Design of a video game for assessment of executive functions in deaf and hearing children.

This study investigates the effectiveness of a computerized cognitive test battery embedded within a video game to assess executive functions (EF) in deaf and hearing children. We evaluated a diverse cohort of 290 elementary school students aged 5 to 13 years (mean age = 8.86, SD = 1.96), comprising 74 sign language users, 14 Spanish-speaking deaf participants, 23 children with mixed communication methods, and 179 typically hearing individuals. Our statistical analysis focused on item discrimination, reliability, and criterion validation of the game-based assessments. The results indicated high reliability and effective discrimination of EF across the game's three primary stages. External validation was conducted using the Matrices Test, educational attainment, and age as variables. A significant positive correlation (r = 0.377, p < 0.001) was observed between the Matrices Test scores and game-based achievement scores. Furthermore, linear regression analysis revealed education (Standardized Beta = 0.339) and age (Standardized Beta = 0.179) as significant predictors of performance in these scores. This study underscores the value of integrating computerized cognitive assessments within a video game environment for comprehensive neuropsychological evaluations, highlighting its potential in diverse child populations.

Utilidad de la implementación de un método molecular automatizado en el diagnóstico de agentes causales de infecciones de transmisión sexual / Usefulness of the implementation of an automated molecular method in the diagnosis of causal agents of sexually transmitted infections / Utilidade da implementação de um método molecular automatizado no diagnóstico de agentes causais de infecções sexualmente transmissíveis

Resumen Se presentan los resultados obtenidos en los primeros meses desde la implementación del diagnóstico de agentes causales de infecciones de transmisión sexual (ITS) por PCR en tiempo real en un sistema automatizado. Se estudiaron 46 muestras endocervicales y 39 muestras de uretra masculina, por examen microscópico en fresco, coloración de Gram, cultivo en agar sangre, agar Thayer Martin, galerías miniaturizadas para investigar Ureaplasma spp. y Mycoplasma hominis (Mycoplasma IST3, bioMérieux, Francia) y PCR múltiple para Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydia trachomatis . Trichomonas vaginalis (BDMaxTM System, Becton Dickinson, EE.UU.). Mediante PCR múltiple se detectó un agente vinculado a ITS en el 48,7% de las muestras uretrales y en el 21,7% de las muestras endocervicales, además de 5 casos de coinfección. El 18,8% de las infecciones se diagnosticaron sólo por PCR. Estos datos demuestran que mediante PCR se optimizó el diagnóstico de ITS en personas de ambos sexos.

Abstract The results obtained in the first months after the implementation of the diagnosis of causative agents of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) by real- time PCR in an automated system are presented. Forty-six endocervical samples and 39 male urethral samples were studied by fresh microscopic examination, Gram staining, blood agar culture, Thayer Martin agar, miniaturised galleries to investigate Ureaplasma spp. and Mycoplasma hominis (Mycoplasma IST3, bioMérieux, France), and multiplex PCR for Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydia trachomatis and Trichomonas vaginalis (BDMaxTM System, Becton Dickinson, USA). Using multiplex PCR, an agent linked to STIs was detected in 48.7% of the urethral samples and in 21.7% of the endocervical samples, in addition to 5 cases of coinfection. A total of 18.8% of the infections were diagnosed only by PCR. These data show that PCR optimised the diagnosis of STIs in people of both sexes.

Resumo São apresentados os resultados obtidos nos primeiros meses a partir da implementação do diagnóstico de agentes causadores de infecções sexualmente transmissíveis (ISTs) por PCR em tempo real em um sistema automatizado. Quarenta e seis amostras endocervicais e 39 amostras uretrais masculinas foram estudadas por exame microscópico fresco, coloração de Gram, cultura de ágar sangue, ágar Thayer Martin, galerias miniaturizadas para investigar Ureaplasma spp. e Mycoplasma hominis (Mycoplasma IST3, bioMérieux, França) e PCR múltiplo para Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydia trachomatis e Trichomonas vaginalis (BDMaxTM System, Becton Dickinson, EUA). Utilizando PCR múltiplo, um agente ligado a IST foi detectado em 48,7% das amostras uretrais e em 21,7% das amostras endocervicais, além de 5 casos de coinfecção; 18,8% das infecções foram diagnosticadas apenas por PCR. Esses dados mostram que através do PCR foi otimizado o diagnóstico de IST em pessoas de ambos os sexos.

