Correlation between nasal anatomical characteristics in newborns and short binasal prong dimensions

Abstract Objective: To correlate the nasal anatomical characteristics of newborns with the dimensions of short binasal prongs. Method: Observational, cross-sectional study carried out in two hospitals in southern Brazil. The authors evaluated 1620 newborns with neonatal data and nasal dimensions. To measure the dimensions of the nasal region, the authors considered the width of the medial columella, the right nostril diameter, and the left nostril diameter. These data were correlated with the dimensions of two models of short binasal prongs. Results: Of the total newborns evaluated, 807 were female (49.8%), and 813 were male (50.2%). The majority were white (96.2%). The mean gestational age was 37.4 ± 2.9 weeks, ranging from 22 to 42 weeks. The birth weight was 2946.8 ± 699.3 g, ranging from 490.0 to 4740.0 g. Most of the nasal measures were significantly larger than both prong model measurements. Conclusion: The sizes of short binasal prongs available on the Brazilian market do not match the nasal anatomical characteristics of newborns.

Effects of hydrotherapy and tactile-kinesthetic stimulation on weight gain of preterm infants admitted in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

Abstract Objective: The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of hydrotherapy and tactile-kinesthetic stimulation on the birth weight of preterm infants admitted in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Method: It was a randomized controlled trial, without blinding, in which 44 preterm infants of both sexes with gestational age between 32 and 34 weeks were included into two groups: hydrotherapy group (n = = 22) and tactile-kinesthetic stimulation group (n = 22). Weight gain was the parameter assessed daily. Results: In the tactile-kinesthetic stimulation group there was a variation in weight gain, but without significant difference (p = 0,43). However, in the hydrotherapy group, it was observed that increased weight gain started from the 2nd day (p < 0,001). Conclusions: Hydrotherapy group presented significantly increased weight after the interventions, indicating that this technique can interfere with weight gain in preterm infants.

Ergonomics of anatomical bra models for breastfeeding: a contribution of nursing / Ergonomía de modelos anatómicos de sostén para lactancia materna: una contribución de la enfermería / Ergonomia de modelos anatômicos de sutiã para amamentação: uma contribuição da enfermagem

ABSTRACT Objectives: to analyze the ergonomics of two models of breastfeeding bras. Methods: descriptive study carried out with 152 infants in a Brazilian university hospital. The prototypes were separated into two groups (A and B). To compare the two bra models, the Odds Ratio (OR) was used as a measure of the strength of the association. In subjective perceptions, the Modified Borg Scale, and the chi-square test of independence (χ2) were used. To compare the two prototypes, the Z test and logistic regression analysis were performed. A significance level of 5% was considered. Results: the bra in group B was more suitable for ergonomics of physical and psycho-aesthetic comfort than the bra in group A (p < 0.0001), according to the logistic regression tests. Conclusions: modeling B was ergonomically adequate, with usability and evaluation criteria centered on breastfeeding women.

RESUMEN Objetivos: analizar la ergonomía de dos modelados de sostén para lactancia materna. Métodos: estudio descriptivo realizado con 152 lactantes en un hospital universitario brasileño. Los prototipos fueron separados en dos grupos (A y B). Para comparar los dos modelados de sostén, fue utilizado la Odds Ratio (OR) como una medida de intensidad de la asociación. En las percepciones subjetivas, se utilizaron la Escala de Borg Modificada y el test chi-cuadrado de independencia (χ2). Para comparar los dos prototipos, se realizó el test Z y análisis de regresión logística. Se consideró un nivel de significación de 5%. Resultados: el sostén del grupo B fue el más adecuado para ergonomía de conforto físico y psicoestético del que el del grupo A (p < 0,0001), segundo los testes de regresión logística. Conclusiones: el modelado B fue ergonómicamente adecuado, con criterios de usabilidad y evaluación centrada en las lactantes.

RESUMO Objetivos: analisar a ergonomia de duas modelagens de sutiãs para amamentação. Métodos: estudo descritivo realizado com 152 lactantes em um hospital universitário brasileiro. Os protótipos foram separados em dois grupos (A e B). Para comparar as duas modelagens de sutiãs, foi utilizado a Odds Ratio (OR) como uma medida de intensidade da associação. Nas percepções subjetivas, utilizaramse a Escala de Borg Modificada e o teste qui-quadrado de independência (χ2). Para comparar os dois protótipos, realizou-se o teste Z e análise de regressão logística. Considerou-se um nível de significância de 5%. Resultados: o sutiã do grupo B foi o mais adequado para ergonomia de conforto físico e psicoestético do que o do grupo A (p < 0,0001), segundo os testes de regressão logística. Conclusões: a modelagem B foi ergonomicamente adequada, com critérios de usabilidade e avaliação centrada nas lactantes.

