Ultrasound evaluation in the postoperative period for surgical treatment of thoracic infectious and inflammatory diseases.

OBJECTIVE: This study aims to evaluate the role of TUSG in the postoperative period and the detection of early complications after surgical treatment, pulmonary resection, or decortication for infectious and inflammatory thoracic diseases, comparing with the standard method (Chest Radiography ‒ CXR). METHODS: Prospective non-randomized self-controlled study. Twenty-one patients over 16 years of age have undergone surgical treatment of inflammatory and infectious lung diseases. These patients were followed up with CXR and TUSG (performed on the 1st and 3rd postoperative days and/or after the chest tube removal). RESULTS: Both exams demonstrated similar results regarding their ability to safely predict the adequate moment for chest drain removal. TUSG allowed chest drain removal in 30% of cases and CXR in 34%. Statistical analysis demonstrates that both exams have similar capabilities in detecting postoperative changes in the pleural space. However, the authors report that TUSG is statistically more accurate in detecting subcutaneous emphysema than CXR (p = 0.037, Kappa [κ = 0.3068]). The analysis of other parameters showed no statistical difference. CONCLUSION: The authors conclude that TUSG in trained hands is equivalent to CXR in searching for postoperative complications regarding the surgical treatment of infectious and inflammatory thoracic diseases and can be used as a complement, and not a substitute, to CXR, when CCT is not feasible, or a more urgent diagnosis is needed.

Effect of Detraining on Muscle Strength, Functional Capacity, Mental Health, and Body Composition in Individuals with Spinal Cord Injury.

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a condition that significantly affects the quality of life (QoL) of individuals, causing motor, physiological, social, and psychological impairments. Physical exercise plays a crucial role in maintaining the health and functional capacity of these individuals, helping to minimize the negative impacts of SCI. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of detraining (DT) (reduction or cessation of physical exercise) during the pandemic on five individuals with thoracic SCI. We assessed muscle strength using strength tests, functional capacity using a functional agility test, mental health using anxiety and depression inventories, and body composition using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA). The results after 33 months of DT showed significant losses in functional agility and MS, as well as a worsening in symptoms of anxiety and depression. It was observed that total body mass and fat mass (FM) exhibited varied behaviors among the individuals. Similarly, the results for lean body mass were heterogeneous, with one participant showing significant deterioration. It is concluded that DT caused by the pandemic worsened the physical and mental condition of individuals with SCI, highlighting the importance of continuous exercise for this population and underscoring the need for individual assessments to fully understand the impacts of DT.

Patients and Parents' Satisfaction and Self-Reported Evaluation After Single-Event Multilevel Surgery in Cerebral Palsy.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to analyze the results of single-event multilevel surgery (SEMLS) in cerebral palsy (CP) based on objective gait outcomes and self-reported evaluations. METHODS: In total, 258 patients with spastic diplegic CP, GMFCS I-III, who underwent SEMLS and with preoperative and postoperative gait analyses, were included in the SEMLS group (SG). The same database was used to compose the control group (CG) formed of 88 subjects who had performed at least 2 gait analyses and did not undergo surgical intervention between tests. Demographic data, Gait Deviation Index (GDI), and a self-reported questionnaire were analyzed, and results were compared between groups. RESULTS: The GDI decreased from 59.6 to 57.9 in the CG and increased from 51.3 to 58.4 in the SG ( P <0.001). There was no change in patients' walking ability in the CG. The number of patients who walk community distances increased after SEMLS in the group that had a GDI improvement >5 points (from 12.3% to 24.7%, P =0.008) and in patients GMFCS I and II (from 9.2% to 20.4%, P =0.028). According to patient and parental responses on satisfaction, the most significant improvements were reported in self-esteem, mobility, body image, and independence. In total, 51.1% of the patients were extremely satisfied or satisfied, while 3.9% were unsatisfied or extremely unsatisfied with the treatment results. Of the parents surveyed, 60.1% were extremely satisfied or satisfied, whereas just 5.0% were unsatisfied or extremely unsatisfied. CONCLUSIONS: In the studied group, an improvement in outdoor walking for community distances after SEMLS, as reported in questionnaires, was observed only when GDI increase was >5 points and in GMFCS I and II. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III.

