bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neurofibromatoses: part 1 ? diagnosis and differential diagnosis
Authors: Rodrigues Luiz Oswaldo Carneiro , Batista Pollyanna Barros , Goloni-Bertollo Eny Maria , Souza-Costa Danielle de , Eliam Lucas , Eliam Miguel , Cunha Karin Soares Gonçalves , Darrigo Junior Luiz Guilherme , Ferraz Filho José Roberto Lopes , Geller Mauro , Gianordoli-Nascimento Ingrid F. , Madeira Luciana Gonçalves , Malloy-Diniz Leandro Fernandes , Mendes Hérika Martins , Miranda Débora Marques de , Pavarino Erika Cristina , Baptista-Pereira Luciana , Rezende Nilton A. , Rodrigues Luíza de Oliveira , Silva Carla Menezes da , Souza Juliana Ferreira de , Souza Márcio Leandro Ribeiro de , Stangherlin Aline , Valadares Eugênia Ribeiro , Vidigal Paula Vieira Teixeira
Published: March 2014

Neurofibromatoses (NF) are a group of genetic multiple tumor growing predisposition diseases: neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) and schwannomatosis (SCH), which have in common the neural origin of tumors and cutaneous signs. They affect nearly 80 thousand of Brazilians. In recent years, the increased scientific knowledge on NF has allowed better clinical management and reduced complication morbidity, resulting in higher quality of life for NF patients. In most cases, neurology, psychiatry, dermatology, clinical geneticists, oncology and internal medicine specialists are able to make the differential diagnosis between NF and other diseases and to identify major NF complications. Nevertheless, due to its great variability in phenotype expression, progressive course, multiple organs involvement and unpredictable natural evolution, NF often requires the support of neurofibromatoses specialists for proper treatment and genetic counseling. This Part 1 offers step-by-step guidelines for NF differential diagnosis. Part 2 will present the NF clinical management.
Initial circulatory response to active standing in Parkinson's disease without typical orthostatic hypotension
Authors: Delgado Guillermo , Estañol Bruno , Rodríguez-Violante Mayela , González-Hermosillo Jesús Antonio , Infante-Vázquez Óscar
Published: March 2014

While the circulatory response to orthostatic stress has been already evaluated in Parkinson's disease patients without typical orthostatic hypotension (PD-TOH), there is an initial response to the upright position which is uniquely associated with active standing (AS). We sought to assess this response and to compare it to that seen in young healthy controls (YHC). Method In 10 PD-TOH patients (8 males, 60±7 years, Hoehn and Yahr ≤3) the changes in systolic blood pressure (SBP) and heart rate that occur in the first 30 seconds (sec) of standing were examined. Both parameters were non-invasively and continuously monitored using the volume-clamp method by Peñáz and the Physiocal criteria by Wesseling. The choice of sample points was prompted by the results of previous studies. These sample points were compared to those of 10 YHC (8 males, 32±8 years). Results The main finding of the present investigation was an increased time between the AS onset and SBP overshoot in PD-TOH group (24±4 vs. 19±3 sec; p<0.05). Conclusion This delay might reflect a prolonged latency in the baroreflex-mediated vascular resistance response, but more studies are needed to confirm this preliminary hypothesis.
Supplementation and therapeutic use of vitamin D in patients with multiple sclerosis: Consensus of the Scientific Department of Neuroimmunology of the Brazilian Academy of Neurology
Authors: Brum Doralina Guimarães , Comini-Frota Elizabeth Regina , Vasconcelos Claúdia Cristina F. , Dias-Tosta Elza
Published: March 2014

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory, autoimmune, demyelinating, and degenerative central nervous system disease. Even though the etiology of MS has not yet been fully elucidated, there is evidence that genetic and environmental factors interact to cause the disease. Among the main environmental factors studied, those more likely associated with MS include certain viruses, smoking, and hypovitaminosis D. This review aimed to determine whether there is evidence to recommend the use of vitamin D as monotherapy or as adjunct therapy in patients with MS. We searched PUBMED, EMBASE, COCHRANNE, and LILACS databases for studies published until September 9 th , 2013, using the keywords “multiple sclerosis”, “vitamin D”, and “clinical trial”. There is no scientific evidence up to the production of this consensus for the use of vitamin D as monotherapy for MS in clinical practice.
Use of medicines by homeless people in Porto, Portugal
Authors: Gama Helena , Oliveira Luís , Pereira Maria de Lurdes , Azevedo Ana , Lunet Nuno
Published: March 2014

The objective of this study was to describe patterns of medication use among homeless adults from the city of Porto, Portugal. We recruited 146 homeless participants in four social services institutions. Data on the use of medicines in the previous week were collected using face-to-face interviews. We described the prevalence and main correlates of use of medicines from different Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical classification (ATC) groups. A total of 56.8% of the homeless reported to have used at least one medicine in the previous week. The most frequently reported were benzodiazepines (21.9%) and antipsychotics (15.1%); socio-demographic characteristics, lifestyle variables and use of health care were not found to be significantly associated with their use. The prevalence was 1.4% for anti-inflammatory and antirheumatic products, and 6.2% for antihypertensives, diuretics and beta-blocking agents. Medicines pertaining to the nervous system ATC group were by far the most frequently used, while those for the treatment of other common chronic and acute conditions seem to be underused.
Personal and behavioral factors associated with bicycling in adults from Curitiba, Paraná State, Brazil
Authors: Kienteka Marilson , Reis Rodrigo Siqueira , Rech Cassiano Ricardo
Published: March 2014

