bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cuticle thickening associated with pyrethroid resistance in the major malaria vector Anopheles funestus
Authors: Wood O R , Hanrahan S , Coetzee M , Koekemoer L L , Brooke B D
Published: August 2010

Background

Malaria in South Africa is primarily transmitted by Anopheles funestus Giles. Resistance to pyrethroid insecticides in An. funestus in northern Kwazulu/Natal, South Africa, and in neighbouring areas of southern Mozambique enabled populations of this species to increase their ranges into areas where pyrethroids were being exclusively used for malaria control. Pyrethroid resistance in southern African An. funestus is primarily conferred by monooxygenase enzyme metabolism. However, selection for this resistance mechanism is likely to have occurred in conjunction with other factors that improve production of the resistance phenotype. A strong candidate is cuticle thickening. This is because thicker cuticles lead to slower rates of insecticide absorption, which is likely to increase the efficiency of metabolic detoxification.

Results

Measures of mean cuticle thickness in laboratory samples of female An. funestus were obtained using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). These females were drawn from a laboratory colony carrying the pyrethroid resistance phenotype at a stable rate, but not fixed. Prior to cuticle thickness measurements, these samples were characterised as either more or less tolerant to permethrin exposure in one experiment, and either permethrin resistant or susceptible in another experiment. There was a significant and positive correlation between mean cuticle thickness and time to knock down during exposure to permethrin. Mean cuticle thickness was significantly greater in those samples characterised either as more tolerant or resistant to permethrin exposure compared to those characterised as either less tolerant or permethrin susceptible. Further, insecticide susceptible female An. funestus have thicker cuticles than their male counterparts.

Conclusion

Pyrethroid tolerant or resistant An. funestus females are likely to have thicker cuticles than less tolerant or susceptible females, and females generally have thicker cuticles than males. In pyrethroid resistant An. funestus, this increase in cuticle thickness is likely to have developed as an auxiliary to the primary mode of pyrethroid resistance which is based on enzyme-mediated detoxification.
Tissue-resident mesenchymal stem cells attract peripheral blood neutrophils and enhance their inflammatory activity in response to microbial challenge
Authors: Brandau Sven , Jakob Mark , Hemeda Hatim , Bruderek Kirsten , Janeschik Sandra , Bootz Friedrich , Lang Stephan
Published: August 2010

Stimulation by LPS elicits proinflammatory functions in MSCs that result in the recruitment and activation of polymorphonuclear granulocytes.

Human MSCs may respond to TLR ligation, and recent research has suggested that many tissues contain tissue-specific MSCs, possibly located in periendothelial and perivascular regions. At present, the functional consequences of these findings are unclear. We hypothesized that tissue-specific MSCs could play an instructional role during early phases of bacterial challenge. To investigate this hypothesis further, we set up a coculture system of glandular MSCs and peripheral blood neutrophils so that we could analyze the cellular interactions of these cells in response to LPS challenge. We found that stimulation with bacterial endotoxin induced chemokine receptor expression and mobility of MSCs. Activated MSCs secreted large amounts of inflammatory cytokines and recruited neutrophils in an IL-8- and MIF-dependent manner. Recruited and activated neutrophils showed a prolonged lifespan, an increased expression of inflammatory chemokines, and an enhanced responsiveness toward subsequent challenge with LPS. Our findings demonstrate a complex, functional interaction between tissue-resident MSCs and peripheral blood neutrophils upon bacterial challenge and suggest a role for MSCs in the early phases of pathogen challenge, when classical immune cells have not been recruited yet.
Do Taxpayers Bunch at Kink Points?
Authors: Saez Emmanuel
Published: August 2010

This paper uses tax return data to analyze bunching at the kink points of the US income tax schedule. We estimate the compensated elasticity of reported income with respect to (one minus) the marginal tax rate using bunching evidence. We find clear evidence of bunching around the first kink point of the Earned Income Tax Credit but concentrated solely among the self-employed. A simple tax evasion model can account for those results. We find evidence of bunching at the threshold of the first income tax bracket where tax liability starts but no evidence of bunching at any other kink point. (JEL H23, H24, H26)
Expectation and Chance-Constrained Models and Algorithms for Insuring Critical Paths
Authors: Shen Siqian , Smith J. Cole , Ahmed Shabbir
Published: August 2010

In this paper, we consider a class of two-stage stochastic optimization problems arising in the protection of vital arcs in a critical path network. A project is completed after a series of dependent tasks are all finished. We analyze a problem in which task finishing times are uncertain but can be insured a priori to mitigate potential delays. A decision maker must trade off costs incurred in insuring arcs with expected penalties associated with late project completion times, where lateness penalties are assumed to be lower semicontinuous nondecreasing functions of completion time. We provide decomposition strategies to solve this problem with respect to either convex or nonconvex penalty functions. In particular, for the nonconvex penalty case, we employ the reformulation-linearization technique to make the problem amenable to solution via Benders decomposition. We also consider a chance-constrained version of this problem, in which the probability of completing a project on time is sufficiently large. We demonstrate the computational efficacy of our approach by testing a set of size-and-complexity diversified problems, using the sample average approximation method to guide our scenario generation.
Book Reviews
Authors: Stanley Mychal , Eades Charlee , Horrell Katie , Hoston Ukweli , Purcell Annie
Published: August 2010

Directory of World Cinema: Japan
Ed. John Berra, (2010) Chicago: Intellect Books, 297pp., ISBN: 9781841503356 (pbk), $25.00

