Barriers to and facilitators of populational adherence to prevention and control measures of COVID-19 and other respiratory infectious diseases: a qualitative evidence synthesis.

AIMS: To summarise the evidence on barriers to and facilitators of population adherence to prevention and control measures for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and other respiratory infectious diseases. METHODS: A qualitative synthesis was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis and the Cochrane Effective Practice and Organization of Care: Qualitative Evidence Synthesis. We performed an electronic search on MEDLINE, Embase and PsycINFO from their inception to March 2023. RESULTS: We included 71 studies regarding COVID-19, pneumonia, tuberculosis, influenza, pertussis and H1N1, representing 5966 participants. The measures reported were vaccinations, physical distancing, stay-at-home policy, quarantine, self-isolation, facemasks, hand hygiene, contact investigation, lockdown, infection prevention and control guidelines, and treatment. Tuberculosis-related measures were access to care, diagnosis and treatment completion. Analysis of the included studies yielded 37 barriers and 23 facilitators. CONCLUSIONS: This review suggests that financial and social support, assertive communication, trust in political authorities and greater regulation of social media enhance adherence to prevention and control measures for COVID-19 and infectious respiratory diseases. Designing and implementing effective educational public health interventions targeting the findings of barriers and facilitators highlighted in this review are key to reducing the impact of infectious respiratory diseases at the population level.

Benefits of Sebastiania hispida (Euphorbiaceae) extract and photobiomodulation therapy as potentially adjunctive strategies to be explored against snake envenoming.

The purpose of this study was to assess the topic use of Sebastiania hispida extract and low-level gallium-arsenide laser irradiation (GaAs, 904 nm) to reduce the local myonecrosis and edema of Bothrops moojeni snake venom-injected gastrocnemius. Wistar rats receiving intramuscular venom injection (VBm) were compared with saline control (S) and envenomed rats receiving local exposure to plant extract (VExt) or laser irradiation (VL). The phytochemistry and thin-layer chromatography of S. hispida extract indicated the presence of phenolic compounds like gallic acid and flavonoids including quercetin. Gastrocnemius of VExt and VL groups had a significant reduction of edema and creatine kinase (CK) activities and a greater Myogenin (MyoG) expression compared to VBm group, with the plant extract efficacy better than laser exposure. Reduction of edema and serum CK activities reflects a lessening of muscle damage, whereas the increase of MyoG indicates myoblast differentiation and acceleration of muscle repair. The S. hispida richness in phenolic compounds and flavonoids, such as the light modulatory ability to triggering a multitude of cell signalings likely underlie the positive outcomes. Our findings suggest both treatments as potential auxiliary tools to be explored in clinical trials in combination with anti-venom therapy after Bothropic snakebites.

Barriers and facilitators to populational adherence to prevention and control measures of COVID-19 and other respiratory infectious diseases: a rapid qualitative evidence synthesis protocol.

INTRODUCTION: The current COVID-19 pandemic has increased the need for populational adherence to measures for the prevention and control of respiratory infectious diseases. However, their effectiveness depends on the population's preventive behaviour, which may be divergent from public policies. Therefore, this study aims to summarise and evaluate the evidence on barriers and facilitators to populational adherence to prevention and control measures in COVID-19 and other respiratory infectious diseases. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: We will search on MEDLINE, Embase and PsycINFO for studies focusing on adults receiving protective behaviour recommendations to combat COVID-19 and other respiratory infectious diseases. The searches will be carried out from database's inception to the present. We will include studies that use qualitative methods in their data collection and analysis and studies that use mixed methods if they include any qualitative methods of analysis. Studies published in English, Portuguese and Spanish will be included. Two review authors will independently screen the studies for inclusion and extract data. We will assess the quality of the included studies using the Critical Skills Appraisal Programme tool. For the assessment of the confidence in the synthesised findings, we will use the GRADE-Confidence in the Evidence from Reviews of Qualitative research. Data analysis will be conducted using the best-fit framework approach based on adapted dimensions from the Health Belief Model and the Behaviour Change Wheel. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: This study will be conducted on published evidence, and thus, no ethical approval is required. The findings of this rapid qualitative evidence synthesis will be disseminated to academic audiences, health policy-makers and the general population. We will publish the results in peer-reviewed journals, present our findings in conferences, and disseminate results via social media. We also aim to present the research findings in plain language and disseminate the knowledge to the general population to increase public interest. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER: CRD42020205750.

Evaluation of the scientific activity of the leaf of the species Campomanesia pubescens in wound model infected by Staphylococcus aureus

