Características e diagnóstico laboratorial das infecções causadas pelo hantavírus: revisão integrativa / Characteristics and laboratory diagnosis of infections caused by hantavirus: integrative review

A hantavirose é uma zoonose de distribuição mundial que utiliza como vetores roedores, musaranhos, toupeiras e morcegos. Os sintomas da infecção pelo hantavírus assemelham-se aos de diversas doenças, por isso o diagnóstico laboratorial é crucial para o tratamento precoce. Objetivo: Realizar uma revisão da literatura sobre as características e diagnóstico laboratorial da hantavirose. Métodos: Trata-se de uma revisão integrativa da literatura com base no modelo PRISMA, com seleção de estudos nas bases de dados Portal de Periódicos da Capes, PubMed/Medline, SciELO, ScienceDirect e Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde (BVS). Foram empregados os descritores: hantavírus, diagnóstico laboratorial, exames e zoonose, em português e inglês, no período de 2015 a 2022, sendo selecionados 19 artigos científicos em atendimento aos critérios de inclusão. Resultados e Discussão: Diversas técnicas diagnósticas podem ser empregadas em casos de hantavirose, sendo a biologia molecular a mais empregada, conjuntamente com a imunologia. Há outros recursos utilizados para monitoramento e evolução da doença, como a bioquímica, a hematologia e a imagenologia. Para a ocorrência de hantavirose é necessário um ambiente propício, clima específico e contato com hospedeiro suscetível, podendo evoluir para quadros assintomáticos ou sintomáticos com complicações graves. Conclusão: O diagnóstico dessa doença é desafiador e requer investigação detalhada que inclua a sintomatologia do paciente, o histórico de exposição a animais reservatórios e os resultados de exames laboratoriais. Como desfechos negativos da hantavirose incluem-se a febre hemorrágica com síndrome renal, a síndrome pulmonar por hantavírus e o óbito

Hantavirus is a worldwide distributed zoonosis that uses rodents, shrews, moles and bats as vectors. The symptoms of hantavirus infection resemble those of many diseases, so laboratory diagnosis is crucial for early treatment. Objective: The present study aimed to conduct a literature review on the characteristics and laboratory diagnosis of hantavirus. Methods: This is an integrative literature review based on the PRISMA model, with a selection of studies in the Capes Portal de Periódicos, PubMed/Medline, SciELO, ScienceDirect and Virtual Health Library databases, using the descriptors: hantavirus, laboratory diagnosis, exams, and zoonosis, in portuguese and english, from 2015 to 2022, and nineteen scientific articles that met the inclusion criteria were selected. Results and Discussion: Several techniques can be used in cases of hantavirus, with molecular biology being the most evidenced along with immunology. There are other parameters that are used for monitoring and evolution of the disease, such as biochemistry, hematology, and imaging. For the hantavirus disease, an adequate environment, specific climate and contact with a susceptible host are necessary, which may lead to asymptomatic conditions or symptoms with more serious complications. Conclusion: The diagnosis of this disease is challenging and requires detailed investigation that includes the patient's symptoms, the history of exposure to reservoir animals and the results of laboratory tests. Negative outcomes of hantavirus infection include hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome, hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, and death

Paul Klee y la esclerosis sistémica / Paul Klee and systemic sclerosis

Paul Klee representa uno de los pilares del arte de vanguardia del principio del siglo XX. Produjo una ingente cantidad de obras artísticas en sus 60 años de vida. La esclerosis sistémica se manifestó cinco años antes de morir, pero no por ello redujo su actividad creadora. En este artículo se analiza su historia y su enfermedad que tanto influyeron en su obra, y que lo convirtieron en ejemplo paradigmático de resiliencia ante la adversidad.

Paul Klee represents one of the pillars of avant-garde art of the early 20th century. He produced an enormous amount of artistic works in the sixty years of his life. Systemic sclerosis appeared five years before he died, but this did not reduce his creative activity. This article analyzes his life and his illness that so influenced his work and that is a paradigmatic example of resilience in the face of adversity.

Trends in case-fatality rates of COVID-19 in the World, between 2019 - 2020 / Tendência das taxas de letalidade de covid-19 no mundo, entre 2019-2020

