Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Open Simple Prostatectomy or Prostate Artery Embolization in Large Prostates: Clinical and Urodynamic Assessment - PoPAE Study.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of Prostate artery embolization (PAE) and open simple prostatectomy (OP) on lower urinary tract symptoms and urodynamic parameters in subjects with prostate size >80cc³. METHODS: PoPAE study (OP or PAE) was a randomized, open-label controlled trial performed between January 2020 and May 2022. Subjects with large prostates (>80cc³), urodynamic parameters meeting obstruction criteria (Bladder Outlet Obstruction Index-BOOI>40), and good detrusor function (Bladder contractility index>100) were included. The primary and co-primary endpoints were the variation in peak flow rate on uroflowmetry (Qmax) and BOOI. The secondary endpoints were the IPSS and ultrasonographic changes. RESULTS: Twenty three and 25 subjects underwent PAE and OP were evaluated, respectively. At baseline, the 2 groups have shown similar clinical, radiological, laboratory, and urodynamic parameters. After 6 months, Qmax improved 8,3 ± 4.17 mL/sec in PAE and 15.1 ± 8.04 mL/sec in OP (mean difference 6.78 in favor of PE; P = .012 [CI -9.00 to -3.00]). After treatment, 88% of those men underwent OP were classified as unobstructed or equivocal (BOOi<40). On the other hand, 70% of subjects underwent PAE remained obstructed (BOOI>40) and none of them shifted to unobstructed status (BOOI<20). It was observed a similar reduction in IPSS and PVR in both groups. CONCLUSION: PAE was inferior to conventional surgery for releasing BOO and improving peak urinary flow in large prostates. Nevertheless, PAE was able to improve symptoms and PVR, and might be an alternative method in selected patients.

Efficacy and safety of botulinum toxin for rosacea with positive impact on quality of life and self-esteem.

BACKGROUND: Rosacea is a prevalent chronic inflammatory skin disease with a multifactorial pathophysiology. It compromises several skin structures, including the proliferation and dilation of dermal blood vessels, primarily in the central areas of the face, accompanied by significant psychosocial impairment, leading to reduced quality of life (QoL) and self-esteem. There are consensus guidelines for its treatment, but few options for the erythema. This study hypothesizes that treating rosacea skin lesions with botulinum toxin (BTX) could improve signs and symptoms, resulting in enhanced QoL and self-esteem. METHODS: This interventional, open, uncontrolled, and prospective study, conducted at a single center, included 33 individuals diagnosed with rosacea, treated with standard therapeutic options according to the rosacea subtype plus superficial injections of BTX, and followed up for 90 days. Botulinum toxin injections were applied on Days 1 and 14. Clinical features and side effects were assessed at each visit; QoL, self-esteem, and medication adherence questionnaires were administered on Days 1 and 90. RESULTS: Treatment with BTX yielded improvement in the clinical signs of rosacea, registered by the investigators, and reported by 94% of the participants. Improved QoL scores (P < 0.05) and a notable increase in self-esteem scores (P < 0.001) were demonstrated. Rare adverse events were observed. CONCLUSIONS: The utilization of BTX superficial injections in patients with rosacea was safe and effective, improving the clinical appearance of the lesions. Despite some limitations, to our knowledge, this is the first study that showed the positive impact of this treatment modality on both QoL and self-esteem.

Clinical and Urodynamic results of the Argus T® sling in moderate and severe male stress urinary incontinence after radical prostatectomy - a 5 year prospective study

