Efficacy of bethanechol chloride in the treatment of radiation-induced xerostomia in patients with head and neck cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND AND PORPUSE: Salivary glands sustain collateral damage following radiotherapy (RT) to treat cancers of the head and neck, leading to complications, including xerostomia and hyposalivation. This systematic review (SR) with meta-analysis was performed to determine the effectiveness of bethanechol chloride in preventing salivary gland dysfunction in this context. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Medline/Pubmed, Embase, Scopus, LILACS via Portal Regional BVS and Web of Science were searched electronically in accordance with the Cochrane manual and reported PRISMA guidelines. RESULTS: 170 patients from three studies were included. Results from the meta-analysis suggest that bethanechol chloride is associated with increases in: whole stimulating saliva (WSS) after RT (Std. MD 0.66, 95% CI 0.28 to 1.03, P < 0.001); whole resting saliva (WRS) during RT (Std. MD 0.4, 95% CI 0.04 to 0.76, P = 0.03); and WRS after RT (Std. MD 0.45, 95% CI 0.04 to 0.86, P = 0.03). CONCLUSION: The present study suggests that bethanechol chloride therapy may be effective in patients with xerostomia and hyposalivation.

Epidemiology of tobacco use and nicotine dependence in truck drivers.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the epidemiology of tobacco use and nicotine dependence in a sample of truck drivers in Brazil. METHODS: Between 2015 and 2016, a cross-sectional study was conducted on 624 truck drivers who operate on the BR-050 highway in Brazil. Participants were interviewed about sociodemographic data, occupational characteristics, mental health, behavioral data, and tobacco use. Then, the Fagerstrom test for nicotine dependence (FTND) was used to verify nicotine dependence in smoking truck drivers. Logistic regression and linear regression were also used to verify factors associated with tobacco use in the previous 30 days and nicotine dependence scores, respectively. RESULTS: The prevalence of tobacco use among truck drivers was 21.1% (n = 132;95%CI: 18.1-24.5). Of the total number of smokers who responded to the FTND (n = 118; 89.4%), most had high/very high nicotinic dependence (68.6%; 95%CI: 59.8-76.3). Tobacco use was associated with absence of religion (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 2.60; 95%CI: 1.35-5.01), employment relationship of the contract (AOR = 1.98; 95%CI: 1.26-3.13); > 12 hours daily working time (AOR = 1.80; 95%CI: 1.09-2.98) and alcohol use in the previous 30 days (AOR = 2.92; 95%CI: 1.86-4.57). Irregular physical activity was associated with higher scores of nicotine dependence (ß = 1.87; 95%CI: 0.55-3.19). CONCLUSION: The results showed a high prevalence of tobacco use and high/very high nicotine dependence among the truck drivers.

Photobiomodulation Therapy Combined with a Static Magnetic Field Applied in Different Moments Enhances Performance and Accelerates Muscle Recovery in CrossFit® Athletes: A Randomized, Triple-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Crossover Trial.

The ergogenic effects of photobiomodulation therapy combined with a static magnetic field (PBMT-sMF) on exercises with characteristics similar to those of CrossFit® are unknown. This study was aimed at investigating the effects of PBMT-sMF applied at different times on recovery and physical performance in CrossFit® athletes by analyzing functional aspects, muscle damage, inflammatory processes, and oxidative stress. This was a prospectively registered, triple-blinded, placebo-controlled, crossover trial. CrossFit® athletes were recruited and assigned to receive one of the four possible interventions. Each intervention included protocols before and after the exercise (referred to as the workout of the day (WOD)). The four possibilities of intervention were as follows: placebo before and after WOD (placebo), PBMT-sMF before and placebo after WOD (PBMT-sMF before), placebo before and PBMT-sMF after WOD (PBMT-sMF after), and PBMT-sMF before and after WOD (PBMT-sMF before and after). The order of possibilities for the interventions was randomized. The primary outcome was the functional test performance. The secondary outcomes were the subjective perception of exertion, muscle damage, inflammation, and oxidative stress. The outcomes were measured before the WOD; immediately after the intervention; and 1, 24, and 48 hours after the WOD. Statistical analysis was performed using repeated measures ANOVA followed by the Bonferroni post hoc test to examine the differences between the interventions at each time point. Twelve participants were randomized and analyzed for each sequence. PBMT-sMF enhanced the performance on functional tests (calculated as a percentage of change) when applied before or after WOD in the assessment performed immediately post-WOD and at 24 and 48 hours later (p < 0.05) compared to placebo and PBMT-sMF before and after WOD. In terms of the secondary outcomes, PBMT-sMF applied before or after WOD significantly decreased the creatine kinase, catalase, and superoxide dismutase activities and interleukin-6, thiobarbituric acid, and carbonylated protein levels (all p < 0.05) compared to the other possibilities of intervention. In addition, PBMT-sMF applied before and after WOD decreased creatine kinase activity at 24 hours and IL-6 levels at 24 and 48 hours compared to placebo (p < 0.05). None of the participants reported any adverse events. PBMT-sMF enhanced the performance of functional tests, decreased the levels of biochemical markers of muscle damage and inflammation, decreased oxidative stress, and increased antioxidant activity in CrossFit® athletes when applied before or after WOD.