Bicycling is an important form of physical activity that can promote health benefits. The objective of this study was to analyze the association between personal and behavioral aspects in transportation bicycling and leisure time bicycling in adults. Data was drawn from a household survey involving 677 adults (53.1% female) in Curitiba, Paraná State, Brazil. The prevalence of bicycling was 11.2% for transportation and 16.7% for leisure. The frequency of leisure time bicycling was higher among men (PR = 2.08; p < 0.001), young people < 30 and adults aged between 30 and 39.9, bicycle owners (PR = 8.76; p < 0.001) and among the physically active. Transportation bicycling occurred more frequently among men (PR = 3.63; p < 0.001), individuals aged 30 to 39.9, those with a low socioeconomic status (PR = 5.00; p = 0.006), bicycle owners (PR = 10.2; p < 0.001) and individuals with a negative perception of their quality of life. The prevalence of bicycling is low in Curitiba considering its potential as a means of physical activity. Personal and behavioral factors were associated with each form of bicycling.
Reforma na atenção primária à saúde e implicações na cultura organizacional dos Agrupamentos dos Centros de Saúde em Portugal
Authors: Leone Claudia , Dussault Gilles , Lapão Luís Velez
Published: March 2014

A crescente complexidade dos desafios do setor da saúde implica um aumento das responsabilidades para aqueles que nela assumem funções de gestão. Há consenso que a qualidade da força de trabalho em saúde é um fator crítico para o sucesso de qualquer reforma no setor. O objetivo desta investigação é estudar e analisar a alteração induzida por uma intervenção de formação-ação intensiva na cultura organizacional de 73 diretores executivos dos Agrupamentos dos Centros de Saúde (ACES) em Portugal durante a reforma na atenção primária à saúde. Os dados foram coletados e analisados em dois períodos temporais, antes e depois da intervenção do Programa Avançado em Gestão, Governação Clínica e Liderança para os ACES, o qual teve um ano de duração. O modelo Competing Values Framework permitiu observar que, depois da intervenção de formação-ação, as percepções dos diretores executivos sobre a sua cultura organizacional se encontram mais alinhadas com a reforma da atenção primária à saúde, valorizando o tipo de práticas e valores que esta defende. É necessário continuar a monitorizar os resultados em vários períodos temporais para elaborar conclusões a esse respeito.
Federal funding of health policy in Brazil: trends and challenges
Authors: Machado Cristiani Vieira , Lima Luciana Dias de , Andrade Carla Lourenço Tavares de
Published: March 2014

The article analyzes Federal funding of health policy in Brazil in the 2000s, focusing on the Ministry of Health’s budget implementation. Federal spending on health was less unstable between 2000 and 2002 and has expanded since 2006. However, it fluctuated as a share of both the Gross Domestic Product and Gross National Revenue. Federal intergovernmental transfers increased, exceeding 70% in 2007. Meanwhile, the proportion of Federal investments remained low, varying from 3.4% to 6.3%. The highest absolute amount of spending was on specialized outpatient and hospital care. The decade showed a proportionally greater increase in spending on pharmaceutical care. The growing allocation of Federal funds to States in the North and Northeast, especially for primary care and epidemiological surveillance, failed to offset the sharp regional inequalities in per capita Federal spending. The main characteristics of health funding limit Federal health policy governance and pose several challenges for the Brazilian Unified National Health System.
Socioeconomic inequalities and exposure to traffic-related air pollution in the city of São Paulo, Brazil
Authors: Habermann Mateus , Souza Míriam , Prado Rogério , Gouveia Nelson
Published: March 2014

Air pollution is a leading public health concern. In addition, poor populations have been reported as showing increased exposure to such pollution. The current study thus aimed to evaluate the socioeconomic status of the population exposed to vehicle-related air pollution in the city of São Paulo, Brazil. The study used data from the 2010 Census on head-of-household’s mean monthly income and the percentage of households connected to the sewage system. Exposure to air pollutants was estimated according to traffic density in the census tract plus a 200m surrounding buffer. The relationship between exposure and socioeconomic variables was analyzed by the Kruskal-Wallis test. Exposure increased with increasing socioeconomic status (p < 0.001). The population with the highest socioeconomic status lives in the most polluted areas of the city. However, place of residence alone is not capable of measuring exposure. The study suggests that future epidemiological studies include other indicators of vulnerability.
Acesso aos procedimentos de média e alta complexidade no Sistema Único de Saúde: uma questão de judicialização
Authors: Gomes Fernanda de Freitas Castro , Cherchiglia Mariângela Leal , Machado Carlos Dalton , Santos Viviane Cristina dos , Acurcio Francisco de Assis , Andrade Eli Iola Gurgel
Published: March 2014

Os processos judiciais na área da saúde têm crescido de forma exponencial. A judicialização de procedimentos, no entanto, ainda não foi discutida e pode ampliar o escopo de avaliação da atenção à saúde. O objetivo deste estudo é investigar as ações judiciais para acesso a procedimentos ambulatoriais e hospitalares do Estado de Minas Gerais, Brasil, no período de 1999 a 2009. É um estudo descritivo retrospectivo. Os procedimentos foram classificados pela Tabela Unificada do SUS e pela Tabela de Terminologia Unificada da Saúde Suplementar. Observou-se cobertura pelo SUS de 93,6%. A residência dos beneficiários localiza-se, principalmente, nas macrorregiões Centro (26,4%) e Oeste (24%). Os procedimentos mais solicitados foram internações em leitos comuns, Centro de Terapia Intensiva e cirurgias do aparelho circulatório. Este estudo aponta para as necessidades emergentes de acesso aos procedimentos de média e alta complexidade, mediante uma extensa cobertura normativa.
Síntomas depresivos y distrés laboral en trabajadores chilenos: condiciones diferenciales para hombres y mujeres
Authors: Ansoleaga Elisa , Vézina Michel , Montaño Rosa
Published: March 2014

