bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neopterin in Septic Arthritis
Authors: Koberg K. , Schälicke S. , Klosterhalfen B. , Peters K.M.
Published: March 2013

Despite its low incidence septic arthritis remains a serious problem in orthopaedic practice. General or local immunosuppression predisposes for septic arthritis. Thus we see an increasing incidence in elderly patients, in patients suffering from rheumatic diseases and after alloplastic arthroplasty of the hip and of the knee. In septic arthritis the first line of host defense mechanisms is overwhelmed and bacterial multiplication proceeds within the joint. The pathogens found are in 50% to 75% of cases Staphylococci and in 15% to 20% Streptococci. Histologically we initially find an edema of the synovial membrane and a dramatic polymorph-nuclear-cell infiltration. After developing all signs of inflammation, a persistent purulent effusion accumulates and cartilage and bone destruction ensues as a result of proteolytic enzyme activity released from the bacteria and the polymorph nuclear leukocytes. Modern therapy consists of early surgical intervention (synovectomy, debridement) combined with local and systemic antibiotic treatment. The early intervention is one of the main factors for successful management. Thus the interest of early detection of septic arthritis is obvious. The production of neopterin can be related to the activity of the specific antibacterial cell mediated immune response. In the current, study weexamined neopterin levels in 12 patients with septic arthrits and in 8 patients with an infected prosthesis. The results were related to a new inflammation marker (PMN-elastase) and to 4 other 'classical' inflammation markers (ESR, leukocytes, fibrinogen and C-reactive protein). All markers showed a high sensitivity in the detection of septic arthritis. 10 patients with septic arthritis and 5 patients with an infected prosthesis showed pathological neopterin levels > 10 nmol/l.
Urinary Neopterin Levels as an Indicator of Disease Activation in Behçet’s Disease
Authors: Altindağ Z. , Şahin G. , Akpek G. , Y. Koç , Işimer A. , Kansu E. , Duru S.
Published: March 2013

Behçet’s Disease (BD) is a multisystem inflammatory disorder characterized by recurrent oral and genital ulcerations with uveitis. Clinical features are the only diagnostic and follow up parameters and there is no unique laboratory test to indicate both diagnosis and disease activity. We studied urinary neopterin levels by using high performance liquid chromatography in 21 consecutive patients with Behçet’s Disease in clinically active (n = 13) and inactive (n = 8) phase of the disease and in 14 healthy controls to investigate the correlation between this immunologic parameter and the disease status. In comparison to inactive phase, significantly higher urinary neopterin levels were found in active period (p<O.05). Mean urinary neopterin levels were 210.83 ± 157.19 vs 138.85 ± 56.99 I-imol neopterin/mol creatinine in active and inactive t1hase respectively (p<O.05). There was no significant difference between inactive phase and control values. In only 2 patients, both active and inactive phase urine neopterin levels could be measured in the same individual and increased neopterin levels were also determined in the active phase of disease. In conclusion, urinary neopterin levels were found to be elevated in active period and can be considered as an active phase marker in BD. Larger study groups with own controls of BD patients and other vasculitic disease controls are required before the final judgement.
Control of Melanogenesis In the Human Epidermis by the Redox-Status of Tetrahydrobiopterins
Authors: Schallreuter-Wood Karin U. , Wood John M.
Published: March 2013

Activity of tyrosinase directly controls melanogenesis in the human epidermis. Recently, it has been shown that the biosynthesis and recycling of (6R)L-erythro 5,6,7,8 tetrahydrobiopterin (6-BH4) plays a central role in regulating the supply of L-tyrosine, the substrate for tyrosinase. In this report, we present evidence that 6-BH4 and other tetrahydropterins, have the capacity to regulate tyrosinase activity directly by a specific uncompetitive mechanism. This fine control of tyrosinase activity/melanogenesis in the human epiidermis depends on the redox equilibrium 6-BH4 ↔ dihydropterin ↔ 6-biopterin. The accumulation of 6-biopterin is cytotoxic to normal human melanocytes.
Homology Cloning of GTP-cydohydrolase I from Fungi and Plants by Reverse-transcription PCR Using a General Set of Degenerate Primers
Authors: Maier Josef , Werner Thomas , Ninnemann Helga
Published: March 2013

Unconjugated pteridines are present in fungi, algae and plants. However, the functions of pteridines in these organisms are not thoroughly investigated. The biosynthesis follows the same steps as were shown for animals and eubacteria. One possible function of pteridines in these organisms is participation in blue-light reception. To analyze this or other functions of pteridines it would be useful to inhibit pteridine synthesis specifically by genetic engineering. GTP-cyclohydrolase I is the primary enzyme of tetrahydrobiopterin and folic acid biosynthesis. A comparison of amino acid sequences of GTP-cyclohydrolase I (EC 3.5.4.16) previously known from various species allowed the construction of degenerate primers, based on highly conserved regions. The same consensus primers are able to bind to cDNAs of unrelated eukaryotes. By reverse-transcriptase PCR cDNAs of the conserved C-terminal part of the fungi Neurospora and Phycomyces, the phytoflagellate Euglena and the higher plant Mucuna hassjoo were amplified and cloned. Similarities between the sequences agreed with the evolutionary relationship of the investigated organisms. Various regions strictly conserved between unrelated eukaryotes and bacteria were observed, which could be essential for the function of GTP-cyclohydrolase I.
Experimental Study Evaluating the Effect of Combined Methotrexate and Fluorouracil Therapy on Anemia in Mice With L1210 Lymphoid Leukemia
Authors: Graczyk Julita
Published: March 2013

