Effects of deficiency or supplementation of riboflavin on energy metabolism: a systematic review with preclinical studies.

CONTEXT: Riboflavin (vitamin B2) is a water-soluble micronutrient considered to be a precursor of the nucleotides flavin adenine dinucleotide and flavin mononucleotide. This vitamin makes up mitochondrial complexes and participates as an enzymatic cofactor in several mechanisms associated with energy metabolism. OBJECTIVE: This systematic review collected and discussed the most relevant results on the role of riboflavin in the energy metabolism of lipids, proteins, and carbohydrates. DATA SOURCES: A systematic search was carried out in the PubMed-Medline, Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science databases using the PICOS (Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome, Study design) strategy. DATA EXTRACTION: The screening of studies went through 2 stages following predefined eligibility criteria. The information extracted covered reference details, study design, population characteristics, experimental model, treatment parameters and dosage, route of administration, duration of treatment, and results found. DATA ANALYSIS: The risk of bias was assessed using the SYRCLE Risk of Bias (RoB) tool for in vivo studies and the QUIN tool adapted for in vitro studies, utilizing 10 domains, including selection bias, performance bias, detection bias, attrition bias, reporting bias, and other biases, to evaluate the methodological quality of the included studies. CONCLUSION: This review concludes that riboflavin regulates energy metabolism by activating primary metabolic pathways and is involved in energy balance homeostasis.

Artificial intelligence as a prediction tool for orthognathic surgery assessment.

INTRODUCTION: An ideal orthodontic treatment involves qualitative and quantitative measurements of dental and skeletal components to evaluate patients' discrepancies, such as facial, occlusal, and functional characteristics. Deciding between orthodontics and orthognathic surgery remains challenging, especially in borderline patients. Advances in technology are aiding clinical decisions in orthodontics. The increasing availability of data and the era of big data enable the use of artificial intelligence to guide clinicians' diagnoses. This study aims to test the capacity of different machine learning (ML) models to predict whether orthognathic surgery or orthodontics treatment is required, using soft and hard tissue cephalometric values. METHODS: A total of 920 lateral radiographs from patients previously treated with either conventional orthodontics or in combination with orthognathic surgery were used, comprising n = 558 Class II and n = 362 Class III patients, respectively. Thirty-two measures were obtained from each cephalogram at the initial appointment. The subjects were randomly divided into training (n = 552), validation (n = 183), and test (n = 185) datasets, both as an entire sample and divided into Class II and Class III sub-groups. The extracted data were evaluated using 10 machine learning models and by a four-expert panel consisting of orthodontists (n = 2) and surgeons (n = 2). RESULTS: The combined prediction of 10 models showed top-ranked performance in the testing dataset for accuracy, F1-score, and AUC (entire sample: 0.707, 0.706, 0.791; Class II: 0.759, 0.758, 0.824; Class III: 0.822, 0.807, 0.89). CONCLUSIONS: The proposed combined 10 ML approach model accurately predicted the need for orthognathic surgery, showing better performance in Class III patients.

F-Chin/Feminizing the Chin: A Genioplasty Technique with Virtual Planning for Male-to-Female Transgender Patients.

The chin is an essential structure in facial harmony and an important gender marker. Advancing a receding chin is fundamental to improve the facial appearance, particularly in male-to-female transgender patients. However, in patients with microgenia and/or retrognathia, desiring a more feminine appearance, a chin advancement can result in a wider, square shape; an undesirable effect. Genioplasty is a versatile procedure used in facial feminization surgery that allows modifying the natural anatomy of the chin in all three spatial dimensions. The technique herein described proposes a simple genioplasty procedure for feminizing the chin (F-chin genioplasty) in transgender patients where anteroposterior advance is required. Virtual planning was used to establish the landmarks for an anteroposterior advancement with transverse reduction in the chin. A perpendicular line to the Frankfurt plane passing through the incisal edge of the upper central incisor was used to plan the anteroposterior movement, and two vertical lines on the outer wall of the nasal cavity  for the chin transverse measurement. The authors present three case reports with the F-chin genioplasty transgender technique with satisfactory results, ensuring a more feminine facial appearance.Level of Evidence V This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Temporomandibular Joint Minimally Invasive Procedures in the Pediatric Population: A Prospective Study.

