bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Representações da identidade docente: uma contribuição para a formulação de políticas
Authors: Alves-Mazzotti Alda Judith
Published: March 2008

Este artigo focaliza uma pesquisa que teve por objetivo identificar as representações da identidade docente construídas por professores da rede pública de ensino fundamental do Rio de Janeiro frente aos desafios postos à escola na contemporaneidade. Optou-se pela abordagem estrutural das representações proposta por Abric. Os dados foram coletados por meio de um teste de associação de palavras com justificativa e tratados utilizando o software EVOC. Participaram do estudo 248 professores, 123 de 1ª a 4ª série e 125 de 5ª a 8ª. Os resultados indicaram diferenças significativas entre as representações dos dois grupos, refletidas nas configurações de seus núcleos centrais: no 1º. grupo (1ª a 4ª série) o núcleo é constituído por um único elemento -dedicação -, embora na periferia próxima apareça o termo cansativo; e no 2º. (5ª a 8ª série), são destacados os termos dificuldades e luta. Concluiu-se que os professores de 1ª a 4ª série parecem atribuir à sua identidade um sentido tradicionalmente associado à função docente, enquanto para os de 5ª a 8ª, ser professor hoje é lutar cotidianamente contra as inúmeras dificuldades que se interpõem entre ele e seus alunos.
Planejamento experimental no estudo da maximização do teor de resíduos em blocos e revestimentos cerâmicos
Authors: Campos L. F. A. , Menezes R. R. , Lisboa D. , Santana L. N. L. , Neves G. A. , Ferreira H. C.
Published: March 2008

A utilização de planejamentos experimentais para o estudo de misturas encontra uma grande gama de aplicações tanto em pesquisas laboratoriais como em trabalhos de desenvolvimento industrial. Assim, este trabalho tem por objetivo utilizar o planejamento experimental aplicado ao estudo de misturas para avaliar a potencialidade do uso conjunto dos resíduos do beneficiamento do caulim e da serragem do granito para a produção de blocos e revestimentos cerâmicos. Utilizando o planejamento experimental foram formuladas determinadas composições com as matérias-primas. As matérias-primas foram misturadas em determinadas proporções e confeccionados corpos de prova por extrusão e por prensagem uniaxial. Os corpos de prova foram queimados e, em seguida, determinou-se sua absorção de água e módulo de ruptura à flexão. Foram ajustados modelos matemáticos de regressão relacionando a absorção de água e o módulo de ruptura com as proporções das matérias-primas. Os resultados mostraram que o procedimento de planejamento experimental utilizado permite maximizar a quantidade de resíduo incorporado às formulações para blocos e revestimentos cerâmicos, sendo possível a incorporação de teores de resíduos de até 50% em formulações para a produção de blocos cerâmicos e de ate 40% em composições para a produção de revestimentos cerâmicos.
Utilização do resíduo do beneficiamento do caulim para a produção de corpos mulíticos
Authors: Menezes R. R. , Oliveira M. F. , Santana L. N. L. , Neves G. A. , Ferreira H. C.
Published: March 2008

Nos últimos anos a indústria da extração e beneficiamento mineral vem sendo mencionada como fonte de agressão ambiental e poluição devido a grande quantidade de resíduos gerados. A indústria do beneficiamento do caulim reflete esse quadro, gerando elevada quantidade de resíduo por ano. Assim, este trabalho tem por objetivo analisar a viabilidade de utilização do resíduo do beneficiamento do caulim para a produção de corpos mulíticos. Formulações contendo resíduo de caulim e de alumina foram desenvolvidas e homogeneizadas por mistura via úmida em moinho de bolas. Em seguida confeccionaram-se corpos de prova por prensagem uniaxial, que foram submetidos a sinterização em diferentes temperaturas. Após queima os materiais foram caracterizados por difração de raios X e determinação da absorção de água, densidade aparente, retração de queima e módulo de ruptura à flexão. Os resultados evidenciaram que a temperatura de queima mais adequada varia de acordo com a composição e o teor de resíduo presente nas formulações, que temperaturas de queima muito elevadas podem conduzir o material a superqueima e que formulações contendo teores de resíduos superiores a 40% podem ser utilizadas para a produção de corpos mulíticos com elevada resistência mecânica, da ordem de 75MPa.
Variação da cor e propriedades cerâmicas com o aumento da temperatura de queima de uma argila proveniente da formação Corumbataí, região de Piracicaba, SP)
Authors: Roveri C. D. , Zanardo A. , Moreno M. M. T.
Published: March 2008

Objetivando compreender a influência do ferro contido na illita, presente na formação Corumbataí, na cor de queima de produtos cerâmicos selecionou-se uma amostra de cor cinza esverdeado claro, dominantemente illítica e com porcentagem de óxidos e hidróxidos de ferro relativamente baixo, com base em estudos petrográficos, mineralógicos e químicos. Para os testes cerâmicos, os corpos de prova foram queimados em forno de queima rápida de laboratório nas temperaturas de 900 ºC, 950 ºC, 1000 ºC, 1050 ºC, 1075 ºC e 1100 ºC, com taxa de aquecimento de 40 ºC/min, sendo um conjunto de corpos de prova queimado a 950 ºC, porém com taxa de aquecimento de 20 ºC/min, com o intuito de verificar a influência do tempo de queima na coloração das peças cerâmicas. O tempo de queima mostrou não interferir significativamente na alteração da cor e os corpos de prova apenas apresentaram alterações significativas a partir da temperatura de 1000 ºC, adquirindo, respectivamente os matizes: laranja, vermelho e marrom escuro. A mudança de cor foi acompanhada em intensidade equivalente pela retração linear de queima, pela absorção de água e módulo de ruptura por flexão.
Lixiviação de íons após a aplicação de resíduos orgânicos de uma indústria farmoquímica
Authors: Luchese Augusto V. , Costa Antonio C. S. da , Souza Júnior Ivan G.
Published: March 2008

