Genome-Wide Association (GWAS) Applied to Carcass and Meat Traits of Nellore Cattle.

The meat market has enormous importance for the world economy, and the quality of the product offered to the consumer is fundamental for the success of the sector. In this study, we analyzed a database which contained information on 2470 animals from a commercial farm in the state of São Paulo, Brazil. Of this total, 2181 animals were genotyped, using 777,962 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). After quality control analysis, 468,321 SNPs provided information on the number of genotyped animals. Genome-wide association analyses (GWAS) were performed for the characteristics of the rib eye area (REA), subcutaneous fat thickness (SFT), shear force at 7 days' ageing (SF7), and intramuscular fat (IMF), with the aid of the single-step genomic best linear unbiased prediction (ssGBLUP) method, with the purpose of identifying possible genomic windows (~1 Mb) responsible for explaining at least 0.5% of the genetic variance of the traits under analysis (≥0.5%). These genomic regions were used in a gene search and enrichment analyses using MeSH terms. The distributed heritability coefficients were 0.14, 0.20, 0.18, and 0.21 for REA, SFT, SF7, and IMF, respectively. The GWAS results indicated significant genomic windows for the traits of interest in a total of 17 chromosomes. Enrichment analyses showed the following significant terms (FDR ≤ 0.05) associated with the characteristics under study: for the REA, heat stress disorders and life cycle stages; for SFT, insulin and nonesterified fatty acids; for SF7, apoptosis and heat shock proteins (HSP27); and for IMF, metalloproteinase 2. In addition, KEGG (Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes) enrichment analysis allowed us to highlight important metabolic pathways related to the studied phenotypes, such as the growth hormone synthesis, insulin-signaling, fatty acid metabolism, and ABC transporter pathways. The results obtained provide a better understanding of the molecular processes involved in the expression of the studied characteristics and may contribute to the design of selection strategies and future studies aimed at improving the productivity of Nellore cattle.

Análise ao conceito de culpa: Da divergência conceptual à sua implicação para a investigação em enfermagem / Analysis of the concept of guilt: From conceptual divergence to its implications for nursing research / Análisis del concepto de culpa: De la divergencia conceptual a sus implicaciones para la investigación en enfermería

Resumo Enquadramento: A culpa apresenta-se como um fenómeno alvo de estudo em várias áreas do conhecimento, inclusive em enfermagem. Contudo, a definição do seu conceito apresenta divergências entre as várias disciplinas, e tal emerge como um dos principais obstáculos à realização de estudos sobre o tema. Objetivo: O presente estudo, resultante de uma revisão narrativa da literatura, tem como objetivo apresentar uma análise conceptual ao conceito de culpa, refletindo concomitantemente sobre a necessidade de realizar um estudo sobre a definição do conceito face à vivência do fenómeno nos pós-cuidadores. Principais tópicos em análise: Definição do conceito de culpa à luz da filosofia, ciências jurídicas e enfermagem, e apresentação da necessidade de mapear o conceito como ponto de partida fundamental para a produção de conhecimento científico. Conclusão: O conceito de culpa é apresentado na literatura científica como um conceito multidisciplinar com múltiplos significados. O mapeamento do conceito de culpa numa população e contexto específicos apresenta-se como um ponto de partida fundamental para a condução de estudos futuros sobre a problemática.

Abstract Background: Guilt has been an object of study in several areas of knowledge, including nursing. However, this concept is defined differently across disciplines, which is one of the main obstacles to developing studies on this topic. Objective: This study results from a narrative literature review. It aims to present a conceptual analysis of guilt while reflecting on the need to study the definition of the concept based on the former carers' experience of this phenomenon. Main topics of analysis: Definition of the concept of guilt in the light of philosophy, legal sciences, and nursing, and presentation of the need to map the concept as a key starting point for the production of scientific knowledge. Conclusion: The literature describes the concept of guilt as a multidisciplinary concept with multiple meanings. Mapping the concept of guilt in a specific population and context is a key starting point for developing future studies on this topic.

Resumen Marco contextual: El sentimiento de culpa es un fenómeno estudiado en varias áreas del conocimiento, entre ellas la enfermería. Sin embargo, la definición de su concepto presenta divergencias entre las distintas disciplinas, lo que se perfila como uno de los principales obstáculos para la realización de estudios sobre el tema. Objetivo: Este estudio, fruto de una revisión narrativa de la literatura, tiene como objetivo presentar un análisis conceptual del concepto de culpa, a la vez que reflexionar sobre la necesidad de realizar un estudio sobre la definición del concepto en relación con la vivencia del fenómeno en los poscuidadores. Principales temas en análisis: Definición del concepto de culpa según la filosofía, las ciencias jurídicas y la enfermería, y presentación de la necesidad de mapear el concepto como punto de partida fundamental para la producción de conocimiento científico. Conclusión: El concepto de culpa se presenta en la literatura científica como un concepto multidisciplinar con múltiples significados. El mapeo del concepto de culpa en una población y un contexto específicos es un punto de partida fundamental para la realización de futuros estudios sobre la problemática.

Análise ao conceito de culpa: Da divergência conceptual à sua implicação para a investigação em enfermagem / Analysis of the concept of guilt: From conceptual divergence to its implications for nursing research / Análisis del concepto de culpa: De la divergencia conceptual a sus implicaciones para la investigación en enfermería

Resumo Enquadramento: A culpa apresenta-se como um fenómeno alvo de estudo em várias áreas do conhecimento, inclusive em enfermagem. Contudo, a definição do seu conceito apresenta divergências entre as várias disciplinas, e tal emerge como um dos principais obstáculos à realização de estudos sobre o tema. Objetivo: O presente estudo, resultante de uma revisão narrativa da literatura, tem como objetivo apresentar uma análise conceptual ao conceito de culpa, refletindo concomitantemente sobre a necessidade de realizar um estudo sobre a definição do conceito face à vivência do fenómeno nos pós-cuidadores. Principais tópicos em análise: Definição do conceito de culpa à luz da filosofia, ciências jurídicas e enfermagem, e apresentação da necessidade de mapear o conceito como ponto de partida fundamental para a produção de conhecimento científico. Conclusão: O conceito de culpa é apresentado na literatura científica como um conceito multidisciplinar com múltiplos significados. O mapeamento do conceito de culpa numa população e contexto específicos apresenta-se como um ponto de partida fundamental para a condução de estudos futuros sobre a problemática.

