Diagnostic and therapeutic value of intracellular biomarker testing in chronic pain.

Aim: Micronutrient and metabolic compound supplementation as a method of treating chronic pain is not well understood. Case: A 58 year-old woman presented with refractory painful neuropathy. She did not respond to conservative treatment and was seeking spinal cord stimulator implantation. She underwent a biomarker panel that revealed low intracellular levels of multiple compounds. As she supplemented her deficiencies, her symptoms fully resolved, and the implant was no longer indicated. Discussion: Micronutrient and metabolic compound testing could potentially expand non-invasive treatment options for patients with refractory chronic pain. Caution should be exercised given limited regulatory oversight in the supplement industry and actively ongoing nutritional research. Conclusion: Biomarker testing panels may be a useful adjunct in the management of refractory neuropathic pain.

Infective Endocarditis Complicated With a Large Left Coronary Cusp Aneurysm: A Condition With Undefined Natural History and Treatment.

The natural history and treatment of an aortic cusp aneurysm with or without rupture because of native aortic valve infective endocarditis (NAV-IE) have not been well defined. This may explain why current guidelines for the management of valvular heart disease do not include this complication as an indication for surgical aortic valve replacement or repair or transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). We describe herein the first case of a man aged 76 years with multiple co-morbidities with a NAV-IE associated large left coronary cusp aneurysm with subsequent rupture and consequent severe aortic regurgitation and heart failure for which he underwent an off-label successful TAVR. This patient's scenario suggests that a cusp aneurysm because of NAV-IE poses a high risk for subsequent rupture, severe aortic regurgitation, and heart failure. In conclusion, TAVR may be a reasonable alternative to high-risk surgical aortic valve replacement in patients with NAV-IE associated cusp aneurysms with or without but impending rupture.

Graft and Patient Survival in Kidney Transplant with Deceased Donor Using KDRI (Kidney Donor Risk Index), KDPI (Kidney Donor Profile Index), and EPTS (Estimated Post-Transplant Survival) in Colombia.

BACKGROUND EPTS (Estimated Post-Transplant Survival), KDRI (Kidney Donor Risk Index), and KDPI (Kidney Donor Profile Index) were developed aiming to ameliorate donor-recipient longevity matching in kidney transplants. They are based on a prediction model made using the United States population; evidence of their use outside EEUU remains limited. The aim of this study was to describe the quality of deceased-donor kidneys and to determine recipient and graft survival, glomerular filtration rate, and incidence of delayed graft function in renal transplantation according to these indices in Cali, Colombia. MATERIAL AND METHODS In this historical cohort study, Kaplan-Meier method was used to analyze survival of recipient and graft according to the values of the indices categorized by quintiles. Glomerular filtration rate and incidence of delayed graft function were also analyzed according to KDRI and KDPI. RESULTS We included 380 patients. Medians of EPTS, KDRI, and KDPI were 24% (IQR 9-60), 0.8 (IQR 0.71-0.99), and 27% (IQR 13-49), respectively. Two-year survival was 97.8% in recipients with EPTS ≤20% and it decreased with higher values of the index. Recipient and graft survival were lower for all periods when donors had KDPI >80%. Incidence of delayed graft function was higher in patients whose donors had KDPI ≥60% (44% vs 21%). Glomerular filtration rate decreased with the highest values of KDPI for all periods. CONCLUSIONS Our study represents the initial evaluation of the usefulness of these indices in Colombia. Our results suggest that KDRI, KDPI, and EPTS may serve as valuable tools for kidney allocation in our setting. Further research with larger sample sizes is necessary to validate these indices in our population.

Methylene Blue for the Treatment of Radiation-Induced Oral Mucositis during Head and Neck Cancer Treatment: An Uncontrolled Cohort.

