Envenomations caused by fish in Brazil: an evolutionary, morphological, and clinical vision of a neglected problem

ABSTRACT Venomous fish are commonly found in Brazilian waters. The most important marine venomous fish species are stingrays (Dasyatidae, Gimnuridae, Myliobatidae, and Rhinopteridae families), catfish (Ariidae family), scorpionfish and lionfish (both Scorpaenidae family), and toadfish (Batrachoididae family). Meanwhile, Potamotrygonidae stingrays and Pimelodidae catfish are the most important venomous freshwater fish. The mechanisms of envenomation vary and involve various venomous apparatuses and glands. Despite not being highly developed, these venomous apparatuses in fish appear rudimentary, using structures such as fins and rays to inoculate toxins and rarely presenting with specialized structures. Toxins are produced by glandular tissue made up of proteinaceous cells, lacking true glands, and are positioned along the inoculation structures. However, systemic manifestations are rare. No antivenom serum has been developed for any species of American venomous fish. Brazilian venomous fish and their venoms have only recently attracted attention, leading to new studies not only addressing clinical issues in humans, but also exploring the discovery of new active substances with immense pharmacological potential.

Variations of workload and well-being measures across a professional basketball season / Variações das medidas de carga e bem-estar durante um período profissional de basquetebol

Abstract The aims of this study were: (i) to describe weekly variations of acute load (AL), acute:chronic workload ratio, delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS), and fatigue; (ii) to analyze variations of weekly workload and well-being in three periods of the season (P1, P2, and P3); and (iii) to analyze the relationships between workload and well-being measures. Fifteen professional basketball players from a first-league European club were monitored throughout the season using the CR-10 Borg scale and the Hooper questionnaire. Weekly AL and acute:chronic workload ratio (ACWR) were weekly calculated for monitoring of the internal load. In addition, DOMS and fatigue values were weekly calculated. Greater AL, DOMS, and fatigue values were found during the early season, and the highest ACWR value was found during the second period. Overall, AL presented large correlations with DOMS (r=0.60) and fatigue (r=0.62). The results of this study indicate that load is higher in the first period and then decreases throughout the season. The results also showed that AL is more closely related to well-being parameters than ACWR.

Resumo O objetivo deste estudo foi: (1) descrever as variações semanais de carga aguda (CA), razão da carga de trabalho aguda:crônica, dor musuclar tardia (DOT) e fadiga; (ii) analisar as variações da carga semanal de trabalho e bem-estar entre três períodos da temporada (P1, P2 e P3); e (iii) analisar as relações entre carga de trabalho e medidas de bem-estar. Quinze jogadores profissionais de basquetebol de um clube de primeira liga Européia foram monitorados ao longo de uma temporada utilizando a escala CR-10 Borg e o questionário de Hooper. A CA semanal e a razão da carga de trabalho aguda:crônica (RCTAC) foram calculadas semanalmente para monitorar a carga interna. Além disso, os valores de DOT e fadiga foram calculados semanalmente. Maiores valores da CA, DOT e fadiga foram ensontrados durante o início da temporada e o maior valor de RCTAC foi encontrado durante o segundo período. No geral, a CA apresentou grandes correlações com a DOT (r = 0,60) e fadiga (r = 0,62). Os resultados deste estudo indicam que a carga é maior no primeiro período e depois diminui ao longo da temporada. Os resultados também motraram que a CA está mais relacionada com os parâmetros de bem-estar do que a RCTAC.

Influência da luminosidade na firmeza e perda de massa de pinhões / Influence of luminosity on firmness and loss of mass of pinhões

As sementes de Araucaria angustifolia, conhecidas como pinhão, tem sua conservação pós-colheita dificultada. A germinação do pinhão representa uma desvantagem, já que sementes brotadas não tem valor comercial. A inibição da germinação pela luz induz a semente ao seu estado de dormência, com redução da atividade metabólica, sendo uma alternativa para a conservação da semente. Com isso, objetivou-se neste estudo avaliar a perda de massa e firmeza de pinhões armazenados sob diferentes condições de luminosidade a temperatura ambiente por 90 dias. O armazenamento de pinhões em diferentes condições de luminosidade a temperatura ambiente ocasionou perda de massa e firmeza, sendo que a luminosidade não proporcionou aumento da conservação de pinhões.

