Balanced Crystalloids Versus Normal Saline in Kidney Transplant Patients: An Updated Systematic Review, Meta-analysis, and Trial Sequential Analysis.

BACKGROUND: The use of balanced crystalloids over normal saline for perioperative fluid management during kidney transplantation and its benefits on acid-base and electrolyte balance along with its influence on postoperative clinical outcomes remains a topic of controversy. Therefore, we conducted this review to assess the impact of balanced solutions compared to normal saline on outcomes for kidney transplant patients. METHODS: We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing balanced lower-chloride solutions to normal saline in renal transplant patients. Our main outcome of interest was delayed graft function (DGF). Additionally, we examined acid-base and electrolyte measurements, along with postoperative renal function. We computed relative risk (RR) using the Mantel-Haenszel test for binary outcomes, and mean difference (MD) for continuous data, and applied DerSimonian and Laird random-effects models to address heterogeneity. Furthermore, we performed a trial sequential analysis (TSA) for all outcomes. RESULTS: Twelve RCTs comprising a total of 1668 patients were included; 832 (49.9%) were assigned to receive balanced solutions. Balanced crystalloids reduced the occurrence of DGF compared to normal saline, with RR of 0.82 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.71-0.94), P = .005; I² = 0%. The occurrence was 25% (194 of 787) in the balanced crystalloids group and 34% (240 of 701) in the normal saline group. Moreover, our TSA supported the primary outcome result and suggests that the sample size was sufficient for our conclusion. End-of-surgery chloride (MD, -8.80 mEq·L -1 ; 95% CI, -13.98 to -3.63 mEq.L -1 ; P < .001), bicarbonate (MD, 2.12 mEq·L -1 ; 95% CI, 1.02-3.21 mEq·L -1 ; P < .001), pH (MD, 0.06; 95% CI, 0.04-0.07; P < .001), and base excess (BE) (MD, 2.41 mEq·L -1 ; 95% CI, 0.88-3.95 mEq·L -1 ; P = .002) significantly favored the balanced crystalloids groups and the end of surgery potassium (MD, -0.17 mEq·L -1 ; 95% CI, -0.36 to 0.02 mEq·L -1 ; P = .07) did not differ between groups. However, creatinine did not differ in the first (MD, -0.06 mg·dL -1 ; 95% CI, -0.38 to 0.26 mg·dL -1 ; P = .71) and seventh (MD, -0.06 mg·dL -1 ; 95% CI, -0.18 to 0.06 mg·dL -1 ; P = .30) postoperative days nor urine output in the first (MD, -1.12 L; 95% CI, -3.67 to 1.43 L; P = .39) and seventh (MD, -0.01 L; 95% CI, -0.45 to 0.42 L; P = .95) postoperative days. CONCLUSIONS: Balanced lower-chloride solutions significantly reduce the occurrence of DGF and provide an improved acid-base and electrolyte control in patients undergoing kidney transplantation.

Dual Antiplatelet Therapy vs Alteplase in Adult Patients with Acute Minor Ischemic Stroke: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

The efficacy and safety of dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) relative to intravenous (IV) alteplase in patients with acute minor ischemic stroke are insufficiently established. Therefore, we aimed to perform a meta-analysis to compare DAPT with IV alteplase in patients with acute minor stroke. MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane were searched for studies comparing DAPT with IV alteplase in patients with minor stroke. Functional and safety outcomes in 90 days were analyzed. Statistical analysis was performed using Rstudio 4.3.1. Subanalyses were performed restricted to non-disabling minor strokes and NIHSS score ≤ 3. PROSPERO (CRD42023440986). We included five studies with a total of 6,340 patients, of whom 4,050 (63.9%) received DAPT. The follow-up period for all included studies was 90 days. There was no significant difference for individual outcomes of mRS 0-1 (OR 1.26; 95% CI 0.85-1.89; p = 0.25), mRS 0-2 (OR 0.99; 95% CI 0.69-1.43; p = 0.97), or all-cause mortality (OR 0.80; 95% CI 0.20-3.13; p = 0.75) between groups. Symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH) was significantly lower (OR 0.11; 95% CI 0.003-0.36; p < 0.001) in patients treated with DAPT compared with IV alteplase. In terms of mRS 0-1 and mRS 0-2, we found no significant difference in both subgroup analyses. We found no statistically significant difference between DAPT and IV alteplase regarding functional outcome (mRS scores of 0-1 and 0-2) or all-cause mortality at 90 days in patients with minor ischemic stroke. Additionally, DAPT was associated with a significantly lower rate of sICH.