El objetivo fue evaluar sintomatología depresiva, asociada a factores de riesgo psicosocial laboral según sexo en Chile, mediante los modelos demanda-control (Karasek) y desequilibrio esfuerzo-recompensas (Siegrist). El estudio fue transversal con una muestra aleatoria de 3010 trabajadores asalariados (35% mujeres y 65% hombres) de todo el país. Se determinó prevalencias y asociaciones a través de diversas técnicas estadísticas (eg. χ 2 ; regresión logística). La exposición a factores de riesgo psicosocial laboral y la prevalencia de sintomatología depresiva es mayor en mujeres que en hombres (15% vs. 5%). En los análisis ajustados destaca que mujeres expuestas a Isostrain (OR = 2,34; IC95%: 1,42-3,85) y bajas recompensas (OR = 2,13; IC95%: 1,41-3,21), y hombres expuestos a demandas psicológicas (OR = 3,04; IC95%: 1,94-4,76) y desequilibrio esfuerzos-recompensas (OR = 2,19; IC95%: 1,39-3,46), tienen una chance aumentada de sintomatología depresiva al compararse con los no expuestos. La exposición a factores de riesgo psicosocial laboral se asoció con síntomas depresivos en trabajadores chilenos. Resulta clave generar prevención en aspectos de la organización del trabajo.
Avaliação da adesão ao checklist de cirurgia segura da OMS em cirurgias urológicas e ginecológicas, em dois hospitais de ensino de Natal, Rio Grande do Norte, Brasil
Authors: Freitas Marise Reis de , Antunes Amanda Ginani , Lopes Beatriz Noele Azevedo , Fernandes Flávia da Costa , Monte Lorena de Carvalho , Gama Zenewton André da Silva
Published: March 2014

O checklist de cirurgia segura da Organização Mundial da Saúde é uma ferramenta útil para diminuir eventos adversos em hospitais, porém sua implantação efetiva ainda é um desafio. Este estudo objetiva avaliar a adesão ao checklist em cirurgias urológicas e ginecológicas de dois hospitais de ensino em Natal, Rio Grande do Norte, Brasil. O desenho foi observacional transversal; selecionaram-se cirurgias eletivas, e a coleta se deu por meio de revisão de prontuários. Descreveu-se a adesão mediante a existência e qualidade do preenchimento do checklist, e analisou-se a associação de fatores estruturais e socioprofissionais valendo-se de análise de regressão múltipla. Das 375 cirurgias revisadas, 61% tinham checklist, e 4% estavam totalmente preenchidos. A existência do checklist se associou às cirurgias ginecológicas (maternidade) (OR = 130,18) e à maior duração da cirurgia (OR = 2,13), enquanto a qualidade do preenchimento se relacionou com as cirurgias urológicas (hospital geral) (β = 26,36). A adesão ao checklist precisa ser aprimorada, e as diferenças sugerem a influência das distintas estratégias de implantação utilizadas em cada instituição.
O uso do diário como dispositivo cartográfico na formação em Odontologia
Authors: Flores Eliane Teixeira Leite , Souza Diogo Onofre Gomes de
Published: March 2014

A desnaturalização de práticas de ensino tradicionais e a subjetivação do cuidado na formação conectam a Odontologia às ciências humanas e sociais ao transversalizar o conhecimento pela problematização das políticas públicas. O potencial intervencionista do diário o torna importante ferramenta de pesquisa pelas narrativas de experiências. A escrita intensifica a cognição-inventiva ao dar visibilidade e enunciação a alguns pontos estratégicos de aprendizagem que produzem afetações nos encontros do cotidiano acadêmico. As releituras dos diários potencializam o ensino/aprendizagem pela análise de implicação dos estudantes e professores com a clínica, a sociedade e a produção de subjetividade da saúde como um bem comum. As narrativas enunciam o interesse dos estudantes de participar do trabalho nos serviços públicos de saúde, que utilizam comumente como usuários. A cartografia produz conhecimento ao conectar o ensino de graduação com a pós-graduação.
O estágio curricular como práxis pedagógica: representações sociais acerca da criança com deficiência físico-motora entre estudantes de Fisioterapia
Authors: Araujo Leandro Dias de , Santos Ana Lucia de Souza Freire , Rosa Adriano , Gomes Marta Corrêa
Published: March 2014

O artigo analisa a transformação das representações sociais dos alunos de fisioterapia acerca da criança com deficiência físico-motora, influenciada pelo estágio em fisioterapia pediátrica. Consideramos, para a problematização, o modo estigmatizado como as pessoas com deficiência são representadas, e a influência do estágio curricular supervisionado na formação acadêmica em saúde. A pesquisa, de caráter qualitativo, contou com 24 alunos ingressantes e egressos do estágio em fisioterapia pediátrica, submetidos a entrevistas semiestruturadas e grupo focal. O estudo permitiu inferir que as representações são possibilitadas, fundamentalmente, pela experiência do estágio, embora as disciplinas teórico-conceituais forneçam subsídios técnicos para a intervenção. Dessa forma, o currículo deve enfatizar o estágio como conhecimento e práxis, uma vez que os ganhos extrapolam a mudança na forma de ver a deficiência, trazendo benefícios e recursos profissionais incomparáveis, além de valores pessoais essenciais para a formação humana.
Governo da população: relação médico-paciente na perícia médica da previdência social
Authors: Melo Maria da Penha Pereira de
Published: March 2014

