Maternal Mental Health in Latinx/Hispanic Women after COVID-19 Pandemic.

The recent COVID-19 global emergency may have ripple effects on mental health of many people worldwide. This is especially true for populations like birthing and postpartum women where many changes to daily routines, access to medical care, work-related routines and socialization were experienced. This brief report presents data from an ongoing cohort study aiming to describe maternal mental health during the pandemic T12 (March 2020 to April 2021) with post-pandemic T2 (May 2022 to May 2023) of mothers followed in Puerto Rico. 47 out of 100 mothers have been recalled and assessed with psychosocial interviews (COPE-IUS) and assessments of anxiety (GAD-7) and depression (PHQ-9). Paired t-test revealed mean scores of depressions (PHQ-9) were significantly higher for T2 with a mean of 6.35 and a range of 4.4+/- than for T1 where mean was 5.15 (+/- 2.9), t=-1.954, df=45, p < .05. Similarly, anxiety scores (GAD-7) were significantly higher in T2 6.67 (4.2) than for T1 5.35 (3.7), t=-1.8, df=45, p < .05. Also, COPE-IUS Post-pandemic psychosocial interview results evidence that 80% of mothers do not feel the COVID-19 pandemic is a significant stressor at T2 and are able to maintain routine activities with no social distancing measures. However, reports of loneliness, sadness, worry, and fear continue to be present. Our findings point to the need to further identify other contributing factors to the deterioration of maternal mental health during the perinatal/peripartum period (pregnancy, birth, and postpartum) in Puerto Rico. Possibly the effects of repeated adversity that has been present in the island (multiple environmental stressors, history of traumatic experiences, and constant hardships) may all have cumulative impact over maternal mental health during the perinatal/peripartum period.

Exploring the antimicrobial potential of Leukocyte- and Platelet-Rich Fibrin - an in vitro study.

This study investigates the antimicrobial properties of leukocyte- and platelet-rich fibrin (L-PRF) against Enterococcus faecalis (ATCC 29212), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC 27853), and Candida albicans (ATCC 90028). Infections can hinder wound healing posing challenges. L-PRF's potential for regeneration and antimicrobial action has been studied. Considering the increasing concern about antibiotic resistance, assessing the antimicrobial properties of L-PRF provides valuable insights into its potential as a therapeutic agent in postoperative infections. Twenty volunteers were enrolled in the study, following ethical guidelines, and obtaining informed consent. Blood samples were collected and L-PRF was prepared. Microbial suspensions were prepared, and susceptibility testing was performed using the Kirby-Bauer agar diffusion method. The study revealed significant heterogeneity in the susceptibility to L-PRF. All L-PRF membrane samples exhibited antimicrobial activity against P. aeruginosa, with inhibition zones of 13 mm ± 3.85 SD. Enterococcus faecalis displayed inhibition diameter of 7.25 mm ± 5.15 SD. Candida albicans susceptibility to L-PRF varied among samples, with both inhibitory and non-inhibitory results. Results showed varying degrees of antimicrobial activity, particularly against P. aeruginosa, and highlight the complexity of the L-PRF-microorganism interaction. Further investigations are needed to elucidate the clinical implications and optimize the use of L-PRF.

Acupuncture Effect on Reaction-Time Changes in Parkinson's Disease Patients-Case Study Series.

Background: Parkinson's Disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative condition associated with deficit in reaction time which can lead to falls, resulting in limited independence, diminished quality of life, heightened rates of institutionalization and increased healthcare costs. We aimed to examine the effects of an acupuncture protocol in motor time response after an auditory stimulus. Methods: This study employed a case series design. Reaction time to exposed rhythmic and random auditory stimuli outcomes were evaluated at six different moments over a month-long acupuncture treatment protocol using the MP 36 system from Biopac Systems. Results: We observed a tendency to have more pronounced improvements in the time response in the more affected side of the body compared with the contralateral one. Patients tended to show better values of response to random auditory stimuli compared to rhythmic auditory ones. We also observed a tendency to obtain better results when considering the accumulative effects of the acupuncture protocol. Conclusions: Our findings indicated a possible role of reaction time as a sensitive and useful tool for motor function assessment in PD patients. Also, from our results, we concluded that the acupuncture protocol used may lead to an improvement in efficacy of motor response after aleatory and rhythmic stimulus; we also found a tendency for a higher efficacy of acupuncture in random stimuli responses in the first stages of the disease. However, further in-depth research, including a statistical evaluation with a larger participant pool, is necessary to validate and confirm these promising results.

