Effect of magnesium sulfate with ketamine infusions on intraoperative and postoperative analgesia in cancer breast surgeries: a randomized double-blind trial

Abstract Background Opioids are the cornerstone in managing postoperative pain; however, they have many side effects. Ketamine and Magnesium (Mg) are NMDA receptor antagonists used as adjuvant analgesics to decrease postoperative opioid consumption. Objective We assumed that adding Mg to ketamine infusion can improve the intraoperative and postoperative analgesic efficacy of ketamine infusion alone in cancer breast surgeries. Methods Ninety patients aged between 18 and 65 years and undergoing elective cancer breast surgery were included in this prospective randomized, double-blind study. Group K received ketamine 0.5 mg.kg-1 bolus then 0.12 mg.kg-1.h-1 infusion for the first 24 hours postoperatively. Group KM: received ketamine 0.5 mg.kg-1 and Mg sulfate 50 mg.kg-1, then ketamine 0.12 mg.kg-1.h-1 and Mg sulfate 8 mg.kg-1.h-1 infusions for the first 24 hours postoperative. The primary outcome was the morphine consumption in the first 24 hours postoperative, while the secondary outcomes were: intraoperative fentanyl consumption, NRS, side effects, and chronic postoperative pain. Results Group KM had less postoperative opioid consumption (14.12 ± 5.11 mg) than Group K (19.43 ± 6.8 mg). Also, Group KM had less intraoperative fentanyl consumption. Both groups were similar in postoperative NRS scores, the incidence of side effects related to opioids, and chronic neuropathic pain. Conclusion Adding Mg to ketamine infusion can safely improve intraoperative and postoperative analgesia with opioid-sparing effect in cancer breast surgery.

Knowledge about recommendations for physical activity and personal practices of primary health care professionals / Conhecimento sobre as recomendações de atividades física e prática pessoal de profissionais da atenção primária em saúde

ABSTRACT Since the recommendations of moderate-to vigorous physical activity (PA) for health constitute important information to be shared in counseling practice, the present study was aimed to evaluate the level of knowledge of health professionals about the international PA recommendations for adults and elderly and to verify if there are associations between PA motivation with leisure time PA, readiness to change behavior and body mass index (BMI) of these professionals. In 2021, a questionnaire was applied remotely with health professionals from Brazilian health system. The survey had 34 participants, who answered sociodemographic and health questions, knowledge about international PA recommendations for adults and the elderly, PA duration, behavioral stage and motivations for PA practice. Of the five questions that assessed the knowledge of professionals, three had the highest prevalence of wrong answers, and professionals who have a more internal motivation to practice PA showed a significant association with reaching the minimum PA and eutrophic BMI recommendations. Professional qualification is important, together with encouragement to practice PA, through contents that consider internal motivations.

RESUMO Visto que as recomendações de atividade física (AF) moderadas e vigorosas para a saúde se constituem como uma importante informação a ser compartilhada no aconselhamento sobre AF, o presente estudo teve como objetivos avaliar o nível de conhecimento de profissionais da saúde sobre as recomendações internacionais de AF para adultos e idosos e verificar se existem associações entre a motivação para a prática de AF com o tempo de AF no lazer, o estágio de prontidão à mudança de comportamento e o índice de massa corporal (IMC) destes profissionais. Para isso, em 2021 foi aplicado, de maneira remota, um questionário com profissionais de saúde. A pesquisa contou com 34 participantes, que responderam questões sociodemográficas, de saúde, conhecimento sobre as recomendações internacionais de AF para adultos e idosos, tempo de AF, estágio comportamental e motivações para a prática de AF. Das cinco questões que avaliaram o conhecimento dos profissionais, três tiveram a maior prevalência de respostas erradas e, os profissionais que possuem uma motivação mais interna para a prática de AF apresentaram associação significativa com atingir as recomendações mínimas de AF e IMC eutrófico. É importante a qualificação profissional aliada ao incentivo à prática de AF, por meio de conteúdos que considerem motivações internas.

Forms of non-neoplastic colonic biopsies: Histopathological Interpretation of five years observation.

Colorectal troubles are frequently common in medical practice ranging from mild nonspecific complaints to serious suffering. Colonic mucosal biopsies are considering one of the diagnostic tool in the evaluation of patients with colorectal pathologies. The objectives of this study are focusing for interpretation various spectrum of colonoscopic biopsies and to provide a guide to the plan of management strategy. This retrospective study was including 250 colonoscopic biopsies collected during the from December 2015 through January 2020. Among them 160 cases were of the Non-Inflammatory Bowel Disease Colitis (NIBDC) entities whereas, remaining 90 cases were Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). Among the first one, 100 (40%) cases were Non-specific colitis, 13 (5.2%) bacterial colitis, 2 (0.8%) collagenous colitis, 15 (6%) hyperplastic polyp, 5 (2%) Peutz-Jeuger's polyps, 5 (2%) solitary rectal ulcer, 4 (1.6%) eosinophilic colitis, 3 (1.2%) Juvenile polyp, and 3 (1.2%) were melanosis coli, and remaining 10 (4%) cases were unremarkable. In regard to the IBD, 60 cases (24%) were ulcerative colitis and 30 (12%) Crohn disease. Majority of colonic troubles are linked to non-specific pathologies whereas, IBD is considering the second detectable colonic lesions in our study.

