The low health literacy in Latin America and the Caribbean: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Health literacy (HL) impacts people's health and well-being. In Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC), there are no general estimates of the prevalence of low HL. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of low HL among citizens of LAC and identify the tools used to measure it. METHODS: We included observational studies quantifying the prevalence of low HL in people living in LAC. We searched PubMed, CINAHL, EMBASE, ERIC, LILACS, PsycINFO, Redalyc, SciELO, Web of Science, PQDT, and the reference lists of the included studies in June 2023. Two reviewers independently conducted the selection, extraction, and risk of bias assessment using the JBI Critical Appraisal Tools. Meta-analysis of proportions using random effects models was used to summarize the prevalence of low HL estimated. This prevalence was measured in each study using different classification methods: word recognition items, reading and numeracy comprehension items, and self-reported comprehension items. RESULTS: Eighty four studies involving 23,914 participants from 15 countries were included. We identified 23 tools to assess HL, and most of the studies were carried out in health services. The pooled prevalence of low HL were 44.02% (95%CI: 36.12-52.24) for reading and numeracy comprehension items, 50.62% (95%CI: 41.82-59.39) for word recognition items, and 41.73% (95%CI: 31.76-52.43) for self-reported comprehension items. CONCLUSION: Despite the variability in the prevalence of low HL and a diversity of tools, the average of low HL is of concern. Almost half of the participants in the included studies have low HL. Most of the studies targeted users of healthcare services. Further research investigating the prevalence of low HL in the general population and actions focused on health education, communication, and information are necessary. TRIAL REGISTRATION: PROSPERO (CRD42021250286).

The effect of different levothyroxine administration regimens on thyroid hormone levels: a systematic review, pairwise, and network meta-analysis.

INTRODUCTION: This systematic review aimed to compare the effect of alternative levothyroxine administration regimens on thyroid hormone levels and patient-reported outcomes (PROs) among adults with hypothyroidism. METHODS: We searched PubMed, Embase, CENTRAL, CINAHL, LILACS, SciELO, Scopus, Web of Science, OpenGrey, ProQuest, ClinicalTrials.gov, and ICTRP from inception to May/2023 for randomized controlled trials (RCTs). We assessed the risk of bias with Cochrane Risk of Bias 2.0 tool. We analyzed TSH levels by pairwise and network meta-analyses (NMA). The FT4 levels and PROs were qualitatively assessed. RESULTS: We included 14 RCTs (906 participants) comparing different regimens, as bedtime vs. before breakfast. A total of 12 RCTs were at high risk of bias. Seven RCTs were included in the TSH meta-analysis, where the mean difference (MD) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were as follows: bedtime vs before breakfast (4 RCTs) 0.69 (-1.67-3.04), I2 = 92%, very low certainty evidence; weekly dose vs before breakfast (2 RCTs) 1.68 (0.94-2.41), I2 = 0%, low certainty evidence; and at breakfast vs before breakfast (1 RCT) 0.65 (-1.11-2.41), very low certainty evidence. The NMA showed no evidence of differences in TSH level with different regimens. CONCLUSION: The evidence is insufficient to determine the most effective levothyroxine administration regimen for hypothyroidism. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION: PROSPERO - CRD42021279375.

Linezolid does not improve bactericidal activity of rifampin-containing first-line regimens in animal models of TB meningitis.

Tuberculous meningitis (TB meningitis) is the most devastating form of tuberculosis (TB) and there is a critical need to optimize treatment. Linezolid is approved for multidrug resistant TB and has shown encouraging results in retrospective TB meningitis studies, with several clinical trials underway assessing its additive effects on high-dose (35 mg/kg/day) or standard-dose (10 mg/kg/day) rifampin-containing regimens. However, the efficacy of adjunctive linezolid to rifampin-containing first-line TB meningitis regimens and the tissue pharmacokinetics (PK) in the central nervous system (CNS) are not known. We therefore conducted cross-species studies in two mammalian (rabbits and mice) models of TB meningitis to test the efficacy of linezolid when added to the first-line TB regimen and measure detailed tissue PK (multicompartmental positron emission tomography [PET] imaging and mass spectrometry). Addition of linezolid did not improve the bactericidal activity of the high-dose rifampin-containing regimen in either animal model. Moreover, the addition of linezolid to standard-dose rifampin in mice also did not improve its efficacy. Linezolid penetration (tissue/plasma) into the CNS was compartmentalized with lower than previously reported brain and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) penetration, which decreased further two weeks after initiation of treatment. These results provide important data regarding the addition of linezolid for the treatment of TB meningitis.

Telenfermagem a Pacientes com Úlceras Venosas: Orientações Fornecidas e Desfecho do Monitoramento Remoto / Telenursing to Patients With Venous Ulcers: Guidelines Provided and Outcome of Remote Monitoring / Teleenfermería a Pacientes con Úlceras Venosas: Directrices Proporcionadas y Resultado de la Monitorización Remota

Objetivos:identificar as orientações fornecidas aos pacientes com úlceras venosas (UVs) submetidos à telenfermagem e descrever o desfecho ocorrido com os pacientes com UVs monitorados à distância. Método: estudo transversal e documental, realizado com 159 prontuários de pacientes com UV submetidos à telenfermagem numa clínica de estomaterapia no Rio de Janeiro. Os critérios de inclusão foram pacientes com diagnóstico de UV submetidos à telenfermagem, de abril de 2018 a fevereiro de 2020. A análise de dados ocorreu por meio de estatística descritiva (frequência absoluta e relativa para as variáveis categóricas), auxiliada por planilha do aplicativo Microsoft Excel. Resultados: identificou-se um equilíbrio entre os participantes em relação ao sexo; apresentaram idade média (desvio-padrão) de 68,07 (5,28); ensino fundamental completo ou médio incompleto; aposentados ou pensionistas. Verificou-se que 40,88% dos pacientes possuíam ao menos uma doença de base, predominando hipertensão arterial sistêmica e diabetes mellitus. As orientações mais prevalentes foram: repouso com os membros inferiores elevados, utilização da terapia compressiva com meia elástica ou atadura elástica e realização da troca de curativo secundário em sua residência. Conclusão: os achados evidenciam a necessidade de ampliar as ações de enfermagem desenvolvidas na Clínica, buscando proporcionar a saúde integral aos pacientes.

