Gonioscopy-Assisted Transluminal Trabeculotomy Outcomes Under Different Levels of Glaucoma Severity: A Multicenter, Comparative Study.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the outcomes of gonioscopy-assisted transluminal trabeculotomy (GATT) under different levels of glaucoma severity. DESIGN: Retrospective, multicenter, before-and-after study. METHODS: One eye from all primary open-angle glaucoma patients who underwent GATT combined with cataract surgery (Phaco-GATT) or GATT stand-alone with 12 months of follow-up were included and divided according to glaucoma severity (mild = GI, moderate = GII, and advanced = GIII) and the outcomes compared. RESULTS: A total of 270 eyes were included: 90 in GI, 75 in GII, and 105 in GIII. The IOP was reduced from 18.6 ± 6.0 mm Hg in GI, 19.7 ± 6.4 mm Hg in GII, and 21.0 ± 7.9 mm Hg in GIII, preoperatively, to 11.9 ± 2.6 mm Hg in GI, 11.8 ± 2.1 mm Hg in GII, and 11.9 ± 3.0 mm Hg in GIII at 12 months postoperatively (P < .001 for all). The number of hypotensive ocular medications were reduced from 2.7 ± 1.0 in GI, 3.1 ± 0.8 in GII, and 3.2 ± 1.2 in GIII to 0.6 ± 0.9 in GI, 1.0 ± 1.1 in GII, and 1.2 ± 1.1 in GIII at the last postoperative visit (P < .001 for all). Relative success was achieved, at 1 year, in 93.8% of the eyes in GI, 89.0% in GII, and 88.1% in GIII (P = .3). Complete success was achieved in 61.8% of the eyes in GI, 43.8% in GII, and 37.6% in GIII (P = .007). No serious adverse event was observed in any group. CONCLUSIONS: GATT is a safe and effective procedure in glaucoma, regardless of its preoperative severity.

INOCUIDAD ALIMENTARIA Y ENFERMEDADES TRANSMITIDAS POR ALIMENTOS (ETAS); SUS EFECTOS EN LA SALUD HUMANA: UNA REVISIÓN / FOOD SAFETY AND FOODBORNE DISEASES; ITS EFFECTS ON HUMAN HEALTH: A REVIEW

INTRODUCCIÓN: En la actualidad la Organización de las Naciones Unidas (ONU) como una de sus metas proyectadas al 2030 es que los alimentos sean inocuos, con seguridad alimentaria, nutritiva y suficiente, debido a que en los últimos años se ha incrementado el número de casos de Enfermedades Transmitidas por Alimentos (ETAs). La inocuidad de los alimentos es un principio básico de salud y como característica intrínseca de un alimento es que el mismo no debe causar daño a la salud. OBJETIVO: describir la importancia de la inocuidad alimentaria y los microorganismos patógenos más frecuentes que se presentan en los alimentos. METODOLOGÍA: se realizó una revisión narrativa conformada de artículos científicos a partir del año 2019 al 2023. RESULTADOS: los microoganismos que frecuentemente son causantes de las ETAs son: Salmonella, Staphylococcus aureus, E. coli, Hepatitis A, Vibrio cholerae, Listeria monocytogenes, ocasionando a nivel mundial elevados casos de diarreas relacionadas directamente con alimentos y agua contaminada, y que actualmente van en incremento. CONCLUSIÓN: las principales causas de las ETAs son por el aumento del comercio internacional de los alimentos contaminados, así como el incremento en la migración de aquellas personas que estén infectadas favoreciendo la propagación, reemergencia y aparición de microorganismos patógenos en alimentos contaminados por las malas prácticas de higiene, con la capacidad de generar infecciones, intoxicaciones y brotes en la población. Por lo anterior los organismos gubernamentales a nivel mundial, nacional y local establecen estrategias para abatir esta problemática de salud pública, pero son insuficientes, debiendo reforzar las acciones concretas de prevención y promoción.

INTRODUCTION: Due to the number of cases of Foodborne Diseases (ETAs) in recent years, the United Nations (UN) currently establishes as one of its goals for 2030 that food be safe, secure, nutritious, and sufficient. Food safety is a basic requirement, and an intrinsic characteristic of a food is that it should not negatively impact health. OBJECTIVE: to describe the importance of food safety and identify the most common pathogenic microorganisms that occur in food. Methodology: a narrative review was carried, out consisting of scientific articles from 2019 to 2023. RESULTS: the microorganisms that frequently cause ETAs are: Salmonella, Staphylococcus aureus, E. coli, Hepatitis A, Vibrio cholerae, Listeria monocytogenes, which cause frequent cases of diarrhea worldwide due to contaminated food and water, and which are currently increasing. CONCLUSION: the main causes of ETAs are the increase in international trade in contaminated foods, and the increase in the migration of people who are infected. Poor hygiene in food handling practices favor the contamination, spread, re-emergence and appearance of pathogenic microorganisms in foods, with the capacity to generate infections, poisonings and outbreaks in the population. Government agencies at the global, national, and local levels establish strategies to combat this public health problem, but they are insufficient, and specific prevention and promotion actions must be reinforced.

Consenso colombiano de la enfermedad inflamatoria intestinal pediátrica

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Introduction: Pediatric ulcerative colitis (CUP), pediatric Crohn's disease (PCD), and pediatric inflammatory bowel disease not classifiable (PIDNCID) have clinical and psychosocial particularities that differentiate them from those of adults and may condition different therapeutic approaches due to possible nutritional, growth and developmental repercussions, representing a challenge for the pediatrician and gastroenterologist. Objective: Develop expert consensus evidence-based recommendations for the timely and safe diagnosis and treatment of Pediatric Inflammatory Bowel Disease (PID) in children under 18 years of age for professionals caring for these patients and healthcare payers. Methodology: Through a panel of experts from the Colombian College of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition (COLGAHNP) and a multidisciplinary group, 35 questions were asked regarding the clinical picture, diagnosis, and treatment of PID. Through a critical review and analysis of the literature with particular emphasis on the main clinical practice guidelines (CPGs), randomized clinical trials (RCTs), and meta-analyses of the last ten years, from which the experts made 77 recommendations that responded to each of the research questions with their respective practical points. Subsequently, each of the statements was voted on within the developer group, including the statements that achieved > 80%. Results: All statements scored > 80%. PID has greater extension, severity, and evolution towards stenosis, perianal disease, extraintestinal manifestations, and growth retardation compared to adult patients, so its management should be performed by multidisciplinary groups led by pediatric gastroenterologists and prepare them for a transition to adulthood. Porto's criteria allow a practical classification of PID. In CPE, we should use the Paris classification and perform ileocolonoscopy and esophagogastroduodenoscopy, since 50% have upper involvement, using the SES-CD (UCEIS/Mayo in CUP) and taking multiple biopsies. Initial labs should include inflammatory markers and fecal calprotectin and rule out intestinal infections. Treatment, induction, and maintenance of PID should be individualized and decided according to risk stratification. Follow-up should use PCDAI and PUCAI for the last 48 hours. Immunologists and geneticists should evaluate patients with early and infantile PID. Conclusion: A consensus guideline is provided with evidence-based recommendations on timely and safe diagnosis and treatments in patients with ILD.

