Pelvic floor muscle training vs radiofrequency for women with vaginal laxity: randomized clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: Vaginal laxity (VL) is a complaint of excessive vaginal looseness with a prevalence ranging from 24% to 38% across studies. AIM: The study sought to compare the effect of radiofrequency (RF) and pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) on the treatment of women with VL. METHODS: From February 2020 to December 2021, a prospective, parallel, noninferiority, randomized clinical trial was carried out in women ≥18 years of age and complaining of VL in a tertiary hospital. Two groups (RF and PFMT) were evaluated at the beginning of the study and 30 days and 6 months postintervention. A total of 42 participants per arm was sufficient to demonstrate a difference in sexual function on the Female Sexual Function Index at 90% power, 1-sided type 1 error of 0.025 with a noninferiority margin of 4 on the FSFI total score. Analysis was intention-to-treat and per-protocol based. OUTCOMES: The primary endpoint was the change of FSFI score after treatment, and the secondary outcomes were improvement in symptoms of VL and changes in questionnaire scores of sexual distress, vaginal symptoms, and urinary incontinence, in the quantification of pelvic organ prolapse, and pelvic floor muscle (PFM) contraction. RESULTS: Of 167 participants recruited, 87 were included (RF: n = 42; PFMT: n = 45). All questionnaires improved (P < .05) their total scores and subscales in both groups and during the follow-ups. After 30 days of treatment, RF was noninferior to PFMT to improving FSFI total score (mean difference -0.08 [95% confidence interval, -2.58 to 2.42]) in the per-protocol analysis (mean difference -0.46 [95% confidence interval, -2.92 to 1.99]) and in the intention-to-treat analysis; however, this result was not maintained after 6 months of treatment. PFM contraction improved significantly in both groups (RF: P = .006, 30 days; P = .049, 6 months; PFMT: P < .001, 30 days and 6 months), with better results in the PFMT group. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: Sexual, vaginal, and urinary symptoms were improved after 30 days and 6 months of treatment with RF and PFMT; however, better results were observed in the PFMT group after 6 months. STRENGTHS & LIMITATIONS: The present randomized clinical trial used several validated questionnaires evaluating quality of life, sexual function and urinary symptoms, in addition to assessing PFM contraction and classifying the quantification of pelvic organ prolapse aiming at anatomical changes in two follow-up periods. The limitations were the lack of a sham-controlled group (third arm) and the difficulty of blinding researchers to assess treatments due to the COVID-19 pandemic. CONCLUSION: After 30 days and 6 months of treatment, sexual, vaginal, and urinary symptoms improved with RF and PFMT; however, better results were observed in the PFMT group after 6 months. RF was noninferior to PFMT in improving FSFI total score after 30 days; however, this result was not maintained after 6 months of treatment.

Measurement of the vaginal wall thickness by transabdominal and transvaginal ultrasound of women with vaginal laxity: a cross-sectional study.

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS: An objective diagnostic method to understand vaginal laxity (VL) is still missing. The aim of our study is to determine whether vaginal wall thickness (VWT) measured by ultrasound may differ according to the abdominal or vaginal techniques and to assess whether clinical variables are associated with vaginal measurements of women with VL. METHODS: A cross-sectional study conducted at a tertiary hospital included 82 women aged ≥ 18 years with VL complaints assessed by the Vaginal Laxity Questionnaire. Women who reported severe comorbidities or vulvovaginal disorders, previous treatment for VL, and use of vaginal estrogen in the last 6 months were excluded. Participants reporting VL underwent transabdominal (TAUS) and transvaginal ultrasound (TVUS) and physical examination and answered validated questionnaires. Descriptive data were given as mean and standard deviation, median (range), and absolute and relative frequency. The significance level adopted for this study was 5%. Sample size calculation was not performed for the present study. RESULTS: Mean age was 41.20 ± 8.64 years, and most participants were multiparous, with previous vaginal delivery and having vaginal intercourse. A statistically significant difference (up to 3 mm) between TAUS and TVUS measurements of the VWT was found in the proximal, middle-third, and distal compartments. A significant correlation was found between VWT and TAUS or TVUS in the mid-third and distal compartments. CONCLUSION: A significant correlation was found between the VWT measurements in TVUS and TAUS. Our findings might give the health professional more possibilities for investigating VWT according to patient characteristics.

Effect of radiofrequency and pelvic floor muscle training in the treatment of women with vaginal laxity: A study protocol.