Objectives:To identify the guidelines provided to patients with venous ulcers submitted to telenursing and describe the outcome that occurred with patients with venous ulcers monitored remotely. Method: Cross-sectional and documentary study, carried out with 159 medical records of patients with venous ulcers submitted to telenursing at an enterostomal therapy clinic in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The inclusion criteria were patients with a diagnosis of venous ulcer submitted to Telenursing, from April 2018 to February 2020. Data analysis was performed using descriptive statistics (absolute and relative frequency for categorical variables), aided by the application spreadsheet Microsoft Excel. Results: A balance was identified between the participants in relation to gender; had a mean age (standard deviation) of 68.07 (5.28); completed elementary school or incomplete high school; retirees or pensioners. It was found that 40.88% of the patients had at least one underlying disease, predominantly systemic arterial hypertension and diabetes mellitus. The most prevalent guidelines were: resting with the lower limbs elevated, using compressive therapy with elastic stockings or elastic bandage, and changing the secondary dressing at home. Conclusion: The findings show the need to expand the nursing actions developed at the clinic, seeking to provide comprehensive health to patients.

Objetivos:identificar las orientaciones proporcionadas a los pacientes con úlceras venosas sometidos a Teleenfermería y describir el desenlace ocurrido con los pacientes con úlceras venosas monitorizados a distancia. Método: estudio transversal y documental, realizado con 159 prontuarios de pacientes con úlceras venosas sometidos a teleenfermería en una Clínica de Estomaterapia de Rio de Janeiro. Los criterios de inclusión fueron pacientes con diagnóstico de úlcera venosa sometidos a teleenfermería, de abril de 2018 a febrero de 2020. El análisis de datos se realizó mediante estadística descriptiva (frecuencia absoluta y relativa para variables categóricas), auxiliada por la hoja de cálculo de la aplicación Microsoft Excel. Resultados: se identificó un equilibrio entre los participantes en relación al género; tenía una edad media (DE) de 68,07 (5,28); primaria completa o secundaria incompleta; jubilados o pensionados. Se encontró que el 40,88% de los pacientes tenían al menos una enfermedad de base, predominantemente Hipertensión Arterial Sistémica y Diabetes Mellitus. Las pautas más prevalentes fueron: reposo con los miembros inferiores elevados, uso de terapia compresiva con medias elásticas o venda elástica y cambio del vendaje secundario en casa. Conclusión: los hallazgos muestran la necesidad de ampliar las acciones de enfermería desarrolladas en la Clínica, buscando brindar salud integral a los pacientes

Manejo Clínico da Incontinência Urinária em Mulheres Por Enfermeiros da Estratégia de Saúde da Família / Clinical Management of Urinary Incontinence in Women by Family Health Strategy Nurses / Manejo Clínico de la Incontinencia Urinaria en la Mujer Por Enfermeras de la Estrategia de Salud de la Familia

Objetivo:Analisar a atuação dos enfermeiros da Estratégia de Saúde da Família (ESF) no manejo clínico da incontinência urinária em mulheres numa área de planejamento do município do Rio de Janeiro (RJ). Método:Pesquisa descritiva, com abordagem quantitativa, realizada em sete Unidades Básicas de Saúde, no município do Rio de Janeiro. A amostra foi composta de 27 enfermeiros que atuavam na ESF. A análise dos dados deu-se por meio de estatística descritiva simples, com descrição de frequência relativa e absoluta. Resultados: Evidenciaram-se fragilidades na identificação dos aspectos que envolvem a abordagem precoce, os fatores de risco para o seu desenvolvimento, o tratamento e as atividades educativas. Conclusão: Apesar de se reconhecer que a ESF possui os recursos para o tratamento da incontinência urinária não complicada, algumas ações não são realizadas pelo enfermeiro, como envolver a equipe no cuidado das mulheres com esse acometimento, prescrever exercícios de fortalecimento do assoalho pélvico e avaliar e realizar o tratamento não farmacológico, bem como a investigação das mulheres sem queixa de perda urinária. Portanto, os resultados indicam a necessidade premente de capacitação dos enfermeiros que atuam na ESF.

Objective:To analyze the performance of nurses from the Family Health Strategy (ESF) in the clinical management of urinary incontinence in women in a planning area in the city of Rio de Janeiro (RJ), Brazil. Method:Descriptive research, with a quantitative approach, was carried out in seven Basic Health Units, in the city of Rio de Janeiro. The sample consisted of 27 nurses who worked in the ESF. Data analysis was performed using simple descriptive statistics, with a description of relative and absolute frequency. Results: Weaknesses were shown in the identification of aspects involving an early approach, risk factors for its development, treatment, and educational activities. Conclusion: Despite recognizing that the ESF has the resources for the treatment of uncomplicated urinary incontinence, some actions are not carried out by the nurses, such as involving the team in the care of women with this condition, prescribing exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor and evaluating and carry out non-pharmacological treatment, as well as the investigation of women without complaints of urinary loss. Therefore, the results indicate the urgent need for training of nurses who work in the ESF

O uso das tecnologias da informação e comunicação na monitoria acadêmica de enfermagem com base na metodologia ativa / Use of information and communication technologies in academic nursing tutoring based on active methodology / El uso de las tecnologías de la información y la comunicación en el monitoreo académico de enfermería basado en la metodología activa