Over recent years, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) minimally invasive procedures, such as arthrocentesis and arthroscopy, have been appointed as an initial TMJ intra-articular treatment. Both procedures present safe and effective clinical results in managing temporomandibular disorders (TMD) by reducing pain and improving mouth opening. The use of these techniques in adults is validated in the literature. However, data on the safety and effectiveness of minimally invasive TMJ interventions in pediatric patients are scarce. This study aims to investigate the effectiveness of TMJ arthrocentesis and arthroscopy in the pediatric population. A prospective study was conducted at Instituto Português da Face (IPF) in Lisbon, Portugal, including patients treated for TMD from 1 June 2019 to 30 June 2023. In the present study, 26 patients (17 female and 9 male) were included, representing a total of 48 joints operated. A statistically significant reduction was observed in the primary outcome, TMJ pain, from 3.93 ± 2.80 preoperatively (mean ± SD) to 0.50 ± 1.53 (mean ± SD) postoperatively (p < 0.05). An improvement in the secondary outcome, maximum mouth opening, from 36.92 ± 8.79 preoperatively to 42.96 ± 5.07 postoperatively, was observed (p < 0.05). The overall success rate was 84.62%. This prospective study showed that TMJ arthrocentesis and arthroscopy appear to benefit pediatric patients with TMD, significantly lowering pain and improving MMO without relevant postoperative complications.

Gestão da dor aguda pós-operatória na artroplastia da anca: eficácia analgésica do bloqueio de nervo periférico de dose única / Management of acute postoperative pain in hip arthroplasty: analgesic efficacy of single-dose peripheral nerve blocks

O Estágio Profissional visa o desenvolvimento das competências comuns e especificas para uma determinada área de especialidade, neste caso a Enfermagem de Médico-cirúrgica na área da pessoa em situação critica. As competências de investigação foram desenvolvidas com um estudo sobre a dor aguda do pós-operatório, uma vez que é um problema de saúde pública fundamentado pela sua prevalência, potenciais complicações e subtratamento. A opção pela gestão da dor aguda nos doentes submetidos a artroplastia primária da anca justificou-se por ser uma cirurgia cada vez mais comum, pela relação que se estabelece com a patologia osteoarticular degenerativa e o envelhecimento da população, e porque a dor pós-operatória associada a este procedimento se manifesta habitualmente por dor moderada a intensa. Objetivos: Analisar o processo de aquisição de competências para a prestação de cuidados à pessoa em situação critica. Caracterizar os níveis de intensidade de dor (em repouso e em movimento), os efeitos adversos (bloqueio motor, sensitivo e efeitos sistémicos) e a necessidade de analgesia de resgate, em doentes submetidos a artroplastia primária da anca, com recurso a técnicas de bloqueio de nervo periférico dose única; verificar a relação existente entre os níveis de intensidade de dor, os efeitos adversos, a necessidade de analgesia de resgate e de reavaliação depois das 24 horas, com as técnicas de bloqueio de nervo periférico dose única; verificar a relação entre a presença de efeitos secundários sistémicos com o uso de analgesia de resgate e de analgesia sistémica. Métodos: Estudo analítico-correlacional e retrospetivo. Foram incluídos 994 doentes submetidos a Artroplastia Total Primária da Anca e submetidos a técnicas de bloqueio de nervo periférico dose única [bloqueio de nervo femoral (BNF) + cutâneo lateral da coxa (CLC); bloqueio do grupo nervoso pericapsular (PENG) + Cutâneo lateral da coxa (CLC); Bloqueio da fáscia ilíaca (BFI)], seguidos numa Unidade de Dor Aguda de um hospital da região Norte, no período compreendido entre 1 de janeiro de 2013 e 15 outubro de 2023. Foram salvaguardados os princípios éticos. Os dados foram submetidos a análise descritiva e inferencial, com recurso ao programa Python Programming Language (versão 3.12). Resultados: O estágio permitiu o desenvolvimento de competências para a prestação de cuidados à pessoa em situação critica. No estudo, no total de doentes, o BNF+CLC foi utilizado em 77,5%, o PENG+CLC em 14,4% e o BFI em 8,1%, todos os doentes foram avaliados às 24 horas após o procedimento cirúrgico. A maioria doentes referiu ausência de dor em repouso (82,7%) e dor ligeira em movimento (55,2%). Os principais efeitos adversos identificados foram o bloqueio sensitivo com parestesias em pequena área (13%), o bloqueio motor com ligeira diminuição da força muscular (4,9%) e as náuseas e vómitos (3,5%). Apenas 7,8% necessitaram de analgesia de resgate. As hipóteses propostas não se confirmaram, exceto uma diferença estatisticamente significativa quando comparados os grupos de BNF+CLC e PENG+CLC em relação ao bloqueio sensitivo (p = 0.036) e a comparação dos grupos com administração de paracetamol e paracetamol+tramadol em relação aos efeitos adversos sistémicos (p = 0.047). Conclusão: A avaliação efetuada pelos enfermeiros da UDA, nas primeiras 24 horas após ATA, com recurso a técnicas de bloqueio de nervo periférico dose única em combinação com analgesia sistémica, revela uma adequada gestão da dor aguda do pós-operatório. A necessidade de analgesia de resgate foi muito reduzida e os efeitos adversos associados à analgesia estiveram ausentes na maioria dos doentes. Os doentes submetidos a PENG+CLC apresentaram menor grau de bloqueio sensitivo do que os submetidos a BNF+CLC.