Combined methotrexate (MTX) and fluorouracil (FU) has heen used for many years to treat neoplastic diseases. However, clinical and laboratory snldies are still carried out to explain the changes that the therapeutic and toxic effects undergo when MTX and FU are used as a combined therapy. The schedules of combined therapy used so far have either proved not very effective in retrospective assessment, or caused severe tOJ{jc symptoms. Antineoplastic drugs damage the matrix cells of bone mar· row; the effect of commonly used doses more frequently concerns immature forms of blood morphotic elements. Methotrexate belongs to the group of drugs with very potent toxic effect on mOlphotic elements of peripheral blood; the effect of fluorouracil is weaker. Methotrexate causes anemia due to the deficiency of folic acid. For correct metabolism of folic acid, cyanocobaJamin is necessary. With deficiency, or lack of cyanocobalamin, the process is disturbed and a marked decrease of folic acid concentration in erythrocytes occurs. The main circulating and accumulated folate is N 5 -methyltetrahydrofolate which is metabolically inactive itself. In the presented study the morphotic elements were determined iI1 mice inoculated i.p. with LIllO lymphoid leukemic cells. The determinations were carried out on the 14rh day after LIllO inoculation. In untreated animals a decrease of hemoglobin, hematocrit and erythrocyte count values took place as compared with the values observed in healthy mice. 3 schedules of cytostatics administration were used: MTX was administered lh before FU, MTX and FU were adrninistered simultaneously and FU was administered lh before MTX. It has been demonstrated that in mice inoculated with L1210 leukemia anemia was the least pronounced after the combined treatment schedule involving the adrninistration of MTX prior to FU. The indicators of folic acid deficiency in serum and erythrocytes (i.e. NS-methyltetrahydrofolate levels), and cya.-lOcobalamin deficiency in serum in. mic.e with LIllO lymphatic leukemia are aggravated after instituting the combined therapy schedules involving the administration of FU as the first drug, or simultaneous administration of MTX and FU.
Tetrahydrobiopterin Synthesis in Rat Cardiac Myocytes; An Event Required for Cytokine-induced NO Generation
Authors: Hattori Yoshiyuki , Nakanishi Nobuo , Gross Steven S. , Kasai Kikuo
Published: March 2013

Cardiac myocytes are known to express the high-capacity inducible isoform of nitric oxide (NO) synthase (iNOS). Since tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) is an essential cofactor for NO formation, we investigated whether BH4 synthesis is required for cytokine-induced NO production in cultutred rat cardiac myocytes. The total biopterin content of untreated cardiac myocytes was below our limit of detection. However, treatment with inter-leukin-1α. and interferon-γ (IL-1/IFN) caused a significant rise in biopterin levels and induced NO synthesis. iNOS mRNA and GTP cyclohydrolase I (GTPCH) mRNA were induced by IL-1/IFN in parallel. 2,4-Diamino-6-hydroxypyridine (DAHP), a selective inhibitor of GTPCH, inhibited both the increase in cellular levels of BH4 as well as the concomitant formation of NO caused by IL-1/IFN. This inhibition by DAHP was reversed by coaddition of sepiapterin which is a substrate for BH4 synthesis. Thus BH4 synthesis is an absolute requirement for induction of NO synthesis by cytokines in cardiac myocytes.
A Twenty Year Association with Pteridines - Chemistry, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Authors: Armarego Wilfred L. F.
Published: March 2013

The author has summarised the science in his published works which contained chemistry. biochemistry and molecular biology related to pteridines as a dedication to Professor Wolfgang Pfleiderer on the occasion of his seventieth birthday. These publications spanned the period 1977-1997.
Neopterin and Kynurenine in Mesangioproliferative Glomerulonephritis
Authors: Martinsons Agris , Rudzite Vera , Widner Bernhard , Fuchs Dietmar
Published: March 2013

Serum kynurenine and neopterin concentrations were determined in patients with chronic mesangioproliferative glomerulonephritis with normal renal function and in patients with chronic renal failure. Significantly increased kynurenine and neopterin levels have been observed in 28% of mesangioproliferative glomerulonephritis patients. In vitro, interferon-y induces the formation of neopterin in human monocytes/macrophages. Also the degradation of tryptophan via the kynurenine pathway is induced by interferon-yo Our data show increased kynurenine and neopterin concentrations in serum in the case of mesangioproliferative glomerulonephritis. There was a positive correlation between serum kynurenine and neopterin levels. The same association between kynurenine and neopterin have been found in patients with chronic renal failure . At the end stage of renal disease, elevated levels of kynurenine and neopterin corresponded to the decrease of renal functions. In 59% of patients with mesangioproliferative glomerulonephritis, we detected also pyridoxal-5-phosphate deficiency concomitant with the increase of serum concentration of kynurenine. L-tryptophan peroral loading test could be useful for differentiation the both causes of hyperkynureninemia.
6R-L-erythro-Tetrahydrobiopterin Triggers Serotonin Release with 5HT-loaded RBL2H3 Cells, a Rat Mast Cell Line
Authors: Nakazawa Naomi , Yamamoto Kazumasa , Nagano Mutsumi , Oguro Kazuya , Nakanishi Nobuo , Hasegawa Hiroyuki
Published: March 2013