Objetivo: relatar a experiência do processo de implementação da monitoria acadêmica de enfermagem durante a pandemia de covid-19, utilizando as Tecnologias da Informação e Comunicação (TICs). Metodologia: estudo descritivo e qualitativo na modalidade "relato de experiência" sobre as atividades realizadas na monitoria de enfermagem no período de isolamento social acerca do uso de tecnologias digitais na educação em saúde, pautado pela interação do referencial teórico, metodologia problematizadora de ensino e tecnologias. Resultados: desenvolvimento de conteúdo didático, empregando as ferramentas digitais na produção de conhecimento em saúde, além da interação e inclusão social na educação. Conclusão: através da revisão científica, interação interpessoal e desenvolvimento de habilidades e competências na área de pesquisa e docência, as alunas participantes aprimoraram sua formação acadêmica e, ainda, despertaram em si a valorização do ensino e do aprendizado, bem como a prática da carreira docente

Objective: to report on the experience of implementing an academic nursing tutoring during the COVID-19 pandemic using information and communication technologies (ICTs). Methodology: this is a descriptive, qualitative experience report on the activities developed by nursing tutoring during social distancing regarding the use of digital technologies in health education, mobilizing the theoretical framework, active methodology and technologies. Results: pedagogical content was developed by using digital tools in health-related knowledge production, as well as interaction and social inclusion in education. Conclusion: scientific review, interpersonal interaction, development of research and teaching skills and competencies allowed the participating students to improve their academic education and even awaken their appreciation for teaching and learning

Objetivo: relatar la experiencia del proceso de implementación del seguimiento académico de enfermería, en tiempos de la pandemia del covid-19 mediante las tecnologías de la información y la comunicación. Metodología: estudio descriptivo y cualitativo, en forma de informe de experiencia, sobre las actividades realizadas en el acompañamiento de enfermería durante el período de aislamiento social, utilizando tecnologías digitales en la educación en salud, orientado por la interacción del marco teórico con la técnica de problematizar la enseñanza y las tecnologías. Resultados:producción de contenidos didácticos utilizando herramientas digitales en la producción de conocimiento en salud, interacción e inclusión social en educación. Conclusión:desde la revisión científica, la interacción interpersonal y el desarrollo de habilidades y competencias en el área de la investigación y la docencia, las estudiantes participantes mejoraron su formación académica e incluso despertaron en sí mismas el aprecio por la enseñanza y el aprendizaje, así como la práctica de la docencia como carrera profesiona

Clinical nursing care protocol for convalescent plasma transfusion in patients with COVID-19.

Introduction: The treatment of COVID-19 is still challenge. So convalescent plasma can be an important alternative of treatment. Protocols with nursing care during infusion is very important to guide an effective and safety care. Objective: to analyze the evidence in the literature on the action of convalescent plasma, of the use of protocols with nursing care to use convalescent plasma and build a nursing care protocol for transfusion in patients with COVID-19. Methods: Methodological study carried out in two stages: scoping review. The search was done using the descriptors: convalescent plasma transfusion, convalescent plasma, and acute respiratory syndromes or COVID-19, to found protocols and effectiveness of convalescent plasm. Beside was done a specialist panel to build the protocol. Results: Low-evidence studies have shown improvement in the clinical signs of COVID-19 using Convalescent Plasma, reduction or elimination of viral load, benefits in the production of lymphocytes, decreases C-reactive protein, increases titers of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies, positive evolution in lung involvement identified by X-rays, decrease in hospitalization. No studies were found in the databases on the protocol for clinical nursing care in plasma transfusion. Therefore, a protocol was developed with the description of clinical nursing care to be performed before, during and after the transfusion by plasma: checking of vital signs and indicative signs of transfusion reaction, measurement of oxygen saturation, assessment of venous access and checking of the level of consciousness. Conclusion: There are no evidence studies to support the use of plasma, nor anything related to bundles.

Dynamic 18F-Pretomanid PET imaging in animal models of TB meningitis and human studies.

Pretomanid is a nitroimidazole antimicrobial active against drug-resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis and approved in combination with bedaquiline and linezolid (BPaL) to treat multidrug-resistant (MDR) pulmonary tuberculosis (TB). However, the penetration of these antibiotics into the central nervous system (CNS), and the efficacy of the BPaL regimen for TB meningitis, are not well established. Importantly, there is a lack of efficacious treatments for TB meningitis due to MDR strains, resulting in high mortality. We have developed new methods to synthesize 18F-pretomanid (chemically identical to the antibiotic) and performed cross-species positron emission tomography (PET) imaging to noninvasively measure pretomanid concentration-time profiles. Dynamic PET in mouse and rabbit models of TB meningitis demonstrates excellent CNS penetration of pretomanid but cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) levels does not correlate with those in the brain parenchyma. The bactericidal activity of the BPaL regimen in the mouse model of TB meningitis is substantially inferior to the standard TB regimen, likely due to restricted penetration of bedaquiline and linezolid into the brain parenchyma. Finally, first-in-human dynamic 18F-pretomanid PET in six healthy volunteers demonstrates excellent CNS penetration of pretomanid, with significantly higher levels in the brain parenchyma than in CSF. These data have important implications for developing new antibiotic treatments for TB meningitis.

