bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Communication during Brief Intervention, Intention to Change, and Outcome
Authors: Daeppen Jean-Bernard , Bertholet Nicolas , Gmel Gerhard , Gaume Jacques
Published: December 2007

Objectives

To explore the relationship between patient's intention to change regarding future alcohol consumption following brief alcohol intervention (BAI) and changes in alcohol consumption 12-months later and the communication characteristics between patient and counselor during BAI.

Design, Setting and Subjects

Data from 367 patients (experimental arm) of a pragmatic randomized controlled trial were used to assess the effectiveness of BAI among hazardous drinkers attending an Emergency Department (Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland). Alcohol outcome measures at baseline and 12 months follow-up included usual number of drinks per week, monthly frequency of heavy episodic drinking (5 or more standard drinks for men; 4 or more for women), and the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) score. In addition, the communication characteristics between patient and counselor were analyzed via tape recordings using the Motivational Interviewing Skill Code (MISC) from 97 participants. Patient readiness and importance to change on a 10-point Likert scale (readiness/importance to change ruler) was asked during BAI, and patient intention to change alcohol consumption (yes/no) was asked at the last step. Differences in alcohol outcome at follow-up between the 367 patients who did or did not have an intention to change consumption at baseline were compared, as were differences between these two groups in communication characteristics for the 97 who completed tape recordings.

Results

Patients with an intention to decrease alcohol consumption reduced alcohol use and related problems more often, and reported higher levels of importance and readiness to change than did their counterparts. Analyses of MISC-coded data showed a significantly higher use of MI-consistent skills among those with a moderation intention, but no group differences on the 8 other counselor communication skills measures were found. Analyses of patient speech during the intervention indicated that those with an intention to change their alcohol consumption significantly more often self-explored personal ambivalence towards alcohol, expressed more intensely their ability, commitment, desire, need and reason to change their alcohol use than did those in the no decrease group.

Conclusions

The intention expressed by hazardous drinkers when concluding BAI is associated with both patient change talk during BAI and drinking outcome 12 months later, but is mainly independent of counselor communication skills. This intention may be an important clinical indicator of which hazardous drinkers are most likely to improve after BAI.
H-Phosphonates: Versatile synthetic precursors to biologically active phosphorus compounds
Authors: Kraszewski Adam , Stawinski Jacek
Published: December 2007

In this review, a short account of H-phosphonate chemistry and its application to the synthesis of biologically important phosphates and their analogs is given.
Glutathione S-transferase- and acetylcholinesterase-inhibiting natural products from medicinally important plants
Authors: Ata Athar , Van Den Bosch Stephanie A. , Harwanik Drew J. , Pidwinski Grant E.
Published: December 2007

Naturally occurring enzyme inhibitors play an important role in a drug discovery program. Glutathione S-transferases (GSTs) play a significant role in the detoxification and metabolism of many xenobiotic and endobiotic compounds. GSTs are considered to be responsible for decreasing the effectiveness of anticancer/antiparasitic agents used for the treatment of cancer and parasitic diseases. The effectiveness of these biomedical agents may be improved by using GST inhibitors as an adjuvant during chemotherapy. Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitors have potential applications in curing cardiac problems and Alzheimer's disease. This article describes the identification of natural products exhibiting GST and AChE inhibitory activities, from medicinally important plants. Results obtained from the structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies of some of these newly discovered enzyme inhibitors are also discussed.
Chemical ecology = chemistry + ecology!
Authors: Bergström Gunnar
Published: December 2007

Chemical ecology (CE) is an active, interdisciplinary field between chemistry and biology, which, stimulated by natural curiosity and possible applied aspects, has grown to its present position during the last 40-odd years. This area has now achieved a degree of maturity with its own journals, its own international society with annual meetings, and many enthusiastic scientists in laboratories around the world. The focus is on chemical communication and other chemical interactions between organisms, including volatile chemical signals, which guide behaviors linked to various vital needs. It reflects both biodiversity and chemodiversity. All living organisms have these important signal systems, which go back to the origins of life. Successful work in this area has called for close collaboration between chemists and biologists of different descriptions. It is thus a good example of chemistry for biology. The aim of the article is to give a short introduction to the field, with an emphasis on the role of chemistry in a biological context by: giving an overview of the development of the area; showing some examples of studies of chemical communication in insects and plants, basically from our own work; and describing some current trends and tendencies and possible future developments.
Deputizing in war: British policies and predicaments in Iraq, 200307
Authors: Rangwala Glen
Published: December 2007

This article explores UK involvement in the war in Iraq since the invasion of 2003. It explores three different dimensions of UK involvement: British control over the four southern governorates, the role of UK policy-makers and advisors in Green Zone politics, and British policies on
the international stage in support of their stance in and towards Iraq. It does so by placing British foreign policy under the Blair government in the context of the overall objective of serving as a transatlantic bridge, a position that is central to how British foreign policy-makers operate
but which has become increasingly incoherent in light of the severe differences between the United States and the major continental European states over the invasion of Iraq. The effect of British involvement, however, has not been neutralized by this incoherence; in fact, in crucial dimensions,
it has added to the process of Iraq's fragmentation.
Degrading democracy: Iraq, empire, and struggles for freedom in the Arab Islamic world
Authors: Baker Raymond William
Published: December 2007