Abstract Background: Guilt has been an object of study in several areas of knowledge, including nursing. However, this concept is defined differently across disciplines, which is one of the main obstacles to developing studies on this topic. Objective: This study results from a narrative literature review. It aims to present a conceptual analysis of guilt while reflecting on the need to study the definition of the concept based on the former carers' experience of this phenomenon. Main topics of analysis: Definition of the concept of guilt in the light of philosophy, legal sciences, and nursing, and presentation of the need to map the concept as a key starting point for the production of scientific knowledge. Conclusion: The literature describes the concept of guilt as a multidisciplinary concept with multiple meanings. Mapping the concept of guilt in a specific population and context is a key starting point for developing future studies on this topic.

Resumen Marco contextual: El sentimiento de culpa es un fenómeno estudiado en varias áreas del conocimiento, entre ellas la enfermería. Sin embargo, la definición de su concepto presenta divergencias entre las distintas disciplinas, lo que se perfila como uno de los principales obstáculos para la realización de estudios sobre el tema. Objetivo: Este estudio, fruto de una revisión narrativa de la literatura, tiene como objetivo presentar un análisis conceptual del concepto de culpa, a la vez que reflexionar sobre la necesidad de realizar un estudio sobre la definición del concepto en relación con la vivencia del fenómeno en los poscuidadores. Principales temas en análisis: Definición del concepto de culpa según la filosofía, las ciencias jurídicas y la enfermería, y presentación de la necesidad de mapear el concepto como punto de partida fundamental para la producción de conocimiento científico. Conclusión: El concepto de culpa se presenta en la literatura científica como un concepto multidisciplinar con múltiples significados. El mapeo del concepto de culpa en una población y un contexto específicos es un punto de partida fundamental para la realización de futuros estudios sobre la problemática.

Wound healing in weaning, adult, and old rats with provoked incisional hernias. A comparative study.

BACKGROUND: Incisional hernias are more frequent in adults than in children. It is hypothesized that a more efficient healing process in pediatric patients could explain this difference in incidence. Certain elements of healing such as neovascularization, degree of inflammation, percentage of mature and immature collagen, the proliferation of fibroblasts, and expression of certain genes could explain why healing in children is more efficient when compared to the adult and elderly populations. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Seventy-one rats of 3 different age groups (weaning, adult, and old) underwent surgery with 3 different incisions (vertical, oblique, and horizontal). During the procedure, the skin and abdominal wall of the animal were sectioned and only the skin was sutured to mimic incisional hernia in the animals. Four weeks after surgery, the rats were euthanized, their skin was removed, and the extent of scar tissue formed in the muscle opening was measured. In addition, samples of the scar tissue were collected for histological, immunohistochemical, and molecular analyzes. Nine rats served as controls. RESULTS: Shorter-length hernias were formed in weaning rats when compared to old ones when the surgical incision was horizontal (p = 0.03). There was a greater proliferation of fibroblasts in rats in the younger age groups, regardless of the type of incision. The Lox gene was more expressed in weaning rats with vertical and oblique incisions. CONCLUSIONS: These differences could explain the better healing and lower incidence of hernias in the pediatric population, although this aspect requires further studies.

Evaluation of different strategic planning approaches in a forest plantation in the North of Misiones Province, Argentina.

In this paper we evaluate different models and constraints to define strategic planning approaches. In addition, we analyze the best models to meet the expectations generated by the organization. A forest company situated in the province of Misiones, Argentina, provided the data. Hence, forest growth was simulated and, ultimately, optimized planning was used to evaluate different scenarios with 50-year horizon. The best results to stabilize log production were obtained when the harvest is relaxed in ±2 years. Relaxing the clear-cut age leads to a better balance in planting, thinning (1, 2, 3 and 4) and clear felling operations. We found that when maximizing the economic benefit, the NPV is slightly higher, however, this is not significant. In this sense, the planner chooses an economic or volumetric objective function. Furthermore, we demonstrated that model 1 presented better results than model 2 because it manages to stabilize production in the planning horizon. The results allow forest companies to see the implication of choosing the model for strategic planning.

Wound healing in weaning, adult, and old rats with provoked incisional hernias. A comparative study

Abstract Background: Incisional hernias are more frequent in adults than in children. It is hypothesized that a more efficient healing process in pediatric patients could explain this difference in incidence. Certain elements of healing such as neovascularization, degree of inflammation, percentage of mature and immature collagen, the proliferation of fibroblasts, and expression of certain genes could explain why healing in children is more efficient when compared to the adult and elderly populations. Materials and methods: Seventy-one rats of 3 different age groups (weaning, adult, and old) underwent surgery with 3 different incisions (vertical, oblique, and horizontal). During the procedure, the skin and abdominal wall of the animal were sectioned and only the skin was sutured to mimic incisional hernia in the animals. Four weeks after surgery, the rats were euthanized, their skin was removed, and the extent of scar tissue formed in the muscle opening was measured. In addition, samples of the scar tissue were collected for histological, immunohistochemical, and molecular analyzes. Nine rats served as controls. Results: Shorter-length hernias were formed in weaning rats when compared to old ones when the surgical incision was horizontal (p = 0.03). There was a greater proliferation of fibroblasts in rats in the younger age groups, regardless of the type of incision. The Lox gene was more expressed in weaning rats with vertical and oblique incisions. Conclusions: These differences could explain the better healing and lower incidence of hernias in the pediatric population, although this aspect requires further studies.

Cardiovascular Physiotherapy on Respiratory Sinus Arrhythmia of Patients Undergoing Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting.