Iron Salts, High Levels of Hemoglobin and Ferritin in Pregnancy, and Development of Gestational Diabetes: A Systematic Review / Sais de ferro, níveis elevados de hemoglobina e ferritina na gravidez e o desenvolvimento de diabetes gestacional: Uma revisão sistemática

Abstract Objective The aim of this study was to systematically review literature on the use of iron supplements (not including iron derived from diet), increased levels of hemoglobin and/or ferritin, and the risk of developing gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Data source The following databases were searched, from the study's inception to April 2021: PUBMED, Cochrane, Web of Science, Scopus, Embase, Cinahl and Lilacs. Selection of studies A total of 6,956 titles and abstracts were reviewed, 9 of which met the final inclusion criteria, with 7,560 women in total. Data collection Data extraction was performed by two independent reviewers and disagreements were resolved by a third researcher. Data synthesis Methodological quality in controlled trials were assessed according to the Cochrane Collaboration tools (ROB-2 and ROBINS-1) and for the observational studies, the National Institutes of Health's (NIH) quality assessment tool was used. Among the 5 observational studies, women with a higher hemoglobin or ferritin level were more likely to develop GDM when compared with those with lower levels of these parameters. Among the 3 randomized clinical trials, none found a significant difference in the incidence of GDM among women in the intervention and control groups. However, we identified many risks of bias and great methodological differences among them. Conclusion Based on the studies included in this review, and due to the important methodological problems pointed out, more studies of good methodological quality are needed to better establish the association between iron supplementation and GDM.

Resumo Objetivo O objetivo deste estudo foi revisar sistematicamente a literatura sobre o uso de suplementos de ferro (não incluindo o ferro derivado da dieta), aumento dos níveis de hemoglobina e/ou ferritina e o risco de desenvolver diabetes mellitus gestacional (DMG). Fontes dos dados as bases de dados PUBMED, Cochrane, Web of Science, Scopus, Embase, Cinahl e Lilacs foram pesquisadas até abril de 2021. Seleção dos estudos Foram revisados 6.956 títulos e resumos, dos quais 9 preencheram os critérios finais de inclusão, totalizando 7.560 mulheres. Coleta de dados A extração de dados foi realizada por dois revisores independentes e as divergências foram resolvidas por um terceiro revisor. Síntese dos dados A qualidade metodológica dos ensaios controlados foi avaliada de acordo com as ferramentas da Colaboração Cochrane (ROB-2 e ROBINS-1) e para os estudos observacionais, foi utilizada a ferramenta de avaliação de qualidade do National Institutes of Health (NIH). Entre os 5 estudos observacionais, as mulheres com maiores níveis de hemoglobina ou ferritina apresentaram maior probabilidade de desenvolver DMG quando comparadas àquelas com níveis mais baixos nesses parâmetros. Entre os 3 ensaios clínicos randomizados, nenhum deles encontrou diferença significativa na incidência de DMG entre as mulheres dos grupos de intervenção e controle. No entanto, identificamos muitos riscos de viés e enormes diferenças metodológicas entre eles. Conclusão Com base nos estudos incluídos nesta revisão e devido aos importantes problemas metodológicos apontados, são necessários mais estudos de boa qualidade metodológica para melhor estabelecer a associação entre suplementação de ferro e DMG.

Iron Salts, High Levels of Hemoglobin and Ferritin in Pregnancy, and Development of Gestational Diabetes: A Systematic Review.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to systematically review literature on the use of iron supplements (not including iron derived from diet), increased levels of hemoglobin and/or ferritin, and the risk of developing gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). DATA SOURCE: The following databases were searched, from the study's inception to April 2021: PUBMED, Cochrane, Web of Science, Scopus, Embase, Cinahl and Lilacs. SELECTION OF STUDIES: A total of 6,956 titles and abstracts were reviewed, 9 of which met the final inclusion criteria, with 7,560 women in total. DATA COLLECTION: Data extraction was performed by two independent reviewers and disagreements were resolved by a third researcher. DATA SYNTHESIS: Methodological quality in controlled trials were assessed according to the Cochrane Collaboration tools (ROB-2 and ROBINS-1) and for the observational studies, the National Institutes of Health's (NIH) quality assessment tool was used. Among the 5 observational studies, women with a higher hemoglobin or ferritin level were more likely to develop GDM when compared with those with lower levels of these parameters. Among the 3 randomized clinical trials, none found a significant difference in the incidence of GDM among women in the intervention and control groups. However, we identified many risks of bias and great methodological differences among them. CONCLUSION: Based on the studies included in this review, and due to the important methodological problems pointed out, more studies of good methodological quality are needed to better establish the association between iron supplementation and GDM.

OBJETIVO: O objetivo deste estudo foi revisar sistematicamente a literatura sobre o uso de suplementos de ferro (não incluindo o ferro derivado da dieta), aumento dos níveis de hemoglobina e/ou ferritina e o risco de desenvolver diabetes mellitus gestacional (DMG). FONTES DOS DADOS: as bases de dados PUBMED, Cochrane, Web of Science, Scopus, Embase, Cinahl e Lilacs foram pesquisadas até abril de 2021. SELEçãO DOS ESTUDOS: Foram revisados 6.956 títulos e resumos, dos quais 9 preencheram os critérios finais de inclusão, totalizando 7.560 mulheres. COLETA DE DADOS: A extração de dados foi realizada por dois revisores independentes e as divergências foram resolvidas por um terceiro revisor. SíNTESE DOS DADOS: A qualidade metodológica dos ensaios controlados foi avaliada de acordo com as ferramentas da Colaboração Cochrane (ROB-2 e ROBINS-1) e para os estudos observacionais, foi utilizada a ferramenta de avaliação de qualidade do National Institutes of Health (NIH). Entre os 5 estudos observacionais, as mulheres com maiores níveis de hemoglobina ou ferritina apresentaram maior probabilidade de desenvolver DMG quando comparadas àquelas com níveis mais baixos nesses parâmetros. Entre os 3 ensaios clínicos randomizados, nenhum deles encontrou diferença significativa na incidência de DMG entre as mulheres dos grupos de intervenção e controle. No entanto, identificamos muitos riscos de viés e enormes diferenças metodológicas entre eles. CONCLUSãO: Com base nos estudos incluídos nesta revisão e devido aos importantes problemas metodológicos apontados, são necessários mais estudos de boa qualidade metodológica para melhor estabelecer a associação entre suplementação de ferro e DMG.

High-dose rifampin improves bactericidal activity without increased intracerebral inflammation in animal models of tuberculous meningitis.