The Bush administration's rhetoric of remaking the Middle East along democratic lines to justify American imperial assertions in Iraq and elsewhere has inevitably degraded the democratic idea. It has also stimulated luxuriant commentary on the relationship of Islam and democracy that
only deepens western hostility to Islam with a repackaging of tired Orientalist notions of Islamic exceptionalism and self-inflicted wounds. The American empire requires the notion that democracy cannot come to the Islamic world from internal cultural resources. The imperial project and its
justificatory War on Terror highlights Islamic extremists, while screening from view the democratic struggles of mainstream currents, including Islamists. The prospects for democracy around the world today would be so much stronger if the biggest, richest democracy in the world engaged more
assiduously its own battles for democracy at home and did less damage to the struggles for freedom in the Islamic world and elsewhere.
Food-dependent Cushing's syndrome: from molecular characterization to therapeutical results
Authors: Albiger N M , Occhi G , Mariniello B , Iacobone M , Favia G , Fassina A , Faggian D , Mantero F , Scaroni C
Published: December 2007

Objective

Cortisol secretion in ACTH-independent macronodular adrenal hyperplasia (AIMAH) may be regulated by the aberrant expression of several G-protein-coupled receptors. Bilateral adrenalectomy is the treatment of choice in most cases. We searched for aberrant receptor expression in a patient with AIMAH and evaluated the response to medical and surgical treatment.

Patient

A 35-year-old woman with amenorrhea, hirsutism, and hypertension presented ACTH-independent cortisol secretion with high androgen levels. Abdominal computed tomography showed bilateral adrenal macronodules (4.5 cm right and 1.0 cm left). Scintigraphy with I131-norcholesterol showed bilateral uptake, prevalent on the right side. Several in vivo stimulation tests were assessed before and after treatment and in vitro studies were performed after unilateral adrenalectomy.

Results

Plasma cortisol increased after a standard meal test (60%) and oral glucose loading (147%), and the response was blunted by pretreatment with 100 μg s.c. octreotide. The therapy with long-acting release octreotide (octreotide-LAR) showed an improvement in urinary free cortisol (UFC) levels. Unilateral adrenalectomy was performed and histopathology revealed macronodular AIMAH. Cortisol and androgens increased after perifusion of tumoral tissue with glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP), and GIP and LH-receptor overexpression was found in both the adrenal nodules and the adjacent cortex. After surgery, UFC and androgen levels normalized followed by clinical improvement.

Conclusions

GIP and LH-receptor expression may coexist in AIMAH, influencing the functional and morphological phenotype. Aberrant hormone receptor expression enables specific pharmacological treatment, but long-term studies are needed to evaluate its real efficacy. Unilateral adrenalectomy may be a safe initial option, particularly for asymmetric bilateral adrenal enlargements.
Endocrine and metabolic responses to extreme altitude and physical exercise in climbers
Authors: Benso Andrea , Broglio Fabio , Aimaretti Gianluca , Lucatello Barbara , Lanfranco Fabio , Ghigo Ezio , Grottoli Silvia
Published: December 2007

Context

Chronic hypoxia induces complex metabolic and endocrine adaptations. High-altitude (HA) exposure is a physiological model of hypoxia.

Objective

To further investigate the endocrine and metabolic responses to extreme HA.

Methods

We studied nine male elite climbers at sea level and at 5200 m after climbing Mt. Everest.

Results

After 7 weeks at HA, body weight was reduced (P<0.05); regarding endocrine variables we observed: a) an increase of 2-h mean GH concentration (P<0.05) as well as of total IGF-I and IGF binding protein-3 levels (P<0.05 for both); b) a prolactin increase (P<0.05) coupled with testosterone decrease (P<0.01) and progesterone increase (P<0.05) without any change in estradiol levels: c) no change in cortisol, ACTH, and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) levels; d) an increase in free thyroxine (P<0.05) and free tri-iodothyronine (T3) decrease (P<0.05) but no change in TSH levels; e) a plasma glucose decrease (P<0.05) without any change in insulin levels; f) an increase in mean free fatty acid levels (P<0.05); g) despite body weight loss, leptin levels showed non-significant trend toward decrease, while ghrelin levels did not change at all.

Conclusions

The results of the present study in a unique experimental human model of maximal exposure to altitude and physical exercise demonstrate that extreme HA and strenuous physical exercise are coupled with specific endocrine adaptations. These include increased activity of the GH/IGF-I axis and a low T3 syndrome but no change in ghrelin and leptin that was expected taking into account body weight decrease. These findings would contribute to better understanding human endocrine and metabolic physiology in hypoxic conditions.
Cut-off limits of the GH response to GHRH plus arginine test and IGF-I levels for the diagnosis of GH deficiency in late adolescents and young adults
Authors: Corneli Ginevra , Di Somma Carolina , Prodam Flavia , Bellone Jaele , Bellone Simonetta , Gasco Valentina , Baldelli Roberto , Rovere Silvia , Schneider Harald Jörn , Gargantini Luigi , Gastaldi Roberto , Ghizzoni Lucia , Valle Domenico , Salerno Mariacarolina , Colao Annamaria , Bona Gianni , Ghigo Ezio , Maghnie Mohamad , Aimaretti Gianluca
Published: December 2007

Objective

To define the appropriate diagnostic cut-off limits for the GH response to GHRH+arginine (ARG) test and IGF-I levels, using receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve analysis, in late adolescents and young adults.

Design and methods

We studied 152 patients with childhood-onset organic hypothalamic–pituitary disease (85 males, age (mean±s.e.m.): 19.2±0.2 years) and 201 normal adolescents as controls (96 males, age: 20.7±0.2 years). Patients were divided into three subgroups on the basis of the number of the other pituitary hormone deficits, excluding GH deficiency (GHD): subgroup A consisted of 35 panhypopituitary patients (17 males, age: 21.2±0.4 years), subgroup B consisted of 18 patients with only one or with no more than two pituitary hormone deficits (7 males, age: 20.2±0.9 years); and subgroup C consisted of 99 patients without any known hormonal pituitary deficits (60 males, age: 18.2±0.2 years). Both patients and controls were lean (body mass index, BMI<25 kg/m2). Patients in subgroup A were assumed to be GHD, whereas in patients belonging to subgroups B and C the presence of GHD had to be verified.