There is an increasing interest in the use of herbal remedies as healing agents, due to their lower cost in relation to other drugs and the vast Brazilian fauna. The objective of this research was to evaluate the cicatrization effect of the guariroba leaf (Campomanesia pubescens) on the healing of infected wounds. We used 45 Wistar rats, distributed in five groups (n = 9) all with surgically induced skin injury, differing in the presence of contamination and treatment, with evaluation periods of 3, 7 and 14 days, being: G1- negative control without contamination, treated with Physiological Solution 0.9%; G2- control with contamination, treated with Physiological Solution 0.9%; G3 negative with contamination, treated with Carbopol in 0.5% gel; G4- positive control with contamination, treated with Colagenase at 0.6 U / g + 0.01 g Chloramphenicol; G5- positive test with contamination treated with Campomanesia pubescens at 3%, whose vehicle was Carbopol at 0.5%. The wound was made with a metal punch 8 mm in diameter, and a cutaneous fragment was removed from the animals' backs and wound infection was applied to S. aureus in groups G2 to G5. Euthanasia was performed for a lethal dose of anesthetic, and the edges of the wounds were removed for histopathological study. The fibrinoleukocytic crust was present in all animals in the groups of 3, 7 and 14 days. The contraction of the wound was also evaluated, and all groups showed low percentage of wound regression in the 3-day treatment and with 14 days presented a high percentage of regression. Of the 5 groups, the only one that presented complete epithelialization was G5. Of the 5 groups, the ones with the best epithelialization were G4 and G5. The group with the highest amount of mature collagen fibers was G4, followed by G5, and the one with the highest proportion of immature fibers was G1. At the end of the experiment, G4 was the group that gained the most weight and G1 the one that had the lowest weight gain. Guariroba leaf extract (Campomanesia pubescens) was able to promote healing in infected skin wounds similar to the group treated with antibiotics.

Effects of transcranial direct current stimulation on heart rate variability: a systematic review protocol.

OBJECTIVE: This systematic review aims to synthesize the available evidence on the effects of transcranial direct current stimulation on heart rate modulation, indexed by heart rate variability parameters in healthy individuals and those with clinical disorders. INTRODUCTION: There is some evidence that altered heart rate variability parameters are associated with different clinical disorders. For example, diminished parasympathetic activity has been explored as a potential biomarker for some chronic pain conditions. Considering the dynamic interaction between brain and heart, neuromodulatory strategies targeting this relationship could exert a positive influence on the cardiac autonomic system. Transcranial direct current stimulation is a non-invasive neuromodulation technique that has been presenting recent advances in the treatment of various clinical disorders. However, the evidence concerning transcranial direct current stimulation application focusing on brain-heart interaction is still controversial. INCLUSION CRITERIA: This review will consider studies that investigate the effects of transcranial direct current stimulation on heart rate variability in healthy participants or those with clinical disorders. METHODS: This review will follow JBI systematic review methodology recommendations. PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, Web of Science, PsycNET, Cochrane Controlled Register of Trials (CENTRAL) and Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) will be searched, along with several sources of gray literature. Retrieval of full-text studies, and assessment of methodological quality and data extraction, will be performed independently by two reviewers. Data will be pooled in statistical meta-analysis, where possible. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION NUMBER: PROSPERO CRD42018114105.

Avaliação do comportamento cardiovascular de gestantes durante o repouso e na fase de relaxamento de um protocolo aquático terapêutico de moderada intensidade / Evaluation of pregnant women's cardiovascular behaviour during rest and in the relaxation phase of an aquatic therapeutic protocol

Objetivo: Avaliar o comportamento cardiovascular de gestantes, durante o repouso e fase de relaxamento de um protocolo aquático terapêutico de moderada intensidade. Métodos: Foram estudadas 10 gestantes, com média de 21,8 ± 4,0 semanas de gestação. Antes e após o protocolo foram aferidas a pressão arterial sistólica (PAS) e pressão arterial diastólica (PAD), e posicionado o cardiofrequencímetro para coleta das oscilações cardíacas dos intervalos RR. Em seguida, as gestantes permaneceram em repouso, por um período de 5 minutos, e foram submetidas a um protocolo de exercícios aquático terapêutico composto por aquecimento, alongamento, fortalecimento e relaxamento. Resultados: Completaram o estudo 10 participantes, com idade média de 23,8 ± 5,2 anos. Não houve diferenças significativas (p < 0,05) entre os valores de PAS e PAD em repouso e pós-protocolo. Em relação aos índices da variabilidade de frequência cardíaca-VFC (Mean RR, Mean HR, RMSSD, SD1) também não foi observado diferença significativa ao comparar o período de repouso e a fase de relaxamento. Conclusão: Dessa forma, os resultados do estudo e achados disponíveis atualmente sugerem que a prática de exercício físico em intensidade moderada no meio aquático é segura, visto que as gestantes apresentaram respostas autonômicas eficientes nas fases de pós-exercício. (AU)

Objective: To evaluate pregnant women's cardiovascular behaviour, during rest and in the relaxation phase of an aquatic therapeutic protocol of moderate intensity. Methods: 10 pregnant women were studied, with an average of 21,8 ± 4,0 weeks of pregnancy. Before and after the protocol, Systolic Blood Pressure (SBP) and Diastolic Blood pressure (DBP) were assessed and the heart rate monitor (Polar ­ model V800) was positioned to gather the heart oscillations of the RR breaks. Then, the pregnant women remained at rest, for a period of 5 minutes, and were submitted to a protocol of aquatic therapeutic exercise, composed by warming-up, stretching, strengthening and relaxation. After the protocol, SBP and DBP were checked again. Results: 10 participants completed the study, with the average ages of 23,8 ± 5,2 years old. We did not point significant differences (p < 0,05) between the results of SBP and DBP in rest and post-protocol, neither in relation to the Heart Rate Variability indexes (Mean RR, Mean HR, RMSSD, SD1), when compared the resting period to the relaxation phase of the protocol. Conclusion: Therefore, the results from the present study and the recent research available suggests that the practice of moderate intensity physical activity in the aquatic environment is safe, seeing that the pregnant women exhibited efficient autonomic responses in the post-exercise phases. (AU)