Black and Earles: The Brains of the Operation: The Dead Walk
Andy Black and Steve Earles, (2000) Hereford: Noir, 288pp. ISBN:
0953656489 (pbk), $22.00

The Mouse Machine: Disney and Technology
J.P. Telotte, (2008) Chicago: University of Illinois Press, 232pp., ISBN: 0252075407 (pbk), $20.00, ISBN: 0252033272 (hbk), $60.00

Mainstreaming Sex: The Sexualization of Western
Culture
Ed. Feona Attwood, (2009) London: I.B. Tauris, 229pp., ISBN: 9781845118273 (pbk), $29.00

Baad Bitches & Sassy Supermamas: Black Power Action Films
Stephane Dunn, (2008) Chicago: University of Illinois Press, 166pp., ISBN: 9780252075483 (pbk), $20.00
Power-Law Dynamics in an Auditory-Nerve Model Can Account for Neural Adaptation to Sound-Level Statistics
Authors: Zilany Muhammad S. A. , Carney Laurel H.
Published: August 2010

Neurons in the auditory system respond to recent stimulus-level history by adapting their response functions according to the statistics of the stimulus, partially alleviating the so-called “dynamic-range problem.” However, the mechanism and source of this adaptation along the auditory pathway remain unknown. Inclusion of power-law dynamics in a phenomenological model of the inner hair cell (IHC)–auditory nerve (AN) synapse successfully explained neural adaptation to sound-level statistics, including the time course of adaptation of the mean firing rate and changes in the dynamic range observed in AN responses. A direct comparison between model responses to a dynamic stimulus and to an “inversely gated” static background suggested that AN dynamic-range adaptation largely results from the adaptation produced by the response history. These results support the hypothesis that the potential mechanism underlying the dynamic-range adaptation observed at the level of the auditory nerve is located peripheral to the spike generation mechanism and central to the IHC receptor potential.
The Body Inversion Effect Is Mediated by Face-Selective, Not Body-Selective, Mechanisms
Authors: Brandman Talia , Yovel Galit
Published: August 2010

Evidence suggesting that the brain has specialized mechanisms for processing human bodies include the discovery of body-selective brain areas and the behavioral body inversion effect (BIE). Interestingly, the BIE (worse discrimination of inverted vs upright bodies) disappears for headless bodies, implying a critical role of the head in this effect. Previous studies have shown that the face inversion effect is mediated by the fusiform face-selective area. Given the central role that the head plays in the behavioral BIE, we asked whether it is mediated by face-selective or body-selective areas. In two event-related functional magnetic resonance-adaptation experiments, we examined the representation of upright and inverted bodies in category-selective occipitotemporal areas. In the first experiment we presented whole (faceless) bodies, while in the second we presented headless bodies. Both experiments consisted of pairs of upright and inverted bodies that were either the same or different in posture. Body-selective areas showed similar adaptation effects for upright and inverted whole or headless bodies, suggesting similar discrimination for the two orientations regardless of the head. In contrast, face-selective areas showed an adaptation effect to upright but not inverted bodies, and for whole but not for headless bodies. Thus, the response of the face-selective, but not body-selective areas, is consistent with the behavioral BIE in that it shows better discrimination for upright than inverted bodies, for whole but not for headless bodies. These results suggest a critical role for the head in the processing of human bodies.
Cav3.2 T-Type Ca2+Channel-Dependent Activation of ERK in Paraventricular Thalamus Modulates Acid-Induced Chronic Muscle Pain
Authors: Chen Wen-Kwei , Liu Ingrid Y , Chang Ya-Ting , Chen Yong-Cyuan , Chen Chih-Cheng , Yen Chen-Tung , Shin Hee-Sup , Chen Chien-Chang
Published: August 2010

Treatments for chronic musculoskeletal pain, such as lower back pain, fibromyalgia, and myofascial pain syndrome, remain inadequate because of our poor understanding of the mechanisms that underlie these conditions. Although T-type Ca2+channels (T-channels) have been implicated in peripheral and central pain sensory pathways, their role in chronic musculoskeletal pain is still unclear. Here, we show that acid-induced chronic mechanical hyperalgesia develops in Cav3.1-deficient and wild-type but not in Cav3.2-deficient male and female mice. We also show that T-channels are required for the initiation, but not maintenance, of acid-induced chronic muscle pain. Blocking T-channels using ethosuximide prevented chronic mechanical hyperalgesia in wild-type mice when administered intraperitoneally or intracerebroventricularly, but not intramuscularly or intrathecally. Furthermore, we found an acid-induced, Cav3.2 T-channel-dependent activation of ERK (extracellular signal-regulated kinase) in the anterior nucleus of paraventricular thalamus (PVA), and prevention of the ERK activation abolished the chronic mechanical hyperalgesia. Our findings suggest that Cav3.2 T-channel-dependent activation of ERK in PVA is required for the development of acid-induced chronic mechanical hyperalgesia.
Long and Short Multifunicular Projections of Sacral Neurons Are Activated by Sensory Input to Produce Locomotor Activity in the Absence of Supraspinal Control
Authors: Etlin Alex , Blivis Dvir , Ben-Zwi Moriel , Lev-Tov Aharon
Published: August 2010