Pain from radiation-therapy-induced oral mucositis during head-neck cancer treatment is aggravated by concurrent chemotherapy and commonly fails traditional treatments. To explore safe and sustainable alternatives, we investigated methylene blue oral rinse to reduce radiation-therapy-related oral mucositis pain. For this, we conducted a retrospective observational cohort study in a tertiary-care academic care cancer center including 85 patients with refractory oral mucositis pain during radiation therapy for head-neck cancer. Changes in pain (scale 0-10), oral function burden (scale 0-6) and requirement for percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube placement were measured. Among 58 patients, 60% received radiation therapy alone and 40% received concurrent chemotherapy-radiation therapy. Methylene blue oral rinse (MBOR) significantly decreased oral mucositis pain for at least 6.2 h (median + SD 8 ± 1.68 before vs. 2 ± 2.20 after; p < 0.0001) and oral function burden (3.5 ± 1.33 before vs. 0 ± 0.86 after; p < 0.0001). Eleven patients (19%) had percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tubes placed before using methylene blue oral rinse; subsequently, four (36%) resumed oral alimentation after methylene blue oral rinse. Two patients (3%) required percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tubes despite methylene blue oral rinse. Minimal adverse events were reported (n = 9, 15%). Our study showed that methylene blue oral rinse was an effective and safe topical treatment for opioid-refractory oral pain from oral mucositis associated with radiation therapy for head-neck cancer.

Construction and Validation of an Occupational Risks Scale for Intra-hospital Nursing Staff / Construcción y validación de una escala de riesgos laborales del personal de enfermería intrahospitalario / Construção e validação de escala de risco ocupacional para equipe de enfermagem intra-hospitalar

Objective. To construct and evaluate initial validity indicators of an instrument on occupational risks for hospital nursing staff. Methods. A methodological study was conducted in four Chilean hospitals. The study was carried out in three stages: (i) integrative literature review on risk assessment instruments for nursing; (ii) descriptive qualitative study on 113 health professionals to identify their work conditions and experiences regarding occupational risks and construct three instruments proposals for nursing managers, clinical nurses, and technicians; and (iii) validity and reliability study of the three instruments in 503 nurses and nursing technicians. To collect the data from the qualitative study, individual interviews, focal groups, and non-participant observation were conducted. The data were analyzed thematically into predefined risk categories. Content validation was performed through expert judgment, and exploratory factor analysis of principal components was conducted for the preliminary construct validity study. Cronbach's alpha was used as an indicator of internal consistency. Results. A total of 128 items were identified, distributed across 11 categories and 25 subcategories of occupational risks for the three instruments derived from the original proposal. After expert validation, pilot study, and instrument administration, Cronbach's alpha values between 0.88 and 0.93 were obtained. Exploratory factor analysis distinguished eight to eleven components, with unsatisfactory goodness-of-fit indicators. Conclusion. The instruments demonstrated good parameters of content validity and reliability, although their construct validity needs further improvement.

Objetivo. Construir y evaluar indicadores de validez inicial de un instrumento sobre riesgos laborales del personal de enfermería intrahospitalario. Métodos.Estudio metodológico, participaron cuatro hospitales chilenos. Se desarrolló en tres etapas: (i) revisión integradora de la literatura sobre instrumentos de evaluación de riesgos en enfermería; (ii) estudio cualitativo descriptivo en 113 profesionales de salud para identificar sus condiciones laborales y vivencias respecto a los riesgos laborales y construir tres propuestas de instrumentos para jefaturas de enfermería, enfermeros clínicos y técnicos; y (iii) estudio de validez y confiabilidad de los tres instrumentos en 503 enfermeros y técnicos en enfermería. Para la recolección de datos del estudio cualitativo se realizaron entrevistas individuales, grupos focales y observación no participante. Los datos fueron analizados temáticamente en categorías de riesgos predefinidas. La validación de contenido se realizó a través del juicio de expertos y para el estudio preliminar de validez de constructo se hizo análisis factorial exploratorio de componentes principales. Como indicador de la consistencia interna se aplicó Alfa de Cronbach. Resultados. Se identificaron 128 ítems para 11 categorías y 25 subcategorías de riesgos laborales para tres instrumentos derivados del originalmente propuesto. Luego de la validación por expertos, el estudio piloto y la aplicación de los instrumentos, se obtuvieron valores alfa de Cronbach entre 0.88 y 0.93. El análisis factorial exploratorio distinguió ocho a once componentes, no lográndose buenos indicadores de bondad de ajuste. Conclusión. Los instrumentos presentan buenos parámetros de validez de contenido y confiabilidad, debiéndose perfeccionar su validez de constructo.

