Validation of the Brazilian version of the Hip Sports Activity Scale (HSAS) for patients with femoroacetabular impingement: a cross-sectional study

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: The Hip Sports Activity Scale (HSAS) is a hip-specific instrument for assessing the present levels of physical activity among patients with femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) syndrome. When evaluating treatment outcomes in patients with FAI syndrome, it is necessary to use joint-specific instruments and ones that can evaluate the levels of physical activity in these patients, such as the HSAS-Brazil. OBJECTIVE: To validate the HSAS-Brazil among a group of physically active patients after arthroscopic treatment of FAI syndrome. DESIGN AND SETTING: Cross-sectional research of quantitative and qualitative types using data obtained from July 2018 to October 2019. METHODS: A total of 58 patients of both genders diagnosed with FAI syndrome and who had undergone hip arthroscopy participated in this research. To establish reliability and validity, patients first answered the Brazilian versions of the 12-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-12), Nonarthritic Hip Score (NAHS), and HSAS; after a 48-hour interval, they answered the HSAS-Brazil again. RESULTS: For test-retest reliability, the interclass correlation was 0.908 (P < 0.001). The HSAS-Brazil correlated to the NAHS-Brazil (r = 0.63, P < 0.001), as well as the SF-12 (Physical Health) (r = 0.42, P = 0.001). CONCLUSION: The HSAS-Brazil was validated and proved to be a reliable and valid scale to assess sports activity levels in physically active patients with FAI syndrome after arthroscopic treatment.

The Brazilian version of the Hip Sports Activity Scale: translation and cross-cultural adaptation

Abstract BACKGROUND: The Hip Sports Activity Scale (HSAS) is a reliable and valid tool for determining the levels of sports activities among patients with femoroacetabular impingement (FAI). OBJECTIVE: To translate and cross-culturally adapt the HSAS to the Brazilian Portuguese language. DESIGN AND SETTING: This was a cross-sectional study conducted at the State University of Rio de Janeiro. METHODS: The Brazilian version of the HSAS was developed following a process that comprised six steps: translation, synthesis, back-translation, review by committee, pretesting and submission of documentation to the developers. The translation phase involved three independent bilingual translators whose mother language was Brazilian Portuguese. The back-translation phase involved three independent translators whose mother language was English. In order to verify comprehension of the questionnaire, 30 undergraduate students in physical education (65% men), with mean age 23.2 years (standard deviation = 6.8), participated in the pre-testing phase. RESULTS: During the translation step, some terms and expressions were changed to obtain cultural equivalence to the original HSAS. In the pre-testing phase, each item of the scale showed a comprehension level of 100%. CONCLUSION: The HSAS was translated from English to the Brazilian Portuguese language and adapted to Brazilian culture. The HSAS validation is ongoing.

The effects of whole-body vibration on cognition: a systematic review / Os efeitos da vibração de corpo inteiro na cognição: uma revisão sistemática

Porpouse: To systematically review the mechanisms by WBV improves the ability to learn, think, memorize and all other processes involving cognition. Methods: The present study collected data from three databases using the keywords "whole-body-vibration" and "cognition". Randomized clinical trials focusing on the association of WBV and cognition were considered. The study was registered in the database of systematic reviews protocols PROSPERO. All included studies used healthy patients, exposed to WBV. The included articles were obtained regarding the risk of bias according to the Cochrane Collaboration criteria, level of evidence and strength of recommendation following the GRADE and Oxford classification. Results: Of the 89 articles published to the eligibility criteria, four were submitted to data extraction. Cognitive parameters were improved in relation to attention, memory or learning in almost all articles evaluated in this systematic review. Conclusion: Intervention with WBV would positive effects on individuals' cognitive ability, although further randomized investigations must be conducted. PROSPERO registration number: CRD42020203679

Objetivo: Revisar sistematicamente os mecanismos pelos quais a vibração de corpo inteiro (VCI) melhora a capacidade de aprender, pensar, memorizar e todos os outros processos que envolvem a cognição. Método: O presente estudo coletou dados de três bancos de dados usando as palavras-chave "vibração de corpo inteiro" e "cognição". Ensaios clínicos randomizados com foco na associação de WBV e cognição foram considerados. O estudo foi registrado no banco de dados de protocolos de revisões sistemáticas PROSPERO. Todos os estudos incluídos usaram pacientes saudáveis, expostos à VCI. Os artigos incluídos foram avaliados quanto ao risco de viés de acordo com os critérios da Colaboração Cochrane, nível de evidência e força de recomendação segundo a classificação GRADE e Oxford. Discussão e Resultados: Dos 89 artigos publicados, de acordo com os critérios de elegibilidade, quatro foram submetidos à extração de dados. Os parâmetros cognitivos, atenção, memória e aprendizagem demonstraram melhora em quase todos os artigos avaliados nesta revisão sistemática. Conclusão: A intervenção com VCI teria efeitos positivos na capacidade cognitiva dos indivíduos, embora mais ensaios clínicos randomizadas devam ser realizados para avaliação de tais parâmetros. Número de registro PROSPERO: CRD42020203679

Laser stimulation of the acupoint ‘Zusanli’ (ST.36) on the radiopharmaceutical biodistribution in Wistar rats.

