Vitamin D treatment distinctly modulates cytokine production by peripheral blood mononuclear cells among patients with chronic cardiac and indeterminate clinical forms of Chagas disease.

INTRODUCTION: Chagas disease is caused by the protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi and is clinically divided into acute and chronic phases. Chronic Chagas cardiomyopathy is the most studied manifestation of the disease. Vitamin D deficiency has been suggested as a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. No studies demonstrate the action of this hormone in the cells of patients with chronic Chagas heart disease. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the in vitro immunomodulatory effect of vitamin D on peripheral blood mononuclear cells of patients with the different chronic clinical forms of Chagas disease. Evaluating vitamin D's in vitro effect on blood cells by producing cytokines. METHODS: Thirteen patients of the undetermined form (IND), 13 of the mild cardiac form (CARD1) and 14 of the severe cardiac form (CARD2) of Chagas disease, and 12 with idiopathic heart disease (CARDid) were included. The cells obtained from peripheral blood were treated in vitro with vitamin D (1 × 10-7 M) for 24 h and cytokines were dosed in the culture supernatant. RESULTS: Although it was not possible to demonstrate statistically significant differences between the groups studied, our data showed that the cells treated with vitamin D modify (p < .05) the production of interferon-γ (IFN-γ) (decrease in IND), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) (decreased in CARD1 and CARDid), interleukin (IL)-6 (increased in all groups), and IL-10 (decreased in CARD1, CARD2, and CARDid) when compared to untreated cells. CONCLUSION: In vitro treatment with vitamin D distinctly modulated the production of cytokines by mononuclear cells of peripheral blood among patients with chronic and indeterminate cardiac clinical forms of Chagas disease.

Titanium versus plasma electrolytic oxidation surface-modified magnesium miniplates in a forehead secondary fracture healing model in sheep.

Magnesium as a biodegradable material offers promising results in recent studies of different maxillo-facial fracture models. To overcome adverse effects caused by the fast corrosion of pure magnesium in fluid surroundings, various alloys, and surface modifications are tested in animal models. In specified cases, magnesium screws already appeared for clinical use in maxillofacial surgery. The present study aims to compare the bone healing outcome in a non-load-bearing fracture scenario of the forehead in sheep when fixed with standard-sized WE43 magnesium fixation plates and screws with plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) surface modification in contrast to titanium osteosynthesis. Surgery was performed on 24 merino mix sheep. The plates and screws were explanted en-bloc with the surrounding tissue after four and twelve weeks. The outcome of bone healing was investigated with micro-computed tomography, histological, immunohistological, and fluorescence analysis. There was no significant difference between groups concerning the bone volume, bone volume/ total volume, and newly formed bone in volumetric and histological analysis at both times of investigation. The fluorescence analysis revealed a significantly lower signal in the magnesium group after one week, although there was no difference in the number of osteoclasts per mm2. The magnesium group had significantly fewer vessels per mm2 in the healing tissue. In conclusion, the non-inferiority of WE43-based magnesium implants with PEO surface modification was verified concerning fracture healing under non-load-bearing conditions in a defect model. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Titanium implants, the current gold standard of fracture fixation, can lead to adverse effects linked to the implant material and often require surgical removal. Therefore, degradable metals like the magnesium alloy WE43 with plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) surface modification gained interest. Yet, miniplates of this alloy with PEO surface modification have not been examined in a fracture defect model of the facial skeleton in a large animal model. This study shows, for the first time, the non-inferiority of magnesium miniplates compared to titanium miniplates. In radiological and histological analysis, bone healing was undisturbed. Magnesium miniplates can reduce the number of interventions for implant removal, thus reducing the risk for the patient and minimizing the costs.

Effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on cataract surgery by residents who had routine surgical simulator training during residency.

PURPOSE: To assess the effect of the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on cataract surgery by residents who had mandatory surgical simulator training during residency. METHODS: In this retrospective, observational analytical study, the total number of cataract surgeries and surgical complications by all senior residents of 2019 (2019 class; prepandemic) and 2020 (2020 class; affected by the reduced number of elective surgeries due to the COVID-19 pandemic) were collected and compared. All residents had routine mandatory cataract surgery training on a virtual surgical simulator during residency. The total score obtained by these residents on cataract challenges of the surgical simulator was also evaluated. RESULTS: The 2020 and 2019 classes performed 1275 and 2561 cataract surgeries, respectively. This revealed a reduction of 50.2% in the total number of procedures performed by the 2020 class because of the pandemic. The incidence of surgical complications was not statistically different between the two groups (4.2% in the 2019 class and 4.9% in the 2020 class; p=0.314). Both groups also did not differ in their mean scores on the simulator's cataract challenges (p<0.696). CONCLUSION: Despite the reduction of 50.2% in the total number of cataract surgeries performed by senior residents of 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, the incidence of surgical complications did not increase. This suggests that surgical simulator training during residency mitigated the negative effects of the reduced surgical volume during the pandemic.

Rare Combination of Chyloperitoneum Secondary to Primary Small-Bowel Volvulus.

Chylous ascites is the exudation from lymphatic content to the peritoneum and is a rare situation that mostly occurs following medical causes like neoplasms or cirrhosis. However, trauma to the lymphatic system due to compression by masses or altered anatomy can be a trigger too. We describe a rare combination of a primary small bowel volvulus in a young healthy adult causing chylous ascites. Obstruction caused by a primary small bowell volvulus can re-arrange the lymphatics anatomy increasing their flow pressure which can lead to rupture and leak. This is an emergent scenario that needs to be addressed quickly because of bowel ischaemia. CT scan is the gold standard to expedite diagnosis and go to surgical treatment. Although it can be an impactful finding, treatment of the cause behind chylous ascites results in complete resolution without any bowel resection.

