The synthetic cathinones MDPHP and MDPV: Comparison of the acute effects in mice, in silico ADMET profiles and clinical reports.

The 3,4-methylenedioxy-alpha-pyrrolidinohexanophenone (MDPHP) is a synthetic cathinone closely related to 3,4-methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV), one of the most common synthetic cathinones present in the "bath salts". MDPHP has recently gained attention due to increasing seizures and involvement in human intoxications which occurred in Europe and Italy in the last years, but currently there is a lack of information about its pharmaco-toxicological effects. With the aim at filling this gap, the present study is endeavoured to (i) evaluate the effects of acute administration of MDPHP (0.01-20 mg/kg; i.p.) on behaviour, cardiorespiratory and cardiovascular parameters in CD-1 male mice, comparing them to those observed after administration of MDPV; (ii) predict the ADMET profile of the two analogues using the Plus ADMET Predictor®; (iii) present clinical data related to MDPHP and MDPV-induced intoxications recorded between 2011 and 2023 by the Pavia Poison Control Centre (PCC) - National Toxicology Information Centre (Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri, IRCCS Pavia, Italy). Our results substantiated that MDPHP and MDPV similarly affect sensorimotor and behavioural responses in mice, importantly increased locomotion and induced aggressive behaviour, and, at higher dosage, increased heart rate and blood pressure. These findings are in line with those observed in humans, revealing severe toxidromes typically characterized by Central Nervous System (CNS) alterations (behavioural/neuropsychiatric symptoms), including psychomotor agitation and aggressiveness, cardiovascular and respiratory disorders (e.g. tachycardia, hypertension, dyspnoea), and other peripheral symptoms (e.g. hyperthermia, acidosis, rhabdomyolysis).

A new hydroxyapatite-alginate-gelatin biocomposite favor bone regeneration in a critical-sized calvarial defect model.

This study aimed to evaluate the osteogenic potential of hydroxyapatite (HA), Alginate (Alg), and Gelatine (Gel) composite in a critical-size defect model in rats. Twenty-four male rats were divided into three groups: a negative control with no treatment (Control group), a positive control treated with deproteinized bovine bone mineral (DBBM group), and the experimental group treated with the new HA-Alg-Gel composite (HA-Alg-Gel group). A critical size defect (8.5mm) was made in the rat's calvaria, and the bone formation was evaluated by in vivo microcomputed tomography analysis (µCT) after 1, 15, 45, and 90 days. After 90 days, the animals were euthanized and histological and histomorphometric analyses were performed. A higher proportion of mineralized tissue/biomaterial was observed in the DBBM group when compared to the HA-Alg-Gel and Control groups in the µCT analysis during all analysis periods. However, no differences were observed in the mineralized tissue/biomaterial proportion observed on day 1 (immediate postoperative) in comparison to later periods of analysis in all groups. In the histomorphometric analysis, the HA-Alg-Gel and Control groups showed higher bone formation than the DBBM group. Moreover, in histological analysis, five samples of the HA-Alg-Gal group exhibited formed bone spicules adjacent to the graft granules against only two of eight samples in the DBBM group. Both graft materials ensured the maintenance of defect bone thickness, while a tissue thickness reduction was observed in the control group. In conclusion, this study demonstrated the osteoconductive potential of HA-Alg-Gel bone graft by supporting new bone formation around its particles.

Pharmaco-toxicological effects of the novel tryptamine hallucinogen 5-MeO-MiPT on motor, sensorimotor, physiological, and cardiorespiratory parameters in mice-from a human poisoning case to the preclinical evidence.

RATIONALE: The 5-methoxy-N-methyl-N-isopropyltryptamine (5-MeO-MiPT, known online as "Moxy") is a new psychedelic tryptamine first identified on Italian national territory in 2014. Its hallucinogen effects are broadly well-known; however, only few information is available regarding its pharmaco-toxicological effects. OBJECTIVES: Following the seizure of this new psychoactive substances by the Arm of Carabinieri and the occurrence of a human intoxication case, in the current study we had the aim to characterize the in vivo acute effects of systemic administration of 5-MeO-MiPT (0.01-30 mg/kg i.p.) on sensorimotor (visual, acoustic, and overall tactile) responses, thermoregulation, and stimulated motor activity (drag and accelerod test) in CD-1 male mice. We also evaluated variation on sensory gating (PPI, prepulse inhibition; 0.01-10 mg/kg i.p.) and on cardiorespiratory parameters (MouseOx and BP-2000; 30 mg/kg i.p.). Lastly, we investigated the in silico ADMET (absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, toxicity) profile of 5-MeO-MiPT compared to 5-methoxy-N,N-diisopropyltryptamine (5-MeO-DIPT) and N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT). RESULTS: This study demonstrates that 5-MeO-MiPT dose-dependently inhibits sensorimotor and PPI responses and, at high doses, induces impairment of the stimulated motor activity and cardiorespiratory changes in mice. In silico prediction shows that the 5-MeO-MiPT toxicokinetic profile shares similarities with 5-MeO-DIPT and DMT and highlights a cytochrome risk associated with this compound. CONCLUSIONS: Consumption of 5-MeO-MiPT can affect the ability to perform activities and pose a risk to human health status, as the correspondence between the effects induced in mice and the symptoms occurred in the intoxication case suggests. However, our findings suggest that 5-MeO-MiPT should not be excluded from research in the psychiatric therapy field.