Neonatal sepsis: evaluation of risk factors and histopathological examination of placentas after delivery / Sepse neonatal: avaliação dos fatores de risco e análise histopatológica de placentas após o parto

Neonatal sepsis is a clinical syndrome defined by systemic signs of infection in newborns accompanied by bacteremia. Can be responsible for serious consequences for the newborn child,characterized at the birth as early sepsis or late onset sepsis, with high rate of neonatal morbidity and mortality. Pathological agents such as Escherichia coli (E. coli), Streptococcus agalactiae (S. agalactiae), Ureaplasma urealyticum and Mycoplasma hominis are most often responsible for intrauterine infections. The objective of this study is to evaluate the factors of neonatal sepsis predisposition in pregnant women through histopathological examination and the apoptotic index of placental tissues and detect DNA of E. coli and S. agalactiae using the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). Histopathological analyses were made and the apoptotic index was determined to verify the levels of possible inflammatory infiltrates and cell death. Placenta samples were collected from November 2013 to May 2014. After DNA extraction, a PCR was performed amplifying the target fragment from the conserved regions of the rpoB (beta-RNA polymerase) polymorphism of E. coli and the factor 1 of S. agalactiae. The apoptosis index was tested with Acridine Orange and the histological procedure with Hematoxylin-Eosin staining. Among 100 samples of placental tissues analyzed by PCR, 48 represented the control group and did not present a risk factor associated with neonatal sepsis, and 52 samples representing the study group had at least one risk factor. Among these 52 samples, 7 (13.4%) had a PCR positive for E. coli. No placenta samples showed a positive PCR for S. agalactiae. The quantification of the apoptotic index did not show statistical significances between the groups and no inflammatory infiltrates were observed. However, histological sections showed fibrinoid necrosis, infarct areas and areas of calcification in all samples. Therefore, the results allow to conclude that the seven patients of experimental group with positive PCR for E. coli had eminent risk factors of neonatal sepsis, and the infection of the urinary tract (UTI) is the main aggravating circumstance. The histopathological examination demonstrated that the risk factors caused significant alterations, producing fibrinoid necrosis and infarcted areas in the placenta, contrary to apoptotic index that didn't differ from the group with unprecedented risk

A sepse neonatal é uma síndrome clínica definida por sinais sistêmicos de infecção em recém-nascidos acompanhados de bacteremia. Pode ser responsável por sérias consequências para o recém-nascido, caracterizadas ao nascimento como sepse precoce ou sepse tardia, com alta taxa de morbidade emortalidade neonatal. Agentes patológicos como Escherichia coli (E. coli), Streptococcus agalactiae (S. agalactiae), Ureaplasma urealyticum e Mycoplasma hominis são mais frequentemente responsáveis por infecções intra-uterinas. O objetivo deste estudo é avaliar os fatores de predisposição da sepse neonatal em gestantes através do exame histopatológico e do índice apoptótico de tecidos placentários e detectar DNA de E. coli e S. agalactiae utilizando a reação em cadeia da polimerase (PCR). Análises histopatológicas foram realizadas e o índice apoptótico foi determinado para verificar os níveis de possíveis infiltrados inflamatórios e morte celular. Amostras de placenta foram coletadas de novembro de 2013 a maio de 2014. Após a extração de DNA, foi realizada uma PCR amplificando o fragmento alvo das regiões conservadas do polimorfismo rpoB (polimerase beta-RNA) de E. coli e o fator 1 de S. agalactiae. O índice de apoptose foi testado com alaranjado de acridina e o procedimento histológico com coloração de hematoxilina-eosina. Entre 100 amostras de tecidos placentários analisados por PCR, 48 representaram o grupo controle e não apresentaram fator de risco associado à sepse neonatal, e 52 amostras representativas do grupo de estudo apresentaram pelo menos um fator de risco. Entre essas 52 amostras, 7 (13,4%) apresentaram PCR positivo para E. coli. Nenhuma amostra de placenta foi positivo para S. agalactiae na PCR. A quantificação do índice apoptótico não mostrou significância estatística entre os grupos e não foram encontrados infiltrados inflamatórios. No entanto, cortes histológicos mostraram necrose fibrinóide, áreas de infarto e áreas de calcificação em todas as amostras. Portanto, os resultados permitem concluir que as sete pacientes do grupo experimental com PCR positivo para E. coliapresentavam fatores de risco eminentes de sepse neonatal, sendo a infecção do trato urinário (ITU), o principal agravante. O exame histopatológico demonstrou que os fatores de risco causaram alterações significativas, produzindo necrose fibrinóide e áreas infartadas na placenta, ao contrário o índice apoptótico que não diferiu do grupo sem precedentes de risco.

Upright balance control strategies during pregnancy.

