Peripheral Activation of Formyl Peptide Receptor 2/ALX by Electroacupuncture Alleviates Inflammatory Pain by Increasing Interleukin-10 Levels and Catalase Activity in Mice.

In the context of the electroacupuncture (EA) neurobiological mechanisms, we have previously demonstrated the involvement of formyl peptide receptor 2 (FPR2/ALX) in the antihyperalgesic effect of EA. The present study investigated the involvement of peripheral FPR2/ALX in the antihyperalgesic effect of EA on inflammatory cytokines levels, oxidative stress markers and antioxidant enzymes in an animal model of persistent inflammatory pain. Male Swiss mice underwent intraplantar (i.pl.) injection with complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA). Mechanical hyperalgesia was assessed with von Frey monofilaments. Animals were treated with EA (2/10 Hz, ST36-SP6, 20 minutes) for 4 consecutive days. From the first to the fourth day after CFA injection, animals received i.pl. WRW4 (FPR2/ALX antagonist) or saline before EA. Levels of inflammatory cytokines (TNF, IL-6, IL-4 and IL-10), antioxidant enzymes (catalase and superoxide dismutase), oxidative stress markers (TBARS, protein carbonyl, nitrite/nitrate ratio), and myeloperoxidase activity were measured in paw tissue samples. As previously demonstrated, i.pl. injection of the FPR2/ALX antagonist prevented the antihyperalgesic effect induced by EA. Furthermore, animals treated with EA showed higher levels of IL-10 and catalase activity in the inflamed paw, and these effects were prevented by the antagonist WRW4. EA did not change levels of TNF and IL-6, SOD and MPO activity, and oxidative stress markers. Our work demonstrates that the antihyperalgesic effect of EA on CFA-induced inflammatory pain could be partially associated with higher IL-10 levels and catalase activity, and that these effects may be dependent, at least in part, on the activation of peripheral FPR2/ALX.

Contribution of plasma, placental, inflammatory and pro-resolving mediators in labor induction.

INTRODUCTION: The onset of labor is regulated by endocrine, nervous and immunological factors. This study was designed to determine the inflammatory and pro-resolving mediator levels in plasma and placenta of women undergoing labor induction in late-term pregnancy. METHOD: Healthy pregnant women admitted for delivery or labor induction were included. TNF, IL-1ß, IL-6, IL-8, and IL-10 were quantified by ELISA in plasmatic and placental samples and Annexin A1 (ANXA1) in the placenta by Western Blotting, and immunofluorescence to CD15+ antibody. The data were analyzed using the Wilcoxon test and Spearman correlation. The p-value was significant when <0.05. RESULTS: There was a higher concentration of IL-8 was found in the amniotic plaque (p = 0.042) and IL-10 (p < 0.001) in the trophoblast of patients with spontaneous labor. Greater ANXA1 density in the trophoblast was also observed in those with induction failure. There was a positive correlation of ANXA1 density in trophoblast induction duration with (r = 0.580) and with the IL-6 level in amniotic plaque (r = 0.517), and a positive correlation between labor duration and density of ANXA1 was identified in the trophoblast (r = 0.419). An increase was identified in CD15+ cell immunocapturing among the groups with spontaneous labor compared to the group with induction failure (p < 0.001). DISCUSSION: The inflammatory process in labor involves both maternal and fetal participation. Induction failure is associated with higher levels of ANXA1 in the trophoblast.

Accuracy of neck circumference for diagnosing overweight in sixand seven-year-old children

Abstract Objective: To estimate the accuracy of neck circumference measurement as a method of diagnosing excess weight of six and seven-year-old children. Methods: 1026 six and seven-year-old children were included and anthropometric data were collected using cut-off points for the Body Mass Index (BMI) Z-score, in addition to the measurement of their neck circumference in centimeters. Pearson's correlation coefficient was used to assess the correlation between neck circumference and BMI. Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values were calculated. The Receiver Operating Characteristic curve was used to measure the accuracy of neck circumference as a diagnostic method for excess weight. Results: A positive linear correlation value was observed between neck circumference and BMI 0.572 (p < 0.001). The accuracy value of the global ROC curve was 0.772 (p < 0.001). Sensitivity and specificity showed low values, but high positive predictive values were observed, especially between measures of 30 and 31 cm. Conclusion: Neck circumference showed accuracy of 77.2% as a diagnostic method for overweightness in six and seven-year-old children.

ET-B receptors involvement in peripheral opioid analgesia induced by light-emitting diode photobiomodulation in male and female mice.

Currently, photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) is gaining space in the scientific and clinical environment. To help elucidate the importance of irradiance, this study evaluated the effect of two different PBMT irradiances (3.5 and 90 mW/cm2), given a fixed wavelength of 630 nm and a dose of 2 J/cm2, on mechanical hyperalgesia following Complete Freund's Adjuvant (CFA) intraplantar (i.pl.) injection in mice. Additionally, we investigated the role of peripheral opioid and endothelin-B receptors (ETB-R), as well as sex differences in treatment outcome. Different groups of male or female mice were evaluated 6 and 96 h after CFA. Mechanical hyperalgesia was evaluated 30 min after treatments. Naloxone or Bq-788 administration, fifteen minutes before PBMT or Sarafotoxin S6c, helped determine the involvement of peripheral opioid and ETB-Rs on PBMT. Lastly, ETB-Rs skin immunocontent in both sexes was quantified after PBMT consecutive daily treatments. PBMT at an irradiance of 90 mW/cm2, was more effective than 3.5 mW/cm2. Bq-788 and naloxone administration prevented the effects of PBMT and SRTX S6c; however, PBMT did not influence peripheral ETB-Rs immunocontent. The results suggest that irradiance influences PMBT effect; and that activation of ETB-R play a role in peripheral PBMT opioid induced analgesia. Lastly, PMBT effects do not appear to be sex-dependent.