BACKGROUND: Vaginal laxity is an underreported condition that negatively affects women's sexual function and their relationships. Evidence-based studies are needed to better understand this complaint and to discuss its treatment options. Thus, we present a study protocol to compare the effect of radiofrequency and pelvic floor muscle training in the treatment of women with complaints of vaginal laxity. METHODS/DESIGN: This is a prospective, parallel-group, two-arm, randomized clinical trial (Registry: RBR-2zdvfp-REBEC). Participants will be randomly assigned to one of the two groups of intervention (Radiofrequency or Pelvic Floor Muscle Training). The study will be performed in the Urogynecology outpatient clinic and in the physiotherapy outpatient clinic at the State University of Campinas-UNICAMP and will include women aged ≥ 18 years and with self-reported complaints of vaginal laxity. Participants will be assessed at baseline (pre-intervention period) and will be followed up in two periods: first follow-up (30 days after intervention) and second follow-up (six months after intervention). EXPECTED RESULTS: The results of this randomized clinical trial will have a positive impact on the participants' quality of life, as well as add value to the development of treatment options for women with complaints of vaginal laxity. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Registry: RBR-2zdvfp-Registro Brasileiro de Ensaios Clínicos-REBEC (19/02/2020).

Chondrogenesis of human amniotic fluid stem cells in Chitosan-Xanthan scaffold for cartilage tissue engineering.

Articular chondral lesions, caused either by trauma or chronic cartilage diseases such as osteoarthritis, present very low ability to self-regenerate. Thus, their current management is basically symptomatic, progressing very often to invasive procedures or even arthroplasties. The use of amniotic fluid stem cells (AFSCs), due to their multipotentiality and plasticity, associated with scaffolds, is a promising alternative for the reconstruction of articular cartilage. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the chondrogenic potential of AFSCs in a micromass system (high-density cell culture) under insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) stimuli, as well as to look at their potential to differentiate directly when cultured in a porous chitosan-xanthan (CX) scaffold. The experiments were performed with a CD117 positive cell population, with expression of markers (CD117, SSEA-4, Oct-4 and NANOG), selected from AFSCs, after immunomagnetic separation. The cells were cultured in both a micromass system and directly in the scaffold, in the presence of IGF-1. Differentiation to chondrocytes was confirmed by histology and by using immunohistochemistry. The construct cell-scaffold was also analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results demonstrated the chondrogenic potential of AFSCs cultivated directly in CX scaffolds and also in the micromass system. Such findings support and stimulate future studies using these constructs in osteoarthritic animal models.

Tendência da mortalidade por tuberculose em adultos de dez capitais brasileiras, 1996-2018 / Tuberculosis mortality trend in adults, in ten Brazilian capitals (1996-2018) / Tendencia de la mortalidad por tuberculosis en adultos de diez capitales brasileñas, 1996-2018

O objetivo do estudo foi analisar a tendência da mortalidade por tuberculose em adultos, por sexo, de dez capitais brasileiras, no período de 1996 a 2018. Para tanto, foi realizado um estudo ecológico de séries temporais, a partir de dados do Instituto Brasileiro de Geografia e Estatística e do Sistema de Informações sobre Mortalidade. Os coeficientes de mortalidade por tuberculose respiratória em adultos, por 100.000 habitantes, foram calculados e padronizados pelo método direto, por idade e sexo (feminino, masculino e ambos). A tendência temporal da mortalidade foi analisada pelo método de Prais-Winsten. Recife, Rio de Janeiro e Salvador apresentaram os maiores coeficientes médios de mortalidade no período. A razão entre os coeficientes médios de mortalidade por sexo foi maior entre homens. A tendência de mortalidade por tuberculose foi decrescente e significativa para todas as capitais entre homens, mulheres e população total, com exceção de Fortaleza. A maior redução percentual anual foi encontrada em Curitiba. Apesar de serem observadas tendências decrescentes da mortalidade em adultos para a maioria das capitais, as taxas ainda permanecem expressivas e foram apresentadas tendências estacionárias para Fortaleza, na população geral e sexo masculino.

This study was analyzes the tuberculosis mortality trend in adults, by gender, from 1996 to 2018, in ten Brazilian capitals. A time series ecological study was conducted based on data obtained from the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE) and the Mortality Information System (SIM). Mortality rates for respiratory tuberculosis in adults, per 1000,000 inhabitants, were calculated and standardized by age and gender (male, female, and both) using the direct method. Mortality time trend was analyzed using the Prais-Winsten regression method. Recife, Rio de Janeiro and Salvador showed the highest average mortality rates in the period. The ratio of average mortality rates by gender was higher among men. The trend in tuberculosis mortality was downward and significant for all capitals among men, women, and the total population, except for Fortaleza. Curitiba had the highest annual percentage drop. Despite the decreasing mortality rates observed in adults for most capitals, they remain expressive and even presented a stationary behavior in Fortaleza, among the general population and men.

El objetivo de este estudio fue analizar la tendencia de la mortalidad por tuberculosis en adultos según sexo en diez capitales brasileñas en el período de 1996 a 2018. Se realizó un estudio ecológico de series temporales, a partir de datos del Instituto Brasileño de Geografía y Estadística y del Sistema de Información sobre Mortalidad. Los coeficientes de mortalidad por tuberculosis respiratoria en adultos, por 100.000 habitantes, fueron calculados y estandarizados por el método directo, según edad y sexo (femenino, masculino y ambos). La tendencia temporal de la mortalidad se analizó con el uso del método de Prais-Winsten. Recife, Río de Janeiro y Salvador presentaron los mayores coeficientes medios de mortalidad en el período. La razón entre los coeficientes medios de mortalidad según sexo fue mayor entre hombres. La tendencia de la mortalidad por tuberculosis fue decreciente y significativa para todas las capitales entre hombres, mujeres y la población total, con excepción de Fortaleza. La mayor reducción porcentual anual se encontró en Curitiba. Aunque se observan tendencias decrecientes en la mortalidad de adultos para la mayoría de las capitales, las tasas siguen siendo expresivas y se presentaron tendencias estacionarias para Fortaleza en la población general y el sexo masculino.

