Targeting Nociceptin/Orphanin FQ receptor to rescue cognitive symptoms in a mouse neuroendocrine model of chronic stress.

Chronic stress causes cognitive deficits, such as impairments in episodic-like hippocampus-dependent memory. Stress regulates an opioid-related neuropeptide named Nociceptin/Orphanin FQ (N/OFQ), the ligand of the G protein-coupled receptor NOP. Since this peptide has deleterious effects on memory, we hypothesized that the N/OFQ system could be a mediator of the negative effects of stress on memory. Chronic stress was mimicked by chronic exposure to corticosterone (CORT). The NOP receptor was either acutely blocked using selective antagonists, or knocked-down specifically in the hippocampus using genetic tools. Long-term memory was assessed in the object recognition (OR) and object location (OL) paradigms. Acute injection of NOP antagonists before learning had a negative impact on memory in naive mice whereas it restored memory performances in the chronic stress model. This rescue was associated with a normalization of neuronal cell activity in the CA3 part of the hippocampus. Chronic CORT induced an upregulation of the N/OFQ precursor in the hippocampus. Knock-down of the NOP receptor in the CA3/Dentate Gyrus region prevented memory deficits in the CORT model. These data demonstrate that blocking the N/OFQ system can be beneficial for long-term memory in a neuroendocrine model of chronic stress. We therefore suggest that NOP antagonists could be useful for the treatment of memory deficits in stress-related disorders.

Acute single non-sedative doses of NOP receptor agonists affect acquisition of object location memory but repeated high doses do not induce long-lasting deficits.

The Nociceptin/Orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) system has been shown to modulate various aspects of long-term memory. It is therefore important to study the effects on memory impairment by nociceptin receptor (NOP) agonists under preclinical development. In the present study, we investigated the effect of systemic injection of two small molecule selective NOP agonists, AT-202 and AT-524, in the object location memory task in male and female mice. Since high doses of NOP agonists have been shown to induce sedation, we first determined the sedative doses for the two compounds and found them to be higher in female than in male mice. We then observed that sub-sedative doses of NOP agonists administered before learning, induced memory impairment during a test session performed 24 h later. Again, female mice were less sensitive to the amnesic effects than males. On the contrary, in male mice, NOP agonists did not produce amnesia when they were injected after learning, suggesting that they do not affect the consolidation of object location memory. Finally, repeated administration of high doses of NOP agonists over 7 days did not impair long-term spatial memory. Together, our data show for the first time that NOP receptor agonists impair the acquisition of object location memory with sex-dependent potency but do not affect memory consolidation, and that repeated stimulation of the receptor does not compromise long-term episodic-like spatial memory.

The NOP antagonist BTRX-246040 increases stress resilience in mice without affecting adult neurogenesis in the hippocampus.

Nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) is the endogenous ligand of an inhibitory G protein coupled receptor named N/OFQ peptide receptor (NOP). Clinical and preclinical findings suggest that the blockade of the NOP signaling induces antidepressant-like effects. Additionally, the blockade of the NOP receptor during inescapable stress exposure prevented the acquisition of the helplessness phenotype, suggesting that NOP antagonists are able to increase stress resilience. BTRX-246040 (aka LY2940094) is a NOP receptor antagonist with high affinity, potency and selectivity for the NOP over classical opioid receptors. BTRX-246040 is under development for the treatment of depression, eating disorders and alcohol abuse and it already entered clinical trials. In the present study, the antidepressant effects of BTRX-246040 were evaluated in mice subjected to the forced swimming test and to the learned helplessness model of depression. Additionally, the ability of BTRX-246040 to prevent the development of the helpless behavior and to modulate adult hippocampal neurogenesis has been investigated. BTRX-246040 (30 mg/kg, i.p.) produced antidepressant-like effects in the forced swimming test and in the learned helplessness model. More interestingly, when given before the stress induction sessions it was able to prevent the development of the helplessness behavior. Under these experimental conditions, BTRX-246040 did not modulate adult hippocampal neurogenesis, neither in naive nor in stressed mice. This study, performed with a clinically viable ligand, further corroborates growing evidence indicating that the blockade of the NOP signaling may provide an innovative strategy for the treatment of stress related psychopathologies.