The neurovascular unit in leukodystrophies: towards solving the puzzle.

The neurovascular unit (NVU) is a highly organized multicellular system localized in the brain, formed by neuronal, glial (astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and microglia) and vascular (endothelial cells and pericytes) cells. The blood-brain barrier, a complex and dynamic endothelial cell barrier in the brain microvasculature that separates the blood from the brain parenchyma, is a component of the NVU. In a variety of neurological disorders, including Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis, and stroke, dysfunctions of the NVU occurs. There is, however, a lack of knowledge regarding the NVU function in leukodystrophies, which are rare monogenic disorders that primarily affect the white matter. Since leukodystrophies are rare diseases, human brain tissue availability is scarce and representative animal models that significantly recapitulate the disease are difficult to develop. The introduction of human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSC) now makes it possible to surpass these limitations while maintaining the ability to work in a biologically relevant human context and safeguarding the genetic background of the patient. This review aims to provide further insights into the NVU functioning in leukodystrophies, with a special focus on iPSC-derived models that can be used to dissect neurovascular pathophysiology in these diseases.

Effects of ocean acidification and warming on the development and biochemical responses of juvenile shrimp Palaemon elegans (Rathke, 1837).

Anthropogenic CO2 emissions have led to the warming and acidification of the oceans. Although, there is a growing of evidence showing that simultaneous occurrence of ocean acidification and ocean warming are threats to marine organisms, information on their combined effect on coastal shrimp species remains scarce. The purpose of this study was to estimate the combined effects of seawater acidification and warming on growth-related traits and biochemical responses of P. elegans juveniles. In this work, shrimp were exposed for 65 days at 4 experimental conditions: pH 8.10 * 18 °C, pH 7.80 * 18 °C, pH 8.10 * 22 °C, pH 7.80 * 22 °C. The results showed that low pH decreases the lipid content by ∼13% (p < 0.05). Higher temperature reduced the condition factor by ∼11%, the protein content by ∼20%, the PUFA by ∼8,6% and shortened moulting events by 5 days (p > 0.05) while the SFA increased ∼9.4%. The decrease in condition factor and protein was however more prominent in organisms exposed to the combination of pH and temperature with a decrease of ∼13% and ∼21%, respectively. Furthermore, essential fatty acids as EPA and DHA also decreased by ∼20% and ∼6.6% in low pH and higher temperature condition. Despite this study suggest that warming may have a greater impact than acidification, it has been shown that their combined effect can exacerbate these impacts with consequences for the shrimp's body size and biochemical profile.

Are intraoral stents effective in reducing oral toxicities caused by radiotherapy? A systematic review and meta-analysis.

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: Intraoral stents have been provided to minimize acute and chronic toxicities induced by radiotherapy, including oral mucositis, salivary changes, trismus, radiation-related caries, and osteoradionecrosis. However, a systematic review and meta-analysis is necessary to determine their effectiveness. PURPOSE: The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to determine the effectiveness of intraoral stent use and determine whether these prosthetic devices can reduce radiation dosage to nontargeted oral tissues and adverse effects related to head and neck radiation. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Two independent reviewers made a systematic search for articles published from January 2010 to March 2020 in 3 databases, supplemented by a manual search. Studies were included if they were clinical trials (randomized controlled trials, both prospective and retrospective), published in English, and evaluated radiation dose and oral adverse side effects (acute or chronic) induced by radiotherapy of participants with and without intraoral stents. RESULTS: The search strategy identified 201 studies; of which, 9 were included. A total of 251 participants were evaluated; of whom, 168 (77.3%) used intraoral stents and 57 (22.7%) were treated with radiotherapy without a prosthetic device. A statistically significant difference was found regarding the use of intraoral stents for preventing oral mucositis (P<.001), salivary changes (P=.003), and trismus (P<.02). A funnel plot showed asymmetry among the differences of means in all selected studies. CONCLUSIONS: Intraoral stents have a positive effect on preventing oral mucositis. Further clinical trials are needed to address the flaws identified in the present systematic review.