Este artigo apresenta e discute resultados de pesquisa qualitativa sobre a relação médico-paciente na perícia médica da Previdência Social. A pesquisa analisou amostra (n=79) de registros da Ouvidoria da Previdência Social contendo reclamações sobre o trabalho médico pericial. A relação médico-paciente, no campo previdenciário, realiza-se por meio de um ajustamento à norma, um deslocamento no espaço terapêutico médico-paciente, instrumento da operação de controle para acesso aos benefícios por incapacidade. As disfunções nessa interface de controle seriam resultantes da prática desses limites, da forma em que estes estão colocados. A seguridade social foi compreendida como biopolítica e a atividade médico-pericial como expressão de biopoder, nos termos da filosofia política de Michel Foucault. Discutir Previdência significa clarificar seus pressupostos de segurança e não desconhecer o caráter instrumental que as práticas médicas assumem em seus engendramentos securitários.
Contribuições da medicina antroposófica à integralidade na educação médica: uma aproximação hermenêutica
Authors: Wenceslau Leandro David , Röhr Ferdinand , Tesser Charles Dalcanale
Published: March 2014

O objetivo deste trabalho é apontar possíveis contribuições da obra do fundador da medicina antroposófica, Rudolf Steiner, à integralidade na educação médica. Trata-se de um estudo hermenêutico, como apontado por Gadamer, dos cursos e das palestras dados por Steiner sobre medicina. São apresentadas quatro proposições, síntese do seu pensamento: (1) uma crítica ao modelo de ciência materialista que pode ser ampliada a partir de uma fenomenologia goetheana; (2) a trimembração e quadrimembração antroposóficas como chaves interpretativas do processo saúde-adoecimento; (3) a integração entre ser humano e natureza como fundamento de pesquisa de novos tratamentos; e (4) o vínculo entre desenvolvimento moral e formação técnica-científica na educação médica. Os limites e as potencialidades destas proposições são analisados na perspectiva da viabilidade de uma pluralidade epistemológica nos conhecimentos e práticas em medicina.
Desempenho cognitivo e fragilidade em idosos clientes de operadora de saúde
Authors: Faria Camila de Assis , Lourenço Roberto Alves , Ribeiro Pricila Cristina Correa , Lopes Claudia S
Published: March 2014

OBJETIVO Analisar a associação entre a síndrome da fragilidade e desempenho cognitivo em idosos e respectivo efeito da escolaridade e da idade. MÉTODOS Foram analisados dados seccionais da fragilidade de idosos brasileiros da Fase 1 do Estudo FIBRA-RJ, relativos a 737 indivíduos residentes na cidade do Rio de Janeiro, RJ, com 65 anos ou mais, clientes de uma operadora de saúde, avaliados entre janeiro de 2009 e janeiro de 2010. Foram coletadas informações sobre características socioeconômicas e demográficas, condições médicas e capacidade funcional. O desempenho cognitivo foi avaliado através do Mini Exame do Estado Mental. Foram considerados frágeis os indivíduos que apresentaram três ou mais das seguintes características: perda de peso não intencional (≥ 4,5 kg no último ano); sensação de exaustão autorrelatada; baixo nível de força de preensão palmar; baixo nível de atividade física e lentificação da marcha. A associação entre fragilidade e desempenho cognitivo foi avaliada por regressão logística multivariada, com ajuste por condições médicas, atividades da vida diária e variáveis socioeconômicas. Idade e escolaridade foram avaliadas como possíveis modificadoras de efeito dessa associação. RESULTADOS Os idosos frágeis apresentaram maior prevalência de baixo desempenho cognitivo comparados aos idosos não frágeis ou pré-frágeis nas três faixas etárias estudadas (65 a 74; 75 a 84; ≥ 85 anos), p < 0,001. Após ajuste, a associação entre fragilidade e desempenho cognitivo foi encontrada em idosos com 75 anos ou mais, com OR aj = 2,78 (IC95% 1,23;6,27) para 75 a 84 anos e OR aj = 15,62 (IC95% 2,20;110,99) para 85 anos ou mais. A idade se comportou como modificadora de efeito na associação entre fragilidade e desempenho cognitivo, χ 2 (5) = 806,97, p < 0,0001; o mesmo não ocorreu com a escolaridade. CONCLUSÕES A síndrome da fragilidade associou-se ao desempenho cognitivo em idosos. A idade mostrou-se como modificadora de efeito nessa associação. Os idosos com idade mais avançada apresentaram associação mais expressiva entre os dois fenômenos.
Mobilidade social, estilo de vida e índice de massa corporal de adolescentes
Authors: Hackenhaar Marisa Luzia , Sichieri Rosely , Muraro Ana Paula , Silva Regina Maria Veras Gonçalves da , Ferreira Márcia Gonçalves
Published: March 2014

