The use of artificial intelligence for automating or semi-automating biomedical literature analyses: A scoping review.

OBJECTIVE: Evidence-based medicine (EBM) is a decision-making process based on the conscious and judicious use of the best available scientific evidence. However, the exponential increase in the amount of information currently available likely exceeds the capacity of human-only analysis. In this context, artificial intelligence (AI) and its branches such as machine learning (ML) can be used to facilitate human efforts in analyzing the literature to foster EBM. The present scoping review aimed to examine the use of AI in the automation of biomedical literature survey and analysis with a view to establishing the state-of-the-art and identifying knowledge gaps. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Comprehensive searches of the main databases were performed for articles published up to June 2022 and studies were selected according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. Data were extracted from the included articles and the findings categorized. RESULTS: The total number of records retrieved from the databases was 12,145, of which 273 were included in the review. Classification of the studies according to the use of AI in evaluating the biomedical literature revealed three main application groups, namely assembly of scientific evidence (n = 127; 47%), mining the biomedical literature (n = 112; 41%) and quality analysis (n = 34; 12%). Most studies addressed the preparation of systematic reviews, while articles focusing on the development of guidelines and evidence synthesis were the least frequent. The biggest knowledge gap was identified within the quality analysis group, particularly regarding methods and tools that assess the strength of recommendation and consistency of evidence. CONCLUSION: Our review shows that, despite significant progress in the automation of biomedical literature surveys and analyses in recent years, intense research is needed to fill knowledge gaps on more difficult aspects of ML, deep learning and natural language processing, and to consolidate the use of automation by end-users (biomedical researchers and healthcare professionals).

Inflammatory biomarkers on an LPS-induced RAW 264.7 cell model: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Several experimental models have been designed to promote the development of new anti-inflammatory drugs. The in vitro model using RAW 264.7 cells has been widely used. However, there is still no consensus on which inflammatory mediators should initially be measured to screen for possible anti-inflammatory effects. To determine the rationality of measuring inflammatory mediators together with NO, such as the levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and interleukins (IL) 1ß and 6, we carried out this systematic review (SR) and meta-analysis (MA). METHODOLOGY: We conducted this SR and MA in accordance with the Preferred Reporting of Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis and the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Intervention. This review was registered in the Open Science Framework ( https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/8C3HT ). RESULTS: LPS-induced cells produced high NO levels compared to non-LPS induced, and this production was not related to cell density. TNF-α, IL-1ß, and IL-6, also showed high levels after cells had been stimulated with LPS. Though with some restrictions, all studies were reliable, as the risk of bias was detected in the test compounds and systems. CONCLUSION: Measurement of NO levels may be sufficient to screen for possible anti-inflammatory action in the context of LPS-induced RAW 264.7 cells.

Croton antisyphiliticus Mart. attenuates the inflammatory response to carrageenan-induced pleurisy in mice.

The aim of this study was to investigate the anti-inflammatory effect of the crude hydroalcoholic extract (CHE) from the aerial parts of Croton antisyphiliticus, its fractions and isolated compounds derived from it on the mouse model of pleurisy induced by carrageenan. The aerial parts of C. antisyphiliticus were dried, macerated and extracted with ethanol to obtain the CHE, which was fractionated by liquid-liquid extraction using solvents with increasing polarity to obtain hexane (Hex), ethyl acetate (EA) and aqueous (Aq) fractions. Vitexin and quinic acid were isolated from Aq fraction. Capillary electrophoresis analysis, physical characteristics and spectral data produced by infrared (IR), nuclear magnetic resonance ((1)H and (13)C NMR) and mass spectrometry analyses were used to identify and elucidate the structure of the isolated compounds. The experimental model of pleurisy was induced in mice by a single intrapleural injection of carrageenan (1 %). Leukocytes, exudate concentrations, myeloperoxidase (MPO) and adenosine-deaminase (ADA) activities and nitrate/nitrite (NOx), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-17 (IL-17) levels were determined in the pleural fluid leakage at 4 h after pleurisy induction. Animals pre-treated with CHE, Hex, EA, Aq, vitexin and quinic acid exhibited decreases in leukocytes, exudate concentrations, MPO and ADA activities and NOx levels (p < 0.05). Also CHE, Hex, EA and vitexin but not quinic acid inhibited TNF-α and IL-17 levels (p < 0.05). C. antisyphiliticus caused anti-inflammatory effect by inhibiting the activated leukocytes, exudate concentrations, NOx, TNF-α, and IL-17 levels. The compounds vitexin and quinic acid may be responsible for this anti-inflammatory action.

Evidence that the anti-inflammatory effect of 4-aryl-4H-chromenes is linked to macrophage repolarization.

The inflammatory response is a common feature of many pathological conditions, and there is urgent necessity for new substances that minimize the harmful effects of inflammation. Chromenes represent a class of compounds with multiple pharmacological actions that have already been described and may be potential candidates for studies of therapeutic action. This study aimed to test novel 4-aryl-4H-chromene-derived molecules in an in vitro model of inflammation using lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced Raw 264.7 cells. Seven compounds derived from 4-aryl-4H-chromene were tested on Raw 264.7 cells to evaluate their cytotoxic effects. Next, the effect of the selected compounds on the pro-inflammatory mediators (tumor necrosis factor-alpha [TNF-α], monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 [MCP-1], interleukin [IL]-6) and on the anti-inflammatory mediators (IL-10 and IL-13) was analyzed, and finally, the effect of the compounds on macrophage apoptosis and expression of surface receptors (toll-like receptor 4 [TLR-4] and mannose) was evaluated. The results of this study demonstrated that changes in the molecular structure of 4-aryl-4H-chromene altered its cytotoxic profile. Therefore, derivatives that showed safe results were selected for further analyses (named compounds: 4-6). In these experiments, the compounds were able to decrease nitric oxide (NO) levels and production of MCP-1, IL-6, IL-10, and IL-13. Furthermore, these derivatives were effective in reducing macrophage apoptosis and the expression of surface receptors, as TLR-4/CD284. Moreover, compounds 5 and 6 also were effective in increasing mannose receptor (CD206) expression. The results indicate, for the first time to our knowledge, that the anti-inflammatory effect produced by chromenes is linked to macrophage repolarization (M1 to M2).

