Considerations on the improvement of height benefit in children with central precocious puberty / 中国当代儿科杂志

With the changes in various factors such as genetics and the environment, the incidence of childhood precocious puberty has been gradually increasing. Improving height is one of the key issues in the clinical management of precocious puberty. Currently, gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogs (GnRHa) remain the preferred treatment for precocious puberty, but their effect on height improvement is influenced by multiple factors, which may result in lower-than-expected height benefits. Combining recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) therapy with GnRHa treatment is an alternative strategy to enhance the efficacy of GnRHa, but there is still no clear recommendation regarding the timing of their combination. Considering the current status of precocious puberty treatment, it is crucial to reevaluate the effects of GnRHa monotherapy and combination therapy with rhGH on height improvement. This article discusses strategies such as combination therapy indications to guide clinical medication and help children with precocious puberty achieve optimal height benefits.

A novel TNKS/USP25 inhibitor blocks the Wnt pathway to overcome multi-drug resistance in TNKS-overexpressing colorectal cancer

Modulating Tankyrases (TNKS), interactions with USP25 to promote TNKS degradation, rather than inhibiting their enzymatic activities, is emerging as an alternative/specific approach to inhibit the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Here, we identified UAT-B, a novel neoantimycin analog isolated from Streptomyces conglobatus, as a small-molecule inhibitor of TNKS-USP25 protein-protein interaction (PPI) to overcome multi-drug resistance in colorectal cancer (CRC). The disruption of TNKS-USP25 complex formation by UAT-B led to a significant decrease in TNKS levels, triggering cell apoptosis through modulation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Importantly, UAT-B successfully inhibited the CRC cells growth that harbored high TNKS levels, as demonstrated in various in vitro and in vivo studies utilizing cell line-based and patient-derived xenografts, as well as APCmin/+ spontaneous CRC models. Collectively, these findings suggest that targeting the TNKS-USP25 PPI using a small-molecule inhibitor represents a compelling therapeutic strategy for CRC treatment, and UAT-B emerges as a promising candidate for further preclinical and clinical investigations.

Pediatricians' focus of sight at pain assessment during a neonatal heel puncture / Foco do olhar do pediatra na avaliação da dor neonatal durante uma punção de calcanhar

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the focus of pediatricians' gaze during the heel prick of neonates. Methods: Prospective study in which pediatricians wearing eye tracker glasses evaluated neonatal pain before/after a heel prtick. Pediatricians scored the pain they perceived in the neonate in a verbal analogue numerical scale (0=no pain; 10=maximum pain). The outcomes measured were number and time of visual fixations in upper face, lower face, and hands, in two 10-second periods, before (pre) and after the puncture (post). These outcomes were compared between the periods, and according to pediatricians' pain perception: absent/mild (score: 0-5) and moderate/intense (score: 6-10). Results: 24 pediatricians (31 years old, 92% female) evaluated 24 neonates. The median score attributed to neonatal pain during the heel prick was 7.0 (Interquartile range: 5-8). Compared to pre-, in the post-periods, more pediatricians fixed their gaze on the lower face (63 vs. 92%; p=0.036) and the number of visual fixations was greater on the lower face (2.0 vs. 5.0; p=0.018). There was no difference in the number and time of visual fixations according to the intensity of pain. Conclusions: At bedside, pediatricians change their focus of attention on the neonatal face after a painful procedure, focusing mainly on the lower part of the face.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar o foco do olhar do pediatra durante a punção do calcanhar de neonatos. Métodos: Estudo prospectivo no qual pediatras, utilizando óculos de rastreamento visual, avaliaram a dor neonatal antes/depois de uma punção de calcanhar. Os pediatras pontuaram a dor de acordo com a sua percepção por meio de uma escala analógica verbal (0=sem dor; 10=dor máxima). Os desfechos analisados foram o número e o tempo das fixações visuais na face superior, face inferior e mãos, em dois períodos de 10 segundos, antes (PRÉ) e depois da punção (PÓS). Os resultados foram comparados entre os períodos e segundo a percepção da dor do pediatra: ausente/leve (escore: 0-5) e moderada/grave (escore: 6-10). Resultados: Vinte e quatro pediatras (31 anos, 92% sexo feminino) avaliaram 24 neonatos. A mediana do escore atribuído à dor do recém-nascido durante a punção do calcanhar foi 7,0 (intervalo interquartil: 5-8). Comparado ao período PRÉ, no período PÓS, o maior número de pediatras fixou o olhar na face inferior (63 vs. 92%; p=0,036) e o número de fixações visuais foi maior na face inferior (2,0 vs. 5,0; p=0,018). Não houve diferença no número e no tempo das fixações visuais de acordo com a intensidade da dor. Conclusões: À beira do leito, os pediatras mudam seu foco de atenção visual na face do recém-nascido após um procedimento doloroso, focando o olhar principalmente na parte inferior da face.

