Effects of physical exercise on musculoskeletal disorders, stress and quality of life in workers.

BACKGROUND: The effect of physical exercise in the workplace (PEW) on health promotion of workers is contradictory. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of the PEW in musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), perception of stress and quality of life in workers. METHODS: The participants were divided into two groups: control group (n = 46) including non-participant workers of the PEW program, and PEW group (n = 50) including workers who regularly participate in the exercise program. All workers answered the Nordic general questionnaire, the perceived stress scale and the quality-of-life questionnaire. RESULTS: The PEW group reported a lower prevalence of MSDs for the trunk in the last 7 days and 12 months (p = 0.021 and p = 0.001, respectively), and for the upper limbs in the last 12 months (p = 0.001) compared with the control group . The results for the perception of stress and quality of life showed no significant differences between the groups. CONCLUSION: PEW is a potential method to reduce MSDs in workers, but it was not efficient in reducing stress levels or improving the quality of life of the workers.

[Health literacy: translation and validation of a research instrument on health promotion in Brazil]. / Literacia em saúde: tradução e validação de instrumento para pesquisa em promoção da saúde no Brasil.

The aim of this study was to translate, culturally adapt, and test the psychometric performance of a questionnaire to assess health literacy. Brazilian university students (n = 472) with a mean age of 22.7 (5.3) years participated in the study. The validities of the factor, convergent, and discriminant structure were tested using structural equations analysis. The 4-factors model showed only fair results, but was nevertheless the most adequate in terms of factor validity and proved invariant in independent samples. Convergent validity was only adequate for the factor "Search for Health Information", while discriminant validity was adequate for the factors "Search for Information" and "Understanding Information". Internal consistency showed adequate results on all the items. The second-order hierarchical model, although not totally adequate, slowly slightly higher fit indices and thus allowed calculating an overall health literacy score considering each item's best weight.

Musculoskeletal disorders and stress among footwear industry workers.

BACKGROUND: Manufacturing footwear requires intense manual labor and high repetitions with low variability in function that may lead to musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) symptoms and psychological stress. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate a potential association between musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) and perceived stress among footwear industry workers. METHODS: The Nordic General Questionnaire (NGQ) and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) were completed by 357 footwear industry workers. The association between MSD and perceived stress was evaluated using the Chi-Square test and Odds Ratios along with their 95% Confidence Interval (95% CI) were calculated. RESULTS: The twelve-month prevalence of MSD symptoms among the respondents was 66% (n = 236) and the symptoms were significantly associated with perceived stress (p = 0.002, OR: 10, 95% CI: 1.7 to 60.6). The seven-day prevalence of MSD symptoms was 33% and the symptoms were also significantly associated with perceived stress (p = 0.001, OR: 2.7, 95% CI:0.8 to 9.3). The association between perceived stress and MSD symptoms indicates a strong association between MSD symptoms and perceived stress levels. CONCLUSION: Considering that these problems are important determinants of worker's health, a combined approach to reduce both stress and MSD symptoms is necessary for prevention and health promotion in the footwear industry.

Literacia em saúde: tradução e validação de instrumento para pesquisa em promoção da saúde no Brasil / Health literacy: translation and validation of a research instrument on health promotion in Brazil / Cualificación en salud: traducción y validación de un instrumento para la investigación en la promoción de la salud en Brasil

Resumo: O objetivo do trabalho foi traduzir, adaptar culturalmente e testar o desempenho psicométrico de um questionário para avaliar a literacia em saúde. Estudantes universitários brasileiros (n = 472) com idade média de 22,7 (5,3) anos participaram do estudo. As validades da estrutura fatorial, convergente e discriminante foram testadas utilizando-se análise de equações estruturais. Mesmo apresentando resultados sofríveis, o modelo de 4-fatores foi o que se mostrou mais adequado quanto à validade fatorial e se manteve invariante em amostras independentes. A validade convergente foi adequada apenas para o fator "Busca de Informações em Saúde" e a validade discriminante foi adequada para os fatores "Busca de Informações" e "Entendimento das Informações". A consistência interna apresentou resultado adequado em relação à totalidade dos itens. O modelo hierárquico de segunda ordem, ainda que não seja totalmente adequado, apresentou índices de ajustamento levemente superiores, e desta forma permite o cálculo de uma pontuação geral sobre Literacia em saúde considerando o devido peso para cada item.

Abstract: The aim of this study was to translate, culturally adapt, and test the psychometric performance of a questionnaire to assess health literacy. Brazilian university students (n = 472) with a mean age of 22.7 (5.3) years participated in the study. The validities of the factor, convergent, and discriminant structure were tested using structural equations analysis. The 4-factors model showed only fair results, but was nevertheless the most adequate in terms of factor validity and proved invariant in independent samples. Convergent validity was only adequate for the factor "Search for Health Information", while discriminant validity was adequate for the factors "Search for Information" and "Understanding Information". Internal consistency showed adequate results on all the items. The second-order hierarchical model, although not totally adequate, slowly slightly higher fit indices and thus allowed calculating an overall health literacy score considering each item's best weight.

