Pain levels during distraction osteogenesis with lengthening nails in 168 cases.

PURPOSE: To firstly examine the pain levels during distraction osteogenesis (DO) with lengthening nails (LN) in a large sample. METHODS: A total of 168 cases underwent DO of the tibia or femur with five different models of LN. Under a standardized medical regime, daily pain levels were noted as nominal rating scale (NRS) score (0-10) during the distraction phase. NRS scores and several potential influence factors (LN model, bone, approach, side, age, gender) were evaluated. RESULTS: The mean distraction length was 39.1 ± 14.4 mm. The average NRS score decreased from postoperative day 1 with 2.84 nonlinearly by 1.03 points (36.3%) over the course of 62 days to an average score of 1.81. The mean decrease during the first thirty days was 0.67(23.6%). Subgroup analysis did not reveal any influence factors. CONCLUSION: Pain levels during the distraction phase are overall low, continuously decreasing, and well manageable with mostly non-opioid analgesics.

[Team training and assessment in mixed reality-based simulated operating room : Current state of research in the field of simulation in spine surgery exemplified by the ATMEOS project]. / Teamtraining und Assessment im Mixed-reality-basierten simulierten OP : Aktueller Stand der Forschung im Bereich Simulation in der Wirbelsäulenchirurgie am Beispiel des Projekts ATMEOS.

Surgical simulators are being increasingly used as an attractive alternative to clinical training in addition to conventional animal models and human specimens. Typically, surgical simulation technology is designed for the purpose of teaching technical surgical skills (so-called task trainers). Simulator training in surgery is therefore in general limited to the individual training of the surgeon and disregards the participation of the rest of the surgical team. The objective of the project Assessment and Training of Medical Experts based on Objective Standards (ATMEOS) is to develop an immersive simulated operating room environment that enables the training and assessment of multidisciplinary surgical teams under various conditions. Using a mixed reality approach, a synthetic patient model, real surgical instruments and radiation-free virtual X­ray imaging are combined into a simulation of spinal surgery. In previous research studies, the concept was evaluated in terms of realism, plausibility and immersiveness. In the current research, assessment measurements for technical and non-technical skills are developed and evaluated. The aim is to observe multidisciplinary surgical teams in the simulated operating room during minimally invasive spinal surgery and objectively assess the performance of the individual team members and the entire team. Moreover, the effectiveness of training methods and surgical techniques or success critical factors, e. g. management of crisis situations, can be captured and objectively assessed in the controlled environment.

[3D augmented reality visualization for navigated osteosynthesis of pelvic fractures]. / "3D-augmented-reality"-Visualisierung für die navigierte Osteosynthese von Beckenfrakturen.

BACKGROUND: Despite great advances in the development of hardware and software components, surgical navigation systems have only seen limited use in current clinical settings due to their reported complexity, difficulty of integration into clinical workflows and questionable advantages over traditional imaging modalities. OBJECTIVES: Development of augmented reality (AR) visualization for surgical navigation without the need for infrared (IR) tracking markers and comparison of the navigation system to conventional imaging. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Novel navigation system combining a cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) capable C­arm with a red-green-blue depth (RGBD) camera. Testing of the device by Kirschner wire (K-wire) placement in phantoms and evaluation of the necessary operating time, number of fluoroscopic images and overall radiation dose were compared to conventional x­ray imaging. RESULTS: We found a significant reduction of the required time, number of fluoroscopic images and overall radiation dose in 3D AR navigation in comparison to x­ray imaging. CONCLUSION: Our AR navigation using RGBD cameras offers a flexible and intuitive visualization of the operating field for the navigated osteosynthesis without IR tracking markers, enabling surgeons to complete operations quicker and with a lower radiation exposure to the patient and surgical staff.

Guaraná, a Highly Caffeinated Food, Presents in vitro Antitumor Activity in Colorectal and Breast Cancer Cell Lines by Inhibiting AKT/mTOR/S6K and MAPKs Pathways.