Ventricular Synchrony in Para-Hisian Cardiac Pacing as an Alternative for Physiological Cardiac Activation (Indirect Recruitment of the His Bundle?). / Sincronia Ventricular na Estimulação Cardíaca Parahissiana: Alternativa por Ativação Cardíaca Fisiológica (Estimulação Indireta do Feixe de His)?

BACKGROUND: Artificial cardiac pacing by direct or indirect His bundle capture results in synchronous ventricular contraction (physiological pacing). OBJECTIVES: To compare cardiac synchronization, technical characteristics, and electronic parameters between two techniques of indirect His-bundle pacing: non-selective (NS-HBP) vs para-Hisian pacing (PHP). METHODS: The experimental intervention (between November 2019 and April 2020) consisted of implanting a DDD pacemaker in patients who had left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) > 35%. The resulting cardiac synchronization was compared using an electrocardiographic algorithm that analyzed QRS variation and the technical characteristics of non-selective Hisian pacing (DDD-His) and para-Hisian pacing (DDD-Var). RESULTS: Of 51 total patients (men: 28), 66.7% (34) were allocated to the DDD-Var group and 33.3% (17) to the DDD-His group. The mean ages in each group were 74 and 79 years, respectively. In the DDD-Var group, QRS variation (ventricular synchrony) improved after implantation (p < 0.001). In post-implantation ECG, 91.2% of the DDD-Var group presented a physiological pacing pattern, which was similar to the DDD-His group (88.2%; p = 0.999). The paced QRS axis was also similar (physiological) for both groups. Intraoperative fluoroscopy time (XRay) during implantation was lower for the para-Hisian technique (median 7 min in the DDD-Var group vs 21 min in the DDD-His group, p < 0.001). The mean QRS duration increased in the DDD-Var group (114.7 ms pre-implantation vs 128.2 ms post-implantation, p = 0.044). The mean post-implantation R-wave amplitude was 11.2 mV in the DDD-Var group vs 6.0 mV in the DDD-His group, p = 0.001. CONCLUSION: Para-Hisian pacing appears to indirectly recruit the His bundle, which would make this an effective and comparable strategy for physiological pacing, resulting in synchronous ventricular contraction similar to that of non-selective Hisian pacing.

FUNDAMENTO: A estimulação cardíaca artificial (ECA) por captura direta ou indireta do feixe de His resulta em contração ventricular sincrônica (ECA fisiológica). OBJETIVOS: Comparar sincronia cardíaca, características técnicas e resultados de parâmetros eletrônicos entre duas técnicas de ECA indireta do feixe de His: a não seletiva e a parahissiana. MÉTODOS: Intervenção experimental (novembro de 2019 a abril de 2020) com implante de marca-passo definitivo (MPd) DDD em pacientes com fração de ejeção ventricular esquerda > 35%. Foram comparadas a sincronia cardíaca resultante mediante algoritmo de análise eletrocardiográfica da variância espacial do QRS e as características técnicas associadas a cada método entre ECA hissiana não seletiva (DDD-His) e parahissiana (DDD-Var). RESULTADOS: De 51 pacientes (28 homens), 34 (66,7%) foram alocados no grupo DDD-Var e 17 (33,3%), no grupo DDD-His, com idade média de 74 e 79 anos, respectivamente. No grupo DDD-Var, a análise da variância espacial do QRS (índice de sincronia ventricular) mostrou melhora após o implante de MPd (p < 0,001). Ao ECG pós-implante, 91,2% dos pacientes do grupo DDD-Var mostraram padrão fisiológico de ECA, comprovando ativação similar à do DDD-His (88,2%; p = 0,999). O eixo do QRS estimulado também foi similar (fisiológico) para ambos os grupos. A mediana do tempo de fluoroscopia do implante foi de 7 minutos no grupo DDD-Var e de 21 minutos no DDD-His (p < 0,001), favorecendo a técnica parahissiana. A duração média do QRS aumentou nos pacientes do DDD-Var (114,7 ms pré-MPd e 128,2 ms pós-implante, p = 0,044). A detecção da onda R foi de 11,2 mV no grupo DDD-Var e de 6,0 mV no DDD-His (p = 0,001). CONCLUSÃO: A ECA parahissiana comprova recrutamento indireto do feixe de His, mostrando-se uma estratégia eficaz e comparável à ECA fisiológica ao resultar em contração ventricular sincrônica similar à obtida por captura hissiana não seletiva.

[Resection of bronchogenic cyst by video-mediastinoscopy]. / Ressecção de quisto broncogénico por vídeomediastinoscopia.

