RESUMO

Introducción: Diversas investigaciones han establecido la relación entre temperatura y duración del embarazo, la exposición a temperaturas altas durante el embarazo plantea interrogantes en especial el papel que esta juega frente a los partos prematuros y partos de bajo peso, es indispensable determinar si las temperaturas altas o bajas tienen un comportamiento protector o de riesgo sobre el feto durante la gestación en regiones tropicales. Objetivo: describir la relación entre la exposición a temperaturas altas y bajas durante el embarazo y su efecto en la edad gestacional y peso al momento del parto en los recién nacidos del departamento del Guaviare-Colombia. Metodología: Estudio tipo observacional, analítico, retrospectivo de corte transversal que busco determinar la relación entre exposición a temperaturas altas y bajas durante el embarazo y su efecto en la edad gestacional y peso al momento del parto en los recién nacidos, el universo estuvo conformado por 10.137 nacidos vivos, de los cuales 9.932 cumplieron los criterios de inclusión. Se determinó Odds Ratio para estimar la asociación entre las variables. Resultados: Dentro de la semana de retraso 3 el estar expuesto a temperaturas máximas percentil 90 es un factor protector para la ganancia ponderal de peso OR < 1, la exposición a temperaturas mínimas percentil 10 se asoció como factor protector para el parto prematuro en la semana de retraso 1 y 2 OR < 1.Conclusión: A pesar del beneficio de las altas y bajas temperaturas durante el embarazo en la ganancia ponderal de peso y disminución del parto prematuro, es recomendable prevenir la exposición a temperaturas extremas durante el periodo de gestación[AU]

Introduction: Various investigations have established the relationship between temperature and duration of pregnancy. Exposure to high temperatures during pregnancy raises questions, especially the role it plays in premature births and low-weight births. It is essential to determine whether high temperatures or low have a protective or risky behavior on the fetus during pregnancy in tropical regions.Objective: to describe the relationship between exposure to high and low temperatures during pregnancy and its effect on gestational age and weight at the time of delivery in newborns in the department of Guaviare-Colombia.Methodology:Observational, analytical, retrospective cross-sectional study that sought to determine the relationship between exposure to high and low temperatures during pregnancy and its effect on gestational age and weight at the time of delivery in newborns. The universe was made up of 10,137 births. alive, of which 9,932 met the inclusion criteria. Odds Ratio was determined to estimate the association between the variables.Results:Within the 3rd week of delay, being exposed to maximum temperatures at the 90th percentile is a protective factor for weight gain OR < 1, exposure to minimum temperatures at the 10th percentile was associated as a protective factor for premature birth in the week. of delay 1 and 2 OR < 1. Conclusion: Despite the benefit of high and low temperatures during pregnancy in weight gain and reduction in premature birth, it is advisable to prevent exposure to extreme temperatures during the gestation period[AU]

Introdução: Várias investigações estabeleceram a relação entre temperatura e duração da gravidez. A exposição a altas temperaturas durante a gravidez levanta questões, especialmente o papel que desempenha nos partos prematuros e nos nascimentos de baixo peso. É essencial determinar se as temperaturas altas ou baixas têm um comportamento protetor ou de risco para o feto durante a gravidez em regiões tropicais. Objetivo:descrever a relação entre a exposição a altas e baixas temperaturas durante a gravidez e seu efeito na idade gestacional e no peso no momento do parto em recém-nascidos no departamento de Guaviare-Colômbia. Metodologia: Estudo observacional, analítico, retrospectivo e transversal que buscou determinar a relação entre a exposição a altas e baixas temperaturas durante a gravidez e seu efeito na idade gestacional e no peso no momento do parto em recém-nascidos. O universo foi composto por 10.137 nascimentos. vivos, dos quais 9.932 preencheram os critérios de inclusão. O Odds Ratio foi determinado para estimar a associação entre as variáveis. Resultados:Na 3ª semana de atraso, a exposição a temperaturas máximas no percentil 90 é fator de proteção para ganho de peso OR < 1, a exposição a temperaturas mínimas no percentil 10 foi associada como fator de proteção para parto prematuro na semana. de atraso 1 e 2 OR < 1.Conclusão:Apesar do benefício das altas e baixas temperaturas durante a gravidez no ganho de peso e redução do parto prematuro, é aconselhável evitar a exposição a temperaturas extremas durante o período de gestação[AU]