Laser used to stimulate acupoints is called laser acupuncture (LA). It is generally believed that similar clinical responses to manual acupuncture can be achieved. Here we analysed the effects of the laser (904 nm) at the ‘Zusanli’ acupoint (ST.36) of the stomach meridian on the biodistribution of the radiopharmaceutical Na99mTcO4. Wistar rats were divided into control (CG) and experimental groups (EG). The EG were exposed daily to the laser (904 nm) at ST.36 with 1 joule/min (40 mW/cm2) for 1 min. The animals of the CG were not exposed to laser at all. On the 8th day after LA, the animals were sedated and Na99mTcO4 was administered. After 10 min, the animals were all sacrificed and the organs removed. The radioactivity was counted in each organ to calculate the percentage of radioactivity of the injected dose per gram (%ATI/ g). Comparison of the %ATI/g in EG and CG was performed by Mann-Whitney test. The %ATI/g was significantly increased in the thyroid due to the stimulation of the ST.36 by laser. It is possible to conclude that the stimulation of ST.36 does lead to biological phenomena that interfere with the metabolism of the thyroid.

Possible Benefits of the Whole Body Vibration in the Treatment of Complications in Stroke Patients.

Aims: A stroke is a neurological disorder and muscle weakness is the most prominent impairment. Whole-body vibration (WBV) is a possible modality of exercise that is useful for improving physical capacity, bone mass, balance, proprioception and the quality of life in healthy subjects and in patients with several diseases and among them, the neurological disorders. Considering the undesirable clinical conditions of the stroke patients, the aim of this review is to discuss about the benefits of the vibrations generated in the oscillating/vibratory platforms to those patients. Methodology: A search was performed in the PubMed using the keywords stroke or "cerebrovascular accident" and "whole body vibration". An isolated search was performed with the term “whole body vibration”. Inclusion and exclusion criteria to select the publications were determined. Results: It is found a limited number of publication involving WBV and the stroke with 16 articles. Of these, 9 publications were rejected for inclusion in this systematic review, due to they did not match the proposed inclusion criteria. Considering the studies that were analysed, about 57% of these have reported an improving in the clinical conditions of the stroke patients with statistical significance. Most probably the reason of the controversial results obtained with WBV findings can be attributed to the diversity of methods to measure the outcomes and the experimental design and the clinical characteristics of the subjects used, as well as the time elapsed post stroke. Conclusion: Putting together the findings and considering the divergence of the results reported, it is suggested that the use of the vibration generated in the vibratory platform could be suitable to try to improve disorders of the stroke patients. However, it is important to consider the limited number of publications available in the PubMed involving searches evaluating the effect of the WBV in stroke patients.

Studies Involving a Commercial Extract of Three Ballerina: ii- Evaluation of the in Vitro Effect on the Labeling of Blood Constituents of rats with Technetium-99m and on the Morphology of the Red Blood Cell.

The aim of this work is to characterize (electric conductivity and refractive index) a Three Ballerina (TB) and to evaluate its in vitro effect on the labeling of blood constituents with 99mTc and on the morphology of the red blood cells (RBC). Anticoagulated whole blood (Wistar rat) was incubated with a TB extract and the labeling of the blood constituents with technetium-99m (99mTc) was performed. Plasma (P) and blood cells (BC) were isolated and aliquots were also precipitated with trichloroacetic acid to separate soluble (SF) and insoluble fractions (IF). The %ATI in these samples was calculated. The morphology of the treated RBC showed no shape’s qualitative alterations. The TB extract was characterized with an electric conductivity of 1.35±0.04mSv/cm and refractive index of 2.21±0.15%BRIX. TB extract decreased significantly (p<0.05) the radioactivity distribution in the cellular compartment from 96.97±1.30% to 88.48±7.13%, and in IF-P from 74.29±4.12 to 14.26±5.73%. In conclusion, our data show some physical chemical parameters that could be suitable to characterize the preparation of an extract of TB. Moreover, substances present in the TB extract should probably have an effect on transport of the ions through the RBC membrane and/or should have redoxi properties and the stannous ion would decrease and could justify the effect on the fixation of the radioactivity on the plasma proteins. Moreover, although our experiments were carried out with animals, it is suggested precaution in the interpretation of the examinations that use labeled blood constituents in patients who are undergone TB extract.

Studies Involving a Commercial Extract of three Ballerina: I- Characterization and the Effect on the Binding of two 99mtechnetium-Radiopharmaceuticals on Blood Constituents.

We have determined some physicochemical parameters of an aqueous extract of Three ballerina (3TB) and its influence on the binding of the radiopharmaceuticals sodium pertechnetate (Na99mTcO4) and 99mTc-methylene diphosphonate (MDP-99mTc) on blood constituents. Whole blood of rats was incubated with a 3TB extract and with Na99mTcO4 or MDP-99mTc. Plasma (P) and blood cells (BC) from Wistar rats (control and treated) were separated. P and BC were precipitated with trichloroacetic acid (TCA) and soluble (SF) and insoluble fractions (IF) isolated. The percentage of incorporated radioactivity (%ATI) in each fraction was determined. The treatment not influenced statistically (p>0.05) the %ATI of both radiopharmaceuticals on BC and P compartments, as well as on IF-P and SF-P isolated by TCA precipitation. However, 3TB has altered the fixation of the 99mTc-MDP on the IF-BC and SF-BC. We are firstly reported physicochemical parameters (absorption spectrum, viscosimetry and phmetry) about an aqueous 3TB extract. Moreover, it is possible to speculate that an alteration would be not found on the biodistribution of the 99mTc-pertechnetate in the person that is undergoing 3TB extract. However, this would be found with the 99mTc-MDP.