INTRODUCTION: CoV infections can potentially cause from a simple cold to a severe respiratory syndrome, such as the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome and the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV). The COVID-19 created a new reality for global healthcare modelsOBJETIVE: To evaluate trends in case-fatality rates of COVID-19 in the WorldMETHODS: We conducted a population-based time-series study using public and official data of cases and deaths from COVID-19 in Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Chile, China, Colombia, France, Germany, India, Iran, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Morocco, New Zealand, Nigeria, Peru, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Switzerland, United Kingdom, United States and Russian, between December, 2019 and August, 2020. Data were based on reports from European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control. COVID-19 was defined by the International Classification of Diseases, 10th revision (U07.1). A Prais-Winsten regression model was performed and the Daily Percentage Change (DPC) calculated determine rates as increasing, decreasing or flatRESULTS: During the study period, trends in case-fatality rates in the world were flat (DPC = 0.3; CI 95% [-0.2: 0.7]; p = 0.225). In Africa, Morocco had decreasing trends (DPC = -1.1; CI 95% [-1.5: -0.7]; p < 0.001), whereas it were increasing in South Africa (p < 0.05) and flat in Nigeria (p > 0.05). In the Americas, Argentina showed a decreasing trend in case-fatality rates (DPC = -0.6; CI 95% [-1.1: -0.2]; p = 0.005), the U.S. had flat trends (p > 0.05) and all other American countries had increasing trends (p < 0.05). In Asia, Iran had decreasing trends (DPC = -1.5; CI 95% [-2.6 : -0.2]; p = 0.019); China and Saudi Arabia showed increasing trends (p < 0.05), while in India, Japan and South Korea they were flat (p > 0.05). European countries had mostly increasing trends (p < 0.05): Germany, Italy, Spain, the UK and Russia; France and Switzerland had flat trends (p > 0.05). Finally, in Oceania, trends in case-fatality rates were flat in Australia (p > 0.05) and increasing in New Zealand (p < 0.05CONCLUSION: Trends in case-fatality rates of COVID-19 in the World were flat between December, 31 and August, 31. Argentina, Iran and Morocco were the only countries with decreasing trends. On the other hand, South Africa, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, Peru, China, Saudi Arabia, Germany, Spain, United Kingdom, Russian and New Zealand had increasing trends in case-fatality rate. All the other countries analyzed had flat trends. Based on case-fatality rate data, our study supports that COVID-19 pandemic is still in progress worldwide

INTRODUÇÃO: As infecções por CoV podem causar desde um simples resfriado até uma síndrome respiratória grave, como a Síndrome Respiratória Aguda Grave e a Síndrome Respiratória do Oriente Médio (MERS-CoV). O COVID-19 impôs uma nova realidade em termos de modelos globais de saúdeOBJETIVO: Avaliar as tendências das taxas de letalidade do COVID-19 no mundoMÉTODO: Estudo de séries temporais de base populacional usando dados públicos e oficiais de casos e mortes por COVID-19 na Argentina, Austrália, Brasil, Chile, China, Colômbia, França, Alemanha, Índia, Irã, Itália, Japão, México, Marrocos, Nova Zelândia, Nigéria, Peru, Arábia Saudita, África do Sul, Coreia do Sul, Espanha, Suíça, Reino Unido, Estados Unidos (EUA) e Rússia, entre 31 dezembro de 2019 e 31 agosto de 2020. Os dados foram baseados nos relatórios do Centro Europeu de Prevenção e Controle de Doenças. COVID-19 foi definido pela Classificação Internacional de Doenças, 10ª revisão (U07.1). Para análise estatística, foi realizado o modelo de regressão de Prais-Winsten, a partir do qual foi possível calcular a variação percentual de mudança diária (DPC) das taxas, classificadas como crescentes, decrescentes ou estacionáriasRESULTADOS: Durante o período do estudo, as taxas de letalidade no mundo permaneceram estacionárias (DPC = 0,3; IC 95% [-0,2: 0,7]; p = 0,225). Na África, Marrocos teve tendência decrescente (DPC = -1,1; IC 95% [-1,5: -0,7]; p <0,001), enquanto na África do Sul houve tendência crescente (p < 0,05) e estacionária na Nigéria (p > 0,05). Em relação às Américas, a Argentina revelou tendência decrescente nas taxas de letalidade (DPC = -0,6; IC 95% [-1,1: -0,2]; p = 0,005), os EUA demonstraram tendência estacionária (p > 0,05) e todos os outros países americanos demonstraram tendências crescentes (p < 0,05). Na Ásia, o Irã apresentou tendência decrescente (DPC = -1,5; IC 95% [-2,6: -0,2]; p = 0,019); China e Arábia Saudita apresentaram tendências crescentes (p <0,05), enquanto Índia, Japão e Coreia do Sul mantiveram tendência estacionária (p > 0,05). A maioria dos países europeus apresentaram tendências crescentes (p <0,05): Alemanha, Itália, Espanha, Reino Unido e Rússia; França e Suíça demonstraram tendências estacionárias (p > 0,05). Por fim, na Oceania, a tendência nas taxas de letalidade na Austrália foi estacionária (p > 0,05) e aumentou na Nova Zelândia (p < 0,05CONCLUSÃO: A tendência nas taxas de letalidade por COVID-19 no mundo permaneceu estacionária entre 31 de dezembro de 2019 e 31 de agosto de 2020. Argentina, Irã e Marrocos foram os únicos países com tendências decrescentes. Por outro lado, África do Sul, Brasil, Canadá, Chile, Colômbia, México, Peru, China, Arábia Saudita, Alemanha, Espanha, Reino Unido, Rússia e Nova Zelândia apresentaram tendências crescentes de letalidade. Todos os outros países analisados demonstraram tendências estacionárias. De acordo com dados de letalidade, nosso estudo confirma que a pandemia de COVID-19 ainda está em fase de progressão em todo o mundo