Influence of quick massage and pilates on the occupational health of workers of a private value securities network agency: a clinical, controlled, randomized and blind study

Introduction: This study aims to analyze the influence of quick massage and pilatespilates on bank employees. The project was sent to the Research Ethics Committee and obtained a favorable opinion (1,045,371 / 2015). Methods: It is a clinical, controlled, randomized, and blind study. The study had had initially involved 70 employeesparticipants, but only 50 were included. They were divided into 3 groups: quick massage group (n = 20), ppilates group (n = 20) and control group (n = 10). They were evaluated with experimental times of 3, 6 and 9 months and the protocol was applied 3 times per week. Results: The results of the present study were presented in standard deviation and mean of all groups, then a one-way analysis of the variance was performed, obtaining a value of P <0.0198, being considered significant. However, it is noted that when presenting the detailed data of each group (mean and standard deviation) it is observed that the group which received the quick massage had a small advantage.: (6 months) 4.03 ± 0.82, (12 months) 3.43 ± 1.15 and pilatespilates group (3 months) 6.21 ± 1.98016, (6 months) 4.26 ± 0.57873 (9 months) 4.14 ± 0.63. Conclusions: The quick massage techniques and the pilatespilates protocol have shown great potential in reducing anxiety, depression and fatigue. (AU)

Relationship between personality traits and counterproductive work behaviors / Relação entre os fatores de personalidade e comportamentos contraproducentes no trabalho / Relación entre rasgos de personalidad y comportamientos contraproducentes en el trabajo

Following the growing interest in identifying whether personality traits are associated with employee's inclination toward counterproductive work behavior (CWB), the objective of this study was to investigate the relationship between personality traits based on the five-factor model with CWB. Study participants were 381 workers from different socioeconomic and educational levels in public and private organizations, from two Brazilian regions. Agreeableness, conscientiousness and neuroticism factors had statistically significant associations with three CWB dimensions. Linear regression analysis revealed all five personality traits contributed to prediction of CWB dimensions. These findings are discussed in light of international literature.

Acompanhando o crescente interesse em identificar se traços de personalidade estão associados com a propensão para engajar em comportamentos contraproducentes no trabalho (CCTs), o objetivo deste estudo foi investigar a relação entre traços de personalidade segundo o modelo dos cinco grandes fatores (CGF) e CCTs. Participaram do estudo 381 trabalhadores, com diferentes níveis socioeconômicos e de escolaridade, de organizações públicas e privadas, provenientes de duas regiões do país. Os fatores amabilidade, conscienciosidade e neuroticismo apresentaram correlações estatisticamente significativas com três dimensiones de CCT. Análises de regressão linear revelaram que todos os cinco traços de personalidade contribuíram para a predição das dimensões de CCT. Os resultados são discutidos à luz da literatura internacional.

Siguiendo el creciente interés en identificar si los rasgos de personalidad están asociados con la propensión a participar en comportamientos contraproducentes en el trabajo (CCTs), el objetivo de este estudio fue investigar la relación entre rasgos de personalidad según el modelo de los cinco grandes factores (CGF) y CCTs. Los participantes del estudio fueron 381 trabajadores, con diferentes niveles socioeconómicos y educativos, de organizaciones públicas y privadas, provenientes de dos regiones del país. Los factores amabilidad, escrupulosidad e inestabilidad emocional presentan correlaciones estadísticamente significativas con tres dimensiones del CCT. Análisis de regresión lineal revelaron que los cinco rasgos de personalidad contribuyeron para la predicción de las dimensiones del CCT. Los resultados son discutidos con base en la literatura internacional.

Thalassophryne nattereri fish venom: from the envenoming to the understanding of the immune system

Thalassophryne nattereri (niquim) is a venomous fish found off North and Northeast coast of Brazil, where it is known by the severity of the accidents involving humans. This review article is divided into four topics. The first one provides a brief description of the animal biology and its distribution off Brazilian coastal waters, the venom apparatus, signs and symptoms observed in envenomated humans and also describes envenomation in mice. The second topic describes the use of modern genetic approach and mass spectrometry for identification of highly expressed genes in its venom glands and the sequence of major toxins. The third chapter offers a detailed study of tissue injury induced by the venom and reveals the role of toxins that impair inflammation reduction. Finally, the fourth section expands the understanding of many extrinsic and intrinsic essential factors in maintaining survival of memory B cell compartment. Our results demonstrate the wide possibilities for research in the area of toxinology, also the necessity of interconnection among biochemistry, pharmacology and immunology areas for the expansion of knowledge and for generation of innovation.