OBJETIVO Analisar a associação entre mobilidade social, estilo de vida e índice de massa corporal de adolescentes. MÉTODOS Estudo de coorte com 1.716 adolescentes de dez a 17 anos de idade, de ambos os sexos. Os adolescentes eram participantes de um estudo de coorte e nasceram entre 1994 e 1999. Os adolescentes foram avaliados em escolas públicas e privadas entre 2009 e 2011. O estilo de vida foi avaliado por meio de entrevista e a antropometria foi utilizada para o cálculo do índice de massa corporal. Para a classificação econômica na infância e na adolescência foram utilizados critérios preconizados pela Associação Brasileira de Empresas de Pesquisa. Mobilidade social ascendente foi considerada como aumento em pelo menos uma classe econômica no período de dez anos. Utilizou-se regressão de Poisson para estimar a associação entre a mobilidade social ascendente e os desfechos avaliados. RESULTADOS Dos adolescentes (71,4% de seguimento da coorte), 60,6% apresentaram mobilidade social ascendente. Destes, 93,6% pertenciam à classe econômica D e 99,9% à E. Maior prevalência de ascensão social foi observada para escolares de cor da pele preta (71,4%) e parda (61,9%), matriculados na escola pública (64,3%) e cujas mães apresentaram menor escolaridade na primeira avaliação (67,2%) e na reavaliação (68,7%). A mobilidade social ascendente mostrou-se associada apenas aos comportamentos sedentários (p = 0,02) após ajuste para variáveis de confusão. A classe econômica na infância mostrou-se mais associada aos desfechos avaliados do que a mobilidade social ascendente. CONCLUSÕES A mobilidade social ascendente não mostrou associação com a maioria dos desfechos avaliados, possivelmente por ter sido discreta e porque o período considerado no estudo pode não ter sido suficiente para refletir mudanças substanciais no estilo de vida e no índice de massa corporal dos adolescentes.
Modern epidemiology and its discontents
Authors: Camargo Jr Kenneth Rochel de , Ortega Francisco , Coeli Claudia Medina
Published: March 2014

The goal of this article is to present a snapshot of an ongoing debate within epidemiology, pitching opposing sides in the struggle to define the path it should follow in the years to come. The debate among epidemiologists in the mid-90s pitted those who defended the idea that epidemiology should necessarily deal with a wide context against those who believed that science and public health are better served by focusing on the individual level. Ian Hacking’s concept of styles of reasoning was used as a theoretical tool. The literature was reviewed using a core set of articles as an entry point, seeking articles that cited them, and then back-tracking the citations of the resulting set in the Scopus database. The main arguments are presented according to levels (ontological, epistemological, axiological and pragmatic), in order to show an even deeper disagreement, in the very conception of science and its relation to social issues and public policy.
Institucionalização da saúde pública paulista nos anos 1930-1940
Authors: Mota André , Schraiber Lilia Blima
Published: March 2014

O objetivo do estudo foi interpretar e compreender a institucionalização da saúde pública paulista nos anos 1930-1940, com base na história das especialidades médicas. Foram analisadas novas fontes documentais em diálogo com a literatura existente, levando à identificação de novos indícios relativamente à questão eugênica e à presença de crenças religiosas de médicos como um movimento social. Os médicos, à medida que se especializavam como sanitaristas, propunham um projeto para elevar a raça brasileira, mesclando discursos higienistas com ações sanitárias. São Paulo buscou a primazia nesse projeto, por se acreditar um Estado detentor de uma raça já constituída de “homens historicamente saudáveis”. Crenças religiosas influenciaram o debate e as decisões de época para a ordem sanitária. Historicamente, o discurso sanitário compõe questões técnico-científicas com as político-ideológicas e as culturais, produzindo uma mescla dos diferentes interesses e perspectivas de ordem corporativa da profissão.
Reproduction and demographic trends of Sula Leucogaster at the Moleques do Sul Archipelago, Santa Catarina, Brazil
Authors: Branco Joaquim Olinto , Fracasso Hélio Augusto Alves , Moraes-Ornellas Valéria dos Santos
Published: March 2014

The Brown Booby, Sula Leucogaster, is one of the most common species of marine birds of the Brazilian coast and, in spite of being a viable subject for long-term studies, in Brazil there are scarce demographic descriptions of this species obtained from observations made in sets of consecutive years. This paper presents breeding information collected in monthly samples taken in the Moleques do Sul Island, Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, during a five year period. The main island was divided into three different study areas, in which adult censuses were conducted, along with counts of number of nests, eggs, chicks and incubating adults. No significant change was found in these numbers during the sampled years and the breeding season extended over the entire year, with a peak production of eggs and chicks from August to November. The flatter areas II and I were preferentially used, where a higher number of nests with two eggs were found. A certain number of individuals abandoned the colony outside the breeding season during some of the sampled years, which may be related to an alternation between abandonment and permanence, non-exclusive phenomena possibly associated with food availability and favorable environmental conditions. The long term knowledge of the demographic patterns and of occupation parameters of this Brown Bobby colony is essential for the conservation of the species and its habitats.
Ecomorphological differences between Rhamdia (Bleeker, 1858) populations from the Iguaçu River basin
Authors: Mise Fabio Teruo , Tencatt Luiz Fernando Caserta , Souza Fagner de
Published: March 2014

Morphological and genetic evidences suggest that Rhamdia branneri and Rhamdia voulezi, currently considered synonymous of Rhamdia quelen, are in fact two valid species. Furthermore, in the taxonomic revision of R. quelen, no exemplars from the Iguaçu River were examined, which makes the synonymy doubtful. Considering the two species as valid, it was hypothesized that R. branneri and R. voulezi have ecomorphological differences, with the objective to verify if they can be considered ecologically distinct. Ecomorphological characterization was conducted using ecomorphological indices. For statistical analysis, a Principal Component Analysis (PCA), a Multiresponse Permutation Procedure (MRPP), and a Discriminant Analysis (DA) were performed. The ordination provided by the PCA evidenced ecomorphological separation, with R. branneri having morphological aspects related to benthic fishes, and R. voulezi having morphological characteristics related to pelagic and lentic habitats. The DA results confirmed the morphological tendencies found in the PCA, and the MRPP showed significant statistical differences between the ecomorphology of Rhamdia species. In this way, the initial hypothesis can be corroborated. These results allied to information about diet, genetics, and reproduction can be helpful for the elucidation of the taxonomic status of R. branneri and R. voulezi.
Turbelários límnicos (Platyhelminthes) em ecossistemas de arroz irrigado da Planície Costeira do sul do Brasil
Authors: Vara Dioneia Conceição da , Leal-Zanchet Ana Maria
Published: March 2014