Assuntos

RESUMO

Abstract Objectives: The aim was to estimate the pubertal growth height of children and adolescents living in a high-altitude region of Peru using the Preece-Baines model 1 (1 PB). Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in schoolchildren from the department of Puno (Peru) between 3841 and 3874 masl. The age range was between 4 and 17 years. Standing height was evaluated. 1 PB was used to infer the mathematical and biological parameters of stature. Results: Mathematical parameters estimated by the 1 PB model reflected small residual standard error (RSE) values in both sexes (0.25 in boys and 0.27 in girls). In boys, the age at which peak velocity was reached (APHV) was estimated at 13.21 ± 0.33years. While in girls it was 9.96 ± 0.26years (p < 0.05). In general, girls reached APHV (y) 3.25 years earlier than boys. On the other hand, the growth velocity of maximum height [APHV (cm/y)] of boys was higher (6.33 ± 6.06 cm/y) relative to girls (6.06 ± 0.32 cm/y). Estimated final adult height (EFAH) in boys was reached at 166.020 ± 0.99 cm and height at maximum growth velocity (HPHV) was 153.07 ± 0.67 cm, while in girls they were significantly lower (EFAH; 153.74 ± 0.44 cm and HPHV: 139.73 ± 0.84 cm). Conclusions: This study showed that girls living in Puno at a high altitude in Peru reached APHV 3 years earlier than boys and at the same time reflected slower PHV. These results suggest that pubertal growth at high altitudes is slower in both sexes and especially in girls. Thus, modeling physical growth may be an important step in understanding the onset of puberty at different latitudes.

RESUMO

SUMMARY: The aim was to analyze the relationship between somatic maturation and physical performance in male youth soccer players belonging to a professional Mexican academy. In 121 male soccer aged 11 to 16 years from a professional academy the peak height velocity (PHV), percentage of adult height (PAS), jump capacity, sprint, intermittent speed and muscle mass were estimated. ANOVA was conducted to compare performance variables among maturity somatic categories and percentiles were calculated based on maturity offset using LMS method. Furthermore, a general linear model was employed to determine the explanatory variables for performance. Post-PHV soccer players demonstrated superior physical performance across several tests compared to Pre-PHV (p<0.001) and Circa-PHV (p<0.001) players. The smoothed percentile values of performance tests, based on somatic maturation, indicated progressive performance enhancement as individuals approached PHV (-2 to 2 years from PHV) (p<0.005). PHV was associated with jump capacity (p<0.001) and intermittent speed (p=0.007) while PAS was associated with time in sprint (p=.0004). In conclusion PHV and PAS explained better performance than chronological age, body composition characteristics, injuries, or training factors.

El objetivo fue analizar la relación entre la maduración somática y el rendimiento físico en futbolistas juveniles masculinos pertenecientes a una academia profesional mexicana. Métodos. En 121 futbolistas masculinos de 11 a 16 años de una academia profesional se estimó la velocidad máxima en altura (VPH), porcentaje de altura adulta (PAS), capacidad de salto, sprint, velocidad intermitente y masa muscular. Se realizó ANOVA para comparar variables de desempeño entre categorías somáticas de madurez y se calcularon percentiles en función de la compensación de madurez utilizando el método LMS. Además, se empleó un modelo lineal general para determinar las variables explicativas del desempeño. Los jugadores de fútbol post-PHV demostraron un rendimiento físico superior en varias pruebas en comparación con los jugadores Pre-PHV (p<0,001) y Circa-PHV (p<0,001). Los valores percentiles suavizados de las pruebas de rendimiento, basados en la maduración somática, indicaron una mejora progresiva del rendimiento a medida que los individuos se acercaban al PHV (-2 a 2 años desde el PHV) (p<0,005). PHV se asoció con la capacidad de salto (p<0,001) y velocidad intermitente (p=0,007) mientras que PAS se asoció con el tiempo en sprint (p=0,0004). En conclusión PHV y PEA explicaron un mejor rendimiento que la edad cronológica, las características de composición corporal, las lesiones o los factores de entrenamiento.

Assuntos

RESUMO

Existing research on human growth in Mexico is regionally focused, creating a gap in the understanding of growth patterns of children and adolescents at national level and regional variation. The objective of the present study was to characterize the height growth curve of the Mexican population by geographic area and to cluster the states of the Mexican Republic according to their somatic maturation characteristics, based on a national representative sample of boys. Data on age, height, socioeconomic level, and geographic area of 18,219 boys were obtained from the National Health and Nutrition Survey 2012 (ENSANUT) and ENSANUT 2018, carried out in 32 Mexican states. Both surveys had representative samples. Preece-Baines 1 model was applied to fit height growth curves. Biological parameters were estimated; principal component analysis and cluster analysis were performed to group Mexican states based on these biological parameters. The estimated age at peak height velocity (PHV) was 12.3 years in the sample. Significant regional differences in the timing and tempo of PHV among Mexican boys were observed. Boys in the northern region experienced PHV at an earlier age and had a shorter duration of growth compared with boys in the central and southern regions. Boys in the central region had a longer duration of growth and a later age of PHV compared with the boys in the southern region. The cluster that included the southern states of the country showed estimated lower adult height and earlier somatic maturation. A lower height was found in the low and low-middle socioeconomic levels compared with the medium-high and high socioeconomic levels. Future research in Mexico should focus on longitudinal studies to analyse the timing and tempo of growth and maturation, considering the impacts of environmental and genetic factors. Public health strategies should account for geographic variations.

