Psychophysiological profile and prediction equations for technical performance of football players / Perfil psicofisiológico e equações preditivas de desempenho técnico em jogadores de futebol / Perfil psicofisiológico y ecuaciones predictivas de rendimiento técnico de jugadores de fútbol

Abstract The objective was to correlate specific technical skills (STS) with the psychophysiological performance. STS from 15 soccer athletes were collected by technical scouting of two matches. Countermovement jump, blood concentration of creatine kinase ([CK]), heart rate variability (HRV) and the scores of DALDA and POMS were also obtained 24 h after both matches. Predictive equations were elaborated, and POMS and DALDA scores were the only variables which fits the models for STS with high coefficient of determination (r2) for finalization (r2 = 0.85), interception (r2 = 0.73), pass right (r2 = 0.32), tackling (r2 = 0.69) and loss of ball (r2 = 0.35). The psychological variables identified through POMS and DALDA have shown greater influence on the STS.

Resumo O objetivo foi correlacionar variáveis psicofisiológicas com desempenho técnico específico (STS). As STS foram coletadas durante dois jogos amistosos através de scout técnico. Salto contramovimento, concentração sanguínea de creatina quinase ([CK]), variabilidade da frequência cardíaca (HRV) e os escores de POMS e DALDA também foram acessados. Equações preditivas foram testadas e os escores de POMS e DALDA formaram modelos de regressão com significância estatística e coeficiente de determinação (r2) expressivo para as STS de finalização (r2 = 0,85), interceptação (r2 = 0,73), passe certo (r2 = 0,32), roubada de bola (r2 = 0,69) e perda de posse de bola (r2 = 0,35). Variáveis psicológicas foram capazes de predizer o desempenho técnico em STS coletadas em scout de partidas de futebol.

Resumen El objetivo fue correlacionar habilidades técnicas específicas (STS) con evaluaciones psicofisiológicas. Las STS de 15 jugadores de fútbol se recogieron mediante técnica de scouting de dos partidos. Salto contramovimiento, concentración sanguínea de creatina-cinasa, variabilidad de la frecuencia cardíaca y las puntuaciones de DALDA y POMS se obtuvieron 24 h después de ambos partidos. Se elaboraron ecuaciones predictivas y POMS y DALDA se ajustaron a los modelos con alto coeficiente de determinación (r2) para finalización (r2 = 0,85), interceptación (r2 = 0,73), pase correcto (r2 = 0,32), quite de balón (r2 = 0,69) y pérdida de balón (r2 = 0,35). Las variables psicológicas identificadas a través de POMS y DALDA han mostrado gran influencia en las STS.

Treinamento de força em sessão com exercícios poliarticulares gera estresse cardiovascular inferior a sessão de treino com exercícios monoarticulares / Strength training session with multi-joint exercises generates less cardiovascular stress than a single-joint strength training session / Sesiones de entrenamiento de fuerza con ejercicios poliarticulares que generen menos estrés cardiovascular que sesiones de entrenamiento de fuerza con ejercicios monoarticulares

Resumo Objetivo: Avaliar respostas da frequência cardíaca (FC), pressão arterial sistólica (PAS) e diastólica (PAD) e duplo produto (DP) em sessões de treino compostas por exercícios poliarticulares (STP) e monoarticulares (STM). Métodos: A amostra foi composta por 12 homens. As intervenções tiveram quatro exercícios de força (EF) distintos, com três séries de oito a dez repetições máximas. Resultados: Na PAS, a STP proporcionou incrementos inferiores à STM (p < 0,001). Observou-se efeito do momento para FC (p < 0,001) e PAD (p < 0,001). A PAD diminui após o aquecimento e teve menor valor no penúltimo EF. No DP, indica-se efeito do treino (p = 0,002), com valores inferiores para STP. Conclusão: STP proporcionou menor estresse cardiovascular e maior resposta hipotensiva quando comparada com a STM.

Abstract Objective: To evaluate responses of heart rate (HR), systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP), as well as the double product (DP) in multi- (MJ) and single-joint (SJ) strength training sessions. Methods: The sample was composed by 12 mans. Interventions had four different exercises in each day, three sets of eight to ten repetitions. Results: About SBP, MJ provided lower increments in relation to the SJ (p < 0.001). There was effect of the moment for HR (p < 0.001) and for DPB (p < 0.001). The PAD decreases after warm up and had smaller value in the penultimate exercise. For DP, was shown lower training effect for the multi-joint sessions (p = 0.002). Conclusions: MJ provided lower stress and greater cardiovascular hypotensive response when compared to SJ.