[Trauma Injuries Associated with Rope Bullfights in the Azores: A Cross-Sectional Study]. / Trauma Associado às Touradas à Corda nos Açores: Um Estudo Transversal.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of the study was to describe trauma injuries associated with rope bullfights in the Azores, Portugal, regarding the cause of the incident, trauma mechanism, most affected anatomical areas, and injury severity. METHODS: Two-year cross-sectional study in the local hospital with prospective data collection. Patients who were consecutively admitted to the local hospital's emergency department with trauma injuries from the bull's direct impact or from falls either during the bull's escape or when handling the rope, were included. Data on general demographics, lesion characteristics, treatments, need for hospitalization and mortality were collected. RESULTS: Fifty-six incidents and 80 trauma injuries were identified. The main cause of trauma was the bull's direct impact (37; 66.07%) and the mechanism of injury was blunt trauma in all patients (100%; 56). Head and neck injuries (27; 33.75%) were the most common. The median Injury Severity Score at the emergency department admission was 4. Major trauma was noted in five patients (8.92%). Ten patients (17.85%) needed hospitalization with a median hospital stay of seven days. Three of the 10 hospitalized patients (30%) were previously admitted to the intensive care unit. Surgery was performed in six patients (10.71%). CONCLUSION: The main cause of trauma was the bull's direct impact, and the mechanism of injury was blunt trauma. The most affected anatomical areas were the head and neck. These findings are a wake-up call to the impact of these events regarding the economic costs they entail, the costs for the health of the local population, the safety measures currently implemented and the availability of the necessary means to treat these patients.

Introdução: O objetivo deste estudo foi caracterizar as lesões traumáticas tauromáquicas ocorridas nas touradas à corda nos Açores no que diz respeito à causa do incidente, mecanismo de trauma, área anatómica mais afetada e gravidade das lesões. Métodos: Estudo unicêntrico, transversal, com a colheita prospetiva de dados realizada durante dois anos. Foram incluídos os doentes que consecutivamente recorreram ao serviço de urgência do hospital local por lesões traumáticas ocorridas por trauma direto com o animal ou quedas aquando da fuga ou manuseio da corda. Foram colhidos dados demográficos gerais, características da lesão, tratamentos efetuados, necessidade de internamento hospitalar e mortalidade. Foi realizada uma análise estatística descritiva com recurso ao software estatístico SPSS. Resultados: Registaram-se 56 admissões hospitalares e 80 lesões traumáticas. A principal causa de traumatismo foi o trauma direto com o animal (37; 66,07%) e o mecanismo de lesão foi o trauma fechado (56; 100%). As áreas anatómicas mais afetadas foram a cabeça e pescoço (27; 33,75%). A mediana de Injury Severity Score foi de 4 à admissão hospitalar. Cinco doentes (8,92%) apresentaram trauma major. Dez doentes (17,85%) necessitaram de internamento hospitalar com uma mediana de dias de internamento de sete (IIQ 4,5 dias). Três (30%) dos doentes internados necessitaram de internamento em unidade de cuidados intensivos. Seis doentes (10,71%) foram submetidos a cirurgia. Conclusão: A principal causa de traumatismo foi o trauma direto com o animal e o mecanismo de lesão foi o trauma fechado. As áreas anatómicas mais afetadas foram a cabeça e pescoço. Estes dados constituem um alerta para o impacto destes eventos no que diz respeito aos custos económicos que acarretam, aos custos para a saúde da população local, às medidas de segurança atualmente implementadas e à disponibilidade dos meios necessários para tratar estes doentes.

Induction of SK-MEL-28 Invasion by Brain Cortical Cell-Conditioned Medium Through CXCL10 Signaling.

Melanoma, an infrequent yet significant variant of skin cancer, emerges as a primary cause of brain metastasis among various malignancies. Despite recognizing the involvement of inflammatory molecules, particularly chemokines, in shaping the metastatic microenvironment, the intricate cellular signaling mechanisms underlying cerebral metastasis remain elusive. In our pursuit to unravel the role of cytokines in melanoma metastasis, we devised a protocol utilizing mixed cerebral cortical cells and SK-MEL-28 melanoma cell lines. Contrary to expectations, we observed no discernible morphological change in melanoma cells exposed to a cerebral conditioned medium (CM). However, a substantial increase in both migration and proliferation was quantitatively noted. Profiling the chemokine secretion by melanoma in response to the cerebral CM unveiled the pivotal role of interferon gamma-induced protein 10 (CXCL10), inhibiting the secretion of interleukin 8 (CXCL8). Furthermore, through a transwell assay, we demonstrated that knockdown CXCL10 led to a significant decrease in the migration of the SK-MEL-28 cell line. In conclusion, our findings suggest that a cerebral CM induces melanoma cell migration, while modulating the secretion of CXCL10 and CXCL8 in the context of brain metastases. These insights advance our understanding of the underlying mechanisms in melanoma cerebral metastasis, paving the way for further exploration and targeted therapeutic interventions.