Tradução, adaptação e validação da escala MICA-4 no Brasil com aplicação para acadêmicos de Medicina / Translation, adaptation and validation of the MICA-4 scale in Brazil with application for medical students

Resumo Introdução: As doenças psiquiátricas estão em crescente prevalência nas últimas décadas, sendo também as patologias nas quais mais se observam atitudes estigmatizantes. Objetivo: Este estudo teve como objetivos traduzir a escala MICA-4 em língua portuguesa com adaptação de forma transcultural para uso no Brasil e verificar a possibilidade de a ferramenta contribuir para avaliações de melhorias na formação médica por meio da aplicação em estudantes de Medicina. Método: Foram sete etapas para sua tradução e validação. Além disso, o trabalho consistiu na aplicação do teste em dois momentos em um grupo de 60 estudantes de Medicina que participaram de um rodízio de estágio em um hospital psiquiátrico do Brasil. Resultado: A validação da escala MICA-4 consistiu nas etapas de tradução, síntese, back-translation, comitê de experts, pré-teste, averiguação textual e aplicação, que foram executadas com sucesso. A escala obteve concordância entre os experts, e não houve dificuldade entre os estudantes durante a aplicação do teste. Na análise dos dados após aplicação do questionário durante os dois momentos, dentre os 16 itens da escala, o item 9 obteve relevância estatística (p < 0,05). Conclusão: Este estudo analisou a percepção dos estudantes em relação a situações estigmatizantes, e a maioria das respostas foi condizente com ações menos preconceituosas antes mesmo da experiência do estágio, sendo corroboradas após esse período. As questões que ainda expressaram atitudes estigmatizantes demonstram a necessidade de aprimoramento de ferramentas de ensino que possam diminuir essas atitudes negativas e contribuir para a formação de bons profissionais e, consequentemente, melhor qualidade de atendimento.

Abstract Introduction: Psychiatric diseases are increasing in prevalence in recent decades, being also the pathologies in which stigmatizing attitudes are most often observed. Objective: To translate the MICA-4 scale into Portuguese with cross-cultural adaptation for use in Brazil and to verify the possibility for the contribution of the tool to assess improvements in medical training through its application to medical students. Method: Seven steps were required for its translation and validation. Moreover, the work consisted of applying the test in two moments to a group of 60 medical students who participated in an internship rotation in a psychiatric hospital in a Brazilian city. Result: The validation of the MICA-4 scale consisted of the steps of translation, synthesis, back-translation, expert committee, pre-test, textual verification and application, which were successfully performed. The scale achieved an agreement among the experts and there was no difficulty among the students during the test application. In the data analysis after application of the questionnaire during the two moments, of the 16 items of the scale, item 9 obtained statistical relevance (p<0.05). Conclusion: This study analyzed the students' perception of stigmatizing situations, and most of the answers were consistent with less prejudiced actions even before the internship experience, being corroborated after this period. The issues that still showed stigmatizing attitudes demonstrate the need to improve teaching tools that can reduce these negative attitudes and contribute to the training of good professionals and, consequently, better quality of care.

Use of Octopus™ Tissue Stabilizer for Minimal Manipulation Approach of Bronchial Anastomosis in Lung Transplant

ABSTRACT Bronchial anastomotic complications are a cause of grave concern for surgeons that perform lung transplantations. There are several risk factors that may lead to this complication, being inadequate surgical technique one of them, specifically regarding adequate exposure and manipulation of the bronchial stump and anastomosis. Here we report the use of Octopus™ Tissue Stabilizer as a mean to allow for a better exposure of the stump and facilitate a "no-touch" approach towards anastomosis. Systematic application of devices that facilitate the employment of the correct surgical techniques can have an effect in reducing the incidence of bronchial anastomotic complications.

SARS-CoV-2 infection with bilateral intralabyrinthine hemorrhage.

A 47-year-old woman presented with the complaint of sudden hearing loss associated with vertigo. Serological testing was positive for IgM and negative for IgG COVID-19 antibodies, with no other associated factors. Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain showed bilateral intralabyrinthine hemorrhage.

Risk factors related to pleural empyema after talc slurry pleurodesis.

OBJECTIVE: Empyema is a complication of talc-pleurodesis that may lead to further surgical intervention and death. Therefore, the present study's objective was to identify the risk factors for the development of post-pleurodesis empyema after talc slurry pleurodesis in order to better select patients for this procedure and minimize its morbidity. METHODS: Patients with malignant pleural effusion who underwent talc slurry pleurodesis at the present institution from January 2018 to January 2020 were retrospectively analyzed. Post-pleurodesis empyema was defined as pleural infection up to 30 days after pleurodesis. Using Cox regression analysis, significant prognostic factors for the development of empyema were examined. RESULTS: Of the 86 patients identified for inclusion in the study, 62 were women (72%). Their mean age was 56.3±12.6 years. The median pleural drainage time was 9 days, and 20 patients (23.3%) developed empyema. In the univariate analysis, both drainage time (p = 0.038) and the use of antibiotics prior to pleurodesis (p < 0.001) were risk factors for pleural empyema. Multivariate analysis also identified the use of antibiotics as an independent risk factor (Odds Ratio [OR] 9.81; 95% Confidence Interval [95% CI] 2.87‒33.54). Although the pulmonary expansion was not associated with empyema in the multivariate analysis, patients with less than 50% pulmonary expansion had a 4.5-times increased risk of empyema (95% CI 0.90‒22.86; p = 0.067), and patients with 50‒70% pulmonary expansion had a 3.8-times increased risk of empyema (95% CI 0.98‒15; p = 0.053) after pleurodesis. CONCLUSION: The study suggests that antibiotic therapy prior to talc slurry pleurodesis may increase the risk of developing empyema. Furthermore, pleurodesis should be considered with caution in patients with long-duration chest tube placement and incomplete lung expansion.