The top 10 most-cited articles on the management of fractured instruments: a bibliometric analysis

OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this research was to identify the top 10 most-cited articles on the management of fractured or broken instruments and to perform a bibliometric analysis thereof. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Published articles related to fractured instruments were screened from online databases, such as Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed, and ScienceDirect, and highly cited papers, with at least 50 citations since publication, were identified. The most-cited articles were selected and analysed with regard to publication title, authorship, the journal of publication, year, institution, country of origin, article type, and number of citations. RESULTS: The top 10 most-cited articles were from various journals. Most were published in the Journal of Endodontics, followed by the International Endodontic Journal, and Dental Traumatology. The leading countries were Australia, Israel, Switzerland, the USA, and Germany, and the leading institution was the University of Melbourne. The majority of articles among the top 10 articles were clinical research studies (n = 8), followed by a basic research article and a non-systematic review article. CONCLUSIONS: This bibliometric analysis revealed interesting information about scientific progress in endodontics regarding fractured instruments. Overall, clinical research studies and basic research articles published in high-impact endodontic journals had the highest citation rates.

Analysis of Interactive E-Health Tools on United Arab Emirates Patient Visited Hospital Websites / 대한의료정보학회지

OBJECTIVES: This study is to scrutinize the website of Seoul National University Hospital in Korea, Clinique Valmont in Switzerland, Medical Center of the University of Munich in Germany, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to suggest successful communication factors to the medical service providers who deal with Middle Eastern patients. METHODS: Using content analysis and in-depth interviews, this research examines four hospitals commonly visited by Middle East patients. The four hospitals approaches to implementing interactive e-health tools on their web sites are reviewed. Four hospitals selection criterion was process by focus group interview of government officials in UAE health sectors. RESULTS: The way of providing medical information differed by hospitals that used e-health tools. The analysis of each website shows a different way providing medical information, services and education. There are important differences among hospitals. These include decision-making, planning processes and outcomes of implementing e-health tools online, as well as potential obstacles to such implementation. Thus, hospitals can learn and design effective interactive tools by applying e-health tools on their websites. CONCLUSIONS: Each website showed different interactive tools such as traditional functional tools, core e-business tools, patient support tools, visitor related tools, emerging functional tools. By applying the interactive e-health tools sets an objective view for e-health strategy and vision for the hospitals conveying information through the website. According to the type of hospitals and its location different methods of strategy should be applied. Targeting not only the patients but also the general website users will eventually improve health information accessibility.

Evaluation of bone disease in patients with cystic fibrosis and end-stage lung disease / Avaliação de doença óssea em pacientes com fibrose cística e doença pulmonar terminal

ABSTRACT Objective: Bone disease is a common comorbidity in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). We sought to determine risk factors and identify potential biochemical markers for CF-related bone disease (CFBD) in a unique cohort of CF patients with end-stage lung disease undergoing lung transplantation (LTx) evaluation. Methods: All of the CF patients who were evaluated for LTx at our center between November of 1992 and December of 2010 were included in the study. Clinical data and biochemical markers of bone turnover, as well as bone mineral density (BMD) at the lumbar spine and femoral neck, were evaluated. Spearman's rho and multivariate logistic regression analysis were used. Results: A total of 102 adult CF patients were evaluated. The mean age was 28.1 years (95% CI: 26.7-29.5), and the mean body mass index was 17.5 kg/m2 (95% CI: 17.2-18.2). Mean T-scores were −2.3 and −1.9 at the lumbar spine and femoral neck, respectively, being lower in males than in females (−2.7 vs. −2.0 at the lumbar spine and −2.2 vs. −1.7 at the femoral neck). Overall, 52% had a T-score of < −2.5 at either skeletal site. The homozygous Phe508del genotype was found in 57% of patients without osteoporosis and in 60% of those with low BMD. Mean T-scores were not particularly low in patients with severe CFTR mutations. Although the BMI correlated with T-scores at the femoral neck and lumbar spine, serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D and parathyroid hormone levels did not. Conclusions: CFBD is common in CF patients with end-stage lung disease, particularly in males and patients with a low BMI. It appears that CF mutation status does not correlate with CFBD. In addition, it appears that low BMD does not correlate with other risk factors or biochemical parameters. The prevalence of CFBD appears to have recently decreased, most likely reflecting increased efforts at earlier diagnosis and treatment.