Clinical Applications of Additive Manufacturing Models in Neurosurgery: a Systematic Review

Introduction Three-dimensional (3D) printing technologies provide a practical and anatomical way to reproduce precise tailored-made models of the patients and of the diseases. Those models can allow surgical planning, besides training and surgical simulation in the treatment of neurosurgical diseases. Objective The aim of the present article is to review the scenario of the development of different types of available 3D printing technologies, the processes involved in the creation of biomodels, and the application of those advances in the neurosurgical field. Methods We searched for papers that addressed the clinical application of 3D printing in neurosurgery on the PubMed, Ebsco, Web of Science, Scopus, and Science Direct databases. All papers related to the use of any additivemanufacturing technique were included in the present study. Results Studies involving 3D printing in neurosurgery are concentrated on threemain areas: (1) creation of anatomical tailored-made models for planning and training; (2) development of devices and materials for the treatment of neurosurgical diseases, and (3) biological implants for tissues engineering. Biomodels are extremely useful in several branches of neurosurgery, and their use in spinal, cerebrovascular, endovascular, neuro-oncological, neuropediatric, and functional surgeries can be highlighted. Conclusions Three-dimensional printing technologies are an exclusive way for direct replication of specific pathologies of the patient. It can identify the anatomical variation and provide a way for rapid construction of training models, allowing the medical resident and the experienced neurosurgeon to practice the surgical steps before the operation.

Ludic-activities-based therapeutic suitcase for rehabilitation of people with stroke / Mala terapêutica baseada em atividades lúdicas para reabilitação de pessoas com AVC / Maleta terapéutica basada en actividades lúdicas para la rehabilitación de personas con accidente cerebrovascula

Abstract Introduction: The rehabilitation of people who suffered a stroke depends on patient commitment, rehabilitation strategies and technologies employed. Objective: To develop a suitcase with rehabilitation activities using devices that provide functional exercises in a fun and motivating way. Method: The main motor and sensory functions lost due to the stroke were identified and a set of three boards was modeled, providing activities with adequate structure and strategies to conduct rehabilitation exercises. A pilot experiment was performed with a subject with poststroke sequelae. Results: The suitcase has three boards containing devices for exercises of proprioception, motor coordination, grasping and reeducation to decrease agnosia, to increase muscle strength and for cognitive training. Conclusion: The suitcase fulfilled its functional reeducation purpose via a playful method; it provides improvements in the ability to fit parts, differentiate colors, recognize shapes and textures, and increase the strength.

Resumo Introdução: A reabilitação das pessoas que sofreram acidente vascular encefálico depende do empenho do paciente e das estratégias e tecnologias de reabilitação empregadas. Objetivo: Desenvolver uma maleta com atividades reabilitatórias por meio de dispositivos que proporcionem, de forma lúdica e motivadora, exercícios funcionais. Método: Identificou-se as principais funções motoras e sensoriais perdidas em decorrência do AVE e modelou-se pranchas de atividades contendo estrutura e estratégias adequadas à realização de exercícios reabilitatórios. Realizou-se um ensaio piloto com um indivíduo que sofreu AVE. Resultados: A maleta possui três pranchas envolvendo dispositivos para exercícios de propriocepção, coordenação motora, pinça fina e reeducação para diminuição da agnosia, para aumento de força muscular e para treino cognitivo. Conclusão: A maleta confeccionada cumpriu seu intuito de reeducação funcional pela ludicidade, proporcionando melhora na habilidade de encaixe de peças e diferenciação de cores bem como no aumento de força e no reconhecimento de formas e texturas.

Resumen Introducción: La rehabilitación de las personas que han sufrido accidente cerebrovascular, depende del empeño del paciente y de las estrategias y tecnologías empleadas. Objetivo: Desarrollar una maleta con actividades de rehabilitación a través de dispositivos que proporcionen, de forma lúdica y motivadora, ejercicios funcionales. Método: Se identificaron las principales funciones motoras y sensoriales perdidas como consecuencia del accidente cerebrovascular, y se modelaron tableros de actividades con contenido, estructura y estrategias adecuadas a la realización de ejercicios de rehabilitación. Se realizó una prueba piloto con un individuo típico. Resultados: La maleta tiene tres tableros que involucran dispositivos para la propiocepción, coordinación motora, pinza fina y reeducación para disminuirla agnosia, aumentar la fuerza muscular y el entrenamiento cognitivo. Conclusión: La maleta confeccionada, cumplió su propósito de reeducación funcional de una manera lúdica, mejorando la habilidad de encaje de piezas y diferenciación de colores, así como el aumento de fuerza y el reconocimiento de formas y texturas.

Evidências da mama puerperal por termografia: relato de caso / Evidencias de la mama puerperal por termografía: informe de caso / Evaluation of the puerperal breast through thermography: a case report