A new hydroxyapatite-alginate-gelatin biocomposite favor bone regeneration in a critical-sized calvarial defect model

Abstract This study aimed to evaluate the osteogenic potential of hydroxyapatite (HA), Alginate (Alg), and Gelatine (Gel) composite in a critical-size defect model in rats. Twenty-four male rats were divided into three groups: a negative control with no treatment (Control group), a positive control treated with deproteinized bovine bone mineral (DBBM group), and the experimental group treated with the new HA-Alg-Gel composite (HA-Alg-Gel group). A critical size defect (8.5mm) was made in the rat's calvaria, and the bone formation was evaluated by in vivo microcomputed tomography analysis (µCT) after 1, 15, 45, and 90 days. After 90 days, the animals were euthanized and histological and histomorphometric analyses were performed. A higher proportion of mineralized tissue/biomaterial was observed in the DBBM group when compared to the HA-Alg-Gel and Control groups in the µCT analysis during all analysis periods. However, no differences were observed in the mineralized tissue/biomaterial proportion observed on day 1 (immediate postoperative) in comparison to later periods of analysis in all groups. In the histomorphometric analysis, the HA-Alg-Gel and Control groups showed higher bone formation than the DBBM group. Moreover, in histological analysis, five samples of the HA-Alg-Gal group exhibited formed bone spicules adjacent to the graft granules against only two of eight samples in the DBBM group. Both graft materials ensured the maintenance of defect bone thickness, while a tissue thickness reduction was observed in the control group. In conclusion, this study demonstrated the osteoconductive potential of HA-Alg-Gel bone graft by supporting new bone formation around its particles.

Resumo Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar o potencial osteogênico de um compósito de hidroxiapatita (HA), alginato (Alg) e gelatina (Gel) em um modelo de defeito de tamanho crítico em ratos. Vinte e quatro ratos machos foram divididos em três grupos: um controle negativo sem tratamento (grupo controle), um controle positivo tratado com osso bovino desproteinizado (grupo DBBM) e o grupo experimental tratado com o novo compósito HA-Alg-Gel (grupo HA-Alg-Gel). Um defeito de tamanho crítico (8,5mm) foi feito na calvária dos ratos, e a formação óssea foi avaliada por análise de microtomografia computadorizada in vivo (µCT) após 1, 15, 45 e 90 dias. Após 90 dias, os animais foram eutanasiados e análises histológicas e histomorfométricas foram realizadas. Uma maior proporção de tecido mineralizado/biomaterial foi observada no grupo DBBM quando comparado aos grupos HA-Alg-Gel e controle na análise de µCT durante todos os períodos de análise. Entretanto, não foram observadas diferenças na proporção tecido mineralizado/biomaterial no dia 1 (pós-operatório imediato) em relação aos períodos posteriores de análise em todos os grupos. Na análise histomorfométrica, os grupos HA-Alg-Gel e controle apresentaram maior formação óssea do que o grupo DBBM. Além disso, na análise histológica, cinco amostras do grupo HA-Alg-Gal exibiram espículas ósseas formadas adjacentes aos grânulos do enxerto contra apenas duas das oito amostras do grupo DBBM. Ambos os materiais de enxerto garantiram a manutenção da espessura óssea do defeito, enquanto uma redução da espessura do tecido foi observada no grupo controle. Em conclusão, este estudo demonstrou o potencial osteocondutor do enxerto ósseo de HA-Alg-Gel, promovendo a formação de osso novo ao redor das suas partículas.

Simultaneous Quantification of 25 Fentanyl Derivatives and Metabolites in Oral Fluid by Means of Microextraction on Packed Sorbent and LC-HRMS/MS Analysis.

Fentanyl and fentalogs' intake as drugs of abuse is experiencing a great increase in recent years. For this reason, there are more and more cases in which it is important to recognize and quantify these molecules and related metabolites in biological matrices. Oral fluid (OF) is often used to find out if a subject has recently used a psychoactive substance and if, therefore, the person is still under the effect of psychotropics. Given its difficulty in handling, good sample preparation and the development of instrumental methods for analysis are essential. In this work, an analytical method is proposed for the simultaneous determination of 25 analytes, including fentanyl, several derivatives and metabolites. OF was collected by means of passive drool; sample pretreatment was developed in order to be fast, simple and possibly semi-automated by exploiting microextraction on packed sorbent (MEPS). The analysis was performed by means of LC-HRMS/MS obtaining good identification and quantification of all the analytes in less than 10 min. The proposed method was fully validated according to the Scientific Working Group for Forensic Toxicology (SWGTOX) international guidelines. Good results were obtained in terms of recoveries, matrix effect and sensitivity, showing that this method could represent a useful tool in forensic toxicology. The presented method was successfully applied to the analysis of proficiency test samples.

