Rol comunicativo del cuidador en pacientes con accidente cerebrovascular, Sincelejo, Colombia / The communicative role of caregivers assisting stroke patients from Sincelejo, Colombia / Papel comunicativo do cuidador em pacientes com acidente vascular cerebral, Sincelejo, Colômbia

Introducción: Las enfermedades cerebrovasculares son consideradas un problema de salud pública que afectan muchas capacidades en el individuo, entre ellas la comunicación; de esta manera el cuidador cumple un papel fundamental en su recuperación. Objetivo: Describir el rol comunicativo del cuidador en la atención a pacientes con secuelas de accidente cerebrovascular en la ciudad de Sincelejo, Colombia. Materiales y métodos: Paradigma positivista, enfoque cuantitativo y estudio descriptivo de corte transversal realizado con 40 cuidadores, seleccionados según muestreo por criterios y reclutamiento en cadena. Se utilizó una encuesta sociodemográfica, una sobre favorecimiento y bienestar comunicativo y Escala Likert, se realizó análisis de fiabilidad y consistencia interna del instrumento. Resultados: Predominaron cuidadores de sexo femenino, sobresale el cuidador informal, con estudios de secundaria y estrato socioeconómico bajo. Se encontró una actitud favorable en la competencia del ser y saber hacer, prima el buen trato, justicia y respeto. La competencia del saber evidenció actitud desfavorable, caracterizada por un conocimiento limitado frente a la patología, insuficientes destrezas, técnicas y habilidades para cumplir sus funciones y estrategias empleadas. Conclusión: Es necesario cualificar al cuidador en la atención del paciente con accidente cerebrovascular, mediante programas de que dinamicen la competencia del ser, saber y saber hacer

Introduction: Cerebrovascular diseases are a public health problem affecting the different capabilities of patients, including communication. Thus, caregivers play a fundamental role in their recovery. Objective: To describe the communicative role of caregivers in the support of patients with stroke sequelae in the city of Sincelejo, Colombia. Materials and methods: A positivist paradigm, quantitative approach, and descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out with 40 caregivers, who were selected according to criteria sampling and chain recruitment. A sociodemographic survey about favorability and communicative well-being as well as the Likert Scale were applied. A reliability and internal consistency analysis was conducted. Results: The majority of caregivers were women. Informal caregivers, with high school education, and belonging to low socioeconomic status were also predominant. A positive attitude regarding competences such as being and knowing what to do; appropriate treatment of patients, with justice and respect, were observed as common features. The knowledge competence was considered unfavorable, which was characterized by limited understanding regarding pathology, strategies used, and insufficient skills, techniques, and abilities to fulfill their functions. Conclusions: Caregivers of stroke patients should be qualified through programs that improve the being, knowing, and knowing how to do competencies.

Introdução: As doenças cerebrovasculares são consideradas um problema de saúde pública que afeta diversas capacidades do indivíduo, incluindo a comunicação; desta forma, o cuidador desempenha um papel fundamental na sua recuperação. Objetivo: Descrever o papel comunicativo do cuidador no cuidado de pacientes com sequelas de acidente vascular cerebral na cidade de Sincelejo, Colômbia. Materiais e métodos: Paradigma positivista, abordagem quantitativa e estudo transversal descritivo realizado com 40 cuidadores, selecionados segundo critérios de amostragem e recrutamento em cadeia. Foi utilizado um inquérito sociodemográfico, um de favorabilidade e bem-estar comunicativo e uma Escala Likert, foi realizada uma análise da fiabilidade e consistência interna do instrumento. Resultados: Predominaram cuidadores do sexo feminino, destacando-se os cuidadores informais, com escolaridade média e baixo nível socioeconômico. Encontrou-se na competição uma atitude favorável por ser e saber fazer, prevalecendo o bom tratamento, a justiça e o respeito. A competência conhecimento apresentou atitude desfavorável, caracterizada por conhecimento limitado sobre a patologia, habilidades, técnicas e habilidades insuficientes para cumprir suas funções e estratégias utilizadas. Conclusões: É necessário qualificar o cuidador no cuidado ao paciente com AVC, por meio de programas que potencializem a competência de ser, saber e saber fazer.

A Calcificação do Arco Aórtico Observada na Radiografia de Tórax Pode Servir Como um Preditor Independente de Acidente Vascular Cerebral Recorrente / Aortic Arch Calcification Observed on Chest X-Ray May Serve as an Independent Predictor for Recurrent Stroke

Resumo Fundamento Apesar dos avanços nas modalidades de diagnóstico e tratamento, há necessidade de marcadores preditivos para acidente vascular cerebral (AVC) recorrentes. Objetivos Este estudo teve como objetivo investigar a relação entre calcificação do arco aórtico (CAA) e recorrência de AVC em pacientes com AVC durante o acompanhamento de um ano. Métodos Todos os pacientes com AVC que sofreram seu primeiro evento foram avaliados para participação no estudo. Foram registrados pacientes que sofreram AVC recorrentes durante o acompanhamento de um ano. A CAA foi avaliada por radiografia de tórax. Com base na ocorrência de AVC recorrente, os pacientes foram divididos em dois grupos. A CAA foi classificada em quatro categorias de acordo com o seu grau, e a presença de CAA foi incluída na análise estatística. A relação entre CAA e AVC recorrente foi avaliada por meio de uma curva característica de operação do receptor. Um nível de significância <0,05 foi considerado aceitável para todas as análises estatísticas. Resultados Um total de 203 pacientes foram incluídos no estudo (46,8% mulheres, média de idade 69±12,3). AVC recorrente foi detectado em 49 pacientes. CAA, hipertensão e fibrilação atrial foram mais frequentes em pacientes com AVC recorrente. Pacientes com AVC recorrente apresentaram menor taxa de filtração glomerular e maior largura de distribuição de glóbulos vermelhos (RDW). Na análise de regressão multivariada, CAA (hazard ratio [HR], 3,544; IC 95%:1,653-7,598, p=0,001) e RDW (HR,1,214; IC 95%:1,053-1,400, p=0,008) foram identificados como preditores independentes de AVC recorrente. Conclusão A presença de CAA (≥ grau 1) e RDW foram significativamente associadas ao desenvolvimento de AVC recorrente dentro de um ano. Esses achados podem ter significado prognóstico no acompanhamento de pacientes com AVC.

Abstract Background Despite advances in diagnostic and treatment modalities, there is a need for predictive markers for recurrent strokes. Objectives This study aimed to investigate the relationship between aortic arch calcification (AAC) and stroke recurrence in stroke patients during a one-year follow-up. Methods All stroke patients who experienced their first event were evaluated for participation in the study. Patients who experienced recurrent strokes during the one-year follow-up were recorded. AAC was assessed by chest radiography. Based on the occurrence of recurrent strokes the patients were divided into two groups. AAC was classified into four categories according to its degree, and the presence of AAC was included in the statistical analysis. The relationship between AAC and recurrent stroke was assessed using a receiver operating characteristic curve. A significance level of <0.05 was deemed acceptable for all statistical analyses. Results A total of 203 patients were included in the study (46.8% female, mean age 69±12.3). Recurrent stroke was detected in 49 patients. AAC, hypertension, and atrial fibrillation were more frequent in patients with recurrent stroke. Patients with recurrent stroke had a lower glomerular filtration rate and a higher red cell distribution width (RDW). In multivariate regression analysis, AAC (hazard ratio [HR], 3.544; 95% CI:1.653-7.598, p=0.001) and RDW (HR,1.214; 95% CI:1.053-1.400, p=0.008) were identified as independent predictors of recurrent stroke. Conclusion The presence of AAC (≥ grade 1) and RDW were found to be significantly associated with the development of recurrent stroke within one year. These findings may have prognostic significance in the follow-up of stroke patients.