A comparative evaluation of the sealing ability of two calcium silicate based sealers and a resin epoxy-based sealer through scanning electron microscopy and bond strength: an in vitro study

Aim: this study aimed to compare the sealing ability of two types of commercially available calcium silicate bioceramic based root canal sealers and a resin based root canal sealer. Methods: Twenty one single-rooted teeth were used, samples (n= 21) were randomly divided into three groups according to the sealer used (group A; ADSEAL, group B; Wellroot, group C; Ceraseal). Roots were then cleaved longitudinally in the labiolingual direction; all samples were then sectioned at three, six, and nine mm from the root tip. The penetration of sealers into the dentinal tubules was examined at 1000x with a scanning electron microscope. Data were tested for normality using Shapiro Wilk test. ANOVA test was used for analyzing normally distributed data followed by Bonferroni post hoc test for pair-wise comparison. Significance level p≤0.001. Results: groups B and C showed better sealing ability than group A in all the three sections. The coronal section showed higher sealing ability than the middle section followed by the apical section in the three tested groups. Conclusion: it can be concluded that both calcium silicate-based sealers had better sealing ability and higher bond strength than the resin epoxy- based sealer

Dropout predictors at gyms: a retrospective study / Preditores de abandono em academias: um estudo retrospectivo / Predictores de abandono en gimnasios: un estudio retrospectivo

ABSTRACT This study aimed to verify the risk factors associated with gym regulars' dropout over 12 months. This is an observational, retrospective, cohort study. The sample consisted of two gyms (Gym 1: n=2027, age=39.1 ±13.1 years; Gym 2: n=1775, age=36.8 ±11.6 years). Each participant was followed up for 12 months, or until dropout, by controlling the biometric entry system using a turnstile. The adherence rate was of 11% at Gym 1 and 19% at Gym 2. At both gyms, training frequency ≤3x/month and 4-6x/month was associated with dropout. At gym 1, being a female, aged ≥43 years, and enrollment between October and December were dropout predictors. At Gym 2, dropout was associated with contract length ≤31 days and 32-186 days and enrollment between April and December.

RESUMO Este estudo teve objetivo verificar os fatores de risco associados ao abandono durante 12 meses. Este é um estudo observacional de coorte retrospectivo. A amostra consistiu de duas academias (Academia 1: n=2027, idade=39,1±13,1 anos; Academia 2: n=1775, idade=36,8±11,6 anos). Cada participante foi acompanhado por 12 meses ou até o abandono, pelo controle do sistema de entrada biométrica, usando uma catraca. A taxa de aderência foi 11% na academia 1 e 19% na academia 2. Em ambas as academias, frequência de treino ≤3x/mês e 4-6x/mês foi associada ao abandono. Na academia 1, ser mulher, idade ≥43 anos, e matrícula ocorrendo entre outubro-dezembro foram preditores de abandono. Na academia 2, o abandono foi associado com duração do contrato ≤31 dias e entre 32-186 dias, e matrícula ocorrendo entre abril-dezembro.

RESUMEN El objetivo del estudio fue verificar los factores de riesgo asociados al abandono durante 12 meses. Este es un estudio observacional de cohorte retrospectiva. La muestra estuvo constituida por dos gimnasios (Gimnasio 1: n = 2027, edad=39,1±13,1 años; Gimnasio 2: n=1775, edad = 36,8±11,6 años). Se realizó un seguimiento de cada participante durante 12 meses o hasta el abandono, controlando el sistema de entrada biométrico, mediante un trinquete. La tasa de adherencia fue del 11% en el gimnasio 1 y del 19% en el gimnasio 2. En ambos gimnasios, frecuencia de entrenamiento ≤3x/mes y 4-6x/mes se asoció con el abandono. En el gimnasio 1, ser mujer, edad ≥43 años, y la matrícula realizada entre octubre-diciembre fueron predictores de abandono. En el gimnasio 2, abandono se asoció con una duración del contrato ≤31 días y entre 32-186 días, y la matrícula realizada entre abril-diciembre.

What is the effect of vigorous exercise on the brain?

