Impact of autofluorescence-guided surgery of parathyroid glands during total thyroidectomy in experienced surgeons: A randomized clinical trial.

INTRODUCTION: Post-surgical hypoparathyroidism often occurs after total thyroidectomy (TT). The aim of this study is to investigate whether the use of near-infrared autofluorescence (NIRAF) of parathyroid glands (PGs) can aid experienced surgeons in identifying more PGs during surgery, potentially reducing unintended resection, and assessing its impact on post-surgical hypoparathyroidism. MATERIALS AND METHODS: All patients undergoing at least a TT by two experienced surgeons, between 2020 and 2021, were enrolled and randomized into two cohorts: NIRAF group (NG) and CONTROL group (CG). Transient hypoparathyroidism was defined by serum concentration of PTH<12 ng/mL at the 1st post-operative day and permanent by the need of calcium-active vitamin D treatment >6 months from the surgery with still undetectable PTH or <12 ng/m. RESULTS: Among 236 patients (111 in NG, 125 in CG), the number of PGs identified was higher in NG (93.9%, 417/444) compared to CG (81.4%, 407/500) (p < 0.001), with a mean of 3.76 ± 0.44 PGs per patient in NG and 3.25 ± 0.79 in CG. The number of unintendedly resected PGs was 14 in NG and 42 in CG (p < 0.0001). Transient hypoparathyroidism was observed in 18 patients (16.2%) in NG and 40 patients (32.0%) in CG (p = 0.004). Permanent hypoparathyroidism affected 1 patient in NG and 7 patients in CG (p = 0.06). The mean operative time was longer in NG (104.3 ± 32.08 min) compared to CG (85.5 ± 40.62 min) (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: NIRAF enhances the identification of PGs, preventing their inadvertent resection and reducing the overall incidence of post-surgical hypoparathyroidism.

Prognostic Value of Preoperative Electrocardiogram in Low-Risk Patients Undergoing Surgical Intervention and General Anesthesia. / Importância Prognóstica do Eletrocardiograma Pré-Operatório em Pacientes de Baixo Risco Submetidos à Intervenção Cirúrgica sob Anestesia Geral.

BACKGROUND: Patients aged over 50 years require four times more surgical interventions than younger groups. Many guidelines recommend the performance of preoperative electrocardiogram (ECG) in this population. OBJECTIVES: To determine the value of preoperative ECG in patients aged over 50 years and classified as ASA I-II (surgical risk). METHODS: Patients older than 50 years, without comorbidities, who underwent surgical intervention and general anesthesia were included in the study. Patients were randomized to undergo ECG (group A, n=214) or not (group B, n=213) in the preoperative period. The following variables were analyzed: sex, age, ECG, chest x-ray and laboratory tests results, surgical risk, surgery duration, adverse events and in-hospital mortality. The level of significance was set at 5%. RESULTS: Adverse outcomes were reported in 23 (5.4%) patients, with a significant number of adverse events in male patients (OR=7.91 95%CI 3.3-18.90, p<0.001) and in those undergoing major surgeries (OR=30.02 95%CI 4.01-224.92, p<0.001). No differences were observed between patients who underwent ECG and those who did not (OR=1.59, 95%CI, 0.67-3.75, p=0.289). No significant differences were found in the other variables. In multivariate logistic regression, male sex (OR = 6.49; 95%CI 2.42-17.42, p<0.001) and major surgery (OR=22.62; 95%CI 2.95-173.41, p=0.002) were independent predictors of adverse outcomes, whereas undergoing (or not) ECG (OR=1.09; IC95% 0.41-2.90, p=0.867) remained without statistical significance. CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest that preoperative ECG could not predict an increased risk of adverse outcomes in our study population during the hospital phase.