Annexin A1, FPR2/ALX, and inflammatory cytokine expression in peritoneal endometriosis.

To characterize Annexin A1 (ANXA1), FPR2/ALX and cytokines expression in peritoneal endometriosis and to clarify their role in its etiology, a cross-sectional study was performed with forty women in reproductive age (22 patients with endometriosis and 18 control women) that had undergone laparoscopic surgery. Peritoneal biopsy and fluid aspirations from endometriosis and control samples were analyzed for the expression of ANXA1, FPR2/ALX and cytokines. ANXA1 and FPR2 / ALX levels were measured by Western blotting and interleukin 1ß (IL-1ß), interleukin 4 (IL-4), interleukin 6 (IL-6), and interleukin 10 (IL-10) levels were quantified by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The present study identified the presence in human peritoneal tissue of ANXA1 and FPR2 / ALX both in healthy condition and in women with peritoneal endometriosis, however, was lower in endometriosis samples than in control samples. By quantifying the IL-6 and IL-1ß cytokines in the peritoneal fluid by ELISA, this study identified a higher IL-6 concentration in endometriosis group, but no significative difference in IL-1ß levels. The IL-4 and IL-10 levels could not be detected. These results indicate that the reduction of the inflammatory resolution mediators could be responsible for the inflammatory process perpetuation, maintenance and worsening of endometriosis.

Effects of Different Parameters of Continuous Training and High-Intensity Interval Training in the Chronic Phase of a Mouse Model of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome Type I.

This study evaluated the effects of continuous and interval running on a treadmill on mechanical hyperalgesia in an animal model of chronic postischemia pain and analyzed the mechanism of action of this effect. Different groups of male Swiss mice with chronic postischemia pain, induced by 3 hours of paw ischemia followed by reperfusion, ran on the treadmill in different protocols-the speed (10, 13, 16, or 19 m/min), duration (15, 30, or 60 minutes), weekly frequency (3 or 5 times), weekly increase in continuous and interval running speed-were tested. Mechanical hyperalgesia was evaluated by von Frey filament 7, 14, and 21 days after paw ischemia followed by reperfusion. On day 11 after paw ischemia followed by reperfusion and after 5 days of continuous and interval running, concentrations of cytokines, oxidative stress parameters, and extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 and AKT 1/2/3 expression in the spinal cord were measured. The results showed that continuous running has an antihyperalgesic effect that depends on intensity and volume. Interval running has a longer-lasting antihyperalgesic effect than continuous running. The antihyperalgesic effect depends on intensity and volume in continuous running, and increasing speed maintains the antihyperalgesic effect in both protocols. In the spinal cord, both runs decreased tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-6 levels and increased interleukin-10. Both running protocols reduced oxidative damage in the spinal cord. Only interval running had lower concentrations of phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 in the spinal cord. Interval running presented a great antihyperalgesic potential with more promising results than continuous running, which may be owing to the fact that the interval running can activate different mechanisms from those activated by continuous running. PERSPECTIVE: A minimum of .5-hour sessions of moderate to high intensity ≥3 times a week are essential parameters for continuous and interval running-induced analgesia. However, interval running was shown to be more effective than continuous running and can be an important adjuvant treatment to chronic pain.