Results

For the GHRH+ARG test, the best pair of highest sensitivity (Se; 100%) and specificity (Sp; 97%) was found choosing a peak GH of 19.0 μg/l. For IGF-I levels, the best pair of highest Se (96.6%) and Sp (74.6%) was found using a cut-off point of 160 μg/l (SDS: −1.3). Assuming 19.0 μg/l to be the cut-off point established for GHRH+ARG test, 72.2% of patients in subgroup B and 39.4% in subgroup C were defined as GHD. In patients belonging to group B and C and with a peak GH response <19 μg/l to the test, IGF-I levels were lower than 160 μg/l (or less than 1.3 SDS) in 68.7 and 41.6% of patients respectively predicting severe GHD in 85.7% of panhypopituitary patients (subgroup A).

Conclusions

In late adolescent and early adulthood patients, a GH cut-off limit using the GHRH+ARG test lower than 19.0 μg/l is able to discriminate patients with a suspicion of GHD and does not vary from infancy to early adulthood.
Novel BSCL2 gene mutation E189X in Chinese congenital generalized lipodystrophy child with early onset diabetes mellitus
Authors: Jin Jing , Cao Lingfeng , Zhao Zhuhui , Shen Shuixian , Kiess Wieland , Zhi Dijing , Ye Rong , Cheng Ruoqian , Chen Lian , Yang Yi , Luo Feihong
Published: December 2007

Context

Congenital generalized lipodystrophy (CGL) is a rare and heterogeneous disease of autosomal recessive inheritance. Until now, no genetic findings had been reported in Chinese patients with CGL.

Objective

To analyze Berardinelli-Seip congenital lipodystrophy type 2 (BSCL2) and 1-acylglycerol-3-phosphate O-acyltransferase 2 (AGPAT2) gene variation in a Chinese boy with CGL and his family.

Design, setting, and participants

All exons of BSCL2 and AGPAT2 with adjacent intron–exon junctions were analyzed using direct sequencing.

Main outcome measures

Sequences of each exon and nearby intron of the BSCL2 and AGPAT2 genes of the family members were compared with the gene bank genomic sequences.

Results

DNA sequence analysis of the entire coding regions and surrounding uncoding regions disclosed a novel homozygous G→T mutation at nucleotide 909 in exon 5 of the BSCL2 gene in the affected child. A heterozygous state of the G→T mutation of the BSCL2 gene was also found in other family members. This mutation predicts the substitution of glutamic acid at codon 189 by the stop codon (Glu189X or E189X). No variation was found in the AGPAT2 gene.

Conclusion

E189X is a novel BSCL2 gene mutation that contributes to CGL formation in a family of Chinese origin.
Antifungal activity of the extracts and saponins from Sapindus saponaria L.
Authors: Tsuzuki Joyce K. , Svidzinski Terezinha I.E. , Shinobu Cristiane S. , Silva Luiz F.A. , Rodrigues-Filho Edson , Cortez Diógenes A.G. , Ferreira Izabel C.P.
Published: December 2007

Extracts from the dried pericarp of Sapindus saponaria L. (Sapindaceae) fruits were investigated for their antifungal activity against clinical isolates of yeasts Candida albicans and C. non-albicans from vaginal secretions of women with Vulvovaginal Candidiasis. Four clinical isolates of C. albicans, a single clinical isolated of each of the species C. parapsilosis, C. glabrata, C. tropicalis, and the strain of C. albicans ATCC 90028 were used. The hydroalcoholic extract was bioactivity-directed against a clinical isolate of C. parapsilosis, and showed strong activity. The n-BuOH extract and one fraction showed strong activity against all isolates tested. Further column-chromatography on silica gel separation of this fraction afforded two pure triterpene acetylated saponins: 3-O-(4-acetyl-beta-D-xylopyranosyl)-(1->3)-alpha-Lrhamnopyranosyl-(1->2)-alpha-L-arabinopyranosyl-hederagenin (1) and 3-O-(3,4-di-acetyl-beta-D-xylopyranosyl)-(1->3)-alpha-L-rhamnopyranosyl-(1->2)-alpha-L-arabynopyranosyl-hederagenin (2). The structures of the compounds were based on spectral data (¹H and 13C NMR, HSQC, HMBC and MS), and on with literature. The saponins isolated showed strong activity against C. parapsilosis.
Spectral characterization of mangrove leaves in the Brazilian Amazonian Coast: Turiaçu Bay, Maranhão State
Authors: Rebelo-Mochel Flávia , Ponzoni Flávio J.
Published: December 2007

Mangrove communities are tropical systems which have fewer species than tropical forests, especially in Latin America and display a single architecture, usually lacking the various strata commonly found in other forest ecosystems. The identification of mangrove communities by orbital data is not a difficult task but the most interesting challenge is to identify themselves by the dominant species. The first step toward that floristic identification is the spectral characterization of detached leaves. Leaves from four species of mangrove trees were spectrally characterized considering the Directional Hemispherical Reflectance Factor (DHRF) determined through radiometric measurements using an integrating sphere LICOR 1800 attached to a spectroradiometer SPECTRON SE-590. In the visible bands (0.45-0.69 µm) the button-shaped mangrove Conocarpus erectus was brighter and the red mangrove Rhizophora mangle was darker than the other two species which shows very close DHRF values. Otherwise the black mangrove Avicennia germinans and the white mangrove Laguncularia racemosa can be distinguished from one another in the Near Infra Red (NIR) region (0.76-0.90 µm and in this region of the spectrum the DHRF of C. erectus and R. mangle become very close.
Demonstration project on epilepsy in Brazil: situation assessment
Authors: Li Li M. , Fernandes Paula T. , Noronha Ana L.A. , Marques Lucia H.N. , Borges Moacir A. , Cendes Fernando , Guerreiro Carlos A.M. , Zanetta Dirce M.T. , de Boer Hanneke M. , Espíndola Javier , Miranda Claudio T. , Prilipko Leonid , Sander Josemir W.
Published: December 2007