Tuberculous meningitis (TB meningitis) is the most severe form of tuberculosis (TB), requiring 12 months of multidrug treatment for cure, and is associated with high morbidity and mortality. High-dose rifampin (35 mg/kg/d) is safe and improves the bactericidal activity of the standard-dose (10 mg/kg/d) rifampin-containing TB regimen in pulmonary TB. However, there are conflicting clinical data regarding its benefit for TB meningitis, where outcomes may also be associated with intracerebral inflammation. We conducted cross-species studies in mice and rabbits, demonstrating that an intensified high-dose rifampin-containing regimen has significantly improved bactericidal activity for TB meningitis over the first-line, standard-dose rifampin regimen, without an increase in intracerebral inflammation. Positron emission tomography in live animals demonstrated spatially compartmentalized, lesion-specific pathology, with postmortem analyses showing discordant brain tissue and cerebrospinal fluid rifampin levels and inflammatory markers. Longitudinal multimodal imaging in the same cohort of animals during TB treatment as well as imaging studies in two cohorts of TB patients demonstrated that spatiotemporal changes in localized blood-brain barrier disruption in TB meningitis are an important driver of rifampin brain exposure. These data provide unique insights into the mechanisms underlying high-dose rifampin in TB meningitis with important implications for developing new antibiotic treatments for infections.

Pharmacokinetics of high-titer anti-SARS-CoV-2 human convalescent plasma in high-risk children.

BACKGROUNDWhile most children who contract COVID-19 experience mild disease, high-risk children with underlying conditions may develop severe disease, requiring interventions. Kinetics of antibodies transferred via COVID-19 convalescent plasma early in disease have not been characterized.METHODSIn this study, high-risk children were prospectively enrolled to receive high-titer COVID-19 convalescent plasma (>1:320 anti-spike IgG; Euroimmun). Passive transfer of antibodies and endogenous antibody production were serially evaluated for up to 2 months after transfusion. Commercial and research ELISA assays, virus neutralization assays, high-throughput phage-display assay utilizing a coronavirus epitope library, and pharmacokinetic analyses were performed.RESULTSFourteen high-risk children (median age, 7.5 years) received high-titer COVID-19 convalescent plasma, 9 children within 5 days (range, 2-7 days) of symptom onset and 5 children within 4 days (range, 3-5 days) after exposure to SARS-CoV-2. There were no serious adverse events related to transfusion. Antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 were transferred from the donor to the recipient, but antibody titers declined by 14-21 days, with a 15.1-day half-life for spike protein IgG. Donor plasma had significant neutralization capacity, which was transferred to the recipient. However, as early as 30 minutes after transfusion, recipient plasma neutralization titers were 6.2% (range, 5.9%-6.7%) of donor titers.CONCLUSIONConvalescent plasma transfused to high-risk children appears to be safe, with expected antibody kinetics, regardless of weight or age. However, current use of convalescent plasma in high-risk children achieves neutralizing capacity, which may protect against severe disease but is unlikely to provide lasting protection.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov NCT04377672.FundingThe state of Maryland, Bloomberg Philanthropies, and the NIH (grants R01-AI153349, R01-AI145435-A1, K08-AI139371-A1, and T32-AI052071).

124I-Iodo-DPA-713 Positron Emission Tomography in a Hamster Model of SARS-CoV-2 Infection.

PURPOSE: Molecular imaging has provided unparalleled opportunities to monitor disease processes, although tools for evaluating infection remain limited. Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is mediated by lung injury that we sought to model. Activated macrophages/phagocytes have an important role in lung injury, which is responsible for subsequent respiratory failure and death. We performed pulmonary PET/CT with 124I-iodo-DPA-713, a low-molecular-weight pyrazolopyrimidine ligand selectively trapped by activated macrophages cells, to evaluate the local immune response in a hamster model of SARS-CoV-2 infection. PROCEDURES: Pulmonary 124I-iodo-DPA-713 PET/CT was performed in SARS-CoV-2-infected golden Syrian hamsters. CT images were quantified using a custom-built lung segmentation tool. Studies with DPA-713-IRDye680LT and a fluorescent analog of DPA-713 as well as histopathology and flow cytometry were performed on post-mortem tissues. RESULTS: Infected hamsters were imaged at the peak of inflammatory lung disease (7 days post-infection). Quantitative CT analysis was successful for all scans and demonstrated worse pulmonary disease in male versus female animals (P < 0.01). Increased 124I-iodo-DPA-713 PET activity co-localized with the pneumonic lesions. Additionally, higher pulmonary 124I-iodo-DPA-713 PET activity was noted in male versus female hamsters (P = 0.02). DPA-713-IRDye680LT also localized to the pneumonic lesions. Flow cytometry demonstrated a higher percentage of myeloid and CD11b + cells (macrophages, phagocytes) in male versus female lung tissues (P = 0.02). CONCLUSION: 124I-Iodo-DPA-713 accumulates within pneumonic lesions in a hamster model of SARS-CoV-2 infection. As a novel molecular imaging tool, 124I-Iodo-DPA-713 PET could serve as a noninvasive, clinically translatable approach to monitor SARS-CoV-2-associated pulmonary inflammation and expedite the development of novel therapeutics for COVID-19.

Kit-based synthesis of 2-deoxy-2-[18F]-fluoro-D-sorbitol for bacterial imaging.