Association between Hormonal Contraception and Injuries Induced by Human Papillomavirus in the Uterine Cervix.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the association between hormonal contraception and the appearance of human papillomavirus HPV-induced lesions in the uterine cervix of patients assisted at a school outpatient clinic - ObGyn outpatient service of the Universidade do Sul de Santa Catarina. METHODS: A case-control study, with women in fertile age, performed between 2012 and 2015. A total of 101 patients with cervical lesions secondary to HPV were included in the case group, and 101 patients with normal oncotic colpocytology, in the control group. The data were analyzed through the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS, IBM Corp. Armonk, NY, US) software, version 24.0, using the 95% confidence interval. To test the homogeneity of the proportions, the chi-square (χ2) test was used for the qualitative variables, and the Student t-test, for the quantitative variables. RESULTS: When comparing the occurrence of HPV lesions in users and non-users of combined oral contraceptives (COCs), the association with doses of 0.03 mg or higher of ethinylestradiol (EE) was observed. Thus, a higher probability of developing cervical lesions induced by HPV was identified (odds ratio [OR]: 1.9 p = 0.039); and when these cases were separated by the degree of the lesion, the probability of these patients presenting with low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion was 2.1 times higher (p = 0.036), but with no impact on high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions and the occurrence of invasive cancer. No significant differences were found in the other variables analyzed. CONCLUSION: Although the results found in the present study suggest a higher probability of the users of combined hormonal contraceptives with a concentration higher than 0.03 mg of EE to develop low-grade intraepithelial lesions, more studies are needed to conclude causality.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a associação entre a contracepção hormonal e a presença de lesões induzidas pelo vírus do papiloma humano (HPV) no colo uterino de pacientes do serviço de ginecologia e obstetrícia do ambulatório de especialidade médicas da Universidade do Sul de Santa Catarina - AME/UNISUL. MéTODOS: Estudo observacional do tipo caso-controle, com mulheres no menacme, no período compreendido entre 2012 e 2015. Foram incluídas 101 pacientes com lesões cervicais secundárias ao HPV, no grupo caso, e 101 pacientes com colpocitologia oncótica normal, no grupo controle. Os dados foram analisados por meio do programa SPSS 24.0, utilizando-se o intervalo de confiança de 95%. Para testar a homogeneidade de proporções foram utilizados o teste do qui-quadrado (χ2) para as variáveis qualitativas e o teste t de Student para as variáveis quantitativas. RESULTADOS: Ao comparar-se a ocorrência das lesões pelo HPV em usuárias de contraceptivos orais combinados (COCs) com a em não usuárias, observou-se a associação com doses de 0.03 mg ou superiores de etinilestradiol (EE), na qual se identificou 1.9 vezes mais probabilidade destas desenvolverem lesões cervicais induzidas pelo HPV (p = 0.039); ao separar-se esses casos pelo grau da lesão, a probabilidade destas pacientes apresentarem lesão cervical de baixo grau foi 2.1 vezes maior (p = 0.036), porém sem impacto nas lesões cervicais de alto grau e na ocorrência de câncer invasor. Não foram encontradas diferenças significativas nas outras variáveis analisadas. CONCLUSãO: Embora os resultados encontrados no presente estudo sugiram maior probabilidade das usuárias de contraceptivo hormonal combinado, com concentração superior a 0.03 mg de EE, desenvolverem lesão cervical de baixo grau, mais estudos são necessários para concluir causalidade.

Association between hormonal contraception and injuries induced by human papillomavirus in the uterine cervix / Associação entre a contracepção hormonal e lesões induzidas pelo vírus do papiloma humano no colo uterino

Abstract Objective To evaluate the association between hormonal contraception and the appearance of human papillomavirus HPV-induced lesions in the uterine cervix of patients assisted at a school outpatient clinic - ObGyn outpatient service of the Universidade do Sul de Santa Catarina. Methods A case-control study, with women in fertile age, performed between 2012 and 2015. A total of 101 patients with cervical lesions secondary to HPV were included in the case group, and 101 patients with normal oncotic colpocytology, in the control group. The data were analyzed through the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS, IBM Corp. Armonk, NY, US) software, version 24.0, using the 95% confidence interval. To test the homogeneity of the proportions, the chi-square (χ2) test was used for the qualitative variables, and the Student t-test, for the quantitative variables. Results When comparing the occurrence of HPV lesions in users and non-users of combined oral contraceptives (COCs), the association with doses of 0.03 mg or higher of ethinylestradiol (EE) was observed. Thus, a higher probability of developing cervical lesions induced by HPV was identified (odds ratio [OR]: 1.9 p = 0.039); and when these cases were separated by the degree of the lesion, the probability of these patients presentingwith lowgrade squamous intraepithelial lesion was 2.1 times higher (p = 0.036), but with no impact on high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions and the occurrence of invasive cancer. No significant differences were found in the other variables analyzed. Conclusion Although the results found in the present study suggest a higher probability of the users of combined hormonal contraceptives with a concentration higher than 0.03 mg of EE to develop low-grade intraepithelial lesions, more studies are needed to conclude causality.

Resumo Objetivo Avaliar a associação entre a contracepção hormonal e a presença de lesões induzidas pelo vírus do papiloma humano (HPV) no colo uterino de pacientes do serviço de ginecologia e obstetrícia do ambulatório de especialidade médicas da Universidadedo Sul de Santa Catarina - AME/UNISUL. Métodos Estudo observacional do tipo caso-controle, commulheres no menacme, no período compreendido entre 2012 e 2015. Foram incluídas 101 pacientes com lesões cervicais secundárias ao HPV, no grupo caso, e 101 pacientes com colpocitologia oncótica normal, no grupo controle. Os dados foram analisados por meio do programa SPSS 24.0, utilizando-se o intervalo de confiança de 95%. Para testar a homogeneidade de proporções foram utilizados o teste do qui-quadrado (χ2) para as variáveis qualitativas e o teste t de Student para as variáveis quantitativas. Resultados Ao comparar-se a ocorrência das lesões pelo HPV em usuárias de contraceptivos orais combinados (COCs) com a em não usuárias, observou-se a associação com doses de 0.03 mg ou superiores de etinilestradiol (EE), na qual se identificou 1.9 vezes mais probabilidade destas desenvolverem lesões cervicais induzidas pelo HPV (p = 0.039); ao separar-se esses casos pelo grau da lesão, a probabilidade destas pacientes apresentarem lesão cervical de baixo grau foi 2.1 vezes maior (p = 0.036), porémsemimpacto nas lesões cervicais de alto grau e na ocorrência de câncer invasor. Não foram encontradas diferenças significativas nas outras variáveis analisadas. Conclusão Embora os resultados encontrados no presente estudo sugiram maior probabilidade das usuárias de contraceptivo hormonal combinado, com concentração superior a 0.03 mg de EE, desenvolverem lesão cervical de baixo grau,mais estudos são necessários para concluir causalidade.