Objetivo. Construir e avaliar indicadores de validade inicial de um instrumento sobre riscos ocupacionais da equipe de enfermagem intra-hospitalar. Métodos. Estudo metodológico, quatro hospitais chilenos participaram. Foi desenvolvido em três etapas: (i) revisão integrativa da literatura sobre instrumentos de avaliação de risco em enfermagem; (ii) estudo descritivo qualitativo em 113 profissionais de saúde para identificar suas condições de trabalho e experiências em relação aos riscos ocupacionais e construir três propostas de instrumentos para chefes, enfermeiros assistenciais e técnicos de enfermagem; e (iii) estudo de validade e confiabilidade dos três instrumentos em 503 enfermeiros e técnicos de enfermagem. Para a coleta de dados do estudo qualitativo, foram realizadas entrevistas individuais, grupos focais e observação não participante. Os dados foram analisados tematicamente em categorias de risco pré-definidas. A validação de conteúdo foi realizada por meio de julgamento de especialistas e para o estudo preliminar de validade de construto foi realizada uma análise fatorial exploratória de componentes principais. Como indicador de consistência interna, foi aplicado o Alfa de Cronbach. Resultados. Foram identificados 128 itens para 11 categorias e 25 subcategorias de riscos ocupacionais para três instrumentos derivados do originalmente proposto. Após a validação por especialistas, o estudo piloto e a aplicação dos instrumentos, foram obtidos valores de alfa de Cronbach entre 0.88 e 0.93. A análise fatorial exploratória distinguiu de oito a onze componentes, não alcançando bons indicadores de qualidade de ajuste. Conclusão. Os instrumentos apresentam bons parâmetros de validade de conteúdo e confiabilidade, e sua validade de construto deve ser aprimorada.

Construction and Validation of an Occupational Risks Scale for Intra-hospital Nursing Staff.

Objective: To construct and evaluate initial validity indicators of an instrument on occupational risks for hospital nursing staff. Methods: A methodological study was conducted in four Chilean hospitals. The study was carried out in three stages: (i) integrative literature review on risk assessment instruments for nursing; (ii) descriptive qualitative study on 113 health professionals to identify their work conditions and experiences regarding occupational risks and construct three instruments proposals for nursing managers, clinical nurses, and technicians; and (iii) validity and reliability study of the three instruments in 503 nurses and nursing technicians. To collect the data from the qualitative study, individual interviews, focal groups, and non-participant observation were conducted. The data were analyzed thematically into predefined risk categories. Content validation was performed through expert judgment, and exploratory factor analysis of principal components was conducted for the preliminary construct validity study. Cronbach's alpha was used as an indicator of internal consistency. Results: A total of 128 items were identified, distributed across 11 categories and 25 subcategories of occupational risks for the three instruments derived from the original proposal. After expert validation, pilot study, and instrument administration, Cronbach's alpha values between 0.88 and 0.93 were obtained. Exploratory factor analysis distinguished eight to eleven components, with unsatisfactory goodness-of-fit indicators. Conclusion: The instruments demonstrated good parameters of content validity and reliability, although their construct validity needs further improvement.

Temporal characterization of acute pain and toxicity kinetics during radiation therapy for head and neck cancer. A retrospective study.

Objectives: Pain during Radiation Therapy (RT) for oral cavity/oropharyngeal cancer (OC/OPC) is a clinical challenge due to its multifactorial etiology and variable management. The objective of this study was to define complex pain profiles through temporal characterization of pain descriptors, physiologic state, and RT-induced toxicities for pain trajectories understanding. Materials and methods: Using an electronic health record registry, 351 OC/OPC patients treated with RT from 2013 to 2021 were included. Weekly numeric scale pain scores, pain descriptors, vital signs, physician-reported toxicities, and analgesics were analyzed using linear mixed effect models and Spearman's correlation. Area under the pain curve (AUCpain) was calculated to measure pain burden over time. Results: Median pain scores increased from 0 during the weekly visit (WSV)-1 to 5 during WSV-7. By WSV-7, 60% and 74% of patients reported mouth and throat pain, respectively, with a median pain score of 5. Soreness and burning pain peaked during WSV-6/7 (51%). Median AUCpain was 16% (IQR (9.3-23)), and AUCpain significantly varied based on gender, tumor site, surgery, drug use history, and pre-RT pain. A temporal increase in mucositis and dermatitis, declining mean bodyweight (-7.1%; P < 0.001) and mean arterial pressure (MAP) 6.8 mmHg; P < 0.001 were detected. Pulse rate was positively associated while weight and MAP were negatively associated with pain over time (P < 0.001). Conclusion: This study provides insight on in-depth characterization and associations between dynamic pain, physiologic, and toxicity kinetics. Our findings support further needs of optimized pain control through temporal data-driven clinical decision support systems for acute pain management.