Safety and Efficacy of Triple Therapy With Dolutegravir Plus 2 Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors in Treatment-Naive Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 2 Patients: Results From a 48-Week Phase 2 Study.

BACKGROUND: Integrase strand transfer inhibitor-based regimens are recommended for first-line therapy in human immunodeficiency virus type 2 (HIV-2). Nonetheless, dolutegravir (DTG) clinical trial data are lacking. METHODS: We conducted a phase 2, single-arm, open-label trial to evaluate the safety and efficacy of a triple therapy regimen that included DTG in persons with HIV-2 (PWHIV-2) in Portugal. Treatment-naive adults receive DTG in combination with 2 nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs). Treatment efficacy was evaluated by the proportion of patients who achieved a plasma viral load (pVL) <40 copies/mL and/or by the change from baseline in CD4+ T-cell count and in CD4/CD8 ratio at week 48. RESULTS: A total of 30 patients were enrolled (22 women; median age, 55 years). At baseline, 17 (56.7%) individuals were viremic (median, pVL 190 copies/mL; interquartile range [IQR], 99-445). The median CD4 count was 438 cells/µL (IQR, 335-605), and the CD4/CD8 ratio was 0.8. Three patients discontinued the study. At week 48, all participants (27) had pVL <40 copies/mL. No virological failures were observed. Mean changes in CD4 count and CD4/CD8 ratio at week 48 were 95.59 cells/µL (95% confidence interval [CI], 28-163) and 0.32 (95% CI, .19 to .46). The most common drug-related adverse events were headache and nausea. One participant discontinued due to central nervous system symptoms. No serious adverse events were reported. CONCLUSIONS: DTG plus 2 NRTIs is safe and effective as first-line treatment for PWHIV-2 with a tolerability profile previously known. No virological failures were observed that suggest a high potency of DTG in HIV-2 as occurs in HIV-1. CLINICAL TRIALS REGISTRATION: M NCT03224338.

Use of computerized campimetry and/or optical coherence tomography for glaucoma diagnosis by non-glaucoma specialists / Uso da campimetria e/ou da tomografia de coerência óptica no diagnóstico do glaucoma por oftalmologistas generalistas

ABSTRACT Purpose: To compare the use of visual field and/or optical coherence tomography (OCT) combined with color retinography by non-glaucoma specialists for differentiating glaucoma from physiological cupping. Methods: Eighty patients with glaucoma or physiological cupping (40 of each) were randomized according to the examination used (GI: color retinography, GII: color retinography + visual field, GIII: color retinography + optical coherence tomography, GIV: color retinography + visual field + optical coherence tomography). Twenty non-specialist ophthalmologists diagnosed glaucoma from PowerPoint slide images, without direct patient examination. Results: Inter-examiner agreement was good for GII (ĸ: 0.63; 95%CI, 0.53-0.72), moderate for GIII (ĸ: 0.58; 95%CI, 0.48-0.68) and GIV (ĸ: 0.41; 95%CI, 0.31-0.51), and low for GI (ĸ: 0.30; 95%CI, 0.20-0.39) (p<0.001). Diagnostic accuracy was higher in GIII (15.8 ± 1.82) than GI (12.95 ± 1.46, p<0.001) and higher in GII (16.25 ± 2.02) than GI and GIV (14.10 ± 2.24) (both p<0.001). For glaucoma patients only, diagnostic accuracy in GII and GIII was superior to that in GI and GIV (both p<0.001). Sensitivity and specificity were 59% and 70.5% in GI; 86.5% and 76% in GII, 86.5% and 71.5% in GIII; and 68.5% and 72.5% in GIV, respectively. Accuracy was highest in GII (81.3% [95%CI, 77.1-84.8]), followed by GIII (79% [95%CI, 74.7-82.7]), GIV (70,5% [95%CI, 65.9-74.8]), and GI (64.8% [95%CI, 60.0-69.3]). Conclusions: Non-glaucoma specialists could not differentiate glaucoma from increased physiological cupping when using color retinography assessment alone. Diagnostic accuracy and inter-rater agreement improved significantly with the addition of visual field or optical coherence tomography. However, the use of both modalities did not improve sensitivity/specificity.(AU)

RESUMO Objetivos: Verificar a influência do campo visual e/ou tomografia de coerência óptica, quando analisados em associação à retinografia colorida, na diferenciação entre indivíduos com glaucoma daqueles com aumento fisiológico de escavação. Métodos: Oitenta pacientes com glaucoma ou aumento fisiológico de escavação (40 cada) foram randomizados de acordo com o exame testado (GI: retinografia colorida, GII: retinografia colorida + campo visual, GIII: retinografia colorida + tomografia de coerência óptica, GIV: retinografia colorida + campo visual + tomografia de coerência óptica). Vinte oftalmologistas não especialistas em glaucoma diagnosticaram glaucoma através de slides do PowerPoint, sem o exame direto do paciente. Resultados: A concordância interexaminador foi boa para o GII (ĸ: 0,63; 95%CI, 0,53-0,72), moderada para GIII (ĸ: 0,58; 95%CI, 0,48-0,68) e GIV (ĸ: 0,41; 95%CI, 0,31-0,51), e baixa para o GI (ĸ: 0,30; 95%CI, 0,20-0,39) (p<0,001). Acurácia diagnostica foi maior no GIII (15,8 ± 1,82) em comparação ao GI (12,95 ± 1,46, p<0,001) e o GII (16,25 ± 2,02) maior em comparação ao GI e GIV (14,10 ± 2,24) (para ambos, p<0,001). Para os pacientes com glaucoma, a acurácia diagnostica nos grupos GII e GIII foi superior do que em GI e GIV (ambos p<0,001). Sensibilidade e especificidade foram 59% e 70,5% no GI; 86,5% e 76% no GII, 86,5% e 71,5% no GIII; 68,5% e 72,5% no GIV, respectivamente. A acurácia foi maior no GII (81,3% [95%CI, 77,1-84,8]), seguido pelo GIII (79% [95%CI, 74,7-82,7]), GIV (70,5% [95%CI, 65,9-74,8]), e GI (64,8% [95%CI, 60,0-69,3]). Conclusões: A avaliação isolada da retinografia colorida por oftalmologistas não especialistas em glaucoma não pode diferenciar pacientes com glaucoma daqueles com aumento fisiológico de escavação. Houve aumento da acurácia diagnóstica e da concordância interobservador com o acréscimo do campo visual ou da tomografia de coerência óptica. Entretanto, o uso de ambas as modalidades não melhorou a sensibilidade/especificadade.(AU)