ABSTRACT Purpose: Sling as a therapeutic option for male stress urinary incontinence (SUI) has been reviewed in the last two decades, as it is a relatively simpliest surgery compared to artificial urinary sphincter and has the ability to modulate urethral compression. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy, rate of complications, quality of life and the effects on bladder emptying of the Argus T® compressive and ajustable sling in moderate and severe male SUI treatment. Materials and Methods: Men eligible for stress urinary incontinence treatment after radical prostatectomy were recruited and prospectively evaluated, from March 2010 to November 2016. It was selected outpatient men with moderate and severe SUI, after 12 months of radical prostatectomy, who have failed conservative treatment. All patients had a complete clinical and urodynamic pre and post treatment evaluation, by means of clinical history, physical examination, urine culture, 1-hour pad test and ICIq-SF questionnaire. The UDS was performed after 12, 18 and 24 months postoperatively. Results: Thirty-seven men underwent sling surgery, 19 patients (51.4%) with moderate and 18 (48.6%) with severe SUI. The minimum follow-up time was 5 years. Overall, we had a success rate of 56.7% at 60 months follow-up. After surgery, we did not observe significant changes in the urodynamic parameters evaluated during the follow-up. No patient had urodynamic bladder outlet obstruction (BOO) after sling implantation. Readjustment of the Argus T® sling was performed in 16 (41%) of the patients and 51% of the patients reported some adverse event. Conclusion: We demonstrate a long-term efficacy and safety of Sling Argus T® as an alternative to moderate and severe male SUI treatment. Furthermore, in our study bulbar urethra compression does not lead to bladder outlet obstruction.

Periradicular surgery: a longitudinal registry study of ten-year outcomes and factors predictive of post-surgical extraction.

AIM: This historical prospective cohort study of the adult population of Sweden is based on data from a national registry: the primary aim was to evaluate the long-term survival of teeth after periradicular surgery. A secondary aim was to identify factors predictive of extraction within 10 years of registration of periradicular surgery. METHODOLOGY: The cohort consisted of all individuals who had undergone periradicular surgery to treat apical periodontitis, as reported to the Swedish Social Insurance Agency (SSIA) during 2009. The cohort was followed until December 31, 2020. Subsequent registrations of extractions were collected for Kaplan-Meier survival analyses and survival tables. The patients' sex, age, dental service provider and tooth group were also retrieved from SSIA. Only one tooth per individual was included in the analyses. Multivariable regression analysis was used and P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. The reporting guidelines STROBE and PROBE were followed. RESULTS: After data cleaning, and exclusion of 157 teeth, 5 622 teeth/individuals remained for analysis. The mean age of the individuals at the time of the periradicular surgery was 60.5 years (range 20-97, standard deviation 13.31); 55% were women. At the end of the follow-up, that is, up to 12 years, a total of 34.1% of the teeth had been reported as extracted. The multivariate logistic regression analysis, based on follow-up data at 10 years after registration of the periradicular surgery, included 5 548 teeth, of which 1 461 (26.3%) had been extracted. Significant associations between the independent variables tooth group and dental care setting (both P < 0.001) and the dependent variable extraction were found. The highest odds ratio (OR) for extraction applied to tooth group: compared to maxillary incisors and canines, mandibular molars were at greatest risk of extraction (OR 2.429, confidence interval 1.975-2.987, P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: After periradicular surgery in predominantly elderly people in Sweden, approximately three quarters of the teeth are retained over a 10-year period. The type of tooth is associated with extraction: mandibular molars are at greater risk of extraction than maxillary incisors and canines.

Clinical and Urodynamic results of the Argus T® sling in moderate and severe male stress urinary incontinence after radical prostatectomy - a 5 year prospective study.

PURPOSE: Sling as a therapeutic option for male stress urinary incontinence (SUI) has been reviewed in the last two decades, as it is a relatively simpliest surgery compared to artificial urinary sphincter and has the ability to modulate urethral compression. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy, rate of complications, quality of life and the effects on bladder emptying of the Argus T® compressive and ajustable sling in moderate and severe male SUI treatment. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Men eligible for stress urinary incontinence treatment after radical prostatectomy were recruited and prospectively evaluated, from March 2010 to November 2016. It was selected outpatient men with moderate and severe SUI, after 12 months of radical prostatectomy, who have failed conservative treatment. All patients had a complete clinical and urodynamic pre and post treatment evaluation, by means of clinical history, physical examination, urine culture, 1-hour pad test and ICIq-SF questionnaire. The UDS was performed after 12, 18 and 24 months postoperatively. RESULTS: Thirty-seven men underwent sling surgery, 19 patients (51.4%) with moderate and 18 (48.6%) with severe SUI. The minimum follow-up time was 5 years. Overall, we had a success rate of 56.7% at 60 months follow-up. After surgery, we did not observe significant changes in the urodynamic parameters evaluated during the follow-up. No patient had urodynamic bladder outlet obstruction (BOO) after sling implantation. Readjustment of the Argus T® sling was performed in 16 (41%) of the patients and 51% of the patients reported some adverse event. CONCLUSION: We demonstrate a long-term efficacy and safety of Sling Argus T® as an alternative to moderate and severe male SUI treatment. Furthermore, in our study bulbar urethra compression does not lead to bladder outlet obstruction.