Fatores associados ao uso de substâncias para reduzir peso entre universitárias / Associated factors to weight loss drugs among university students

Objetivo: O uso de substâncias para reduzir o peso pode perpetuar os transtornos alimentares, estando ambos relacionados a importantes comorbidades e mortalidade. O estudo investigou a prevalência de uso destas substâncias e a possível associação com diferentes fatores, entre universitário da área da saúde. Método: Estudo transversal com estudantes entre 18 e 19 anos, para identificação da ocorrência de comportamentos relacionados aos transtornos alimentares. Resultados: O uso de substâncias para reduzir o peso teve uma prevalência de 19,3% e esteve associado à satisfação corporal (fator de proteção: p= 0,003) e ao hábito de induzir vômito (fator de risco: p=0,020). Ainda, 46,4% (IC 95%: 38,0-55,0) das entrevistadas já fizeram dieta e 14,5% (IC 95%: 9,1-21,5) já provocaram vômito, enquanto 4,3% (IC 95%: 1,6-9,2) afirmaram já ter desenvolvido transtorno alimentar. Conclusão: A prevalência de uso de substâncias para reduzir o peso entre as universitárias foi significativa e esteve associada a fatores considerados predisponentes e mantenedores dos transtornos alimentares. Tais achados podem se constituir em informação importante para o planejamento e melhoramento de ações voltadas ao controle destes transtornos entre adolescentes.

Objective: The use of weight-loss drugs may perpetuate eating disorders, which is related to important co-morbidities and mortality. The study investigated the prevalence of medication use and possible association with different factors. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted among female university students aged 18 and 19 years, to identify the occurrence of eating disorder-related behaviors. Results: The prevalence of weight-loss drug use was 19.3% and was associated with body satisfaction (protection factor: p= 0.003) and the habit of self-induced vomiting (risk factor: p= 0.020). In addition, 46.4% (95% CI: 38.0 to 55.0) of respondents had already dieted and 14.5% (95% CI: 9.1 to 21.5) had provoked vomiting, whereas 4.3 % (95% CI: 1.6 to 9.2) said they had developed an eating disorder. Conclusion: The prevalence of weight-loss drug use was significant among female university students and was associated with predisposing factors for eating disorders. Such findings can constitute important information for planning and improvement of activities focused on the control of these disorders among adolescents.

Efeito do uso da metilprednisolona no manguito rotador em ratos. Estudo biomecânico e histológico / Effect of methylprednisolone use on the rotator cuff in rats: biomechanical and histological study

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a influência do tratamento com diferentes doses de metilprednisolona sobre a resistência mecânica, bem como possíveis alterações histológicas do tendão do manguito rotador (MR) em ratos. MÉTODOS: Ratos Wistar machos foram divididos aleatoriamente em quatro grupos de tratamento como sham, veículo, 0,6 mg/kg ou 6 mg/kg de metilprednisolona. Alterações na resistência mecânica (em N) e em parâmetros histológicos (aparência fibrilar, presença de colágeno, edema e proliferação vascular) do tendão do manguito rotador (MR) foram avaliadas. As análises foram feitas após o tratamento com uma (24 horas após), duas (sete dias após) ou três (14 dias após) administrações no espaço subacromial. RESULTADOS: Após sete e 14 dias do início do tratamento a metilprednisolona reduziu, de maneira dependente de dose, a resistência mecânica do tendão do MR (p < 0,05 em relação ao grupo veículo). Também foram observadas modificação em parâmetros histológicos nos dias sete e 14 após a primeira infiltração, principalmente quanto à presença de colágeno e proliferação vascular para a dose de 0,6 MG/kg de metilprednisolona e presença de colágeno, edema e proliferação vascular para a dose de 6 mg/kg do corticoide. CONCLUSÃO: Os resultados obtidos demonstram uma relação entre o uso de metilprednisolona por infiltração no espaço subacromial e a redução da resistência mecânica e modificações histológicas no tendão do MR de ratos.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the influence of treatment with different doses of methylprednisolone on the mechanical resistance and possible histological alterations of the rotator cuff tendon in rats. METHODS: Male Wistar rats were divided randomly into four treatment groups: sham, vehicle or 0.6 mg/kg or 6.0 mg/kg of methylprednisolone. Changes to mechanical resistance (in N) and histological parameters (fibrillar appearance, presence of collagen, edema and vascular proliferation) of the rotator cuff tendon were evaluated. The analyses were conducted after administration of one treatment (24 h afterwards), two treatments (7 days afterward) or three treatments (14 days afterwards), into the subacromial space. RESULTS: Seven and fourteen days after the treatments were started, it was found that in a dose-dependent manner, methylprednisolone reduced the mechanical resistance of the rotator cuff tendon (p < 0.05 in relation to the vehicle group). Modifications to the histological parameters were observed on the 7th and 14th days after the first infiltration, especially regarding the presence of collagen and vascular proliferation, for the dose of 0.6 mg/kg of methylprednisolone, and also regarding the presence of collagen, edema and vascular proliferation for the dose of 6.0 mg/kg of corticoid. CONCLUSION: The results obtained demonstrated a relationship between methylprednisolone use through infiltration into the subacromial space and reduction of the mechanical resistance of and histological modifications to the rotator cuff tendon in rats.