Use of computerized campimetry and/or optical coherence tomography for glaucoma diagnosis by non-glaucoma specialists.

PURPOSE: To compare the use of visual field and/or optical coherence tomography (OCT) combined with color retinography by non-glaucoma specialists for differentiating glaucoma from physiological cupping. METHODS: Eighty patients with glaucoma or physiological cupping (40 of each) were randomized according to the examination used (GI: color retinography, GII: color retinography + visual field, GIII: color retinography + optical coherence tomography, GIV: color retinography + visual field + optical coherence tomography). Twenty non-specialist ophthalmologists diagnosed glaucoma from PowerPoint slide images, without direct patient examination. RESULTS: Inter-examiner agreement was good for GII (ĸ: 0.63; 95%CI, 0.53-0.72), moderate for GIII (ĸ: 0.58; 95%CI, 0.48-0.68) and GIV (ĸ: 0.41; 95%CI, 0.31-0.51), and low for GI (ĸ: 0.30; 95%CI, 0.20-0.39) (p<0.001). Diagnostic accuracy was higher in GIII (15.8 ± 1.82) than GI (12.95 ± 1.46, p<0.001) and higher in GII (16.25 ± 2.02) than GI and GIV (14.10 ± 2.24) (both p<0.001). For glaucoma patients only, diagnostic accuracy in GII and GIII was superior to that in GI and GIV (both p<0.001). Sensitivity and specificity were 59% and 70.5% in GI; 86.5% and 76% in GII, 86.5% and 71.5% in GIII; and 68.5% and 72.5% in GIV, respectively. Accuracy was highest in GII (81.3% [95%CI, 77.1-84.8]), followed by GIII (79% [95%CI, 74.7-82.7]), GIV (70,5% [95%CI, 65.9-74.8]), and GI (64.8% [95%CI, 60.0-69.3]). CONCLUSIONS: Non-glaucoma specialists could not differentiate glaucoma from increased physiological cupping when using color retinography assessment alone. Diagnostic accuracy and inter-rater agreement improved significantly with the addition of visual field or optical coherence tomography. However, the use of both modalities did not improve sensitivity/specificity.

Asistencia a la mujer en el parto en Antioquia 1879 / Assistance to women in childbirth in Antioquia 1879

El proceso comprensivo de las prácticas y saberes, conocido para la época como asistencia, que tuvo la mujer en Antioquia durante el proceso del parto para finales del siglo XIX, como aporte al desarrollo de las prácticas de cuidado en enfermería, se realizó mediante una investigación cualitativa hermenéutica de carácter histórico. Como resultado surgieron cuatro capítulos, en los que se ubica la mujer en su oficio de partera tradicional, reconocida y aceptada por su grupo étnico, de manera posterior la influencia política, económica, institucional y legislativa, trasladó este saber ancestral doméstico al espacio institucional, reconociendo como único, el saber científico médico de los profesores en el arte, tocólogo, partero y otras denominaciones, educados y preparados para este fin, entre tanto la mujer se certificó por el saber médico como partera, por un corto periodo, porque finalmente, fue excluida de la legislación, pero se mantuvo vigente y reconocida en la comunidad, lo cual dio como resultado a través del tiempo, dos formas de asistencia de la mujer en parto, una de ellas científica, institucional, de dominio masculino, reconocida por la legislación y la otra, tradicional, doméstica, de predominio femenino e ilegítima, hasta su reconocimiento como patrimonio cultural en el año 2016. (AU)

[A critical analysis of the degree of care humanization in the Hospitals of the Provincia Romana San Giovanni di Dio Fatebenefratelli (FBF)]. / Valutazione del grado di Umanizzazione: una indagine critica condotta negli Ospedali della Provincia Romana Fatebenefratelli.

In the Hospitals of the Ordine della Provincia Romana San Giovanni di Dio Fatebenefratelli (FBF) (consisting of four hospitals located in three Italian regions) Patient Centeredness has always been considered a central point. In 2015, the Central Hospitals' Health Direction decided to use a check-list for the evaluation of the degree of Patient Centered Care Facilities, drawn up by the National Agency for Regional Health Services (Age.Na.S) during the 2010 Research Project "Experimentation and transfer of organizational empowerment models for evaluating and improving the quality of health services." The aim of the work was to measure the "Patient Centered Care degree" of the FBF structures by means of the Age.Na.S. check-list in order to identify effective and sustainable improvement measures, and to evaluate the applicability and the critical points of the questionnaire. The check-list was divided into four areas: care systems oriented at citizen's respect and centrality; physical accessibility, liveability and comfort of the places of care; access to information, simplification and transparency; care of the relationship with the patient and the citizen. The four areas were divided into 12 sub-areas, 29 criteria and 144 items with sub-items (248 questions), defined as quantitative or qualitative variables allowing for an evaluation of observed reality. Some items from different areas have been grouped into Focus and Operational Units (UU.OO./Facilities). The results of the Age.Na.S. study were used to compare the results obtained in the Roman Province FBF structures with the national ones. The Medical Directors and the responsible of FBF Quality Systems completed the cheek-list. A working group within the Central Hospitals' Health Direction analysed the data and processed the results, using the same scores provided by Age.Na.S.. The analysis of the results was divided into three levels. Focus and UU.OO./Facilities scores were calculated based on Age.Na.S. INDICATIONS: The distinction into three levels of analysis allowed for a thorough study of results, from the evaluation of the areas to the items. By comparing the results, the overall final value (range 6-6.5) and single area scores are close to the national average for beds number category in all the FBF hospitals. The most critical criteria, recurring in different levels are: 1.1.2 (Activities/projects to promote sociability and continuity with the outside world); 3.2.3 (Content and accessibility of the website); 4.1.2 (Training and support to the staff for the care of the relationship with the patient) and 4.2.3 (Training of the front-office staff), which had a < 4 score in at least three hospitals and generally achieve a value below the national average (level II and III of analysis). The analysis was extremely useful for detecting positive and negative aspects in the structures under examination. It also permitted to plan improvement measures based on set priorities and objective criteria, aimed at enforcing organizational empowerment models for improving the quality of patient-focused health services. However, during the compilation we found difficulties related to the applicability of the questionnaire. Indeed some questions, while having the same impact on the overall score, are less relevant, considering the patient centrality as main aim. It would be desirable that Age.Na.S. considers in a future survey the observations from hospitals joining previous investigations, in order to facilitate the use of the questionnaire and to improve this tool, which proved to be highly effective.