Seizures of New Psychoactive Substances on the Italian territory during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In recent years, the availability and the consequent consumption of New Psychoactive Substances (NPS) have proliferated at an unprecedented rate, posing a significant risk to the public health and challenging the law enforcement efforts to tackle the black market. In particular, large availability on Internet and unmonitored shipping have facilitated the diffusion of NPS on national territories. In this scenario, the forensic activity based on the process of drug detection, including investigation, seizure, recognition and analytical identification is crucial to get insights into the drug black market transformation. In this study, we describe the results obtained from the analysis of hundreds of packages seized during the months of year 2020, and suspected to contain NPS because not reacting with standard field test kits. We focused on the analysis by GC-MS and HPLC-HRMS, and NPS in particular, trying to underline the most common molecules present on the Italian territory during the COVID-19 pandemic. NPS were identified in 92.6% of the samples. The most prevalent compounds were synthetic cathinones, and 3-MMC in particular, which alone accounted for 18.6% of the total cases. Other prevalent molecules were 5F-MDMB-PICA, 2-FDCK, 1cp-LSD and 1P-LSD. Fentanyl was never detected. The information obtained from drug seizures is crucial to publish national alerts, which are in turn important to assist the legislative effort to ban new compounds and the update of toxicological and analytical methods.

Bone regeneration using Wollastonite/ß-TCP scaffolds implants in critical bone defect in rat calvaria.

In order to provide favorable conditions for bone regeneration, a lot of biomaterials have been developed and evaluated, worldwide. Composite biomaterials have gained notoriety, as they combine desirable properties of each isolated material. Thus, in this research, bone repair capacity of three developed formulations of ceramic scaffolds were evaluated histomorphometrically, after implantation. Scaffolds were based on wollastonite (W) andß-tricalcium phosphate (ß-TCP) composites in three different ratios (wt.%). ThirtyWistarrats were randomly assigned to three experimental groups: W-20 (20 W/80ß-TCP wt.%), W-60 (60 W/40ß-TCP wt.%), and W-80 (80 W/20ß-TCP wt.%), evaluated by optical microscopy at biological tests after 15 and 45 days of implantation. Throughout the study, the histological results evidenced that the scaffolds remained at the implantation site, were biocompatible and presented osteogenic potential. The percentage of neoformed mineralized tissue was more evident in the W-20 group (51%), at 45 days. The composite of the W-80 group showed more evident biodegradation than the biomaterials of the W-20 and W-60 groups. Thus, it is concluded that the scaffold containing 20 W/80ß-TCP (wt.%) promoted more evident bone formation, but all composites evaluated in this study showed notorious bioactivity and promising characteristics for clinical application.

Untargeted Metabolic Profiling of 4-Fluoro-Furanylfentanyl and Isobutyrylfentanyl in Mouse Hepatocytes and Urine by Means of LC-HRMS.

The diffusion of new psychoactive substances (NPS) is highly dynamic and the available substances change over time, resulting in forensic laboratories becoming highly engaged in NPS control. In order to manage NPS diffusion, efficient and innovative legal responses have been provided by several nations. Metabolic profiling is also part of the analytical fight against NPS, since it allows us to identify the biomarkers of drug intake which are needed for the development of suitable analytical methods in biological samples. We have recently reported the characterization of two new analogs of fentanyl, i.e., 4-fluoro-furanylfentanyl (4F-FUF) and isobutyrylfentanyl (iBF), which were found for the first time in Italy in 2019; 4F-FUF was identified for the first time in Europe and was notified to the European Early Warning System. The goal of this study was the characterization of the main metabolites of both drugs by in vitro and in vivo experiments. To this end, incubation with mouse hepatocytes and intraperitoneal administration to mice were carried out. Samples were analyzed by means of liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS), followed by untargeted data evaluation using Compound Discoverer software with a specific workflow, designed for the identification of the whole metabolic pattern, including unexpected metabolites. Twenty metabolites were putatively annotated for 4-FFUF, with the dihydrodiol derivative appearing as the most abundant, whereas 22 metabolites were found for iBF, which was mainly excreted as nor-isobutyrylfentanyl. N-dealkylation of 4-FFUF dihydrodiol and oxidation to carbonyl metabolites for iBF were also major biotransformations. Despite some differences, in general there was a good agreement between in vitro and in vivo samples.

Comparative Analysis of the Effect of Two Therapeutic Ultrasound Protocols for Regeneration of a Critical Bone Defect.