O uso do laser de alta e baixa intensidade para o tratamento de hipersensibilidade dentinária: uma revisão integrativa

Objetivo: Determinar as evidências científicas sobre a influência do uso de lasers de baixa e alta intensidade no tratamento da hipersensibilidade da dentina. Revisão de literatura: Foram realizadas buscas na Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde (BVS), incluindo as bases de dados: Literatura Latino Americana e do Caribe em Ciências da Saúde (LILACS); Bibliografia Brasileira de Odontologia (BBO); e National Library of Medicine (MEDLINE). A maioria dos estudos destacam a eficácia dos lasers na redução da HD, com o laser Nd:YAG mostrando-se eficaz na obliteração dos túbulos dentinários e proporcionando alívio a longo prazo. Apesar dos benefícios, alguns estudos alertam para possíveis danos à polpa dentária, especialmente com lasers de alta potência. Considerações finais: Embora os lasers tenham se mostrado eficazes na redução da HD, a escolha do laser deve ser personalizada para cada paciente, destacando a necessidade de aprimorar os protocolos clínicos e adquirir experiência relevante por parte dos profissionais especialistas.

Objective: To determine the scientific evidence on the influence of the use of low and high intensity lasers in the treatment of dentin hypersensitivity. Literature review: Searches were carried out in the Virtual Health Library (VHL), including the databases: Latin American and Caribbean Literature in Health Sciences (LILACS); Brazilian Bibliography of Dentistry (BBO); and National Library of Medicine (MEDLINE). Most studies highlight the effectiveness of lasers in reducing HD, with the Nd:YAG laser proving effective in obliterating dentinal tubules and providing long-term relief. Despite the benefits, some studies warn of possible damage to the dental pulp, especially with high-power lasers. Final considerations: Although lasers have been shown to be effective in reducing HD, the choice of laser must be personalized for each patient, highlighting the need to improve clinical protocols and acquire relevant experience on the part of specialist professionals.

Ultra-processed foods, adiposity and risk of head and neck cancer and oesophageal adenocarcinoma in the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition study: a mediation analysis.

PURPOSE: To investigate the role of adiposity in the associations between ultra-processed food (UPF) consumption and head and neck cancer (HNC) and oesophageal adenocarcinoma (OAC) in the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC) cohort. METHODS: Our study included 450,111 EPIC participants. We used Cox regressions to investigate the associations between the consumption of UPFs and HNC and OAC risk. A mediation analysis was performed to assess the role of body mass index (BMI) and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) in these associations. In sensitivity analyses, we investigated accidental death as a negative control outcome. RESULTS: During a mean follow-up of 14.13 ± 3.98 years, 910 and 215 participants developed HNC and OAC, respectively. A 10% g/d higher consumption of UPFs was associated with an increased risk of HNC (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.23, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.14-1.34) and OAC (HR = 1.24, 95% CI 1.05-1.47). WHR mediated 5% (95% CI 3-10%) of the association between the consumption of UPFs and HNC risk, while BMI and WHR, respectively, mediated 13% (95% CI 6-53%) and 15% (95% CI 8-72%) of the association between the consumption of UPFs and OAC risk. UPF consumption was positively associated with accidental death in the negative control analysis. CONCLUSIONS: We reaffirmed that higher UPF consumption is associated with greater risk of HNC and OAC in EPIC. The proportion mediated via adiposity was small. Further research is required to investigate other mechanisms that may be at play (if there is indeed any causal effect of UPF consumption on these cancers).

Firework-related ocular trauma in Pernambuco, Brazil / Trauma ocular por fogos de artifício em Pernambuco, Brasil

ABSTRACT Purpose: This study aimed to describe the demographic and clinical characteristics of victims of fireworkrelated ocular trauma treated at the ophthalmologic emergency de partments of two reference centers in Pernambuco, Brazil, and to identify risk factors related to poor visual prognosis. Methods: We retrospectively evaluated the medical records of patients admitted in emergency departments with a report of firework-related trauma between January 2012 and December 2018. Data collected included patient's age, sex, place of origin, month and year of the accident, ocular structures affected, characteristics of the injuries, and type of treatment that patients received. For patients who were followed for >30 days, the final visual acuity and patient's origin were analyzed. Results: Three hundred and seventy eyes from 314 patients were included, of which 248 (79.0%) were male and 160 (51.0%) were from the metropolitan region of Recife. The mean patient age was 25.6 ± 18.8 years. In 56 (17.8%) patients, the ocular trauma was bilateral. A total of 152 (48.4%) cases occurred in June. The most affected sites were the eyelids in 91 (24.6%) eyes and ocular surface in 252 (68.1%). Surgical treatment was required in 87 (23.5%) eyes. After clinical and surgical management, 37 (10.0%) eyes presented final visual acuity of <20/400. Of these, 34 (91.9%) eyes were from patients from the countryside or from another state. Patients from the countryside presented higher risk of developing blindness after a firework trauma than those from the metropolitan area (odds ratio of 5.46). Conclusions: Victims of firework-related ocular trauma were mostly male, from the metropolitan region of Pernambuco state and mainly pediatric patients or economically active. Those coming from the countryside and other states had higher risk of developing blindness

