[Retrospective cross-sectional study of the evolution of the use of pharmacological opioids and heroin in a population group in the Barcelona area]. / Estudio transversal retrospectivo de la evolución del consumo de opioides farmacológicos y de heroína en un grupo poblacional del área de Barcelona.

BACKGROUND: Opioid dependence is causing an epidemic in the US, but unlike the 1970s it seems more related to prescription opioids than heroin. OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study is to assess whether this new epidemic has already reached our environment and to see if there are changes in consumption and in the characteristics of consumers. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Retrospective cross-sectional study. 1,140 patients were included between 2012 and 2019, 633 of whom were first visits to Drug Addiction Care and (CAS) Monitoring Centers, 502 corresponding to emergency room visits for problems related to overdose or withdrawal of heroin or opioids with prescription, and the remaining 5 are newborns of mothers addicted to heroin. Demographic data and characteristics of the substances of abuse were analyzed, comparing between partial periods. RESULTS: There was a global decrease in the first visits of patients to the CAS who reported heroin addiction (P=.001), while those addicted to pharmacy opioids have remained stable. There has been an irregular increase in total emergency visits, overdose consultations, and withdrawal consultations, both for heroin and prescription opioids (P=.062, P=.166 and P=.005, respectively). Opioid-related emergencies have been less frequent than for heroin. Non-Spanish European patients have increased compared to Spanish patients. CONCLUSION: There has been no worrying increase in heroin or prescription opioid abuse in our setting.

Prevalence and characteristics of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in pigs and pig workers in Tenerife, Spain.

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) strains belonging to sequence type (ST) 398 are being reported with increasing frequency in Europe and other countries. This MRSA type has been isolated from colonized and infected animals and humans. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of nasal MRSA carriage in pigs and pig workers. A total of 300 pigs from 15 different farms were sampled in the slaughterhouse of Tenerife. A total of 54 pig workers were screened for MRSA: 20 belonged to farms whose pigs had been sampled and 34 to the slaughterhouse. The percentage of positive samples of MRSA in pigs was 85.7%. The overall prevalence of nasal MRSA carriage in pig workers was 9.3%. All MRSA isolates from pigs and humans belonged to one clonal group showing multilocus sequence type (MLST) 398. Two types of Staphylococcal Chromosome Cassette (SCCmec) were found, IV and V. In conclusion, the prevalence of MRSA in nasal samples from pigs and pig workers in Tenerife was high. We therefore consider it essential to deepen epidemiological study of this strain of animal origin, as well as to increase surveillance and control measures at all stages of the food chain.

Quantification of growth factors by using a new system for obtaining platelet-rich plasma.

OBJECTIVE: To verify the performance of a new method for obtaining platelet-rich plasma, while avoiding contamination of the sample during its processing. STUDY DESIGN: Twenty healthy patients were selected, from whom 21 ml of blood was extracted. We then proceeded to study the platelets and growth factors in basal blood after centrifuging the sample by using a new closed system for obtaining platelet-rich plasma (PRP). RESULTS: After centrifuging the blood sample, double the amount of platelets as that found in basal blood was obtained. Of the four growth factors analyzed, only the factor similar to insulin (IGF) contained the same concentration after the centrifuge process. The platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) and the vascular growth factor (VGF) were multiplied by six with respect to the basal values and disproportionately increased the levels of the transforming growth factor ß (TGF-ß). CONCLUSIONS: The new closed method for obtaining PRP, after avoiding contamination of the sample following its use, offers levels of platelet concentrate and growth factors necessary for regeneration.

Impact of sandstorm and carnival celebrations on SARS-CoV-2 spreading in Tenerife and Gran Canaria (Canary Islands, Spain).

OBJECTIVE: We address the hypothesis that the extraordinary sandstorm occurred on 22-24 February 2020 might have a role in the different cumulated incidence of COVID-19 cases between the islands of Tenerife and Gran Canaria, since it obliged to reduce significantly air traffic and forced to suspend all major carnival street events in all most locations. METHOD: We performed a retrospective analysis of COVID-19 cases as to 1 April 2020 according to symptoms onset, weather-related data and Carnival events in Tenerife and Gran Canaria. RESULTS: The sandstorm occurred on February 22-24, 2020, forced air traffic to close, reducing the influx of tourists to the Canary Islands and suspending carnival events in most places, except in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Cumulated incidence as to 1 April was 132.81/100,000 in Tenerife, and 56.04/100,000 in Gran Canaria. CONCLUSIONS: The suspension of Carnival events due to the sandstorm in the Canary Islands contributed to reduce differently the SARS-CoV-2 spread in Tenerife and Gran Canaria.