A new function of tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) was demonstrated in vitro in which BH4 stimulated serotonergic cells to release serotonin (5HT). RBL2H3 cells were pre-loaded with serotonin at 100 μM for 6 hours. The cells were able to release serotonin in response to either 30 mM KCl or 30 nM A23187 up to 2.26±2.06% (n=15) or 9.75± 1.38% (n=15 ), respectively. On exposure to 6R-L-erythrotetrahydrobiopterin (6RBH4) at 100 μM, the 5HT-Ioaded cells secreted serotonin up to 8.13± 1.43% of the cellular 5HT within 60 min. The effect was a concentration dependent response and the half maximum output was observed at 1 nM or lower. Sepiapterin (> 10 μM) caused minimal release and 6S-L-erythro-tetrahydrobiopterin (6SBH4,≤0 .4 mM) did not cause significant release. The results suggest that the effect of 6RBH4 was highly stereospecific and that it worked extracellularly.
Serum. Levels of Dihydroneopterin and Soluble Cytokine Receptors in Major Depression
Authors: Kusunoki Kazunori , Ozaki Norio , Sawada Makoto , Sato Tetsuya , Hirano Shigeki , Narita Tomohiro
Published: March 2013

The serum levels of dihydroneopterin (NH2), soluble interleukin -6 receptor (sIL-6R), soluble tumor necrosis factor receptor (sTNF-R) type I and type II were measured in 18 patients with major depression before and after drug treatment and in age- and gender-matched healthy controls. The NH2 and sTNF-R type II levels were significantly higher both in untreated and treated patients when compared to the controls. The sTNF-R type I levels were significantly lower in untreated depressed patients than the controls and significantly increased after drug treatment when compared to those prior to treatment.
Pterin-6-aldehyde, Xanthine Oxidase Inhibitor and Superoxide Scavenger, Directly React with Peroxynitrite
Authors: Mori Hiroko , Arai Toshiyuki , Ishii Hisanari , Endo Nobuyuki , Suzuki Toshinori , Fukudal Kazuhiko
Published: March 2013

The effect of pterin-6-aldehyde (P6A), xanthine oxidase inhibitor and superoxide scavenger, on the production of nitrotyrosine as a footprint of tyrosine nitration by peroxynitrite, was compared with that of uric acid, a peroxynitrite scavenger. The amounts of tyrosine, P6A and nitrotyrosine were quantified using reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromato-graphy (RP-HPLC). P6A suppressed nitrotyrosine formation less effectively than uric acid, that is, 0.25 mM P6A reduced nitrotyrosine formation to 67.9± 10.8%, while 0.025 mM uric acid reduced it to 34.2± 1.6%. In living systems, peroxynitrite is generated by the reaction of super-oxide with nitric oxide and has a variety of toxic effects. Our results show that P6A is not necessarily a strong scavenger of peroxynitrite. However, since P6A is a potent scavenger of superoxide, P6A is thought to totally suppress peroxynitrite generation. Compounds that scavenge both superoxide and peroxynitrite may be useful in tissue damage in which reactive oxygen species are involved.
Electronic Structure of Tetrahydropteridine Derivatives
Authors: Reibnegger Gilbert , Pauschenwein Jutta , Werner Ernst R.
Published: March 2013

Recently; the 4-amino analogue of tetrahydrobiopterin was found to be a strong inhibitor of nitric oxide synthase while being bound to the enzyme in a manner similar to the natural cofactor tetrahydrobiopterin. We were interested in the electronic properties of these and similar compounds and studied therefore the following model tetrahydropteridine structures: tetrahydrolumazine, tetrahydropterin, 4-amino-analogue of tetrahydropterin and N5-methyl-tetrahydropterin. Ab initio quantum chemical computations used the Hartree- Fode method with basis set 6-31G** after geometry optimization with basis set 3-21G*. Results reveal dramatic differences in distribution of electronic charge and all the molecular properties derived thereof~ between a) the lumazine system, b) the normal pterin system, and c) the 4-amino analogue. In contrast, differences of electronic properties between tetrahydropterin and its N5-methyl-derivative are negligible. Our results are compatible with recent speculations that the striking differences between the effects of the tetrahydropterin struculrc and its 4-amino analogue on cnznllatic activity may be due to electronic interaction between the pyrimidine moiety of the ptcrin ring systcm and the heme group.
Targeting the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway in castration-resistant prostate cancer
Authors: Bitting Rhonda L , Armstrong Andrew J
Published: March 2013

The phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway is a key signaling pathway that has been linked to both tumorigenesis and resistance to therapy in prostate cancer and other solid tumors. Given the significance of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway in integrating cell survival signals and the high prevalence of activating PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway alterations in prostate cancer, inhibitors of this pathway have great potential for clinical benefit. Here, we review the role of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway in prostate cancer and discuss the potential use of pathway inhibitors as single agents or in combination in the evolving treatment landscape of castration-resistant prostate cancer.
Complete Suppression of the Transient Enhanced Diffusion of B Implanted in Preamorphized Si by Interstitial Trapping in a Spatially Separated C-Rich Layer
Authors: Napolitani E. , Coati A. , Salvador D. De , Carnera A. , Mirabella S. , Scalese S. , Priolo F.
Published: March 2013

A method for completely suppressing the transient enhanced diffusion (TED) of boron implanted in preamorphized silicon is demonstrated. Boron is implanted in a molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) grown silicon sample that has been previously amorphized by silicon implantation. The sample is then annealed in order to epitaxially regrow the amorphous layer and electrically activate the dopant. The back-flow of silicon interstitials released by the preamorphization end-of-range (EOR) damage is completely trapped by a carbon-rich silicon layer interposed by MBE between the damage and the implanted boron. No appreciable TED is observed in the samples up to complete dissolution of the EOR damage, and complete electrical activation is obtained. The method might be considered for the realization of ultra shallow junctions for the far future complementary metal-oxide semiconductor technology nodes.
Produção científica brasileira em comportamento organizacional no período 2000-2010
Authors: Sobral Filipe João Bera de Azevedo , Mansur Juliana Arcoverde
Published: March 2013