Nas últimas décadas, quantidades crescentes de resíduo industrial têm sido depositadas sobre o solo, de forma planejada ou acidental, razão pela qual se objetiva avaliar neste trabalho, o impacto da aplicação de uma dose alta de resíduos orgânicos (Biossólido - Bs e Lodo - Lo), produzidos por indústria farmoquímica, na contaminação dos mananciais de água; para tanto, montou-se um experimento em coluna de PVC de 20 x 120 cm (diâmetro x altura) em um fatorial 2 x 2 x 2+ 2, sendo 2 solos (NVdf e PVd), 2 resíduos (Bs e Lo), 2 formas de aplicação de 1 milhão de L ha-1 (incorporado e em superfície) e 1 testemunha para cada solo; em cada coluna foram feitas 10 aplicações de água correspondentes a 120% da capacidade de retenção de água das colunas e coletados os efluentes para avaliação dos seus atributos químicos. A condutividade elétrica (CE) do lixiviado apresentou grande diminuição da 1ª para a 2ª aplicação de água e o pH aumentou até a quarta aplicação de água. Os íons apresentaram comportamentos diferentes pois aqueles que formam complexos de esfera externa (N O3-, Cl-, Ca2+, Mg2+ e Na+) indicaram rápida lixiviação. Os nutrientes que formam complexos de esfera interna se comportaram de maneira diferente, sendo que PO4(3-) apresentou baixa lixiviação, K+ lixiviou menos que nos tratamentos testemunhas e SO4(2-) lixiviou mais a partir da 3ª coleta.
Copper concentration of vineyard soils as a function of pH variation and addition of poultry litter
Authors: Nachtigall Gilmar Ribeiro , Nogueirol Roberta Corrêa , Alleoni Luís Reynaldo Ferracciú , Cambri Michel Alexandro
Published: March 2008

Copper (Cu) concentration was evaluated as a function of pH variation and addition of poultry litter to a Dystrophic Lithic Udorthent and a Humic Dystrudept from the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, cultivated with vines treated with successive applications of Cu-based product. Samples were collected from the surface layer (0 to 10 cm). Soluble Cu concentration was determined using DTPA and Mehlich III as extractants, and exchangeable Cu was determined in CaCl2. The availability of Cu was mainly affected by the soil pH. CaCl2 extractant had the best correlation with Cu concentration in contaminated soils, according to treatments applied. The addition of poultry litter did not reduce Cu availability in these soils. Total soil Cu content varied between 1,300 and 1,400 mg kg-1 in both soils. Copper available fractions, extracted by DTPA, CaCl2 and Mehlich III, averaged 35, 0.2 and 63%, respectively, of the total Cu present in the soil.
Percutaneous absorption enhancers: mechanisms and potential
Authors: Carpentieri-Rodrigues Letícia Norma , Zanluchi Juliana Modolo , Grebogi Ivanna Hinke
Published: March 2008

Transdermal applications of drugs present many advantages in terms of absorption, however this is not easily obtained through the transdermal route. The principle barrier is the stratum corneum and one of the strategies that have been found to promote cutaneous drug penetration is through the use of absorption enhancers. Many substances have been identified as absorption enhancers. Although the list of substances that promote absorption is growing, in most cases, there is a direct correlation between the effects of absorption enhancers and their skin toxicity. The use of these substances depends therefore on studies which focus on local and systemic toxicity, as well as action mechanisms.
Fish species diversity in headwaters streams of Paraguay and Paraná Basins
Authors: Súarez Yzel Rondon , Valério Sabrina Bigatão , Tondado Karina Keyla , Florentino Alexandro Cezar , Felipe Thiago Rota Alves , Ximenes Lidiani Queli Lubas , Lourenço Luzia da Silva
Published: March 2008

The influence of spatial, temporal and environmental factors on fish species diversity in headwater streams in Paraguay and Paraná basins, Brazil was examined. A total of 4,605 individuals were sampled, distributed in 60 species. The sampled streams in Paraná basin presented a larger total species richness (42) than Paraguay streams (40). However the estimated richness was larger in Paraguay basin (53) than Paraná streams (50). The streams of Paraná basin had a greater mean species richness and evenness, while more individuals per sample were found in the Paraguay basin. Difference between the sub-basins were found in the Paraguay basin, while for the basin of Paraná, richness and evenness vary significantly between the sub-basins, but the number of individuals varied seasonally. The most important environmental factors to species diversity and abundance were altitude, water temperature, stream width and stream depth for both the basins.
Influência do bismuto, níquel, estanho e alumínio na espessura da camada dos revestimentos galvanizados
Authors: De Lima Graziela , Guesser W.L. , Masiero I.
Published: March 2008