Orquiepididimitis por Haemophilus parainfluenzae: caso clínico y revisión de la literatura / Orchiepididymitis due to Haemophilus parainfluenzae: case report and review of the literature / Orquiepididimite por Haemophilus parainfluenzae: caso clínico e revisão da literatura

Resumen Haemophilus parainfluenzae forma parte de la microbiota normal de la cavidad oral y del tracto respiratorio superior. Es un reconocido agente causal de endocarditis y, con menor frecuencia, de enfermedades como neumonía, sepsis, osteomielitis, celulitis, meningitis y gastroenteritis aguda. Aquí se presenta un caso de orquiepididimitis en un joven adulto donde H. parainfluenzae, confirmado por espectrometría de masas (MALDI-TOF MS), fue el único patógeno detectado. Este caso contribuye a valorar el rol de H. parainfluenzae como patógeno humano, aislado a partir de sitios diferentes del torrente sanguíneo y las vías respiratorias.

Abstract Haemophilus parainfluenzae is part of the normal microbiota of the oral cavity and the upper respiratory tract. It is a recognised causal agent of endocarditis and, less frequently, of diseases such as pneumonia, sepsis, osteomyelitis, cellulitis, meningitis, and acute gastroenteritis. A case of orchiepididymitis in a young adult is reported, where H. parainfluenzae, confirmed by mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS), was the only pathogen detected. This case contributes to assess the role of H. parainfluenzae as a human pathogen, isolated from sites other than the bloodstream and the respiratory tract.

Resumo Haemophilus parainfluenzae faz parte da microbiota normal da cavidade oral e do trato respiratório superior. É um reconhecido agente causal de endocardite e, menos frequentemente, de doenças como pneumonia, sepse, osteomielite, celulite, meningite e gastroenterite aguda. Aqui é relatado um caso de orquiepididimite em um adulto jovem onde H. parainfluenzae, confirmado por espectrometria de massa (MALDI-TOF MS), foi o único patógeno detectado. Este caso contribui para avaliar o papel do H. parainfluenzae como patógeno humano, isolado de outros locais que não sejam a corrente sanguínea e o trato respiratório.

Facial thermal and blood perfusion patterns of human emotions: Proof-of-Concept.

In this work, a preliminary study of proof-of-concept was conducted to evaluate the performance of the thermographic and blood perfusion data when emotions of positive and negative valence are applied, where the blood perfusion data are obtained from the thermographic data. The images were obtained for baseline, positive, and negative valence according to the protocol of the Geneva Affective Picture Database. Absolute and percentage differences of average values of the data between the valences and the baseline were calculated for different regions of interest (forehead, periorbital eyes, cheeks, nose and upper lips). For negative valence, a decrease in temperature and blood perfusion was observed in the regions of interest, and the effect was greater on the left side than on the right side. In positive valence, the temperature and blood perfusion increased in some cases, showing a complex pattern. The temperature and perfusion of the nose was reduced for both valences, which is indicative of the arousal dimension. The blood perfusion images were found to be greater contrast; the percentage differences in the blood perfusion images are greater than those obtained in thermographic images. Moreover, the blood perfusion images, and vasomotor answer are consistent, therefore, they can be a better biomarker than thermographic analysis in identifying emotions.

Patients With Fibromyalgia, Depression, and/or Anxiety and Sex Differences.

Fibromyalgia is a syndrome characterized by chronic widespread pain, with a multifactorial etiopathogenesis and high incidence of neuropsychiatric comorbidity. It has been inaccurately considered a pathological condition affecting only middle-aged women. The study aimed to explore the association of sociodemographic and clinical factors in patients with fibromyalgia with depression and/or anxiety. The present study is an analysis of a cross-sectional study of a secondary source. The prevalence ratio (PR) between the demographic and clinical variables of patients with fibromyalgia and concomitant depression and/or anxiety was calculated. Overall, 1,106 medical records were obtained with a confirmed diagnosis of fibromyalgia between 2010 and 2016; of these, 318 (28.75%) patients had an associated diagnosis of depression and/or anxiety. Approximately 28% women (295 of 1,052) and 42.6% men (23 of 54) suffered from depression and/or anxiety. In the adjusted explanatory model of depression and/or anxiety in patients with fibromyalgia, the relationship between sex (female PR = 0.5 [0.28-0.86]) and low socioeconomic strata (PR = 0.53 [0.33-0.70]) remained constant. In the study population, patients with fibromyalgia belonging to lower social strata were less likely to present with depression and anxiety. The male sex may pose as a risk factor for depression and/or anxiety in patients with fibromyalgia. Fibromyalgia has a huge impact on men's physical as well as mental health.