PURPOSE: To provide a situation assessment of services for people with epilepsy in the context of primary health care, as part of the Demonstration Project on Epilepsy in Brazil, part of the WHO/ILAE/IBE Global Campaign 'Epilepsy out of the shadows'. METHODS: We performed a door-to-door epidemiological survey in three areas to assess the prevalence of epilepsy and its treatment gap. We surveyed a sample of 598 primary health care workers from different regions of Brazil to assess their perceptions of the management of people with epilepsy in the primary care setting. RESULTS: The lifetime prevalence of epilepsy was 9.2/1,000 people [95% CI 8.4-10.0] and the estimated prevalence of active epilepsy was 5.4/1,000 people. Thirty-eight percent of patients with active epilepsy were on inadequate treatment, including 19% who were taking no medication. The survey of health workers showed that they estimated that 60% of patients under their care were seizure-free. They estimated that 55% of patients were on monotherapy and that 59% had been referred to neurologists. The estimated mean percentage of patients who were working or studying was 56%. Most of the physicians (73%) did not feel confident in managing people with epilepsy. DISCUSSION: The epidemiological survey in the areas of the Demonstration Project showed that the prevalence of epilepsy is similar to that in other resource-poor countries, and that the treatment gap is high. One factor contributing to the treatment gap is inadequacy of health care delivery. The situation could readily be improved in Brazil, as the primary health care system has the key elements required for epilepsy management. To make this effective and efficient requires: i) an established referral network, ii) continuous provision of AEDs, iii) close monitoring of epilepsy management via the notification system (Sistema de Informação da Atenção Básica - SIAB) and iv) continuous education of health professionals. The educational program should be broad spectrum and include not only medical management, but also psycho-social aspects of epilepsy.
Teachers perception about epilepsy
Authors: Fernandes Paula T. , Noronha Ana L.A. , Araújo Ulisses , Cabral Paula , Pataro Ricardo , de Boer Hanneke M. , Prilipko Leonid , Sander Josemir W. , Li Li M.
Published: December 2007

PURPOSE: To identify in a town of Brazil the knowledge, attitude and perception of epilepsy in teachers of elementary schools and to compare these before and after a training exercise. METHODS: Teachers of nine public schools of Barão Geraldo, Campinas, Brazil completed a questionnaire. Two researchers had meetings with teachers, presenting the Global Campaign "Epilepsy out of the shadows", when the questionnaire was first completed by all attendees. Twenty teachers of these schools were motivated to attend a training course entitled "Epilepsy and Health" as part of their continuous education programme. Two years later the same questionnaire was again completed (post-test) by these 20 teachers. RESULTS: 100 teachers originally completed the questionnaire (97 women, mean age 42 years, 64 married). Forty-three percent of teachers said that they had enough knowledge regarding epilepsy and 20% said that they had poor knowledge about the condition. Regarding the IQ of children with epilepsy, 45% of teachers believed that they had average IQ, 18% above average, six percent under average and 29% did not know. Teachers believed that children with epilepsy have a higher possibility of acquiring mental disease in the future (51%); that epilepsy is a disease (68%); that epilepsy is contagious (1%); epilepsy is treatable (90%). After the course, the teachers’ beliefs seem to have improved. DISCUSSION: This work with elementary school teachers identified difficulties related to epilepsy which, if addressed, may help promote better quality of life of people with epilepsy in the community and help to decrease stigma attached to the condition. Better informed teachers are likely to have a more positive attitude and this will be passed to others. Educational campaigns about epilepsy amongst teachers should be encouraged as this may improve the management of epilepsy, by helping to develop a well informed and tolerant community.
Stigma and attitudes on epilepsy a study: with secondary school students
Authors: Reno Brenda A. , Fernandes Paula T. , Bell Gail S. , Sander Josemir W. , Li Li M.
Published: December 2007

PURPOSE: To evaluate whether an inappropriate attitude towards a person having an epileptic seizure contributes to the stigma found in society and whether an appropriate attitude helps to diminish it in the short term; to perform a long term investigation about information remembered and stigma perception after an educational lecture. METHOD: This study was performed in two steps: Step 1. Students of first year of high school of two schools in Campinas completed a questionnaire including the Stigma Scale of Epilepsy following a seizure demonstration. They were divided into three groups: a) one group had a demonstration of proper attitudes towards someone having an epileptic seizure; b) one group was shown incorrect procedures; c) control group. After the completion of the questionnaire, an educational lecture about epilepsy was given. Step 2: six months later, the questionnaire was re-administered. RESULTS: The comparison between the four groups (step 1 and step 2) show a significant difference (Anova (3,339)=2.77; p=0.042). Pairwise comparison using Fisher's Least-Significant-Difference Test showed a significant difference between the group shown incorrect procedures (step 1) versus step 2, and the control group (step 1) versus step 2, but no difference between the group shown correct procedures (step 1) versus step 2. DISCUSSION: Exhibiting proper attitudes towards a person experiencing an epileptic seizure may cause significant differences among the subjects’ degrees of stigma towards people with epilepsy. It is therefore fundamental that there should be de-stigmatization campaigns provided, to correct information and provide appropriate education.
Regeneração de plantas híbridas entre Lycopersicon esculentum e L. peruvianum a partir de calos com dois anos de cultura in vitro
Authors: Siqueira Walter José , Fonseca Monique Ines Segeren , Sondhal Maro R.
Published: December 2007