Prevalence of neuropathic pain and associated factors in diabetes mellitus type 2 patients seen in outpatient setting / Prevalência de dor neuropática e fatores associados em portadores de diabetes mellitus tipo 2 atendidos em ambulatório médico

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Epidemiological data on chronic pain in different populations are scarce in Brazil. This study aimed at investigating the prevalence of neuropathic pain and possible associated factors in diabetes type 2 patients, of a teaching center. METHODS: This was a transversal study with individuals seen between March 2010 and March 2011, in the Medical Outpatient Setting of Specialties, University of Southern Santa Catarina, Tubarão, SC, with interviews to identify socio-demographic variables of age, gender and time elapsed after diagnosis of diabetes mellitus and application of tools to measure neuropathic pain, depression, glycemia and adhesion to treatment. RESULTS: Participated in the study 72 subjects, being 69.4% females, 15.3% with controlled glycemia levels at the moment of the interview, 90.3% were adherent to treatment and 33.3% had depressive symptoms. The prevalence of neuropathic pain was 16.7% and this was associated to time of diabetes mellitus 2 (p=0.031). CONCLUSION: The prevalence of neuropathic pain was similar to that observed in other places of the country and we suggest better follow up of the studied population with regard to depression and adhesion to medication to treat diabetes. .

JUSTIFICATIVA E OBJETIVOS: Dados epidemiológicos sobre dor crônica, em diferentes populações, são escassos no Brasil. O objetivo deste estudo foi investigar a prevalência de dor neuropática e possíveis fatores associados em pacientes portadores de diabetes tipo 2, de um serviço universitário. MÉTODOS: Realizou-se estudo transversal com indivíduos atendidos entre março de 2010 e março de 2011, no Ambulatório Médico de Especialidades da Universidade do Sul de Santa Catarina, Tubarão, SC, com entrevistas para identificação das variáveis sócio-demográficas de idade, gênero e tempo de diagnóstico do diabetes mellitus e aplicação de instrumentos para mensuração de dor neuropática, depressão, glicemia e adesão aos fármacos. RESULTADOS: Foram entrevistados 72 sujeitos, sendo 69,4% do gênero feminino, 15,3% apresentavam níveis glicêmicos controlados no momento da entrevista, 90,3% eram aderentes ao tratamento e 33,3% apresentavam sintomas de depressão. A prevalência de dor neuropática foi de 16,7% e esta se associou com o tempo de diagnóstico do diabetes mellitus 2 (p=0,031). CONCLUSÃO: A prevalência de dor neuropática foi semelhante à observada em outras localidades do país, e sugere-se melhor acompanhamento da população estudada quanto à depressão e a adesão aos fármacos para tratamento do diabetes. Descritores: Complicações do diabetes, Diabetes mellitus, Dor crônica, Neuropatias diabéticas. .

Locus of pain control associated with medication adherence behaviors among patients after an orthopedic procedure.

BACKGROUND: Locus of pain control (LPC) is characterized by the behavior of people coping with their health problems, as a result of their own actions (internal control) or external factors or other people (external control). This parameter can be associated with medication adherence, in addition to other psychosocial factors that may also influence this behavior. This study was performed to investigate the influence of the LPC on medication adherence in patients undergoing an orthopedic procedure. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: We conducted a prospective cohort study on patients who attended an orthopedic clinic for arthroscopy treatment. The patients' LPC and pain intensity data were obtained on the day of admission through the use of the LPC scale and the visual analog scale (VAS), respectively, both being validated tools. After arthroscopic surgery, the patients received drug prescriptions and were reassessed after 15 days regarding treatment adherence, using the Morisky test. A P-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: We assessed 79 individuals from both the internal LPC group (n=35) and external LPC group (n=44) and found that there were no group differences in sex, affected limb, cause of injury, repetitive strain injury, duration of pain, or pain intensity. However, there was a higher proportion of patients in the external LPC group that adhered to the prescribed medication compared with the internal LPC group (P<0.01). CONCLUSION: The results showed that among patients who underwent an orthopedic procedure, there was a higher adherence rate to prescribed medication in the external LPC group compared with the internal LPC group.

Evaluation of lipoic acid topical application on rats skin wound healing.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effects of lipoic acid (thioctic acid) topical application on wound healing on rats skin, and the consequences of lipoic acid nanoencapsulation on this process. METHODS: The model used was the healing activity on wounds induced by surgical incision on rats skin (n = 44). The parameters analyzed (11 days) were wound healing rate and histology (vascular proliferation, polymorphonuclear or mononuclear cells, and collagen synthesis or reepithelialization), after application of free lipoic acid or lipoic acid- loaded nanocapsules. The antioxidant activity of these formulations was evaluated by lipid peroxidation test. RESULTS: It was demonstrated for the first time that the topical application of lipoic acid improves wound healing. On the seventh day after surgery, the animals treated with lipoic acid showed increased healing rate (60.7 ± 8.4%) compared to the negative control group (43.0 ± 17.4%), as so improvement of histological parameters. The nanoencapsulation reverted the pro-oxidant activity presented in vitro by lipoic acid, whereas diminished wound repair. CONCLUSIONS: The topical application of lipoic acid produced an increase in the skin wound healing, which may be related to its pro-oxidant activity. On the other hand, the nanoencapsulation of the lipoic acid reversed the pro-oxidant activity, although presented minor healing activity.

