Longitudinal evaluation of RTVue optical coherence tomography in patients with glaucoma and suspected glaucoma and stable visual fields / Avaliação longitudinal da tomografia de coerência óptica RTVue em pacientes glaucomatosos e suspeitos de glaucoma com campos visuais estáveis

ABSTRACT Purpose: To longitudinally compare isolated structural parameters obtained using RTVue optical coherence tomography in patients with glaucoma and suspected glaucoma with stable visual fields. Methods: All patients were required to have a reliable SITA Standard 24-2 Humphrey Visual Field test. Visual field stability was defined as having <5 points with p<5% and/or having no points with p<1% and/or p<0.05% in the glaucoma progression analysis comparison graph. Furthermore, the glaucoma assessment strategy was used in optical coherence tomography. Results: The study included 75 eyes from 75 patients, 43 of which had glaucoma and 32 had suspected glaucoma. The mean visual field intervals were 29.57 ± 9.65 months between the first and third tests. No visual field parameter variations (mean deviation, pattern standard deviation, and visual field index) and no retinal nerve fiber layer or optic disk parameter variations between the first and third tests were observed (p>0.05 for all), and no retinal nerve fiber layer parameter variations throughout the study were observed, except for optic disk parameters presenting with cup volume changes (p=0.004). However, ganglion complex cells presented a progressively decreased average ganglion cell complex parameter, with a variability of -0.98% ± 3.71% (p=0.04) between the first and third tests. By contrast, the global loss volume progressively increased throughout the study, with a variability of 14.71% ± 44.52% (p=0.04) between the first and third tests. The inferior ganglion cell complex parameter was significantly decreased between the first and third tests (p=0.02). Conclusion: The present findings suggest that patients with glaucoma or suspected glaucoma with stable visual fields may present structural ganglion complex cell progression as assessed using RTVue optical coherence tomography.

RESUMO Objetivo: Comparar longitudinalmente os parâmetros estruturais isolados obtidos através da tomografia de coerência óptica RTVue em pacientes glaucomatosos e suspeitos de glaucoma com campos visuais estáveis. Métodos: Todos os incluídos deveriam ter Campimetria Computadorizada Humphrey Sita Standard 24-2 confiáveis. A estabilidade campimétrica foi definida se apresentassem menos de cinco pontos com p<5% e/ou nenhum ponto com p<1% e/ou p<0,05% no gráfico de comparação do Glaucoma Progression Analysis. Para a tomografia de coerência óptica, foi utilizado a estratégia de avaliação para glaucoma. Resultados: Foram incluídos 75 olhos de 75 pacientes: 43 com glaucoma e 32 suspeitos. A média dos intervalos do campo visual entre o 1o e 3o exame, foi de 29,57 ± 9,65 meses. Não houve variação para os parâmetros do campo visual (desvio médio, desvio padrão e índice da função visual) entre o primeiro e o último exame (p>0,05 para todos). Não houve variação dos parâmetros da camada de fibras nervosas da retina ao longo do estudo, enquanto que para os parâmetros do disco óptico, apenas cup volume apresentou mudança (p=0,004). Em relação à camada de células ganglionares da retina, notou-se uma redução progressiva na espessura média da Ganglionar Complex Cells com uma variabilidade entre o primeiro e último exame de -0,98 ± 3,71% (p=0,04). Quanto ao Global loss volume, houve um aumento progressivo ao longo do estudo com uma variabilidade entre o primeiro e último exame de 14,71 ± 44,52% (p=0,04). O parâmetro inferior do Ganglionar Complex Cells também reduziu significativamente entre o 1o e 3o exames (p=0,02). Os demais parâmetros da tomografia de coerência óptica RTVue se mantiveram estáveis entre o 1o e 3o exames. Conclusão: Os presentes achados sugerem que pacientes glaucomatosos ou com suspeita de glaucoma e com campos visuais estáveis, podem apresentar progressão estrutural na camada de células ganglionares da retina avaliada por meio da tomografia de coerência óptica RTVue.

Longitudinal evaluation of RTVue optical coherence tomography in patients with glaucoma and suspected glaucoma and stable visual fields.

