Urea breath test for Helicobacter pylori infection in adult dyspeptic patients: A meta-analysis of diagnostic test accuracy.

BACKGROUND: Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection has been well-established as a significant risk factor for several gastrointestinal disorders. The urea breath test (UBT) has emerged as a leading non-invasive method for detecting H. pylori. Despite numerous studies confirming its substantial accuracy, the reliability of UBT results is often compromised by inherent limitations. These findings underscore the need for a rigorous statistical synthesis to clarify and reconcile the diagnostic accuracy of the UBT for the diagnosis of H. pylori infection. AIM: To determine and compare the diagnostic accuracy of 13C-UBT and 14C-UBT for H. pylori infection in adult patients with dyspepsia. METHODS: We conducted an independent search of the PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Central databases until April 2022. Our search included diagnostic accuracy studies that evaluated at least one of the index tests (13C-UBT or 14C-UBT) against a reference standard. We used the QUADAS-2 tool to assess the methodological quality of the studies. We utilized the bivariate random-effects model to calculate sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative test likelihood ratios (LR+ and LR-), as well as the diagnostic odds ratio (DOR), and their 95% confidence intervals. We conducted subgroup analyses based on urea dosing, time after urea administration, and assessment technique. To investigate a possible threshold effect, we conducted Spearman correlation analysis, and we generated summary receiver operating characteristic (SROC) curves to assess heterogeneity. Finally, we visually inspected a funnel plot and used Egger's test to evaluate publication bias. RESULTS: The titles and abstracts of 4621 studies were screened; 79 articles were retrieved and selected for full-text reading. Finally, 60 studies were included in the diagnostic test accuracy meta-analysis. Our analysis demonstrates superior diagnostic accuracy of 13C-UBT over 14C-UBT, indicated by higher sensitivity (96.60% vs 96.15%), specificity (96.93% vs 89.84%), likelihood ratios (LR+ 22.00 vs 10.10; LR- 0.05 vs 0.06), and area under the curve (AUC; 0.979 vs 0.968). Notably, 13C-UBT's DOR (586.47) significantly outperforms 14C-UBT (DOR 226.50), making it the preferred diagnostic tool for dyspeptic individuals with H. pylori infection. Correlation analysis revealed no threshold effect (13C-UBT: r = 0.48; 14C-UBT: r = -0.01), and SROC curves showed consistent accuracy. Both 13C-UBT and 14C-UBT showed high AUC values (13C-UBT 0.979; 14C-UBT 0.968) near 1.00, reinforcing their excellent accuracy and endorsing both as reliable diagnostic tools in clinical practice. CONCLUSION: In summary, our study has demonstrated that 13C-UBT has been found to outperform the 14C-UBT, making it the preferred diagnostic approach. Additionally, our results emphasize the significance of carefully considering urea dosage, assessment timing, and measurement techniques for both tests to enhance diagnostic precision. Nevertheless, it is crucial for researchers and clinicians to evaluate the strengths and limitations of our findings before implementing them in practice.

Effectiveness of Helicobacter pylori eradication in the treatment of early-stage gastric mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma: An up-to-date meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Gastric mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma (GML) is usually a low-grade B-cell neoplasia strongly associated with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori)-induced chronic gastritis. Clinical practice guidelines currently recommend H. pylori eradication as the preferred initial treatment for early-stage GML. To determine the practical effect of bacterial eradication as the sole initial therapy for early-stage GML, an updated analysis and review of available evidence is imperative. AIM: To perform a meta-analysis to assess the rate of complete remission (CR) of H. pylori-positive early-stage GML following bacterial eradication. METHODS: We performed independent, computer-assisted literature searches using the PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane Central databases through September 2022. Prospective and retrospective observational studies evaluating the CR of early-stage GML following bacterial eradication in H. pylori-positive patients. The risk of bias was assessed using Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Critical Appraisal Tools. The pooled estimate of the complete histopathological remission rate and respective confidence intervals (95%CI) were calculated following the random-effects model. Heterogeneity and inconsistency were assessed using Cochran's Q test and I2 statistic, and heterogeneity was defined as P < 0.01 and I² > 50%, respectively. Subgroup and meta-regression analyses were conducted to explore potential sources of heterogeneity. RESULTS: The titles and abstracts of 1576 studies were screened; 96 articles were retrieved and selected for full-text reading. Finally, 61 studies were included in the proportional meta-analysis (P-MA). Forty-six were prospective and fifteen were retrospective uncontrolled, single-arm, observational studies. The overall risk of bias was low to moderate in all but a single report, with an average critical appraisal score across all studies of 79.02%. A total of 2936 H. pylori-positive early-stage GML patients, in whom H. pylori was successfully eradicated, were included in the analysis. The pooled CR of H. pylori-positive early-stage GML after bacterial eradication was 75.18% (95%CI: 70.45%-79.91%). P-MA indicated the substantial heterogeneity in CR reported across studies (I 2 = 92%; P < 0.01). Meta-regression analysis identified statistically significant effect modifiers, including the proportion of patients with t(11;18)(q21;q21)-positive GML and the risk of bias in each study. CONCLUSION: Comprehensive synthesis of available evidence suggests that H. pylori eradication is effective as the sole initial therapy for early-stage GML. Although the substantial heterogeneity observed across studies limits the interpretation of the pooled overall CR, the present study is a relevant to informing clinical practice.

Epidemiological and clinical characteristics of COVID-19 in a Brazilian public hospital.