FUNDAMENTO: Pacientes com idade superior a 50 anos requerem quatro vezes mais intervenções cirúrgicas que o grupo mais jovem. Muitas diretrizes recomendam a realização do eletrocardiograma pré-operatório nessa faixa etária. OBJETIVOS: Determinar a importância do ECG pré-operatório em pacientes com idade superior a 50 anos e com classificação de risco cirúrgico ASA I e II. MÉTODOS: Foram recrutados pacientes com idade superior a 50 anos, sem comorbidades, submetidos à intervenção cirúrgica sob anestesia geral. Os pacientes foram randomizados para a realização (grupo A n=214) ou não (grupo B n=213) do ECG pré-operatório. Foram analisadas as variáveis: sexo, idade, resultado do ECG, da radiografia do tórax e dos exames laboratoriais, risco cirúrgico, duração do procedimento, eventos adversos e mortalidade intra-hospitalar. O nível de significância estatística adotado foi de 5%. RESULTADOS: Houve ocorrência de desfechos adversos em 23 (5,4%) pacientes, com um número significante de eventos adversos nos pacientes do sexo masculino (OR=7,91, IC95% 3,3-18,90, p<0,001) e naqueles com intervenções de maior porte cirúrgico (OR=30,02, IC95% 4,01-224,92, p<0,001). Não houve diferença entre os grupos que realizaram ou não o ECG (OR=1,59, IC95% 0,67-3,75, p=0,289). As demais variáveis não mostraram diferenças significantes. Na regressão logística multivariada o sexo masculino (OR=6,49; IC95% 2,42-17,42, p<0,001) e o porte cirúrgico (OR=22,62; IC95% 2,95-173,41, p=0,002) foram preditores independentes de desfechos adversos, enquanto realizar ou não ECG (OR=1,09; IC95% 0,41-2,90, p=0,867) permaneceu sem significância estatística. CONCLUSÕES: Os resultados sugerem que o ECG pré-operatório não foi capaz de predizer aumento do risco de desfechos adversos nos pacientes estudados, durante a fase hospitalar.

Delineation of riparian areas based on the application of two-dimension hydraulic modelling.

This paper presents a proposal for riparian area delineation relying on topographical, hydrological, vegetation, and soil data together with numerical modelling of the river hydrodynamics. The two-dimensional model Iber is used to simulate 2.5, 10, 50, and 100-years return period flood events, and new code is developed to simulate the main hydrological processes of the river-riparian system to generate riparian zone maps. Results show that changes in topography and discharge direction between river and groundwater both influence the riparian area extent, and that temporal evolution of the riparian zone is much slower than that of the flood, and its extension can continue to increase while the flood recedes, but only to a certain extent, conditioned by topography, soil characteristics, and vegetation. A simple but efficient numerical code for understanding and simulating the riparian dynamics has been developed, which constitutes a proposal for a new riparian delineation approach useful for research and management applications, and which can also be a useful tool for gaining a better understanding of the riparian boundary behavior under different ecohydrological conditions.

Importância Prognóstica do Eletrocardiograma Pré-Operatório em Pacientes de Baixo Risco Submetidos à Intervenção Cirúrgica sob Anestesia Geral / Prognostic Value of Preoperative Electrocardiogram in Low-Risk Patients Undergoing Surgical Intervention and General Anesthesia

Resumo Fundamento Pacientes com idade superior a 50 anos requerem quatro vezes mais intervenções cirúrgicas que o grupo mais jovem. Muitas diretrizes recomendam a realização do eletrocardiograma pré-operatório nessa faixa etária. Objetivos Determinar a importância do ECG pré-operatório em pacientes com idade superior a 50 anos e com classificação de risco cirúrgico ASA I e II. Métodos Foram recrutados pacientes com idade superior a 50 anos, sem comorbidades, submetidos à intervenção cirúrgica sob anestesia geral. Os pacientes foram randomizados para a realização (grupo A n=214) ou não (grupo B n=213) do ECG pré-operatório. Foram analisadas as variáveis: sexo, idade, resultado do ECG, da radiografia do tórax e dos exames laboratoriais, risco cirúrgico, duração do procedimento, eventos adversos e mortalidade intra-hospitalar. O nível de significância estatística adotado foi de 5%. Resultados Houve ocorrência de desfechos adversos em 23 (5,4%) pacientes, com um número significante de eventos adversos nos pacientes do sexo masculino (OR=7,91, IC95% 3,3-18,90, p<0,001) e naqueles com intervenções de maior porte cirúrgico (OR=30,02, IC95% 4,01-224,92, p<0,001). Não houve diferença entre os grupos que realizaram ou não o ECG (OR=1,59, IC95% 0,67-3,75, p=0,289). As demais variáveis não mostraram diferenças significantes. Na regressão logística multivariada o sexo masculino (OR=6,49; IC95% 2,42-17,42, p<0,001) e o porte cirúrgico (OR=22,62; IC95% 2,95-173,41, p=0,002) foram preditores independentes de desfechos adversos, enquanto realizar ou não ECG (OR=1,09; IC95% 0,41-2,90, p=0,867) permaneceu sem significância estatística. Conclusões Os resultados sugerem que o ECG pré-operatório não foi capaz de predizer aumento do risco de desfechos adversos nos pacientes estudados, durante a fase hospitalar.