Comprehensive analysis of L-PRF exudate components and their impact on whole blood platelets.

OBJECTIVE: This study assessed the cellular composition and effects of leukocyte-platelet-rich fibrin (L-PRF) exudate on whole blood platelets from healthy volunteers. Key objectives included evaluating leukocyte subpopulations, platelet activation markers, platelet-leukocyte interactions and quantifying inflammatory cytokines within the L-PRF exudate. MATERIALS AND METHODS: L-PRF was obtained from 20 healthy donors. Flow cytometry methodologies were used to assess intracellular calcium kinetics and activated GPIIbIIIa, and P-selectin expression. Leukocyte subpopulations and platelet-leukocyte interactions were characterized using monoclonal antibodies. Inflammatory cytokines (IL-8, IL-1ß, IL-6, IL-10, TNF, IL-12p70) within L-PRF exudate were quantified using a cytometric bead array. RESULTS: The expression of activated GPIIbIIIa, and P-selectin exhibited a significant increase (p < 0.001) when L-PRF exudate was added to platelets of whole blood. Regarding intracellular Ca2+ mobilization, the L-PRF exudate elicited significant responses (p < 0.001). L-PRF exudate contained different leukocytes populations, being TCD4 + the most representative of T cells. It was possible to stablish a profile of cytokines produced by the L-PRF exudate, with human IL-8 cytokine exhibiting the highest average (16.90 pg/mL). CONCLUSIONS: Despite the study limitations, the research yielded important insights: 1- L-PRF exudate can stimulate platelet activation, essential in healing, tissue inflammation and remodeling. 2-The presence of leukocyte subpopulations within L-PRF exudate reflexes its complexity and potential to enhance immune responses. 3-The analysis of inflammatory cytokines within L-PRF exudate revealed its immunomodulatory potential. These findings are valuable evidences for understanding the potential role of L-PRF exudate in regenerative dentistry and medicine, offering innovative therapeutic strategies. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: This research highlights crucial aspects that could significantly influence the clinical use of L-PRF exudate in the oral cavity. The findings support the application of L-PRF exudate in both surgical and regenerative dentistry, facilitating the development of innovative therapeutic strategies to enhance patient outcomes.

Complications of transvaginal radiofrequency ablation of fibroids: A 5-year experience.

Introduction: Transvaginal radiofrequency ablation is a relatively noninvasive approach for the treatment of fibroids in patients who do not wish to undergo conventional surgery. Information on potential complications of this novel technique is very scarce. Methods: Retrospective, descriptive, epidemiological study of 115 patients who underwent transvaginal radiofrequency ablation of fibroids and for whom complications were recorded. Results: We performed 115 transvaginal radiofrequency ablation procedures, we recorded a total of 11 complications (9.6%; 95% CI, 3.8-14.8). Of these, 8 (7.0%) were classified as Clavien-Dindo type I, 1 (0.9%,) as type II, and 2 (1.7%) as type IIIb (severe). No other complications were recorded in a year follow-up. Conclusion: Transvaginal radiofrequency ablation is a treatment option that makes it possible to treat fibroids that are difficult to manage using other techniques. Few associated complications have been described, and most of them are mild.

A randomized, double-blind study on the efficacy of oral domperidone versus placebo for reducing SARS-CoV-2 viral load in mild-to-moderate COVID-19 patients in primary health care.

INTRODUCTION: The clinical effect of domperidone against COVID-19 has been investigated in a double-blind phase III clinical trial (EudraCT number 2021-001228-17). Domperidone has shown in vitro antiviral activity against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and potential immudolatory properties through the stimulation of prolactin secretion. PATIENTS AND METHODS: The efficacy of oral domperidone plus standard of care (SOC; n = 87) versus placebo plus SOC (n = 86) was evaluated in a 28-day randomized double-blind multicentre study in primary health care centres. A total of 173 outpatients with mild-to-moderate COVID-19 were included. Three daily doses of 10 mg (30 mg/day) of domperidone or placebo were administered for 7 days. Reduction of viral load on day 4 was the primary efficay endpoint. It was estimated in saliva samples by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), as the cycle thresholds detected ORF1ab, N Protein and S Protein genes. RESULTS: A significant reduction in the viral load was observed (p < 0.001) from baseline to days 4, 7 and 14 of the three genes studied with non-significant differences between domperidone and placebo groups. Twenty-three patients (13.3%) experienced adverse events, 14 patients in the domperidone group (16.1%) and 9 patients in the placebo group (10.5%). No patients needed to be hospitalized. CONCLUSION: Results do not prove the use of domperidone as antiviral in patients with COVID-19.