BACKGROUND: Morphological and physiological changes during pregnancy are considered to interfere with the mechanisms of postural control and potentially increase the risk of falling. A clear understanding of these mechanisms is important to improve pre-natal care and reduce the fall risk in this population. OBJECTIVES: This study focused on investigating how pregnancy affects postural control in each trimester of pregnancy by analyzing pelvic inclination and body sway behavior. Our main hypothesis was that balance control and posture would change during pregnancy. More specifically, pregnancy would increase sway amplitude, anterior pelvic tilt, and body sway regularity in time. STUDY DESIGN: Forty women formed four groups: non-pregnant women (NP) and women at their first, second, and third trimester of pregnancy (P1, P2, and P3, respectively). All participants performed (1) postural evaluation of the pelvic inclination using a digital system of postural analysis and (2) instrumented posturography using a force platform to collect the coordinates of the body's center of pressure (COP) during quiet bipedal stance for 120 s. Kruskal-Wallis H test and post-hoc Mann-Whitney U tests were used to investigate the effects of pregnancy (NP, P1, P2, and P3) on pelvic inclination angle and postural indices computed from the COP signals. RESULTS: Results revealed significant larger body sway accompanied by a more regular medial-lateral pattern of oscillation and a more synchronized anterior-posterior and medial-lateral sway already at the first trimester of pregnancy. The averaged COP migrated posteriorly at third trimester of pregnancy and the anterior pelvic tilt increased at second and third trimesters. CONCLUSIONS: Our results indicate the existence of changes in posture and balance metrics even at early stages of pregnancy. We suggest the use of posturography as one of screening tools for postural instability and fall risk during pregnancy.

The effect of Sebastiania hispida gel on wound model infected by methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus.

Medicinal plants are an alternative for the treatment of infected wounds. The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of Sebastiania hispida in an animal model with a wound infected by Staphylococcus aureus. The crude ethanol extract (ExtEtOH) of S. hispida underwent phytochemical analysis, quantification of metabolites and antibacterial activity analysis performed using S. aureus. Wistar rats were used to test healing activity, and the groups evaluated comprised gels of ExtEtOH at the concentrations 0.2 and 2% compared with control groups. Animals were inoculated with the bacteria S. aureus resistant to methicillin. The treatment periods were of 3 and 21 days. Macroscopic and microscopic analysis were conducted and data were submitted to analysis of variance (p < 0.05). Phytochemical and quantification analysis indicated that phenolic compounds and flavonoids are the major constituents, followed by tyterpenes. ExtEtOH 0.2% was the most effective gel against the growth of strains of S. aureus. Histological wound and regression analysis showed that ExtEtOH gels (0.2% and 2%) were similar and effective in promoting wound healing. In the quantification of collagen fibers, the animals from all groups showed a high amount of thick collagen fibers. Thus, ExtEtOH gels based on the shoots of S. hispida can be used for the treatment of infected wounds as a complementary therapy for infected wound closure and further assays are required with other means. The healing effectiveness may be due to the high content of phenolics, flavonoids and triterpenes.

Effect of Ischemic Postconditioning and Atorvastatin in the Prevention of Remote Lung Reperfusion Injury.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the ability of ischemic postconditioning, atorvastatin and both associated to prevent or minimize reperfusion injury in the lung of rats subjected to ischemia and reperfusion by abdominal aortic clamping. METHODS: We used 41 Wistar norvegic rats, which were distributed into 5 groups: ischemia and reperfusion (I/R), ischemic postcondictioning (IPC), postconditioning + atorvastatin (IPC+A), atorvastatin (A) and SHAM. It was performed a medium laparotomy, dissection and isolation of the infra-renal abdominal aorta; except for the SHAM group, all the others were submitted to the aortic clamping for 70 minutes (ischemia) and posterior clamp removal (reperfusion, 70 minutes). In the IPC and IPC+A groups, postconditioning was performed between the ischemia and reperfusion phases by four cycles of reperfusion and ischemia lasting 30 seconds each. In the IPC+A and A groups, preceding the surgical procedure, administration of 3.4 mg/day of atorvastatin was performed for seven days by gavage. After the surgical procedure, the right caudal lobe was removed from the lung for histological study, using tissue injury score ranging from grade 1 (normal tissue) to grade 4 (intense lesion). RESULTS: The mean lung injury was 3.6 in the I/R group, 1.6 in the IPC group, 1.2 in the IPC+A group, 1.2 in the A group, and 1 in the SHAM group (P<0.01). CONCLUSION: Ischemic postconditioning and atorvastatin were able to minimize lung reperfusion injury, alone or in combination.

Correlation between Dorsiflexion Ankle Range of Motion and Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome / Correlação Entre a Amplitude da Dorsiflexão do Tornozelo e Síndrome da Dor Patelofemoral

The change in lower extremity movement pattern has been previously associated with severe knee disorders, including anterior cruciate ligament rupture, patellar tendinopathy, iliotibial band syndrome, and patellofemoral pain (PFP). The aim of this study was to verify the clinical reliability of ankle dorsiflexion range of motion (ADROM) measurement with weight bearing (WB) using an app on the smartphone (iHand) and to verify if there is correlation between the limitation of the ADROM and the PFP. A total of 67 women, mean age 34.3 ± 2.4, height 182 ± 3.6, weight 73.7 ± 4.2, were allocated to the control group (n = 23) and the PFP group (n = 23). Two examiners evaluated the active ADROM (lunge test) in both ankles at two times to test inter-examiner and intra-examiner reliability. It was observed in the PFP group that the mean ADROM was 17.7 ± 2.5 and the control group was 35.3 ± 6.2 (right) and 17.1 ± 2.9 and 32.9 ± 5, 4 (left). It is concluded that the use of the smartphone app proved to be reliable for clinical application in the evaluation of ADROM with WB and that there is a relation between the low DFT of DFT with the presence of patellofemoral pain. (AU).