Drug abuse during pregnancy and its neonatal impact. Analysis of the periods 2002-2008 and 2009-2017. / Abuso de drogas durante el embarazo y su impacto neonatal. Análisis de los períodos 2002-2008 y 2009-2017.

OBJECTIVES: To determine the prevalence of substance abuse among our pregnant women and the characteristics of their pregnancies, deliveries and new-born infants. METHODS: Retrospective observational study of infants born between January 1, 2009 and December 31, 2017 in our centre to substance-abusing mothers and compared with our 2002-2008 study. RESULTS: Heroin use is decreasing, while cannabis and methamphetamine use are increasing. We observed a decrease in withdrawal associated with methadone and benzodiazepine use and an increase in breastfeeding in benzodiazepine and cannabis users. The infants of mothers who use heroin and cocaine are discharged to the mother's home less often. We observed a predominance of substance abuse among Spanish women except for methamphetamines, where the majority of users are Filipino. CONCLUSIONS: The increase in cannabis use and the decrease in heroin and cocaine use have improved gestational control. Methamphetamine use is associated with serious social risks.

[Epidemiology of enterobacteriaceae causing bloodstream infections in neonatal intensive care unit patients]. / Epidemiología de las enterobacterias productoras de bacteriemias en los pacientes de una unidad de cuidados intensivos neonatal.

INTRODUCTION: An increasing number of neonates require intensive care, and this population has a high risk of developing infections. The Enterobacteriaceae most commonly related to healthcare-associated infection in neonatal intensive care units (NICU) are Escherichia coli, Klebsiella spp and Enterobacter cloacae. METHODS: From January 2001 to December 2005, 84 bloodstream infections caused by E. cloacae, E. coli and Klebsiella spp. were studied in 80 neonates hospitalized in the NICU and intermediate care unit. Clinical histories were reviewed to extract the most important demographic data. Identification and susceptibility patterns were carried out with GN VITEK 2 and AST_N057 VITEK 2 (bioMérieux, Marcy l'Etoile, France). Molecular typing was performed by macrorestriction and pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE). RESULTS: Twenty-one community bloodstream infections and 63 healthcare-associated infections were diagnosed. In community bloodstream infections there were no significant differences according to birth weight or gestational age of the neonates. In healthcare-associated infection, however, there was a high percentage of neonates whose birth weight was between 1.001 and 1.500 grams and gestational age < or =36 weeks (P<0.001). On PFGE analysis, the majority of E. coli strains belonged to different clones. Among Klebsiella pneumoniae and E. cloacae isolates, some strains showed a high percentage of similarity, highlighting detection of an E. cloacae outbreak. CONCLUSION: The study has provided better knowledge of bloodstream infections caused by Enterobacteriaceae in the NICU of our hospital from both the epidemiological and clonal standpoints.

[Study of the first outbreak of vanA enterococcus faecium in the Canary Islands]. / Estudio del primer brote por Enterococcus faecium vanA en Canarias.

INTRODUCTION: In July, 2005 the first vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium (VREF) with a genotype vanA was isolated in Hospital Universitario de Canarias (HUC). From September to December 2005, VREF vanA was isolated from another 15 patients (3 nosocomial infections and 12 rectal carriers). All of them were kidney transplant patients hospitalized in the Nephrology ward. This study describes the first VREF vanA outbreak in the HUC and the epidemiological link of the first VREF vanA isolates found in another two university hospitals in the Canary Islands. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We studied a total of 22 VREF isolates by microbiological and molecular methods. Epidemiological and clinical data of the patients involved were collected. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: We confirmed that these VREF isolates belonged to the same clone using pulse-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE). In November 2005 and February 2006, the first VREF were isolated in two other University Hospitals in the Canary Islands and we also confirmed the link with the HUC cluster by comparison of patient-related information with the molecular typing data. These VREF isolates belonged to the ST18 associated to the Clonal Complex-17 (CC17). CC17 is the major hospital adapted lineage, representing a polyclonal population and associated to VREF outbreaks and infections in the five continents.