RESUMO Objetivo: A doença óssea é uma comorbidade comum em pacientes com fibrose cística (FC). Nosso objetivo foi determinar os fatores de risco e identificar possíveis marcadores bioquímicos de doença óssea relacionada à FC (DOFC) em uma coorte única de pacientes com FC e doença pulmonar terminal submetidos a avaliação para transplante de pulmão (TxP). Métodos: Todos os pacientes com FC avaliados para TxP em nosso centro entre novembro de 1992 e dezembro de 2010 foram incluídos no estudo. Foram avaliados dados clínicos e marcadores bioquímicos de remodelação óssea, bem como a densidade mineral óssea (DMO) na coluna lombar e colo do fêmur. Foram usados rô de Spearman e análise de regressão logística multivariada. Resultados: Foram avaliados 102 pacientes adultos com FC. A média de idade foi de 28,1 anos (IC95%: 26,7-29,5), e a média do índice de massa corporal foi de 17,5 kg/m2 (IC95%: 17,2-18,2). A média do escore T foi de −2,3 e −1,9 na coluna lombar e colo do fêmur, respectivamente, sendo menor nos homens que nas mulheres (−2,7 vs. −2,0 na coluna lombar e −2,2 vs. −1,7 no colo do fêmur). No geral, 52% apresentaram escore T < −2,5 em um dos dois sítios esqueléticos. O genótipo homozigoto para Phe508del foi encontrado em 57% dos pacientes sem osteoporose e em 60% daqueles com DMO baixa. A média do escore T não foi particularmente baixa em pacientes com mutações graves do gene CFTR. Embora o IMC tenha se correlacionado com o escore T no colo do fêmur e coluna lombar, os níveis séricos de 25-hidroxivitamina D e paratormônio não o fizeram. Conclusões: A DOFC é comum em pacientes com FC e doença pulmonar terminal, particularmente em homens e pacientes com IMC baixo. O estado de mutação da FC aparentemente não se correlaciona com a DOFC. Além disso, aparentemente não há correlação entre DMO baixa e outros fatores de risco ou parâmetros bioquímicos. A prevalência de DOFC parece ter diminuído recentemente, o que provavelmente é reflexo do aumento dos esforços para antecipar o diagnóstico e tratamento.

Patients' and General Practitioners' Views About Preventive Care in Family Medicine in Switzerland: A Cross-sectional Study / 예방의학회지

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to describe general practitioners (GPs)' opinions and practices of preventive care and patients' opinions, attitudes, and behaviors towards prevention. METHODS: The data stemmed from a cross-sectional national survey on prevention conducted in Switzerland from 2015 to 2016. In total, 170 randomly drawn GPs and 1154 of their patients participated. The GPs answered an online questionnaire and the patients answered a questionnaire administrated by fieldworkers present at their practices. RESULTS: Both patients and GPs agreed that delivering preventive care is the dedicated role of a GP. It appeared that beyond classical topics of prevention such as cardiovascular risk factors, other prevention areas (e.g., cannabis consumption, immunization, occupational risks) were scarcely covered by GPs and reported as little-known by patients. In addition, GPs seemed to use a selective approach to prevention, responding to the clinical context, rather than a systematic approach to health promotion. The results also highlight possibilities to improve prevention in family medicine through options such as more supportive tools and public advertising, more time and more delegated tasks and, finally, a more recognized role. CONCLUSIONS: Despite an unfavorable context of prevention within the healthcare system, preventive care in family medicine is reasonably good in Switzerland. However, some limitations appear regarding the topics and the circumstances of preventive care delivery. A global effort is needed to implement necessary changes, and the responsibility should be broadened to other stakeholders.

A Case of Punctate Inner Choroidopathy Followed by Multiple Evanescent White Dot Syndrome