A 28-day double-blind clinical trial was performed to investigate the antiviral effect of domperidone, 30 mg/day for 7 days (n = 87) versus placebo (n = 86) in outpatients with mild-to-moderate COVID-19.The primary efficacy endpoint was the reduction of viral load on day 4 as compared with baseline, estimated as the cycle thresholds to detect ORF1ab, N Protein and S Protein genes by RT-qPCR in saliva samples.The study findings do not prove the use of domperidone as antiviral in patients with COVID-19.

A Review on Acupuncture Efficiency in Human Polycystic Ovary/Ovarian Syndrome.

Objectives: Human Polycystic Ovary/Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), a frequent endocrine pathophysiology among women of fertile age, is associated with woman's lifespan endocrine, metabolic and psychological implications. Long-term usage side effects of allopathic strategies and their low efficacy made complementary medicine treatments a relevant subject for these patients. The main aim of this work is to review the efficiency of the acupuncture treatment reported in the latest studies on literature regarding PCOS patients. Methods: A comprehensive literature search, in English language, about the use of acupuncture on the management of PCOS, was conducted in October 2020 using EBSCO, Cochrane, PubMed, Medline, Embase, databases for randomised and non-randomised controlled trials between 2015 and 2020 (09/2015-10/2020), following the PRISMA protocol. Results: This research led us to an analysis, according to PICOS, of six final papers selected among 178 in total. The articles addressed distinct aspects of the PCOS condition, diverse acupuncture techniques and different main and secondary outcomes in agreement to the respective main objective. According to this review, acupuncture seems to be useful for the treatment of this debilitating and chronic health condition which affects millions of women worldwide, many of them part of the workforce in their community. Conclusion: Despite of the display of these positive results addressing acupuncture treatments to manage PCOS major symptoms - whether they are reproductive, metabolic, or mental health features - more research is urgent. Randomized, double blinded controlled trials with improved quality design and following STRICTA and/or CONSORT recommendations are necessary to engage acupuncture as a standardized and scientific validated technique in PCOS condition.

Occupational Health: Physical Activity, Musculoskeletal Symptoms and Quality of Life in Computer Workers: A Narrative Review.

Computer work has assumed a very important role for many companies, but specific occupational and health symptoms associated with the use of computers can appear. According to the literature, physical activity is considered a key player in the prevention and control of work-related musculoskeletal symptoms, contributing to a better quality of life in computer workers. The principal aims of this review are to contribute to a better understanding of the relationship among sedentary behavior, physical activity and quality of life of computer workers; to outline the importance of promoting the development of an educational program for Occupational Health directed at computer workers at the level of quality of life, musculoskeletal symptoms, and physical activity; and to call for attention to the factors needed to initiate and maintain a health program that involves the active participation of workers who must be concerned about their health. This review demonstrates the important role of workplaces in health promotion and the opportunities that workplaces provide to establish and continue successful health-promotion programs for computer workers, generating important benefits for the health and quality of life of individuals and groups.

Effectiveness of Acupuncture in Parkinson's Disease Symptoms-A Systematic Review.

Background: Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disease. Several pharmacological and surgical therapies have been developed; however, they are accompanied by some adverse effects. As a result, many patients have been resorting to complementary medicine, namely acupuncture, in the hope of obtaining symptomatic improvements without having disruptive side effects. Therefore, advances in research in this area are very important. This work presents a systematic review of the effectiveness of acupuncture treatments in relieving PD symptoms. Methods: EMBASE, Medline, Pubmed, Science Direct, The Cochrane Library, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (Central) and Scielo databases, were systematically searched from January 2011 through July 2021. Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) published in English with all types of acupuncture treatment were included. The selection and analysis of the articles was conducted by two blinding authors through Rayyan application. Results: A total of 720 potentially relevant articles were identified; 52 RCTs met our inclusion criteria. After the exclusion of 35 articles, we found 17 eligible. The included RCTs reported positive effects for acupuncture plus conventional treatment compared with conventional treatment alone in the UPDRS score. Conclusions: Although all the studies reviewed pointed out a positive effect of acupuncture on improving motor and non-motor symptoms in Parkinson's disease, we found great discrepancies regarding the studies' design and methodology, making difficult any comparison between them.