Novel OTX2 loss of function variant associated with congenital hypopituitarism without eye abnormalities.

OBJECTIVES: The normal development of the pituitary gland requires multiple induction signals and transcription factors encoded by more than 30 genes, including OTX2. OTX2 mutations have been described with eye abnormalities and variable congenital hypopituitarism, but rarely with hypopituitarism without ocular manifestations. CASE PRESENTATION: We report a girl with hypopituitarism associated with pituitary hypoplasia and pituitary stalk atrophy, without ocular manifestations. NGS revealed a novel heterozygous mutation in OTX2 c.426dupC:p.(Ser143Leufs*2). CONCLUSIONS: Mutations in the transcription factor OTX2 have been associated with ocular, craniofacial, and pituitary development anomalies. Here we describe a novel mutation in OTX2 associated with hypopituitarism without an ocular phenotype.

Update of the Mexican College of Rheumatology Guidelines for the Pharmacological Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis, 2018. / Actualización de las guías del tratamiento farmacológico de la artritis reumatoide del Colegio Mexicano de Reumatología 2018.

Therapeutic advances in rheumatoid arthritis require periodic review of treatment guidelines. OBJECTIVE: To update the Mexican College of Rheumatology guidelines on the pharmacological treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. METHOD: Board certified rheumatologists from different health institutions and regions of the country participated. Work teams were formed that reviewed the previous guidelines, elaborated new questions, reviewed the literature, and scored the evidence that was presented and discussed in plenary session. The conclusions were presented to infectologists, gynaecologists and patients. Recommendations were based on levels of evidence according to GRADE methodology. RESULTS: Updated recommendations on the use of available medications for rheumatoid arthritis treatment in Mexico up to 2017 are presented. The importance of adequate and sustained control of the disease is emphasized and relevant safety aspects are described. Bioethical conflicts are included, and government action is invited to strengthen correct treatment of the disease. CONCLUSIONS: The updated recommendations of the Mexican College of Rheumatology on the pharmacological treatment of rheumatoid arthritis incorporate the best available information to be used in the Mexican health care system.

Ocular trauma by kinetic impact projectiles during civil unrest in Chile.

BACKGROUND: The use of kinetic impact projectiles (KIPs) for crowd-control has increased worldwide. Despite having been created as non-lethal weapons, significant damage to several organs, including the eye, has been reported. In this study, we investigated cases of ocular trauma from KIPs during the civil unrest in Chile. To our knowledge, this is the largest case series recorded in international literature. METHODS: We included all patients who sought care or were referred to the Eye Trauma Unit, a national referral centre in Santiago, Chile, during the civil unrest from October 18 to November 30, 2019. We reviewed paper medical records and extracted data on suspected cause of trauma, type of trauma, visual acuity and sociodemographic data. RESULTS: We included 259 patients, out of which in 182 cases (70.5%) KIPs were the suspected cause. Cases by KIPs were predominantly male (86.6%), young (median age 26.3, interquartile range 22.0-31.4) and living in the Metropolitan Region. Eighty-nine patients (48.9%) had severe visual impairment or were blind at the first examination. The trauma was an open-globe injury in 20.3% of cases and 13 cases required evisceration of the ocular content. Compared to other causes of ocular trauma, KIPs were related to a more severe loss of visual acuity and a higher frequency of open-globe injuries. CONCLUSIONS: The use of KIPs during a period of civil unrest in Chile resulted in severe ocular trauma, visual impairment and permanent disability. KIPs should be avoided as a method of crowd-control.

Extraintestinal Manifestations in Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Study Based on the ENEIDA Registry.