Comparison of biometric predictability and final refraction expected in phacoemulsification surgery with and without trabeculectomy / Comparação da previsibilidade biométrica e refração final esperada em cirurgia de facoemulsificação com e sem trabeculectomia

Abstract Objective: The main purpose of this article is to compare the predictability of biometric results and final refractive outcomes expected in patients undergoing cataract surgery through phacoemulsification with and without associated trabeculectomy. Methods: Cataract patients who have undergone phacoemulsification surgery alone (control group) or associated with trabeculectomy (study group) screened. All surgeries were performed following standard protocol. For enrollment, biometrics calculated by IOL Master (Carl Zeiss Meditec, Inc.) biometry, refraction and intraocular pressure (IOP) before and after surgery were required. Data was compared between groups in addition to the correlation between variation of IOP and final refraction. Results: Thirty eyes per group were enrolled. Only prior IOP (p <0.001), IOP post-surgery (p = 0.01) and the difference in IOP (p <0.001) were statistically significant. Axial length, IOL diopter used, expected spherical refraction by biometrics and astigmatism pre- and post-surgery were similar in both groups (p=0.1; 0.4; 0.4; 0.5 and 0.3, respectively). Spherical predictability by biometrics within 0.25 diopters was noted in both the control group (range 0.06 ± 0.45) and study group (range 0.25 ± 0.97, p = 0.3). There was no statistical significance between groups for the difference between final cylinder and corneal astigmatism (p = 0.9), and the difference between axis of refractive and corneal astigmatism (p = 0.7). Conclusion: The biometric predictability in phacoemulsification surgery and the expected final refraction are significant, andare not modified by trabeculectomy in the combined surgeries.

Resumo Objetivo: Comparar a previsibilidade dos resultados refracionais e da biometria em pacientes submetidos à cirurgia de catarata por facoemulsificação com e sem trabeculectomia (Trec) associada. Métodos: Pacientes com catarata submetidos à cirurgia de facoemulsificação isolada (grupo controle) ou associada a Trec (catarata + glaucoma, grupo estudo) foram consecutivamente selecionados. Todas as cirurgias foram feitas seguindo protocolo padrão. Para inclusão, era necessário apresentar biometria calculada pelo biômetro IOL Master (Carl Zeiss, Meditec, Inc), refração e pressão intraocular (Pio) pré e pós-operatórios. Os dados foram comparados entre os grupos, além da correlação entre a variação da Pio e a refração final. Resultados: Foram incluídos 30 olhos por grupo. Na comparação, apenas a Pio prévia (p<0,001), Pio pós cirurgia (p=0,01) e a diferença de Pio pré-pós cirurgia (3,8 ± 4,4mmHg vs. 15,5 ± 9,3mmHg, grupos controle e estudo, respectivamente, p<0,001) foram estatisticamente significativos. Diâmetro axial, dioptria da Lio utilizada, dioptria esperada pela biometria e astigmatismo prévio e pós- cirurgia foram estatisticamente semelhantes entre os grupos (p=0,1; 0,4; 0,4; 0,5 e 0.3, respectivamente). Notou-se previsibilidade esférica pela biometria dentro de 0,25 dioptrias, tanto no grupo controle (variação de 0,06 ± 0,45), quanto no grupo estudo (variação de 0,25 ± 0,97, p=0,3). Não houve significância estatística entre os grupos para a diferença entre o cilindro final e o astigmatismo corneano em dioptrias (p=0,9), e diferença entre o eixo do astigmatismo refracional e corneano (p=0,7). Conclusão: A previsibilidade biométrica e a refração na cirurgia de facoemulsificação aferida pelo biômetro IOL Master é significativa, e não sãoalteradas na cirurgia combinada com trabeculectomia.

Compulsão alimentar periódica: aspecto negligenciado na abordagem de pacientes com síndrome metabólica / Binge eating: a neglected element in the approach to patients with metabolic syndrome

Introdução: obesidade, um dos principais componentes da síndrome metabólica frequentemente associa-se à compulsão alimentar periódica. Objetivo: o objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar a presença da compulsão alimentar periódica em mulheres com síndrome metabólica e a possível associação com parâmetros sociodemográficos, clínicos e comportamentais. Material e métodos: estudo transversal com 124 indivíduos com síndrome metabólica, divididos de acordo com presença ou ausência da compulsão alimentar periódica, classificados pela Escala de Compulsão Alimentar Periódica (ECAP). Quantificamos peso, altura, circunferência da cintura e pressão arterial. Avaliamos parâmetros comportamentais: nível de atividade física, consumo de álcool, imagem corporal, sintomas depressivos e qualidade de vida (SF-36). A avaliação laboratorial incluiu glicose, insulina, hormônio tiroestimulante, perfil lipídico e função renal. Os grupos foram comparados pelos testes Qui Quadrado e t de Student. Resultados:a média de idade das participantes foi 41±10,9 anos e a totalidade da amostra apresentava obesidade abdominal, com média da circunferência da cintura de 110±11,0 cm, 70% eram hipertensas, com média de pressão arterial sistólica de 133±13,0 mmHg e pressão arterial diastólica de 89±11,0 mmHg. Além disso, 95% eram sedentárias, 7% eram fumantes, 12% faziam uso nocivo do álcool, 98% declararam insatisfação com a imagem corporal e 62% apresentavam depressão. Observou-se presença de compulsão alimentar periódica em 57% das mulheres avaliadas. Os pacientes com compulsão alimentar periódica eram mais jovens (20 a 39 anos) (53,5% vs. 30,2%; p=0,010) e tinham pior qualidade de vida (93,6± 19,6 vs. 104,3± 19,8; p=0,039). Quanto aos parâmetros laboratoriais, não foi observada diferença significativa entre os grupos. Conclusão: a presença de compulsão alimentar periódica foi achado frequente em mulheres mais jovens com síndrome metabólica, associada com pior qualidade de vida. Estes achados alertam para a importância do rastreio da compulsão alimentar periódica em indivíduos com síndrome metabólica para contribuir para manejo clínico mais adequado desta população.