Afferent input from load and joint receptors has been shown to reactivate the central pattern generators for locomotion (CPGs) in spinal cord injury patients and thereby improve their motor function and mobility. Elucidation of the pathways interposed between the afferents and CPGs is critical for the determination of the capacity of sensory input to activate the CPGs when the continuity of the white matter tracts is impaired following spinal cord injury. Using electrophysiological recordings, confocal imaging studies of spinal neurons and surgical manipulations of the white matter, we show that the capacity of sacrocaudal afferent (SCA) input to produce locomotor activity in isolated rat spinal cords depends not only on long ascending pathways, but also on recruitment of sacral proprioneurons interposed between the second order neurons and the hindlimb CPGs. We argue that large heterogeneous populations of second-order and proprioneurons whose crossed and uncrossed axons project rostrally through the ventral, ventrolateral/lateral and dorsolateral white matter funiculi contribute to the generation of the rhythm by the stimulated sacrocaudal input. The complex organization and multiple projection patterns of these populations enable the sacrocaudal afferent input to activate the CPGs even if the white matter pathways are severely damaged. Further studies are required to clarify the mechanisms involved in SCA-induced locomotor activity and assess its potential use for the rescue of lost motor functions after spinal cord injury.
The Representation of S-Cone Signals in Primary Visual Cortex
Authors: Johnson Elizabeth N. , Van Hooser Stephen D. , Fitzpatrick David
Published: August 2010

Recent studies of middle-wavelength-sensitive and long-wavelength-sensitive cone responses in primate primary visual cortex (V1) have challenged the view that color and form are represented by distinct neuronal populations. Individual V1 neurons exhibit hallmarks of both color and form processing (cone opponency and orientation selectivity), and many display cone interactions that do not fit classic chromatic/achromatic classifications. Comparable analysis of short-wavelength-sensitive (S) cone responses has yet to be achieved and is of considerable interest because S-cones are the basis for the primordial mammalian chromatic pathway. Using intrinsic and two-photon imaging techniques in the tree shrew, we assessed the properties of V1 layer 2/3 neurons responsive to S-cone stimulation. These responses were orientation selective, exhibited distinct spatiotemporal properties, and reflected integration of S-cone inputs via opponent, summing, and intermediate configurations. Our observations support a common framework for the representation of cone signals in V1, one that endows orientation-selective neurons with a range of chromatic, achromatic, and mixed response properties.
Motivated Cognitive Control: Reward Incentives Modulate Preparatory Neural Activity during Task-Switching
Authors: Savine Adam C. , Braver Todd S.
Published: August 2010

It is increasingly appreciated that executive control processes need to be understood in terms of motivational as well as cognitive mechanisms. The current study examined the impact of performance-contingent reward incentives (monetary bonuses) on neural activity dynamics during cued task-switching performance. Behavioral measures indicated that performance was improved and task-switch costs selectively reduced on incentive trials. Trial-by-trial fluctuations in incentive value were associated with activation in reward-related brain regions (dopaminergic midbrain, paracingulate cortex) and also modulated the dynamics of switch-selective activation in the brain cognitive control network. Within lateral prefrontal cortex (PFC), both additive (inferior frontal junction) and interactive [dorsolateral PFC (DLPFC)] incentive effects were observed. In DLPFC, incentive modulation of activation predicted task-switching behavioral performance, but with hemispherically dissociable effects. Furthermore, in left DLPFC, incentive modulation specifically enhanced task–cue-related activation, and this activation in turn predicted that the trial would be subsequently rewarded (because of optimal performance). The results suggest that motivational incentives have a selective effect on brain regions that subserve cognitive control processes during task-switching and, moreover, that one mechanism of effect might be the enhancement of cue-related task preparation within left DLPFC.
Basolateral Amygdala Cdk5 Activity Mediates Consolidation and Reconsolidation of Memories for Cocaine Cues
Authors: Li Fang-qiong , Xue Yan-xue , Wang Ji-shi , Fang Qin , Li Yan-qin , Zhu Wei-Li , He Ying-ying , Liu Jian-feng , Xue Li-fen , Shaham Yavin , Lu Lin
Published: August 2010

Cocaine use and relapse involves learned associations between cocaine-associated environmental contexts and discrete stimuli and cocaine effects. Initially, these contextual and discrete cues undergo memory consolidation after being paired with cocaine exposure. During abstinence, cocaine cue memories can undergo memory reconsolidation after cue exposure without the drug. We used a conditioned place preference (CPP) procedure in rats to study the role of neuronal protein kinase cyclin-dependent kinase 5 (Cdk5) in consolidation and reconsolidation of cocaine cue memories. We found that the expression of cocaine CPP in drug-free tests 1 d after CPP training (four pairings of 10 mg/kg cocaine with one context and four pairings of saline with a different context) increased Cdk5 activity, and levels of the Cdk5 activator p35 in basolateral but not central amygdala. We also found that basolateral (but not central) amygdala injections of the Cdk5 inhibitor β-butyrolactone (100 ng/side) immediately (but not 6 h) after cocaine–context pairings during training prevented subsequent cocaine CPP expression. After training, acute basolateral (but not central) amygdala β-butyrolactone injections immediately before testing prevented the expression of cocaine CPP; this effect was also observed on a second test performed 1 d later, suggesting an effect on reconsolidation of cocaine cue memories. In support, basolateral β-butyrolactone injections, given immediately (but not 6 h) after a single exposure to the cocaine-paired context, prevented cocaine CPP expression 1 and 14 d after the injections. Results indicate that basolateral amygdala Cdk5 activity is critical for consolidation and reconsolidation of the memories of cocaine-associated environmental cues.
Generation and Therapeutic Efficacy of Highly Oligomer-Specific β-Amyloid Antibodies
Authors: Hillen Heinz , Barghorn Stefan , Striebinger Andreas , Labkovsky Boris , Müller Reinhold , Nimmrich Volker , Nolte Marc W. , Perez-Cruz Claudia , van der Auwera Ingrid , van Leuven Fred , van Gaalen Marcel , Bespalov Anton Y. , Schoemaker Hans , Sullivan James P. , Ebert Ulrich
Published: August 2010