Objective To compare the effect of two therapeutic ultrasound protocols, with different times of exposure in the regeneration of critical bone defect. Methods Forty-five male rats were distributed among three experimental groups: therapeutic ultrasound group 5 minutes (TUG 5); therapeutic ultrasound group 10 minutes (TUG 10); and control group (CG). In all groups, a critical bone defect of 8.5 mm diameter was made in the calvaria region. The protocol was initiated on the 1 st postoperative day in TUGs 5 and 10, with therapeutic ultrasound at the frequency of 1.0 MHz, pulsed mode, five times a week, at periods of 15, 30, and 60 days. Results Among the experimental groups, the highest volume of neoformation of osteoid matrix took place in the TUG 10 group followed by TUG 5, when compared with the CG group, in which the neoformation was restricted to the border region. The use of ultrasound promoted an increase in the thickness of the conjunctive matrix, proliferation of capillaries, alignment of the collagen fibers, reduction of edema and inflammatory process, being more significant in the 10-minutes time period. Conclusion Therapeutic ultrasound stimulated the repair of a critical bone defect, and the longer exposure time promoted greater osteogenic stimulation.

Comparative Analysis of the Effect of Two Therapeutic Ultrasound Protocols for Regeneration of a Critical Bone Defect / Análise comparativa do efeito de dois protocolos de ultrassom terapêutico para regeneração de defeito ósseo crítico

Abstract Objective To compare the effect of two therapeutic ultrasound protocols, with different times of exposure in the regeneration of critical bone defect. Methods Forty-five male rats were distributed among three experimental groups: therapeutic ultrasound group 5 minutes (TUG 5); therapeutic ultrasound group 10 minutes (TUG 10); and control group (CG). In all groups, a critical bone defect of 8.5 mm diameter was made in the calvaria region. The protocol was initiated on the 1st postoperative day in TUGs 5 and 10, with therapeutic ultrasound at the frequency of 1.0 MHz, pulsed mode, five times a week, at periods of 15, 30, and 60 days. Results Among the experimental groups, the highest volume of neoformation of osteoid matrix took place in the TUG 10 group followed by TUG 5, when compared with the CG group, in which the neoformation was restricted to the border region. The use of ultrasound promoted an increase in the thickness of the conjunctive matrix, proliferation of capillaries, alignment of the collagen fibers, reduction of edema and inflammatory process, being more significant in the 10-minutes time period. Conclusion Therapeutic ultrasound stimulated the repair of a critical bone defect, and the longer exposure time promoted greater osteogenic stimulation.

Resumo Objetivo Comparar o efeito de dois protocolos de ultrassom terapêutico com diferentes tempos de exposição para regeneração de defeito ósseo crítico. Métodos Foram utilizados 45 ratos, machos, distribuídos em três grupos: grupo ultrassom terapêutico 5 minutos (GUS 5); grupo ultrassom terapêutico 10 minutos (GUS 10); e grupo controle (GC). Em todos os grupos, confeccionou-se um defeito ósseo crítico, com 8,5 mm de diâmetro, na região da calvária. O protocolo foi iniciado no 1º dia do pós-operatório, no GUS 5 e no GUS 10, com ultrassom terapêutico na frequência de 1,0 MHz, modo pulsado, 5 vezes por semana, nos períodos de 15, 30, e 60 dias. Resultados Dentre os grupos experimentais, houve maior neoformação de matriz osteoide no GUS 10, seguido do GUS 5 quando comparados ao GC, no qual a neoformação foi restrita à região de borda. O uso do ultrassom promoveu aumento na espessura da matriz conjuntiva, proliferação de capilares, alinhamento das fibras colágenas, redução do edema e do processo inflamatório, tendo sido mais significativo no tempo de 10 minutos. Conclusão O ultrassom terapêutico estimulou o reparo do defeito ósseo crítico, e o maior tempo de exposição promoveu maior estímulo osteogênico.

Epidemiological profile and outcomes in postoperative neuromuscular escoliosis / Perfil epidemiológico e desfechos no pós-operatório de escoliose neuromuscular / Perfil epidemiológico y resultados en el postoperatorio de escoliosis neuromuscular

ABSTRACT Objective To outline the epidemiological profile and identify the hospital outcomes of patients submitted to neuromuscular scoliosis correction surgery. Methods This was a descriptive study that included 50 patients hospitalized following surgery for neuromuscular scoliosis in a tertiary-level hospital in São Paulo from January 2017 to July 2017. The variables were collected retrospectively from the patients' medical records: age, sex, main diagnosis, length of hospital stay, duration of surgery, hospital complications, and mobility. Results Surgeries were performed in boys and girls in similar proportions, adolescents, many with cerebral palsy (42%), with mean hospital stay of 10.8 days. Fifty-two percent presented some complication, such as constipation. Infection of the surgical site was present in 12% of the sample. Forty-two percent had moderate to intense pain and only 2% did not achieve the proposed mobility goals. Conclusion We observed that the epidemiological profile presented data consistent with the scarce literature available, while the definitions of complications, incidence, and hospital outcomes available in the literature were varied quite a bit from the findings in this study. Level of evidence III; Retrospective study.