PURPOSE: To longitudinally compare isolated structural parameters obtained using RTVue optical coherence tomography in patients with glaucoma and suspected glaucoma with stable visual fields. METHODS: All patients were required to have a reliable SITA Standard 24-2 Humphrey Visual Field test. Visual field stability was defined as having <5 points with p<5% and/or having no points with p<1% and/or p<0.05% in the glaucoma progression analysis comparison graph. Furthermore, the glaucoma assessment strategy was used in optical coherence tomography. RESULTS: The study included 75 eyes from 75 patients, 43 of which had glaucoma and 32 had suspected glaucoma. The mean visual field intervals were 29.57 ± 9.65 months between the first and third tests. No visual field parameter variations (mean deviation, pattern standard deviation, and visual field index) and no retinal nerve fiber layer or optic disk parameter variations between the first and third tests were observed (p>0.05 for all), and no retinal nerve fiber layer parameter variations throughout the study were observed, except for optic disk parameters presenting with cup volume changes (p=0.004). However, ganglion complex cells presented a progressively decreased average ganglion cell complex parameter, with a variability of -0.98% ± 3.71% (p=0.04) between the first and third tests. By contrast, the global loss volume progressively increased throughout the study, with a variability of 14.71% ± 44.52% (p=0.04) between the first and third tests. The inferior ganglion cell complex parameter was significantly decreased between the first and third tests (p=0.02). CONCLUSION: The present findings suggest that patients with glaucoma or suspected glaucoma with stable visual fields may present structural ganglion complex cell progression as assessed using RTVue optical coherence tomography.

Post-COVID-19 Secondary Sclerosing Cholangitis: A Rare but Severe Condition with no Treatment Besides Liver Transplantation.

BACKGROUND The incidence of abnormal liver function, mainly aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase elevations, in patients with COVID-19 is not uncommon, but persistent liver damage after the acute phase of the disease is uncommon and has been recently recognized as a new entity named post-COVID-19 cholangiopathy. CASE REPORT We report a clinical case with progressive cholestatic disease following severe COVID-19. AST and ALT peaked at hospital admission and while its serum concentration went down, bilirubin and cholestatic liver enzymes started to increase, reaching the maximum at day 122. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a diffuse irregularity of intra- and extrahepatic bile ducts, with multiple focal strictures alternating with mild focal dilations of the biliary tree, suggesting a sclerosing cholangiopathy. A transjugular liver biopsy showed a prominent bile ductular reaction, cholangiocyte injury, inflammatory infiltrate rich in neutrophils, biliary infarctions, marked cholestasis, and portal fibrosis, suggesting the diagnosis of post-Covid-19 secondary sclerosing cholangitis. The patient evolved with a continuous deterioration of liver functions, but liver transplantation was not performed due to his poor clinical condition. CONCLUSIONS Post-COVID-19 SSC is a severe disease with no effective clinical treatment and has liver transplantation as the only treatment for a few selected patients.

Variation of the osmotic potential and its effects on water balance in diferente species of bryophytes / Variação do potencial osmótico do meio e seus efeitos sobre o balanço hídrico em diferentes espécies de briófitas

The primitiveness of bryophytes in relation to water balance promotes quick responses. When subjected to conditions of variation in the availability of water in their surroundings. Such responses (resistance or sensitivity to desiccation) can allow them to survive in different types of environments. In this work, the effect of varying the osmotic potential of the medium on the water balance of three species (Campylopus filifolius (Hornsch.) Mitt., Philonotis cernua (Wilson) Griffin & W.R.Buck, Amblystegium varium (Hedw.) Lindb.) of bryophytes was evaluated. For that, specimens (n ​​ = 150 gametophytes) were placed in environments (Petri dishes) containing different osmotic concentrations (0 MPa; -0.2 MPa; -0.4 MPa; -0.6 MPa; -0.8 MPa; -1.0 Mpa). As expected, a negative effect of water potential on the water content was observed in the three species evaluated, although each with its own characteristics. Significant differences were found between different species, between different osmotic potentials and over time. C. filifolius was more sensitive to water loss, while P. cernua and A. varium were more resistant. Morphostructural characteristics of each species, probably, were responsible for such responses, which justifies, including the environment of their occurrence (C. filifolius - epiphyte in a highly variable environment in relation to water availability, while P. cernua and A varium - rupicolous near a water source). Thus, the rapid responses in relation to the variation of the osmotic potential of the medium make B. filifolia a species well adapted to water stress conditions.

