Fatigue and Performance Rates as Decision-Making Critera in Pacing Control During CrossFit®.

We investigated fatigue and performance rates as decision-making criteria in pacing control during CrossFit®. Thirteen male regional-level competitors completed conditions of all-out (maximum physical work from beginning to end) and controlled-split (controlled physical work in the first two rounds but maximum work in the third round) pacing throughout the Fight Gone Bad workout separated by one week. We assessed benchmarks, countermovement jumps and ratings of fatigue after each round. Benchmarks were lower in round 1 (99 vs. 114, p < .001) but higher in rounds 2 (98 vs. 80, p < .001) and 3 (97 vs. 80, p < .001) for controlled-split compared with all-out pacing. Reductions in countermovement jumps were higher after rounds 1 (-12.6% vs. 1.6%, p < .001) and 2 (-12.7% vs. -4.0%, p = .014) but similar after round 3 (-13.2% vs. -11.3%, p = .571) for all-out compared with controlled-split pacing. Ratings of fatigue were higher after rounds 1 (7 vs. 5 a.u., p < .001) and 2 (8 vs. 7 a.u, p = .023) but similar after round 3 (9 vs. 9 a.u., p = .737) for all-out compared with controlled-split pacing. During all-out pacing, countermovement jump reductions after round 2 correlated with benchmark drops across rounds 1 and 2 (r = .78, p = .002) and rounds 1 and 3 (r = -.77, p = .002) and with benchmark workout changes between pacing strategies (r = -.58, p = .036), suggesting that the larger the countermovement jump reductions the higher the benchmark drops across rounds and workouts. Therefore, benchmarks, countermovement jumps and ratings of fatigue may assess exercise-induced fatigue as decision-making criteria to improve pacing strategy during workouts performed for as many repetitions as possible.

Correlation between psychological status, revised Müller AO classification and patient-reported outcomes: a prospective cohort analysis.

INTRODUCTION: The impact of psychological status on clinical outcomes is valued in several medical conditions, but rare attention is given to it in orthopedic trauma. We aimed to assess the correlation between psychological status, fracture severity and patient-reported outcomes in fractured patients needing urgency surgical treatment. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We prospectively followed 139 consecutive patients undergoing urgency surgical treatment of a lower/upper limb fracture. Before surgery, all patients were divided into grades of fracture severity according to the Revised AO Müller Classification (AO grades). On the 15th and the 120th days after surgery, all patients underwent a psychological status assessment through the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Score (HADS), in addition to a pain evaluation through VAS. One year after surgery, patient-reported outcomes were obtained by using specific scales depending on the site of fracture. RESULTS: AO grades and VAS scores were significantly correlated to scores at HADS-A (anxiety component) and HADS-D (depression component), both on the 15th and the 120th. Patients presenting persistent HADS-A and HADS-D scores equal or greater than 8 points had a risk of more than 2.5 or 2.0 times of experiencing unsatisfactory surgical outcomes, respectively [HADS-A: RR = 2.8 (95% CI: 2.2-3.5)] [HADS-D: RR = 2.2 (95% CI: 1.7-3.1)]. AO grade C and the persistency of significant symptoms of anxiety or depression were independent predictors of unsatisfactory patient-reported outcomes (OR: 1.7, p = 0.03 // OR: 2.9, p < 0.01). Female gender, age, and BMI did not present any statistically significant utility in predicting unsatisfactory patient-reported outcomes. CONCLUSION: In fractured patients needing urgency surgical treatment, the risk of presenting unsatisfactory outcomes is more than twice as high in patients that present significant persistent changes in psychological status. Changes in psychological status are more frequent in patients presenting more severe pain and more severe fractures. AO grades and HADS scores are independent predictors of unsatisfactory outcomes in these patients.

An End-to-End Platform for Digital Pathology Using Hyperspectral Autofluorescence Microscopy and Deep Learning-Based Virtual Histology.

Conventional histopathology involves expensive and labor-intensive processes that often consume tissue samples, rendering them unavailable for other analyses. We present a novel end-to-end workflow for pathology powered by hyperspectral microscopy and deep learning. First, we developed a custom hyperspectral microscope to nondestructively image the autofluorescence of unstained tissue sections. We then trained a deep learning model to use autofluorescence to generate virtual histologic stains, which avoids the cost and variability of chemical staining procedures and conserves tissue samples. We showed that the virtual images reproduce the histologic features present in the real-stained images using a randomized nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) scoring comparison study, where both real and virtual stains are scored by pathologists (D.T., A.D.B., R.K.P.). The test showed moderate-to-good concordance between pathologists' scoring on corresponding real and virtual stains. Finally, we developed deep learning-based models for automated NASH Clinical Research Network score prediction. We showed that the end-to-end automated pathology platform is comparable with an independent panel of pathologists for NASH Clinical Research Network scoring when evaluated against the expert pathologist consensus scores. This study provides proof of concept for this virtual staining strategy, which could improve cost, efficiency, and reliability in pathology and enable novel approaches to spatial biology research.

THE WATER-SOLUBLE CONTRAST FOR ADHESIVE SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION: ARE THERE ADVANTAGES?