Condições de vida e saúde de famílias rurais no sertão cearense: desafios para Agenda 2030 / Life and health conditions of rural families in the hinterlands of Ceará: challenges for the 2030 Agenda

RESUMO Este estudo caracteriza condições de vida e situação de saúde das famílias que vivem da agricultura familiar e da pesca artesanal no sertão cearense. Trata-se de pesquisa descritiva quantitativa e delineamento transversal realizada mediante entrevistas com 152 agricultores(as) familiares e/ou pescadores(as) artesanais em Novo Oriente, Ceará, Brasil. A análise estatística foi realizada com frequência absoluta e relativa, média aritmética e desvio-padrão. Observaram-se algumas vulnerabilidades vivenciadas pelas famílias: 19,5% (n=29) com deficiência no tratamento da água para consumo, 25,7% (n=39) relataram existência de problemas ambientais, 26,6% (n=40) apresentando insatisfatória produção familiar, 34,6% (n=47) com baixa renda familiar, 75% (n=114) com inexistência na localidade de escolas e 88,2% (n=134) de creches, 51,3% (n=78) com carência de opções de lazer e 37,5% (n=57) em insegurança alimentar. Na análise da situação de saúde, destaca-se prevalência de doenças crônicas, como cardiovasculares e mentais. Essa realidade é contraditória com as metas propostas pelos Objetivos de Desenvolvimento Sustentável: fome zero; boa saúde e bem-estar; educação de qualidade; água limpa e saneamento; emprego digno e crescimento econômico; redução das desigualdades. Dessa forma, as ações de saúde não podem se desvincular dessas iniquidades, devendo-se buscar uma articulação entre governos, empresas e cidadãos para alcançar as metas da Agenda 2030.

ABSTRACT This study characterizes the living conditions and health situation of families who live from family farming and artisanal fishing in hinterlands of Ceará. This is a descriptive quantitative research and cross-sectional design conducted through interviews with 152 family farmers and / or artisanal fishermen in Novo Oriente, Ceará, Brazil. Statistical analysis was performed with absolute and relative frequency, arithmetic mean and standard deviation. Some vulnerabilities experienced by the families were observed: 19.5% (n=29) with a deficiency in the treatment of drinking water, 25.7% (n=39) reported the existence of environmental problems, 26.6% (n=40) showing unsatisfactory family production, 34.6% (n=47) with low family income, 75% (n=114) with no schools in the locality and 88.2% (n=134) of day care centers, 51.3% ( n=78) with a lack of leisure options, and 37.5% (n=57) with food insecurity. Prevalence of chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular and mental, stands out. This reality is contradictory with the goals proposed by the SDG: zero hunger; good health and welfare; quality education; clean water and sanitation; decent employment and economic growth; reduction of inequalities. Thus, health actions cannot be separated from these inequities, and a link between governments, companies, and citizens must be sought to achieve the goals of the 2030 Agenda.

Molecular landscape of Hereditary Melanoma.

Melanoma is considered the most lethal skin cancer and its incidence has increased during the past decades. About 10 % of cases are classified as hereditary melanoma. Genetic predisposition usually manifests itself clinically as early onset and multiple cutaneous melanomas. Several genes have been identified as involved to melanoma susceptibility, some of them still with unknown clinical relevance. Beyond melanoma, the affected families are also more prone to develop other malignancies, such as pancreatic cancer. The identification of risk families and involved genes is of great importance, since different forms of oncological surveillance are recommended. However, well established guidelines to standardize both the selection of individuals and the genetic panel to be requested are still lacking. Given the importance of the genetic counseling and testing in the context of clinical suspicion of hereditary melanoma, this paper aims to review the literature regarding genetic panel indications worldwide.

Avaliação do padrão morfológico de rugoscopia palatal em uma população brasileira / Evaluation of the morphological pattern of palatal rugoscopy in a brazilian population

Objetivo: Este estudo teve por objetivo avaliar o perfil do padrão morfológico de rugosidade palatal de alunos de graduação da Faculdade de Odontologia de Pernambuco FOP-UPE. Metodologia: A pesquisa foi do tipo prospectiva, sendo a amostra constituída de um total de 105 (cento e cinco) indivíduos. Foi realizada a moldagem do arco superior e modelos de gesso foram confeccionados. A partir dos mesmos, a análise morfológica das rugas palatais foi realizada, por um único examinador. Os parâmetros de morfologia das rugas primárias, forma da papila incisiva, direção de alinhamento das rugas, rafe palatina mediana e força das rugas foram analisados. Os dados foram computados numa planilha do Excel, sendo posteriormente, submetidos a análise estatística. Resultados: A idade variou de 18 a 35 anos, a faixa etária mais prevalente foi 21 a 23 anos, maioria de cor branca e IMC (índice de massa corporal) normal (64,8%). A morfologia das rugas primárias mais frequente foi a curva (39,0%). Sobre a forma papila incisiva, aproximadamente metade (49,5%) foi classificada na categoria mínima seguido da cilíndrica (35,2%). Pouco mais da metade (52,4%) teve a classificação de Carrea irregular. Os dois maiores percentuais da rafe palatina foram: não bifurcada (43,8%) e bifurcada posterior (32,4%). Conclusão: pode-se concluir que, foi possível identificar um tipo morfológico específico mais prevalente dentro da população estudada. Diferenças significativas entre as classificações do IMC foram verificadas na dimensão anteroposterior, secundária esquerda e transversal. Foi observada associação significativa entre a classificação do IMC com as inicial e complementar da classificação de Santos

Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the profile of the morphological pattern of palatal roughness of undergraduate students of the College of Dentistry of Pernambuco FOP-UPE, through the various proposed parameters. Methodology: The research was of the prospective type, being the sample constituted of a total of 105 (one hundred and five) individuals. Upper arch molding was performed and plaster models were made. From these, the morphological analysis of the palatal wrinkles was performed by a single examiner. The morphological parameters of the primary wrinkles, incisal papilla shape, direction of alignment of wrinkles, median raphe palatine and wrinkle strength were analyzed. The data were computed in an Excel spreadsheet, and then submitted to statistical analysis. Results: Age ranged from 18 to 35 years, the most prevalent age group was 21 to 23 years, mostly white and normal BMI (body mass index) (64.8%). The most frequent primary wrinkle morphology was the curve (39.0%). About the incisive papilla, approximately half (49.5%) was classified in the minimum category followed by the cylindrical (35.2%). Just over half (52.4%) had the classification of Carrea irregular. The two highest percentages of Rafe palatine were: non-bifurcated (43.8%) and posterior bifurcated (32.4%). Conclusion: It can be concluded that, it was possible to identify a specific morphological type most prevalent in the studied population. Significant differences between BMI classifications were found in the anteroposterior, secondary left and transverse dimensions. Significant association was observed between BMI classification with Santos' initial and supplemental classifications.

Cancer immunotherapy: the art of targeting the tumor immune microenvironment.

For many decades, cancer treatment has been strongly directed toward the development of cytotoxic and cytostatic drugs, quite often leading to disappointing results due to the inter- and intra-tumoral heterogeneity. Lately, this intra-cellular look has given way to the understanding of the tumor microenvironment, thus enabling modification of the immunological dynamics between tumor cells and their host. An era of new drugs aiming to unlock the host immune system against tumor cells is steadily increasing. Strategies involving adoptive cell therapy, therapeutic vaccines, immune checkpoint inhibitors and so on have provided spectacular clinical responses and increased survival in previously refractory settings and "hard-to-treat" cancers. Based on a comprehensive search in the main scientific databases, annals of recent renowned oncology congresses and platforms of ongoing trials, the clinical pharmacology characteristics of the main classes of immunotherapeutic agents, as well as the new treatment strategies related to immunotherapy in solid tumors, are carefully discussed throughout this review.

Effectiveness of auricular therapy on labor pain: a randomized clinical trial / Efectividad de la aurículoterapia para el dolor durante el trabajo de parto: un ensayo clínico aleatorizado / Efetividade da auriculoterapia sobre a dor no trabalho de parto: ensaio clínico randomizado

ABSTRACT Objective: to evaluate the effectiveness of auricular therapy on pain in the active phase of labor. Method: a randomized, parallel and triple-blind clinical trial, conducted from April 2015 to June 2016. A total of 102 pregnant women with a gestational age ≥37 weeks, cervical dilatation ≥4 cm and two or more contractions within 10 minutes, randomly divided into three groups: intervention (auricular therapy), placebo (sham points) and control (without intervention). Auricular therapy was applied with crystal microspheres in four strategic points and pain intensity evaluated by a Visual and Analog Scale. For the analyses, the following tests were used: Kruskal-Wallis and Generalized estimating equations. Results: pain intensity averages were similar at admission (intervention: 7.2±1.6 vs placebo: 6.9±2.4 vs control: 7.5±1.8; p-value=0.4475), but with 60 minutes (intervention: 6.8±1.9 vs placebo: 7.5±2.4 vs control: 8.3±1.8; p=0.0060) and 120 minutes (intervention: 7.1±1.9 vs placebo: 8.0±2.4 vs control: 8.8±1.9; p-value=0.039), there was a significant increase in pain scores between parturients of the placebo and control groups. Conclusion: parturients who received auricular therapy during labor showed a reduction in pain intensity, which may characterize the effectiveness of the therapy in this phase. Registration: No. RBR-47hhbj.