Conexões de ferro fundido maleável preto foram galvanizadas em dezesseis diferentes banhos de zinco, cada qual composto por concentrações e combinações variadas de bismuto (0,06 e 0,1%), níquel (0,003 e 0,05%), estanho (0,3 e 0,5%) e alumínio (0,01 e 0,14%). Os revestimentos obtidos foram estudados através de medidas de espessura de camada, análise metalográfica utilizando microscopia ótica e microanálise utilizando espectrometria de energia dispersiva de raios-x (EDS). Obtiveram-se algumas variações na espessura e na morfologia do revestimento com as diferentes ligas, onde cada elemento químico interferiu de uma forma, contribuindo ou não para a formação de um revestimento menos espesso. O bismuto influenciou na fluidez do banho de zinco, o estanho na formação dos compostos intermetálicos e o alumínio através da formação do composto Fe2Al5 inibiu a reação do zinco com o ferro. Entretanto, o níquel não interferiu positivamente na reatividade, não participando então da redução do revestimento galvanizado. Os elementos adicionados ao banho de galvanização apresentaram-se efetivos na diminuição da espessura do revestimento proporcionando assim uma economia de zinco, sendo ainda uma boa alternativa para substituir o chumbo, um elemento químico considerado nocivo ao meio ambiente.
Epilepsia refratária: repercussões na qualidade de vida da criança e de seu cuidador
Authors: Schlindwein-Zanini Rachel , Portuguez Mirna Wetters , Costa Danielle I. , Marroni Sabine , Costa Jaderson Costa da
Published: March 2008

INTRODUÇÃO: A epilepsia é um distúrbio neurológico com crises recorrentes, promovendo o aumento do risco de desenvolvimento de desajustes psicossociais, restrições e prejuízos na qualidade de vida (QV) de crianças e seus familiares. OBJETIVOS: Avaliar a QV de crianças com epilepsia refratária ao tratamento medicamentoso e de seus cuidadores. MÉTODO: Estudo hipotético-dedutivo-observacional-transversal. Utilizou-se questionários de QV (AUQEI, WHOQOL-bref) e Escalas de Inteligência Wechsler (WAIS-III e WISC-III). RESULTADOS E CONCLUSÕES: A criança com epilepsia refratária tem QV prejudicada (média 47,25). Seu cuidador mostra satisfatória QV (média 83,41).
Technology for School-Based Assessment and Assessment for Learning: Development Principles from New Zealand
Authors: Hattie John A. C. , Brown Gavin T. L.
Published: March 2008

National assessment systems can be enhanced with effective school-based assessment (SBA) that allows teachers to focus on improvement decisions. Modern computer-assisted technology systems are often used to deploy SBA systems. Since 2000, New Zealand has researched, developed, and deployed a national, computer-assisted SBA system. Eight major principles for the development of an SBA system are derived from those experiences and outlined. These principles focus on curriculum alignment, calibration, innovative communication, choice, low consequences, and local control. Incremental design and deployment of computer technology ensures success. We argue that these principles can be used in any nation to bring about effective improvements in learning and teaching outcomes, while providing quality assurance to governments and citizens.
Online Students' Technology Skills and Attitudes toward Online Instruction
Authors: Koroghlanian Carol M. , Brinkerhoff Jonathan
Published: March 2008

Learner analysis and needs assessments are basic elements of all instructional design models and are of concern to those designing distance education courses. This investigation surveyed 249 geographically dispersed online students' computer skills and attitudes toward Internet-delivered instruction. Results were assessed by demographics. Results revealed higher self-reported computer skills for participants with greater computer use and exposure, however, a number of skills commonly incorporated into Internet-aided instruction were rated lower. Attitudes toward Internet-aided instruction were generally positive, with the most favorable reported by older students, graduate students, and females. Implications for Internet-aided course design are presented.
Religiosity and Self-Rated Health among Latin American and Caribbean Elders
Authors: Reyes-Ortiz Carlos A. , Pelaez Martha , Koenig Harold G. , Mulligan Thomas
Published: March 2008

Objective:

To describe religious affiliation, importance of religion, and the relationship between religion and self-rated health in persons aged 60 or older living in Latin America or the Caribbean.

Method:

We used data from seven cities (n=10,587). Multivariate models were used to analyze the associations between religious affiliation and importance of religion with socio-demographic or health factors and self-rated health.

Results:

Overall, 92% of the total study population had a religious affiliation; among those who are religious, 80% considered religion to be important in their lives. Half of the population (51%) reported fair or poor health. In multivariate models, older age increased odds of having a religious affiliation and religion being important. Women were about four times more likely to have a religious affiliation and over twice as likely as men to indicate that religion was important. Although religious affiliation was associated with poor health, this association was no longer significant after controlling for functional status. Older adults who considered religion as very important were less likely to report fair or poor health compared to those who were less religious (somewhat important, not very important).

Conclusions:

These older adults have a high prevalence of religious affiliation and most of them consider religion to be important. Better self-rated health was associated with higher self-rated religiosity.
Theoretical study on the mechanism of reaction between 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-2-butanone and malononitrile catalyzed by lithium ethoxide
Authors: Hu Qi-Shan , Li Lai-Cai , Wang Xin
Published: March 2008

The The mechanism of reaction between 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-2-butanone and malononitrile for the synthesis of 2-dicyanomethylene-4, 5, 5-trimethyl-2,5-dihydrofuran-3-carbonitrile catalyzed by lithium ethoxide was investigated by density functional theory (DFT). The geometries and the frequencies of reactants, intermediates, transition states and products were calculated at the B3LYP/6-31G(d) level. The vibration analysis and the IRC analysis verified the authenticity of transition states. The reaction processes were confirmed by the changes of charge density at the bond-forming critical point. The results indicated that lithium ethoxide is an effective catalyst in the synthesis of 2-dicyanomethylene-4, 5, 5-trimethyl-2, 5-dihydrofuran-3-carbonitrile from malononi-trile and 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-2-butanone. The activation energy of the reaction with lithium ethoxide was 115.86 kJ·mol−1 less than the uncatalyzed reaction. The mechanism of the lithium ethoxide catalyzed reaction differed from the mechanism of the uncatalyzed reaction.
Iron supplementation in pregnancy: is less enough?
Authors: Eskeland Benedicte , Malterud Kirsti , Ulvik Rune J. , Hunskaar Steinar
Published: March 2008

Background. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy of low dose iron supplementation with and without a heme component, prescribed for women in the second half of pregnancy.