BACKGROUND: Adhesive small bowel obstruction is one of the most common causes of surgical emergencies, representing about 15% of hospital admissions. Defining the need and timing of surgical intervention still remains a challenge. AIMS: To report the experience of using meglumine-based water-soluble contrast in a tertiary hospital in southern Brazil, comparing with the world literature. METHODS: Patients suspected of having adhesive small bowel obstruction, according to their clinical conditions, underwent an established protocol, consisting of the administration of water-soluble contrast, followed by plain abdominal radiograph within 12 hours and by a new clinical evaluation. The protocol was initiated after starting conservative management, including fasting and placement of a nasogastric tube, as well as intravenous fluid reposition. RESULTS: A total of 126 patients were submitted to the protocol. The water-soluble contrast test sensitivity and specificity after the first radiograph were 94.6 and 91.0%, respectively; after the second radiograph, these values were 92.3 and 100%. The general test values for sensitivity and specificity were 91.9 and 100%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The measure parameters evaluated in this study were similar to those found in the literature, contributing to endorse the importance of this test in the evaluation of patients with adhesive small bowel obstruction. The particular relevance of this study was the similar results that were found using a different type of meglumine-based contrast, which is available in Brazil.

Two-Year Follow-Up of Chronic Ischemic Heart Disease Patients in a Specialized Center in Brazil. / Acompanhamento de Dois Anos de Pacientes com Cardiopatia Isquêmica Crônica em um Centro Especializado no Brasil.

The incidence of cardiovascular events in patients with chronic ischemic heart disease (CIHD) may vary significantly among countries. Although populous, Brazil is often underrepresented in international records. This study aimed to describe the quality of care and the two-year incidence of cardiovascular events and associated prognostic factors in CIHD patients in a tertiary public health care center in Brazil. Patients with CIHD who reported for clinical evaluation at Instituto do Coração (São Paulo, Brazil) were registered and followed for two years. The primary endpoint was a composite of myocardial infarction (MI), stroke, or death. A significance level of 0.05 was adopted. From January 2016 to December 2018, 625 participants were included in the study. Baseline characteristics show that 33.1% were women, median age 66.1 [59.6 - 71.9], 48.6% had diabetes, 83.1% had hypertension, 62.6% had previous MI, and 70.4% went through some revascularization procedure. At a median follow-up (FU) of 881 days, we noted 37 (7.05%) primary endpoints. After adjustments, age, previous stroke, and LDL-cholesterol were independently associated with the primary endpoint. Comparing baseline versus FU, participants experienced relief of angina based on the Canadian Cardiovascular Society (CCS) scale according to the following percentages: 65.7% vs. 81.7% were asymptomatic and 4.2% vs. 2.9% CCS 3 or 4 (p < 0.001). They also experienced better quality of medication prescription: 65.8% vs. 73.6% (p < 0.001). However, there was no improvement in LDL-cholesterol or blood pressure control. This study shows that CIHD patients had a two-year incidence of the primary composite endpoint of 7.05%, and the reduction of LDL-cholesterol was the only modifiable risk factor associated with prognosis.

A incidência de eventos cardiovasculares em pacientes com doença cardíaca isquêmica crônica (DCIC) pode variar significativamente entre os países. Embora populoso, o Brasil é frequentemente sub-representado nos registros internacionais. Este estudo teve como objetivo descrever a qualidade do atendimento e a incidência de eventos cardiovasculares em dois anos, além de fatores prognósticos associados em pacientes com DCIC em um centro terciário de saúde pública no Brasil. Pacientes com DCIC que compareceram para avaliação clínica no Instituto do Coração (São Paulo, Brasil) foram cadastrados e acompanhados por dois anos. O desfecho primário foi um composto de infarto do miocárdio (IM), acidente vascular encefálico ou morte. Um nível de significância de 0,05 foi adotado. De janeiro de 2016 a dezembro de 2018, 625 participantes foram incluídos no estudo. As características basais mostram que 33,1% eram mulheres, a idade mediana era de 66,1 [59,6 ­ 71,9], 48,6% tinham diabetes, 83,1% tinham hipertensão, 62,6% tinham IM prévio e 70,4% passaram por algum procedimento de revascularização. Em um acompanhamento mediano de 881 dias, 37 (7,05%) desfechos primários foram observados. Após ajustes, idade, acidente vascular encefálico prévio e colesterol LDL foram independentemente associados ao desfecho primário. Comparando a linha de base com o acompanhamento, os participantes relataram alívio da angina com base na escala da Sociedade Cardiovascular Canadense (SCC) de acordo com as seguintes porcentagens: 65,7% vs. 81,7% eram assintomáticos e 4,2% vs. 2,9% eram SCC 3 ou 4 (p < 0,001). Eles também relataram melhor qualidade na prescrição de medicamentos: 65,8% vs. 73,6% (p < 0,001). No entanto, não houve melhora no colesterol LDL ou no controle da pressão arterial. O presente estudo mostra que pacientes com DCIC apresentaram uma incidência de 7,05% do desfecho primário composto em um período de dois anos, sendo a diminuição do colesterol LDL o único fator de risco modificável associado ao prognóstico.