Assuntos

RESUMO

The present study aimed to estimate the height growth curve for Mexican boys and girls based on their body mass index (BMI) status (normal and overweight/obese) and to develop a height Lambda, Mu, and Sigma (LMS) growth reference for Mexican children aged 2 to 18 years. Methods: Chronological age and height records (7,097 boys and 6,167 girls) were obtained from the Mexican National Survey of Health and Nutrition database. Height growth curves were fitted using the Preece-Baines 1 (PB1) model and the LMS method. Results: Age at peak height velocity (APHV) was 12.4 and 12.7 years for overweight-obese and normal-weight boys, respectively, and was 9.6 and 10.4 years for overweight-obese and normal-weight girls, respectively. Growth velocity was higher at the age of take-off (TO) in overweight-obese children than in normal-weight children (5.2 cm/year vs. 5 cm/year in boys and 6.1 cm/year vs. 5.6 cm/year in girls); nevertheless, the growth velocity at APHV was higher for normal-weight children than for overweight-obese children (7.4 cm/year vs. 6.6 cm/year in boys and 6.8 cm/year vs. 6.6 cm/year in girls, respectively). Distance curves developed in the present study and by the World Health Organization (WHO) using LMS showed similar values for L and S parameters and a higher M value compared with the WHO reference values. Conclusion: This study concluded that overweight-obese children had earlier APHV and lower PHV than normal-weight children. Furthermore, Mexican children and adolescents were shorter than the WHO growth reference by age and sex.

Assuntos

RESUMO

ABSTRACT Background: Kidney failure reduces life expectancy by one-third compared with the general population, and cardiovascular complications and poor cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) are the main causes. We aimed to evaluate the association between severely low CRF and all-cause mortality risk in HD patients. Methods: This observational prospective cohort study followed-up patients receiving HD from August 2015 until March 2022. Cardiorespiratory fitness was evaluated through the cardiopulmonary exercise test, and the peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak) value was used to determine severely low CRF (< 15 mL∙kg−1∙min−1). Cox regression and univariate Kaplan-Meier analysis were used to evaluate the association of severely low CRF with mortality risk and survival rate. Results: Forty-eight patients were followed-up for a median of 33.0 [14.3 - 49.3] months. A total of 26 patients had severely low CRF. During the follow-up period, 11 patients (22.92%) died from all causes. From these, eight (30.8%) had severely low CRF. Even so, severely low CRF was not associated with crude death rates for patients stratified by CRF levels (p = 0.189), neither in unadjusted (HR 2.18; CI 95% 0.58−8.23) nor in adjusted (HR 1.32; CI 95% 0.31−5.59) Cox proportional hazard models. As a continuous variable, VO2peak was not associated with mortality risk (HR 1.01; CI 95% 0.84−1.21). Univariate Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that patients with severely low CRF did not have significantly worse survival rates than those with mild-moderate CRF (p = 0.186). Conclusion: Our findings indicated that severely low CRF was not associated with all-cause mortality in patients on HD. Despite severely low CRF being prevalent, larger cohort studies are needed to establish strong conclusions on its association with all-cause mortality.

RESUMO Introdução A insuficiência renal reduz a expectativa de vida em um terço comparada à população em geral. Complicações cardiovasculares e baixa aptidão cardiorrespiratória (ACR) são as principais causas. Avaliamos a associação entre ACR muito baixa e risco de mortalidade por todas as causas em pacientes em HD. Métodos Este estudo de coorte prospectivo observacional acompanhou pacientes em HD de agosto/2015 a março/2022. Avaliou-se a aptidão cardiorrespiratória pelo teste de exercício cardiopulmonar, e o valor do pico do consumo de oxigênio (VO2pico) foi usado para determinar ACR muito baixa (< 15 mL∙kg−1∙min−1). Utilizamos regressão de Cox e análise univariada de Kaplan-Meier para avaliar associação da ACR muito baixa com o risco de mortalidade e taxa de sobrevida. Resultados Acompanhamos 48 pacientes por uma média de 33,0 [14,3 - 49,3] meses. Um total de 26 pacientes apresentaram ACR muito baixa. No período de acompanhamento, 11 pacientes (22,92%) foram a óbito por todas as causas. Destes, oito (30,8%) apresentavam ACR muito baixa. Mesmo assim, ACR muito baixa não foi associada a taxas brutas de mortalidade para pacientes estratificados por níveis de ACR (p = 0,189), nem em modelos de risco proporcional de Cox não ajustados (HR 2,18; IC 95% 0,58-8,23) ou ajustados (HR 1,32; IC 95% 0,31-5,59). Como variável contínua, VO2pico não foi associado ao risco de mortalidade (HR 1,01; IC 95% 0,84-1,21). A análise univariada de Kaplan-Meier mostrou que pacientes com ACR muito baixa não apresentaram taxas de sobrevida significativamente piores do que aqueles com ACR leve-moderada (p = 0,186). Conclusão Nossos achados indicaram que a ACR muito baixa não foi associada à mortalidade por todas as causas em pacientes em HD. Apesar de ACR muito baixa ser prevalente, são necessários estudos de coorte maiores para estabelecer conclusões sólidas sobre sua associação com mortalidade por todas as causas.