Abstract Aims: This study aimed to verify whether vigorous exercise is capable of generating mental fatigue. Methods: To do so, 16 young adult male (29.4 ± 5.2 years old) cyclists (5.4 ± 4.6 years of training) underwent three visits: 1) control session (rest); 2) session with cognitive demand (20 minutes of AX-CPT); 3) session with vigorous exercise (10km time trial). Mental fatigue was assessed using the visual analog scale of fatigue in the pre-and post-session moments. A two-way ANOVA of repeated measures followed by the Bonferroni posthoc was used to verify the effect of the condition (control, cognitive demand, and exercise) and time (pre and post) interaction. The paired "t" test was used to compare the delta of mental fatigue (post - pre) of the sessions. The partial eta squared was used to determine the effect size of the variance. The significance adopted was p < 0.05. Results: A condition x time interaction was observed (F (2.30) = 5.349, p = 0.010, partial η2 = 0.263). When comparing the deltas, a mean difference was found between the control and vigorous exercise (p = 0.033) conditions and cognitive demand and vigorous exercise (p = 0.017) conditions. Control and cognitive demand sessions showed no difference (p = 0.801). Conclusion: The findings suggest that intense physical exercise seems to cause mental fatigue after practice.

Soaking oro-pharyngeal pack with triamcinolone acetonide lowers discomfort in functional endoscopic sinus surgeries / Pack orofaringeo con triamcinolone disminuye molestias luego de cirugía endoscópica sinusal

BACKGROUND: Postoperative sore throat (POST) is defined as pain or discomfort in the throat following general anesthesia. Throat packs are used by many surgical subspecialties for different benifits, however they may increase the incidence of POST. Many interventions can be used to decrease incidence of POST. Triamcinolone acetonide (TA) is a moderately potent topical corticosteroid preparation. In this study, we hypothesized that soaking the throat pack with TA may decrease POST. METHODS AND MATERIAL: This prospective interventional comparative study was performed on 54 patients planned for Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgeries (FEES) surgery. After endotracheal intubation, a standard length of oro-pharyngeal pack was placed, then patients were randomly allocated into: Group I: Oro-pharyngeal packs were soaked with 15 mg Triamcinolone acetonide 0.1% and Group II: packs were soaked with the same volume of lubricating gel (K-Y gel®). The patients were postoperatively asked about: sore throat, dysphagia, hoarseness of voice and nausea and vomiting. RESULTS: Thirty minutes and 24 hours after extubation, Group I patients showed lower but statistically insignificant sore throat scores. Two to six hours after extubation, Group I showed a statistically significant reduction in sore throat scores. Six patients suffered dysphagia in group I compared with 8 patients in group II. Hoarseness of voice occurred in 1 patient in group I and 3 patients in group II. No patient complained of nausea or vomiting. cONCLUSIÓN: Soaking oropharyngeal pack with triamcinolone acetonide in orabase gel was able to decrease POST in FESS patients.

Self-selected exercise intensity for inactive hypertensive older women: a pilot study / Exercício em intensidade autosselecionada para mulheres idosas hipertensas inativas: um estudo piloto

Self-selected exercise intensity (SSE) is a simple approach to encourage an active lifestyle. This study aimed to investigate whether a SSE session meet the recommended intensity for hypertension management (i.e. moderate-vigorous), and whether heart rate (HR), rating of perceived exertion (RPE) and affective responses are reproducible. Thirteen inactive hypertensive older women (age: 64.54 ± 4.16 years; blood pressure: 122.51/62.15 mmHg) performed two 30-minute SSE sessions outdoors. HR reserve (HRR), RPE and affective responses were assessed. Paired t-test, intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and typical error (TE) were used for the analyzes. Participants exercised at moderate-vigorous intensity (≥ 40% of HRR). No differences were found for HRR (56.46 ± 8.01% vs. 59.08 ± 10.57%), RPE (11.26 ± 1.14 vs. 10.98 ± 1.52) and affective response (3.47 ± 1.13 vs. 3.38 ± 1.23) (p > 0.05). RPE showed excellent reliability (ICC = 0.82; 95%CI: 0.42; 0.94; p = 0.003). There was a poor reliability for HRR (ICC = 0.40; 95%CI: -0.97; 0.82; p = 0.193) and affective responses (ICC = 0.19; 95%CI: -2.10; 0.76; p = 0.369). TE between sessions for HRR, RPE, and affective response were 8.11 bpm, 0.75 and 1.11, respectively. In conclusion, inactive hypertensive older women seem to meet the recommended intensity for hypertension management when they exercise at a self-selected pace and report it as light-moderate and pleasant. Despite only RPE, but not HR and affective response, has shown good reproducibility, the results seem to support the use of SSE as a simple approach to encourage an active lifestyle in this population