ACV isquémico debido a embolia paradojal a través de malformación arteriovenosa pulmonar en paciente joven / Ischemic stroke due to paradoxical embolism through pulmonary arteriovenous malformation in a young patient

Resumen La embolia paradojal debido a una malformación arteriovenosa pulmonar (MAVP) aislada es una causa in frecuente de accidente cerebrovascular (ACV) isquémico. Las MAVP son conductos anómalos de alta circulación entre arterias y venas pulmonares, desviando sangre desoxigenada hacia la circulación sistémica y represen tan una fuente menos común de embolias paradojales, especialmente en personas jóvenes. La embolización endovascular es el tratamiento preferido para MAVP clínicamente significativas. Presentamos el caso de una mujer de 34 años con ACV isquémico talámico izquierdo. Se detectó pasaje de burbujas "en cortina" en arterias cerebrales mediante Doppler transcraneal. En ecografía intracardíaca no se encontró foramen oval permeable, motivo por el cual se avanzó con realización de angiotomografía pulmonar, la cual confirmó la presencia de MAVP. La paciente recibió tratamiento endovascular exitoso. Es esencial considerar la MAVP en el diagnóstico etio lógico del ACV isquémico, especialmente en pacientes jóvenes con signos de comunicación anormal de derecha a izquierda. Se recomienda un seguimiento periódico mediante imágenes para evaluar la posible recurrencia o cambios en la MAVP, resaltando la importancia del manejo adecuado de estas malformaciones.

Abstract Paradoxical embolism due to an isolated pulmonary arteriovenous malformation (PAVM) is a rare cause of ischemic stroke. PAVMs are abnormal high-flow connec tions between pulmonary arteries and veins, diverting deoxygenated blood into the systemic circulation and they represent a less common source of paradoxical embolisms, especially in young individuals. Endovascular embolization is the preferred treatment for clinically significant PAVMs. We present the case of a 34-year-old woman with a left thalamic ischemic stroke. Severe contrast passage was detected in cerebral arteries through transcranial Doppler. Intracardiac ultrasound did not reveal a patent foramen ovale, prompting further investigation with pulmonary CT angiography, confirming the presence of PAVM. The patient underwent successful endovascular treatment. It is essential to consider PAVM in the etiological di agnosis of ischemic stroke, especially in young patients with signs of abnormal right-to-left communication. Periodic follow-up imaging is recommended to assess potential recurrence or changes in PAVM, emphasizing the importance of appropriate management of these malformations.

Factores de riesgo asociados a enfermedades cerebrovasculares en pacientes del Centro de Salud Tulcán Sur

Fundamento: la enfermedad cerebrovascular es toda alteración de una o varias áreas encefálicas, ya sea de forma transitoria o permanente, secundaria a un trastorno de la circulación cerebral de origen isquémico o hemorrágico. Por muchos años ha sido considerada una de las principales causas de muerte a nivel mundial. Está entre las principales causas de muerte en Ecuador. Objetivo: describir los factores de riesgo de enfermedades cerebrovasculares en pacientes adultos diagnosticados con enfermedades cerebrovasculares en el Centro de Salud Tulcán Sur en un periodo de 1 año. Métodos: se realizó un estudio descriptivo y transversal, en el Centro de Salud Tulcán Sur, en un periodo de 1 año, desde septiembre del 2022 a septiembre del 2023. El universo lo constituyeron 130 pacientes. Se analizaron las variables sociodemográficas: edad y sexo; clínicas: presencia o no de hipertensión arterial, tabaquismo, alcoholismo, diabetes mellitus, dislipidemia, fibrilación auricular y sedentarismo. La normalidad de la distribución de los datos fue analizada utilizando la prueba de Kolmogorov-Smirnov. Las variables categóricas fueron expresadas en frecuencias absoluta y relativa. Las variables cuantitativas se describieron utilizando la media y la desviación típica. Resultados: la media de edad de la población fue de 61,0 ± 16,5. El sexo masculino predominó con 70 pacientes (53,8 %). La hipertensión arterial, el tabaquismo y la obesidad fueron los factores de riesgo cardiovascular más frecuentes con 73 (56,5 %), 79 (60,7 %), 64 (49,2 %) pacientes respectivamente. Conclusiones: la hipertensión arterial, el tabaquismo y la obesidad fueron los factores de riesgo con más prevalencia.

Foundation: cerebrovascular disease is any alteration of one or more brain areas, whether temporary or permanent, secondary to a cerebral circulation disorder of ischemic or hemorrhagic origin. For many years it has been considered one of the main causes of death worldwide. It is among the main causes of death in Ecuador. Objective: to describe the risk factors for cerebrovascular diseases in adult patients diagnosed with cerebrovascular diseases at the Tulcán Sur Health Center over a period of 1 year. Methods: a descriptive and cross-sectional study was carried out at the Tulcán Sur Health Center, over a period of 1 year, from September 2022 to September 2023. The universe consisted of 130 patients. The sociodemographic variables were analyzed: age and sex; clinical: presence or absence of high blood pressure, smoking, alcoholism, diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, atrial fibrillation and sedentary lifestyle. The normality of the data distribution was analyzed using the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test. Categorical variables were expressed in absolute and relative frequencies. Quantitative variables were described using the mean and standard deviation. Results: the mean age of the population was 61.0 ± 16.5. The male sex predominated with 70 patients (53.8 %). High blood pressure, smoking and obesity were the most common cardiovascular risk factors with 73 (56.5 %), 79 (60.7 %), 64 (49.2 %) patients respectively. Conclusions: high blood pressure, smoking and obesity were the most prevalent risk factors.

Neurotrophic Factor Mediated Neurorestorative Effect of Pongamia pinnata Against Transient Cerebral Hypoperfusion and Reperfusion in Rats: Preliminary Histological and Molecular Level Evidence / Efecto Neurorestaurador Mediado por Factor Neurotrófico de Pongamia pinnata Contra la Hipoperfusión y Reperfusión Cerebral Transitoria en Ratas: Evidencia Preliminar de un Estudio a Nivel Histológico y Molecular

SUMMARY: Stroke is the leading cause of acquired physical disability in adults and second leading cause of mortality throughout the world. Treatment strategies to curb the effects of stroke would be of great benefit. Pongamia pinnata is a recent attraction in medicine, owing to its abundant medicinal benefits with minimal side effects. The present study aimed to examine acute and subacute effect of Pongamia pinnata leaf extract on transient cerebral hypoperfusion and reperfusion (tCHR) in Wistar rats. 24 adult Wistar rats (12 each for acute and subacute study) were divided in to four groups each viz normal control group, tCHR + NS group, tCHR + 200mg/kg bw and tCHR + 400mg/kg bw groups. Cerebral ischemia induction was carried out by bilateral common carotid artery occlusion and reperfusion. Ethanolic extract of Pongamia pinnata leaves were orally administered for 7 days and 21 days after the surgical procedure for acute and subacute study respectively. Behavioural analysis, histological assessment, and estimation of mRNA levels of HIF-1, GDNF, BDNF and NF-kB were performed. In both acute and subacute study, there was significant improvement in the beam walking assay, neuronal count, decreased neuronal damage in histological sections and higher mRNA expression of BDNF and GDNF in the treatment groups. There was no significant difference in the expression of HIF1 and NF-kB. Thus, Pongamia pinnata has excellent neurorestorative property reversing many of the effects of ischemic stroke induced by tCHR in rats with the underlying mechanism being an improvement in the expression of neurotrophic factors GDNF and BDNF.

El ataque cerebrovascular es la principal causa de discapacidad física adquirida en adultos y la segunda causa de mortalidad en todo el mundo. Las estrategias de tratamiento para frenar los efectos del ataque cerebrovascular serían de gran beneficio. Pongamia pinnata es una atracción reciente en la medicina, debido a sus abundantes beneficios medicinales con mínimos efectos secundarios. El presente estudio tuvo como objetivo examinar el efecto agudo y subagudo del extracto de hoja de Pongamia pinnata sobre la hipoperfusión y reperfusión cerebral transitoria (tCHR) en ratas Wistar. Se dividieron 24 ratas Wistar adultas (12 cada una para el estudio agudo y subagudo) en cuatro grupos, el grupo control normal, el grupo tCHR + NS, los grupos tCHR + 200 mg/kg de peso corporal y tCHR + 400 mg/kg de peso corporal. La inducción de la isquemia cerebral se llevó a cabo mediante oclusión y reperfusión bilateral de la arteria carótida común. El extracto etanólico de hojas de Pongamia pinnata se administró por vía oral durante 7 días y 21 días después del procedimiento quirúrgico para estudio agudo y subagudo respectivamente. Se realizaron análisis de comportamiento, evaluación histológica y estimación de los niveles de ARNm de HIF-1, GDNF, BDNF y NF-kB. Tanto en el estudio agudo como en el subagudo, hubo una mejora significativa en el ensayo de desplazamiento del haz, el recuento neuronal, una disminución del daño neuronal en las secciones histológicas y una mayor expresión de ARNm de BDNF y GDNF en los grupos con tratamiento. No hubo diferencias significativas en la expresión de HIF1 y NF-kB. Por lo tanto, Pongamia pinnata tiene una excelente propiedad neurorestauradora que revierte muchos de los efectos del ataque cerebrovascular isquémico inducido por tCHR en ratas, siendo el mecanismo subyacente una mejora en la expresión de los factores neurotróficos GDNF y BDNF.