RESUMO Objetivos Traçar o perfil epidemiológico e identificar os desfechos hospitalares de pacientes submetidos à correção cirúrgica de escoliose neuromuscular. Métodos Trata-se de um estudo descritivo, em que foram incluídos 50 pacientes internados em pós-operatório de escoliose neuromuscular, em um hospital de nível terciário em São Paulo, no período de janeiro de 2017 a julho de 2017. As variáveis foram coletadas de forma retrospectiva, a partir dos prontuários dos pacientes: idade, sexo, diagnóstico principal, tempo de internação, tempo de duração da cirurgia, complicações hospitalares e mobilidade. Resultados As cirurgias foram realizadas em meninos e meninas em proporção semelhante, adolescentes, em sua maioria com paralisia cerebral (42%), sendo que o tempo de internação médio foi de 10,8 dias e 52% apresentaram alguma complicação como a obstipação. A infecção de sítio cirúrgico esteve presente em 12% da amostra, 42% apresentaram dor moderada à intensa e só 2% não cumpriram as metas de mobilidade propostas. Conclusões Observamos que o perfil epidemiológico apresentou dados consistentes com a escassa literatura disponível, enquanto a definição de complicação, incidência e desfechos hospitalares disponíveis na literatura foram bastante variáveis com os achados neste estudo. Nível de Evidência III; Estudo Retrospectivo.

RESUMEN Objetivos Trazar el perfil epidemiológico e identificar los resultados hospitalarios de pacientes sometidos a la corrección quirúrgica de escoliosis neuromuscular. Métodos Se trata de un estudio descriptivo, en el que fueron incluidos 50 pacientes internados en postoperatorio de escoliosis neuromuscular, en un hospital de nivel terciario en São Paulo, en el período de enero de 2017 a julio de 2017. Las variables fueron colectadas de forma retrospectiva, a partir de los prontuarios de los pacientes: edad, sexo, diagnóstico principal, tiempo de internación, tiempo de duración de la cirugía, complicaciones hospitalarias y movilidad. Resultados Las cirugías fueron realizadas en niños y niñas en proporción semejante, adolescentes, en su mayoría con parálisis cerebral (42%), siendo que el tiempo de internación promedio fue de 10,8 días y 52% presentaron alguna complicación como el estreñimiento. La infección de sitio quirúrgico estuvo presente en 12% de la muestra, 42% presentaron dolor moderado a intenso y sólo 2% no cumplieron las metas de movilidad propuestas. Conclusiones Observamos que el perfil epidemiológico presentó datos consistentes con la escasa literatura disponible, mientras que la definición de complicación, incidencia y resultados hospitalarios disponibles en la literatura fueron bastante variables con los hallazgos en este estudio. Nivel de Evidencia III; Estudio Retrospectivo.

Estudo das propriedades físicas de um biomaterial com nova composição de wollastonita e beta fosfato tricálcico para regeneração óssea após implante in vivo / Study of the physical properties of a biomaterial with a new composition of wollastonite and beta-tricalcium phosphate for bone regeneration after implantation in vivo

Introdução: associadas à composição química, as propriedades físicas dos biomateriais como formato, dimensões e porosidade, são fatores que influenciam na biocompatibilidade, biodegradabilidade e nos potenciais osteoindutivo e osteocondutores. Objetivo: identificar modificações físicas no formato, dimensões e porosidade de um biomaterial com nova composição de wollastonita e beta fosfato tricálcico, implantado em defeitos ósseos críticos em calvária de ratos. Metodologia: trata-se de um estudo exploratório, com um biomaterial compósito, antes e após a sua implantação in vivo. Utilizou-se explantes cirúrgicos de calvárias de ratos que receberam implantes em defeito ósseo crítico. Os animais foram distribuídos em 3 grupos experimentais aleatoriamente, compostos por 5 animais cada, e avaliados com 15, 45 e 120 dias. Os grupos foram denominados: G0-biomaterial; GI-15 dias; GII-45 dias; e, GIII-120 dias. As amostras foram micrografadas em microscópio eletrônico de varredura, com diferentes magnificações. Utilizouse o software livre ImageJ para processamento das imagens e análise das partículas e poros. Resultados: a distribuição espacial do biomaterial promoveu preenchimento completo do defeito ósseo crítico. Micrografias com diferentes magnificações permitiu identificar modificações na área de contato entre grânulos, diminuição dos poros intergranular, aumento da área ocupada pelos poros e diminuição das partículas nos grânulos. Nos grupos GII e GIII, identificou-se formação de componentes orgânicos na superfície do implante. Conclusão: houve modificações físicas no formato, dimensões horizontais, distribuição espacial e porosidade da superfície dos grânulos do biomaterial, relacionadas com a biodegradabilidade e o potencial osteoindutivo e osteocondutor do biomaterial.