Effects of cycle ergometer use in early mobilization following cardiac surgery: a randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effect of early use of a cycle ergometer, compared to a standard care protocol, in postoperatory in-hospital mobility following cardiac surgery. DESIGN: A randomized controlled trial. SETTING: Tertiary hospital in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil. SUBJECTS: Patients submitted to elective cardiac surgery (valvular or coronary bypass surgery by sternotomy). INTERVENTION: Patients were randomly allocated in two groups: (1) cycle ergometer training group (10-minute session) and (2) control group submitted standard physiotherapy protocol (10-minute session). Training was provided twice a day, immediately following extubation and until patient was discharged from the intensive care. MAIN MEASURES: The primary outcome was the difference in the total number of steps recorded on the pedometer over three days. Secondary outcomes were mobility in different subgroups and the reasons that prevented individuals from walking during early cardiac rehabilitation. RESULTS: A total of 228 participants completed the study. No significant difference was found in the total number of steps between the groups after intervention: 2183 (range: 1729-2772) in the intervention group versus 2006 (1517-2657) in the control group (P = 0.167). However, self-reports indicated better motivation in the intervention group (P = 0.044). No adverse events occurred during the study. CONCLUSION: As a strategy for early mobilization following cardiac surgery, the use of a cycle ergometer failed to increase independent physical activity compared to a standard care protocol. Nevertheless, it was safe and could be an alternative to make rehabilitation more attractive and motivational for this patient population.

Risk factors and survival of patients infected with carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae in a KPC endemic setting: a case-control and cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Many gaps in the burden of resistant pathogens exist in endemic areas of low- and middle-income economies, especially those endemic for carbapenem resistance. The aim of this study is to evaluate risk factors for carbapenem-resistance, to estimate the association between carbapenem-resistance and all-cause 30-day mortality and to examine whether mortality is mediated by inappropriate therapy. METHODS: A case-control and a cohort study were conducted in one tertiary-care hospital in Medellín, Colombia from 2014 to 2015. Phenotypic and genotypic characterization of isolates was performed. In the case-control study, cases were defined as patients infected with carbapenem-resistant K. pneumoniae (CRKP) and controls as patients infected with carbapenem-susceptible K. pneumoniae (CSKP). A risk factor analysis was conducted using logistic regression models. In the cohort study, the exposed group was defined as patients infected with CRKP and the non-exposed group as patients infected with CSKP. A survival analysis using an accelerated failure time model with a lognormal distribution was performed to estimate the association between carbapenem resistance and all-cause 30-day-mortality and to examine whether mortality is mediated by inappropriate therapy. RESULTS: A total of 338 patients were enrolled; 49 were infected with CRKP and 289 with CSKP. Among CRKP isolates CG258 (n = 29), ST25 (n = 5) and ST307 (n = 4) were detected. Of importance, every day of meropenem (OR 1.18, 95%CI 1.10-1.28) and cefepime (OR 1.22, 95%CI 1.03-1.49) use increase the risk of carbapenem resistance. Additional risk factors were previous use of ciprofloxacin (OR 2.37, 95%CI 1.00-5.35) and urinary catheter (OR 2.60, 95%CI 1.25-5.37). Furthermore, a significant lower survival time was estimated for patients infected with CRKP compared to CSKP (Relative Times 0.44, 95%CI 0.24-0.82). The strength of association was reduced when appropriate therapy was included in the model (RT = 0.81 95%CI 0.48-1.37). CONCLUSION: Short antibiotic courses had the potential to reduce the selection and transmission of CRKP. A high burden in mortality occurred in patients infected with CRKP in a KPC endemic setting and CRKP leads to increased mortality via inappropriate antibiotic treatment. Furthermore, dissemination of recognized hypervirulent clones could add to the list of challenges for antibiotic resistance control.

Growth of children born to renal transplanted women.