RESUMO Objetivo: analisar a temperatura da mama puerperal utilizando termografia por infravermelho. Método: estudo realizado no Banco de Leite Humano de um Hospital de Curitiba em 2011. Selecionou-se aleatoriamente uma lactante com ingurgitamento bilateral nos quadrantes externos das mamas, e inspecionou-se a temperatura. Resultados: encontrou-se um lobo mamário macio com assimetria térmica de 1,5ºC, comparado à região contralateral, mas não se identificou assimetria térmica na temperatura geral entre as mamas. Conclusão: este caso sugere que assimetria térmica na mama puerperal está relacionada ao volume de leite nos lobos e não a disfunções ou patologias nesses lobos. O estudo abre perspectivas para aprofundamento da compreensão da fisiologia lactacional com a ampliação do grupo amostral avaliado nesta pesquisa. A termografia é uma técnica adequada às lactantes, mas requer sala apropriada, tempo para aclimatação e conhecimento da anatomia mamária.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Analizar la temperatura de la mama puerperal utilizando termografía infrarroja. Método: Estudio realizado en Banco de Leche Humana de hospital de Curitiba en 2011. Se seleccionó aleatoriamente una lactante con ingurgitación bilateral en cuadrantes externos de las mamas, y se verificó la temperatura. Resultados: Se halló un lóbulo mamario blando con asimetría térmica de 1,5ºC comparado con la zona contralateral, no identificándose asimetría térmica en temperatura general entre mamas. Conclusión: Este caso sugiere que la asimetría térmica en la mama puerperal está relacionada con el volumen de leche en los lóbulos, y no con disfunciones o patologías en dichos lóbulos. El estudio ofrece perspectivas para profundizar la comprensión de la fisiología lactante, ampliando el grupo muestral evaluado en este estudio. La termografía es una técnica adecuada para las lactantes, aunque requiere de ámbito adecuado, tiempo de aclimatación y conocimiento de la anatomía mamaria.

ABSTRACT Objective: to analyze puerperal breast temperature using infrared thermography. Method: study performed at the Human Milk Bank of a Hospital in Curitiba, Brazil. A lactating mother with bilateral engorgement in the external breast quadrants was randomly selected and the temperature was measured. Results: A soft mammary lobe was found, with thermal asymmetry of 1.5ºC, compared to the contralateral region, however no thermal asymmetry was identified in the general temperature between the breasts. Conclusion: this case suggests that thermal asymmetry in the puerperal breast is related to the volume of milk in the lobes and not to dysfunctions or pathologies in these lobes. The study indicates possibilities for deepening the understanding of lactational physiology with the amplification of the sample group evaluated in this study. Thermography is a technique suitable for lactating mothers, however requires an appropriate room, time for acclimatization and knowledge of the mammary anatomy.

From the past to the future of therapeutic orthoses for upper limbs rehabilitation

Abstract Introduction The expansion of assistive technologies has been increasing significantly, involving almost all the daily activities, performed by disabled people. One of the highlights to be mentioned is the robotic orthoses, which are being used to amplify movements, to replace amputated limbs, and for a variety of rehabilitation therapies, among others. This study aims to present a review about upper limbs' orthoses, discussing their weaknesses, potentialities, and pointing out for future perspectives under the motor rehabilitation. Methods For this research, it had been identified 161 papers, based on the bibliographic bases from IEEE and Science Direct, which were filtered by the keywords orthoses, hand, upper-limbs and technology. After the appropriate exclusions, 22 papers were analyzed. Results This review indicates that most of the orthoses have been developed for rehabilitation therapies to be employed by people who have suffered stroke, cerebral palsy or spinal cord injury. This research summarized that the upper limbs movements are effectively produced by electric or pneumatic actuators, having a variety of degrees of freedom. Conclusion This review has shown that, although there are many orthoses styles, ranging from electric to pneumatic actuators; also there are some technical restrictions that prevent their use by most people. However, upper limb orthoses seem to be a great solution for the rehabilitation of people who have suffered a stroke.

Automatic respiratory phase detection for functional electrical stimulation synchronization

Abstract Introduction People with cervical or high thoracic spinal cord injury usually have respiratory muscle weakness. When transcutaneous functional electrical stimulation (TFES) synchronized with the patient's natural breathing is applied to respiratory muscles, their strength and resistance are increased. In this work, we propose a novel method to perform an automatic synchronization, composed of a signal acquisition system and an algorithm that recognizes both respiratory cycle phases during quiet breathing. Methods The respiratory signal acquisition unit consists of a load cell attached to an elastic belt. The algorithm is based on statistical evaluation and linear approximation for detecting the beginning of both inhalation and exhalation phases. Ten volunteers remained steady, breathing quietly for one minute for signal acquisition. Results The system's automatic detection of inspiratory events reached 87.5% of true positives, 6.7% of false negatives and 5.8% of false positives. Both hit and error ratios obtained in the detection of expiratory events reached 94.3% true positives, 4.9% false positives and 0.8% false negatives. Conclusion The developed algorithm can identify the respiratory phases properly and it can be used in future synchronized TFES applications whether the patient remains in a quasi-static position during treatment.

Power amplifier circuits for functional electrical stimulation systems

Abstract Introduction: Functional electrical stimulation (FES) is a technique that has been successfully employed in rehabilitation treatment to mitigate problems after spinal cord injury (SCI). One of the most relevant modules in a typical FES system is the power or output amplifier stage, which is responsible for the application of voltage or current pulses of proper intensity to the biological tissue, applied noninvasively via electrodes, placed on the skin surface or inside the muscular tissue, closer to the nervous fibers. The goals of this paper are to describe and discuss about the main power output designs usually employed in transcutaneous functional electrical stimulators as well as safety precautions taken to protect patients. Methods A systematic review investigated the circuits of papers published in IEEE Xplore and ScienceDirect databases from 2000 to 2016. The query terms were "((FES or Functional electric stimulator) and (circuit or design))" with 274 papers retrieved from IEEE Xplore and 29 from ScienceDirect. After the application of exclusion criteria the amount of papers decreased to 9 and 2 from IEEE Xplore and ScienceDirect, respectively. One paper was inserted in the results as a technological contribution to the field. Therefore, 12 papers presented power stage circuits suitable to stimulate great muscles. Discussion The retrieved results presented relevant circuits with different electronic strategies and circuit components. Some of them considered patient safety strategies or aimed to preserve muscle homeostasis such as biphasic current application, which prevents charge accumulation in stimulated tissues as well as circuits that dealt with electrical impedance variation to keep the electrode-tissue interface within an electrochemical safe regime. The investigation revealed a predominance of design strategies using operational amplifiers in power circuits, current outputs, and safety methods to reduce risks of electrical hazards and discomfort to the individual submitted to FES application.