Resumen: El objetivo del trabajo fue traducir, adaptar culturalmente y comprobar el desempeño psicométrico de un cuestionario para evaluar la cualificación en salud. Estudiantes universitarios brasileños (n = 472) con una edad media de 22,7 (5,3) años participaron en el estudio. Se probó la validez de las estructuras factorial, convergente y discriminante, utilizándose un análisis de ecuaciones estructurales. Incluso presentando pobres resultados, el modelo de 4-factores fue el que se mostró más adecuado en cuanto a la validez factorial y se mantuvo invariable en muestras independientes. La validez convergente fue adecuada solo para el factor "Búsqueda de Información en Salud", y la validez discriminante fue adecuada para los factores "Búsqueda de Información" y "Comprensión de la Información". La consistencia interna presentó un resultado adecuado en relación a la totalidad de los ítems. El modelo jerárquico de segundo orden, aunque no sea totalmente adecuado, presentó índices de ajuste levemente superiores, y, de esta forma, permite el cálculo de una puntuación general sobre cualificación en salud, considerando el debido peso para cada ítem.

Influência de fatores de risco na mortalidade por doenças infecciosas e parasitárias / Influence of mortality risk factors by infectious and parasite diseases

O Brasil tem grande extensão e características socioeconômicas, demográficas e culturais distintas. Sendo assim, em algumas regiões, as doenças infecciosas e parasitárias (DIPs) ainda fazem parte do cotidiano da população. Desse modo, objetivou-se avaliar se as DIPs, nos municípios que constituem a Superintendência Regional de Saúde (SRS) de Alfenas (MG), têm relação com fatores de risco selecionados. Trata-se de um estudo transversal de base populacional, de caráter descritivo e abordagem quantitativa, utilizando-se dados secundários obtidos no censo demográfico (2010) e empregando-se a análise de correlação de Pearson. Todos os indicadores de saúde e educação estudados, correlacionaram-se significativamente com a mortalidade por DIPs. O sistema de abastecimento de água por rede geral de distribuição, juntamente com o número de esgotamento sanitário por rede geral de esgoto ou pluvial, foram as variáveis dos indicadores de saneamento básico que demonstraram os mais elevados índices de correlação. Dentre os indicadores relativos à economia, o rendimento nominal mensal até » de salário mínimo ou sem rendimento mensal influenciaram significativamente a mortalidade por DIPs e, entre os indicadores de mortalidade infantil, somente o número de nascidos com peso inferior a 2500g demonstrou relação com as DIPs. Os resultados mostraram que as condições ambientais e de saneamento assim como as condições socioeconômicas dos residentes nos domicílios servidos por esses bens, aliadas à divulgação de medidas básicas de higiene pessoal, doméstica e comunitária impactam na saúde da população, refletindo na morbidade e mortalidade por enfermidades de diferentes etiologias, incluindo-se às DIPs. Dessa maneira, o conhecimento da prevalência e das principais variáveis associadas pode fornecer subsídio para dimensão do problema, planejamento e implementação de ações de promoção à saúde e à prevenção de agravos do processo saúde-doença.

Due to Brazil´s huge extension and to different social, economic, demographic and cultural conditions, several regions in Brazil feature infectious and parasite diseases (IPDs). Current analysis assesses whether IPDs in the municipalities of the Health Regional Superintendence of Alfenas MG Brazil are related to specific risk factors. Current populated-based transversal, descriptive and quantitative study employs secondary data from the 2010 demographic census, by Pearson´s co-relationship. All health and educational indicators significantly co-relate themselves with mortality due to IPDs, The water supply system and the number of sewerage and rainwater per network unit were the variables of basic sanitation indexes with the highest co-relation scores. In the case of economic indicators, the monthly income of half the minimum wage or without any monthly earnings significantly affected IPD-based mortality. Only the number of births weighing less than 2500g had any relationship to IPDs. Results showed environmental and sanitation conditions, coupled to the social and economic factors of residents in homes with such characteristics, plus the dissemination of basic measures for personal, home and community hygiene impact population´s health. The latter influences morbidity and mortality by diseases of different etiologies, including IPDs. Knowledge on the prevalence and main associated variables may be a help in evaluating the problem and the planning and implementation of activities for the health and prevention of health-disease relationships.

Evaluation of postural balance in mild cognitive impairment through a three-dimensional electromagnetic system / Avaliação do equilíbrio corporal no comprometimento cognitivo leve através de sistema eletromagnético tridimensional

ABSTRACT INTRODUCTION: Elderly people with cognitive impairment are at greater risk for falls; thus, an understanding of the earliest stages of cognitive decline is necessary. OBJECTIVE: To compare postural balance between elderly people with and without mild cognitive impairment using a three-dimensional system. METHODS: Thirty elderly people with mild cognitive impairment and thirty healthy elderly subjects were selected. Static posturography was performed using three-dimensional electromagnetic equipment and the following parameters were evaluated: maximum displacement, mean speed and total trajectory. Open- and closed-eye stabilometric variable comparisons between groups and within each group were carried out, and a relationship between the Mini Mental State Examination and the total trajectory of all elderly subjects was determined. RESULTS: The analysis among open- and closed-eye conditions showed a significant difference in maximum anteroposterior displacement in the control group and a significant difference in all stabilometric variables in the mild cognitive impairment group. A significant difference between the groups in all variables in the closed-eye condition was observed. There was a strong correlation between cognitive performance and total trajectory. CONCLUSION: Evaluations showed decrease in balance in elderly people with mild cognitive impairment. Presence of anteroposterior displacement can be an early sign of postural control impairment, and the evaluation with visual restriction can be useful in detecting small postural instabilities.