The role of transurethral resection of prostate (TURP) in patients with underactive bladder: 12 months follow-up in different grades of detrusor contractility.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: Male detrusor underactivity (DUA) definition remains controversial and no effective treatment is consolidated. Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) is one of the cornerstones surgical treatments recommended in bladder outlet obstruction (BOO). However, the role of prostatic surgery in male DUA is not clear. The primary endpoint was the clinical and voiding improvement based on IPSS and the maximum flow rate in uroflowmetry (Qmax) within 12 months. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We analyzed an ongoing prospective database that embraces benign prostata hyperplasia (BPH) male patients with lower urinary tract symptoms who have undergone to TURP. All patients were evaluated pre and postoperatively based on IPSS questionnaires, prostate volume measured by ultrasound, postvoid residual urine volume (PVR), Prostate Specific Antigen measurement and urodynamic study (UDS) before the procedure. After surgery, all patients were evaluated at 1-, 3-, 6- and 12-months. Patients were categorized in 3 groups: Group 1-Detrusor Underactive (Bladder Contractility Index (BCI) [BCI] < 100 and BOO index [BOOI] < 40); Group 2-Detrusor Underactive and BOO (BCI < 100 and BOOI ≥ 40); Group 3-BOO (BCI ≥ 100 and BOOI ≥ 0). RESULTS: It was included 158 patients underwent monopolar or bipolar TURP since November 2015 to March 2021. According to UDS, patients were categorized in: group 1 (n = 39 patients); group 2 (n = 41 patients); group 3 (n = 77 patients). Preoperative IPSS was similar between groups (group 1-24.9 ± 6.33; group 2-24.8 ± 7.33; group 3-24.5 ± 6.23). Qmax was statistically lower in the group 2 (group 1-5.43 ± 3.69; group 2-3.91 ± 2.08; group 3-6.3 ± 3.18) as well as greater PVR. The 3 groups presented similar outcomes regard to IPSS score during the follow-up. There was a significant increase in Qmax in the 3 groups. However, group 1 presented the lowest Qmax improvement. CONCLUSION: There were different objective outcomes depending on the degree of DUA at 12 months follow-up. Patients with DUA had similar IPSS improvement. However, DUA patients had worst Qmax improvement than men with normal bladder contraction.

Translation, cross-cultural adaptation and validation of the EPOCH-RRT questionnaire "Empowering Patients On Choices For Renal Replacement Therapy" for the Brazilian context / Tradução, adaptação transcultural e validação do questionário EPOCH-RRT "Empowering Patients On Choices For Renal Replacement Therapy" para o contexto brasileiro

Abstract Introduction: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a global public health problem. In Brazil, the incidence and prevalence rates of dialysis CKD progressively increase, but the transition process is a challenge for patients and caregivers in coping with the disease. Dialysis urgency, lack of planned access or prior knowledge of treatment is a reality for most. Guidelines recommend that treatment options should include the conscious preference of a fully informed patient. However, pre-dialysis educational information is an exception, leading to a large number of unplanned initial dialysis. The original study "Empowering Patients on Choices for Renal Replacement Therapy" (EPOCH-RRT) aimed to identify patient priorities and gaps in shared decision-making about dialysis, using structured interviews with questions about demographics, clinical history and patients' perception of their health. The goal of this study was to carry out the translation, cross-cultural adaptation and validation of the questionnaires used in the EPOCH-RRT Study for the Brazilian context. Method: This is a methodological study that consisted of the initial translation, synthesis of the translations, back translation, review by a committee of experts, pre-test and evaluation of the psychometric properties of the instrument. All ethical precepts were followed. Results: The questionnaires were translated, adapted and validated for the Brazilian context. Additionally, it was applied to 84 chronic renal patients on hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis and outpatients. Discussion: There is a lack of an educational-therapeutic approach aimed at patients with CKD, and the EPOCH-RRT questionnaire can be a tool for Brazilian dialysis services to change this paradigm.