Introduction: obesit y, one of the main components of metabolic syndrome, is frequently associated with binge eating. Objective: the aim of this study was to evaluate the occurrence of binge eating in women with metabolic syndrome and its possible association with sociodemographic, clinical, and behavioral parameters. Material and methods: a cross-sectional study with 124 individuals with metabolic syndrome, divided according to the presence or absence of binge eating, based on the criteria of the Binge Eating Scale (BES). We quantified weight, height, waist circumference, and office blood pressure. We evaluated behavioral parameters: level of physical activity, alcohol consumption, body image, depressive symptoms, and quality of life (SF-36). Laboratory evaluation included glucose, insulin, thyroid stimulating hormone, lipid profile, and renal function. The groups were compared by Chi-square and student t tests. Results: the mean age of the participants was 41±10.9 years and the entire cohort presented abdominal obesity, with an average waist circumference of 110±11.0 cm, while 70% of the individuals were hypertensive, with an overall mean systolic and diastolic blood pressure of 133±13.0 mmHg and 89±11.0 mmHg, respectively. In addition, 95% were sedentary, 7% were smokers, 12% abused alcohol, 98% declared dissatisfaction with body image, and 62% had depression. We observed the occurrence of binge eating in 57% of the women evaluated. The patients with binge eating were younger (20 to 39 years) (53,5% vs. 30,2%; p=0.010) and had worse quality of life (93,6± 19,6 vs. 104,3± 19,8; p=0.039). Regarding laboratory parameters, there were no significant differences between the groups. Conclusion: the occurrence of binge eating was a frequent finding in younger women with metabolic syndrome associated with worse quality of life. These findings alert to the importance of binge eating tracking in individuals with metabolic syndrome to contribute for a more appropriated clinical management of this population.

Influence of visual field results in the glaucoma diagnosis / Influência dos resultados do campo visual no diagnóstico de glaucoma

Abstract Objective: To determine the influence of visual field results in the diagnosis of glaucoma. Methods: A questionnaire with ophthalmologists was conducted where slides of a digital photograph of the optic disc and computerized visual field exam were presented.(Physicians were instructed to answer whether glaucoma was observed in each of the slides). No other information was given to those examiners. Half of the patients had glaucoma with corresponding visual field, and the other half had physiological cupping and normal visual field. The slides were equally divided between retinography and corresponding visual field (same patient) and exams randomly exchanged, where an optic disc of glaucoma with a normal visual field was placed, and vice-versa. The order in which the slides were presented was also randomized. Results: Forty slides were evaluated by 29 ophthalmologists. No glaucoma specialist was included. The overall agreement among the examiners (Kappa) was 0.270 ± 0.281, and 0.261 ± 0.238 for the exams of the same eye and was 0.274 ± 0.217 from the slides with the exams changed (p=0.4). The diagnosis was made correctly in glaucoma patients with corresponding visual field exam in 66.89% of the cases, and in 66.20% of patients with physiological cupping. When the exams were exchanged, the results dropped to 34.13% and 35.86%, respectively (p<0.001 for both). Conclusion: Visual field results may influence the diagnosis of glaucoma by non-glaucoma specialists.

Resumo Objetivo: Avaliar a influência da campimetria computadorizada no diagnóstico do glaucoma. Métodos: Foi realizado questionário com oftalmologistas apresentando slides com uma fotografia digital de disco óptico e campo visual computadorizado. Os médicos deveriam assinalar se o exames apresentados eram de glaucoma ou não. Nenhuma outra informação foi passada para os examinadores. Metade dos pacientes apresentavam glaucoma com dano correspondente de campo visual, e a outra metade aumento fisiológico da escavação e campo visual normal. Os slides foram igualmente divididos em: retinografia e campo visual correspondentes (mesmo paciente) e exames invertidos de forma aleatória, colocando um disco óptico de glaucoma com um campo visual normal e vice-versa. A ordem de apresentação dos slides foi randomizada previamente. Resultados: Foram incluídos 40 slides, avaliados por 29 oftalmologistas. Nenhum especialista em glaucoma foi incluído. A concordância entre os examinadores (Kappa) foi de 0,270 ± 0,281, sendo de 0,261 ± 0,238 para os exames correspondentes e 0,274 ± 0,217 para os slides com os exames trocados (p=0,4). O diagnóstico foi realizado corretamente nos pacientes com glaucoma com o campo visual correspondente em 66,89% dos casos, e em 66,20% nos pacientes com aumento da escavação (normais). Quando houve a troca da correspondência dos exames, os valores caíram para 34,13% e 35,86%, respectivamente (p<0,001 para ambos). Conclusão: O conhecimento prévio dos resultados do campo visual pode influenciar o diagnóstico do glaucoma.

Guía colombiana para el diagnóstico de la deficiencia de lipasa ácida / Colombian Guidelines for Diagnosis of Lipase Acid Deficiency

Resumen Introducción: la deficiencia de lipasa ácida lisosomal (LAL-D) es una entidad de herencia autosómica recesiva que lleva a la acumulación de esteres de colesterol y triglicéridos en el hígado, bazo y otros órganos. La edad de inicio y la tasa de progresión son muy variables, lo que posiblemente sea explicado por las mutaciones presentes en el gen LIPA. Las manifestaciones clínicas son las mismas que para otras patologías hepáticas, cardiovasculares y metabólicas, lo que hace difícil reconocerla en la práctica clínica. Objetivo: proveer una guía que permita a los clínicos reconocer los principales grupos de riesgo en los cuales se debe sospechar de LAL-D y mejorar su diagnóstico. Metodología: este documento se diseñó como un consenso de expertos en el cual participaron médicos especialistas en gastroenterología, hepatología, endocrinología, genética, patología y pediatría. Se realizó una revisión de la literatura acerca de las manifestaciones clínicas y de las herramientas para el diagnóstico de LAL-D y se siguió la metodología de técnica de grupo nominal. Resultados: se generaron algoritmos diagnósticos por consenso para cada uno de los grupos de riesgo, que facilitaran la sospecha y el diagnóstico de LAL-D. Conclusiones: esta guía propone algoritmos para el diagnóstico de LAL-D con base en el consenso clínico, que buscan optimizar la ruta diagnóstica en los pacientes con dicha patología.