Resumo Introdução: Idosos com alteração cognitiva apresentam maior risco de quedas; assim, é importante compreender as primeiras fases do declínio cognitivo. Objetivo: Comparar o equilíbrio corporal entre idosos com e sem comprometimento cognitivo leve através de um sistema tridimensional. Método: Trinta idosos com comprometimento cognitivo leve e 30 idosos saudáveis foram selecionados. A posturografia estática foi realizada utilizando equipamento eletromagnético tridimensional, e foram avaliados os parâmetros deslocamento máximo, velocidade média e trajetória total. Foi realizada comparação das variáveis estabilométricas com olho aberto e olho fechado intragrupo e intergrupos, e foi estabelecida a relação entre o Mini Exame do Estado Mental e a trajetória total de todos os idosos. Resultados: A análise entre olho aberto e olho fechado no grupo de controle evidenciou uma diferença significativa no deslocamento anteroposterior máximo; no grupo com comprometimento cognitivo leve, houve diferença significativa em todas as variáveis estabilométricas. Foi observada diferença significativa entre os grupos em todas as variáveis na condição de olho fechado. Houve forte correlação entre desempenho cognitivo e trajetória total. Conclusão: As avaliações evidenciaram diminuição do equilíbrio nos idosos com comprometimento cognitivo leve. O deslocamento anteroposterior pode ser um sinal precoce de comprometimento do controle postural, e a avaliação com restrição visual pode ser útil na detecção de pequenas instabilidades posturais.

Handgrip strength and muscle fatigue among footwear industry workers / Força de preensão palmar e fadiga muscular em trabalhadores do setor calçadista

Abstract Introduction: Muscle fatigue can be defined as a decrease in the performance of the neuromuscular system in generating force. This situation is considered a complex physiological process involving various body systems, in order to avoid irreversible damage or even cell death. Objective: The aim of this study was to measure muscle strength in order to assess the level of fatigue among footwear industry workers, and to determine a possible correlation between muscle strength and the perception of reported fatigue. Materials and Methods: The study included 32 male workers from the footwear industry with a mean age of 34.63 ± 11.98 years. The workers performed the handgrip strength test using a handheld dynamometer, and completed the Bipolar Fatigue Questionnaire. Results: The mean result of strength testing was 23.1 ± 8.3 kgf, and the mean score of the fatigue questionnaire was 2.28 ± 0.93 points. However, a low correlation was observed between the results of the fatigue questionnaire and the strength test results. Conclusion: The grip strength results of the footwear workers were below the values for the general Brazilian population, a fact that may indicate potential muscle fatigue. However, a low correlation with the perception of fatigue was indicated by the questionnaire.

Resumo Introdução: A fadiga muscular pode ser definida como uma diminuição na capacidade do sistema neuromuscular em conseguir gerar força. Essa condição é considerada como um processo fisiológico complexo que envolve diversos sistemas do organismo, com o objetivo de evitar danos irreversíveis ou, até mesmo, morte celular. Objetivo: Avaliar a força de preensão palmar em trabalhadores do setor calçadista e verificar a existência de correlação entre a força muscular e a percepção da fadiga relatada. Materiais e Métodos: Participaram do estudo 32 trabalhadores do sexo masculino, com média de idade de 34,63 ± 11,98 anos e que atuavam no setor calçadista. Os trabalhadores realizaram o teste de contração voluntária máxima (CVM) utilizando um dinamômetro hidráulico de preensão palmar e responderam ao questionário Bipolar de Fadiga. Durante o teste, cada trabalhador executava três repetições da CVM e a média das medidas era obtida. Resultados: A força muscular apresentou uma média de 23,1 ± 8,3kgf e o escore do questionário de fadiga apresentou uma média de 2,28 ± 0,93 pontos. Entretanto, foi observada baixa correlação entre as medidas da CVM e os escores do questionário utilizado. Conclusão: Os trabalhadores do setor calçadista apresentaram força muscular abaixo do nível da população brasileira, o que sugere a ocorrência de fadiga muscular, porém, observou-se baixa correlação com a percepção de fadiga relatada.

Evaluation of postural balance in mild cognitive impairment through a three-dimensional electromagnetic system.

INTRODUCTION: Elderly people with cognitive impairment are at greater risk for falls; thus, an understanding of the earliest stages of cognitive decline is necessary. OBJECTIVE: To compare postural balance between elderly people with and without mild cognitive impairment using a three-dimensional system. METHODS: Thirty elderly people with mild cognitive impairment and thirty healthy elderly subjects were selected. Static posturography was performed using three-dimensional electromagnetic equipment and the following parameters were evaluated: maximum displacement, mean speed and total trajectory. Open- and closed-eye stabilometric variable comparisons between groups and within each group were carried out, and a relationship between the Mini Mental State Examination and the total trajectory of all elderly subjects was determined. RESULTS: The analysis among open- and closed-eye conditions showed a significant difference in maximum anteroposterior displacement in the control group and a significant difference in all stabilometric variables in the mild cognitive impairment group. A significant difference between the groups in all variables in the closed-eye condition was observed. There was a strong correlation between cognitive performance and total trajectory. CONCLUSION: Evaluations showed decrease in balance in elderly people with mild cognitive impairment. Presence of anteroposterior displacement can be an early sign of postural control impairment, and the evaluation with visual restriction can be useful in detecting small postural instabilities.