INTRODUCTION: Patients in the postoperative period of coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) present respiratory and autonomic dysfunctions. In this sense, cardiovascular physiotherapy has been offered as an indispensable differential for the improvement of the prognosis of this population. Heart rate variability is a simple, noninvasive method to analyze autonomic modulation, as well as the accentuation maneuver of respiratory sinus arrhythmia, which demonstrates the parasympathetic autonomic control over the heart. Five patients undergoing cardiac surgery performed a protocol of cardiovascular physiotherapy in the postoperative period and had their data referring to the preoperative period, the 1st and 4th postoperative days analyzed.

Similarity between predicted and obtained oxygen consumption during incremental cardiopulmonary exercise test in healthy men and chronic heart failure patients / Similaridade entre o consumo de oxigênio obtido e previsto durante teste de exercício cardiopulmonar incremental de homens saudáveis ou com insuficiência cardíaca crônica / Similitud entre el consumo de oxígeno predicho y obtenido durante la prueba de esfuerzo cardiopulmonar incremental de hombres sanos o con insuficiencia cardíaca crónica

ABSTRACT Cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPX) is a noninvasive method for assessing physiological changes during physical exercise. Functional capacity has been evaluated using prediction equations. However, this evaluation method may yield different outcomes when applied to a healthy male population and patients with chronic heart failure (HF). This study aimed to compare the estimated and obtained values of oxygen consumption (VO2) during CPX both at the ventilatory anaerobic threshold (VAT) and at peak exercise for healthy men and HF patients. For that, 56 men were divided into 3 groups: (1) 18 young and healthy (YG) (27±6.01 years); (2) 14 healthy older adults (OG) (61±6.3 years); and (3) 24 chronic HF patients (HFG) (53±13.6 years). CPX in cycle ergometer was administered to all individuals for determining VO2 at the VAT and peak exercise. Then, VO2 was estimated at the two moments using a prediction equation, and estimated values were compared to those obtained. Estimated VO2 was significantly higher than obtained VO2 in OG (16.9±1.8 vs. 13.1±2.1mL/kg/min) and HFG (12±6.9 vs. 8.7±2.5mL/kg/min). We found no difference between estimated and obtained VO2 for the YG (22,6±5,5 vs. 23,1±8,7mL/kg/min). The prediction equation overestimated VO2 values for older adults and HF patients. However, the YG obtained similar values than those estimated.

RESUMO O teste exercício cardiopulmonar (CPX) é uma metodologia não invasiva de avaliação global da integridade dos ajustes fisiológicos durante o exercício físico. Como alternativa, a avaliação da capacidade funcional foi realizada por meio de fórmulas preditivas. No entanto, esse método de avaliação pode ter resultados diferentes quando usado em uma população de homens saudáveis e pacientes com insuficiência cardíaca (IC) crônica. Compararam-se os valores de consumo de oxigênio (VO2) obtidos e estimados durante o CPX no limiar anaeróbio ventilatório (LAV) e no pico do exercício para homens saudáveis e pacientes com IC crônica. Cinquenta e seis homens foram divididos em 3 grupos: (1) 18 eram jovens saudáveis (GJ) (27±6,01 anos); (2) 14 eram idosos saudáveis (GE) (61±6,3 anos); e, (3) 24 com IC crônica (HFG) (53±13,6 anos). Todos foram submetidos ao CPX em cicloergômetro para determinação do VO2 no LAV e no pico do exercício. Posteriormente, a estimativa do VO2 foi realizada na potência do LA e no pico do exercício por meio de uma fórmula de predição para exercício físico em cicloergômetro. Os valores de VO2 obtidos e a carga estimada foram comparados. O VO2 estimado foi significativamente maior que o VO2 obtido no GE e no HFG (16,9±1,8 vs. 13,1±2,1mL/kg/min e 12±6,9 vs. 8,7±2,5mL/kg/min, respectivamente). Por fim, não houve diferença nos valores de VO2 estimados e obtidos para o GJ (22,6±5,5 vs. 23,1±8,7mL/kg/min, respectivamente). A fórmula de predição superestimou os valores de VO2 para idosos e pacientes com IC crônica. Porém, no GJ os valores de VO2 se mostraram semelhantes para a fórmula de predição e o obtido durante o CPX em cicloergômetro.

RESUMEN La prueba de ejercicio cardiopulmonar (CPX) es una metodología no invasiva para evaluar la integridad global de los ajustes fisiológicos durante la práctica de ejercicio físico. Se realizó como alternativa la evaluación de la capacidad funcional por medio de fórmulas predictivas. Sin embargo, este método de evaluación puede presentar resultados distintos cuando se utiliza en una población de hombres sanos y de pacientes con insuficiencia cardíaca crónica (IC). Se compararon los valores de consumo de oxígeno (VO2) obtenido y estimado durante la CPX en el umbral anaeróbico ventilatorio (LAV) y en la cima del ejercicio para hombres sanos y pacientes con IC crónica. Se dividieron a 56 hombres en 3 grupos: i) 18 eran jóvenes sanos (GJ) (27±6,01 años); ii) 14 eran ancianos sanos (GE) (61±6,3 años); iii) 24 tenían IC crónica (HFG) (53±13,6 años). Todos se sometieron a CPX en un cicloergómetro para determinar el VO2 en LAV y en la cima del ejercicio. Posteriormente, la estimación de VO2 se realizó sobre la potencia de LA y en la cima del ejercicio mediante una fórmula predictiva del ejercicio físico en un cicloergómetro. Los valores de VO2 obtenidos y la carga estimada se compararon. El VO2 estimado fue significativamente mayor que el VO2 obtenido en GE y HFG (16,9±1,8 vs. 13,1±2,1ml/kg/min y 12±6,9 vs. 8,7±2,5ml/kg/min, respectivamente). No hubo diferencias en los valores de VO2 estimado y obtenido para el GJ (22,6±5,5 vs. 23,1±8,7ml/kg/min, respectivamente). La fórmula predictiva sobrestimó los valores de VO2 para ancianos y pacientes con IC crónica. Sin embargo, en GJ los valores de VO2 fueron similares para la fórmula predictiva y la obtenida durante el CPX en cicloergómetro.