Muscle growth affects the metabolome of the pectoralis major muscle in red-winged tinamou (Rhynchotus rufescens).

The aim of the present study was to identify and quantify the metabolites (metabolome analysis) of the pectoralis major muscle in male red-winged tinamou (Rhynchotus rufescens) selected for growth traits. A selection index was developed for females [body weight (BW), chest circumference (CC), and thigh circumference (TC)] and males [BW, CC, TC, semen volume, and sperm concentration] in order to divide the animals into 2 experimental groups: selection group with a higher index (TinamouS) and commercial group with a lower index (TinamouC). Twenty male offspring of the 2 groups (TinamouS, n = 10; TinamouC, n = 10) were confined for 350 d. The birds were slaughtered and pectoralis major muscle samples were collected, subjected to polar and apolar metabolites extractions and analyzed by proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR) spectroscopy. Analysis of the polar metabolomic profile identified 65 metabolites; 29 of them were differentially expressed between the experimental groups (P < 0.05). The TinamouS groups exhibited significantly higher concentrations (P < 0.05) of 25 metabolites, including anserine, aspartate, betaine, carnosine, creatine, glutamate, threonine, 3-methylhistidine, NAD+, pyruvate, and taurine. Significantly higher concentrations of cysteine, beta-alanine, lactose, and choline were observed in the TinamouC group (P < 0.05). The metabolites identified in the muscle provided information about the main metabolic pathways (higher impact value and P < 0.05), for example, phenylalanine, tyrosine and tryptophan biosynthesis; alanine, aspartate and glutamate metabolism; D-glutamine and D-glutamate metabolism; ß-alanine metabolism; glycine, serine and threonine metabolism; taurine and hypotaurine metabolism; histidine metabolism; phenylalanine metabolism. The NMR spectra of apolar fraction showed 8 classes of chemical compounds. The metabolome analysis shows that the selection index resulted in the upregulation of polyunsaturated fatty acids, unsaturated fatty acids, phosphocholines, phosphoethanolamines, triacylglycerols, and glycerophospholipids. The present study suggests that, despite few generations, the selection based on muscle growth traits promoted changes in metabolite concentrations in red-winged tinamou.

Are visual assessments of the single-leg squat valid to be used in clinical practice? A systematic review of measurement properties based on the COSMIN guideline.

OBJECTIVE: Evaluate the discriminative and convergent validity of visual scales for the assessment of movement quality in the single-leg squat. METHODS: Searches performed in CINAHL, Cochrane, Embase, PubMed, SPORTDiscus and Web of Science databases. Studies evaluating discriminative and convergent validity of movement quality visual assessments in single-leg squats were included. The COSMIN risk of bias checklist was used to assess the risk of bias, and certainty of evidence was assessed by the GRADE modified version. RESULTS: Ten studies evaluating three different methods of visual assessment of the single-leg squat (Crossley scale; Whatman score and Medial knee displacement) were included. Very low certainty evidence suggests that the Crossley scale had sufficient discriminative validity for patient-centred outcomes. Very low to moderate certainty evidence suggests that the three visual methods of assessment of the single-leg squat had insufficient discriminative validity for surrogate outcomes and groups. None of the three methods had the convergent validity assessed. CONCLUSION: The Crossley scale exhibited sufficient discriminative validity for patient-centred outcomes, although the evidence supporting this conclusion is of very low certainty. Visual scales for the assessment of the single-leg squat movement quality should be used with caution in clinical practice as most methods had insufficient discriminative validity and no reports of convergent validity.

Proposal of a new slit-lamp shield for ophthalmic examination and assessment of its effectiveness using computational simulations / Avaliação da eficácia e proposta de um novo protetor de lâmpada de fenda durante exame oftálmico por meio de simulações computacionais

ABSTRACT Purpose: This study aimed to use computational models for simulating the movement of respiratory droplets when assessing the efficacy of standard slit-lamp shield versus a new shield designed for increased clinician comfort as well as adequate protection. Methods: Simulations were performed using the commercial software Star-CCM+. Respiratory droplets were assumed to be 100% water in volume fraction with particle diameter distribution represented by a geometric mean of 74.4 (±1.5 standard deviation) μm over a 4-min duration. The total mass of respiratory droplets expelled from patients' mouths and droplet accumulation on the manikin were measured under the following three conditions: with no slit-lamp shield, using the standard slit-lamp shield, and using our new proposed shield. Results: The total accumulated water droplet mass (kilogram) and percentage of expelled mass accumulated on the shield under the three aforementioned conditions were as follows: 5.84e-10 kg (28% of the total weight of particle emitted that settled on the manikin), 9.14e-13 kg (0.045%), and 3.19e-13 (0.015%), respectively. The standard shield could shield off 99.83% of the particles that would otherwise be deposited on the manikin, which is comparable to 99.95% for the proposed design. Conclusion: Slit-lamp shields are effective infection control tools against respiratory droplets. The proposed shield showed comparable effectiveness compared with conventional slit-lamp shields, but with potentially enhanced ergonomics for ophthalmologists during slit-lamp examinations.