Acupuncture in Women with Human Polycystic Ovary/Ovarian Syndrome: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial.

(1) Background: Human polycystic ovary/ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is linked to endocrine, metabolic, and psychological complications. We propose a randomized controlled pilot study for an acupuncture protocol regarding the management of PCOS symptoms based on TCM diagnosis; (2) Methods: We will randomly allocate 120 women diagnosed with PCOS into two groups. The study group will be treated with acupuncture for points known to act upon the autonomous regulation of the hormonal, metabolic and emotional components. (3) Results and Conclusions: We expect to provide evidence of high methodological quality related to the effects and safety of an acupuncture protocol based on the perspective of a TCM diagnostic.

Hypericum perforatum and Its Potential Antiplatelet Effect.

BACKGROUND: Hypericum perforatum (HP) is currently one of the most consumed medicinal plants in the world. In traditional Chinese medicine, the herb hypericum (Guan Ye Lian Qiao) belongs to the group of plants that clarify heat. It is also used to treat various types of infection and inflammation. In contrast to the extensive literature on the antidepressant effects of HP, little is known about its action on platelets. The main objective of this work was to investigate the possible relevance of HP to platelet function. METHODS: We characterized the profile of platelet activation in the presence of HP extracts through an evaluation of molecular markers by flow cytometry: mobilization of intracellular Ca++ and expression of platelet receptors such as activated GPIIbIIIa and P-selectin (CD62). RESULTS: The results indicated a possible inhibitory effect of HP on the platelet activation response, which could be explained by the effect on intracellular calcium mobilization and the expression of activated GPIIbIIIa receptors. Despite of the limitations of an in vitro study, our results provide evidence of the possible mechanisms of action of HP. CONCLUSIONS: Further studies are needed to elucidate the effect of HP on hemostasis, but it may be recognized as a substance with antiplatelet properties.

The Effects of COVID-19 Lockdown on the Perception of Physical Activity and on the Perception of Musculoskeletal Symptoms in Computer Workers: Comparative Longitudinal Study Design.

Lockdown resulting from the pandemic led to a change in the health habits of the computer workers community. Sedentary work, together with less active lifestyles, aggravated by the COVID-19 pandemic leads to impacts on physical activity (PA) and can contribute to the development of musculoskeletal symptoms (MSS). Aim(s): Understand the effects of lockdown on the perception of physical activity levels and on the perception of frequency of musculoskeletal symptoms, over periods of 12 months and 7 days, in computer workers. Methods: Longitudinal comparative study between 2019 (M1) and 2021 (M2), over 18 months, in 40 volunteer participants. The inclusion criteria were full-time workers aged between 18 and 65 and the exclusion criteria included diagnosis of non-work-related medical conditions. In addition to a socio-demographic questionnaire, the Nordic musculoskeletal questionnaire (NMQ) was used to evaluate the MSS and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), was used to analyse the perception of the level of PA. These questionnaires were used in two assessment stages (M1 and M2). McNemar test and Wilcoxon paired test were used to evaluate the effect of lockdown on the perception of PA, and on the perception of frequency of musculoskeletal symptoms. Results: The MSS prevalence in the previous 12 months increased significantly in the neck (M1: 45.0%, M2: 62.5%, p = 0.046), in the shoulders (M1: 37.5%, M2: 55.0%, p = 0.033), and in the hands/wrists (M1: 25.0%, M2: 45.0%, p = 0.019). The mean pain score increased in the shoulders (1.43 ± 2.24, 2.35 ± 2.55, p = 0.003) and in the elbows (0.18 ± 0.59, 0.60 ± 1.34, p = 0.015). No differences were found in the PA between M1 and M2, but the weekly mean sitting time increased from 4.75 ± 2.26 to 6.26 ± 2.65 (p < 0.001). Conclusion: After 18 months it became clear that MSS perception increased mainly in the neck, shoulders and hands/wrists with a significant increase in pain intensity in the shoulder and elbow regions. The weekly sitting time increased significantly. Further studies are needed in order to determine the impact of teleworking in a pandemic context. But multifactor behind these results should be taken into account by health institutions and those responsible for the Prevention of Occupational Risks in Computer Workers in order to adopt educational strategies for the promotion of Physical activity (PA), in these workers.