Are sEMG, Velocity and Power Influenced by Athletes' Fixation in Paralympic Powerlifting?

The bench press is performed in parapowerlifting with the back, shoulders, buttocks, legs and heels extended over the bench, and the use of straps to secure the athlete to the bench is optional. Thus, the study evaluated muscle activation, surface electromyography (sEMG), maximum velocity (MaxV) and mean propulsive velocity (MPV), and power in paralympic powerlifting athletes under conditions tied or untied to the bench. Fifteen experienced Paralympic powerlifting male athletes (22.27 ± 10.30 years, 78.5 ± 21.6 kg) took part in the research. The sEMG measurement was performed in the sternal portion of the pectoralis major (PMES), anterior deltoid (AD), long head of the triceps brachii (TRI) and clavicular portion of the pectoralis major (PMCL). The MaxV, MPV and power were evaluated using an encoder. Loads of 40%, 60%, 80% and 100% 1RM were analyzed under untied and tied conditions. No differences were found in muscle activation between the tied and untied conditions; however, sEMG showed differences in the untied condition between AD and TRI (F (3112) = 4.484; p = 0.005) in the 100% 1RM load, between PMCL and AD (F (3112) = 3.743; p = 0.013) in 60% 1RM load and in the tied condition, between the PMES and the AD (F (3112) = 4.067; p = 0.009). There were differences in MaxV (F (3112) = 213.3; p < 0.001), and MPV (F (3112) = 248.2; p < 0.001), between all loads in the tied and untied condition. In power, the load of 100% 1RM differed from all other relative loads (F (3112) = 36.54; p < 0.001) in both conditions. The tied condition seems to favor muscle activation, sEMG, and velocity over the untied condition.

Effects of Different Types of Resistance Training and Detraining on Functional Capacity, Muscle Strength, and Power in Older Women: A Randomized Controlled Study.

ABSTRACT: Filho, MM, Venturini, GRdO, Moreira, OC, Leitão, L, Mira, PA, Castro, JB, Aidar, FJ, Novaes, JdS, Vianna, JM, and Caputo Ferreira, ME. Effects of different types of resistance training and detraining on functional capacity, muscle strength, and power in older women: A randomized controlled study. J Strength Cond Res 36(4): 984-990, 2022-Resistance training (RT) increases muscle strength, power, and functional capacity (FC) of older women. However, these benefits can be lost partially or totally with detraining. This study aimed to compare the effect of 20 weeks of different types of RT and 4 weeks of detraining on muscle strength, power, and FC in older women. Ninety-five older women were randomly divided into 4 experimental groups (strength endurance, power, absolute strength, and relative strength training) and 1 control group (CG). We assessed muscle strength (10RM test) and muscle power of the lower (countermovement jump) and upper limbs (medicine ball pitch). Functional capacity was assessed by the Senior Fitness Test, which comprises the following tests: 30-second arm curl, 30-second chair stand, back scratch, chair sit and reach, 8-foot up and go, and 6-minute walk. The experiment lasted 24 weeks (familiarization: 2 weeks; neural adaptation: 6 weeks; specific training: 12 weeks; and detraining: 4 weeks). Muscle strength, lower and upper limb power (all p < 0.05), 30-second arm curl, 30-second chair stand, 8-foot up and go, 6-minute walk (all p < 0.001), and lower limb flexibility (p = 0.002) improved in all experimental groups after training and CG showed no differences in any of these variables. After detraining, muscle strength, lower and upper limb power (p < 0.05 for all), and FC decreased in comparison to the end of RT (30-second arm curl, 30-second chair stand, 8-foot up and go, 6-minute walk, and lower limb flexibility, p < 0.05 for all). Although the FC of the subjects has been reduced after 4 weeks of detraining, it was maintained at higher levels in comparison to baseline. These results suggested that older women can be submitted to different types of RT to achieve improvements in general fitness.