Neonates born to transplanted mothers are exposed to immunosuppressive drugs during gestation and have a higher risk of being born prematurely and small for gestational age than the general population. We have prospectively followed up 27 children born to renal transplanted mothers from a single center and 31 healthy children born at term with adequate weight for gestational age. Comparisons of weight and length measurements were made at birth, 1 month (±0.9), 3 months (±1.0), 6 months (±1.0), 9 months (±1.5), and 12 months (±1.49) of age. There were a high rate of prematurity (51.9%) and neonates small for gestational age (40.7%) in the transplant group. At birth, in the transplant group, 28% of neonates had subnormal z-scores for weight and 40%, low z-scores for length. However, at 6 months of age, no significant differences were noticed in mean weight-for-age z-scores between groups (weight -0.43 vs -0.03; length -0.53 vs -0.08). At 12 months of age, comparable mean length-for-age z-scores were observed in both groups (weight 0.01 vs 0.27; length -0.07 vs 0.26). CONCLUSION: Despite high rates of premature births and neonates small for gestational age in the transplant group, there was a good recovery of growth during the first year.. What is Known: • Children born to renal transplanted mothers are exposed to immunosuppressive drugs during gestation [4]. • They have high risk of premature birth and fetal growth restriction, immune alterations at birth, and risk of hospitalization for infection in the first months of life [5]. What is New: • Despite high rates of premature birth and neonates small for gestational age, these infants had good growth recovery by 1 year of age.

Perioperative or Postoperative Probiotics Reduce Treatment-Related Complications in Adult Colorectal Cancer Patients Undergoing Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

PURPOSE: This systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) aimed to assess the efficacy of perioperative or postoperative probiotics as a therapeutic approach for managing colorectal cancer treatment-related complications in patients undergoing surgery, with or without adjuvant therapy. METHODS: MEDLINE, Embase, and Scopus databases were searched. RESULTS: Ten RCTs with 1276 patients were included. There was a significant decrease in the incidence of diarrhea (odds ratio (OR) 0.42; 95% CI 0.31 to 0.55; p < 0.001), surgical site infection (OR 0.44; 95% CI 0.22 to 0.89; p = 0.023), urinary infection (OR 0.43; 95% CI 0.20 to 0.91; p = 0.028), pulmonary infection (OR 0.30; 95% CI 0.15 to 0.60; p < 0.001), abdominal distention (OR 0.43; 95% CI 0.25 to 0.76; p = 0.004), length of ATB therapy (mean difference (MD) - 1.66 days; 95% CI - 2.13 to - 1.19 days; p < 0.001), and duration of postoperative pyrexia (MD - 0.80 days; 95% CI - 1.38 to - 0.22 days; p = 0.007) in the probiotic group. Nevertheless, length of hospital stay, time to first defecation, and time to first solid diet were not different between groups. CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest that perioperative or postoperative probiotics is effective for reducing treatment-related complications in patients with colorectal cancer undergoing surgery, with a lower rate of adverse events.

Efficacy of dexmedetomidine as an adjuvant to local anesthetics in peribulbar block: a meta-analysis with trial-sequential analysis.

PURPOSE: To assess the role of dexmedetomidine as an adjuvant to local anesthetics (LA) in enhancing the duration and quality of peribulbar blocks for ophthalmic surgeries. DESIGN: Systematic review with meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis Methods: We systematically searched MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving adult patients undergoing ophthalmic surgery under peribulbar block, comparing LA alone versus LA + dexmedetomidine. Risk ratios (RR) and mean differences (MD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were computed using a random effects model. Sensitivity and trial-sequential analyses (TSA) were performed to assess inconsistencies, weight type II and II errors, and estimate the required information size of the samples for all endpoints. RESULTS: Sixteen RCTs (1,220 patients) were included. Compared with LA alone, dexmedetomidine was associated with prolonged (1) motor block duration (MD 65.01 minutes, p<0.001) and (2) sensory block duration (MD 81.94 minutes, p<0.001); (3) reduced intraocular pressure (IOP) (MD -2.6 mmHg, p<0.001), and (4) decreased need for supplemental injections (RR 0.44, p=0.007). Additionally, dexmedetomidine showed (5) longer time to analgesic request (MD 97.15 minutes, p<0.001) and (6) increased surgeon satisfaction (RR 1.52, p=0.01). Sensitivity analyses and TSA were consistent across all endpoints, and the required information size was achieved for most endpoints, indicating that pooled analyses were reliable and sample sizes were sufficient. CONCLUSIONS: Compared with LA alone, dexmedetomidine significantly prolonged sensory and motor block duration and the time to the first analgesic request; decreased IOP and the need for supplemental injections, while increasing surgeon satisfaction.