Abstract Background Patients aged over 50 years require four times more surgical interventions than younger groups. Many guidelines recommend the performance of preoperative electrocardiogram (ECG) in this population. Objectives To determine the value of preoperative ECG in patients aged over 50 years and classified as ASA I-II (surgical risk). Methods Patients older than 50 years, without comorbidities, who underwent surgical intervention and general anesthesia were included in the study. Patients were randomized to undergo ECG (group A, n=214) or not (group B, n=213) in the preoperative period. The following variables were analyzed: sex, age, ECG, chest x-ray and laboratory tests results, surgical risk, surgery duration, adverse events and in-hospital mortality. The level of significance was set at 5%. Results Adverse outcomes were reported in 23 (5.4%) patients, with a significant number of adverse events in male patients (OR=7.91 95%CI 3.3-18.90, p<0.001) and in those undergoing major surgeries (OR=30.02 95%CI 4.01-224.92, p<0.001). No differences were observed between patients who underwent ECG and those who did not (OR=1.59, 95%CI, 0.67-3.75, p=0.289). No significant differences were found in the other variables. In multivariate logistic regression, male sex (OR = 6.49; 95%CI 2.42-17.42, p<0.001) and major surgery (OR=22.62; 95%CI 2.95-173.41, p=0.002) were independent predictors of adverse outcomes, whereas undergoing (or not) ECG (OR=1.09; IC95% 0.41-2.90, p=0.867) remained without statistical significance. Conclusion Our findings suggest that preoperative ECG could not predict an increased risk of adverse outcomes in our study population during the hospital phase.

Expression of thimet oligopeptidase (THOP) modulated by oxidative stress in human multidrug resistant (MDR) leukemia cells.

Thimet oligopeptidase (THOP) is a cytosolic metallopeptidase known to regulate the fate of post-proteasomal peptides, protein turnover and peptide selection in the antigen presentation machinery (APM) system. Oxidative stress influences THOP expression and regulates its proteolytic activity, generating variable cytosolic peptide levels, possibly affecting the immune evasion of tumor cells. In the present work, we examined the association between THOP expression/activity and stress oxidative resistance in human leukemia cells using the K562 cell line, a chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), and the multidrug-resistant (MDR) Lucena 1 (K562-derived MDR cell line) as model. The Lucena 1 phenotype was validated under vincristine treatment and the relative THOP1 mRNA levels and protein expression compared to K562 cell line. Our data demonstrated increased THOP1 gene and protein levels in K562 cells in contrast to the oxidative-resistant Lucena 1, even after H2O2 treatment, suggesting an oxidative stress dependence in THOP regulation. Further, it was observed higher basal levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in K562 compared to Lucena 1 cell line using DHE fluorescent probe. Since THOP activity is dependent on its oligomeric state, we also compared its proteolytic activity under reducing agent treatment, which demonstrated that its function modulation with respect to changes in redox state. Finally, the mRNA expression and FACS analyses demonstrated a reduced expression of MHC I only in K562 cell line. In conclusion, our results highlight THOP redox modulation, which could influence antigen presentation in multidrug resistant leukemia cells.

Pyrazinamide photodegradation on NiWO4-palygorskite nanocomposites under polychromatic irradiation.

In this work, antibiotic pyrazinamide (PZA) photodegradation on palygorskite (Pal), NiWO4 crystals, and NiWO4-Pal (2, 6, and 10%) nanocomposites was evaluated under polychromatic irradiation. In the characterization of the samples, XRD patterns displayed good crystallinity for NiWO4 crystals and nanocomposites. In addition, the diffractograms were used in the Rietveld refinement for phase indexing, revealing a wolframite-type monoclinic structure with the space group P2/c. The active vibrational modes related to the characteristic groups of the samples were identified using Raman and FTIR spectroscopy. Photoluminescence (PL) spectra revealed that NiWO4 and NiWO4-Pal (2%) nanocomposite have the highest electron-hole pair recombination rate, and the contribution of the green component in the NiWO4-Pal (2%) nanocomposite indicates a greater contribution of deep energy levels to the PL profile. DRS in the UV-visible region indicated that NiWO4 crystals have indirect band-gap energy (Egap) 2.64 eV; NiWO4-Pal (2, 6, and 10%) nanocomposites have 2.62, 2.58, and 2.59 eV, respectively; and Pal has 2.83 eV. The catalytic tests showed that the NiWO4-Pal (2%) nanocomposite samples, under polychromatic radiation, exhibit greater efficiency in photodegradation at 110 min, with yield of 98.5%. The ROS tests indicated that the studied reactive species play a similar role in PZA photodegradation.