Introduction: associated with the chemical composition, physical properties of biomaterials related to their format, dimensions and porosity, are factors that influence on biocompatibility, biodegradability and osteoinductive and osteoconductive potential. Objective: identify physical changes in the format, dimensions and porosity of biomaterial with new composition of wollastonite and beta tricalcium phosphate, implanted in critical bone defects in calvaria of rats. Methodology: this is an exploratory study, with a composite biomaterial before and after its implantation in vivo. Used surgical explants of rat calvarium that received biomaterial implants into the critical bone defect. The animals were divided into 3 experimental groups of random distribution, composed of 5 animals each, and evaluated for 15, 45 and 120 days. The groups were named: G0-Biomaterial; GI-15 days; GII-45 days; and, GIII-120 days. The samples were studied by micrography in scanning electronic microscope with different magnifications. It was used the free software ImageJ to image processing and particles and pores analysis. Results: the spatial distribution of the biomaterial promoted full filling of the critical bone defect. Micrographs with different magnifications allowed to identification of modifications in the area of contact between granules, decrease of the intergranular pores, increase of the area occupied by the pores and decrease of the particles in the granules. In GII, and GIII groups, it was identified formation of organic components on the surface of the implant. Conclusion: there were physical modifications in the format, horizontal dimensions, spatial distribution and porosity of the biomaterial, related to the biodegradability and the osteoinductive and osteoconductive potential of the biomaterial.

Influence of the geometry of nanostructured hydroxyapatite and alginate composites in the initial phase of bone repair1.

PURPOSE: To analyze, histomorphologically, the influence of the geometry of nanostructured hydroxyapatite and alginate (HAn/Alg) composites in the initial phase of the bone repair. METHODS: Fifteen rats were distributed to three groups: MiHA - bone defect filled with HAn/Alg microspheres; GrHA - bone defect filled with HAn/Alg granules; and DV - empty bone defect; evaluated after 15 days postoperatively. The experimental surgical model was the critical bone defect, ≅8.5 mm, in rat calvaria. After euthanasia the specimens were embedded in paraffin and stained with hematoxylin and eosin, picrosirius and Masson-Goldner's trichrome. RESULTS: The histomorphologic analysis showed, in the MiHA, deposition of osteoid matrix within some microspheres and circumjacent to the others, near the bone edges. In GrHA, the deposition of this matrix was scarce inside and adjacent to the granules. In these two groups, chronic granulomatous inflammation was noted, more evident in GrHA. In the DV, it was observed bone neoformation restricted to the bone edges and formation of connective tissue with reduced thickness in relation to the bone edges, throughout the defect. CONCLUSION: The geometry of the biomaterials was determinant in the tissue response, since the microspheres showed more favorable to the bone regeneration in relation to the granules.

Formação do enfermeiro para os cuidados de pacientes críticos na Unidade de Terapia Intensiva / Critical care nurses training for patients in the Intensive Care Unit

Objetiva-se analisar e discutir o perfil da formação pré e pós-admissional dos enfermeiros de uma UTI. Estudo descritivo com 20 enfermeiros de uma UTI num hospital de ensino no Rio de Janeiro. Foi realizada uma entrevista contendo variáveis sociais e formação pré e pós-admissional. Os dados foram analisados por estatística descritiva. A média de idade dos enfermeiros foi de 39,4 anos e 12 (60%) foram admitidos na UTI com algum tipo de especialização médico-cirúrgica. No que tange à formação em stricto sensu, somente (3) 15% tinham essa formação pré-admissão, sendo que houve aumento de 8 (40%) na formação pós-admissional, distribuídos entre lato e stricto sensu. Conclui-se que há o domínio da formação lato sensu, reflexo de uma formação voltada para a prática, porém já é possível observar a presença de mestres profissionais e doutorandos demonstrando a preocupação com sua autonomia e aprimoramento permanente de alto nível.(AU)

The aim of this study is to analyze and discuss the profile of pre and post admission training of nurses at an ICU. A descriptive study with 20 nurses from an ICU in a teaching hospital in Rio de Janeiro. An interview was conducted containing social variables and pre and post admission training. Data were analyzed by descriptive statistics. The mean age of the nurses was 39.4 years and 12 (60%) were admitted to the ICU with medical-surgical specialization. Concerning training in stricto sensu, only (3) 15% had this pre-admission training, and there was an increase of 8 (40%) in post-admission training, distributed between lato and stricto sensu. It is concluded that there is mastery of the lato sensu training, reflecting a practical formation, but it is already possible to observe the presence of professional masters and doctoral students demonstrating the concern with their autonomy and permanent improvement of high level.(AU)