[Neonatal repercussions of immigration in Spain: comparison of periods 2003-2004 and 2007-2008]. / Repercusión neonatal de la inmigración: comparación de los periodos 2003-2004 y 2007-2008.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: To describe the characteristics of immigrant women's newborns in our environment, and to compare them with those of native women. PATIENTS AND METHODS: All newborns attended in the Neonatology Unit of Hospital del Mar in Barcelona, Spain, between January 2007-December 2008 were included (n=3,177). Pregnant immigrant women were classified in six regions. Twelve diagnoses were defined and their relative risks were calculated. The results were compared with the results obtained in a previous study of the period 2003-2004. RESULTS: There were 1,373 native newborns and 1,743 of immigrant origin. Immigrant women showed a higher rate of HBsAg carrier status (RR 4.33), neonatal infection risk (RR 1.24) and also macrosomia (RR 1.4). There were 6 HIV positive pregnant immigrant women compared with 8 Spanish women, and drug abuse was lower in the immigrant group (RR 0.15). There were no significant differences in the rate of other diagnoses. In the comparative rates between both periods there was an increased rate of immigrant women's newborn. We did not find any differences in the mean birth weight among newborns of immigrant women during both periods of time. HIV and hepatitis C infection remained higher in native pregnant women and hepatitis B infection in immigrant women and gypsy native women. CONCLUSIONS: The study shows similar results between the two periods with persistence of complications secondary to an inadequate prenatal care, lower drug abuse and moderate increase in HIV and VHC infection in immigrant women and hepatitis B infection in immigrant women and gypsy native women.

[Pandemic influenza (H1N1) 2009 Outbreak in a Military Academy: start of community circulation in Spain]. / Brote de gripe pandémica (H1N1) 2009 en una academia militar: inicio de la circulación comunitaria en España.

BACKGROUND: On May 19, 2009, 21 cases of influenza-like illness were reported among soldiers from an Engineering Military Academy (ACING) in Hoyo de Manzanares, Spain. In the context of an influenza A (H1N1)2009 global alert, it was decided to investigate a possible pandemic influenza outbreak. To describe a possible outbreak of influenza A (H1N1)2009 in a Military Training Centre and to describe the measures adopted for transmission control of this new infection. METHODS: A specific questionnaire was administered and biological samples were collected from all cases under investigation. Isolation and quarantine were recommended for cases and contacts, respectively. RESULTS: Eighty-one cases were confirmed. Among 52 samples tested, 31 were positive for influenza virus A/California/7/2009. The average age of the cases was 22.0 years (range 18-31 years) and 84% were men. Most common reported symptoms were cough and fever. All cases were isolated and treated with oseltamivir, with full recovery. The total attack rate was 12.42%. None of the cases had history of travel to risk areas or contact with previously diagnosed cases outside the academy. Thirty-one confirmed cases related to this outbreak were identified outside the academy, 24 cases were family contacts and friends. CONCLUSIONS: This outbreak was the first evidence of community transmission of pandemic influenza H1N1 in Spain. The rapid detection of this outbreak enhanced an early implementation of measures aiming at the containment of its transmission.

Matrix metalloproteinase-9, -10, and tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinases-1 blood levels as biomarkers of severity and mortality in sepsis.

INTRODUCTION: Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) play a role in infectious diseases through extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation, which favors the migration of immune cells from the bloodstream to sites of inflammation. Although higher levels of MMP-9 and tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinases-1 (TIMP-1) have been found in small series of patients with sepsis, MMP-10 levels have not been studied in this setting. The objective of this study was to determine the predictive value of MMP-9, MMP-10, and TIMP-1 on clinical severity and mortality in a large series of patients with severe sepsis. METHODS: This was a multicenter, observational, and prospective study carried out in six Spanish Intensive Care Units. We included 192 (125 surviving and 67 nonsurviving) patients with severe sepsis and 50 age- and sex-matched healthy controls in the study. Serum levels of MMP-9, MMP-10, TIMP-1, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha, and interleukin (IL)-10 were measured in patients with severe sepsis at the time of diagnosis and in healthy controls. RESULTS: Sepsis patients had higher levels of MMP-10 and TIMP-1, higher MMP-10/TIMP-1 ratios, and lower MMP-9/TIMP-1 ratios than did healthy controls (P < 0.001). An association was found between MMP-9, MMP-10, TIMP-1, and MMP-9/TIMP-1 ratios and parameters of sepsis severity, assessed by the SOFA score, the APACHE-II score, lactic acid, platelet count, and markers of coagulopathy. Nonsurviving sepsis patients had lower levels of MMP-9 (P = 0.037), higher levels of TIMP-1 (P < 0.001), lower MMP-9/TIMP-1 ratio (P = 0.003), higher levels of IL-10 (P < 0.001), and lower TNF-alpha/IL-10 ratio than did surviving patients. An association was found between MMP-9, MMP-10, and TIMP-1 levels, and TNF-alpha and IL-10 levels. The risk of death in sepsis patients with TIMP-1 values greater than 531 ng/ml was 80% higher than that in patients with lower values (RR = 1.80; 95% CI = 1.13 to 2.87;P = 0.01; sensitivity = 0.73; specificity = 0.45). CONCLUSIONS: The novel findings of our study on patients with severe sepsis (to our knowledge, the largest series reporting data about MMP levels in sepsis) are that reduced MMP-9/TIMP-1 ratios and increased MMP-10 levels may be of great pathophysiologic significance in terms of severity and mortality, and that TIMP-1 levels may represent a biomarker to predict the clinical outcome of patients with sepsis.