RESUMO

There is a lack of evidence on the additional benefits of combining caffeine (CAF) and creatine (CRE) supplementation on anaerobic power and capacity. Thus, the aim of the present study was to test the effects of combined and isolated supplementation of CAF and CRE on anaerobic power and capacity. Twenty-four healthy men performed a baseline Wingate anaerobic test and were then allocated into a CRE (n = 12) or placebo (PLA; n = 12) group. The CRE group ingested 20 g/day of CRE for 8 days, while the PLA group ingested 20 g/day of maltodextrin for the same period. On the sixth and eighth days of the loading period, both groups performed a Wingate anaerobic test 1 hr after either CAF (5 mg/kg of body mass; CRE + CAF and PLA + CAF conditions) or PLA (5 mg/kg of body mass of cellulose; CRE + PLA and PLA + PLA conditions) ingestion. After the loading period, changes in body mass were greater (p < .05) in the CRE (+0.87 ± 0.23 kg) than in the PLA group (+0.13 ± 0.27 kg). In both groups, peak power was higher (p = .01) in the CAF (1,033.4 ± 209.3 W) than in the PLA trial (1,003.3 ± 204.4 W), but mean power was not different between PLA and CAF trials (p > .05). In conclusion, CAF, but not CRE ingestion, increases anaerobic power. Conversely, neither CRE nor CAF has an effect on anaerobic capacity.

Assuntos

RESUMO

Historically, approaches for determining peak water demand in buildings have been based on probabilistic methods. Extensive research has shown that these methods lack accuracy because of the human factor in the probability of use. Inaccuracy in the calculation of peak water demand is the main cause of oversized water supply systems in buildings. This has led to unfavorable effects such as: 1) increasing the building carbon footprint due to the use of more construction materials, and 2) engendering health hazards due to the stagnation of water causing microbial growing. This paper presents a step-by-step methodology that serves to calculate the peak water demand by simulating the use of plumbing fixtures based on data obtained from standardized flowrate. With the implementation of the methodology, the peak water demand estimated was 2.6 times lower in comparison to traditional methods. The main conclusion drawn from the research is the potential of the methodology to easily simulated peak water demand in residential buildings in the short term. Thus, it reveals a hotspot for peak water demand calculation and can serve as routes for future research.

RESUMO

In this study, we present a comprehensive atmospheric radiocarbon (14C) record spanning from 1940 to 2016, derived from 77 single tree rings of Cedrela odorata located in the Eastern Amazon Basin (EAB). This record, comprising 175 high-precision 14C measurements obtained through accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS), offers a detailed chronology of post-1950 CE (Common Era) 14C fluctuations in the Tropical Low-Pressure Belt (TLPB). To ensure accuracy and reliability, we included 14C-AMS results from intra-annual successive cuts of the tree rings associated to the calendar years 1962 and 1963 and conducted interlaboratory comparisons. In addition, 14C concentrations in 1962 and 1963 single-year cuts also allowed to verify tissue growth seasonality. The strategic location of the tree, just above the Amazon River and estuary areas, prevented the influence of local fossil-CO2 emissions from mining and trade activities in the Central Amazon Basin on the 14C record. Our findings reveal a notable increase in 14C from land-respired CO2 starting in the 1970s, a decade earlier than previously predicted, followed by a slight decrease after 2000, signaling a transition towards the fossil fuel era. This shift is likely attributed to changes in reservoir sources or global atmospheric dynamics. The EAB 14C record, when compared with a shorter record from Muna Island, Indonesia, highlights regional differences and contributes to a more nuanced understanding of global 14C variations at low latitudes. This study not only fills critical spatial gaps in existing 14C compilations but also aids in refining the demarcation of 14C variations over South America. The extended tree-ring 14C record from the EAB is pivotal for reevaluating global patterns, particularly in the context of the current global carbon budget, and underscores the importance of tropical regions in understanding carbon-climate feedbacks.