BACKGROUND: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has become a major health concern worldwide. In that context, the understanding of epidemiological and clinical features associated with the disease and its severity is crucial for the establishment of strategies aimed at disease control and remedy. AIM: To describe epidemiological features, signs, symptoms, and laboratory findings among severely ill COVID-19 patients from an intensive care unit in northeastern Brazil as well as to evaluate predictor factors for disease outcomes. METHODS: This is a prospective single-center study that evaluated 115 patients admitted to the intensive care unit in a northeastern Brazilian hospital. RESULTS: The patients had a median age of 65.60 ± 15.78 years. Dyspnea was the most frequent symptom, affecting 73.9% of the patients, followed by cough (54.7%). Fever was reported in approximately one-third of patients and myalgia in 20.8% of the patients. At least two comorbidities were found in 41.7% of the patients, and hypertension was the most prevalent (57.3%). In addition, having two or more comorbidities was a predictor of mortality, and lower platelet count was positively associated with death. Nausea and vomiting were two symptoms that were predictors of death, and the presence of a cough was a protective factor. CONCLUSION: This is the first report of a negative correlation between cough and death in severely ill severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2-infected individuals. The associations between comorbidities, advanced age, and low platelet count and the outcomes of the infection were similar to the results of previous studies, highlighting the relevance of these features.

Influence of Helicobacter pylori oncoprotein CagA in gastric cancer: A critical-reflective analysis.

Gastric cancer is the fifth most common malignancy and third leading cancer-related cause of death worldwide. Helicobacter pylori is a Gram-negative bacterium that inhabits the gastric environment of 60.3% of the world's population and represents the main risk factor for the onset of gastric neoplasms. CagA is the most important virulence factor in H. pylori, and is a translocated oncoprotein that induces morphofunctional modifications in gastric epithelial cells and a chronic inflammatory response that increases the risk of developing precancerous lesions. Upon translocation and tyrosine phosphorylation, CagA moves to the cell membrane and acts as a pathological scaffold protein that simultaneously interacts with multiple intracellular signaling pathways, thereby disrupting cell proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis. All these alterations in cell biology increase the risk of damaged cells acquiring pro-oncogenic genetic changes. In this sense, once gastric cancer sets in, its perpetuation is independent of the presence of the oncoprotein, characterizing a "hit-and-run" carcinogenic mechanism. Therefore, this review aims to describe H. pylori- and CagA-related oncogenic mechanisms, to update readers and discuss the novelties and perspectives in this field.

Role of nickel-regulated small RNA in modulation of Helicobacter pylori virulence factors.

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a Gram-negative bacterium that infects about half of the world's population. H. pylori infection prevails by several mechanisms of adaptation of the bacteria and by its virulence factors including the cytotoxin associated antigen A (CagA). CagA is an oncoprotein that is the protagonist of gastric carcinogenesis associated with prolonged H. pylori infection. In this sense, small regulatory RNAs (sRNAs) are important macromolecules capable of inhibiting and activating gene expression. This function allows sRNAs to act in adjusting to unstable environmental conditions and in responding to cellular stresses in bacterial infections. Recent discoveries have shown that nickel-regulated small RNA (NikS) is a post-transcriptional regulator of virulence properties of H. pylori, including the oncoprotein CagA. Notably, high concentrations of nickel cause the reduction of NikS expression and consequently this increases the levels of CagA. In addition, NikS expression appears to be lower in clinical isolates from patients with gastric cancer when compared to patients without. With that in mind, this minireview approaches, in an accessible way, the most important and current aspects about the role of NikS in the control of virulence factors of H. pylori and the potential clinical repercussions of this modulation.

From Helicobacter pylori infection to gastric cancer: Current evidence on the immune response.

Gastric cancer (GC) is the result of a multifactorial process whose main components are infection by Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), bacterial virulence factors, host immune response and environmental factors. The development of the neoplastic microenvironment also depends on genetic and epigenetic changes in oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes, which results in deregulation of cell signaling pathways and apoptosis process. This review summarizes the main aspects of the pathogenesis of GC and the immune response involved in chronic inflammation generated by H. pylori.

Missed opportunities in treating pregnant women's sexual partners with syphilis: a systematic review / Oportunidades perdidas no tratamento de parceiros sexuais de gestantes com sífilis: uma revisão sistemática

Abstract Objectives: to compile studies in the literature that deal with missed opportunities related in treating pregnant women's partners with syphilis Methods: this is a systematic review from SciELO, PUBMED, Lilacs and BVS databases, using articles published between 2008 and 2018. The research was carried out between April and August 2019 and followed PRISMA guideline recommendation Results: 56,686 titles were identified and 53 were extracted in which addressed aspects related intreating pregnant women's partners with syphilis. Most studies were National, representing 60.7% of the researched articles. 51% of them used the Sistemas de Informação de Agravos Notificados (SINAN) (Notified Diseases Information System) as a database, followed by the use of Questionnaires / Interviews (33.9%) and consulted patients' files (15.1%). The factors most associated with the non-treatment of the pregnant women's partners with syphilis were: structuring /quality in the services from the aspect related to failures in prenatal care, characteristics of pregnant women that interfere in their treatment and aspects related to the cultural particularities that involvemen's healthcare. Conclusion: in all continents, the main aspect related to failures in the treatment of the partners/pregnant women with syphilis is associated with low quality in prenatal care.