Resumo Introdução: A doença renal crônica (DRC) é um problema de saúde pública mundial. No Brasil, as taxas de incidência e prevalência da DRC dialítica aumentam progressivamente, mas o processo de transição apresenta-se como desafio para pacientes e cuidadores no enfrentamento da doença. Urgência dialítica, ausência de acesso planejado ou conhecimento prévio do tratamento é uma realidade para a maioria. Diretrizes recomendam que opções de tratamento devam incluir a preferência consciente de um paciente totalmente informado. No entanto, informação educacional pré-diálise é exceção, acarretando grande número de diálises iniciais não planejadas. O estudo original "Empowering Patients on Choices for Renal Replacement Therapy" (EPOCH-RRT) teve por objetivo identificar as prioridades do paciente e as lacunas na tomada de decisões compartilhadas sobre a diálise, utilizando entrevistas estruturadas, com questões sobre dados demográficos, história clínica e percepção dos pacientes sobre sua saúde. O objetivo desta pesquisa foi realizar a tradução, adaptação transcultural e validação dos questionários utilizados no Estudo EPOCH-RRT para o contexto brasileiro. Método: Trata-se de estudo metodológico que consistiu na tradução inicial, síntese das traduções, retro tradução, revisão por um comitê de especialistas, pré-teste e avaliação das propriedades psicométricas do instrumento. Todos os preceitos éticos foram seguidos. Resultados: Os questionários foram traduzidos, adaptados e validados para o contexto brasileiro. Adicionalmente, foi aplicado em 84 pacientes renais crônicos em hemodiálise, diálise peritoneal e ambulatoriais. Discussão: Há carência de enfoque educativo-terapêutico dirigido aos pacientes com DRC, e o questionário EPOCH-RRT pode ser uma ferramenta para serviços de diálise brasileiros mudarem esse paradigma.

Matching-Adjusted Indirect Comparisons of Lorlatinib Versus Chemotherapy for Patients With Second-Line or Later Anaplastic Lymphoma Kinase-Positive Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer.

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to compare the relative efficacy of lorlatinib, an anaplastic lymphoma kinase-tyrosine kinase inhibitor, with chemotherapy, for patients with second-line or later advanced anaplastic lymphoma kinase-positive non-small cell lung cancer. The endpoints of interest were overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS). METHODS: Evidence for lorlatinib was informed by the single-arm phase I/II trial B7461001. A systematic literature review (SLR) was performed to identify OS and PFS data for chemotherapy. Unanchored matching-adjusted indirect comparisons (MAICs) between lorlatinib and chemotherapy (pemetrexed/docetaxel, platinum-based, or systemic therapy) were performed. RESULTS: The SLR identified 3 relevant studies reporting PFS. Lorlatinib was associated with a significant decrease in the hazard of progression versus the 2 types of chemotherapy assessed. For PFS, the MAIC of lorlatinib versus the combined treatment arm of docetaxel or pemetrexed resulted in an adjusted hazard ratio (HR) of 0.22 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.15-0.31). When lorlatinib was compared with platinum-based chemotherapy through an MAIC, the adjusted HR for PFS was 0.40 (95% CI 0.29-0.55). An exploratory comparison was performed for OS with evidence for systemic therapy (assumed equivalent to chemotherapy) not identified in the SLR. Lorlatinib provided a significant decrease in hazard of death (OS) versus systemic therapy, with HRs ranging from 0.12 (95% CI 0.05-0.27) to 0.43 (95% CI 0.27-0.60). CONCLUSIONS: Lorlatinib demonstrated a significant improvement in PFS compared with chemotherapy, although limitations in the analyses were identified. The evidence informing OS comparisons was highly limited but suggested benefit of lorlatinib compared with systemic therapy.

Simultaneous lipase production and immobilization: morphology and physiology study of Penicillium simplicissimum in submerged and solid-state fermentation with polypropylene as an inert support.