RESUMO Objetivos: Descrever as características demográficas e clínicas das vítimas de trauma ocular por fogos de artifício atendidas nas emergências oftalmológicas de dois centros de referência em Pernambuco e identificar fatores relacionados a mau prognóstico visual. Métodos: Avaliação retrospectiva dos prontuários de pacientes admitidos na emergência oftalmológica com história de trauma por fogos de artifício entre janeiro de 2012 e dezembro de 2018. A coleta de dados incluiu idade, gênero, procedência, mês e ano do acidente, estruturas oculares acometidas e características das lesões, além do tipo de tratamento a que os pacientes foram submetidos. Naqueles pacientes acompanhados por mais de 30 dias, analisou-se a acuidade visual final e a associação com sua procedência. Resultados: Foram incluídos 370 olhos de 314 pacientes. Destes, 248 (79,0%) vítimas eram do sexo masculino e 160 (51,0%) da região metropolitana do Recife, com uma média de idade de 25.6 ± 18.8 anos. Em 56 (17,8%) dos casos o trauma foi bilateral. No mês de junho ocorreu um total de 152 (48,4%) casos. Os sítios mais acometidos foram pálpebras em 91 (24,6%) olhos e superfície ocular em 252 (68,1%). O tratamento cirúrgico foi necessário em 87 (23,5%) olhos. Após manejo clínico-cirúrgico, 37 (10.0%) olhos desenvolveram visão pior do que 20/400. Destes, 34 (91,9%) olhos eram de pacientes do interior do estado de Pernambuco ou de outro estado. Os pacientes provenientes do interior do estado apresentaram maior chance de desenvolver cegueira quando comparados aos que eram provenientes da região metropolitana (Odds Ratio de 5,46). Conclusões: As vítimas de trauma ocular por fogos de artificio foram em sua maioria do sexo masculino, procedentes da região metropolitana do estado e das faixas etárias pediátrica e economicamente ativa. Aqueles provenientes do interior ou de outros estados apresentaram maior chance de desenvolver cegueira.

Identificação do contexto familiar e social em registros de consultas de enfermagem ao binômio mãe-bebê / Identificación del contexto familiar y social en registros de consultas de enfermería para el binomio madre-bebé / Identification of the family and social context in records of nursing consultations with the mother-baby binomial

Objetivo: identificar informações relacionadas ao contexto familiar e social em registros da primeira consulta de enfermagem ao binômio mãe-bebê. Método: estudo de Métodos Mistos com Estratégia Incorporada Concomitante de Dados. Utilizou-se roteiro composto por oito questões com respostas do tipo dicotômicas e espaço para transcrever as sentenças relacionadas ao contexto familiar e social. Dados analisados por estatística descritiva e análise de conteúdo dedutiva. Resultados: dos 326 registros, 30% descreveram a presença de outros familiares na consulta e o estado emocional da puérpera. Informações sobre estrutura familiar e rede de apoio estavam presentes em 27,3 e 21,8% deles, respectivamente. A experiência da gestação foi o aspecto menos mencionado (4,3%). O diagnóstico comumente incluído foi "Vínculo mãe e filho preservado". As sentenças convergiram com os dados quantitativos ao indicar limitada exploração do contexto e centralidade no modelo biomédico. Conclusão: na maioria dos registros não constava informações sobre o contexto familiar e social.

Objective: to identify information related to the family and social context in records of the first nursing consultation with the mother-baby binomial. Method: Mixed-methods study with Concomitant Data Incorporated Strategy. A script was used consisting of eight questions with dichotomous answers and space to transcribe the sentences related to the family and social context. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and deductive content analysis. Results: of the 326 records, 30% described the presence of other family members at the appointment and the emotional state of the puerperal woman. Information on family structure and support networks was present in 27.3 and 21.8% of them, respectively. The experience of pregnancy was the least mentioned aspect (4.3%). The diagnosis most commonly included was "Mother-child bond preserved". The sentences converged and indicated a limited exploration of the context and a focus on the biomedical model. Conclusion: the majority of records lacked information on the family and social context.

Objetivo: identificar información relacionada al contexto familiar y social en registros de la primera consulta de enfermería para el binomio madre-bebé. Método: estudio de métodos mixtos con estrategia integrada de datos concomitantes. Se utilizó un guion compuesto por ocho preguntas con respuestas dicotómicas y espacio para transcribir las frases relacionadas con el contexto familiar y social. Datos analizados mediante estadística descriptiva y análisis de contenido deductivo. Resultados: de los 326 registros, el 30% describió la presencia de otros familiares en la consulta y el estado emocional de la puérpera. La información sobre la estructura familiar y la red de apoyo estuvo presente en el 27,3 y el 21,8% de ellos, respectivamente. La experiencia del embarazo fue el aspecto menos mencionado (4,3%). El diagnóstico comúnmente incluido fue "Vínculo preservado entre madre e hijo". Las frases convergieron con los datos cuantitativos al indicar una exploración limitada del contexto y la centralidad en el modelo biomédico. Conclusión: la mayoría de los registros no contenían información sobre el contexto familiar y social.

Why are pregnant women physically inactive? A qualitative study on the beliefs and perceptions about physical activity during pregnancy / Por que as gestantes não são fisicamente ativas? Um estudo qualitativo sobre as crenças e percepções em relação à atividade física durante a gestação / ¿Por qué las mujeres embarazadas no hacen actividad física? Un estudio cualitativo sobre las creencias y percepciones relacionadas con la actividad física durante el embarazo

This study aimed to describe the beliefs and perceptions of pregnant women and healthcare providers about physical activity during pregnancy. Using a qualitative approach, 30 pregnant women and the 14 healthcare providers caring for them were interviewed in the second trimester of pregnancy. We included women who maintained, decreased, or stopped physical activity since becoming pregnant. They were divided into low (≤ 8 years) and high schooling (> 8 years). Semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted and guided by three key questions: (1) When does physical activity during pregnancy start to be considered a wrong behavior?; (2) What are the main barriers (biological or others) to physical activity?; and (3) Do the actions of healthcare providers and people close to pregnant women reinforce barriers? Interviews were audio recorded, transcribed, and analyzed based on recurring themes. All women changed their physical activity behavior (decreased or stopped) when they discovered their pregnancy. Fear of miscarriage, contractions, bleeding, and of causing malformations in the baby were the most reported reasons for decreasing or stopping physical activity. Participants also lacked access to consistent information and healthcare providers' support on the benefits of physical activity. Despite the current international recommendations to regular physical activity during pregnancy, uncertainty regarding its benefits remains. Interventions to promote physical activity during this period should include the training of healthcare providers so they can advise and discard ideas contrary to mother-child health benefits.