The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) pathways are frequently upregulated in cancer. Some authors have reported that some antioxidant molecules could be potential inhibitors of these pathways. Therefore, we investigated the in vitro antitumor effect of guaraná by inhibiting the AKT/mTOR/S6K and MAPKs pathways. Colorectal and breast cancer cell lineages, HT-29 and MCF-7 cells, respectively, were exposed to different guaraná concentrations (0.1, 1, 10, and 100 µg/mL) as well as its main bioactive molecule, caffeine, in proportional concentrations to those found in the extract. Western blot, clonogenic assay, and growth curve were performed. Moreover, we investigated the potential cytotoxic effect of guaraná in normal cells. The results revealed that guaraná and caffeine inhibited some MAPKs proteins (p-p38 and p-HSP27) in MCF-7 cells. However, they did not affect this pathway in HT-29 cells. Furthermore, guaraná inhibited mTORC1 (p-S6K) and mTORC2 (p-AKT) in MCF-7 cells, but only mTORC1 in HT-29 cells. Caffeine only inhibited the mTOR pathway in MCF-7 cells. Guaraná decreased the colony formation and cell growth in MCF-7 and HT-29 cells. Guaraná did not affect normal cells. In conclusion, guaraná could be an important agent in antitumor pharmacologic therapies by inhibiting the mTOR and MAPKs pathways.

Association between T102C 5-HT2A receptor gene polymorphism and 5-year mortality risk among Brazilian Amazon riparian elderly population.

OBJECTIVE: Serotonin (5-HT) is a pleiotropic molecule that exerts several functions on brain and peripheral tissues via different receptors. The gene for the 5-HT2A receptor shows some variations, including a T102C polymorphism, that have been associated with increased risk of neuropsychiatric and vascular disorders. However, the potential impact of 5-HT2A imbalance caused by genetic variations on the human lifespan has not yet been established. METHODS: We performed a prospective study involving an Amazon riparian elderly free-living population in Maués City, Brazil, with a 5-year follow-up. Out of a cohort of 637 subjects selected in July, 2009, we genotyped 471 individuals, including 209 males (44.4%) and 262 females (55.6%), all averaging 72.3 ± 7.8 years of age (ranging from 60 to 100 years). RESULTS: The T102C-SNP genotypic frequencies were 14.0% TT, 28.0% CC, and 58.0% CT. From 80 elderly individuals who died during the period investigated, we observed significantly (P = .005) higher numbers of TT carriers (27.3%) and CC carriers (21.2%), compared to heterozygous CT carriers (12.5%). Cox-regression analysis showed that association between the T102C-SNP and elderly survival was independent of age, sex, and other health variables. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings strongly suggest that imbalance in 5-HT2A may cause significant disturbances that lead to an increased susceptibility to death for individuals who are over 60 years of age.

Impact of functional determinants on 5.5-year mortality in Amazon riparian elderly.

Objective To ascertain whether modifiable physical performance-based measurements predicted 5.5-year mortality in a riparian elderly cohort in the Amazon rainforest region. Methods A longitudinal study evaluating the impact of functional determinants on 5.5-year mortality in a riparian elderly cohort from Maués City in the state of Amazonas, Brazil, was performed. The study was a follow-up of a previous observational investigation that evaluated various fitness tests in 630 Amazonian riparian elderly (291 males and 339 females) aged 72.3 ± 8.0 (60-99) years old. The cohort was selected for its adverse environmental conditions, which increased the risk of falls yet required maintenance of good physical condition for carrying out relatively rigorous daily activities, and restricted access to specialized health services. Official death records were obtained from the Maués Municipal Health Department. Results A total of 80 study participants (12.7%) died over the 5.5-year study period. Kaplan-Meier regression analysis showed significant association between Timed Up and Go (TUG) test scores ≥ 14 seconds and mortality risk, independent of sex, age, and other health variables. Conclusions The study results suggest that the TUG test can be used as an indicator for initiating therapeutic and preventive actions, including conducting exercises or physical activities adapted to the health and functional conditions of the elderly, by identifying elderly people with a higher relative risk of mortality.

[Intraoperative augmented reality visualization. Current state of development and initial experiences with the CamC]. / Intraoperative "Augmented-reality-Visualisierung". Aktueller Stand der Entwicklung und erste Erfahrungen mit dem CamC.

The intraoperative application of augmented reality (AR) has so far mainly taken place in the field of endoscopy. Here, the camera image of the endoscope was augmented by computer graphics derived mostly from preoperative imaging. Due to the complex setup and operation of the devices, they have not yet become part of routine clinical practice. The Camera Augmented Mobile C-arm (CamC) that extends a classic C-arm by a video camera and mirror construction is characterized by its uncomplicated handling. It combines its video live stream geometrically correct with the acquired X-ray. The clinical application of the device in 43 cases showed the strengths of the device in positioning for X-ray acquisition, incision placement, K-wire placement, and instrument guidance. With its new function and the easy integration into the OR workflow of any procedure that requires X-ray imaging, the CamC has the potential to become the first widely used AR technology for orthopedic and trauma surgery.