Comparative Evaluation of Postoperative Pain Scores and Opioid Consumption in Septorhinoplasty After Administration of Single-Dose Preemptive Paracetamol and Ibuprofen: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract Introduction Septorhinoplasty operates on the nose's bone and cartilage and is ensued by severe postoperative pain. Objective The objective of this study is to evaluate the effects of preoperative administration of intravenous (IV) paracetamol and ibuprofen on postoperative pain scores in patients undergoing septorhinoplasty. Methods A total of 150 patients undergoing septorhinoplasty were randomly assigned into 3 groups with 50 patients in each group. The control group (group A) was administered 100 ml saline solution; the paracetamol group (group B) was administered 1,000 mg of IV paracetamol in 100 ml of saline solution; and the ibuprofen group (group C) was administered 800 mg of IV ibuprofen in 100 ml of saline solution before surgery. Opioid analgesics were employed to achieve postoperative analgesia. Postoperative pain was evaluated using the visual analogue scale (VAS). Postoperative opioid consumption and adverse effects were also recorded for each patient. Results In comparison with group A, the score in the VAS of groups B and C was statistically lower in all the time intervals (p < 0.05). In the 1st and 6th hours postoperatively, group C's score in the VAS in was lower than that of group B (p < 0.05). In the control group, total opioid consumption was highest in all time intervals (p < 0.05). In group C, total opioid consumption was significantly lower than in group B in the 0 to 6 and 6 to 12 hours intervals. (p < 0.05). Conclusion The single-dose preemptive administration of ibuprofen has a more profound postoperative analgesic effect than paracetamol in the first 6 hours after septorhinoplasty. After the first 6 hours postsurgery, there is no difference between ibuprofen and paracetamol in terms of analgesic effect.

La semaglutida en el tratamiento de las personas con diabesidad / Semaglutide in the Treatment of Diabesity Individuals

Introducción: La semaglutida es un fármaco que contribuye a la liberación de insulina por el páncreas y a la supresión del apetito por lo que lo convierte en un importante candidato para ser usado en el tratamiento de la diabesidad. Objetivo: Describir el efecto de la semaglutida en el tratamiento de las personas con diabesidad. Métodos: Se revisó la literatura publicada en el período comprendido de enero-febrero de 2021. Las palabras clave utilizadas fueron obesidad; diabetes mellitus; diabesidad; semaglutida; análogo del péptido similar al glucagón tipo 1. Se utilizaron como motores de búsqueda las bases de datos de Google Académico, PubMed y SciELO. Se evaluaron diferentes trabajos de revisión, investigación y páginas web que tenían menos de 10 años de publicados en idioma español, portugués o inglés, y que por el título trataban el tema de estudio. Fueron excluidos los artículos que no abordaron la relación entre diabetes y obesidad, así como el tratamiento con análogos del péptido similar al glucagón tipo 1. Esto permitió la consulta de 84 artículos, de los cuales 59 fueron referenciados. Conclusiones: El empleo de semaglutida favorece una mejor evolución en paciente con diabesidad, como complemento de una dieta y una actividad física adecuada. Al optimizar el control glucémico, contribuir a la pérdida de peso y a la mejoraría de ciertas comorbilidades, entre ellas la salud cardiovascular(AU)

Introduction: Semaglutide is a drug that contributes to the release of insulin from the pancreas and suppresses appetite, which makes it an important candidate for treating diabesity. Objective: To describe the role of semaglutide in the treatment of diabesity individuals. Methods: The necessary information to write this article was obtained in the 2022 two-month period January-February. The keywords used were obesity; Mellitus diabetes; diabesity; semaglutide; type 1 glucagon-like peptide analogue. The search engines corresponding to the Google Scholar, PubMed and SciElO databases were used. Different review, research and web pages were evaluated, which in general were published no more than 10 years ago, in Spanish, Portuguese or English and which dealt with the subject of study by title. Articles that did not address the relationship between diabetes and obesity, as well as treatment with glucagon-like peptide 1 analogues, were excluded. This allowed the consultation of 84 articles, 59 of them were referenced. Conclusions: The use of semaglutide, as a complement to a diet and physical activity appropriate to the needs of patients with diabesity, brought about several effects that favor better evolution of this health problem, by optimizing glycemic control, contributing to the loss of weight and the improvement of certain comorbidities, including cardiovascular health(AU)

A comparative study on efficacy and safety of tablet duloxetine 60 mg and tablet gabapentin 300 mg among patients with diabetic polyneuropathy – A randomized double-blind study