O presente artigo tem como objetivo fazer uma análise da produção científica em Comportamento Organizacional (CO), com base nos principais periódicos brasileiros de Administração e anais do Encontro Nacional da Associação Nacional de Pós-graduação e Pesquisa em Administração (EnANPAD). No total, foram analisados 185 artigos publicados em periódicos e 696 no EnANPAD, de 2001 a 2010. As análises foram baseadas no levantamento das temáticas e procedimentos metodológicos utilizados. Os resultados encontrados contribuem para uma melhor delimitação do campo de CO e caracterização do seu escopo temático. Os resultados apontam para uma identidade própria da produção acadêmica brasileira de CO, com destaque para temas com enfoque macro, como cultura e aprendizagem organizacional, apesar de o campo evidenciar uma grande diversidade de temas. Quanto aos aspectos metodológicos, verifica-se que predomina uma abordagem qualitativa e destacam-se algumas fragilidades metodológicas. Por outro lado, é importante realçar que o campo tem crescido nos últimos anos e que se verifica um aumento na variedade de estratégias de pesquisa e na utilização de técnicas de análise de dados mais sofisticadas.
Dinâmica de rizóbios em solo do cerrado de Roraima durante o período de estiagem
Authors: Zilli Jerri Édson , Pereira Gilmara Maria Duarte , França Júnior Izaias , Silva Krisle da , Hungria Mariangela , Rouws Janaina Ribeiro Costa
Published: March 2013

A fixação biológica de nitrogênio que ocorre em leguminosas é realizada por um grupo de bactérias conhecidas como rizóbios. A sobrevivência destas bactérias no solo é influenciada por diversos fatores como a temperatura, umidade e fertilidade do solo. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a dinâmica da população de rizóbios em solo após o cultivo de soja, durante o período de estiagem no cerrado de Roraima. Foram amostradas três áreas: i) cerrado nativo como referência; ii) área cultivada uma vez com soja inoculada com rizóbio; iii) e área cultivada duas vezes com soja inoculada com rizóbio em anos consecutivos. O solo foi coletado na profundidade de 0-10 cm em cinco períodos a partir do inicio da estiagem no mês de setembro de 2006 coincidindo com a época de colheita da soja e prolongando-se até março de 2007 (0, 45, 90, 135 e 180 dias). A população de rizóbios no solo foi avaliada pela técnica do número mais provável (NMP) utilizando plantas de soja e de feijão-caupi como espécies isca. Foi observado que na área nativa praticamente não existiam bactérias nodulantes de soja, mas havia uma população capaz de nodular o feijão-caupi de até algumas centenas de rizóbios por gramas de solo. O cultivo da soja utilizando sementes inoculadas elevou a população de rizóbios no solo que foi constatada por ambas às espécies de plantas isca. Nas áreas cultivadas, constatou-se uma intensa redução da população de rizóbios no solo, em especial logo após a colheita da soja, continuando o decréscimo até o último período de avaliação. Conclui-se que o cultivo da soja inoculada com rizóbio eleva a densidade de rizóbios em solo do cerrado, mas durante a estiagem ocorre uma drástica redução dessa população, que pode chegar a mais de 99% considerando o início e final do período.
Impactos do avanço da soja no balanço de radiação no leste da Amazônia
Authors: Souza Paulo Jorge de Oliveira Ponte de , Rocha Edson José Paulino da , Ribeiro Aristides
Published: March 2013

O desmatamento da Amazônia, em especial para o uso da pecuária, tem sido explorado por diversos pesquisadores, os quais têm apontado como conseqüência, sérios problemas ambientais. O contínuo avanço da fronteira agrícola sobre as áreas de pecuária na Amazônia, e mesmo sobre áreas nativas, merece atenção pelo fato de poucos estudos terem sido realizados com o intuito de investigar quais os prováveis impactos ambientais da presença da monocultura da soja na região. Este trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar os impactos nos componentes do balanço de radiação devido à nova mudança no uso da terra em uma área de avanço da fronteira agrícola no leste da Amazônia. Realizaram-se experimentos micrometeorológicos no município de Paragominas-PA em uma área de cultivo de soja (Glycine max (L.) Merrill) e em uma área do ecossistema florestal localizada na Floresta Nacional de Caxiuanã em Melgaço-PA nos anos de 2006 e 2007. Durante o ciclo da soja o impacto médio encontrado representou uma redução 17,9% no saldo de radiação em relação ao ecossistema de floresta natural. Durante a entressafra observou-se um impacto negativo no saldo de radiação de 15,5%. Os principais forçantes deste impacto foram o maior albedo da soja e a perda de radiação de onda longa em relação à cobertura original. Ressalta-se que apesar do maior impacto ocorrer durante o ciclo da cultura, o tempo de ocorrência deste impacto negativo restringe-se a apenas 1/3 do ano, o que, implica em maior impacto da entressafra no saldo de energia em termos cumulativos.
Teor de umidade e densidade básica da madeira de nove espécies comerciais amazônicas
Authors: Silveira Lívia Helena Carrera , Rezende Alba Valéria , Vale Ailton Teixeira do
Published: March 2013