The Professional Internship aims at developing common and specific skills for a particular area of expertise, in this case, Medical-Surgical Nursing in the individual critical care setting. Research skills were developed through a study on acute postoperative pain, as it is a public health problem justified by its prevalence, potential complications, and under treatment. The choice to focus on the management of acute pain in patients undergoing primary hip arthroplasty was justified due to its increasing prevalence, its relationship with degenerative osteoarticular pathology and the aging population, and because postoperative pain associated with this procedure typically manifests as moderate to severe pain. Objective: Analyse the process of acquiring skills for providing care to individuals in critical situations. Characterize the levels of pain intensity (at rest and in motion), adverse effects (motor and sensory block, systemic effects), and the need for rescue analgesia in patients undergoing primary hip arthroplasty using single-dose peripheral nerve block techniques. Examine the relationship between pain intensity levels, adverse effects, the need for rescue analgesia, and reassessment after 24 hours with single-dose peripheral nerve block techniques. Investigate the correlation between the presence of systemic side effects and the use of rescue analgesia and systemic analgesia. Methodology: Analytical-correlational and retrospective study. A total of 994 patients who underwent Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty and received single-dose peripheral nerve block techniques [femoral nerve block (FNB) + Lateral cutaneous nerve of the thigh (LFCN); Pericapsular nerve block (PENG) + Lateral cutaneous nerve of the thigh (LFCN); Iliac fascia block (IFB)] were included in the study. These patients were followed in an Acute Pain Unit of a hospital in the Northern region between January 1, 2013, and October 15, 2023. Ethical principles were adhered to. The data underwent descriptive and inferential analysis using the Python Programming Language (version 3.12). Results: The internship allowed the development of skills for providing care to individuals in critical situations. In the study, among the total number of patients, FNB+LFCN was used in 77.5%, PENG+LFCN in 14.4%, and IFB in 8.1%. All patients were assessed 24 hours after the surgical procedure. The majority of patients reported no pain at rest (82.7%) and mild pain during movement (55.2%). The main identified adverse effects were sensory block with paresthesias in a small area (13%), motor block with slight decrease in muscle strength (4.9%), and nausea and vomiting (3.5%). Only 7.8% required rescue analgesia. The proposed hypotheses were not confirmed, except for a statistically significant difference when comparing the FNB+LFCN and PENG+LFCN groups regarding sensory block (p = 0.036) and the comparison of groups with administration of paracetamol and paracetamol+tramadol regarding systemic adverse effects (p = 0.047). Conclusion: The evaluation conducted by the nurses in the Acute Pain Unit (UDA) in the first 24 hours after Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty, using single-dose peripheral nerve block techniques in combination with systemic analgesia, reveals an adequate management of acute postoperative pain. The need for rescue analgesia was greatly reduced, and adverse effects associated with analgesia were absent in the majority of patients. Patients undergoing PENG+LFCN showed a lower degree of sensory block than those undergoing FNB+LFCN.

Aortic Thrombosis Associated with Three Types of COVID-19 Vaccine.

Aortic thrombosis has been studied little in patients with COVID-19 and an association has recently been reported with the vaccine for this disease. The aim of the present study is to report five cases of aortic thrombosis at our institution within a three-month period associated with the COVID-19 vaccine. Five cases of aortic thrombosis were evaluated-three women and two men aged 29, 49, 51, 60, and 79 years. Four thrombi involved the thoracic aortic and one involved the abdominal aorta, with embolisms found in the kidneys, spleen, liver, upper limbs, and lower limbs. Embolectomy was performed on the limbs, and anticoagulant therapy was performed for the abdominal arteries. The patients recovered well and anticoagulant therapy was maintained. Aortic thrombosis is uncommon but was associated with the AstraZeneca vaccine in this case series.

Effectiveness of double-puncture temporomandibular joint arthrocentesis with viscosupplementation in different categories of severity - a prospective study.