A primitividade das briófitas em relação ao balanço hídrico promove respostas rápidas quando submetidas a condições de variação da disponibilidade de água em seu entorno. Tais respostas (resistência ou sensibilidade à dessecação) podem permitir sua sobrevivência em diferentes tipos de ambientes. Neste trabalho foi avaliado o efeito da variação do potencial osmótico do meio sobre o balanço hídrico de três espécies (Campylopus filifolius (Hornsch.) Mitt., Philonotis cernua (Wilson) Griffin & W.R.Buck, Amblystegium varium (Hedw.) Lindb.) de briófitas. Para tanto, espécimes (n=150 gametófitos) foram acondicionados em ambientes (placas de Petri) contendo diferentes concentrações osmóticas (0 MPa; -0,2 MPa; -0,4 MPa; -0,6 MPa; -0,8 MPa; -1,0 Mpa). Como esperado, observou-se um efeito negativo do potencial hídrico sobre o conteúdo de água nas três espécies avaliadas, embora cada uma com características particulares. Foram verificadas diferenças significativas entre as diferentes espécies, entre os diferentes potenciais osmóticos e ao longo do tempo. C. filifolius apresentou maior sensibilidade à perda de água, enquanto que P. cernua e A. varium foram mais resistentes. Características morfoestruturais de cada espécie, provavelmente, foram responsáveis por tais respostas, o que justifica, inclusive o ambiente de ocorrência das mesmas (C. filifolius - epífita em um ambiente altamente variável em relação a disponibilidade de água, enquanto que P. cernua e A. varium - rupícolas próximas a uma fonte de água). Assim, as respostas rápidas em relação à variação do potencial osmótico do meio fazem de C. filifolius uma espécie bem adaptada a condições de estresse hídrico.

Use of Dexamethasone to Prevent Extubation Failure in Pediatric Intensive Care Unit: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial.

Extubation failure is a common event in intensive care units. Corticosteroids are effective in preventing failure in adults, but no consensus has been reached on this matter in pediatrics. We assessed the efficacy of intravenous dexamethasone in mechanically ventilated children and adolescents for more than 48 hours, with at least one risk factor for failure. Extubations were scheduled 24 hours in advance when possible, and patients were randomly assigned into two groups: one group received a loading dose followed by up to four doses of dexamethasone, and the other group received no corticosteroids. Need for reintubation and length of stay in the pediatric intensive care unit were similar in both groups, and frequency of reintubation was 12.9%.

Living Donor Liver Transplantation as a Backup Procedure: Treatment Strategy for Hepatocellular Adenomas Requiring Complex Resections.

METHODS: We present a series of three patients with large hepatocellular adenoma lesions showing a central location, for which the living donor liver transplantation strategy was used as a backup procedure. RESULTS: Hepatocellular adenoma was confirmed by biopsy in all patients. Surgical resection was indicated because of the patients' symptoms and lesion size and growth. All patients had a lesion that was central or in close contact with major vessels. The final decision to proceed with the resection was made intraoperatively. A live donor was prepared for all three patients. Two patients underwent portal vein embolization associated with extended hepatectomy, and a total hepatectomy plus liver transplantation with a living donor was performed in one patient. All patients had good postoperative outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: In the treatment of hepatocellular adenomas for which complex resections are necessary and resectability can only be confirmed intraoperatively, surgical safety can be improved through the use of a living donor backup. Center expertise with living donor liver transplantation is paramount for the success of this approach.

No limite da cidade: diálogos entre a cidade e o quarto de despejo / On the edge of the city: dialogues between the city and the dumping room

O presente texto se compõe de reflexões realizadas a respeito do lugar dos pobres no direito à cidade capitalista, incitadas através da leitura do livro Quarto de despejo: o diário de uma favelada, de Carolina Maria de Jesus e de sua correlação com alguns autores que trazem a questão da cidade em suas obras. Ao longo de três seções, foram abordados temas como a criminalização da pobreza e a retirada dos pobres das cidades tradicionais, quando do estabelecimento da cidade enquanto mercadoria de luxo; a cidade e a para-cidade, a ilha que a cerca, onde procuramos compreender então quem tem direito a essa cidade-negócio e quem não tem; e, por fim, procuramos trazer à tona o sonho, a esperança que nos direciona ao campo de possibilidades, ao campo da vida e da restituição do urbano, onde tratamos um pouco a respeito da utopia desenhada por Lefebvre e da arte e do sensível enquanto meios de restaurar a vida nas cidades

This present is composed of reflections about the place of the poor in the right to the capitalistic city, incited by reading the book: Quarto de despejo: o diário de uma favelada, written by Carolina Maria de Jesus and its correlation to some authors who bring the issue of the city into their works. Throughout trhee sections, we approached subjects such as the criminalization of poverty and the removal of the poor from traditional cities, when the city was established as a luxury commodity; the city and the para-city, the island that surrounds it, where we tried to comprehend then who is entitled to this business-city and who is not; and, by the end, we tried to bring the dream, the hope that drives us to the possibilities field, to life field and to restitution of the urban, where we dealed a little with the utopia drawed by Lefebvre and with art and sensitive as paths to restore life in the cities

Epitope mapping from Mycobacterium leprae proteins: Convergent data from in silico and in vitro approaches for serodiagnosis of leprosy.