Qualidade de vida de trabalhadores informais da mineração / Quality of life of informal mining workers / Calidad de vida de los trabajadores informales de minería

Objetivo:avaliar a qualidade de vida de trabalhadores informais da mineração. Método:estudo descritivo, transversal-analítico, realizado na área territorialparaibana denominada de Província Pegmatítica da Borborema com 371 trabalhadores informais da mineração da região do Seridó paraibano. Para a coleta de dados foi utilizado o Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey(SF-36), analisado a partir de métodos de estatística descritiva e inferencial (nível de significância igual a 5%). O projeto de pesquisa recebeu parecer favorável do Comitê de Ética em Pesquisa, CAAE 07052613.8.0000.5495. Resultados: a média geral para qualidade de vida dos trabalhadores foi de 80,17+11,89. Entre os domínios avaliados, o maior escore foi obtido para acapacidade funcional (92,03+15,75), e o menor para a vitalidade (69,26+16,13). Conclusão: este estudo vem demonstrar que a forma de trabalho informal apresenta poucocomprometimento com a qualidade de vida dos trabalhadores.(AU)

Objective: evaluation of the quality of life of informal mining workers in Seridó, a region of the State of Paraíba.Method: adescriptive, transversal and analytical study conducted in a territorial area in Paraiba denominated the Province Pegmatítica da Borborema with 371 informal mining workers. For the data collection it was used the Medical Outcomes Study 36-item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36), analyzed from descriptive and inferential statistical methods (significance level of 5%). The research project was approved by the University of Franca Research Ethics Committee, CAAE 07052613.8.0000.5495. Results: the general average for the quality of life presented was of 80,17+11,89 points. Considering the domains, the highest score was of the functional capacity (92,03 ±15,75 points) and the worst averages were for the vitality (69,26±16,13 points). Conclusion: this study demonstrates that informal work presented little commitment with the quality of life of the workers.(AU)

Objetivo: evaluar la calidad de vida de los trabajadores informales de minería en la región minera de Paraíba, Seridó. Método: este es unestudio descriptivo, transversal analítico conducido en Paraíba en el ámbito territorial llamado Provincia Pegmatítica da Borborema con 371 trabajadores mineros informales. Para recoger los datos se utilizó el Medical Outcomes Study 36-item Short-FormHealth Survey(SF-36) y se analizaron utilizando métodos de estadística descriptiva e inferencial (nivel de significación de 5%). El proyecto de investigación ha recibido un dictamen favorable del Comité de Ética en la Investigación de la Universidad de Franca, CAAE 07052613.8.0000.5495. Resultados:la media general de la calidad de vida de los trabajadores fue de 80,17+11,89. Entre las áreas evaluadas, la puntuación más alta se obtuvo para la capacidad funcional (92,03+15,75) y la más baja para la vitalidad (69,26+16,13). Conclusión: este estudio demuestra que el trabajo informal muestra poco compromiso con la calidad de vida de los trabajadores.(AU)

Response of Preterm Infants to 2 Noninvasive Ventilatory Support Systems: Nasal CPAP and Nasal Intermittent Positive-Pressure Ventilation.

BACKGROUND: Noninvasive ventilation (NIV) in preterm infants is currently applied using intermittent positive pressure (2 positive-pressure levels) or in a conventional manner (one pressure level). However, there are no studies in the literature comparing the chances of failure of these NIV methods. The aim of this study was to evaluate the occurrence of failure of 2 noninvasive ventilatory support systems in preterm neonates over a period of 48 h. METHODS: A randomized, prospective, clinical study was conducted on 80 newborns (gestational age < 37 weeks, birthweight < 2,500 g). The infants were randomized into 2 groups: 40 infants were treated with nasal CPAP and 40 infants with nasal intermittent positive-pressure ventilation (NIPPV). The occurrence of apnea, progression of respiratory distress, nose bleeding, and agitation was defined as ventilation failure. The need for intubation and re-intubation after failure was also observed. RESULTS: There were no significant differences in birth characteristics between groups. Ventilatory support failure was observed in 25 (62.5%) newborns treated with nasal CPAP and in 12 (30%) newborns treated with NIPPV, indicating an association between NIV failure and the absence of intermittent positive pressure (odds ratio [OR] 1.22, P < .05). Apnea (32.5%) was the main reason for nasal CPAP failure. After failure, 25% (OR 0.33) of the newborns receiving nasal CPAP and 12.5% (OR 0.14) receiving NIPPV required invasive mechanical ventilation. CONCLUSIONS: Ventilatory support failure was significantly more frequent when nasal CPAP was used.

Percepção da qualidade de vida de idosas participantes e não participantes de um grupo de convivência da terceira idade de Catanduva (SP) / Perception of the quality of life of participant and non-participant older women in a third age social interaction group in Catanduva (SP)

