutured in the same way as performed in the other groups. At 3, 7, 15 and 21 postoperative days, the animals were sacrificed in number of 6 for each group. Specimens containing the dental socket were removed and fixed in 10% formalin and decalcified in an equal part formic acid and sodium citrate solution. After routine processing, the specimens were embedded in paraffin for microtomy. We obtained 6 µm semi-serial slices that were stained with hematoxylin and eosin for histological evaluation. The results showed that the water deprivation in the pre- and postoperative periods caused a delay in the alveolar bone healing process. The use of the fibrin adhesive (TISSUCOL™) produced an improvement in the fibrinolytic picture caused by dehydration.
Extracellular matrix dermatopontin modulates prostate cell growth in vivo
Authors: Takeuchi Takumi , Suzuki Motofumi , Kumagai Jimpei , Kamijo Toshiyuki , Sakai Masato , Kitamura Tadaichi
Published: August 2006

Dermatopontin is a tyrosine-rich acidic extracellular matrix protein of 22 kDa with possible functions in cell–matrix interactions and matrix assembly. We have previously isolated mRNAs expressed in hormone-refractory, but not in hormone-sensitive, mouse mammary cancer by comparing the mRNAs expressed in either tumor. A partial mRNA sequence isolated was later proven to be a part of mouse dermatopontin mRNA sequence. Transfectants of mouse dermatopontin cDNA into PC-3 human prostate cancer cells enhanced tumor growth when those were implanted subcutaneously in nude mice compared with the controls. Those transfectants showed a prominent stroma compared with the controls. Localization of the targets of a fusion protein of mouse dermatopontin and alkaline phosphatase was in the stroma of the PC-3 tumor tissues, but not in the tumor cells themselves. Additionally, we have established mouse dermatopontin transgenic mice under the control of the rat probasin promoter. The prostatic dorsal lobes of dermatopontin transgenic mouse showed prostate intra-epithelial neoplasia at the age of 11 months, but the control littermates did not. Epithelium of other prostatic lobes was not markedly different from that of the controls. In conclusion, dermatopontin may be involved in the pathogenesis and growth of the prostate cancer.
Regulated production of activin A and inhibin B throughout the cycle of the seminiferous epithelium in the rat
Authors: Okuma Y , O’Connor A E , Hayashi T , Loveland K L , de Kretser D M , Hedger M P
Published: August 2006

Production and regulation of activin A and inhibin B during the cycle of the seminiferous epithelium were investigated in adult rats. Immunohistochemistry localised the activin βA-subunit to the Sertoli cell cytoplasm, with much weaker expression in spermatocytes and spermatids. Both activin A and inhibin B, measured by ELISA were secreted by, seminiferous tubule fragments over 72 h in culture. Activin A was secreted in a cyclic manner with peak secretion from tubules isolated at stage VIII. Tubules collected during stage VI produced the least activin A. Inhibin B secretion was highest from stage IX-I tubules and lowest from stage VII tubules. Addition of interleukin-1β (IL-1β) had relatively little effect on activin A or inhibin B secretion in culture. In contrast, the peak secretion of activin A by stage VIII tubules was blocked by co-incubation with an excess of human recombinant IL-1 receptor antagonist, whereas inhibin B secretion increased slightly. Dibutyryl cAMP stimulated activin A secretion by late stage VII and VIII tubules and stimulated inhibin B across all stages. These data indicate that activin A and inhibin B are cyclically regulated within the seminiferous epithelium, with endogenous IL-1 (presumably IL-1α produced by the Sertoli cells), responsible for a peak of activin A production subsequent to sperm release at stage VIII. These data provide direct evidence that production of activin A and inhibin B by the Sertoli cell is locally modulated by IL-1α , in addition to FSH/cAMP, under the influence of the developing spermatogenic cells.
The regulatory mechanism by which interleukin-6 stimulates GH-gene expression in rat GH3 cells
Authors: Gong Feng-ying , Shi Yi-fan , Deng Jie-ying
Published: August 2006