Determination of insulin-like growth factor-I reference values using an immunoradiometric assay in a Brazilian adult population.

Background: Serum levels of total insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) reflect endogenous growth hormone (GH) secretion in healthy adults, which makes it a good diagnostic marker for screening of GH-related disorders. Studies also have supported a possible relation between IGF-I levels and the risk and prognostic for some malignancies, besides a relation between IGF-I levels and mortality. Objective: As the determination of the IGF-I normal values for local populations is strongly desired, the aim of this investigation was to determine reference values for IGF-I using an immunoradiometric assay (IRMA) in an adult Brazilian population of Rio de Janeiro city, since there is no other study using this methodology in Brazilian population, and that this method is widely used in Brazil and worldwide. Materials and Methods: The study included samples of blood taken from 484 healthy subjects (251 men and 233 women) aged 18-70. The subjects agreed with this study, approved by the Ethical Committee of the Instituto Estadual de Hematologia Arthur de Siqueira Cavalcanti, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The samples were analyzed using a Diagnostic System Laboratories kit. For data analysis, age- and sex-specific figures were fitted after transformation of IGF-I values. Results: In adulthood, a slow age-dependent decrease was found. There was no significant difference in IGF-I values between men and women. Conclusion: This study established age-specific IGF-I reference values, for a healthy Brazilian adult population, determined by a widely IGF-I, IRMA used currently in Brazil.

Fibromyalgia and the relevance of the whole-body vibration exercises in vibratory platforms: a short review

Among nonpharmacological strategy to manage fibromyalgia, exercise (aerobic) has shown efficacy. Whole-body vibration (WBV) exercise has been proposed as a potential clinical intervention. WBV would induce increase in growth hormone (GH). An impairment of the hypothalamic-pituitary-GH-Insulin Growth Factor-1(IGF-1) axis has been implicated in the pathophysiology of fibromyalgia. This article aims to review the studies on exploring the relationship between WBV and fibromyalgia. Literature searches were performed in the PubMed database on 04/03/2010 using terms related to "pain", "whole body vibration" and "fibromyalgia". An important number of publications were identified with the term "pain" and in comparison, only a small number of articles were found related to "fibromyalgia". Three publications found with "whole body vibration" and fibromyalgia were analyzed.There are reports describing increase in serum IGF-1 following exposure to WBV in elderly patients. However, one randomized fibromyalgia trial revealed no changes in serum IGF-1 levels in women undergoing WBV. Due to the paucity of available, effective therapies for fibromyalgia, further studies that explore the relationship between the neuroendocrine system, fibromyalgia and WBV are merited.

An experimental model to study the effects of a senna extract on the blood constituent labeling and biodistribution of a radiopharmaceutical in rats

Cassia angustifolia Vahl (senna) is a natural product that contains sennosides, which are active components that affect the intestinal tract and induce diarrhea. Authors have shown that senna produces DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) lesions in Escherichia coli cultures and can act as an antifungal agent. Natural drugs can alter the labeling of blood constituents with technetium-99m (99mTc) and can affect the biodistribution of radiopharmaceuticals. In this work, we have evaluated the influence of a senna extract on the radiolabeling of blood constituents and on the biodistribution of the radiopharmaceutical sodium pertechnetate (Na99mTcO4)in Wistar rats. Twelve animals were treated with senna extract for 7 days. Blood samples were withdrawn from the animals and the radiolabeling procedure was carried out. The senna extract did not modify the radiolabeling of the blood constituents. A biodistributional assay was performed by administering Na99mTcO4 and determining its activity in different organs and in blood. The senna extract altered the biodistribution of Na99mTcO4 in the thyroid, liver, pancreas, lungs and blood. These results are associated with properties of the chemical substances present in the aqueous senna extract. Although these assays were performed in animals, our findings suggest that caution should be exercised when nuclear medicine examinations using Na99mTcO4 are conducted in patients who are using senna extract.

Acetylsalicylic acid and morphology of red blood cells

This work evaluated the effect of in vitro and in vivo treatment with ASA on the morphology of the red blood cells. Blood samples or Wistar rats were treated with ASA for one hour. Blood samples or animals treated with saline were used as control group. Blood smears were prepared, fixed, stained and the qualitative and quantitative morphology of red blood cells were evaluated under optical microscopy. Data showed that the in vitro treatment for one hour with ASA at higher dose used significantly (p<0.05) modified the perimeter/area ratio of the red blood cells. No morphological alterations were obtained with the in vivo treatment. ASA use at highest doses could interfere on shape of red blood cells.