Epidemiology of tobacco use and nicotine dependence in truck drivers

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE To investigate the epidemiology of tobacco use and nicotine dependence in a sample of truck drivers in Brazil. METHODS Between 2015 and 2016, a cross-sectional study was conducted on 624 truck drivers who operate on the BR-050 highway in Brazil. Participants were interviewed about sociodemographic data, occupational characteristics, mental health, behavioral data, and tobacco use. Then, the Fagerstrom test for nicotine dependence (FTND) was used to verify nicotine dependence in smoking truck drivers. Logistic regression and linear regression were also used to verify factors associated with tobacco use in the previous 30 days and nicotine dependence scores, respectively. RESULTS The prevalence of tobacco use among truck drivers was 21.1% (n = 132;95%CI: 18.1-24.5). Of the total number of smokers who responded to the FTND (n = 118; 89.4%), most had high/very high nicotinic dependence (68.6%; 95%CI: 59.8-76.3). Tobacco use was associated with absence of religion (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 2.60; 95%CI: 1.35-5.01), employment relationship of the contract (AOR = 1.98; 95%CI: 1.26-3.13); > 12 hours daily working time (AOR = 1.80; 95%CI: 1.09-2.98) and alcohol use in the previous 30 days (AOR = 2.92; 95%CI: 1.86-4.57). Irregular physical activity was associated with higher scores of nicotine dependence (β = 1.87; 95%CI: 0.55-3.19). CONCLUSION The results showed a high prevalence of tobacco use and high/very high nicotine dependence among the truck drivers.

Prevalence and Impact of Biofilms on Bloodstream and Urinary Tract Infections: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

This study sought to assess the prevalence and impact of biofilms on two commonly biofilm-related infections, bloodstream and urinary tract infections (BSI and UTI). Separated systematic reviews and meta-analyses of observational studies were carried out in PubMed and Web of Sciences databases from January 2005 to May 2020, following PRISMA protocols. Studies were selected according to specific and defined inclusion/exclusion criteria. The obtained outcomes were grouped into biofilm production (BFP) prevalence, BFP in resistant vs. susceptible strains, persistent vs. non-persistent BSI, survivor vs. non-survivor patients with BSI, and catheter-associated UTI (CAUTI) vs. non-CAUTI. Single-arm and two-arm analyses were conducted for data analysis. In vitro BFP in BSI was highly related to resistant strains (odds ratio-OR: 2.68; 95% confidence intervals-CI: 1.60-4.47; p < 0.01), especially for methicillin-resistant Staphylococci. BFP was also highly linked to BSI persistence (OR: 2.65; 95% CI: 1.28-5.48; p < 0.01) and even to mortality (OR: 2.05; 95% CI: 1.53-2.74; p < 0.01). Candida spp. was the microorganism group where the highest associations were observed. Biofilms seem to impact Candida BSI independently from clinical differences, including treatment interventions. Regarding UTI, multi-drug resistant and extended-spectrum ß-lactamase-producing strains of Escherichia coli, were linked to a great BFP prevalence (OR: 2.92; 95% CI: 1.30-6.54; p < 0.01 and OR: 2.80; 95% CI: 1.33-5.86; p < 0.01). More in vitro BFP was shown in CAUTI compared to non-CAUTI, but with less statistical confidence (OR: 2.61; 95% CI: 0.67-10.17; p < 0.17). This study highlights that biofilms must be recognized as a BSI and UTI resistance factor as well as a BSI virulence factor.

Increased CD3+, CD8+, or FoxP3+ T Lymphocyte Infiltrations Are Associated with the Pathogenesis of Colorectal Cancer but Not with the Overall Survival of Patients.

Tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes include heterogeneous populations of T lymphocytes that play crucial roles in the tumor immune response; importantly, their presence in the tumor tissue may predict clinical outcomes. Therefore, we herein studied the prognostic significance of the presence and location of CD3+, CD8+, and FoxP3+ T lymphocytes in colorectal cancer samples. In the intratumor analysis, our data did not reveal any association between lymphocyte infiltrations with clinical or pathological data. However, in the tumor margins, we found that the presence of high infiltrations of CD3+, CD8+, or FoxP3+ T lymphocytes were associated with TNM stages I-II (p = 0.021, p = 0.022, and p = 0.012, respectively) and absence of lymph node metastases (p = 0.010, p = 0.003, and p = 0.004, respectively). Despite these associations with good prognostic indicators, we were not able to find any statistically significant alterations in the overall survival of the patients, even though high infiltrations of FoxP3+ T lymphocytes in the tumor margins resulted in an increased overall survival of 14 months. Taken together, these data show that the presence of CD3+, CD8+, or FoxP3+T lymphocyte infiltrates in the tumor margins are associated with the pathogenesis of CRC, but only high Foxp3+ T lymphocyte infiltrations in the tumor invasive margins are inclined to indicate favorable prognosis.