The present study was performed to elucidate the effect of interleukin (IL)-6 on the human GH (hGH)-gene expression in GH3 rat pituitary tumor cells using stable transfection of the hGH promoter fused to a luciferase reporter gene. Our results showed that IL-6 (102–104 U/ml) stimulated GH secretion and synthesis, and promoted the luciferase expression in stably transfected GH3 cells with the maximal action of 1.99 times above the control by 104 U/ml IL-6. Among the inhibitors of signaling transduction pathways, mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MAPKK/MEK) inhibitor PD98059 (40 μM) and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) inhibitor SB203580 (5 μM) completely blocked the stimulatory effect of IL-6. Western blot analysis demonstrated that IL-6 indeed increased the activation of phosphorylated MEK and p38 MAPK in GH3 cells. Neither overexpression of Pit-1 nor inhibiting Pit-1 expression affected IL-6 induction of hGH-promoter activity. To identify the DNA sequence that mediated the effect of IL-6, six deletion constructs of hGH promoter were created. The stimulatory effect of IL-6 was abolished following deletion of the −196 to −132 bp fragment. In conclusion, our data show that IL-6 promotes GH secretion and synthesis by rat pituitary GH3 cells. The stimulatory effect of IL-6 on hGH-gene promoter appears to require the activation of MEK and p38 MAPK, and a fragment of promoter sequence that spans the −196 to −132 bp of the gene, but may be unrelated to Pit-1 protein.
Tumor necrosis factor α reversibly disrupts the blood–testis barrier and impairs Sertoli–germ cell adhesion in the seminiferous epithelium of adult rat testes
Authors: Li Michelle W M , Xia Weiliang , Mruk Dolores D , Wang Claire Q F , Yan Helen H N , Siu Michelle K Y , Lui Wing-yee , Lee Will M , Cheng C Yan
Published: August 2006

The timely restructuring of the blood–testis barrier (BTB) that facilitates the migration of preleptotene and leptotene spermatocytes from the basal to the adluminal compartment in the seminiferous epithelium of adult rat testes, which occurs at late stage VII through early stage VIII of the epithelial cycle, is a crucial cellular event of spermatogenesis. However, the regulation of BTB dynamics at the biochemical level remains elusive. In this study, tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα), a secretory product of Sertoli and germ cells in rat testes, was shown to affect junction dynamics in vivo. Following an acute administration of recombinant TNFα directly to adult rat testes in vivo at 0.5 and 2 μg/testis (with a body weight ~300 g), this treatment significantly and transiently disrupted the BTB. It also transiently inhibited the steady-state protein levels of occludin, zonula occludens-1, and N-cadherin, but not junction adhesion molecule-A, α-, and β-catenin in testes at the BTB site as illustrated by immunoblottings, immunohistochemistry, electron microscopy, and fluorescent microscopy. This transient disruption of the BTB integrity induced by TNFα treatment was further demonstrated by a functional test to assess the passage of a fluorescent dye (e.g. fluorescein-5-isothiocyanate) from the systemic circulation to the adluminal compartment. Additionally, both the phosphorylated-Ser/Thr protein kinase activated by MAP kinase kinase (p-p38) and phosphorylated-externally regulated kinase (p-ERK) mitogen -activated protein kinase-signaling pathways were transiently activated. Collectively, these data coupled with the recently published in vitro studies have illustrated that the BTB is likely utilizing a novel mechanism in which localized production of TNFα by Sertoli and germ cells into the microenvironment at the basal compartment facilitates the timely restructuring (‘opening’?) of the BTB during spermatogenesis to facilitate germ cell migration.
Characterisation of the prereceptor regulation of glucocorticoids in the anterior segment of the rabbit eye
Authors: Onyimba Claire U , Vijapurapu Neelima , Curnow S John , Khosla Pamela , Stewart Paul M , Murray Philip I , Walker Elizabeth A , Rauz Saaeha
Published: August 2006

The prereceptor regulation of glucocorticoids (GCs) by 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type-1 (11β-HSD1), a bidirectional isozyme that interconverts active (cortisol) and inactive (cortisone) GCs, is an established determinant of GC function in tissues such as liver, adipose and bone. Although the therapeutic use of GCs is abundant in ophthalmic practice, where GC interactions with nuclear receptors modulate gene transcription, the prereceptor regulation of endogenous cortisol is not well described in ocular tissues. Recent descriptive studies have localised 11β-HSD1 to the human corneal epithelium and non-pigmented epithelium (NPE) of the ciliary body, indicating a link to corneal epithelial physiology and aqueous humour production. In this study, we characterise the functional aspects of the autocrine regulation of GCs in the anterior segment of the rabbit eye. Using our in-house generated primary antibody to human 11β-HSD1, immunohistochemical analyses were performed on paraffin-embedded sections of whole New Zealand white albino rabbits, (NZWAR) eyes. As in human studies, 11β-HSD1 was localised to the corneal epithelium and the NPE. No staining was seen in the albino ‘pigmented’ ciliary epithelium. Specific enzyme assays for oxo-reductase (cortisone→cortisol) and dehydrogenase (cortisol→cortisone) activity indicated predominant 11β-HSD1 oxo-reductase activity from both the intact ciliary body tissue (n=12, median 2.1 pmol/mg per h and range 1.25–2.8 pmol/mg per h; P=0.006) and primary cultures of corneal epithelial cells (n=12, median 3.0 pmol/mg per h and range 1.0–7.4 pmol/mg per h, P=0.008) compared with dehydrogenase activity (median 1.0 pmol/mg per h and range 0.5–2.0 pmol/mg per h; median 0.5 pmol/mg per h and range 0.25–1.9 pmol/mg per h respectively). These findings were supported by expression of 11β-HSD1 protein as visualised by Western blotting of ciliary body tissue and immunocytochemistry of corneal epithelial cells. Reduction of corneal epithelial cell proliferation was seen after primary cultures were co-incubated with cortisol and cortisone. 11β-HSD1 activity was not demonstrated in naïve conjunctival fibroblasts or corneal stromal keratocytes. Our results indicate that the distribution of 11β-HSD1 in the rabbit resembles that of the human eye and activates cortisone to cortisol in both corneal and uveal tissues. The NZWAR provides a suitable in vivo model for the further evaluation of 11β-HSD1 activity in the eye, especially its role in corneal epithelial and ciliary body physiology.
Application and biomolecular monitoring of psychrophilic anaerobic digestion
Authors: Collins G. , Connaughton S. , Enright A.-M. , Scully C. , Mahony T. , O'Flaherty V.
Published: August 2006