Calos obtidos da cultura in vitro de embrião imaturo do cruzamento interespecífico L. esculentum x L. peruvianum, praticamente perderam a capacidade morfogenética, após dois anos de subcultura. Na tentativa de recuperação do processo de organogênese desses calos, realizaram-se dois experimentos, utilizando-se os fitorreguladores ácido indolacético (IAA) e 6-benziladenina (6-BA), cujas concentrações foram combinadas em dialélicos de 5 x 5 e 3 x 3. A composição de sais minerais e vitaminas baseou-se no meio de Murashige e Skoog, adicionando-se sacarose a 3% e ágar a 0,8%, e ajustando-se o pH final dos meios de cultura para 5,5. As condições para o dialélico 5 x 5 foram fotoperíodo de 16 horas de luz a 600 lux e temperatura de 25 ± 3°C. No dialélico 3 x 3, os tratamentos foram mantidos em câmara de crescimento a 2.000 lux, sob a mesma variação de temperatura e fotoperíodo. Em cada frasco, inoculou-se um calo com cerca de 1 cm³, totalizando quinze repetições. Avaliaram-se o desenvolvimento de calos, atribuindo-se uma escala de notas de 1 a 5, e a presença de plantas (organogênese) após 30 dias de cultura. Observou-se o número total de plantas por tratamento, bem como o desenvolvimento das plantas em centímetro. No dialélico 5 x 5, a organogênese foi apenas incipiente em três tratamentos, porém as melhores combinações para o desenvolvimento dos calos foram de 0,5, 2,5 e 5,0µM de IAA com 2,5µM de 6-BA. No dialélico 3 x 3, houve a indução de plantas em sete tratamentos, sendo mais eficientes 25 e 50µM de 6-BA, sem auxina. O tratamento de 0,5 e 10,0µM de IAA e 6-BA, respectivamente, permitiu simultaneamente o crescimento de calos e a regeneração de plantas. Nota-se a influência das condições ambientais de manutenção das culturas, principalmente da intensidade de luz.
Mandioca: distribuição no estado de São Paulo do micoplasma causador do superbrotamento-de-santa-bárbara-do-rio-pardo
Authors: Lorenzi José Osmar , Valle Teresa Losada , Monteiro Domingos Antonio , Costa Álvaro Santos
Published: December 2007

Visitaram-se culturas de "fundo de quintal" em 126 municípios paulistas, cujas observações permitiram verificar a ocorrência da micoplasmose, conhecida por superbrotamento-de-santa-bárbara-do-rio-pardo, em doze daqueles municípios. Os resultados evidenciaram a existência, no Centro-Sul do Estado, de um foco que se alastra por doze municípios relativamente próximos, tendo como área de concentração o de Aguas de Santa Bárbara, onde, pela primeira vez, em 1969, constatou-se a moléstia, não observada nos outros 114 municípios. São brevemente discutidas prováveis causas da perpetuação do micoplasma causador e sugeridas algumas medidas de controle.
Diagnósticos de enfermagem documentados para pacientes de clínica médica
Authors: Fontes Cassiana Mendes Bertoncello , Cruz Diná de Almeida Lopes Monteiro da
Published: December 2007

Este artigo relata estudo descritivo, de análise de registros, dos diagnósticos de enfermagem documentados após três meses da implementação da classificação da NANDA-I no HU-USP e propõe resultados e intervenções para os três diagnósticos mais freqüentes. A amostra de conveniência, de 34% das internações no mês, constituiu-se de 30 prontuários de pacientes internados na Clínica Médica em agosto de 2004 (60% mulheres; idade média 60,9±23,1 anos; média de internação=5,8±2,7 dias). Os diagnósticos documentados nos prontuários, no primeiro dia de internação, foram manualmente transcritos e analisados segundo freqüências. Foram documentados 144 diagnósticos (31 categorias diagnósticas); com média de 4,8(± 4,0) diagnósticos por paciente (variação = 1 a 10) e os mais freqüentes foram: Dor aguda (66,7%), Integridade tissular prejudicada (63,3%), Desobstrução ineficaz de vias aéreas (43,3%), Risco para integridade da pele prejudicada (36,7%) e Integridade da pele prejudicada (33,3%). São apresentadas propostas de resultados e intervenções para os três mais freqüentes.
Aspectos da comunicação da enfermeira com o deficiente auditivo
Authors: Pagliuca Lorita Marlena Freitag , Fiúza Nara Lígia Gregório , Rebouças Cristiana Brasil de Almeida
Published: December 2007

Indivíduos com limitação auditiva têm seu processo comunicativo prejudicado. Procurou-se explorar aspectos da comunicação da enfermeira com os deficientes auditivos. Estudo descritivo-exploratório, realizado em hospitais de Fortaleza de maio a junho de 2004 mediante entrevistas abertas analisadas qualitativamente. As enfermeiras percebem que é difícil a comunicação com o deficiente auditivo, embora algumas tenham desempenho satisfatório. Nesse processo, algumas referem utilizar tanto a comunicação não verbal, por mímica e leitura labial, como a comunicação verbal oral e escrita. Outras utilizam o acompanhante, quebrando o sigilo da consulta. Para aperfeiçoar a comunicação, sugerese o preparo profissional na graduação e cursos de LIBRAS. Conforme se conclui, existe dificuldade da enfermeira ao se comunicar com o deficiente auditivo.
Vulnerabilidade e sofrimento no trabalho do agente comunitário de saúde no Programa de Saúde da Família
Authors: Martines Wânia Regina Veiga , Chaves Eliane Corrêa
Published: December 2007