Knowledge of immunodominant B-cell epitopes is essential to design powerful diagnostic strategies aiming for antibody detection. Outstanding progress in computational prediction has achieved a significant contribution to the biomedical fields, including immunodiagnosis. In silico analysis may have an even more important role when information concerning antigens from etiologic agents of neglected diseases, such as leprosy, is scarce. The aim of this study was to provide mapping of B-cell epitopes from two Mycobacterium leprae-derived antigens (Ag85B and ML2055), confirm their antigenicity, and to assess the ability of in silico immunoinformatics tools to accurately predict them. Linear B-cell epitopes predicted by ABCpred and SVMTrip servers were compared to antigenic regions of synthetic overlapping peptides that exhibited reactivity to antibodies from patients with leprosy. Our in vitro results identified several immunodominant regions that had also been indicated by in silico prediction, providing agreement between experimental and simulated data. After chemical synthesis, we used enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays to determine the effectiveness of the first identified sequence (GTNVPAEFLENFVHG) which had 72 % sensitivity and 78 % specificity (AUC = 0.79) while the second one (PVSSEAQPGDPNAPS) had 72 % sensitivity and 93.8 % specificity (AUC = 0.85). Using dot blotting, an easy-to-read visual test, both peptides could distinguish sera from patients with leprosy from those with tuberculosis and from sera of healthy volunteers. Our findings suggest that these synthetic peptides, with some refinement, may be useful as serological diagnostic antigens for leprosy. In addition, it was displayed that immunoinformatics provides reliable information for mapping potential B-cell epitopes for development of peptide-based diagnostic assays for neglected diseases.

Progressive Familial Intrahepatic Cholestasis Associated With USP53 Gene Mutation in a Brazilian Child.

ABSTRACT: A case of low-γ-glutamyltranspetidase cholestasis associated with ubiquitin-specific peptidase 53 (USP53) gene mutation in a Brazilian child is described. Transient jaundice and hypocholia started at the age of 10 days. Liver enzymes, total bilirubin, and total bile acids were elevated at presentation. During follow-up, he developed cholelithiasis treated with cholecystectomy, and an intracranial hemorrhage resolved with full recovery. At last, evaluation at the age of 18 months, he was not jaundiced and had normal liver tests, but experienced from moderate pruritus despite treatment with rifampicin and ursodeoxycholic acid. A genetic study revealed novel homozygous mutations c.1687_1688delinsC p.Ser563Profs∗25 in the USP53 gene. His parents carried the same heterozygous mutation in the USP53 gene.

Hepatocellular carcinoma in an adult with Alagille syndrome: case report and literature review.

Alagille syndrome (AS) is an autosomal dominant multisystem disorder which can lead to hepatopathy and the development of focal hepatic lesions. The majority of the hepatic lesions are benign, including regenerative nodules, focal hyperplasia, and adenoma. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is extremely rare in AS, with very few cases reported in the literature. A 38-year-old man complaining of acute right upper quadrant pain with long-standing diagnosis of Alagille syndrome. On imaging, the patient had a large hepatic mass in the right lobe, with arterial hyperenhancement, washout appearance, and areas of internal hemorrhage. The patient underwent a right hepatectomy and histopathology demonstrated HCC. The patient passed away 3 months after the surgery due to infectious complications. HCC is a rare complication of AS, although rare, it should be considered. This case also emphasizes the need of HCC screening in patients with AS in order to allow an early diagnosis and treatment, which can improve patients' outcome.