Thalassophryne nattereri fish venom: from the envenoming to the understanding of the immune system

Thalassophryne nattereri (niquim) is a venomous fish found off North and Northeast coast of Brazil, where it is known by the severity of the accidents involving humans. This review article is divided into four topics. The first one provides a brief description of the animal biology and its distribution off Brazilian coastal waters, the venom apparatus, signs and symptoms observed in envenomated humans and also describes envenomation in mice. The second topic describes the use of modern genetic approach and mass spectrometry for identification of highly expressed genes in its venom glands and the sequence of major toxins. The third chapter offers a detailed study of tissue injury induced by the venom and reveals the role of toxins that impair inflammation reduction. Finally, the fourth section expands the understanding of many extrinsic and intrinsic essential factors in maintaining survival of memory B cell compartment. Our results demonstrate the wide possibilities for research in the area of toxinology, also the necessity of interconnection among biochemistry, pharmacology and immunology areas for the expansion of knowledge and for generation of innovation.

Health-related quality of life in hemophilia: results of the Hemophilia-Specific Quality of Life Index (Haem-a-Qol) at a Brazilian blood center

BACKGROUND Studies on health-related quality of life are based on the increasingly evident need for medical care not to be limited to preventing death, but to focus instead on the value of health. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to measure the health-related quality of life in hemophilia, using the Hemophilia- Specific Quality of Life (Haem-A-QoL) questionnaire and describe the socioeconomic characteristics and health conditions of these patients. METHODS The Brazilian version of the Hemophilia-Specific Quality of Life questionnaire was administered to hemophiliac adults, treated in an on-demand regime at the Juiz de Fora Regional Blood Center - HEMOMINAS Foundation. The patients were interviewed about demographic and socioeconomic data and their understanding of the questionnaire. Clinical data were collected from medical records. The Mann-Whitney U test was used for statistical analysis. The level of significance was set for p-values < 0.05. Statistical analysis was performed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS, version 15.0). RESULTS Thirty-nine patients were evaluated. The mean age was 36.8 years. 84.6% had hemophilia A; 20.5% of the patients had hemophilia classified as mild, 41% as moderate and 38.5% as severe. The records of 10.5% of the patients registered seropositivity for anti-HIV and 57.9% for anti-HCV. Target joints were detected in 69.2%. The mean total Hemophilia-Specific Quality of Life score was 35.55. 'Sports and leisure'and 'Physical health'were the most impaired dimensions and the dimension 'Relationship and partners'was the least impaired. The Hemophilia-Specific Quality of Life scores showed good discriminant validity for hemophilia severity (p-value = 0.001), HIV-infection (p-value = 0.02), HCV-infection (p-value = 0.01) and the presence of target joints (p-value < 0.001)...

Genotyping of gastroenteric viruses in hospitalised children: first report of norovirus GII.21 in Brazil

This retrospective study (April-September 2003) was designed to investigate the roles of the main viruses responsible for cases of acute infantile gastroenteritis in hospitalised children up to two years of age. The viruses were identified in 64.7% (88/136) of the cases and the detection rates of rotavirus A (RVA), norovirus (NoV) and astrovirus were 41.9% (57/136), 30.3% (24/79) and 12.7% (7/55), respectively. RVA and NoV were detected in 20 of the 24 reported nosocomial infection cases. This study identified the first circulation of the genotype NoV GII.21 in Brazil and highlights the need to establish differential diagnoses through active laboratorial surveillance.

História da triagem neonatalpara doença falciforme no Brasil: capítulo de Minas Gerais / History of newborn screening of sickle cell disease in BraziL: the Minas Gerais state chapter

O "teste do pezinho" é uma estratégia para o diagnóstico precoce de algumas doenças congênitas que são, em sua maioria, imperceptíveis ao exame médico no período neonatal e que, se não diagnosticadas e tratadas precocemente, evoluem com sequelas muitas vezes irreversíveis. A drepanocitose é das doenças hematológicas hereditárias humanas a mais comum e mais estudada em todo o mundo. Os rastreios para recém-nascidos iniciaram-se na década de 50 e a partir da década de 70 começaram a ser instalados em diversos estados brasileiros, porém somente nos anos 90 o programa de triagem neonatal foi ampliado para todo o território nacional. A efetivação do Programa Nacional de Triagem Neonatal foi grande passo para o aumento da sobrevida, redução da hospitalização e das despesas associadas à doença falciforme, as quais representam problema de saúde pública em nosso país. Este artigo apresenta a evolução histórica do processo de criação e implementação da triagem neonatal no Brasil, principalmente em Minas Gerais, e descreve de maneira especial o impacto da doença falciforme em nossa população.