Este estudo objetivou descrever as crenças e percepções de gestantes e profissionais de saúde em relação a prática de atividade física durante a gestação. Usando uma abordagem qualitativa, 30 gestantes e 14 profissionais de saúde que atendiam essas mulheres foram entrevistados durante o segundo trimestre de gravidez. Foram incluídas mulheres que mantiveram, diminuíram ou pararam de praticar atividade física desde o início gravidez. Elas foram divididas em baixa (≤ 8 anos) e alta escolaridade (> 8 anos). Foram conduzidas entrevistas semiestruturadas e aprofundadas, orientadas por três perguntas-chave: (1) Quando a atividade física durante a gestação passa a ser considerada um comportamento errado? (2) Quais as principais barreiras (biológicas ou outras) para a prática de atividade física? (3) Estas barreiras são reforçadas pelas ações dos profissionais de saúde e das pessoas próximas à gestante? As entrevistas foram gravadas em áudio, transcritas e analisadas a partir de temas recorrentes. Todas as mulheres mudaram a prática de atividade física (diminuíram ou pararam) quando souberam da gravidez. O medo de aborto espontâneo, contrações e/ou sangramento e o medo de causar malformações no bebê foram os motivos mais relatados para diminuir ou parar a atividade física. Os participantes também não tiveram acesso a informações confiáveis e apoio dos profissionais de saúde sobre os benefícios da atividade física. Apesar das recomendações internacionais atuais para a prática regular de atividade física durante a gestação, a incerteza quanto aos seus benefícios continua sendo comum. As intervenções para promover a atividade física durante esse período devem incluir o treinamento de profissionais de saúde para que eles possam aconselhar e descartar ideias contrárias aos benefícios para a saúde materna e infantil.

El objetivo de este estudio fue describir las creencias y percepciones de mujeres embarazadas y profesionales de la salud con respecto a la práctica de actividad física durante el embarazo. Utilizando un enfoque cualitativo, se entrevistaron 30 mujeres embarazadas y 14 profesionales de salud que cuidaban a estas mujeres durante el segundo trimestre del embarazo. Se incluyeron mujeres que mantuvieron, redujeron o dejaron de practicar actividad física desde el inicio del embarazo. Ellas se dividieron en baja (≤ 8 años) y alta escolaridad (> 8 años). Se realizaron entrevistas semiestructuradas y en profundidad, guiadas por tres preguntas clave: (1) ¿Cuándo se considera que la actividad física durante el embarazo es un comportamiento incorrecto? (2) ¿Cuáles son las barreras (biológicas u otras) principales para la práctica de actividad física? (3) ¿Estas barreras se refuerzan por las acciones de los profesionales de salud y de las personas cercanas a la mujer embarazada? Las entrevistas fueron grabadas en audio, transcritas y analizadas a partir de temas recurrentes. Todas las mujeres cambiaron la práctica de actividad física (redujeron o dejaron de practicarla) cuando descubrieron el embarazo. El miedo a sufrir un aborto espontáneo, contracciones y/o sangrado y el miedo a provocar malformaciones en el bebé fueron los motivos más relatados para reducir o dejar de practicar la actividad física. Los participantes también no han tenido acceso a informaciones confiables ni apoyo de los profesionales de salud sobre los beneficios de la actividad física. A pesar de las recomendaciones internacionales actuales para la práctica regular de actividad física durante el embarazo, la incertidumbre cuanto a sus beneficios sigue siendo común. Las intervenciones para promover la actividad física durante este periodo deben incluir la capacitación de profesionales de salud para que puedan aconsejar y descartar ideas contrarias a los beneficios para la salud materna e infantil.

Effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on cataract surgery by residents who had routine surgical simulator training during residency

ABSTRACT Purpose: To assess the effect of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on cataract surgery by residents who had mandatory surgical simulator training during residency. Methods: In this retrospective, observational analytical study, the total number of cataract surgeries and surgical complications by all senior residents of 2019 (2019 class; prepandemic) and 2020 (2020 class; affected by the reduced number of elective surgeries due to the COVID-19 pandemic) were collected and compared. All residents had routine mandatory cataract surgery training on a virtual surgical simulator during residency. The total score obtained by these residents on cataract challenges of the surgical simulator was also evaluated. Results: The 2020 and 2019 classes performed 1275 and 2561 cataract surgeries, respectively. This revealed a reduction of 50.2% in the total number of procedures performed by the 2020 class because of the pandemic. The incidence of surgical complications was not statistically different between the two groups (4.2% in the 2019 class and 4.9% in the 2020 class; p=0.314). Both groups also did not differ in their mean scores on the simulator's cataract challenges (p<0.696). Conclusion: Despite the reduction of 50.2% in the total number of cataract surgeries performed by senior residents of 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, the incidence of surgical complications did not increase. This suggests that surgical simulator training during residency mitigated the negative effects of the reduced surgical volume during the pandemic.