Ivermectin compared with placebo in the clinical course in Mexican patients with asymptomatic and mild COVID-19: a randomized clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: Despite the development and application of vaccines against Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) around the world, the scientific community is still trying to find some therapies to avoid or ameliorate the fatal evolution of the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Since the publication of the potential use of ivermectin as a treatment against the disease, a pleiad of information about it has been published. However, the evidence is not strong or weak enough to conclude its usefulness in the clinical evolution of patients infected with SARS-CoV-2. We evaluate the efficacy and safety of ivermectin in the treatment of Mexican patients with asymptomatic and mild COVID-19 in a three-day administration in comparison to placebo. METHODS: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was carried out in 66 adults with asymptomatic and mild COVID-19. Patients were randomly assigned 1:1 ratio to ivermectin plus acetaminophen or placebo plus acetaminophen. The primary endpoint was the proportion of subjects without a disease progression to severity according to COVID-19 guidelines by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) since randomization to 14 days. RESULTS: None of the participants presented progression to a severe state in either group. Viral load was measured on Days 1, 5, and 14. No significant differences were observed in baseline or 14-day between groups (p = 0.720 and 0.362, respectively). However, on Day 5, a significant difference in viral load was observed between groups (p = 0.039). The frequency of symptoms was similar between groups, and no significant differences were observed. The most frequent symptom was cough. One severe adverse event associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection was observed in the ivermectin group. CONCLUSIONS: At standard doses, ivermectin is not effective to prevent progression to a severe state or reducing symptoms in adults with asymptomatic and mild COVID-19. Trial registration The study was registered with ClinicalTrial.gov (NCT04407507) on May 29, 2020.

Methylene blue for intractable pain from oral mucositis related to cancer treatment: a randomized phase 2 clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: Oral mucositis (OM) in patients receiving cancer therapy is thus far not well managed with standard approaches. We aimed to assess the safety and effectiveness of methylene blue (MB) oral rinse for OM pain in patients receiving cancer therapy. METHODS: In this randomized, single-blind phase 2 clinical trial, patients were randomized to one of four arms: MB 0.025%+conventional therapy (CTx) (n = 15), MB 0.05%+CTx (n = 14), MB 0.1%+CTx (n = 15), or CTx alone (n = 16). Intervention groups received MB oral rinse every 6 h for 2 days with outcomes measured at days 1-2; safety was evaluated up to 30 days. The primary outcome measured change in the pain numeric rating scale (0-10) from baseline to day 2. Secondary outcome measured change in oral function burden scores from baseline to day 2, World Health Organization OM grades, morphine equivalent daily doses, and adverse events. The trial was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT03469284. RESULTS: Sixty patients (mean age 43, range 22-62 years) completed the study. Compared with those who received CTx alone, those who received MB had a significant reduction of pain scores at day 2 of treatment (mean ± SD); 0.025%: 5.2 ± 2.9, 0.05%: 4.5 ± 2.9, 0.1%: 5.15 ± 2.6) and reduction of oral function burden scores (0.025%: 2.5 ± 1.55, 0.05%: 2.8 ± 1.7, 0.1%: 2.9 ± 1.60). No serious adverse events were noted, but eight patients reported burning sensation of the oral cavity with the first dose, and this caused one patient to discontinue therapy. CONCLUSIONS: MB oral rinse showed significant pain reduction and improved oral functioning with minimal adverse effects. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT03469284.