A alteração no padrão de movimento da extremidade inferior tem sido previamente associada com severas desordens do joelho, incluindo a ruptura do ligamento cruzado anterior, tendinopatia patelar, síndrome da banda iliotibial e dor patelofemoral - DPF. O objetivo do estudo foi verificar a confiabilidade clínica da mensuração da dorsiflexão de tornozelo - DFT com descarga de peso - WB utilizando um app no smartphone (iHand) e verificar se há correlação entre a limitação da DFT com a DPF. Participaram 67 mulheres, idade média 34,3±2,4, altura 182±3,6, peso 73,7±4,2, alocadas em grupo controle (n=23) e grupo DFP (n=23). Dois examinadores avaliaram a DFT ativa (lunge test) em ambos os tornozelos em dois momentos para se testar a confiabilidade inter-examinador e intra-examinador. O coeficiente de correlação intraclasse - CCI foi utilizado para a análise da confiabilidade das medidas. Observou-se alta confiabilidade (0,9965 [p<0,0001]) e (0,9949 [p<0,0001]) para tornozelo direito e esquerdo respectivamente. Observou-se no grupo DFP que a ADM média de DFT foi de 17,7±2,5 e grupo controle de 35,3±6,2 (direito) e 17,1±2,9 e 32,9±5,4 (esquerdo). Conclui-se que a utilização do app de smartphone se mostrou confiável para aplicação clínica na avaliação da DFT com WB e que há relação entre a baixa ADM de DFT com a presença de dor patelofemoral. (AU).

Effect of ischemic postconditioning and atorvastatin in the prevention of remote lung reperfusion injury

Abstract Objective: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the ability of ischemic postconditioning, atorvastatin and both associated to prevent or minimize reperfusion injury in the lung of rats subjected to ischemia and reperfusion by abdominal aortic clamping. Methods: We used 41 Wistar norvegic rats, which were distributed into 5 groups: ischemia and reperfusion (I/R), ischemic postcondictioning (IPC), postconditioning + atorvastatin (IPC+A), atorvastatin (A) and SHAM. It was performed a medium laparotomy, dissection and isolation of the infra-renal abdominal aorta; except for the SHAM group, all the others were submitted to the aortic clamping for 70 minutes (ischemia) and posterior clamp removal (reperfusion, 70 minutes). In the IPC and IPC+A groups, postconditioning was performed between the ischemia and reperfusion phases by four cycles of reperfusion and ischemia lasting 30 seconds each. In the IPC+A and A groups, preceding the surgical procedure, administration of 3.4 mg/day of atorvastatin was performed for seven days by gavage. After the surgical procedure, the right caudal lobe was removed from the lung for histological study, using tissue injury score ranging from grade 1 (normal tissue) to grade 4 (intense lesion). Results: The mean lung injury was 3.6 in the I/R group, 1.6 in the IPC group, 1.2 in the IPC+A group, 1.2 in the A group, and 1 in the SHAM group (P<0.01). Conclusion: Ischemic postconditioning and atorvastatin were able to minimize lung reperfusion injury, alone or in combination.

Atorvastatin Protects Kidney from Remote Reperfusion Injury.

BACKGROUND: There is a need to find an effective treatment against reperfusion injury. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the capacity of the ischemic postconditioning and statin to prevent renal reperfusion injury. DESIGN AND SETTING: An experimental study developed at Universidade Anhanguera-Uniderp. METHODS: A total of 41 Wistar rats were distributed into 5 groups: ischemia and reperfusion (I/R), ischemic postconditioning (IPC), postconditioning + statin (IPC + S), statin (S), and sham. In the sham group, the infrarenal abdominal aorta was dissected and isolated; all others were submitted to aortic clamping for 70 min (ischemia) and posterior removal of the clamp (reperfusion, 70 min). In the IPC and IPC + S groups, postconditioning was performed in ischemia and reperfusion phases by 4 cycles of reperfusion and ischemia lasting 30 sec each. In the IPC + S and S groups, preceding the surgical procedure, atorvastatin was administered 3.4 mg/day for 7 days by gavage. After the procedure, the left kidney was removed for histological study. RESULTS: The mean renal lesion was 4 in the I/R group, 2.44 in the IPC group, 1.22 in the IPC + S group, 1.11 in the S group, and 1 in the sham group. The I/R group had a higher degree of tissue injury when compared to the others (P < 0.001) and the IPC + S and S groups improved protection against IPC alone (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Ischemic postconditioning and atorvastatin can minimize renal remote reperfusion injury.

Acute effects of low-level laser therapy (660 nm) on oxidative stress levels in diabetic rats with skin wounds.