Competências do enfermeiro no cuidado a pacientes com acidente vascular cerebral elegíveis à terapia trombolítica / Competencias de enfermería en el cuidado de personas con accidente cerebrovascular elegibles para terapia trombolítica / Nursing competencies in the care of patients with stroke who are eligible for thrombolytic therapy

Resumo Introdução: O acidente vascular cerebral isquêmico tem como tratamento a terapia trombolítica, aplicada ainda na fase aguda, promovendo melhora importante nas sequelas acarretadas por este agravo. Considerando a complexidade da terapia trombolítica, torna-se necessário que os enfermeiros compreendam suas competências para auxiliar no cuidado. Objetivo: Identificar evidências científicas acerca das competências do enfermeiro no cuidado a pacientes com acidente vascular cerebral elegíveis à terapia trombolítica. Metodologia: Revisão integrativa composta por seis etapas em seis etapas (elaboração da questão, busca na literatura, coleta de dados, análise, discussão e apresentação da revisão), realizada nas bases de dados MEDLINE, LILACS, BDENF, IBECS, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase e CINAHL. A busca foi realizada entre agosto e setembro de 2022 adotando como critérios de inclusão estudos primários; gratuitos, disponíveis eletronicamente na íntegra; nos idiomas inglês, português e espanhol. Foram obtidos inicialmente 2.830 estudos, os quais passaram por uma seleção, onde foram incluídos aqueles que atendiam os critérios previamente estabelecidos. Resultados: Com base nos doze estudos incluídos nesta revisão identificaram-se competências voltadas à três atividades do cuidado: gestão do cuidado como trabalho em equipe, códigos, fluxos e protocolos, assistência ao paciente antes, durante e após a utilização da terapia trombolítica e educação em saúde para equipe, pacientes e familiares. Conclusão: Os achados desta revisão puderam evidenciar as competências do enfermeiro no cuidado aos pacientes elegíveis a terapia trombolítica, as quais perpassam diferentes áreas de atuação do enfermeiro. Para este estudo prevaleceram as competências assistências, seguida por competências gerenciais.

Resumen Introducción: El accidente cerebrovascular isquémico se trata con terapia trombolítica, aplicada incluso en la fase aguda, que promueve una mejoría significativa de las secuelas provocadas por este padecimiento. Considerando la complejidad de la terapia trombolítica, es necesario que las personas profesionales de enfermería comprendan sus competencias para ayudar en el cuidado. Objetivo: Identificar evidencias científicas sobre las competencias del personal de enfermería en el cuidado de pacientes con accidente cerebrovascular elegibles para terapia trombolítica. Metodología: Revisión integradora que consta de seis etapas (elaboración de la pregunta, búsqueda bibliográfica, recolección de datos, análisis, discusión y presentación de la revisión), realizada en las bases de dados MEDLINE, LILACS, BDENF, IBECS, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase y CINAHL. La búsqueda se realizó entre agosto y septiembre de 2022. Los criterio de inclusión fueron: estudios primarios, gratuito, disponible electrónicamente en su totalidad, en inglés, portugués y español. Inicialmente se obtuvieron 2830 estudios, los cuales fueron sometidos a un proceso de selección, que incluyó aquellos que cumplían con los criterios previamente establecidos. Resultados: A partir de los doce estudios incluidos en esta revisión, se identificaron competencias centradas en tres actividades asistenciales: gestión del cuidado como trabajo en equipo, códigos, flujos y protocolos, atención a pacientes antes, durante y después del uso de la terapia trombolítica y educación en salud para personal, pacientes y familias. Conclusión: Los hallazgos de esta revisión pudieron resaltar las competencias de las personas profesionales en enfermería en el cuidado de personas elegibles para terapia trombolítica, que abarcan diferentes áreas de actuación del personal de enfermería. Para este estudio, prevalecieron las habilidades asistenciales, seguidas de las competencias gerenciales.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Ischemic stroke is treated with thrombolytic therapy, applied even in the acute phase, promoting a significant improvement in the after-effects caused by this condition. Considering the complexity of thrombolytic therapy, it is necessary for nurses to understand the skills required to assist in care. Objective: To identify scientific evidence about the competencies of nurses in the care of patients with stroke who are eligible for thrombolytic therapy. Methodology: An integrative review consisting of six stages (elaboration of the question, literature review, data collection, analysis, discussion, and presentation), conducted in MEDLINE, LILACS, BDENF, IBECS, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, and CINAHL databases. The search was carried out between August and September 2022 using primary studies as the inclusion criteria: free of charge, fully available electronically, published in English, Portuguese, or Spanish. Initially, 2.830 studies were obtained, which underwent a selection process that included only those studies that met the previously established criteria. Results: Based on the twelve studies included in this review, competencies focused on three care activities were identified: care management such as teamwork; codes; flows and protocols; patient care before, during, and after the use of thrombolytic therapy; and education health education for staff, patients, and families. Conclusion: The findings of this review highlighted the nurses' competencies in the care of patients eligible for thrombolytic therapy, which encompass different areas of the nurse's work. For this study, assistance competencies prevailed, followed by management competencies.

COVID-19 e a incidência de AVC isquêmico pós-infecção: uma revisão integrativa da literatura / COVID-19 and the incidence of post-infection ischemic stroke: an integrative literature review

O SARS-CoV-2 é um vírus que surgiu em 2019, sendo responsável por causar uma síndrome respiratória que foi denominada COVID-19. O vírus possui uma proteína, chamada proteína Spike, que interage com as ACE2, estando presente no trato respiratório e nas células endoteliais, causando inflamação, apoptose e efeitos pró-trombóticos que ativam a via de coagulação. Dessa maneira, presume-se que o estado de hipercoagulabilidade do vírus e a inflamação endotelial estejam relacionados à fisiopatologia do AVC isquêmico pós-infecção. O objetivo desta revisão foi analisar a fisiopatologia e a etiologia dos AVCs associados à infecção pelo vírus SARS-CoV-2 e seus fatores de risco. Foi realizada uma busca por trabalhos prévios nas plataformas PubMed e BVS, e um total de 26 artigos científicos foram incluídos após a aplicação de critérios de inclusão e exclusão. Através dos estudos analisados, observou-se a correlação do aumento da incidência do AVC pós-infecção pelo SARS-CoV-2, e os fatores de risco presentes principais foram hipertensão arterial, fibrilação atrial, diabetes mellitus, dislipidemia e insuficiência cardíaca. Em conclusão, a infecção por SARS-CoV-2 possui relação com o aumento da incidência de AVC, possivelmente por seu mecanismo trombótico e inflamatório dos endotélios.

SARS-CoV-2 is a virus that emerged in 2019, being responsible for causing a respiratory syndrome that was named COVID-19. The virus has a protein, called Spike protein, which interacts with ACE2, which are present in the respiratory tract and endothelial cells, causing inflammation, apoptosis and prothrombotic effects that activate the coagulation pathway. Thus, it is presumed that the hypercoagulable state of the virus and endothelial inflammation are related to the pathophysiology of postinfection ischemic stroke. The aim of this review was to analyze the pathophysiology and etiology of strokes associated with SARSCoV-2 virus infection and their risk factors. A search for previous works was carried out on PubMed and VHL platforms, and a total of 26 scientific articles were included after applying inclusion and exclusion criteria. Through the studies analyzed, a correlation was observed between the increased incidence of stroke after infection with SARS-CoV-2, and the main risk factors present were arterial hypertension, atrial fibrillation, diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia and heart failure. In conclusion, SARS-CoV-2 infection is related to the increased incidence of stroke, possibly due to its thrombotic and endothelial inflammatory mechanism.