Performance analysis of women over 55 years on abdominaltests: impact of anthropometry and flexibility

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effect of anthropometric variables and flexibility on the performance of women aged 55+ years on abdominal test protocols. The sample was composed by 20 physically active volunteers, aged 55 years (median 61), who were participants in gymnastic activities program. Each volunteer performed two abdominal tests: partial trunk flexion with a 7.6 cm sliding of the hands (P1) and partial flexion of the trunk with the hands on the thighs (P2), both executed with the feet resting on the ground. For analysis, the number of correct executions (final position) was considered in each test, as recommended by the authors. Measurements of body mass, flexibility, height, waist and hip perimeters, subjective perception of exertion, and calculations of body mass index and waist-hip ratio were performed. The perception of abdominal effort, and discomfort or pain in the cervical and lumbar region were also evaluated. The results showed that there were no statistically significant associations between the analyzed indicators (Age: P1: rs = -0.024, p = 0.916; P2: rs = -0.194, p = 0.407; BMI: P1: rs =-0.064, p = 0.792; P2: rs = -0.235, p= 0.327; Waist Circumference: P1: rs = -0.143, p = 0.563; P2: rs = 0.027, p = 0.908; Flexibility: r s= -0.327, p = 0.169; P2: rs = 0.0009, p = 0.991; Hip waist ratio: P1: rs = -0.209, p = 0.371; P2: rs = 0.217, p = 0.353) and the performance on the tests. In addition, 35% of the participants made valid attempts on P1 while 45% produced at least one valid attempt on P2. It was concluded that both abdominal tests were adequate for the studied sample and they can be applied to adult and elderly women to assess their abdominal musculature.(AU)

El objetivo del presente estudio fue evaluar el efecto de las variables las antropométricas y la flexibilidad sobre el desempeño de mujeres mayores de 55 años en protocolos de testes abdominales. La muestra, seleccionada por criterio de accesibilidad, estuvo formada por 20 voluntarias físicamente activas, mayores de 55 años (mediana 61), que participaban en actividades gimnásticas para personas mayores. Cada voluntaria realizó dos pruebas abdominales: flexión parcial del tronco con deslizamiento de las manos de 7,6 cm (P1) y flexión parcial del tronco con las manos en los muslos (P2), ambas ejecutadas con los pies apoyados en el suelo. Para el análisis, se consideró el número de ejecuciones correctas (posición final) en cada prueba, según lo recomendado por los autores. Se realizaron mediciones de masa corporal, flexibilidad, altura, perímetro de cintura y cadera, percepción subjetiva del esfuerzo y cálculos del índice de masa corporal y la relación cintura-cadera. También se evaluó la percepción de esfuerzo abdominal y de malestar o dolor en la región cervical y lumbar. Los resultados mostraron que no hubo asociaciones estadísticamente significativas entre las variables analizadas (Edad: P1: rs = -0,024, p = 0,916; P2: rs = -0,194, p = 0,407; IMC: P1: rs =-0,064, p = 0,792; P2: rs = -0,235, p = 0,327; Perímetro de cintura: P1: rs = -0,143, p = 0,563; P2: rs = 0,027, p = 0,908; Flexibilidad: rs = -0,327, p = 0,169; P2: rs = 0,0009, p = 0,991; Relación cintura/cadera: P1: rs = -0,209, p = 0,371; P2: rs = 0,217, p = 0,353) y el desempeño en las pruebas, y el 35% de las participantes hicieron intentos válidos en P1 mientras que el 45% produjo al menos un intento válido en P2. Se concluyó que ambas pruebas abdominales fueron adecuadas para la muestra estudiada y se pueden aplicar a mujeres adultas y mayores para evaluar su musculatura abdominal.(AU)

Perfil dos pacientes acometidos por Insuficiência Cardíaca na cidade de Anápolis/GO / Profile of patients affected by heart failure in the city of Anápolis, Brazil

Objetivo: Avaliar o perfil das internações por insuficiência cardíaca (IC) na cidade de Anápolis/GO. Métodos: Os dados foram obtidos no DATASUS, referentes ao período de agosto/2016 a agosto/2019. Foram avaliados: a incidência de internações hospitalares gerais e por IC, a média de permanência, a mortalidade e o custo hospitalar, estratificados por sexo, faixa etária. Resultados: No período estudado, ocorreram 6773 internações hospitalares por doenças do aparelho circulatório, sendo 14,6% por IC (994 internações em números absolutos). Pacientes do sexo masculino corresponderam a 51,85%. A média de permanência global foi de 8,1 dias. A taxa de mortalidade esteve em ascensão, iniciando com 15,52% em 2016 e chegando a 23,86% em 2019. O custo da AIH média aumentou de R$ 1.831,99 em 2016 para R$ 2.406,88 em 2019 (aumento de 31,3%). Conclusão: a Insuficiência Cardíaca é uma síndrome de elevado custo para o Sistema Único de Saúde, e existe a necessidade de conscientização por parte do poder público municipal para este problema saúde.