[HIV-mother-to-child transmission in a tertiary hospital in the era of generalization of preventive interventions]. / Transmisión vertical global del virus de la inmunodeficiencia humana en la época de la generalización de las medidas preventivas.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Since 1994, when the PACTG 076 results were published, the rate of vertical transmission has decreased from 25% to 2%. Nowadays the prevalence of HIV infection in Catalan pregnant women is 0.17% yet it is 0.5% in our hospital. Our objectives were: to analyze the number of new cases of HIV infection by vertical transmission; to determine the importance of risk factors; to prove how important is to identify HIV-infected pregnant women; to determine the role of the rapid HIV-1 testing in labour room; and to detect mistakes in the prophylactic strategies. PATIENTS AND METHOD: One hundted and twenty four newborns from HIV-infected pregnant women born in Hospital del Mar were prospectively followed from 1996-2005. All them were separated in different groups in order to compare them. RESULTS: Eight children were infected, corresponding to 6.45%. In the group of newborns whose mothers were identified as infected during pregnancy, even with prophylactic measures well done, the transmission rate was 3.6% and it was 3.8% in the group born after 1999. When the prophylactic strategies were correct, 30% of pregnant women reached delivery with HIV RNA <1,000/ml copies. In the multivariate analysis, two variables were significant: amniorrhexis >4h and lack of identification of pregnant women as being HIV positive. CONCLUSIONS: The identification of HIV-pregnant women has been crucial to avoid HIV mother-to-child transmission. Rapid HIV-1 testing in labour room is key to set up preventive strategies in order to avoid the infection in the newborn. Adequate prophylaxis percentages are still low and improvement is needed.

The use of rifampicin-miconazole-impregnated catheters reduces the incidence of femoral and jugular catheter-related bacteremia.

BACKGROUND: The guidelines of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention do not recommend the use of an antimicrobial- or antiseptic-impregnated catheter for short-term use. In previous studies, we have found a higher incidence of central venous catheter-related bacteremia among patients with femoral and central jugular accesses than among patients with other venous accesses. OBJECTIVE: The objective of our study was to determine the incidence of central venous catheter-related bacteremia associated with rifampicin-miconazole-impregnated catheters and standard catheters in patients with femoral and central jugular venous accesses. METHODS: This was a cohort study, conducted in the 24-bed polyvalent medical-surgical intensive care unit of a university hospital. We included patients who were admitted to the intensive care unit from 1 June 2006 through 30 September 2007 and who underwent femoral or central jugular venous catheterization. RESULTS: We inserted 184 femoral (73 rifampicin-miconazole-impregnated catheters and 111 standard catheters) and 241 central jugular venous catheters (114 rifampicin-miconazole-impregnated catheters and 127 standard catheters). We found a lower rate of central venous catheter-related bacteremia associated with rifampicin-miconazole-impregnated catheters than with standard catheters among patients with femoral access (0 vs. 8.62 cases per 1000 catheter-days; odds ratio, 0.13; 95% confidence interval, 0.00-0.86; P = .03) and among patients with central internal jugular access (0 vs. 4.93 cases per 1000 catheter-days; odds ratio, 0.13; 95% confidence interval, 0.00-0.93; P = .04). CONCLUSIONS: Rifampicin-minonazole-impregnated catheters are associated with a statistically significant reduction in the incidence of catheter-related bacteremia in patients with short-term catheter use at the central jugular and femoral sites.

Influence of an endotracheal tube with polyurethane cuff and subglottic secretion drainage on pneumonia.

RATIONALE: Subglottic secretion drainage (SSD) appears to be effective in preventing ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP), primarily by reducing early-onset pneumonia; but it may not prevent late-onset pneumonia. We tested the hypothesis using an endotracheal tube incorporating an ultrathin polyurethane cuff (which reduces channel formation and fluid leakage from the subglottic area), in addition to an SSD lumen, which would reduce the incidence of late-onset VAP. OBJECTIVES: To compare the incidence of VAP, using an endotracheal tube with polyurethane cuff and subglottic secretion drainage (ETT-PUC-SSD) versus a conventional endotracheal tube (ETT-C) with polyvinyl cuff, without subglottic secretion drainage. METHODS: Clinical randomized trial in a 24-bed medical-surgical intensive care unit. Patients expected to require mechanical ventilation for more than 24 hours were randomly assigned to one of two groups: one was ventilated with ETT-PUC-SSD and the other with ETT-C. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: Tracheal aspirate samples were obtained during endotracheal intubation, then twice per week and finally on extubation. VAP was found in 31 of 140 (22.1%) patients in the ETT-C group and in 11 of 140 (7.9%) in the ETT-PUC-SSD group (P = 0.001). Cox regression analysis showed ETT-C as a risk factor for global VAP (hazard ratio [HR], 3.3; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.66-6.67; P = 0.001), early-onset VAP (HR, 3.3; 95% CI, 1.19-9.09; P = 0.02), and late-onset VAP (HR, 3.5; 95% CI, 1.34-9.01; P = 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: The use of an endotracheal tube with polyurethane cuff and subglottic secretion drainage helps prevent early- and late-onset VAP. Clinical trial registered with www.clinicaltrials.gov (NCT 00475579).