Improving walking via real-time visual feedback after stroke in treadmill training (RE-VISIT): a protocol for randomized controlled trial / Melhorando a caminhada por meio de feedback visual em tempo real após acidente vascular cerebral em treinamento em esteira (RE-VISIT): um protocolo para ensaio clínico randomizado

BACKGROUND: After a stroke, most patients often suffer reduced walking ability and balance. Restoring walking ability and improving balance are major goals of stroke rehabilitation. Treadmills are often used in clinical setups to achieve these goals. Adding dimensions to the visual feedback in addition to the mirror for real-time frontal view is proven to enhance the gait. It is, therefore, important to design additional real-time visual feedback in treadmill training, in particular for the sagittal view involved side. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study is to test if the real-time sagittal visual feedback during treadmill training is superior to the conventional mirror feedback treadmill training program of equivalent intensity in improving walking speed and balance after stroke. METHODS/DESIGN: The RE-VISIT trial (Real-time Visual feedback after Stroke in Treadmill training) is registered in the Clinical Trial Registry of India (CTRI/2023/10/058299). In this two-arm randomized control trial, which will be a single-blinded study, 42 eligible stroke survivors undergoing rehabilitation will be randomly allocated (1:1 ratio) to either real-time visual sagittal feedback along with front mirror (experimental) group or only front mirror treadmill training (control) group, all the participants will receive 15 sessions of treadmill training for up to 15 min at a safe self-selected speed over 5-6 weeks. The RE-VISIT (experimental) group will receive real-time, visual sagittal view feedback of the involved lower limb trajectory along with the routine front mirror view during treadmill training and will be asked to modify their gait pattern. The control group will receive treadmill walking training only with the routine front mirror view feedback. Clinical and gait assessments will be conducted at the baseline, immediately following the final session of training, and at the 9th week during follow-up. The outcome measures of interest are walking speed (primary) and balance (secondary), which will be measured prior to baseline, post 15 sessions of training, and at the 9th week following training. DISCUSSION: This REVISIT trial will provide insight and contribute to the existing innovation and modifications of incorporating realtime visual feedback during treadmill training in post-stroke gait rehabilitation. The findings will help the better designing of a gait rehabilitation program with a treadmill for post-stroke subjects to improve walking speed, and balance for those who have greater difficulties in community ambulation. We anticipate that those in the REVISIT training will demonstrate improved walking ability.

CONTEXTO: Após o acidente vascular cerebral, a maioria dos pacientes frequentemente sofre redução da capacidade de caminhar e do equilíbrio. Restaurar a capacidade de caminhar e melhorar o equilíbrio são os principais objetivos da reabilitação do AVC. As esteiras são frequentemente usadas em ambientes clínicos para atingir esses objetivos. Está comprovado que adicionar dimensões ao feedback visual, além do espelho para visão frontal em tempo real, melhora a marcha. É, portanto, importante projetar feedbacks visuais adicionais em tempo real no treinamento em esteira, em particular para o lado envolvido na visão sagital. OBJETIVO: O objetivo deste estudo é testar se o feedback visual sagital em tempo real durante o treinamento em esteira é superior ao programa de treinamento em esteira com feedback de espelho convencional de intensidade equivalente na melhoria da velocidade de caminhada e equilíbrio após acidente vascular cerebral. MÉTODOS/ DESENHO: O ensaio RE-VISIT (feedback visual em tempo real após acidente vascular cerebral no treinamento em esteira) está registrado no Registro de Ensaios Clínicos da Índia (CTRI/2023/10/058299). Neste ensaio de controle randomizado de dois braços, que será um estudo cego, 42 sobreviventes de AVC elegíveis em reabilitação serão alocados aleatoriamente (proporção de 1:1) para feedback sagital visual em tempo real junto com grupo de espelho frontal (experimental) ou apenas Grupo de treinamento em esteira com espelho frontal (controle), todos os participantes receberão 15 sessões de treinamento em esteira por até 15 minutos em uma velocidade segura e autosselecionada durante 5-6 semanas. O grupo RE-VISIT (experimental) receberá feedback visual em tempo real da visão sagital da trajetória dos membros inferiores envolvidos, juntamente com a visão rotineira do espelho frontal durante o treinamento em esteira e será solicitado a modificar seu padrão de marcha. O grupo de controle receberá treinamento de caminhada em esteira apenas com o feedback rotineiro da visão do espelho frontal. Avaliações clínicas e de marcha serão realizadas no início do estudo, imediatamente após a sessão final de treinamento e na 9ª semana durante o acompanhamento. As medidas de resultados de interesse são a velocidade de caminhada (primária) e o equilíbrio (secundário), que serão medidos antes da linha de base, após a 15ª sessão de treinamento e na 9ª semana após o treinamento. DISCUSSÃO: este ensaio REVISIT fornecerá insights e contribuirá para a inovação e modificações existentes na incorporação de feedbacks visuais em tempo real durante o treinamento em esteira na reabilitação da marcha pós-AVC. As descobertas ajudarão no melhor desenho de um programa de reabilitação da marcha com esteira para indivíduos pós-AVC para melhorar a velocidade de caminhada e o equilíbrio para aqueles que têm maiores dificuldades na deambulação comunitária. Prevemos que aqueles no treinamento REVISIT demonstrarão melhor capacidade de caminhada.

Caracterización clínico-epidemiológica de pacientes con un primer evento de fibrilación auricular

Fundamento: Pese a la importancia del primer evento de fibrilación auricular como una de las urgencias médicas más tratadas, en Cienfuegos, son insuficientes los estudios en los que se describan las características clínico-epidemiológicas de estos pacientes. Objetivo: Caracterizar clínica y epidemiológicamente los pacientes con primer evento de fibrilación auricular en Cienfuegos entre los años 2020-2022. Método: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo y transversal. El universo estuvo conformado por 54 pacientes con diagnóstico de primer evento de fibrilación auricular ingresados en el Servicio de Cardiología del Hospital General Universitario Dr. Gustavo Aldereguía Lima de Cienfuegos entre los años 2020-2022. Las variables estudiadas fueron: edad, sexo, color de la piel, hábitos tóxicos, antecedentes patológicos personales, manifestaciones clínicas, parámetros ecocardiográficos y tratamiento. Se calcularon la frecuencia absoluta y relativa de las variables. Los resultados se presentaron en tablas. Resultados: Predominó el sexo masculino, el grupo etáreo de 36-55 años, el color de piel blanca, y el tabaquismo. Los antecedentes patológicos personales más frecuentes fueron: la hipertensión arterial (74,1 %), la diabetes mellitus tipo 2 (16,7 %) y las valvulopatías (11,1 %). Las manifestaciones clínicas más frecuentes fueron: las palpitaciones (77,8 %), seguidas de la disnea (12,9 %). Los parámetros ecocardiográficos estuvieron en el rango de la normalidad. El tratamiento farmacológico se aplicó al 68,5 % seguido de cardioversión farmacológica y eléctrica en el 16,7 %. Conclusiones: El mayor número de pacientes con primer evento de fibrilación auricular, tienen un corazón estructuralmente sano, por lo que se considera de vital importancia la prevención de recurrencias, esto evitará la creación de condiciones eléctricas y anatómicas que perpetúen la arritmia.