Superior gluteal nerve: a new block on the block? / Nervo glúteo superior: um novo bloqueio a caminho?

Abstract Background and objectives The superior gluteal nerve is responsible for innervating the gluteus medius, gluteus minimus and tensor fascia latae muscles, all of which can be injured during surgical procedures. We describe an ultrasound-guided approach to block the superior gluteal nerve which allowed us to provide efficient analgesia and anesthesia for two orthopedic procedures, in a patient who had significant risk factors for neuraxial techniques and deep peripheral nerve blocks. Clinical report An 84-year-old female whose regular use of clopidogrel contraindicated neuraxial techniques or deep peripheral nerve blocks presented for urgent bipolar hemiarthroplasty in our hospital. Taking into consideration the surgical approach chosen by the orthopedic team, we set to use a combination of general anesthesia and superficial peripheral nerve blocks (femoral, lateral cutaneous of thigh and superior gluteal nerve) for the procedure. A month and a half post-discharge the patient was re-admitted for debriding and correction of suture dehiscence; we performed the same blocks and light sedation. She remained comfortable in both cases, and reported no pain in the post-operative period. Conclusions Deep understanding of anatomy and innervation empowers anesthesiologists to solve potentially complex cases with safer, albeit creative, approaches. The relevance of this block in this case arises from its innervation of the gluteus medius muscle and posterolateral portion of the hip joint. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of an ultrasound-guided superior gluteal nerve block with an analgesic and anesthetic goal, which was successfully achieved.

Resumo Justificativa e objetivos O nervo glúteo superior é responsável pela inervação dos músculos glúteo médio, glúteo mínimo e tensor da fáscia lata, todos podem ser lesados durante procedimentos cirúrgicos. Descrevemos uma abordagem guiada por ultrassom para bloqueio do nervo glúteo superior, o que nos permitiu fornecer analgesia e anestesia eficientes para dois procedimentos ortopédicos a uma paciente que apresentava fatores de risco significativos para técnicas neuraxiais e bloqueios profundos de nervos periféricos. Relato de caso Paciente do sexo feminino, 84 anos, cujo uso regular de clopidogrel contraindicava técnicas neuraxiais ou bloqueios profundos de nervos periféricos, apresentou-se para hemiartroplastia bipolar urgente em nosso hospital. Levando em consideração a abordagem cirúrgica escolhida pela equipe de ortopedia, estabelecemos o uso de uma combinação de anestesia geral e bloqueios superficiais de nervos periféricos (femoral, cutâneo lateral da coxa e nervo glúteo superior) para o procedimento. Um mês e meio após a alta, a paciente foi readmitida para desbridamento e correção da deiscência de sutura quando fizemos os mesmos bloqueios e sedação leve. A paciente permaneceu confortável em ambos os casos, sem queixa de dor no período pós-operatório. Conclusões A compreensão profunda da anatomia e da inervação capacita os anestesiologistas a resolver casos potencialmente complexos com abordagens mais seguras, até criativas. A relevância desse bloqueio neste caso resulta da sua inervação do músculo glúteo médio e da porção posterolateral da articulação do quadril. De acordo com nossa pesquisa, este é o primeiro relato de um bloqueio do nervo glúteo superior guiado por ultrassom com objetivo analgésico e anestésico que foi obtido com sucesso.

Quadratus lumborum block: are we aware of its side effects? A report of 2 cases / Bloqueio do quadrado lombar: estamos cientes de seus efeitos colaterais? Relato de dois casos

Abstract Background and objectives The quadratus lumborum block was initially described in 2007 and aims at blocking the same nerves as the ones involved on the Transverse Abdominis Plane block, while accomplishing some visceral enervation as well due to closer proximity with the neuroaxis and sympathetic trunk. Given its versatility, we have successfully used it in a wide range of procedures. We report two cases where we believe the dispersion of local anesthetic is likely to have led to a previously undescribed complication. Clinical reports We report two cases in which we performed a quadratus lumborum type II block and general anesthesia for total gastrectomy and right hemicolectomy. There were no noteworthy events while performing the block and inducing general anesthesia, but within 30-40 min serious hypotension and tachycardia were noted. As other motives for hypotension were ruled out, the event was interpreted as block-induced sympatholysis due to cephalad dispersion of the local anesthetic to the paravertebral and epidural space, and successfully managed with ephedrine and increase of the crystalloid infusion rate. Conclusions The quadratus Lumborum block is safe to execute and provides effective abdominal wall and visceral analgesia. However, the possibility of eliciting undesired episodes should prompt caution when performing this block and practitioners should thereafter remain vigilant. Questions regarding ideal dosing, volumes, timing of block and pertinence of catheters remain to be answered.

Resumo Justificativa e objetivos O bloqueio do quadrado lombar foi primeiramente descrito em 2007 e tem como objetivo o bloqueio dos mesmos nervos envolvidos no bloqueio do plano transverso abdominal, ao atingir algumas inervações viscerais, bem como devido à maior proximidade com o neuroeixo e cadeia simpática. Dada a sua versatilidade, temos usado esse bloqueio com sucesso em uma grande variedade de procedimentos. Relatamos dois casos nos quais acreditamos que a dispersão do anestésico local pode ter levado a uma complicação não descrita previamente. Relatos clínicos Relatamos dois casos nos quais realizamos o bloqueio do quadrado lombar tipo II e anestesia geral para gastrectomia total e hemicolectomia direita. Não houve eventos notáveis durante o bloqueio e a indução da anestesia geral, mas, dentro de 30 a 40 minutos, observamos grave hipotensão e taquicardia. Como outros motivos para a hipotensão foram descartados, o evento foi interpretado como simpatólise induzida pelo bloqueio devido à dispersão cefálica do anestésico local para os espaços paravertebral e epidural e tratado com sucesso com efedrina e aumento da taxa de infusão de cristaloides. Conclusões O bloqueio do quadrado lombar oferece segurança na execução e fornece analgesia eficaz à parede abdominal e vísceras. Porém, a possibilidade de provocar episódios indesejáveis requer cautela em sua execução e, por conseguinte, os médicos precisam estar atentos. As questões relacionadas à dosagem ideal, aos volumes, ao tempo de bloqueio e à pertinência dos cateteres permanecem indefinidas.