This 3-year prospective study evaluated the efficacy of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) arthrocentesis with viscosupplementation in different severity stages based on the Dimitroulis classification (categories 2-4 were included). TMJ arthrocentesis was performed under local anaesthesia, and the protocol consisted of a double-puncture technique with lavage of ≥150 cc Ringer Lactate plus viscosupplementation. Incobotulinum toxin A was administered 10-15 days preoperatively in patients with concomitant masticatory myalgia. The primary outcome was TMJ pain, assessed by visual analogue scale (VAS, 0-10), and the secondary outcomes were the maximum mouth opening (MMO, mm) and myalgia degree (0-3). All outcomes were assessed on the intervention day (T0) and after the procedure (T1) (minimum 1 month and then 3 months, 6 months, 1 year and every year since). A total of 108 patients were enrolled (mean age of 43.1 ± 18.9 years); 86 (80%) were women and 22 (20%) were men. Preoperative pain was 4.02 ± 3.12 (mean ± SD), MMO was 38.10 ± 9.56 (mean ± SD) and myalgia degree was 1.80 ± 1.18 (mean ± SD). After an average of 215.4 days (31-1253 days), a statistically significant improvement of pain (P < 0.0001), MMO (P = 0.005) and myalgia degree (P < 0.0001) was observed. The overall successful outcome of TMJ arthrocentesis with viscosupplementation was 76%. The authors observed increased arthrocentesis effectiveness and success rate with viscosupplementation in Dimitroulis category 2 (88.6%) compared to 3-4 (71.4%). An association was found between arthrocentesis with viscosupplementation failure and painful myalgia (ρ = 0.477; P < 0.0001). Thirteen patients (12%) underwent a second TMJ intervention after finalising the present trial. With a low complication rate, TMJ arthrocentesis with viscosupplementation led to an overall benefit for all the included patients. This study reinforces the important role of minimally invasive TMJ arthrocentesis as a first treatment option, with better results in the early stages compared to more severe stages.

Bilateral arthroscopy of the temporomandibular joint: clinical outcomes and the role of a second intervention-a prospective study.

OBJECTIVE: Evaluate the efficacy of bilateral temporomandibular joint (TMJ) arthroscopy in patients with different categories of severity based on Dimitroulis classification (categories 2-4) and the role of a second TMJ intervention in primary failure. METHODS: A 3-year prospective study was designed, including patients submitted to bilateral TMJ arthroscopy. The primary outcome was TMJ pain (VAS, 0-10) and the secondary outcomes were the maximum mouth opening (MMO) and masticatory myalgia degree (0-3). In cases of symptomatic relapse, a second TMJ intervention was performed (TMJ arthrocentesis or TMJ open surgery). RESULTS: Eighty patients (93.4% women) were enrolled, with a mean age of 32.40 ± 11.41 years. With an average follow-up of 523.7 days (34-1606), a statistically significant improvement in TMJ pain, MMO, and myalgia degree was observed (P < 0.0001). The overall successful outcome of one-single bilateral arthroscopy was ~ 69%. Twenty-two patients relapsed: (1) arthralgia (n = 15, 68.18%); (2) arthralgia + myalgia (n = 4, 18.18%); (3) dislocated disc without reduction (DDwoR) (n = 2, 9.09%); (4) DDwoR + osteoarthrosis (OA) (n = 1, 4.55%). Arthralgia was re-managed with TMJ arthrocentesis with local anesthesia (n = 19, 86.36%). New DDwoR with or without OA was re-treated with TMJ open surgery (n = 3, 13.64%). After the second intervention, the success rate increased to 85%. CONCLUSIONS: Bilateral TMJ arthroscopy presented overall benefit in all parameters evaluated. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: This study highlights the importance of TMJ arthroscopy as the first line of treatment for moderate-severe temporomandibular disorders cases contributing to the reduction of TMJ open surgeries. In cases of arthroscopy unsuccess, TMJ arthrocentesis under local anesthesia was an effective and safe intervention for patients with recurrent TMJ arthralgia.

Social buffering reduces fear expression in Wistar rats when tested in pairs, but not when retested alone.