Clinically available imaging tools for diagnosing infections rely on structural changes in the affected tissues. They therefore lack specificity and cannot differentiate between oncologic, inflammatory and infectious processes. We have developed 2-deoxy-2-[18F]fluoro-D-sorbitol (18F-FDS) as an imaging agent to visualize infections caused by Enterobacterales, which represent the largest group of bacterial pathogens in humans and are responsible for severe infections, often resulting in sepsis or death. A clinical study in 26 prospectively enrolled patients demonstrated that 18F-FDS positron emission tomography (PET) was safe, and could detect and localize infections due to drug-susceptible or multi-drug-resistant Enterobacterales strains as well as differentiate them from other pathologies (sterile inflammation or cancer). 18F-FDS is cleared almost exclusively through renal filtration and has also shown potential as a PET agent for functional renal imaging. Since most PET radionuclides have a short half-life, maximal clinical impact will require fast, on-demand synthesis with limited infrastructure and personnel. To meet this demand, we developed a kit-based solid phase method that uses commercially and widely available 2-deoxy-2-[18F]fluoro-D-glucose as the precursor and allows 18F-FDS to be produced and purified in one step at room temperature. The 18F-FDS kit consists of a solid-phase extraction cartridge packed with solid supported borohydride (MP-borohydride), which can be attached to a second cartridge to reduce pH. We evaluated the effects of different solid supported borohydride reagents, cartridge size, starting radioactivity, volumes and flow rates in the radiochemical yield and purity. The optimized protocol can be completed in <30 min and allows the synthesis of 18F-FDS in >70% radiochemical yield and >90% radiochemical purity.

Avanços dos estudos Lesão Terminal de Kennedy no cuidado de enfermagem na terminalidade: Revisão integrativa / Advances in Kennedy's Terminal Injury studies in nursing care in terminality: Integrative review / Avances en los estudios de Kennedy sobre lesiones terminales en el cuidado de enfermería en la terminalidad: revisión integradora

Objetivo: identificar os conceitos e cuidados de enfermagem relacionados a Lesão Terminal de Kennedy disponíveis na literatura. Método: Trata-se de uma revisão integrativa que utilizou como base de dados BVS e Portal de Periódicos CAPES, usando os referenciais MEDLINE, LILACS, BDENF e SciELO. Foram considerados estudos que avaliavam a Lesão Terminal de Kennedy e cuidados de enfermagem. Resultados: Foram incluídos um total de 05 publicações no formato de textos e resumos completos, sendo 04 estudos e 01 editorial. Os estudos são de língua estrangeira (inglês e espanhol), reforçando assim a alerta para a necessidade da comunidade científica nacional. Os dados foram categorizados, sendo agrupados em duas categorias: Úlcera Terminal de Kennedy e suas peculiaridades e Implementações de Enfermagem no fim da vida. Conclusão: Percebe-se ainda uma escassez nos estudos científicos principalmente pela comunidade científica nacional em particular os enfermeiros demonstrando o déficit de conhecimentos produzidos relacionados ao cuidar de pacientes acometidos pela Lesão Terminal de Kennedy.(AU)

Objective: to identify the nursing concepts and care related to Kennedy's Terminal Injury available in the literature. Method: This is an integrative review that used the BVS and CAPES Journals Portal Database, using the MEDLINE, LILACS, BDENF and SciELO. Studies that evaluated Kennedy's Terminal Injury and nursing care were considered. Results: A total of 05 publications in the form of texts and full abstracts were included, 04 studies and 01 editorial. The studies are in a foreign language (English and Spanish), thus reinforcing the alert to the need of the national scientific community. The data were categorized, being grouped into two categories: Kennedy's Terminal Ulcer and its peculiarities and the strategies of Nursing actions at the end of life. Conclusion: There is still a shortage in scientific studies mainly by the national scientific community, in particular nurses demonstrating the lack of knowledge produced related to caring for patients affected by Kennedy's Terminal Injury.(AU)

Objetivo: identificar los conceptos y cuidados de enfermería relacionados con la Lesión Terminal Kennedy disponibles en la literatura. Método: Se trata de una revisión integradora que utilizó la base de datos del Portal de Revistas de la BVS y CAPES, utilizando las referencias MEDLINE, LILACS, BDENF y SciELO. Se consideraron los estudios que evaluaron la lesión terminal de Kennedy y la atención de enfermería. Resultados: Se incluyeron un total de 05 publicaciones en forma de textos y resúmenes completos, 04 estudios y 01 editorial. Los estudios son en lengua extranjera (inglés y español), reforzando así la alerta a la necesidad de la comunidad científica nacional. Los datos fueron categorizados, agrupándose en dos categorías: Úlcera Terminal Kennedy y sus peculiaridades y las estrategias de actuación de Enfermería al final de la vida. Conclusión: Aún existe una escasez de estudios científicos principalmente de la comunidad científica nacional, en particular enfermeras que demuestren la falta de conocimiento producido relacionado con el cuidado de los pacientes afectados por la Lesión Terminal Kennedy.(AU)

Relationship of age at menarche and serum leptin with the metabolically unhealthy phenotype in adolescents.

INTRODUCTION: Objective: to analyze the relationship of age at menarche and leptin with the metabolically healthy (MH) and metabolically unhealthy (MUH) phenotypes in adolescent girls in different body mass index (BMI) categories. Method: an observational and cross-sectional study consisting of 139 female adolescents attended to at the Adolescent Reference Center in Macaé, Rio de Janeiro. Menarche was classified as early (EM) when the first menstruation occurred at or before 11 years of age; normal menarche (NM) was categorized at ages 12 to 14; menarche was considered late (LM) when it occurred at age 15 or older. The factors required to ascertain the subjects' phenotype, as well as their leptin levels, weight, and height, were measured and their BMIs were calculated. The girls were classified as MH or MUH based on the NCEP-ATP III criteria as adapted for children and adolescents. Results: 82 % (n = 114) of the girls were classified as MH and 18 % (n = 25) as MUH. Mean age at menarche was 11.79 ± 1.39 years. There was a higher prevalence of MUH amongst the girls who had EM (p = 0.04). A higher inadequacy of serum leptin concentrations was found in girls who had EM (p = 0.05) and in those classified as MUH (p = 0.01). The adolescents who were severely obese exhibited inadequate leptin levels (p < 0.01) and had gone through EM (p = 0.02). A total of 8.1 % (n = 7) of the normal-weight girls were classified as MUH, and 29.4 % (n = 5) of those who were severely obese were classified as MH (p < 0.01). Conclusion: early menarche and high serum leptin concentrations are related with the MUH phenotype in adolescent girls in different BMI categories.