Este trabalho avaliou o efeito do tratamento in vitro e in vivo com AAS na morfologia dos eritrócitos. Amostras de sangue ou ratos Wistar foram tratadas com AAS por uma hora. Amostras sangüíneas ou animais tratados com salina foram utilizados como grupos controle. Distensões de sangue foram preparadas, fixadas, coradas e a análise morfológica qualitativa e quantitativa dos eritrócitos foi realizada em microscópio óptico. Os dados mostraram que o tratamento in vitro por uma hora com AAS na maior dose utilizada modificou significativamente (p<0.05) a relação perímetro/área dos eritrócitos. Não foram obtidas alterações morfológicas com o tratamento in vivo. O uso do AAS em doses altas poderia interferir na forma dos eritrócitos.

Biodistribution of samarium-153-EDTMP in rats treated with docetaxel / Biodistribuição de EDTMP-153-samário em ratos tratados com docetaxel

PURPOSE: Many patients with metastatic bone disease have to use radiopharmaceuticals associated with chemotherapy to relieve bone pain. The aim of this study was to assess the influence of docetaxel on the biodistribution of samarium-153-EDTMP in bones and other organs of rats. METHODS: Wistar male rats were randomly allocated into 2 groups of 6 rats each. The DS (docetaxel/samarium) group received docetaxel (15 mg/kg) intraperitoneally in two cycles 11 days apart. The S (samarium/control) group rats were not treated with docetaxel. Nine days after chemotherapy, all the rats were injected with 0.1ml of samarium-153-EDTMP via orbital plexus (25µCi). After 2 hours, the animals were killed and samples of the brain, thyroid, lung, heart, stomach, colon, liver, kidney and both femurs were removed. The percentage radioactivity of each sample ( percent ATI/g) was determined in an automatic gamma-counter (Wizard-1470, Perkin-Elmer, Finland). RESULTS: On the 9th day after the administration of the 2nd chemotherapy cycle, the rats had a significant weight loss (314.50±22.09g) compared (p<0.5) to pre-treatment weight (353.66± 22.8). The percent ATI/g in the samples of rats treated with samarium-153-EDTMP had a significant reduction in the right femur, left femur, kidney, liver and lungs of animals treated with docetaxel, compared to the control rats. CONCLUSION: The combination of docetaxel and samarium-153-EDTMP was associated with a lower response rate in the biodistribution of the radiopharmaceutical to targeted tissues. Further investigation into the impact of docetaxel on biodistribution of samarium-153-EDTMP would complement the findings of this study.

OBJETIVO: Muitos pacientes com metástases ósseas são tratados com radiofármacos associados com quimioterapia para alívio da dor óssea. O objetivo do trabalho foi estudar a influência do docetaxel na biodistribuição do EDTMP-153-samário nos ossos e outros órgãos de ratos. MÉTODOS: Ratos Wistar foram aleatoriamente alocados em 2 grupos de 6 animais cada. O grupo DS (docetaxel/samário) recebeu docetaxel (15 mg/kg) intraperitoneal em dois ciclos com 11 dias de intervalo. Os ratos do grupo S (samário/controle) não foram tratados com docetaxel. Nove dias após a quimioterapia, todos os animais receberam 0,1ml de EDTMP-153-samário via plexo orbital (25µCi). Após 2 horas, os animais foram mortos e feitas biópsias de cérebro, tireóide, pulmão, coração, estômago, cólon, fígado, rim e fêmures. O percentual de radioatividade por grama ( por centoATI/g) de tecido de cada biópsia foi determinado em contador gama automático (Wizard-1470, Perkin-Elmer, Finland). RESULTADOS: No 9º após 2º ciclo de docetaxel os ratos tiveram perda de peso significante, passando de 353,66± 22,8g (controle/pré-tratamento) para 314,50±22,09g (p<0,5). Os por cento ATI/g nos órgãos dos ratos tratados com EDTMP-153-samário e docataxel tiveram redução significante nos fêmures direito e esquerdo, rim, fígado e pulmão, quando comparados com os não tratados com docetaxel. CONCLUSÃO: A combinação de docetaxel com EDTMP-153-samário foi associada com resposta mais baixa na biodistribuição do radiofármaco em órgãos alvo. Futuras investigações sobre o impacto do docetaxel na biodistribuição do EDTMP-153-samário poderão complementar os achados teste estudo.

Biological effects of an aqueous extract of Salix alba on the survival of Escherichia coli AB1157 cultures submitted to the action of stannous chloride

Stannous chloride (SnC12) is used in nuclear medicine as a reducing agent to obtain technetium-99m-radiopharmaceuticals. It have been reported that natural products might reduce the genotoxic and cytotoxic effects related to SnC12. This work evaluated the biological effects of an aqueous extract of Salix alba on the survival of Escherichia coli (E. coli) AB1157 (wild type) cultures submitted to the action of SnC12. E. coli AB1157 cultures (exponential growth phase) were collected by centrifugation, washed and resuspended in 0.9 percentNaCl. Samples were incubated in water bath shaker with: (a) SnC12 (25mg/ml), (b)Salix alba extract(11.6mg/ml) and (c)SnC12(25mg/ml) + Salix alba extract (11.6mg/ml). Incubation with 0.9 percent NaCl was also carried out (control). At 60 min intervals, aliquots were withdrawn, diluted, spread onto Petri dishes with solid LB medium and incubated overnight. The colonies formed were counted and the survival fractions calculated. The extract was not able to protect the E. coli cultures against the lesive action of SnC12. The extract also did not interfere with the survival of the cultures. It suggested that the substances present in the Salix alba aqueous extract did not interfere strongly with cellular metabolism and did not alter the survival fractions of E. coli AB 1157. It is speculated that this extract cannot interfere with the generation of free radicals, the possible main agent responsible for SnC12 lesive action.