The influence of different carbon sources (glucose (G), olive oil (O), and a combination of both (GO)) in the physiology (biomass and lipase production) and morphology (light and environmental and scanning electron microscopy) of the fungus Penicillium simplicissimum by applying submerged (SmF) and solid-state (SSF) fermentations was investigated. The cultivation was carried out using polypropylene as hydrophobic inert support in SmF and SSF to understand better the influence of a support for the fungus growth and also provides the immobilization of lipases during its production. Micrographs show different morphologies: in SSF, the fungus grows on and inside the inert support independent of the media; in SmF, the formation of high-density spherical pellets obtained in medium GO leads to the best productivity and specific product yield Yp/x..Conidiation is observed mainly in SSF, a few in SmF with polypropylene as inert support and not in SmF, which may indicate a stress condition in SSF. Possibly, the morphology acquired by the fungus under stressful conditions may be the key to the higher biomass and lipase productivity at SSF. The developed process with simultaneous production and immobilization of lipase leads to a new promissory biocatalyst once it can be directly applied with no need for downstream processes.

Hypertension from the patient's perspective: contributions to the care offered by health professionals and self-care - a qualitative study

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Hypertension is the most common disease in primary care settings. Only 30% of cases were adequately controlled. OBJECTIVES: To analyze the knowledge and understanding of patients with hypertension regarding the factors that facilitate and limit adherence to treatment and, based on the results, build specific guidelines on hypertension self-care and control. DESIGN AND SETTING: This qualitative study was conducted in a primary healthcare setting. METHODS: Patients with hypertension who were followed at a primary healthcare unit were interviewed through focus groups, and a qualitative interpretation of their statements according to Bardin's content analysis was performed. RESULTS: Three focus groups were formed (21 participants), from whose analysis emerged 74 core ideas related to the concept of hypertension, causes of increase in blood pressure, clinical consequences of hypertension, and possible patients' contributions to help control blood pressure, arising from eating habits, psychosocial conditions, and lifestyle. Patients tend to accept the concept of "high blood pressure" as an inherent condition of the disease in their lives. Eating habits are strongly related to life history and self-perception of health. The association between high blood pressure and nervousness or stress appears to be strong. CONCLUSION: The experience of having "pressure problem" is unique for each person. It is necessary to optimize listening, recognizing that, for the patient to understand what hypertension is and its management, there must be understanding and convergence of proposals, adjustments, and changes in a positive and personalized way. As a result of this study, we implemented educational actions in primary healthcare units.

Automated Assessment of Cell Infiltration and Removal in Decellularized Scaffolds - Experimental Study in Rabbits / Avaliação automatizada da infiltração e remoção celular em scaffolds descelularizados - Estudo experimental em coelhos

Abstract Objective Semiquantitative and automated measurement of nuclear material removal and cell infiltration in decellularized tendon scaffolds (DTSs). Method 16 pure New Zealand rabbits were used, and the gastrocnemius muscle tendon was collected bilaterally from half of these animals (16 tendons collected); 4 were kept as control and 12 were submitted to the decellularization protocol (DTS). Eight of the DTSs were used as an in vivo implant in the experimental rotator cuff tear (RCT) model, and the rest, as well as the controls, were used in the semiquantitative and automated evaluation of nuclear material removal. The eight additional rabbits were used to make the experimental model of RCT and subsequent evaluation of cellular infiltration after 2 or 8 weeks, within the DTS. Results The semiquantitative and automated analysis used demonstrated a removal of 79% of nuclear material (p< 0.001 and power > 99%) and a decrease of 88% (p < 0.001 and power >99%) in the area occupied by nuclear material after the decellularization protocol. On cell infiltration in DTS, an increase of 256% (p < 0.001 and power >99%) in the number of cells within the DTS was observed in the comparison between 2 and 8 weeks postoperatively. Conclusion The proposed semiquantitative and automated measurement method was able to objectively measure the removal of nuclear material and cell infiltration in DTS.