Background: Diabetic peripheral neuropathy is defined as the presence of symptoms and signs of peripheral nerve damage among patients with diabetes, after ruling out other potential causes. Diabetic neuropathies are one among the most common long-term complications of diabetes. About 60% of diabetic patients are affected by neuropathy. Aim and Objectives: This study aims to study the efficacy and safety of tablet duloxetine 60 mg and tablet gabapentin 300 mg among patients with diabetic polyneuropathy. Materials and Methods: This study was randomized, comparative, double-blind parallel group study which was conducted for a period of 6 months. Sixty patients with diabetic polyneuropathic pain were randomly allocated into two groups. One group received duloxetine 60 mg and other group received gabapentin 300 mg. Efficacy was assessed using visual analog scale (VAS), short form of McGill pain questionnaire, and patients global impression of change score. Safety was assessed using adverse drug reaction profile. Results: In the duloxetine group, the mean VAS score at the baseline was 54.97 ± 6.75, and at 3 months, it was 20.07 ± 5.32 which was statistically significant. In the gabapentin group, the mean score at baseline was 53.57 ± 7.85, and at 3 months, it was 26.57 ± 4.39 which was also statistically significant. The difference between the baseline and 3rd month mean McGill score in both groups was statistically significant. Conclusions: We found that both duloxetine 60 mg once daily and gabapentin 300 mg once daily are effective in the treatment of diabetic polyneuropathic pain. However, duloxetine 60 mg once daily is more efficacious than gabapentin 300 mg once daily in the treatment of diabetic neuropathic pain. Both the drugs are well tolerated but gabapentin is better tolerated than duloxetine.

Evaluation of subjective scale in allergen nasal provocation test / 临床耳鼻咽喉头颈外科杂志

Objective:To compare the clinical value of visual analogue scale （VAS）, Lebel scale and total nasal symptom scores （TNSS） in evaluating nasal allergen provocation test （NAPT）. Methods:A total of 151 patients suspected of allergic rhinitis admitted to the Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery of our hospital from April 2020 to September 2020 were included, of which 76 were positive for house dust mites and 75 were negative for allergens. Nasal airway resistance（NAR） was measured by active anterior nasal manometry. Nasal symptoms were evaluated by VAS, Lebel and TNSS. House dust mite allergen was used for NAPT by spray method. An increase≥40% in NAR was used as the gold standard for objective evaluation of NAPT. ROC curves of VAS, Lebel and TNSS were drawn to compare the evaluation effectiveness of different subjective evaluation methods, and the optimal critical point of each ROC curve was obtained. Results:With NAR increased by ≥40% as the gold standard, the area under ROC curve of VAS was 0.884, and the sensitivity and specificity were 97.75% and 80.65%, respectively. The area under ROC curve of Lebel was 0.773, and the sensitivity and specificity were 68.54% and 75.81%, respectively. The area under ROC curve of TNSS was 0.792, and the sensitivity and specificity were 68.54% and 79.03%, respectively. There was no significant difference between Lebel and TNSS（P>0.05）. The VAS differed significantly from Lebel and TNSS（P<0.05）. The Kappa values of VAS, Lebel, TNSS and NAR were 0.803, 0.432 and 0.459, respectively. Conclusion:The VAS, Lebel, TNSS subjective scale and NAR are consistent in evaluating the efficacy of NAPT, with the VAS assessment showing highest consistency with NAR. As objective assessment instruments are not widely used in China, subjective assessment method could be adopted to evaluate the efficacy of NAPT in clinical practice, and VAS scale is recommended as a priority.

Comparison of pain levels of traditional radial, distal radial, and transfemoral coronary catheterization

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: The aim of our study was to compare the traditional radial artery, distal radial artery, and transfemoral artery, which are vascular access sites for coronary angiography, in terms of pain level using the visual analog scale. METHODS: Between April 2021 and May 2022, consecutive patients from three centers were included in our study. A total of 540 patients, 180 from each of the traditional radial artery, distal radial artery , and transfemoral artery groups, were included. The visual analog scale was applied to the patients as soon as they were taken to bed. RESULTS: When the visual analog scale was compared between the groups, it was found to be significantly different (transfemoral artery: 2.7±1.6, traditional radial artery: 3.9±1.9, and distal radial artery: 4.9±2.1, respectively, p<0.001). When the patients were classified as mild, moderate, and severe based on the visual analog scale score, a significant difference was found between the groups in terms of body mass index, process time, access time, and number of punctures (p<0.001). Based on the receiver operating characteristic analysis, body mass index>29.8 kg/m2 predicted severe pain with 72.5% sensitivity and 73.2% specificity [(area under the curve: 0.770, 95%CI: 0.724-0.815, p<0.0001)]. CONCLUSION: In our study, we found that the femoral approach caused less access site pain and a high body mass index predicts severe pain.