Novel approach to estimate distraction forces in distraction osteogenesis and application in the human lower leg.

PURPOSE: In distraction osteogenesis (DO) of long bones, new bone tissue is distracted to lengthen limbs or reconstruct bone defects. However, mechanical boundary conditions in human application such as arising forces are mainly based on limited empirical data. Our aim was the numerical determination of the callus distraction force (CDF) and the total distraction force (TDF) during DO in the tibia of adults to advance the understanding of callus tissue behavior and optimize DO procedures. METHOD: We implemented a mathematical model based on an animal experiment to enable the calculation of forces arising while distracting callus tissue, excluding the influence of surrounding soft tissue (muscles, skin etc.). The CDF progression for the distraction period was calculated using the implemented model and varying distraction parameters (initial gap, area, step size, time interval, length). Further, we estimated the CDF based on reported forces in humans and compared the results to our model predictions. In addition, we calculated the TDF based on our CDF predictions in combination with reported resisting forces due to soft tissue presence in human cadavers. Finally, we compared the progressions to in vivo TDF measurements for validation. RESULTS: Due to relaxation, a peak and resting CDF is observable for each distraction step. Our biomechanical results show a non-linear degressive increase of the resting and peak CDF at the beginning and a steady non-linear increase thereafter. The calculated resting and peak CDF in the tibial metaphysis ranged from 0.00075 to 0.0089 N and 0.22-2.6 N at the beginning as well as 20-25 N and 70-75 N at the end of distraction. The comparison to in vivo data showed the plausibility of our predictions and resulted in a 10-33% and 10-23% share of resting CDF in the total resting force for bone transport and elongation, respectively. Further, the percentage of peak CDF in total peak force was found to be 29-58% and 27-55% for bone transport and elongation, respectively. Moreover, our TDF predictions were valid based on the comparison to in vivo forces and resulted in a degressive increase from 6 to 125 N for the peak TDF and from 5 to 76 N for the resting TDF. CONCLUSION: Our approach enables the estimation of forces arising due to the distraction of callus tissue in humans and results in plausible force progressions as well as absolute force values for the callus distraction force during DO. In combination with measurements of resisting forces due to the presence of soft tissue, the total distraction force in DO may also be evaluated. We thus propose the application of this method to approximate the behavior of mechanical callus properties during DO in humans as an alternative to in vivo measurements.

Amazonian fruits with potential effects on COVID-19 by inflammaging modulation: A narrative review.

The COVID-19 pandemic had a great impact on the mortality of older adults and, chronic non- transmissible diseases (CNTDs) patients, likely previous inflammaging condition that is common in these subjects. It is possible that functional foods could attenuate viral infection conditions such as SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2), the causal agent of COVID-19 pandemic. Previous evidence suggested that some fruits consumed by Amazonian Diet from Pre-Colombian times could present relevant proprieties to decrease of COVID-19 complications such as oxidative-cytokine storm. In this narrative review we identified five potential Amazonian fruits: açai berry (Euterpe oleracea), camu-camu (Myrciaria dubia), cocoa (Theobroma cacao), Brazil nuts (Bertholletia excelsa), and guaraná (Paullinia cupana). Data showed that these Amazonian fruits present antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and other immunomodulatory activities that could attenuate the impact of inflammaging states that potentially decrease the evolution of COVID-19 complications. The evidence compiled here supports the complementary experimental and clinical studies exploring these fruits as nutritional supplement during COVID-19 infection. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: These fruits, in their natural form, are often limited to their region, or exported to other places in the form of frozen pulp or powder. But there are already some companies producing food supplements in the form of capsules, in the form of oils and even functional foods enriched with these fruits. This practice is common in Brazil and tends to expand to the international market.

Novel method for determining bone dimensions relevant for longitudinal and transverse distraction osteogenesis and application in the human tibia and fibula.