Oligomers of the β-amyloid (Aβ) peptide have been indicated in early neuropathologic changes in Alzheimer's disease. Here, we present a synthetic Aβ20-42oligomer (named globulomer) with a different conformation to monomeric and fibrillar Aβ peptide, enabling the generation of highly Aβ oligomer-specific monoclonal antibodies. The globulomer-derived antibodies specifically detect oligomeric but not monomeric or fibrillar Aβ in various Aβ preparations. The globulomer-specific antibody A-887755 was able to prevent Aβ oligomer binding and dynamin cleavage in primary hippocampal neurons and to reverse globulomer-induced reduced synaptic transmission. In amyloid precursor protein (APP) transgenic mice, vaccination with Aβ globulomer and treatment with A-887755 improved novel object recognition. The cognitive improvement is likely attributable to reversing a deficit in hippocampal synaptic spine density in APP transgenic mice as observed after treatment with A-887755. Our findings demonstrate that selective reduction of Aβ oligomers by immunotherapy is sufficient to normalize cognitive behavior and synaptic deficits in APP transgenic mice.
Response of Epidendrum Ibaguense (orchidaceae) to the application of lime rates to the pot
Authors: Rodrigues Donizetti Tomaz , Novais Roberto Ferreira , Alvarez V Víctor Hugo , Dias José Maria Moreira , Villani Ecila Mercês de Albuquerque
Published: August 2010

In the best cultivation methods of orchids, in particular of the genus Phalaenopsis, liming is a common practice. The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of lime rates (0.0; 1.0; 2.0; 3.0; 4.0; and 5.0 g dm-3 of substrate) applied to the cultivation substrate (xaxim) on the growth of Epidendrum ibaguense seedlings. In a greenhouse, 1-L plastic pots filled with 0.8 dm³ of xaxim were irrigated such that no leachate was lost during the experiment. N, P, K, Ca, Mg, S, Fe, Zn, B, and Mn contents in roots, stems and leaves were measured. Leachate was collected by applying a sufficient water volume to obtain 25 mL from each pot. Fourteen days after lime application of 3 g dm-3, the pH of the collected leachate reached values above 7 and a value of 6.29 with the highest lime rate at the end of the experiment. The lime rate did not influence plant height, probably due to a Zn deficiency at high pH levels and a Ca deficiency in the control. Nevertheless, there was a large increase in leaf production, for number as well as for dry matter mass. There was no statistical difference between treatments in root dry matter production. Maximum dry matter production was obtained at a lime rate of 4.09 g dm-3. Zinc concentrations diminished linearly with increasing lime rates; the concentrations in all treatments were below the levels suggested as adequate in the literature (25-200 mg kg-1). Nutrient concentrations in leaves indicated deficiency of N, S, and B at the highest lime rates (4.0 and 5.0 g dm-3), and of Ca in the treatment without liming.
Videolaparoscopia em ratos: um novo modelo experimental
Authors: Schiavon Carlos Aurelio , Younes Riad Naim , Pollara Wilson Modesto , Itinoshe Mario , Birolini Dario
Published: August 2010

A introdução da videolaparoscopia e sua progressiva aplicação em procedimentos mais complexos e extensos fez surgir a necessidade do desenvolvimento de modelos experimentais tanto para treinamento de novos cirurgiões quanto para desenvolvimento de estudos experimentais. Inicialmente foram usados animais de grande porte, mas a dificuldade no manuseio e o alto custo destes animais levaram à utilização de animais de menor porte. Nosso estudo inova ao demonstrar um modo de utilização de cinco animais de pequeno porte (ratos) ao mesmo tempo conectados em série utilizando apenas um sistema de insuflação peritoneal.
Tratamento cirúrgico de ferimentos descolantes nos membros inferiores: proposta de protocolo de atendimento
Authors: Milcheski Dimas André , Ferreira Marcus Castro , Nakamoto Hugo Alberto , Tuma JR Paulo , Gemperli Rolf
Published: August 2010

OBJETIVO: Apresentação e avaliação de protocolo para atendimento de pacientes com ferimentos descolantes dos membros inferiores através da retirada de enxerto de pele do tecido avulsionado e cobertura do leito cruento na fase aguda do trauma. MÉTODOS: Este estudo avaliou retrospectivamente os pacientes com ferimentos descolantes em membros inferiores, em que o tratamento realizado baseou-se em protocolo de atendimento para ferimentos descolantes utilizado em nosso serviço,com pacientes atendidos na Unidade de Emergência. RESULTADOS: Foram avaliados 21 pacientes. A etiologia do trauma foi atropelamento em 11 pacientes (52,4%) e acidente de motocicleta em 10 (47,6%). Os pacientes foram tratados conforme o protocolo apresentado a seguir: Os pacientes são inicialmente separados em instáveis e estáveis, conforme a condição hemodinâmica. Nos pacientes considerados instáveis (dois pacientes nesta casuística) realiza-se a retirada da pele e acondicionamento em banco de tecidos para enxertia posterior. Nospacientes considerados estáveis (19 pacientes) avalia-se a viabilidade do retalho através de parâmetros clínicos e do uso da fluoresceína. Se considerado viável, faz-se a sutura do retalho à posição original, e, se considerado inviável (todos os 19 pacientes), faz-se a ressecção e emagrecimento do tecido e realiza-se a enxertia da pele em malha com aplicação de curativo a vácuo sobre o enxerto. CONCLUSÃO: Os ferimentos descolantes devem ter seu atendimento padronizado a fim de se obter melhores resultados no tratamento e prevenir necrose da porção desenluvada e assim evitar nova área doadora para enxerto de pele.
Proposal for commercial classification of the gerbera capitulum based in the flower overlap index
Authors: Cardoso Raquel DL , Scheffer-Basso Simone M , Grando Magali F
Published: August 2010