Assuntos

RESUMO

PURPOSE: To evaluate whether there is a mismatch between Risser staging and the proximal humerus ossification system (PHOS); and to analyze the correlation in the skeletal maturity stages between the two humeral epiphyses. METHODS: Data from patients aged 10 to 18 years with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) seen between 2018 to 2021 were analyzed. In an anteroposterior (AP) spine radiograph the ossification process was evaluated using the Risser classification method and bilateral PHOS (if both humeral epiphyses were visualized). A mismatch between methods was defined as a Risser 0-1 (relatively skeletally immature) with a PHOS 4-5 (skeletally mature), or a Risser 2-5 (relatively skeletally mature) with a PHOS 1-3 (skeletally immature). The McNemar test was used to calculate the significance of the mismatch. RESULTS: A mismatch between Risser and PHOS stages was observed in 28.5% of 105 patients, which was statistically significant (p < 0.001). Of the 49 patients with a Risser 0-1, 55.1% (n = 27) had a PHOS 4-5. None of the patients with a Risser 2-5 had a PHOS 1-3. In the 47 patients in whom both humeri were visualized, the absolute correlation between the left and right PHOS values was 95.7%. CONCLUSION: Of AIS patients who are relatively skeletally immature according to Risser staging, more than half may be skeletally mature when measured with PHOS. In patients with a Risser 0-1, it is recommended to measure skeletal maturity in an AP spine radiograph using the PHOS method, which may more accurately guide treatment decision-making, without the need to visualize both humeral epiphyses in this radiographic projection. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV.

Assuntos

RESUMO

BACKGROUND: Endothelial dysfunction and peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak) are also predictors of increased risk of cardiovascular events in heart transplantation (HTx) recipients. The preservation of endothelial function may contribute to exercise tolerance. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the correlation between peripheral endothelial function and exercise tolerance through VO2peak and ventilation to carbon dioxide production slope (VE / VCO2 slope) in HTx recipients. METHODS: A pilot cross-sectional study was conducted with adult individuals aged 18-65 years, HTx ≥ six months after surgery, who had a stable medical condition and no changes over the last three months of immunosuppressive treatment. The patients underwent an assessment of endothelial function through PAT (EndoPAT-2000®) and performed a cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET). RESULTS: A total of 41% of the studied population presented endothelial dysfunction. The individuals were divided into two groups: the endothelial dysfunction (GED; n=9) group and the normal endothelial function (GNEF; n=13) group according to the logarithm of the reactive hyperemia index (LnRHI). There was a positive and moderate correlation between the LnRHI and VO2 peak (r=0.659, p=0.013) and a negative and moderate correlation between the LnRHI and VE/VCO2 slope (r= -0.686, p= 0.009) in the GNEF. However, no significant correlations were found in the GED. CONCLUSION: The results showed that the preservation of peripheral endothelial function is significantly correlated with an increase in exercise tolerance in individuals after HTx. These findings bring important considerations for cardiovascular risk prevention and emphasize that therapeutic strategies with physical training programs must be implemented early.

Assuntos

RESUMO

OBJECTIVES: The aim was to estimate the pubertal growth height of children and adolescents living in a high-altitude region of Peru using the Preece-Baines model 1 (1 PB). METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted in schoolchildren from the department of Puno (Peru) between 3841 and 3874 masl. The age range was between 4 and 17 years. Standing height was evaluated. 1 PB was used to infer the mathematical and biological parameters of stature. RESULTS: Mathematical parameters estimated by the 1 PB model reflected small residual standard error (RSE) values in both sexes (0.25 in boys and 0.27 in girls). In boys, the age at which peak velocity was reached (APHV) was estimated at 13.21 ± 0.33years. While in girls it was 9.96 ± 0.26years (p < 0.05). In general, girls reached APHV (y) 3.25 years earlier than boys. On the other hand, the growth velocity of maximum height [APHV (cm/y)] of boys was higher (6.33 ± 6.06 cm/y) relative to girls (6.06 ± 0.32 cm/y). Estimated final adult height (EFAH) in boys was reached at 166.020 ± 0.99 cm and height at maximum growth velocity (HPHV) was 153.07 ± 0.67 cm, while in girls they were significantly lower (EFAH; 153.74 ± 0.44 cm and HPHV: 139.73 ± 0.84 cm). CONCLUSIONS: This study showed that girls living in Puno at a high altitude in Peru reached APHV 3 years earlier than boys and at the same time reflected slower PHV. These results suggest that pubertal growth at high altitudes is slower in both sexes and especially in girls. Thus, modeling physical growth may be an important step in understanding the onset of puberty at different latitudes.