A bronchogenic cyst is a congenital malformation originating from the ventral primitive gut. It may be located in the mediastinum or in the lung parenchyma. Its location depends on the stage of gestation in which it developed. Despite being a histological benign tumor, many authors recommend its complete excision in order to obtain histological confirmation and to prevent future complications. The traditional approaches for excision are thoracotomy or video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS). However, a minimally invasive approach through vídeomediastinoscopy constitutes a valid alternative in selected cases. The authors present a case of a 23 years old female patient, admitted to the emergency department with retrosternal pain, dyspnea at rest, tachycardia, polypnea, infra-clavicular accessory muscle contraction, jugular vein distention and hypoxemia. A Chest CT revealed a large cystic lesion of the middle mediastinum, with compression of the vascular structures, deviation of the tracheobronchial tree and reduction in the diameter of the main bronchi. The patient was referred for surgical treatment. A mini-cervicotomy incision was made, and with elevation of the sternum a video-mediastinoscope was introduced. With bimanual instrumentation, complete excision of a large mediastinal cyst of the middle mediastinum was performed. The cyst was located in the subcarinal and pre-tracheal space, had contact with the left and right main bronchi, esophagus, roof of the left atrium, pulmonary artery and superior pulmonary veins. The histological evaluation revealed a bronchogenic cyst. There were no immediate postoperative complications. The patient remains asymptomatic after two years of follow-up, and without recurrence.

Novaluron impairs the silk gland and productive performance of silkworm Bombyx mori (Lepidoptera: Bombycidae) larvae.

This study investigates the effects of the insect growth regulator Novaluron on the silk gland (SG) and silk cocoon production in a nontarget insect, the silkworm Bombyx mori, which is a model research insect among Lepidoptera and of great economic importance for the commercial production of silk threads. Larvae were segregated into experimental groups: the control group (CG) and the treatment group (TG), which was exposed to a Novaluron concentration of 0.15 mL/L. Following exposure, we analyzed the cytotoxic effects on the epithelial cells of the anterior, middle and posterior regions of the SG of B. mori larvae in the 3rd, 4th, and 5th instars, as well as the quality of the cocoons from larvae in the 5th instar. Cytotoxic effects were observed in the TG, such as the dilation of cells, emission of cytoplasmic protrusions, extreme rarefaction of the cytoplasm and nuclei, dilation of the endoplasmic reticulum, intracellular and intercellular spaces, spacing between the epithelial cells and the basal lamina and detachment of some cells towards the lumen of the SG, and decreased protein in the lumen, with faults in its composition. In addition, we verified ultrastructural changes in the production of fibers and silk cocoons, including a reduction in the weight of the cocoons constructed by both males and females in the TG and the construction of defective cocoons. Novaluron exposure impairs the SG and may affect the physiological functions of this organ; additionally, it compromises the quality of silk cocoons, potentially causing serious damage to sericulture.

Eco-friendly biosurfactant from Wickerhamomyces anomalus CCMA 0358 as larvicidal and antimicrobial.

Kitchen waste oil (KWO) was evaluated as a substrate for production of biosurfactant by Wickerhamomyces anomalus CCMA 0358 and was tested against Aedes aegypti larvae, the mosquito causing neglected diseases, such as dengue fever, Zika, and Chikungunya, achieving 100 % mortality in the lowest concentration (6.25 %) evaluated in 24 h. Furthermore, possible applications of this compound were evaluated as antibacterial, antiadhesive, and antifungal. At a concentration of 50 %, the biosurfactant was found to inhibit the growth of Bacillus cereus, showing high inhibitions levels against Salmonella Enteritidis, Staphylococcus aureus, and Escherichia coli. The antifungal activity was evaluated against Aspergillus, Cercospora, Colletotrichum, and Fusarium, obtaining results of up to 95 % inhibition. In addition to these promising results, the yeast W. anomalus produced the biosurfactant from an inexpensive substrate, which increases the possibility of its application in several industries owing to the low cost involved.

Thermodynamics study of biokerosene from coconut and palm kernel oils and JP-8 aircraft fuels in the gas phase by the DFT method.

In this work, we performed a theoretical density functional theory (DFT) and semi-empirical (PM3) analysis to calculate thermodynamic properties of biokerosene from coconut and palm kernel oils, Jet Propulsion Fuel 8 (JP-8), and mixtures of these fuels. All simulations were performed in thermal equilibrium and for a temperature range of 0.5-1500 K, considering the canonical ensemble model. We predicted the thermal properties energy, enthalpy, enthalpy change, Gibbs free energy, entropy, and specific heat at constant pressure with respect to temperature. In addition, we compared the performances of the DFT functional hybrid B3LYP and the basis set 6-311++G(d,p) and PM3 methods, in order to determine their accuracy for thermodynamic predictions relating to the fuels. Calculations for combustion enthalpy were carried out using the following methods: B3LYP/6-311++G(d,p), B3LYP/6-31+G(d), CBS-QB3, G3, G4, and G3/G4. The results showed good agreement with measured values, indicating that DFT may be a good method to calculate and predict thermodynamic properties of the combustion reactions of kerosene and biokerosene.

Live Cell Imaging Supports a Key Role for Histone Deacetylase as a Molecular Target during Glioblastoma Malignancy Downgrade through Tumor Competence Modulation.