Positive Effects of an Online Workplace Exercise Intervention during the COVID-19 Pandemic on Quality of Life Perception in Computer Workers: A Quasi-Experimental Study Design.

Computer workers' sedentary work, together with less active lifestyles, aggravated by the COVID-19 pandemic, represents a high risk for many chronic diseases, leading to a decrease in health-related quality of life (QoL). Workplace exercises consist of a set of physical exercises, implemented during work breaks, that have multiple benefits for workers' health. AIM: To assess the impact of online workplace exercises on computer workers' perception of quality of life. METHODS: Quasi-experimental study with two groups: a control group (n = 26) and an intervention group (n = 13). The inclusion criteria were that participants must be aged between 18 and 65 years old and the exclusion criteria included diagnosis of non-work-related medical conditions. The interventions consisted of workplace exercises, which were applied for 17 consecutive weeks, each session lasting 15 min, three times a week. The exercise programme, performed online and guided by a physiotherapist, consisted of mobility exercises, flexibility and strength exercises, with the help of a TheraBand® for elastic resistance. The control group were not subjected to any intervention. A socio-demographic questionnaire and the Health Survey Questionnaire (SF-36v2) were used in two assessment stages (M0-baseline and M1-final of intervention). A mixed ANOVA with interaction time*group was used to evaluate the effect of the exercise programme. RESULTS: A good perception of the QoL was obtained in both stages. The exercise programme had a positive effect in the domains of Pain (ptime*group = 0.012, η2p = 0.158), Physical Function (ptime*group = 0.078, η2p = 0.082), Physical Performance (ptime*group = 0.052, η2p = 0.098), and Emotional Performance (ptime*group = 0.128, η2p = 0.061). CONCLUSION: After 17 weeks of workplace exercises, it became clear that the intervention group positively increased their QoL perception, with this improvement being significant in the Pain domain, which resulted in an improvement in their health condition. Therefore, further studies are needed to determine the optimal exercise for CWs, with detailed exercise types, different intensities and focused on various health conditions.

Influence of the Fly Ash Content on the Fresh and Hardened Properties of Alkali-Activated Slag Pastes with Admixtures.

A study on the influence of the inclusion of slag or fly ash and five types of superplasticizers on the fresh and hardened properties of alkali-activated cements is presented. Three alkali-activated slag formulations with different fly ash content (0, 15, and 30%) in the presence of five admixtures (vinyl copolymer, melamine, and three polycarboxylates with different chain lengths) were assessed for fluidity control and setting adjustment without loss of mechanical properties. Solid sodium metasilicate was used as an alkaline activator. Their fresh and hardened properties were studied through slump, setting time, isothermal calorimetry, mechanical strengths, and porosity tests. The results showed that the increase of fly ash content delayed the reaction and improved workability but reduced compressive strengths. Concerning the admixtures, these maintained fluidity especially for the one based on polycarboxylate with very long chains. The melamine and polycarboxylate with very long chain admixtures did not have a drastic impact on mechanical properties at early ages; even a gain of flexural and compressive strength was noted.

Efficacy, Complications, and Factors Predictive of Response to Treatment with Transvaginal Radiofrequency Ablation for Symptomatic Uterine Myomas.