Prothrombin Complex Concentrate versus Fresh Frozen Plasma in Adult Patients Undergoing Cardiac Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Background: Prothrombin complex concentrate (PCC) and fresh frozen plasma (FFP) are commonly used to manage bleeding in patients during cardiac surgery. However, the relative efficacy and safety of these 2 strategies remain uncertain. Methods: MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane were searched for studies comparing PCC and FFP in patients who underwent cardiac surgery complicated by bleeding. Review Manager (RevMan) ver. 5.4 (Nordic Cochrane Centre, The Cochrane Collaboration) was used for statistical analysis. Binary and continuous outcomes were compared using pooled risk ratios and mean differences, respectively. The meta-analysis protocol was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews under protocol number CRD42022379144. Results: We included 8 studies with 1,500 patients, of whom 613 (40.9%) received PCC. The mean follow-up period ranged from 28 to 90 days. The PCC group had significantly lower chest tube drainage at 24 hours (mean difference [MD], -148.50 mL; 95% CI, -253.02 to -43.99 mL; p=0.005; I2=42%). Fewer units of red blood cells (RBCs) were transfused within the first 24 hours (MD, -1.02 units; 95% CI, -1.81 to -0.24 units; p=0.01; I2=56%), and fewer patients required RBC transfusion within the first 24 hours (risk ratio, 0.85; 95% CI, 0.78-0.93; p<0.007; I2=45%) in the PCC group. There were no statistically significant differences in secondary outcomes. Nonetheless, a subgroup analysis of randomized controlled trials failed to corroborate the results obtained from the main analysis. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that PCC can be effective, without increased adverse events, when compared with FFP in patients undergoing cardiac surgery complicated by bleeding.

Hypertonic Saline Solution Versus Mannitol for Brain Relaxation During Craniotomies: A Systematic Review and Updated Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The preferred osmotic agent used for brain relaxation during craniotomies remains unclear, either mannitol (MAN) or hypertonic saline (HTS). Hence, we sought to compare these solutions in this population. METHODS: MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane databases were systematically searched until August 02, 2023. Data were examined using the Mantel-Haenszel method and 95% CIs. Heterogeneity was assessed using I2 statistics. Meta-regression analysis was conducted to evaluate a possible link between Brain Relaxation Score and tumor volume. R, version 4.2.3, was used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: A total of 16 randomized controlled trials and 1031 patients were included, of whom 631 (61%) underwent surgery for supratentorial tumor resection. Compared with MAN, HTS achieved better rates of brain relaxation (80% vs 71%; odds ratio [OR] 1.68; 95% CI 1.22-2.33; P = .001; I2 = 0%), which was also demonstrated in the subgroup analysis of patients with supratentorial brain tumor (78% vs 65%; OR 2.02; 95% CI 1.36-2.99; P = .0005; I2 = 0%); a minor number of patients requiring a second dose of osmotic agent (14% vs 28%; OR 0.43; 95% CI 0.27-0.69; P = .0003; I2 = 0%); a lower fluid intake (mean difference -475.9341 mL; 95% CI -818.8952 to -132.9730; P = .007; I2 = 88%); and lower urine output (mean difference -462.0941 mL; 95% CI -585.3020 to -338.8862; P = <.001; I2 = 96%). Hospital length of stay and focal neurological deficits did not reach a statistically significant difference between groups. CONCLUSION: In this updated meta-analysis, consistent results suggest that HTS is associated with more beneficial outcomes than MAN in patients undergoing craniotomy.