Objective: To evaluate the profile of patients hospitalized for heart failure (HF) in the city of Anápolis, state of Goiás, Brazil. Methods: Data were obtained from the Brazilian Unified Health System Database (DATASUS) from August 2016 to August 2019. We evaluated the incidence of general and HF hospitalizations, mean length of stay, mortality, and hospital costs. The data were stratified by sex and age group. Results: In the study period, there were 6,773 hospitalizations due to circulatory system diseases, 14.6% of which were due to HF (994 hospitalizations in absolute numbers). Male patients accounted for 51.85% of the sample. Overall mean length of stay was 8.1 days. The mortality rate increased from 15.52% in 2016 to 23.86% in 2019. Mean inpatient hospital authorization costs increased from R$ 1,831.99 in 2016 to R$ 2,406.88 in 2019 (31.3% increase). Conclusions: HF is a costly disease for the Brazilian Unified Health System, and the municipal government should raise awareness of this health problem.

Percepção de gestores municipais diante da implementação da política de saúde mental / Percepción de los gestores municipales ante la implementación de la política de salud mental / Perception of municipal managers in the face of the implementation of the mental health policy

RESUMO Objetivo: apreender a percepção dos gestores de saúde sobre a implementação da Política de Saúde Mental nos municípios pertencentes a 5ª Regional de Saúde do Estado do Paraná. Métodos: estudo de abordagem qualitativa e caráter exploratório, realizado nos meses de fevereiro e março de 2015. Foram entrevistados 20 gestores de saúde da 5° Regional de Saúde, por meio de entrevistas semiestruturadas. A análise dos dados foi desenvolvida segundo o método de análise de conteúdo de Bardin, modalidade temática. Resultados: emergiram duas categorias: "A percepção dos gestores sobre aSM nos municípios" e "Dificuldades para a implementação da PNSM". Os gestores de saúde destacam a necessidade da melhor implementação da Política de Saúde Mental em seus municípios e a adequação da Rede de Atenção Psicossocial. As dificuldades enfrentadas são a falta de recursos financeiros, capacitação profissional e preconceitos. Considerações finais: é perceptível a falta de visibilidade entre os gestores em saúdesobre o papel dos serviços que compõem a Rede de Atenção àSaúde Mental, especialmente a atenção primária, pois é a principal responsável pelas ações de acolhimento e de promoção e prevenção aos transtornos mentais.

RESUMEN Objetivo: comprender la percepción de los gestores de salud sobre la implementación de la Política de Salud Mental en los municipios pertenecientes a la 5ª Regional de Salud del Estado de Paraná-Brasil. Método: estudio de enfoque cualitativo y carácter exploratorio, realizado en los meses de febrero y marzo de 2015. Se entrevistaron a 20 gestores de salud de la 5ª Regional de Salud, mediante entrevistas semiestructuradas. El análisis de datos se desarrolló según el método de análisis de contenido de Bardin, modalidad temática. Resultados: surgieron dos categorías: "La percepción de los gestores sobre la SM en los municipios" y "Dificultades para la implementación de la PNSM". Los gestores de salud señalan la necesidad de una mejor aplicación de la Política de Salud Mental en sus municipios y la adecuación de la Red de Atención Psicosocial. Las dificultades a las que se enfrentan son la falta de recursos financieros, la formación profesional y los prejuicios. Consideraciones finales: es perceptible la falta de visibilidad entre los gestores de salud sobre el rol de los servicios que componen la Red de Atención a la Salud Mental, especialmente la atención primaria, por ser la principal responsable de las acciones de acogida y de promoción y prevención de los trastornos mentales.

ABSTRACT Objective: to understand the perception of health managers about the implementation of the Mental Health Policy in municipalities belonging to the 5th Health Regional Unit of the State of Paraná. Methods: study with a qualitative approach and an exploratory nature, conducted in the months of February and March 2015. Twenty health managers from the 5th Health Regional Unit were interviewed, through semi-structured interviews. Data analysis was developed according to Bardin's content analysis method, thematic modality. Results: two categories emerged: "The perception of managers about MH in the municipalities" and "Difficulties in implementing PNSM". Health managers highlight the need for better implementation of the Mental Health Policy in their municipalities and the adequacy of the Psychosocial Care Network. The difficulties faced are the lack of financial resources, professional training and prejudice. Final considerations: the lack of visibility among health managers about the role of the services that make up the Mental Health Care Network is noticeable, especially primary care, as it is primarily responsible for the actions of welcoming and promotion/prevention of mental disorders.