RESUMEN Objetivo: evaluar la efectividad de la auriculoterapia sobre el dolor en la fase activa del trabajo de parto. Método: un ensayo clínico aleatorizado, paralelo y triple ciego, realizado entre abril de 2015 y junio de 2016. Participaron 102 parturientas con una edad gestacional de al menos 37 semanas, dilatación cervical mínima de 4 cm y dos o más contracciones en 10 minutos, divididas aleatoriamente en tres grupos: intervención (auriculoterapia), placebo (puntossham) y control (sin intervención). La auriculoterapia se aplicó con microesferas de cristales en cuatro puntos estratégicos y la intensidad del dolor se evaluó por medio de una Escala Visual y Analógica. Para los análisis se utilizaron las siguientes pruebas: Kruskal-Wallis y Ecuaciones de estimaciones generalizadas (Generalized Estimating Equations, GEE). Resultados: los valores medios de la intensidad del dolor fueron parecidos al momento de la admisión (intervención: 7,2±1,6 vs placebo: 6,9±2,4 vs control: 7,5±1,8; valor-p =0,4475), pero a los 60 minutos (intervención: 6,8±1,9 vs placebo: 7,5±2,4 vs control: 8,3±1,8; p = 0,0060) y a los 120 minutos (intervención: 7,1±1,9 vs placebo: 8,0±2,4 vs control: 8,8±1,9; valor-p = 0,039) se registró un aumento significativo en los puntajes de dolor entre las parturientas de los grupos placebo y de control. Conclusión: en las parturientas que recibieron auriculoterapia durante el trabajo de parto se evidenció una reducción del dolor, que puede caracterizar la efectividad de la terapia en esta fase.

RESUMO Objetivo: avaliar a efetividade da auriculoterapia sobre a dor na fase ativa do trabalho de parto. Método: ensaio clínico randomizado, paralelo e triplo-cego, realizado de abril de 2015 a junho de 2016. Participaram 102 parturientes de idade gestacional ≥ 37 semanas, dilatação cervical ≥ 4 cm e duas ou mais contrações em 10 min, divididas aleatoriamente em três grupos: intervenção (auriculoterapia), placebo (pontos sham) e controle (sem intervenção). A auriculoterapia foi aplicada com microesferas de cristais em quatro pontos estratégicos e a intensidade da dor avaliada por uma Escala Visual e Analógica. Para as análises, foram utilizados os testes: Kruskal-Wallis e Generalized estimating equations. Resultados: as médias de intensidade da dor foram parecidas na admissão (intervenção: 7,2±1,6 vs placebo: 6,9±2,4 vs controle: 7,5±1,8; p-valor=0,4475), porém com 60 minutos (intervenção: 6,8±1,9 vs placebo: 7,5±2,4 vs controle: 8,3±1,8; p=0,0060) e 120 minutos (intervenção: 7,1±1,9 vs placebo: 8,0±2,4 vs controle: 8,8±1,9; p-valor=0,039), houve aumento significativo nos escores dor entre as parturientes dos grupos placebo e controle. Conclusão: as parturientes que receberam auriculoterapia durante o trabalho de parto mostraram redução na intensidade da dor, que pode caracterizar a efetividade da terapia nessa fase. Registro: n. RBR-47hhbj

Efficacy of doxorubicin after progression on carboplatin and paclitaxel in advanced or recurrent endometrial cancer: a retrospective analysis of patients treated at the Brazilian National Cancer Institute (INCA).

The treatment of endometrial cancer (EC) is challenging. There is no standard of care for patients who progressed after carboplatin and paclitaxel (CT) and all available drugs show a small response and poor long-term survival in this scenario. The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and toxicity profile of palliative doxorubicin after progression to CT therapy in advanced or recurrent EC. A retrospective review of the Brazilian National Cancer Institute database between 2009 and 2013 was performed, and all patients with recurrent and advanced EC treated with palliative doxorubicin after progression on CT were included. Progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), objective response rates as well as toxicity were evaluated. A total of 33 patients were enrolled, with a median age of 65.7 years. Objective responses were documented in 12.1% (3.0% of complete responses and 9.1% of partial responses). The median PFS was 4.4 months, and the median OS was 8.1 months for patients exposed to doxorubicin. The most common adverse event was anemia observed in 60.6% of patients. This retrospective study suggests that doxorubicin has a modest activity in patients with advanced or recurrent EC after treatment with CT.

Caesarean birth rates in public and privately funded hospitals: a cross-sectional study.

OBJECTIVE: To examine maternal and obstetric factors influencing births by cesarean section according to health care funding. METHODS: A cross-sectional study with data from Southeastern Brazil. Caesarean section births from February 2011 to July 2012 were included. Data were obtained from interviews with women whose care was publicly or privately funded, and from their obstetric and neonatal records. Univariate and multivariate analyses were conducted to generate crude and adjusted odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) for caesarean section births. RESULTS: The overall caesarean section rate was 53% among 9,828 women for whom data were available, with the highest rates among women whose maternity care was privately funded. Reasons for performing a c-section were infrequently documented in women's maternity records. The variables that increased the likelihood of c-section regardless of health care funding were the following: paid employment, previous c-section, primiparity, antenatal and labor complications. Older maternal age, university education, and higher socioeconomic status were only associated with c-section in the public system. CONCLUSIONS: Higher maternal socioeconomic status was associated with greater likelihood of a caesarean section birth in publicly funded settings, but not in the private sector, where funding source alone determined the mode of birth rather than maternal or obstetric characteristics. Maternal socioeconomic status and private healthcare funding continue to drive high rates of caesarean section births in Brazil, with women who have a higher socioeconomic status more likely to have a caesarean section birth in all birth settings.