Rede social de famílias envolvidas na negligência contra crianças e adolescentes: construindo um olhar multidimensional / Social network of families involved in child neglect: building a multidimensional perspective

Resumo A negligência constitui uma das violências contra crianças e adolescentes mais notificadas, entretanto ainda pouco explorada em estudos nacionais. O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar a rede pessoal social de famílias envolvidas na negligência contra crianças e adolescentes. Estudo qualitativo, ancorado no paradigma da complexidade, realizado junto a 20 familiares envolvidos na negligência contra crianças e adolescentes em município do interior de São Paulo, Brasil. A coleta de dados se deu por mapas mínimos da rede pessoal social e entrevistas semiestruturadas em janeiro de 2021. As redes se apresentaram reduzidas, com pouca ou nenhuma articulação entre os diferentes serviços e setores e predominantemente homogêneas. Por terem muitos vínculos fragilizados, mostrou-se pouco sustentadora, apontando dificuldades no acesso a trabalho, educação e saúde. Pelas características da rede, identificou-se a complexidade do fenômeno da negligência, em que elementos condicionam e perpetuam vivências de ausências e fragilidades. Olhares e ações interprofissionais e intersetoriais são pleiteadas e recomendadas.

Abstract Neglect is one of the most frequently reported forms of violence against children and adolescents, although it has rarely been explored in national studies. In this light, the present study aimed to analyze the personal social network of families involved in negligence against children and adolescents. This work takes a qualitative approach, anchored in the Paradigm of Complexity, conducted with twenty families involved in negligence against children and adolescents in a municipality in the countryside of the state of São Paulo, Brazil. Data collection took place through minimal maps of the personal social network and semi-structured interviews in January 2021. The networks were limited, with little to no interaction among the different services and sectors, and were predominantly homogeneous. Because they have many weakened ties, they are relatively unsupportive, pointing out difficulties in access to work, education, and health. Due to the characteristics of the network, the complexity of the phenomenon of neglect was identified, in which elements condition and perpetuate experiences of absence and fragility. Interprofessional and intersectoral views and actions are requested and recommended.

Sociodemographic and Behavioral factors associated with Psychological Well-Being in a Brazilian Academic Community during the COVID-19 Pandemic / Fatores Sociodemográficos e Comportamentais Associados ao Bem-Estar Psicológico em uma Comunidade Acadêmica Brasileira Durante a Pandemia de COVID-19

Abstract This study aimed to identify sociodemographic and behavioral factors associated with the psychological well-being of university students at two distinct moments during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. It is an observational study with a cross-sectional design and convenience sampling, involving 2,808 university students who responded to a virtual form. The data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics (Pearson's chi-square test, multiple binomial logistic regression with a significance level of 5%), after conducting normality tests. The results suggest negative impacts of the pandemic on the mental health of university students. A history of previous psychiatric alterations, having children, and having experienced financial difficulties were among the factors that contributed to the maintenance of some dimensions of psychological well-being.

Resumo Este estudo procurou identificar fatores sociodemográficos e comportamentais associados ao bem-estar psicológico de universitários em dois momentos distintos, durante o primeiro ano da pandemia de COVID-19. Trata-se de um estudo observacional, com desenho transversal e amostragem por conveniência, com 2.808 estudantes universitários que responderam a um formulário virtual. Os dados foram analisados por meio de estatísticas descritivas e inferenciais (teste Qui-Quadrado de Pearson, regressão logística binomial múltipla com nível de significância de 5%), após realização de testes de normalidade. Os resultados sugerem impactos negativos da pandemia na saúde mental dos universitários. Histórico de alterações psiquiátricas prévias, ter filhos e ter passado por dificuldades financeiras foram alguns dos fatores que contribuíram para a manutenção de algumas dimensões do bem-estar psicológico.

Men's mental health in a university community during the COVID-19 pandemic / Saúde mental masculina em uma comunidade universitária durante a pandemia de COVID-19

Objective This study aims to identify associations between sociodemographic characteristics and mental health, behaviors, and perceptions among men in a Brazilian university community during the COVID-19 pandemic. Method A total of 862 subjects participated, responding to an online questionnaire with sociodemographic questions, the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale, and the Psychological Well-Being scale. Results The results indicate that sociodemographic characteristics are associated with the mental health, behaviors, and perceptions of the participants. Variables such as age, race, occupation, marital status, and living arrangements during the period of social distancing relate in different ways to levels of anxiety, stress, and depression, as well as psychological well-being, in addition to behaviors and perceptions during the COVID-19 pandemic. Conclusion The results highlight the need to consider the specificities of the male population facing the COVID-19 pandemic and emphasize the importance of investing in health actions that consider the influence of the process of social construction of masculinities.

Objetivo Esse estudo tem por objetivo identificar associações de características sociodemográficas com a saúde mental, comportamentos e percepções entre homens de uma comunidade universitária brasileira durante a pandemia de COVID-19. Método Participaram 862 sujeitos, os quais responderam a um formulário online com questões sociodemográficas e às escalas de Depressão Ansiedade e Estresse e a Escala de Bem-Estar Psicológico. Resultados Os resultados apontam que características sociodemográficas mostram-se associadas à saúde mental, comportamentos e percepções dos participantes. Variáveis como faixa etária, raça/cor, ocupação, estado civil e moradia, durante o período de distanciamento, estão relacionadas de maneiras diferentes a níveis de ansiedade, estresse e depressão, bem como, de bem-estar psicológico, além dos comportamentos e percepções durante a pandemia de COVID-19. Conclusão Os resultados apontam para a necessidade de se considerar as singularidades da população masculina diante da pandemia de COVID-19 e ressaltam a importância do investimento em ações em saúde que considerem a influência do processo de construção social das masculinidades.