Percepção sobre aspectos da doença e de seu tratamento em pacientes portadores de glaucoma / Perception about aspects of the disease and its treatment in patients with glaucoma

RESUMO Objetivo: Comparar por meio de questionários estruturados, o conhecimento sobre a doença, o manejo de colírios e a adesão ao tratamento de portadores de glaucoma pertencentes a dois públicos com nível de escolaridade e nível sócio econômico distintos. Métodos: Foi realizado um estudo transversal analítico aplicando-se questionários estruturados, com base em estudo exploratório para avaliação do nível de conhecimento dos portadores de Glaucoma em relação a doença em dois públicos diferentes: sistema único de saúde (SUS) e planos privados de saúde. Os questionários foram aplicados por médicos residentes em Oftalmologia. A amostra é composta de 202 pacientes dentre eles 100 atendidos pelo SUS e os outros 102 pacientes dos planos privados de saúde. Todos os questionários possuem termo de consentimento livre e esclarecido assinado pelo participante e pelo pesquisador responsável. Resultados: Os pacientes foram divididos em dois grupos, compostos por: 100 pacientes SUS e 102 planos de saúde privado. Os resultados revelaram que: 58,6% dos pacientes do SUS tinham escolaridade nenhuma a fundamental incompleto e 25,5% dos pacientes de convênio tinham algum nível superior); 49% do grupo SUS tinham renda com menos de 2 salários mínimos enquanto que grupo convênio apresentou 39,4% com mais de 4 salários mínimos (p<0,001); 51,5% do grupo SUS não tem gastos com compra de colírios e 67,4% do grupo convênio gasta mais de R$30,00 (p<0,001) portanto 77% do grupo SUS recebe ajuda e 52,5% do grupo convenio não recebe ajuda (p<0,001); 63,6% do grupo convenio acredita que a quantidade de instilações a mais do colírios não obtêm uma melhora do glaucoma, enquanto aproximadamente 50% do grupo SUS relata que há uma melhora com aumento das instilações ou não tem ideia (p=0,030); Ambos os grupos obtiveram um nível de conhecimento geral da doença semelhante, sem diferença estatística. Conclusão: Concluímos que, independente do nível de escolaridade e nível socioeconômico, havendo boa relação médico-paciente, além de acompanhamento orientado e próximo, é possível transmitir conhecimento adequado sobre a doença elevando o nível de adesão ao tratamento pelo paciente.

ABSTRACT Objective: Compare, through structured questionnaires, the knowledge about disease, management of eye drops and adherence to treatment of glaucoma patients disposed in two groups according to educational levels and socioeconomic levels. Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study was carried out applying structured questionnaires based on an exploratory study to assess the level of Glaucoma patients' knowledge relationated with the disease in two different audiences: the single health system (SUS) and private health plans. The questionnaires were used by doctors residents in Ophthalmology. A sample was composed of 202 patients among which 100 were attended by SUS and the others 102 patients were holders of private health plans. All questionnaires have a free and informed consent form signed by the participant and the responsible researcher. Results: Patients were divided into two groups, consisting of: 100 SUS patients and 102 private health plans. The results revealed that: 58.6% of SUS patients had incomplete elementary schooling and 25.5% of private health insurance patients had some level of higher education; 49% of the SUS group had an income with less than 2 minimum wages while the health insurance group presented 39.4% with more than 4 minimum wages (p <0.001); 51.5% of the SUS group has no spending on eye drops and 67.4% of the health insurance group spends more than R $ 30.00 (p <0.001) so, 77% of the SUS group receives financial aid and 52.5% of the health insurance group does not receive any financial support (p <0.001); 63.6% of the health insurance group believes that the bigger amount of instillations than eyedrops does not improve glaucoma, while approximately 50% of the SUS group reports that there is an improvement when increasing instillations or has no idea (p = 0.030); Both groups obtained a similar level of general knowledge of the disease, with no statistical difference. Conclusion: We conclude that regardless of educational and socioeconomic level if prevails a good doctor-patient relationship, in addition to close monitoring, it is possible to transmit adequate knowledge about the disease, increasing levels of treatment adherence.

Patterns of oral mucositis in advanced oral squamous cell carcinoma patients managed with prophylactic photobiomodulation therapy-insights for future protocol development.