Uma importante estratégia utilizada na promoção de saúde dos idosos são os grupos de convivência da terceira idade. Esses grupos podem proporcionar benefícios na saúde dos participantes e vêm ganhando cada vez mais adeptos. O objetivo do presente estudo foi comparar a percepção de qualidade de vida de idosas participantes e não participantes de um grupo de convivência. Sessenta idosas participaram da pesquisa, divididas em dois grupos, sendo o primeiro integrado por idosas participantes de grupo de convivência (GP), e o segundo composto por idosas que nunca haviam participado de um grupo de convivência para mulheres da terceira idade (GNP). Foram aplicados os questionários WHOQOL-BREF E WHOQOL-OLD com o intuito de aferir a percepção de qualidade de vida das idosas, além de um questionário com perguntas objetivas para traçar o perfil sociodemográfico dos grupos. As idosas do GP apresentaram valores significativamente maiores em todos os domínios do WHOQOL-BREF e nas facetas Funcionamento Sensório Motor, Atividades Passadas, Presentes e Futuras, Participação Social e Intimidade — do WHOQOL -OLD; além de participarem mais de atividades físicas e terem maior escolaridade que as idosas do GNP. Acreditamos que a participação em um grupo de convivência para terceira idade seja o responsável pela melhor percepção da qualidade de vida, devido ao suporte social recebido no grupo, o que fortalece os vínculos afetivos atenuando o isolamento social das idosas e promovendo vínculos de amizade fora do contexto familiar. (AU)

An important strategy used to promote the elderly health is the social interaction groups. These groups can provide health benefits for participants and is getting more and more followers. The aim of this study was to compare the perceived quality of life of elderly women participants and non-participants in a social interaction group for elderly. Sixty elderly women participated in the researched, divided in formed two groups, the first composed of elderly women participants in a social interaction group for third age, from now on knowed as GP and the second consisting of elderly women who had never participated in a support group (GNP). The WHOQOL-bref and WHOQOL-old questionnaires were applied in order to assess the perceived quality of life of the elderly women, and also a questionnaire which aim was to know their socio-demographic profi les. The GP women showed signifiantly higher values in all domains of the WHOQOL-bref and in the Sensory Motor Functioning, Past Present and Future Activities, Social Participation and Intimacy of the WHOQOL-old facets, besides they participated more in physical activities and were better educated than the GNP elderly. We believe that the participation in a social interaction group for elderly is responsible for better perception of quality of life, due to the social support received in the group, which strengthens the affective links mitigating social isolation of the elderly and promoting bonds of friendship outside the familial context. (AU)

Percepção da qualidade de vida de idosas participantes e não participantes de um grupo de convivência da terceira idade de Catanduva (SP) / Perception of the quality of life of participant and non-participant older women in a third age social interaction group in Catanduva (SP)

Uma importante estratégia utilizada na promoção de saúde dos idosos são os grupos de convivência da terceira idade. Esses grupos podem proporcionar benefícios na saúde dos participantes e vêm ganhando cada vez mais adeptos. O objetivo do presente estudo foi comparar a percepção de qualidade de vida de idosas participantes e não participantes de um grupo de convivência. Sessenta idosas participaram da pesquisa, divididas em dois grupos, sendo o primeiro integrado por idosas participantes de grupo de convivência (GP), e o segundo composto por idosas que nunca haviam participado de um grupo de convivência para mulheres da terceira idade (GNP). Foram aplicados os questionários WHOQOL-BREF E WHOQOL-OLD com o intuito de aferir a percepção de qualidade de vida das idosas, além de um questionário com perguntas objetivas para traçar o perfil sociodemográfico dos grupos. As idosas do GP apresentaram valores significativamente maiores em todos os domínios do WHOQOL-BREF e nas facetas Funcionamento Sensório Motor, Atividades Passadas, Presentes e Futuras, Participação Social e Intimidade — do WHOQOL -OLD; além de participarem mais de atividades físicas e terem maior escolaridade que as idosas do GNP. Acreditamos que a participação em um grupo de convivência para terceira idade seja o responsável pela melhor percepção da qualidade de vida, devido ao suporte social recebido no grupo, o que fortalece os vínculos afetivos atenuando o isolamento social das idosas e promovendo vínculos de amizade fora do contexto familiar.

An important strategy used to promote the elderly health is the social interaction groups. These groups can provide health benefits for participants and is getting more and more followers. The aim of this study was to compare the perceived quality of life of elderly women participants and non-participants in a social interaction group for elderly. Sixty elderly women participated in the researched, divided in formed two groups, the first composed of elderly women participants in a social interaction group for third age, from now on knowed as GP and the second consisting of elderly women who had never participated in a support group (GNP). The WHOQOL-bref and WHOQOL-old questionnaires were applied in order to assess the perceived quality of life of the elderly women, and also a questionnaire which aim was to know their socio-demographic profi les. The GP women showed signifiantly higher values in all domains of the WHOQOL-bref and in the Sensory Motor Functioning, Past Present and Future Activities, Social Participation and Intimacy of the WHOQOL-old facets, besides they participated more in physical activities and were better educated than the GNP elderly. We believe that the participation in a social interaction group for elderly is responsible for better perception of quality of life, due to the social support received in the group, which strengthens the affective links mitigating social isolation of the elderly and promoting bonds of friendship outside the familial context.

Association of musculoskeletal disorders with activity performed in the workplace / Associação dos distúrbios músculo-esqueléticos com a atividade desempenhada no local de trabalho

The aim of the present study was to analyze the association between the activity performed in the workplace and symptoms of musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) in different body regions. We evaluated 146 employees, divided into two sectors: sector I (n=61), cleaning and building maintenance, and sector II (n=85), administrative sector. The employees answered the census of the ergonomics questionnaire that assesses MSD reported in different body regions. In sector I, 39.6% (n=19) of the employees had symptoms in the lower limbs, with an association between activity performed and body region reported (p=0.025). In sector II, 51.7% (n=31) of the employees had symptoms in the neck and 26.7% (n=16) in the wrist, with an association between activity performed and body region reported (p=0.001 and p<0.002, respectively). The results showed that employees had MSD symptoms associated with the activity performed, indicating the need to develop specific interventions for each kind of orkplace.