Resumo Objetivo Mensuração semiquantitativa e automatizada da remoção de material nuclear e da infiltração celular em scaffolds tendinosos descelularizados (STDs). Método Foram utilizados 16 coelhos Nova Zelândia puros, sendo o tendão do músculo gastrocnêmio coletado bilateralmente de metade destes animais (16 tendões coletados); 4 foram mantidos como controle e 12 foram submetidos ao protocolo de descelularização (STD). Dos STDs, 8 foram utilizados como implante in vivo no modelo experimental de lesão do manguito rotador (LMR) e os restantes, assim como os controles, foram utilizados na avaliação semiquantitativa e automatizada da remoção de material nuclear. Os oito coelhos adicionais foram utilizados na confecção do modelo experimental de LMR e posterior avaliação da infiltração celular após 2 ou 8 semanas, dentro do STD. Resultados A análise semiquantitativa e automatizada utilizada demonstrou uma remoção de 79% do material nuclear (p< 0,001 e poder > 99%) e uma diminuição de 88% (p< 0,001 e poder > 99%) na área ocupada por material nuclear após o protocolo de descelularização. Sobre a infiltração celular no STD, foi observado um aumento de 256% (p< 0,001 e poder > 99%) no número de células dentro do STD na comparação entre 2 e 8 semanas de pós-operatório. Conclusão O método de mensuração semiquantitativo e automatizado proposto foi capaz de mensurar objetivamente a remoção de material nuclear e a infiltração celular no STD.

Treatment of Muscle Injury with Stem Cells - Experimental Study in Rabbits / Tratamento da lesão muscular com células-tronco - Estudo experimental em coelhos

Abstract Objective Histological and macroscopic evaluation of the healing process of acute lesions of the femoral rectus muscle using stem cells derived from adipose tissue-derived stem cells (ADSCs). Method An experimental study was conducted with 18 hind legs of New Zealand rabbits, which were divided into three study groups according to the intervention to be performed. In group I, no surgical procedure was performed; in group II—SHAN, the experimental lesion was performed without any additional intervention protocol; in group III—Intervention, the addition of ADSCs was performed in the same topography of the experimental lesion. After the proposed period, 2 weeks, the material was collected and submitted to macroscopic and histological evaluation. Results The quantitative analysis showed that the addition of ADSCs is related to the reduction of inflammatory cells in the 2-week evaluation (164.2 cells in group II - SHAN to 89.62 cells in group III - ADSC). The qualitative analysis of the slides with Picrosirius red, noticed an increase in orange/yellow fibers in group III - ADSC, which evidences a final healing process. The macroscopic evaluation found no difference between the groups. Conclusion The use of ADSCs in the treatment of acute muscle injury presented histological advantages when compared to their non-use.

Resumo Objetivo Avaliação histológica e macroscópica do processo de cicatrização das lesões agudas do músculo reto femoral, com utilização de células-tronco derivadas de tecido adiposo (ADSCs, na sigla em inglês). Método Foi realizado um estudo experimental com 18 patas traseiras de coelhos Nova Zelândia, que foram divididos em três nos grupos de estudo de acordo com a intervenção a ser realizada. No grupo I não foi realizado procedimento cirúrgico; no grupo II - SHAN foi realizado a lesão experimental sem nenhum protocolo de intervenção adicional; e no grupo III - Intervenção foi realizado a adição de ADSCs na mesma topografia onde foi realizada a lesão experimental. Após o período proposto, 2 semanas, o material foi coletado, submetido a avaliação macroscópica e histológica. Resultados A análise quantitativa demonstrou que a adição de ADSCs está relacionada com a diminuição de células inflamatórias na avaliação com 2 semanas (164,2 células no grupo II - SHAN para 89,62 células no grupo III - ADSC). A análise qualitativa das lâminas coradas com Picrosírius red demonstrou um aumento das fibras de cor laranja/amarela no grupo III - ADSC, o que evidencia um processo final de cicatrização. A avaliação macroscópica não encontrou diferença entre os grupos. Conclusão A utilização de ADSCs no tratamento de lesão muscular aguda apresentou vantagens histológicas quando comparada a sua não utilização.

Use of prescribed psychotropic drugs among medical students and associated factors: a cross-sectional study