Foundation: Despite the importance of the first event of atrial fibrillation as one of the most treated medical emergencies, in Cienfuegos, there are insufficient studies describing the clinical-epidemiological characteristics of these patients. Objective: To clinically and epidemiologically characterize patients with the first event of atrial fibrillation in Cienfuegos between the years 2020-2022. Method: A descriptive and cross-sectional study was carried out. The universe was made up of 54 patients diagnosed with a first event of atrial fibrillation admitted to the Cardiology Service of the Dr. Gustavo Aldereguía Lima General University Hospital in Cienfuegos between the years 2020-2022. The variables studied were: age, sex, skin color, toxic habits, personal pathological history, clinical manifestations, echocardiographic parameters and treatment. The absolute and relative frequencies of the variables were calculated. The results were presented in tables. Results: The male sex, the age group of 36-55 years, white skin color, and smoking predominated. The most common personal pathological history was: high blood pressure (74.1%), type 2 diabetes mellitus (16.7%) and valvular heart disease (11.1%). The most frequent clinical manifestations were: palpitations (77.8%), followed by dyspnea (12.9%). Echocardiographic parameters were within the normal range. Pharmacological treatment was applied to 68.5% followed by pharmacological and electrical cardioversion in 16.7%. Conclusions: The largest number of patients with a first event of atrial fibrillation have a structurally healthy heart, so the prevention of recurrences is considered of vital importance, this will avoid the creation of electrical and anatomical conditions that perpetuate the arrhythmia.

Efficiency of pulsed electromagnetic field and neuromuscular electrical stimulation on painful shoulder following stroke / Eficiência do campo eletromagnético pulsado e da estimulação elétrica neuromuscular em ombro doloroso após acidente vascular cerebral

INTRODUCTION: Shoulder pain after stroke, a complication with a prevalence of up to 16­84% usually occurs after 2­3 months and leads to patients withdrawing from rehabilitation programs, staying in the hospital longer, having less limb function and having a great negative impact on their quality of life. The aim of the present study was to determine the effect of PEMF and NMES in reducing shoulder pain in patients with stroke. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A prospective, randomized controlled trial included 51 patients with shoulder pain following stroke. The patients were randomly assigned to three groups (17 people in each group): Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (PEMF), Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES) and Control group. The outcome measures were Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS) and Fugl Meyer Assessment­Upper Extremity (FMA-UE), Active and Passive Range of Motion (AROM/PROM) assessed at the baseline, six weeks into the intervention, and one week into the follow-up. RESULTS: VAS score for pain showed a mean change of 1.60, 1.60 and 4.94 in PEMF, NMES, and control respectively after 20 sessions. It showed pain was significantly improved in all the groups (p<0.001), but the effectiveness of the PEMF and NMES groups was superior to the control group. CONCLUSION: The current literature showed that PEMF & NMES are effective in improving post-stroke shoulder pain, spasticity, range of motion and motor function and a novel method for stroke patients undergoing rehabilitation.

INTRODUÇÃO: Dor no ombro após acidente vascular cerebral com prevalência de 16­84% geralmente ocorre após 2­3 meses e pode resultar na suspensão de programas de reabilitação, internações hospitalares mais longas e redução da função dos membros, prejudicando qualidade de vida dos pacientes com AVC. O objetivo do presente estudo foi determinar o efeito da PEMF e da EENM na redução da dor no ombro em pacientes com acidente vascular cerebral. MATERIAL E MÉTODOS: Um estudo prospectivo, randomizado e controlado incluiu 51 pacientes com dor no ombro pós-AVC. Os pacientes foram divididos aleatoriamente em três grupos (17 pessoas em cada grupo): grupo Campo Eletromagnético Pulsado (PEMF), grupo Estimulação Elétrica Neuromuscular (EENM) e grupo Controle. As medidas de resultados foram na Escala Visual Analógica (VAS), Escala de Ashworth Modificada (MAS) e Avaliação de Fugl Meyer ­ Extremidade Superior (FMA-UE), Amplitude de Movimento (AROM/PROM) foram avaliadas no início do estudo, após seis semanas de tratamento, e após um acompanhamento semanal. RESULTADOS: A pontuação VAS para dor mostrada uma alteração média de 1,60, 1,60 e 4,94 na PEMF, EENM e Controle, respectivamente, após 20 sessões. Mostrou melhora significativa entre os três grupos (p<0,001), mas a eficácia do grupo PEMF e EENM foi superior ao grupo Controle. CONCLUSÃO: O presente estudo mostrou que PEMF e EENM são eficazes na melhora da dor no ombro pós-AVC, espasticidade, amplitude de movimento e função motora e um novo método para pacientes com AVC em reabilitação. Nossas descobertas indicam que a eficácia da EENM é claramente superior à do PEMF na manutenção da analgesia a longo prazo.

Diferencias cliniconeurológicas en pacientes con enfermedad cerebrovascular isquémica de edades menores y mayores de 65 años

Introducción: La enfermedad cerebrovascular isquémica tiene una alta frecuencia debida, fundamentalmente, al envejecimiento poblacional. Objetivo: Comparar las características clínicas de pacientes con enfermedad cerebrovascular isquémica de dos grupos etarios. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo, transversal y retrospectivo en 36 pacientes con enfermedad cerebrovascular isquémica correspondientes a dos grupos etarios (65 y menos años y mayores de 65), quienes fueron atendidos en el Instituto de Neurología y Neurocirugía, La Habana, de enero a diciembre del 2017. Al respecto, se analizaron variables demográficas y clínicas y se aplicaron diferentes pruebas estadísticas para comparar. Resultados: Se obtuvo un aumento significativo de pacientes hipertensos (88,9 %) en el grupo etario mayor de 65 años. La mediana de la escala de ictus del National Institute of Health fue superior en estos pacientes (mediana [10-90 percentil]: 9,5 (4-19]). Hubo incremento estadístico de los mayores de 65 años con parálisis parcial de la mirada y ataxia; en tanto, la monoparesia y la extinción visual predominaron en los de 65 y menos años. Dicha escala mostró un aumento estadístico en el ictus aterotrombótico y cardioembólico en comparación con otras causas en ambos grupos. Los pacientes mayores de 65 años con solo un factor de riesgo o ninguno y los que eran hipertensos tuvieron mayor puntuación de la escala. Conclusiones: El grado de afectación neurológica fue superior en los mayores de 65 años que tenían un factor de riesgo y en aquellos con hipertensión arterial. Puede sugerirse que los mecanismos moleculares y fisiopatológicos de estos pacientes varían según la edad.

Introduction: The ischemic cerebrovascular disease has a high frequency due to the population aging mainly. Objective: To compare clinical characteristics of patients with ischemic cerebrovascular of two age groups. Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional, retrospective study was carried out in the Neurology and Neurosurgery Institute in Havana, from January to December, 2017 in patients with ischemic cerebrovascular disease; 36 individuals of both age groups. In this regard, demographic variables, risk factors, clinical manifestations, coma scale and neurological deficiency, etiology and localization of the ischemic ictus were analyzed. Results: The 65 years group had a significant increase of hypertensive patients (88.9%). The average of the National Institute of Health stroke scale was superior in these patients (median [10-90 percentile]: 9.5 [4-19]). There was statistical increment of over 65 years patients with partial paralysis of the look and ataxia, but monoparesis and visual extinction in the age under 65 years. Such a scale had a statistical increase in the atherothrombotic and cardioembolic ictus in comparison with other etiologies in both patient groups. The over 65 years patients with just one risk factor or and those with hypertension had a higher punctuation of the scale. Conclusions: The degree of neurological affectation was higher in over 65 years patients that had a risk factor and in those with hypertension. As a result it could be suggested that the molecular and pathophysiolologic mechanisms of these patients vary with the age.

Proteína-C reactiva de alta sensibilidad y homocisteína en pacientes con enfermedad cerebrovascular isquémica

Fundamento: la proteína C reactiva de alta sensibilidad (PCR-as) y la homocisteína (Hci) parecen relacionarse con la enfermedad cerebrovascular isquémica, pero sus hallazgos sobre el riesgo y pronóstico de esta enfermedad resultan controversiales y no concluyentes. Objetivo caracterizar la proteína C reactiva de alta sensibilidad y homocisteína en pacientes con enfermedad cerebrovascular isquémica. Métodos: se realizó un estudio descriptivo y retrospectivo de corte transversal en pacientes con enfermedad cerebrovascular isquémica, ingresados en el Servicio de Ictus del Instituto de Neurología y Neurocirugía entre 2016 y 2019. Se recogieron variables demográficas, manifestaciones clínicas, tiempo de evolución, etiología y localización del infarto y factores riesgo. Se cuantificaron la PCR-as (riesgo cardiovascular) y la Hci. Resultados las medias de PCR-as (7,0±8,3 mg/L) y Hci (17,1±7,3 µM) fueron elevadas. El riesgo cardiovascular moderado y alto se presentaron en igual proporción (46,8 %). Hubo diferencias estadísticas en la relación entre el riesgo cardiovascular y la edad (p=0,00); pero ni el tiempo de evolución ni los factores de riesgo de la enfermedad mostraron este comportamiento. Los pacientes con riesgo cardiovascular alto (PCR-as >3 mg/L) y elevada Hci (>15 (M) exhibieron mayores frecuencias de etiologías aterotrombótica o cardioembólica. Conclusiones el riesgo cardiovascular aumenta en la medida que se incrementa la edad de pacientes con enfermedad cerebrovascular isquémica. Las características demográficas, clínicas y neurológicas no mostraron relación con el alto riesgo cardiovascular y los valores elevados de Hci, aunque se encontró una tendencia asociativa de la etiología aterotrombótica con el incremento de PCR-as y Hci.