O objetivo do estudo foi analisar a associação entre as atividades realizadas no local de trabalho com os sintomas de distúrbios músculo-esquelético (DMS) na região do corpo. Foram avaliados 146 funcionários, separados em setor I (n=61) que trabalham com limpeza e manutenção predial; setor II (n=85), os funcionários trabalham no setor administrativo. Os funcionários responderam o questionário Censo de ergonomia que avalia a DMS em diferentes regiões do corpo. No setor I, 39,6% (n=19) dos funcionários relataram sintomas nos membros inferiores com associação entre a atividade realizada e a região do corpo (p=0,025). No setor II, 51,7% (n=31) dos funcionários apresentaram sintomas no pescoçoe 26,7% (n=16) no punho, com associação entre a atividade exercida e a região do corpo (p=0,001, p=0,002, respectivamente). Os resultados mostraram que os funcionários apresentavam associação dos sintomas de DMS com a atividade realizada. Assim, o desenvolvimento de intervenções específicas para cada tipo de trabalho mostra-se necessária.

Estresse oxidativo no plasma sanguíneo de indivíduos submetidos ao esforço físico agudo seguido de crioimersão corporal / Oxidative stress in blood plasma in persons who are submitted to cold water immersion after acute physical exercise

O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar a influência da crioimersão corporal (CIC) imediata ao esforço físico agudo no estresse oxidativo (EOx) no plasma sanguíneo. Participaram do presente estudo 12 homens, com idade média de 22±1 anos, submetidos ao teste de esforço físico intenso em esteira, seguido de CIC em um tanque com água a 10ºC durante 10 minutos contínuos. Do repouso ao final da CIC, os indivíduos foram monitorados através de alguns parâmetros como: o índice de percepção subjetiva do esforço (IPE) expresso conforme escala de Borg, frequência cardíaca (FC), pressão arterial (PA) e temperatura corporal (TC) através da temperatura timpânica. A análise morfológica do EOx plasmático foi realizada de acordo com o método denominado Morfologia Óptica do Estresse Oxidativo no Plasma (MEOP), utilizando-se gotas de sangue capilar. Observou-se uma significativa elevação (p<0,01) no grau do estresse oxidativo plasmático após a realização do esforço físico, em relação ao respectivo grau em repouso. Porém, esta elevação no grau do EOx foi significativamente reduzida (p<0,001) em função da CIC. Embora sejam necessários mais estudos científicos com o MEOP, concluiu-se que, para o presente estudo, este teste mostrou-se viável. Os dados encontrados no presente estudo sugerem que a CIC em água a 10ºC por 10 minutos imediatos ao esforço físico agudo com intensidade alta, apresenta-se como uma importante conduta fisioterapêutica para a normalização do EOx pós-esforço.

The purpose of this study was to analyze the influence of cold water immersion (CWI) following acute physical exercise on the oxidative stress in the blood plasma. Twelve men with average age of 22±1 years old, participated this study. All of them underwent the treadmill stress test followed by CWI in tank with water at 10ºC for 10 minutes. During this process, they were monitored and a set of parameters were analyzed: physical effort perception (Borg Scale), Heart Rate (HR), Blood Pressure (BP) and body heat, by measuring tympanic temperature. The morphological analysis of oxidative stress in blood plasma was done in accordance with a method known as Optical Morphology of the Oxidative Stress on Blood Plasma, which uses drops of capillary blood. A significant increase (p<0.01) in the rate of oxidative stress in plasma was noted after intense physical effort when compared with the rate of stress while at rest. However, the stress rate was significantly decreased (p<0.001) after CWI. Although further scientific studies should be carried out on the above mentioned test, may be concluded that, in the present study, the test has proven itself viable. The data found in the present study suggest that cold water immersion at 10ºC for 10 minutes following high intensity physical effort appears to be an important physical therapeutic measure towards the normalization of oxidative stress.

Prevalence of sport injuries during the 53th Regional Games in Franca (SP), Brazil / Prevalência de lesões esportivas durante os 53os Jogos Regionais em Franca (SP), Brasil

The purpose of this study was to perform a survey about the prevalence, type and location of the injuries occurred in athletes of different modalities during the 53th Regional Games held in 2009. A total of 182 injured athletes being treated at the physical therapy clinic were included. Physical Therapy evaluation was performed to determine the anatomic location and type of injury, as well the sport modality. The results showed that mean age, height, weight and BMI were 23 years (±5.9), 1.73 m (±0.11), 71 kg (±14.22) and 24 kg/m2 (±4) respectively. Proportionality to the number of athletes, handball athletes presented with higher number of injuries (4.25%), followed by indoor soccer players (3.7%), basketball (2.48%), volleyball (1.72%) and soccer (1.63%). The most common type of injury were sprains with 29.7% of cases (n=54) and mostly from soccer players; followed by contracture – 26.9% (n=49), mostly from basketball players; and contusion –25.8% (n=47), mostly from handball and indoor soccer players. The type of injury showed a significant association with the sports modality (p=0.0016). The lower limbs accounted for 71.4% of all injuries including knee (23.1%), ankle (18.1%), thigh (17.0%), leg (10.4%) and spine (9.9%). Preventive actions to avoid athletes' injury should be implemented in order to reduce the number of injuries in sports competitions such as in the Regional Games.