The heel prick test is a strategy aimed at the early diagnosis of some congenital diseases that usually go unnoticed at ordinary medical examinations in the neonatal period and may evolve to cause several irreversible sequelae. Drepanocytosis is one of the most common and studied hematological diseases affecting human beings. The earliest newborn screenings date back to the 1950s, but in Brazil they were first introduced in the 1970, only to be extended to the whole territory in the 1990s. The implantation of the National Newborn Screening Program was a large step to increase patient?s survival and reduce both hospital treatment and sickle cell disease-associated expenses (which represent a significant public health issue in Brazil). This paper reports the historical process of creation and implementation of a newborn screening program in Brazil, especially in the State of Minas Gerais, and also describes the impact of sickle cell disease upon our population.

Genetic diversity of noroviruses in Brazil

Norovirus (NoV) infections are a major cause of acute gastroenteritis outbreaks around the world. In Brazil, the surveillance system for acute diarrhoea does not include the diagnosis of NoV, precluding the ability to assess its impact on public health. The present study assessed the circulation of NoV genotypes in different Brazilian states by partial nucleotide sequencing analysis of the genomic region coding for the major capsid viral protein. NoV genogroup II genotype 4 (GII.4) was the prevalent (78 percent) followed by GII.6, GII.7, GII.12, GII.16 and GII.17, demonstrating the great diversity of NoV genotypes circulating in Brazil. Thus, this paper highlights the importance of a virological surveillance system to detect and characterize emerging strains of NoV and their spreading potential.

Efeito da proteína Kint3-4 do plasminogênio humano no crescimento do tumor de Ehrlich / Kint3-4 protein from human plasminogen delays Ehrlich tumor growth in mice

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: Kint3-4 protein, originated from a genetic recombination of K1-3 and K1-4 human plasminogen segments, is recognized for its antiangiogenic and anti-inflammatory potential. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of Kint3-4 protein on tumor development in Swiss mice previously inoculated with Ehrlich tumor cells. METHODS: The protein fragment was obtained from Pichia pastoris cloning and transformation. After tumor cell inoculation three different protocols were used to assess tumor growth: beginning (0-6 days), peak (0-12 days) and after peak (0-18 days). We analyzed tumor growth, histomorphological characteristics and immunohistochemistry by use of CDC47 (cellular proliferation marker) and CD31 (blood vessel marker). RESULTS: Animals treated with Kint3-4 protein (150 µg/kg/48 h) showed lower tumor growth in all protocols. Based on histological assessment, inflammation and tumor areas were also reduced. Moreover, both the lowest rate of tumor cell proliferation and low microvessel density were observed in animals treated with Kint3-4 protein compared with the untreated control group. CONCLUSION: The effect of Kint3-4 recombinant protein on tumor angiogenesis and control of malignant cell proliferation enhances the prospects of its use in clinical and antiangiogenic treatment.

INTRODUÇÃO E OBJETIVO: A proteína Kint3-4 originou-se a partir de uma recombinação genética dos segmentos K1-3 e K1--4 do plasminogênio humano e é reconhecida por seu potencial anti-inflamatório e antiangiogênico. Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar o efeito da proteína Kint3-4 no desenvolvimento de tumores em camundongos inoculados com células do tumor de Ehrlich. MÉTODOS: O fragmento de proteína foi obtido por uma técnica de clonagem e transformação de Pichia pastoris. Três diferentes protocolos foram avaliados após a inoculação das células tumorais: no início (0-6 dias), no pico (0-12 dias) e após o pico (0-18 dias) de crescimento do tumor. Foram analisados o crescimento do tumor e as características histomorfológica e imuno-histoquímica com CDC47 (marcador de proliferação celular) e CD31 (marcador de vasos sanguíneos). RESULTADOS: Os animais tratados com a proteína Kint3-4 (150 µg/kg/48 h) nos três diferentes protocolos apresentaram menor crescimento do tumor. Áreas de inflamação e tumor também foram reduzidas, avaliadas por exame histológico. Além disso, a menor taxa de proliferação das células tumorais e a baixa densidade de microvasos foram observadas nos animais tratados com proteína Kint3-4 em comparação com o grupocontrole. CONCLUSÃO: A participação da proteína recombinante Kint3-4 na angiogênese tumoral e no controle da proliferação de células malignas abre perspectivas para seu uso no tratamento clínico como antiangiogênico.