A randomized controlled trial on the use of pessary plus progesterone to prevent preterm birth in women with short cervical length (P5 trial).

BACKGROUND: Preterm birth is the leading cause of mortality and disability in newborn and infants. Having a short cervix increases the risk of preterm birth, which can be accessed by a transvaginal ultrasound scan during the second trimester. In women with a short cervix, vaginal progesterone and pessary can both reduce this risk, which progesterone more established than cervical pessary. The aim of this study is to compare the use of vaginal progesterone alone versus the association of progesterone plus pessary to prevent preterm birth in women with a short cervix. METHODS: This is a pragmatic open-label randomized controlled trial that will take place in 17 health facilities in Brazil. Pregnant women will be screened for a short cervix with a transvaginal ultrasound between 18 0/7 until 22 6/7 weeks of gestational age. Women with a cervical length below or equal to 30 mm will be randomized to the combination of progesterone (200 mg) and pessary or progesterone (200 mg) alone until 36 + 0 weeks. The primary outcome will be a composite of neonatal adverse events, to be collected at 10 weeks after birth. The analysis will be by intention to treat. The sample size is 936 women, and a prespecified subgroup analysis is planned for cervical length (= < or > 25 mm). Categorical variables will be expressed as a percentage and continuous variables as mean with standard deviation. Time to delivery will be assessed with Kaplan-Meier analysis and Cox proportional hazard analysis. DISCUSSION: In clinical practice, the combination of progesterone and pessary is common however, few studies have studied this association. The combination of treatment might act in both the biochemical and mechanical routes related to the onset of preterm birth. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Brazilian Clinical Trial Registry (ReBec) RBR-3t8prz, UTN: U1111-1164-2636, 2014/11/18.

Reference ranges for ultrasound measurements of fetal kidneys in a cohort of low-risk pregnant women.

PURPOSE: Alterations in renal dimensions may be an early manifestation of deviation from normality, with possible repercussions beyond intrauterine life. The objective of this study was to establish reference curves for fetal kidney dimensions and volume from 14 to 40 weeks of gestation. METHODS: This is a prospective longitudinal study of 115 Brazilian participants in the "WHO multicentre study for the development of growth standards from fetal life to childhood: the fetal component". Pregnant women with clinical and sociodemographic characteristics allowing the full potential fetal growth were followed up from the first trimester until delivery. These women underwent serial sonographic evaluation of fetal kidneys. The longitudinal, anteroposterior and transverse diameters of both fetal kidneys were measured, in addition to calculation of kidney volume. By quantile regression analysis, reference curves of renal measurements related to gestational age were built. RESULTS: Standard normal sonographic values of renal biometry were defined during pregnancy. Reference values for the 10th, 50th and 90th centiles of different fetal kidney measurements (longitudinal, anteroposterior, transverse and volume) from the 14th to the 40th week of gestation were fitted. CONCLUSION: The reference curves presented should be of the utmost importance for screening and diagnosis of alterations in renal development during the intrauterine period.

Reflexões sobre a implantação de novas estratégias de educação popular em uma ESF de um município do leste de Minas Gerais / Reflections on the implementation of new strategies for popular education in an ESF from a municipality in eastern Minas Gerais

Introdução: Considerando a persistente iniquidade nas práticas preventivas, surge a Educação Popular em Saúde (EPS), construída, a partir de metodologias pedagógicas dialógicas, democráticas e inclusivas, dentre as quais se destaca a de Paulo Freire. Este trabalho relata a experiência de discentes do Curso de Medicina em uma intervenção do PET-Saúde/GraduaSUS numa Estratégia de Saúde da Família (ESF), que teve dois focos: um voltado aos profissionais da ESF, introduzindo-os à metodologia de Freire, e outro direcionado aos usuários da ESF, orientando-os, por meio de grupos de autocuidado acerca de temas em saúde. Todas as ações foram realizadas nos moldes dos Círculos de Cultura. Houve boa aceitação por parte de profissionais e comunidade. As potencialidades da intervenção incluíram, principalmente, a imersão da ESF e da comunidade num novo modelo de EPS e o aprendizado teórico-prático dos discentes de medicina sobre ações de educação em saúde. Para a ESF, essas atividades propiciaram maior proximidade entre a equipe e a comunidade, além de melhor interação entre os profissionais e, para os usuários, a experiência de participação em grupos de autocuidado. Aos acadêmicos, a possibilidade de vivenciar a integração ensino-serviço-comunidade permitiu uma nova visão sobre a participação do médico na atenção básica.