Risk factors related to pleural empyema after talc slurry pleurodesis

Abstract Objective: Empyema is a complication of talc-pleurodesis that may lead to further surgical intervention and death. Therefore, the present study's objective was to identify the risk factors for the development of post-pleurodesis empyema after talc slurry pleurodesis in order to better select patients for this procedure and minimize its morbidity. Methods: Patients with malignant pleural effusion who underwent talc slurry pleurodesis at the present institution from January 2018 to January 2020 were retrospectively analyzed. Post-pleurodesis empyema was defined as pleural infection up to 30 days after pleurodesis. Using Cox regression analysis, significant prognostic factors for the development of empyema were examined. Results: Of the 86 patients identified for inclusion in the study, 62 were women (72%). Their mean age was 56.3±12.6 years. The median pleural drainage time was 9 days, and 20 patients (23.3%) developed empyema. In the univariate analysis, both drainage time (p = 0.038) and the use of antibiotics prior to pleurodesis (p < 0.001) were risk factors for pleural empyema. Multivariate analysis also identified the use of antibiotics as an independent risk factor (Odds Ratio [OR] 9.81; 95% Confidence Interval [95% CI] 2.87-33.54). Although the pulmonary expansion was not associated with empyema in the multivariate analysis, patients with less than 50% pulmonary expansion had a 4.5-times increased risk of empyema (95% CI 0.90-22.86; p = 0.067), and patients with 50-70% pulmonary expansion had a 3.8-times increased risk of empyema (95% CI 0.98-15; p = 0.053) after pleurodesis. Conclusion: The study suggests that antibiotic therapy prior to talc slurry pleurodesis may increase the risk of developing empyema. Furthermore, pleurodesis should be considered with caution in patients with long-duration chest tube placement and incomplete lung expansion.

Avaliação de quarta geração em Centro de Atenção Psicossocial Álcool e Drogas / Evaluación de cuarta generación en Centro de Atención Psicosocial Alcohol y Drogas / Fourth-generation evaluation in an Alcohol and Drugs Psychosocial Care Center

Resumo Objetivo Avaliar qualitativamente as ações ofertadas por um Centro de Atenção Psicossocial Álcool e Drogas na perspectiva dos familiares e dos usuários do serviço. Método Estudo qualitativo, do tipo estudo de caso, desenvolvido pelo método de avaliação de Quarta Geração, nos meses de setembro de 2019 a março de 2020. Os dados foram coletados por meio da observação e de entrevista aberta individual e analisados pelo Método Comparativo Constante. Os informantes foram nove familiares e oito usuários do serviço. Para auxiliar na organização e na apresentação dos dados, utilizou-se o software ATLAS.ti 9.0.18. Resultados Ambos os grupos de interesse ressaltaram positivamente a gratuidade do tratamento, o acolhimento, o apoio, as informações ofertadas pela equipe por meio dos grupos, a reinserção social e a oferta de medicação. Além disso, psicólogos e assistentes sociais foram citados como profissionais de maior proximidade. O acesso foi citado com ambiguidade pelos grupos de interesse, e as fragilidades incluíram a continuidade do cuidado pelos pontos da rede psicossocial. Considerações finais e implicações para a prática O estudo reconhece a eficácia do serviço, no entanto, necessita aprimoramento na articulação das ações interprofissionais e intersetoriais entre os demais pontos de atenção e a inclusão da família no tratamento.

Resumen Objetivo Evaluar cualitativamente las acciones ofrecidas por un Centro de Atención Psicosocial Alcohol y Drogas en la perspectiva de los familiares y usuarios del servicio. Método Estudio cualitativo, del tipo de estudio de caso, desarrollado por el método de evaluación de Cuarta Generación, entre los meses de septiembre de 2019 hasta marzo de 2020. Los datos se recogieron mediante la observación y la entrevista abierta individual y se analizaron mediante el Método Comparativo Constante. Los informantes fueron nueve familiares y ocho usuarios del servicio. Se utilizó el software ATLAS.ti 9.0.18 para ayudar a organizar y presentar los datos. Resultados Ambos grupos de interés destacaron positivamente la gratuidad del tratamiento, la acogida, el apoyo y la información ofrecida por el equipo a través de los grupos, la reinserción social y la oferta de medicación. Además, los psicólogos y los trabajadores sociales fueron mencionados como profesionales de mayor proximidad. El acceso fue aludido con ambigüedad por los grupos de interés, y entre los puntos débiles estaba la continuidad de la atención por parte de los puntos de la red psicosocial. Consideraciones finales e implicaciones para la práctica El estudio reconoce la eficacia del servicio, sin embargo, necesita mejorar la articulación de las acciones interprofesionales e intersectoriales entre los demás puntos de atención y la inclusión de la familia en el tratamiento.