Ocupação antirracista e decolonial do espaço psicanalítico / Anti-racist and decolonial occupation of the psychoanalytical space

O objetivo do presente artigo é descentralizar o texto de Jacques Lacan a partir de uma geopo-lítica que pretende se fazer interpretante, uma vez que o autor acentua a importância de o analista visar, no horizonte de sua práxis, a subjetividade de sua época. Parte-se de uma posi-ção na qual o analista não é neutro frente às tendências racistas e ao modo como o discurso dominante de uma época incide sobre o inconsciente. Em um contexto historicamente marcado pela abolição tardia da escravidão, encarceramento e genocídio da população negra e diversas práticas segregativas, como no caso brasileiro, é premente tomar o racismo como uma catego-ria sob o olhar da psicanálise em seu campo clínico e político, ao lado das demais disciplinas sociais. Pretendemos, assim, identificar algumas premissas para iniciar a desmontagem dos ar-tefatos teóricos dominantes e seguir em direção a um novo arcabouço epistêmico, fundamen-tando uma prática clínica antirracista. (AU)

The goal of this article is to decentralize Jacques Lacan’s text through a geopolitical perspec-tive that intends to make itself the one that interprets, since the author emphasizes the im-portance of the analyst seeking, on the scope of the analyst’s praxis, the subjectivity of the analyst’s time, implying that defining a position in which the analyst isn’t neutral before the racist tendencies and the ways that one’s time dominant discourse influences overthe uncon-scious. In a historical background scarred by late abolition of slavery, imprisonment and geno-cide of the black population, and a diversity of segregationist practices, as it is in Brazil, it is crucial to take racism as a category in the psychoanalysis view in its clinical and political field. Therefore, we intend to identify some premises to initiate a dismantling of dominant theori-cal artifacts, to go in the direction of a new epistemic framework, grounding an antiracist clinical practice. (AU)

Diagnóstico e tratamento da síndrome do choque tóxico estreptocócico em unidade de terapia intensiva pediátrica: relato de caso / Diagnosis and treatment of streptococcal toxic shock syndrome in the pediatric intensive care unit: a case report

RESUMO Dentre as infecções causadas por Streptococcus β hemolyticus do grupo A de Lancefield, talvez a síndrome do choque tóxico seja a mais grave, com alto índice de mortalidade. A semelhança clínica com outras formas de choque, principalmente séptico, pode, muitas vezes, confundir o avaliador e interferir na escolha da terapêutica mais adequada. Esse relato tem o objetivo de auxiliar seus leitores quanto à necessidade de adicionar tal síndrome como diagnóstico diferencial, frente a quadros de choque, principalmente aqueles que não apresentam manifestações clínicas bem definidas. Para isso, apresentamos o quadro de um lactente com sintomas gripais comuns, que evoluiu rapidamente com exantema, rebaixamento do nível de consciência, sinais clínicos e laboratoriais de choque, com necessidade de suporte intensivo. Além de culturas indicando o agente etiológico, o aparecimento de exantema e fasciíte necrosante levou ao diagnóstico, mas, em menos de 50% dos casos temos sinais clínicos clássicos dessa entidade. As penicilinas em terapia combinada com aminoglicosídeos ainda são a terapia de escolha e possuem alto nível de evidência. Apesar da gravidade a evolução foi satisfatória.

ABSTRACT Among the infections caused by Streptococcus β hemolyticus from the Lancefield serogroup A, toxic shock syndrome is perhaps the most severe, and its mortality rate is high. Its clinical similarity to other forms of shock, especially septic shock, can often confuse the evaluator and interfere with the selection of the most appropriate therapy. This report aims to inform readers of the need to add this syndrome as a differential diagnosis in cases of shock, especially those with no well-defined clinical manifestations. For this purpose, we present the case of an infant with common flu-like symptoms who progressed rapidly with a rash, a reduced level of consciousness and clinical and laboratory signs of shock that required intensive support. In addition to cultures indicating the etiological agent, the appearance of exanthema and necrotizing fasciitis led to the diagnosis. However, less than 50% of cases present classic clinical signs of this entity. Penicillins combined with aminoglycosides are still the therapy of choice and are supported by a high level of evidence. Despite the severity of this patient's presentation, the progression was satisfactory.

Isolation and characterization of a human cementocyte-like cell line, HCY-23.