Abstract Introduction: Lysosomal acid lipase deficiency (LAL-D) is an inherited autosomal recessive entity that leads to the accumulation of cholesterol and triglyceride esters in the liver, spleen and other organs. The age of onset and rate of progression vary greatly, possibly explained by mutations of the LIPA gene. Clinical manifestations are the same as those of other hepatic, cardiovascular and metabolic pathologies which makes it difficult to recognize in clinical practice. Objective: The objectives of these guidelines is to help clinicians recognize the major groups at risk for LAL-D and to improve its diagnosis. Methodology: This document was designed as a consensus of experts in gastroenterology, hepatology, endocrinology, genetics, pathology and pediatrics. A review of the literature regarding clinical manifestations and tools for diagnosis of LAL-D was conducted and the nominal group technique was followed. Results: Diagnostic algorithms which facilitate suspicion and diagnosis of LAL-D were generated by consensus for each of the risk groups. Conclusions: This guide proposes algorithms for the diagnosis of LAL-D based on clinical consensus. The algorithms seek to optimize diagnosis for patients with this pathology.

Pervaporation of ethanol produced from banana waste.

Banana waste has the potential to produce ethanol with a low-cost and sustainable production method. The present work seeks to evaluate the separation of ethanol produced from banana waste (rejected fruit) using pervaporation with different operating conditions. Tests were carried out with model solutions and broth with commercial hollow hydrophobic polydimethylsiloxane membranes. It was observed that pervaporation performance for ethanol/water binary mixtures was strongly dependent on the feed concentration and operating temperature with ethanol concentrations of 1-10%; that an increase of feed flow rate can enhance the permeation rate of ethanol with the water remaining at almost the same value; that water and ethanol fluxes was increased with the temperature increase; and that the higher effect in flux increase was observed when the vapor pressure in the permeate stream was close to the ethanol vapor pressure. Better results were obtained with fermentation broth than with model solutions, indicated by the permeance and membrane selectivity. This could be attributed to by-products present in the multicomponent mixtures, facilitating the ethanol permeability. By-products analyses show that the presence of lactic acid increased the hydrophilicity of the membrane. Based on this, we believe that pervaporation with hollow membrane of ethanol produced from banana waste is indeed a technology with the potential to be applied.

[The social responsibility report drafting in healthcare facilities. Experiences in Fatebenefratelli's Hospitals]. / La redazione del Bilancio Sociale nelle strutture sanitarie. Esperienza negli ospedali Fatebenefratelli.

Medical facilities have the duty to report, in a transparent, comprehensive and integrated manner, their performance, not only in relation to the services provided directly but also in relation to the interest of the various stakeholders and the economic and social benefits for the community. The Social Report is not only a communication tool related to corporate social responsibility but also the initial basis for acquiring social legitimacy, and serves the role of "social accounting" of the activities of an organization, with respect to its mission and institutional role. In healthcare, it can contribute to achieving the fundamental objectives of the healthcare system, in the financial area (fair financing), and also in the medical (outcomes) and ethical-social areas.

Cómo describen el cuidado de enfermería las mujeres que presentaron hemorragia postparto / How Women who Had Postpartum Hemorrhage (PPH) Describe the Nursing Care / Como as mulheres que apresentam hemorragia pós-parto descrevem o cuidado de enfermagem

La hemorragia postparto ocupa los primeros lugares de morbilidad y mortalidad obstétrica en el mundo. El personal de enfermería, profesional y auxiliar, es el encargado de brindar a la mujer y a su hijo un cuidado de calidad durante el trabajo de parto, parto y postparto, ya sea normal o complicado. Es fundamental que el personal de enfermería tenga claro los cuidados que las mujeres esperan recibir desde una mirada de cuidado humanizado. Objetivo: describir cómo las mujeres, que presentaron hemorragia postparto, perciben el cuidado prestado por el personal de enfermería durante el trabajo de parto, parto y postparto. Método: es una investigación cualitativa de tipo fenomenológico interpretativo, basada en la teoría de Heidegger. Resultados: la población estuvo compuesta por mujeres que tuvieron hemorragia postparto inmediata. Luego de las entrevistas, ellas identificaron tres temas: el cuidado como un todo, la otra cara de la enfermera: acciones de no cuidado, y el proceder de las pacientes que condicionan el comportamiento de las enfermeras. Para este artículo se abordó el tema del "cuidado como un todo", en donde las mujeres reconocen el cuidado ofrecido por las enfermeras y auxiliares durante el trabajo de parto, parto y postparto, cuando estas, por ejemplo, están pendientes del bienestar físico y emocional de la madre y del bebé o apoyan a la mujer en su rol maternal. El personal de enfermería también es visto como amigos y como los responsables del personal médico. Conclusión: la investigación mostró que las mujeres receptoras del cuidado de enfermería percibieron la importancia del mismo, a través de los comportamientos y acciones de las enfermeras y auxiliares durante el trabajo de parto, parto y postparto. Sus narraciones expresan agrado cuando el personal de enfermería ofreció comodidad y bienestar a ella, su bebé y su familia, desde lo físico y lo emocional. También se identificó la reciprocidad que hay entre el comportamiento de las mujeres y el personal de enfermería cuando se ofrece un cuidado humanizado.

Post-partum hemorrhage is the worldwide leading cause of obstetric morbidity and death. Both professional nurses and attendants are responsible for providing nursing care to mother and child during the labor, delivery and post-partum stages. It is essential for the nursing staff to have a clear understanding of the care women expect from a more humane perspective. Objective: Describe how women who had postpartum hemorrhage, perceive the care provided by the nursing staff during labor, delivery and postpartum. Method: This is a qualitative case-based and interpreted study based on Heidegger's philosophy. Results: The women were interviewed upon their release after experiencing immediate post-partum hemorrhage; during the interviews, they identified three main issues: comprehensive nursing care; the other side of the nursing staff: actions leading to lack of care and patient behaviors that condition nursing staff behavior. This article deals with comprehensive care, where women acknowledge the care provided by nurses and nursing attendants during the labor, delivery and post-partum stages such as: caring for the physical and emotional well being of both mother and child; supporting women in their role as mothers; finally, the role of nurses as friends and as professionals responsible for the medical staff. Conclusion: The study revealed how women receiving this type of nursing care were able to perceive its importance through the nursing staff's behavior and actions during the labor, delivery and post-partum stages. Their testimonies evidenced pleasure whenever the nursing staff had provided emotional and physical comfort and well being to them, their child and their families. The study also revealed the reciprocity between women's behavior and that of the nursing staff whenever humane care is provided.