BACKGROUND: In distraction osteogenesis (DO) of long bones, new bone tissue is formed and distracted to lengthen limbs or reconstruct bone defects. However, certain anthropometric quantities relevant for biomechanical modelling of DO are unknown, such as areas where new bone tissue is formed. We developed a novel method to facilitate the determination of these distraction areas (DA), which we applied in the tibia and fibula of adults for longitudinal and transverse DO to advance knowledge of anatomical boundary conditions. METHODS: CT data sets of 21 adult human tibiae and 24 fibulae were selected for investigation. Volumetric models were created utilizing image segmentation. The DA for longitudinal DO was determined in a CAD environment using the total bone cross section in the proximal, central and distal diaphysis of the tibia and fibula. Additionally, the medullary canal area was determined in the fibula. Furthermore, we measured the total DA and medullary canal DA for transverse distraction using a longitudinally split fibula with an osteotomy length of 8, 12, 16 and 20 cm. The osteotomy plane was oriented in medial and anteromedial direction. Finally, Spearman analyses were conducted to assess the correlation between bone length and DA. RESULTS: For longitudinal DO, the mean total DAs were 878, 535 and 482 mm2 in the tibia and 132, 153, 124 mm2 in the fibula for the proximal, central and distal diaphysis, respectively. Regarding transverse distraction, the mean total DAs for a medial and anteromedial osteotomy plane orientation were 962, 1423, 1868 and 2306 mm2 as well as 925, 1387, 1844, 2279 mm2 for an osteotomy length of 8, 12, 16 and 20 cm, respectively. Weak, positive, and non-significant correlations were observed when correlating bone length and DA in the tibia and fibula. CONCLUSIONS: Quantification of DAs and hence distracted callus tissue in DO advances anatomical knowledge and improves biomechanical modelling by adding a parameter which cannot be approximated based on bone length.

Safety indicators of a novel multi supplement based on guarana, selenium, and L-carnitine: Evidence from human and red earthworm immune cells.

Neurodegenerative diseases are associated with chronic inflammatory states. There is evidence to support the design of novel supplements based on guarana (G) (Paullinia cupana), selenium (S), and L-carnitine (C), the use of which, potentially attenuates neuro oxi-inflammatory conditions. Therefore, this study analyzed the cytotoxic and redox effects of GSC on human leucocytes, the inflammatory activation of microglia BV-2 cells, and effect on mortality, oxidative metabolism, and the immune modulation of red earthworms (Eisenia fetida). The GSC concentrations tested in cell culture were in the range of 0.04-2.1 mg/mL. All the GSC-supplemented samples tested, reverted H2O2 oxidation in DNA molecules, suggesting its genoprotective potential. GSC did not induce mortality in leucocyte cultures. On the contrary, a reduction in the levels of oxidation of lipids, proteins, and cell apoptosis was observed, via downregulation of caspase 3 and 8 genes. GSC showed a dual effect on microglia, decreasing the cellular proliferation at lower concentrations (<0.24 mg/mL) and increasing the cellular proliferation mainly at concentrations > 1.0 mg/mL. GSC did not have a toxic effect on red earthworms, but induced an increase in amoebocyte cells and in brown body formation, indicating immune response activation. The results suggest that GSC could be safe for human consumption.

The sequential trauma score - a new instrument for the sequential mortality prediction in major trauma.

BACKGROUND: There are several well established scores for the assessment of the prognosis of major trauma patients that all have in common that they can be calculated at the earliest during intensive care unit stay. We intended to develop a sequential trauma score (STS) that allows prognosis at several early stages based on the information that is available at a particular time. STUDY DESIGN: In a retrospective, multicenter study using data derived from the Trauma Registry of the German Trauma Society (2002-2006), we identified the most relevant prognostic factors from the patients basic data (P), prehospital phase (A), early (B1), and late (B2) trauma room phase. Univariate and logistic regression models as well as score quality criteria and the explanatory power have been calculated. RESULTS: A total of 2,354 patients with complete data were identified. From the patients basic data (P), logistic regression showed that age was a significant predictor of survival (AUC(model P), area under the curve = 0.63). Logistic regression of the prehospital data (A) showed that blood pressure, pulse rate, Glasgow coma scale (GCS), and anisocoria were significant predictors (AUC(model A) = 0.76; AU(model P + A) = 0.82). Logistic regression of the early trauma room phase (B1) showed that peripheral oxygen saturation, GCS, anisocoria, base excess, and thromboplastin time to be significant predictors of survival (AUC(model B1) = 0.78; AUC(model P + A + B1) = 0.85). Multivariate analysis of the late trauma room phase (B2) detected cardiac massage, abbreviated injury score (AIS) of the head > or = 3, the maximum AIS, the need for transfusion or massive blood transfusion, to be the most important predictors (AUC(model B2) = 0.84; AUC(final model P + A + B1 + B2) = 0.90). The explanatory power - a tool for the assessment of the relative impact of each segment to mortality - is 25% for P, 7% for A, 17% for B1 and 51% for B2. A spreadsheet for the easy calculation of the sequential trauma score is available at: www.sequential-trauma-score.com CONCLUSIONS: This score is the first sequential, dynamic score to provide a prognosis for patients with blunt major trauma at several points in time. With every additional piece of information the precision increases. The medical team has a simple, useful tool to identify patients at high risk and to predict the prognosis of an individual patient with major trauma very early, quickly and precisely.