O objetivo do presente estudo foi investigar a prevalência, tipo e localização anatômica das lesões nos atletas durante os 53os Jogos Regionais de 2009. No total, 182 atletas participaram do estudo. A avaliação fisioterápica incluiu dados como local e tipo de lesão e modalidade esportiva. Os resultados mostraram que a média de idade, altura, peso e IMC foram respectivamente 23 anos (±5,9), 1,73 m (±0,11), 71 kg (±14,22) e 24 kg/m2 (±4). Proporcionalmente ao número de atletas, o handball foi a modalidade esportiva que apresentou maior número de lesões (4,25%), seguidos pelos atletas de futsal (3,70%), de basquete (2,48%), de voleibol (1,72%) e de futebol (1,63%). O tipo de lesão mais comum foi entorse com 29,7% dos casos (n=54), ocorridos com maior frequência em jogadores de futebol; seguido de contratura – 26,9% (n=49), ocorridos com maior frequência em jogadores de basquete; e contusão – 25,8% (n=47), ocorridos com maior frequência em jogadores de handball e futsal. O tipo de lesão mostrou significativa associação com o tipo de esporte praticado pelo atleta (p=0,0016). Os membros inferiores representaram 71,4% de todas as lesões, sendo o joelho o local mais acometido, com 23,1% dos casos, seguido do tornozelo – 18,1%, coxa – 17%, perna – 10,4% e coluna vertebral – 9,9%. Programas de prevenção para os atletas devem ser desenvolvidos e implantados a fim de reduzir o número de lesões em competições esportivas como os Jogos Regionais.

Candida parapsilosis complex water isolates from a haemodialysis unit: biofilm production and in vitro evaluation of the use of clinical antifungals.

Candida parapsilosis, currently divided into three distinct species, proliferates in glucose-rich solutions and has been associated with infections resulting from the use of medical devices made of plastic, an environment common in dialysis centres. The aims of this study were (i) to screen for Candida orthopsilosis and Candida metapsilosis (100 environmental isolates previously identified as C. parapsilosis), (ii) to test the ability of these isolates to form biofilm and (iii) to investigate the in vitro susceptibility of Candida spp biofilms to the antifungal agents, fluconazole (FLC) and amphotericin B (AMB). Isolates were obtained from a hydraulic circuit collected from a haemodialysis unit. Based on molecular criteria, 47 strains were re-identified as C. orthopsilosis and 53 as C. parapsilosis. Analyses using a formazan salt reduction assay and total viable count, together with microscopy studies, revealed that 72 strains were able to form biofilm that was structurally similar, but with minor differences in morphology. A microtitre-based colorimetric assay used to test the susceptibility of fungal biofilms to AMB and FLC demonstrated that the C. parapsilosis complex displayed an increased resistance to these antifungal agents. The results from these analyses may provide a basis for implementing quality controls and monitoring to ensure the microbiological purity of dialysis water, including the presence of yeast.

Candida parapsilosis complex water isolates from a haemodialysis unit: biofilm production and in vitro evaluation of the use of clinical antifungals

Candida parapsilosis, currently divided into three distinct species, proliferates in glucose-rich solutions and has been associated with infections resulting from the use of medical devices made of plastic, an environment common in dialysis centres. The aims of this study were (i) to screen for Candida orthopsilosis and Candida metapsilosis (100 environmental isolates previously identified as C. parapsilosis), (ii) to test the ability of these isolates to form biofilm and (iii) to investigate the in vitro susceptibility of Candida spp biofilms to the antifungal agents, fluconazole (FLC) and amphotericin B (AMB). Isolates were obtained from a hydraulic circuit collected from a haemodialysis unit. Based on molecular criteria, 47 strains were re-identified as C. orthopsilosis and 53 as C. parapsilosis. Analyses using a formazan salt reduction assay and total viable count, together with microscopy studies, revealed that 72 strains were able to form biofilm that was structurally similar, but with minor differences in morphology. A microtitre-based colorimetric assay used to test the susceptibility of fungal biofilms to AMB and FLC demonstrated that the C. parapsilosis complex displayed an increased resistance to these antifungal agents. The results from these analyses may provide a basis for implementing quality controls and monitoring to ensure the microbiological purity of dialysis water, including the presence of yeast.

Anticandidal efficacy of cinnamon oil against planktonic and biofilm cultures of Candida parapsilosis and Candida orthopsilosis.

Candida parapsilosis is yeast capable of forming biofilms on medical devices. Novel approaches for the prevention and eradication of the biofilms are desired. This study investigated the anticandidal activity of sixteen essential oils on planktonic and biofilm cultures of C. parapsilosis complex. We used molecular tools, enumeration of colony-forming units, the colourimetric MTT assay, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and a chequerboard assay coupled with software analyses to evaluate the growth kinetics, architecture, inhibition and reduction in biofilms formed from environmental isolates of the Candida parapsilosis complex; further, we also evaluated whether essential oils would interact synergistically with amphotericin B to increase their anticandidal activities. Of the environmental C. parapsilosis isolates examined, C. parapsilosis and C. orthopsilosis were identified. Biofilm growth on polystyrene substrates peaked within 48 h, after which growth remained relatively stable up to 72 h, when it began to decline. Details of the architectural analysis assessed by SEM showed that C. parapsilosis complex formed less complex biofilms compared with C. albicans biofilms. The most active essential oil was cinnamon oil (CO), which showed anticandidal activity against C. orthopsilosis and C. parapsilosis in both suspension (minimum inhibitory concentration-MIC-250 and 500 µg/ml) and biofilm (minimum biofilm reduction concentration-MBRC-1,000 and 2,000 µg/ml) cultures. CO also inhibited biofilm formation (MBIC) at concentrations above 250 µg/ml for both species tested. However, synergism with amphotericin B was not observed. Thus, CO is a natural anticandidal agent that can be effectively utilised for the control of the yeasts tested.