Contrasting roles of donor and recipient TGFB1 and IFNG gene polymorphic variants in chronic kidney transplant rejection / Papéis contrastantes das variantes polimórficas dos genes TGFB1 e IFNG do doador e do receptor na rejeição crônica de transplantados renais

Objective: To assess the long-term impact (minimum of 3 years follow-up) of polymorphisms in cytokine genes in donor: recipient pairs on the results of the transplant. Methods: We compared genetic cytokine polymorphisms and the primary factors of risk for the development of chronic rejection in paired groups of renal transplant patients with and without chronic allograft nephropathy [CAN]. Results: Multivariate analysis indicated that the presence of the high-production TT genotype (codon 10) of the transforming growth factor beta-1 (TGFB1) was protective in receptors (p=0.017), contrasting with the increased risk when present in donor samples (p=0.049). On the other hand, in the case of the gamma interferon studied, the greater frequency of the high production allele was protective in the analysis of the donor group (p=0.013), increasing the risk of chronic nephropathy of the allograft when present in the recipients (p=0.036). Conclusion: Our results highlight the importance of TGFB1 genotyping in donors, and indicate that polymorphisms in the gene of this cytokine in donor cells might contribute to the development of chronic allograft nephropathy.

Objetivo: Avaliar o impacto de longo prazo (com seguimento mínimo de 2 anos) de polimorfismos em genes de citocinas em pares doador:receptor sobre os resultados do transplante. Métodos: Comparamos os polimorfismos genéticos das citocinas e os principais fatores de risco para o desenvolvimento de rejeição crônica em grupos pareados de pacientes transplantados renais com e sem nefropatia crônica do aloenxerto [CAN]. Resultados: A análise multivariada indicou que a presença do genótipo TT (códon 10) de alta produção do fator de crescimento transformador beta-1 (TGFB1) era protetor nos receptores (p=0,017), em contraste com o risco aumentado quando presente nas amostras de doadores (p=0,049). Por outro lado, no caso do interferon gama estudado, a maior frequência do alelo de alta produção foi protetora na análise do grupo de doadores (p=0,013), mas aumentava o risco de nefropatia crônica do aloenxerto quando presente nos receptores (p=0,036). Conclusão: Nossos resultados ressaltam a importância da genotipagem de TGFB1 também em doadores, e indicam que polimorfismos no gene desta citocina em células do doador podem contribuir no desenvolvimento da nefropatia crônica do aloenxerto.

Manual for guided home exercises for osteoarthritis of the knee

INTRODUCTION: Physiotherapy is one of the most important components of therapy for osteoarthritis of the knee. The objective of this prospective case series was to assess the efficiency of a guidance manual for patients with osteoarthritis of the knee in relation to pain, range of movement , muscle strength and function, active goniometry, manual strength test and function. METHODS: Thirty-eight adults with osteoarthritis of the knee (> 45 years old) who were referred to the physiotherapy service at the university hospital (Santa Casa de Misericórdia de São Paulo) were studied. Patients received guidance for the practice of specific physical exercises and a manual with instructions on how to perform the exercises at home. They were evaluated for pain, range of movement, muscle strength and function. These evaluations were performed before they received the manual and three months later. Patients were seen monthly regarding improvements in their exercising abilities. RESULTS: The program was effective for improving muscle strength, controlling pain, maintaining range of movement of the knee joint, and reducing functional incapacity. DISCUSSION: A review of the literature showed that there are numerous clinical benefits to the regular practice of physical therapy exercises by patients with osteoarthritis of the knee(s) in a program with appropriate guidance. This study shows that this guidance can be attained at home with the use of a proper manual. CONCLUSIONS: Even when performed at home without constant supervision, the use of the printed manual for orientation makes the exercises for osteoarthritis of the knee beneficial.