PURPOSE: To report a delayed onset of multiple evanescent white dot syndrome in a patient with punctate inner choroidopathy. CASE SUMMARY: A 23-year-old female complained about sudden visual loss in the right eye. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was 20/100 in the right eye and 20/20 in the left eye. In fundus examination and optical coherence tomographic images, subfoveal choroidal neovascularization (CNV) with hemorrhage was observed in the right eye, accompanied by multiple lesions of atrophic pigmentation on the posterior pole in both eyes. We diagnosed the patient as punctate inner choroidopathy (PIC) and CNV in the right eye, and treated her using three monthly intravitreal injections of bevacizumab (Avastin®, Roche, Basel, Switzerland; 1.25 mg/0.05 mL). The CNV regressed and the BCVA improved to 20/20. Two years later, she complained of visual impairment in her left eye. The BCVA was 20/40. Fundus photography revealed numerous small white dots around the posterior pole and optic disc. Disruption of the photoreceptor layer was seen in optical coherence tomography images. Small white dots were observed as multiple hyperfluorescent dots in fluorescein angiography and hypofluorescent spots in indocyanine green angiography. An enlarged blind spot was observed in the visual field. We diagnosed her as multiple evanescent white dot syndrome (MEWDS). One month after systemic steroid treatment, the multiple white dots disappeared and the BCVA improved to 20/20. CONCLUSIONS: We determined that PIC and MEWDS, which belong to the white dot syndrome, could occur in a patient at different times.

A novel Australian tick Ixodes (Endopalpiger) australiensis inducing mammalian meat allergy after tick bite

Tick-induced mammalian meat allergy has become an emergent allergy world-wide after van Nunen et al. first described the association between tick bites and the development of mammalian meat allergy in 2007. Cases of mammalian meat allergy have now been reported on all 6 continents where humans are bitten by ticks, in 17 countries

Patient safety culture in a university hospital / Cultura de segurança do paciente em um hospital universitário / Cultura de seguridad del paciente en un hospital universitario

ABSTRACT Objective: to assess patient safety culture in a university hospital. Method: cross-sectional study with data collection through the Hospital Survey on Patient Safety Culture applied in electronic device. A total of 381 employees were interviewed, corresponding to 46% of the sum of eligible professionals. Data were analyzed descriptively. the Cronbach's alpha was used to calculate the frequency and reliability. Results: most were women (73%) from the nursing area (50%) and with direct contact with patients (82%). The composites related to "teamwork within units" (58%, α=0.68), "organizational learning - continuous improvement" (58%, α=0.63), "supervisor/manager expectations and actions promoting patient safety" (56%, α=0.73) had higher positive responses. Nine composites had low positive responses, with emphasis on "nonpunitive response to error" (18%, α=0.40). Only the item "in this unit, people treat each other with respect" had positive response above 70%. The patient safety assessment in the work unit was positive for 36% of employees, however only 22% reported events in past year. Conclusion: the findings revealed weaknesses in the safety culture at the hospital, with emphasis on culpability.

RESUMO Objetivo: avaliar a cultura de segurança do paciente em hospital universitário. Método: estudo transversal com coleta de dados por meio do Hospital Survey on Patient Safety Culture aplicado em dispositivo eletrônico. Entrevistaram-se 381 funcionários, correspondendo a 46% do total de profissionais elegíveis. Os dados foram analisados descritivamente, com cálculo de frequências e da confiabilidade pelo alfa de Cronbach. Resultados: a maior parte eram mulheres (73%), da área de enfermagem (50%) e com contato direto com pacientes (82%). As dimensões "trabalho em equipe no âmbito das unidades" (58%, α=0,68), "aprendizado organizacional" (58%, α=0,63), "expectativas e ações dos supervisores e gerentes para promoção da segurança do paciente" (56%, α=0,73) apresentaram maior positividade. Nove dimensões tiveram positividade baixa, com destaque para "respostas não punitivas aos erros" (18%, α=0,40). Somente o item "nesta unidade, as pessoas se tratam com respeito" obteve positividade acima de 70%. A avaliação da segurança do paciente na unidade de trabalho foi positiva para 36% dos funcionários, porém somente 22% informaram ter notificado eventos no último ano. Conclusão: os achados revelam fragilidades na cultura de segurança no hospital, com destaque à culpabilização.

RESUMEN Objetivo: evaluar la cultura de seguridad del paciente en un hospital universitario. Método: estudio transversal con recogimiento de datos por medio del Hospital Surveyon Patient Safety Culture aplicado en dispositivo electrónico. Se entrevistaron 381 funcionarios, correspondiendo a 46% del total de profesionales elegibles. Los datos fueron analizados descriptivamente; fueron calculadas las frecuencias y la confiabilidad con el alfa de Cronbach. Resultados: la mayor parte eran mujeres (73%) del área de enfermería (50%), con contacto directo con pacientes (82%). Las dimensiones "trabajando en equipo dentro de las unidades" (58%, α=0,68), "aprendizaje organizativo - mejorías continuas" (58%, α=0,63), "expectativas y acciones del supervisor para promover la seguridad de los pacientes" (56%, α=0,73), presentaron mayor positividad. Nueve dimensiones tuvieron positividad baja, con destaque para respuesta no punitivas a los errores (18%, α=0,40). Solamente el ítem "en esta unidad, el personal se trata con respeto" obtuvo positividad arriba de 70%. La evaluación de la seguridad del paciente en la unidad de trabajo fue positiva para 36% de los funcionarios; sin embargo, solamente 22% reportaran incidentes en el último año. Conclusión: los hallazgos revelan fragilidades en la cultura de seguridad en el hospital, entre los cuales se destaca la culpabilización.