BACKGROUND: Patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) may present extraintestinal manifestations (EIMs) that affect the joints, skin, eyes, and hepatobiliary area, among others. AIMS: Our aim was to analyse the prevalence and characteristics of EIMs in patients with IBD and to identify the possible risk factors associated with the development of EIMs in the largest series published to date. METHODS: Observational, cross-sectional study including patients from the Spanish ENEIDA registry promoted by GETECCU. We retrospectively identified all cases of EIMs in the ENEIDA registry until January 2018. RESULTS: The study included 31,077 patients, 5779 of whom had at least one EIM (global prevalence 19%; 95% CI 18.2-19.0). Among the different types of EIMs, rheumatic manifestations had a prevalence of 13% (95% CI 12.9-13.7; 63% of EIMs), with a prevalence of 5% (95% CI 4.7-5.2) for mucocutaneous manifestations, 2.1% (95% CI 1.9-2.2) for ocular manifestations, and 0.7% (95% CI 0.6-0.8) for hepatobiliary manifestations. The multivariable analysis showed that the type of IBD (Crohn's disease, p < 0.001), gender (female, p < 0.001), the need for an immunomodulator (p < 0.001) or biologic drugs (p < 0.001), a previous family history of IBD (p < 0.001), and an extensive location of IBD (p < 0.001) were risk factors for the presence of EIMs. CONCLUSIONS: One-fifth of patients with IBD may have associated EIMs, with rheumatic manifestations as the most frequent (> 60% of EIMs). Female patients with severe Crohn's disease represent the group with the highest risk of developing EIMs. These patients should therefore be specially monitored and referred to the corresponding specialist when suggestive symptoms appear.

Depression and the risk of adverse outcomes at 5 years in patients with coronary heart disease.

BACKGROUND: Cardiovascular diseases are a public health concern worldwide, with high rates of morbidity and mortality. Depression is a frequent comorbidity in coronary heart disease (CHD). It can be caused by the experience of suffering from heart disease, but it can also influence the prognosis of the CHD. The prevalence of depression in patients with cardiovascular disease is twice as high as that in the general population. AIM: Assess the influence of depression in the prognosis at 5 years in patients with CHD. METHODS: 145 patients diagnosed with CHD were recruited between September 2013 and June 2015. Depression was assessed based on the PHQ-9 results at the time of hospitalization and 3 months after discharged. Sociodemographic and clinical variables were collected. A 5-year follow-up was carried out to verify death, reinfarction or any adverse outcome. RESULTS: 20% of the study population had depression at hospital admission compared with 11% at 3 months. Depression at 3 months after discharged was a differentiating factor to present complications (42.6 months, CI 95% 27.3-57.9) compared with patients without depression (55 months, CI 95%, 50.9-59.1) (Log-Rank p = 0.034). In the unadjusted model, the risk of heart complications increased with patients that have comorbidities, such as diabetes (HR 2.78, 95% CI 1.21-6.3) or hypothyroidism (HR 2.5 95% CI 1.09-5.7). Also, patients with post-hospitalization depression at 3 months were 3 times (95% CI 1.023-8.8) more likely to have complications during the follow-up period than nondepressed patients. After risk factor adjustment, the HR for depression was 2.01 (95% CI 0.57-6.9). FINDINGS: Patients with depression at 3 months following the coronary event, presented complications sooner than those without depression.

Comorbilidad neuropsiquiátrica en pacientes con fibromialgia / Neuropsychiatric comorbidity in patients with fibromyalgia