Social buffering is a phenomenon in which the stress response of an individual can be reduced by the presence of another individual. However, little is known about the effect of social buffering on aversive after memory extinction, especially when animals are tested alone afterwards. The aim of this study was to verify the social buffering effect in rats during the extinction session of the contextual fear conditioning model and the fear response when animals are tested alone in the following day. Animals were divided into subjects and associates, with the subjects undergoing the fear conditioning protocol and the associates paired with the subjects during the fear extinction session. Across five different experiments, we tested moderate and high intensity contextual fear conditioning protocols, as well four variations of pairs: (i) two conditioned subjects, (ii) a conditioned subject and a non-conditioned associate, (iii) a conditioned subject and an associate who observed the conditioning of the partner and (iv) two conditioned subjects, with one treated with diazepam. The social buffering effect was found efficient to reduce the fear memory expression during the fear extinction session. In the moderate intensity protocol, the reduction in freezing time occurred only in subjects accompanied by non-conditioned associates and observer associates. In the high intensity protocol, the social buffering effect occurred in subjects accompanied by either conditioned or non-conditioned associates, although the effect was more evident in the presence of non-conditioned subjects. Treatment of the conditioned associates with diazepam did not improve the social buffering effect. Moreover, social buffering effects were not correlated with self-grooming or prosocial behaviors, which indicates that the presence of another animal might decrease freezing by promotion of exploratory activity. Finally, the social buffering effect was not observed in the extinction test, either because the extinction was too effective in the moderate intensity protocol or because the extinction was equally ineffective in the high intensity protocol. Our results suggest that social buffering does not improve fear extinction consolidation.

Outcomes of IncobotulinumtoxinA Injection on Myalgia and Arthralgia in Patients Undergoing Temporomandibular Joint Arthroscopy: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: Several studies have considered Botulinum Neurotoxin Type A injections effective in treating temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) symptoms. A double-blind, randomized, controlled clinical trial investigated the benefit of complementary incobotulinumtoxinA (inco-BoNT/A) injections in the masticatory muscles of patients submitted to bilateral temporomandibular joint (TMJ) arthroscopy. METHODS: Fifteen patients with TMD and an indication for bilateral TMJ arthroscopy were randomized into inco-BoNT/A (Xeomin, 100 U) or placebo groups (saline solution). Injections were carried out five days before TMJ arthroscopy. The primary outcome variable was a Visual Analogue Scale for TMJ arthralgia, and secondary outcomes were the myalgia degree, maximum mouth opening, and joint clicks. All outcome variables were assessed preoperatively (T0) and postoperatively (T1-week 5; T2-6-month follow-up). RESULTS: At T1, the outcomes in the inco-BoNT/A group were improved, but not significantly more than in the placebo group. At T2, significant improvements in the TMJ arthralgia and myalgia scores were observed in the inco-BoNT/A group compared to the placebo. A higher number of postoperative reinterventions with further TMJ treatments were observed in the placebo group compared to inco-BoNT/A (63% vs. 14%). CONCLUSIONS: In patients submitted to TMJ arthroscopy, statistically significant long-term differences were observed between the placebo and inco-BoNT/A groups.

Mesenteric Infarction With Cerebral Thrombotic Relapses and Pulmonary Embolism Two and Four Months After COVID-19.

The aim of the present study was to report different sites of thrombotic events during and after coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in a 49-year-old patient who had acute mesenteric infarction in acute phase, stroke 2 months after and pulmonary thromboembolism 4 months after infection by COVID-19. The obese, previously healthy patient experienced myalgia and headache with subfebrile peaks and was tested positive for COVID-19 with a fast polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay. Ten days after the onset of symptoms, the patient was submitted to exploratory laparotomy, which revealed 20 cm of small intestine loop with signs of suffering and thickening of the wall approximately 120 cm from the ileocecal valve. Two months after the event, angiotomography was performed, revealing effacement of the sulci in the right parietal region and hypersignal of the right middle cerebral artery with stop in M1. Two months later (4 months after the mesenteric infarction), chest angiotomography revealed signs of acute pulmonary thromboembolism, with no typical image of pulmonary infarction. Despite all these complications in the postoperative period, the patient survived.

Perfil epidemiológico dos pacientes amputados acompanhados em um grande centro referência em reabilitação de Pernambuco / Epidemiological profile of amputee patients monitored at a large reference rehabilitation center in Pernambuco

A amputação de um membro se reveste de maior dramaticidade e limitações sensório-motoras em pacientes jovens, assim como, na população adulta ou idosa com comorbidades. Objetivo: Traçar o perfil demográfico e epidemiológico dos pacientes atendidos em um grande centro de referência em reabilitação em Pernambuco. Métodos: Realizou-se um estudo de corte transversal com revisão de prontuários ativos. Os resultados foram tratados pelo Microsoft Excel® e o programa utilizado para os cálculos estatísticos foi o IBM® SPSS® na versão 23. Resultados: Observou-se idade média de 48,36 anos, gênero masculino (76,6%), casados (47,7%), ensino fundamental (64,8%) e oriundos de todas as regiões do estado. Quanto à amputação, sem predileção por lado, mais frequente nos membros inferiores transfemoral (55,1%), cotos de comprimento variável e causas vasculares e traumáticas mais frequentes. No exame físico, cotos em condições de reabilitação, utilização de aditamento comunitário ou domiciliar na primeira consulta e sem uso prévio de prótese. Em 83,6% dos casos, os pacientes usavam sua prótese mais de 7h/dia e 58,6% possuíam marcha independente na comunidade, com durabilidade da prótese em até 36 meses (75,8%). Conclusão: A amputação ocorre em idade jovem, sendo os homens mais acometidos, as doenças vasculares e acidentes envolvendo veículos motorizados são as principais causas, as cirurgias ocorrem mais nas diáfises ósseas. O tempo de terapias foi efetivo. Fazem-se necessárias políticas públicas que agilizem o acesso do paciente a centros especializados e desses aos centros de reabilitação e para melhoria dos materiais e componentes que compõem as próteses oferecidas pelo SUS