Chagas disease and systemic autoimmune diseases among Bolivian patients in Switzerland

BACKGROUND Chronic cardiomyopathy occurs in 20-40% of the patients with Chagas disease. Autoimmune mechanisms may contribute to its pathogenesis. We diagnosed several cases of systemic autoimmune diseases among Bolivian migrants in Geneva with a high prevalence of Chagas disease. OBJECTIVES We tested the hypothesis of a clinical association between systemic autoimmune diseases and Chagas disease, particularly with the development of cardiomyopathy. METHODS We retrospectively searched the medical records of all Bolivian patients visiting Geneva University Hospitals between 2012 and 2015 for diagnosis of Chagas disease or systemic autoimmune diseases. FINDINGS Of the 2,189 eligible patients, 28 [1.3%; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.9-1.9%] presented with systemic autoimmune disease. The Chagas status was known in 903 (41.3%) patient, of whom 244 (27.0%; 95% CI = 24.2-30.0%) were positive. Eight (28.6%; 95% CI = 15.3-47.1%) of the 28 cases of systemic autoimmune disease had Chagas disease. We found no association between both entities (p = 1.000) or with Chagasic cardiomyopathy (p = 0.729). Moreover, there was no evidence of a temporal relationship between antiparasitic chemotherapy and the development of systemic autoimmune diseases. CONCLUSIONS Our results do not support a clinical association between chronic Chagas disease and systemic autoimmune diseases. However, prospective studies in areas endemic for Chagas disease should better assess the prevalence of systemic autoimmune diseases and thus a possible relationship with this infection.

A Prospective Analysis of the Effects of Nerve-Sparing Radical Prostatectomy on Urinary Continence Based on Expanded Prostate Cancer Index Composite and International Index of Erectile Function Scoring Systems / 대한배뇨장애요실금학회지

PURPOSE: This study aims to objectively characterize the effect of successful nerve sparing (NS) during radical prostatectomy (RP) on postoperative urinary continence (UC) using International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF)-scores and a previously described Expanded Prostate Cancer Index Composite (EPIC) score cutoff value (COV) for UC. Several notable studies on this topic present conflicting outcomes. This is largely due to a lack of clear definitions and consensus regarding preserved erectile function (EF) and UC. METHODS: This study is comprised of all patients who underwent RP at the Kantonsspital Baden, Switzerland, between 2004 and 2013. Patients completed self-assessment questionnaires for UC (EPIC) and EF (IIEF) pre- and postoperatively (3, 6, 9, 12, 18, and 24 months; yearly thereafter). We used a previously described EPIC subscore COV, with “satisfactory continence” signified by a score >85. Statistical analysis was performed using Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression analyses for “surgeon-” and “IIEF-defined” NS definitions. RESULTS: Of 236 men with a median age of 63 years (interquartile range [IQR], 59–66 years) and median follow-up time of 48 months (IQR, 30–78 months), 176 underwent unilateral (n=33) or bilateral (n=143) NS RP. Fifty-four underwent non-NS (NNS) RP. Kaplan-Meier analyses identified the following risk factors for UC: age, prostate volume, cancer risk group, and NS status. In surgeon-defined NS RP cases, multivariate analysis for regaining continence demonstrated no significant difference (hazard ratio [HR], 0.78; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.48–1.25; P=0.3). With successful IIEF-defined NS RPs, regression analysis demonstrated no significant difference (HR, 0.89; 95% CI, 0.59–1.35; P=0.58). CONCLUSIONS: In our population, analysis and comparison of surgeon- and IIEF-defined NS and NNS cohorts revealed that NS RP did not improve postoperative UC. The conservation of UC alone should not motivate surgeons or patients to pursue NS RP.