A hemorragia pós-parto ocupa os primeiros lugares de morbidade e mortalidade obstétrica no âmbito mundial. O pessoal de enfermagem - profissional e auxiliar - é o encarregado de dar à mulher e ao seu filho cuidados com qualidade durante o processo de trabalho de parto, parto e pós-parto. É fundamental que o pessoal de enfermagem tenha claros os cuidados que as mulheres esperam receber do ponto de vista do cuidado humanizado. Objetivo: a abordagem deste tema surge como produto da pesquisa sobre o significado que as mulheres que tiveram hemorragia pós-parto dão aos cuidados recebidos pelo pessoal de enfermagem durante o trabalho de parto, parto e pós-parto. Método: esta é uma pesquisa qualitativa de tipo fenomenológico interpretativo, baseada na filosofia de Heidegger. Resultados: as mulheres foram entrevistadas depois da alta pela complicação por causa da hemorragia pós-parto imediata, e nestes encontros elas identificaram três temas: o cuidado como um todo, o outro lado da enfermagem e o comportamento dos pacientes que determina a conduta das enfermeiras. Para este artigo, abordou-se o tema do cuidado como um todo, no qual as mulheres reconhecem a atenção oferecida pelas enfermeiras e auxiliares durante o processo de trabalho de parto, parto e pós-parto em momentos como: estar ciente do bem-estar físico e emocional da mãe e do bebê; apoiar a mulher em seu papel maternal; a enfermeira como amiga e as enfermeiras como responsáveis do pessoal médico. Conclusão: a pesquisa mostrou que as mulheres que recebem cuidados de enfermagem perceberam a importância deles nos comportamentos e nas ações deste pessoal durante o trabalho de parto, parto e pós-parto. Seus relatos expressam satisfação quando o pessoal de enfermagem ofereceram comodidade e bem-estar a ela, a seu bebê e a sua família, tanto física quanto emocionalmente. Igualmente, identifica-se a reciprocidade que há entre o comportamento das mulheres e o pessoal de enfermagem quando se oferece um cuidado humanizado.

Dermatosis extremas: una falta de recursos en el cuidado de la salud / Extreme dermatoses: lack of resources in health care

A pesar de los esfuerzos realizados desde diferentes sectores, la asequibilidad a los servicios de salud aún no es equitativa ni satisfactoria en nuestra población. Esto hace que muchos pacientes lleguen a la consulta de la especialidad en un estado extremo en la evolución de su dermatosis, sea ésta benigna o maligna. Se presenta a continuación una serie de 15 casos de estas dermatosis extremas y se identifican las variables que incidieron en el desarrollo tan avanzado de las mismas. Todos estos pacientes fueron asistidos en el Servicio de Dermatología del Hospital General de Agudos Dr. Cosme Argerich desde junio de 2005 hasta noviembre de 2009. Las variables a identificar se clasificaron en: a) deficiencias en la capacitación del ciudadano, b) deficiencias en la atención médica primaria, c)deficiencias en el saneamiento básico e higiene, d) dificultades en la asequibilidad al sistema. Ennuestro análisis identificamos a 14 pacientes con la variable a), a 5 con la b), a 3 con la c) y a 4 con la d). Seis de ellos se identificaron con dos o más variables en simultáneo. Como conclusión destacamos que las deficiencias en la capacitación del ciudadano se identificaron como la variable más frecuente en este grupo de pacientes. Si bien se requiere un análisis en un mayor número de casos, se puede inferirque se necesitan cambios en la atención primaria de la salud (APS) y una mayor intervención dela especialidad en programas de capacitación y prevención.

Despite great efforts from different sectors, access to medical care is neither equitable nor satisfactoryin our population. Lots of patients get specialized assistance when their condition reachesextreme stages, whether it is a benign or a malignant disease. We report 15 patients with these“extreme” dermatoses, identifying responsible causes for the development of such stages of theirevolution. All of these patients were assisted at the Dermatology Unit, Hospital Dr. Cosme Argerich,from June 2005 to November 2009.The aspects to identify were classified as: A) deficiencies in theeducation of patients, B) dificiencies in Primary Health Attention, C) deficiencies in basic hygiene,and D) deficiencies in their access to medical care. We identified 14 patients to A), 5 to B), 3 to C) and4 to D). Six of them were identified to 2 or more aspects at the same time. Deficiencies in educationwere the most frequent aspects of these patients. Although more cases should be analized, it canbe inferred that changes are needed on Primary Health Attention as well as greater commitmentof the specialty in training and prevention programmes.

[Italian Decree D.lgs 231/2001--"Regulations regarding administrative responsibilities of corporate bodies of Companies and Associations including those not legally recognized"--an organizational model for the healthcare area]. / Contesto normativo D.lgs 231/2001 "Disciplina della Responsabilità amministrativa delle persone giuridiche delle Società e delle Associazioni anche prive di riconoscimento giuridico". Un modello organizzativo per l'Area Sanitaria.

Healthcare organizations must implement organizational and management models of regulation and control systems for effectively preventing possible administrative torts by personnel. We define an organizational management and control model for healthcare organizations, based on the legal dispositions of Decree n.231/2001. The model identifies critical points in the administrative and healthcare services delivery processes that are at high-risk of violations to the code. Its primary aim is to prevent torts by the personnel and safeguard the organization at the same time.

Síndrome de Beckwith-Wiedemann en un paciente con hemangiomatosis neonatal benigna / Beckwit – Wiedemann´s syndrome associated with bening neonatal hemangiomatosis

El síndrome de Beckwith-Wiedemann (SBW) es un desorden esporádico o heredado, infrecuente, que se caracteriza por peso elevado al nacimiento, macroglosia, defectos de la pared abdominal y menos frecuentemente hipoglucemia, hemihipertrofia y visceromegalia. Se presenta un paciente de sexo femenino de un mes de vida con antecedentes de nefromegalia evidenciada por ecografía prenatal con múltiples hemangiomas en tronco y labio superior. Al examen físico se evidenció notable macroglosia, hemihipertrofia con compromiso de genitales externos, onfalocele y percentilo de peso mayor a 90. El laboratorio demostró alfa fetoproteína de 608ng/ml. Se realizó diagnóstico de síndrome de Beckwith Wiedemann. El paciente evolucionó con aumento del número y tamaño de las lesiones hemangiomatosas, descenso de los niveles de alfa fetoproteína y su maduración psicomotriz fue adecuada a su edad. Presentamos un síndrome infrecuente en un paciente con hemangiomatosis neonatal benigna (HNB), asociación no descripta previamente en la literatura. Destacamos la importancia del examen físico en la consulta dermatológica como oportunidad diagnóstica.