[Spanish-language version of the health belief model scale for testicular cancer and testicular self-examinationEscala em espanhol do modelo de crenças em saúde para câncer e autoexame testicular]. / Escala del modelo de creencias de salud en español para el cáncer y la autoexploración testicular.

The objective of this study was to adapt and validate the health belief model scale for testicular cancer and testicular self-examination (TSE) in university students in Mexico and to determine the sociodemographic, clinical, and health belief model variables that influence TSE performance. Translation and back translation were conducted, and 72 items were obtained and reviewed by experts, following which 39 items were selected and applied to a group of 30 students to assess comprehension and application time. Finally, this version was applied to 803 students at a public university. A scale consisting of 38 items was obtained, and the items were divided across six factors consistent with the health belief model: susceptibility (α = 0.77), seriousness (α = 0.82), benefits (α = 0.80), barriers (α = 0.83), self-efficacy (α = 0.88), and health motivation (α = 0.71). These factors explain 44% of the variance and show an internal consistency ranging from acceptable to good. The variable that most strongly influenced the performance of testicular self-examination was self-efficacy. The Spanish-language version of the health belief model scale for testicular cancer and testicular self-examination yielded evidence of validity and reliability in this sample of university students.

O objetivo deste estudo foi adaptar e validar a escala do modelo de crenças em saúde para o câncer e o autoexame testicular (AT) em estudantes universitários no México e determinar as variáveis sociodemográficas, clínicas e do modelo de crenças que influenciam a realização do AT. Realizou-se o processo de tradução e retrotradução, do qual foram obtidos 72 itens que foram revisados por especialistas. Posteriormente, foram escolhidos 39 itens que foram aplicados em um grupo de 30 estudantes para verificação da compreensão e do tempo de aplicação. Por último, esta versão foi aplicada a 803 alunos de uma universidade pública. Obteve-se uma escala de 38 itens, divididos em 6 fatores consistentes com o modelo de crenças em saúde: suscetibilidade (α = 0,77), seriedade (α = 0,82), benefícios (α = 0,80), barreiras (α = 0,83), autoeficácia (α = 0,88) e motivação para a saúde (α = 0,71), que explicam 44% da variância e apresentam consistência interna de adequada a boa. A variável que mais influenciou a realização do autoexame testicular foi a autoeficácia. A versão em espanhol da escala do modelo de crenças em saúde para câncer e autoexame testicular obteve evidências de validade e confiabilidade nesta amostra de estudantes universitários.

Escala del modelo de creencias de salud en español para el cáncer y la autoexploración testicular

[RESUMEN]. El objetivo de este estudio fue adaptar y validar la escala del modelo de creencias de salud para el cáncer y autoexploración testicular (AT) en estudiantes universitarios en México y determinar las variables sociodemográficas, clínicas y del modelo de creencias que influyen en efectuar la AT. Se realizó el proceso de traducción y retraducción de la cual se obtuvieron 72 ítems, que fueron revisados por expertos y se eligieron 39 ítems, los cuales fueron aplicados en un grupo de 30 estudiantes para revisar la comprensión y el tiempo de aplicación; por último, esta versión se aplicó en 803 estudiantes de una universidad pública. Se obtuvo una escala de 38 ítems divididos en 6 factores congruentes con el modelo de creencias de salud: susceptibilidad (α = 0,77), seriedad (α = 0,82), beneficios (α = 0,80), barreras (α = 0,83), autoeficacia (α = 0,88) y motivación para la salud (α = 0,71) que explican el 44% de la varianza y presentan una consistencia interna de adecuada a buena. La variable que más influye en la realización de la autoexploración testicular fue la autoeficacia. La versión en español de la escala del modelo de creencias de salud para el cáncer y la autoexploración testicular obtuvo evidencias de validez y confiabilidad en esta muestra de estudiantes universitarios.