Cementum is the mineralized tissue covering the tooth root that functions in tooth attachment and post-eruptive adjustment of tooth position. It has been reported to be highly similar to bone in several respects but remains poorly understood in terms of development and regeneration. Here, we investigate whether cementocytes, the residing cells in cellular cementum, have the potential to be protagonist in cementum homeostasis, responding to endocrine signals and directing local cementum metabolism. Cells from healthy erupted human teeth were isolated using sequential collagenase/EDTA digestions, and maintained in standard cell culture conditions. A cementocyte-like cell line was cloned (HCY-23, for human cementocyte clone 23), which presented a cementocyte compatible gene expression signature, including the expression of dentin matrix protein 1 ( DMP1 ), sclerostin ( SOST ), and E11/gp38/podoplanin ( E11 ). In contrast, these cells did not express the odontoblast/dentin marker dentin sialoprotein ( DSPP ). HCY-23 cells produced mineral-like nodules in vitro under differentiation conditions, and were highly responsive to inorganic phosphate (Pi). Within the limits of the present study, it can be concluded that cementocytes are phosphate-responsive cells, and have the potential do play a key role in periodontal homeostasis and regeneration.

Diagnosis and treatment of streptococcal toxic shock syndrome in the pediatric intensive care unit: a case report. / Diagnóstico e tratamento da síndrome do choque tóxico estreptocócico em unidade de terapia intensiva pediátrica: relato de caso.

Among the infections caused by Streptococcus ß hemolyticus from the Lancefield serogroup A, toxic shock syndrome is perhaps the most severe, and its mortality rate is high. Its clinical similarity to other forms of shock, especially septic shock, can often confuse the evaluator and interfere with the selection of the most appropriate therapy. This report aims to inform readers of the need to add this syndrome as a differential diagnosis in cases of shock, especially those with no well-defined clinical manifestations. For this purpose, we present the case of an infant with common flu-like symptoms who progressed rapidly with a rash, a reduced level of consciousness and clinical and laboratory signs of shock that required intensive support. In addition to cultures indicating the etiological agent, the appearance of exanthema and necrotizing fasciitis led to the diagnosis. However, less than 50% of cases present classic clinical signs of this entity. Penicillins combined with aminoglycosides are still the therapy of choice and are supported by a high level of evidence. Despite the severity of this patient's presentation, the progression was satisfactory.

Dentre as infecções causadas por Streptococcus ß hemolyticus do grupo A de Lancefield, talvez a síndrome do choque tóxico seja a mais grave, com alto índice de mortalidade. A semelhança clínica com outras formas de choque, principalmente séptico, pode, muitas vezes, confundir o avaliador e interferir na escolha da terapêutica mais adequada. Esse relato tem o objetivo de auxiliar seus leitores quanto à necessidade de adicionar tal síndrome como diagnóstico diferencial, frente a quadros de choque, principalmente aqueles que não apresentam manifestações clínicas bem definidas. Para isso, apresentamos o quadro de um lactente com sintomas gripais comuns, que evoluiu rapidamente com exantema, rebaixamento do nível de consciência, sinais clínicos e laboratoriais de choque, com necessidade de suporte intensivo. Além de culturas indicando o agente etiológico, o aparecimento de exantema e fasciíte necrosante levou ao diagnóstico, mas, em menos de 50% dos casos temos sinais clínicos clássicos dessa entidade. As penicilinas em terapia combinada com aminoglicosídeos ainda são a terapia de escolha e possuem alto nível de evidência. Apesar da gravidade a evolução foi satisfatória.

Isolation and characterization of a human cementocyte-like cell line, HCY-23

Abstract Cementum is the mineralized tissue covering the tooth root that functions in tooth attachment and post-eruptive adjustment of tooth position. It has been reported to be highly similar to bone in several respects but remains poorly understood in terms of development and regeneration. Here, we investigate whether cementocytes, the residing cells in cellular cementum, have the potential to be protagonist in cementum homeostasis, responding to endocrine signals and directing local cementum metabolism. Cells from healthy erupted human teeth were isolated using sequential collagenase/EDTA digestions, and maintained in standard cell culture conditions. A cementocyte-like cell line was cloned (HCY-23, for human cementocyte clone 23), which presented a cementocyte compatible gene expression signature, including the expression of dentin matrix protein 1 ( DMP1 ), sclerostin ( SOST ), and E11/gp38/podoplanin ( E11 ). In contrast, these cells did not express the odontoblast/dentin marker dentin sialoprotein ( DSPP ). HCY-23 cells produced mineral-like nodules in vitro under differentiation conditions, and were highly responsive to inorganic phosphate (Pi). Within the limits of the present study, it can be concluded that cementocytes are phosphate-responsive cells, and have the potential do play a key role in periodontal homeostasis and regeneration.

Effects of different hormonal contraceptives in women's blood pressure values.