Foundation: High-sensitivity C-reactive protein and homocysteine seem to be related to ischemic cerebrovascular disease, but their findings on the risk and prognosis of this disease are controversial and inconclusive. Objective: to characterize high sensitivity C-reactive protein and homocysteine in patients with ischemic cerebrovascular disease. Methods: a descriptive and retrospective cross-sectional study was carried out in patients with ischemic cerebrovascular disease, admitted to the Stroke Service of the Neurology and Neurosurgery Institute between 2016 and 2019. Demographic variables, clinical manifestations, time of evolution, etiology and infarction location, risk factors. High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (cardiovascular risk) and homocysteine were quantified. Results: the means of C-reactive protein (7.0±8.3 mg/L) and homocysteine (17.1±7.3 µM) were high. Moderate and high cardiovascular risk occurred in equal proportions (46.8%). There were statistical differences in the relationship between cardiovascular risk and age (p=0.00); but neither the time of evolution nor the risk factors of the disease showed this behavior. Patients with high cardiovascular risk (hs-CRP >3 mg/L) and high homocysteine (>15 (M), exhibited higher frequencies of atherothrombotic or cardioembolic etiologies. Conclusions: cardiovascular risk increases as the age of patients with ischemic cerebrovascular disease increases. Demographic, clinical and neurological characteristics did not show a relationship with high cardiovascular risk and high homocysteine values, although an associative trend of atherothrombotic etiology was found with increased high-sensitivity C-reactive protein and homocysteine.

Combining metabolomics and network pharmacology to investigate the protective effect of Jiawei Xinglou Chengqi Granules in ischemic stroke

Jiawei Xinglou Chengqi Granule (JXCG) is an effective herbal medicine for the treatment of ischemic stroke (IS). JXCG has been shown to effectively ameliorate cerebral ischemic symptoms in clinical practice, but the underlying mechanisms are unclear. In this study, we investigated the mechanisms of action of JXCG in the treatment of IS by combining metabolomics with network pharmacology. The chemical composition of JXCG was analyzed using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC-HRMS). Ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-tandem time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-Q-TOF MS) untargeted metabolomics were used to identify differential metabolites within metabolic pathways. Network pharmacology was applied to mine potential targets of JXCG in the treatment of IS. The identified key targets were validated by constructing an integrated network of metabolomics and network pharmacology and by molecular docking using Cytoscape. The effect of JXCG on IS was evaluated in vivo, and the predicted targets and pathways of JXCG in IS therapy were assessed using immunoblotting. Combining metabolomics and network pharmacology, we identified the therapeutic targets of JXCG for IS. Notably, JXCG lessened neuronal damage and reduced cerebral infarct size in rats with IS. Western blot analysis showed that JXCG upregulated PRKCH and downregulated PRKCE and PRKCQ proteins. Our combined network pharmacology and metabolomics findings showed that JXCG may have therapeutic potential in the treatment of IS by targeting multiple factors and pathways.

Tecnologia educacional para cuidadores de pessoas idosas com limitações pós-acidente vascular cerebral / Educational technology for caregivers of older people with post-stroke limitations

Resumo: O Acidente Vascular Cerebral (AVC) é caracterizado como um déficit neurológico atribuído a uma lesão aguda do sistema nervoso central por uma causa vascular. Constitui-se uma das principais causas de mortes, acometendo principalmente a população idosa e, diante das incapacidades impostas pelo AVC, surge a necessidade de cuidados, que são frequentemente realizados pelo cuidador familiar. Este estudo teve como objetivo construir uma tecnologia educacional direcionada aos cuidadores familiares de pacientes idosos pós-Acidente Vascular Cerebral, dependentes de cuidados básicos para as atividades de vida diária, isto é, uma tecnologia em formato de vídeo, constituindo o produto desta pesquisa. Trata-se de estudo metodológico, realizado em uma unidade de internamento de pacientes neurológicos em um hospital universitário de grande porte localizado na região Sul do país. A amostra foi composta por 14 juizes especialistas em neurologia e/ou gerontologia do território nacional e 15 cuidadores familiares de idosos. A coleta de dados ocorreu no período de dezembro a fevereiro de 2024. O estudo foi composto por três etapas: 1) Pré-produção: construção da sinopse, argumento, roteiro e storyboard do vídeo educacional, para essa etapa foi realizada uma revisão integrativa, visando fundamentação teórica para o desenvolvimento do roteiro para tecnologia educacional com posterior validação do conteúdo do vídeo por juízes especialistas, por meio do Instrumento de Validação de Conteúdo Educacional em Saúde (IVCES). Para análise do instrumento foi utilizado o Índice de Validade de Conteúdo (IVC) e o valor considerado aceitável quando o resultado da proporção de concordância entre os juízes especialistas foi igual ou superior a 0,78; 2) Produção: construção do vídeo educacional e avaliação do vídeo pelos cuidadores familiares dos idosos internados na Neurologia, por meio do instrumento Suitability Assessment of Materials (SAM), com avaliação do conteúdo, exigência de alfabetização, ilustrações, layout e apresentação e adequação cultural; 3) Pós-produção: edição e versão final do vídeo educacional para posterior divulgação. Como resultado da pesquisa, identificado na literatura quais orientações os cuidadores e/ou familiares de pessoa idosas que sofreram AVC deveriam receber sobre os cuidados pós-AVC no preparo para a alta hospitalar. Realizada produção do roteiro do vídeo, que foi validado pela concordância dos juízes especialistas (IVC= 0,93). O vídeo foi composto por 51 cenas em resolução Full HD, com duração de 8 minutos. Houve 99% de concordância entre os cuidadores familiares de idosos participantes, tornando-o adequado e validado. Após finalização dessa etapa, foi preenchido o requerimento para emissão do certificado de produto brasileiro do vídeo educacional na Agência Nacional do Cinema, divulgado em plataforma digital YouTube. O vídeo demonstrou-se uma ferramenta que auxiliou na aquisição de conhecimentos fundamentais sobre o tema, uma vez que é uma forma de disseminar informações de forma atraente, simples, dinâmica e democrática. O produto desenvolvido tem a potencialidade de ser replicado em outras unidades da instituição que atendam ao mesmo perfil de pacientes, uma vez que a tecnologia proporciona orientações e esclarecimentos aos cuidadores familiares de idosos sobre o tema.