Gantenerumab for early Alzheimer's disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Gantenerumab is a monoclonal antibody targeting amyloid ß protein (Aß) in early Alzheimer's disease (AD). The authors sought to evaluate gantenerumab safety and efficacy in early AD patients. METHODS: MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane databases were systematically searched until 2 December 2023. Data were examined using the Mantel-Haenszel method and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Meta-regression analysis was conducted to evaluate a possible link between baseline Clinical Dementia Rating Scale - Sum of Boxes (CDR-SB) and amyloid-related imaging abnormalities (ARIA) at follow-up. R, version 4.2.3, was used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: A total of 4 RCTs and 2848 patients were included, of whom 1580 (55%) received subcutaneous gantenerumab. Concerning clinical scores, the placebo group achieved better rates of change in the Disease Assessment Scale (ADAS-Cog13) (SMD -0.11; 95% CI -0.19- -0.03; p = 0.008569; I2 = 0%). Gantenerumab was strongly associated with the occurrence of ARIA-E and ARIA-H: (19.67% vs. 2.31%; RR 9.46; 95% CI 5.55-16.11; p = <0.000001; I2 = 10%) and (21.95% vs. 12.38%; RR 1.79; 95% CI 1.50-2.13; p = <0.000001; I2 = 0%), respectively. DISCUSSION: In this meta-analysis, consistent results suggest that gantenerumab is not safe and efficient for early AD, showing no improvement in clinical scores for AD and being associated with the occurrence of ARIA-E and ARIA-H.

Streptococcus suis meningitis in a COVID-19 patient: A case report.

Streptococcus suis is a Gram-positive, facultative anaerobic bacterium and has its natural reservoir in pigs. Infection by this microorganism usually manifests in humans as meningitis, endocarditis, sepsis, and/or arthritis after contact with pigs or pork. Meningitis is a very common manifestation and Streptococcus suis may be considered its second most common cause. A clinical course may manifest acutely or with a more chronic course. Streptococcus suis is endemic in pork-consuming and pig-rearing countries, but may occur all over the world, especially in individuals with occupational exposure to pigs and/or pork, such as abattoir workers, butchers, and farmers. Most infections are observed in adults without preexisting diseases. We report a case of Streptococcus suis meningitis in a healthy patient with occupational exposure and with an asymptomatic infection by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, who was admitted to an intensive care unit in a tertiary hospital in the North of Portugal.

Anesthesia management of pediatric subglottic stenosis: A case report.

Subglottic stenosis balloon dilation in selected patients may be an option for the treatment of acquired subglottic stenosis, reducing the need for open surgical approaches or tracheostomy. This treatment is a major challenge to otolaryngologists and anesthesiologists, with an interactive collaboration being critical throughout the procedure. When performed, it is fundamental that otolaryngologists and anesthesiologists communicate properly during the procedure to achieve acceptable results. The complex management of the airway and inherent delicacy and risks of the intervention may be challenging. A proper preparation of the procedure and familiarization with the step-by-step technique could optimize the results and prepare the team to deal with intervening complications. We report a case of management and treatment of an 8-month-old baby with subglottic stenosis proposed for endoscopic balloon dilation treatment from Porto, North of Portugal.

Surgical versus non-surgical treatment of flail chest: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

PURPOSE: Conflicting evidence exists on the choice of surgical or non-surgical treatment of flail chest injuries. We aimed to perform a meta-analysis comparing outcomes in patients presenting flail chest undergoing surgical or non-surgical treatment. METHODS: Embase, PubMed, and Cochrane databases were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing surgery to no surgery in patients with acute unstable chest wall injuries. We computed weighted mean differences (WMDs) for continuous outcomes and risk ratios (RRs) for binary endpoints, with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Random effects meta-analyses were performed. Heterogeneity was assessed using I2 statistics. RESULTS: Six RCTs (544 patients) were included, and surgical treatment was used in 269 (49.4%). Compared to no surgery, surgery reduced mechanical ventilation days (WMD - 4.34, 95% CI - 6.98, - 1.69; p < 0.01; I2 = 87%; GRADE: very low; PI - 13.51, 4.84); length of intensive care unit stay (WMD - 4.62, 95% CI - 7.19, - 2.05; p < 0.01; I2 = 78%; GRADE: low; PI - 12.86, 3.61) and the incidence of pneumonia (RR 0.50, 95% CI 0.31, 0.81; p = 0.005; I2 = 54%; GRADE: moderate; PI 0.13, 1.91). No difference in mortality (RR 0.56, 95% CI 0.19, 1.65; p = 0.27; I2 = 23%; GRADE: moderate; PI 0.04, 7.25), length of hospital stay (WMD - 5.39, 95% CI - 11.38, - 0.60; p = 0.08; I2 = 89%; GRADE: very low; PI - 11.38, 0.60), or need for tracheostomy (RR 0.59, 95% CI 0.34, 1.03; p = 0.06; I2 = 54%; GRADE: moderate; PI 0.11, 3.24) was found. CONCLUSIONS: Our results suggest that surgical treatment is advantageous compared to non-surgical treatment for patients with flail chest secondary to rib fractures.