STUDY OBJECTIVE: Transvaginal radiofrequency ablation is a minimally invasive treatment for myomas in women who wish to preserve their uterus. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of transvaginal radiofrequency to treat myomas and to identify factors predictive of the response to treatment. DESIGN: Prospective case series. SETTING: Virgen de las Nieves University Hospital, a tertiary center in Granada, Spain. PATIENTS: The participants were 59 patients with myomas. INTERVENTIONS: Transvaginal radiofrequency ablation. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: The variables recorded were personal (age and type of myoma), procedure dependent (pain, need for analgesia, duration of sick leave, procedure duration, and complications), clinical (total days of menstrual bleeding and days of heavy menstrual bleeding), and score on the symptom severity scale of the Uterine Fibroid Symptom and Quality of Life Questionnaire. Myoma volume was determined by ultrasonography. Changes in clinical variables and myoma volume were analyzed 2, 6, and 12 months after the procedure. Moreover, the influence of age, initial myoma size, type of myoma, and duration of the procedure on the outcomes of treatment were analyzed. Statistically significant improvements in symptoms were seen in all variables analyzed for bleeding at 0, 2, 6, and 12 months, and a significant improvement was seen in the symptom severity scale score 12 months after the procedure. Mean myoma volume (in milliliters) was significantly lower 2, 6, and 12 months after treatment (p <.05). At 12 months, the mean reduction in myoma volume was more than 80%. Patient age and initial myoma size were identified as factors predictive of the outcomes. CONCLUSION: Transvaginal radiofrequency ablation was an effective and safe technique for the treatment of myomas. The patient's age and initial size of the myoma influenced the outcome of treatment.

Acute effects of acupuncture in balance and gait of Parkinson disease patients - A preliminary study.

INTRODUCTION: Balance and gait disorders are relevant symptoms in the quality of life of Parkinson's patients. Currently, there is no therapy to reverse or treat this condition. Acupuncture treatment is believed to improve motor ability through the cortico-basal-thalamus-cortical-ganglia. AIM: To investigate qualitatively the acute effect of acupuncture on balance and gait in Parkinson's disease in 7 patients. METHODS: This is a randomized and controlled crossover study. The same individual patient was part of both, experimental (real acupuncture) and control group (false acupuncture/sham), and the sequence was randomized. Balance and gait parameters were measured at two different moments, before and after treatment, using four force platforms as well as the collection of 3D markers positions taken by 11 cameras. Images were analyzed using Qualisys Track Manager software that let us extract data related to the quality of gait and balance. RESULTS: Statistically significant differences were found in gait speed (p = 0.016), gait cadence (p = 0.006), support base width (p = 0.0001), medio-lateral oscillation (p = 0.017), left-right step length (p = 0.0002), and stride length: right-right (p = 0.0000) and left-left (p = 0.0018), time of left support phase (p = 0.029), right support phase (p = 0.025) and double support phase (p = 0.015), between the initial and final moments for the experimental group. Differences in right-left stride length were found for both groups. CONCLUSION: Our results suggest that the acupuncture protocol used objectively could improve gait in Parkinson disease patients. A deep research involving a statistical evaluation supported on a larger number of voluntaries should be accomplished to confirming these promising preliminary results.

Occupational Health: Does Compliance with Physical Activity Recommendations Have a Preventive Effect on Musculoskeletal Symptoms in Computer Workers? A Cross-Sectional Study.

A lack of physical activity in computer workers (CW) can contribute to the development of musculoskeletal symptoms (MSS). Aim: (i) Evaluate MSS over a 12 month and 7 days period, (ii) determine physical activity (PA) levels and compliance with World Health Organization (WHO) PA recommendations, and (iii) assess the relationship between compliance with WHO PA recommendations and MSS. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study comprising 119 computer workers. The Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ) was used to evaluate the MSS and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) was used to analyse the perception of the level of PA. Results: MSS occurred in the lumbar region (56.3%), neck (43.7%), and shoulders (39.5%). 44.7% of the participants reported a low level of PA. The percentage of compliance was similar among women and men (62.2% vs. 58.5%, respectively). Negative correlations were found between pain intensity and metabolic equivalent values. The participants who followed the WHO PA recommendations reported a lower frequency of MSS compared to those who did not, but the differences were not statistically significant. Conclusion: It was possible to conclude that computer workers presented a higher frequency of MSS in the lower back, neck, and shoulders. Regarding the level of PA, participants were mostly classified as low. Participants who followed the WHO PA recommendations reported lower MSS than those who did not. This finding could be important in obtaining successful programs that promote health-oriented physical activity in this group of workers.

Platelet activation and antimicrobial activity of L-PRF: a preliminary study.