Abstract Objective To qualitatively evaluate the actions provided by an Alcohol and Drugs Psychosocial Care Center from the perspective of family members and service users. Method This is a qualitative case study developed using the fourth-generation evaluation method from September 2019 to March 2020. Data were collected through observation and individual open interviews and analyzed by the constant comparative method; nine family members and eight service users were informants. The ATLAS.ti 9.0.18 software was used to help organize and present the data. Results Both focus groups highlighted positively the free treatment, reception, support, and information provided by the team through the groups, social reintegration, and providing medication. In addition, psychologists and social workers were cited as the professionals that the participants felt the closest to. Access to care was cited with ambiguity by the focus groups, and the weaknesses included the continuity of care by the points of the psychosocial network. Final considerations and implications for practice This study recognizes the effectiveness of the service, although it requires improving the articulation of interprofessional and intersectoral actions among the other points of care and including the family in the treatment.

Development and in vivo evaluation of fused benzazole analogs of anti-melanoma agent HA15.

Background: In line with our recent discovery of an efficient anticancer thiazolebenzenesulfonamide framework HA15 (1) based on a remarkable endoplasmic reticulum stress inducement mode of action, we report herein a series of innovative constrained HA15 analogs, featuring four types of bicylic derivatives. Results: The structure-activity relationship analysis, using a cell line assay, led us to identify a novel version of HA15: a new benzothiazole derivative (10b) exhibiting important anti-melanoma effect against sensitive and resistant melanoma cells. Meanwhile, compound 10b induced a significant tumor growth inhibition in vivo with no apparent signs of toxicity. Conclusion: These results consistently open new directions to improve and develop more powerful anticancer therapeutics harboring this type of fused framework.

High-resolution semi-automatic mapping based on an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) to capture geological structures.

Due to the recent technological progress, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV), is an alternative for the high-resolution imaging of the terrestrial surface, helping map lineaments, essential structures on the stage of geological mapping. Therefore, this research aims to accomplish and to confirm the efficiency of the use of UAV high-resolution imaging for semi-automatic lineament mapping, in a shear zone in Guaçuí/ES. Orthomosaic was created from the UAV imaging, in which the LINE algorithm was used from Geomath PCI software for the semi-automatic mapping of lineaments. In addition, a manual lineament mapping was performed on the orthomosaic for comparison purposes, and a shaded relief image was made up of Azimuth 135° and Elevation 45°, from the SRTM data, followed by manual lineament mapping for a regional vision of the studied area. On the semi-automatic and manual extraction on the orthomosaic and shaded relief image, 61.30%, 61.63%, 57.38% of the lineaments, respectively, have NW-SE direction, showing a really strong correlation. Therefore, the semi-automatic mapping is extremely effective in terms of structural trends acquisition and can provide fine-scale data for the assessment of inaccessible areas.

Oral Use of Phenytoin to Reduce Calcification in Bovine Pericardium and Porcine Aortic Leaflets Implants in Rats

Abstract Introduction: This study aims to test the effect of phenytoin as an inhibitor of the process of dystrophic calcification in bovine pericardium and porcine leaflets implanted in the subcutaneous tissue of rats. Methods: Isolated segments of biomaterials were implanted subcutaneously in young rats. The study groups received 500 mg phenytoin per kilogram of diet per day. After 90 days, samples were collected and quantitative calcification assessment by optical microscopy, radiological studies with mammography, and atomic emission spectrometry were performed. Results: Inflammatory reaction was a frequent finding in all groups when analyzed by optical microscopy. The calcium level assessed by atomic absorption spectrophotometry was significantly lower in the study groups using phenytoin compared to the control groups (control bovine pericardium group X=0.254±0.280 µg/mg; study bovine pericardium group X=0.063±0.025 µg/mg; control porcine aortic leaflets group X=0.640±0.226 µg/mg; study porcine aortic leaflets group X=0.056±0.021 µg/mg; P<0.05). Radiologic studies revealed a statistically significant difference between the groups treated with and without phenytoin (not only regarding the bovine pericardium but also the porcine leaflets). Conclusion: The results obtained suggest that phenytoin reduces the calcification process of bovine pericardium segments and porcine aortic leaflets in subdermal implants in rats; also, the incidence of calcification in bovine pericardium grafts was similar to that of porcine aortic leaflets.