Evaluation of lipoic acid topical application on rats skin wound healing

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effects of lipoic acid (thioctic acid) topical application on wound healing on rats skin, and the consequences of lipoic acid nanoencapsulation on this process. METHODS: The model used was the healing activity on wounds induced by surgical incision on rats skin (n = 44). The parameters analyzed (11 days) were wound healing rate and histology (vascular proliferation, polymorphonuclear or mononuclear cells, and collagen synthesis or reepithelialization), after application of free lipoic acid or lipoic acid- loaded nanocapsules. The antioxidant activity of these formulations was evaluated by lipid peroxidation test. RESULTS: It was demonstrated for the first time that the topical application of lipoic acid improves wound healing. On the seventh day after surgery, the animals treated with lipoic acid showed increased healing rate (60.7 ± 8.4%) compared to the negative control group (43.0 ± 17.4%), as so improvement of histological parameters. The nanoencapsulation reverted the pro-oxidant activity presented in vitro by lipoic acid, whereas diminished wound repair. CONCLUSIONS: The topical application of lipoic acid produced an increase in the skin wound healing, which may be related to its pro-oxidant activity. On the other hand, the nanoencapsulation of the lipoic acid reversed the pro-oxidant activity, although presented minor healing activity.

Abnormal eating behaviors among medical students at a university in southern Santa Catarina, Brazil / Prevalência de transtornos de comportamentos alimentares entre estudantes de medicina de uma universidade do sul de Santa Catarina, Brasil

OBJECTIVES: Disturbances in eating behavior significantly affect young adults. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of abnormal eating behaviors, according to the Eating Attitudes Test - 26 (EAT-26) in medical students at a university in southern Santa Catarina State, Brazil. METHODS: Self-reported questionnaire, based on the EAT-26 scale, was administered to medical students. Additional questions about age, gender, study period of the course, weight and height were asked. A total of 391 medical students were assessed, amounting to 93.3 percent of the 419 students enrolled. RESULTS: Ten percent of the surveyed subjects had positive EAT-26 scores. This outcome measure was positive associated with females (PR 6.5), body mass index (BMI) ≤ 25 kg/m² (PR 4.5), age ≤ 20 years (PR 1.3) and being student from 1st to 5th semester of the course (PR 1.7). A higher proportion of women gave positive responses to behaviors related to control of food intake or weight loss than men. CONCLUSION: The significant prevalence of behaviors related to eating disorders, predominantly among women, suggests the implementation of preventive measures targeting this population.

OBJETIVO: Transtornos de comportamento alimentar afetam significativamente os adultos jovens. Este estudo estimou a prevalência de comportamentos alimentares anormais, em estudantes de medicina de uma universidade do sul de Santa Catarina. MÉTODO: Um questionário baseado na escala Eating Attitudes Test-26 (EAT-26) foi administrado aos estudantes regularmente matriculados entre o sexto e décimo semestre do curso. Questionou-se ainda a idade, sexo, período do curso em que estavam matriculados, peso e altura. Dos 419 estudantes matriculados, 391 (93,3%) foram avaliados. RESULTADOS: Dez por cento dos indivíduos apresentaram escore positivo ao EAT-26. Houve associação positiva deste desfecho com sexo feminino (RP 6,5), índice de massa corporal ≤ 25 kg/m² (RP 4,5), idade menor do que 20 anos (RP 1,3) e estar cursando do primeiro ao quinto semestre do curso (RP 1,7). Maior proporção de mulheres, em comparação aos homens, responderam positivamente a questões de comportamentos relacionados ao controle da ingestão alimentar ou perda de peso. CONCLUSÃO: A prevalência significativa de comportamentos relacionados a distúrbios alimentares, predominantemente entre mulheres, sugere a implementação de medidas preventivas nesta população.

Prevalência de automedicação para tratamento de dor em município do sul do Brasil / Prevalence of self-medication for pain relief in a city of southern Brazil

O objetivo deste estudo foi estimar a prevalência deautomedicação por medicamentos para tratamento dedor e fatores associados, no município de Laguna-S.C.O método adotado foi um estudo transversal, envolvendouma amostra de 300 indivíduos que comprarammedicamentos em farmácias do município. Como resultados,dos entrevistados 21,7% (n=83) comprarammedicamentos analgésicos e em 78,3% dos casos acompra ocorreu sem prescrição médica. Os fármacosmais comprados foram paracetamol (51,8%) e dipirona(36,1%) em produtos de referência (65,1%), com maiorfreqüência de uso dos medicamentos para o sistemarespiratório (37,4%). Houve afirmação de que a pessoapara quem o analgésico se destinava possuía outras patologias(37,0%) e/ou utilizava outros medicamentos(33,3%), possibilitando 6 interações medicamentosascom significância clínica. Em 68,7% dos casos, nãohouve orientação farmacêutica no momento da compra.Observou-se associação estatisticamente significativaentre ausência de prescrição e intensidade de dor(p=0,033). Em conclusão, a prevalência de automedicaçãofoi de 78,3% e mostrou-se associada a situações dedor leve/moderada.