[ABSTRACT]. The objective of this study was to adapt and validate the health belief model scale for testicular cancer and testicular self-examination (TSE) in university students in Mexico and to determine the sociodemographic, clinical, and health belief model variables that influence TSE performance. Translation and back translation were conducted, and 72 items were obtained and reviewed by experts, following which 39 items were selected and applied to a group of 30 students to assess comprehension and application time. Finally, this version was applied to 803 students at a public university. A scale consisting of 38 items was obtained, and the items were divided across six factors consistent with the health belief model: susceptibility (α = 0.77), seriousness (α = 0.82), benefits (α = 0.80), barriers (α = 0.83), self-efficacy (α = 0.88), and health motivation (α = 0.71). These factors explain 44% of the variance and show an internal consistency ranging from acceptable to good. The variable that most strongly influenced the performance of testicular self-examination was self-efficacy. The Spanish-language version of the health belief model scale for testicular cancer and testicular self-examination yielded evidence of validity and reliability in this sample of university students.

[RESUMO]. O objetivo deste estudo foi adaptar e validar a escala do modelo de crenças em saúde para o câncer e o autoexame testicular (AT) em estudantes universitários no México e determinar as variáveis sociodemográficas, clínicas e do modelo de crenças que influenciam a realização do AT. Realizou-se o processo de tradução e retrotradução, do qual foram obtidos 72 itens que foram revisados por especialistas. Posteriormente, foram escolhidos 39 itens que foram aplicados em um grupo de 30 estudantes para verificação da compreensão e do tempo de aplicação. Por último, esta versão foi aplicada a 803 alunos de uma universidade pública. Obteve-se uma escala de 38 itens, divididos em 6 fatores consistentes com o modelo de crenças em saúde: suscetibilidade (α = 0,77), seriedade (α = 0,82), benefícios (α = 0,80), barreiras (α = 0,83), autoeficácia (α = 0,88) e motivação para a saúde (α = 0,71), que explicam 44% da variância e apresentam consistência interna de adequada a boa. A variável que mais influenciou a realização do autoexame testicular foi a autoeficácia. A versão em espanhol da escala do modelo de crenças em saúde para câncer e autoexame testicular obteve evidências de validade e confiabilidade nesta amostra de estudantes universitários.

Clinical characteristics and thyroid function in complete hydatidiform mole complicated by hyperthyroidism.

OBJECTIVES: To identify possible clinical factors associated with hyperthyroidism at presentation and to assess post-evacuation thyroid function in women with complete hydatidiform mole (CHM). METHODS: This observational study included women with CHM attending a specialized Brazilian center in 2002-2018. Clinical and laboratory data (serum hCG, TSH, fT4) were collected at presentation. Factors associated with hyperthyroidism were assessed by logistic regression. Receiver-operating characteristic curves were built to determine the hCG cutoff for predicting hyperthyroidism at CHM presentation. Post-molar evacuation follow-up included clinical assessment and close thyroid function monitoring. RESULTS: Of 137 CHM patients, 69 (50.3%) had hyperthyroidism of any type (43.5% subclinical, 56.5% overt) at presentation. Uterine fundal height > 16 cm or > gestational age (GA), and theca lutein cysts >6 cm were significantly associated with both subclinical and overt hyperthyroidism. The optimal hCG cutoff for predicting hyperthyroidism was 430,559 IU/L (sensitivity 85.5%, specificity 83.8%). Post-evacuation hyperthyroidism/transient hypothyroidism conversion was observed in 13% of the women with hyperthyroidism at presentation. Among the patients not showing conversion to hypothyroidism, median time for TSH normalization was 2 and 3 weeks for subclinical and overt hyperthyroidism, respectively. In the women with overt hyperthyroidism, fT4 was normalized at 2 weeks. CONCLUSIONS: Uterine fundal height > 16 cm, uterine fundal height > GA, theca lutein cysts >6 cm, and hCG >400,000 IU/L at presentation are associated with greater risk of hyperthyroidism and its complications. Close monitoring thyroid function during postmolar follow-up showed that, as thyroid hormones are normalized within 2-3 weeks post-evacuation, the use of beta-blockers or antithyroid drugs can be rapidly discontinued.

Ovine footrot in Southern Portugal: Detection of Dichelobacter nodosus and Fusobacterium necrophorum in sheep with different lesion scores.

The Mediterranean climate region of Alentejo in the Southern of Portugal is an important sheep production centre but little is known about the presence and characteristics of Dichelobacter nodosus in association with Fusobacterium necrophorum in the different footrot lesion scores. DNA from 261 interdigital biopsy samples, taken from 14 footrot affected flocks and from three non-affected flocks, were analysed for the presence of D. nodosus and F. necrophorum by real-time PCR. Both virulence and serogroup were determined for 132 and 53 D. nodosus positive biopsy samples, respectively. The co-infection with both bacteria was the commonest epidemiological finding associated with a greater disease severity. There was a statistically significant association (p = 0.002) between footrot-affected flocks and the presence of D. nodosus. Most D. nodosus positive samples were virulent (96.2 %) and belonged to serogroup B (90 %).