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most aggressive tumor of the central nervous system, and the identification of the mechanisms underlying the biological basis of GBM aggressiveness is essential to develop new therapies. Due to the low prognosis of GBM treatment, different clinical studies are in course to test the use of histone deacetylase inhibitors (iHDACs) in anticancer cocktails. Here, we seek to investigate the impact of HDAC activity on GBM cell behavior and plasticity by live cell imaging. We pharmacologically knock down HDAC activity using two different inhibitors (TSA and SAHA) in two different tumor cell types: a commercial GBM cell line (U87-MG) and primary tumor (GBM011). Upon 72 hours of in vitro iHDAC treatment, GBM cells presented a very unusual elongated cell shape due to tunneling tube formation and independent on TGF-ß signaling epithelial to mesenchymal transition. Live cell imaging revealed that voltage-sensitive Ca++ signaling was disrupted upon HDAC activity blockade. This behavior was coupled to vimentin and connexin 43 gene expression downregulation, suggesting that HDAC activity blockade downgrades GBM aggressiveness mostly due to tumor cell competence and plasticity modulation in vitro. To test this hypothesis and access whether iHDACs would modulate tumor cell behavior and plasticity to properly respond to environmental cues in vivo, we xenografted GBM oncospheres in the chick developing the neural tube. Remarkably, upon 5 days in the developing neural tube, iHDAC-treated GBM cells ectopically expressed HNK-1, a tumor-suppressor marker tightly correlated to increased survivor of patients. These results describe, for the first time in the literature, the relevance of iHDACs for in vivo tumor cell morphology and competence to properly respond to environmental cues. Ultimately, our results highlight the relevance of chromatin remodeling for tumor cell plasticity and shed light on clinical perspectives aiming the epigenome as a relevant therapeutic target for GBM therapy.

Incidence of Intraocular Pressure Elevation following Intravitreal Ranibizumab (Lucentis) for Age-related Macular Degeneration.

AIM: The aim of this article is to evaluate the rate of patients developing sustained elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) after ranibizumab (Lucentis) intravitreal (IVT) injections. DESIGN: This is a retrospective study. PARTICIPANTS: Charts of 192 consecutive patients receiving Lucentis for age-related macular degeneration (AMD) were retrospectively reviewed. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We enrolled patients with at least two IOP measurements between injections. Elevated IOP was defined as >21 mm Hg with an increase of at least 20% from baseline. Noninjected contralateral eyes of the same patient cohort were used as control. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Primary outcome was defined as elevated IOP. Secondary outcomes were presence and type of glaucoma, number of injections, and time to IOP elevation. RESULTS: Elevated IOP occurred at a significantly higher rate in eyes receiving IVT ranibizumab (7.47%; n = 9) compared with control (0.93%; n = 1). Patients with preexisting glaucoma or ocular hypertension (OHT) were more likely to develop elevated IOP after IVT ranibizumab injection. CONCLUSION: Intravitreal ranibizumab injections are associated with sustained IOP elevation in some eyes. HOW TO CITE THIS ARTICLE: Reis GMSM, Grigg J, Chua B, Lee A, Lim R, Higgins R, Martins A, Goldberg I, Clement CI. The Incidence of Intraocular Pressure Elevation following Intravitreal Ranibizumab (Lucentis) for Age-related Macular Degeneration. J Curr Glaucoma Pract 2017;11(1):3-7.

Sincronia Ventricular na Estimulação Cardíaca Parahissiana: Alternativa por Ativação Cardíaca Fisiológica (Estimulação Indireta do Feixe de His)? / Ventricular Synchrony in Para-Hisian Cardiac Pacing as an Alternative for Physiological Cardiac Activation (Indirect Recruitment of the His Bundle?)

Resumo Fundamento A estimulação cardíaca artificial (ECA) por captura direta ou indireta do feixe de His resulta em contração ventricular sincrônica (ECA fisiológica). Objetivos Comparar sincronia cardíaca, características técnicas e resultados de parâmetros eletrônicos entre duas técnicas de ECA indireta do feixe de His: a não seletiva e a parahissiana. Métodos Intervenção experimental (novembro de 2019 a abril de 2020) com implante de marca-passo definitivo (MPd) DDD em pacientes com fração de ejeção ventricular esquerda > 35%. Foram comparadas a sincronia cardíaca resultante mediante algoritmo de análise eletrocardiográfica da variância espacial do QRS e as características técnicas associadas a cada método entre ECA hissiana não seletiva (DDD-His) e parahissiana (DDD-Var). Resultados De 51 pacientes (28 homens), 34 (66,7%) foram alocados no grupo DDD-Var e 17 (33,3%), no grupo DDD-His, com idade média de 74 e 79 anos, respectivamente. No grupo DDD-Var, a análise da variância espacial do QRS (índice de sincronia ventricular) mostrou melhora após o implante de MPd (p < 0,001). Ao ECG pós-implante, 91,2% dos pacientes do grupo DDD-Var mostraram padrão fisiológico de ECA, comprovando ativação similar à do DDD-His (88,2%; p = 0,999). O eixo do QRS estimulado também foi similar (fisiológico) para ambos os grupos. A mediana do tempo de fluoroscopia do implante foi de 7 minutos no grupo DDD-Var e de 21 minutos no DDD-His (p < 0,001), favorecendo a técnica parahissiana. A duração média do QRS aumentou nos pacientes do DDD-Var (114,7 ms pré-MPd e 128,2 ms pós-implante, p = 0,044). A detecção da onda R foi de 11,2 mV no grupo DDD-Var e de 6,0 mV no DDD-His (p = 0,001). Conclusão A ECA parahissiana comprova recrutamento indireto do feixe de His, mostrando-se uma estratégia eficaz e comparável à ECA fisiológica ao resultar em contração ventricular sincrônica similar à obtida por captura hissiana não seletiva.