O exercício em intensidade autosselecionada (EIA) é uma abordagem simples para encorajar um estilo de vida ativo. Este estudo investigou se o EIA atende a intensidade recomendada para tratamento de hiperten-são (i.e. moderada-vigorosa), e se a frequência cardíaca (FC), percepção de esforço (PSE) e resposta afetiva são reprodutíveis. Treze mulheres idosas hipertensas inativas (idade: 64,54 ± 4,16 anos; pressão arterial: 122,51/62,15 mmHg) realizaram duas sessões de EIA de 30 minutos ao ar livre. FC de reserva (FCR), PSE e resposta afetiva foram avaliadas. Teste t pareado, coeficiente de correção intraclasse (CCI) e erro tí-pico (ET) foram analisados. As participantes se exercitaram em intensidade moderada-vigorosa (≥ 40% da FCR). Não houve diferença na FCR (56,46 ± 8,01% vs. 59,08 ± 10,57%), PSE (11,26 ± 1,14 vs. 10,98 ± 1,52) e resposta afetiva (3,47 ± 1,13 vs. 3,38 ± 1,23; p > 0,05). A PSE apresentou excelente confiabilidade (CCI = 0,82; IC95%: 0,42; 0,94; p = 0,003). Houve baixa confiabilidade da FCR (CCI = 0,40; IC95%: -0,97; 0,82; p = 0,193) e resposta afetiva (CCI = 0,19; IC95%: -2,10; 0,76; p = 0,369). O ET foi de 8,11 bpm, 0,75 e 1,11 para FCR, PSE e resposta afetiva, respectivamente. Em conclusão, mulheres idosas hipertensas inativas parecem atender a intensidade recomendada para tratamento da hipertensão quando realizam EIA e relatam a atividade como leve-moderada e prazerosa. Embora apenas a PSE, e não a FCR e resposta afetiva, tenha mostrado boa reprodutibilidade, os resultados parecem suportar o EIA como uma abordagem simples para encorajar um estilo de vida ativo nessa população

Impact of Postoperative Radiotherapy in the Survival of Patients Diagnosed with Advanced Lung Cancer Stages: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Purpose: The aim of our study was to evaluate the impact of postoperative radiotherapy on the survival of lung cancer patients diagnosed with advanced carcinoma stages. Methods: We carried out a retrospective cohort study that consists of patients diagnosed with lung cancer from SEER database. The total analytical sample number of the study (n=130,291) was divided into two groups in regards to receiving Postoperative radiotherapy (PORT); intervention group (n=12,411) who received PORT and control group (n=117,880) who did not receive PORT. Chi-square test and Kaplan Meier method were used for performing the statistical analysis. Results: Observed survival rate of the intervention group, estimated by Kaplan-Meier method was found to be (76%, CI 95%), (65%, CI 95%), and (39%, CI 95%) for stages IIIA, IIIB and IV lung cancer respectively in comparison to the survival rates for patients with the same stages in the control group (55%, CI 95%), (45%, CI 95%), and (24%, CI 95%), respectively. Conclusion: Significant positive impact of postoperative adjuvant radiotherapy was noted on the overall survival of patients diagnosed with advanced lung cancer stages IIIA, IIIB and IV (p<0.05).

Phytochemical studies and anti-ulcerative colitis effect of Moringa oleifera seeds and Egyptian propolis methanol extracts in a rat model

Objective: To analyze the phytochemical constituents, and to explore potential protective effect of the methanol extract of Moringa oleifera (M. oleifera) seeds and Egyptian propolis, each alone or concurrently administered on acetic acid-induced ulcerative colitis in rats. Methods: Eight groups of 5 rats each were used: normal control group with distilled water, model group, two groups with M. oleifera seeds (100 and 200 mg/kg), two groups with propolis (50 and 100 mg/kg), one group with concurrent administration of both, and one group with prednisolone (reference drug). Macro-and microscopic picture, ulcer index and lesion scores, oxidative markers, inflammatory mediators, in vitro activity of the inflammatory enzymes and 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl free radicals scavenging activity were evaluated. The phytochemical constituents of both extracts were explored by GC-MS analysis. Results: Both treatments modulated the macro-and microscopic picture, decreased the ulcerative index, lesion score, oxidative markers and inflammatory mediators, and inhibited the COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes. Propolis appeared to be powerful free radicals scavenger. A powerful synergistic effect of both treatments in modulating the course of the disease was reported. GC-MS analysis of methanol extract of M. oleifera seeds and propolis revealed the presence of 50 and 34 compounds, respectively. Conclusions: M. oleifera seeds and propolis methanol extracts have modulated the course of acetic acid-induced ulcerative colitis. Moreover, both treatments induce a good synergistic effect against the disease. Isolation of the active constituents is recommended.