RESUMEN Introducción: La fibromialgia es una causa común de dolor crónico en el mundo, con una prevalencia en la población general del 0,2% al 6,4%. Estos pacientes tienen una mayor probabilidad de presentar trastornos neuropsiquiátricos. El objetivo fue describir el perfil sociodemográfico y clínico de pacientes con fibromialgia y comorbilidad neuropsiquiátrica. Métodos: Estudio transversal, descriptivo. Se recolectó información de las historias clínicas de pacientes con fibromialgia y comorbilidad neuropsiquiátrica, de una institución especializada en Antioquia, durante los años 2010 al 2016. Se aplicaron herramientas de estadística descriptiva. Resultados: De 1.106 registros médicos con diagnóstico confirmado de fibromialgia, 497 presentaban comorbilidad neuropsiquiátrica. La mediana de edad fue de 54 años (RIC 15), la mayoría eran mujeres, residían en zona urbana y estaban casados o convivían con su pareja. Estatus socioeconómico bajo-medio y nivel educativo básico-medio, fueron los más reportados. Los síntomas más frecuentes fueron alteraciones del sueño (70,6%), mialgias (66,4%) y fatiga crónica (55,9%). Los trastornos neuropsiquiátricos más frecuentes fueron depresión (85,7%), migraña (35%) y ansiedad (14,7%). Los fármacos más utilizados fueron los inhibidores de la recaptación de serotonina y duales, acetaminofén y gabaérgicos. Manejo con terapias complementarias e intervención psicológica se observaron en baja proporción. Conclusiones: La fibromialgia y las enfermedades neuropsiquiátricas son patologías que coexisten con frecuencia; la presentación sociodemográfica y clínica es similar a lo descrito en la literatura, sin embargo, la presencia de depresión en esta población fue mayor. Un enfoque terapéutico transdisciplinario, favorecería la calidad de vida de los pacientes y el curso de la enfermedad.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Fibromyalgia is a common cause of chronic pain in the world, with a prevalence of 0.2% to 6.4% in the general population. These patients are more likely to have neuropsychiatric disorders. The objective of this study was to describe the sociodemographic and clinical profile of patients with fibromyalgia and neuropsychiatric comorbidity. Methods: A cross-sectional, descriptive study was conducted in which Information was collected from the medical records of patients with fibromyalgia and neuropsychiatric comorbidity, from specialist institution in Antioquia, during the years 2010 to 2016. Descriptive statistics tools were applied. Results: Of the 1,106 medical records with a confirmed diagnosis of fibromyalgia, 497 had neuropsychiatric comorbidity. The median age was 54 years (IQR 15), and the majority were women, residing in an urban area, and were married or living with their partner. Low-medium socioeconomic status and basic-medium educational level were the most reported. The most frequent symptoms were sleep disturbances (70.6%), myalgia (66.4%), and chronic fatigue (55.9%). The most frequent neuropsychiatric disorders were depression (85.7%), migraine (35%), and anxiety (14.7%). The most commonly used drugs were serotonin and dual reuptake inhibitors, acetaminophen, and GABAergic drugs. A low percentage was managed with complementary therapies and psychological intervention. Conclusions: Fibromyalgia and neuropsychiatric diseases are diseases that frequently coexist. Although the sociodemographic and clinical presentation is as described in the literature, the presence of depression was greater in this population. A multidisciplinary therapeutic approach would favour the quality of life of the patients and the course of the disease.

Implementación del método de FilmArrayTM en pacientes pediátricos con infecciones severas / Implementation of the FilmArrayTM method in pediatric patients with severe infections / Implementação do método de matriz do FilmArrayTM em pacientes pediátricos com infecções graves

Se evaluó la implementación del método de PCR múltiple FilmArrayTM (Biofire Diagnostics, LLC, EE.UU.) en 21 niños con infección respiratoria aguda baja, 3 con meningoencefalitis, y un caso de sepsis. Se registraron el tiempo de demora hasta obtener el resultado y adecuar el tratamiento, los días de internación, los patógenos detectados y el costo de la incorporación de esta metodología. En los niños estudiados con FilmArrayTM el resultado estuvo disponible a los 90 minutos desde la toma de la muestra. Se detectaron patógenos no demostrados por los métodos disponibles, como Rhinovirus, además de diagnosticar coinfección viral; el tiempo promedio de estadía resultó 5 días. Se estimó reducir un 40% el costo global de internación. La implementación de FilmArrayTM resultó sencilla y se pudo incorporar a la sistemática de trabajo. Si bien esta experiencia incluyó un bajo número de pacientes, aportó información que demuestra el potencial de esta metodología para un mejor manejo del paciente crítico.

The implementation of multiple PCR FilmArrayTM (Biofire Diagnostics, LLC, USA) for 21 children with low acute respiratory infection, 3 with meningoencephalitis, and 1 case of sepsis was evaluated. Delay time until the result was obtained and the treatment adapted, hospitalization days, pathogens detected and the cost of incorporating this methodology were all recorded. In the children studied with FilmArrayTM the result was available 90 minutes after the sample was taken. Pathogens were not demonstrated by the available methods, such as Rhinovirus, apart from diagnosing viral coinfection, the average length of stay was 5 days. It was estimated to reduce the overall cost of hospitalization by 40%. The implementation of FilmArrayTM was simple and could be incorporated into the work system. Although this experience included a low number of patients, it provided information that demonstrates the potential of this methodology for better management of the critical patient.