Resumo Objetivos: compilar estudos na literatura que tratem de oportunidades perdidas relacionadas ao tratamento dos parceiros de gestantes com sífilis. Métodos: trata-se de uma revisão sistemática nas bases de dados SciELO, PUBMED, Lilacs e BVS, utilizando artigos publicados entre 2008 a 2018. A pesquisa foi realizada entre os meses de abril a agosto 2019 e a busca aos artigos seguiu a recomendação da diretriz PRISMA. Resultados: foram identificados 56.686 títulos e extraídos 53 que abordavam aspectos relacionados ao tratamento dos parceiros de gestantes com sífilis. A maioria dos estudos foi nacional representando 60,7% dos artigos pesquisados. 51% utilizaram como base de dados os Sistemas de Informação de Agravos Notificados (SINAN), seguido da utilização de Questionários/Entrevista (33,9%) e consulta aos prontuários de pacientes (15,1%). Os fatores mais associados ao não tratamento dos parceiros de gestantes com sífilis foram: estruturação/qualidade dos serviços sob o aspecto relacionado a falhas na assistência prénatal, características das gestantes que interferem no tratamento dos mesmos e aos aspectos ligados as particularidades culturais que envolvem a assistência à saúde do homem. Conclusão: em todos os continentes o principal aspecto relacionado às falhas no tratamento dos parceiros/ gestantes com sífilis esteve associado a baixa qualidade da assistência pré-natal

Chronic myeloid leukemia-from the Philadelphia chromosome to specific target drugs: A literature review.

Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) is a myeloproliferative neoplasm and was the first neoplastic disease associated with a well-defined genotypic anomaly - the presence of the Philadelphia chromosome. The advances in cytogenetic and molecular assays are of great importance to the diagnosis, prognosis, treatment, and monitoring of CML. The discovery of the breakpoint cluster region (BCR)-Abelson murine leukemia (ABL) 1 fusion oncogene has revolutionized the treatment of CML patients by allowing the development of targeted drugs that inhibit the tyrosine kinase activity of the BCR-ABL oncoprotein. Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (known as TKIs) are the standard therapy for CML and greatly increase the survival rates, despite adverse effects and the odds of residual disease after discontinuation of treatment. As therapeutic alternatives, the subsequent TKIs lead to faster and deeper molecular remissions; however, with the emergence of resistance to these drugs, immunotherapy appears as an alternative, which may have a cure potential in these patients. Against this background, this article aims at providing an overview on CML clinical management and a summary on the main targeted drugs available in that context.

Streptococcus agalactiae: Identification methods, antimicrobial susceptibility, and resistance genes in pregnant women.

BACKGROUND: Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is a normal component of the gastrointestinal and genital microbiota in humans and can lead to important infections in newborns. AIM: To compare GBS isolation and identification methods as well as to assess the antibiotic susceptibility and to identify resistance genes in GBS strains from pregnant women attended in healthcare services from the city of Vitória da Conquista, in Bahia State, Brazil. METHODS: From January 2017 to February 2018, vaginorectal swabs were obtained from 186 participants and the samples were seeded onto chromogenic agar for GBS before and after inoculation in selective broth. Confirmatory identification using 3 CAMP and latex tests was performed in samples with GBS-suggestive colonies. Then, disk diffusion antibiograms were performed in GBS-positive samples, and the detection of the resistance genes ermB, ermTR, mefA, and linB in the clindamycin and/or erythromycin-resistant samples was carried out. RESULTS: Thirty-two samples (17.2%) were GBS-positive. The culture in chromogenic agar after sample incubation in selective broth was the most sensitive method (96.9%) for GBS detection. All isolates were susceptible to penicillin, ampicillin, cefotaxime, and vancomycin. Clindamycin resistance was observed in 6 samples (18.8%), while 8 samples (25%) were erythromycin-resistant. All erythromycin and/or clindamycin-resistant GBS strains had negative D-tests. Two strains (25%) presented an M phenotype and 6 isolates (75%) presented a cMLSB phenotype. The ermB gene was identified in 4 samples (44.4%), the mefA gene was also found in 4 samples (44.4%), the ermTR gene was identified in 1 isolate (11.1%), and the linB gene was not found in any isolate. CONCLUSION: This study evidenced that the screening for SGB can be performed by means of various methods, including chromogenic media, and that the chemoprophylaxis for pregnant women who cannot use penicillin must be susceptibility-guided.

Factors associated with spontaneous abortion: a systematic review / Fatores associados ao aborto espontâneo: uma revisão sistemática

Abstract Objectives: to compile studies produced regardinggenetic and non-genetic risks factors associated with occurrence of spontaneous abortion. Methods: it talks about a systematic review article, with studies between January of 2008 to November of 2018 according to SciELO, PubMed, Lilacs and BVS. Results: in total, 567 articles were found. After applying the definedeligibility criteria, 44 articles made part of the review, being the majority published on Asia between 2008 and 2011, and 10 articles published on Brazil. Not genetic causes like sociodemographic factors and healthy state were among the most associated conditions of spontaneous abortion. Asiatic continent had predominance about the correlation of spontaneous abortion with factors related to life style like obesity, smoking and labor activities, on the other hand, in the Americas, causes related to sociodemographics factors like low pay and low studies are high-lighted. Conclusions: the risk factors change about the occurrence region, being important to make local studies capable of subsidize the implantation of public politics and to reduce abortions.