Decolorization of Cibacron Blue 3G-A Dye by Agaricus bisporus CU13 Laccase - Mediator System: A Statistical Study for Optimization via Response Surface Methodology

Aim: the present study aims to optimize Cibacron Blue 3G-A decolorization as a model dye through laccase ‎enzymatic biocatalysis presenting the role of HBT as a redox mediator via ‎RSM approach.‎ Study Design: RSM using Central Composite Design (CCD) was used in order to determine the most effective variables levels in Cibacron Blue 3G-A decolorization and to investigate their interactions. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Microbial Chemistry, Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research Division, National Research Centre (NRC), Cairo, Egypt, between August 2017 and January 2018. Methodology: The evaluation of Cibacron Blue 3G-A decolorization by A. bisporus CU13 crude laccase was conducted through different trials using a 1.5 mL reaction mixture containing different concentration of crude laccase, Cibacron Blue 3G-A, and HBT in 0.1 M sodium citrate buffer (pH 4.5) at room temperature for different incubation periods. Results: Hydroxybenzotriazole (HBT) as a mediator enhanced Cibacron Blue 3G-A decolorization levels significantly, where decolorization percentage caused by laccase enzyme alone were ‎11.92 and ‎23.78%, ‎whereas that caused by laccase HBT mediator system under the same conditions were 43.43 and ‎76.34% after 1 and 22 h of incubation, respectively. HBT concentration, dye concentration, enzyme activity, and incubation time were chosen as study variables to optimize Cibacron Blue 3G-A dye decolorization through RSM approach via central composite design (CCD). The optimum conditions for Cibacron Blue 3G-A decolorization were found to be under using 0.50 U/mL of Agaricus bisporus CU13 laccase, 92.19 ppm of Cibacron Blue 3G-A, and 1 mM of HBT in order to get decolorization percentage of 29.29% in 35 min. Conclusion: Agaricus bisporus CU13 crude laccase was used as a biocatalyst to decolorize Cibacron Blue 3G-A in presence of HBT as a mediator through utilizing the response surface methodology approach. HBT concentration, dye concentration, enzyme activity, ‎and incubation time affects the decolorization levels considerably.

Phylogeny and Detection of blaTEM, blaSHV, blaCTX-M Genes in Escherichia coli Isolates from Patients with Urinary Tract Infections in Taif Hospitals, Saudi Arabia

Background: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) represent one of the most common diseases that are encountered in clinical practice and are caused mainly by Escherichia coli (E. coli). Aims: The objectives of this study were to identify and compare the blaTEM, blaSHV and blaCTX-M as marker of beta-lactamase genes in E. coli strains isolated from patients with UTIs collecting from King Abdul-Aziz hospital in Taif region, Saudi Arabia. Study Design: In vitro experimental and molecular study. Place and Duration of Study: Genetic engineering and biotechnology unit, Taif University, from September, 2016 to November, 2017. Methodology: Beta-lactame antibiotics are prescribed in most infectious disease including UTIs. Twenty one isolates identified as E. coli using microbial identification and confirmed by 16S rDNA. Results: These isolates were susceptible to Imipenem (100%), Ampicillin (90%) and Cefoxitin, but resistant to Cefepime (38%). Existance of selected bla-genes (blaTEM, blaSHV and blaCTX-M) were detected in the 21 isolates by PCR. Moreover, phylogeny tree was drawn based on 16S rDNA sequence. The results of this study show significant differences in susceptibility to different beta-lactam antibiotics among the bla-genes in E. coli isolates. Conclusion: Therefore, our findings instead of our data provide some new epidemiological information about the clonal nature of E. coli isolated from patients with UTIs in Taif region, KSA.

Periodontitis: A Cellular Tactic to Escape Cancer

During acute inflammation of gingiva (gingivitis), the cells can resist apoptosis and, at the same time, serve as a barrier to tumour formation. However, during chronic inflammation (periodontitis), the cells will undergo degradation which also helps in tumour restraining. Unlike the cellular senescence during cancer, periodontal cells undergo a unique senescence activity due to the microbial infection from the dental biofilm. The distinctive senescence activity of the inflamed periodontal cells results in the cell cycle arrest which leads to an inevitable degradation of periodontal tissues superpose the regeneration of them. If this activity is not resolved, continuous destruction of the supporting periodontal tissues may eventually result in the loss of teeth. In this mini-review, we discussed briefly the cellular senescence and its sequelae in periodontitis and cancer.