Considering the persistent inequity in preventive practices, the Health Popular Education (EPS) arose built from dialogical, democratic and inclusive pedagogical methodologies, among which Paulo Freire stands out. This work describes the experience of medical students in a PET-Saúde/GraduaSUS intervention in a Family Health Strategy (ESF). The intervention had two focuses: one focused on the ESF health professionals, introducing them to Freire's methodology, and another focused on the ESF patients, instructing them in self-care groups. All actions were made based on Freire's Cultural Circles. There was a good acceptance both by professionals and the community. The intervention potentialities included, mainly, the immersion of the ESF team and community in a new model of EPS and the theoretical-practical learning by medical students about health education actions. For the ESF, these activities allowed greater proximity between the team and the community, other than better interaction among the professionals and, for the community, the experience of participating in self-care groups. For the academics, the experience of the teaching-service-community integration allowed a new vision of the physician in the basic healthcare setting.

Micromass cultures are effective for differentiation of human amniotic fluid stem cells into chondrocytes.

OBJECTIVES: Articular cartilage is vulnerable to injuries and undergoes an irreversible degenerative process. The use of amniotic fluid mesenchymal stromal stem cells for the reconstruction of articular cartilage is a promising therapeutic alternative. The aim of this study was to investigate the chondrogenic potential of amniotic fluid mesenchymal stromal stem cells from human amniotic fluid from second trimester pregnant women in a micromass system (high-density cell culture) with TGF-ß3 for 21 days. METHODS: Micromass was performed using amniotic fluid mesenchymal stromal stem cells previously cultured in a monolayer. Chondrocytes from adult human normal cartilage were used as controls. After 21 days, chondrogenic potential was determined by measuring the expression of genes, such as SOX-9, type II collagen and aggrecan, in newly differentiated cells by real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). The production of type II collagen protein was observed by western blotting. Immunohistochemistry analysis was also performed to detect collagen type II and aggrecan. This study was approved by the local ethics committee. RESULTS: SOX-9, aggrecan and type II collagen were expressed in newly differentiated chondrocytes. The expression of SOX-9 was significantly higher in newly differentiated chondrocytes than in adult cartilage. Collagen type II protein was also detected. CONCLUSION: We demonstrate that stem cells from human amniotic fluid are a suitable source for chondrogenesis when cultured in a micromass system. amniotic fluid mesenchymal stromal stem cells are an extremely viable source for clinical applications, and our results suggest the possibility of using human amniotic fluid as a source of mesenchymal stem cells.

Imaging Techniques in the Diagnostic Journey of Disorders of Sex Development.

Various disorders of sex development (DSD) result in an abnormal development of genitalia that may be recognized at prenatal ultrasonography, immediately after birth, or later in life. Because of the complex nature of DSD, the participation of a multidisciplinary team, including imaging or radiology technologists, is required to address the patient's medical needs. The first steps in the management of DSD are sex evaluation, which is based on factors such as the genotype, the presence, location, and appearance of reproductive organs, the potential for fertility, and the cultural background and beliefs of the patient's family. It is also important to ensure the detection of comorbidity (as in syndromes) and to define the etiology of DSD in order to offer the best prognosis. Ultrasonography is the primary modality for demonstrating internal organs, genitography is used to assess the urethra, vagina, and any fistulas, and magnetic resonance imaging is used as an additional modality to assess internal gonads and genitalia. This review presents the advantages and disadvantages and the sensitivity and specificity for each type of radiological imaging to help in the evaluation of DSD cases before and after birth.

Avaliação de parâmetros metabólicos e marcadores de doença cardiovascular subclínica em novas usuárias não obesas do contraceptivo de acetato de medroxiprogesterona de depósito / Evaluation of metabolic parameters and markers of subclinical cardivascular desease in new and non-obese users of depot medroxyprogesterone acetate contraceptive