Leukocyte and platelet rich fibrin (L-PRF) is one of the platelet concentrates used to support regeneration and healing process. Many studies showed possible immunological and antibacterial properties of L-PRF. We perform an in vitro study to analyze the effect of L-PRF on platelet activation, platelet-leukocytes interactions and antimicrobial activity, important components in the healing process. Molecular biomarkers related with platelet activation and platelet-leukocyte interactions were analyzed by means of flow cytometry when L-PRF exudate was added to whole blood platelets. L-PRF membrane was used to evaluate antimicrobial activity using Enterococcus faecalis (ATCC 29212), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC 27853) and Candida albicans (ATCC 90028). Our experimental design allows to evaluate platelet activation and analyze molecular biomarkers of other immune cells and platelet-leukocyte interactions. From the results obtained we can conclude that L-PRF can be a valuable tool in healing process, efficient in activating platelets of whole blood and inhibiting microbial growth. In our opinion, the use of L-PRF exudate, in addition to L-PRF membrane, presents some advantages that have to be considered in clinical trials. Additional research on the characterization and quantification of cells and its products present in the L-PRF exudate, as well as on the temporal factor released. Also, further studies using strains isolated from clinical cases are needed.

Efficacy and safety of lurbinectedin and doxorubicin in relapsed small cell lung cancer. Results from an expansion cohort of a phase I study.

Background A phase I study found remarkable activity and manageable toxicity for doxorubicin (bolus) plus lurbinectedin (1-h intravenous [i.v.] infusion) on Day 1 every three weeks (q3wk) as second-line therapy in relapsed small cell lung cancer (SCLC). An expansion cohort further evaluated this combination. Patients and methods Twenty-eight patients with relapsed SCLC after no more than one line of cytotoxic-containing chemotherapy were treated: 18 (64%) with sensitive disease (chemotherapy-free interval [CTFI] ≥90 days) and ten (36%) with resistant disease (CTFI <90 days; including six with refractory disease [CTFI ≤30 days]). Results Ten patients showed confirmed response (overall response rate [ORR] = 36%); median progression-free survival (PFS) = 3.3 months; median overall survival (OS) = 7.9 months. ORR was 50% in sensitive disease (median PFS = 5.7 months; median OS = 11.5 months) and 10% in resistant disease (median PFS = 1.3 months; median OS = 4.6 months). The main toxicity was transient and reversible myelosuppression. Treatment-related non-hematological events (fatigue, nausea, decreased appetite, vomiting, alopecia) were mostly mild or moderate. Conclusion Doxorubicin 40 mg/m2 and lurbinectedin 2.0 mg/m2 on Day 1 q3wk has shown noteworthy activity in relapsed SCLC and a manageable safety profile. The combination is being evaluated as second-line therapy for SCLC in an ongoing, randomized phase III trial. Clinical trial registration www.ClinicalTrials.gov code: NCT01970540. Date of registration: 22 October, 2013.

Associations of Vitamin D Deficiency, Parathyroid hormone, Calcium, and Phosphorus with Perinatal Adverse Outcomes. A Prospective Cohort Study.

Vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy has been linked to perinatal adverse outcomes. Studies conducted to date have recommended assessing interactions with other vitamin D-related metabolites to clarify this subject. We aimed to evaluate the association of vitamin D deficiency during early pregnancy with preterm birth. Secondary outcomes included low birth weight and small for gestational age. Additionally, we explored the role that parathyroid hormone, calcium and phosphorus could play in the associations. We conducted a prospective cohort study comprising 289 pregnant women in a hospital in Granada, Spain. Participants were followed-up from weeks 10-12 of gestation to postpartum. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D, parathyroid hormone, calcium, and phosphorus were measured within the first week after recruitment. Pearson's χ2 test, Mann-Whitney U test, binary and multivariable logistic regression models were used to explore associations between variables and outcomes. 36.3% of the participants were vitamin D deficient (<20 ng/mL). 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentration was inversely correlated with parathyroid hormone (ρ = -0.146, p = 0.013). Preterm birth was associated with vitamin D deficiency in the multivariable model, being this association stronger amongst women with parathyroid hormone serum levels above the 80th percentile (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 6.587, 95% CI (2.049, 21.176), p = 0.002). Calcium and phosphorus were not associated with any studied outcome. Combined measurement of 25-hydroxyvitamin D and parathyroid hormone could be a better estimator of preterm birth than vitamin D in isolation.