Abstract BACKGROUND: The worldwide prevalences of anxiety and depressive disorders are 3.6% and 4.4%, respectively. Among medical students, many studies have indicated that the prevalences of these mental disorders vary between 19.7% and 47.1%, but there is a lack of information on psychotropic drug usage in this group of students. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the prevalence of psychotropic drug use, adherence to therapy and main clinical and diagnostic indications relating to psychotropic drug use among medical students. DESIGN AND SETTING: Cross-sectional study at a Brazilian private university in the city of Sorocaba, state of São Paulo. METHODS: Observational analytical cross-sectional study, conducted during the second semester of 2019, through a semi-structured online questionnaire, answered by first to sixth-year medical students. RESULTS: Among the 263 participants (41.7% of the 630 enrolled students), the current prevalence of psychotropic drug usage was 30.4%. This prevalence increased over the course and 90.7% of the drugs were prescribed at regular medical consultations (85.5% by psychiatrists). The main indications for psychotropic drug usage were anxiety (30.0%), depression (22.8%), insomnia (7.2%), panic (5.3%) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (3.8%). Women were more likely to present diagnoses of depression and panic. Most of the participants used antidepressants and had good adherence to medications. Adequate sleep and regular physical activity were identified as protective factors against mental disorders. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of mental disorders among medical students is high, which justifies the use of psychotropic drugs. This study provides valuable information and recommendations for institutional educational actions to improve students' mental health.

Bemiparin vs enoxaparin in the prevention of thrombosis in microvascular head and neck reconstruction.

This study aims to compare the use of Bemiparin vs Enoxaparin in patients undergoing microvascular head and neck reconstruction, analyzing the incidence of flap thrombotic complications and local bleeding that could compromise the flap survival. This is an observational study on a group of 204 patients who underwent a microvascular flap for head and neck reconstruction at the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Department of Ramon y Cajal Hospital in Madrid, Spain. A group of 67 patients was treated according to a protocol for postoperative prophylaxis of thromboembolism with Bemiparin, which was compared with data collected retrospectively from a group of 137 patients treated with Enoxaparin. We evaluated the incidence of thrombotic complications in the microvascular anastomoses and the incidence of postoperative bleeding events. The flap success rate was 91% in patients treated with Bemiparin, and 91,2% in the group of Enoxaparin (p = 0.963). One major bleeding event was recorded in the Bemiparin group, while 18 events were observed in the Enoxaparin group (p=0.008). Only the type of thromboprophylactic treatment (Bemiparin vs Enoxaparin) was related to presenting major bleeding (p = 0.007). Therefore, Bemiparin is useful in the thromboembolic prophylaxis in patients with microvascular head and neck reconstructions, providing a lower risk of major bleeding than Enoxaparin.

Neurogenic bladder: concepts and treatment recommendations

Bladder and urinary sphincter malfunctioning that results from some change in the central and/or peripheral nervous system is defined as neurogenic bladder. The urinary tract symptoms that can be related to its filling, emptying, or both have a significant impact on the quality of life of individuals. The present review was based on the document prepared for the public health system in Brazil as a treatment guidelines proposal. Material and Methods: Survey questions were structured as per PICO (Population, Intervention, Control, and Outcome). Search strategies were defined and performed in the MEDLINE/Pubmed, Embase, Epistemonikos and Google Scholar databases. The selection of articles followed the evidence hierarchy concept; evidence body was identified, and the quantitative study data were extracted. The quality of evidence and grade of recommendation were qualitatively assessed according to GRADE (Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations). Results: A total of 2.707 articles were identified, with 49 of them being selected to compose the basis for this review. Neurogenic bladder treatments were classified according to their focus on filling or emptying symptoms and sub- classified in pharmacological and surgical treatments. Conclusion: Treatment guidelines are important tools for the public health system to promote the best practice when treating neurogenic bladder patients.

Impact of hydronephrosis and kidney function on survival in newly diagnosed advanced cervical cancer.

OBJECTIVES: To assess the impact of hydronephrosis and kidney function in newly diagnosed advanced cervical cancer patients. METHODS: A retrospective cohort study of newly diagnosed cervical cancer stage IIIB to IVB was conducted in a tertiary hospital in Brazil. Data from clinical records between 2014 and 2018 were reviewed. RESULTS: A total of 285 women with advanced cervical cancer and no previous cancer treatment were included. 108 (37.9%) patients were diagnosed with hydronephrosis (HN) before or during the first treatment, 49 (17.2%) patients underwent ureteral obstruction relief, and emergency hemodialysis was performed in 17 patients due to uremia. The median overall survival (mOS) was 46.9 months for non-HN, 19.2 months for unilateral-HN, and 10.0 months for bilateral-HN (non-HN vs HN-groups, p = 0.0001). Patients with eGFR >= 60 mL/min/1.73 m2, before or during the first cancer treatment, had mOS of 46.9 months, 23.5 months, and 11.1 months for non-HN, unilateral-HN and bilateral-HN, respectively (non-HN vs bilateral-HN, p = 0.002). Patients with eGFR < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 had mOS 23.4 months, 19.2 months, and 10.0 months for non-HN, unilateral-HN and bilateral-HN, respectively (non-HN vs bilateral-HN, p = 0.003). In the HN group, mOS was 11.2 months among those who underwent urinary diversion and 15.6 months among those who did not; p = 0.2. On multivariate analysis, cancer treatment, FIGO stage, and HN were prognostic factors for OS; however eGFR < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 does not appear to be associated with worse survival by itself (p = 0.7). CONCLUSION: HN seems to have a negative effect on survival of patients with cervical cancer even after adjustment for FIGO stage and cancer treatment. The mOS does not appear to be worse in patients with HN who required urinary diversion compared to those who did not.