Caracterização de solos residuais para infiltração de efluente de estação de tratamento de esgoto / Characterization of residual soils for infiltration of reclaimed water

RESUMO Os efeitos das alterações climáticas e a crescente demanda de água para os variados consumos vão levar ao reúso de águas residuárias tratadas (ART). A recarga de aquíferos com ART pode constituir uma alternativa para o restabelecimento de volumes de água subterrânea que poderão ser utilizados para satisfazer parte daquelas atividades, especialmente em regiões de escassez de água ou onde sua qualidade não é adequada para uso. Uma pesquisa de dois anos realizada na estação de tratamento de esgoto de Vila Fernando (Guarda, Portugal) mostrou que as caraterísticas das ART são adequadas para que o efluente seja infiltrado no solo visando à recarga de aquífero. Como a área em estudo é vasta e dada a necessidade de considerar várias restrições técnicas, ambientais e econômicas, foi aplicada uma análise multicritério baseada em Sistemas de Informação Geográfica para encontrar o local mais adequado para a infiltração de ART. Recolheu-se uma amostra de solo para análise, na Quinta de Gonçalo Martins (Guarda, Portugal), tendo os resultados indicado que tal solo apresentava características favoráveis à infiltração de ART.

ABSTRACT The effects of climate change and the increasing demand of water for domestic, industrial and agricultural uses will lead to the use of treated wastewater (reclaimed water). The aquifer recharge with reclaimed water can be an alternative for restoring volumes of water to aquifers, which may afterwards be used to satisfy those demands, especially in regions with water scarcity or where water presents poor quality. A two-year research conducted in the sewage treatment plant of Vila Fernando (Guarda, Portugal) has shown that the characteristics of reclaimed water are adequate to be infiltrated into the soil for aquifer recharge. As the study area for infiltration was very large and it was necessary to consider several technical, environmental and economic constraints, a multi-criteria analysis based on Geographic Information Systems was used in order to find the most suitable site for reclaimed water infiltration. Soil sample was collected at Quinta Gonçalo Martins (Guarda, Portugal) for analysis, and the results have indicated that the site has favorable characteristics for reclaimed water infiltration.

Effect of low-level laser therapy on pain and perineal healing after episiotomy: A triple-blind randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Episiotomy is associated with perineal pain and healing complications. The low-level laser therapy (LLLT) reduces pain and inflammation and stimulates the healing process. This study aimed to assess the effect of LLLT on pain and perineal healing after an episiotomy. DESIGN/MATERIALS AND METHODS: A randomized, triple-blind, parallel clinical trial with 54 postpartum women who had a spontaneous birth with a right mediolateral episiotomy. The women were randomized into two groups: the experimental group (applications of LLLT n = 29) or the placebo group (simulated LLLT applications n = 25). Three sessions of real or sham irradiation were performed at 6-10 hours after normal birth, and the 2nd and 3rd applications were performed at 20-24 hours and 40-48 hours after the first session, respectively. Perineal pain was recorded using a Numeric Scale ranging from 0 to 10 (0 = absence and 10 = worst pain). Perineal healing was assessed using the redness, oedema, ecchymosis, discharge, and approximation (REEDA) scale. Both groups were assessed four times: in each of the three LLLT sessions and at 7-10 days after normal birth. The groups were compared using the Student's t, Mann-Whitney, and Chi-square tests. RESULTS: There was no significant difference between the groups regarding perineal healing after LLLT. The perineal pain scores were statistically higher in the experimental group in the first assessment and after the third LLLT. There was no significant difference between the groups related to the perineal pain scores 7-10 days after normal birth. CONCLUSION: The use of LLLT does not provide any benefit for treating postpartum perineal trauma using these specific protocol and parameters. Lasers Surg. Med. 49:181-188, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Caesarean birth rates in public and privately funded hospitals: a cross-sectional study

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE To examine maternal and obstetric factors influencing births by cesarean section according to health care funding. METHODS A cross-sectional study with data from Southeastern Brazil. Caesarean section births from February 2011 to July 2012 were included. Data were obtained from interviews with women whose care was publicly or privately funded, and from their obstetric and neonatal records. Univariate and multivariate analyses were conducted to generate crude and adjusted odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) for caesarean section births. RESULTS The overall caesarean section rate was 53% among 9,828 women for whom data were available, with the highest rates among women whose maternity care was privately funded. Reasons for performing a c-section were infrequently documented in women's maternity records. The variables that increased the likelihood of c-section regardless of health care funding were the following: paid employment, previous c-section, primiparity, antenatal and labor complications. Older maternal age, university education, and higher socioeconomic status were only associated with c-section in the public system. CONCLUSIONS Higher maternal socioeconomic status was associated with greater likelihood of a caesarean section birth in publicly funded settings, but not in the private sector, where funding source alone determined the mode of birth rather than maternal or obstetric characteristics. Maternal socioeconomic status and private healthcare funding continue to drive high rates of caesarean section births in Brazil, with women who have a higher socioeconomic status more likely to have a caesarean section birth in all birth settings.