Humoral and cellular immune responses to measles and tetanus: the importance of elapsed time since last exposure and the nature of the antigen.

OBJECTIVE: This study aims to assess the cellular and humoral immune response pre- and post-vaccine rechallenge in healthy adults with previous exposure to measles (virus or vaccine) and different time intervals since last tetanus vaccine. METHODS: Humoral immunity was tested by ELISA, and cellular immunity was tested by intracellular interferon gamma detection after in vitro stimulation with antigens. RESULTS: While cellular immunity was comparable among vaccinated individuals and those who had measles, higher antibody levels were found in those who had the disease in the past. Both antibodies and CD4(+) T cell tetanus immune responses depended on elapsed time since last immunization. Following a vaccine booster, an increase in cellular immunity and antibodies was observed to both tetanus and measles. Measles humoral response was much more intense among individuals previously exposed to a wild virus. CONCLUSIONS: In an era when natural boosters are less frequent, an immune surveillance might be necessary to investigate waning immunity as occurs for tetanus.

When radiology determines the success of removal of a retained epidural catheter: A case report.

The epidural block is an anesthetic procedure that can have possible complications upon insertion or removal. Epidural catheter retention is a rare complication; its etiology may come from lateral migration with kinking of the catheter or from involvement with bone, ligamentous, muscular, vascular structures, or nerve roots. Up until today, there is not a standard approach to this complication; however, there are some recommendations for the management of retained epidural catheters. Here, we describe a case report of epidural catheter retention, in which we followed the published recommendations. Although computed tomography scanning may be the best option to visualize the anatomical position of the distal extremity of an epidural catheter, with this case report we intend to reinforce the fundamental contribution of the contrast radiograph in the successful catheter removal. Posteriorly, a protocol for clinical orientation of epidural catheter retention was developed in our institution.

Response to immunization in children born to renal transplant recipients using immunosuppressive drugs during gestation.

The use of immunosuppressive drugs can impair vaccination responses. When used during pregnancy, they may interfere with the development of the fetus's immune system. However, little is known regarding their influence on infant's response to vaccinations. Twenty-seven children born to renal transplant mothers (Tx) taking immunosuppressive drugs and 31 healthy children had the humoral immune response and reactogenicity to tetanus, Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) and 7 pneumococcal serotypes evaluated. The evolution of BCG vaccine scar was also registered. Antibodies were measured by ELISA. Lymphocyte immunophenotyping was performed on cord blood and at 7-8 months of age. Among Tx neonates, 82.4% had low B lymphocyte numbers at birth, and 29.4% had also low numbers of other lymphocyte subpopulations. Nevertheless, all children developed protective antibodies with similar antibody concentrations to the control group. Vaccine reactogenicity was similar in both groups and BCG healing was uneventful.

Maternally acquired IgG immunity in neonates born to renal transplanted women.

Neonates born to renal transplanted women are exposed in utero to immunosuppressors and to antenatal conditions that may predispose the neonate to a high risk of prematurity and intrauterine growth retardation. These factors might interfere with the transfer of maternal IgG immunity. Total IgG levels and specific antibodies to measles, varicella, tetanus, Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) and Streptococcus pneumoniae (serotypes 4,6B,9V,14,18C,19F and 23F) were evaluated on maternal and cord blood samples of 23 sets of renal transplanted women and their newborns and 32 sets of healthy women-newborns at term. Total IgG levels were measured by nephelometry and specific antibodies, by ELISA. Renal transplanted mothers had lower median tetanus antibodies (0.67IU/mL) than controls (1.53IU/mL; p=0.017). Neonates from renal transplanted mothers had lower median tetanus antibodies (0.95IU/mL) than controls (1.97IU/mL, p=0.008). Antibodies to measles, varicella, Hib and the 7 serotypes of S. pneumoniae were similar between groups. Maternal antibodies were associated with an increase in neonatal antibodies for all antigens; gestational age was associated with an increase in Hib neonatal antibodies. Preeclampsia was associated with a decrease in neonatal total IgG and serotype 4 S. pneumoniae antibodies; chronic hypertension was associated with a decrease in neonatal serotype 6B S. pneumoniae antibodies. As neonates from transplanted women may be born with lower tetanus antibodies than controls, efforts should be made to keep maternal vaccines up-to-date. Clinical antenatal care with control of preeclampsia, chronic hypertension and prevention of premature delivery might also contribute to neonatal antibody levels to specific antigens at birth.