Association of Oscillatory Ventilation during Cardiopulmonary Test to Clinical and Functional Variables of Chronic Heart Failure Patients.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to characterize the presence of exercise oscillatory ventilation (EOV) and to relate it with other cardiopulmonary exercise test (CET) responses and clinical variables. METHODS: Forty-six male patients (age: 53.1±13.6 years old; left ventricular ejection fraction [LVEF]: 30±8%) with heart failure were recruited to perform a maximal CET and to correlate the CET responses with clinical variables. The EOV was obtained according to Leite et al. criteria and VE/VCO2 > 34 and peak VO2 < 14 ml/kg/min were used to assess patients' severity. RESULTS: The EOV was observed in 16 of 24 patients who performed the CET, as well as VE/VCO2 > 34 and peak VO2 < 14 ml/kg/min in 14 and 10 patients, respectively. There was no difference in clinical and CET variables of the patients who presented EOV in CET when compared to non-EOV patients. Also, there was no difference in CET and clinical variables when comparing patients who presented EOV and had a VE/VCO2 slope > 34 to patients who just had one of these responses either. CONCLUSION: The present study showed that there was an incidence of patients with EOV and lower peak VO2 and higher VE/VCO2 slope values, but they showed no difference on other prognostic variables. As well, there was no influence of the presence of EOV on other parameters of CET in this population, suggesting that this variable may be an independent marker of worst prognosis in HF patients.

Type II Quadratus Lumborum block for a sub-total gastrectomy in a septic patient / Bloqueio do quadrado lombar tipo II para uma gastrectomia subtotal em um paciente séptico

Abstract Introduction and objectives: Quadratus Lumborum block was recently described and has already shown good results as an analgesic technique in abdominal surgeries, having the potential to significantly reduce opioids consumption and be a valid alternative to epidural catheter. We performed a type II Quadratus Lumborum block for analgesia in a septic patient having a sub-total gastrectomy. Case report: An 80 year-old, ASA III, male patient, weighting 50 kg, with a history of arterial hypertension and hypercholesterolemia, diagnosed with sepsis due to purulent peritonitis was submitted to an open laparotomy. Bilateral ultrasound-guided type II Quadratus Lumborum block was performed before surgery, using 10 mL of levobupivacaine 0.25% and 5 mL of mepivacaine 1%, per side. Pain relief was achieved 5 minutes after injection and the patient referred no pain in the immediate postoperative period. Discussion: Type II Quadratus Lumborum block may be considered a valid alternative for postoperative analgesia in a septic patient undergoing major abdominal surgery with some relative contraindications to epidural catheter placement. It allowed us to achieve excellent pain management avoiding opioids usage. However, more reports are still needed to properly access its usefulness.

Resumo Introdução e objetivo: O bloqueio do quadrado lombar (QL) foi descrito recentemente e já mostrou bons resultados como técnica analgésica em cirurgias abdominais, com potencial para reduzir significativamente o consumo de opioides e ser uma opção válida ao cateter peridural. Fizemos um bloqueio do QL tipo II para analgesia em um paciente séptico para gastrectomia subtotal. Relato de caso: Paciente do sexo masculino, 80 anos de, ASA III, 50 kg, com história de hipertensão arterial e hipercolesterolemia, diagnosticado com sepsis devido a peritonite purulenta, foi submetido a uma laparotomia aberta. O bloqueio bilateral do QL tipo II guiado por ultrassom foi feito antes da cirurgia com 10 mL de levobupivacaína a 0,25% e 5 mL de mepivacaína a 1%, por lado. O alívio da dor foi obtido em 5 minutos após a injeção e o paciente não referiu dor no pós-operatório imediato. Discussão: O bloqueio do quadrado lombar (QL) tipo II pode ser considerado uma opção válida para analgesia no pós-operatório em um paciente séptico submetido a cirurgia abdominal de grande porte, com algumas contraindicações relativas à colocação do cateter peridural. Permitiu-nos obter um excelente manejo da dor e evitar o uso de opioides. Contudo, mais relatos ainda são necessários para avaliar corretamente a sua utilidade.

Association of oscillatory ventilation during cardiopulmonary test to clinical and functional variables of chronic heart failure patients

Abstract Objective: The aim of this study is to characterize the presence of exercise oscillatory ventilation (EOV) and to relate it with other cardiopulmonary exercise test (CET) responses and clinical variables. Methods: Forty-six male patients (age: 53.1±13.6 years old; left ventricular ejection fraction [LVEF]: 30±8%) with heart failure were recruited to perform a maximal CET and to correlate the CET responses with clinical variables. The EOV was obtained according to Leite et al. criteria and VE/VCO2 > 34 and peak VO2 < 14 ml/kg/min were used to assess patients' severity. Results: The EOV was observed in 16 of 24 patients who performed the CET, as well as VE/VCO2 > 34 and peak VO2 < 14 ml/kg/min in 14 and 10 patients, respectively. There was no difference in clinical and CET variables of the patients who presented EOV in CET when compared to non-EOV patients. Also, there was no difference in CET and clinical variables when comparing patients who presented EOV and had a VE/VCO2 slope > 34 to patients who just had one of these responses either. Conclusion: The present study showed that there was an incidence of patients with EOV and lower peak VO2 and higher VE/VCO2 slope values, but they showed no difference on other prognostic variables. As well, there was no influence of the presence of EOV on other parameters of CET in this population, suggesting that this variable may be an independent marker of worst prognosis in HF patients.