Molecular and Bacteriological Diagnosis of Mycoplasma Species Infection in Camels at Taif Governorate, Saudi Arabia

Aims: We designed this work to confirm if the PCR technique is more rapid and specific than traditional diagnostic method by culture. Study Design: In vitro experimental and molecular study. Place and Duration of Study: Genetic engineering and biotechnology unit, Taif University, Saudi Arabia from October, 2016 to September, 2017. Methodology: Ninety three nasal and tracheal swabs and lung samples were collected from camel in Taif slaughterhouse, Saudi Arabia. All samples were tested by culture and PCR method using universal primer of 16S rRNA gene. Results: There was no positive result obtained by culture method, but 30 (32.2%) of nasal swabs were positive using PCR method. Moreover, we used species-specific primers for Mycoplasma arginine, M. bovis and M. mycoides subspecies mycoides to identify the isolates at species level, but no positive results obtained with specific primers. These positive samples could be other Mycoplasma species. Conclusion: These results indicate that PCR technique is a specific molecular detection technique for Mycoplasma identification, and more sensitive test. These techniques are simple and fast methods to detect and isolate infected animals.

Prophylactic use of intraumbilical vein oxytocin in the management of third stage of labor

Background: the third stage of labor is defined as the period of time between delivery of the fetus and delivery of the placenta. The most common complication accompanying this stage is postpartum hemorrhage [PPH] and prolonged third stage of labor owing to placenta retention and uterine atony are among the underlying cause of most cases of PPH. The duration of the third stage of labor is 5-15 min

Aim: to assess the efficacy of intraumbilical vein oxytocin in reducing duration of third stage of labour and the amount of blood loss

Patients and Methods: this study included 150 women attending the delivery room of Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology which was divided according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria into two groups: Group A [study group]: include 75 cases which received 10 IU [1ml] of oxytocin in umbilical vein. Group B [control group]: include 75 cases which received 1ml of saline in umbilical vein

Results: the time of third stage took seconds in each group with no statistically significant difference detected [p>0.05]

Conclusion: intra-umbilical oxytocin is a useful alternative in patients where methylergometrine is contraindicated or in cases where intravenous fluids need to be restricted. For optimum effect, rapid injection immediately after clamping of the cord is essential

EFEITO DO ESFORÇO FÍSICO NO DESEMPENHO DE TIRO DE POLICIAIS MILITARES DO BATALHÃO DE CHOQUE / EFFECT OF PHYSICAL EFFORT ON SHOOTING PERFORMANCE OF MILITARY OFFICERS OF THE RIOT POLICE / EFECTO DEL ESFUERZO FÍSICO EN LA EJECUCIÓN DEL TIRO DE LOS POLICÍAS MILITARES DEL BATALLÓN ANTIDISTURBIOS

RESUMO Introdução: O uso de arma de fogo por policiais militares normalmente é precedido por perseguição a pé, e as alterações fisiológicas produzidas pelo esforço físico podem afetar o desempenho do tiro. Objetivo: Verificar o efeito do esforço físico sobre o desempenho de tiro em policiais militares. Métodos: A amostra foi constituída por 15 homens (34,1 ± 5,4 anos; 81,4 ± 8,8 kg; 171,3 ± 5,6 cm; 27,7 ± 2,3 kg/m²; 44,9 ± 4,0 ml.kg-1.min-1) do batalhão de choque da polícia militar. Na primeira sessão, os participantes realizaram um teste de esforço máximo em esteira no qual se mediu o consumo pico de oxigênio (VO2pico). Na segunda sessão, foi avaliado o desempenho (pontuação) e tempo de tiro pré e pós-esforço físico e o tempo gasto no circuito de corrida com obstáculos (297 m). O índice de eficiência de tiro foi calculado pela razão entre a pontuação total e tempo de execução de tiro. O teste de Shapiro-Wilk confirmou a normalidade da distribuição dos dados. Utilizou-se o teste t pareado para comparação das variáveis desfecho pré e pós-esforço e o coeficiente de correlação de Pearson. Resultados: O tempo para completar o percurso de corrida foi 75,3 ± 4,4 s. O desempenho (20,4 ± 11,4 vs. 17,6 ± 9,3 pontos), tempo (4,48 ± 1,1 vs. 4,23 ± 0,9 s) e eficiência de tiro (4,69 ± 2,7 vs. 4,35 ± 2,7 pts./s) não apresentaram diferenças significativas (P > 0,2). Além disso, detectou-se uma correlação entre o VO2pico e o tempo de execução da corrida (r = -0,64; P = 0,01), mas não com o desempenho de tiro (P > 0,05). Conclusão: O esforço físico não afeta o desempenho de tiro de policiais militares. Apesar de o nível de aptidão aeróbica não ser associado ao desempenho de tiro, foi associado ao desempenho físico realizado previamente aos disparos.