RESUMO Introdução: Os oftalmologistas têm alto risco de contrair a doença do Coronavírus-19 devido à proximidade com os pacientes durante os exames com lâmpada de fenda. Usamos um modelo de computação para avaliar a eficácia das proteções para lâmpadas de fenda e propusemos uma nova proteção ergonomicamente projetada. Métodos: As simulações foram realizadas no software comercial Star-CCM +. Os aerossóis de gotículas foram considerados 100% de água em fração de volume com distribuição de diâmetro de partícula representada por uma média geométrica de 74,4 ± 1,5 (desvio padrão) μm ao longo de uma duração de quatro minutos. A massa total de gotículas de água acumulada no manequim e a massa expelida pela boca do paciente foram medidas em três condições diferentes: 1) Sem protetor de lâmpada de fenda, 2) com protetor padrão, 3) Com o novo protetor proposto. Resultados: A massa total acumulada das gotas de água (kg) e a porcentagem da massa expelida acumulada no escudo para cada uma das respectivas condições foram; 1) 5,84e-10 kg (28% do peso total da partícula emitida que assentou no manequim), 2) 9,14e-13 kg (0,045%), 3,19e-13 (0,015%). O escudo padrão foi capaz de proteger 99,83% das partículas que, de outra forma, teriam se depositado no manequim, o que é semelhante a 99,95% para o projeto proposto. Conclusão: Protetores com lâmpada de fenda são ferramentas eficazes de controle de infecção contra gotículas respiratórias. O protetor proposto mostrou eficácia comparável em comparação com os protetores de lâmpada de fenda convencionais, mas potencialmente oferece uma melhor ergonomia para oftalmologistas durante o exame de lâmpada de fenda.

Does response to preoperative intra-articular anesthetic injections predict outcomes of femoroacetabular impingement syndrome?

INTRODUCTION: Some patients with femoroacetabular impingement syndrome (FAIS) who undergo surgery do not show satisfactory outcomes. Reliable tests that can inform prognosis of FAIS surgery are needed for optimized indications and contraindications to surgery. We aimed to review and critically appraise available literature on the capability of patient response to preoperative intra-articular anesthetic injections (PIAI) to predict post-surgical outcomes in patients with FAIS. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA statement. Studies that assessed the patient pain response to PIAI and post-surgical outcomes in patients with FAIS were considered eligible. Study selection and data collection were performed by three independent reviewers. Main outcomes evaluated were those measured by hip outcome scales often used in assessing postoperative pain and functional recovery, such as the modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS) and international Hip Outcome Tool (iHOT). The likelihood ratio of achieving satisfactory postoperative outcomes at the mHHS (LHR) was extracted or calculated-for patients with significant response to PIAI and for those without a significant response to PIAI. The risk of bias was assessed using the Quality In Prognosis Studies (QUIPS) tool. RESULTS: Six studies were considered eligible for analysis. Five studies indicated that patient response to PIAI are associated to surgical outcomes for patients with FAIS, with a greater reduction in pain typically indicating a better surgical outcome. Additionally, the LHR ranged from 1.15 to 1.92 for patients with significant response to PIAI (I2 = 90.6%). For patients without a significant response, the LHR ranged from 0.18 to 0.65 (I2 = 87.5). An overall high risk of bias was observed for all studies included in the analysis. Study attrition, the prognostic factor measurement and the presence of confounding factors were the main sources of bias. CONCLUSIONS: Greater reductions in pain with preoperative intra-articular anesthetic injections were found to be associated to better outcomes after FAIS surgery, but all available studies contain a high risk of bias.

Effectiveness in Sterilization of Objects Produced by 3D Printing with Polylactic Acid Material: Comparison Between Autoclave and Ethylene Oxide Methods.

Objective Due to the popularity of 3D technology, surgeons can create specific surgical guides and sterilize them in their institutions. The aim of the present study is to compare the efficacy of the autoclave and ethylene oxide (EO) sterilization methods for objects produced by 3D printing with polylactic acid (PLA) material. Methods Forty cubic-shaped objects were printed with PLA material. Twenty were solid and 20 were hollow (printed with little internal filling). Twenty objects (10 solid and 10 hollow) were sterilized in autoclave, forming Group 1. The others (10 solid and 10 hollow) were sterilized in EO, composing Group 2. After sterilization, they were stored and referred to culture. Hollow objects of both groups were broken during sowing, communicating the dead space with the culture medium. The results obtained were statistically analyzed (Fisher exact test and residue analysis). Results In group 1 (autoclave), there was bacterial growth in 50% of solid objects and in 30% of hollow objects. In group 2 (EO), growth occurred in 20% of hollow objects, with no bacterial growth in solid objects (100% of negative samples). The bacteria isolated in the positive cases was non-coagulase-producing Staphylococcus Gram positive. Conclusions Sterilization by both autoclave and EO was not effective for hollow printed objects. Solid objects sterilized by autoclave did not demonstrate 100% of negative samples and were not safe in the present assay. Complete absence of contamination occurred only with solid objects sterilized by EO, which is the combination recommended by the authors.

The Anti-Dengue Virus Peptide DV2 Inhibits Zika Virus Both In Vitro and In Vivo.