To characterize oral sites affected by radiation-induced oral mucositis (OM) and related clinical outcomes in oral cancer patients subjected to prophylactic photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT). This study included advanced oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) patients treated with prophylactic PBMT for OM. The site distribution of OM, OM grading (CTCAE NCI, Version 4.0, 2010), OM-related pain (VAS), analgesic protocol (WHO Analgesic Ladder), and use of enteral nutrition were evaluated weekly during treatment. Data analysis was performed using descriptive statistics expressed as median values and percentages. A total of 145 OSCC patients were included. OM most frequently affected the lateral border of the tongue (44.1%), buccal mucosa (37.2%), and labial mucosa (33.8%). Keratinized oral mucosa sites, including the tongue dorsum (6.21%), retromolar trigone (8.3%), and hard palate (2.76%), were less frequently affected. Peak OM scores were observed at weeks 5, 6, and 7, with severe OM (NCI grades 3 and 4) rates of 11%, 20%, and 25%, respectively. The cumulative occurrence of severe OM was 23%, which developed as early as week 3 and as late as week 7. The highest mean value of OM-related pain (2.7) was observed at the sixth week, and 13.8% of the patients required feeding support. This study showed, compared with studies that did not provide PBMT, reduced severity of mucositis, reduced pain and analgesic use, and reduced tube feeding in patients treated with PBMT. OM involving keratinized and non-keratinized surfaces should be included in the prophylactic PBMT to reduce severe OM in future studies.

Young head and neck cancer patients are at increased risk of developing oral mucositis and trismus.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate cancer treatment-related toxicities in young head and neck cancer (HNC) patients. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A total of 44 patients were included in the present retrospective cohort study, which was designed to access oral toxicities of cancer treatment in young (< 45 years of age, Group I, n = 22) and old (> 58 years of age, Group II, n = 22) HNC patients with similar tumor stage and treatment protocols. Oral mucositis (OM), xerostomia, dysphagia, dysgeusia, trismus, and radiodermatitis were assessed during days 7th, 21st, and 35th of head and neck radiotherapy (HNRT) according to previously validated scales (World Health Organization criteria and the National Cancer Institute and Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events version 4.0). RESULTS: Patients from both groups showed high incidence and severity of oral toxicities by the end of the HNRT with OM (81.9% (Group I); 63.6% (Group II)) and xerostomia (72.6% (Group I); 77.2% (Group II)) being the most prevalent toxicities. No differences regarding xerostomia, dysphagia, dysgeusia, and radiodermatitis incidences or severity could be observed between groups. However, higher incidences and severity of OM at 21st and 35th fractions (odds ratio = 2.22 and 5.71, respectively) and trismus at 21st and 35th fractions (odds ratio = 6.17 and 14.5, respectively) were observed throughout the treatment in young patients when compared to older patients (p < 0.01 and p < 0.05, respectively). CONCLUSION: Young HNC patients are more affected by cancer treatment-related OM and trismus despite the similarities in clinical staging and treatment protocols with elderly patients.

Care model for Primary Care workers: Convergent Care Research.

OBJECTIVE: To verify the application of the Operative Group as a care tool for the workers of Primary Health Care, with a view to the constitution of mental health care at work. METHOD: Convergent Care Research as a research process and health workers as subjects. The intervention strategy as a proposal to accommodate the mental suffering of the worker was the Operative Group. RESULTS: Two categories emerged: "Evidence of Suffering at Work" and "Group Learning: Group Reception by the Group". FINAL CONSIDERATIONS: The use of the Operative Group has been assertive in providing the subjects with a space for listening to adversities in the work environment and active learning of reality, reflection and confrontation of basic fears, development of a pro-change project through peer and active learning of reality.

Care model for Primary Care workers: Convergent Care Research / Modelo de cuidado a los trabajadores de la Atención Básica: una Investigación Convergente-Asistencial / Modelo de cuidado aos trabalhadores da Atenção Básica: Pesquisa Convergente-Assistencial

ABSTRACT Objective: To verify the application of the Operative Group as a care tool for the workers of Primary Health Care, with a view to the constitution of mental health care at work. Method: Convergent Care Research as a research process and health workers as subjects. The intervention strategy as a proposal to accommodate the mental suffering of the worker was the Operative Group. Results: Two categories emerged: "Evidence of Suffering at Work" and "Group Learning: Group Reception by the Group". Final considerations: The use of the Operative Group has been assertive in providing the subjects with a space for listening to adversities in the work environment and active learning of reality, reflection and confrontation of basic fears, development of a pro-change project through peer and active learning of reality.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Verificar la aplicación del Grupo Operativo como herramienta de cuidado a los trabajadores de la Atención Básica de Salud, con miras a la constitución de asistencia a la salud mental en el trabajo. Método: Investigación Convergente-Asistencial como proceso de investigación, y trabajadores del área de la salud como sujetos. La estrategia de intervención como propuesta de acogida del sufrimiento mental del trabajador fue el Grupo Operativo. Resultados: Se plantearon dos categorías: "Evidencias del sufrimiento en el trabajo" y "Aprendizaje en grupo: acogida del grupo por el grupo". Consideraciones finales: El uso del Grupo Operativo demostró ser asertivo al proporcionar a los sujetos un espacio de escucha de las adversidades ocurridas en el ambiente laboral y aprendizaje activo de la realidad, reflexión y enfrentamiento de los miedos básicos; además, el desarrollo de un proyecto pro-cambio por medio de la cooperación entre los pares y el aprendizaje activo de la realidad.