Method. A randomized, double‐blind, placebo controlled trial. Thirty‐one women received a daily dose of 27 mg elemental iron in a product containing both heme iron and non‐heme iron (Hemofer(r))30 women received the same dose as pure non‐heme iron with vitamin C (Collets jern med vitamin C(r))and 29 women received placebo. A double dummy technique was used to mask tablets. The women were tested for red cell indices and iron status markers (s‐ferritin, s‐iron, Total Iron Binding Capacity and erythrocyte protoporphyrin) throughout pregnancy and 8 and 24 weeks postpartum. The results were analyzed according to the ‘intention to treat’ principle.

Results. The hematological effects were equal in the two treatment groups. 25% of the supplemented women fell below 110 g/1 in Hb vs 52% in the placebo group (p<0.05); none fell below 100 g/1 in the supplemented groups, 14% in the placebo group. Iron status was significantly better for all measured parameters in the heme iron group compared to placebo at the end of pregnancy. Differences between the other groups were only shown for some parameters, probably due to the small sample size. In the heme iron group there were fewer women with empty iron stores postpartum than at the start of pregnancy (from 14% to 8%), in the non‐heme iron group there was a significant increase (from 3% to 27%), and in the placebo group the percentage of women with empty iron stores was more than doubled (from 21% to 52%).

Conclusions. A daily dose of 27 mg elemental iron, containing a heme component, given in the second half of pregnancy, prevents depiction of iron stores after birth in most women. An equivalent dose of pure inorganic iron seems less effective, but the sample size in this study was too small to demonstrate significant differences between the two treatment groups.
Tick‐borne relapsing fever and pregnancy outcome in rural Tanzania
Authors: Jongen Vincent H. W. M. , van Roosmalen Jos , Tiems Johannes , Van Holten Jacqueline , Wetsteyn Jose C. F. M.
Published: March 2008

Objective. To assess the impact of tick‐borne relapsing fever (TBRF) on the outcome of pregnancy.

Design. Case control study of 137 pregnant women (cases) and 120 non‐pregnant women (controls) with TBRF between 1985 and 1995.

Setting. A rural hospital in Tabora Region, Tanzania.

Results. Risk of birth during the attack of TBRF was 58.0%, with an extremely high perinatal mortality of 436 per 1000 births. The total loss of pregnancies including abortions was 475 per 1000. Case‐fatality rate in pregnant women was 1.5%, compared to 1.7% in the nonpregnant women. A Jarisch‐Herxheimer reaction was seen in 1.5% of the cases and in 1.7% of controls. Relapse rate was 3.6%, compared to 1.7% in non‐pregnant women. Pregnant women with TBRF show higher densities of spirochetes than non‐pregnant women (p<0.001). The risk of delivery during the attack was positively correlated to increasing density of the spirochetemia (p<0.001) and to gestational age (p<0.001). Perinatal death was related to low birthweight (p<0.001) and low gestational age (p<0.001) and not to degree of spirochetemia.

Conclusions. The extremely high perinatal mortality rate during an attack asks for prevention and early effective management of TBRF. This is a challenge where access to health services in rural areas of developing countries is hampered by many factors.
Posttraumatic stress reactions after emergency cesarean section
Authors: Ryding Elsa Lena , Wijma Barbro , Wijma Klaas
Published: March 2008

Background. The study aimed at answering the following questions: Do women experience emergency cesarean section as traumatic?

Do women experience any posttraumatic stress reactions or even posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) one to two months after emergency cesarean section?

Methods. Twenty‐five consecutive women were interviewed a few days and one to two months after emergency cesarean section.

Results. Nineteen (76%) of the 25 women had experienced their delivery by emergency cesarean section as a traumatic event. One to two months postpartum none of these women met all the diagnostic criteria of PTSD. However, 13 women had various forms of posttraumatic stress reactions and in eight cases (33%) symptoms of serious posttraumatic intrusive stress reactions.

Conclusions. The emergency cesarean section was in the majority of the cases experienced as a mental trauma. Although none of the women suffered from PTSD one to two months postpartum, one third had serious posttraumatic intrusive stress reactions. The concept of traumatic stress thus seems to be relevant for investigations of psychological aspects of emergency cesarean section.
C‐reactive protein in uncomplicated parturients delivered by Cesarean section
Authors: Keski‐Nisula Leea , Kirkinen Pertti , Ollikainen Marja , Saarikoski Seppo
Published: March 2008

Background. The purpose of this study was to determine normal values and evaluate clinical variables associated with postoperative C‐reactive protein serum concentrations after uncomplicated abdominal delivery.

Methods. C‐reactive protein serum concentrations were determined serially by a quantitative immunoturbidimetric assay in 479 clinically non‐infected parturients undergoing uncomplicated Cesarean section, before operation and during the first week of puerperium. Associations between clinical variables and maximal postoperative C‐reactive protein levels were examined by variance analysis.