Three-dimensional assessment of lower limb alignment: Reference values and sex-related differences.

BACKGROUND: Three-dimensional (3D) preoperative planning and assisted surgery is increasingly popular in deformity surgery and arthroplasty. Reference ranges for 3D lower limb alignment are needed as a prerequisite for standardized analysis of alignment and preoperative planning in 3D, but are not yet established. METHODS: On 60 3D bone models of the lower limbs based on computed tomography data, fifteen parameters per leg were assessed by standardized validated 3D analysis. Distribution parameters and differences between sexes were evaluated. Reference values were generated by adding/subtracting one standard deviation from the mean. RESULTS: Women had a significantly lower mean mechanical lateral distal femoral angle compared with men (86.4 ±â€¯2.1° vs. 87.8 ±â€¯2.0°; P < .05) and significantly lower mean joint line convergence angle (-2.5 ±â€¯1.4° vs. -1.3 ±â€¯1.2; P < .01), but higher mean hip knee ankle angle (178.9 ±â€¯1.9° vs. 177.8 ±â€¯2.3°; P < .05) and mean femoral torsion (18.2 ±â€¯9.5° vs. 13.2 ±â€¯6.4°; P < .05), resulting in a tendency towards valgus alignment and vice versa for men. Differences in mean medial proximal tibial angle were not significant. The mean mechanical axis deviation from the tibial knee joint center was 6.9 ±â€¯7.3 mm medial and 1.4 ±â€¯16.1 mm ventral without significant differences between sexes. CONCLUSIONS: We describe total and sex-related reference ranges for all alignment relevant axes and joint angles of the lower limb. There are sex-related differences in certain alignment parameters, which should be considered in analysis and surgical planning.

Protective effect of guarana-loaded liposomes on hemolytic activity.

Paullinia cupana var. sorbilis (Mart.) Ducke, popularly known as guarana, is one of the most promising plants in Brazilian flora and has attracted considerable interest from the scientific community owing to its numerous therapeutic activities and less side effects. Hence, using nanotechnology is a viable alternative to primarily improve the physicochemical characteristics and bioavailability of guarana. The objective of the present study was to develop, characterize, and evaluate the stability of liposomes containing guarana powder and to evaluate their antioxidant and hemolytic activity in vitro. Three different concentrations of guarana powder and two methods of liposome preparation were tested. Liposomes were developed and characterized, and their stability was analyzed by evaluating physicochemical parameters. Hemolytic activity of guarana liposomal formulation (G-Lip) was compared with that of guarana in its free form (FG) and of liposome without guarana (W-Lip). Red blood cells from rats were exposed to these different formulations dissolved in phosphate buffer solution (PBS; pH 7.4). The best stability was achieved for the formulation containing 1 mg mL-1 guarana powder produced by the reverse phase evaporation method. FG showed dose-dependent antioxidant activity, which was maintained in G-Lip. W-Lip showed high hemolytic activity in PBS at pH 7.4 possibly because of the presence of polysorbate 80, and on addition of guarana to these structures, the hemolytic process was reversed. The same protective effect was observed for FG. It is believed that the complex structure of guarana, primarily the presence of polyphenols, exerts a powerful antioxidant action, helping to protect erythrocytes.