The C-terminal portion of the E protein, known as stem, is conserved among flaviviruses and is an important target to peptide-based antiviral strategies. Since the dengue (DENV) and Zika (ZIKV) viruses share sequences in the stem region, in this study we evaluated the cross-inhibition of ZIKV by the stem-based DV2 peptide (419-447), which was previously described to inhibit all DENV serotypes. Thus, the anti-ZIKV effects induced by treatments with the DV2 peptide were tested in both in vitro and in vivo conditions. Molecular modeling approaches have demonstrated that the DV2 peptide interacts with amino acid residues exposed on the surface of pre- and postfusion forms of the ZIKA envelope (E) protein. The peptide did not have any significant cytotoxic effects on eukaryotic cells but efficiently inhibited ZIKV infectivity in cultivated Vero cells. In addition, the DV2 peptide reduced morbidity and mortality in mice subjected to lethal challenges with a ZIKV strain isolated in Brazil. Taken together, the present results support the therapeutic potential of the DV2 peptide against ZIKV infections and open perspectives for the development and clinical testing of anti-flavivirus treatments based on synthetic stem-based peptides.

Effectiveness in Sterilization of Objects Produced by 3D Printing with Polylactic Acid Material: Comparison Between Autoclave and Ethylene Oxide Methods / Eficácia na esterilização de objetos produzidos pela impressão 3D com material ácido polilático: Comparação entre os métodos autoclave e óxido de etileno

Abstract Objective Due to the popularity of 3D technology, surgeons can create specific surgical guides and sterilize them in their institutions. The aim of the present study is to compare the efficacy of the autoclave and ethylene oxide (EO) sterilization methods for objects produced by 3D printing with polylactic acid (PLA) material. Methods Forty cubic-shaped objects were printed with PLA material. Twenty were solid and 20 were hollow (printed with little internal filling). Twenty objects (10 solid and 10 hollow) were sterilized in autoclave, forming Group 1. The others (10 solid and 10 hollow) were sterilized in EO, composing Group 2. After sterilization, they were stored and referred to culture. Hollow objects of both groups were broken during sowing, communicating the dead space with the culture medium. The results obtained were statistically analyzed (Fisher exact test and residue analysis). Results In group 1 (autoclave), there was bacterial growth in 50% of solid objects and in 30% of hollow objects. In group 2 (EO), growth occurred in 20% of hollow objects, with no bacterial growth in solid objects (100% of negative samples). The bacteria isolated in the positive cases was non-coagulase-producing Staphylococcus Gram positive. Conclusions Sterilization by both autoclave and EO was not effective for hollow printed objects. Solid objects sterilized by autoclave did not demonstrate 100% of negative samples and were not safe in the present assay. Complete absence of contamination occurred only with solid objects sterilized by EO, which is the combination recommended by the authors.

Resumo Objetivo Devido à popularidade da tecnologia 3D, cirurgiões podem criar guias cirúrgicos específicos e esterilizá-los nas suas instituições. O objetivo do presente estudo é comparar a eficácia dos métodos de esterilização por autoclave e óxido de etileno (OE) de objetos produzidos pela impressão 3D com material ácido polilático (PLA, na sigla em inglês). Métodos Quarenta objetos em formato cúbico foram impressos com material de PLA. Vinte eram sólidos e 20 eram ocos (impressos com pouco enchimento interno). Vinte objetos (10 sólidos e 10 ocos) foram esterilizados em autoclave, formando o Grupo 1. Os demais (10 sólidos e 10 ocos) foram esterilizados em OE, compondo o Grupo 2. Após a esterilização, os objetos foram armazenados e encaminhados para cultura. Objetos ocos de ambos os grupos foram quebrados durante a semeadura, comunicando o espaço morto com o meio de cultura. Os resultados obtidos foram analisados estatisticamente (teste exato de Fisher e análise de resíduo). Resultados No grupo 1 (autoclave) houve crescimento bacteriano em 50% dos objetos sólidos e em 30% dos objetos ocos. No grupo 2 (OE) o crescimento ocorreu em 20% dos objetos ocos, com ausência de crescimento bacteriano nos objetos sólidos (100% de amostras negativas). A bactéria isolada nos casos positivos foi Staphylococcus Gram positivo não produtor de coagulase. Conclusões A esterilização tanto em autoclave quanto pelo OE não foi eficaz para objetos impressos no formato oco. Objetos sólidos esterilizados em autoclave não demonstraram 100% de amostras negativas, não sendo seguro no presente ensaio. Ausência completa de contaminação ocorreu apenas com objetos sólidos esterilizados pelo OE, sendo a combinação recomendada pelos autores.

Determination of carbonyls and size-segregated polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and their nitro and alkyl analogs in emissions from diesel-biodiesel-ethanol blends.