Turbellarians occur in a variety of wetlands, being also abundant in temporary water bodies. Several turbellarians are top predators in their microhabitats, many of them feeding on zooplankton. However, they are seldom taken into account in biodiversity studies. Information on turbellarian diversity in Brazilian freshwater ecosystems mainly came from taxonomical studies. In southern Brazil, there are a high number of wetlands, most of them represented by rice fields. Despite their impact on natural areas, these managed ecosystems can play an important role in freshwater biodiversity conservation. The aim of the present work was to report on an inventory done in irrigated rice fields of three areas of the Coastal Plain of southern Brazil, viz. Cachoeirinha, Santo Antônio da Patrulha e Camaquã. We found 144 species of freshwater turbellarians, distributed in six taxonomic groups (Catenulida, Macrostomida, Lecithoepitheliata, Proseriata, Rhabdocoela, and Tricladida). Twenty-three species are recorded for the first time for Brazil. Catenulida showed the highest relative abundance in Cachoeirinha, followed by Rhabdocoela. In Santo Antônio and Camaquã, Tricladida had the highest relative abundance, followed by Catenulida. Results suggest that some turbellarian species show a high level of habitat specificity with only 38% of the registered turbellarians occurring in a single study area. Although there is a paucity of turbellarian inventories in Brazilian natural wetlands, hampering a comparison between natural and managed wetlands, results indicate high species richness in the areas studied.
Using fish assemblages in different habitats to develop a management plan for the Upper Essequibo Conservation Concession, Guyana
Authors: Willink Philip Wesley , Alexander Eustace , Jones Christopher Campbell
Published: March 2014

The Upper Essequibo Conservation Concession is a reserve in central-eastern Guyana managed by Conservation International. The site is uninhabited by people and poorly studied. The first scientific fish survey was in 2007 in conjunction with the filming of the BBC nature documentary Lost Land of the Jaguar. Aquatic habitats were primarily flowing water, ranging from the main channel of the Essequibo River to small forest creeks. Ponds and seasonally flooded forests were uncommon. Large predatory fishes were abundant in the Essequibo River. Fishes tolerant of low oxygen levels were common in flooded forests and small forest creeks. There was zero similarity between the fish assemblages of the Essequibo River and flooded forests / small forest creeks. The rest of the habitats and fish assemblages formed a continuum between these extremes. Imminent threats to the Upper Essequibo Conservation Concession include logging, mining, and over-fishing. Because of the heterogeneous distribution of fish assemblages, and because each threat will differentially affect different habitats, a two-pronged approach focusing on the ends of the habitat / fish assemblage continuum should be implemented in order to conserve the entire fish biodiversity of the Upper Essequibo Conservation Concession.
First record of herbivory of the invasive macrophyte Hedychium coronarium J. König (Zingiberaceae)
Authors: Castro Wagner Antonio Chiba de , Moitas Marcel Loyo , Lobato Gabriela Monteiro , Cunha-Santino Marcela Bianchessi da , Matos Dalva Maria da Silva
Published: March 2014

Invasive species can cause structural and functional changes in their non-native habitats, such as changes in the trophic chain. We describe ramet herbivory of butterfly ginger, an aggressive aquatic weed in Brazil, by capybaras in a floodplain area of a Cerrado reserve. This is the first record of herbivory of H. coronarium in invaded areas. Capybaras could be using the butterfly ginger as habitat and as a food resource, which could cause changes in apparent competition between these invasive and native macrophytes.
Tumor Necrosis Factor‐α and Oral Inflammation in Patients With Crohn Disease
Authors: Schulz Susanne , Reichert Stefan , Streetz Konrad , Trautwein Christian , Reichert Yvonne , Gläser Christiane , Schaller Hans‐Günter , Stein Jamal M.
Published: March 2014

Background: Crohn disease (CD) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease often accompanied by periodontal symptoms. Based on its function in immune response, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α and its genetic variants have been discussed as risk indicators in inflammatory processes. Therefore, the aim of the present study is to investigate the impact of TNF‐α polymorphisms on periodontal parameters and inflammatory lesions of oral mucosa as a characteristic of CD.

Methods: A total of 142 patients with CD were included in the study. Oral soft tissue alterations and periodontal parameters were assessed. Genotypes, alleles, and haplotypes of TNF‐α polymorphisms (rs1800629, cDNA−308G > A; and rs361525, cDNA−238G > A) were determined by polymerase chain reaction with sequence‐specific primers (PCR‐SSP).

Results: Patients with CD who exhibit more severe oral soft tissue alterations were significantly more often A allele carriers of rs361525 than G allele carriers (14.2% versus 2.2%; P <0.001). Furthermore, A allele carriers had a higher mean periodontal probing depth (P <0.05), mean clinical attachment level (P <0.05), and sites with bleeding on probing (not significant). Similar results were obtained when evaluating A allele‐containing genotypes (AG + AA) and haplotypes (GA). In multivariate analyses considering age, sex, smoking, and medication as confounders, the A allele was proven to be an independent risk indicator for oral soft tissue alterations in patients with CD. No genotype‐dependent influence of rs1800629 was observed.