Episiotomy healing assessment: Redness, Oedema, Ecchymosis, Discharge, Approximation (REEDA) scale reliability.

OBJECTIVE: to analyse the Redness, Oedema, Ecchymosis, Discharge, Approximation (REEDA) scale reliability when evaluating perineal healing after a normal delivery with a right mediolateral episiotomy. METHOD: observational study based on data from a clinical trial conducted with 54 randomly selected women, who had their perineal healing assessed at four time points, from 6 hours to 10 days after delivery, by nurses trained in the use of this scale. The kappa coefficient was used in the reliability analysis of the REEDA scale. RESULTS: the results indicate good agreement in the evaluation of the discharge item (0.75< Kappa ≥0.88), marginal and good agreement in the first three assessments of oedema (0.16< Kappa ≥0.46), marginal agreement in the evaluation of ecchymosis (0.25< Kappa ≥0.42) and good agreement regarding redness (0.46< Kappa ≥0.66). For the item coaptation, the agreement decreased from excellent in the first assessment to good in the last assessment. In the fourth evaluation, the assessment of all items displayed excellent or good agreement among the evaluators. CONCLUSION: the difference in the scores among the evaluators when applying the scale indicates that this tool must be improved to allow an accurate assessment of the episiotomy healing process.

Episiotomy healing assessment: Redness, Oedema, Ecchymosis, Discharge, Approximation (REEDA) scale reliability / Avaliação da cicatrização da episiotomia: confiabilidade da escala REEDA (Redness, Oedema, Ecchymosis, Discharge, Approximation) / Evaluación de la curación de episiotomía: confiabilidad de la escala de Enrojecimiento, Edema, Equimosis, Drenaje, Aproximación (REEDA)

OBJECTIVE: to analyse the Redness, Oedema, Ecchymosis, Discharge, Approximation (REEDA) scale reliability when evaluating perineal healing after a normal delivery with a right mediolateral episiotomy. METHOD: observational study based on data from a clinical trial conducted with 54 randomly selected women, who had their perineal healing assessed at four time points, from 6 hours to 10 days after delivery, by nurses trained in the use of this scale. The kappa coefficient was used in the reliability analysis of the REEDA scale. RESULTS: the results indicate good agreement in the evaluation of the discharge item (0.75< Kappa ≥0.88), marginal and good agreement in the first three assessments of oedema (0.16< Kappa ≥0.46), marginal agreement in the evaluation of ecchymosis (0.25< Kappa ≥0.42) and good agreement regarding redness (0.46< Kappa ≥0.66). For the item coaptation, the agreement decreased from excellent in the first assessment to good in the last assessment. In the fourth evaluation, the assessment of all items displayed excellent or good agreement among the evaluators. CONCLUSION: the difference in the scores among the evaluators when applying the scale indicates that this tool must be improved to allow an accurate assessment of the episiotomy healing process. .

OBJETIVO: analisar a confiabilidade da escala REEDA (Redness, Oedema, Ecchymosis, Discharge, Approximation) para avaliar a cicatrização do períneo após parto vaginal com episiotomia médio-lateral direita. MÉTODO: estudo observacional, baseado em dados coletados em ensaio clínico, conduzido com 54 mulheres, selecionadas aleatoriamente. As mesmas tiveram o processo de cicatrização perineal avaliado em quatro momentos (de 6 horas a 10 dias após o parto), por enfermeiras treinadas para o uso da escala. O coeficiente kappa foi usado para análise de confiabilidade da escala REEDA. RESULTADOS: os resultados indicam bom nível de concordância na avaliação do item secreção (0,75< Kappa ≥0,88), concordância boa e marginal em relação ao item equimose (0,25< Kappa ≥0,42), e bom nível de concordância em relação à hiperemia (0,46< Kappa ≥0,66). O nível de concordância referente à avaliação do item coaptação diminuiu de excelente, na primeira avaliação, para bom, na última avaliação. CONCLUSÃO: a diferença entre as pontuações atribuídas pelas avaliadoras na aplicação da escala indica que o instrumento precisa ser melhorado, para permitir avaliações mais precisas do processo de cicatrização da episiotomia. .