The aim of this work was to propose a methodology for commercial classification of gerbera´s capitulum based on the trans flowers overlap coefficient. Three to eight capitula of twenty-eight cultivars of gerbera cut flower and seven non-commercial accesses were used. The width measurement of the trans flowers group (internal ray flower) as well as the sum of the width of the trans and ray flowers (external ray flower) groups were taken from each capitulum. The average of each access and the overlap coefficient were calculated (CS = width of the trans flowers group / Σ of the width of the trans and ray flowers groups) and submitted to the multivariate analysis, to verify the grouping by the average Euclidian distance matrix. It is proposed that gerberas with CS= 0.01 to 0.15 be classified as simple, CS= 0.16 to 0.40 as semi-double and CS superior to 0.41 as double. The overlap coefficient (CS) can be used to systematize the classification of the gerbera capitula, reducing the divergences in the classification and the subjectivity in the decisions of producers, florists and breeders.
Equidade, seletividade e assistência à saúde
Authors: Berlinguer Giovanni
Published: August 2010

Argumenta-se a favor de um exame histórico mais aprofundado de dilemas bioéticos, como os que dizem respeito aos princípios morais que guiam a alocação e distribuição de recursos para a assistência à saúde.
Condutas adotadas por técnicos de enfermagem após ocorrência de erros de medicação
Authors: Santos Jânia Oliveira , Silva Ana Elisa Bauer de Camargo , Munari Denize Bouttelet , Miasso Adriana Inocenti
Published: August 2010

OBJETIVO: Identificar e analisar as condutas adotadas por técnicos de enfermagem após a ocorrência de erros de medicação. MÉTODOS: Estudo descritivo, de abordagem qualitativa, realizado com 23 técnicos de enfermagem de um hospital de ensino de Goiânia-GO. Os dados foram coletados através de entrevistas semi-estruturadas gravadas e analisadas segundo os pressupostos de Bardin. RESULTADOS: Os resultados evidenciaram duas categorias: tomando condutas relacionadas à comunicação do erro (ao médico, à enfermeira, registrando no prontuário e não comunicando o erro) e adotando condutas direcionadas ao paciente (observação do paciente, monitorização e minimização das consequências). CONCLUSÃO: Ressalta-se a necessidade de que as instituições de saúde adotem uma cultura de transparência em relação aos erros de medicação, com a criação de políticas e padronizações para notificação, divulgação e fortalecimento de medidas preventivas.
As (im)possibilidades de brincar para o escolar com câncer em tratamento ambulatorial
Authors: Silva Liliane Faria da , Cabral Ivone Evangelista , Christoffel Marialda Moreira
Published: August 2010

OBJETIVOS: Identificar os mediadores do brincar na vida da criança com câncer em tratamento ambulatorial e analisar as (im)possibilidades de utilizá-los diante das limitações impostos pelo adoecimento e tratamento. MÉTODOS: A pesquisa qualitativa implementada segundo o método criativo e sensível teve como eixo a dinâmica grupal "O brincar em cena". Participaram 12 escolares em tratamento ambulatorial para câncer, em um hospital no Rio de Janeiro. RESULTADOS: Emergiram dois temas: mediadores das (im)possibilidades do brincar - instrumentos e signos e mediadores das (im)possibilidades do brincar na interação social - pessoas e ambiente. Nas situações de impossibilidades e restrições, os escolares superaram obstáculos e reinventaram alternativas para continuarem brincando dentro de suas possibilidades. CONCLUSÃO: Os profissionais que atendem essas crianças devem buscar conhecimentos acerca das necessidades que elas tem enquanto seres em desenvolvimento, identificando situações que podem determinar (im)possibilidades de brincar e, junto com a criança e família, transformá-las em outras possibilidades.
Fadiga em adultos acompanhantes de pacientes em tratamento ambulatorial
Authors: Mota Natália Fialho , Cruz Diná de Almeida Lopes Monteiro da , Fini Andréa
Published: August 2010

OBJETIVOS: Descrever a fadiga e fadiga ao esforço em pessoas sem doenças crônicas e verificar associação entre fadiga ou fadiga ao esforço e sexo, idade, escolaridade, convivência marital, depressão, atividade física, tabagismo, Índice de Massa Corporal (IMC), dispnéia e depressão. MÉTODOS: Estudo descritivo abragendo 93 acompanhantes de pacientes ambulatoriais que informaram sobre tabagismo, fadiga, fadiga ao esforço, depressão, e atividade física. RESULTADOS: Dos 93 voluntários (65,6% mulheres, média de idade 33,4±10,1 anos), 52,7% tinham fadiga e 34,4% fadiga ao esforço. O escore médio de fadiga foi 16,3±6,6 (escala de 8 a 40) e de fadiga ao esforço 12,6±4,4 (escala de 9 a 45). A fadiga foi mais intensa (p=0,005) e mais freqüente (p=0,001) nas mulheres e correlacionou-se positivamente com depressão (r s=0,47; p=0,000). A fadiga ao esforço correlacionou-se positivamente com depressão (r s=0,39; p=0,000) e foi mais freqüente entre as mulheres (p=0,001). CONCLUSÃO: As características da fadiga em amostra de acompanhantes de pacientes são semelhantes às de pacientes com doenças crônicas. A interpretação de dados sobre fadiga em doenças crônicas precisaria considerar dados de fadiga na população geral.
Registro do diagnóstico de enfermagem fadiga em prontuários de pacientes oncológicos
Authors: Gorini Maria Isabel Pinto Coelho , Silva Priscila de Oliveira da , Chaves Patrícia Lemos , Ercole Juliane Porto , Cardoso Bruna Crasoves
Published: August 2010