This study characterizes carbonyls (RCHO), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), their nitrated (nitro-PAHs) and alkylated (alkyl-PAHs) in particulate matter in the exhaust emissions of a diesel engine. The measurements were made with a standard engine, often found in vans used in Brazil, fueled with pure commercial diesel and mixtures of 10, 20, and 30% biodiesel with 2, 4, and 6% of ethanol. Particulate matter sampling was carried out with a 10-stage cascade impactor. Chemical analyses for PAHs and their derivatives were conducted using gas phase chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS). RCHO were sampled using impingers with 2,4-DNPH and analyzed using HPLC with UV detection. The results showed that emissions of all the PAHs and their derivatives were reduced with the use of biodiesel and ethanol, with the exception of the blend of 30% biodiesel with 4% ethanol. However, all the RCHO emissions increased with biodiesel and ethanol. High correlations were observed between the emissions of PAHs, alkyl-PAHs and nitro-PAHs, which suggests a similarity in the formation mechanisms of these compounds. All PAHs' emissions have a strong negative correlation with biodiesel content and with RCHO emissions and a medium correlation with ethanol content. In contrast, biodiesel and ethanol with the RCHO emissions lead to a positive correlation coefficient of these compounds which is more pronounced for biodiesel than ethanol.

Proposal of a new slit-lamp shield for ophthalmic examination and assessment of its effectiveness using computational simulations.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to use computational models for simulating the movement of respiratory droplets when assessing the efficacy of standard slit-lamp shield versus a new shield designed for increased clinician comfort as well as adequate protection. METHODS: Simulations were performed using the commercial software Star-CCM+. Respiratory droplets were assumed to be 100% water in volume fraction with particle diameter distribution represented by a geometric mean of 74.4 (±1.5 standard deviation) µm over a 4-min duration. The total mass of respiratory droplets expelled from patients' mouths and droplet accumulation on the manikin were measured under the following three conditions: with no slit-lamp shield, using the standard slit-lamp shield, and using our new proposed shield. RESULTS: The total accumulated water droplet mass (kilogram) and percentage of expelled mass accumulated on the shield under the three aforementioned conditions were as follows: 5.84e-10 kg (28% of the total weight of particle emitted that settled on the manikin), 9.14e-13 kg (0.045%), and 3.19e-13 (0.015%), respectively. The standard shield could shield off 99.83% of the particles that would otherwise be deposited on the manikin, which is comparable to 99.95% for the proposed design. Conclusion: Slit-lamp shields are effective infection control tools against respiratory droplets. The proposed shield showed comparable effectiveness compared with conventional slit-lamp shields, but with potentially enhanced ergonomics for ophthalmologists during slit-lamp examinations.

Nitrogen and sulfur co-doped graphene quantum dot-modified electrode for monitoring of multivitamins in energy drinks.

A glassy carbon electrode was modified with nitrogen and sulfur co-doped graphene quantum dots immobilized in chitosan for the monitoring of multivitamins. The graphene quantum dots were synthesized using a simple citric acid/l-cysteine pyrolysis procedure. The co-doping with nitrogen and sulfur in the graphene matrix was confirmed by spectroscopic techniques. Electron microscopy results showed that the synthesized quantum dots had a diameter of 3.4 ± 1.4 nm. Electrochemical techniques showed excellent current responses to vitamin oxidation provided by the modified electrode compared to the bare electrode. The parameters of square wave voltammetry were optimized in order to obtain the best current responses and to study the electrochemical oxidation of vitamins. The calibration plots for vitamins B2, B6 and B12 were constructed in 0.1 mol L-1 sodium acetate buffer (pH 5.0) with limits of detection of 0.30, 30.1 and 0.32 nmol L-1, respectively. Lastly, the modified electrode was effectively implemented in the quantification of vitamins in classic and fruit-based energy drink samples.

Serviço-escola de psicologia da Unifesp: campos de estágio, ações e especificidades / UNIFESP's psychology service-school: internship field, actions, and specificities / Serviço-escola de psicologia de la Unifesp: campos de prácticas profesionales, acciones y especificidades

O Serviço-Escola de Psicologia (SEP) da Unifesp foi constituído com o intuito de transcender o tradicional funcionamento das clínicas-escola, superando a atomização da Psicologia em áreas e oferecendo serviços integrados à rede. Isso possibilita uma formação interdisciplinar, pluralista, generalista, não tecnicista, crítica, permitindo a compreensão e atuação do psicólogo em diversos contextos socioculturais. O objetivo do artigo é descrever, avaliar e problematizar as ações do SEP da Unifesp, em relação à oferta de campos de estágio e ações desenvolvidas neles. É um estudo transversal, baseado em metodologia predominantemente quantitativa e descritiva. O levantamento de dados foi realizado por meio de dois questionários online respondidos por todos os supervisores. Os dados quantitativos foram submetidos à análise estatística descritiva. Os resultados evidenciaram maior incidência das ações no município de Santos e, em menor grau, em outros municípios da Baixada Santista e na cidade de São Paulo. A maioria das atividades de estágios não se limita ao espaço físico de atendimento clínico do Serviço-Escola, ocorrendo junto às instituições públicas ou às instituições ligadas ao terceiro setor na região, relacionadas, direta ou indiretamente, com a promoção de políticas públicas. A pluralidade de recursos utilizados (grupos, atendimento individual, acompanhamento terapêutico, oficinas, matriciamento, entre outros) revela uma ampliação do repertório de competências e habilidades. A variedade de oferta de projetos e campos de estágio, públicos-alvo atendidos, assim como a diversidade e flexibilidade de ações e estratégias desenvolvidas, apontam um movimento de congruência em relação às diretrizes curriculares nacionais e ao inovador Projeto Pedagógico do curso.(AU)