Influence of subcutaneous fat on mechanomyographic signals at three levels of voluntary effort

Abstract Introduction This study aims to assess the influence of different skinfold thicknesses (ST) and their relation to the attenuation of the mechanomyographic (MMG) signal at different force levels (maximal voluntary contraction – MVC, 40% of MVC and 70% of MVC) of the rectus femoris muscle. Methods Fifteen volunteers were divided in two groups: ST lower than 10mm (G<10) (8 participants) and ST higher than 35mm (G>35) (7 participants). Student t tests were employed to investigate differences between G<10 and G>35 regarding MMG analysis parameters (acceleration root mean square – aRMS, zero crossing – ZC, and median frequency – MDF), for the X, Y and Z axes, as well as for the modulus of these three axes. Results We found that thicker layers of body fat act as attenuator filters for the MMG signal [MDFMVC: X (p = 0.005), Z (p = 0.003); MDF70%MVC: X (p = 0.034); ZCMVC: Z (p = 0.037), modulus (p = 0.005); ZC70%MVC: Z (p = 0.047)]. We found significant correlation between ST values and aRMS in three levels, in the Yaxis (p = 0.591), for the group G<10. For the modulus, the aRMS value showed correlation with ST values for group G>35 in 40%MVC (R2 = 0.610), and 70%MVC (R2 = 0.592). The MDF parameter showed correlation with ST values only in the Yaxis in 70%MVC (R2 = 0.700) for G>35. Conclusions We observed MMG signal attenuation in at least one of the parameters analyzed for each level of the rectus femoris muscle force, indicating that MMG signals are significantly attenuated with increasing thickness of the subcutaneous fat layer.

Artificial motor control for electrically stimulated upper limbs of plegic or paretic people

Introduction: Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) is a technique used in the restoration and generation of movements performed by subjects with neuromuscular disorders such as spinal cord injury (SCI). The purpose of this article is to outline the state of the art and perspectives of the use of FES in artificial motor control of the upper limbs in paretic or plegic people. Methods The databases used in papers selection were Google Scholar and Capes’ Portals as well as proceedings of the Annual Conference of the International Functional Electrical Stimulation Society (IFESS). Results Approximately 85% of the reviewed studies showed FES profile with pulse duration ranging from 1 to 300 μs and modulating (burst) frequency between 10 and 40 Hz. Regarding the type of electrodes, 88% of the studies employed transcutaneous electrodes. Conclusion We concluded that FES with closed-loop feedback and feedforward are the most used and most viable systems for upper limbs motor control, because they perform self-corrections slowing neuromuscular adaptation, allowing different planes and more range of movement and sensory-motor integration. One of the difficulties found in neuroprosthesis systems are electrical wires attached to the user, becoming uninteresting in relation to aesthetics and break. The future perspectives lead to a trend to miniaturization of the stimulation equipment and the availability of wireless networks, which allow the attachment of modules to other components without physical contact, and will become more attractive for daily use.

Correlation between spectral and temporal mechanomyography features during functional electrical stimulation

Abstract Introduction: Signal analysis involves time and/or frequency domains, and correlations are described in the literature for voluntary contractions. However, there are few studies about those correlations using mechanomyography (MMG) response during functional electrical stimulation (FES) elicited contractions in spinal cord injured subjects. This study aimed to determine the correlation between spectral and temporal MMG features during FES application to healthy (HV) and spinal cord injured volunteers (SCIV). Methods: Twenty volunteers participated in the research divided in two groups: HV (N=10) and SCIV (N=10). The protocol consisted of four FES profiles transcutaneously applied to quadriceps femoris muscle via femoral nerve. Each application produced a sustained knee extension greater than 65º up to 2 min without adjusting FES intensity. The investigation involved the correlation between MMG signal root mean square (RMS) and mean frequency (MF). Results: HV and SCIV indicated that MMGRMS and MMGMF variations were inversely related with -0.12 ≥ r ≥ -0.82. The dispersion between MMGMF and MMGRMS reached 0.50 ≤ r2 ≤ 0.64. Conclusion The increase in MMGRMS and the decrease in MMGMF may be explained by the motor units coherence during fatigue state or by motor neuron adaptation (habituation) along FES application (without modification on parameters).