Diagnóstico histórico da triagem neonatal para doença falciforme / Historical diagnosis about neonatal screening for sickle cell disease

O transtorno falciforme é a doença hematológica hereditária mais comum no mundo e a Anemia Falciforme é a mais conhecida das alterações hematológicas hereditárias no homem. Este artigo apresenta a evolução histórica do processo de criação e implementação da Triagem Neonatal no Brasil e em partes do mundo. Os rastreios para recém-nascidos iniciaram na década de 50, porém, só a partir da década de 60, os Programas de Triagem Neonatal começaram ser instalados em diversos países. O "Teste do Pezinho" é uma estratégia para o diagnóstico precoce de algumas doenças congênitas que são quase sempre imperceptíveis ao exame médico no período neonatal, mas que evoluem desfavoravelmente, levando ao aparecimento de sequelas muitas vezes irreversíveis. A triagem de hemoglobinopatias é uma análise importante para a prevenção das doenças falcêmicas, as quais representam um problema de Saúde Pública em nosso país. Afinal, estima-se que só no Brasil, existem aproximadamente 10 milhões de indivíduos heterozigotos para os genes das hemoglobinopatias.

Sickle cell disease is the most common inherited hematological disease worldwide, with sickle cell anemia being the most notorious of inherited hematological diseases of humans. This article presents the historical evolution of the process of creation and implementation of Neonatal Screening in Brazil and parts of the world. Newborn screening began in the 50ïs, but it was only in the 60`s that Programs of Neonatal Screening began in several countries.The "Foot Test" is a strategy for the early diagnosis of congenital diseases that are often imperceptible to the medical examination in the neonatal period, but that have an adverse course, leading to the emergence of generally irreversible sequelae. Hemoglobin screening is an important analysis for the prevention of sickle cell disease, which constitutes a Public Health problem in Brazil, where approximately 10 million individuals heterozygous for hemoglobinnopathy genes are estimated to exist.

Análise do perfil de escoamento de seis cimentos endodônticos / Analysis of the flow profile of six endodontic cements

Objetivo: Avaliar o perfil de escoamento de seis cimentos obturadores endodônticos, por meio do teste de escoamento vertical: N-Rickert (Fórmula e Ação, São Paulo, Brasil), Endofill (Dentsply, Petrópolis, Brasil), Óxido de Zinco e Eugenol (SS White, Rio de Janeiro, Brasil), AHPlus (Dentsply, Petrópolis, Brasil), EndoRez (Ultradent, South Jordan, UT, USA) e Intra-Fill (SS White, Rio de Janeiro, Brasil). Métodos: O teste de escoamento foi realizado utilizando placas duplas de vidro polidas de 30 x 26 cm, para abrigar as amostras de 0,1 ml dos cimentos. As amostras foram depositadas na parte superior com o auxílio de seringa para insulina. As placas foram levadas para a estufa a 37° e umidade relativa de 100%. O escoamento foi medido por meio de uma folha de papel milimetrado entre as placas de vidro, nos tempos de 10 minutos, 20 minutos, 30 minutos, uma hora, duas horas, três horas, quatro horas, cinco horas, seis horas, 12 horas, 24 horas e 48 horas. Resultados: Endofill (Dentsply, Petrópolis, Brasil) apresentou escoamento de 69,3mm, seguido do N-Rickert (Fórmula e Ação, São Paulo, Brasil) (43,0mm) e do AH-Plus (Dentsply, Petrópolis, Brasil) (29,3mm). Os cimentos Intrafill (SS White, Rio de Janeiro, Brasil), Óxido de Zinco e Eugenol (SS White, Rio de Janeiro, Brasil) e EndoRez (Ultradent, South Jordan, UT, USA) não apresentaram escoamento. N-Rickert (Fórmula e Ação, São Paulo, Brasil) e Endofill (Dentsply, Petrópolis, Brasil) tiveram comportamentos semelhantes, não necessitando de força inicial para se deslocar. O cimento N-Rickert (Fórmula e Ação, São Paulo, Brasil) escoou até trinta minutos e o Endofill (Dentsply, Petrópolis, Brasil) até a segunda hora de observação. O escoamento inicial do AH-Plus (Dentsply, Petrópolis, Brasil) foi de 0,8mm até três horas, permanecendo estável a partir da quinta hora. Conclusão: Os cimentos Óxido de Zinco e Eugenol (SS White, Rio de Janeiro, Brasil), Intrafill (SS White, Rio de Janeiro, Brasil)...