Abstract Background Artificial cardiac pacing by direct or indirect His bundle capture results in synchronous ventricular contraction (physiological pacing). Objectives To compare cardiac synchronization, technical characteristics, and electronic parameters between two techniques of indirect His-bundle pacing: non-selective (NS-HBP) vs para-Hisian pacing (PHP). Methods The experimental intervention (between November 2019 and April 2020) consisted of implanting a DDD pacemaker in patients who had left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) > 35%. The resulting cardiac synchronization was compared using an electrocardiographic algorithm that analyzed QRS variation and the technical characteristics of non-selective Hisian pacing (DDD-His) and para-Hisian pacing (DDD-Var). Results Of 51 total patients (men: 28), 66.7% (34) were allocated to the DDD-Var group and 33.3% (17) to the DDD-His group. The mean ages in each group were 74 and 79 years, respectively. In the DDD-Var group, QRS variation (ventricular synchrony) improved after implantation (p < 0.001). In post-implantation ECG, 91.2% of the DDD-Var group presented a physiological pacing pattern, which was similar to the DDD-His group (88.2%; p = 0.999). The paced QRS axis was also similar (physiological) for both groups. Intraoperative fluoroscopy time (XRay) during implantation was lower for the para-Hisian technique (median 7 min in the DDD-Var group vs 21 min in the DDD-His group, p < 0.001). The mean QRS duration increased in the DDD-Var group (114.7 ms pre-implantation vs 128.2 ms post-implantation, p = 0.044). The mean post-implantation R-wave amplitude was 11.2 mV in the DDD-Var group vs 6.0 mV in the DDD-His group, p = 0.001. Conclusion Para-Hisian pacing appears to indirectly recruit the His bundle, which would make this an effective and comparable strategy for physiological pacing, resulting in synchronous ventricular contraction similar to that of non-selective Hisian pacing.

Infecção de loja de cardioversor-desfibrilador implantável (CDI) por klebsiella sp. Carbapenem-resistente / Klebsiella sp. carbapenem-resistant pocket infection of an Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD)

RESUMO: As infecções associadas aos Dispositivos Cardíacos Eletrônicos Implantáveis (DCEI) apresentam uma incidência de até 3,4% e notável impacto na morbidade e mortalidade dos pacientes. As bactérias Gram-positivas, especialmente do gênero Staphylococcus sp. representam 60-70% dos agentes isolados. Por sua vez, as Gram-negativas correspondem até 9% dos casos. Relatamos uma infecção de loja de gerador de Cardioversor-desfibrilador implantável (CDI) por uma Klebsiella sp. resistente aos carbapenêmicos, em um paciente masculino jovem, cujo desafiador diagnóstico de certeza desse caso somente foi possível após exploração cirúrgica e cultura do material da loja do CDI, haja vista a apresentação clínica oligossintomática. Embora já descritas, Klebsiella sp. são raras nesse contexto e em nosso conhecimento, esse é o primeiro relato de uma infecção de DCEI por uma enterobactéria resistente a carbapenêmico. (AU)

ABSTRACT: Infections associated with Implantable Electronic Cardiac Devices (IECD) have an incidence of up to 3.4% and a notable impact on patient morbidity and mortality. Gram-positive bacteria, especially Staphylococcus sp. represent 60-70% of isolated agents. In turn, gram-negatives account for up to 9% of cases. We report an Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator (ICD) generator pocket infection by a Carbapenem Resistant Klebsiella sp., in a young male patient, whose challenging diagnosis of certainty was only possible after surgical exploration and culture of the material from the ICD pocket, given the oligosymptomatic clinical presentation. Although already described, Klebsiella sp. are rare in this context and to our knowledge, this is the first report of an IECD infection by a carbapenem-resistant enterobacterium. (AU)

Self-directed learning among primary health care doctors: an analysis in light of the theory of social representations / Representações sociais da aprendizagem autodirigida entre médicos da atenção primária à saúde

Abstract: Introduction: In a scenario of a great information availability, the production of scientific knowledge in medicine has been increasingly accelerated. The way the medical professional perceives and directs their acquisition of knowledge still lacks national studies, particularly in times of easily accessible internet. Objective: To analyze the social representations of physicians working in Primary Health Care (PHC) teams about self-directed learning. Method: This is a qualitative-quantitative study based on Moscovici's Social Representations Theory, with a structural approach to Abric's Central Core Theory, conducted in three municipalities of the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. Semi-structured interviews were conducted on the subject, which were recorded and transcribed. The freely evoked words that emerged from the inducing term "medical self-learning" were analyzed with the aid of EVOC® software through the four-quadrant chart and CHIC® software analyzed the similarity. Content analysis was performed for the participants' speeches. Results: Fifty interviews were carried out and the freely evoked words that possibly constitute the core of the representations were "knowledge", "dedication", "study", "reading", "need", contrasting "research" and "book". Conclusion: The results showed that the learners' characteristics, practice as a learning locus as opposed to theory, associated with the time barrier, define the core content of the social representation of the participating physicians. In this assessed context, PHC reinforces its importance as a scenario for medical self-learning.

Resumo: Introdução: Em um cenário de grande disponibilidade de informações, a produção de conhecimento científico em medicina tem sido cada dia mais acelerada. A forma como o profissional médico percebe e dirige sua aquisição de conhecimento ainda carece de estudos nacionais, particularmente em tempos de internet de fácil acesso. Objetivo: Este estudo teve como objetivo analisar as representações sociais de médicos atuantes em equipes da atenção primária à saúde (APS) sobre aprendizagem autodirigida. Método: Trata-se de um estudo quali-quantitativo fundamentado na Teoria das Representações Sociais de Moscovici com abordagem estrutural da Teoria do Núcleo Central de Abric, realizado em três municípios de Minas Gerais, no Brasil. Realizaram-se entrevistas semiestruturadas sobre o tema que foram gravadas e transcritas. As palavras evocadas livremente que surgiram do indutor "autoaprendizagem médica" foram analisadas com auxílio do software EVOC® por meio do quadro das quatro casas; e o software CHIC® analisou a similaridade. Para as falas dos participantes, realizou-se a análise de conteúdo. Resultado: Efetuaram-se 50 entrevistas, e as palavras evocadas livremente, que possivelmente compõem o núcleo central das representações, foram "conhecimento", "dedicação", "estudo", "leitura", "necessidade", tendo como contraste "pesquisa" e "livro". Conclusão: Os resultados demonstraram que as características do aprendiz e a prática como lócus de aprendizagem em contraposição à teoria, o qual está associado à barreira do tempo, definem o conteúdo central da representação social dos médicos participantes. Nesse contexto estudado, a APS reforça sua importância como cenário da autoaprendizagem médica.