Resumo: As doenças cardiovasculares (DCV) estão entre as principais causas de mortalidade global. Nos Estados Unidos as taxas de mortalidade por DCV em mulheres nas faixas de idade de 35-54 anos não têm mostrado a redução esperada. O numero de mulheres nos estudos ainda é pequeno e falta conhecimento sobre o impacto na saúde cardiovascular dos ciclos gestacionais e do uso de compostos hormonais para contracepção/terapias por períodos longos. Objetivos: avaliar o metabolismo de carboidratos e marcadores de DCV em mulheres não obesas saudáveis durante o primeiro ano de uso do contraceptivo de acetato de medroxiprogesterona de depósito (AMPD). Métodos: estudo prospectivo não randomizado, comparativo, conduzido no Ambulatório de Planejamento Familiar e no Serviço de Ecografia do Departamento de Obstetrícia e Ginecologia da Faculdade de Ciências Médicas/UNICAMP, entre 02/2011 e 02/2013. Mulheres com 18-40 anos e índice de massa corporal (IMC) <30 kg/m2, recrutadas a partir de Unidades Básicas de Saúde, realizaram teste de pós-carga com 75 mg glicose via oral (OGTT). Foram incluídas aquelas que apresentaram OGTT normal e assinaram Termo de Consentimento Livre e Esclarecido. Os critérios de exclusão foram diagnóstico/antecedente de Diabete Melittus, período de aleitamento, hipertensão arterial, hiper/hipotiroidismo, insuficiência renal crônica, hirsutismo/hiperandrogenismo, Síndrome do Ovário Policístico, uso crônico de corticosteróides, antipsicóticos, tiazídicos e estatinas, antecedente de transplante de órgão, cirurgia bariátrica e omentectomia. As mulheres puderam escolher utilizar o AMPD ou o dispositivo intrauterino com cobre (DIU) e compuseram dois grupos pareados por idade (±1) e IMC (±1), seguidos durante 12 meses. Realizou-se avaliação de peso, IMC, composição corporal por densitometria (DXA), medidas da cintura, pressão arterial e ultrassonográficas da espessura da intima-media da artéria carótida e dos compartimentos de gordura abdominal (GA), dosagens séricas dos perfis glicêmico e lipídico, ácidos graxos livres, apolipoproteínas A1 e B-100, adipocinas IL-6, TN-alfa, leptina, adiponectina, PCR e cálculo do índice HOMA. Resultados: Apresentaram-se 290 mulheres, 72 com critérios para inclusão e 56 (31 grupo AMPD e 25 DIU) foram analisadas com relação ao metabolismo de carboidratos, semestralmente. O grupo AMPD mostrou elevação nos níveis séricos de insulina, HOMA, circunferência da cintura e IMC, quando comparado ao grupo DIU. Analisando-se as 30 mulheres sem resistência insulínica, o grupo AMPD mostrou aumento de triglicérides aos 12 meses em relação ao grupo DIU. Entre 37 mulheres, as medidas ultrassonográficas de GA, realizadas no basal e aos 12 meses, apresentaram forte correlação com as medidas de composição corporal e antropométricas, e com as concentrações séricas de colesterol total, LDL colesterol, APO B-100 e PCR. Conclusões: Não foram observados efeitos cardiovasculares significativos no primeiro ano de uso do AMPD nesta amostra; o aumento de triglicérides foi interpretado como variação provocada por alterações no metabolismo da glicose. HOMA, peso corporal e circunferência da cintura foram parâmetros clínicos importantes para o monitoramento das usuárias de AMPD. A ultrassonografia poderá ser ferramenta viável para identificar indivíduos com aumento de gordura corporal e risco cardiovascular; sendo necessários estudos futuros para confirmação desses resultados, padronização de locais de aferição e pontos de corte relacionados ao possível risco para DCV(AU)

Abstract: One of the main causes of global death is cardiovascular disease (CVD). In the United State of America the mortality rates have not decreased as expected in women between 35 and 54 years old. In general, the studies are performed with a small number of women in the sample composition and lack knowledge about specifically female characteristics and their interaction in cardiovascular health, such as the use of hormonal contraceptives for a prolonged time. Objectives: To evaluate carbohydrate metabolism and markers of CVD in the first year of depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) for contraceptive use. Methods: Prospective, not randomized comparative study conducted in the Family Planning Clinic and Ultrasound Unit of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Campinas Medical School, between 02/2011-02/2013. Women aged 18-40 years and body mass index (BMI) <30 kg/m2, recruited from Basic Health Units, performed a post-load test with 75 mg oral glucose (OGTT). Those that presented normal OGTT and agreed to participate were included in the study. The exclusion criteria were diagnosis/history of diabetes mellitus, lactation period, hypertension, hyper/hypothyroidism, chronic renal failure, hirsutism/hyperandrogenism, polycystic ovarian syndrome, chronic use of corticosteroids, antipsychotics, thiazides and statins, history of organ transplantation, bariatric surgery and omentectomy. Women were able to choose to use the DMPA or copper intrauterine device (IUD) and composed two matched groups by age (±1) and BMI (±1), followed for 12 months. Were evaluated weight, BMI, body composition (BC), waist circumference, blood pressure and ultrasound measurements of the carotid intimal medial thickness and abdominal fat compartments (AF), serum levels of lipid and glycemic profiles, free fatty acids, apolipoproteins A-1 and B-100, adipokines IL-6, TN-alpha, leptin, adiponectin, C-reactive protein (CRP) and HOMA index, at baseline and 12 months. Results: 290 women were enrolled, of which 72 met the criteria for inclusion and only 56 women (31-DMPA group and 25-IUD group) were analyzed with regard to carbohydrate metabolism at baseline and after 6 and 12 months. The DMPA group showed elevated serum levels of insulin, HOMA, waist circumference and BMI when compared to the IUD group. The analysis of 30 women without insulin resistance, diagnosed by hyperinsulemic euglycemic clamp, the DMPA group showed increase of triglycerides at 12 months when compared to the IUD group. Among 37 women, ultrasonography measurements of AF at baseline and 12 months showed a strong correlation with BC and anthropometric measurements, and serum concentrations of total cholesterol, LDL- chol, APO B-100 and CRP. Conclusions: No significant cardiovascular effects were observed in the first year of DMPA use in this sample; the increase in triglycerides was interpreted as a variation caused by changes in glucose metabolism. HOMA, body weight and waist circumference were important clinical parameters for the monitoring of DMPA users. Ultrasonography may be a viable tool to identify individuals with increased body fat and cardiovascular risk and future studies are required to confirm these results, to standardize measurement sites and cut-off points related to the possible risk for CVD(AU)