Objective: To assess the flow characteristic of six endodontic filling cements by means of the vertical flow test: N-Rickert (Fórmula e Ação, São Paulo, Brazil), Endofill (Dentsply, Petrópolis, Brazil), Zinc Oxide and Eugenol (SS White, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil), AH-Plus (Dentsply, Petrópolis,Brazil), EndoRez (Ultradent, South Jordan, UT, USA) and Intra-Fill (SS White, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil). Methods: Flow test was performed by placing the 0.1 ml samples of cements between two plates of polished glass measuring 30 x 26 cm. The samples were deposited on the top part with aid of a insulin syringe. The plates were taken to an oven at 37° and relative humidity of 100%. Flow was measured by means of a sheet of millimetric paper placed between the glass plates, at time intervals of 10 minutes, 20 minutes, 30 minutes, one hour, two hours, three hours, four hours, five hours, six hours, 12 hours, 24 hours and 48 hours. Results: Endofill (Dentsply, Petrópolis, Brazil) showed flow of 69.3mm, followed by N-Rickert (Fórmula e Ação, São Paulo, Brazil) (43.0mm) and AH-Plus (Dentsply, Petrópolis, Brazil) (29.3mm). The cements Intrafill (SS White, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil), Zinc Oxide and Eugenol (SS White,Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) and Endo Rez (Ultradent, South Jordan, UT, USA) presented no flow. N-Rickert (Fórmula e Ação, São Paulo, Brazil) and Endofill (Dentsply, Petrópolis, Brazil) behaved similarly, and needed no initial force to become displaced. The cement N-Rickert (Fórmula eAção, São Paulo, Brazil) flowed for up to thirty minutes and Endofill (Dentsply, Petrópolis, Brazil) up to the second hour of observation. Initial flow of AH-Plus (Dentsply, Petrópolis, Brazil) was 0.8mm up to three hours, remaining stable after the fifth hour. Conclusion: The cements Zinc Oxide and Eugenol (SS White, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil), Intrafill (SS White, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) and EndoRez (Ultradent, South Jordan, UT, USA) did not present any flow during the experiment. The greatest flow was...

O papel do RDW, da morfologia eritrocitária e de parâmetros plaquetários na diferenciação entre anemias microcíticas e hipocrômicas / The role of RDW, erythrocyte morphology and platelet parameters in the differentiation between microcytic and hypochromic anemias

As anemias microcíticas e hipocrômicas atingem grande parcela da população mundial. Entre estas, significativa porcentagem de casos se deve à deficiência do ferro, enquanto em algumas regiões a frequência de talassemia menor se torna importante. Por outro lado, a anemia de doença crônica é a causa mais comum de anemia em pacientes hospitalizados. O diagnóstico diferencial destas doenças é clinicamente importante, e é atualmente realizado através dos exames padrão ouro envolvendo a avaliação do metabolismo do ferro e dosagem de HbA2. Embora dotados de grande utilidade, estes testes podem apresentar uma metodologia mais demorada e onerosa que, em casos de concomitância de doenças, comuns na prática clínica, não conseguem proporcionar um correto diagnóstico. Na tentativa de otimizar e direcionar o diagnóstico destas anemias, o uso de alguns parâmetros derivados dos modernos contadores automáticos tem sido sugerido. Neste estudo, o papel do RDW, parâmetros plaquetários (número de plaquetas, PDW, VPM) e morfologia eritrocitária como parâmetros diferenciadores, foi avaliado em um grupo de 159 pacientes portadores de anemia microcítica e hipocrômica devido à deficiência do ferro, anemia de doença crônica e talassemia beta menor, comprovado pelos exames padrão ouro. Foi possível observar que o RDW não se mostrou um bom discriminante, enquanto o índice plaquetário PDW pode ser um parâmetro auxiliar no diagnóstico diferencial das anemias microcíticas e hipocrômicas. Com relação às alterações morfológicas dos eritrócitos, o pontilhado basófilo foi um achado bastante comum apenas em pacientes portadores de talassemia beta menor, com indícios de potencial utilidade na elucidação de casos de microcitose.