Este trabalho teve como objetivo agrupar espécies com características de teor de umidade e densidade básica da madeira semelhantes para compor cargas mistas de espécies para secagem em câmaras industriais de secagem da madeira. Foram amostradas nove espécies em floresta de terra firme na Amazônia Central com três repetições por espécie. Em todas as espécies os teores de umidade não diferiram entre base e topo do tronco, o que confere estabilidade da madeira durante o processo de secagem. Os valores de densidade básica variaram de 0,561 a 0,904 g cm-3. A partir do presente estudo foi possível separar as espécies em três grupos com base na densidade básica e teor de umidade, o primeiro com as espécies Minquartia guianensis, Lecythis poiteaui, Mezilaurus itauba, Manilkara huberi e Brosimum rubescens que são consideradas madeiras pesadas (densidade variando de 0,835 a 0,904 g cm-3) , de secagem mais lenta ou difícil. O segundo grupo contem as espécies Clarisia racemosa e Ocotea rubra (densidade média de 0,665 e 0,720 g cm-3, respectivamente) e o terceiro grupo com as espécies Parkia paraensis e Brasimum parinarioides que apresentam densidade média e secagem rápida (densidade de 0,561 e 0,588 g cm-3, respectivamente).
Biological and morphometric aspects and rearing of Syssphinx molina (Cramer) (Lepidoptera: Saturniidae), a defoliator of parica tree
Authors: Batista Telma Fátima Vieira , Lunz Alexandre Mehl , Rosário Valéria do Socorro Vale do , Lemos Leandro José Uchoa , Provenzano Rodolfo Silva , Monteiro Ernando da Silva
Published: March 2013

The objective of this research was to describe the biological and morphometric aspects of the parica tree defoliator, Syssphinx molina (Cramer), and make recommendations about the insect rearing. The life cycle was 62.9 days with mean periods for the egg, larval, pre-pupal and pupal stages of 5.6, 31.1, 2.2 and 16.6 days respectively. The pupal viability was 60.5% for females and 48.6% for males. The sexual ratio was 0.5 with mean production of 182.3 ± 2.2 eggs per female and egg viability of 24.3%. The mean longevity was 7.9 ± 2 and 8.1 ± 3 days for females and males respectively. Other parameters were also observed and compared with description of other Saturniidae species.
Desempenho produtivo de juvenis de tambaqui (Colossoma macropomum Cuvier, 1818) alimentados com rações contendo farinha de crueira de mandioca (Manihot esculenta, Crantz) em substituição ao milho (Zea mays)
Authors: Pereira Junior Geraldo Pereira , Pereira Expedita Maria de Oliveira , Pereira Filho Manoel , Barbosa Paula de Sousa , Shimoda Eduardo , Brandão Lian Valente
Published: March 2013

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o desempenho produtivo de juvenis de tambaqui (Colossoma macropomum), alimentados com níveis crescentes de farinha de crueira de mandioca, Manihot esculenta (0%, 20%, 40%, 60%, 80%, 100%), como substituto do milho (Zea mays). Os peixes (peso médio inicial de 6,6 ± 0,1 g) foram distribuídos aleatoriamente em 24 grupos (20 peixes/grupo) e alimentados com as dietas experimentais em quatro repetições para avaliação da performance de crescimento, eficiência alimentar, composição corporal e os custos de produção. As performances de crescimento não foram afetados pelos tratamentos. O teor de lipídio no músculo foi diferentemente significativo em peixes alimentados com 40% e 100% em relação aos outros tratamentos. O custo de produção de milho diminuiu linearmente com a substituição. O valor da dieta diminuiu de R $ 1,43 kg-1 a R $ 1,21 kg-1 e o peixe de R $ 1,54 kg-1 a R $ 1,30 peixe kg-1. Concluiu-se que o milho pode ser totalmente substituído por farinha de crueira de mandioca na dieta de juvenil de tambaqui, sem prejudicar o seu desempenho.
Morfometria e análise populacional de colônias de Apoica flavissima (Hymenoptera, Vespidae) coletadas na Amazônia brasileira
Authors: Elisei Thiago , Nunes Juliana Vaz e , Silva Jacó Rocha da , Maciel Francinilda de Castro
Published: March 2013

Duas colônias da vespa social Apoica flavissima foram coletadas e analisadas quanto aos parâmetros morfométricos e a população residente no ninho. Estas estavam fundadas a cerca de 700 mm do chão, nidificadas em plantas herbáceas, nas proximidades de igarapés. Ambas se encontravam no inicio do seu ciclo biológico e apresentavam um pequeno número de indivíduos, quando comparado com outros trabalhos com este gênero. Os adultos foram mensurados com médias de 21,62 mm de comprimento do corpo; 3,8 mm de largura máxima do tórax e 3,5 mm de largura da cabeça. As pupas apresentaram 20,05 mm de comprimento corpóreo; 3,75 mm de largura máxima do tórax e 3,51 mm de largura da cabeça. Ambientes naturais devem favorecer o crescimento dos indivíduos assim como manter os seus padrões de nidificação. Assim, uma discrepante taxa de crescimento e diferentes hábitos de nidificação, podem indicar a influência do ambiente sobre a biologia deste grupo.
Cobertura vacinal do esquema básico para o primeiro ano de vida nas capitais do Nordeste brasileiro
Authors: Queiroz Lorena Lauren Chaves , Monteiro Silvio Gomes , Mochel Elba Gomide , Veras Maria Amélia de Sousa Mascena , Sousa Francisca Georgina Macêdo de , Bezerra Márcio Lee de Meneses , Chein Maria Bethânia da Costa
Published: March 2013