Resumo Objetivos: compilar estudos produzidos acerca dos fatores de risco genéticos e não genéticos associados a ocorrência de aborto espontâneo. Métodos: trata-se de um artigo de revisão sistemática, com estudos publicados entre janeiro de 2008 a novembro de 2018 nas bases de dados SciELO, PubMed, Lilacs e BVS. Resultados: um total de 567 artigos foram encontrados. Após aplicação dos critérios de elegibilidade definidos, 44 artigos compuseram a presente revisão com a maioria publicada na Ásia, entre os anos de 2008 a 2011, e 10 artigos publicados no Brasil. Causas não genéticas, como fatores sociodemográficos e estado de saúde, estiveram entre as condições mais associadas ao abortamento espontâneo. No continente asiático houve predominância na correlação do aborto espontâneo com fatores relacionados ao estilo de vida como obesidade, tabagismo e atividades laborais; já nas Américas destacam-se causas relacionadas aos fatores sociodemográficos, como baixa renda e baixa escolaridade. Conclusões: os fatores de risco diferem em relação a região de ocorrência, sendo importante a realização de estudos detalhados para que sejam capazes de subsidiar a implantação de políticas públicas e, assim, minorar a ocorrência de abortos.

Fatores associados ao descontrole glicêmico de diabetes mellitus em pacientes atendidos no Sistema Único de Saúde no Sudoeste da Bahia / Associated factors with uncontrolled glycemic status in diabetic patients treated in the Unified Health System in Southwest of Bahia

Resumo Introdução O diabetes mellitus constitui importante problema de saúde pública, responsável por grande morbidade e ônus significativo à saúde pública. A hemoglobina glicada, que avalia a glicemia média nos últimos sessenta dias, tem sido importante ferramenta na prevenção das comorbidades. Objetivo Avaliar a prevalência do descontrole glicêmico e metabólico e fatores associados em indivíduos atendidos em um laboratório central do sudoeste da Bahia Método Trata-se de estudo transversal realizado com 352 pacientes diabéticos atendidos em um laboratório do Sistema Único de Saúde. Resultados O estudo demonstrou que mais de dois terços dos pacientes (70,2%) apresentaram descontrole glicêmico. Análise multivariada apontou que receber menos visitas dos agentes comunitários OR 1,96 (1,05 - 3,65) e não possuir comorbidades associadas à doença OR 1,86 (1,05 - 3,30) estiveram associados a um pior controle glicêmico. Conclusão Os resultados sugerem necessidade da melhoria na atenção dos pacientes com uma equipe de saúde sensível às práticas adequadas para melhor controle metabólico. Uma melhor ação da equipe de saúde pode contribuir para a promoção da saúde e melhor qualidade de vida destes pacientes e impactar em redução de custos com saúde por diminuição de internações e procedimentos relacionados às complicações do diabetes.

Abstract Background Diabetes mellitus is an important public health issue, responsible for great morbidity and significant public health burden. A glycated hemoglobin, which assessed mean blood glucose in the past sixty days, has been an important tool in preventing comorbidities. Objective To evaluate the prevalence of glycemic and metabolic uncontrolled and associated factors used in the central laboratory of southwest Bahia Method This is a cross-sectional study conducted with 352 diabetic patients treated at the Laboratory of the Unified Health System. Results The study demonstrated more than two thirds of the patients (70.2%) described lack of glycemic control. Multivariate analysis showed that receiving fewer visits from community health workers OR 1.96 (1.05 - 3.65) and not have comorbidities associated OR 1.86 (1.05 - 3.30) were associated with poor glycemic control. Conclusion The results suggested the need to improve patient care with a health team sensitive to the practices for better metabolic control. The best action of the health team can contribute to health promotion and better quality of life for patients and impact on the reduction of health costs by reducing hospitalizations and procedures related to diabetes complications.

Identification and characterization of resistance and pathogenicity of Enterococcus spp. in samples of donor breast milk.

BACKGROUND: Breast milk is the primary source of nutrition for newborns. Hospitalized babies frequently need nutritional support from Human Milk Banks. As bacterial species of the genus Enterococcus are part of the microbiota of healthy donors, they may contaminate samples of pumped breast milk. AIM: To identify and characterize the bacterial virulence and resistance in samples isolated from the nipple-areolar region, hands, and breast milk aliquots from donors at the Human Milk Bank of Municipal Hospital Esaú Matos in the city of Vitória da Conquista, Bahia State, Brazil. METHODS: The personal hygiene and sanitation of donors were analyzed with the aim of identifying possible reasons for contamination of pumped milk. Cutaneous samples as well as aliquots of unpasteurized and pasteurized milk from 30 participants were obtained. Each Enterococcus spp. isolate underwent a disk diffusion susceptibility test and molecular biology techniques to determine resistance and virulence genes. RESULTS: Enterococcus spp. were identified in 30% of donors (n = 9), and 11 specimens were isolated. Resistance to tetracycline was highly prevalent, being detectable in 63% of the isolates (n = 7) and followed by intermediate sensitivity to ciprofloxacin, observed in 27% of the specimens (n = 3). The efaA gene was found in 63% (n = 7) of the isolates, while the ace gene was detected in 27% (n = 3). CONCLUSION: This study illustrates the importance of microbiological monitoring by Human Milk Banks and the need for alternatives to prevent the presence of Enterococcus spp. in hospital settings.