[Analysis of prenatal abuse in catalonia between the years 2011 and 2014]. / Análisis del maltrato prenatal en Cataluña entre los años 2011 y 2014.

INTRODUCTION: Foetal abuse is that intentional or negligent act that causes a harmful effect to the foetus. It is a type of abuse difficult to diagnose and handle. Some indicators of suspicion are the absence of gestational control, the maternal consumption of toxic substances, or the problematic maternal social environment. OBJECTIVE: To analyse the cases of foetal abuse registered in Catalonia between 2011 and 2014 to identify the risk profile. METHODS: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on a sample of 222 cases of prenatal abuse registered in Catalonia between 2011 and 2014. RESULTS: The mean maternal age was 28.11 years, with 63% of Spanish nationality, 76% were unemployed, 60% had not followed correct gestational control, 76% had previous pregnancy interruptions, 20% reported to have been mistreated by the partner, had history of social problems (76% social intervention, 30.5% previous child retention, 13% custody of the mother by the administration, 7% deprivation of liberty), with high rates of mother-to-child transmission of infection (HIV 4.95%, HCV 9%, HIV+HCV co-infection 1.8%), and 73% reported toxic use (in order of frequency, cannabis, cocaine and heroin). In newborns, the rate of prematurity (26.3%) is highlighted, as well as the diagnosis of withdrawal syndrome in 34 cases. Just over half (51.6%) of the infants are currently with their mother. CONCLUSIONS: In our reference population with a diagnosis of prenatal abuse, there are high rates of maternal toxic consumption, HIV-HCV infection, unemployment, history of previous social intervention, and poor gestational control.

Insuficiencia venosa periférica en personal de enfermería quirúrgica: importancia del autocuidado / Peripheral venous insufficiency in surgical nursing personnel: importance of self-care

Introducción: la insuficiencia venosa es una afectación en la cual las venas son incapaces de enviar sangre desde las extremidades inferiores al corazón. La gravedad de esta enfermedad radica en sus complicaciones, el grado más leve produce escozor, dolor, pesadez, cansancio y quemazón en la planta de los pies; al complicarse puede presentar edema, calambres en pantorrillas, prurito intenso y coloración oscura de la piel. Objetivo: describir el nivel de conocimiento y cumplimiento del personal de enfermería de área quirúrgica respecto al autocuidado relacionado a la insuficiencia venosa de miembros inferiores. Material y métodos: se trata de un estudio descriptivo, trasversal, prolectivo y observacional; el universo es de 24 profesionales en enfermería y la muestra estuvo conformada por 22 colaboradores adscritos al área quirúrgica de un hospital público de segundo nivel de atención; se utilizaron dos instrumentos: 1) conocimiento y 2) cuestionario para evaluar el autocuidado. Se analizaron los datos mediante estadística descriptiva y prueba exacta de Fisher. Resultados: el 100 % de los participantes en el estudio no cumple con el autocuidado, el criterio para determinar el cumplimiento fue que, al observar las acciones preventivas conocidas como autocuidado, se obtuviera una calificación de 6 ítems completos, lo cual no sucede. Conclusión: existe un factor de riesgo para la insuficiencia venosa en miembros inferiores, donde la antigüedad laboral es la variable que evidencia diferencias significativas con respecto al conocimiento y cumplimiento.