The aim of the present study was to estimate theprevalence of self-medication with drugs for the treatmentof pain and associated factors in Laguna, SantaCatarina, Brazil. The method adopted was a cross-sectionalpopulation-based study was conducted throughinterviews with 300 subjects who bought medicinesin the pharmacies of Laguna, Santa Catarina. As mainresults, of the respondents 27.0% (n=81) purchasedpainkillers, 77.8% out of which were supplied withoutprescription. The most frequently purchased drugs wereacetaminophen (51.8%) and dipyrone (36.1%) as referenceproducts (65.1%), and the most frequently usedwere respiratory system drugs (37.3%). Reports indicatethat the person to whom the painkiller was intendedhad other pathologies (37.0%) and/or were using othermedicines (33.3%), allowing six drug interactions withclinical significance. In 69.1% of cases, no pharmaceuticalcare was provided at the time of purchase. A significantassociation was observed between the presenceof prescription and intensity of mild or moderate pain(p=0.033). In conclusion, the prevalence of self-medicationwas found to be 77.8% and it was associated withcases of mild or moderate pain.

Uso racional de antibióticos: uma experiência para educação em saúde com escolares / Rational use of antibiotics: an experiment for the health education of schoolchildren

The promotion of the rational use of antibiotics can be conducted to ensure that health professionals and users become aware of its importance through educational activities. The scope of this paper was to report on the experiment of developing a tool for health education for primary school children on the rational use of antibiotics. The activities began by defining objectives, selecting the best strategy and planning activities with the guidance of teaching assistants in schools. After defining that the strategy to be adopted would be a comic strip, we worked together with the children on the steps of contextualization, sequence construction and its illustration. All the goals established for the story were achieved, since it represented aspects envisaged in the concept of rational use of medicines recommended by the World Health Organization. At the end, the story that best matched the intended purposes was selected to be turned into a comic book. The experience showed a way to develop health education activities in interaction with the community, using recreational workshops. Beside this, it made it possible to identify the limitations and potential for using education action strategies on other topics with children of the same age group.

A promoção do uso racional de antibióticos pode ser realizada de forma a conscientizar profissionais de saúde e usuários através de ações educativas. Objetivo: Relatar a experiência de construção de um instrumento de educação em saúde sobre o uso racional de antibióticos com escolares do ensino fundamental. Métodos: As atividades iniciaram-se pela definição dos objetivos, seleção da melhor estratégia e programação das atividades com as assistentes pedagógicas das escolas. Após definir a estratégia a ser adotada como história em quadrinhos, trabalhou-se com as crianças nas etapas de contextualização, construção da sequência da história e sua ilustração. Resultados: Os objetivos previstos para a história foram alcançados, com a mesma retratando aspectos previstos no conceito de uso racional de medicamentos da Organização Mundial de Saúde. Obtiveram-se seis histórias e foi selecionada aquela que mais se adequou aos objetivos iniciais. Conclusão: A experiência demonstra uma maneira de desenvolver ações de educação em saúde em interação com a comunidade, utilizando oficinas lúdicas. Além disso, permitiu identificar limitações e potencialidades para a utilização de estratégias de educação em saúde, que podem ser realizadas com crianças da mesma faixa etária, sobre diferentes temas.

Prevalência de dermatite atópica em adolescentes escolares do município de São José - SC / Prevalence of atopic dermatitis in school adolescents in São José - SC

Objetivo: determinar a prevalência e a gravidade do eczema atópico em adolescentes escolares da cidade de São José-SC, utilizando o módulo eczema do questionário escrito do International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC).Métodos: a população pesquisada consistia em adolescentes de 12 a 15 anos matriculados em escolas das redes públicas e privadas da cidade de São José-SC. As escolas foram selecionadas aleatoriamente, respeitando-se a proporção geográfica da distribuição dos alunos e por tipo de escola (pública e particular), e os alunos que, por meio dos pais ou responsáveis, aceitaram participar da pesquisa responderam o questionário.Resultados: a prevalência de eczema atópico foi de 13,2%, com predominância significativa do sexo feminino (p<0,001). A prevalência dos sintomas nos últimos 12 meses (doença ativa) foi de 8,8%, sem diferença significativa entre os sexos. Dentre os adolescentes com doença ativa, 45,1% apresentava lesões em locais característicos e 37,8% deles tiveram o sono perturbado devido ao prurido, não havendo diferença significativa entre os gêneros. Em 11,7% dos casos, os adolescentes reconheceram o termo eczema, o que sugere diagnóstico médico da doença antes da realização da pesquisa.Conclusões: foi possível determinar a prevalência de eczema atópico, seus sintomas e gravidade entre os adolescentes escolares de 12 a 15 anos da cidade de São José-SC, que foram semelhantes aos resultados encontrados em outras cidades brasileiras.