Nuclear medicine procedures for the evaluation of male sexual organs: a brief review

Sexuality consists of three aspects that are interrelated and inseparable, biological, physiological and social. The biological aspect considers the individual's capability to give and to receive pleasure. In consequence, it covers the functionality of the sexual organs and the physiology of human sexual response cycle. Diagnostic imaging modalities, such as single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) and positron emission tomography (PET) have been used to evaluate clinical disorders of the male reproductive system. PET and SPECT procedures basically involve the administration of a radiopharmaceutical that has a higher uptake in a specific tumor or tissue. The aim of this brief review is to present some radiopharmaceuticals that have been used in the clinical evaluation of the male sexual organs (testes, prostate, seminal vesicles, penis) related with male sexuality. This information could be useful in better understanding the male sexual response cycle, as well as the sexual disorders, when considering the male sexual organs and the pelvic floor. Moreover, the findings obtained with PET and SPECT imaging could help to evaluate the efficacy of clinical results of therapeutic procedures. In conclusion, the knowledge from these images could aid in better understanding the physiology of the different organs related with sexuality. Furthermore, they could be important tools to evaluate the physiological integrity of the involved organs, to improve clinical strategies and to accompany the patients under treatment.

A sexualidade consiste de três aspectos que são inter-relacionados e inseparáveis: biólogico, fisiológico e social. O aspecto biológico considera a capacidade individual de dar e receber prazer. Em consequência, envolve a funcionalidade dos órgãos sexuais e a fisiologia do ciclo da resposta sexual humana. As imagens cintilográficas single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) e positron emission tomography (PET) têm sido usadas para avaliar comprometimentos clínicos do sistema reprodutor masculino. Os procedimentos PET e SPECT envolvem a administração de um radiofármaco que é selecionado pela sua abilidade de ser captado em um específico tumor ou tecido. O objetivo dessa pequena revisão é apresentar os radiofármacos que têm sido empregados na avaliação clínica de órgãos sexuais masculinos (testículos, prostáta, vesícula seminal, pênis) relacionados com a sexualidade masculina. Essa informação poderia ajudar a entender melhor a resposta sexual masculina, assim como as disfunções associdas com os órgãos sexuais masculinos e do assolho pélvico. Mais ainda, os achados clínicos obtidos com o PET e SPECT poderiam contribuir para avaliar a eficácia dos procedimentos terapêuticos. Em conclusão, a aplicação das imagens obtidas pelas técnicas da medicina nuclear na avaliação dos órgãos do sistema reprodutivo masculino poderia contribuir para uma melhor compreensão da fisiologia dos diferentes órgãos relacionados com a sexualidade. Essas imagens poderiam ser importante ferramenta na avaliação da fisiologia dos órgãos relacionados,para melhorar as estratégicas clínicas e para acompanhar os pacientes em tratamento medicamentoso ou psico-sexual ou fisioterapeutico.

Radiotherapy, cancer and some anatomical structures related with the pelvic floor: an evaluation of the scientific literature

Radiotherapy is a cancer treatment that uses high-energy X-rays or other types of ionizing radiation to try to kill the cancer cells in various organs/tissues. PubMed is a database used as a tool in various publications. The aim of this work was to evaluate, in the PubMed, the number of publications (NP) in radiotherapy and cancer in various organs related to the pelvic floor as well as brachytherapy. The searches were performed (August 2008) in the PubMed (http://www.pubmed.com) using the words: (i) radiotherapy (RT) or cancer (CA), (ii) RT and CA, (iii) RT and CA and prostate, RT and CA and testis, RT and CA and breast, RT and CA and kidneys, RT and CA and vulva, RT and CA and vagina, RT and CA and penis, RT and CA and uterus, RT and CA and ovary, RT and CA and bladder, and RT and CA and urethra. A search using brachytherapy was also performed. The NP in each subject was determined and was 2178635 to CA and about 9% of them are related with RT. The NP in RT and CA and breast or prostate is bigger than for the other organs, whereas brachytherapy is mainly cited in the studies about CA of prostate, bladder and breast. In conclusion, our findings demonstrate the importance of radiation therapy studies in the cancer of several organs. This information is crucial in understanding the field and demonstrates areas of significant progress or existing gaps of research in radiotherapy treatment of various cancers of the pelvis. Furthermore, it could significantly aid the interprofessional team in the determination of actions related to the treatment of patients that are undertaking radiotherapy, due to the possible complications of this modality of treatment.