Prevalence, co-occurrence, and associated factors of intimate partner violence among Brazilian university students / Prevalência, coocorrência e fatores associados da violência por parceiro íntimo entre estudantes universitários brasileiros

Abstract Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) among youth is a public health problem worldwide because of its high prevalence and lifelong serious consequences in health and quality of life. This cross-sectional census aimed to describe the IPV victimization among all freshman students in a Brazilian university (n=1,509), which was selected from a larger population of 2,706 freshmen. We created a 10-item questionnaire inspired by established instruments to measure the prevalence of IPV. Multivariate logistic regression assessed the association between demographic, socioeconomic, and behavioral factors with various types of IPV. We visualized co-occurrence using a Venn diagram and employed multinomial logistic regression to examine the relationship between covariates and the cooccurrence of IPV types. The chance of IPV was higher in males, those who were currently in a relationship, and those with a higher risk of alcohol abuse. These same characteristics were also associated with an increased likelihood of experiencing the co-occurrence of two or more types of IPV. Prevention strategies should consider those groups and monitoring of those who abuse alcohol, which can be a predictor behavior or a mechanism to deal with the stress arising from IPV.

Resumo A Violência por Parceiro Íntimo (VPI) entre jovens é um problema de saúde pública em todo o mundo devido à sua alta prevalência e consequências graves duradouras na saúde e qualidade de vida. Este censo transversal teve como objetivo descrever a vitimização por VPI entre todos os estudantes calouros de uma universidade brasileira (n=1.509), selecionados a partir de uma população maior de 2.706 calouros. Criamos um questionário com 10 itens inspirado em instrumentos estabelecidos para medir a prevalência de VPI. A regressão logística multivariada avaliou a associação entre fatores demográficos, socioeconômicos e comportamentais a diferentes tipos de VPI. Visualizamos a coocorrência usando um diagrama de Venn e empregamos regressão logística multinomial para examinar a sua relação com as covariáveis. A chance de VPI foi maior em homens, naqueles que estavam atualmente em um relacionamento e naqueles com maior risco de abuso de álcool. As mesmas características também apresentaram maior probabilidade de experienciar a coocorrência de dois ou mais tipos de VPI. Estratégias de prevenção devem considerar esses grupos e o monitoramento daqueles que abusam de álcool, o que pode ser um comportamento preditor ou um mecanismo para lidar com o estresse decorrente da VPI.

Impact of the adjacent bone on pseudarthrosis in mandibular reconstruction with fibula free flaps.

BACKGROUND: Mechanical and morphological factors have both been described to influence the rate of pseudarthrosis in mandibular reconstruction. By minimizing mechanical confounders, the present study aims to evaluate the impact of bone origin at the intersegmental gap on osseous union. METHODS: Patients were screened retrospectively for undergoing multi-segment fibula free flap reconstruction of the mandible including the anterior part of the mandible and osteosynthesis using patient-specific 3D-printed titanium reconstruction plates. Percentage changes in bone volume and width at the bone interface between the fibula/fibula and fibula/mandible at the anterior intersegmental gaps within the same patient were determined using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Additionally, representative samples of the intersegmental zones were assessed histologically and using micro-computed tomography (µCT). RESULTS: The bone interface (p = 0.223) did not significantly impact the change in bone volume at the intersegmental gap. Radiotherapy (p < 0.001), time between CBCT scans (p = 0.006) and wound healing disorders (p = 0.005) were independent risk factors for osseous non-union. Preliminary analysis of the microstructure of the intersegmental bone did not indicate morphological differences between fibula-fibula and fibula-mandible intersegmental bones. CONCLUSIONS: The bone interface at the intersegmental gap in mandibular reconstruction did not influence long-term bone healing significantly. Mechanical and clinical properties seem to be more relevant for surgical success.

Benznidazole treatment decreases IL-6 levels in Trypanosoma cruzi-infected human adipocytes differentiated from adipose tissue-derived stem cells.

BACKGROUND: Trypanosoma cruzi, which causes Chagas disease (CD), is a versatile haemoparasite that uses several strategies to evade the host's immune response, including adipose tissue (AT), used as a reservoir of infection. As it is an effective barrier to parasite evasion, the effectiveness of the drug recommended for treating CD, Benznidazole (BZ), may be questionable. OBJECTIVE: To this end, we evaluated the parasite load and immunomodulation caused by BZ treatment in the culture of adipocytes differentiated from human adipose tissue-derived stem cells (ADSC) infected with T. cruzi. METHODS: The ADSC were subjected to adipogenic differentiation. We then carried out four cultures in which we infected the differentiated AT with trypomastigote forms of the Y strain of T. cruzi and treated them with BZ. After the incubation, the infected AT was subjected to quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) to quantify the parasite load and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to verify the infection. The supernatant was collected to measure cytokines, chemokines, and adipokines. FINDINGS: We found elevated secretion of IL-6, CXCL-10/IP-10, CCL2/MCP-1, CCL5/RANTES, and leptin in infected fat cells. However, treatment with BZ promoted a decrease in IL-6. MAIN CONCLUSION: Therefore, we believe that BZ has a beneficial role as it reduces inflammation in infected fat cells.

Clinical and Laboratory Findings on Glycogen Storage Disease Type V: Results from a Retrospective Observational Study in a Tertiary Hospital.