Serum biochemistry panel of free-living red-handed howler monkeys (Alouatta belzebul) in the Eastern Amazon.

BACKGROUND: The red-handed howler monkey (Alouatta belzebul) is one of 116 imperiled Brazilian primate species. We aimed to determine the serum biochemical profile of free-ranging red-handed howler monkeys in a highly disturbed area of the eastern Amazon. METHODS: We obtained serum samples from 26 monkeys, in which we analyzed 20 biochemical variables. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: Calcium concentration was significantly lower in adult males (1.82 ± 0.25 mmol/L) than in adult females (2.10 ± 0.50 mmol/L). Both adults (males = 89 ± 85 UI/L, females = 62 ± 23 UI/L) had lower alkaline phosphatase serum activity than juvenile females (178 ± 120 UI/L). Adult male had higher levels of the direct bilirubin (13.9 ± 8.2 µmol/L) and creatinine (74.3 ± 19.4 µmol/L) than juvenile females (5.1 ± 1.4 µmol/L and 38.9 ± 15.0 µmol/L, respectively). This detailed biochemical profile may be useful for the management of red-handed howler monkeys in the wild and to support further studies at ex situ facilities.

Escala del modelo de creencias de salud en español para el cáncer y la autoexploración testicular / Spanish-language version of the health belief model scale for testicular cancer and testicular self-examination / Escala em espanhol do modelo de crenças em saúde para câncer e autoexame testicular

RESUMEN El objetivo de este estudio fue adaptar y validar la escala del modelo de creencias de salud para el cáncer y autoexploración testicular (AT) en estudiantes universitarios en México y determinar las variables sociodemográficas, clínicas y del modelo de creencias que influyen en efectuar la AT. Se realizó el proceso de traducción y retraducción de la cual se obtuvieron 72 ítems, que fueron revisados por expertos y se eligieron 39 ítems, los cuales fueron aplicados en un grupo de 30 estudiantes para revisar la comprensión y el tiempo de aplicación; por último, esta versión se aplicó en 803 estudiantes de una universidad pública. Se obtuvo una escala de 38 ítems divididos en 6 factores congruentes con el modelo de creencias de salud: susceptibilidad (α = 0,77), seriedad (α = 0,82), beneficios (α = 0,80), barreras (α = 0,83), autoeficacia (α = 0,88) y motivación para la salud (α = 0,71) que explican el 44% de la varianza y presentan una consistencia interna de adecuada a buena. La variable que más influye en la realización de la autoexploración testicular fue la autoeficacia. La versión en español de la escala del modelo de creencias de salud para el cáncer y la autoexploración testicular obtuvo evidencias de validez y confiabilidad en esta muestra de estudiantes universitarios.

ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to adapt and validate the health belief model scale for testicular cancer and testicular self-examination (TSE) in university students in Mexico and to determine the sociodemographic, clinical, and health belief model variables that influence TSE performance. Translation and back translation were conducted, and 72 items were obtained and reviewed by experts, following which 39 items were selected and applied to a group of 30 students to assess comprehension and application time. Finally, this version was applied to 803 students at a public university. A scale consisting of 38 items was obtained, and the items were divided across six factors consistent with the health belief model: susceptibility (α = 0.77), seriousness (α = 0.82), benefits (α = 0.80), barriers (α = 0.83), self-efficacy (α = 0.88), and health motivation (α = 0.71). These factors explain 44% of the variance and show an internal consistency ranging from acceptable to good. The variable that most strongly influenced the performance of testicular self-examination was self-efficacy. The Spanish-language version of the health belief model scale for testicular cancer and testicular self-examination yielded evidence of validity and reliability in this sample of university students.

RESUMO O objetivo deste estudo foi adaptar e validar a escala do modelo de crenças em saúde para o câncer e o autoexame testicular (AT) em estudantes universitários no México e determinar as variáveis sociodemográficas, clínicas e do modelo de crenças que influenciam a realização do AT. Realizou-se o processo de tradução e retrotradução, do qual foram obtidos 72 itens que foram revisados por especialistas. Posteriormente, foram escolhidos 39 itens que foram aplicados em um grupo de 30 estudantes para verificação da compreensão e do tempo de aplicação. Por último, esta versão foi aplicada a 803 alunos de uma universidade pública. Obteve-se uma escala de 38 itens, divididos em 6 fatores consistentes com o modelo de crenças em saúde: suscetibilidade (α = 0,77), seriedade (α = 0,82), benefícios (α = 0,80), barreiras (α = 0,83), autoeficácia (α = 0,88) e motivação para a saúde (α = 0,71), que explicam 44% da variância e apresentam consistência interna de adequada a boa. A variável que mais influenciou a realização do autoexame testicular foi a autoeficácia. A versão em espanhol da escala do modelo de crenças em saúde para câncer e autoexame testicular obteve evidências de validade e confiabilidade nesta amostra de estudantes universitários.