OBJECTIVE: To identify evidence in the literature of the relationship between the use of different hormonal contraceptive methods and alterations in women's blood pressure values. METHOD: This is an integrative literature review, consisting of ten scientific articles published in PubMed and BVS, between 2012 and 2016, selected by keywords, available fully and free of charge, in English, Portuguese, or Spanish. RESULTS: The articles showed that exogenous estrogen helps in the activation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system causing hypertensive effects even in small doses; and that combined use with drospirenone reduces these effects. Routes of administration without passage through the liver and use of isolated progestin showed promising results in reducing the effects on blood pressure. CONCLUSION: There is evidence in the literature of pressure alterations associated with different hormonal contraceptives and that personal history of morbidities are to be considered in an attempt to reduce the effects on the cardiovascular system.

Effects of different hormonal contraceptives in women's blood pressure values / Efectos de los distintos anticonceptivos hormonales en los valores de presión arterial de la mujer / Efeitos dos diferentes anticoncepcionais hormonais nos valores de pressão arterial da mulher

ABSTRACT Objective: To identify evidence in the literature of the relationship between the use of different hormonal contraceptive methods and alterations in women's blood pressure values. Method: This is an integrative literature review, consisting of ten scientific articles published in PubMed and BVS, between 2012 and 2016, selected by keywords, available fully and free of charge, in English, Portuguese, or Spanish. Results: The articles showed that exogenous estrogen helps in the activation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system causing hypertensive effects even in small doses; and that combined use with drospirenone reduces these effects. Routes of administration without passage through the liver and use of isolated progestin showed promising results in reducing the effects on blood pressure. Conclusion: There is evidence in the literature of pressure alterations associated with different hormonal contraceptives and that personal history of morbidities are to be considered in an attempt to reduce the effects on the cardiovascular system.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Identificar en la literatura evidencias sobre la relación entre el uso de distintos métodos anticonceptivos hormonales y las alteraciones en los valores de presión arterial en mujeres. Método: Se trata de la revisión integrativa de la literatura, constituida por diez artículos científicos publicados en PubMed y BVS, entre 2012 y 2016, seleccionados por medio de palabras-clave, disponibles en su totalidad, gratuitos, en inglés, en portugués o en español. Resultados: Los artículos han enseñado que el estrógeno exógeno aporta en la activación del sistema renina-angiotensina-aldosterona causando efectos hipertensivos aunque en pequeñas dosificaciones; y que el uso combinado con la drospirenona reduce esos efectos. Vías de administración sin pasaje por el hígado y el uso del progestágeno aislado han enseñado resultados promisores en la reducción de los efectos sobre la presión. Conclusión: Hay evidencias en la literatura de alteraciones presóricas asociadas a distintos anticonceptivos hormonales y de que antecedentes personales de morbilidades deben ser considerados en el intento de reducir los efectos sobre el sistema cardiovascular.

RESUMO Objetivo: Identificar na literatura evidências sobre a relação entre o uso de diferentes métodos anticoncepcionais hormonais e as alterações nos valores de pressão arterial em mulheres. Método: Trata-se de revisão integrativa da literatura, constituída por dez artigos científicos publicados no PubMed e BVS, entre 2012 e 2016, selecionados por meio de palavras-chave, disponíveis na íntegra, gratuitos, em inglês, português ou espanhol. Resultados: Os artigos mostraram que o estrogênio exógeno contribui na ativação do sistema renina-angiotensina-aldosterona causando efeitos hipertensores mesmo em pequenas dosagens; e que o uso combinado com a drospirenona reduz esses efeitos. Vias de administração sem passagem pelo fígado e uso do progestágeno isolado mostraram resultados promissores na redução dos efeitos sobre a pressão. Conclusão: Há evidências na literatura de alterações pressóricas associadas a diferentes anticoncepcionais hormonais e de que antecedentes pessoais de morbidades devem ser considerados na tentativa de reduzir os efeitos sobre o sistema cardiovascular.

Comparison of linear measurements of optic cup-to-disk ratio obtained with RTVue OCT and digital retinography.