Foi avaliada a implementação do método de PCR múltiplo FilmArrayTM (Biofire Diagnostics, LLC, EUA) em 21 crianças com infecção respiratória aguda baixa, 3 com meningoencefalite e um caso de sepse. O tempo de atraso foi registrado até a obtenção do resultado e a adaptação do tratamento, dias de internação, patógenos detectados e o custo da incorporação dessa metodologia. Nas crianças estudadas com o FilmArrayTM, o resultado ficou disponível 90 minutos após a coleta da amostra; foram detectados os patógenos não demonstrados pelos métodos disponíveis, como o Rinovírus, além de diagnosticar a coinfecção viral; o tempo médio de permanência foi de 5 dias. Foi estimado reduzir o custo total da hospitalização em 40%. A implementação do FilmArrayTM foi simples e pôde ser incorporada à sistemática de trabalho. Embora essa experiência tenha incluído um número de pacientes baixo, forneceu informações que demonstram o potencial dessa metodologia para um melhor gerenciamento do paciente crítico.

Epidemiology of septic shock in prehospital medical services in five Colombian cities. / Epidemiología del shock séptico en un servicio de atención médica prehospitalaria en cinco ciudades colombianas.

OBJECTIVE: To explore the association between demographic and clinical factors and the presentation of septic shock in patients treated by prehospital emergency services in five Colombian cities between 2015 and 2016. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study with retrospective data collection. Clinical and demographic data were collected from the medical records of patients diagnosed with sepsis who received prehospital care in five Colombian cities in 2015 and 2016. The diagnosis of septic shock was checked in 20% of the cases, generating two analyzed scenarios: observed and verified. Data were analyzed using the chi-square test, Student's t test and an adjusted logistic regression model. Covariates with p < 0.05 were considered significant. RESULTS: There was a higher frequency of septic shock in women (62.6%) and in individuals older than 80 years (64.5%), but these were not differentiating factors for septic shock. The most common source of infection was the urinary tract. In the observed scenario, age over 60 (prevalence ratio (PR): 3.22; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.45 - 35.01) and history of cancer (PR: 1.20; 95%CI: 1.2 - 12.87) were the characteristics associated with septic shock, whereas in the verified scenario, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (PR: 1.99; 95%CI: 1.26 - 7.14), history of cancer (PR: 1.15; 95%CI: 1.11 - 6.62) and presence of hypovolemia (PR: 1.41; 95%CI: 1.02 - 5.50) were observed. CONCLUSION: The most important risk factors for septic shock in prehospital care patients in five Colombian cities were oncological and pulmonary diseases and hypovolemia.

Epidemiología del shock séptico en un servicio de atención médica prehospitalaria en cinco ciudades colombianas / Epidemiology of septic shock in prehospital medical services in five Colombian cities

RESUMEN Objetivo: Explorar la asociación entre factores demográficos y clínicos con la presentación de shock séptico en pacientes atendidos en un servicio prehospitalario de emergencias en cinco ciudades colombianas entre los años 2015-2016. Métodos: Estudio de corte transversal con recolección retrospectiva de datos. Se recolectó información clínica y demográfica de las historias clínicas de pacientes con diagnóstico de sepsis que recibieron atención prehospitalaria en cinco ciudades colombianas en los años 2015 y 2016. Se realizó una verificación del diagnóstico de shock séptico en el 20% de los casos, dando origen a dos escenarios analizados: observado y verificado. Se analizó la asociación con pruebas de Chi cuadrado, t de Student y finalmente con un modelo de regresión logística ajustado. Se consideró covariables significativas aquellas con p < 0,05. Resultados: Se presentó una mayor frecuencia del evento en mujeres (62,6%) y en mayores de 80 años (64,5%), sin ser factores diferenciadores para shock séptico. El foco infeccioso más común fue urinario. En el escenario observado, los mayores de 60 años (RP: 3,22; IC95%: 1,45 - 35,01) y el antecedente de cáncer fueron las características asociadas con el shock séptico (RP: 1,20; IC95%: 1,2 - 12,87), mientras que en el grupo verificado fueron la enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica (RP: 1,99; IC95%: 1,26 - 7,14), el antecedente de cáncer (RP: 1,15; IC95%: 1,11 - 6,62) y presencia de hipovolemia (RP: 1,41; IC95%: 1,02 - 5,50). Conclusión: Los factores de riesgo más importantes para shock séptico en pacientes de atención prehospitalaria en cinco ciudades colombianas fueron las enfermedades oncológicas, las pulmonares e hipovolemia.