Telemedicina rural e COVID-19: ampliando o acesso onde a distância já era regra / Rural telemedicine and COVID-19: expanding access where distance was already the rule / Telemedicina rural y COVID-19: expandiendo el acceso donde la distancia ya era la regla

Rev Bras Med Fam Comunidade. Rio de Janeiro, 2020 Jan-Dez; 15(42):24841Telemedicina rural e COVID-19: ampliando o acesso onde a distância já era regraFábio Araujo Gomes de Castro1, Álisson Oliveira dos Santos2, Gustavo Valadares Labanca Reis1, Luara Brandão Viveiros1, Mariel Hespanhol Torres1, Pedro Paulo de Oliveira Junior1Rural telemedicine and COVID-19: expanding access where distance was already the ruleIntrodução: Diante da pandemia causada pelo novo coronavírus (SARS-CoV-2), evitar aglomerações e garantir o acesso aos serviços de saúde para aqueles que necessitam tem sido uma grande preocupação de profissionais e gestores. Na zona rural, as barreiras de acesso são ainda maiores. Métodos: Trata-se de relato de experiência da implantação de telemedicina via aplicativo de mensagens e chamadas por preceptor e residentes do Programa de Residência em Medicina de Família e Comunidade de Ouro Preto, em uma Unidade Básica de Saúde rural. Após três semanas da introdução da ferramenta, foi gerado manualmente um banco de dados por meio do programa Microsoft Excel® 2016, com posterior análise estatística descritiva. Resultados:No período analisado houve 329 interações por meio do WhatsApp, uma média de 25,3 pessoas por dia. Todas as demandas foram atendidas no prazo máximo de 24 horas. As teleconsultas foram realizadas nos formatos de mensagem escrita, áudios e videochamadas. A demanda para renovação de prescrições de medicamentos de uso continuado correspondeu a 20% dos atendimentos e a solicitação para análise de resultados de exames 9%. Dúvidas administrativas representaram 22% dos contatos realizados. Setenta e quatro por cento das teleconsultas foram resolvidas virtualmente e em 26% dos casos foi necessária avaliação presencial. Houve uma percepção positiva em relação à satisfação dos pacientes atendidos virtualmente, de acordo com os relatos dos Agentes Comunitários de Saúde e por meio de mensagens recebidas diretamente pela equipe médica pelo aplicativo. Conclusão: O uso de aplicativo de mensagens e chamadas, como ferramenta de telemedicina, mostrou ser uma estratégia viável durante a pandemia de SARS-CoV-2, especialmente importante no meio rural. Outros estudos serão necessários para investigar seus impactos no sistema de saúde e nos desfechos relevantes para a população

Introduction: Faced with the pandemic caused by the new coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2), avoiding crowds and guaranteeing access to health services for those in need has been a major concern for professionals and managers. In rural areas, access barriers are even greater. Methods: This is an experience report of the implementation of telemedicine via an app of messages and calls by a preceptor and residents of the Residency Program in Family Medicine and Community of Ouro Preto, in a rural Basic Health Unit. Three weeks after the introduction of the tool, a database was manually generated using the Microsoft Excel® 2016 program, with subsequent descriptive statistical analysis. Results: In the analyzed period, there were 329 interactions through WhatsApp, an average of 25.3 people per day. All demands were met within a maximum of 24 hours. Teleconsultations were conducted in the form of written messages, audios and video calls. The demand for renewing prescriptions for medications for continued use corresponded to 20% of the consultations and the request for appraisal of test results was 9%. Administrative questions represented 22% of the contacts made. Seventy-four percent of the teleconsultations were resolved virtually and in 26% of the cases, face-to-face evaluation was required. There was a positive perception in reaction to the satisfaction of patients seen virtually, according to the reports of the Community Health Workers and through messages received directly by the medical team through the app. Conclusions: The use of a messaging and calling app as a Telemedicine tool proved to be a viable strategy during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, especially important in rural areas. Further studies are needed to investigate its impacts on the health system and on the relevant outcomes for the population.

Introducción: Ante la pandemia causada por el nuevo coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2), evitar a las multitudes y garantizar el acceso a los servicios de salud para los necesitados ha sido una gran preocupación para los profesionales y gerentes. En las zonas rurales, las barreras de acceso son aún mayores. Método: Este es un informe de experiencia de la implementación de Telemedicina a través de la aplicación de mensajes y llamadas por parte de un preceptor y residentes del Programa de Residencia en Medicina Familiar y Comunidad de Ouro Preto, en una Unidad Básica de Salud rural. Tres semanas después de la introducción de la herramienta, se generó manualmente una base de datos utilizando el programa Microsoft Excel® 2016, con posterior análisis estadístico descriptivo. Resultados: En el período analizado, hubo 329 interacciones a través de WhatsApp, un promedio de 25.3 personas por día. Todas las demandas se cumplieron en un máximo de 24 horas. Las teleconsultas se realizaron en forma de mensajes escritos, audios y videollamadas. La demanda de renovar las recetas de medicamentos para uso continuo correspondió al 20% de las consultas y la solicitud de análisis de los resultados de las pruebas al 9%. Los asuntos administrativos representaron el 22% de los contactos realizados. El setenta y cuatro por ciento de las teleconsultas se resolvieron virtualmente y en el 26% de los casos, se requirió una evaluación cara a cara. Hubo una percepción positiva en reacción a la satisfacción de los pacientes vistos virtualmente, según los informes de los Agentes de Salud Comunitarios y a través de mensajes recibidos directamente por el equipo médico a través de la aplicación. Conclusión: El uso de una aplicación de mensajería y llamadas como herramienta de telemedicina demostró ser una estrategia viable durante la pandemia del SARS-CoV-2, especialmente importante en las zonas rurales. Se necesitan más estudios para investigar sus impactos en el sistema de salud y en los resultados relevantes para la población.