A pesquisa, de natureza qualitativa, teve como núcleo de interesse investigativo as representações e as significações que um grupo de Agentes Comunitários de Saúde (ACSs) possui acerca das vulnerabilidades para o sofrimento no trabalho a que estão expostos, assim como as próprias manifestações deste sofrimento ao desempenharem suas ações relativas ao Programa de Saúde da Família (PSF).A entrevista semi-estruturada com um grupo de ACSs, explorou o significado de ser ACS e a percepção da organização do trabalho; a análise foi embasada no referencial teórico-metodológico da hermenêutica e nas teorias relacionadas à psicodinâmica do trabalho. Os achados mostram a existência de uma importante vulnerabilidade ao sofrimento, gerada principalmente pela ideação idealizada da própria prática e pela escassa perspectiva de rearranjo dos ingredientes constitutivos da organização do trabalho, já que este profissional depende de fatores alheios ao seu espectro de alcance, que inclui as limitações do modelo assistencial proposto pelo PSF.
Representação de gestantes tabagistas sobre o uso do cigarro: estudo realizado em hospital do interior paulista
Authors: Possato Marina , Parada Cristina Maria Garcia de Lima , Tonete Vera Lúcia Pamplona
Published: December 2007

Este estudo objetivou apreender as representações de gestantes tabagistas sobre o uso de cigarro. Utilizou-se como referencial teórico a Teoria das Representações Sociais. Para análise dos dados, construiu-se o Discurso do Sujeito Coletivo. Das 27 mulheres entrevistadas, 18 possuíam primeiro grau completo, oito, o segundo grau completo e uma, ensino superior; 14 tinham união estável, seis eram casadas. Quatro temas emergiram: 1) o início do hábito de fumar: prática social e natural; 2) satisfação versus culpa; 3) uma bomba: efeitos do cigarro na gestação; 4) cessação: entre o querer e o poder. Apreendeu-se representação negativa do cigarro, considerado o pior dos vícios e potencial causador de complicações feto-maternas. O tabagismo foi representado de maneira preconceituosa, desconsiderando a existência e necessidade de tratamento. Emergiram dificuldades relativas à cessação, trazendo a necessidade de ajuda profissional, para informações, abordagem e tratamento adequados e apoio para que se alcance êxito.
As enfermeiras da força expedicionária brasileira no front italiano
Authors: Bernardes Margarida Maria Rocha , Lopes Gertrudes Teixeira
Published: December 2007

Estudo histórico-social, analisa a proximidade das Enfermeiras do Exército na FEB junto às autoridades que detinham o poder dos comandos dos exércitos norte-americano e brasileiro durante a 2.ª Guerra. Fontes primárias: duas fotografias que se complementam e depoimentos de nove enfermeiras que estiveram no conflito. Fontes secundárias: acervo literário referente ao assunto. Alguns conceitos do sociólogo Pierre Bourdieu foram utilizados para apoiar a discussão. Resultados: as enfermeiras inseridas no meio militar tiveram tratamento diferenciado pelos Comandantes dos Exércitos Norte-Americano e Brasileiro, tendo maior visibilidade junto à tropa masculina e à mídia. As enfermeiras ganharam uma batalha, sendo respeitadas num mundo novo e desconhecido, no universo das Forças Armadas, historicamente dominado por homens. Integrando uma equipe, aquelas enfermeiras lutaram por auto-afirmação e respeito naquele momento histórico peculiar.
A família na unidade de internação hospitalar: entre o informal e o instituído
Authors: Monticelli Marisa , Boehs Astrid Eggert
Published: December 2007

Estudo de abordagem comparada que utilizou duas etnografias já concluídas com o objetivo de identificar como as famílias percebem suas inserções na unidade de internação e como são percebidas pela equipe de saúde, considerando-se as regras e as normas da cultura institucional. Os resultados obtidos revelam que tanto as equipes quanto as famílias se aproximam ou se distanciam em face da concordância ou não das regras vigentes na instituição. Embora as famílias, em muitas situações, submetam-se aos regulamentos impostos pelo hospital e pela equipe, também usam resistências individuais e coletivas para enfrentar os mecanismos reguladores. Os resultados contribuem para aumentar a compreensão sobre o tema, tanto para a equipe de saúde quanto para a prática de enfermagem com famílias, especialmente no sentido de reconhecer as famílias como unidades ativas, responsáveis e coparticipantes na atenção intra-hospitalar.
Análise comparativa da origem do plexo branquial de catetos (Tayassu tajacu)
Authors: Moura Carlos Eduardo B. , Albuquerque José Fernando G. , Magalhães Marcela S. , Silva Naisandra Bezerra , Oliveira Moacir F. , Papa Paula C.
Published: December 2007

O cateto (Tayassu tajacu) pertence à familia Tayassui-dae e é caracterizado por "colar" de pêlos brancos ao redor do pescoço que se estende bilateralmente cranialmente aos ombros. Pode ser encontrado do sudoeste dos Estados Unidos da América até a Argentina. Na literatura verificou-se a falta de dados a respeito da anatomia funcional do cateto especialmente trabalhos que envolvem a anatomia do plexo braquial. Visando elucidar o comportamento do plexo braquial do cateto e com a finalidade de contribuir para o desenvolvimento da anatomia comparada, realizou-se esta pesquisa. Utilizou-se 30 animais de idades diferentes (13 fêmeas e 17 machos) provenientes do Centro de Multiplicação de Animais Silvestres, Universidade Federal Rural do Semi-árido, Mossoró, Rio Grande do Norte. Após o abate, realizou-se a dissecação bilateral dos plexos braquiais e registraram-se os resultados através de desenhos esquemáticos e as disposições agrupadas em tabelas para subseqüente análise estatística e obtidas as freqüências percentuais. Observou-se que o plexo braquial de catetos é resultado das comunicações estabelecidas, principalmente, entre os ramos ventrais dos três últimos nervos espinhais cervicais (C6, C7 e C8) e dos dois primeiros nervos espinhais torácicos (T1 e T2), tendo uma contribuição do quarto e quinto nervos cervicais em 16,67% e 50,00% dos casos, respectivamente. Em 40,00% das dissecações a formação do plexo, mais freqüente, foi do tipo C6, C7, C8, T1 e T2. Os principais nervos derivados do plexo braquial dos catetos e suas respectivas origens foram: nervo supraescapular (C6 e C7), nervo subscapular (C5, C6 e C7 ou C6 e C7), nervo axilar (C6 e C7), nervo músculocutâneo (C7 e C8), nervo mediano (C7, C8, T1 e T2), nervo ulnar (C8, T1 e T2), nervo radial (C8, T1 e T2), nervos peitorais craniais (C7) e caudais (C7 e C8), nervo toracodorsal (C6, C7 e C8), nervo torácico longo (C7 e C8) e nervo torácico lateral (C8, T1 e T2).
Intoxicação espontânea e experimental por Eupatorium tremulum (Asteraceae) em bovinos
Authors: Lucioli Joelma , Furlan Fernando Henrique , Mezaroba Sara , Traverso Sandra Davi , Gava Aldo
Published: December 2007