Resumen Objetivo: Evaluar las respuestas de la frecuencia cardiaca (FC), presión arterial sistólica (PAS) y presión arterial diastólica (PAD), y doble producto (DP) en sesiones de fuerza poliarticular (SEP) y monoarticular (SEM). Métodos: La muestra estuvo compuesta por 12 hombres. Las intervenciones tuvieron cuatro ejercicios separados con tres series de 8 a 10 repeticiones máximas. Resultados: En la PAS, la SEP proporciona incrementos inferiores a la SEM (p < 0,001). Se observó un efecto del momento del análisis para la FC (p < ,001) y para la PAD (p < 0,001). La PAD disminuyó después del calentamiento y tuvo menor valor en el penúltimo ejercicio. En DP se indicó un efecto del entrenamiento con SEP que proporcionó valores inferiores (p = 0,002). Conclusiones: La SEP proporciona menos estrés y mayor respuesta hipotensiva cardiovascular en comparación con la SEM.

Cyanobacterial nitrogenases: phylogenetic diversity, regulation and functional predictions

Abstract Cyanobacteria is a remarkable group of prokaryotic photosynthetic microorganisms, with several genera capable of fixing atmospheric nitrogen (N2) and presenting a wide range of morphologies. Although the nitrogenase complex is not present in all cyanobacterial taxa, it is spread across several cyanobacterial strains. The nitrogenase complex has also a high theoretical potential for biofuel production, since H2 is a by-product produced during N2 fixation. In this review we discuss the significance of a relatively wide variety of cell morphologies and metabolic strategies that allow spatial and temporal separation of N2 fixation from photosynthesis in cyanobacteria. Phylogenetic reconstructions based on 16S rRNA and nifD gene sequences shed light on the evolutionary history of the two genes. Our results demonstrated that (i) sequences of genes involved in nitrogen fixation (nifD) from several morphologically distinct strains of cyanobacteria are grouped in similarity with their morphology classification and phylogeny, and (ii) nifD genes from heterocytous strains share a common ancestor. By using this data we also discuss the evolutionary importance of processes such as horizontal gene transfer and genetic duplication for nitrogenase evolution and diversification. Finally, we discuss the importance of H2 synthesis in cyanobacteria, as well as strategies and challenges to improve cyanobacterial H2 production.

Thermostability of xylanolytic enzymes produced by Lentinula edodes UFV70

Xylanolytic enzymes produced by Lentinula edodes UFV70, cultivated in eucalyptus sawdust/rice bran medium, were stable at 50, 60 and 65ºC for 21 hours, losing only 15-25% activity. Fungus incubation at 50ºC for 12 hours and at 65ºC for 24 hours increased the amount of xylose produced.

Does the evaluation of coagulation factors contribute to etiological diagnosis of pleural effusions?

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to identify the participation of the coagulation system in the differential diagnosis of pleural effusions. INTRODUCTION: Imbalance between immunologic and metabolic factors triggers a sequence of events resulting in pleural reactions and accumulation of fluid. The coagulation system, which is fundamental for the maintenance of homeostasis, contributes to the inflammatory process responsible for pleural effusions, and participates in cellular proliferation and migration as well as in the synthesis of inflammatory mediators. METHODS: We evaluated the laboratory profile of coagulation and fibrinolysis in 54 pleural fluids (15 transudates and 39 exudates). RESULTS: The coagulation system acts according to the pathophysiologic mechanisms involved in the development of pleural effusions. In inflammatory effusions (exudates), there is activation of coagulation with increased levels of fragment 1+2 and thrombin-antithrombin complex in addition to reduction of fibrinogen levels due to fibrinolysis and fibrin tissue incorporation. As a consequence, there is activation of the fibrinolytic system with increased levels of fibrin degradation products, including the D-dimer. These changes are not sufficient for differentiation of different subgroups of exudates. In transudates, these events were observed to a lesser degree. CONCLUSION: The coagulation system plays an important role in the development of pleural diseases. Coagulation tests show differences between transudates and exudates but not among exudate subgroups. Understanding the physiopathological mechanisms of pleural disorders may help to define new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.