Results. The preoperative values were significantly higher in parturients from whom samples were obtained after the onset of labor and/or rupture of the membranes (16±10 (s.d.) mg/1) compared with the preoperative values obtained from parturients operated with no labor and intact membranes (12±7 (s.d.) mg/1) (p<0.0001). An overall significant increase was observed in C‐reactive protein concentrations after delivery, peaking on the second postoperative day, compared with the preoperative values. In the parturients operated upon after the onset of labor or ruptured membranes, postoperative values were 24% higher up to the sixth postoperative day than in parturients operated upon with intact membranes and no labor. The onset of labor, duration of operation, the number of vaginal examinations and the duration of internal monitoring before operation were associated with the maximal postoperative C‐reactive protein concentrations, but they explained only 9% of postoperative CRP level variation.

Conclusions. The wide range of serum C‐reactive protein concentrations during puerperium complicates its use as a simple marker in obstetric postoperative complications. However, after normal uncomplicated operative delivery, C‐reactive protein concentrations rapidly decrease towards the baseline after the second to third postoperative day.
Effect of nitric oxide, prostacyclin, and thromboxane on the vasospastic action of hydrogen peroxide on human umbilical artery
Authors: Okatani Yuji , Watanabe Kazushi , Sagara Yusuke
Published: March 2008

Background. The effect of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) on vascular tone in the human umbilical artery was investigated to determine the mechanism of vasospasm in preeclampsia. Methods. Helical sections of the umbilical artery were obtained from healthy pregnant women who delivered between the 37th and 39th week of gestation. Changes in the maximal tension induced by prostaglandin F2α (PG F2α) were measured (isometric mechanical activity). Segments were treated with H2O2 alone or H2O2 after pretreatment with a scavenger of hydroxyl radicals (mannitol), an inhibitor of thromboxane synthesis (sodium ozagrel), and an inhibitor of nitric oxide synthesis (L‐NG‐monomethyl arginine, LNMA), or an inhibitor of prostacyclin synthesis (tranylcypromine, TCP).

Results. Vascular tension was potentiated by H2O2 in a concentration‐dependent manner. Pretreatment with mannitol significantly suppressed the vasospastic effect of H2O2. Removal of the endothelium decreased the vascular tension induced by H2O2. Treatment with TCP and LNMA potentiated the vascular tension. Pretreatment with TCP and LNMA reduced the vasospastic action of H2O2, whereas pretreatment with sodium ozagrel did not.

Conclusion. Vascular tension in human umbilical arteries was potentiated by H2O2, and may be mediated by a suppression of the activity of nitric oxide or of prostacyclin. A direct action of H2O2 on vascular smooth muscle may also be involved.
Fetal fibronectin and microorganisms in vaginal fluid of women with complicated pregnancies
Authors: Goffeng Anette Rossel , Holst Elisabet , Milsom Ian , Lindstedt Göran , Lundberg Per‐Arne , Andersch BjöRn
Published: March 2008

Objectives. To determine vaginal fetal fibronectin in women with pregnancies complicated by preterm labor (PTL), preterm premature rupture of the membranes (PPROM) or bleeding; to investigate possible relationships to the vaginal microflora; and to assess the ability to predict preterm delivery from these measures.

Material and methods. Group comparative study between women of the same gestational age with a normal pregnancy (n=28) and consecutive women admitted with PTL (n=63), PPROM (n=18) and bleeding (n=21). Samples of vaginal fluid were collected at the time of admission in complicated pregnancies and from the women with normal pregnancies. Fetal fibronectin was determined by enzyme immunoassay and quantitative aerobic and anaerobic microbiological cultures were performed.

Results. The number of positive (± 0.05 mg/L) vaginal fetal fibronectin values was higher among women with PTL, PPROM and bleeding compared to controls (p<0.001). A positive fibronectin value was predictive of delivery ± 34 weeks (sensitivity 64%, specificity 87%). The absence of hydrogen peroxide‐producing lactobacilli was predictive for preterm delivery <34 weeks (sensitivity of 100%, specificity 35%).

Conclusions. The presence of vaginal fibronectin and the absence of hydrogen peroxide‐producing lactobacilli was indicative of an increased risk for preterm delivery < 34 weeks.
Comparative study of three vaginal markers of the premature rupture of membranes: Insulin like growth factor binding protein 1 Diamine‐oxidase pH
Authors: Gaucherand Pascal , Salle Bruno , Sergeant Philippe , Guibaud Suzanne , Brun Jocelyne , Bizollon Charles Albert , Rudigoz R. C.
Published: March 2008

Objective. To assess the diagnostic value of three vaginal markers ‐ insulin‐like growth factor binding protein 1 (=1GFBP1), diamine‐oxidase (=DAO) and pH ‐ for diagnosis of the premature rupture of membranes.

Study. One hundred pregnant women participated in the study. They were divided into three groups: group A (34 cases with intact membranes), group B (35 cases with total rupture of the membranes), group C (31 cases of suspected rupture of the membranes). Each patient underwent three successive tests for each of the three markers. The test order was allocated at random. For pH the reaction is colorimetric, for DAO the reaction is radio‐enzymatic and for IGFBP1 the reaction is immuno‐chromatographic. All three reactions are qualitative in nature. The parameters studied were conventional statistical parameters (sensitivity=SN, specificity=SP, positive predictive value=PPV and negative predictive value=NPV).

Results. The analysis of the statistics gave the following results in percentages for SN, SP, PPV and NPV respectively: pH: 90.7%, 77.2%, 75%, 91.7%. DAO: 83.7%, 100%, 100%, 89%. IGFBP1: 95.3%, 98.2%, 97.6%, 96.5%.

Conclusion. The determination of variations in pH is not satisfactory. IGFBP1 is at least better than DAO with, additionally, advantages of rapidity and simplicity.
Epidemiology of endometriosis in a Norwegian county
Authors: Moen Mette Haase , Schei Berit
Published: March 2008

Objective. To estimate the prevalence and incidence of endometriosis in Norwegian women aged 40 to 42, and to evaluate reproductive events and life‐style as risk factors for endometriosis as well as to evaluate related health‐problems.