Micromass cultures are effective for differentiation of human amniotic fluid stem cells into chondrocytes

OBJECTIVES: Articular cartilage is vulnerable to injuries and undergoes an irreversible degenerative process. The use of amniotic fluid mesenchymal stromal stem cells for the reconstruction of articular cartilage is a promising therapeutic alternative. The aim of this study was to investigate the chondrogenic potential of amniotic fluid mesenchymal stromal stem cells from human amniotic fluid from second trimester pregnant women in a micromass system (high-density cell culture) with TGF-β3 for 21 days. METHODS: Micromass was performed using amniotic fluid mesenchymal stromal stem cells previously cultured in a monolayer. Chondrocytes from adult human normal cartilage were used as controls. After 21 days, chondrogenic potential was determined by measuring the expression of genes, such as SOX-9, type II collagen and aggrecan, in newly differentiated cells by real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). The production of type II collagen protein was observed by western blotting. Immunohistochemistry analysis was also performed to detect collagen type II and aggrecan. This study was approved by the local ethics committee. RESULTS: SOX-9, aggrecan and type II collagen were expressed in newly differentiated chondrocytes. The expression of SOX-9 was significantly higher in newly differentiated chondrocytes than in adult cartilage. Collagen type II protein was also detected. CONCLUSION: We demonstrate that stem cells from human amniotic fluid are a suitable source for chondrogenesis when cultured in a micromass system. amniotic fluid mesenchymal stromal stem cells are an extremely viable source for clinical applications, and our results suggest the possibility of using human amniotic fluid as a source of mesenchymal stem cells.

Reference Ranges for Ultrasonographic Measurements of the Uterine Cervix in Low-Risk Pregnant Women / Valores de referência das medidas ultrassonográficas do colo uterino em gestantes de baixo risco

Abstract Objective To define transvaginal ultrasound reference ranges for uterine cervix measurements according to gestational age (GA) in low-risk pregnancies. Methods Cohort of low-risk pregnantwomen undergoing transvaginal ultrasound exams every 4 weeks, comprisingmeasurements of the cervical length and volume, the transverse and anteroposterior diameters of the cervix, and distance fromthe entrance of the uterine artery into the cervix until the internal os. The inter- and intraobserver variabilities were assessed with the linear correlation coefficient and the Student t-test. Within each period of GA, 2.5, 10, 50, 90 and 97.5 percentiles were estimated, and the variation by GA was assessed with analysis of variance for dependent samples. Mean values and Student t-test were used to compare the values stratified by control variables. Results After confirming the high reproducibility of the method, 172 women followed in this cohort presented a reduction in cervical length, with an increase in volume and in the anteroposterior and transverse diameters during pregnancy. Smaller cervical lengths were associated with younger age, lower parity, and absence of previous cesarean section (C-section). Conclusion In the studied population, we observed cervical length shortening throughout pregnancy, suggesting a physiological reduction mainly in the vaginal portion of the cervix. In order to better predict pretermbirth, cervical insufficiency and premature rupture of membranes, reference curves and specific cut-off values need to be validated.

Resumo Objetivo Elaborar curvas de referências de medidas ultrassonográficas de colo uterino por idade gestacional (IG) em gestações de baixo risco. Métodos Coorte de gestantes de baixo risco, submetidas a ultrassom transvaginal repetido a cada 4 semanas, com medida do comprimento, dos diâmetros anteroposterior e transverso, da distância entre a entrada da artéria uterina no colo e o orifício interno, e do volume do colo. Foi avaliada a variabilidade inter e intraobservador entre as medidas com o coeficiente de correlação linear e teste t de Student. Para cada faixa de IG, estimaram-se os percentis 2,5, 10, 50, 90 e 97,5 dos valores das medidas, com a variação por IG avaliada por análise de variância para amostras dependentes. As comparações dos valores por variáveis de controle foram feitas por meio dos cálculos de médias e teste t de Student. Resultados Assegurada a alta reprodutibilidade do método, as 172 mulheres acompanhadas na coorte apresentaram redução das medidas de comprimento de colo com o decorrer da gestação, com aumento de volume e dos diâmetros anteroposterior e transverso. O menor comprimento cervical foi associado à menor idade materna, menor paridade, e ausência de cesárea prévia. Conclusão Na população estudada foi observada redução no comprimento cervical com o decorrer da gestação, sugerindo encurtamento fisiológico principalmente à custa da porção vaginal do colo. Há a necessidade de validar tais curvas de referência e pontos de corte específicos para uma melhor predição de risco de parto pré-termo, insuficiência cervical, e amniorrexe prematura.