Assuntos

RESUMO

BACKGROUND: The cardiotoxicity of prenatal exposure to mercury has been suggested in populations having regular contaminated seafood intake, though replications in the literature are inconsistent. METHODS: The Timoun Mother-Child Cohort Study was set up in Guadeloupe, an island in the Caribbean Sea where seafood consumption is regular. At seven years of age, 592 children underwent a medical examination, including cardiac function assessment. Blood pressure (BP) was taken using an automated blood pressure monitor, heart rate variability (HRV, 9 parameters) and electrocardiogram (ECG) characteristics (QT, T-wave parameters) were measured using Holter cardiac monitoring during the examination. Total mercury concentrations were measured in cord blood at birth (median = 6.6 µg/L, N = 399) and in the children's blood at age 7 (median = 1.7 µg/L, N = 310). Adjusted linear and non-linear modelling was used to study the association of each cardiac parameter with prenatal and childhood exposures. Sensitivity analyses included co-exposures to lead and cadmium, adjustment for maternal seafood consumption, selenium and polyunsaturated fatty acids (n3-PUFAs), and for sporting activity. RESULTS: Higher prenatal mercury was associated with higher systolic BP at 7 years of age (ßlog2 = 1.02; 95% Confidence Interval (CI) = 0.10, 1.19). In boys, intermediate prenatal exposure was associated with reduced overall HRV and parasympathetic activity, and longer QT was observed with increasing prenatal mercury (ßlog2 = 4.02; CI = 0.48, 7.56). In girls, HRV tended to increase linearly with prenatal exposure, and no association was observed with QT-wave related parameters. Mercury exposure at 7 years was associated with decreased BP in girls (ßlog2 = -1.13; CI = -2.22, -0.004 for diastolic BP). In boys, the low/high-frequency (LF/HF) ratio increased for intermediate levels of exposure. CONCLUSION: Our study suggests sex-specific and non-monotonic modifications in some cardiac health parameters following prenatal exposure to mercury in pre-pubertal children from an insular fish-consuming population.

Assuntos

RESUMO

NMR-based metabolomics aims at recovering biological information by comparing spectral data from samples of biological interest and appropriate controls. Any statistical analysis performed on the data matrix relies on the proper peak alignment to produce meaningful results. Through the last decades, several peak alignment algorithms have been proposed, as well as alternatives like spectral binning or strategies for annotation and quantification, the latter depending on reference databases. Most of the alignment algorithms, mainly based on segmentation of the spectra, present limitations for regions with peak overlap or cases of frequency order exchange. Here, we present our multiplet-assisted peak alignment algorithm, a new methodology that consists of aligning peaks by matching multiplet profiles of f1 traces from J-resolved spectra. A correspondence matrix with the linked f1 traces is built, and multivariate data analysis can be performed on it to obtain useful information from the data, overcoming the issues of peak overlap and frequency crossovers. Statistical total correlation spectroscopy can be applied on the matrix as well, toward a better identification of molecules of interest. The results can be queried on one-dimensional (1D) 1H databases or can be directly coupled to our previously published Chemical Shift Multiplet Database.

Assuntos

RESUMO

RESUMO Objetivo Comparar as medidas acústicas de Cepstral Peak Prominence Smoothed (CPPS) e Acoustic Voice Quality Index (AVQI) de crianças com vozes normais e alteradas, relacionar com o julgamento perceptivo-auditivo (JPA) da voz e estabelecer pontos de corte. Método Gravações vocais das tarefas de vogal sustentada e contagem de números de 185 crianças foram selecionadas em um banco de dados e submetidas a análise acústica com extração das medidas de CPPS e AVQI, e ao JPA. O JPA foi realizado individualmente para cada tarefa e as amostras foram classificadas posteriormente como normal ou alterada, e para as tarefas em conjunto definindo-se se a criança passaria ou falharia em uma situação de triagem vocal. Resultados Crianças com JPA alterado e que falharam na triagem apresentaram valores menores de CPPS e maiores de AVQI, do que as com JPA normal e que passaram na triagem. O JPA da tarefa de vogal sustentada se relacionou ao CPPS e AVQI, e da tarefa de contagem de números relacionou-se apenas ao AVQI e CPPS números. Os pontos de corte que diferenciam crianças com e sem desvio vocal são 14,07 para o CPPS vogal, 7,62 para o CPPS números e 2,01 para o AVQI. Conclusão Crianças com JPA alterado apresentaram maiores valores de AVQI e menores valores de CPPs. O JPA da tarefa de vogal previu todas as medidas acústicas, porém, de contagem previu apenas as medidas extraídas dela. As três medidas foram semelhantes na identificação de vozes sem desvio e vozes disfônicas.