Material and methods. The study was performed partly as a cross‐sectional study to estimate occurrence of endometriosis, partly as a case‐control study to look for factors associated with endometriosis. The study group consisted of all female inhabitants‐born 1950 to 1952‐living in the county of Sør‐Trøndelag. In connection with a cardiovascular screening program information about reproductive events and gynecological problems including endometriosis and infertility was obtained.

Results. Totally 5 139 women were asked to participate, and a questionnaire was completed by 4 034 (78.5%). Endometriosis was reported by 2.0% of the women. Life‐time risk for endometriosis was estimated to 2.2%. The annual incidence of new cases of endometriosis in this age group is less than 0.3%. There was a significant association between endometriosis and menarche before age 13, and frequent menstrual periods. Nulliparity was more common in women with endometriosis as were infertility problems and pelvic pain. No significant association was found between endometriosis and exercise, smoking, body mass index and education. There was a high risk for women with endometriosis having had cervical conization or gynecological laparotomies such as infertility surgery, operations on ovaries as well as hysterectomies.

Conclusion. In Sør‐Trøndelag county the prevalence of endometriosis is 2.0% and the annual incidence is less than 0.3% for women in their early forties. A woman's life‐time risk for endometriosis might be 2.2%. Early menarche, frequent menstruations, pelvic pain, infertility and nulliparity are associated with endometriosis.
Agreement between two successive transvaginal salpingosonography assessments of tubal patency
Authors: Tekay Aydin , Spalding Heli , Martikainen Hannu , Jouppila Pentti
Published: March 2008

Objective. To evaluate the agreement between repeat transvaginal sonographic assessments of tubal patency using a combination of air and saline.

Material and methods. Twenty‐nine patients were examined twice by the same investigator (H.S.). There was a three‐month interval between the observations, and the investigator was blinded to the results of the first examination. Each patient was evaluated using three categories classified as: 1) bilateral patency, 2) unilateral patency and 3) bilateral occlusion. In addition, the pooled data from individual tubes was examined with respect to the detection of patency or occlusion. Data from the right and left tubes were analyzed separately as well. Agreement between the two examinations was subsequently determined using Cohen's kappa coefficient (k). When there were more than two categories, a weighted kappa coefficient was used. Results. There was good (k=0.61) agreement between the two examinations when each patient was evaluated individually. For the pooled data of all tubes (n=46), the kappa coefficient was 0.53, but increased to 0.66 after correction for prevalence. There was no systematic bias between the successive examinations of tubes. There was more consistency between repeated observations in the right (k = 0.70) than in the left (k = 0.37) tubes. The prevalence of occlusion was higher in the left tubes.

Conclusion. Transvaginal salpingosonography was shown to be a reliable method for the assessment of tubal patency.
Carcinoma of the uterine cervix in pregnancy: A study of the incidence and treatment in the Western region of Sweden 1973 to 1992
Authors: Norström Anders , Jansson Inge , Andersson HÅKan
Published: March 2008

Objective. To review the incidence, treatment and outcome of cervical cancer during pregnancy in the Western region of Sweden.

Methods. Population based data on cervical cancer during pregnancy were collected from 1973 to 1992.

Results. Cervical carcinoma was diagnosed in 33 women in association with pregnancy, giving an incidence of 11.1 cases per 100,000 deliveries and 7.5 cases per 100,000 pregnancies. Pregnancy complicated one of every 55 cases of invasive carcinoma. Twelve women were in the 3rd trimester and nine women were post partum.

Abnormal bleeding was the symptom that led to examination and diagnosis in 54.5% of the women and 45.5% of the women were asymptomatic but had an abnormal cervico‐vaginal cytological test (39.4%) or abnormal finding at vaginal examination (6.1%) in association with pregnancy. In the 1st‐2nd trimester all but one woman and in the 3rd trimester all but two women, had a stage I carcinoma. Post partum five women were in stage I, three women were in stage II and one woman had a stage III carcinoma. Histology revealed squamous cell carcinoma in 29 women, adenocarcinoma in three women and adenosquamous carcinoma in one woman. During the follow up period 1/12 women in the 1st trimester, 4/12 in the 3rd trimester and 2/9 women post partum have died of disease.

Conclusion. During the years of this study different modalities of treatment were used, with a change from primary radiation to primary surgery.
Successful outcome in a pregnancy complicated by large hepatic hemangioma
Authors: Marques Ricardo , Taborda Filomena , Jorge Carlos S. , Areias Jorge , Rodrigues António M.
Published: March 2008

A 29‐year‐old Gravida 3 Para 1, was referred with a 19‐week pregnancy, because of hepatomegaly. Obstetrical history included a first trimester induced abortion followed by uterine curettage, and a vaginal delivery of a 3800 g neonate. Subtotal thyroidectomy was performed seven years before due to a follicular carcinoma, and the patient, since then, has been submitted to levothyroxine therapy.
Vasospastic action of hydrogen peroxide in human umbilical artery: Relation to protein kinase C and calcium influx
Authors: Okatani Yuji , Watanabe Kazushi , Wakatsuki Akihiko , Sagara Yusuke
Published: March 2008

Background. We have demonstrated that hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) potentiated vascular tension in human umbilical artery, perhaps by suppressing the synthesis of nitric oxide and prostacyclin. This study was conducted to evaluate whether the activation of protein kinase C (PKC) or voltage‐dependent calcium channel mediated the vasospastic effect of H2O2

Methods. Helical sections of the umbilical artery were obtained from healthy pregnant women who delivered between 37th and 39th week of gestation. Changes in the maximal tension induced by prostaglandin F2 α (9X10−7M) were measured (isometric mechanical activity). Segments were treated with H2O2 (10−6 ∼ 10−4M) alone or H2O2 after pretreatment with a scavenger of hydroxyl radicals (mannitol, 10−2M), an inhibitor of PKC (H‐7, 6X10−7M). Effect of an activator of PKC (12‐tetradecanoyl phorbol‐13 acetate, TPA, 10−6M) on PG F2 α‐induced tension was determined. Effects of H2O2 (10−5M) on the response of umbilical artery segments to an external calcium (10−6 ∼ 10−3M) were determined.