Reference Ranges for Ultrasonographic Measurements of the Uterine Cervix in Low-Risk Pregnant Women.

Objective To define transvaginal ultrasound reference ranges for uterine cervix measurements according to gestational age (GA) in low-risk pregnancies. Methods Cohort of low-risk pregnant women undergoing transvaginal ultrasound exams every 4 weeks, comprising measurements of the cervical length and volume, the transverse and anteroposterior diameters of the cervix, and distance from the entrance of the uterine artery into the cervix until the internal os. The inter- and intraobserver variabilities were assessed with the linear correlation coefficient and the Student t-test. Within each period of GA, 2.5, 10, 50, 90 and 97.5 percentiles were estimated, and the variation by GA was assessed with analysis of variance for dependent samples. Mean values and Student t-test were used to compare the values stratified by control variables. Results After confirming the high reproducibility of the method, 172 women followed in this cohort presented a reduction in cervical length, with an increase in volume and in the anteroposterior and transverse diameters during pregnancy. Smaller cervical lengths were associated with younger age, lower parity, and absence of previous cesarean section (C-section). Conclusion In the studied population, we observed cervical length shortening throughout pregnancy, suggesting a physiological reduction mainly in the vaginal portion of the cervix. In order to better predict preterm birth, cervical insufficiency and premature rupture of membranes, reference curves and specific cut-off values need to be validated.

Objetivo Elaborar curvas de referências de medidas ultrassonográficas de colo uterino por idade gestacional (IG) em gestações de baixo risco. Métodos Coorte de gestantes de baixo risco, submetidas a ultrassom transvaginal repetido a cada 4 semanas, com medida do comprimento, dos diâmetros antero-posterior e transverso, da distância entre a entrada da artéria uterina no colo e o orifício interno, e do volume do colo. Foi avaliada a variabilidade inter e intraobservador entre as medidas com o coeficiente de correlação linear e teste t de Student. Para cada faixa de IG, estimaram-se os percentis 2,5, 10, 50, 90 e 97,5 dos valores das medidas, com a variação por IG avaliada por análise de variância para amostras dependentes. As comparações dos valores por variáveis de controle foram feitas por meio dos cálculos de médias e teste t de Student. Resultados Assegurada a alta reprodutibilidade do método, as 172 mulheres acompanhadas na coorte apresentaram redução das medidas de comprimento de colo com o decorrer da gestação, com aumento de volume e dos diâmetros anteroposterior e transverso. O menor comprimento cervical foi associado à menor idade materna, menor paridade, e ausência de cesárea prévia. Conclusão Na população estudada foi observada redução no comprimento cervical com o decorrer da gestação, sugerindo encurtamento fisiológico principalmente à custa da porção vaginal do colo. Há a necessidade de validar tais curvas de referência e pontos de corte específicos para uma melhor predição de risco de parto pré-termo, insuficiência cervical, e amniorrexe prematura.

Medida do nível de ruído hospitalar e seus efeitos em funcionários a partir do relato de queixas / Noise level measurement and its effects on hospital employees based on complaint reports

RESUMO Objetivos: avaliar o nível de ruído em diversos ambientes de um Hospital Público e analisar seus efeitos em funcionários a partir do relato de queixas. Métodos: estudo quantitativo, descritivo e transversal. Utilizou-se para levantamento dos dados um decibelímetro Minipa(r) ajustado na escala de 40 a 130 decibels posicionado em diferentes setores do hospital em turnos diferentes, durante uma semana, e um questionário adaptado que foi aplicado aos funcionários. Resultados: o nível de ruídos apresentou valor mínimo de 52,5 decibels na Unidade de Terapia Intensiva (UTI) Neonatal e máximo de 85 decibels na Enfermaria Feminina com diferença significativa entre os diferentes dias da semana durante o mesmo turno. O mesmo ocorreu no Pronto Socorro, mas não apresentou significância nos demais setores. Os funcionários sentem desconforto a sons fortes, 74,4%, e 35,5 % sentem mal estar e cansaço devido ao estresse provocado pelo ruído que é produzido por vários dispositivos combinados com os sons de alarmes, obras, horários de visitas e conversação entre os funcionários do hospital. Conclusão: os níveis de ruído estão acima do recomendado nos diferentes setores e os profissionais manifestam desconforto e queixa de zumbido antes e após à sua exposição.