Abstract: Cerebral Vascular Accident (CVA) is characterized as a neurological deficit attributed to an acute injury of the central nervous system due to a vascular cause. It is one of the main causes of death, affecting mainly the elderly population and, given the disabilities imposed by stroke, the need for care arises, which is often carried out by the family caregiver. This study aimed to build an educational technology aimed at family caregivers of elderly post-stroke patients, dependent on basic care for activities of daily living, that is, a technology in video format, constituting the product of this research. This is a methodological study, carried out in an inpatient unit for neurological patients in a large university hospital located in the southern region of the country. The sample was made up of 14 judges specializing in neurology and/or gerontology from the national territory and 15 family caregivers of the elderly. Data collection took place from December to February 2024. The study consisted of three stages: 1) Preproduction: construction of the synopsis, argument, script and storyboard of the educational video, for this stage an integrative review was carried out, aiming at theoretical foundation for the development of the script for educational technology with subsequent validation of the video content by expert judges, through the Health Educational Content Validation Instrument (IVCES). To analyze the instrument, the Content Validity Index (CVI) was used and the value was considered acceptable when the result of the proportion of agreement between the expert judges was equal to or greater than 0.78; 2) Production: construction of the educational video and evaluation of the video by family caregivers of elderly people hospitalized in Neurology, using the Suitability Assessment of Materials (SAM) instrument, with content evaluation, literacy requirements, illustrations, layout and presentation and cultural suitability; 3) Postproduction: editing and final version of the educational video for subsequent dissemination. As a result of the research, the literature identified what guidance caregivers and/or family members of elderly people who suffered a stroke should receive regarding post-stroke care in preparation for hospital discharge. The video script was produced, which was validated by the agreement of the expert judges (IVC= 0.93). The video was composed of 51 scenes in Full HD resolution, lasting 8 minutes. There was 99% agreement among family caregivers of participating elderly people, making it appropriate and validated. After completing this stage, the application was completed to issue the Brazilian product certificate for the educational video at the National Cinema Agency, published on the YouTube digital platform. The video proved to be a tool that helped in the acquisition of fundamental knowledge on the topic, as it is a way of disseminating information in an attractive, simple, dynamic and democratic way. The developed product has the potential to be replicated in other units of the institution that serve the same patient profile, as the technology provides guidance and clarification to family caregivers of elderly people on the topic.

Serum autophagy-related gene 5 level in stroke patients: correlation with CD4+ T cells and cognition impairment during a 3-year follow-up

Abstract Autophagy-related gene (ATG) 5 regulates blood lipids, chronic inflammation, CD4+ T-cell differentiation, and neuronal death and is involved in post-stroke cognitive impairment. This study aimed to explore the correlation of serum ATG5 with CD4+ T cells and cognition impairment in stroke patients. Peripheral blood was collected from 180 stroke patients for serum ATG5 and T helper (Th) 1, Th2, Th17, and regulatory T (Treg) cell detection via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays and flow cytometry. The Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) scale was completed at enrollment, year (Y)1, Y2, and Y3 in stroke patients. Serum ATG5 was also measured in 50 healthy controls (HCs). Serum ATG5 was elevated in stroke patients compared to HCs (P<0.001) and was positively correlated to Th2 cells (P=0.022), Th17 cells (P<0.001), and Th17/Treg ratio (P<0.001) in stroke patients but not correlated with Th1 cells, Th1/Th2 ratio, or Treg cells (all P>0.050). Serum ATG5 (P=0.037), Th1 cells (P=0.022), Th17 cells (P=0.002), and Th17/Treg ratio (P=0.018) were elevated in stroke patients with MMSE score-identified cognition impairment vs those without cognition impairment, whereas Th2 cells, Th1/Th2 ratio, and Treg cells were not different between them (all P>0.050). Importantly, serum ATG5 was negatively linked with MMSE score at enrollment (P=0.004), Y1 (P=0.002), Y2 (P=0.014), and Y3 (P=0.001); moreover, it was positively related to 2-year (P=0.024) and 3-year (P=0.012) MMSE score decline in stroke patients. Serum ATG5 was positively correlated with Th2 and Th17 cells and estimated cognitive function decline in stroke patients.

Ocular disorders among stroke patients in Federal Teaching Hospital, Lokoja, Nigeria

Objectives:To determine the pattern of ocular disorders among stroke patients in Federal Teaching Hospital, Lokoja (FTHL).Materials and Methods:Consecutive new stroke patients seen at the Federal Teaching Hospital, Lokoja over a 3-month period were studied. Data was collected with the use of a structured questionnaire divided into four major sections: bio-data, visual history, results of ocular assessment and NEI VFQ-25 quality of life questionnaire. Data analysis was done using SPSS for Windows, version 23.0. Univariate analyses were presented in the form of frequencies, percentages, means, ranges, and standard deviations, charts and tables.Results:Eighty-three patients were recruited with an age range of 40-71 years, a mean age of 55.3(±7.1) years. Thirty-nine patients (47.0%) were between the ages of 51 and 60 years. Thirty-four (41.0%) patients were females while 49(59.0%) were males. Of 46 (55.4%) patients that had neuro-imaging, stroke was ischaemic in 37(80.4%) and haemorrhagic in 9(19.6%). Of the 63 patients with left sided stroke, 2 (2.4%), 4(4.8%) and 57(68.7%) had severe, moderate and mild and normal visual impairment respectively while of the 20 patients with right sided stroke, 3(3.6%) each had severe and moderate visual impairment and 14(16.9%) had normal or mild visual impairment. Other ocular abnormalities included corneal anaesthesia and macular hole in 2(1.2%).Conclusion:Anterior and posterior segments, together with neuro-ophthalmic disorders were found among stroke patients in this study. Many of the ocular abnormalities are as a result of long-standing uncontrolled hypertension which caused the stroke. It is recommended that awareness should be created among the populace about uncontrolled hypertension. It is also advised that internists should refer hypertensive patients for routine ophthalmic screening.

Mortalité à long terme des survivants d'accidents vasculaires cérébraux ischémiques à Bobo Dioulasso, Burkina Faso / Long-term mortality of ischaemic stroke survivors in Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso

Contexte et objectif. La survie à long terme des accidents vasculaires cérébraux ischémiques (AVCI) reste un défi majeur. L'objectif de ce travail était d'analyser la mortalité à long terme des survivants d'AVCI. Méthodes. Il s'est agi d'une cohorte rétrospective portant sur les patients hospitalisés du 1er janvier 2017 au 31 décembre 2019, sortis vivants du service de neurologie au Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Sourô Sanou de Bobo-Dioulasso après un AVCI. Nous avons recouru aux méthodes de Kaplan Meier et la regression de Cox pour décrire respectivement la survie et les prédicteurs de la mortalité. Résultats. Au total, 87 patients dossiers ont été colligés. L'âge moyen était de 61,2 ans (±13,7). Le sex-ratio M/F était de 1,23/1. L'hypertension artérielle était le principal facteur de risque cardiovasculaire (65,5 %). Les antécédents de cardiopathies étaient présents chez 6 patients. La conscience était normale chez 82 patients et les complications de décubitus ont été observées chez 20 patients au cours de l'hospitalisation. La durée moyenne d'hospitalisation était de 15,8 jours. La mortalité cumulée en post hospitalisation était de 40,2 % à 4 ans. Les facteurs prédictifs de la mortalité étaient l'âge > 60 ans (p=0,008; HRa= 3,05 ; IC 95 % : 1,33-6,99), le score de Glasgow>9 (p<0,001; HRa = 0,09; IC 95 % : 0,02-0,31) et l'absence de complication de décubitus (p=0,009; HRa = 0,34; IC95 % : 0,15-0,76). Conclusion. Dans ce contexte, la mortalité à long terme des AVCI est élevée. Le renforcement du suivi vis-à-vis des groupes spécifiques pourrait contribuer à réduire considérablement cette mortalité à long terme.

Context and objective. Long-term survival from ischaemic stroke remains a major challenge. The aim of this study was to analyse the long-term mortality of stroke survivors at the Sourô Sanou University Hospital in Bobo-Dioulasso. Methods. This was a retrospective cohort of hospitalized patients from January 1, 2017 to December 31, 2019, discharged alive from the neurology service after ischaemic stroke. We used Kaplan Meier and Cox regression methods to describe survival and predictors of mortality, respectively. Results. A total of 87 patients were included in this study. The mean age was 61.2 years (±13.7). The sex ratio M/F was 1.23. Hypertension was the main cardiovascular risk factor (65.5%). A history of heart disease was present in 6 patients (6.9%). Consciousness was normal in 82 patients (94.2%) and decubitus complications were observed in 20 patients (23%) during hospitalisation. The average length of hospital stay was 15.8 days. Cumulative post-hospital mortality was 40.2% at 4 years. Factors predictive of mortality were age >60 years (p=0.008; aHR= 3.05; 95%CI: 1.33-6.99), Glasgow score>9 (p<0.001; aHR = 0.09; 95% CI: 0.02-0.31) and absence of decubitus complication (p=0.009; aHR = 0.34; 95%CI: 0.15-0.76). Conclusion. In this context, long-term mortality in ischaemic stroke is high. Closer monitoring of specific groups could help to reduce considerably this long-term mortality.