ABSTRACT Purpose To compare the acoustic measurements of Cepstral Peak Prominence Smoothed (CPPS) and Acoustic Voice Quality Index (AVQI) of children with normal and altered voices, to relationship with auditory-perceptual judgment (APJ) and to establish cut-off points. Methods Vocal recordings of the sustained vowel and number counting tasks of 185 children were selected from a database and submitted to acoustic analysis with extraction of CPPS and AVQI measurements, and to APJ. The APJ was performed individually for each task, classified as normal or altered, and for the tasks together defining whether the child would pass or fail in a situation of vocal screening. Results Children with altered APJ and who failed the screening had lower CPPS values and higher AVQI values, than those with normal APJ and who passed the screening. The APJ of the sustained vowel task was related to CPPS and AVQI, and APJ of the number counting task was related only to AVQI and CPPS numbers. The cut-off points that differentiate children with and without vocal deviation are 14.07 for the vowel CPPS, 7.62 for the CPPS numbers and 2.01 for the AVQI. Conclusion Children with altered voices, have higher AVQI values and lower CPPS values, when detected in children with voices within the normal range. The acoustic measurements were related to the auditory perceptual judgment of vocal quality in the sustained vowel task, however, the number counting task was related only to the AVQI and CPPS. The cut-off points that differentiate children with and without vocal deviation are 14.07 for the CPPS vowel, 7.62 for the CPPS numbers and 2.01 for the AVQI. The three measures were similar in identifying voices without deviation and dysphonic voices.

RESUMO

This study evaluated the probability of pregnancy and associated factors for two times artificial inseminations (AI), 8 or 10 hours after automated activity monitoring (AAM) alarm on the first postpartum AI of 1,054 Holstein dairy cows. The estrus was synchronized by prostaglandin or estradiol-progesterone program. Stepwise logistic regression was performed to analyze the probability of pregnancy, and associated factors (activity, estrus intensity, parity, peripartum health, retained placenta, postpartum vaginal discharge, and season). The highest pregnancy rates were obtained with multiparous animals, inseminated ten hours after the AAM alarm, in the fall or winter season, with a high activity peak and estrus intensity (P < 0.05). Peripartum diseases, retained placenta, and postpartum vaginal discharge negatively influenced the pregnancy rate, regardless of parity. Thus, the optimization of AAM models by including on-farm measures like parity, peripartum health history, and environmental conditions may favor the correct identification of estrus and improve the AAM alarm regarding the ideal moment for AI, increasing the reproductive performance in dairy cows.

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a probabilidade de prenhez e fatores associados para dois horários de inseminação artificial (IA), oito ou 10 horas após o alarme de monitoramento automatizado de atividades (AAM), na primeira IA pós-parto em 1.054 vacas leiteiras da raça Holandês. O estro foi sincronizado por protocolos a base de prostaglandina ou estradiol-progesterona. Regressão logística stepwise foi realizada para analisar a probabilidade de prenhez e fatores associados (atividade, intensidade do estro, paridade, saúde no periparto, placenta retida, descarga vaginal pós-parto e estação do ano). As maiores taxas de prenhez foram obtidas em multíparas, inseminadas 10 horas após o alarme do AAM, no outono ou inverno, com pico de atividade elevado e intensidade de estro (P < 0,05). Doenças no periparto, placenta retida e descarga vaginal pós-parto influenciaram negativamente a taxa de prenhez, independentemente da paridade. Assim, a otimização dos modelos de AAM, incluindo medidas rotineiras da fazenda como paridade, histórico de saúde no periparto e condições ambientais, podem favorecer a identificação correta do estro e melhorar o alarme do AAM em relação ao momento ideal para a IA, aumentando o desempenho reprodutivo nas vacas leiteiras.

Assuntos

RESUMO

Heart diseases rank among the most fatal health concerns globally, with the majority being preventable through early diagnosis and effective treatment. Electrocardiogram (ECG) analysis is critical in detecting heart diseases, as it captures the heart's electrical activities. For continuous monitoring, wearable electrocardiographic devices must ensure user comfort over extended periods, typically 24 to 48 h. These devices demand specialized algorithms with low computational complexity to accommodate memory and power consumption constraints. One of the most crucial aspects of ECG signals is accurately detecting heartbeat intervals, specifically the R peaks. In this study, we introduce a novel algorithm designed for wearable devices, offering two primary attributes: robustness against noise and low computational complexity. Our algorithm entails fitting a least-squares parabola to the ECG signal and adaptively shaping it as it sweeps through the signal. Notably, our proposed algorithm eliminates the need for band-pass filters, which can inadvertently smooth the R peaks, making them more challenging to identify. We compared the algorithm's performance using two extensive databases: the meta-database QT database and the BIH-MIT database. Importantly, our method does not necessitate the precise localization of the ECG signal's isoelectric line, contributing to its low computational complexity. In the analysis of the QT database, our algorithm demonstrated a substantial advantage over the classical Pan-Tompkins algorithm and maintained competitiveness with state-of-the-art approaches. In the case of the BIH-MIT database, the performance results were more conservative; they continued to underscore the real-world utility of our algorithm in clinical contexts.