RESUMO Objetivo: Verificar a aplicação do Grupo Operativo como ferramenta de cuidado aos trabalhadores da Atenção Básica em saúde, com vista à constituição de assistência à saúde mental no trabalho. Método: Pesquisa Convergente-Assistencial como processo de investigação e trabalhadores da área da saúde como sujeitos. A estratégia de intervenção como proposta de acolhimento do sofrimento mental do trabalhador foi o Grupo Operativo. Resultados: Emergiram duas categorias: "Evidências do sofrimento no trabalho" e "Aprendizagem em grupo: acolhimento do grupo pelo grupo". Considerações finais: O uso do Grupo Operativo demonstrou ser assertivo ao proporcionar aos sujeitos um espaço de escuta das adversidades ocorridas no ambiente laboral e aprendizagem ativa da realidade, reflexão e enfrentamento dos medos básicos, desenvolvimento de um projeto pró-mudança por meio da cooperação entre os pares e aprendizagem ativa da realidade.

CASE STUDY OF CONGENITAL ANOMALIES OF THE UPPER LIMB IN REFERENCE AMBULATORY CARE FACILITY.

OBJECTIVE: The epidemiological profile of congenital anomalies of the upper limbs (CAULs) is of major relevance to monitoring and planning. A study of this profile may reveal if there is prevalence of some specific type of malformation in comparison to a more comprehensive epidemiological sample. The Latin American Collaborative Study of Congenital Malformations (ECLAMC) has an extensive database, providing an excellent source of comparison. This study aims to evaluate the epidemiological profile of CAULs at the hand surgery department of the Hospital Federal da Lagoa (HFL) in Brazil, and compare it to the ECLAMC data. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective analysis of patients who underwent treatment at the pediatric outpatient hand surgery clinic. The sample universe consisted of 126 patients (4 of these patients presented with 2 simultaneous anomalies), totaling 130 malformations. RESULTS: The results demonstrated that the comparable pathologies have significantly similar incidence rates. It is worth noting the polydactylies (pre- and post-axial), where the percentile of incidence in the ECLAMC was higher. CONCLUSION: This study showed that the epidemiological profile of patients who underwent treatment at this hospital was equivalent to that found in the ECLAMC database. Level of evidence III, Retrospective epidemiological study.

OBJETIVO: O perfil epidemiológico das anomalias congênitas dos membros superiores (ACMS) é de suma relevância para monitoramento e planejamento. Um estudo nesse sentido pode revelar se há prevalência de algum tipo específico de malformação em comparação com amostra epidemiológica mais abrangente. O Estudo Colaborativo Latino Americano de Malformação Congênita (ECLAMC) tem uma extensa base de dados, que serve como excelente fonte de comparação. Este estudo tem por escopo avaliar o levantamento da casuística das ACMS no serviço de cirurgia da mão do Hospital Federal da Lagoa (HFL) e compará-la aos dados do ECLAMC. MÉTODOS: Foi realizada uma análise retrospectiva dos pacientes atendidos no ambulatório infantil de cirurgia da mão. O universo amostral foi de 126 pacientes (sendo que 4 pacientes apresentavam 2 anomalias simultaneamente), totalizando 130 malformações. RESULTADOS: Demonstrou-se que as patologias que puderam ser comparadas têm percentuais de incidência significativamente semelhantes. Cabe ressalvar as polidactilias (pré e pós-axiais), em que o percentil de incidência no ECLAMC foi maior. CONCLUSÃO: Este estudo evidenciou que o perfil epidemiológico dos pacientes atendidos neste hospital foi equivalente ao encontrado na base de dados do ECLAMC. Nível de evidência III, Estudo epidemiológico retrospectivo.