OBJETIVO: Identificar o registro de diagnóstico de enfermagem (DE) fadiga, as características definidoras e as intervenções de enfermagem em prontuários de pacientes oncológicos internados em hospital. MÉTODOS: Trata-se de um estudo transversal retrospectivo. A coleta de dados foi realizada em 107 prontuários de pacientes com diagnóstico médico de câncer, nos meses de agosto a dezembro de 2007. RESULTADOS: Foi encontrado um DE fadiga representando 0,9%, entretanto, foram encontradas, nas evoluções diárias registradas pelo enfermeiro, as características definidoras do DE fadiga em 15,9% dos prontuários. CONCLUSÃO: Apesar de identificar as características definidoras (sinais e sintomas), os enfermeiros não estabelecem o DE fadiga. Por esta razão, surgem dúvidas quanto à adequação das características definidoras deste diagnóstico Outros estudos sobre esta temática devem ser feitos para aprimorar a assistência de enfermagem ao paciente oncológico.
O teatro como estratégia para a construção da paz
Authors: Harada Maria de Jesus Castro Sousa , Pedroso Glaura César , Pereira Sônia Regina
Published: August 2010

Descrever a experiência na elaboração de um espetáculo teatral com participação de adolescentes para estimular a reflexão sobre a realidade e contribuir para a redução da violência. Foram selecionados 10 adolescentes, alunos de escolas públicas que participaram de processo de formação teatral e produção de um espetáculo com temas oriundos de suas vivências no meio social e familiar. Ao longo do ano de 2006, a peça foi exibida em 20 apresentações, inclusive como parte de eventos organizados pela Prefeitura do Município de Embú - SP, como a Conferência Municipal de Saúde e o calendário de apresentações que acompanhou as festas de fim de ano. No total, cerca de 3.000 pessoas assistiram ao espetáculo. Na opinião das autoras, esta é uma estratégia válida, como ferramenta de mobilização e empoderamento dos atores, professores e comunidade local, para a promoção da saúde, enfrentamento e redução da violência. Considera-se que para esta estratégia ser efetiva em situações semelhantes, deve ser construída coletivamente, respeitando a cultura, a história e o contexto social do público alvo.
Cuidado espiritual: componente essencial da prática da enfermeira pediátrica na oncologia
Authors: Nascimento Lucila Castanheira , Oliveira Fabiane Cristina Santos de , Moreno Moisés Fargnolli , Silva Fernanda Machado da
Published: August 2010

Este é um artigo que aborda o cuidado espiritual na enfermagem pediátrica oncológica, como parte dos pressupostos para a promoção da saúde de famílias que possuem crianças e adolescentes com câncer. Indica elementos sobre a formação do enfermeiro para o oferecimento desse cuidado, aliados ao conhecimento de sua própria espiritualidade. Apresenta-se como uma oportunidade para o debate sobre o tema, oferecendo subsídios para repensar a prática do enfermeiro na oncologia pediátrica, além de assinalar a necessidade de condução de pesquisas nessa área.
Biological risk in nursing care provided in family health units
Authors: Cardoso Ana Carla Moreira , Figueiredo Rosely Moralez de
Published: August 2010

There is very frequent exposure to potentially contaminated material in procedures performed by nursing professionals. This exploratory and descriptive study characterizes the potential risk of biological exposure in procedures performed by nursing professionals in ten Family Health units in São Carlos-SP, Brazil. We observed 238 procedures involving potential risk of contact with biological material, in which more than 90% involved the use of needles. The average rates of adherence to standard precautions were: 27.9% hand washing prior to procedures; 41.4% use of gloves; and 88.8% adequate disposal of piercing and cutting instruments. These professionals are subject to risks similar to those which hospital workers are also subjected, because they have a high risk of blood exposure and the frequency with which they handle needles is very high.
Conocimientos y practicas sobre el consumo de tabaco en estudiantes de pregrado de farmacia, Lima, Perú
Authors: Danjoy León Delia , Ferreira Paulo Sérgio , Pillon Sandra Cristina
Published: August 2010

El objetivo del estudio fue determinar los conocimientos y prácticas del consumo de tabaco en estudiantes de farmacia, según aspectos demográficos y académicos. Participaron 276 (55.2%) estudiantes de farmacia de una universidad privada Peruana. Fue utilizada la Encuesta Global de Tabaco (GYTS) para jóvenes. Se identificó una prevalencia de vida del tabaco de 93,7% en los hombres y en las mujeres de 77,6%. La prevalencia de vida para el alcohol fue de 70,8% y para las drogas ilegales de 14,1% (marihuana). Existe un elevado porcentaje de prevalencia de vida y de consumo actual de tabaco en esta muestra. La mayoría de los estudiantes inicio el uso a los 16 años. Existe una fuerte asociación entre el consumo de tabaco y el uso de esta droga por, al menos, uno de los padres; también está asociado a la exposición al humo dentro de la casa.
Uso de drogas entre estudiantes de la Facultad de Ciencias Médicas de la Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Nicaragua, León, Nicaragua
Authors: Castro Nestor , Cortés Patricia , Vasters Gabriela Pereira , Costa Jr. Moacyr Lobo da
Published: August 2010