Conclusion: The TNF‐α A allele of rs361525 represents a significant risk indicator for oral soft tissue alterations in patients with CD.
Social-Ecological Patterns of Soil Heavy Metals Based on a Self-Organizing Map (SOM): A Case Study in Beijing, China
Authors: Wang Binwu , Li Hong , Sun Danfeng
Published: March 2014

The regional management of trace elements in soils requires understanding the interaction between the natural system and human socio-economic activities. In this study, a social-ecological patterns of heavy metals (SEPHM) approach was proposed to identify the heavy metal concentration patterns and processes in different ecoregions of Beijing (China) based on a self-organizing map (SOM). Potential ecological risk index (RI) values of Cr, Ni, Zn, Hg, Cu, As, Cd and Pb were calculated for 1,018 surface soil samples. These data were averaged in accordance with 253 communities and/or towns, and compared with demographic, agriculture structure, geomorphology, climate, land use/cover, and soil-forming parent material to discover the SEPHM. Multivariate statistical techniques were further applied to interpret the control factors of each SEPHM. SOM application clustered the 253 towns into nine groups on the map size of 12 × 7 plane (quantization error 1.809; topographic error, 0.0079). The distribution characteristics and Spearman rank correlation coefficients of RIs were strongly associated with the population density, vegetation index, industrial and mining land percent and road density. The RIs were relatively high in which towns in a highly urbanized area with large human population density exist, while low RIs occurred in mountainous and high vegetation cover areas. The resulting dataset identifies the SEPHM of Beijing and links the apparent results of RIs to driving factors, thus serving as an excellent data source to inform policy makers for legislative and land management actions.
Comparison of Physicochemical Properties and Immunomodulatory Activity of Polysaccharides from Fresh and Dried Litchi Pulp
Authors: Huang Fei , Zhang Ruifen , Yi Yang , Tang Xiaojun , Zhang Mingwei , Su Dongxiao , Deng Yuanyuan , Wei Zhencheng
Published: March 2014

Drying is commonly used for preservation and processing of litchi. However, its polysaccharide structure may be altered by the drying process, resulting in biological activity changes. Polysaccharides from fresh and dried litchi pulp (denoted as LPF and LPD, respectively) were isolated, investigated by GC-MS, GPC and UV/IR spectrum analysis and their antitumor and immunomodulatory activities were evaluated in vitro. LPD, the molecular weight of which was lower than that of LPF, contained more protein, uronic acid, arabinose, galactose and xylose. Compared with LPF, LPD exhibited a higher inhibitory effect on the proliferation of HepG2, Hela and A549 cells from 50–750 μg/mL. LPD was also a better stimulator of spleen lymphocyte proliferation, NK cells cytotoxicity and macrophage phagocytosis from 50–400 μg/mL. In summary, drying could change the physicochemical properties and enhance the bioactivity of polysaccharides from litchi pulp. This finding is supported by the fact that dried litchi pulps are used in Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Integrons in the Intestinal Microbiota as Reservoirs for Transmission of Antibiotic Resistance Genes
Authors: Ravi Anuradha , Avershina Ekaterina , Ludvigsen Jane , L'Abée-Lund Trine , Rudi Knut
Published: March 2014

The human intestinal microbiota plays a major beneficial role in immune development and resistance to pathogens. The use of antibiotics, however, can cause the spread of antibiotic resistance genes within the resident intestinal microbiota. Important vectors for this are integrons. This review therefore focuses on the integrons in non-pathogenic bacteria as a potential source for the development and persistence of multidrug resistance. Integrons are a group of genetic elements which are assembly platforms that can capture specific gene cassettes and express them. Integrons in pathogenic bacteria have been extensively investigated, while integrons in the intestinal microbiota have not yet gained much attention. Knowledge of the integrons residing in the microbiota, however, can potentially aid in controlling the spread of antibiotic resistance genes to pathogens.
Novel method for determining sex of live adult Laricobius nigrinus (Coleoptera: Derodontidae)
Authors: Shepherd William P. , Montgomery Michael E. , Sullivan Brian T. , Mayfield Albert E.
Published: March 2014

A method for determining the sex of live adult Laricobius nigrinus Fender (Coleoptera: Derodontidae) is described. Beetles were briefly chilled and positioned ventral-side-up under a dissecting microscope. Two forceps with blunted ends were used to gently brace the beetle and press on the centre of the abdomen to extrude its terminal segments. Male beetles were distinguished by a sclerotised, reticulate ninth abdominal sternite. In females, the distinct ovipositor (tergite, valvifers (ninth sternite), and laterotergites of the ninth abdominal segment) was visible. The procedure was rapid and harmed only a small number of individuals (fewer than 5%).
Assessment of Folic Acid and DNA Damage in Cleft Lip and Cleft Palate
Authors: Brooklyin Sivakumar , Jana Rashmoni , Aravinthan Singaravelu , Adhisivam Bethou , Chand Parkash
Published: March 2014

Studies have identified the risk factors like folic acid deficiency during gestational period, family history for orofacial clefts, drugs like antiepileptic, vitamin A. But, the data regarding the folic acid status in children with cleft lip/palate is hardly evaluated in depth. Here, an assessment of folic acid and DNA damage were carried out in children with orofacial anomalies. Folic acid level and DNA damage were evaluated by folic acid assay (direct chemiluminescent technology) and single cell gel electrophoresis or comet assay method respectively. The mean value of plasma folic acid by direct chemiluminescent technology was 6.5±3.6 nmol/L and the normal value in children ranges from 11.3 to 47.6 nmol/L. The amount of damaged DNA, measured as the tail length of the comet in cases, was 19.4±8.9 ?m and the mean percentage of DNA in tail was 16.5±3.7. Folic acid deficiency could be the reason for DNA damage.
Manual lymphatic drainage and therapeutic ultrasound in liposuction and lipoabdominoplasty post-operative period
Authors: Masson Igor F. B , de Oliveira Bruna D. A , Machado Aline Fernanda Perez , Farcic Thiago Saikali , Júnior Ivaldo Esteves , Baldan Cristiano Schiavinato
Published: March 2014