Hyperglycémie de stress: prévalence et impact sur la mortalité intra hospitalière au cours des accidents vasculaires cérébraux ischémiques à la phase aigue au Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Yalgado Ouédraogo, Burkina Faso / Stress hyperglycemia: Prevalence and impact on intra-hospital mortality during ischemic strokes in the acute phase at the Yalgado Ouédraogo University Hospital, Burkina Faso

Contexte et objectif. L'hyperglycémie de stress est fréquente et délétère à la phase aigüe de l'accident vasculaire cérébral ischémique. L'objectif de la présente étude était de déterminer la prévalence de l'hyperglycémie de stress à la phase aigüe de l'AVCI et d'analyser son impact sur la mortalité intra hospitalière Méthodes. Il s'est agi d'une série retrospective de cas qui s'est déroulée du 1er janvier 2021 au 31 Décembre 2022 dans les services des urgences médicales et de Neurologie du Centre hospitalier Yalgado Ouédraogo. Les patients non diabétiques de plus de 15 ans hospitalisés pour un AVCI confirmé par une imagerie cérébrale et ayant une hyperglycémie avec une hémoglobine glyquée normale ont été inclus. Résultats. La prévalence de l'hyperglycémie de stress était de 37,8 %. L'âge moyen était de 59,98 ± 15,9 ans avec des extrêmes de 20 et 98 ans. Le sex-ratio M/F était de 1,12/1. Les facteurs de risque vasculaire les plus fréquents étaient l'hypertension artérielle (54,1 %), la sédentarité (20,3 %) et l'antécédent personnel d'AVC (11 %). Le taux moyen de l'hyperglycémie était de 8,8 ± 2,2mmol/l avec des extrêmes de 7,0 à 15,3 mmol/l. La mortalité intra hospitalière était de 13,37 %. L'hyperglycémie à l'admission ≥ 7mmol/l (p= 0,0027) la température ≥ 38,5° à l'admission (p= 0,0107) et l'insuffisance cardiaque (p= 0,0045) ont émergé comme prédicteurs indépendants de la mortalité intra-hospitalière. Conclusion. L'hyperglycémie de stress est associée à un mauvais pronostic au cours de la phase aigüe des AVCI d'où la nécessité d'un monitorage de la glycémie et d'une prise en charge adaptée

Context and objective. Neonatal jaundice is a common symptom. The objective of the present study was to update the epidemiological profile and identify the factors associated with neonatal jaundice in sick newborns. Methods. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from June 2022 to April 2023 at the Kinshasa University Hospital. The study included sick newborns who presented with mucocutaneous jaundice. Sociodemographic, perinatal, clinical and paraclinical variables were sought. Results. Out of 152 sick newborns, 102 (67.1 %) cases of jaundice were identified. Fullterm newborns (72.5 %), born vaginally (67.6 %) and whose mothers had presented with urogenital infections (98 %) and blood group O (53 %) rhesus positive (97.1 %) were the most represented. Jaundice appeared in the first week of life (85.3 %). Baseline total serum bilirubin was between 10 and 15 mmol/L (57.8 %). The infectious origin was noted in 85 % of cases (Klebsiella pneumoniae in 50 % of cases). Conventional phototherapy was used in 74.5 %. Vaginal delivery was the only associated factor (p=0.001). Conclusion. Neonatal jaundice is common in sick newborns. The infectious etiology must be systematically sought. Appropriate management helps reduce the occurrence of neurosensory after effects.

Analysis on risk factors of clopidogrel resistance in patients with ischemic stroke / 药学实践与服务

Objective To investigate the risk factors of drug resistance in patients with ischemic stroke by clopidogrel therapy and provide references for promoting clinical individualized drug therapy. Methods A total of 202 inpatients diagnosed with ischemic stroke were admitted and given dual anti-treatment (aspirin+clopidogrel). CYP2C19 genotype was detected by microarray hybridization during hospitalization, and CYP2C19 gene polymorphisms were classified into fast metabolism group, medium metabolism group and slow metabolism group according to the type of drug metabolism. Patients were tested for platelet inhibition induced by adenosine diphosphate (ADP) according to thromboelastographic (TEG) on 7~14 d of drug administration. ADP <30% was classified as clopidogrel drug resistance group and ADP ≥30% as non-resistance group. Logistic regression analysis was used to study the risk factors for the development of clopidogrel resistance. Results Among 202 patients with ischemic stroke, 87 were in the resistant group and 115 in the non-resistant group. The proportion of patients with clopidogrel resistance combined with diabetes and the level of white blood cell count were higher than that in the non-resistant group, and the differences were statistically significant (P<0.05).The proportion of patients with clopidogrel resistance in the CYP2C19 intermediate metabolism group was significantly higher than that in the fast metabolism group, and the rate of platelet inhibition was also significantly lower than that in the fast metabolism group, all with statistically significant differences (P<0.05). Conclusion Combined diabetes mellitus, high white blood cell count levels and CYP2C19 mid-metabolic phenotype are independent risk factors for the development of clopidogrel resistance in patients with ischemic stroke.

Epidemiological characteristics of heat stroke and association between heatwave and heat stroke in Jinan City, 2017—2022 / 环境与职业医学

Background In recent years, regional high-temperature weather in summer occurs frequently in China. Heat stroke is the most representative meteorological disease caused by high temperature. In order to improve monitoring, early warning, prevention, and control of heat stroke, it is of great significance to understand the epidemiological characteristics of heat stroke and the associated impact of heatwave. Objective To understand the epidemiological characteristics of heat stroke cases in Jinan City, and to explore the effects of heatwave exposure on heat stroke. Methods Case reports of heat stroke and daily data of meteorological factors in Jinan City from 2017 to 2022 were collected. We described the temporal, population, and regional distribution characteristics of heat stroke cases in Jinan City, and used a time-stratified case-crossover design combined with conditional logistic regression model to explore the effects of heatwave exposure on heat stroke under 12 heatwave definitions (different combinations of intensity and duration). The cut-off percentiles used for heatwave definitions were the 90th (P90), 95th (P95), 97.5th (P97.5), and 99th (P99) percentiles of daily mean temperature; the durations were ≥ 2 d, ≥ 3 d, and ≥ 4 d, respectively. Pi(k), where i is temperature threshold, and k is duration. For example, the definition of a heatwave was notated as P90(2), indicating that the daily mean temperature is ≥ P90 and lasts for ≥ 2 d. Alternatively, lag01 denotes the cumulative lag effect with a 1 d lag, and so on. Results A total of 1394 cases of heat stroke were reported in Jinan City from 2017 to 2022, including 581 mild cases and 813 severe cases, and 85 deaths were reported, with a cumulative fatality rate of 6.10%. The cases of heat stroke reported each year during the study period were concentrated from June to August and peaked in July (665 cases, 47.70%). The sex ratio of males to females in heat stroke cases was 2.02:1. A high incidence of heat stroke was in 50-89 years, with a smaller peak occurring in the age group of 50-59 years and a larger peak in the age group of 70-79 years, respectively. The high-incidence areas of heat stroke were distributed in the western part of Jinan City where city centers situated (Tianqiao District, 274 cases, 19.66%; Huaiyin District, 223 cases, 16.00%) and in the surrounding rural areas (Pingyin County, 254 cases, 18.22%). The effect of heatwave exposure on heat stroke was statistically significant during the study period. The largest effect estimates for the effect on heat stroke occurred under the heatwave definitions of P99(2), P97.5(3), and P97.5(4) at lag04, lag03, and lag04, where corresponding OR (95%CI) values were 9.27 (4.71, 14.24), 8.95 (6.17, 12.98), and 8.22 (4.91, 13.78), respectively. The exposure-response curve showed that the risk of heat stroke tended to increase with the increase of average daily temperature. Conclusion July is the key period for the occurrence of heat stroke among Jinan City residents, while male cases are predominant, more serious cases, age concentration in the 50-89 years. The occurrence of heatwave can further increase the risk of heat stroke with a significant lag effect.