Levantamento etnofarmacológico e identificação botânica de plantas medicinais em comunidades assistidas por um serviço de saúde / Ethnopharmacological survey and botanical identification of medicinal plants in two communities served by a health service

Objetivos: Levantamento etnofarmacológico sobre o uso de plantas medicinais empregadas no tratamento de transtornos menores de saúde em comunidades assistidas por um serviço de saúde, e avaliar a capacidade da população em identificar corretamente as espécies botânicas utilizadas. Métodos: Estudo transversal com entrevistas nas residências de moradores dos bairros Dehon e Morrotes, do município de Tubarão, para coleta de informações sobre o uso das mesmas. Seguiu-se coleta de amostras das plantas indicadas pela população, para confirmação da espécie botânica. Resultados: Entrevistou-se 267 sujeitos que mencionaram o uso de 84 espécies de plantas para o tratamento de 1.328 diferentes transtornos menores de saúde. O boldo foi a planta mais citada (12,5%, n= 166), seguida de guaco (8,7%, n= 116) e limoeiro (5,7%, n= 74). Resfriado (71,9%), problemas de digestão (64,8%) e tosse (54,7%) foram as desordens com maior indicação de uso de plantas. Cinco das plantas mais citadas foram avaliadas botanicamente, resultando na identificação de espécies, sendo que apenas uma delas (CAMOMILA) houve 100,0% de correlação entre a espécie indicada pela população in natura e a identidade botânica. Para outras plantas como espinheira-santa, boldo e guaco estes valores foram inferiores, alcançando o valor mínimo de 25,0% para a malva. Conclusão: Observou-se grande utilização de plantas medicinais na população estudada, com boa correlação entre o emprego indicado por esta e suas propiedades biológicas. No entanto, houve grande variabilidade entre as espécies indicadas in natura e a identidade botânica das mesmas.

Objective: To conduct a survey on the use of medicinal plants for the treatment of minor ailments in communities served by a health service, and assess the population?s ability to identify correctly the species used. Methods: Cross-sectional study, interviews with household members of the Dehon and Morrotes neighborhoods in the municipality of Tubarão. Sample collection of plants for botanical identification. Results: We interviewed 267 subjects who mentioned 84 species for 1,328 indications for the treatment of different minor ailments. Boldo was the most cited (12.5%, n = 166), followed by guaco (8.7%, n = 116) and lemon tree (5.7%, n = 74). Cold (71.9%), poor digestion (64.8%) and cough (54.7%) were the disorders with major indication for the use of plants. Five of the most frequently cited plants were evaluated botanically; 12 species were identified, and only one (chamomile) had 100% correlation between species indicated in natura and that used as reference in the study; for the others (maytenus, boldo and guaco), these values were lower. Only mallow reached 25.0% of correspondence. Conclusion: A correlation was observed between the use indicated by the population for medicinal plants and their biological properties; there was a great variability among known species with the same common name.

Utilização de medicamentos na pediatria: a prática de automedicação em crianças por seus responsáveis / Medication use in pediatrics: the practice of self-medication in children by their parents

OBJETIVO: Conhecer a automedicação em crianças moradoras de uma cidade da região Sul do Brasil. MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal com amostra selecionada por sorteio, inicialmente identificando as equipes de Estratégia Saúde da Família e, posteriormente, as residências que seriam visitadas. Foi adotado, para a entrevista com o responsável pelas crianças, um questionário para avaliar o perfil da criança, da família e da prática da automedicação. Para apresentação dos dados, adotou-se a estatística descritiva e o teste do qui-quadrado (p<0,05). RESULTADOS: Entrevistaram-se os responsáveis pelas crianças em 83 domicílios. Foram coletadas informações de 121 crianças (seis meses a 14 anos). Dos entrevistados, 75 por cento afirmaram já ter praticado a automedicação, sendo as mães responsáveis por 95 por cento desses casos. Quanto às situações que motivaram a automedicação, praticidade (88 por cento), febre (58 por cento) e dor (12 por cento) foram as mais relatadas. O paracetamol (45 por cento) e a dipirona (15 por cento) foram os fármacos mais utilizados. A análise estatística evidenciou associação entre a reutilização de antigas prescrições e a idade da criança inferior a sete anos, bem como entre a utilização de medicamentos sem prescrição de profissional habilitado e morar em domicílios com mais de quatro pessoas. CONCLUSÕES: A automedicação é uma prática frequente na população investigada, sendo geralmente mais comum em crianças de até sete anos e realizada principalmente pelas mães; esse fato sugere a necessidade de promover educação em saúde que vise à promoção do uso racional de medicamentos.

OBJECTIVE: To assess self medication practice among children from a city in the Southern region of Brazil. METHODS: This is a cross-sectional study with a random sample. Initially, Family Health Strategy teams and later the residences that would be visited were raffled. A questionnaire about children and family characteristics and self medication practices was administered to caretakers. Descriptive statistics and chi-square test (p<0.05) were used for data presentation. RESULTS: Child caretakers were interviewed in 83 households. Data from 121 children (aged six months to 14 years) were collected. Among caretakers, 75 percent said they had practiced self medication; mothers accounted for 95 percent of these cases. As for self medication situations, convenience (88 percent), fever (58 percent) and pain (12 percent) were the most reported. Acetaminophen (45 percent) and dipyrone (15 percent) were the most used drugs. Statistical analysis showed an association between the reuse of old prescriptions and child's age less than seven years and between the use of drugs without prescription from a qualified professional and households with more than four people. CONCLUSIONS: Self medication is a common practice in the surveyed population, especially among children up to seven years of age and conducted primarily by mothers, suggesting the need to develop health education aimed at promoting the rational use of medicines.