Se pretende analizar y discutir el perfil de la formación pre y post-admisional de los enfermeros de una UTI. Estudio descriptivo con 20 enfermeros de una UTI en un hospital de enseñanza en Río de Janeiro. Se realizó una entrevista que contenía variables sociales y formación pre y post-admisional. Los datos fueron analizados por estadística descriptiva. La media de edad de los enfermeros fue de 39,4 años y 12 (60%) fueron admitidos en la UTI con algún tipo de especialización médico-quirúrgica. En lo que se refiere a la formación en stricto sensu, solamente (3) 15% tenían esa formación pre-admisión, siendo que hubo aumento de 8 (40%) en la formación post-admisional, distribuidos entre lato y stricto sensu. Se concluye que existe el dominio de la formación lato sensu, reflejo de una formación orientada a la práctica, pero ya es posible observar la presencia de maestros profesionales y doctorandos demostrando la preocupación por su autonomía y perfeccionamiento permanente de alto nivel.(AU)

Influence of the geometry of nanostructured hydroxyapatite and alginate composites in the initial phase of bone repair

Abstract Purpose: To analyze, histomorphologically, the influence of the geometry of nanostructured hydroxyapatite and alginate (HAn/Alg) composites in the initial phase of the bone repair. Methods: Fifteen rats were distributed to three groups: MiHA - bone defect filled with HAn/Alg microspheres; GrHA - bone defect filled with HAn/Alg granules; and DV - empty bone defect; evaluated after 15 days postoperatively. The experimental surgical model was the critical bone defect, ≅8.5 mm, in rat calvaria. After euthanasia the specimens were embedded in paraffin and stained with hematoxylin and eosin, picrosirius and Masson-Goldner's trichrome. Results: The histomorphologic analysis showed, in the MiHA, deposition of osteoid matrix within some microspheres and circumjacent to the others, near the bone edges. In GrHA, the deposition of this matrix was scarce inside and adjacent to the granules. In these two groups, chronic granulomatous inflammation was noted, more evident in GrHA. In the DV, it was observed bone neoformation restricted to the bone edges and formation of connective tissue with reduced thickness in relation to the bone edges, throughout the defect. Conclusion: The geometry of the biomaterials was determinant in the tissue response, since the microspheres showed more favorable to the bone regeneration in relation to the granules.

Uso de marcadores fluorescentes na engenharia tecidual óssea: estudo piloto / Use of fluorescent markers in bone tissue engineering: pilot study

Introdução: a regeneração e o reparo de tecidos ósseos perdidos é objeto de estudo da Bioengenharia Tecidual. O uso de biomateriais substitutos ósseos biomiméticos visa estimular os sistemas celulares e bioquímicos para restabelecer de modo mais eficiente o tecido ósseo nos casos de sua reconstrução. Ao investigar o processo de remodelação, é vital identificar áreas de novo crescimento para avaliar a eficácia dos biomateriais implantados e respectivos regimes de tratamento. A avaliação qualitativa e quantitativa da regeneração óssea pode ser realizada através da aplicação de marcadores como o Xilenol, a Tetraciclina, a Calceína e a Alizarina. A administração desses marcadores de forma associada possibilita ainda marcar sequencialmente camadas de nova deposição e remodelação durante o reparo. Objetivo: estabelecer um protocolo para utilização dos marcadores fluorescentes de reparo ósseo xilenol, tetraciclina, calceína e alizarina, em ratos. Metodologia: foram utilizados 35 ratos da linhagem Wistar, machos adultos, com massa corpórea entre 350 e 400g, e idade aproximada de 4 a 5 meses, distribuídos randomicamente em 5 grupos experimentais, submetidos à confecção de defeito ósseo circular de 8 mm em região de calvária, e administração dos diferentes marcadores segundo os grupos; XO ­ Xilenol; Ca ­ Calceína; Al ­ Alizarina; Te ­ Tetraciclina; C ­ Controle. Após 15 dias de experimento, os animais foram eutanasiados e as calvárias processadas e analisadas por histomorfometria, microscopia de epifluorescência e microscopia de fluorescência. Resultados: todos protocolos empregados para utilização dos marcadores fluorescentes xilenol, calceína, alizarina e tetracicilina foram úteis para identificar área de deposição mineral durante o período analisado de regeneração óssea em ratos. As imagens obtidas pela microscopia de fluorescência revela a presença dos marcadores incorporados à matriz óssea neoformada, no entanto a utilização da Alizarina e Calceína dentro dos protocolos testados mostraram-se mais eficientes. Conclusão: os protocolos testados nesse estudo apresentaram-se viáveis para utilização em pesquisas envolvendo marcadores de regeneração óssea, com resultados superiores para Alizarina e Calceína