Clinical observation of contralateral needling combined with Maitland ankle mobilization for chronic ankle sprain / 针灸推拿医学（英文版）

Objective: To observe the efficacy of contralateral needling combined with Maitland ankle mobilization in the treatment of chronic ankle sprain.Methods: A total of 106 patients with chronic ankle sprain were included in the study. They were numbered according to their order of visit, with odd numbers assigned to the control group and even numbers assigned to the observation group, with 53 cases in each group. Patients in the control group were treated with Maitland ankle mobilization, while those in the observation group were given additional contralateral needling treatment. After treatment, we observed the indicators including, ankle circumference, range of motion (ROM) of dorsiflexion, ROM of plantar flexion, thickness of ankle ligaments, and the changes in Baird-Jackson ankle score, American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot score, and visual analog scale (VAS) score to compare the efficacy between the two groups. Results: After treatment, the total effective rate of the observation group was 94.3％ and was significantly higher than that of the control group (81.1％), indicating statistical significance (P<0.05). After treatment, the ankle circumference of both groups decreased, and the ROM of dorsiflexion and the ROM of plantar flexion increased (P<0.05). The changes in the observation group were more significant, indicating inter-group statistical significance (P<0.05). After treatment, the thickness of the anterior talofibular ligament, calcaneofibular ligament, and posterior talofibular ligament, as well as the VAS scores decreased in both groups; the changes in the observation group were more significant, indicating inter-group statistical significance (P<0.05). After treatment, the Baird-Jackson ankle score and the AOFAS ankle- hindfoot score increased in both groups, and the scores in the observation group were higher than those in the control group, indicating inter-group statistical significance (P<0.05). Conclusion: The efficacy of contralateral needling combined with Maitland ankle mobilization in the treatment of chronic ankle sprain is superior to that of Maitland ankle mobilization alone.

Effects of tendon-regulating and stretching manipulation combined with JIN's three-needle therapy for the shoulder on pain and shoulder joint function in subacromial impingement syndrome / 针灸推拿医学（英文版）

Objective: To observe the effects of tendon-regulating and stretching manipulation plus JIN's three-needle therapy for the shoulder on pain and shoulder joint function in subacromial impingement syndrome (SIS). Methods: Eighty patients with SIS were recruited and divided into a control group and a treatment group by the random number table method, with 40 cases in each group. The control group was given JIN's three-needle therapy for the shoulder, and the treatment group received additional tendon-regulating and stretching manipulation. The visual analog scale (VAS) score and constant-Murley score (CMS) were observed before and after the intervention, and the total effective rate was also observed. Results: The total effective rate was 92.5％ in the treatment group versus 70.0％ in the control group, and the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05). The VAS score and CMS changed notably after treatment in both groups (P<0.05), and the improvements were markedly greater in the treatment group than in the control group (P<0.05). Conclusion: Tendon-regulating and stretching manipulation plus JIN's three-needle therapy for the shoulder can facilitate the relief of pain and the improvement of shoulder joint function in SIS patients.

Immediate effect of small-angle Tui-Pushing and An-Pressing anti-rotation bone-setting manipulation in improving the treatment of braces for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis / 针灸推拿医学（英文版）

Objective: To observe the immediate effect of small-angle Tui-Pushing and An-Pressing anti-rotation bone-setting manipulation in improving the correction of braces for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. Methods: A total of 50 cases of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis were selected and given brace correction first. The whole spine anteroposterior and lateral radiographs were taken, the Cobb angle was measured, and the visual analog scale (VAS) score of pain caused by brace wearing was recorded. After removal of the brace, small-angle Tui-Pushing and An-Pressing anti-rotation bone-setting manipulation was performed once. After treatment, the same brace was put on again to take a whole spine anteroposterior radiograph, the Cobb angle was measured, and the VAS score was recorded. The changes in Cobb angle and VAS score after manipulation were compared, and the immediate efficacy was evaluated. Results: After the manipulation, the Cobb angle was significantly smaller than that before treatment (P<0.01) and the VAS score was significantly lower than that before treatment (P<0.01). Conclusion: Small-angle Tui-Pushing and An-Pressing anti-rotation bone-setting manipulation can improve the immediate efficacy of brace in treating adolescent idiopathic scoliosis and relieve the pain caused by brace wearing at the same time.