Recomendações para a Atenção Domiciliar em período de pandemia por COVID-19: Recomendações conjuntas do GT Atenção Domiciliar SBMFC e da ABRASAD / Recommendations for Home Care in COVID-19 pandemic period: Joint recommendations - SBMFC Home Care Working Group and ABRASAD / Recomendaciones para la atención domiciliaria en el período pandémico por Covid-19: Recomendaciones conjuntas ­ Grupo de Trabajo Atención Domiciliaria SBMFC y ABRASAD

A pandemia da COVID-19 trouxe como uma de suas consequências a necessidade de reorganização dos sistemas de saúde. A Atenção Domiciliar (AD) se apresenta como opção para: interromper a transmissão; identificação precoce e cuidado de pacientes infectados; possibilidade de alta precoce e continuidade do cuidado fora do hospital; além da orientação aos familiares. Este artigo apresenta as possibilidades de cuidados no domicílio pelas equipes de Atenção Primária à Saúde (APS) e de AD e os cuidados necessários que estas equipes devem ter ao realizar seu trabalho. É necessário manter pessoas seguras em casa, evitar a exposição ao risco, manter o papel de vigilância e cuidado das que dependem da AD, e as equipes devem reorganizar o processo de trabalho para um cuidado domiciliar efetivo. Na APS o cuidado remoto parece ser uma alternativa viável pelos agentes de saúde para o monitoramento, orientação e seguimento dos pacientes, deixando a visita domiciliar com a equipe para aqueles casos indicados. AD na suspeita ou confirmação da COVID-19 é possível, desde que a equipe esteja treinada, disponha de todos os Equipamentos de Proteção Individuais (EPI) necessários e o ambiente domiciliar compatível. Deve-se garantir continuidade do cuidado para pessoas com doenças crônicas durante a pandemia necessitam, sendo possível equacionar ferramentas da telemedicina e cuidado presencial caso a caso. Para os pacientes que foram hospitalizados e evoluíram satisfatoriamente é possível avaliar a continuidade do cuidado no domicílio sob acompanhamento da APS e AD. Devem ser instituídas medidas de precauções para a equipe e pacientes, garantindo que todos os profissionais sejam capacitados para uso de EPI, além de orientações para prevenção da transmissão de agentes infecciosos no domicílio. AD é essencial para acesso a pessoas com condições agudas, descompensação de doenças crônicas, tendo o desafio da organização do serviço utilizando a telessaúde e cuidados domiciliares de forma racional.

One of the consequences of the covid-19 pandemic was the necessity to reorganize health systems. Home care (HC) may be an option to interrupt transmission; early identification and care of infected patients; possibilities of early discharge and continuity of care outside the hospital; and family members guidance. This article aims to present possibilities of care at home by the Primary Health Care (PHC) and HC teams and the necessary care that these teams must have when carrying out their work. It is necessary to keep people safe at home, avoid risk exposure, maintain surveillance and care for those who depend on HC, and teams must reorganize the work process to an effective home care. In PHC, remote care seems to be a viable alternative for health personal to monitor, guide and follow up patients, leaving home visits with the team for those cases indicated. AD in the suspicion or confirmation of COVID-19 is possible, as long as the team is trained, has all the necessary Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) and the compatible home environment. Continuity of care should be ensured for people with chronic diseases during the pandemic, making it possible to consider telemedicine tools and face-to-face care on a case-by-case basis. For patients who have been hospitalized and progressed satisfactorily, it is possible to assess the continuity of care at home by PHC and HC monitoring. Precautionary measures must be put in place for staff and patients, ensuring that all professionals are trained in the PPE uses, in addition to guidelines for preventing infectious agent's transmission at home. HC is essential for access to people with acute conditions, decompensation of chronic diseases, with the challenge of organizing the service using telehealth and HC in a rational way.