Breast evaluation during lactation using thermography and pressure algometry / Avaliação da mama na lactação por termografia e presença de dor

Objective:To obtain scientific evidence of alterations in puerperal breast based on clinical examinations and pain measurements using pressure algometry and thermography.Methods:This qualitative descriptive and experimental study examined six lactating women included in a Human Milk Bank. Using clinical examinations, pressure algometry, and thermography, data from puerperal mammary glands were collected. A descriptive analysis of the quantitative variables expressed as averages, minimal and maximal values, and standard deviations was conducted. Image analyses were performed using a ThermaCAM™ 2.9 (FLIR Systems, Inc.) software.Results:Flaccid mammary glands were the coldest, with an average temperature of 32.7°C (SD±0.32386°C), and more tolerant to pain, with an average of 1.87 kgf/m2 (SD ±0.29558 kgf/m2). The greater the degree of engorgement, the higher the temperature observed.Conclusion:The results indicate that it is possible to use clinical examinations, pressure algometry, and infrared thermography to delineate patterns between various events affecting the mammary glands during lactation.

Objetivo: Identificar evidências científicas das alterações na mama puerperal baseadas no exame clínico, na medição da dor por algometria de pressão e termografia. Métodos: Estudo descritivo, experimental, de abordagem qualiquantitativa, realizado com seis lactantes em um Banco de Leite Humano. Por meio de exame clínico, algometria de pressão e termografia, foram coletados dados das mamas em fase puerperal. Efetuou-se a análise descritiva das variáveis quantitativas expressas por médias, valores mínimos, máximos e desvios-padrão. Resultados: As mamas flácidas foram as mais frias com temperatura média de 32,7°C (DP±0,32386) e mais tolerantes à dor, com média de 1,87 kgf (DP±0,29558). Quanto maior a intensidade do ingurgitamento, maior foi a temperatura encontrada. A análise das imagens foram realizadas utilizando o software Therma CAM™ 2,9 (FLIR Systems, Inc). Conclusão: Os resultados indicam que, a partir do exame clínico, algometria de pressão e termografia infravermelha, foi possível delinear um padrão diferencial entre os vários eventos que acometem a mama no processo da lactação.

Advances and perspectives of mechanomyography

INTRODUCTION: The evaluation of muscular tissue condition can be accomplished with mechanomyography (MMG), a technique that registers intramuscular mechanical waves produced during a fiber's contraction and stretching that are sensed or interfaced on the skin surface. OBJECTIVE: Considering the scope of MMG measurements and recent advances involving the technique, the goal of this paper is to discuss mechanomyography updates and discuss its applications and potential future applications. METHODS: Forty-three MMG studies were published between the years of 1987 and 2013. RESULTS: MMG sensors are developed with different technologies such as condenser microphones, accelerometers, laser-based instruments, etc. Experimental protocols that are described in scientific publications typically investigated the condition of the vastus lateralis muscle and used sensors built with accelerometers, third and fourth order Butterworth filters, 5-100Hz frequency bandpass, signal analysis using Root Mean Square (RMS) (temporal), Median Frequency (MDF) and Mean Power Frequency (MPF) (spectral) features, with epochs of 1 s. CONCLUSION: Mechanomyographic responses obtained in isometric contractions differ from those observed during dynamic contractions in both passive and functional electrical stimulation evoked movements. In the near future, MMG features applied to biofeedback closed-loop systems will help people with disabilities, such as spinal cord injury or limb amputation because they may improve both neural and myoelectric prosthetic control. Muscular tissue assessment is a new application area enabled by MMG; it can be useful in evaluating the muscular tonus in anesthetic blockade or in pathologies such as myotonic dystrophy, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and disorders including dysphagia, myalgia and spastic hypertonia. New research becomes necessary to improve the efficiency of MMG systems and increase their application in rehabilitation, clinical and other health areas.

Iontophoresis: principles and applications / Iontoforese: princípios e aplicações

Introduction Iontophoresis is a noninvasive technique used to increase transdermal penetration of substances through the skin layer (epidermis, dermis and hypodermis) in a controlled manner. Technological advance in recent decades have provided reduced cost of equipment needed for implementation, which allowed for the expansion of this technique. Objective The aim of this paper is to present the state of the art on iontophoresis, ranging from the atomic characteristics of the ion formation to the current applications of the technique. Methods Were researched papers from databases: IOP publishing, ScienceDirect, Pubmed, Springer, IEEE Xplore, Google Scholar and books with keywords iontophoresis, ions, topical applications between 1967 and 2010. Results Were selected (number of papers and database) 1 IOP Publishing, 1 from ScienceDirect, Central, 1 from Springer, 2 from PubMed, 11 from IEEE Xplore, 35 from Google Scholar, and 15 books, totaling 66 references and websites with nationally marketed electrotherapy products. Conclusion Iontophoresis is suitable for applications such as acetic acid (calcific tendinitis and myositis ossificans), calcium chloride and magnesium sulfate (control of musculoskeletal spasms), dexamethasone (inflammation), lidocaine (inflammation of soft tissues), zinc oxide (rheumatoid arthritis). It is also used in cosmetic applications with devices attached to the skin and for eye treatment aimed at specific tissues of the eye, providing a treatment option for various eye diseases, reducing the complications secondary to traditional methods of treatment. The advantages are the significant increase in the release and control of therapeutic agents, including drugs with high molecular weight. The disadvantages of iontophoresis are the complexity of the drug release system and prolonged exposure of the skin to an electrical current. .