BACKGROUND: Laser therapy influences oxidative stress parameters such as the activity of antioxidant enzymes and the production of reactive oxygen species. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the effects of low-level laser therapy on oxidative stress in diabetics rats with skin wounds. METHODS: Thirty-six animals were divided into 4 groups: NDNI: non-diabetic rats with cutaneous wounds that not received laser therapy; NDI: non-diabetic rats with cutaneous wounds that received laser therapy; DNI: diabetic rats with skin wounds who did not undergo laser therapy; DI: rats with diabetes insipidus and cutaneous wounds and received laser therapy. The animals were treated with LLLT (660 nm, 100 mW, 6 J/cm, spot size 0.028 cm). On the day of killing the animals, tissue-wrapped cutaneous wounds were collected and immediately frozen, centrifuged, and stored to analyze malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. RESULTS: Significant difference was observed within the groups of MDA levels (ANOVA, p = 0.0001). Tukey's post-hoc test showed significantly lower values of MDA in irradiated tissues, both in diabetic and non-diabetic rats. ANOVA of the diabetic group revealed a significant difference (p &#60; 0.01) when all groups, except NDI and DI, were compared. CONCLUSIONS: LLLT was effective in decreasing MDA levels in acute surgical wounds in diabetic rats.

ATORVASTATIN CAN PREVENT HEPATIC REMOTE REPERFUSION INJURY.

BACKGROUND: Some studies have shown that statins have a promising effect on protection against reperfusion injury. AIM: To evaluate the ability of ischemic postconditioning, statins and both associated to prevent or minimize reperfusion injury in the liver of rats subjected to ischemia and reperfusion by abdominal aorta clamping. METHOD: Were used 41 Wistar rats, which were distributed into five groups: ischemia and reperfusion (I/R), ischemic postcondictioning (IPC), postconditioning + statin (IPC+S), statin (S) and Sham. It was performed a medium laparotomy, dissection and isolation of the infra-renal abdominal aorta; excepting Sham group, all the others were submitted to the aorta clamping for 70 min (ischemia) and posterior clamping removing (reperfusion, 70 min). In the IPC and IPC+S groups, postconditioning was performed between the ischemia and reperfusion phases by four cycles of reperfusion and ischemia lasting 30 s each. In IPC+S and S groups, preceding the surgical procedure, administration of 3.4 mg/day of atorvastatin was performed for seven days by gavage. The left hepatic lobe was removed for histological study and euthanasia was performed. RESULTS: The mean hepatic injury was 3 in the I/R group, 1.5 in the IPC group, 1.2 in the IPC+S group, 1.2 in the S group, and 0 in the SHAM group. The I/R group had a higher degree of tissue injury compared to the others in the statistical analysis and there was no difference between the others (p<0.01). CONCLUSION: Ischemic postconditioning and atorvastatin were able to minimize hepatic reperfusion injury, either alone or in combination.

Atorvastatin can prevent hepatic remote reperfusion injury / Atorvastatina é capaz de prevenir a lesão de reperfusão remota no fígado

ABSTRACT Background: Some studies have shown that statins have a promising effect on protection against reperfusion injury. Aim: To evaluate the ability of ischemic postconditioning, statins and both associated to prevent or minimize reperfusion injury in the liver of rats subjected to ischemia and reperfusion by abdominal aorta clamping. Method: Were used 41 Wistar rats, which were distributed into five groups: ischemia and reperfusion (I/R), ischemic postcondictioning (IPC), postconditioning + statin (IPC+S), statin (S) and Sham. It was performed a medium laparotomy, dissection and isolation of the infra-renal abdominal aorta; excepting Sham group, all the others were submitted to the aorta clamping for 70 min (ischemia) and posterior clamping removing (reperfusion, 70 min). In the IPC and IPC+S groups, postconditioning was performed between the ischemia and reperfusion phases by four cycles of reperfusion and ischemia lasting 30 s each. In IPC+S and S groups, preceding the surgical procedure, administration of 3.4 mg/day of atorvastatin was performed for seven days by gavage. The left hepatic lobe was removed for histological study and euthanasia was performed. Results: The mean hepatic injury was 3 in the I/R group, 1.5 in the IPC group, 1.2 in the IPC+S group, 1.2 in the S group, and 0 in the SHAM group. The I/R group had a higher degree of tissue injury compared to the others in the statistical analysis and there was no difference between the others (p<0.01). Conclusion: Ischemic postconditioning and atorvastatin were able to minimize hepatic reperfusion injury, either alone or in combination.

RESUMO Racional: Alguns estudos têm demonstrado que as estatinas apresentam efeito promissor contra a lesão de reperfusão. Objetivo: Avaliar a capacidade do pós-condicionamento, estatina e ambos associados em prevenir ou minimizar a lesão de reperfusão à distância no fígado em ratos submetidos à isquemia e reperfusão por clampeamento aórtico. Método: Foram utilizados 41 ratos Wistar distribuídos em cinco grupos: isquemia e reperfusão (I/R), pós-condicionamento isquêmico (PCI), pós-condicionamento + estatina (PCI+E), estatina (E) e SHAM. Os animais foram anestesiados, submetidos à laparotomia, dissecção e isolamento da aorta abdominal infrarrenal; exceto o grupo SHAM, todos os outros foram submetidos ao clampeamento aórtico por 70 min (isquemia) e posterior retirada do clampe (reperfusão). Nos grupos PCI e PCI+E o pós-condicionamento foi realizado entre as fases de isquemia e reperfusão por quatro ciclos de reperfusão e isquemia durando 30 s cada. Nos grupos PCI+E e E, previamente ao procedimento cirúrgico foi realizada a administração de 3,4 mg/dia de atorvastatina durante sete dias por gavagem. Resultados: A média de lesão hepática foi 3 no grupo I/R, 1,5 no grupo PCI, 1,2 no grupo PCI+E, 1,2 no grupo E e 0 no grupo SHAM. O grupo I/R teve maior grau de lesão tecidual (p<0,01). Conclusão: O pós-condicionamento isquêmico e atorvastatina foram capazes de minimizar a lesão hepática de reperfusão remota, isoladamente e em associação.