Fatores associados ao tabagismo em pacientes pós-cirurgia bariátrica / Factors associated with tobacco smoking in post-bariatric surgery patients / Factores asociados al tabaquismo en pacientes de postoperatorio de cirugía bariátrica

Objetivo: Estimar a prevalência de tabagismo, dependência nicotínica e seus fatores associados em indivíduos submetidos à cirurgia bariátrica. Métodos: Estudo transversal com 303 pacientes bariátricos, realizado entre 2015 e 2016, em Catalão (Goiás). Utilizou-se questionário com variáveis sociodemográficas, condições de saúde e histórico familiar. Como variáveis preditoras para a presente pesquisa, considerou-se ser tabagista atualmente e ter elevada dependência nicotínica, com aglutinação dos níveis elevado e muito elevado de dependência, variáveis coletadas a partir do escore do instrumento Fargeström. Utilizou-se teste qui-quadrado, com valor de p<0,05. Resultados: Encontraram-se 50 pacientes (16,5%; IC95% 12,5-20,8) com consumo de tabaco nos últimos 30 dias. Associaram-se como fatores ao consumo dependente de cigarro: sexo (p<0,003), diagnóstico de ansiedade (p<0,008), histórico familiar de suicídio (p<0,013), dificuldades para dormir (p<0,007) e uso excessivo de álcool (p<0,045), com associação negativa para prática religiosa (p>0,038). Conclusão: A significativa prevalência de tabaco encontrada na população estudada associou-se a fatores como: sexo, comorbidades psíquica (depressão/ansiedade), histórico familiar de suicídio, dificuldade para dormir, e, negativamente, à prática religiosa.

Objective: To estimate the prevalence of tobacco smoking, nicotine dependence and associated factors in individuals submitted to bariatric surgery. Methods: A cross-sectional study with 303 bariatric patients, performed between 2015 and 2016, in Catalão, Goiás State, Brazil. A questionnaire with sociodemographic variables, health conditions and family history was used. Being currently smoker and having high nicotinic dependence, with agglutination of the high and very high levels of dependence, were taken as predictor variables for the present study, variables collected from the Fargeström instrument score. The chi-square test was adopted with a significance level of p<0.05. Results: Tobacco consumption was found in 50 patients (16.5%; CI95% 12.5-20.8) within the past 30 days. The factors associated with tobacco smoking dependence were sex (p<0.003), anxiety diagnosis (p<0.008), family history of suicide (p<0.013), sleeping difficulties (p<0.007) and excessive alcohol use (p<0.045), with a negative correlation with religious practice (p>0.038). Conclusion: The significant prevalence of tobacco smoking found in this study was associated with factors such as sex, psychic comorbidities (depression/anxiety), family history of suicide, sleeping difficulty, and, negatively, with religious practice.

Objetivo: Estimar la prevalencia de tabaquismo, la dependencia de nicotina y sus factores asociados en individuos que realizaron la cirugía bariátrica. Métodos: Estudio transversal con 303 pacientes de cirugía bariátrica realizado entre 2015 y 2016 en Catalão (Goiás). Se utilizó un cuestionario con las variables sociodemográficas, las condiciones de salud y el histórico familiar. Se consideró como variables predictoras para la presente investigación el hecho de fumar tabaco actualmente y tener elevada dependencia de nicotina con aglutinación de los niveles elevado y muy elevado de dependencia que son variables recogidas a partir de la puntuación del instrumento Fargeström. Se utilizó la prueba cui-cuadrado con el valor de p<0,05. Resultados: Se encontró 50 pacientes (16,5%; IC95% 12,5-20,8) con el consumo de tabaco en los últimos 30 días. Se asociaron como factores al consumo dependiente del cigarro: el sexo (p<0,003), el diagnóstico de ansiedad (p<0,008), el histórico familiar de suicidio (p<0,013) las dificultades de dormir (p<0,007) y el uso excesivo de alcohol (p<0,045) con asociación negativa para la práctica religiosa (p>0,038). Conclusión: La prevalencia significativa de tabaco encontrada en la población estudiada estuvo asociada con factores como el sexo, las comorbilidades psíquicas (depresión/ansiedad), el histórico familiar de suicidio, la dificultad de dormir y, negativamente, con la práctica religiosa.

When is the best moment to apply photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) when associated to a treadmill endurance-training program? A randomized, triple-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial.

Photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) employing low-level laser therapy (LLLT) and/or light emitting diode therapy (LEDT) has emerged as an electrophysical intervention that could be associated with aerobic training to enhance beneficial effects of aerobic exercise. However, the best moment to perform irradiation with PBMT in aerobic training has not been elucidated. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of PBMT applied before and/or after each training session and to evaluate outcomes of the endurance-training program associated with PBMT. Seventy-seven healthy volunteers completed the treadmill-training protocol performed for 12 weeks, with 3 sessions per week. PBMT was performed before and/or after each training session (17 sites on each lower limb, using a cluster of 12 diodes: 4 × 905 nm super-pulsed laser diodes, 4 × 875 nm infrared LEDs, and 4 × 640 nm red LEDs, dose of 30 J per site). Volunteers were randomized in four groups according to the treatment they would receive before and after each training session: PBMT before + PBMT after, PBMT before + placebo after, placebo before + PBMT after, and placebo before + placebo after. Assessments were performed before the start of the protocol and after 4, 8, and 12 weeks of training. Primary outcome was time until exhaustion; secondary outcome measures were oxygen uptake and body fat. PBMT applied before and after aerobic exercise training sessions (PBMT before + PBMT after group) significantly increased (p < 0.05) the percentage of change of time until exhaustion and oxygen uptake compared to the group treated with placebo before and after aerobic exercise training sessions (placebo before + placebo after group) at 4th, 8th, and 12th week. PBMT applied before and after aerobic exercise training sessions (PBMT before + PBMT after group) also significantly improved (p < 0.05) the percentage of change of body fat compared to the group treated with placebo before and after aerobic exercise training sessions (placebo before + placebo after group) at 8th and 12th week. PBMT applied before and after sessions of aerobic training during 12 weeks can increase the time-to-exhaustion and oxygen uptake and also decrease the body fat in healthy volunteers when compared to placebo irradiation before and after exercise sessions. Our outcomes show that PBMT applied before and after endurance-training exercise sessions lead to improvement of endurance three times faster than exercise only.

WRIST ARTHROSCOPY: BASIC TIPS FOR DRY ARTHROSCOPIC EXPLORATION.

OBJECTIVE: This article provides details and tips on the dry arthroscopic technique, based on our experience and its clinical applications. METHOD: The technique was applied to 65 patients (33 men and 32 women) aged between 20 and 62 years (average of 35.4 years) for treating: synovial cyst resection, scapholunate ligament injury repair, ulnocarpal impact correction, triangular fibrocartilage injury repair, and assisted reduction of distal radius fractures. RESULTS: A minimally invasive intra-articular evaluation has been observed as a benefit, with low infection rate, small scars, and high rates of early recovery, without affecting intra-articular fluid use, reducing the risk of compartment syndrome and infiltrated soft tissues, in the case of need for associated open surgery. As for the difficulties, we report the surgeon's view, which is commonly prevented by optical blurring or debris that hit the lens, and the need for radiofrequency care, since the heat generated is dissipated with greater difficulty than in the classical technique. CONCLUSION: Dry arthroscopy emerges as an effective choice to treat wrist pathologies, however, deep knowledge and ease with the classical technique, as well as a learning curve, are key to obtain a good outcome. Level of Evidence V, Expert Opinion.

OBJETIVO: Este artigo apresenta detalhes e dicas sobre a técnica de artroscopia seca, baseada em nossa experiência e em suas aplicações clínicas. MÉTODO: A técnica foi aplicada em 65 pacientes (33 homens e 32 mulheres) com idades entre 20 e 62 anos (média de 35,4 anos) para o tratamento de ressecção de cisto sinovial, reparo de lesão do ligamento escafo-semilunar, correção do impacto ulnocarpal, reparo de lesão da fibrocartilagem triangular e assistência na redução de fraturas da parte distal do rádio. RESULTADOS: A avaliação intra-articular minimamente invasiva foi observada como benefício, com baixo índice de infecção, cicatrizes pequenas e altas taxas de recuperação precoce, sem prejuízo do uso intra-articular de líquido, reduzindo o risco de síndrome compartimental e tecidos moles infiltrados, no caso de necessidade de cirurgia aberta associada. Quanto às dificuldades, relatamos a visibilidade para o cirurgião, comumente impedida pelo turvação da óptica ou detritos salpicados na lente e a necessidade de cautela com a radiofrequência, pois o calor gerado é dissipado com maior dificuldade do que na técnica clássica. CONCLUSÃO: A artroscopia seca surge como opção efetiva no tratamento das patologias de punho, entretanto, o conhecimento profundo e as facilidades com a técnica clássica, bem como a curva de aprendizado, são fundamentais para obter um bom resultado. Nível de Evidência V, Opinião do Especialista.

A case of chikungunya virus disease presenting with remarkable acute arthritis of a previously damaged finger joint.

Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is a mosquito-borne arthritogenic alphavirus that has recently been introduced to Brazil. We report the case of a 36-year-old male patient from the City of Rio de Janeiro who developed molecularly-confirmed CHIKV disease and whose clinical picture was remarkable because of acute arthritis of an interphalangeal joint that had been damaged by trauma 8 years previously. This case illustrates that acute CHIKV disease may preferentially target previously damaged joints. Careful study of individual cases may provide valuable information on the presentation and management of this emerging zoonosis in Brazil.