Se busco caracterizar a estudiantes de la Facultad de Ciencias Médicas de la UNAN León y su relación con drogas licitas e ilícitas, mediante un estudio descriptivo transversal realizado en el año 2008 en la Ciudad de León, en Nicaragua. Se utilizó un cuestionario anónimo autoaplicado SAMSHA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health) adaptado a la realidad Nicaragüense, el que fue respondido por un total de 954 estudiantes entre 17 y 35 años, de ambos sexos, de las carreras profesionales de dicha facultad. Encontrándose 52,6% de uso de alcohol, 25,3% de Tabaco, 48,7% de Medicamentos y 2,6% de Cocaína. Se propone profundizar este tema con nuevos estudios para poder dirigir mejor las acciones de intervención.
Evaluación del uso de alcohol por familias de la periferia de Guayaquil en Ecuador, por estudiantes de enfermería
Authors: Mieles Moreira Marìa , Galera Sueli Aparecida Frari
Published: August 2010

La presente investigación tiene como objetivo presentar el perfil socioeconómico y demográfico y las características del uso de alcohol de las familias evaluadas durante la cátedra de Enfermería Familiar y Comunitaria. Se trata de estudio de caso que utilizó como fuente de datos el Formulario de Valoración Familiar aplicado por estudiantes de la disciplina de Enfermería Familiar y Comunitaria. Las familias fueron seleccionadas por conveniencia, según los indicadores de riesgo: pobreza informada por las condiciones externas de la vivienda o identificadas por el servicio de salud. Se elaboró un formulario que tuvo como base el formulario usado por las estudiantes para recolectar la información de las familias; el cual contenía información sobre el perfil socioeconómico, características familiares y consumo de alcohol. En familias que informaron el uso de alcohol se aplicó el instrumento The Alcohol Users Identification Desorder Test (AUDIT). De las 128 familias evaluadas por las estudiantes encontramos 47 que informaron el uso de alcohol, las cuales fueron seleccionadas para responder el AUDIT. El promedio en la puntuación total obtenida fue de 10,66 puntos indicando Zona 2 de riesgo. Para este nivel está indicada intervención con consejo simple, que puede ser aplicado por los profesionales de atención primaria, principalmente enfermeros.
Web 2.0 como estruturante dos processos de produção e difusão científica em um grupo de pesquisa: o TWIKI e o GEC
Authors: Argollo Rita Virginia , Halmann Adriane Lizbehd , Sampaio Joseilda , Aragão Gessica de Oliveira
Published: August 2010

As apropriações sociais da Web 2.0 lançam novos olhares para a produção e difusão científica e cultural. O exemplo aqui analisado é a plataforma de escrita colaborativa TWiki, utilizada pelo Grupo de Pesquisa Educação, Comunicação e Tecnologias (GEC/Faced/UFBA). Alguns aspectos emergem das práticas de produção e difusão, como a autoria colaborativa, os licenciamentos (Creative Commons), as arquiteturas de participação e a reconfiguração - quando os sujeitos sociais passam de apenas receptores para produtores e difusores de sua própria produção.
A Phase II Study of Pazopanib in Patients with Recurrent or Metastatic Invasive Breast Carcinoma: A Trial of the Princess Margaret Hospital Phase II Consortium
Authors: Taylor Sara K. , Chia Stephen , Dent Susan , Clemons Mark , Agulnik Mark , Grenci Pamela , Wang Lisa , Oza Amit M. , Ivy Percy , Pritchard Kathleen I. , Leighl Natasha B.
Published: August 2010

Purpose.

Angiogenesis is an important hallmark of breast cancer growth and progression. Pazopanib, an oral small molecule inhibitor of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor, platelet-derived growth factor receptor, and KIT, has activity across a range of solid tumors. We evaluated the activity of single-agent pazopanib in recurrent or metastatic breast cancer (MBC).

Patients and Methods.

Patients with recurrent breast cancer or MBC, treated with up to two prior lines of chemotherapy, were eligible to receive pazopanib, 800 mg daily until progression. The primary endpoint was the objective response rate as measured by Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors. Secondary endpoints included time to progression, the stable disease rate, and toxicity. Using a two-stage design, confirmed response in three of 18 patients was required to proceed to stage 2.

Results.

Twenty evaluable patients were treated, with a median age of 56 years; 70% were estrogen receptor positive, all were human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 negative. The majority had one or two prior lines of chemotherapy. One patient (5%) had a partial response, 11 (55%) had stable disease (SD) [four (20%) with SD ≥6 months], and seven (35%) had progressive disease as their best response. One (5%) was not evaluable. The median time to progression was 5.3 months. Pazopanib did not cause significant severe toxicity aside from grade 3–4 transaminitis, hypertension, and neutropenia in three patients each (14% each) and grade 3 gastrointestinal hemorrhage in one patient (5%).

Conclusion.