Effects of photobiomodulation therapy on Bothrops moojeni snake-envenomed gastrocnemius of mice using enzymatic biomarkers.

Bothropic venom contains a range of biologically active substances capable of causing severe local and systemic envenoming symptomatology within its victims. The snake anti-venom is effective against systemic effects but has no neutralizing effect against the fast developing local effects. Herein, mice gastrocnemius injected with Bothrops moojeni venom (40 µg/kg) or saline solution were irradiated with HeNe (632.8 nm) and GaAs (904 nm) lasers (daily energy density of 4 J/cm2; 0.03/0.21 power density; 0.07/0.16 spot size; 1.2/0.04 total energy, 1 cm off contact, for HeNe and GaAs lasers, respectively) and euthanized in periods ranging from 3 h to 21 days. Blood biochemistry for creatine kinase (CK), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), acid phosphatase (AP), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), aspartate transaminase (AST), and myoglobin and histopathological analysis, for assessing the degree of myonecrosis and regeneration of gastrocnemius, were done at every time interval. GaAs laser promoted faster photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) effects, and the GaAs group exhibited a better clinical outcome than the HeNe group. Within the GaAs group, the serum levels of CK, LDH, AP, AST, and myoglobin, which were increased by the physiological effects of the venom, were reduced to initial baseline before snake envenomation in less time than those irradiated by the HeNe laser. However, the group receiving irradiation from the HeNe laser returned the levels of ALP activity to baseline faster than those of the GaAs group. Histopathological analysis revealed enhanced muscle regeneration in mice groups treated with both lasers. PBM promoted by GaAs and HeNe showed well-developed centrally nucleate regenerating cells and an increased number of newly formed blood vessels when compared to unirradiated muscle. We therefore suggest that GaAs had the best outcomes likely derived from a deeper penetrating longer wavelength. We conclude that PMBT is a promising, non-invasive approach to be further tested in pre-clinical studies with a goal to further its clinical use in skeletal muscle recovery in snakebite victims.

A INFLUÊNCIA DA TERMOTERAPIA NO GANHO DE FLEXIBILIDADE DOS MÚSCULOS ISQUIOTIBIAIS / THE INFLUENCE OF THERMOTHERAPY IN THE FLEXIBILITY GAIN OF THE HAMSTRING MUSCLES / LA INFLUENCIA DE LA TERMOTERAPIA EN LA FLEXIBILIDAD DE LOS MÚSCULOS ISQUIOTIBIALES

RESUMO Introdução: A flexibilidade muscular é descrita como a capacidade do músculo realizar a extensão de suas fibras, influenciando a mobilidade articular. A diatermia aplicada à musculatura prepara o corpo para atividades físicas, por acelerar o metabolismo das fibras musculares e diminuir a resistência intramuscular, aumentando assim a variedade de movimento e a eficiência mecânica. A crioterapia tem diversas funções fisiológicas quando aplicada ao corpo humano, as quais, em conjunto, propiciam o relaxamento muscular. Objetivo: Avaliar o comportamento da flexibilidade dos músculos isquiotibiais frente à aplicação de alongamento passivo associado a termoterapias quente e fria. Métodos: Este estudo foi composto de 24 voluntários, de ambos os sexos, distribuídos aleatoriamente em três grupos, sendo eles: grupo alongamento passivo (G1), grupo crioterapia precedendo alongamento passivo (G2) e grupo diatermia precedendo alongamento passivo (G3). Os voluntários foram submetidos a avaliações de amplitude de movimento através da goniometria da flexão de quadril com o joelho estendido, sendo uma avaliação inicial realizada antes de iniciar o protocolo e reavaliações ao final de cada uma das quatro semanas de intervenção. Resultados: Verificou-se aumento significativo da flexão de quadril no G2 e G3 com relação ao G1. Não houve diferença estatística entre G2 e G3. Conclusão: O uso da diatermia, assim como da crioterapia, associado ao alongamento passivo é favorável para o ganho de flexibilidade muscular e, consequentemente, de amplitude de movimento em jovens saudáveis.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Muscle flexibility is described as the ability of the muscle to extend its fibers, influencing joint mobility. Diathermy applied to the muscles prepares the body for physical activity, by accelerating the metabolism of the muscle fibers and decreasing the intramuscular resistance, thereby increasing the range of motion and the mechanical efficiency. Cryotherapy has various physiological functions when applied to the human body, which, together, provide muscle relaxation. Objective: To evaluate the flexibility of hamstring muscles by applying passive stretching associated with hot and cold thermotherapy. Methods: This study consisted of 24 volunteers of both sexes randomly divided into three groups: passive stretching group (G1), cryotherapy preceding passive stretching group (G2) and diathermy preceding passive stretching group (G3). The volunteers were evaluated for range of motion by goniometry of hip flexion with the knee extended, with an initial assessment carried out before starting the protocol and revaluations at the end of each of the four weeks of intervention. Results: There was significant increase in hip flexion in G2 and G3 compared to G1. There was no statistical difference between G2 and G3. Conclusion: The use of diathermy and cryotherapy associated with passive stretching is favorable for increasing muscular flexibility and hence the amplitude of motion in healthy young adults.