INTRODUCCIÓN: Objetivo: analizar la relación de la edad de la menarquia y los niveles de leptina con los fenotipos metabólicamente saludables (MS) y metabólicamente no saludables (MNS) en adolescentes de diferentes categorías de índice de masa corporal (IMC). Método: estudio observacional y transversal compuesto por 139 adolescentes de sexo feminino, atendidas en el Centro de Referencia para Adolescentes de Macaé, Río de Janeiro. La menarquia se clasificó como precoz (MP) cuando se produjo la primera menstruación a o antes de los 11 años de edad; la menarquia normal (MN) se clasificó como aquella sucedida a la edad de 12 a 14 años; la menarquia se consideró tardía (MT) cuando ocurrió a los 15 años o más. Se midieron los factores necesarios para determinar el fenotipo de los sujetos, y se midieron sus niveles de leptina, peso y altura, y se calculó su IMC. Las adolescentes se clasificaron como MS y MNS según los criterios de NCEP-ATP III, adaptados para niños y adolescentes. Resultados: el 82 % (n = 114) de las adolescentes se clasificaron como MH y el 18 % (n = 25) como MUH. La edad media de la menarquia fue de 11,79 ± 1,39 años. Hubo una mayor prevalencia de MUH entre las adolescentes que tenían MP (p = 0,04). Se encontró una mayor insuficiencia de las concentraciones séricas de leptina en las adolescentes que tenían MP (p = 0,05) y en aquellas clasificadas como MNS (p = 0,01). Las adolescentes que eran severamente obesas exhibieron niveles inadecuados de leptina (p < 0,01) y habían pasado por una MP (p = 0,02). El 8,1 % (n = 7) de las adolescentes de peso normal se clasificaron como MNS y el 29,4 % (n = 5) de las que eran severamente obesas se clasificaron como MS (p < 0,01). Conclusión: la menarquia temprana y las altas concentraciones séricas de leptina están relacionadas con el fenotipo MNS en las adolescentes de diferentes categorías de IMC.

Relationship between vitamin D deficiency and both gestational and postpartum depression.

INTRODUCTION: Introduction: vitamin D deficiency (VDD) has been associated with depressive symptoms in pregnancy and postpartum, which can result in increased adverse outcomes in the maternal-infant segment. A possible explanation in the literature is VDD relationship with genetic and neurological mechanisms. Objective: to evaluate VDD relationship with gestational and postpartum depression. Methods: this review followed the recommendations proposed by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis. Research was conducted in electronic databases, PubMed and LILACS, including studies of the analytical type (cross-sectional and longitudinal), systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and controlled clinical trials carried out in humans; inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied. Results and conclusions: in this systematic review, eight articles were analyzed comprising 8,583 women from seven different countries. Among the selected articles, six found an association between VDD and gestational and postpartum depression. Considering the data collection, it was possible to conclude that there is a probable relationship between VDD and a higher predisposition to gestational and postpartum depression. Also, we concluded that vitamin D supplementation has proven to be a promising strategy for reducing the risk of depressive symptoms.

INTRODUCCIÓN: Introducción: la deficiencia de vitamina D (VDD) se ha asociado a síntomas depresivos en el embarazo y el posparto, lo que puede resultar en un aumento de los resultados adversos en el segmento materno-infantil. Una posible explicación en la literatura es la relación de la VDD con mecanismos genéticos y neurológicos. Objetivo: evaluar la relación de la VDD con la depresión gestacional y posparto. Métodos: esta revisión siguió las recomendaciones propuestas por los Elementos de Informes Preferidos para revisiones sistemáticas y metaanálisis. La investigación se llevó a cabo en bases de datos electrónicas, PubMed y LILACS, incluyendo estudios de tipo analítico (sección transversal y longitudinal), revisiones sistemáticas, metaanálisis y ensayos clínicos controlados realizados en seres humanos; se aplicaron criterios de inclusión y exclusión. Resultados y conclusiones: en esta revisión sistemática se analizaron ocho artículos que comprenden a 8716 mujeres de siete países diferentes. Entre los artículos seleccionados, seis encontraron asociación entre la VDD y la depresión gestacional y posparto. Teniendo en cuenta la recopilación de datos, fue posible concluir que existe una relación probable entre la VDD y una mayor predisposición a la depresión gestacional y posparto. También llegamos a la conclusión de que la suplementación con vitamina D ha demostrado ser una estrategia prometedora para reducir el riesgo de síntomas depresivos.

Desenvolvimento, validação e utilização de material educativo sobre armazenamento correto de medicamentos / Development, validation and use of educational material on the correct storage of medicine

Estudo metodológico de construção de material educativo impresso (MEI) sobre armazenamento correto de medicamentos nos domicílios e validação por 50 usuários dos serviços de saúde e 52 juízes ­ profissionais da área de saúde. O MEI aborda a maneira correta de armazenar medicamentos, riscos de degradação, ineficiência e intoxicação acidental. A validação de conteúdo foi estabelecida a partir do Level Content Validity Index (CVI) maior que 0,8 para juízes, os quais avaliaram a relevância de informações, clareza, compreensão de texto e ilustrações e aplicabilidade do material. Os usuários analisaram o MEI quanto aos parâmetros de aparência, motivação, conteúdo e organização escrita. Todos os itens foram considerados relevantes pelos avaliadores e o CVI-médio entre juízes foi de 0,96, e entre os usuários, de 0,94. O MEI validado foi utilizado em ações de promoção da saúde apresentando-se como uma ferramenta altamente relevante, técnica e acessível para conscientização sobre o armazenamento correto de medicamentos.