Thirteen anaerobic hybrid expanded granular sludge bed-anaerobic filter bioreactors were used for psychrophilic (15–18 °C) anaerobic digestion of a variety of synthetic and non-synthetic wastewaters, including: food-processing, dairy, aromatic- and aliphatic-containing and brewery discharges. Specific methanogenic activity assays were employed to assess temporal physiological activity dynamics. Terminal restriction fragment length polymorphism genetic fingerprinting and fluorescent in situ hybridization were used to monitor shifts in the structure of the microbial communities in the bioreactors in response to operating conditions. Treatment efficiencies obtained were comparable to previous mesophilic (37 °C) trials. Methanogenic activity developed under psychrophilic conditions and putative psychrophilic populations were detected within otherwise psychrotolerant mesophilic communities. Shifts in the population structure of archaeal (methanogenic) communities were more indicative of process disruption than bacterial communities. Biomolecular techniques were demonstrated as valuable tools for anaerobic wastewater treatment plant monitoring.
Outcomes in the treatment of thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura with splenectomy: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Outschoorn Ubaldo Martinez , Ferber Andres
Published: August 2006

The mainstay of treatment for thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) is plasma exchange (PE), but the role of splenectomy is still undefined. The records of all patients with TTP at a single center over a 20‐year period were retrospectively reviewed. Response to plasma exchange was determined. The outcome of patients treated with splenectomy in the setting of TTP was evaluated. Sixty‐one patients had been treated for TTP. Thirty‐nine patients (64%) achieved complete remission (CR) with PE, nineteen (31%) of these achieving sustained CR and seventeen (28%) with relapsed TTP. Twenty patients (33%) had PE refractory TTP and two patients (3%) had PE dependent TTP. During this time period, 10 patients (16%) underwent splenectomy, four patients (7%) for PE dependent TTP, three (5%) for relapsed TTP, and three (5%) for refractory TTP. All of the patients achieved CR after splenectomy. Two patients who had undergone splenectomy had subsequent relapses, both with previously relapsed TTP. In relapsed patients the relapse rate after splenectomy was 0.27 events per patient year compared to 0.6 events per patient year before splenectomy. Median follow‐up after splenectomy was 19 months (range 0.13–90 months). In conclusion, relapses in TTP can be managed successfully with additional PE or with splenectomy. PE dependent or refractory TTP can be successfully treated with splenectomy. Am. J. Hematol., 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia presenting with spinal cord compression: A case report
Authors: Al‐Halabi Hani , Roberge David
Published: August 2006

Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia (WM) is a rare lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma characterized by a wide range of clinical presentations related to direct tumor infiltration and the production of IgM. Most commonly it presents with cytopenia, hepatosplenomegaly, lymphadenopathy, constitutional symptoms, and hyperviscosity syndrome. We report a case of WM in an 81‐year‐old man who initially presented with severe back pain. The patient had no peripheral lymphadenopathy or hepatosplenomegaly and his peripheral blood smear was normal. MRI of the spine revealed an epidural mass causing spinal cord compression at T9. Surgical decompression was performed and pathological analysis of the mass revealed a lymphoproliferative B‐cell process. The diagnosis of WM was established after cytomorphologic and immunohistochemical analysis of the patient's bone marrow revealed the presence of a lymphoid/lymphoplasmacytoid‐like bone marrow infiltrate along with an elevated serum IgM level. The patient responded both clinically and serologically to local radiotherapy. This case is unusual because the patient lacked all common clinical features of WM. This is the first reported case of epidural spinal cord compression as the initial manifestation of WM, adding to the spectrum of clinical presentations seen in this disease. Am. J. Hematol., 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.