ABSTRACT Purpose: to assess the noise level in different environments of a public hospital and to analyze its effects on employees from reporting complaints. Methods: a quantitative, descriptive and cross-sectioned study. To survey data, we used a Minipa(r) decibelimeter adjusted in the range 40-130 decibels positioned in different hospital departments in different shifts for a week to evaluate noise levels and an adapted questionnaire that was applied to employees. Results: the level of noise introduced minimum of 52.5 decibels in the Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and a maximum of 85 decibels in the women's ward with a significant difference between the different days of the week during the same turn. The same occurred in the emergency room, but did not show significance in other sectors. Employees feel discomfort to loud sounds, 74.4%, and 35.5% feel sick after hours due to stress caused by noise that is produced by multiple devices combined with the sounds of alarms, works, visits and schedules conversation between the hospital staff. Conclusion: noise levels are above the recommended levels in different sectors and professionals manifest discomfort and tinnitus before and after their exposure.

Fullerene-based symmetry in Hibiscus rosa-sinensis pollen.

The fullerene molecule belongs to the so-called super materials. The compound is interesting due to its spherical configuration where atoms occupy positions forming a mechanically stable structure. We first demonstrate that pollen of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis has a strong symmetry regarding the distribution of its spines over the spherical grain. These spines form spherical hexagons and pentagons. The distance between atoms in fullerene is explained applying principles of flat, spherical, and spatial geometry, based on Euclid's "Elements" book, as well as logic algorithms. Measurements of the pollen grain take into account that the true spine lengths, and consequently the real distances between them, are measured to the periphery of each grain. Algorithms are developed to recover the spatial effects lost in 2D photos. There is a clear correspondence between the position of atoms in the fullerene molecule and the position of spines in the pollen grain. In the fullerene the separation gives the idea of equal length bonds which implies perfectly distributed electron clouds while in the pollen grain we suggest that the spines being equally spaced carry an electrical charge originating in forces involved in the pollination process.

Non-immune hydrops fetalis: A prospective study of 53 cases.

Non-immune hydrops fetalis (NIHF) is a symptom caused by a heterogeneous group of conditions. Diagnostic investigations may constitute a real challenge. This study aimed to evaluate prospectively and systematically a series of NIHF cases using a research protocol expanded for studying inborn errors of metabolism (IEM) during 2 years-2010 and 2011. We also reviewed the frequency of IEM among the NIHF reported in literature. A clinical or etiopathogenic diagnosis was reached in 46 (86.8%) of the 53 studied cases. The main diagnostic groups were chromosomal anomalies (28.3%), syndromic (18.9%), isolated cardiovascular anomaly (7.5%) and congenital infection (7.5%). Metabolic causes were found in 5.7%, all lysosomal storage disorders (LSD). In seven (13.2%), no diagnosis was found in part because of incomplete evaluation. The hydrops was identified prenatally in 90.5% of cases. In 5.7% a spontaneous and complete resolution of the hydrops occurred during pregnancy. Overall mortality was 75.5%. The IEM frequency in the present study (5.7%) was higher than that usually reported. We suggest performing studies directed to IEMs if the more common causes are excluded.

Body stalk anomaly: adverse maternal outcomes in a series of 21 cases.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the demographic characteristics of cases with body stalk anomaly (BSA) and describe the obstetric outcome. METHOD: Retrospective review of a case series of BSA diagnosed from 2000 to 2010. RESULTS: Among the 21 cases, mean gestational age at diagnosis was 22 weeks (range 11-35 weeks). Ten cases elected termination of pregnancy, which was performed at a median gestational age of 24 weeks. One termination of pregnancy at 33 weeks' gestation in a woman with late diagnosis of BSA and a previous uterine scar, required cesarean section during labor because of clinical signs of uterine rupture. Of the remaining 11 cases, four were lost to follow-up, three delivered vaginally, three underwent elective cesarean sections, and one underwent cesarean section because of obstructed labor. Six of seven cases were growth restricted and six of seven were small for gestational age. There were no abnormal karyotypes among the nine cases which underwent cytogenetic studies. CONCLUSION: Continuation of pregnancy in the presence of BSA is associated with greater maternal risks, in the form of labor complications requiring cesarean section. This information should be discussed with couples at the time of diagnosis.

Congenital hydrocephalus: gestational and neonatal outcomes.

PURPOSE: To evaluate gestational and neonatal outcomes in pregnancies complicated by fetal hydrocephalus. METHODS: Retrospective analysis of 287 cases of fetal hydrocephalus followed at the Fetal Medicine Unit of the University of Campinas in the period of 1996 to 2006. RESULTS: Mean maternal age was 25 years, mean gestational age at diagnosis was 27 weeks. There were 50 cases of isolated ventriculomegaly, 95 cases of Chiari II malformation and 142 cases of ventriculomegaly associated with other malformations. Preterm delivery and vaginal delivery were more frequent in the group of ventriculomegaly associated with other malformations. Cardiac, skeletal and renal malformations were the most common associated malformations. Cesarean section was common (95%) in the Chiari II group. Fetal and neonatal death occurred more frequently (29 and 68%, respectively) in the group of ventriculomegaly associated with other malformations. Chromosomal anomalies were present in 15% of 165 investigated cases. CONCLUSIONS: Fetal and neonatal prognosis and outcome are associated with the presence of associated anomalies and aneuploidy.