Introduction: venous insufficiency is an affection in which the veins are unable to send blood from the lower extremities to the heart. The seriousness of this disease lies in its complications, the mildest degree produces itching, pain, heaviness, tiredness and burning on the soles of the feet, when complicated it can present edema, calf cramps, intense itching, and dark coloration of the skin. Objective: the knowledge and compliance of nursing staff in the surgical area with respect to self-care related to venous insufficiency of the lower limbs is described. Material and methods: This are a descriptive, cross-sectional, prolective and observational study. The universe is made up of 24 nursing professionals and the sample was made up of 22 collaborators assigned to the surgical area of a second-level public hospital; 2 instruments were used: 1) knowledge and 2) questionnaire to assess self- care. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Fisher's exact test. Results: 100% of the study participants do not comply with self-care, the criterion to determine compliance was that when observing the preventive actions known as self-care, a score of 6 complete items was obtained, which does not happen. Conclusion: there is a risk factor for venous insufficiency in the lower limbs, when the seniority is the variable that shows significant differences with respect to knowledge and compliance.

[Trends of HIV mother-to-child transmission in Catalonia, Spain, between 1987 and 2003]. / Evolución de la transmisión vertical del VIH en Cataluña durante el período 1987-2003.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: To describe and to analyze the evolution of the mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the clinical and epidemiological characteristics and the use of antiretrovirals (ARV) in the HIV infected pregnant women and their new-borns alive between 1987 and 2003 in Catalonia. MATERIAL AND METHOD: The available clinical-epidemiological and treatment data were obtained from 4 reference hospitals that take care of most of the children born to HIV infected mothers in Catalonia. Two of the hospitals had a data base designed to the follow up of their patients, whereas in the other 2 data were gathered by reviewing clinical registries. For the analysis, 3 periods, based on the recommendations of treatment ARV during pregnancy, were settled down: 1987-1993; 1994-1996, and 1997-2003. RESULTS: 1,105 mother-infant pairs were studied. HIV MTCT was reduced from 20.4% to 3.5% from first to third period of study (p < 0.001). The median age of the mothers increased from 24.6 to 30.5 years of age (p < 0.001). The proportion of women infected by sexual transmission increased from 17.2% to 58.8% (p < 0.001), whereas that of parenteral transmission decreased from the 79.2% to 43.5% (p < 0.001). In the last period, 74.1% of mother-child pairs received complete ARV prophylaxis regimens and 21.6% partial ones. The rate of elective caesarean-section went up from 32.2% to 58.2% (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The rates of MTCT in our setting have followed the same trend as in other countries of our surroundings. The observed changes reflect the variations in the characteristics of the epidemic in the general population. The implementation of the recommendations on ARV prophylaxis has begun early and it has extended progressively without getting to be total. Additional strategies for the universal coverage of the screening test during pregnancy are still needed.

[Plasma 25-OH Vitamin D Concentrations in Cord Blood after Summer Months, Spain]. / Concentraciones plasmáticas de 25-OH-vitamina D en sangre de cordón umbilical tras los meses de verano.

OBJECTIVE: Plasma vitamin D (25(OH)D) levels in the newborn are dependent on maternal stores. Several studies showing a high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in pregnant women have been published last years. The aim of the study was to analyze 25(OH)D levels in cord blood after summer month, determine whether there is a relation with different variables. METHODS: 103 pregnant women were recruited between October and early December 2014, whose gestations took place during month of maximum sun exposure. Plasmatic 25(OH)D values were measured in cord blood at birth. Clinical record data were collected and a nutritional survey was made on maternal vitamin D and calcium intake and sun exposure. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS. Comparisons were performed using Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney U tests, and correction for multiple comparisons using Bonferroni. P value smaller than 0.05 and smaller than 0.0083 for multiple comparisons were considered sta¬tistically significant. RESULTS: Mean 25(OH)D value in cord blood was 12.36± 7.2 ng/ml. Vitamin D deficiency was present in 83.4% of women. A statistically significant correlation was observed between lowvitamin D levels and low vitamin D intake (correlation coefficient 0.29); Ethnic group, with the highest level in caucasic group (17.9 ± 5.83 ng/ml) and the lowest in indopakistani group (6.68 ± 4.2 ng/ml); the use of traditional clothing (5.64 ± 3.09 ng/ml); low sun exposure and dark skin phototype with a correlation coefficient of 0.67 and -0.48, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: There is a high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in pregnant women regardless of the season and increased sun exposure. Low vitamin D levels in cord blood were significantly related to ethnicity (Indopakistan and Maghreb), low sun exposure and dark skin phototype. No statistically significant differences were found between vitamin D levels and perinatal variables studied.