[Type II Quadratus Lumborum block for a sub-total gastrectomy in a septic patient]. / Bloqueio do quadrado lombar tipo II para uma gastrectomia subtotal em um paciente séptico.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: Quadratus Lumborum block was recently described and has already shown good results as an analgesic technique in abdominal surgeries, having the potential to significantly reduce opioids consumption and be a valid alternative to epidural catheter. We performed a type II Quadratus Lumborum block for analgesia in a septic patient having a sub-total gastrectomy. CASE REPORT: An 80 year-old, ASA III, male patient, weighting 50kg, with a history of arterial hypertension and hypercholesterolemia, diagnosed with sepsis due to purulent peritonitis was submitted to an open laparotomy. Bilateral ultrasound-guided type II Quadratus Lumborum block was performed before surgery, using 10mL of levobupivacaine 0.25% and 5mL of mepivacaine 1%, per side. Pain relief was achieved 5minutes after injection and the patient referred no pain in the immediate postoperative period. DISCUSSION: Type II Quadratus Lumborum block may be considered a valid alternative for postoperative analgesia in a septic patient undergoing major abdominal surgery with some relative contraindications to epidural catheter placement. It allowed us to achieve excellent pain management avoiding opioids usage. However, more reports are still needed to properly access its usefulness.

[Quadratus lumborum block: are we aware of its side effects? A report of 2 cases]. / Bloqueio do quadrado lombar: estamos cientes de seus efeitos colaterais? Relato de dois casos.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The quadratus lumborum block was initially described in 2007 and aims at blocking the same nerves as the ones involved on the Transverse Abdominis Plane block, while accomplishing some visceral enervation as well due to closer proximity with the neuroaxis and sympathetic trunk. Given its versatility, we have successfully used it in a wide range of procedures. We report two cases where we believe the dispersion of local anesthetic is likely to have led to a previously undescribed complication. CLINICAL REPORTS: We report two cases in which we performed a quadratus lumborum type II block and general anesthesia for total gastrectomy and right hemicolectomy. There were no noteworthy events while performing the block and inducing general anesthesia, but within 30-40min serious hypotension and tachycardia were noted. As other motives for hypotension were ruled out, the event was interpreted as block-induced sympatholysis due to cephalad dispersion of the local anesthetic to the paravertebral and epidural space, and successfully managed with ephedrine and increase of the crystalloid infusion rate. CONCLUSIONS: The quadratus Lumborum block is safe to execute and provides effective abdominal wall and visceral analgesia. However, the possibility of eliciting undesired episodes should prompt caution when performing this block and practitioners should thereafter remain vigilant. Questions regarding ideal dosing, volumes, timing of block and pertinence of catheters remain to be answered.

[Superior gluteal nerve: a new block on the block?] / Nervo glúteo superior: um novo bloqueio a caminho?

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The superior gluteal nerve is responsible for innervating the gluteus medius, gluteus minimus and tensor fascia latae muscles, all of which can be injured during surgical procedures. We describe an ultrasound-guided approach to block the superior gluteal nerve which allowed us to provide efficient analgesia and anesthesia for two orthopedic procedures, in a patient who had significant risk factors for neuraxial techniques and deep peripheral nerve blocks. CLINICAL REPORT: An 84-year-old female whose regular use of clopidogrel contraindicated neuraxial techniques or deep peripheral nerve blocks presented for urgent bipolar hemiarthroplasty in our hospital. Taking into consideration the surgical approach chosen by the orthopedic team, we set to use a combination of general anesthesia and superficial peripheral nerve blocks (femoral, lateral cutaneous of thigh and superior gluteal nerve) for the procedure. A month and a half post-discharge the patient was re-admitted for debriding and correction of suture dehiscence; we performed the same blocks and light sedation. She remained comfortable in both cases, and reported no pain in the post-operative period. CONCLUSIONS: Deep understanding of anatomy and innervation empowers anesthesiologists to solve potentially complex cases with safer, albeit creative, approaches. The relevance of this block in this case arises from its innervation of the gluteus medius muscle and posterolateral portion of the hip joint. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of an ultrasound-guided superior gluteal nerve block with an analgesic and anesthetic goal, which was successfully achieved.

Sphenopalatine ganglion block for postdural puncture headache in ambulatory setting / Bloqueio do gânglio esfenopalatino para cefaleia pós-punção dural em contexto de ambulatório

Abstract Background and objectives: Postdural puncture headache (PDPH) is a common complication following subarachnoid blockade and its incidence varies with the size of the needle used and the needle design. Suportive therapy is the usual initial approach. Epidural blood patch (EBP) is the gold-standard when supportive therapy fails but has significant risks associated. Sphenopalatine ganglion block (SPGB) may be a safer alternative. Case report: We observed a 41 year-old female patient presenting with PDPH after a subarachnoid blockade a week before. We administrated 1 l of crystalloids, Dexamethasone 4 mg, parecoxib 40 mg, acetaminophen 1 g and caffeine 500 mg without significant relief after 2 hours. We performed a bilateral SPGB with a cotton-tipped applicator saturated with 0.5% Levobupivacaine under standard ASA monitoring. Symptoms relief was reported 5 minutes after the block. The patient was monitored for an hour after which she was discharged and prescribed acetaminophen 1 g and ibuprofen 400 mg every 8 hours for the following 2 days. She was contacted on the next day and again after a week reporting no pain in both situation. Conclusions: SPGB may attenuate cerebral vasodilation induced by parasympathetic stimulation transmitted through neurons that have synapses in the sphenopalatine ganglion. This would be in agreement with the Monro-Kellie concept and would explain why caffeine and sumatriptan can have some effect in the treatment of PDPH. Apparently, SPGB has a faster onset than EBP with better safety profile. We suggest that patients presenting with PDPH should be considered primarily for SPGB. Patients may have a rescue EBP if needed.