Effect of nucleos(t)ide analog antiviral treatment on the clinical features and prognosis of patients with hepatitis B virus-related hepatocellular carcinoma / 中华传染病杂志

Objective:To analyze the effect of nucleos(t)ide analog (NAs) antiviral treatment on the clinical features and prognosis of patients with hepatitis B virus-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HBV-HCC).Methods:A retrospective analysis was performed on the data of 450 HBV-HCC patients first diagnosed and treated in the Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University from January 2015 to January 2021, including 193 patients in the continuous NAs treatment group and 257 patients in the NAs treatment after hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) group. The baseline data of the two groups were balanced by propensity score matching. The relapse-free survival rate of HCC was estimated by Kaplan-Meier method, and the risk factors for HCC recurrence were analyzed by Cox proportional risk models. Spearman correlation analysis was used to explore the association between clinical features of HCC and hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA load in patients receiving continuous NAs treatment.Results:Before matching, the proportions of liver cirrhosis, body mass index≥25.0 kg/m 2, single tumor, maximum tumor diameter ≤5 cm, Child-Pugh grade A, China liver cancer staging Ⅰ in the continuous NAs treatment group were 93.8%(181/193), 45.1%(87/193), 70.5%(136/193), 82.4%(159/193), 74.6%(144/193) and 74.6%(144/193), respectively. All of them were higher than those in the NAs treatment after HCC group (87.5%(225/257), 44.0%(113/257), 61.1%(157/257), 55.3%(142/257), 63.8%(164/257) and 56.0%(144/257), respectively). The proportions of drinking history and portal vein tumor thrombi in the continuous NAs treatment group were 12.4%(24/193) and 3.1%(6/193), respectively, which were lower than 33.9%(87/257) and 10.5%(27/257) in the NAs treatment after HCC group.The differences were all statistically significant ( χ2=4.86, 7.58, 4.27, 36.63, 8.15, 21.05, 27.21 and 8.88, respectively, all P<0.05). After matching, the median relapse-free survival time of the patients in the continuous NAs treatment group and the NAs treatment after HCC group were 388 days and 277 days, respectively. The five-year cumulative relapse-free survival rates were 50.0% and 37.5%, respectively, with statistically significant difference ( χ2=5.30, P=0.021). Multivariate analysis showed that no antiviral therapy before diagnosis of HCC, multiple tumors, maximum tumor diameter ≥5 cm and palliative treatment were independent risk factors for HBV-HCC recurrence (hazard ratio ( HR)=1.509, 1.491, 0.446 and 1.472, respectively, all P<0.05). After matching, the maximum tumor diameter ( r=0.175, P=0.042), incidence of portal vein tumor thrombi ( r=0.210, P=0.014) and recurrence of HBV-HCC ( r=0.178, P=0.038) in the continuous NAs treatment group were positively correlated with HBV DNA load. Conclusions:Early initiation of NAs antiviral treatment can improve the tumor characteristics when the disease progresses to HBV-HCC, and improve the relapse-free survival rate of HBV-HCC patients. No antiviral therapy before diagnosis of HCC, multiple tumors, maximum tumor diameter ≥5 cm and palliative treatment are independent risk factors for HBV-HCC recurrence.

Clinical efficacy of acupuncture combined with extracorporeal shock wave therapy in the treatment of piriformis syndrome / 中国基层医药

Objective:To evaluate the clinical efficacy of acupuncture combined with extracorporeal shock wave therapy in the treatment of piriformis syndrome.Methods:Eighty patients with piriformis syndrome who received treatment in Huaihe Energy Occupational Disease Prevention Hospital Rehabilitation Medicine Center from February 2021 to December 2022 were included in this study. They were divided into a treatment group ( n = 40) and a control group ( n = 40) according to different treatment methods using a retrospective cohort study design. The treatment group was treated with acupuncture combined with extracorporeal shock wave therapy, once every 7 days for 3 consecutive weeks. The control group was treated with extracorporeal shock wave therapy alone once every 7 days for 3 consecutive weeks.Pre- and post-treatment visual analogue scale scores and clinical efficacy were compared between the two groups. Results:There was no significant difference in baseline data between the two groups (all P > 0.05). After treatment, the visual analogue scale score decreased in each group. After adjusting for covariates, there was no significant difference in visual analogue scale score between the two groups ( F = 112.38, P < 0.001). After adjusting the pre-treatment visual analogue scale score, the post-treatment visual analogue scale score in the treatment group was lower than that in the control group [1.417 (95% CI: 1.151-1.683)]. The total response rate in the treatment group was 97.5% (39/40), which was significantly higher than 82.5% (33/40) in the control group ( Z = -2.03, P = 0.042). Conclusion:Acupuncture combined with extracorporeal shock wave therapy is highly effective on piriformis syndrome.