Hazards Caused by UV Rays of Xenon Light Based High Performance Solar Simulators

BACKGROUND: Solar furnaces are used worldwide to conduct experiments to demonstrate the feasibility of solar–chemical processes with the aid of concentrated sunlight, or to qualify high temperature-resistant components. In recent years, high-flux solar simulators (HFSSs) based on short-arc xenon lamps are more frequently used. The emitted spectrum is very similar to natural sunlight but with dangerous portions of ultraviolet light as well. Due to special benefits of solar simulators the increase of construction activity for HFSS can be observed worldwide. Hence, it is quite important to protect employees against serious injuries caused by ultraviolet radiation (UVR) in a range of 100 nm to 400 nm. METHODS: The UV measurements were made at the German Aerospace Center (DLR), Cologne and Paul-Scherrer-Institute (PSI), Switzerland, during normal operations of the HFSS, with a high-precision UV-A/B radiometer using different experiment setups at different power levels. Thus, the measurement results represent UV emissions which are typical when operating a HFSS. Therefore, the biological effects on people exposed to UVR was investigated systematically to identify the existing hazard potential. RESULTS: It should be noted that the permissible workplace exposure limits for UV emissions significantly exceeded after a few seconds. One critical value was strongly exceeded by a factor of 770. CONCLUSION: The prevention of emissions must first and foremost be carried out by structural measures. Furthermore, unambiguous protocols have to be defined and compliance must be monitored. For short-term activities in the hazard area, measures for the protection of eyes and skin must be taken.

IgE-mediated food allergies in children: prevalence, triggers, and management / 소아과

Food allergy (FA) is a serious health problem, and severe FA such as food-induced anaphylaxis can often be life threatening. The incidence of FA has been increasing especially in children. They usually develop early in life and affect up to 10% of children. The 2 most common food allergens worldwide are milk and eggs, while the third one varies depending on the countries: peanuts in the United States and Switzerland, wheat in Germany and Japan, tree nuts in Spain, sesame in Israel, and walnuts in Korea. These common food allergens are different and difficult to identify because of differing study methodologies, population, geography, age, and dietary exposure patterns. The current management of FA relies on the strict avoidance of culprit allergens, the prompt treatment of allergic reactions, including epinephrine use for food-induced anaphylaxis, monitoring, and education to prevent further reactions. Newer approaches for tolerance induction to FA and FA immunotherapy have been under investigation but are not yet ready for real-world application. Thus, consistent and systematic education of patients, caregivers, and food-handling people is of primary importance for the management and prevention of FA reactions. This review assesses and compares IgE-mediated FA in children in Korea and other countries, with a focus on summarizing the prevalence, common triggers, and management of FA.

Signal Detection of Imipenem Compared to Other Drugs from Korea Adverse Event Reporting System Database

PURPOSE: To detect signals of adverse drug events after imipenem treatment using the Korea Institute of Drug Safety & Risk Management-Korea adverse event reporting system database (KIDS-KD). MATERIALS AND METHODS: We performed data mining using KIDS-KD, which was constructed using spontaneously reported adverse event (AE) reports between December 1988 and June 2014. We detected signals calculated the proportional reporting ratio, reporting odds ratio, and information component of imipenem. We defined a signal as any AE that satisfied all three indices. The signals were compared with drug labels of nine countries. RESULTS: There were 807582 spontaneous AEs reports in the KIDS-KD. Among those, the number of antibiotics related AEs was 192510; 3382 reports were associated with imipenem. The most common imipenem-associated AE was the drug eruption; 353 times. We calculated the signal by comparing with all other antibiotics and drugs; 58 and 53 signals satisfied the three methods. We compared the drug labelling information of nine countries, including the USA, the UK, Japan, Italy, Switzerland, Germany, France, Canada, and South Korea, and discovered that the following signals were currently not included in drug labels: hypokalemia, cardiac arrest, cardiac failure, Parkinson's syndrome, myocardial infarction, and prostate enlargement. Hypokalemia was an additional signal compared with all other antibiotics, and the other signals were not different compared with all other antibiotics and all other drugs. CONCLUSION: We detected new signals that were not listed on the drug labels of nine countries. However, further pharmacoepidemiologic research is needed to evaluate the causality of these signals.

Single port varicocelectomy using SILS™ multiple access port

Purpose Several surgical approaches have been used for varicocelectomy. We report single port varicocelectomy using SILS™ (Covidien, Norwalk, CT) multiple access port. Case The greade III varicocele patient was 23 years old and placed in supine position. About 2 cm vertical skin incision was made in a crease just lateral to the umbilicus and SILS™ port was placed with three 5-mm trocars. Incision to posterior peritoneum from the point 3 cm superior to the internal inguinal was made by needle holder with a broken 15th blade tip. The testicular vessels were exposed. The lymphatic vessels and testicular artery were identified and separated from the testicular vein with flexible laparoscopic instruments and conventional rigid instruments. Three testicular veins were clipped with hemoclips (EndoClip , Autosuture, Norwalk, CT). Posterior peritoneum was repaired with 4-0 vicryl with one side of 5 mm Hem-o-lok clip (Weck Research,Triangle Park, NC). Than the distal end of suture site was also closed with Hem-o-lok. Results The whole procedure was completed with no complication. The operative time was 85 minutes, and blood loss was minimal. The patient was discharged 2 days after the operation. Left scrotal pain and vein engorgement was disappeared. Conclusions Our single port varicocelectomy method is a safe and effective alternative to conventional method. This will provide minimally invasive surgical option for varicocele and we can expect more potential cosmetic benefit and less morbid. .