Radioterapia é uma forma de tratamento para câncer que usa raios X de alta energia ou outros tipos de radiação ionizante para tentar matar as células do câncer em vários órgãos/tecidos. O objetivo desse trabalho foi avaliar, no PubMed, o número de publicações (NP) em radioterapia e câncer em alguns órgãos geralmente relacionados com o assoalho pélvico e com a braquiterapia. A pesquisa foi realizada (Agosto de 2008) no PubMed (http://www.pubmed.com) utilizando as palavras: (i) radiotheraphy (RT) or cancer (CA), (ii) RT and CA, (iii) RT and CA and prostate, RT and CA and testis, RT and CA and breast, RT and CA and kidneys, RT and CA and vulva, RT and CA and vagina, RT and CA and penis, RT and CA and uterus, RT and CA and ovary, RT and CA and bladder, and RT and CA and urethra. Uma pesquisa usando brachytherapy foi também realizada. O NP em cada termo foi determinado e foi 2178635 para CA e aproximadamente 9 por cento estão relacionados com RT. O NP em RT e CA e breast ou prostate é maior do que outros órgãos e braquiterapia são principalmente citados nos estudos sobre CA de próstata, bexiga e mama. Concluindo, esses achados mostram a importância de estudos sobre a terapia por radiação de câncer em alguns órgãos. Além disso, essas informações poderiam ajudar a equipe interprofissional no desenvolvimento de ações nos pacientes que estão sendo tratados com radioterapia devido às possíveis complicações dessa modalidade de tratamento.

Prostate cancer, treatment modalities and complications: an evaluation of the scientific literature

Prostate (PR) cancer (CA) is one of the most common malignant neoplasms in men all over the world. In general, if prostate cancer (PC) is detected early, treatment usually involves either surgical removal of the prostate or radiotherapy (RT). Hormone Therapy (HT) or chemotherapy (CH) is the preferred treatment for more advanced cases of PC or if CA spreads beyond the PT. A number of complications, such as urinary incontinence (IU) or erectile dysfunction (ED), can be associated with some modalities of treatment of the PC. The aim of this work is to evaluate, in PubMed, the number of publications related with prostate cancer and the main modalities of treatment, as well as some clinical complications. The searches were performed in PubMed (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi) in the period 1950 to 2008 using the words: (i) CA, (ii) CA and PR or penis or testis, (iii) CA and PR and RT, CA and PR and surgery (SU), CA and PR and CH and, CA and PR and HT and (iv) CA and PR and RT and IU or ED, CA and PR and SU and IU or ED, CA and PR and CH and IU or ED and, CA and PR and HT and CH and IU or ED, and (V) PC and the same modalities of treatment. The data was obtained on July 20th, 2008. PC, as expected has been cited extensively and surgery has been identified as the most widely referenced modality of treatment. Furthermore, urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction are important complications that have attracted significant scientific interest. In conclusion, these findings have shown the relevance of the PubMed to analyze quantitatively the publications in cancer and this information could be worthwhile in aiding the comprehension of some clinical aspects related with PC, as well as the development of preventative actions. The analysis of the scientific interest, considering the number of publications in the PubMed, reveals research trends in the field and demonstrates the importance of the surgical procedures in the treatment...

O câncer (CA) de próstata (PT) é um dos neoplasmas malignos mais comuns no homem no mundo todo. Em geral, se o câncer de próstata (PC) é detectado tardiamente, o tratamento usualmente envolve ou a remoção cirúrgica da próstata ou radioterapia (RT). Tratamento por hormônio (HT) ou quimioterapia (CH) é o preferido para muitos casos avançados de PC ou se o CA se distribuir além da PT. As complicações como incontinência urinária (IU) ou disfunção erétil (ED), podem ser associadas com algumas modalidades de tratamento do câncer de próstata. O objetivo desse trabalho foi avaliar, no PubMed, o número de publicações relacionado com câncer de próstata e algumas modalidades de tratamento, como também algumas complicações clínicas. A pesquisa foi realizada no PubMed (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi) no período de 1950 à 2008 usando as palavras: (i) CA, (ii) CA e PR ou penis ou testis, (iii) CA e PR e RT, CA e PR e surgery (SU), CA e PR e CH e, CA e PR e HT, (iv) CA e PR e RT e IU ou ED, CA e PR e SU e IU ou ED, CA e PR e CH e IU ou ED e, CA e PR e HT e CH e IU ou ED, e (V) PC e as mesmas modalidades de tratamento. O resultado foi obtido em 20/07/ 2008. O câncer de próstata tem sido muito citado tanto quanto a cirurgia é a modalidade de tratamento e incontinência urinária e disfunção erétil são importantes complicações. Concluindo, esses achados tem mostrado a relevância do PubMed para analisar quantitativamente as publicações em câncer e essas informações poderiam ser de valor e ajudar na compreensão de alguns aspectos clínicos relacionados com o câncer de próstata, assim como o desenvolvimento de ações preventivas. A análise do interesse científico, considerando as publicações no PubMed, mostram a importância dos procedimentos cirúrgicos no tratamento do câncer de próstata. Além disso, esse resultado é relevante devido à cirurgia ser também o tratamento usado quando é feita uma detecção tardia do câncer de próstata. Embora, seja importante...