Prevalence and factors associated with group B streptococcal colonization in pregnant women / Prevalência e fatores associados a colonização por estreptococo do grupo B em gestantes

Abstract Objectives: to estimate the prevalence and the factors associated with the colonization by group B streptococcus (GBS) in pregnant women from the urban area attended at health units in a municipality in northeastern Brazil. Methods: it is a cross-sectional study conducted from January 2017 to March 2018. Vagino-rectal swabs were collected from 210 pregnant women between 32 and 40 weeks of gestation. The swabs were seeded on 5% sheep blood agar and on chromogenic agar. For confirmatory identification of GBS, the CAMP test and latex agglutination were used. Descriptive analysis and univariate and multivariate association analysis were performed using a multinomial logistic model. Results: the prevalence of GBS colonization among pregnant women was 18.1% (n = 38), and a statistically significant association (p<0.05) was found for income and parity variables in the group of older women in the univariate analysis, and for skin color, age and parity in the final multivariate analysis. Conclusions: the prevalence of maternal colonization by GBS was similar to that described in other studies. Although some risk factors, such as skin color, age and parity, were associated with colonization, other studies are essential to establish more information on pregnant women more likely to be colonized by GBS.

Resumo Objetivos: estimar a prevalência e apontar fatores associados à colonização por estreptococos do grupo B (EGB) em gestantes da zona urbana atendidas em unidades de saúde de um município do nordeste do Brasil. Métodos: trata-se de um estudo transversal realizado entre janeiro de 2017 a março de 2018. Foram coletados swabs vaginorretais de 210 gestantes entre a 32 e 40 semanas de gestação. As amostras foram semeadas em ágar sangue de carneiro 5% e ágar cromogênico. Para identificação confirmatoria de EGB foram utilizados o teste de CAMP e aglutinação em látex. Foram realizadas análise descritiva, de associação univariada e multivariada utilizando modelo logístico multinomial. Resultados: a prevalência de colonização por EGB entre as gestantes foi de 18,1% (n=38), e as variáveis renda e paridade no grupo de mulheres mais velhas na análise univariada além de cor da pele, idade e paridade na análise multivariada final estiveram estatisticamente associadas ao desfecho (p<0,05). Conclusões: a prevalência da colonização materna pelo EGB mostrou-se semelhante às descritas em outros estudos. Apesar de alguns fatores de risco como cor da pele, idade e paridade estarem associados à colonização, outros estudos são fundamentais para se estabelecer maiores informações sobre as gestantes mais passíveis de colonização pelo EGB.

Seroprevalence of transfusion-transmissible infectious diseases at a hemotherapy service located in southwest Bahia, Brazil

ABSTRACT Introduction: The serological screening of blood donors has been instituted by the Brazilian Ministry of Health and is mandatory in the research on several diseases transmissible through blood transfusion. Blood banks need to establish a screening service capable of reducing associated transfusions risks. Objective: The objective of this study was to establish the prevalence of transfusion-transmissible infection markers in donors at a hemotherapy service located in southwest Bahia, Brazil. Methods: A retrospective study was performed between 2010 and 2016. Variables, such as the characterization of donors who were suitable and unsuitable for donation (in clinical screening), stratification by gender and age group and unsuitable samples for reactive test results (in serological screening) by aspecific antibodies against hepatitis B virus (anti-HBc and HBsAg), hepatitis C virus (anti-HCV), human T-lymphotropic virus (anti-HTLV I/II), HIV virus (anti-HIV I/II), chagas disease, and syphilis markers, were evaluated. Results: Collected data showed that 3.13% of the donors were considered unsuitable for serological screening and that the prevalence of reactive test results was higher in donors aged between 30 and 39 years and in males. The means of the serological markers was 1.09% for syphilis reagents, 0.63% for anti-HIV I/II, 0.51% for anti-HBc and anti-HCV, 0.15% for HBsAg, 0.14% for HTLV I/II and 0.10% for Chagas disease. Conclusion: These results reflect the importance of awareness campaigns on sexually transmitted diseases and transfusion safety measures taken by hemotherapy services.

Seroprevalence of transfusion-transmissible infectious diseases at a hemotherapy service located in southwest Bahia, Brazil.

INTRODUCTION: The serological screening of blood donors has been instituted by the Brazilian Ministry of Health and is mandatory in the research on several diseases transmissible through blood transfusion. Blood banks need to establish a screening service capable of reducing associated transfusions risks. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to establish the prevalence of transfusion-transmissible infection markers in donors at a hemotherapy service located in southwest Bahia, Brazil. METHODS: A retrospective study was performed between 2010 and 2016. Variables, such as the characterization of donors who were suitable and unsuitable for donation (in clinical screening), stratification by gender and age group and unsuitable samples for reactive test results (in serological screening) by aspecific antibodies against hepatitis B virus (anti-HBc and HBsAg), hepatitis C virus (anti-HCV), human T-lymphotropic virus (anti-HTLV I/II), HIV virus (anti-HIV I/II), chagas disease, and syphilis markers, were evaluated. RESULTS: Collected data showed that 3.13% of the donors were considered unsuitable for serological screening and that the prevalence of reactive test results was higher in donors aged between 30 and 39 years and in males. The means of the serological markers was 1.09% for syphilis reagents, 0.63% for anti-HIV I/II, 0.51% for anti-HBc and anti-HCV, 0.15% for HBsAg, 0.14% for HTLV I/II and 0.10% for Chagas disease. CONCLUSION: These results reflect the importance of awareness campaigns on sexually transmitted diseases and transfusion safety measures taken by hemotherapy services.