Descreve-se a intoxicação natural e experimental por Eupatorium tremulum em bovinos. Um surto de intoxicação espontânea por esta planta foi diagnosticado no município de Lages, Santa Catarina. Em um lote de 19 bovinos, três morreram após a transferência para uma invernada aonde havia grande quantidade de E. tremulum. Os animais foram encontrados mortos, e dois foram necropsiados e coletado amostras de vísceras para exame histológico. Experimentalmente, folhas verdes de E. tremulum foram administradas a cinco bovinos, em doses únicas de 23 a 32g/kg de peso animal. Destes, três adoeceram e dois morreram. Os principais sinais clínicos observados foram anorexia, apatia, atonia ruminal, micção freqüente e em pequenos jatos, fezes pastosas e ventre flácido. As lesões macroscópicas restringiram-se aos pré-estômagos e foram idênticas, tanto para intoxicação natural como para a experimental. O rúmen e retículo externamente mostravam tonalidade levemente avermelhada, a camada córnea da mucosa estava frouxamente aderida e a mucosa tinha coloração vermelha acentuada. Ao exame histológico observou-se no rúmen e retículo, tanto na intoxicação espontânea, como experimental, necrose do epitélio da mucosa com formações de pequenas vesículas e em alguns segmentos, desprendimento da camada epitelial e leve infiltrado de neutrófilos. A intoxicação por E. tremulum tem curso clínico, lesões macro e microscópicas muito semelhantes àquelas produzidas pela intoxicação por Baccharidastrum triplinervium, Baccharis coridifolia (mio-mio) e Baccharis megapotamica var. weirii (mio-mio do banhado). O diagnóstico diferencial entre essas quatro intoxicações deve ser feito pela presença da planta e pelos dados epidemiológicos. O diagnóstico dos casos espontâneos foram confirmados pelos dados epidemiológicos e reprodução experimental das lesões macro e microscópicas.
Water levels and soil mulches in relation to strawberry diseases an yield in a greenhouse
Authors: Pires Regina Célia de Matos , Folegatti Marcos Vinícius , Tanaka Maria Aparecida de Souza , Passos Francisco Antonio , Ambrosano Gláucia Maria Bovi , Sakai Emilio
Published: December 2007

The occurrence of diseases and its influence on strawberry yield in a greenhouse as well as its association with water management are still not well known. So, the aim of this work was to evaluate the effect of different water levels and soil mulches on strawberry plant health and yield in a greenhouse. The experiment was carried out at Atibaia, State of São Paulo, Brazil, from April to December 1995. The experimental design was a 2 × 3 factorial, in randomized blocks, with five replications, and consisted of two soil mulches and three water levels. The soil mulches consisted of clear or black plastic. Trickle irrigation was applied whenever the soil water potential reached -10, -35 and -70 kPa at a depth of ten centimeters. Cultivar Campinas IAC 2712 was used. Plants grown at a soil water potential of -10 and -35 kPa, with clear plastic mulch provided the best yields. A linear function fitted well considering total yield data and irrigation depths. The equation was y = -233.54 + 1.56x (R² = 0.78). The irrigation level of -70 kPa and the use of black plastic favored a greater incidence of soil-borne diseases late in the harvest season.
Field performance of "marsh seedless" grapefruit on trifoliate orange inoculated with viroids in Brazil
Authors: Stuchi Eduardo Sanches , Silva Simone Rodrigues da , Donadio Luiz Carlos , Sempionato Otávio Ricardo , Reiff Eduardo Toller
Published: December 2007

Some viroids reduce citrus tree growth and may be used for tree size control aiming the establishment of orchards with close tree spacing that may provide higher productivity than conventional ones. To study the effects of citrus viroids inoculation on vegetative growth, yield and fruit quality of 'Marsh Seedless' grapefruit (Citrus paradisi Macf.) grafted on trifoliate orange [Poncirus trifoliata (L.) Raf.], an experiment was set up in January 1991, in Bebedouro, São Paulo State, Brazil. The experimental design was randomized blocks with four treatments with two plants per plot: viroid isolates Citrus Exocortis Viroid (CEVd) + Hop stunt viroid (HSVd - CVd-II, a non cachexia variant) + Citrus III viroid (CVd-III) and Hop stunt viroid (HSVd - CVd-II, a non cachexia variant) + Citrus III viroid (CVd-III) and controls: two healthy buds (control), and no grafting (absolute control). Inoculation was done in the field, six months after planting by bud grafting. Both isolates reduced tree growth (trunk diameter, plant height, canopy diameter and volume). Trees not inoculated yielded better (average of eleven harvests) than inoculated ones but the productivity was the same after 150 months. Fruit quality was affected by viroids inoculation but not in a restrictive way. The use of such severe dwarfing isolates for high density plantings of grapefruit on trifoliate orange rootstock is not recommended.
Late pest control in determinate tomato cultivars
Authors: Boiça Júnior Arlindo Leal , Macedo Marcos Aurélio Anequini , Torres Adalci Leite , Angelini Marina Robles
Published: December 2007