A Review of Scientific Papers About Head and Neck Cancers

Head and neck cancer is one of the 10 most frequent cancers worldwide, with an estimated 500000 new cases diagnosed annually. Treatment of head and neck cancers require a multidisciplinary approach due their complexity and the functional and esthetic alterations that cancer can cause. The interest of the scientific community in a specific subject can be evaluated by analyzing of the number and the quality of published papers on the topic. The information obtained from PubMed (www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/sites/entrez) has been used as a tool in various publications to aid the evaluation of the scientific interest in specific research areas The aim of this work is to evaluate, using PubMed, the scientific interest in studies of head and neck cancer treatments such as radiotherapy, chemotherapy and surgery. The searches were performed on PubMed for publications from the period of 1949 to 2008 using the search terms "head and neck cancer" and "surgery" or "radiotherapy" or "chemotherapy". The number of publications per year was determined in each search. The percentage of publications was also calculated for each subject in each year. An interest factor in a subject (IFS) was also determined. The number of publications was higher for surgery than chemotherapy or radiotherapy. The calculated 1964 IFS for surgery was 14.79, 12.74 for radiotherapy, and 19.58 for chemotherapy. The 1995 IFS for surgery was 1.99, 2.09 for radiotherapy, and 2.08 for chemotherapy. The relation obtained for 1995 was maintained in the subsequent years. There are more publications related to surgical treatment for head and neck cancer when compared with radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Moreover, in the recent years there has an increased interest in treatments utilizing chemotherapy, or this associated to radiotherapy.

O câncer de cabeça e pescoço é um dos 10 mais freqüentes cânceres no mundo, com um número de 50000 novos casos diagnosticados anualmente. O tratamento dos cânceres de cabeça e pescoço requer uma abordagem multidisciplinar devido a sua complexidade e a alterações funcionais e estéticas que o câncer pode causar. O interesse da comunidade científica em um objeto pode ser avaliado pela análise do número e da qualidade dos artigos publicados. A informação obtida do PubMed (www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/sites/entrez) tem sido usada como uma ferramenta em várias publicações para ajudar a avaliação do interesse científico em áreas de pesquisa específicas. O objetivo desse trabalho é avaliar, usando o PubMed, o interesse científico em estudar os tratamentos do câncer de cabeça e pescoço, tais como a radioterapia, a quimioterapia e a cirurgia. As pesquisas foram realizadas no PubMed para publicações de 1949 a 2008 usando os termos de pesquisa "head and neck cancer"e"surgery" ou "radiotherapy" ou "chemotherapy". O número de publicações (NP) por ano foi determinado para cada pesquisa. A percentagem de publicações ( por centoP) também foi calculada para cada objeto em cada ano. Um fator de interesse em um objeto (IFS) também foi determinado. O NP foi maior para cirurgia do que para quimioterapia ou radioterapia. O IFS calculado em 1964 para cirurgia foi 14,79; 12,74 para radioterapia; e 19,58 para quimioterapia. Em 1995 o IFS foi 1,99 para cirurgia, 2,09 para radioterapia e 2,08 para quimioterapia. A relação obtida para 1995 foi mantida nos anos subseqüentes. Existem mais publicações relacionadas ao tratamento cirúrgico para o câncer de cabeça e pescoço quando comparadas com radioterapia ou quimioterapia. Além disso, nos últimos anos tem existido um aumento no interesse em tratamentos utilizando a quimioterapia, ou ela associada à radioterapia.

Aptamer-based radiopharmaceuticals for diagnostic imaging and targeted radiotherapy of epithelial tumors

In the continuous search for earlier diagnosis and improved therapeutic modalities against cancer, based on our constantly increasing knowledge of cancer biology, aptamers hold the promise to expand on current antibody success, but overcoming some of the problems faced with antibodies as therapeutic or delivery agents in cancer. However, as the first aptamer reached the market as an inhibitor against angiogenesis for the treatment of macular degeneration, aptamers have found only limited applications or interest in oncology, and even less as radiopharmaceuticals for diagnostic imaging and targeted radiotherapy of tumours. Yet, the chemistry for the labelling of aptamers and the options to alter their pharmacokinetic properties, to make them suitable for use as radiopharmaceuticals is now available and recent advances in their development can demonstrate that these molecules would make them ideal delivery vehicles for the development of targeted radiopharmaceuticals that could deliver their radiation load with accuracy to the tumour site, offering improved therapeutic properties and reduced side effects.

Na contínua busca do diagnóstico precoce e melhores modalidades terapêuticas contra o câncer, com base no constante aumento do conhecimento da biologia do câncer, aptâmeros têm a promessa de expandir o atual sucesso dos anticorpos, e superar alguns dos problemas enfrentados com os anticorpos, como agentes terapêuticos ou como agentes que chegam ao processo neoplásico. Entretanto, como o primeiro aptâmero chegou ao mercado como um inibidor da angiogênese para o tratamento da degeneração macular, aptâmeros tem encontrado apenas aplicações ou interesse limitados em oncologia, e ainda menos como radiofármacos para o diagnóstico por imagem e radioterapia direcionada para tumores. A química para a marcação de aptâmeros e as opções para alterar suas propriedades radiofarmacocinéticas, para torná-los mais adequados para uso como radiofármacos, é agora disponível e os avanços recentes no seu desenvolvimento podem demonstrar que essas moléculas poderiam ser ideais como veículos para o desenvolvimento de radiofármacos sítio-dirigidos que poderiam levar radiação com precisão para o tumor, oferecendo melhores propriedades terapêuticas e reduzidos efeitos indesejados.