A cobertura vacinal nos chamados "países em desenvolvimento" ainda está aquém da esperada. Ela é um importante indicador de saúde das populações e da qualidade da atenção dispensada pelos serviços. O presente estudo descreve os resultados de um inquérito domiciliar para estimar a cobertura vacinal do esquema básico para o primeiro ano de vida nas capitais do Nordeste brasileiro, da coorte nascida em 2005. A metodologia usada é a preconizada pela Organização Pan-Americana da Saúde para a realização de inquéritos de cobertura vacinal. Os dados obtidos no presente estudo de cobertura vacinal demonstram que é baixa a proporção de crianças vacinadas, ao se considerarem as metas preconizadas pelo Programa Nacional de Imunização, na faixa etária de maior risco para as doenças imunizáveis. Para os estratos nas capitais do Nordeste, encontramos as piores coberturas nos dois extremos dos estratos socioeconômicos. A avaliação da cobertura vacinal contribui para detectar se a população infantil encontra-se imunizada, além da identificação de pontos frágeis das atividades de vacinação.
Dor crônica em idosos residentes em São Paulo, Brasil: prevalência, características e associação com capacidade funcional e mobilidade (Estudo SABE)
Authors: Dellaroza Mara Solange Gomes , Pimenta Cibele Andrucioli de Mattos , Duarte Yeda Aparecida , Lebrão Maria Lúcia
Published: March 2013

O objetivo foi identificar a prevalência, as características e a associação da dor crônica com capacidade funcional. Estudo transversal com amostra populacional feito por entrevista domiciliar com idosos residentes na cidade de São Paulo, Brasil. Dor crônica foi aquela com duração mínima de seis meses. Nas análises estatísticas utilizou-se teste de associação de RaoScott com significância de p < 0,05. Dor crônica ocorreu em 29,7% dos idosos (IC95%: 25,4-33,9); os locais mais frequentes foram a região lombar (25,4%) e os membros inferiores (21,9%) e foi moderada em 45,8% das vezes e intensa em 46% dos idosos. Dor crônica esteve associada à maior dependência e pior mobilidade (p < 0,001).
Biological and environmental factors associated with risk of schistosomiasis mansoni transmission in Porto de Galinhas, Pernambuco State, Brazil
Authors: Leal Neto Onicio Batista , Gomes Elainne Christine de Souza , Oliveira Junior Fernando José Moreira de , Andrade Rafael , Reis Diego Leandro , Souza-Santos Reinaldo , Bocanegra Silvana , Barbosa Constança Simões
Published: March 2013

Schistosomiasis has expanded to the coast of Pernambuco State, Brazil, where there are frequent reports of Biomphalaria glabrata snails and human cases of the disease. This study analyzes factors related to schistosomiasis transmission risk in Porto de Galinhas. A one-year malacological survey was conducted to identify biological, abiotic, and environmental factors related to the host snail breeding sites. Data analysis used Excel 2010, GTM Pro, and ArcGis 10. A total of 11,012 B. glabrata snails were captured in 36 breeding sites, and 11 schistosomiasis transmission foci were identified. A negative correlation was found between breeding site temperature and snail density and infection rate, and a positive correlation with pH and salinity. The rainy season showed a positive correlation with snail density and infection rate. The study emphasizes the factors involved in the maintenance of schistosomiasis breeding sites, in light of persistence of this disease in Porto de Galinhas for more than 10 years.
Factors associated with adherence to antihypertensive treatment in a primary care unit
Authors: Demoner Márcia Simonia , Ramos Edivan Rodrigo de Paula , Pereira Eliane Ramos
Published: March 2013

OBJECTIVES: To analyze the adherence of patients to antihypertensive treatment conducted in a Primary Care Unit (PCU), as well as the related factors of low adherence to this therapy. METHODS: A quantitative, descriptive exploratory study of hypertensive patients interviewed in a PCU, using the Morisky-Green Test for assessing adherence or nonadherence with antihypertensive treatment. RESULTS: A prevalence of 64% of patients who were nonadherent to antihypertensive therapy was identified, and this was significantly related to the variables of: age, occupation, obesity, lack of other chronic disease, lack of employment, continuous use of prescription drugs, misunderstanding of the medical recommendations, and ignorance of the name of antihypertensive medication use. CONCLUSION: We found a high prevalence (64%) of patients nonadherent to therapy, that was significantly associated with users who were: in the youngest age group, working, and presenting with overweight or obesity.
Quality of life aspects of patients with HIV/tuberculosis co-infection
Authors: Lemos Larissa de Araújo , Feijão Alexsandra Rodrigues , Gir Elucir , Galvão Marli Teresinha Gimeniz
Published: March 2013

AIM: To investigate the quality of life of patients with HIV and tuberculosis co-infection and grasping the changes imposed in order to live with both transmissible diseases simultaneously. METHODS: Qualitative-quantitative research, undertaken at a specialized outpatient clinic in Fortaleza, Brazil, between 2009 and 2010, involving 34 co-infected patients. For data collection, a quality of life scale called HAT-QoL was used, which consists of 42 items, as well as open questions to perceive the changes the disease causes. RESULTS: Most participants suffered from pulmonary tuberculosis, were male and their education level was low. Quality of life was impaired in those domains related to economic, sexual and secrecy issues. It was also evidenced that the co-infection imposes changes in daily life that underline and further harm quality of life. CONCLUSION: Experiencing co-infection, despite appropriate treatment, causes changes in the patients' lives, whose repercussions can be mitigated through health-promoting interventions.
Analysis of use of technological support and information content by patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Padilha José Miguel Santos Castro , Sousa Paulino Artur Ferreira , Pereira Filipe Miguel Soares
Published: March 2013