ABSTRACT Objective: To explore the association between demographic and clinical factors and the presentation of septic shock in patients treated by prehospital emergency services in five Colombian cities between 2015 and 2016. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study with retrospective data collection. Clinical and demographic data were collected from the medical records of patients diagnosed with sepsis who received prehospital care in five Colombian cities in 2015 and 2016. The diagnosis of septic shock was checked in 20% of the cases, generating two analyzed scenarios: observed and verified. Data were analyzed using the chi-square test, Student's t test and an adjusted logistic regression model. Covariates with p < 0.05 were considered significant. Results: There was a higher frequency of septic shock in women (62.6%) and in individuals older than 80 years (64.5%), but these were not differentiating factors for septic shock. The most common source of infection was the urinary tract. In the observed scenario, age over 60 (prevalence ratio (PR): 3.22; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.45 - 35.01) and history of cancer (PR: 1.20; 95%CI: 1.2 - 12.87) were the characteristics associated with septic shock, whereas in the verified scenario, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (PR: 1.99; 95%CI: 1.26 - 7.14), history of cancer (PR: 1.15; 95%CI: 1.11 - 6.62) and presence of hypovolemia (PR: 1.41; 95%CI: 1.02 - 5.50) were observed. Conclusion: The most important risk factors for septic shock in prehospital care patients in five Colombian cities were oncological and pulmonary diseases and hypovolemia.

Blastocystis infection frequency and subtype distribution in university students.

Blastocystis is a parasite commonly found in the gut of humans and animals; there are 22 known subtypes (STs). STs 1-9 and 12 have been found in humans. This parasite has a faecal-oral route of transmission; its high infection prevalence in developing countries is due to poor hygiene practices, exposure to infected animals, and intake of contaminated water or food. Its pathogenicity has not been established, because it has been found in symptomatic and asymptomatic patients. The goal of this study was to analyze the frequency of Blastocystis and its subtypes (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 7), and assess the relationship between these subtypes and abdominal pain and distension. 202 university students participated in this study. A questionnaire was applied to assess the gastrointestinal symptoms, and subsequently the students were asked to provide faecal samples. The presence of parasites was determined by optical microscopy. Blastocystis-positive samples had their DNA extracted and end-point PCR was performed to corroborate the presence of Blastocystis and determine its subtypes. Among the samples, 47.03% were positive according to PCR analysis. The most prevalent subtypes were ST3 (29.79%), ST4 (16.84%), and ST1 (14.89%). We found a relationship between ST1 and abdominal pain (OR = 0.196; CI = 0.0533-0.7318; p = 0.015), and between ST4 and abdominal distension (OR = 0.2928; CI = 0.1017-0.8429; p = 0.023). However, the presence of this parasite and the probable relationship with gastrointestinal symptoms suggest the need to determine its role within intestinal microbiota in order to confirm whether its eradication is really necessary or not.

Comparison between Ages & Stages Questionnaire and Bayley Scales, to predict cognitive delay in school age.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the predictive value of the Spanish Ages & Stages Questionnaire third edition adapted for Chilean population (ASQ-Cl) and the Bayley Scale of Infant and Toddler Development 3rd edition (Bayley-III) for cognitive delay at school age, and to identify the domain predictors. METHODOLOGY: Data were collected from 306 term and preterm children of medium-high socio-economic level enrolled in a prospective cohort study. Developmental outcomes at 8, 18 and 30 months were assessed via the ASQ-Cl and Bayley-III; at 6-8 years cognitive development was assessed using the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC-III). The area under the curve (AUC), sensitivity, specificity and predictive values were calculated, and logistic regression analysis was used. RESULTS: Of 227 children studied, 6.6% had cognitive delay. ASQ-Cl and Bayley-III generate equivalent AUC [0.77 and 0.80]. Sensitivity 67% and 53%; specificity of 72% and 88%, positive predictive value of 14% and 24%, negative predictive values of 97% and 96% respectively. Greater predictive validity was obtained at 30 months assessment. Deficit in the communication and gross motor skills and problem-solving domains of the ASQ-Cl and all the Bayley-III domains were significantly associated with cognitive delay. CONCLUSIONS: ASQ-Cl can be used to identify children at risk for cognitive delay at 6-8 years of age, being comparable with the Bayley-III. Some domains of ASQ-Cl and all domains of Bayley-III were significant predictors for cognitive delay. These results support the use of ASQ-Cl as a screening tool for developmental delay.