Results. Vascular tension was potentiated by H2O2 in a concentration‐dependent manner. Pretreatment with mannitol significantly suppressed the vasospastic effect of H2O2. Pretreatment with H‐7 did not alter the response to H2O2. TPA did not produce a significant change in PG F2 α‐induced tension. Pretreatment with H2O2 (10−5M) did not alter the contractile response to external calcium.

Conclusion. H2O2 potentiated vascular tension in human umbilical arteries, a process that is independent of PKC and the voltage‐dependent calcium channel. The vasospastic effect of H2O2 may be mediated by a suppression of the activity of nitric oxide and prostacyclin.
Release of prorenin and placental hormones from superfused minced chorion laeve
Authors: Lenz Tomas
Published: March 2008

Subject. Prorenin, the biosynthetic precursor of renin, is present in organs of the human reproductive system.

Method and material. In this study we tested whether the release of prorenin from superfused minced human chorion laeve tissue is related to that of other placental hormones. We also investigated whether intracellular second messenger systems are involved in the prorenin release from placental tissue.

Results. More than 95% of the total renin released was in the form of prorenin. The release pattern of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), estradiol and progesterone was similar to that of prorenin. Exogenous hCG, the estrogen receptor blocker tamoxifen and the progesterone receptor blocker RU 486, 8‐bromo cyclic AMP, diltiazem and angiotensin II did not affect prorenin release.

Conclusion. We conclude that prorenin, not active renin, is released from placental cytotrophoblastic tissue. This release occurs in parallel to that of other placental hormones but it is not regulated by steroid receptors, hCG, intracellular calcium or cyclic AMP.
The prognosis of fetuses with transient nuchal translucency in the first and early second trimester
Authors: Fukada Yukihito , Yasumizu Takehiko , Takizawa Motoi , Amemiya Atsuhito , Hoshi Kazuhiko
Published: March 2008

Objective. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the prognosis of fetuses with transient nuchal translucency before 15 weeks of gestation.

Study design. A nuchal translucency's measurement of >5 mm was considered abnormal. In the period from 1994 to 1995, twelve fetuses were diagnosed at our institution with nuchal translucency. The fetuses all underwent karyotyping and a complete ultrasonographic search for any associated anomalies and a resolution of nuchal translucency at 1‐2 week gestational age intervals.

Results. Five cases (‘Transient NT’) demonstrated transient nuchal translucency. Seven cases (‘Persistent NT’) demonstrated persistent nuchal translucency. The 984 cases with no or less than 5 mm of nuchal translucency (control group) gave birth at the same time. The mean initial week of diagnosis was 12.0±1.6 weeks in ‘Transient NT’, and 13.6±1.8 weeks in ‘Persistent NT’. The mean maternal age was 30.8±6.3 years old in ‘Transient NT’, 28.9±3.0 years old in ‘Persistent NT’, and 30.5±43 years old in the control group. Abnormal karyotypes were detected in one case in ‘Transient NT’, and in four cases in ‘Persistent NT’. Structural malformations were detected in two cases (40%) in ‘Transient NT’, seven cases (100%) in ‘Persistent NT’, and 30 cases (3.0%) in the control group.

Conclusions. Regardless of the spontaneous resolution of abnormal nuchal translucency, there was a high association with both karyotypical and structural abnormalities, and the prognosis of such cases was generally poor, especially persistent NT's prognosis.
Obstetric outcome in 100 women with severe anxiety over childbirth
Authors: Sjögren Berit , Thomassen Peter
Published: March 2008

Background. Extreme fear of delivery with request of cesarean section is a problem. The obstetric outcome in women given psychological and obstetric support is described.

Methods. Women, consecutively referred to the Psychosomatic outpatient clinic because of fear of delivery (n= 100), were compared to a matched reference group (n=100).

Results. The women in the study group had higher frequency of psychic problems than the references. The majority, 68 of the women (68%) initially requested cesarean section (CS). After individualized psychological and obstetrical support, 38 of these women agreed to vaginal delivery (38%) and 30 had an elective CS (30%). In the end another 13 (13%) women had a CS for obstetric or mixed reasons. Complication rate was low and similar in the groups. The 57 women who eventually had a vaginal delivery (57%) showed an obstetric outcome similar to the reference group. They had a higher frequency of induction of labor (p=0.02), and of epidural and pudendal blocks for pain relief (p=0.002 and 0.05 respectively). They had shorter labor time (p=0.05). The cost of the psychological therapy was well compensated for by the savings due to the reduction in the number of CS.

Conclusions. Psychosomatic support for women with severe fear of delivery resulted in a 50% reduction of CS for psychosocial indications and vaginal deliveries similar to a reference group. The cost of psychosomatic support was less than savings due to fewer cesarean sections.
Different types of acid‐base changes at birth, fetal heart rate patterns, and infant outcome at 4 years of age
Authors: Herbst Andreas , Thorngren‐Jerneck Kristina , Wu Lianfang , Ingemarsson Ingemar
Published: March 2008

Background. To study the relationship between different types of acidemia in umbilical artery blood at birth, fetal heart rate (FHR) patterns during labor, and infant long‐term outcome.