Introduction: The regeneration and repair of lost bone tissues is the subject of a study of Tissue Bioengineering. The use of biomimetic biomaterial bone substitutes aims to stimulate the cellular and biochemical systems to restore more efficiently the bone tissue in the cases of its reconstruction. When investigating the remodeling process, it is vital to identify areas of new growth to evaluate the efficacy of implanted biomaterials and their treatment regimens. The qualitative and quantitative evaluation of bone regeneration can be performed through the use of markers such as Xylenol, Tetracycline, Calcein and Alizarin. The administration of such markers in an associated manner also makes it possible to sequentially mark layers of new deposition and remodeling during the repair. Objective: to establish a protocol for the use of fluorescent xylenol, tetracycline, calcein and alizarin bone repair markers in rats. Metodology: thirtyfive male adult Wistar rats with a body mass ranging from 350 to 400 g and approximately 4 to 5 months old were randomly assigned to 5 experimental groups submitted to a circular bone defect of 8 mm in the region of calvaria, and administration of the different markers according to the groups; XO ­ Xylenol; Ca ­ Calcein; Al-Alizarin; Te ­ Tetracycline; C ­ Control. After 15 days of experiment, the animals were euthanized and the calvaria processed and analyzed by histomorphometry, epifluorescence microscopy and fluorescence microscopy. Results: all protocols used for fluorescence markers xylenol, calcein, alizarin and tetracycline were useful to identify area of mineral deposition during the analyzed period of bone regeneration in rats. The images obtained by fluorescence microscopy revealed the presence of the markers incorporated into the neoformed bone matrix, however the use of Alizarin and Calcein within the protocols tested were more efficient. Conclusion: the protocols tested in this study were feasible for use in research involving markers of bone regeneration, with superior results for Alizarin and Calcein.

Uso de cianocrilato no fechamento de excisões faciais / Use of cyanocrylate at closing of facials excisions

Introdução: a face é o centro estético do indivíduo. Por isso, lesões nessa região podem repercutir mais negativamente do que em qualquer outra parte do corpo. Os cianoacrilatos, devido às suas vantagens de uso, incluindo a ausência de marcas de ponto, apresentam-se como um atrativo método de fechamento de feridas faciais em suas mais diversas formas. Objetivo: avaliação da eficácia do fechamento de excisões cutâneas faciais, usando o 2-etilcianoacrilato. Metodologia: estudo retrospectivo, no qual 36 feridas foram ocluídas com 2-etilcianoacrilatocomo alternativa à sutura intradérmica. Resultados: feridas excisionais (100%) foram tratadas com 2-etilcianoacrilato e suturas profundas relaxadoras como método de síntese. Cicatrizes inestéticas (13,9%), deiscência (5,6%) e infecção (2,8%) foram os problemas encontrados. Não houve casos de necrose, reações alérgicas ou de queloide. Os resultados foram considerados satisfatórios na maioria dos pacientes (96,4%). Conclusão: o uso do 2-etilcianoacrilato se mostrou seguro e com excelentes resultados cosméticos no grupo de pacientes selecionados.

Introduction: the face is the aesthetic center of the individual. Therefore, lesions in this region may have more negative repercussions than in any other part of the body. Cyanoacrylates (CA), due to their advantages of use, including the absence of dot marks, present themselves as an attractive method of closing facial wounds in their most diverse forms. Objective: to evaluate the efficacy of the closure of facial skin excisions using 2-ethylcyanoacrylate. Methodology: retrospective study in which 36 wounds were occluded with 2-ethylcyanoacrylate as an alternative to intradermal suture. Results: excisional wounds (100%) were treated with 2-ethylcyanoacrylate and deep relaxation sutures as a synthesis method. Unaesthetic scars (13.9%), dehiscence (5.6%) infection (2.8%) were the problems encountered. There were no cases of necrosis, allergic or keloid reactions. The results were considered satisfactory in most patients (96.4%). Conclusion: the use of 2-ethylcyanoacrylate was safe and with excellent cosmetic results in this group of patients.

Músculo piramidal: estudo de 341 casos / Pyramidal muscle: study of 341 cases

Introdução: o estudo do piramidal, a despeito do tamanho reduzido e da função rudimentar desse músculo, tem revelado interesse renovado devido à sua utilidade em diversas condições clínicas. Objetivo: identificação do músculo piramidal em um grupo de cadáveres de mestiços provenientes das duas principais regiões metropolitanas do estado da Bahia (Salvador e Feira de Santana). Metodologia: estudo retrospectivo de necropsias nas quais os piramidais foram expostos para visualização e contagem direta. Resultados: músculo piramidal bilateral: 73,3%; unilateral: 5%; ausente: 21,7%. Conclusões: os achados sugerem que a presença do músculo foi correlacionada fracamente com características demográficas regionais em uma população miscigenada.

Introduction: the study of the pyramidal, despite the small size and rudimentary muscle function, has revealed renewed interest due to your usefulness in various clinical conditions. Objective: pyramidal muscle identification in a group of corpses of mestizos of various ethnicities from the two main metropolitan regions of the state of Bahia (Salvador and Feira de Santana). Methodology: retrospective study of necropsies in which pyramidal muscles were exposed to view and direct count. Results: bilateral pyramidal muscle: 73.3%, unilateral: 5% and absent: 21.7%. Conclusions: the findings suggest that the presence of muscle was weakly correlated by demographic characteristics in a racially mixed population regional.