Introdução A iontoforese é uma técnica não invasiva utilizada para aumentar, de forma controlada, a penetração transdermal de substâncias através das camadas da pele (epiderme, derme e hipoderme). O avanço tecnológico nas últimas décadas proporcionou uma redução no custo dos equipamentos necessários à sua aplicação, o que possibilitou a expansão dessa técnica. Objetivo Apresentar o estado da arte sobre iontoforese, abrangendo desde as características atômicas da formação do íon até as atuais aplicações da técnica. Métodos Foram pesquisados artigos das bases de pesquisa: IOP publishing, ScienceDirect, Pubmed, Springer, IEEE Xplore, Google Scholar e livros com os unitermos: iontophoresis, ions, topical applications entre os anos de 1967 e 2010. Resultados Foram selecionados (número de artigos e base de pesquisa) 1 da IOP Publishing, 1 da ScienceDirect, 1 da Springer, 2 da PubMed, 11 da IEEE Xplore, 35 do Google Scholar e 15 livros, totalizando 66 referências, além de websites com produtos comerciais nacionais de eletroterapia. Conclusão A iontoforese é indicada para aplicações como de ácido acético (tendinite calcificante e miosite ossificante), cloreto de cálcio e sulfato de magnésio (controle de espasmos musculoesqueléticos), dexametasona (inflamação), lidocaína (inflamação de tecidos moles), óxido de zinco (artrite reumatóide). Também é utilizada em aplicações cosméticas com dispositivos aderidos à pele e em tratamento ocular visando tecidos específicos do olho, oferecendo uma forma de tratamento para diversas doenças oculares, diminuindo as complicações apresentadas em métodos clássicos de tratamento. As vantagens ...

Electrophysiologic characteristics of tremor in Parkinson?s disease and essential tremor / Características eletrofisiológicas do tremor na Doença de Parkinson e tremor essencial

Tremor in essential tremor (ET) and Parkinson’s disease (PD) usually present specific electrophysiologic profiles, however amplitude and frequency may have wide variations. Objective: To present the electrophysiologic findings in PD and ET. Method: Patients were assessed at rest, with posture and action. Seventeen patients with ET and 62 with PD were included. PD cases were clustered into three groups: predominant rest tremor; tremor with similar intensity at rest, posture and during kinetic task; and predominant kinetic tremor. Results: Patients with PD presented tremors with average frequency of 5.29±1.18 Hz at rest, 5.79±1.39 Hz with posture and 6.48±1.34 Hz with the kinetic task. Tremor in ET presented with an average frequency of 5.97±1.1 Hz at rest, 6.18±1 Hz with posture and 6.53±1.2 Hz with kinetic task. Seven (41.2%) also showed rest tremor. Conclusion: The tremor analysis alone using the methodology described here, is not sufficient to differentiate tremor in ET and PD. .

Os tremores observados no tremor essencial (TE) e na doença de Parkinson (DP) costumam apresentar perfis eletrofisiológicos específicos, embora amplitude e frequência possam ter grandes variações. Objetivo: Apresentar os resultados dos exames eletrofisiológicos na DP e no TE. Método: Pacientes foram avaliados em repouso, com postura e em ação. Foram incluídos 17 pacientes com TE e 62 com DP. Casos de DP foram divididos em três grupos: predomínio de tremor de repouso; tremor com intensidade semelhante em repouso, postura e tarefa cinética e tremor cinético predominante. Resultados: Pacientes com DP apresentaram tremores com frequência média de 5,29±1,18 Hz em repouso, 5,79±1.39 Hz com postura e 6,48±1,34 Hz com tarefa cinética. Tremor no TE apresentou frequência média 5,97±1,1Hz em repouso, 6,18±1Hz com postura e 6,53±1,2 Hz com tarefa cinética. Sete (41,2%) também apresentaram tremor de repouso. Conclusão: A análise do tremor per se, usando os métodos descritos neste estudo, não é suficiente para diferenciar o tremor no TE e DP. .

Assessment of techniques of massage and pumping in the treatment of breast engorgement by thermography / Avaliação das técnicas de massagem e ordenha no tratamento do ingurgitamento mamário por termografia / Evaluación de las técnicas de masaje y bombeo en el tratamiento de la congestión mamaria por termografía

OBJECTIVE: to evaluate techniques of massage and pumping in the treatment of postpartum breast engorgement through thermography. METHOD: the study was conducted in the Human Milk Bank of a hospital in Curitiba, Brazil. We randomly selected 16 lactating women with engorgement with the classification lobar, ampullary and glandular, moderate and intense. We compared the differential patterns of temperature, before and after the treatment by means of massage and pumping. RESULTS: we found a negative gradient of 0.3°C of temperature between the pre- and post-treatment in the experimental group. Breasts with intense engorgement were 0.7°C warmer when compared with moderate engorgement. CONCLUSION: massage and electromechanical pumping were superior to manual methods when evaluated by thermography. REBEC: U1111-1136-9027. .