Beckwith-Wiedemann’s syndrome is a sporadic or hereditary rare disor-der characterized by macroglosia, omphalocele, visceromegalia, hypo-glycemia and hemihypertrophy.We report the case of a 1 month-old infant with a history of nephromegalia detected by prenatal ultrasound scan, who presented various generalized hemangiomas.On examination she had macroglosia, hemihypertrophy, omphalocele and high body weight. She also had alpha feto protein 608 ng/ml withno further abnormalities, leading us to diagnose Beckwith-Wiedemann ́s syndrome.The interest of this case is to report an infrecuent syndrome in a patient with diagnosis of neonatal hemangiomatosis. This association has not been previously reported in the literature. We wish to emphasize the importance of a thorough physical exam as part of the dermatologic consultation leading to the correct diagnosis.

Estudio prospectivo, descriptivo y multicéntrico acerca de la infección de piel y partes blandas por Staphylococcus aureus meticilino-resistente adquirido en la comunidad (SAMRAC) / Multicentric prospective and descriptive study about community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus cutaneous and sof tissue infection (CA-MRSA)

El Staphylococus aureus meticilino-resistente adquirido en la comunidad (SAMRAC) es uno de los principales patógenos emergentes de la última década, y en algunos países es la principal causa de infecciones de piel y partes blandas. El objetivo de este estudio es describir las características epidemiológicas, clínicas y microbiológicas de las infecciones de piel y partes blandas producidas por SAMRAC en pacientes ambulatorios. Materiales y métodos. Estudio descriptivo, prospectivo, multicéntrico realizado en seis Servicios de Dermatología de la ciudad de Buenos Aires entre julio de 2008 y junio de 2009. Se incluyeron pacientes con infección de piel y partes blandas por SAMRAC documentada por cultivo. La definición de adquisición en la comunidad se basó en criterios epidemiológicos. Resultados. Se reclutaron 114 pacientes, de los cuáles 49% fueron hombres y 51 % mujeres. La media de la edad fue 27 años. El 74% recibió tratamiento con ß lactámicos previo al diagnóstico. Los forúnculos representaron la forma clínica más frecuente (59%), seguido de los abscesos (20%). El antibiótico más indicado fue trimetoprima-sulfametoxasol (68,4%).Las resistencias más frecuentes fueron eritromicina (21,7%) y clindamicina (16,2%), 6 pacientes requirieron internación, 18 pacientes presentaron recurrencias y no se registró ninguna muerte. Conclusiones. Los datos demográficos y clínicos obtenidos en este estudio son similares a los comunicados previamente. La mayoría de los pacientes recibieron tratamiento antibiótico previo, lo que denota una baja sospecha diagnóstica. El impétigo representó una forma de presentación frecuente en la población pediátrica y la celulitis sólo comprometió a mujeres. La resistencia a clindamicina fue mayor al 15%, por lo que no debería ser considerado un antibiótico de primera línea. Las infecciones de piel y partes blandas por SAMRAC son frecuentes en nuestro medio, por lo que debe considerarse en pacientes con lesiones supurativas o falta de...

Community acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus is oneof the main emergent pathogens of the last decade, being the fi rstcause of skin and soft tissue infections in some countries. The purposeof this study is to describe the epidemiologic, clinical, and microbiologicalcharacteristics of CA-MRSA cutaneous and soft tissue infections inan ambulatory setting.Methods. We conducted a multuicentric, prospective, descriptive studyperformed in 6 dermatology units at Buenos Aires from july 2008 to june2009. Patients with documented CA-MRSA skin and soft tissue infectionswere included. Community acquisition was defi ned based on epidemiologiccriteria.Results. We included 114 patients, of which 49% were male and 51%were female. The median age was 27 years. Seventy four percent of the patientshad received beta-lactamic antibiotic treatment prior to inclusion.The main clinical presentation were furuncules (59%) followed by abscesses( 20%). The most frequently prescribed antibiotic was trimethoprim-sulfametoxazole(68,4%). The most frequently recovered isolates were erithromicin-(21,7%) and clindamycin-resistant (16,2%). Six patients requiredhospital admission, 18 had recurrent diseases, and no death was recorded.Discussion. Demographic and clinical data obtained in this study aresimilar to those previously reported. Most of the patients had received antibiotictreatment before inclusion, which shows the low CA-MRSA clinicalsuspicious. Impetigo was fecuently observed among children, and celulitiswas exclusively observed in females. As clindamycin resistance washigher than 15%, this antibiotic should not be considered a fi rst-line treatmentoption. CA-MRSA infections were frecuently observed in our patients,therefore its diagnosis should be considered on suppurative lesionsand non responding pyodermitis (Dermatol Argent 2010;16(2):110-116).

Population genetic implications from DNA polymorphism in random human genomic sequences.

Denaturing high performance liquid chromatography (DHPLC) in combination with dye-terminator sequencing was used to survey 516 random genomic sequence tagged sites (STSs) for biallelic polymorphisms in 24 representatives of the major ethnic groups residing in the United States. Of the 301 polymorphic STSs (58.3%), 172 contained a single simple sequence polymorphism (SSP), while 78, 35, and 16 contained 2, 3, and 4-6 SSPs, respectively. Of the 541 SSPs identified, 342 (63%), 152 (28%), and 47 (9%) were transitions, transversions, and insertions or deletions, respectively. Only 21% of the STSs contained SSPs with a minor-allele frequency >20%. The nucleotide diversity estimate for random genomic sequences theta = 8.23 x 10(-4) was on average 50% higher than that for intragenic non-coding regions of the human genome ( theta = 5.52 x 10(-4). The discrepancy in Tajima's D statistic between 22 autosomal genes (D=-1.304+/-0.622, mean+/-SD) and random STSs (D=-0.27) suggests that, in the absence of significant mutation rate heterogeneity, the more negative values for genes are a consequence of directional selection rather than population growth.