Quilotórax / Chylothorax

O quilotórax, normalmente secundário a doenças malignas, trauma, doenças congênitas, infecções e trombose da veia cava superior, é uma causa pouco freqüente de derrame pleural. O diagnóstico e tratamento precoces são importantes no sentido de prevenir a mais temida conseqüência do quilotórax, a má nutrição e conseqüente comprometimento do estado imunológico.

Chylothorax, an uncommon cause of pleural effusion, is usually secondary to malignancy, trauma, congenital diseases, infections and superior vena cava thrombosis. The early diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent the most fearful consequence of chylothorax, the malnutrition with a compromised immunological status.

Pleurodese: técnica e indicações / Pleurodesis: technique and indications

O derrame pleural recidivante é uma situação clínica comum que compromete a qualidade de vida dos pacientes, em especial dos portadores de doença oncológica em estágio avançado. A abordagem terapêutica do espaço pleural é variada, incluindo procedimentos agressivos como a pleurectomia. A pleurodese é a técnica mais freqüentemente utilizada, podendo ser induzida tanto através da inserção de cateteres pleurais, como por procedimentos cirúrgicos amplos (toracotomia). São vários os agentes esclerosantes indicados, incluindo o talco, que é o mais utilizado, o nitrato de prata e recentemente as citocinas proliferativas. Este artigo resume as principais abordagens do derrame pleural recidivante e particularmente da pleurodese, suas indicações, vantagens e desvantagens para a aplicação na prática diária do pneumologista.

Recurrent pleural effusion, which is commonly seen in clinical practice, compromises patient quality of life, especially in patients with advanced malignant disease. The therapeutic approach to the pleural space involves a wide range of techniques, including aggressive procedures such as pleurectomy. Among such techniques, pleurodesis is the most frequently used. Pleurodesis can be induced through the insertion of pleural catheters, as well as through major surgical procedures (such as thoracotomy). There are various recommended sclerosing agents, including talc (which is the most widely used), silver nitrate and, recently, proliferative cytokines. This article summarizes the principal approaches to the treatment of recurrent pleural effusion, pleurodesis in particular, addressing the indications for, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of, their application in daily pulmonology practice.

Linfoma primário de cavidade pleural em paciente imunocompetente / Primary effusion lymphoma in an immunocompetent patient

O linfoma primário de cavidade é um tipo raro de linfoma não-Hodgkin que acomete principalmente pacientes imunocomprometidos e, mais raramente, pacientes imunocompetentes. Neste relato de caso são apresentados os achados clínicos e laboratoriais de um paciente imunocompetente com derrame pleural diagnosticado como linfoma primário de cavidade pleural.

Primary effusion lymphoma is an unusual non-Hodgkin's lymphoma rarely seen in immunocompetent patients. Herein, we present clinical and biochemical data obtained from an immunocompetent patient diagnosed with primary effusion lymphoma.

Pleurodesis induced by intrapleural injection of silver nitrate or talc in rabbits: can it be used in humans?

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the pleuropulmonary alterations caused by intrapleural injection of silver nitrate or talc in an experimental model, in order to consider its use in human beings. METHOD: 112 rabbits were randomly selected to receive intrapleural 0.5 percent silver nitrate or 400 mg/kg talc slurry in 2 ml saline. Eight rabbits of each group were sacrificed after 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, or 12 months. Regarding the pleural cavity, the degree of macroscopic pleurodesis (adherences) and microscopic alterations, represented by inflammation and pleural fibrosis, were analyzed. The parenchyma was evaluated regarding the degree of alveolar collapse, intra-alveolar septum edema, and cellularity, on a 0 to 4 scale. RESULTS: Intrapleural injection of silver nitrate produced earlier and more intense pleurodesis than talc slurry injection. The parenchymal damage was more evident with silver nitrate, considered as moderate, and limited to the first evaluation (after one month). From the second month on and throughout the entire one-year follow-up, the parenchymal damage was similar with both substances, only the pleural adherences were more intense with silver nitrate. CONCLUSIONS: Intrapleural silver nitrate produces better and longer-lasting than intrapleural talc injection. The parenchymal alterations, although discreet, are more pronounced when silver nitrate is used, but minimal after two months, and similar to those produced by talc injection during the entire one-year observation period. These effects on the pulmonary parenchyma do not contraindicate the use in humans. Thus, the use of intrapleural silver nitrate to produce fast and effective pleurodesis can be considered in patients in which pleural cavity symphysis is desired.