The amputation of a limb is more dramatic and sensorimotor limitations in young patients, as well as in the adult or elderly population with comorbidities. Objective: This study outlined the demographic and epidemiological profile of patients treated at a large referral rehabilitation center in Pernambuco. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out with a review of active medical records. The results were processed by Microsoft Excel® and the program used for the statistical calculations was the IBM® SPSS® version 23. Results: It was observed a mean age of 48.36 years, male gender (76.6%), married (47.7%), elementary education (64.8%) and from all regions of the state. As for amputation, with no predilection for the side, more frequent in the lower limbs transfemoral (55.1%), variable length stumps and more frequent vascular and traumatic causes. On physical examination, stumps in rehabilitation conditions, use of community or home addition in the first consultation and no previous use of prosthesis. In 83.6% of the cases, the patients used their prosthesis more than 7h/day and 58.6% had independent walking in the community, with prosthesis durability of up to 36 months (75.8%). Conclusion: Amputation occurs at a young age, with men being more affected, vascular diseases and accidents involving motor vehicles are the main causes, surgeries occur more in bone diaphyses. The therapy time was effective. Public policies are needed to speed up patient access to specialized centers and from them to rehabilitation centers and to improve the materials and components that make up the prostheses offered by the SUS.

Lymphedema and Elephantiasis of the Lower Limbs: Normalization or Nearly Normalization.

Lymphedema is a clinical condition resulting from a failure in the drainage of the lymphatic system and the consequent formation of edema and is a chronic progressive condition; its development is an active dynamic process. Physiotherapy techniques are the most widely used method for such cases. However, novel concepts and treatment techniques have emerged in recent years. Godoy & Godoy have developed novel therapy concepts proposing the normalization or near normalization of all clinical stages of lymphedema, including elephantiasis.The Godoy & Godoy method has undergone continual evolution, with the improvement of established and the emergence of novel concepts making contributions to the understanding of the causes and treatment of lymphedema. These researchers developed a novel concept of manual lymphatic drainage based on linear movements, cervical lymphatic therapy, a novel concept in mechanical lymphatic drainage, and hand-crafted stockings made with grosgrain material. Therefore, the aim of the present study is to report the new concepts of treatment for lymphedema and the maintenance of such results by the Godoy & Godoy technique in all stages. The Godoy & Godoy method enables the normalization or near normalization of lymphedema in all clinical stages, including elephantiasis.

Prevalence of Clinical Signs and Symptoms of Temporomandibular Joint Disorders Registered in the EUROTMJ Database: A Prospective Study in a Portuguese Center.

Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMDs) are characterized by their multifactorial etiology and pathogenesis. A 3-year prospective study was conducted in a Portuguese TMDs department to study the prevalence of different TMDs signs and symptoms and their association with risk factors and comorbidities. Five hundred ninety-five patients were included using an online database: EUROTMJ. Most patients were female (80.50%), with a mean age of 38.20 ± 15.73 years. The main complaints were: (1) temporomandibular joint (TMJ) clicking (13.26%); (2) TMJ pain (12.49%); (3) masticatory muscle tension (12.15%). The main clinical findings were myalgia (74%), TMJ clicking (60-62%), and TMJ arthralgia (31-36%). Risk factors such as clenching (60%) and bruxism (30%) were positively associated with TMJ pain and myalgia. Orthodontic treatment (20%) and wisdom tooth removal (19%) were positively associated with TMJ clicking, while jaw trauma (6%), tracheal intubation (4%) and orthognathic surgery (1%) were positively associated with TMJ crepitus, limited mandibular range of motion, and TMJ pain, respectively. In total, 42.88% of TMDs patients had other associated chronic diseases, most of them were mental behavioral or neurodevelopmental disorders (33.76%), namely, anxiety (20%) and depression (13%). The authors also observed a positive association of mental disorders with the degree of TMJ pain and myalgia. The online database seems to be a relevant scientific instrument for healthcare providers who treat TMDs. The authors expect that the EUROTMJ database can serve as a milestone for other TMDs departments.