ABSTRACT Introduction: The use of firearms by military police officers is usually preceded by pursuit on foot, and the physiological changes produced by physical exertion may affect shooting performance. Objective: To verify the effect of physical effort on shooting performance in military police officers. Methods: The sample consisted of 15 men (34.1 ± 5.4 years; 81.4 ± 8.8 kg; 171.3 ± 5.6 cm; 27.7 ± 2.3 kg/m²; 44.9 ± 4.0 ml.kg-1.min-1) of the riot police. In the first session, the subjects performed a maximal treadmill stress test in which the peak oxygen consumption (VO2peak) was measured. In the second session, shooting performance (score) and shooting time were measured pre and post-exercise, as well as the time spent to complete a circuit of obstacle running (297 m). Shooting efficiency index was calculated as the ratio between total score and shooting time. The Shapiro-Wilk test confirmed the normal distribution of the data. A paired t-test was used to compare the post-exertion outcomes variables as well as the Pearson correlation coefficient. Results: The time to complete the running circuit was 75.3 ± 4.4 s. Shooting performance (20.4 ± 11.4 vs. 17.6 ± 9.3 points), time (4.48 ± 1.1 vs. 4.23 ± 0.9 s), and efficiency (4.69 ± 2.7 vs. 4.35 ± 2.7 pts/s) did not present significant differences (P>0.2). Additionally, a correlation was detected between VO2peak and running time (r = -0.64; P=0.01), but not with shooting performance (P>0.05). Conclusion: Physical exertion does not affect shooting performance of military police officers. Although the level of aerobic fitness was not associated with shooting performance, it was associated with physical performance prior to shooting.

RESUMEN Introducción: El uso de armas de fuego por los agentes de la policía militar suele ir precedido de persecución a pie, y los cambios fisiológicos inducidos por el esfuerzo físico pueden afectar el rendimiento de disparo. Objetivo: Determinar el efecto del esfuerzo físico en la ejecución del tiro de la policía militar. Métodos: La muestra consistió en 15 hombres (34,1 ± 5,4 años; 81,4 ± 8,8 kg; 171,3 ± 5,6 cm; 27,7 ± 2 3 kg/m²; 44,9 ± 4,0 ml.kg-1.min-1), del batallón antidisturbios de la policía militar. En la primera sesión, los participantes realizaron una prueba de esfuerzo máximo en una cinta rodante en la que se evaluó el pico de consumo de oxígeno (VO2pico). En la segunda sesión se evaluaron el rendimiento (puntuación) y el tiempo de disparo antes y después del esfuerzo físico y el tiempo trascurrido en el circuito de carrera con obstáculos (297 m). El índice de eficiencia de disparo se calculó como la relación entre la puntuación total y el tiempo de ejecución del tiro. La prueba de Shapiro-Wilk confirmó la distribución normal de los datos. Se utilizó la prueba t pareada para la comparación de las variables pre y post-esfuerzo y el coeficiente de correlación de Pearson. Resultados: El tiempo para completar el curso de la carrera fue de 75,3 ± 4,4 s. El rendimiento (20,4 ± 11,4 vs. 17,6 ± 9,3 puntos), el tiempo (4,48 ± 1,1 vs. 4,23 ± 0,9 s) y la eficiencia de disparo (4,69 ± 2,7 vs. 4,35 ± 2,7 pts./s) no mostraron diferencias significativas (P > 0,2). Por otra parte, hemos detectado una correlación entre VO2pico y el tiempo para completar el circuito de la carrera (r = -0,64; p = 0,01), pero no con el rendimiento de disparo (P > 0,05). Conclusión: El esfuerzo físico no afecta el rendimiento de tiro en los policías militares. Aunque el nivel de la capacidad aeróbica no esté asociado con el rendimiento de tiro, se asoció con el rendimiento físico antes de disparar.

Reliability of the 6-minute walk test and cardiac autonomic markers in active and sedentary older women / Reprodutibilidade do teste de caminhada de 6 minutos e marcadores autonômicos cardíacos em idosas ativas e sedentárias

Abstract The aim of this study was to examine the reliability of the 6-minute walk test (6MWT) and post-exercise cardiac autonomic markers in physically active and sedentary older women. Eighteen physically active older women (64.2±3.1 years; 63.0±2.7 kg; 1.52±0.06 m; 26.9±2.7 kg.m-2) who performed Tai Chi Chuan for at least 6 months, and 18 sedentary older women (64.0±3.7 years; 63.8±8.9 kg; 1.49±0.05 m; 28.4±3.5 kg.m-2) were submitted to 6MWT in two separate occasions. Immediately after 6MWT, heart rate recovery at one (HRR1’) and two minutes (HRR2’), as well as the heart rate variability (HRV) were recorded. Reliability was verified by intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) with 95% confidence interval, Bland-Altman plots were used as a measure of agreement, and coefficient of variation (CV) was calculated. High reliability (ICC=0.86) was found for performance in 6MWT (528.8 ± 71.4 m and 473.2 ± 62.4 m; CV=7.9 and VC=8.5%) in both groups. Likewise, high reliability (ICC≥0.84 and ICC≥0.80) was found for HRR 1’ (29.0±11.0 bpm and 17.0±8.0 bpm; VC=30.1% and VC =40.2%) and HRR 2’ (36.0±10.0 bpm and 24.0±9.0 bpm; VC =23.7% and VC =22.8%) in both groups. Regarding HRV, moderate reliability was found in the active group (CCI≥0.57; VC =35-47%), while moderate-high reliability was found in the sedentary group (CCI=0.65-0.76; VC=34-69%). Agreement was found for all variables analyzed. In conclusion, post-exercise 6MWT, HRR, and HRV are reliable tools to assess functional capacity and cardiac autonomic control in physically active and sedentary older women.