Methods. Case‐control study of 48 infants with pure high base deficit (base deficit (BD)>12 mmol/L and pCO2>8.0 kPa), 51 with mixed acidemia (BD>12 mmol/L and pCO2>8.0 kPa), born at or after term, and controls matched for maternal age, parity, and gestational age at birth. FHR patterns during labor and the results of developmental screening at age 4 were compared between the groups.

Results. Late decelerations were associated with pure high base deficit and complicated variable decelerations with mixed acidemia. Both types of acidemia were correlated with Apgar scores below 7 at 1 minute, and mixed acidemia with more admissions to the neonatal intensive care unit. Developmental screening at age 4 years showed no significant differences between infants with mixed acidemia or pure high base deficit and controls. Twelve infants with mixed acidemia and six controls had deficits in language/speech development.

Conclusions. Late decelerations may be an indicator of a metabolic component of acidemia and complicated variable decelerations an indicator of mixed acidemia. The higher rate of admissions to the neonatal intensive care unit in cases with mixed acidemia may suggest that a concomitant hypercapnia (resulting in lower pH) in metabolic acidemia at birth may be of importance for the outcome. A possible relation between acidemia at birth and deficits in speech/language development should be further evaluated.
Relationship of bacteriological characteristics to semen indices and its influence on fertilization and pregnancy rates after IVF
Authors: Bussen Stefanie , Zimmermann Martin , Schleyer Manfred , Steck Thomas
Published: March 2008

Background. To determine if routine semen culture is useful in asymptomatic couples joining an in‐vitro fertilization (IVF/ET) program.

Methods. Bacterial cultures and semen analysis according to WHO recommendations were performed on semen samples obtained before oocyte recovery from 88 asymptomatic couples undergoing IVF during a 7‐month period.

Results. In 46 cultures at least one kind of microorganisms could be isolated. Forty‐two cultures either contained bacterias regarded as normal skin flora (n=14) or showed no growth of microorganisms (n=28). No differences were found in sperm concentration, total sperm count and sperm morphology between the semen samples with positive bacteriology and those with negative culture results. Sperm motility was decreased before Percoll preparation if microorganisms were present. Positive culture results had no effect on either fertilization or pregnancy rates.

Conclusions. These observations suggest that bacteriospermia is not associated with abnormal sperm function after Percoll preparation or adverse IVF outcome.
Significance of yolk sac measurements with vaginal sonography in the first trimester in the prediction of pregnancy outcome
Authors: Cepni Ismail , Bese Tugan , Ocal Pelin , Budak Erdal , Idil Mehmet , Aksu M. Feridun
Published: March 2008

Background.The purpose of this prospective clinical study was to determine and evaluate the prognostic value of secondary yolk sac diameter of the embryo on pregnancy outcome.

Methods. One hundred and thirty pregnant women in the first trimester were included in the study. Crown‐rump length (CRL) and yolk sac diameters were measured in every patient and the outcome of the pregnancies were compared with the measurements. Intact normal pregnancy (group A), threatened abortion (group B) and missed abortion (group C) were diagnosed in 67, 43 and 20 pregnancies, respectively.

Results. We detected a significant linear correlation between secondary yolk sac diameter and gestational age in group A (r=0.5085; p<0.0001) and a moderate correlation in group B (r=0.4048; p=0.007) and C patients (r=0.3478; p=0.1333). When the groups were evaluated irrespective of gestational age, a significant difference in secondary yolk sac diameters among the groups was noted (p=0.037). When confidence intervals for secondary yolk sac diameters of intact normal pregnancies (group A) were calculated by linear regression, two patients in group B were below the 5% confidence interval. However, in group C patients, the yolk sac diameter of six patients were detected below the 5% confidence interval, while two of the measurements were above 95% confidence interval. Therefore, eight measurements (40%) of group C patients were outside the 5‐95% confidence interval.

Conclusion. In the first trimester, when discrepancy is detected between secondary yolk sac diameter and gestational age, additional sonographic investigation should be performed one or two weeks later, in order to estimate the pregnancy outcome.
Fibromyomas and uterine contractions
Authors: Szamatowicz Jacek , Laudanski Tadeusz , Bulkszas Bartlomiej , Åkerlund Mats
Published: March 2008

Background. Women with uterine fibromyomas may suffer from dysmenorrhea, menorrhagia or infertility, which all may be due to an effect of the fibroids on uterine activity. The effect of myomectomy on uterine contractility is unknown.

Methods. In women undergoing myomectomy because of dysmenorrhea, menorrhagia or infertility, intrauterine pressure was recorded before and three months after the operation on corresponding days of the menstrual cycle. Records were obtained during spontaneous uterine activity as well as after oxytocin and vasopressin challenge by intravenous bolus injections of 10 pmol/kg body weight. The area under the recording curve (AUC), maximal amplitude of uterine contractions and deformation index of uterine pressure recordings were measured.

Results. In six women, in whom recordings could be obtained before and after operation on corresponding days of late follicular phase of the menstrual cycle, the AUC and maximal amplitude of contractions increased after myomectomy. The effect of oxytocin injection also varied, whereas no difference was seen in effect of vasopressin.

Conclusions: It is suggested that women with uterine fibromyomas may have disturbed uterine spontaneous contractions and responsiveness, which may be regulated by myomectomy.