Dengue: aspectos epidemiológicos de um surto ocorrido em Barra da Estiva, Bahia, Brasil, em 2014 / Dengue: epidemiological aspects of the outbreak in Barra da Estiva, Bahia, Brasil razil, in 2014 / Dengue: aspectos epidemiológicos de un brote ocurrido en Barra da Estiva, Bahia, Brasil, en 2014

A dengue é uma doença febril aguda, cujo destaque tem aumentado devido ao vetor ter assumido papel importante na transmissão de outras doenças virais como Zika e Chikungunya. O presente estudo teve como objetivo demonstrar as características epidemiológicas de um surto de dengue na cidade de Barra da Estiva, Bahia, Brasil, em 2014. Trata-se de um estudo do tipo observacional, transversal e descritivo. Os dados epidemiológicos foram obtidos do Sistema Nacional de Agravos Notificáveis On-line. As variáveis analisadas foram: mês de notificação, casos confirmados, classificação do tipo de dengue, gênero (sexo), faixa etária e local de residência. Analisou-se a distribuição de larvas dos vetores baseada nos dados do Sistema do Programa Nacional de Controle da Dengue, mapeamento geográfico dos casos e documentação fotográfica. Os resultados apontaram 409 casos confirmados, sendo 2 de dengue com sinais de alarme, 62,35% do sexo feminino, com maior incidência entre 19 e 59 anos de idade. A maior concentração de casos ocorreu na zona urbana, sobretudo nos bairros Rua Nova e Nações onde se localiza o cemitério municipal. Esses bairros apresentaram altas relações de larvas nas amostras coletadas, 3,21 e 3,11 larvas/amostra, respectivamente, nos primeiros meses de 2014. Concluiu-se que, diante dos resultados encontrados, o cemitério municipal pode ter sido o sítio de desenvolvimento e proliferação do vetor.

Dengue fever is an acute febrile disease whose prominence has increased because the vector has assumed an important role in the transmission of other viral diseases such as Zika and Chikungunya. The present study aimed to demonstrate the epidemiological characteristics of a dengue outbreak in the city of Barra da Estiva, Bahia, Brazil in 2014. This is a Cross sectional observational study. The epidemiological data were obtained from the Online Information System on Diseases of Compulsory Declaration. Variables analyzed in this study include notification month, confirmed cases, dengue fever classification, sex, age and local of residence. Larvae of vectors distribution was analyzed, based on the National Program System for Dengue fever Control data, geographical mapping of cases and photographic documentation. The results showed 409 confirmed cases, being 02 of them dengue fever with warning signs, 62.35% women, with highest incidence between 19 and 59 years old. The highest concentration of cases occurred in urban areas, especially in Rua Nova and Nações neighborhoods, where the municipal cemetery is located. These neighborhoods had high ratios of larvae in the samples, 3.21 and 3.11 larvae / sample respectively, in the first months of 2014. In conclusion, facing the results found, the municipal cemetery may have been the development and proliferation site of Dengue fever vector.

El dengue es una enfermedad febril aguda, cuyo destaque ha aumentado debido a el vector haber asumido un papel importante en la transmisión de otras enfermedades virales como Zika y Chikungunya. El presente estudio tuvo como objetivo demostrar las características epidemiológicas de un brote de dengue en la ciudad de Barra da Estiva, Bahia, Brasil en 2014. Tratase de un estudio de tipo observacional, transversal y descriptivo. Los datos epidemiológicos fueron obtenidos del Sistema Nacional de Agravios Notificables On-line. Las variables analizadas en este estudio fueron: mes de notificación, casos confirmados, clasificación del tipo de dengue, género (sexo), grupo de edad y lugar de residencia. Analizóse la distribución de larvas de los vectores basada en los datos del Sistema del Programa Nacional de Control del Dengue, mapeo geográfico de los casos y documentación fotográfica. Los resultados apuntaron 409 casos con 02 siendo dengue con señales de alarma, 62,35% del sexo femenino, con mayor incidencia entre 19 y 59 años de edad. La mayor concentración de casos ocurrió en la zona urbana, sobre todo en los barrios Rua Nova y Nações, donde se ubica el cementerio municipal. Estos barrios presentaron altas relaciones de larvas en las muestras recogidas, 3,21 y 3,11 larvas / muestra, respectivamente en los primeros meses de 2014. Concluyóse que, ante los resultados encontrados, el cementerio municipal pudo haber sido el sitio de desarrollo y proliferación del vector.

PREVALENCE AND FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH ANEMIA IN CHILDREN ENROLLED IN DAYCARE CENTERS: A HIERARCHICAL ANALYSIS. / PREVALÊNCIA E FATORES ASSOCIADOS À ANEMIA EM CRIANÇAS DE CRECHES: UMA ANÁLISE HIERARQUIZADA.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the prevalence and factors associated with anemia in children younger than five years old enrolled in public daycare centers in a city in southwestern Bahia, in the northeast of Brazil. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study that included a sample of 677 children enrolled in public daycare centers in Vitória da Conquista, Bahia, Brazil. A portable hemoglobinometer was used to measure hemoglobin. The concentration of <11 g/dL was considered the cutoff point for a diagnosis of anemia. A questionnaire was applied to parents/guardians in order to collect socioeconomic data, maternal characteristics and information on the child's health and nutrition. Height and weight were measured to assess the child's nutritional status. Poisson regression with robust variance and hierarchical selection of variables was used to identify factors associated with anemia. RESULTS: The prevalence of anemia was 10.2% and was more frequent in children whose homes had no sanitary facilities (PR 3.36; 95%CI 1.40-8.03); in those who did not exclusively breastfeed (PR 1.80; 95%CI 1.12-2.91); in children aged less than 36 months (PR 1.85; 95%CI 1.19-2.89) and those who had low height for age (PR 2.06; 95%CI 1.10-3.85). CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of anemia is considered to be a mild public health problem in the children, who are enrolled in daycare centers. Children with inadequate sanitary conditions, and that were not exclusively breastfed, as well as younger children and children with a nutritional deficit, were more likely to present the condition.