Recomendações Atenção Domiciliar e COVID-19Rev Bras Med Fam Comunidade. Rio de Janeiro, 2020 Jan-Dez; 15(42):26112IntroduçãoDevido ao estado de emergência em Saúde Pública internacional desencadeado pela pandemia de COVID-19, com 5.934.936 casos e 367.166 óbitos ao final de maio de 2020, impõe-se um esforço internacional para a mitigação da transmissão e atendimento adequado aos infectado.1 A organização dos sistemas de saúde mundiais visa respostas imediatas e coordenadas dos diversos pontos das Redes de Atenção à Saúde (RAS), a qual o mais responsiva será quanto mais o acesso for universalizado e mais organizada e articulada estiver esta rede.2,3,4,5A medida preconizada pela OMS e adotada pela quase totalidade dos países, baseada nas melhores evidências disponíveis, foi o distanciamento social,6 que modificou radicalmente a forma de organização dos Sistemas de Saúde.4 Houve fechamento de serviços de atendimento a condições crônicas ambulatoriais, modificação das portas de entrada de Unidades Básicas de Saúde e de Pronto Atendimento, e indução da população a permanecer em casa, evitando uso de serviços para condições agudas leves, e para controle de condições crônicas, sem a definição de fluxos alternativos na RAS.2,3,7Una de las consecuencias de la pandemia de Covid-19 fue la necesidad de reorganizar los sistemas de salud. La atención domiciliaria (HC) puede ser una opción para interrumpir la transmisión; identificación temprana y cuidado de pacientes infectados; posibilidad de alta temprana y continuidad del cuidado fuera del hospital; además de orientación de los miembros de la familia. Este artículo presenta las posibilidades de cuidado en el hogar por parte de los equipos de Atención Primaria de Salud (APS) y AD y los cuidados necesarios que estos equipos deben tener al realizar su trabajo. Es necesario mantener a las personas seguras en casa, evitar la exposición al riesgo, mantener la vigilancia y cuidado de quienes dependen de AD, y los equipos deben reorganizar el proceso de trabajo para una atención domiciliaria efectiva. En la APS, el cuidado remoto parece ser una alternativa viable para el personal de salud para monitorear, orientar y dar seguimiento a los pacientes, dejando las visitas domiciliarias con el equipo para los casos indicados. AD en la sospecha o confirmación de Covid-19 es posible, siempre y cuando el equipo esté capacitado, tenga todo los Equipos de Protección Individual (EPI) necesario y el entorno doméstico compatible. Se debe garantizar la continuidad de la atención que las personas con enfermedades crónicas necesitan durante la pandemia, lo que permite considerar las herramientas de telemedicina y el cuidado presencial caso por caso. Para los pacientes que han sido hospitalizados y han progresado satisfactoriamente, es posible evaluar la continuidad de la atención en el hogar mediante el monitoreo de APS y AD. Se deben tomar medidas de precaución para el personal y los pacientes, asegurando que todos los profesionales estén capacitados en el uso de EPI, además de orientaciones para prevenir la transmisión de agentes infecciosos en el hogar. La AD es esencial para el acceso a personas con afecciones agudas, descompensación de enfermedades crónicas, con el desafío de organizar el servicio utilizando la telesalud y los cuidados domiciliarios de manera racional.

Acute effect of ß-sitosterol on calcium uptake mediates anti-inflammatory effect in murine activated neutrophils.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the effect of ß-sitosterol on 45Ca²âº uptake in activated murine neutrophils, and upon myeloperoxidase and adenosine deaminase activity, and interleukin-1ß (IL-1ß) and tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) levels, in carrageenan-induced inflammation in the mouse air pouch model. METHODS: Dried Esenbeckia leiocarpa bark was macerated and extracted resulting in a crude hydroalcoholic extract (CHE) that was partitioned to obtain an alkaloid fraction. The alkaloid was then partitioned in polar and nonpolar subfractions. ß-Sitosterol was isolated from the nonpolar subfraction and identified by comparison with the literature. The effect of ß-sitosterol on 45Ca²âº uptake in activated murine neutrophils, and upon myeloperoxidase and adenosine deaminase activity, IL-1ß and TNF-α levels in carrageenan-induced inflammation in mice were evaluated. KEY FINDINGS: ß-Sitosterol promoted a time- and dose-dependent increase of the calcium uptake in activated neutrophils that was promptly reversed by nifedipine, BAPTA-AM, LY294002, and colchicine. ß-Sitosterol inhibited myeloperoxidase and adenosine deaminase activity, and IL-1ß and TNF-α levels. CONCLUSIONS: ß-Sitosterol inhibited either myeloperoxidase and adenosine deaminase activity or IL-1ß and TNF-α levels. This effect seemed to be mediated by the calcium uptake in activated neutrophils in a time- and concentration-dependent manner through L-type voltage dependent calcium channels, intracellular calcium, phosphoinositide kinase-3, and microtubule modulation.

Relationship of chemical structure and anti-inflammatory activity of dihydrocorynantheol and its analogues.

BACKGROUND: Dihydrocorynantheol (DHC) is an alkaloid compound isolated from Esenbeckia leiocarpa Engl. that has demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties in experimental models. The aim of this study was to investigate whether the modification of the chemical structure of DHC could alter its anti-inflammatory effect in a mouse model of pleurisy induced by carrageenan. METHODS: DHC was isolated from Esenbeckia leiocarpa Engl. Capillary electrophoresis, physical characteristics, spectral data produced by infrared analysis and nuclearmagnetic resonance ((1)H and (13)C), and mass spectrometry analysis were used to identify and elucidate DHC structure. The DHC compound was subjected to chemical structural modifications by nucleophilic substitution reactions, yielding five analogous compounds: acetyl (1), p-methylbenzoyl (2), benzoyl (3), p-methoxybenzoyl (4) and p-chlorobenzoyl (5). Swiss mice were used throughout the experiments. Pro-inflammatory parameters leukocyte migration, exudate concentrations and myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity were quantified in the fluid leakage from the mouse pleural cavities at 4 h after pleurisy induction. RESULTS: DHC and its analogues acetyl, p-methylbenzoyl, benzoyl, p-methoxybenzoyl and p-chlorobenzoyl inhibited total and differential leukocyte migration and MPO activity (p < 0.05). Only DHC significantly decreased the exudate concentrations (p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: DHC was more effective than its analogues as an anti-inflammatory agent in the mouse model of pleurisy induced by carrageenan. We did not determine what physicochemical modifications altered the anti-inflammatory effect of DHC, but this effect may be due to the modifications on the hydroxyl group at carbon 17 of the DHC.