Evaluation of the frequency of micronuclei in exfoliated cells from oral lesions previously identified by toluidine blue.

OBJECTIVE: Patients using a removable prosthesis are susceptible to a variety of oral lesions that may progress to cancer. Toluidine blue (TB) staining is used to identify premalignant lesions, but the results are still controversial. Since micronuclei (MN) are a biomarker of genetic instability, the objective of this study was to determine the frequency of MN in white lesions of the oral mucosa and to compare the results with those of the TB test. STUDY DESIGN: The study included 20 removable prosthesis users with white lesions that were previously classified as toluidine positive or negative. The frequency of MN was evaluated in exfoliated cells from lesions and normal mucosa. Nuclear anomalies were also registered. RESULTS: A significant increase (p < 0.05) in the frequency of MN was observed in exfoliated cells from lesions compared to normal mucosal cells, and no relationship was seen with TB staining. Lifestyle factors or gender did not influence the results. CONCLUSIONS: The frequency of MN is a sensitive biomarker and can be used to predict genomic instability in white oral lesions. The MN assay may serve as a good parameter in the battery of tests used to identify high-risk individuals, contributing to the identification of the biological conditions of oral lesions.

O conhecimento de jovens universitários sobre AIDS e sua prevenção / Young academic knowledge about aids and its prevention / El conocimiento de los jóvenes universitarios sobre sida y su prevención

A Aids é um grave problema de Saúde Pública, pois a cada ano aumenta o número daqueles que se contaminam. No Brasil a transmissão heterossexual tornou-se a principal via de contágio do HIV. Objetivo: levantar junto a jovens de 17 a 24 anos que cursam o terceiro grau, os conhecimentos sobre a Aids e sua prevenção. Metodologia:pesquisa desenvolvida em uma universidade privada do interior do estado de São Paulo, com alunos de ambos os sexos dos cursos de Pedagogia, Jornalismo, Moda e Turismo. Foi aplicados 300 questionários com perguntas abertas e fechadas no período de fevereiro a abril de 2006. Resultados: 95% dos alunos conhecem a doença e o modo de transmissão;66% disseram usar o preservativo masculino e 26% não ou depende e o motivo alegado é parceiro fixo, casamento, confiança no parceiro. Quanto à dificuldade para usar o preservativo 60% disseram não ter nenhuma, mas, 50 % relatam dificuldades como: colocação, perda de sensibilidade, entre outros. Apenas 2% dos alunos já usaram o preservativo feminino. Para 57% dos entrevistados, a palavra Aids lembra morte, sofrimento e dor.

Aids is a serious problem of Public Health, because each year rises the number of contaminated persons. In Brazil, heterosexual transmission became the main way of infection by HIV. Goal: to know, how adolescents, in the age-group of 17 to 24 years old that attend to the third degree school pattern, know about Aids and its prevention. This research was developed on a private university in the state of São Paulo, Brazil, interviewing students, from courses: journalism, fashion, tourism pedagogy. We applied 300 questionnaires with openned and closed questions in the period from february to april of 2006. Results: 95% of students has a knowledge of Aids and the way of its transmission. As for the use of preservatives, 66% said they use them and 26% do not use them and the alleged motive are: stable partner, marriage. As for to the difficulty to use preservatives 60% said they have no problems, but 50% reported difficulties to put them on, lost of sensibility, tightness, among others. Only 2% of students used the feminine preservatives. To 57% of the interviewed students, the word Aids remembers death, suffering and pain.

SIDA es un grave problema de Salud Pública, pues a cada año aumenta el número de aquellos que se contaminan. En Brasil la transmisión heterosexual es la principal forma de contagio del HIV. Aunque haya muchas campañas enfatizando la prevención de SIDA, el número de jóvenes e especialmente de mujeres sigue aumentando. Objetivo: fue relevar junto a jóvenes de 17 a 24 años que cursan el tercer grado, los conocimientos sobre SIDA y su prevención. La investigación fue desarrollada en una universidad particular del interior del estado de São Paulo, con alumnos de ambos los sexos de los cursos de Periodismo, Moda, Turismo, Pedagogía. Fueron aplicados 300 cuestionarios con preguntas abiertas y cerradas en el período de febrero a abril de 2006. Resultados: 95 % de los alumnos conocen la enfermedad y el modo de transmisión. Cuanto a usar el preservativo, 66% dicen que sí y 26% no o depende, siendo los motivos pareja fija, matrimonio. Cuanto a la dificultad para usar el preservativo, 60% dijeron no tener ninguna, pero 50% relatan dificultades: colocación, pérdida de sensibilidad, entre otros. Apenas 2% de los alumnos ya usaron el preservativo femenino. Para 57% la palabra SIDA significa muerte, sufrimiento y dolor.