Assuntos

RESUMO

INTRODUCTION: Metabolic syndrome (MS) is associated with abnormalities in atrial mechanics, atrial remodeling, and an increased risk of heart rhythm disorders. One of the most commonly used approaches to the prevention of cardiac remodeling in arterial hypertension is the administration of renin-angiotensin system (RAS) inhibitors. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effects of RAS inhibitors on atrial mechanics parameters in patients with MS. METHODS AND MATERIALS: This longitudinal observational study included 55 patients with hypertension and MS, as defined by the ATP III criteria. The patients were evaluated at the start of antihypertensive treatment with an RAS inhibitor. The patients' clinical characteristics, chosen pharmacological treatment, and transthoracic echocardiography findings were recorded at baseline and 6 months thereafter. A student's dependent sample t-test was used for comparisons between groups. Pearson correlation was used to evaluate the relationships between variables. RESULTS: Patients with MS had higher peak atrial longitudinal strain (PALS) values at 6 months than at baseline. Meanwhile, systolic strain and peak late strain rates were lower at follow-up than at baseline. The different antihypertensive treatments had comparable effects on the PALS changes during the follow-up period. Higher high-density lipoprotein levels at baseline were correlated with changes in PALS. CONCLUSION: The administration of RAS inhibitors improved atrial mechanics parameters in the early stages of antihypertensive management in MS.

Assuntos

RESUMO

UNASSIGNED: Background: Patients with higher thrombus burden have higher procedural complications and more long-term adverse cardiac events. Detecting patients with high thrombus burden (HTB) before coronary intervention could help avoid procedural complications. Objective: The research aimed to analyze the R wave peak time (RWPT) on the electrocardiogram to predict thrombus burden before coronary angiography in patients with acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Materials and Methods: A total of 159 patients with STEMI were included in the study conducted at a tertiary medical center. The thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI) thrombus scale was applied to assess the thrombus burden. TIMI thrombus grades 0, 1, 2, and 3 were accepted as low; 4 and 5 had HTB. RWPT was measured from the beginning of the QRS complex to the R-peak from the leads pointing to the infarct-related artery. Results: Patients were divided into two groups according to their angiographically defined thrombus burden as low and high. The low thrombus burden group (LTB) comprised fifty-four patients, whereas the HTB group comprised 105 patients. In the LTB group, RWPT was 47.96 ± 9.17 ms, and in the HTB group was 53.58 ± 8.92 ms; it was significantly longer (p < 0.01). Receiver operating characteristic analysis showed that a cut-off value of preprocedural RWPT of > 46.5 ms predicted the occurrence of HTB with a sensitivity and specificity of 87.62% and 51.85%, respectively (AUC 0.682, 95% CI 0.590-0.774, p < 0.001). Conclusion: The present study evaluated the relationship between the RWPT and thrombus burden in STEMI patients. Based on the results, RWPT is an independent predictor of HTB.

Assuntos

RESUMO

Abstract Background: Patients with higher thrombus burden have higher procedural complications and more long-term adverse cardiac events. Detecting patients with high thrombus burden (HTB) before coronary intervention could help avoid procedural complications. Objective: The research aimed to analyze the R wave peak time (RWPT) on the electrocardiogram to predict thrombus burden before coronary angiography in patients with acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Materials and Methods: A total of 159 patients with STEMI were included in the study conducted at a tertiary medical center. The thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI) thrombus scale was applied to assess the thrombus burden. TIMI thrombus grades 0, 1, 2, and 3 were accepted as low; 4 and 5 had HTB. RWPT was measured from the beginning of the QRS complex to the R-peak from the leads pointing to the infarct-related artery. Results: Patients were divided into two groups according to their angiographically defined thrombus burden as low and high. The low thrombus burden group (LTB) comprised fifty-four patients, whereas the HTB group comprised 105 patients. In the LTB group, RWPT was 47.96 ± 9.17 ms, and in the HTB group was 53.58 ± 8.92 ms; it was significantly longer (p < 0.01). Receiver operating characteristic analysis showed that a cut-off value of preprocedural RWPT of > 46.5 ms predicted the occurrence of HTB with a sensitivity and specificity of 87.62% and 51.85%, respectively (AUC 0.682, 95% CI 0.590-0.774, p < 0.001). Conclusion: The present study evaluated the relationship between the RWPT and thrombus burden in STEMI patients. Based on the results, RWPT is an independent predictor of HTB.