RESUMEN Introducción: La flexibilidad muscular se describe como la capacidad del músculo para lograr la extensión de sus fibras, que afecta a la movilidad articular. La diatermia aplicada a los músculos prepara el cuerpo para la actividad física, mediante la aceleración del metabolismo de las fibras musculares y disminución de la resistencia intramuscular, lo que aumenta el rango de movimiento y la eficiencia mecánica. La crioterapia tiene diversas funciones fisiológicas cuando es aplicada al cuerpo humano, que, en conjunto, proporcionan la relajación muscular. Objetivo: Evaluar la flexibilidad de los músculos isquiotibiales frente a la aplicación de alongamiento pasivo asociado a termoterapia caliente y fría. Métodos: Este estudio se compone de 24 voluntarios de ambos sexos divididos aleatoriamente en tres grupos, a saber: grupo de estiramiento pasivo (G1), grupo de crioterapia antes del estiramiento pasivo (G2) y grupo de diatermia antes del estiramiento pasivo (G3). Los voluntarios fueron sometidos a evaluaciones de amplitud de movimiento a través de la goniometría de la flexión de cadera con la rodilla extendida, siendo una evaluación inicial realizada antes de iniciar el protocolo y reevaluaciones al final de cada una de las cuatro semanas de intervención. Resultados: No hubo aumento significativo de la flexión de la cadera en G2 y G3 en comparación con G1. No hubo diferencia estadística entre G2 y G3. Conclusión: El uso de diatermia y crioterapia asociado con el estiramiento pasivo es favorable para aumentar la flexibilidad muscular y por lo tanto el rango de movimiento en adultos jóvenes sanos.

The context of leprosy in Brazil-Paraguay border.

In Brazil, leprosy is endemic in three regions: the North, Northeast, and Mid-West. Counties with contiguous binational urban areas are characterized by a constant flow of people, goods, and services, which facilitates the transmission of diseases and influences the epidemiological profile of leprosy. The purpose of this study was to examine territorial differences in relation to the incidence of leprosy, focusing on border counties with contiguous binational urban areas or otherwise. Each county was taken as an information unit for leprosy cases reported during 2001-2011, based on data from original notification records of the state's Department of Health. In counties with contiguous binational urban areas detection rates showed tendency to increase, Virchowian (lepromatous) disease and disability grade II predominated when compared with Groups II and III: 0.64 and 0.54/100,000 inhabitants for Virchowian disease and 0.14 and 0.27/100,000 inhabitants for disability grade II respectively, and were associated with higher transmission rates. The findings demonstrate the role of border areas in maintaining the endemicity of leprosy.

The context of leprosy in Brazil-Paraguay border / O contexto da hanseníase na fronteira Brasil/Paraguai

Abstract In Brazil, leprosy is endemic in three regions: the North, Northeast, and Mid-West. Counties with contiguous binational urban areas are characterized by a constant fow of people, goods, and services, which facilitates the transmission of diseases and influences the epidemiological profile of leprosy. The purpose of this study was to examine territorial differences in relation to the incidence of leprosy, focusing on border counties with contiguous binational urban areas or otherwise. Each county was taken as an information unit for leprosy cases reported during 2001-2011, based on data from original notification records of the state's Department of Health. In counties with contiguous binational urban areas detection rates showed tendency to increase, Virchowian (lepromatous) disease and disability grade II predominated when compared with Groups II and III: 0.64 and 0.54/100,000 inhabitants for Virchowian desease and 0.14 and 0.27/100,000 inhabitants for disability grade II respectively, and were associated with higher transmission rates. The findings demonstrate the role of border areas in maintaining the endemicity of leprosy.

Resumo A hanseníase no Brasil é endêmica em três regiões: norte, nordeste e centro-oeste. As cidades com áreas urbanas contíguas entre o Brasil e Paraguai têm como característica intenso fluxo de pessoas, bens e serviços, cuja mobilidade favorece a transmissão de doenças e influencia no perfil epidemiológico da hanseníase. O objetivo do estudo é analisar as diferenças territoriais relacionadas aos casos de hanseníase, considerando os municípios da linha de fronteira com e sem áreas urbanas contiguas e demais municípios de Mato Grosso do Sul. Cada município foi tratado como unidade de informação para os casos de hanseníase notificados no período de 2001 a 2011, sendo os dados obtidos a partir da base de dados composta pelas fichas de notificação originais da Secretaria de Estado de Saúde. Em municípios com áreas urbanas contiguas, a detecção de casos mostra tendência de aumento, maior coeficientes da forma clínica virchowiana e grau de incapacidade II, em relação aos grupos II e III, que apresentaram 0,64 e 0,54/100.000 da forma clínica virchowiana, respectivamente, e 0,14 e 0,27/100.000, respectivamente, para o grau II de incapacidade. Situação que implica no aumento da transmissão da doença e configura o território de fronteira como cidade urbana contigua importante na manutenção da hanseníase como endêmica.