OBJETIVO: analizar la confiabilidad de la escala de Enrojecimiento, Edema, Equimosis, Drenaje, Aproximación (REEDA) en la evaluación de la curación perineal tras parto normal con episiotomía mediolateral derecha. MÉTODO: estudio observacional con base en datos de un ensayo clínico conducido con 54 mujeres elegidas de forma aleatoria, con evaluación de su curación perineal en cuatro momentos, entre 6 horas y 10 días después del parto, por enfermeras capacitadas en el uso de esta escala. El coeficiente de kappa fue utilizado en el análisis de confiabilidad de la escala REEDA. RESULTADOS: los resultados indican buena concordancia en la evaluación del ítem drenaje (0,75< Kappa ≥0,88), concordancia marginal y buena en las primeras tres evaluaciones de edema (0,16< Kappa ≥0,46), concordancia marginal en la evaluación de equimosis (0,25< Kappa ≥0,42) y buena concordancia sobre enrojecimiento (0,46< Kappa ≥0,66). Para el ítem coaptación, la concordancia disminuyó de excelente en la primera evaluación hasta buena en la última. En el cuarto momento, la evaluación de todos los ítems mostró concordancia excelente o buena entre los evaluadores. CONCLUSIÓN: la diferencia en las notas entre los evaluadores en la aplicación de la escala indica que esta herramienta debe ser mejorada para permitir una evaluación correcta del proceso de curación de la episiotomía. .

First metatarsophalangeal joint- MRI findings in asymptomatic volunteers.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the spectrum and frequency of MR findings of the first metatarsophalangeal joint (MTPJ) in asymptomatic volunteers. METHODS: MR imaging of 30 asymptomatic forefeet was performed with a dedicated extremity 1.5-Tesla system. Participants were between 20 and 49 years of age (mean ± SD: 35.5 ± 8.4 years). Two radiologists assessed cartilage, bone, capsuloligamentous structures, and tendons of first MTPJs on MR images. RESULTS: Cartilage defects were observed in 27 % (n = 8) of first MTPJs, most frequently located at the base of the proximal phalanx (23 %, n = 7), whereas cartilage defects of the metatarsal head (13 %, n = 4) and the metatarsosesamoid compartment were rare (0 %-3 %, n = 0-1). Bone marrow oedema-like signal changes were present in 37 % (n = 11) and subchondral cysts in 20 % (n = 6) of first MTPJs. Hyperintense areas on intermediate-weighted sequences (range: 30-43 %, n = 9-13) and on fluid-sensitive sequences with fat suppression (range: 33-60 %, n = 10-18) within the medial and lateral collateral ligament complex were common. Plantar recesses (77 %, n = 23) and distal dorsal recesses (87 %, n = 26) were frequently observed. CONCLUSIONS: Cartilage defects, bone marrow oedema-like signal changes, subchondral cysts, plantar recesses, and distal dorsal recesses were common findings on MRI of first MTPJs in asymptomatic volunteers. The collateral ligaments were often heterogeneous in structure and showed increased signal intensity. KEY POINTS: • Cartilage defects of asymptomatic first metatarsophalangeal joints were common on MRI. • The collateral ligaments were often heterogeneous in structure and showed increased signal intensity. • Areas of increased signal intensity within the flexor and extensor tendons were rare. • These observations need to be considered in MR examinations of symptomatic cases.

[The implications of economic development on work, the environment and health in port communities in the State of Ceará, Brazil]. / Implicações do desenvolvimento econômico no trabalho, ambiente e saúde em comunidades portuárias no Ceará, Brasil.

This paper discusses aspects of economic development and the implications on work, the environment and health in the surrounding communities of the Industrial and Harbor Complex in Pecém in the State of Ceará. Qualitative research was adopted as the methodological strategy, by conducting participatory research with document analysis and a focus group. The reports of the subjects involved in the fieldwork were analyzed as being representative of their perceptions regarding the changes occurring in the territory and the impacts on health. Results observed in the use and appropriation of land by entrepreneurs are based on a belief in progress and development, contradicting the way of living, producing and interacting with nature submitted by the community that seeks to resist this intervention supported by social movements. These changes are out of step with the development of other public policies to mitigate the impacts with regard to environmental protection of the territory and the promotion of the health of this population.

Implicações do desenvolvimento econômico no trabalho, ambiente e saúde em comunidades portuárias no Ceará, Brasil / The implications of economic development on work, the environment and health in port communities in the State of Ceará, Brazil

Este estudo discute aspectos do desenvolvimento econômico e as implicações no trabalho, ambiente e saúde em comunidades circunvizinhas ao Complexo Industrial e Portuário do Pecém no Ceará. Adotamos como estratégia metodológica a investigação qualitativa, realizando uma pesquisa participante, com análise documental e grupo focal. Os discursos dos sujeitos envolvidos no trabalho de campo foram analisados como representação de suas percepções acerca das transformações ocorridas no território e as repercussões sobre a saúde. Observamos nos resultados, que o uso e a apropriação do território, pelos empreendedores, se fundamentam na crença do progresso e do desenvolvimento, contradizendo com o modo de viver, produzir e interagir com a natureza, apresentado pela comunidade que tenta resistir a essa intervenção apoiada pelos movimentos sociais. Tais transformações estão em descompasso com o desenvolvimento de outras políticas públicas destinadas a mitigar os impactos, no que se refere à proteção ambiental desse território e à promoção da saúde dessa população.