Long-term outcome of cementless total hip arthroplasty with threaded Tropic® acetabular cup and Corail® femoral stem.

This study investigates the clinical and radiological results of a tapered femoral stem (Corail®) and uncemented threaded acetabular cups (Tropic®) and in addition an analysis of the complications and retrieved implants was conducted. Between January 1990 and September 1998, 301 total hips arthroplasties in 268 patients were implanted. 78 patients (87 hips) had died and 9 patients (12 hips) had been lost to follow-up, leaving at the time of the latest follow-up 180 patients (202 hips). The mean age at surgery was 56,1 (27-75) years. Of the 154 unrevised hips, the median Harris and Merle d'Aubigne and Postel hip scores were 83,3 points and 15,3 points respectively at the latest follow-up. The median follow-up time was 16.9 years (10,4-25). No femoral component was revised for aseptic loosening ; osteolysis was observed in the 9,5% of the implants (13 stems). 48 hips (23%) were revised and 27 cups (56,2%) needed revision surgery because of massive polyethylene wear. Pelvic osteolysis was found out in 80 cups (58,8%). 87 hips (63,9%) showed signs of a progressive wear of the liner, more than 2mm in 48 hips. Kaplan-Meier survivorship analysis at 15 years follow-up was 81.2% with revision for any reason (85.8% for mechanical or radiographic loosening). High rates of polyethylene wear and the high prevalence of pelvic osteolysis are serious matters in these types of implants with high rates of revision at 15 years follow-up so we decided to abandon the concept of a threaded cup design in favor of a press-fit acetabular cup.

Phase separation of p53 precedes aggregation and is affected by oncogenic mutations and ligands.

Mutant p53 tends to form aggregates with amyloid properties, especially amyloid oligomers inside the nucleus, which are believed to cause oncogenic gain-of-function (GoF). The mechanism of the formation of the aggregates in the nucleus remains uncertain. The present study demonstrated that the DNA-binding domain of p53 (p53C) underwent phase separation (PS) on the pathway to aggregation under various conditions. p53C phase separated in the presence of the crowding agent polyethylene glycol (PEG). Similarly, mutant p53C (M237I and R249S) underwent PS; however, the process evolved to a solid-like phase transition faster than that in the case of wild-type p53C. The data obtained by microscopy of live cells indicated that transfection of mutant full-length p53 into the cells tended to result in PS and phase transition (PT) in the nuclear compartments, which are likely the cause of the GoF effects. Fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP) experiments revealed liquid characteristics of the condensates in the nucleus. Mutant p53 tended to undergo gel- and solid-like phase transitions in the nucleus and in nuclear bodies demonstrated by slow and incomplete recovery of fluorescence after photobleaching. Polyanions, such as heparin and RNA, were able to modulate PS and PT in vitro. Heparin apparently stabilized the condensates in a gel-like state, and RNA apparently induced a solid-like state of the protein even in the absence of PEG. Conditions that destabilize p53C into a molten globule conformation also produced liquid droplets in the absence of crowding. The disordered transactivation domain (TAD) modulated both phase separation and amyloid aggregation. In summary, our data provide mechanistic insight into the formation of p53 condensates and conditions that may result in the formation of aggregated structures, such as mutant amyloid oligomers, in cancer. The pathway of mutant p53 from liquid droplets to gel-like and solid-like (amyloid) species may be a suitable target for anticancer therapy.