Background: Physiotherapy in the plastic surgery post-operative (PO) is essential to provide means for an adequate and fast recovery as it restores function through the use of physiotherapeutic procedures. Aim: The aim of the following study is to verify the effects of the association between the manual lymphatic drainage and the therapeutic ultrasound on pain, oedema and the tissue fibrosis in liposuction and lipoabdominoplasty PO. Design: This is a clinical trial prospective. Materials and Methods: Eighteen women aged between 18 and 60 years participated in this study, in the late PO period following lipoabdominoplasty or liposuction in the abdomen, flanks and lower trunk, which showed tissue fibrosis of the flanks and abdomen regions. They were divided into two groups: Liposuction group and lipoabdominoplasty group. A total of twelve sessions of therapeutic ultrasound followed by the manual lymphatic drainage were performed. The patients were assessed with regard to pain, oedema and tissue fibrosis in different moments: Initial assessment, during assessment and final assessment through the application of the protocol of evaluation of cysts fibrosis levels. Statistical Analysis: The test of equality for two proportions and the confidence interval test for mean to evaluate the distribution of variables. The significance level adopted for statistical tests was 5% (P < 0.05). Results: There was a statistically significant reduction of pain, swelling and tissue fibrosis in both groups. Conclusion: the association between manual lymphatic drainage and the therapeutic ultrasound reduced the swelling and the tissue fibrosis and made pain disappear in liposuction and lipoabdominoplasty PO period.
Custom-made approach to a patient with post-burn breast deformity
Authors: Bayram Yalcin , Sahin Cihan , Sever Celalettin , Karagoz Huseyin , Kulahci Yalcin
Published: March 2014

Second and third degree burns on breasts at preadolescent period may cause severe breast deformations. This deformation can be variable depending on severity and location of the burns, personal adolescent patterns, and treatment modality in acute burn period. A 21 year old female patient admitted to our department for her breast deformation due to burn contracture at the inferior pole of the right breast. On physical examination we defined that development of the volume of the right breast was equal to the left, and inferior pole of the right breast was flattened due to contracture, and nipple was projected to inferior. We found that inframammary crease of the right breast was 2 cm lower than that of left; andthe distance of nipple-inframamary crease was 4.7 cm while areola-inframmary crease was 2 cm. New nipple-areola complex level was identified according to left breast’s level. Medial and lateral lines were planned to merge inferiorly at 2 cm above inframmary crease in a plan similar to vertical mammaplasty. Superior pedicle carrying nipple areola was desepitelised. Lower parenchymal V flap was transposed superiorly and attached to the pectoral muscle. Inferior parts of the lateral and medial glandular flaps were excised to form new inframammary crease. The desired laxity of skin at the lower pole was obtained by performing a new Z- plasty between lateral and medial skin flaps. Breast symmetry was confirmed by postoperative objective measurements between left and right breasts. Patient’s satisfaction and aesthetic appearance levels were high. Breasts deformation patterns caused by burns, trauma and mass exsicion due to cancer could not be addressed with traditional defined techniques. Special deformations can be corrected by custom made plannings as we presented here.
Inheritance of resistance to the widely distributed race 6 ofPseudomonas syringaepv.phaseolicolain common bean pinto US14HBR6
Authors: Duncan Robert W. , Gilbertson Robert L. , Lema Margarita , Singh Shree P.
Published: March 2014

Duncan, R. W., Gilbertson, R. L., Lema, M. and Singh, S. P. 2014. Inheritance of resistance to the widely distributed race 6 of Pseudomonas syringae pv. phaseolicola in common bean pinto US14HBR6. Can. J. Plant Sci. 94: 923–928. Halo blight disease of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is caused by Pseudomonas syringae pv. phaseolicola (Psp) and is found worldwide in bean growing regions with temperate climates, such as the Midwestern United States. In situations where high levels of primary inoculum are present (e.g., in seed) and the climate is favorable, yield losses as high as 45% have been reported for susceptible cultivars. Disease resistance is the most desirable management strategy, and resistant cultivars and germplasm to some Psp races are available. However, high levels of resistance to Psp race 6, one of the most prevalent and economically important races, are not present in available cultivars. Here, we report the inheritance of a newly described source of resistance to Psp race 6 in the recently registered common bean pinto US14HBR6. The inheritance of resistance in US14HBR6 was investigated by making crosses between resistant (R) US14HBR6 and the susceptible (S) breeding line 92BG-7 and inoculating the parents, F1, F2, F3, and the respective backcrosses to either parent with Psp race 6. All 159 F1plants were susceptible, the F2segregated into 237S:16R and the F3segregated into 309S:26R. The US14HBR6*2×92BG-7 F1segregated into 83S:41R, and the US14HBR6×92BG-7*2 F1segregated into 116S:0R. Together, these results suggest that the resistance to Psp race 6 in US14HBR6 is controlled by two independently inherited recessive genes. Evidence is also presented that dominant alleles of these resistance genes, at one or both loci, contribute to dosage-dependent susceptibility to halo blight. These halo blight resistance genes can be used in the development of common bean germplasm and cultivars with high levels of resistance to Psp race 6. In combination with other race-specific and non-race specific resistance genes from diverse Phaseolus germplasm, these genes could also be used to generate germplasm lines and cultivars with resistance to all known races of Psp.
On Set Theoretically and Cohomologically Complete Intersection Ideals
Authors: Eghbali Majid
Published: March 2014

Let (R;m) be a local ring and a be an ideal of R. The inequalities

are known. It is an interesting and long-standing problem to determine the cases giving equality. Thanks to the formal grade we give conditions in which the above inequalities become equalities.