Pazopanib provides disease stability in advanced breast cancer. The activity seen is comparable with that of other antiangiogenic agents in this setting. Pazopanib may be of interest for future studies in breast cancer, including in combination with other systemic agents.
Increased Reactive Oxygen Species Production and Lower Abundance of Complex I Subunits and Carnitine Palmitoyltransferase 1B Protein Despite Normal Mitochondrial Respiration in Insulin-Resistant Human Skeletal Muscle
Authors: Lefort Natalie , Glancy Brian , Bowen Benjamin , Willis Wayne T. , Bailowitz Zachary , De Filippis Elena A. , Brophy Colleen , Meyer Christian , Højlund Kurt , Yi Zhengping , Mandarino Lawrence J.
Published: August 2010

OBJECTIVE

The contribution of mitochondrial dysfunction to skeletal muscle insulin resistance remains elusive. Comparative proteomics are being applied to generate new hypotheses in human biology and were applied here to isolated mitochondria to identify novel changes in mitochondrial protein abundance present in insulin-resistant muscle.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Mitochondria were isolated from vastus lateralis muscle from lean and insulin-sensitive individuals and from obese and insulin-resistant individuals who were otherwise healthy. Respiration and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production rates were measured in vitro. Relative abundances of proteins detected by mass spectrometry were determined using a normalized spectral abundance factor method.

RESULTS

NADH- and FADH2-linked maximal respiration rates were similar between lean and obese individuals. Rates of pyruvate and palmitoyl-dl-carnitine (both including malate) ROS production were significantly higher in obesity. Mitochondria from obese individuals maintained higher (more negative) extramitochondrial ATP free energy at low metabolic flux, suggesting that stronger mitochondrial thermodynamic driving forces may underlie the higher ROS production. Tandem mass spectrometry identified protein abundance differences per mitochondrial mass in insulin resistance, including lower abundance of complex I subunits and enzymes involved in the oxidation of branched-chain amino acids (BCAA) and fatty acids (e.g., carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1B).

CONCLUSIONS

We provide data suggesting normal oxidative capacity of mitochondria in insulin-resistant skeletal muscle in parallel with high rates of ROS production. Furthermore, we show specific abundance differences in proteins involved in fat and BCAA oxidation that might contribute to the accumulation of lipid and BCAA frequently associated with the pathogenesis of insulin resistance.
Acute Stimulation of White Adipocyte Respiration by PKA-Induced Lipolysis
Authors: Yehuda-Shnaidman Einav , Buehrer Ben , Pi Jingbo , Kumar Naresh , Collins Sheila
Published: August 2010

OBJECTIVE

We examined the effect of β-adrenergic receptor (βAR) activation and cAMP-elevating agents on respiration and mitochondrial uncoupling in human adipocytes and probed the underlying molecular mechanisms.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Oxygen consumption rate (OCR, aerobic respiration) and extracellular acidification rate (ECAR, anaerobic respiration) were examined in response to isoproterenol (ISO), forskolin (FSK), and dibutyryl-cAMP (DB), coupled with measurements of mitochondrial depolarization, lipolysis, kinase activities, and gene targeting or knock-down approaches.

RESULTS

ISO, FSK, or DB rapidly increased oxidative and glycolytic respiration together with mitochondrial depolarization in human and mouse white adipocytes. The increase in OCR was oligomycin-insensitive and contingent on cAMP-dependent protein kinase A (PKA)-induced lipolysis. This increased respiration and the uncoupling were blocked by inhibiting the mitochondrial permeability transition pore (PTP) and its regulator, BAX. Interestingly, compared with lean individuals, adipocytes from obese subjects exhibited reduced OCR and uncoupling capacity in response to ISO.

CONCLUSIONS

Lipolysis stimulated by βAR activation or other maneuvers that increase cAMP levels in white adipocytes acutely induces mitochondrial uncoupling and cellular energetics, which are amplified in the absence of scavenging BSA. The increase in OCR is dependent on PKA-induced lipolysis and is mediated by the PTP and BAX. Because this effect is reduced with obesity, further exploration of this uncoupling mechanism will be needed to determine its cause and consequences.
Antiobesity and Antihyperglycemic Effects of Ginsenoside Rb1 in Rats
Authors: Xiong Ye , Shen Ling , Liu Kristina J. , Tso Patrick , Xiong Yuqing , Wang Guangji , Woods Stephen C. , Liu Min
Published: August 2010

OBJECTIVE

Obesity and type 2 diabetes are national and worldwide epidemics. Because currently available antiobesity and antidiabetic drugs have limited efficacy and/or safety concerns, identifying new medicinal agents, such as ginsenoside Rb1 (Rb1) as reported here, offers exciting possibilities for future development of successful antiobesity and antidiabetic therapies.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Changes in feeding behavior after acute intraperitoneal administration of Rb1 and the effects of intraperitoneal Rb1 for 4 weeks on body weight, energy expenditure, and glucose tolerance in high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obese rats were assessed. We also examined the effects of Rb1 on signaling pathways and neuropeptides in the hypothalamus.

RESULTS

Acute intraperitoneal Rb1 dose-dependently suppressed food intake without eliciting signs of toxicity. This inhibitory effect on feeding may be mediated by central mechanisms because Rb1 stimulated c-Fos expression in brain areas involved in energy homeostasis. Consistent with this, Rb1 activated the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/Akt signaling pathway and inhibited NPY gene expression in the hypothalamus. Four-week administration of Rb1 significantly reduced food intake, body weight gain, and body fat content and increased energy expenditure in HFD-induced obese rats. Rb1 also significantly decreased fasting blood glucose and improved glucose tolerance, and these effects were greater than those observed in pair-fed rats, suggesting that although Rb1's antihyperglycemic effect is partially attributable to reduced food intake and body weight; there may be additional effects of Rb1 on glucose homeostasis.

CONCLUSIONS

These results identify Rb1 as an antiobesity and antihyperglycemic agent.