Astrocaryum aculeatum fruit improves inflammation and redox balance in phytohemagglutinin-stimulated macrophages.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: The fruit of Astrocaryum aculeatum G.Mey. (tucumã) is highly consumed by riverside communities in the Amazonian region. These communities have recently been shown to have increased longevity and reduced prevalence of age-related morbidity. Tucumã, which is locally used in their diet and traditional medicine may contribute to these features. AIM OF THE STUDY: To investigate the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of A. aculeatum extract against phytohemagglutinin-induced inflammation in cell cultures. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Cell viability and cytotoxicity assays, gene expression of interleukins IL-1ß, IL-6, IL-10, levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), nitric oxide (NO) and thiols were employed, as well as the activities of antioxidant enzymes in RAW 264.7 cells stimulated with phytohemagglutinin to mimic inflammation. RESULTS: The extract of A. aculeatum fruit inhibited macrophage proliferation (P < 0.05), arrested the cell cycle in G0/G1 phase (P < 0.001), increased antioxidant defenses (P < 0.01), reduced oxidative stress (P < 0.01), and modulated genes related to the inflammatory response (P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Our results demonstrate that A. aculeatum fruit has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant capacities. These beneficial effects of tucumã on cells are also likely to be seen in vivo, thereby suggesting that its extract is a suitable therapeutic adjuvant in the prevention or treatment of inflammatory diseases.

Intraoperative customization of intramedullary nails - First results.

INTRODUCTION: Intramedullary nailing is a valuable treatment option for many types of fractures. Furthermore nailing is applicable for osteosynthesis following osteotomy in deformity correction. For intraoperative fine-tuning of alignment in intramedullary (IM) nailing procedures, a bending device for customization of IM nails under sterile conditions was developed. We have performed a retrospective clinical study to analyze and describe the technical requirements, indications and limitations for intraoperative customization of IM nails. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In 41 cases of deformity correction with IM nailing, we applied intraoperative sterile bending of IM nails. The patient age ranged from 13 to 64 years. We evaluated the radiological outcome (precision of the intervention) of 31 completed cases, comparing the preoperative planning with the final result on long-standing radiographs (LSR). The diameter of the nails ranged from 8,5mm to 13mm. Cases with fracture or non-union treatment with intraoperative application of the bending device were excluded and analyzed separately. RESULTS: All removed implants were examined - none of them showed any signs of material fatigue. The amount of intraoperative bending of the nails was 1° to 12°. A high level of precision was achieved, with a median postoperative axis deviation to the preoperative planning of 3,5mm. In a polio patient with limited bone quality, the implant removal caused an undisplaced cortical crack. There were no other complications. There was uneventful and fast bone healing in all patients. CONCLUSIONS: Intraoperative customization of intramedullary nails is a valuable technique for precise alignment control with IM nailing. With this technique, the benefits of IM nailing can be used for a wide range of indications, including deformity correction. The sterile bending device is safe and easy to handle. It is strong enough to bend all commercially available IM nails. Monofocal or linear bending in multiple planes is possible. However, when defining the site of bending, one must consider the removal of the implant in the future.

Analysis of In Vitro Cyto- and Genotoxicity of Barbatimão Extract on Human Keratinocytes and Fibroblasts.

Barbatimão (Stryphnodendron adstringens, Mart.) is a native Brazilian species used in traditional medicine and some commercial preparations owing to its strong wound-healing activity. However, controversy regarding its use due to safety concerns over the potential genotoxic effect of this plant remains. In order to clarify this issue, the effect of hydroalcoholic extract of barbatimão in vitro on cell viability, DNA damage, and induction of apoptosis in two commercial cell lines of keratinocytes (HaCaT) and fibroblasts (HFF-1) was evaluated. Barbatimão stem bark hydroalcoholic extract (70% ethanol) was obtained and lyophilized for subsequent use in all experiments. The main bioactive molecules quantified by HPLC were gallic acid, caffeic acid, quercetin, catechin, and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). Barbatimão (0.024 to 1.99 mg/mL) was found to decrease cellular mortality as compared to the control group. GEMO assay, a noncellular DNA protocol that uses H2O2-exposed calf thymus DNA, revealed not only a genotoxic effect of barbatimão, but also a potential genoprotective action against H2O2-triggered DNA fragmentation. These results indicated that barbatimão at concentrations of 0.49 and 0.99 mg/mL, which are near to the levels found in commercial preparations, exerted an in vitro genoprotective effect on cells by decreasing the levels of DNA oxidation quantified by 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels. Gene and protein apoptotic markers, quantified by qRT-PCR (BAX/Bcl-2 genes) and immunoassays (Caspases 3 and 8), respectively, also indicated a decrease in apoptotic events in comparison with control cells. Collectively, the results suggest that barbatimão could exert genoprotective and antiapoptotic effects on human keratinocytes and fibroblasts.