Resumo Objetivou-se verificar a reprodutibilidade do teste de caminhada de 6 minutos (TC6) e de marcadores autonômicos cardíacos pós-esforço em idosas fisicamente ativas e sedentárias. Dezoito idosas ativas (64,2 ± 3,1 anos; 63,0 ± 2,7 kg; 1,52 ± 0,06 m; 26,9 ± 2,7 kg.m-2) praticantes de Tai Chi Chuan (≥6 meses de prática) e 18 idosas sedentárias (64,0 ± 3,7 anos; 63,8 ± 8,9 kg; 1,49 ± 0,05 m; 28,4 ± 3,5 kg.m-2) foram submetidas a dois TC6 com uma semana de intervalo. Foram medidas a frequência cardíaca de recuperação (FCR) de um e dois minutos (FCR1’ e FCR2’, respectivamente) e variabilidade da frequência cardíaca (VFC) pós-esforço. A reprodutibilidade foi verificada pelos: coeficiente de correlação intraclasse (CCI) com 95% de intervalo de confiança; análise de concordância de Bland-Altman; e coeficiente de variação (CV). O desempenho no TC6 (528,8±71,4 m e 473,2±62,4 m; CV=7,9% e CV=8,5%) apresentou alta reprodutibilidade (CCI=0,86) em idosas ativas e sedentárias, respectivamente. Similarmente, as medidas pós-esforço da FCR1’ (29,0±11,0 bpm e 17,0±8,0 bpm; CV=30,1% e CV=40,2%) e FCR2’ (36,0±10,0 bpm e 24,0±9,0 bpm; CV=23,7% e CV=22,8%) apresentaram alta reprodutibilidade (CCI≥0,84 e CCI≥0,80) em ambos os grupos. Quanto a VFC verificou-se reprodutibilidade moderada (CCI≥0,57; CV=35-47%) em idosas ativas e moderada-alta nas sedentárias (CCI=0,65-0,76; CV=34-69%). Todas as variáveis apresentaram concordância em ambos os grupos. Conclui-se que o TC6, FCR e VFC pós-esforço são instrumentos reprodutíveis na avaliação da capacidade funcional e controle autonômico cardíaco em idosas ativas e sedentárias.

Production and characterization of polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) produced by Bacillus sp. isolated from Egypt.

Synthetic polymers are non-degradable and accumulated in the environment so, the efforts of scientists were forwarded to provide us with alternative environmentally biopolymers. Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) including polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) are Group of the interesting biopolymers which have several medical applications such as drug delivery, suture, scaffold and heart valves. PHAs are biological macromolecules, thermoplastics, biodegradable and biocompatible. In this study, new bacterial isolates from Egypt were screened for their ability to produce PHB using Nile red dye. Out of 44 isolates, 19 bacterial isolates were selected according to strong of their fluorescence on mineral salt medium (MSM) agar plates supplemented with Nile red. The most potent strain was identified using biochemical tests as Bacillus sp. N-2. Production of PHB was carried out in limitation of nitrogen source using a minimal salt medium (MSM) supplemented with an excess of glucose as sole carbon source. PHB was accumulated in relation to cell dry weight about 20% (PHB/CDW). The obtained biopolymer was purified and analyzed using NMR, FT-IR, TGA and DSC thus; it was highly pure and identified as PHB. Optimization of PHB production from cheap sources appears to be a realistic goal in the future for reducing the costs and obtaining high yield.

Development of thermo-sensitive poly N-isopropyl acrylamide grafted chitosan derivatives.

In this study, the thermo-sensitive copolymers were synthesized by graft copolymerization of poly N isopropyl acrylamide (PNIPAm) onto chitosan (Ch) and aminated chitosan (AmCh) derivative. Free radical polymerization using potassium persulphate (KPS) as initiator was used for performing the grafting process. FTIR, TGA and DSC analysis were used to verify the structure of the resulting graft copolymers. The thermal sensitivity of the prepared copolymers was determined by monitoring the phase transition temperature at 550nm using a UV–VIS spectrophotometer. The results show that the transition of the PNIPAm-g-Ch is sharper than that of the PNIPAm-g-AmCh and the tr-ansition, in both cases, became sharper as increase the PNIPAm grating percentage.