Concordancia entre el diagnóstico clínico y el anatomopatológico de los tumores malignos del párpado / Concordance between clinical and anatomopathological diagnosis of palpebral malignancies

RESUMEN Objetivo: Evaluar la concordancia entre el diagnóstico clínico inicial y el histopatológico de tumores palpebrales malignos. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio observacional, descriptivo y retrospectivo de pacientes portadores de diferentes tumores palpebrales, atendidos en el Servicio de Cirugía Plástica Ocular del Instituto Cubano de Oftalmología "Ramón Pando Ferrer", en el periodo comprendido de enero a diciembre del año 2016, en el que se describieron las características clínicas y anatomopatológicas, y la concordancia entre ambos diagnósticos. Resultados: Predominó el grupo de 60-79 años de edad (46,1 por ciento), el sexo femenino (51,7 por ciento) y el color de piel blanco (92,6 por ciento) . Las lesiones se presentaron fundamentalmente en el párpado inferior (77,0 por ciento) y las telangectasias constituyeron el signo de malignidad más consistente (56,8 por ciento), con predominio del carcinoma basocelular, seguido del carcinoma espinocelular (81,4 por ciento y 15,2 por ciento, respectivamente). La concordancia entre el diagnóstico clínico y el histopatológico fue de 69,2 por ciento para el carcinoma basocelular; 9,7 por ciento para el espinocelular y 30 por ciento para el sebáceo (índice de Kappa de 0,338; 0,262 y 0,357, respectivamente). Conclusiones: Existe la mayor concordancia entre diagnóstico clínico e histopatológico en el carcinoma basocelular; no así en el resto de los tumores estudiados(AU)

ABSTRACT Objective: To assess the concordance between the initial and histopathological clinical diagnosis of malignant palpebral tumors. Methods: An observational, descriptive and retrospective study of patients with different eyelid tumors was performed. The patients were treated in the Ocular Plastic Surgery Service of Ramón Pando Ferrer Cuban Institute of Ophthalmology, in the period from January to December of 2016, during which the clinical and pathological characteristics were described, together with the concordance between both diagnoses. Results: The age group of 60-79 years predominated (46.1 percent), as it was with the female sex (51.7 percent) and the white skin color (92.6 percent). The lesions occurred mainly in the lower eyelid (77.0 percent) and telangiectasia constituted the most consistent sign of malignancy (56.8 percent), with a predominance of basal cell carcinoma, followed by spinocellular carcinoma (81.4 percent and 15, 2 percent, respectively). The concordance between the clinical and histopathological diagnosis was 69.2 percent for basal cell carcinoma; 9.7 percent for the spinocellular carcinoma; and 30 percent for the sebaceous carcinoma (Kappa index of 0.388, 0.262 and 0.357, respectively). Conclusions: There is the greatest concordance between the clinical and histopathological diagnosis in basal cell carcinoma, but not in the rest of the tumors studied(AU)

Uncooperative Patient With an Infected Elbow Osteosynthesis: Alternative Management With Topical Sevoflurane.

INTRODUCTION: Treatment of an infected osteosynthesis is usually a complicated process, with its complexity increasing when unforeseen situations appear. Typically, the therapeutic management of such situations is challenging because they are not anticipated in the medical literature and physicians have to look for and adapt novel solutions to a specific patient condition. CASE REPORT: A 41-year-old, uncooperative, homeless man, presented to the emergency room with a left olecranon fracture. After planned surgery, the surgical wound became infected with a methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus because the treatment took place in an unhygienic outpatient hospital setting. The patient refused to remain in the hospital and also failed to complete antibiotic courses prescribed (culture-guided rifampicin 600 mg daily plus levofloxacin 500 mg daily). Instead of removing the osteosynthesis material, the infection was successfully treated by repeated applications of 5 mL of sevoflurane into the surgical wound. Subsequently, wound healing was achieved with a combination of a brief course of negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT), use of silver-impregnated dressings, and irrigation of the wound with sevoflurane. Sevoflurane also provided topical analgesic to ameliorate the pain caused by removing the NPWT sponge. Interestingly, despite extremely poor compliance by the patient to all standard treatment regimens, and the clinical decision to retain the implant, the infection was resolved, and the fracture was consolidated. CONCLUSIONS: Local application of sevoflurane in the wound bed appears to exhibit analgesic, antimicrobial, and positive healing effects. It could be a promising alternative treatment to be included as a therapeutic option for wound care.