Patient experience and satisfaction with different temporomandibular joint treatments: A retrospective study.

This retrospective study aimed to evaluate patient satisfaction with different temporomandibular joint (TMJ) treatments. Patients were included in the study according to the following inclusion criteria: 1) arthrogenous and/or myogenous temporomandibular disorders (TMD); 2) Dimitroulis classification category between 1-4; 3) conservative treatment without any improvement at least for 3 months; 4) indication for one of the following TMD treatments: injection of botulinum toxin; arthrocentesis; arthroscopy, and open surgery without alloplastic material; and 5) age ≥16 years. An independent satisfaction questionnaire with 11 queries was applied via phone call to all patients, which included 6 questions using a 10-point Likert scale and 5 yes-or-no questions. The principal outcome was the overall satisfaction with the clinical result of the treatment, and the secondary outcomes were specific satisfaction with the following: 1) pain reduction; 2) range of mouth opening; 3) chewing ability; 4) postoperative recovery; 5) the fulfillment of expectations; 6) treatment choice; 7) treatment recommendation to a friend; and 8) the need for another intervention. Anxiety and depression were also included as variables. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, non-parametric Kruskal-Wallis and Spearman rank correlation coefficient tests. A total of 120 patients (mean age 41.20 ± 17.78 years) were enrolled, comprising 109 women (90%) and 11 men (10%). The overall clinical satisfaction of all patients was 8.24 ± 2.23 (mean ± SD), and 97 patients (80.8%) stated that they would repeat the treatment. Patients submitted to TMJ arthrocentesis and arthroscopy had higher overall clinical satisfaction (9.09 ± 0.971 and 9.03 ± 1.13, p = 0.021) followed by open surgery (8.38 ± 1.84). The authors observed three statistically significant correlations: 1) overall clinical satisfaction and patient expectations (r = 0.803; p < 0.0001); 2) overall clinical satisfaction and post-treatment pain (r = -0.299; p = 0.003); and (3) the presence of depression and the need for further TMJ treatment (r = 0.186; p = 0.043). Within the limitations of the study it seems that patient expectations should be addressed ad initium, and the presence of a diagnosis of depression with concomitant TMD must alert the clinical team and patient for the possible need of additional treatment.

Cell-Free DNA as a New Biomarker of IVF Success, Independent of Any Infertility Factor, Including Endometriosis.

Cell-free DNA fragments detected in blood and in other biological fluids are released from apoptotic/necrotic cells. In this study, we analyzed cfDNA levels in follicular fluid (FF) samples from patients with infertility. Samples were collected from 178 infertile women and cfDNA was extracted and quantified by qPCR, using ALU115 and ALU247 primers, and statistical correlations were performed. We found that cfDNA concentration was significantly higher in FF pools from women aged 35 and over than in women under 35 years of age (p = 0.017). We also found that q247 cfDNA levels were significantly higher in women with an associated female factor, such as endometriosis, PCOS and POF, compared with women with no specific cause of infertility (p = 0.033). The concentration of cfDNA did not vary significantly in each group of women with an associated female factor. The concentration of cfDNA was significantly higher in the FF of women that obtained embryos with a high fragmentation rate, compared to embryos with a low fragmentation rate (p = 0.007). Finally, we found that women who did not become pregnant during IVF treatments had higher q247 cfDNA levels (p = 0.043). The quantification of cfDNA could be an important biomarker of follicular micro-environment quality to predict embryo quality and the success of IVF, making them more specific and effective.

Neonatal kaempferol exposure attenuates gait and strength deficits and prevents altered muscle phenotype in a rat model of cerebral palsy.