Nonpharmacological Methods to Reduce Pain During Active Labor in A Real-life Setting / Métodos não farmacológicos para reduzir a dor durante o trabalho de parto ativo em um cenário da vida real

Abstract Objective To evaluate the association between pain intensity in the active phase of the first stage of labor with the use or not of nonpharmacological methods for pain relief in a real-life scenario. Methods This was an observational cross-sectional study. The variables analyzed were obtained by a questionnaire with the mothers (up to 48 hours postpartum) to investigate the intensity of pain during labor using the visual analog scale (VAS). The nonpharmacological pain relief methods routinely used in obstetric practice were evaluated by consulting medical records. The patients were separated into two groups: Group I - patients who did not use nonpharmacological methods for pain relief and Group II -patients who used these methods. Results A total of 439 women who underwent vaginal delivery were included; 386 (87.9%) used at least 1 nonpharmacological method and 53 (12.1%) did not. The women who did not use nonpharmacological methods had significantly lower gestational age (37.2 versus 39.6 weeks, p < 0.001) and shorter duration of labor (24 versus 114 min, p < 0.001) than those who used the methods. There was no statistically significant difference in the pain scale score using the VAS between the group that used nonpharmacological methods and the group that did not (median 10 [minimum 2- maximum 10] versus 10 [minimum 6-maximum 10] p = 0.334). Conclusion In a real-life setting, there was no difference in labor pain intensity between the patients who used nonpharmacological methods and those who did not use them during the active phase of labor.

Resumo Objetivo Avaliar a associação da intensidade da dor na fase ativa da dilatação do parto em mulheres de acordo com a utilização ou não de métodos não farmacológicos para alívio da dor em cenário de vida real. Métodos Trata-se de um estudo observacional de corte transversal. As variáveis analisadas foram obtidas através de questionário com as puérperas (até 48 horas pós-parto) investigando a intensidade da dor no parto pela escala visual analógica (EVA). As medidas não farmacológicas de alívio da dor, utilizadas rotineiramente na prática obstétrica, foram avaliadas pela consulta aos prontuários. As pacientes foram separadas em dois grupos: Grupo I - pacientes que não utilizaram medidas não farmacológicas para alívio da dor e Grupo II - pacientes que utilizaram estas medidas. Resultados Foram incluídas 439 mulheres que tiveram parto vaginal, sendo que 386 (87,9%) utilizaram, pelo menos, uma medida não farmacológica e 53 (12,1%) não utilizaram. As mulheres que não utilizaram as medidas não farmacológicas apresentaram idade gestacional significativamente menor (37,2 versus 39,6 semanas, p < 0,001) e menor duração do trabalho de parto (24 versus 114 minutos, p < 0,001) quando comparadas às que utilizaram as medidas. Não houve diferença estatisticamente significativa na pontuação da escala da dor pela EVA de acordo com a categorização pelo uso ou não de métodos não farmacológicos (mediana 10 [mínimo 2-máximo 10] versus 10 (mínimo 6-máximo 10), p = 0,334]. Conclusão Em cenário de vida real, as pacientes submetidas aos métodos não farmacológicos não apresentaram diferença em relação à intensidade da dor quando comparadas às que não os utilizaram durante a fase ativa do trabalho de parto.

Estudo comparativo de zumbido e aptidão cardiorrespiratória entre pessoas pós-COVID-19 / Comparative study of tinnitus and cardiorespiratory fitness among people post COVID-19

RESUMO Objetivo Verificar a relação entre zumbido e aptidão cardiorrespiratória em pessoas após COVID-19. Métodos Estudo transversal com amostra de pessoas pós-COVID -19 que responderam à Escala Visual Analógica para zumbido e questionário padronizado contendo dados sobre internação e zumbido. Para avaliar a aptidão cardiorrespiratória, utilizou-se a avaliação clínica e o Teste de Bruce para mensurar o consumo de oxigênio diretamente (via analisador de gases, com utilização do consumo pico de oxigênio - VO2pico). Resultados Participaram 192 pessoas, com média de idade de 47,8 ± 12,6 anos. A prevalência de zumbido autorreferido foi de 27,1% (n = 52). Dos 52 pacientes com zumbido, 27 iniciaram com o sintoma durante ou após o diagnóstico de COVID-19. Houve diferença significativa para o VO2pico absoluto entre os grupos com e sem zumbido (p = 0,035), sendo que o grupo com zumbido apresentou os menores valores; o tamanho do efeito foi pequeno. Não houve correlação entre os escores da Escala Visual Analógica para o zumbido e os valores de VO2pico absoluto e relativo (p > 0,05). Conclusão Houve diferença estatisticamente significativa entre as queixas de zumbido e o VO2pico nas pessoas após a COVID -19, sendo que o grupo com zumbido apresentou o VO2pico absoluto menor do que o grupo sem zumbido. Nos pacientes com zumbido, também foi encontrado VO2pico absoluto e relativo menor para as mulheres, além do VO2pico relativo menor para os hipertensos e obesos.