OBJETIVO: Los niveles de vitamina D (25(OH)D) del recién nacido dependen de los depósitos maternos. En los últimos años se han publicado estudios que muestran una elevada prevalencia de deficiencia de vitamina D en mujeres embarazadas, viéndose en algunos diferencias estacionales. El objetivo del presente estudio fue determinar los valores de 25(OH)D en sangre de cordón después de los meses de verano y determinar su relación con diferentes variables. METODOS: Se seleccionó a 103 mujeres en el momento del parto durante los meses de octubre, noviembre y principios de diciembre, cuyas gestaciones tuvieron lugar durante meses de máxima exposición solar. Se determinaron las concentraciones de 25(OH)D en sangre de cordón umbilical y se recogieron datos perinatales, ingesta de vitamina D y calcio y exposición solar mediante cuestionario. Se realizó el análisis estadístico mediante el programa SPSS. Las comparaciones se realizaron mediante test de Kruskal-Wallis y U de Mann-Whitney, aplicando corrección por comparaciones múltiples de Bonferroni. Se consideró estadísticamente significativa una p inferior a 0,05 y de 0,0083 para comparaciones múltiples. RESULTADOS: El valor medio de 25(OH)D en sangre de cordón fue 12,36±7,2 ng/ml. El 83,4% de las mujeres presentaron niveles deficitarios. Se observó una correlación estadísticamente significativa entre los niveles bajos de vitamina D y la baja ingesta de vitamina D (coeficiente de correlación 0,29); la etnia, presentando el valor más alto la etnia caucásica (17,9 ± 5,83 ng/ml) y el menor la etnia indopakistaní (6,68 ± 4,2 ng/ml); el uso de indumentaria tradicional (5,64 ± 3,09 ng/ml); la baja exposición solar y el fototipo cutáneo oscuro con un coeficiente de correlación de 0,67 y -0,48 respectivamente. CONCLUSIONES: Existe una elevada prevalencia de deficiencia de vitamina D en sangre de cordón umbilical independiente de la exposición solar. Se observó una correlación entre niveles bajos de vitamina D y etnia, indumentaria tradicional, baja exposición solar y fototipo de piel oscura. No se observaron diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre los niveles de vitamina D y las variables perinatales estudiadas.

Tracheal suction by closed system without daily change versus open system.

BACKGROUND: Tracheal suctioning costs are higher with a closed tracheal suction system (CTSS) than with an open system (OTSS), due to the need for complete daily change as recommended by the manufacturer. However, is it necessary to change the closed system daily? OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the tracheal suctioning costs and incidence of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) using closed system without daily change vs OTSS. DESIGN: Prospective and randomised study. SETTING: An Intensive Care Unit in a university hospital. PATIENTS: Patients requiring mechanical ventilation. INTERVENTIONS: Patients were randomly assigned to CTSS without daily change or OTSS. We used a CTSS that allowed partial or complete change. MEASUREMENTS AND RESULTS: There were no significant differences between both groups of patients (236 with CTSS and 221 with OTSS) in gender, age, diagnosis, APACHE-II score, mortality, number of aspirations per day, percentage of patients who developed VAP (13.9 vs 14.1%) or the number of ventilator-associated pneumonia per 1000 days of mechanical ventilation (14.1 vs 14.6). There were not significant differences in tracheal suctioning costs per patient/day between CTSS vs OTSS (2.3+/-3.7 vs 2.4+/-0.5 Euros; p=0.96); however, when length of mechanical ventilation was lower than 4 days, the cost was higher with CTSS than with OTSS (7.2+/-4.7 vs 1.9+/-0.6 Euros; p<0.001); and when length of mechanical ventilation was higher than 4days, the cost was lower with CTSS than with OTSS (1.6+/-2.8 vs 2.5+/-0.5 Euros; p<0.001). CONCLUSION: CTSS without daily change is the optimal option for patients needing tracheal suction longer than 4 days.

Ventilator-associated pneumonia using a heated humidifier or a heat and moisture exchanger: a randomized controlled trial [ISRCTN88724583].

INTRODUCTION: Some guidelines to prevent ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) do not establish a recommendation for the preferential use of either heat and moisture exchangers (HMEs) or heated humidifiers (HHs), while other guidelines clearly advocate the use of HMEs. The aim of this study was to determine the incidence of VAP associated with HHs or HMEs. METHODS: A randomized study was conducted in the intensive care unit of a university hospital involving patients expected to require mechanical ventilation for >5 days. Patients were assigned to two groups; one group received HH and the other group received HME. Tracheal aspirate samples were obtained on endotracheal intubation, then twice a week, and finally on extubation, in order to diagnose VAP. Throat swabs were taken on admission to the intensive care unit, then twice a week, and finally at discharge from the intensive care unit in order to classify VAP as primary endogenous, secondary endogenous, or exogenous. RESULTS: A total of 120 patients were assigned to HMEs (60 patients) and HHs (60 patients); 16 patients received mechanical ventilation for less than five days and were excluded from the analysis. Data analysis of the remaining 104 patients (53 HMEs and 51 HHs) showed no significant differences between groups regarding sex, age, Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II score, pre-VAP use of antibiotics, days on mechanical ventilation, and diagnosis group. VAP was found in eight of 51 (15.69%) patients in the HH group and in 21 of 53 (39.62%) patients in the HME group (P = 0.006). The median time free of VAP was 20 days (95% confidence interval, 13.34-26.66) for the HH group and was 42 days (95% confidence interval, 35.62-48.37) for the HME group (P <0.001). Cox regression analysis showed the HME as a risk factor for VAP (hazard rate, 16.2; 95% confidence interval, 4.54-58.04; P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: The patients mechanically ventilated during more than 5 days developed a lower incidence of VAP with a heated humidifier than heat and moisture exchanger.