Current methodological study analyzes the construction of printed educational material (PEM) on the correct storage of medicine at home and its validation by 50 users of health service and 52 health professionals/judges. PEM deals with the correct storage of medicine, gradation risks, inefficaciousness and accidental intoxication. Validation of contents was established by Level Content Validity Index (CVI) higher than 0.8 for health professionals/judges who evaluated relevance of data, clarity, text comprehension and illustrations and applicability of the matter. Users analyzed PEM with regard to the parameters appearance, motivation, contents and written organization. All items were considered to be relevant by the evaluators, with mean CVI at 0.96 and 0.94 among health professionals/judges and users respectively. Validated PEM was employed in activities for health promotion as a highly relevant, technical and accessible tool for conscience-awareness on the correct storage of medicines.

Diagnosis of night blindness through standardized interview and electroretinography.

INTRODUCTION: Objective: To compare the diagnosis of NB through the use of the standardized interview of the World Health Organization/Pan American Health Organization (WHO/PAHO) with electroretinography, and also to evaluate the association of these diagnoses with serum concentrations of retinol in class III obesity individuals. Methods: Adult patients of both genders, in the 20-60 age group, with BMI ≥ 40 kg/m² were studied. NB was diagnosed through electroretinography and the standardized interview validated by the WHO/PAHO. Serum level of retinol was quantified by the HPLC-UV method, and VAD was diagnosed when levels were <1.05 µmol /L, and severity was also evaluated. Statistical analysis was carried out through the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences, version 21.0 (p < 0.05). Results: Mean BMI was 44.9  11.8 kg/m², and a negative correlation was found in serum levels of retinol (p= 0.01). The prevalence of VAD, according to the serum concentrations of retinol, was 14%, and of this percentage 23.3% had NB according to the standardized interview, and 22.0% according to electroretinography. NB diagnosed by both methods showed an association with VAD according to the serum concentrations of retinol. Of these individuals with NB, according to the standardized interview, 6.9% showed severe VAD, 10.3% moderate VAD and 82.8% marginal VAD. Conclusion: The standardized interview for the diagnosis of NB can be a good strategy to evaluate the nutritional status of vitamin A, and it is a simple, non-invasive and low-cost method.

INTRODUCCIÓN: Objetivo: Comparar el diagnóstico de NB mediante el uso de la entrevista estandarizada de la Organización Mundial de la Salud/Organización Panamericana de la Salud (OMS/OPS) con electrorretinografía, y también evaluar la asociación de estos diagnósticos con las concentraciones séricas de retinol en la clase III personas obesas. Métodos: se estudiaron pacientes adultos de ambos sexos, en el grupo de 20 a 60 años de edad, con un IMC ≥ 40 kg/m². La NB se diagnosticó mediante electrorretinografía y la entrevista estandarizada validada por la OMS/OPS. El nivel sérico de retinol se cuantificó mediante el método HPLC-UV, y el DVA se diagnosticó cuando los niveles eran <1.05 µmol / L, y también se evaluó la gravedad. El análisis estadístico se realizó a través del Paquete Estadístico para las Ciencias Sociales, versión 21.0 (p <0.05). Resultados: IMC promedio fue de 44.9 ± 11.8 kg / m², y se encontró una correlación negativa en los niveles séricos de retinol (p = 0.01). La prevalencia de DVA, según las concentraciones séricas de retinol, fue del 14%, y de este porcentaje, el 23,3% tenía NB de acuerdo con la entrevista estandarizada y el 22,0% según la electrorretinografía. La NB diagnosticada por ambos métodos mostró una asociación con VAD según las concentraciones séricas de retinol. De estos individuos con NB, según la entrevista estandarizada, el 6,9% mostró VAD grave, el 10,3% de VAD moderado y el 82,8% de VAD marginal. Conclusión: la entrevista estandarizada para el diagnóstico de NB puede ser una buena estrategia para evaluar el estado nutricional de la vitamina A, y es un método simple, no invasivo y de bajo costo.

Bone Metabolism in Adolescents and Adults Undergoing Roux-En-Y Gastric Bypass: a Comparative Study.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the bone metabolism of adolescents and adults with obesity before undergoing a Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and 6 and 12 months after the surgery. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Adolescents (G1) and adults (G2) with obesity assessed before (T0), six (T1), and 12 months after (T2) RYGB. Sun exposure, serum concentrations of 25(OH)D, calcium, phosphorous, magnesium, zinc, alkaline phosphatase, parathyroid hormone (PTH), and bone mineral density (BMD) were evaluated. RESULTS: Sixty adolescents and 60 adults were assessed. At T0, there was no significant difference between the groups' serum 25(OH)D levels (G1 21.87 + 7.52 ng/mL, G2 21.73 + 7.60 ng/mL, p = 0.94) or sun exposure (G1 17 ± 2.0 min/day, G2 13.2 ± 5.2 min/day, p = 0.85). G1 had high levels of inadequacy of calcium (66.7%), phosphorous (80.0%), and zinc (18.3%) at T0 and had a significant fall in their 25(OH)D (p < 0.01) and magnesium (p < 0.01) levels from T1 to T2. G2 saw a significant lowering of their serum zinc levels from T0 to T1 and T2 (T1 p < 0.01; T2 p < 0.01). In both groups, there was a significant rise in PTH from T1 to T2 (G1 p = 0.04, G2 p = 0.02) and from T0 to T2 (G1 and G2 p < 0.01). In G2, 40.4% of individuals with osteopenia and osteoporosis presented inadequacy of 25(OH)D. CONCLUSION: RYGB was found to worsen the inadequacy of micronutrients related to bone metabolism and was associated with secondary hyperparathyroidism and low BMD values, especially among the adolescents. The irreversible damaging effects of obesity on bone metabolism can occur in adolescence.