Patient education and self-care for the management of jaw pain upon awakening: a randomized controlled clinical trial comparing the effectiveness of adding pharmacologic treatment with cyclobenzaprine or tizanidine.

AIMS: To compare the effectiveness of adding cyclobenzaprine, tizanidine, or placebo to patient education and a self-care management program for patients with myofascial pain and specifically presenting with jaw pain upon awakening. METHODS: Forty-five patients with a diagnosis of myofascial pain based on the guidelines of the American Academy of Orofacial Pain participated in this 3-week study. The subjects were randomly assigned into one of three groups: placebo group, TZA group (tizanidine 4 mg), or CYC group (cyclobenzaprine 10 mg). Patients were evaluated for changes in pain intensity, frequency, and duration by using the modified Severity Symptoms Index and changes in sleep quality with the use of the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. Data were analyzed by ANOVA and post-hoc or nonparametric statistical tests as appropriate. RESULTS: All three groups had a reduction in pain symptoms and improvement of sleep quality based on a comparison of pretreatment and treatment scores. However, no significant differences among the groups were observed at the posttreatment evaluation. CONCLUSION: The use of tizanidine or cyclobenzaprine in addition to self-care management and patient education was not more effective than placebo for the management of patients with myofascial jaw pain upon awakening.

Estresse gravitacional no pós-operatório de cirurgia cardíaca / Gravitational stress in postoperative heart surgery

INTRODUÇÃO: Após a cirurgia cardíaca, a mobilização precoce busca o ganho funcional e um melhor condicionamento para as próximas fases da reabilitação cardiovascular, tendo o estresse gravitacional(EG)um importante papel para o retorno destas atividades, através da integridade dos mecanismos compensatórios cardiovasculares. OBJETIVO: verificar o comportamento de variáveis circulatórias e respiratórias durante o EG no pós-operatório de cirurgia cardíaca. MÉTODOS E MATERIAIS: Estudo observacional, transversal e analítico, composto por 83 indivíduos adultos clinicamente estáveis, submetidos a cirurgia de revascularização do miocárdio ou abordagem valvar. Excluídos aqueles com dificuldade de compreensão das atividades realizadas, além de comprometimento motor e/ou neurológico que impossibilitassem a realização do EG, de forma adaptada. Foram coletados os dados circulatórios e respiratórios no 1° minuto para cada etapa através do monitor multiparamétrico Gemedical Systems@. RESULTADOS: As frequências cardíaca e respiratória apresentaram um aumento com significância estatística (p ≤ 0,01), quando analisado seus valores de variação de decúbito dorsal para sedestação e decúbito dorsal para ortostase. CONCLUSÃO: As variáveis hemodinâmicas e respiratórias se comportam de acordo com a resposta fisiológica durante o EG, sugerindo que esse procedimento é seguro no ambiente da terapia intensiva, mesmo se tratando de um pós-operatório de alta complexidade. [AU]

INTRODUCTION: after cardiac surgery, early mobilization seeks functional gain and better conditioning for the next phases of cardiac rehabilitation, with gravitational stress (GS) playing an important role in the return of these activities through the integrity of cardiovascular compensatory mechanisms. OBJECTIVE: to verify the behavior of circulatory and respiratory variables during (GS) in the postoperative period of cardiac surgery. METHODS AND MATERIALS: observational cross-sectional analytical study, consisted of 83 clinically stable adults undergoing coronary artery bypass or valve surgery approach. Excluded those with difficulty understanding the activities performed, in addition to motor and / or neurological impairment that made it impossible to perform GS, an adapted form. Circulatory and respiratory data were collected in the 1st minute for each stage using the multi-parameter monitor Gemedical Systems@.RESULTS: The heart and respiratory rates showed an increase was statistically significant (p ≤ 0.01) when analyzed their dorsal range of values for sedestation and supine to standing position. CONCLUSION: hemodynamic and respiratory variables behave in accordance with the physiological response during GS, suggesting that this procedure is safe within the intensive care setting, even if a treating postoperative high complexity. [AU]