UNIFESP's Psychology Service-School (SEP) was founded with the objective of going beyond the traditional functioning of school-clinics, overcoming the atomization of Psychology in areas and offering services integrated to the network. This enables an interdisciplinary, pluralist, generalist, non-technicist, and critical training, allowing psychologists' understanding and action in different sociocultural contexts. This article aims to describe, evaluate, and discuss the actions of UNIFESP's SEP regarding the offer of internship fields and the actions developed in those fields. It is a cross-sectional study, based on a predominantly descriptive and quantitative methodology. The data was surveyed with two online questionnaires answered by all supervisors. Quantitative data were submitted to descriptive statistical analysis. The results showed a higher incidence of actions in the municipality of Santos and, to a lesser extent, in other municipalities of the Baixada Santista and in the city of São Paulo. Most internship activities are not limited to the physical space of the service-school's clinical care and take place alongside public institutions or institutions linked to the third sector in the area, directly or indirectly related to the promotion of public policies. The plurality of resources (groups, personal care, therapeutic monitoring, workshops, matrix support, among others) reveals an expansion of competences and skills repertoire. The variety of projects and internship fields offers, of target audiences served, as well as the diversity and flexibility of the developed actions and strategies point to a congruence movement relating to national curricular guidelines and to the innovative pedagogical project of the course.(AU)

El Serviço-Escola de Psicologia (SEP) de la Unifesp (Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Brasil) buscó trascender el funcionamiento tradicional de las clínicas universitarias, superar la atomización de la Psicología en áreas y ofrecer servicios integrados a la red. Esto permite una formación interdisciplinar, pluralista, generalista, sin tecnicismos, crítica, lo que posibilita a los/las psicólogos/as comprender y actuar en diferentes contextos socioculturales. Este artículo pretendió describir, evaluar y problematizar las acciones del SEP Unifesp respecto a la oferta de campos de prácticas profesionales y acciones desarrolladas. Es un estudio transversal, con metodología predominantemente cuantitativa y descriptiva. Los datos se recolectaron de dos cuestionarios en línea respondidos por los/las supervisores/as. Se les aplicaron un análisis estadístico descriptivo. Hubo más acciones en la ciudad de Santos (Brasil) que en otros municipios de la región metropolitana de la Baixada Santista y en la ciudad de São Paulo. La mayoría de las prácticas profesionales no se limita a la atención clínica del SEP, ocurriendo en instituciones públicas o vinculadas al tercer sector en la región, directa o indirectamente, relacionadas con la promoción de políticas públicas. La pluralidad de recursos (grupos, atención individual, acompañamiento terapéutico, talleres, soporte matricial, entre otros) revela un amplio repertorio de competencias y habilidades. La variada oferta de proyectos y campos para prácticas profesionales, los públicos destinatarios atendidos, así como la diversidad y flexibilidad de acciones y estrategias desarrolladas apuntan a una congruencia respecto a los lineamientos curriculares nacionales y al innovador proyecto pedagógico del curso.(AU)

Acompanhamento de Dois Anos de Pacientes com Cardiopatia Isquêmica Crônica em um Centro Especializado no Brasil / Two-Year Follow-Up of Chronic Ischemic Heart Disease Patients in a Specialized Center in Brazil

Resumo Fundamento A incidência de eventos cardiovasculares em pacientes com doença cardíaca isquêmica crônica (DCIC) pode variar significativamente entre os países. Embora populoso, o Brasil é frequentemente sub-representado nos registros internacionais. Objetivos Este estudo teve como objetivo descrever a qualidade do atendimento e a incidência de eventos cardiovasculares em dois anos, além de fatores prognósticos associados em pacientes com DCIC em um centro terciário de saúde pública no Brasil. Métodos Pacientes com DCIC que compareceram para avaliação clínica no Instituto do Coração (São Paulo, Brasil) foram cadastrados e acompanhados por dois anos. O desfecho primário foi um composto de infarto do miocárdio (IM), acidente vascular encefálico ou morte. Um nível de significância de 0,05 foi adotado. Resultados De janeiro de 2016 a dezembro de 2018, 625 participantes foram incluídos no estudo. As características basais mostram que 33,1% eram mulheres, a idade mediana era de 66,1 [59,6 - 71,9], 48,6% tinham diabetes, 83,1% tinham hipertensão, 62,6% tinham IM prévio e 70,4% passaram por algum procedimento de revascularização. Em um acompanhamento mediano de 881 dias, 37 (7,05%) desfechos primários foram observados. Após ajustes, idade, acidente vascular encefálico prévio e colesterol LDL foram independentemente associados ao desfecho primário. Comparando a linha de base com o acompanhamento, os participantes relataram alívio da angina com base na escala da Sociedade Cardiovascular Canadense (SCC) de acordo com as seguintes porcentagens: 65,7% vs. 81,7% eram assintomáticos e 4,2% vs. 2,9% eram SCC 3 ou 4 (p < 0,001). Eles também relataram melhor qualidade na prescrição de medicamentos: 65,8% vs. 73,6% (p < 0,001). No entanto, não houve melhora no colesterol LDL ou no controle da pressão arterial. Conclusão O presente estudo mostra que pacientes com DCIC apresentaram uma incidência de 7,05% do desfecho primário composto em um período de dois anos, sendo a diminuição do colesterol LDL o único fator de risco modificável associado ao prognóstico.