OBJETIVO: Determinar a prevalência e os fatores associados à anemia em crianças menores de cinco anos assistidas em creches públicas de um município no sudoeste da Bahia. MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal com uma amostra de 677 crianças matriculadas nas creches públicas de Vitória da Conquista, Bahia. Para determinação da hemoglobina por meio de punção digital, utilizou-se hemoglobinômetro portátil, considerando-se valores de hemoglobina <11 g/dL como ponto de corte para o diagnóstico da anemia. Aplicou-se questionário aos pais ou responsáveis para coleta de informações socioeconômicas, características maternas e de saúde e nutrição da criança. Medidas antropométricas de peso e estatura foram utilizadas para avaliação do estado nutricional da criança. Análise de regressão de Poisson com variância robusta e seleção hierárquica das variáveis foi usada para verificar fatores associados com anemia. RESULTADOS: A prevalência de anemia foi de 10,2% e houve mais prevalência nas crianças cujas moradias não apresentavam instalação sanitária (RP 3,36; IC95% 1,40-8,03); naquelas que não receberam aleitamento materno exclusivo (RP 1,80; IC95% 1,12-2,91); nas crianças com idade inferior a 36 meses (RP 1,85; IC95% 1,19-2,89) e com baixa estatura para a idade (RP 2,06; IC95% 1,10-3,85). CONCLUSÕES: A prevalência de anemia pode ser considerada um problema de Saúde Pública menor em crianças de creches populares nesse município. Crianças com condições sanitárias inadequadas, que não receberam leite materno exclusivo, bem como as em idades mais precoces e com déficit nutricional foram mais suscetíveis.

Prevalência e fatores associados à anemia em crianças de creches: uma análise hierarquizada / Prevalence and factors associated with anemia in children enrolled in daycare centers: a hierarchical analysis

RESUMO Objetivo: Determinar a prevalência e os fatores associados à anemia em crianças menores de cinco anos assistidas em creches públicas de um município no sudoeste da Bahia. Métodos: Estudo transversal com uma amostra de 677 crianças matriculadas nas creches públicas de Vitória da Conquista, Bahia. Para determinação da hemoglobina por meio de punção digital, utilizou-se hemoglobinômetro portátil, considerando-se valores de hemoglobina <11 g/dL como ponto de corte para o diagnóstico da anemia. Aplicou-se questionário aos pais ou responsáveis para coleta de informações socioeconômicas, características maternas e de saúde e nutrição da criança. Medidas antropométricas de peso e estatura foram utilizadas para avaliação do estado nutricional da criança. Análise de regressão de Poisson com variância robusta e seleção hierárquica das variáveis foi usada para verificar fatores associados com anemia. Resultados: A prevalência de anemia foi de 10,2% e houve mais prevalência nas crianças cujas moradias não apresentavam instalação sanitária (RP 3,36; IC95% 1,40-8,03); naquelas que não receberam aleitamento materno exclusivo (RP 1,80; IC95% 1,12-2,91); nas crianças com idade inferior a 36 meses (RP 1,85; IC95% 1,19-2,89) e com baixa estatura para a idade (RP 2,06; IC95% 1,10-3,85). Conclusões: A prevalência de anemia pode ser considerada um problema de Saúde Pública menor em crianças de creches populares nesse município. Crianças com condições sanitárias inadequadas, que não receberam leite materno exclusivo, bem como as em idades mais precoces e com déficit nutricional foram mais suscetíveis.

ABSTRACT Objective: To determine the prevalence and factors associated with anemia in children younger than five years old enrolled in public daycare centers in a city in southwestern Bahia, in the northeast of Brazil. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study that included a sample of 677 children enrolled in public daycare centers in Vitória da Conquista, Bahia, Brazil. A portable hemoglobinometer was used to measure hemoglobin. The concentration of <11 g/dL was considered the cutoff point for a diagnosis of anemia. A questionnaire was applied to parents/guardians in order to collect socioeconomic data, maternal characteristics and information on the child's health and nutrition. Height and weight were measured to assess the child's nutritional status. Poisson regression with robust variance and hierarchical selection of variables was used to identify factors associated with anemia. Results: The prevalence of anemia was 10.2% and was more frequent in children whose homes had no sanitary facilities (PR 3.36; 95%CI 1.40-8.03); in those who did not exclusively breastfeed (PR 1.80; 95%CI 1.12-2.91); in children aged less than 36 months (PR 1.85; 95%CI 1.19-2.89) and those who had low height for age (PR 2.06; 95%CI 1.10-3.85). Conclusions: The prevalence of anemia is considered to be a mild public health problem in the children, who are enrolled in daycare centers. Children with inadequate sanitary conditions, and that were not exclusively breastfed, as well as younger children and children with a nutritional deficit, were more likely to present the condition.