Natural history and surgical treatment of brown tumor lesions at various sites in refractory primary hyperparathyroidism.

OBJECTIVE: Nowadays, the occurrence of brown tumor lesions or osteitis fibrosa cystica caused by long-lasting primary hyperparathyroidism are very rare, since measuring serum calcium became available routinely in the mid-1970s. It is a tumor-like lesion that may affect the entire skeleton, often presenting with diffuse focal bone pain or by pathological fracture. METHODS: We describe our experience of brown tumor lesions at different skeletal sites that were treated at our trauma centre within the last two years. This included surgical therapy for the indications (i) pain at the pelvis, (ii) increased risk for pathological fracture at the tibia and (iii) acute radicular symptoms at the lumbar spine. The literature was reviewed for the current understanding of the pathophysiology as well as therapy of brown tumor lesions in primary hyperparathyroidism. RESULTS: Curettage of a left-sided iliac crest brown tumor terminated focal pain. A less invasive stabilisation system and bone cement decreased both patient pain and the fracture risk of brown tumor lesion sites of the shinbone; and internal fixator including laminectomy at the lumbar spine ended radicular symptoms. CONCLUSION: Patients with refractory primary hyperparathyroidism should be monitored closely by endocrinologists and the patient's serum calcium level should be adjusted as far as possible. Radiography is required only if focal bone pain or pathological fractures or radicular symptoms occur. Surgery should be considered if large bone defects with spontaneous fracture risk or increasing pain are present. Tumor curettage, Palacos plombage and less invasive stabilisation systems have proved to be acceptable surgical options.

[CT-guided vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty: comparing technical success rate and complications in 101 cases]. / CT-gesteuerte Vertebro- und Kyphoplastie: Vergleichende Untersuchung zu technischem Erfolg und Komplikationen bei 101 Eingriffen.

PURPOSE: To compare the technical success and complication rates in CT-guided vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty. MATERIALS AND METHODS: From 2002 - 2005 69 patients (101 vertebrae) were treated with vertebroplasty (n = 82) or kyphoplasty (n = 19) using 4-slice MSCT with CT fluoroscopy as the sole guidance for the procedure. The underlying lesions were osteoporotic fractures in 78 vertebral bodies and 23 vertebral metastases. RESULTS: Technical success was achieved in all 101 procedures. Post-interventional CT demonstrated asymptomatic cement leakage in 51/101 vertebrae. Kyphoplasty resulted in leakage in 11/19 (57.9 %) and vertebroplasty in 40/82 (48.8 %) procedures. With p = 0.48 (Mann-Whitney Test) there was no significant difference between kyphoplasty and vertebroplasty with respect to the number of cement leakage occurrences. There was one minor complication of an L5 root irritation following radiofrequency ablation and vertebroplasty of a sarcoma metastasis which subsided without treatment after 8 weeks. There was one major complication of intraspinal cement leakage during tumor vertebroplasty causing T5 root compression and requiring laminectomy for cement removal. The overall rate of major complications requiring treatment was 0.99 %. CONCLUSION: Vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty can be safely performed using only MSCT fluoroscopy guidance. The rate of major complications is very low. There was a high rate of small asymptomatic cement leakages which may have remained undetected with conventional fluoroscopy (CF). There was no statistically significant advantage for kyphoplasty with respect to cement leakage and the technical success rate.

[Arthrographic imaging of ganglions of the hand]. / Arthrographische Darstellung von Ganglien im Handbereich.

In the genesis of ganglions synovial herniation is discussed with an existence of a valve mechanism which prevents the synovial fluid from returning into the joint space. Arthrography of the wrist was performed in 34 patients with suspicion of ganglions on the dorsal and volar aspect of the wrist. By injection of contrast medium in 6 cases directly into the ganglion no connection with the carpal joint cavity was seen. On the contrary, wrist arthrography with examination of the midcarpal and radiocarpal joint showed regularly a communication by a torturous narrow duct between the midcarpal joint and the dorsal ganglion and the radiocarpal joint and the volar ganglion. Other pathologic findings were seen, like tears of the scapholunate ligament and of the triangular fibrocartilage. The consequences for surgical therapy and conclusions for the aetiology of the ganglions are shown.