OBJETIVO: avaliar técnicas de massagem e ordenha no tratamento do ingurgitamento mamário puerperal, por meio da termografia. MÉTODO: a pesquisa foi realizada no Banco de Leite Humano de um hospital de Curitiba, Brasil. Selecionaram-se, aleatoriamente, 16 lactantes com ingurgitamento com classificação lobar, ampolar e glandular moderado e intenso. Compararam-se os padrões diferenciais de temperatura, antes e após o tratamento realizado, por meio de massagem e ordenha. RESULTADOS: constatou-se um gradiente negativo de 0,3ºC de temperatura entre o pré e o pós-tratamento no grupo experimental. Mamas com ingurgitamento intenso foram 0,7ºC mais quentes quando comparadas com ingurgitamento moderado. CONCLUSÃO: a massagem e ordenha eletromecânicas são superiores às manuais, quando avaliadas por termografia. REBEC: U1111-1136-9027. .

OBJETIVO: evaluar los métodos de masaje y bombeo en el tratamiento de la congestión mamaria posparto a través de la termografía. MÉTODO: el estudio se realizó en el Banco de Leche Humana de un hospital en Curitiba, Brasil. Se seleccionaron al azar 16 mujeres en periodo de lactancia con congestión con clasificación lobar, ampular y glandular, moderada e intensa. Se compararon los patrones diferenciales de temperatura, antes y después del tratamiento por medio de masaje y bombeo. RESULTADOS: se encontró un degradado negativo de 0,3°C de temperatura entre el pre y post-tratamiento en el grupo experimental. Las mamas con intensa congestión eran 0,7°C más caliente en comparación a aquellos con congestión moderada. CONCLUSIÓN: el masaje y el bombeo electromecánico fueron superiores a los métodos manuales cuando se evaluaron por termografía. REBEC: U1111-1136-9027. .

A termografia no apoio ao diagnostico de lesao muscular no esporte / The thermography in support for diagnosis of muscle injury in sport / La termografia en el apoyo al diagnostico de lesion muscular en el deporte

INTRODUÇÃO: O rúgbi é um dos esportes que mais ocasionam lesões. A lesão muscular apresenta uma variação térmica localizada, provocando um acréscimo da temperatura local que supostamente pode ser avaliado por meio da mensuração da temperatura. OBJETIVO: O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar a correlação entre a variação de temperatura da pele em diversos sítios corporais e a variação da CK, em dois momentos do ciclo de atividades dos atletas profissionais de rúgbi, para, dessa forma, avaliar a utilização da termografia como método de apoio ao diagnóstico de lesões musculares. MÉTODOS: Participaram deste estudo, 21 atletas de rúgbi do sexo masculino com idade entre 19 e 31 anos, de um clube profissional de nível nacional. Foram realizadas coletas de sangue para avaliar a concentração sérica de CK e a aquisição da imagem infravermelha dos atletas (48 h pós-treino e 48 h pós-jogo) para avaliação da temperatura da pele nos músculos de interesse. Foram realizadas imagens do tronco e das coxas, nas incidências anterior e posterior. A análise dos termogramas foi realizada de forma sistemática. RESULTADOS: Não houve correlação entre a variação da CK e a variação de temperatura média das áreas dos músculos selecionados. Entretanto, no grupo de atletas que apresentaram elevação da CK superior a 50% entre o primeiro e o segundo momento de avaliação, os músculos peitoral esquerdo e semitendíneo esquerdo apresentaram diferenças significativas com valor de p de 0,037 e 0,045, respectivamente. CONCLUSÕES: Pode-se concluir que a termografia pode ser utilizada como método de apoio ao diagnóstico de lesão muscular em atletas. .

INTRODUCTION: Rugby is one of the sports that cause more injuries. Muscle injury presents a localized thermal variation, causing an increase in local temperature which supposedly can be assessed by measuring the temperature. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to analyze the correlation between the changes in skin temperature at various body sites and the variation of CK, at two-cycle activities of professional rugby athletes, to thereby evaluate the use of thermography as a method to support the diagnosis of muscle injuries. METHODS: The study included 21 male rugby athletes aged between 19 and 31 years from a professional club nationwide. Blood samples were taken to assess serum CK and the acquisition of infrared image of athletes (48 h post-workout and 48 h post-game) for evaluation of skin temperature over the muscles of interest. Images in anterior and posterior view of the trunk and thighs were performed. The analysis of the thermograms was conducted systematically. RESULTS: There was no correlation between the change in CK and the average temperature variation of selected muscles.However, in the group of athletes who experienced an elevation of CK greater than 50% between the first and second assessment, the left pectoralis and the left semitendinosus muscles showed significant differences with p-values of 0.037 and 0.045, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: It can be concluded that thermography can be used as a method of support for diagnosis of muscle injury in athletes. .