Pneumomediastinum in COVID-19 disease: Outcomes and relation to the Macklin effect.

AIM: Pneumomediastinum (PM) is associated with several etiologies and mechanisms. Although it has been described more than 100 years ago, the literature is limited to small retrospective studies. This study aimed to follow patients with coronavirus disease (COVID-19) that developed PM during hospitalization and describe their clinical and radiological evolution. METHODS: A prospective cohort was developed with patients with PM, excluding those with aerodigestive trauma, inside a hospital COVID-19 dedicated hospital. Clinical variables including onset of symptoms, hemodynamic instability, associated complications, the need of interventions, and disease course were all recorded. Also, radiological findings such as the presence of the Macklin effect, extension of lung involvement by COVID-19, and characteristics of the PM were analyzed. RESULTS: Twenty-one patients with non-traumatic PM were followed, resulting in an overall incidence of 0.5% during the study period. Seven (33%) patients had associated pneumothorax and malignant/tension PM was observed in three (14%) cases. The Macklin effect could be found in 11 patients (52%) and the majority of them had more than 50% of lung involvement due to COVID-19. The mortality rate was 49%; however, no deaths were directly related to the PM. CONCLUSIONS: PM incidence is probably increased in the severe acute respiratory syndrome caused by COVID-19, especially in those with greater involvement of the lungs, and the Macklin effect may be an important underlying mechanism of this complication. Usually, PM has a benign course, but complications like tension/malignant PM may occur requiring prompt detection and intervention.

Factors related to better outcomes after single-event multilevel surgery (SEMLS) in patients with cerebral palsy.

BACKGROUND: Good outcomes have been described after single-event multilevel surgery (SEMLS) in cerebral palsy (CP); however, there is limited evidence regarding factors influencing them. RESEARCH QUESTION: What were the factors related to kinematic outcomes after SEMLS in the present study? METHODS: Two hundred and fifty-eight patients with spastic diplegic CP, GMFCS I-III, who underwent SEMLS and had done pre and post-operative gait analyses were included in the SEMLS Group (SEMLS-G). A second search was performed in the same database looking for patients to compose the Control Group (CG), and 88 subjects, with at least two gait analyses and with no surgical intervention between tests, were identified. Demographic data, GDI and GPS (Gait Profile Score) were analyzed in both groups, and the results compared. A second evaluation was performed in the SEMLS-G in order to identify the influence of age, gender, follow-up time, pre-operative GDI, GMFCS and gait velocity on results. RESULTS: The GDI (51.3-58.4) and GPS (2.5°) improvement occurred only in SEMLS-G (p < 0.001). On sagittal plane, there was an improvement at the knee and ankle levels in SEMLS-G, whereas the pelvic alignment improved in the CG. In SEMLS-G, patients with improvement on GDI > 10 points had lower pre-operative GDI (46.15) than other groups (p < 0.001). In addition, patients with reduction on GDI after intervention had lower pre-operative gait velocity than subjects with improvement >10 points (p = 0. 01). The increase on GDI after SEMLS was greater in patients GMFCS I and II than GMFCS III (p = 0.003). There was a negative effect of GMFCS III on GDI improvement after intervention (p = 0.014). SIGNIFICANCE: Lower pre-operative GDI, higher baseline gait velocity and GMFCS levels I and II were related to better outcomes after SEMLS in the present study. On the other hand, patients GMFCS III were more susceptible to deteriorate after SEMLS.

Transcranial Stimulation Improves Volume and Perceived Exertion but does not Change Power.

This study aimed to analyze the acute effect of anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (a-tDCS) over the primary motor cortex (M1) on the volume, perceived exertion, and neuromuscular performance measurements in trained and untrained adults. Twenty-four male adults (12 trained and 12 untrained) participated in this single-blind, randomized, and sham-controlled study. The participants performed three back squat repetitions using the 15RM load with maximal concentric velocity to assess neuromuscular performance before tDCS and 30-min after resistance exercise. Next, they were randomly assigned to a-tDCS over M1 or the sham condition. Participants performed ten sets of parallel back squat with 15RM load and repetitions sustained to momentary muscular failure. The total number of repetitions was higher (p<0.05) and perceived exertion was lower (p<0.05) after a-tDCS in both groups. Peak power, velocity, and force decreased in both groups after the RE session (p<0.05), but with a higher rate in untrained individuals (p<0.05). No significant effect was found for peak power, peak velocity, and peak force (p>0.05). This study suggests that using a-tDCS may improve the total volume of repetitions and perceived exertion in trained and untrained individuals.