ABSTRACT Purpose To verify the relation between tinnitus and cardiorespiratory fitness among people after COVID-19. Methods Cross-sectional study with a sample of people post Covid-19 who responded to the Visual-Analog Scale for tinnitus and standardized questionnaire containing data on hospitalization and tinnitus. To evaluate cardiorespiratory fitness, it used the clinical assessment and Bruce test to measure oxygen consumption directly (via gas analyzer, using peak oxygen consumption - VO2peak). Results In total, 192 participants were assessed, with a mean age of 47.8 ± 12.6 years . The prevalence of self-reported tinnitus was 27.1% (n = 52). Of these 52 patients with tinnitus, 27 people started with the symptom during or after the diagnosis of COVID-19. There was a significant difference for the absolute VO2peak and the groups with and without tinnitus (p = 0.035): the tinnitus group showed the lowest values, the effect size was small. There was no correlation between the scores of the Visual-Analog Scale for tinnitus and the absolute and relative VO2peak (p > 0.05). Conclusion There was a statistically significant difference between tinnitus complaints and the VO2peak among people post COVID-19, with the tinnitus group having a lower absolute VO2peak than the non-tinnitus group. In tinnitus patients, we also found lower absolute and relative VO2peak for women, in addition to lower relative VO2peak for hypertensive and obese patients.

Improvement of inflammatory cytokines level in peripheral blood, anxiety and depressive symptoms in patients with pulpitis by root canal therapy / 口腔疾病防治

Objective@# To investigate the effect of root canal therapy (RCT) on inflammatory cytokines level in peripheral blood, anxiety, and depression in patients with pulpitis.@*Methods @#A total of 155 patients with pulpitis admitted to the Stomatology Hospital of the Fourth Military Medical University from June 2021 to June 2022 were treated with root canal therapy. Another 155 persons who received health examinations during the same period were selected as the control group. The Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) scores and the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) scores of the two groups were compared. The GAD-7, PHQ-9 and pain scores of the test group before treatment and 3 and 6 weeks after treatment were compared. Pain was assessed with a visual analog scale (VAS). Inflammatory cytokine [interleukin-8 (IL-8), interleukin-1 β (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), c-reactive protein (CRP)] levels in the test group before treatment and 3 and 6 weeks after treatment were compared. @*Results @#The GAD-7 and PHQ-9 scores in the test group were higher than those in the control group before treatment (P<0.05). The GAD-7 and PHQ-9 scores in the test group at 3 and 6 weeks after treatment were lower than those before treatment (P<0.05); there was no significant difference between the GAD-7 and PHQ-9 scores at 3 and 6 weeks after treatment(P>0.05). The pain scores of the experimental group at 3 and 6 weeks after treatment were lower than those before treatment (P<0.05), and the pain scores 6 weeks after treatment were lower than those at 3 weeks after treatment (P<0.05). The levels of IL-8, IL-1β, TNF-α and CRP in the peripheral blood of the experimental group were lower 3 and 6 weeks after treatment than before (P<0.05), and the levels of IL-8 and IL-1β in the peripheral blood at 6 weeks after treatment were significantly lower than at 3 weeks after treatment (P<0.05). The levels of TNF-α and CRP in the peripheral blood at 6 weeks after treatment were not significantly different from those at 3 weeks after treatment (P>0.05).@*Conclusion @#The peripheral blood of patients with pulpitis has a high level of inflammatory cytokines, and the patients suffer from obvious anxiety and depression. Root canal therapy can relieve their anxiety and depression by reducing their level of inflammatory cytokines in peripheral blood.

The Portuguese version of the visual vertigo analog scale

Abstract Objectives: Visual vertigo occurs after a vestibular disorder compromising daily living. It can be assessed by "the Visual Vertigo Analogue Scale" (VVAS), a self-administered questionnaire without Portuguese version. To perform the translation, cross cultural adaptation, and validation of VVAS from English to Portuguese. Methods: Prospective study involving the translation and cross-cultural adaptation of the VVAS into the Portuguese language, according to recognized guidelines. It was completed by 63 healthy controls and 198 participants with vestibulopathy who also completed the Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI) to further explore the link between DHI and VVAS. Groups were compared for severity of visual vertigo and VVAS reliability and internal consistency were tested. Results: The VVAS score was significantly higher in vestibular group (p < 0.001). A Cronbach's α of 0.9 confirmed the valid internally consistent of the applied version. The severity score of VVAS showed a positive strong correlation with DHI (p < 0.0001). Conclusion: The present Portuguese translation of the scale showed satisfactory properties for the assessment of self-perceived and severity of visual vertigo in a significant group of vestibular Portuguese patients. Level of evidence: 2.