Cerebral palsy (CP) is characterized by brain damage at a critical period of development of the central nervous system, and, as a result, motor, behavioural and learning deficits are observed in those affected. Flavonoids such as kaempferol have demonstrated potential anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties for neurological disorders. This study aimed to assess the effects of neonatal treatment with kaempferol on the body development, grip strength, gait performance and morphological and biochemical phenotype of skeletal muscle in rats subjected to a model of CP. The groups were formed by randomly allocating male Wistar rats after birth to four groups as follows: C = control treated with vehicle, K = control treated with kaempferol, CP = CP treated with vehicle and CPK = CP treated with kaempferol. The model of CP involved perinatal anoxia and sensorimotor restriction of the hind paws during infancy, from the second to the 28th day of postnatal life. Treatment with kaempferol (1 mg/kg) was performed intraperitoneally during the neonatal period. Body weight and length, muscle strength, gait kinetics and temporal and spatial parameters were evaluated in the offspring. On the 36th day of postnatal life, the animals were euthanized for soleus muscle dissection. The muscle fibre phenotype was assessed using the myofibrillar ATPase technique, and the muscle protein expression was measured using the Western blot technique. A reduction in the impact of CP on body phenotype was observed, and this also attenuated deficits in muscle strength and gait. Treatment also mitigated the impact on muscle phenotype by preventing a reduction in the proportion of oxidative fibres and in the histomorphometric parameters in the soleus muscle of rats in the CP group. The results demonstrate that neonatal treatment with kaempferol attenuated gait deficits and impaired muscle strength and muscle maturation in rats subjected to a model of CP.

Hallermann-Streiff Syndrome and Lower Limb Lymphedema with Nasal Obstruction.

Background: Hallermann-Streiff syndrome (HSS) is a rare congenital abnormality involving multiple craniofacial malformations, such as micrognathia, prominent frontal and nasal bones, vision defects, and dental anomalies, which can result in obstructive sleep apnea syndrome. The aim of the present study was to report a case of nasal obstruction in an individual with Hallermann-Streiff syndrome who had never breathed through the nose during treatment for lower limb lymphedema involving cervical lymphatic therapy. Case Report. An 18-year-old female adolescent with a diagnosis of HSS was sent from the genetics service of a teaching school for the treatment of lower limb lymphedema. At around 11 years of age, the patient began to present edema in the left leg, accompanied by broadening of the face and neck. The patient reported having obstructed nostrils and breathing through the mouth her entire life. On the second day of treatment, the patient reported being able to breathe through one of the nostrils, this had never occurred before. Based on this finding, the decision was made to include linear facial lymphatic drainage using the Godoy method, which led to the complete resolution of the nasal obstruction in the first 15 minutes of treatment. Nasal obstruction in children with Hallermann-Streiff syndrome may be caused by lymphedema. Conclusion: A specific lymphatic drainage technique, such as cervical lymphatic therapy and facial linear lymphatic therapy, can resolve the obstruction and maintain the nostrils unblocked for months.

Mortality and Deep Vein Thrombosis in the Gamma Variant of Covid 19 and Lung Injury.

Purpose: The SARS-CoV-2 disease predisposes infected individuals to thrombosis, the underlying mechanisms of which are not fully understood. The balance between pro-coagulant factors and natural coagulation inhibitors in critically ill patients with Covid-19 is fundamental to the prevention and treatment of complications. The aim of the present study was to investigate the pulmonary injury patterns in Covid-19 having higher mortality in the presence of deep vein thrombosis in comparison to patients without venous thrombosis and determine the Gamma variant. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted involving the evaluation of 200 medical records of patients with Covid-19 and a clinical suspicion of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) at the intensive care unit of a public hospital. The sample was divided into two groups of patients were formed - those positive and those negative for DVT. Statistical analysis involved the use of Fisher's exact test, the paired t-test and chi-square test. Results: Patients with DVT had more severe lung injuries (greater than 70%) compared to those without DVT (p = 0.003). Lesions affecting 50% to 70% of the lung area occurred in little more half of the group with DVT and just under half in the group without DVT (p = 0.5). Pulmonary lesions affecting less than 50% of the lung occurred more in patients without DVT (p = 0.0001). The Gamma variant increased prevalence of the both DVT and mortality (p=0.0001). Conclusion: Deep vein thrombosis is an aggravating factor of mortality in patients with SARS-CoV-2, and the Gamma variant is an aggravating factor of both thrombotic events and mortality.

Reduction of Arm Lymphedema Using Manual Lymphatic Therapy (Godoy Method).

BACKGROUND: The manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) technique used during the early stages following surgical treatment of breast cancer can help prevent the progression of clinical lymphedema. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of manual lymphatic therapy (MLT) (Godoy method) in reducing the development of lymphedema immediately after breast cancer treatment. METHOD: A randomized, blind, crossover, clinical trial was conducted involving 66 women with breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL), who underwent one hour of manual physical therapy and one hour of the control procedure. To evaluate the volume before and after the application of the MLT technique, volumetry, a water displacement technique was used. For statistical analysis, the paired t-test with 5% alpha error by Stats Direct 3(StatsDirect Ltd, Wirral, UK) was used. RESULTS: A significant reduction in the volume of the limb was found in all patients (p-value = 0.0001, paired t-test). CONCLUSION: MLT is effective in reducing lymphedema after breast cancer treatment.