24.0 kyr cal BP stone artefact from Vale da Pedra Furada, Piauí, Brazil: Techno-functional analysis.

Current archaeological paradigm proposes that the first peopling of the Americas does not exceed the Last Glacial Maximum period. In this context, the acceptance of the anthropogenic character of the earliest stone artefacts generally rests on the presence of projectile points considered no more as typocentric but as typognomonic, since it allows, by itself, to certify the human character of the other associated artefacts. In other words, without this presence, nothing is certain. Archaeological research at Piauí (Brazil) attests to a Pleistocene human presence between 41 and 14 cal kyr BP, without any record of lithic projectile points. Here, we report the discovery and interpretation of an unusual stone artefact in the Vale da Pedra Furada site, in a context dating back to 24 cal kyr BP. The knapping stigmata and macroscopic use-wear traces reveal a conception centred on the configuration of double bevels and the production in the same specimen of at least two successive artefacts with probably different functions. This piece unambiguously presents an anthropic character and reveals a technical novelty during the Pleistocene occupation of South America.

Analysis of quality of life, sociodemographic variables and self-reported diseases among working older adults.

BACKGROUND: Aging should not be seen as a hindrance to the continuity of work, while including older adults in the labor market contributes to national economies. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the association between subjective quality of life (QoL) assessment, sociodemographic variables and self-reported morbidity among working older adults. METHODS: The present study was conducted at farmers' markets in Presidente Prudente, Sao Paulo, Brazil. Participants were 24 older adults aged 68.69±6.5 years old. We administered the World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQOL-bref) questionnaire, a sociodemographic questionnaire including working conditions and a questionnaire to survey the participants' medical history. The normality assumption was assessed with the Shapiro-Wilk test. Pearson's and Spearman's tests were used for correlation analysis. RESULTS: The sample exhibited average QoL. Most participants were female, with 1 to 8 years of formal schooling, married, with family income 1 to 3 times the equivalent of the minimum wage and sought healthcare within the national health system. All the participants lived in their own house. Hypertension was the most prevalent disease. CONCLUSION: QoL and morbidity exhibited moderate negative correlation. There was negative correlation between the QoL physical and psychological domains and variables years in the job, daily working hours, meal/rest breaks and number of meals/day. There was moderate negative correlation between the QoL environment domain and meal/rest breaks.

INTRODUÇÃO: A senilidade não deve ser tratada como um obstáculo à continuação das atividades profissionais, além de que a inserção dessa população no mercado de trabalho contribui para a economia do país. OBJETIVO: Este estudo analisou a associação entre avaliação subjetiva da qualidade de vida, variáveis sociodemográficas e morbidade referida entre idosos no mercado de trabalho. MÉTODOS: O estudo foi realizado em feiras livres de Presidente Prudente, São Paulo. Participaram 24 idosos com idade de 68,69±6,5 anos. Utilizou-se o questionário World Health Organization Quality of life (WHOQOL-bref) para qualidade de vida, questionário sociodemográfico contendo questões sobre condições de trabalho e questionário para coletar histórico de doença. A normalidade dos valores foi avaliada pelo teste de Shapiro Wilk, e para análises de correlação foram utilizados os testes de Pearson e Spearman. RESULTADOS: A amostra apresentou qualidade de vida regular. A maioria era do sexo feminino, com 1 a 8 anos de estudo, casada, com renda familiar de 1 a 3 salários mínimos e utilizava o Sistema Único de Saúde. Todos tinham casa própria. Houve predomínio da HAS. CONCLUSÃO: As associações entre o questionário de qualidade de vida e a morbidade referida obtiveram correlação negativa moderada. Observou-se também que as associações entre qualidade de vida e carga de trabalho apresentaram correlações negativas tanto no domínio psicológico quanto no físico entre o tempo de trabalho (anos), as horas diárias, as refeições/intervalo e a alimentação/dia. Apresentou-se, ainda, correlação negativa moderada entre o domínio de meio ambiente e o tempo que os entrevistados tinham para realizar suas refeições/intervalos.