Comparison of efficacy of Gabapentin versus Pregabalin in patients of painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy – A randomized, open label, and parallel group study

Background: Diabetes is a form of chronic illness requiring a collective treatment approach such as glycemic monitoring, self-management, education, and adequate support to prevent the occurrence of acute complications. One of the most frequently occurring complication in Type 2 diabetes has been diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) or distal symmetrical polyneuropathy. Newer anticonvulsants such as Gabapentin and Pregabalin have been proven beneficial in patients with peripheral neuropathic pain. Aims and Objectives: The aim of the study was to compare the efficacy of Gabapentin and Pregabalin in relieving the pain in patients of DPN. Materials and Methods: This is an open label, randomized, multi-dose, two treatment, single-period, single-center, parallel study comparing Gabapentin and Pregabalin for efficacy in patients suffering with DPN using visual analog scale, daily sleep interference score, patient’s global impression of change, and clinician’s global impression of change. Results: One hundred patients were randomized into two groups and the treatment started as and when they reported to the hospital. Statistical analysis was done in SPSS version 23 and intent to treat principle is employed for analysis. Results were distributed in demographics and treatment comparison. Decreased sleep interference and global impression of change reported during first visit, in which participants under Pregabalin group had better improvement score comparing Gabapentin group alone was found statistically significant (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Our study revealed that Pregabalin is found to be more efficacious when compared to Gabapentin among Type 2 diabetes mellitus patients with painful peripheral neuropathy. Hence, we conclude that Pregabalin provided significant improvement in pain relief and other perspectives.

Comparative evaluation of intracanal cryotherapy and curcumin as a final irrigant in reducing post endodontic pain in primary teeth

Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the intracanal effectiveness of cryotherapy, curcumin irrigant, and normal saline as a final irrigant in reducing postendodontic pain in primary teeth. Materials and Methods: A total of 120 teeth between the ages of 4 and 7 years requiring pulpectomy in primary teeth were included in the study. The teeth were randomly assigned to one of the three treatment groups: intracanal cryotherapy using 2.5°C cold saline, curcumin irrigant, or normal saline. Following completion of chemomechanical preparation, final irrigation with 2.5°C cold saline, curcumin irrigant, and normal saline solution at room temperature were employed in the groups. Participants were asked to rate the severity of their postoperative pain on the Visual Analog Scale before, immediate postoperative after wearing of local anesthetic effect, and 24 h after the procedure. The results were analyzed statistically. Results: The differences in reduction of postendodontic pain between the three irrigating regimens were statistically not significant. Cryotherapy utilizing 2.5°C cold saline or curcumin irrigant can be used instead of normal saline as a final irrigant in pulpectomy of primary teeth. Conclusions: Cryotherapy can be a straightforward, cost-effective, and nontoxic treatment option for the management of postendodontic pain. Curcumin irrigant with its anti-inflammatory properties is also a better alternative as a final irrigant for reducing postoperative pain in primary teeth.

Can lubrication of the eyelid speculum reduce overall pain perception associated with cataract surgery by phacoemulsification performed under topical anesthesia?

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of using the lubricated eyelid speculum on the overall pain perception by the subject patients who underwent cataract surgery by phacoemulsification technique under topical anesthesia. Methods: A prospective interventional randomized comparative study was conducted at the tertiary eye care center, wherein adult patients scheduled for bilateral cataract surgery with phacoemulsification techniques under topical anesthesia were randomized to undergo surgery with two different modes of eyelid speculum insertion, either with or without lubrication of the eyelid speculum. Fifty percent of the patients underwent surgery with eyelid speculum without lubrication, and 50% with lubrication of the eyelid speculum. The primary outcome was to compare the level of overall pain perception among the subject patients of the two groups by using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) in the immediate postoperative period. Results: The study included 130 patients who underwent bilateral cataract surgery (n = 260 eyes) under topical anesthesia, wherein n = 130 eyes underwent surgery using lubricated eyelid speculum and n = 130 eyes underwent surgery with dry eyelid speculum. Pain perception score assessed on the VAS (0–10 cm) ranged from 0.5 to 6, with a mean ± standard deviation of 2.06 ± 1.12. A significant correlation was found with two different methods of eyelid speculum insertion with reduced overall pain perception in patients with the use of lubricated eyelid speculum compared to the dry eyelid speculum (P = 0.0001). Conclusion: The overall pain perception associated with cataract surgery performed by phacoemulsification technique under topical anesthesia can be further minimized by lubricating the eyelid speculum prior to insertion for exposing the globe