TCM/aciipuncture therapy and medical insurance support in Switzerland / 中国针灸

Based on the expeienes in th acdemic exchanges in Switzerland and relevant data, the development of TCM/acupuncture in Switzerland, Swiss medical insurance system and the acceptance to TCM/acupuncture were introduced in the paper. The case analysis was applied to explain the reimbursement, proportion and additional conditions of Obligatory Basic Insurance and Supplementary Alternative Insurance on TCM/acupuncture; Additionally, in the paper, the certification and registration from EMR, ASCA and NVS for the TCM physician were introduced, which is required to the recognition by insurance companies. All of these provide the guarantee for the positive development of TCM/acupuncture in Switzerland.

Work-Family Conflict, Task Interruptions, and Influence at Work Predict Musculoskeletal Pain in Operating Room Nurses

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study is to examine the prevalence of musculoskeletal complaints in Swiss operating room (OR) nurses, and to investigate how work-family conflict, work interruptions, and influence at work are related to lumbar and cervical back pain. METHODS: Participants in this correlational questionnaire study included 116 OR nurses from eight different hospitals in Switzerland. RESULTS: We found that 66% of the OR staff suffered from musculoskeletal problems. The most prevalent musculoskeletal complaints were lumbar (52.7%) and cervical pain (38.4%). Furthermore, 20.5% reported pain in the mid spine region, 20.5% in the knees and legs, and 9.8% in the hands and feet. Multiple linear regression analyses showed that work-family conflict (p < 0.05) and interruptions (p < 0.05) significantly predicted lumbar and cervical pain in OR nurses, while influence at work (p < 0.05) only predicted lumbar pain. CONCLUSION: These results suggest that reducing the work-family conflict and interruptions at work, as well as offering opportunities to influence one's workplace, help to promote OR nurses' health.

Between dreams and reality: migration of brazilian women to Switzerland / Entre el sueño y la realidad: La migración de brasileñas a Suiza / Entre o sonho e a realidade: Migração de brasileiras para a Suíça

The general objective of this article was to study the process of illegal migration of Brazilian women to Switzerland and, more specifically, to analyze the motivations for migration, the difficulties found upon arrival, the circumstances that led them to get married and lastly an evaluation of the whole experience. The methodology was based in a qualitative approach. The participants were eight Brazilian women that illegally migrated to Switzerland but now are married with Swiss or European men. They responded to an interview focused in the objectives of the study. The appreciation of the data was realized with Minayo´s Content Analysis. The motivations were related to a bettering of the financial situation. In the difficulties encountered, we can bring out illegality, language and prejudice. Regarding marriage, they married to stay legally in the country. Finally, the evaluation of the experience was negative for most participants.

El propósito de este trabajo era estudiar el proceso de la migración ilegal de mujeres brasileñas a Suiza, más específicamente, analizar las motivaciones de la migración, las dificultades encontradas a la llegada, las circunstancias que los llevaron a casarse y una revisión de la experiencia. La metodología se basa en un enfoque cualitativo. Los participantes fueron ocho mujeres brasileñas que emigraron ilegalmente a Suiza, pero en la actualidad están casadas con hombres suizos o europeos. Han respondido a una entrevista que se centra en los objetivos del estudio. La evaluación de los datos se realizó con el Análisis de Contenido de Minayo. Las motivaciones fueron relacionadas con una mejor situación financiera. En las dificultades, podemos destacar la ilegalidad, el idioma y los prejuicios enfrentados. Cuanto a la boda, se casaron a permanecer en el país legalmente. La evaluación de la experiencia fue negativa para la mayoría de los participantes.

O objetivo geral deste artigo foi estudar como se deu o processo de migração ilegal de mulheres brasileiras para a Suíça e, mais especificamente, analisar as motivações para a migração, as dificuldades enfrentadas ao chegar, as circunstâncias que as levaram a se casar e uma avaliação da experiência. A metodologia foi baseada em uma abordagem qualitativa. Os participantes foram oito mulheres brasileiras que migraram ilegalmente para a Suíça e atualmente são casadas com suíços ou europeus. Elas responderam a uma entrevista com foco nos objetivos da pesquisa. A apreciação dos dados foi realizada a partir da Análise de Conteúdo Minayo. As motivações foram relacionadas a uma melhorar da situação financeira. Quanto às dificuldades encontradas, podemos destacar a ilegalidade, dificuldades com a língua e os preconceitos enfrentados. Quanto ao casamento, elas se casaram para permanecer no país legalmente. Finalmente, a avaliação da experiência foi para a maioria das participantes negativa.