Resumo Justificativa e objetivos: Cefaleia pós-punção dural (CPPD) é uma complicação comum após bloqueio subaracnoideo e sua incidência varia de acordo com o tamanho e desenho da agulha usada. Geralmente, a terapia de apoio é a abordagem inicial. O tampão sanguíneo peridural (TSP) é o padrão de terapia quando a terapia de apoio falha, mas tem riscos significativos associados. O bloqueio do gânglio esfenopalatino (BGEP) pode ser uma opção mais segura. Relato de caso: Atendemos uma paciente de 41 anos, com CPPD após bloqueio subaracnoideo uma semana antes. Administramos cristaloides (1 L), dexametasona (4 mg), parecoxib (40 mg), acetaminofeno (1 g) e cafeína (500 mg), sem alívio significativo após 2 horas. Fizemos um bloqueio bilateral do gânglio esfenopalatino, com um aplicador com ponta de algodão saturada com levobupivacaína a 0,5% sob monitoração padrão ASA. O alívio dos sintomas foi relatado 5 minutos após o bloqueio. A paciente foi monitorada por uma hora e depois recebeu alta com prescrição de acetaminofeno (1 g) e ibuprofeno (400 mg) a cada 8 horas para os dois dias seguintes. A paciente foi contatada no dia seguinte e novamente após uma semana e, em ambos os contatos, relatou não sentir dor. Conclusões: O BGEP pode ter atenuado a vasodilatação cerebral induzida pelo estímulo parassimpático transmitido através dos neurônios que têm sinapses no gânglio esfenopalatino. Esse mecanismo estaria de acordo com o conceito de Monro-Kellie e explicaria por que a cafeína e o sumatriptano podem ter algum efeito no tratamento da CPPD. Aparentemente, o BGEP tem um início mais rápido do que o do TSP, com um melhor perfil de segurança. Sugerimos que os pacientes que se apresentam com CPPD devam ser considerados primeiro para BGEP. Os pacientes podem ser submetidos a um TSP de resgate, caso necessário.

[Sphenopalatine ganglion block for postdural puncture headache in ambulatory setting]. / Bloqueio do gânglio esfenopalatino para cefaleia pós­punção dural em contexto de ambulatório.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Postdural puncture headache (PDPH) is a common complication following subarachnoid blockade and its incidence varies with the size of the needle used and the needle design. Supportive therapy is the usual initial approach. Epidural blood patch (EBP) is the gold-standard when supportive therapy fails but has significant risks associated. Sphenopalatine ganglion block (SPGB) may be a safer alternative. CASE REPORT: We observed a 41 year-old female patient presenting with PDPH after a subarachnoid blockade a week before. We administrated 1l of crystalloids, Dexamethasone 4mg, parecoxib 40mg, acetaminophen 1g and caffeine 500mg without significant relief after 2hours. We performed a bilateral SPGB with a cotton-tipped applicator saturated with 0.5% Levobupivacaine under standard ASA monitoring. Symptoms relief was reported 5minutes after the block. The patient was monitored for an hour after which she was discharged and prescribed acetaminophen 1g and ibuprofen 400mg every 8hours for the following 2 days. She was contacted on the next day and again after a week reporting no pain in both situations. CONCLUSIONS: SPGB may attenuate cerebral vasodilation induced by parasympathetic stimulation transmitted through neurons that have synapses in the sphenopalatine ganglion. This would be in agreement with the Monro-Kellie concept and would explain why caffeine and sumatriptan can have some effect in the treatment of PDPH. Apparently, SPGB has a faster onset than EBP with better safety profile. We suggest that patients presenting with PDPH should be considered primarily for SPGB. Patients may have a rescue EBP if needed.

Variabilidade da frequência cardíaca com a mudança postural na insuficiência cardíaca crônica / Heart rate variability in patients with chronic heart failure after postural changes

Introdução: A variabilidade da frequência cardíaca (VFC) é uma alternativa de baixo custo para a avaliação da modulação autonômica cardíaca que é relacionada com os indivíduos com insuficiência cardíaca (IC) crônica devido ao desequilíbrio simpático-vagal característico dessa patologia. Objetivo: Comparar a VFC de pacientes com IC crônica e indivíduos saudáveis na mudança da posição supina para sentado. Métodos: Dezenove indivíduos subdivididos em dois grupos: 10 pacientes com o diagnóstico de IC crônica (GI) com 62 ± 6 anos de idade e nove participantes saudáveis (GC) com 64 ± 5 anos. Os intervalos R-R foram captados através do eletrocardiograma nas posições supina e sentada, por 10 minutos em cada condição. Os dados foram analisados nos domínios do tempo e da frequência. Teste t de Student pareado ou de Wilcoxon foram usados para as comparações intragrupos. Nas comparações intergrupos foi aplicado o teste t não pareado ou de Mann Whitney (p <0,05). Resultados: Os indivíduos com IC crônica apresentaram menores valores do SDNN (sentado 18,4 ± 4,5 vs. 28,4 ± 7,6; supina 23,3 ± 5 vs. 32,1 ± 12,4) e do RMSSD (sentado 12,2 ± 2,6 vs. 20,0 ± 6,8; supina 14,5 ± 4,3 vs. 21,3 ± 10) quando comparados ao controle. Após a mudança postural, verificou-se alteração significativa somente no SDNN do grupo IC crônica (23,3 ± 5 vs. 18,4 ± 4,5). Conclusão: Os indivíduos do grupo IC crônica apresentaram VFC reduzida em comparação a indivíduos saudáveis da mesma idade, porém ainda assim foram capazes de realizar a modulação simpático-vagal após a mudança postural

Introduction: Heart rate variability (HRV) is a low-cost alternative for the evaluation of autonomic cardiac modulation, which is related to individuals with chronic heart failure (CHF) due to the sympathovagal imbalance that is characteristic of this pathology. Objective: to compare HRV in patients with CHF and healthy subjects after transition from a supine to a sitting position. Methods: We recruited 19 subjects, who were divided into two groups: 10 patients with a diagnosis of CHF (IG) aged 62 ± 6 years; and nine healthy participants (CG) aged 64 ± 5 years. The RR intervals were captured by electrocardiogram in the supine and sitting positions, for 10 minutes in each condition. The data were analyzed in the domains time and frequency. The paired Student-t or Wilcoxon tests were used for the intragroup comparisons. For the intergroup comparisons, the unpaired t-test or Mann Whitney tests were used (p<0.05). Results: The individuals with CHF showed lower SDNN values (sitting 18.4 ± 4.5 vs. 28.4 ± 7.6, and supine 23.3 ± 5 vs. 32.1 ± 12.4) and lower RMSSD values (sitting 12.2 ± 2.6 vs. 20.0 ± 6.8; and supine 14.5 ± 4.3 vs. 21.3 ± 10) when compared to the control. After the postural change, a significant change occurred only in the SDNN of the chronic CHF group (23.3 ± 5 vs. 18.4 ± 4.5). Conclusion: The individuals of the CHF group showed reduced HRV compared to healthy individuals of the same age, but were still able to perform sympathetic-vagal modulation after the change in posture