OBJECTIVE: To identify types of technological support and information content utilized to promote therapeutic regimen management for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). METHODS: In this study, which had a quantitative, exploratory, descriptive, and transversal approach, the authors used a questionnaire organized on the basis of a literature review and two models: One of acceptance of the technology and a theoretical one of the determinants for patients' perceived ease of its use. RESULTS: The patients with COPD reported need for more information related to their daily activities and breathing exercises. Patients who had higher literacy and higher technological literacy reported that web-based technologies were more useful. Those who had lower literacy and lower technological literacy reported higher usefulness, intention and ease of use of mobile phone books, and videos in the access to information. CONCLUSION: Information resources may use any technological support, provided information is available according to the literacy and technological literacy of the patients and tailored to their needs.
Assessment of the virtual guide on eye self-examination in the context of HIV/AIDS
Authors: Nascimento Jennara Candido , Lima Maria Alzete , Almeida Paulo Cesár de , Pagliuca Lorita Marlena Freitag , Caetano Joselany Áfio
Published: March 2013

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the efficacy of a virtual guide with a view to promoting eye health. METHODS: Cross-sectional study carried out with 130 HIV/AIDS patients from an ambulatory unit between May and August/2010. The data was collected through interviews and observation, using three forms that addressed the socioeconomic profile, understanding and performing the virtual guide eye self-examination. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, χ² and Fisher-Freeman-Halton tests. It was considered statistically significant p <0.05. RESULTS: The virtual guide was positively evaluated in the categories of understanding and adequacy of text illustrations. There was statistically significant difference between the tests performed with this virtual guide (p=0.036). Comparing the results obtained by participants and researchers, we observed similarities in the findings (p>0.140), excepting only the evaluation of the right eyelid. CONCLUSION: The virtual guide helped developing proper eye self-exam, enabling people to notice alterations in their eyes.
Nursing actions for the prevention of ventilator-associated pneumonia
Authors: Gonçalves Fernanda Alves Ferreira , Brasil Virginia Visconde , Ribeiro Luana Cássia Miranda , Tipple Anaclara Ferreira Veiga
Published: March 2013

OBJECTIVE: To identify prevention actions of the nursing team related to ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP). METHOD: A cross-sectional, observational study conducted in an Intensive Care Unit of a teaching hospital in Goiania/GO. RESULTS: Hand hygiene occurred, mainly, after the procedures and most of care, such as elevating the head-of-bed, bronchial and oral hygiene, diet administration, also handlingmechanical ventilator circuits were not adequate and if experienced groups such as the one in the present study are not following the recommendations emerging from evidence, it may indicate that, for some reason, the learning is not being significant. CONCLUSION: Most recommendedmeasures to reduce VAP related to positioning the head-of-bed, bronchial and oral hygiene, administration of diet and handling mechanical ventilator circuit were not followed.
Spiritual dimension of children and adolescents with cancer: an integrative review
Authors: Espinha Daniele Corcioli Mendes , Lima Regina Aparecida Garcia de
Published: March 2013

OBJECTIVE: To review scientific literature relating to the spiritual dimension of children and adolescents with cancer. METHODS: We conducted an integrative literature review in the LILACS, SciELO, PsycINFO and MEDLINE databases in the period between 1990 to 2011. RESULTS: Twenty-one studies were analyzed and grouped into thematic categories: quality of life and elements of spirituality; alternative and complementary therapies: spirituality as a therapeutic resource; spirituality as a coping strategy and spirituality as an attribute of existential transformations. It was found that spirituality is present at different stages of the disease experience and that its forms of expression may vary, according to age and cognitive development. CONCLUSION: There is a scarcity of specific scales for this age range and a need for scientific production relating to the spiritual dimension of children and adolescents with cancer. Descriptors: Neoplasms; Children; Adolescents; Spirituality
Quality of life of seniors living in the community and in long term care facilities: a comparative study
Authors: Vitorino Luciano Magalhães , Paskulin Lisiane Manganelli Girardi , Vianna Lucila Amaral Carneiro
Published: March 2013

OBJECTIVES: to compare the perceptions of quality of life (QOL) and to identify factors associated with QOL among seniors living in the community in Porto Alegre, RS and institutionalized seniors from the countryside of Minas Gerais, Brazil. METHOD: this study used secondary data from two cross-sectional epidemiological studies. The sample consisted of 288 seniors living in the community and 76 institutionalized seniors. An instrument addressing socio-demographic data and the WHOQOL-BREF were administered. RESULTS: bivariate analysis showed that age, gender, schooling, self-reported health, and leisure presented statistically significant differences between institutionalized and non-institutionalized seniors. The Psychological and Social Relationships domains also presented statistically significant differences. The variables that presented significant correlation in multivariate analysis in relation to the Psychological domain were education, assessments of health, leisure and in relation to the Social domain, education and age. CONCLUSION: being institutionalized did not influence the older adults' perceptions of QOL, but the socio-demographic characteristics and self-assessments of health did.
Home visit improves knowledge, self-care and adhesion in heart failure: randomized Clinical Trial HELEN-I
Authors: Mussi Cláudia Motta , Ruschel Karen , Souza Emiliane Nogueira de , Lopes Alexandra Nogueira Mello , Trojahn Melina Maria , Paraboni Caroline Camargo , Rabelo Eneida Rejane
Published: March 2013