Abstract Background The incidence of cardiovascular events in patients with chronic ischemic heart disease (CIHD) may vary significantly among countries. Although populous, Brazil is often underrepresented in international records. Objectives This study aimed to describe the quality of care and the two-year incidence of cardiovascular events and associated prognostic factors in CIHD patients in a tertiary public health care center in Brazil. Methods Patients with CIHD who reported for clinical evaluation at Instituto do Coração (São Paulo, Brazil) were registered and followed for two years. The primary endpoint was a composite of myocardial infarction (MI), stroke, or death. A significance level of 0.05 was adopted. Results From January 2016 to December 2018, 625 participants were included in the study. Baseline characteristics show that 33.1% were women, median age 66.1 [59.6 - 71.9], 48.6% had diabetes, 83.1% had hypertension, 62.6% had previous MI, and 70.4% went through some revascularization procedure. At a median follow-up (FU) of 881 days, we noted 37 (7.05%) primary endpoints. After adjustments, age, previous stroke, and LDL-cholesterol were independently associated with the primary endpoint. Comparing baseline versus FU, participants experienced relief of angina based on the Canadian Cardiovascular Society (CCS) scale according to the following percentages: 65.7% vs. 81.7% were asymptomatic and 4.2% vs. 2.9% CCS 3 or 4 (p < 0.001). They also experienced better quality of medication prescription: 65.8% vs. 73.6% (p < 0.001). However, there was no improvement in LDL-cholesterol or blood pressure control. Conclusion This study shows that CIHD patients had a two-year incidence of the primary composite endpoint of 7.05%, and the reduction of LDL-cholesterol was the only modifiable risk factor associated with prognosis.

The water-soluble contrast for adhesive small bowel obstruction: are there advantages? / O contraste hidrossolúvel na obstrução intestinal por bridas: há vantagens?

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Adhesive small bowel obstruction is one of the most common causes of surgical emergencies, representing about 15% of hospital admissions. Defining the need and timing of surgical intervention still remains a challenge. AIMS: To report the experience of using meglumine-based water-soluble contrast in a tertiary hospital in southern Brazil, comparing with the world literature. METHODS: Patients suspected of having adhesive small bowel obstruction, according to their clinical conditions, underwent an established protocol, consisting of the administration of water-soluble contrast, followed by plain abdominal radiograph within 12 hours and by a new clinical evaluation. The protocol was initiated after starting conservative management, including fasting and placement of a nasogastric tube, as well as intravenous fluid reposition. RESULTS: A total of 126 patients were submitted to the protocol. The water-soluble contrast test sensitivity and specificity after the first radiograph were 94.6 and 91.0%, respectively; after the second radiograph, these values were 92.3 and 100%. The general test values for sensitivity and specificity were 91.9 and 100%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The measure parameters evaluated in this study were similar to those found in the literature, contributing to endorse the importance of this test in the evaluation of patients with adhesive small bowel obstruction. The particular relevance of this study was the similar results that were found using a different type of meglumine-based contrast, which is available in Brazil.

RESUMO RACIONAL: A obstrução intestinal por bridas é uma das causas mais comuns de atendimento em emergências cirúrgicas, representando cerca de 15% das internações hospitalares. Definir a necessidade e o momento da intervenção cirúrgica ainda permanece um desafio. OBJETIVOS: Relatar a experiência do uso de contraste hidrossolúvel à base de meglumina em um hospital terciário do sul do Brasil, comparando com a literatura mundial. MÉTODOS: Pacientes com suspeita de obstrução do intestino delgado por bridas, de acordo com suas condições clínicas, foram submetidos a um protocolo estabelecido, que consiste na administração de contraste hidrossolúvel, seguido de radiografia abdominal simples em 12 horas e, posteriormente, de nova avaliação clínica. O protocolo foi iniciado após manejo conservador inicial, incluindo jejum e sonda nasogástrica, bem como reposição de fluidos intravenosos. RESULTADOS: Foram submetidos ao protocolo 126 pacientes. A sensibilidade e a especificidade após a primeira radiografia foram de 94,6 e de 91%, respectivamente; após a segunda radiografia, esses valores foram de 92,3 e 100%. Os valores gerais do teste para sensibilidade e especificidade foram 91,9 e 100%. CONCLUSÕES: Os parâmetros de medida avaliados neste estudo foram semelhantes aos encontrados na literatura, contribuindo para endossar a importância deste teste na avaliação de pacientes com obstrução adesiva do intestino delgado. A relevância particular deste estudo foram os resultados semelhantes encontrados usando tipos diferente de contraste hidrossolúveis, disponíveis no Brasil.