This paper discusses aspects of economic development and the implications on work, the environment and health in the surrounding communities of the Industrial and Harbor Complex in Pecém in the State of Ceará. Qualitative research was adopted as the methodological strategy, by conducting participatory research with document analysis and a focus group. The reports of the subjects involved in the fieldwork were analyzed as being representative of their perceptions regarding the changes occurring in the territory and the impacts on health. Results observed in the use and appropriation of land by entrepreneurs are based on a belief in progress and development, contradicting the way of living, producing and interacting with nature submitted by the community that seeks to resist this intervention supported by social movements. These changes are out of step with the development of other public policies to mitigate the impacts with regard to environmental protection of the territory and the promotion of the health of this population.

Rendimento diagnóstico de câncer de pulmão por intermédio de fibrobroncoscopia e tomografia / Diagnostic efficiency of lung cancer by fiberoptic bronchoscopy and tomography

JUSTIFICATIVA E OBJETIVO: Analisar a tomografia computadorizada e a broncoscopia, no diagnóstico da neoplasia pulmonar, e avaliar a acurácia dessas técnicas diante da presença de carcinoma. Correlacionar dados epidemiológicos, como idade, gênero, hábitos tabágicos e tipos histológicos. A justificativa implica na necessidade da correlação entre o método de imagem e broncoscópico para o diagnóstico preciso de carcinoma pulmonar, doença esta que apresenta elevada mortalidade. MÉTODOS: Estudo documental, observacional, transversal e retrospectivo. Foram analisados, entre junho de 2009 a junho de 2011, os prontuários de 234 pacientes internados que realizaram fibrobroncoscopia nesse período. Destes, foram excluídos164 pacientes que não foram submetidos ao exame histopatológico (exame padrão-ouro para o diagnóstico de câncer de pulmão). Preencheram os critérios de inclusão 70 pacientes do serviço analisado, tendo sido realizadas as duas técnicas estudadas,as quais foram correlacionadas com a confirmação ou não de câncer de pulmão. RESULTADOS: Foram diagnosticadas 32 neoplasias por biópsia endobrônquica, 26 do gênero masculino e 6 do feminino. O tipo histológico mais frequente foi o carcinoma epidermoide, com 53,1%, seguido do carcinoma de pequenas células, com 18,8%. A sensibilidade da tomografia foi de 75%, a especificidade de 81,6% e acurácia de 78,6%. A sensibilidade da fibrobroncoscopia foi de 81,3%, especificidade foi de 76,3%, o valor preditivo-positivo foi de 74,3%, o preditivo--negativo foi de 82,9% e a acurácia de 78,6%. CONCLUSÃO: A tomografia e a broncoscopia são muito importantes para auxílio diagnóstico do câncer de pulmão. O carcinoma epidermoide foi o mais encontrado, predominando em lobos superiores, com aspecto endobrônquico de lesão tumescente. O rendimento da broncoscopia foi maior quando associado a biópsia, escovado e lavado broncoalveolar.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: To analyze the tomography and bronchoscopy in the diagnosis of lung cancer and to evaluate the accuracy of these techniques in the presence of carcinoma. Also, to correlate epidemiological data, such as age, gender, smoking habits, and histological types. The justification implies the necessity of correlation between imaging and bronchoscopic methods for accurate diagnosis of lung cancer, adisease that has a high mortality. METHODS: Documentary, observational, cross-sectional and retrospective study. We analyzed 234 in patients who underwent bronchoscopy between June 2009 and June 2011. Of these, we excluded 164 patients who were not submitted to histopathological examination (goldstandard test for the diagnosis of lung cancer). Seventy patients met the inclusion criteria. We performed both techniques and correlated them with the confirmation or not of lung cancerin the studied service. RESULTS: We found that 32 tumors were diagnosed by endobronchial biopsy - 26 males and 6females. The most common histological type was squamous cell carcinoma with 53.1%, followed by small cell carcinoma with 18.8%. The sensitivity of computed tomography was 75%, specificity of 81.6%, and accuracy of 78.6%. The sensitivity of bronchoscopy was 81.3%, specificity of 76.3%,positive predictive value of 74.3%, negative predictive value of 82.9% and accuracy of 78.6%. CONCLUSION: Computed tomography and bronchoscopy are very important to aid in the diagnosis of lung cancer. Squamous cell carcinoma was the most frequently found, predominantly in the upper lobeswith endobronchial aspect of tumescent lesion. The yield of bronchoscopy was higher when associated with biopsy, brushbiopsy, and bronchoalveolar lavage.