Patrón biomecánico de la primera fase de la carrera de 100 metros para velocistas juveniles / Padrão biomecânico da primeira fase do sprint de 100 metros para sprinters juniores / Biomechanical pattern of the first phase of the 100 m race for junior sprinters

RESUMEN Los estudios especializados sobre los 100 metros planos han tenido en cuenta para el análisis biomecánico de la ejecución técnica, tanto las características dinámicas como las cinemáticas de los movimientos, las cuales develan la importancia de la arrancada y primeros pasos en esta prueba. En Cuba, se ha visto un retroceso en la calidad del sector de los 100 m., pues los atletas cubanos no figuran en las finales de esta disciplina atlética en juegos a nivel Panamericano, Olímpico y Mundial. Muchas son las causas que justifican la carencia de velocistas élites en los actuales momentos, pero teniendo en cuenta la importancia que se le confiere a la primera fase de la carrera de 100 metros planos, es que se planteó como objetivo proponer un patrón biomecánico para los velocistas juveniles, en especial de la Escuela de Iniciación Deportiva Escolar "Héctor Ruiz" de Villa Clara. Se utilizaron como métodos del nivel teórico: el inductivo-deductivo, el análisis y síntesis, el enfoque sistémico-estructural y la modelación. Del nivel empírico, se emplearon: la revisión documental, la metodología observacional, la encuesta, la entrevista, el criterio de expertos, usuarios y técnicas para el estudio biomecánico. En este estudio, se logró la propuesta de un patrón biomecánico de la primera fase de la carrera de 100 m. para velocistas juveniles, sustentando en las características de los atletas en su adolescencia y de la actividad competitiva.

RESUMO Estudos especializados sobre os 100m levaram em conta para a análise biomecânica da execução técnica, tanto as características dinâmicas como cinemáticas dos movimentos, que revelam a importância do início e dos primeiros passos neste evento. Em Cuba, houve um declínio na qualidade dos 100m, já que os atletas cubanos não aparecem nas finais desta disciplina atlética nos Jogos Pan-americanos, Olímpicos e Mundiais. Há muitas causas que justificam a falta de velocistas de elite no momento, mas levando em conta a importância dada à primeira fase da prova plana de 100m, foi proposto como objetivo propor um padrão biomecânico para os velocistas jovens, especialmente da Escola de Iniciação ao Esporte Escolar "Héctor Ruiz", em Villa Clara. Os seguintes métodos foram utilizados no nível teórico: indutivo-dedutivo, análise e síntese, abordagem sistêmico-estrutural e modelagem. No nível empírico, foram utilizados os seguintes métodos: revisão documental, metodologia observacional, pesquisa, entrevista, julgamento de especialistas, usuários e técnicas para o estudo biomecânico. Neste estudo, a proposta de um padrão biomecânico da primeira fase da prova de 100 m para velocistas juvenis foi alcançada, com base nas características dos atletas em sua adolescência e na atividade competitiva.

ABSTRACT The specialized studies on the 100 meters have taken into account for the biomechanical analysis of the technical execution, both the dynamic and kinematic characteristics of the movements, which reveal the importance of the start and first steps in this test. In Cuba, there has been a setback in the quality of the 100 m. sector. Cuban athletes do not appear in the finals of this athletic discipline in games at Pan-American, Olympic and World level. There are many causes that justify the lack of elite sprinters at the present time, but taking into account the importance that is given to the first phase of the 100 meters flat race, it was proposed as an objective to propose a biomechanical pattern for youth sprinters, especially from the School of School Sports Initiation "Héctor Ruiz" of Villa Clara. The following methods were used at the theoretical level: inductive-deductive, analysis and synthesis, systemic structural approach and modeling. From the empirical level, the following methods were used: documentary review, observational methodology, survey, interview, expert criteria, users and techniques for the biomechanical study. In this study, the proposal of a biomechanical pattern of the first phase of the 100 m. race for juvenile sprinters was achieved, based on the characteristics of the athletes in their adolescence and the competitive activity.