Ajustes cardiorrespiratórios durante a manobra de acentuação da arritmia sinusal respiratória: influência do tempo da manobra sobre o volume minuto, fração expirada de CO2 e variabilidade da frequência cardíaca / Ajustes cardiorrespiratorios durante la maniobra de acentuación de la arritmia sinusal respiratoria: influencia del tiempo de maniobra sobre el volumen minuto, fracción espirada de CO2 y variabilidad de la frecuencia cardiaca / Cardiorespiratory adjustments during the accentuation of respiratory sinus arrhythmia: influence from time of maneuver on minute volume, fraction of expired CO 2 , and heart rate variability

RESUMO A frequência cardíaca sofre variações durante o ciclo respiratório, fenômeno conhecido como arritmia sinusal respiratória. A manobra para acentuação da arritmia sinusal respiratória (M-ASR) consiste em manter ventilação educada com uma frequência respiratória de seis ciclos por minuto com relação tempo inspiração/expiração (TI:TE) de 1:1. Este estudo tem como objetivo avaliar o comportamento do volume minuto, da fração expirada de CO2 (FeCO2 infere sobre PaCO2) e do controle autonômico da frequência cardíaca durante a M-ASR com duração maior do que 90s. Foram avaliados 16 homens jovens saudáveis (de 18 a 25 anos). Todos foram orientados a realizar inspirações e expirações lentas com duração de 10 segundos por ciclo, TI:TE de 1:1 e consequente frequência respiratória de seis incursões por minuto, durante quatro minutos. Durante a avaliação foi coletada a frequência cardíaca (FC) batimento a batimento por meio de um cardiofrequencímetro, o volume minuto (VM) e a FeCO2 através de um ergoespirômetro. Para análise estatística empregou-se ANOVA one-way (com post-hoc de Tukey) ou teste de Kruskal-Wallis (com post-hoc de Dunn) quando conveniente (p<0,05). Durante a M-ASR, a FeCO2, o VM e os índices do domínio do tempo da variabilidade da frequência cardíaca (VFC) não sofreram alterações significativas ao longo do tempo. A realização da M-ASR em jovens saudáveis, por mais de 90 segundos, pode ser executada com segurança, sem o risco de hipocapnia e sem a interferência das alterações de FeCO2 nos índices do domínio do tempo da análise de VFC da M-ASR.

RESUMEN La frecuencia cardíaca sufre oscilaciones durante el ciclo respiratorio, fenómeno conocido como arritmia sinusal respiratoria. La maniobra para acentuación de la arritmia sinusal respiratoria (M-ASR) consiste en mantener ventilación educada con frecuencia respiratoria de seis ciclos por minuto con relación al tiempo inspiración/espiración (TI:TE) de 1:1. En este estudio se propone a evaluar la conducta del volumen minuto, de la fracción espirada de CO2 (FeCO2 infiere sobre el PaCO2) y el control autonómico de la frecuencia cardíaca durante la M-ASR con duración mayor de 90s. Se evaluaron 16 varones jóvenes sanos (de 18 a 25 años de edad). Se les orientaron para que realizasen inspiraciones y espiraciones pausadas de 10 segundos de duración por ciclo, TI:TE de 1:1, y consecuente frecuencia respiratoria de seis incursiones por minuto, durante cuatro minutos. Durante la evaluación se recolectaron la frecuencia cardíaca (FC), latido a latido a través de un monitor de frecuencia cardíaca, el volumen minuto (VM) y la FeCO2 mediante un ergoespirómetro. Para el análisis estadístico se empleó ANOVA one-way (con post-hoc de Tukey) o test de Kruskal-Wallis (con post-hoc de Dunn) cuando necesario (p<0,05). Durante la M-ASR, la FeCO2, el VM y los índices del dominio del tiempo para la variabilidad de la frecuencia cardíaca (VFC) no presentaron alteraciones significativas al largo del tiempo. Puede ejecutarse con seguridad la realización de la M-ASR en jóvenes sanos por más de 90 segundos, sin riesgo de hipocapnia y sin interferencia de las alteraciones de la FeCO2 en los índices del dominio del tiempo para analizar la VFC de la M-ASR.

ABSTRACT Heart rate (HR) fluctuate during the respiratory cycle. This phenomenon is known as respiratory sinus arrhythmia. The deep breathing test is to keep a paced breathing in six breathing per minute and I:E relationship 1:1. The purpose of this study is to access minute volume, expired fraction of carbon dioxide (EFCO2) and autonomic control of heart rate during deep breathing test longer than 90 seconds. Sixteen young healthy male (18 - 25 years old) were assessed. The subjects were instructed to perform inspirations and expirations with duration of 10 seconds per cycle, I:E = 1:1, and consequently respiratory rate of 6 cycles per minute, for about four minutes with one minute after and before, totaling six minutes. HR was recorded beat-to-beat using a cardio frequencimeter; MV and EFCO2 was measured and recorded using a mobile ergoespirometer. To analyse statistics differences, ANOVA one way (Tuckey post-hoc) and Kruskall Wallis (Dunn post-hoc) were used (p<0.05). When deep breathing test in course, EFCO2, MV and time domain heart rate variability shows no statistics difference over time. To perform deep breathing test in young healthy male, longer than 90 seconds, can be safety, without risks of hypocapnia and no interference from EFCO2 changes in time domain heart rate variability analysis of M-RSA.