Reexpansion pulmonary edema

Reexpansion pulmonary edema (RPE) is a rare, but frequently lethal, clinical condition. The precise pathophysiologic abnormalities associated with this disorder are still unknown, though decreased pulmonary surfactant levels and a pro-inflammatory status are putative mechanisms. Early diagnosis is crucial, since prognosis depends on early recognition and prompt treatment. Considering the high mortality rates related to RPE, preventive measures are still the best available strategy for patient handling. This review provides a brief overview of the pathophysiology, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of RPE, with practical recommendations for adequate intervention.

Pleurodese: perspectivas futuras / Pleurodesis: future prospects

Apesar de estarmos completando praticamente um século desde a realização da primeira pleurodese, a metodologia não está consensualmente definida. A tendência atual de executarmos procedimentos minimamente invasivos estimulou novas pesquisas com o objetivo de reduzir a agressão, incluindo o uso de novas substâncias, a colocação de drenos mais finos e a redução ou abolição da necessidade de internação hospitalar. Dentre as drogas esclerosantes, o talco tem a preferência mundial. Entretanto, o possível desenvolvimento da síndrome da angústia respiratória, por vezes fatal, fez renascer o interesse por outras drogas. Os quimioterápicos não têm evidente efeito esclerosante e originam importantes efeitos colaterais. Os agentes irritantes hidróxido de sódio e nitrato de prata produzem pleurodese efetiva. Ambos podem ser utilizados em seres humanos

Effectiveness of silver nitrate compared to talc slurry as pleural sclerosing agent in rabbits: influence of concomitant intrapleural lidocaine

The ideal agent for producing pleurodesis has not been identified. Talc, the most commonly used, poses several problems. Another possibility is silver nitrate, which was widely used in the past. PURPOSE: To determine the influence of the intrapleural instillation of lidocaine in producing a pleurodesis with silver nitrate, to define the effect of lidocaine in the maturation of the collagen fibers, and to confirm that the pleurodesis after silver nitrate is stronger than after talc. METHODS: We studied three groups of 8 rabbits. Two groups received 0.5 percent silver nitrate; in one we had previously injected 0.5 ml of 2 percent lidocaine. The third group received 400 mg/kg talc (2 ml). The animals were sacrificed 28 days after the injection, and the pleural spaces were assessed grossly for evidence of pleurodesis and microscopically for evidence of inflammation and fibrosis. The total amount of pleural collagen and the distribution of thick and thin collagen fibers were quantified. Collagen was identified using picrosirius red stain. RESULTS: In the two groups that received silver nitrate (without lidocaine: 3.5 + 03 and with lidocaine: 3.2 + 0.3), the macroscopic pleurodesis (scale 0 3/4 4) was significantly (p = 0.001) better than that resulting from talc (1.6 + 0.2). The mean degree of pleural fibrosis induced by silver nitrate (3.5 + 0.2) was significantly (p = 0.004) higher than that induced by talc (1.9 + 0.1). The previous instillation of lidocaine resulted in a tendency for decreased amounts of fibrosis (3.1 + 0.4). The mean amount (10(3)mm2) of pleural collagen was significantly (p = 0.009) greater in the rabbits that received silver nitrate (116.9 + 22.7) than in those that received talc (10.7 + 3.4). The injection of lidocaine slightly reduced the collagen (80.1 + 30.3). The distribution of collagen fibers did not differ among the groups. CONCLUSION: This rabbit model clearly confirms that intrapleural silver nitrate is more effective than talc for producing pleurodesis. The previous intrapleural instillation of lidocaine results in a decreasing trend in the amount of collagen, but does not change the effectiveness of the pleural fusion or modify the process of collagen maturation.

Terapia de reposiçäo hormonal pós-menopausa: efeitos sobre os fatores de risco e incidência de doenças cardiovasculares / Postmenopausal hormone replacement therapy

Entre os objetivos da terapia de reposiçäo de hormônios sexuais femininos em mulheres peri e pós-menopáusicas destaca-se a prevençäo de doença cardiovascular. Inexistem estudos randomizados que subsidiem o uso de estrógenos isolados ou associados a progestágenos neste contexto. Os autores revisam as evidências provenientes de estudos observacionais e de ensaios clínicos que avaliam os efeitos sobre desfechos intermediários (lipoproteínas) concluem que enquando se aguardam os estudos definitivos, parece adequado indicar terapia de reposiçäo hormonal após a menopausa com a associaçäo de estrógenos e progestágenos com o intuito de prevenir doença cardiovascular, respeitando suas contraindicaçöes