Microcytic and hypochromic anemias affect many people worldwide. A significant percentage of cases are due to iron deficiency, while in certain regions the frequency of thalassemia minor is important. On the other hand, anemia of chronic disease is the most common cause of anemia in hospitalized patients. Differential diagnosis between these anemias, currently established by using gold standard tests involving evaluation of iron metabolism and measurement of HbA2, is of clinical importance. Although very useful, these tests are time consuming and onerous. In cases of concomitant diseases, a common finding in the clinical practice, these tests are unable to provide a correct diagnosis. In an attempt to optimize diagnosis of these anemias, the use of some parameters derived from modern automated blood count analyzers has been suggested. In this study, the role of RDW, platelet parameters (platelet number, PDW, MPV) and erythrocyte morphology as differentiating parameters were evaluated in a group of 159 patients diagnosed as carriers of microcytic or hypochromic anemias due to iron deficiency, anemia of chronic disease and â-thalassemia minor, as confirmed by gold standard tests. The RDW did not prove to be a good discriminator, while the platelet index, PDW, may be helpful in the differential diagnosis of microcytic and hypochromic anemias. Regarding the red cell morphologic alterations, basophilic stippling was a quite common finding just in patients with â-thalassemia minor, suggesting it to be a potential marker for elucidating cases of microcytosis.

Análise da radiopacidade de cimentos endodônticos por meio de radiografia digital / Analysis of the radiopacity of endodontic sealers using a digital radiograph system

Objetivo: O presente estudo teve por finalidade analisar a radiopacidade de alguns cimentos endodônticos utilizando um sistema de radiografia digital. Metodologia: Foram testados os cimentos endodônticos AH-Plus, N-Rickert, Endofill, Óxido de zinco e eugenol (OZE) e Intrafill. Seis corpos-de-prova cilídricos (1x0,5cm) para cada cimento foram confeccionados e armazenados a 37ºC e umidade relativa de 100%, durante 72h. Os corpos-de-prova foram posicionados na região central do sensor do sistema digital Kodak RVG 5000 e o cilindro do aparelho radiográfico foi posicionado perpendicularmente a uma distância focal de 5cm, com tempo de exposição de 0,05 segundos. A partir da imagem digital obtiveram-se os valores da densidade óptica em pixels da região central e pontos eqüidistantes à direita e à esquerda de cada corpo-de-prova. Os dados foram analisados por ANOVA e teste de Tukey (α=0,05). Resultados: Houve diferença estatística entre todos os cimentos, com exceção da comparação entre o Intrafill e o Endofill. A radiopacidade dos cimentos em ordem crescente foi: ZOE < Endofill = Intrafill < N-Rickert < AH-Plus. Conclusão: O método de radiografia digital foi sensível para detectar diferenças de radiopacidade entre os cimentos endodônticos analisados.

Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the radiopacity of some endodontic sealers using a digital radiograph system. Methods: The endodontic sealers tested were: AH-Plus, N-Rickert, Endofill, Óxido de zinco e eugenol (OZE), and Intrafill. Six cylindrical-shaped specimens (1x0.5cm) were fabricated with each material and stored at 37ºC and 100% relative humidity for 72h. Each specimen was placed at the central area of the sensor of the digital system Kodak RVG 5000, and the X-ray cylinder was positioned perpendicularly at a 5cm-focal distance with time of exposure of 0.05s. The digital image software was used to measure optical density in pixels of the specimens at their central area and at the right and left sides. Data were analyzed by ANOVA and Tukey test (α=0.05). Results: There was a statistically significant difference of radiopacity among the tested materials, except for the comparison between Intrafill and Endofill. The level of radiopacity in ascending order was: ZOE < Endofill = Intrafill < N-Rickert < AH-Plus. Conclusion: The digital radiograph method was sensitive to detect differences of radiopacity among the tested endodontic sealers.

Infecção por citomegalovírus em crianças com infiltrado pulmonar difuso crônico / Cytomegalovirus infection in children with chronic diffuse pulmonary infiltrates

Objetivo: avaliar a infecção por citomegalovírus (CMV) em crianças menores de 1 ano de idade com pneumonite bilateral. Casuística e métodos: foi realizado estudo retrospectivo que avaliou a ocorrência de infecção por CMV em 23 pacientes internados, de idade inferior a 1 ano de idade com pneumonite intersticial bilateral na enfermaria de um hospital universitário...

Objective: to evaluate cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection among infants under one-year-age affected by bilateral pneumonitis. Casuistic and methods: a retrospective survey was assessed to evaluate CM infection among 23 inpatients aged under one-year-old with interstitial bilateral pneumonitis, at a university hospital ward, CMV infection...