OBJECTIVE: To verify the effect of an educative nursing intervention composed of home visits and phone calls on patients' knowledge about the disease, self-care and adhesion to the treatment. METHODS: Randomized clinical trial with patients with recent hospitalization caused by decompensated heart failure. There were two groups: the intervention group, which has received four home visits and four phone calls to reinforce the guidelines during six months of follow up; and the control group, which has received conventional follow up with no visits or phone calls. RESULTS: Two hundred patients were randomized (101 in the intervention group and 99 in the control group). After six months, a significant improvement was observed in self-care and knowledge about the disease in the intervention group (P=0.001 and P<0.001), respectively; the adhesion to the treatment, measured and compared between the groups, was significantly higher in the intervention group (P=0.001). CONCLUSION: the strategy of home visits to patients who were recently hospitalized with decompensated heart failure was effective in improving the outcomes assessed and its implementation deserves to be considered in Brazil aiming at avoiding unplanned hospitalizations. NCT-01213862
Nurses in advanced roles: a review of acceptability in Portugal
Authors: Buchan James , Temido Marta , Fronteira Ines , Lapão Luis , Dussault Gilles
Published: March 2013

OBJECTIVE: This paper focuses on the policy context for the deployment of nurses in advanced roles, with particular reference to Portugal. The health sector in Portugal, as in all countries, is labour intensive, and the scope to utilise nurses in more advanced roles is currently being debated. METHODS: Mixed methods were used: an analysis of international data on the nursing workforce; an analysis of documents and media articles; interviews with key-informants; an online survey of managers, and a technical workshop with key-informants. CONCLUSIONS: The limited evidence base on nurses in advanced roles in Portugal is a constraint on progress, but it is not an excuse for inaction. Further research in Portugal on health professionals in innovative roles would assist in informing policy direction. There is the need to move forward with a fully informed policy dialogue, taking account of the current political, economic and health service realities of Portugal.
Psychosocial study about the consequences of work in hospital nurses as human resource management
Authors: López-Montesinos Mª José
Published: March 2013

OBJECTIVES: To analyze the relation between psychosocial and sociodemographic variables in nursing professionals. To discover the levels of job satisfaction, psychosomatic symptoms and psychological well-being in nurses. METHOD: The research was conducted in a sample of 476 nurses / as from nine hospitals in the region of Murcia (Spain). An occupational health protocol was distributed among the sample participants for completion, which contained tools for measuring and describing psychosocial and sociodemographic variables. RESULTS: Although there is no high risk for psychological problems among the sample participants, psychosomatic symptoms, job dissatisfaction, and low psychological wellbeing are present. CONCLUSIONS: The results contribute to research on the subject by identifying the presence of psychosocial disorders in nursing professionals, associated with job conditions and certain psychosocial and sociodemographic variables.
Moral distress in nursing personnel
Authors: Barlem Edison Luiz Devos , Lunardi Valéria Lerch , Lunardi Guilherme Lerch , Tomaschewski-Barlem Jamila Geri , Silveira Rosemary Silva da , Dalmolin Graziele de Lima
Published: March 2013

OBJECTIVE: to analyze the frequency and intensity of moral distress experienced by nursing personnel in southern Brazil, covering elements of their professional practice. METHOD: a survey was undertaken in two hospitals in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, with 247 nurses. Data was collected by means of the adapted Moral Distress Scale. RESULTS: the perception of situations that lead to moral distress is enhanced in nurses and in nursing staff working in institutions with greater openness to dialogue, which hold team meetings, with fewer working hours and a greater ratio of professionals to patients. CONCLUSION: understanding moral distress allows us to go beyond solving the problems of the workers themselves, enabling the development of an ethics of active individuals and wide opportunities, defined mainly by the relationship with oneself.
Clinical validation of the nursing diagnosis labor pain
Authors: Mazoni Simone Roque , Carvalho Emilia Campos de , Santos Cláudia Benedita dos
Published: March 2013

OBJECTIVE: The study intends to identify the presence of clinical indicators of pain during labor and to correlate the verbal reference of pain intensity with uterine contractions as a proposal to validate the clinical nursing diagnosis Labor Pain. METHOD: Observational study of the 22 clinical indicators that represented the defining characteristics for the diagnosis. RESULTS: There were 55 participants in labor (18 in the initial active stage, 6 in the final active stage and 31 in both stages), over 18 years old, in their first pregnancy, with effective contractions and cervical dilation of 4cm or more. Among the 22 defining characteristics tested, 6 were present in most participants during the two stages: verbal or codified report, noted evidence of uterine contraction, altered muscle tension, noted evidence of pain, expressive behavior and facial expression of pain. There were differences between the stages in relation to perspiration, facial expression of pain, protective gestures, anodyne position, distractive behavior, self-focus and perineum pressure feeling. CONCLUSIONS: A positive linear correlation was noted between pain intensity scores and the extent of intra-uterine pressure in the initial stage. Labor pain was proven to be compatible with a nursing diagnosis.
Nursing workload and patient safety - a mixed method study with an ecological restorative approach
Authors: Magalhães Ana Maria Müller de , Dall'Agnol Clarice Maria , Marck Patricia Beryl
Published: March 2013

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to analyze the potential association between nursing workload and patient safety in the medical and surgical inpatient units of a teaching hospital. METHOD: a mixed method strategy (sequential explanatory design). RESULTS: the initial quantitative stage of the study suggest that increases in the number of patients assigned to each nursing team lead to increased rates of bed-related falls, central line-associated bloodstream infections, nursing staff turnover, and absenteeism. During the subsequent qualitative stage of the research, the nursing team stressed medication administration, bed baths, and patient transport as the aspects of care that have the greatest impact on workload and pose the greatest hazards to patient, provider, and environment safety. CONCLUSIONS: The findings demonstrated significant associations between nursing workload and patient safety. We observed that nursing staff with fewer patients presented best results of care-related and management-related patient safety indicators. In addition, the tenets of ecological and restorative thinking contributed to the understanding of some of the aspects in this intricate relationship from the standpoint of nursing providers. They also promoted a participatory approach in this study.