Lymphoscintigraphy in breast cancer: a short review about the impact on upper limb after surgical treatment

Breast cancer is still associated with high mortality rates and one of the most important factors governing long survival is accurate and early diagnosis. In underdeveloped countries, this disease frequently is only detected in advanced stages; however, through mammography, many women have been diagnosed at early stages. In this context, the sentinel lymph node (SLN) technique is associated with less postoperative morbidity compared to axillary lymphadenectomy. Lymphoscintigraphy has emerged as a method for the evaluation of lymphatic drainage chains in various tumours, being both accurate and non invasive. The aim of this work is to present the main aspects which cause controversy about SLN and lymphoscintigraphy and the impact that these procedures have had on lymphedema after surgical treatment for breast cancer. A short review including papers in English, Spanish and Portuguese, available on Lilacs and Medline database, published between January, 2000 and July, 2008 was performed. The key words breast cancer, lymphoscintigraphy, SLN biopsy, lymphedema were used. Various studies have aimed to compare the incidence and prevalence of lymphedema according to the technique used; however, the population subjected to SLN is different from the one with indication for axillary lymphadenectomy regarding staging. Moreover, little is known about long term morbidity since it is a relatively new technique. In conclusion, the development of surgical techniques has permitted to minimize deformities and the current trend is that these techniques be as conservative as possible. Thus, lymphoscintigraphy plays an important role in the identification of SLN, contributing to the prevention and minimization of postoperative complications.

O câncer de mama é ainda associado com altas taxas de mortalidade e um dos mais importantes fatores de manutenção de longa sobrevivência é a precisão e o diagnóstico precoce. Em países em desenvolvimento, essa doença freqüentemente é apenas detectada em estágios avançados. Entretanto, através da mamografia, muitas mulheres tiveram o diagnóstico em estágios precoces. Nesse contexto, a técnica do linfonodo sentinela (LNS) está associada com a menor morbidade pós-operatória comparada a linfadenectomia axilar. A linfocintilografia tem emergido como um método para a avaliação das cadeias de drenagem linfática em vários tumores, sendo precisa e não invasiva. O objetivo desse trabalho é apresentar os principais aspectos os quais causam controvérsia sobre LNS e a linfocintilografia e o impacto que esses procedimentos tem tido no linfedema após tratamento cirúrgico para câncer de mama. Uma breve revisão incluindo artigos em inglês, espanhol e português, disponíveis no Lilacs e no Medline, publicados entre janeiro de 2000 e julho de 2008, foi realizada. As palavras-chaves breast cancer, lymphoscintigraphy, SLN biopsy, lymphedema foram usadas. Vários estudos têm objetivado comparar a incidência e prevalência do linfedema de acordo com as técnicas usadas. Entretanto, a população sujeita a LNS é diferente daquela com indicação para linfedenectomia axilar relacionada com o estadiamento. Pouco é conhecido sobre morbidade em longo prazo, uma vez que a técnica é relativamente nova. Concluindo, o desenvolvimento de técnicas cirúrgicas tem permitido minimizar deformidades e a corrente tendência é que essas técnicas sejam tanto conservativas quanto possível. Assim, a linfocintilografia tem papel importante na identificação de LNS, contribuindo para a prevenção e minimização de complicações pós-operatórias.

Effects of chronic sucralose sweetener on the labeling of blood constituents with technetium-99m, morphology of red blood cells and the biodistribution of sodium pertechnetate in rats

This work evaluates effects of the sweetener with sucralose on the labeling of blood constituents with technetium- 99m (99mTc), on the morphology of red blood cells (RBC) and on the biodistribution of sodium pertechnetate in Wistar rats. Animals were treated with sweetener for 8 days. Blood samples were withdrawn and the assay of labeling of blood constituents with 99mTc was performed. Blood cells (BC) and plasma (P) were isolated. Aliquots of BC and P were also precipitated, soluble and insoluble fractions separated. The radioactivity in each fraction was counted and percentage of incorporated radioactivity (%ATI) determined. Blood smears were prepared, fixed, stained and the qualitative and quantitative morphology of the RBC was evaluated under optical microscopy. In biodistribution experiments, sodium pertechnetate was administrated, organs and tissues isolated, radioactivity was counted and percentage of incorporated radioactivity per gram (%ATI/g) determined. The data showed no significant alterations in %ATI, morphology of RBC and in %ATI/g in the studied organs.

Neste estudo foram avaliados efeitos do adoçante com sucralose na marcação de constituintes sangüíneos com 99mTc, na morfologia de hemácias e na biodistribuição do pertecnetato de sódio em ratos Wistar. Animais foram tratados com adoçante durante 8 dias. Amostras de sangue foram retiradas e a marcação de constituintes sangüíneos com 99mTc foi realizada. Células sangüíneas (CS) e plasma (P) foram isolados. Alíquotas de CS e P foram precipitadas, fraçõesinsolúvel e solúvel foram separadas. Aradioatividade em cada fração foi contada e o percentual de radioatividade incorporada (%ATI), determinado. Distensões sangüíneas foram preparadas, fixadas, coradas e análise morfológica, qualitativa e quantitativa, de hemácias foi avaliada sob microscopia óptica. Nos experimentos debiodistribuição, pertecnetato de sódio foiadministrado, órgãos e tecidos isolados, a radioatividade contada e o percentual de radioatividade incorporada por grama (%ATI/g), determinada. Os dados sugerem que não houve alterações significativas no %ATI, morfologia de hemácias e no %ATI/g.