INTRODUCCIÓN: El rugby es uno de los deportes que más ocasionan lesiones. La lesión muscular presenta una variación térmica localizada, provocando un incremento de la temperatura local que supuestamente puede ser evaluado por medio de la medición de la temperatura. OBJETIVO: El objetivo de este estudio fue analizar la correlación entre la variación de temperatura de la piel en diversos sitios corporales y la variación de la CK, en dos momentos del ciclo de actividades de los atletas profesionales de rugby para que, de esa forma, se evalúe el uso de la termografía como método de apoyo al diagnóstico de lesiones musculares. MÉTODOS: Participaron en este estudio 21 atletas de rugby de sexo masculino con edad entre 19 y 31 años, de un club profesional de nivel nacional. Fueron realizadas colectas de sangre para evaluar la concentración sérica de CK y la adquisición de la imagen infrarroja de los atletas (48 horas después del entrenamiento y 48 horas después del partido) para evaluación de la temperatura de la piel en los músculos de interés. Fueron realizadas imágenes del tronco y de los muslos, en las incidencias anterior y posterior. El análisis de los termogramas fue realizado de forma sistemática. RESULTADOS: No hubo correlación entre la variación de la CK y la variación de temperatura media de las áreas de los músculos seleccionados. Entretanto, en el grupo de atletas que presentaron elevación de la CK superior a 50% entre el primero y el segundo momento de evaluación, los músculos pectoral izquierdo y semitendíneo izquierdo presentaron diferencias significativas con valor de p de 0,037 y 0,045, respectivamente. CONCLUSIONES: Se puede concluir que la termografía puede ser utilizada como método de apoyo para el diagnóstico de lesión ...

Fusão 3D de imagens de MRI/CT e termografia / 3D image fusion using MRI/CT and infrared images

INTRODUÇÃO: A termografia por imagem infravermelha (IR) é uma técnica para diagnóstico não-invasiva que permite a avaliação e quantificação de variações de temperatura na superfície da pele. Apesar de fornecer informações significativas para auxiliar no diagnóstico médico, esta técnica não permite avaliar det alhes anatômicos da região sendo analisada. Este artigo apresenta uma nova metodologia para realizar a fusão entre diferentes modalidades de imagens, tais como ressonância magnética (MRI) ou tomografia computadorizada por raios X (CT), juntamente com imagens de termografia infravermelha. MÉTODOS: Para a construção do modelo 3D, primeiramente são adquiridas as imagens por ressonância magnética (MRI) ou tomografia computadorizada (CT) e um conjunto de imagens térmicas da região de interesse. Em seguida, realiza-se o registro utilizando as projeções 2D (dos planos tomográficos) com as imagens térmicas. Após o registro, as imagens térmicas são combinadas e projetadas sobre o modelo 3D das imagens de MRI ou CT. RESULTADOS: O resultado é uma imagem 3D que combina informação de duas modalidades de imagens médicas diferentes. A combinação dessas duas modalidades de imagens médicas disponibiliza uma nova técnica de imagem 3D que agrupa informações anatômicas (MRI ou CT) e funcionais (variações de temperatura na superfície do corpo). CONCLUSÃO: Os resultados obtidos até o momento com essa nova metodologia indicam que ela pode auxiliar em diagnósticos médicos.

INTRODUCTION: Infrared (IR) thermal imaging is a non-invasive and diagnostic technique that allows evaluation and quantification based on the temperature changes of the skin surface. It provides significant information for clinical diagnosis; however this technique does not present the anatomical details of the region under inspection. In this work, it is presented an innovative image fusion method between different imaging modalities, such as magnetic resonance images (MRI) or X-ray computed tomography (CT), together with IR thermal images. METHODS: Firstly, in order to build the 3D model, the MRI or CT images and the IR thermal images (from the region of interest) are acquired. Then, based on the tomographic planes (image slices), the 2D projections are generated, and the IR images are registered accordingly. Next, the already registered IR set of images are combined and projected over the 3D MRI or CT model. RESULTS: The result is a 3D fused image that combines the information contents from the two different medical imaging modalities. The combination of these two medical imaging modalities offers a new 3D imaging technique that combines anatomical (MRI or CT) and functional (the body's surface temperature) information. CONCLUSION: The results obtained up to now with this new methodology indicate that it can aid in medical diagnosis.

Relationship between peak and mean amplitudes of the stimulating output voltage for functional control of the knee by spinal cord patients and healthy volunteers

INTRODUCTION: Functional electrical stimulation (FES) may evoke movements in people with movement impairments due to neurological lesion. The mean value of electrical current or voltage during FES depends on the stimulatory profile parameters. To investigate the relationship between peak and mean amplitudes of the stimulator output voltage while causing a knee extension angle change from 90º to 40º to choose the best and safest profile to be applied in people who have suffered a spinal cord injury. METHODS: Healthy (N = 10) volunteers and those with spinal cord injuries (N = 10) participated in this study. Each FES profile (P1, P2, P3 and P4) had 1-kHz pulses (100 µs or 200 µs on and 900 µs or 800 µs off) with burst frequencies of 50 Hz (3 ms on and 17 ms off) or 70 Hz (3 ms on and 11 ms off) and peak amplitudes set between 53-125V for healthy volunteers and 68-198 V for volunteers with spinal cord injury. RESULTS: The highest mean amplitude were obtained using a FES profile with active/total pulse period of 200 us/1000 us and burst frequency of 3ms/14ms. The best results of mean amplitude were observed using a FES profile duty cycle of 10% for pulses (100 µs/1000 µs) and 15% for bursts (3 ms/20 ms). CONCLUSION: The FES profile (100 µs - 50 Hz) seems to be the most suitable for both groups, inasmuch as it presents smaller mean amplitudes and peak amplitudes similar to other FES profiles.