The usage of insecticidal plants and others insect resistant varieties can be strong allies to the Integrated Pest Management (IPM), being able to reduce the number of insecticides applications and to minimize its effect to the man and the environment.The following control techniques were compared in field conditions, investigating the late pest control of two determinate tomato cultivars: a) Conventional - sprayings of metamidophos, buprofezin, acephate, cipermetrin, abamectin, permetrin, teflubenzuron and lufenuron, applied every three to six days; b) IPM - action threshold of each pest to the spraying of imidacloprid, triflumuron, lufenuron and abamectin; c) IPM - Azadirachta indica (neem) - Action threshold of each pest to the spraying of the nim oil (1.2% of azadirachtin) at a concentration of 0.5%. The IPM and IPM - Neem control techniques were efficient controlling the late pest of the tomato cultivar, not differing from the conventional treatment that presented the lowest levels of infestation. The conventional control technique, IPM and IPM-neem promoted bigger tomato production with increasements of up to 74%. The number of sprayings was reduced up to 77% with the IPM and IPM - neem techniques, when compared to the conventional method. The neem product may be a promising alternative to the late pest control in the tomato field that adjusts to the IPM.
Mineral weathering in acid saprolites from subtropical, southern Brazil
Authors: Clemente Celso Augusto , Azevedo Antonio Carlos de
Published: December 2007

Because weathering of minerals releases chemical elements into the biogeochemical cycle, characterization of their weathering products helps to better model groundwater quality, formation of secondary minerals and nutrient flux through the trophic chain. Based on microscopic and elemental analyses, weathering of riodacite from Serra Geral formation was characterized and weathering paths proposed. Three weathering paths of plagioclase phenocrystals were identified: plagioclase to gibbsite (Pg1); plagioclase to gels and gibbsite (Pg2); and plagioclase to gels, gibbsite and kaolinite (Pg3). Pyroxenes weathered to smectite and goethite (Py1), or to goethite and gibbsite (Py2), and magnetite weathered directly into iron oxides. Rock matrix comprises 90% of rock volume, and weathered to kaolinite and gibbsite, which explains why these minerals were the most abundant in the weathering products of these saprolites.
Competition in a rice - cowpea intercrop as affected by nitrogen fertilizer and plant population
Authors: Oroka Frank Oke , Omoregie Anthony U.
Published: December 2007

The increased productivity or yield advantage provided by intercropping is attributed to a better use of resources by crops grown in mixtures, as compared to the same species grown in sole stands. In an intercropping system with upland rice and cowpea, the intra and inter-competition was quantified, as affected by plant population density and rate of nitrogen. Reductions in number of panicles per rice plant and number of grains per panicle were obtained with high density in both sole and mixture rice populations. Increasing nitrogen rate did not affect yield and yield components in both populations, but number and weight of pods per plant of cowpea in sole stands increased. Land equivalent ratios exceeding unity were obtained, indicating an improved resource use by the crop mixture. Relative crowding coefficient and aggressivity indices showed cowpea to be the dominant crop, with rice being dominated. Nitrogen utilization efficiency was high with intercrops, but was generally poor in stands of high population density.
Calibration of a capacitance probe in a Paleudult
Authors: Silva Cláudio Ricardo da , Andrade Júnior Aderson Soares de , Alves Júnior José , Souza Antonio Barros de , Melo Francisco de Brito , Coelho Filho Maurício Antonio
Published: December 2007

The use of capacitance sensors is one of the methods used to quantitatively measure soil water contents (theta, m³ m-3). Sensors provide readings at desired depths and time intervals. A capacitance probe (Diviner 2000) was calibrated for a Rhodic Paleudult from the Piaui State, Brazil. Six access tubes were installed in a 5 × 2 m grid arrangement. Three moisture levels (saturated, moist and dry) were used in two replications. Probe readings and soil samplings to determine theta were made at 0.1 m depth intervals down to a depth of 1.0 m. A power calibration equation was developed for each depth as well as for the entire soil profile (Root Mean Square Error = 0.014, R² = 0.93) for a theta range of 0.068 to 0.264 m³m-3. A separate calibration for each depth improves the correlation coefficient and minimizes RMSE. Site-specific calibration improves the accuracy for soil water monitoring.
Sinterização de pastilhas de nitreto cúbico de boro utilizando como ligantes compostos de titânio
Authors: Valpassos J.M. , Ramalho A.M. , Bobrovnitchii G.S. , Monteiro S.N.
Published: December 2007

O Nitreto Cúbico de Boro (cBN) é uma forma alotrópica sintética do nitreto de boro que é obtida sob condições de altas pressões e altas temperaturas (HPHT), geralmente a partir do nitreto hexagonal de boro (hBN). Compactos sinterizados de cBN são produzidos sinterizando cBN e ligantes na faixa de 6,0-8,0GPa e cerca de l600-2000°C em tempos que variam até 30 minutos. No presente trabalho, compósitos de cBN com ligantes a base de titânio em l0%p foram sinterizados em parâmetros de 7,7GPa e 2000K. Análises por MEV apresentaram uma estrutura parcialmente sinterizada. A dureza e resistência ao desgaste foram estudadas demonstrando resultados promissores. As propriedades mecânicas dos compósitos foram avaliadas em situações reais de trabalho, por meio de usinagem do aço AISI 4140 endurecido a 54-HRC.