Introduction - Glycogen storage disease type V (GSDV, MIM #232600) is an autosomal recessive metabolic myopathy caused by pathogenic variants in the PYGM gene. The characteristic symptoms of exercise intolerance, myalgia, and cramps, which improve after a few minutes of rest, are frequently unrecognized in affected children. When there is clinical suspicion, the initial approach with a forearm exercise test has diagnostic value by detecting low post-exercise plasma lactate-to-ammonia ratio values. The diagnostic algorithm is followed by genetic testing if the results suggest myophosphorylase deficiency. Methods - This was a retrospective observational study conducted based on reviewing medical records of patients with GSDV in a tertiary hospital. We assessed demographic variables, including the timing of onset and diagnosis, relevant clinical characteristics, and whether genetic testing was performed, including its results. Results/Case Report - Our goal was to review the GSDV cases in our center to assess our cohort's diagnostic timing and clinical and genetic characteristics. We identified 28 patients from 24 families, three with consanguinity. The mean age at the time of the study was 43 years. While most (26/28; 93%) recalled their first symptoms in childhood/adolescence, only 25% (7/28) were diagnosed then. All patients had exercise intolerance and CK elevation, while about half reported the second wind phenomenon. Genetic testing was performed in 22 patients, revealing biallelic PYGM variants (9 homozygous, 13 compound heterozygous) as the most common (p.R50*). Conclusion - GSDV is rare and presents in the pediatric age, with subtle manifestations often underestimated for decades. A late diagnosis may negatively impact the psychosocial development of affected children. It is essential to recognize some unique features that facilitate diagnosis: history of exercise intolerance, the second wind sign, and high resting serum CK levels. Identifying the disease-causing variants in PYGM is currently the gold standard for diagnosis as it is less invasive than performing a muscle biopsy, and may promptly diagnose the condition and avoid wrongful labelling of patients.

Efeitos da COVID-19 no bem e mal-estar psicológico de estudantes universitários(as) migrantes / Efectos del Covid-19 en la vida universitaria de los migrantes: análisis de impactos psicosociales / Effects of Covid-19 on Migrant University Life: Analyzing Psychosocial Impacts

O cenário imposto pela pandemia da Covid-19 e a implementação do modelo remoto de educação implicaram em mudanças nos padrões de deslocamento de estudantes universitários(as) que antes necessitavam realizar a mobilidade pendular entre municípios para ter acesso ao ensino superior. Para além das modificações no processo migratório, a pandemia trouxe outros agravos, como a vulnerabilidade à saúde mental e física. Nesse sentido, o presente estudo buscou analisar os efeitos da Covid-19 no bem e mal-estar psicológico de estudantes universitários(as) migrantes segundo marcadores sociais. Para tanto, ainda que a coleta tenha sido realizada no período pandêmico, contou-se com a participação de 202 estudantes que realizavam mobilidade pendular em período antes da pandemia, ou que passaram a residir em outro município a fim de ter acesso ao ensino superior. Os(as) participantes foram convidados(as) a responder a um questionário eletrônico contendo as escalas DASS-21 e Perma-profiler, além de algumas questões socioeconômicas e discursivas. Os dados quantitativos foram analisados por meio dos softwares jASP e R. Em seguida, foram realizadas as análises lexicais com os dados qualitativos, através do software Iramuteq. Os resultados obtidos permitiram constatar que a maioria dos participantes apresentou níveis considerados severos de depressão, ansiedade e estresse, assim como níveis considerados medianos de bem-estar. Pode-se destacar ainda uma maior percepção de mal-estar psicológico em grupos específicos quando consideradas variáveis socioeconômicas como raça, gênero, orientação sexual e classe social.

El escenario impuesto por la pandemia de COVID-19 y la implementación del modelo de educación remota provocaron cambios en los patrones de desplazamiento de los(as) estudiantes universitarios(as) que antes necesitaban desplazarse entre municipios para acceder a la educación superior. Además de los cambios en el proceso migratorio, la pandemia trajo otros problemas, como la vulnerabilidad en la salud física y mental. En este sentido, el presente estudio buscó analizar los efectos de la COVID-19 en el bienestar y malestar psicológico de estudiantes universitarios(as) migrantes según marcadores sociales. Para ello, si bien la colecta se realizó durante el periodo de pandemia, participaron 202 estudiantes que se desplazaban antes de la pandemia, o que se trasladaron a otro municipio para poder acceder a la educación superior. Se invitó a los(as) participantes a responder a un cuestionario electrónico que contenía las escalas DASS-21 y PERMA-profiler, además de algunas preguntas socioeconómicas y discursivas. Los datos cuantitativos fueron analizados mediante el software JASP y R. A continuación, se realizaron análisis léxicos con los datos cualitativos, utilizando el software Iramuteq. Los resultados obtenidos mostraron que la mayoría de los participantes presentaron niveles considerados severos de depresión, ansiedad y estrés, así como niveles considerados medios de bienestar. También es posible destacar una mayor percepción de malestar psicológico en grupos específicos al considerar variables socioeconómicas como raza, género, orientación sexual y clase social.

The scenario imposed by the pandemic of Covid-19, and the implementation of remote learning implied changes in the displacement patterns of university students who previously needed to carry out the commuting migration between municipalities to have access to higher education. In addition to changes in the migratory process, the pandemic brought other health problems, such as vulnerability to mental disorders and physical health problems. As such, the present study sought to analyze the effects of Covid-19 on the psychological well-being and ill-being of migrant university students according to social markers. To this end, 202 students participated. These students carried out commuting in the period before the pandemic, or moved to another municipality in order to have access to higher education. The collection of data was carried out during the pandemic period. Participants were invited to answer an electronic questionnaire containing the DASS-21 and Perma-profiler scales, in addition to some socioeconomic and discursive questions. Quantitative data were analyzed using jASP and R software. Then, lexical analysis were performed with qualitative data, using the Iramuteq software. The results obtained showed that most participants had levels considered severe of depression, anxiety and stress, and levels considered median of well-being. It is also possible to highlight a greater perception of psychological ill-being in specific groups when so- cioeconomic variables are considered such as race, gender, sexual orientation and social class.