Bench press exercise performed as conditioning activity improves shot put performance in untrained subjects

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of bench press exercise performed as conditioning activity on the shot put performance in untrained subjects. Methods: Twelve healthy men (26 ± 6 years; 1.8 ± 0.1 m; 73.5 ± 10.4 kg; 13.2 ± 5.2% body fat), with no experience in shot put, were randomly assigned into two conditions: 1) Control: subjects performed six shot put attempts, and 2) Bench press exercise: subjects performed six shot put attempts 7 min post 2 sets of 5 repetitions maximum (RM) of bench press exercise. A metal ball of 4 kg was used for shot put attempts, and subjects were instructed to perform each shot put according to the static shot put technique. Results: Shot put performance was greater after bench press condition when compared with control condition (8.2 ± 1.2 m vs. 7.8 ± 0.8 m, respectively, p < 0.05). In addition, eight out of 12 volunteers positively responded to the conditioning activity. Conclusion: The results suggest that bench press exercise performed as a conditioning activity improves shot put performance in untrained subjects. Moreover, the conditioning activity should be individually set.(AU)

Comparison of 2 Human Chorionic Gonadotropin Immunoassays Commercially Available for Monitoring Patients With Gestational Trophoblastic Disease.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to compare serum human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) levels in patients with gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD) using 2 commercially available hCG immunoassays. METHODS: Serum samples were obtained from patients with GTD attending the Botucatu Medical School Trophoblastic Diseases Center of São Paulo State University (UNESP), from November 2014 to October 2015. Serum hCG levels were measured with both Architect i2000SR and Immulite 2000 XPi chemiluminescence assays. Serum hCG levels were compared against the null hypothesis. Agreement in clinical management decisions based on the hCG results was determined by comparing baseline hCG measurements and the hCG curves obtained with both assays. RESULTS: Seventy-three patients with GTD were included in the analysis. Of these, 45 had hydatidiform mole and spontaneous remission, whereas 28 had gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN). There was a perfect (zero difference) agreement in mean hCG levels between Immulite 2000 XPi and Architect i2000 when hCG is less than 100 mIU/mL. For hCG values greater than 100 mIU/mL, there was a significant difference between assays (P < 0.05), with levels measured via Architect i2000SR being higher than those measured by Immulite 2000 XPi in patients with hydatidiform mole/spontaneous remission (R = 90%, P < 0.01) and GTN (R = 98%, P < 0.01). Baseline clinical management decisions showed agreement in 100% (73/37) of cases (κ = 1.0, P < 0.001), whereas decisions based on hCG curve agreed in 98% (71/72) of cases (κ = 0.93, P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Immulite 2000 XPi is the most frequently recommended assay for diagnosing and monitoring patients with GTD. However, our results suggest that because Immulite 2000 XPi and Architect i2000 show very similar performance in measuring hCG levels and in determining clinical management, Architect may be used as an alternative.

Correlação entre varáveis nutricionais e clínicas de idosos cardiopatas / Correlation between clinical and nutritional variables in elderly patients with heart disease

Fundamentos: O envelhecimento é um processo caracterizado por condições fisiopatológicas específicas, quando ocorrem modificações tanto na estrutura orgânica como no metabolismo, na nutrição e nos mecanismos funcionais. Isso faz com que aumente a suscetibilidade ao desenvolvimento de diferentes doenças, dentre as quais doenças crônicas não transmissíveis, em especial distúrbios cardiovasculares. Objetivo: Verificar a correlação entre variáveis nutricionais e clínicas de idosos cardiopatas. Métodos: Pesquisa do tipo transversal. Realizou-se coleta de dados de exames bioquímicos e de pressão arterial a partir do prontuário do paciente. Aplicou-se o questionário de frequência alimentar semiquantitativo e efetuou-se a aferição das medidas antropométricas (peso, estatura, índice de massa corporal e circunferência da cintura). Utilizou-se o programa Bioestat versão 5.0, tendo sido aplicado o test t de Student além da correlação linear de Peason entre as variáveis antropométricas, bioquímicas, pressão arterial e consumo alimentar, adotando-se um nível de significância de 5%. Resultados: Amostra resultou em 50 idosos, sendo 70% do sexo feminino. Os dados bioquímicos se apresentaram alterados para o perfil lipídico e glicêmico. A antropometria se apresentou adequada, exceto para cincunferência da cintura em mulheres. O consumo alimentar médio para...