PURPOSE: To compare the linear measurements of the optic disk cup obtained using RTVue optical coherence tomography (OCT) with those obtained using digital retinography. METHODS: This is a cross-sectional study performed with digital retinography and RTVue OCT images from patients with glaucoma or patients suspected of glaucoma. In color retinography, the greatest horizontal and vertical diameters of the optic disk starting from the inner edge of the Elschnig ring were obtained using a pachymeter with a grade of 0.01 mm. In OCT, the delineation of the optic nerve was obtained automatically from the horizontal and vertical cup results. RESULTS: One hundred eyes from 100 subjects with a mean age of 60.1 ± 15.7 years were included. Of these, 79 were the right eye and 21 the left eye, with 61 men and 39 women. The mean horizontal cup obtained with OCT was 0.91 ± 0.10, while that obtained with retinography was 0.79 ± 0.11 (p<0.01). CONCLUSIONS: There was poor agreement between the evaluated methods in the measurements of optic disk cup excavations. Measurements obtained automatically with OCT RTVue were higher but were significantly correlated with measurements obtained manually with digital retinography. Poor agreement of the optic disk parameters between the two imaging devices was noted.

Comparison of linear measurements of optic cup-to-disk ratio obtained with RTVue OCT and digital retinography / Comparação entre as medidas lineares da relação escavação/disco óptico obtidas com o OCT RTVue e a retinografia digital

ABSTRACT Purpose: To compare the linear measurements of the optic disk cup obtained using RTVue optical coherence tomography (OCT) with those obtained using digital retinography. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study performed with digital retinography and RTVue OCT images from patients with glaucoma or patients suspected of glaucoma. In color retinography, the greatest horizontal and vertical diameters of the optic disk starting from the inner edge of the Elschnig ring were obtained using a pachymeter with a grade of 0.01 mm. In OCT, the delineation of the optic nerve was obtained automatically from the horizontal and vertical cup results. Results: One hundred eyes from 100 subjects with a mean age of 60.1 ± 15.7 years were included. Of these, 79 were the right eye and 21 the left eye, with 61 men and 39 women. The mean horizontal cup obtained with OCT was 0.91 ± 0.10, while that obtained with retinography was 0.79 ± 0.11 (p<0.01). Conclusions: There was poor agreement between the evaluated methods in the measurements of optic disk cup excavations. Measurements obtained automatically with OCT RTVue were higher but were significantly correlated with measurements obtained manually with digital retinography. Poor agreement of the optic disk parameters between the two imaging devices was noted.

RESUMO Objetivo: Comparar as medidas lineares da escavação do disco óptico, obtidas com o OCT RTVue com as obtidas pela retinografia digital. Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo transversal. Utilizou-se imagens de retinografia digital e exames de OCT obtidos pelo aparelho RTVue de pacientes suspeitos ou com glaucoma. Na retinografia colorida, foram obtidos os maiores diâmetros horizontal e vertical do disco óptico, a partir da borda interna do Anel de Elschnig através de paquímetro com graduação de 0,01 mm. No OCT, a delineação do nervo óptico foi obtida automaticamente e a partir dos resultados foi registrado o diâmetro horizontal e vertical da escavação. Resultados: Foram incluídos 100 olhos de 100 indivíduos, com idade média de 60,1 ± 15,7 anos. Desses, 79 foram do olho direito e 21 do olho esquerdo, sendo 61 homens e 39 mulheres. Verificou-se que as médias das escavações horizontais obtidas com o OCT foram de 0,91 ± 0,10, enquanto que as obtidas pela retinografia foram 0,79 ± 0,11 (p<0,01). Conclusões: Nota-se fraca concordância entre os métodos avaliados para quantificar as medidas das escavações do disco óptico. As medidas obtidas automaticamente pelo OCT RTVue foram maiores, porém correlacionadas com as medidas obtidas manualmente pela retinografia digital. Além disso, notou-se fraca concordância nos parâmetros do disco óptico entre os dois dispositivos de imagens.

Saúde do homem: os motivos da procura dos homens pelos serviços de saúde / Men's health: the reasons for men to reach out to health services

Objetivo: identificar os motivos pelos quais os homens procuram os serviços de saúde. Método: estudo qualitativo, exploratório, com coleta de dados efetivada por revisão narrativa e entrevista semiestruturada com 29 homens. As entrevistas foram submetidas à técnica de Análise de Conteúdo. Resultados: emergiram quatro categorias de análise: dor, incapacidade para o trabalho, prevenção e influência da esposa. As falas demonstram visivelmente e reforçam a ideia de que o homem procura o serviço de saúde em eventos agudos, especialmente, em caso de dor. Existe, por parte do homem, uma resistência ao autocuidado, ou seja, a não busca pelo serviço de saúde de forma preventiva e rotineira. Conclusão: o estereótipo do ser masculino e acultura de invulnerabilidade ainda criam resistência à adoção de práticas de autocuidado pelo homem.