Excess weight and factors associated in preschool of southwest of Bahia / Excesso de peso e fatores associados em pré-escolares do sudoeste da Bahia

Abstract Objectives: this study aimed to evaluate the environmental factors associated with excess weight in preschool children. Methods: a cross-sectional study involving 664 full-time preschoolers enrolled in public childcare centers in Vitória da Conquista (BA). The excess weight status has been defined according to the BMI/Age index and score Z above +2. The independent variables were grouped into maternal characteristics, socioeconomic, related to children and child care. We conducted multiple logistic regression to assess the association between excess weight and the variables studied. Results: a prevalence of excess weight was 5.7 %; 3.9% were overweight and 1.8% were obese. The factors associated with excess weight in children were cesarean delivery (OR: 2.59; IC95%: 1.11; 6.01); being singletons (OR: 3.32; IC95%: 1.44; 7.67); and exclusive breastfeeding of less than 4 months (OR: 2.59; IC95%: 1.12; 5.99). Conclusions: the results show that interventions to reduce and/or prevent excess weight should begin prenatally, with promotion of exclusive breastfeeding and natural birth, as well as nutritional advice for mothers with singletons.

Resumo Objetivos: avaliar a prevalência e os fatores associados ao excesso de peso em pré-esco-lares do sudoeste da Bahia. Métodos: estudo transversal envolvendo 664 pré-escolares matriculados em período inte-gral em creches públicas de Vitória da Conquista (BA). O excesso de peso foi definido considerando o índice IMC/idade maior que + 2 escore Z. As variáveis independentes foram agrupadas em características maternas, socioeconômica, relacionadas a criança e a creche. Realizou-se regressão logística múltipla para verificar a associação entre excesso de peso e as variáveis estudadas. Resultados: a prevalência de excesso de peso foi de 5,7%, sendo 3,9% de sobrepeso e 1,8% de obesidade. Os fatores associados ao excesso de peso infantil foram o parto cesáreo (Odds Ratio - OR: 2,59; Intervalo de Confiança - IC95%: 1,11; 6,01), ser filho único (OR: 3,32; IC95%: 1,44; 7,67) e aleitamento materno exclusivo inferior a 4 meses (OR: 2,59; IC95%: 1,12; 5,99). Conclusões: os resultados mostram que intervenções para redução e/ou prevenção do excesso de peso devem começar no pré-natal com incentivo ao aleitamento materno exclu-sivo e ao parto vaginal, além de orientações nutricionais para mães com apenas um filho.

Prevalence and factors associated to vitamin A deficiency in children attending public day care centers in the Southwest of Bahia / Prevalência e fatores associados com deficiência de vitamina A em crianças atendidas em creches públicas do Sudoeste da Bahia

Abstract Objectives: to determine the prevalence of vitamin A deficiency and factors associated to children attending public day care centers in the Southwest of Bahia. Methods: a cross-sectional study involving 303 children aged 24 to 60 months attending public day care centers in the city of Vitória da Conquista, BA. A questionnaire was applied for the parents or legal guardians to answer and the children's height and weight were measured. Blood samples were collected to analyze serum retinol taking in consideration the values below 0.70 imol/L as inadequate. The vaccination card was verified in relation to the adequacy of vitamin A supplementation. Food weighting was done to evaluate the consuming of lipids and vitamin A. The association between the variables and vitamin A deficiency was verified by logistic regression. Results: the prevalence of inadequate serum retinol levels was 13.1% (1.99 ± 1.17 imol/L); 4.3% were low height and 1.2% of thinness. Most children (91.7%) had their vitamin A doses outdated on their vaccination cards. The variables associated to vitamin A deficiency were children aged less or equal to 34 months (OR: 2.66, 95% CI: 1.23 - 5.74) and maternal age was less than 26 years (OR: 2.39; 95% CI: 1.11 - 5.17). Conclusions: vitamin A deficiency configures as a moderate public health problem in children attending public day care centers in the Southwest of Bahia.

Resumo Objetivos: determinar a prevalência de deficiência de vitamina A e os fatores associados em crianças assistidas em creches do Sudoeste da Bahia. Métodos: estudo transversal envolvendo 303 crianças de 24 a 60 meses assistidas em creches públicas de Vitória da Conquista - BA. Aplicado questionário com pais ou responsáveis e aferidas medidas de peso e estatura das crianças. Amostras de sangue coletadas para análise do retinol sérico, considerando níveis inadequados inferiores a 0,70 imol/L. O cartão de vacina foi verificado em relação à adequação da suplementação de vitamina A. Realizou-se pesagem direta dos alimentos para avaliação do consumo de lipídio e vitamina A. Associação entre as variáveis estudadas e a deficiência de vitamina A foi verificada por meio de regressão logística. Resultados: prevalência de níveis inadequados de retinol de 13,1% (1,99 ± 1,17 fimol/L); 4,3% baixa estatura e 1,2% magreza. A maioria das crianças (91,7%) estava com as doses de suplementação de vitamina A desatualizadas. As variáveis associadas com deficiência de vitamina A foram a idade da criança inferior ou igual a 34 meses (OR: 2,66; IC95%: 1,23 - 5,74) e idade materna inferior a 26 anos (OR: 2,39; IC95%: 1,11 - 5,17). Conclusões: a deficiência de vitamina A configura-se como um moderado problema da saúde pública em crianças assistidas em creches públicas do sudoeste baiano.