Non-Invasive Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation in Cancer Population: An Incomplete Cohort.

BACKGROUND: Pelvic floor dysfunction and its associated symptoms are a common clinical challenge in the cancer population. Despite the noninvasive nature of pelvic floor rehabilitation (PFR) for this condition and the promising clinical results observed with its use, PFR appears to be an underused therapy. OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study was to quantify the association between physical therapy of the pelvic floor and its effect on pain relief and the associated symptoms in cancer patients with pelvic floor dysfunction. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective cohort study. METHODS: With the use of an electronic database in our pain medicine department, we retrospectively quantified the pain relief and symptom improvement in patients diagnosed as having chronic pelvic floor dysfunction who had undergone PFR. RESULTS: Of the 68 patients available for analysis, 49 met the inclusion criteria. Baseline characteristics of included patients were generally similar. The duration of pelvic pain before PFR was 53.7 months (mean) (SD, 182.5 months; median, 12 months). Of the 49 study patients, 23 (47%) had bladder dysfunction, 24 (49%) had dyspareunia, 2 (4%) had erectile dysfunction, and one (2%) had rectal dysfunction. Most symptoms associated with pelvic floor dysfunction resolved after PFR. LIMITATIONS: Single-center, small data, retrospective study. CONCLUSIONS: PFR is an effective tool for treating the pain associated with pelvic floor dysfunction and its related symptoms. This conservative approach can contribute to lowering the use of opiate analgesics.

Los costes indirectos de la cefalea tensional. Una revisión sistemática de la literatura / The indirect costs of tension type headache. A systematic literature review

Objetivo: El objetivo de este trabajo fue revisar sistemáticamente la literatura publicada con relación a los costes indirectos estimados asociados al TTH.DiseñoEsta revisión sistemática siguió la declaración de elementos de informes preferidos para revisiones sistemáticas y metaanálisis (PRISMA).Fuentes de datosLa revisión se realizó en dos bases de datos principales, PubMed y EconLit, y fue completada con la búsqueda de literatura gris.Selección de estudiosEl criterio básico para la inclusión de estudios fue que presentaran al menos una medida de costes indirectos específicos del TTH.Extracción de datosSe seleccionaron finalmente 12 estudios para la extracción de la información. De todos los artículos seleccionados se sintetizaron las características del diseño del estudio, los tipos de coste incluidos, así como el instrumento de medida, y los resultados principales.ResultadosLa búsqueda arrojó en total 568 estudios. Se encontró heterogeneidad en los diseños y muestras/poblaciones de los estudios incluidos. Sólo dos estudios estimaron costes directos e indirectos para el TTH. Entre los resultados más destacables, encontramos un impacto moderado estimado de la discapacidad por TTH (entre 0,037 y 0,15 por persona, 0,06-0,09% para la población). Las pérdidas de productividad y eficiencia se observaron y fueron muy heterogéneas. La disposición a pagar por un tratamiento efectivo oscilaría entre $1,32 y $9,20 mensuales. La calidad de vida es baja, entre 28,2 y 28,4 puntos sobre 100, y la calidad de vida relacionada con la salud, parece mejorar significativamente con un tratamiento.ConclusionesA pesar de la elevada heterogeneidad de los resultados, podemos concluir que la cefalea tensional se caracteriza por un impacto moderado en la discapacidad, en la productividad y eficiencia en el trabajo o la escuela, y en la calidad de vida de quien la sufre.

Objective: The objective of this work was to systematically review the published literature in relation to the estimated indirect costs associated with TTH.DesignThis systematic review followed the Preferred Reporting Items Statement for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyzes (PRISMA).Data sourcesThe review was performed in two main databases, PubMed and EconLit, and was completed with the gray literature search.Study selectionThe basic criterion for the inclusion of studies was that they present at least one measure of indirect costs specific to TTH.Data extraction12 studies were finally selected for information extraction. Of all the selected articles, the characteristics of the study design, the types of costs included, as well as the measurement instrument, and the main results were synthesized.ResultsThe search yielded a total of 568 studies. Heterogeneity was found in the designs and samples/populations of the included studies. Only two studies estimated direct and indirect costs for TTH. Among the most notable results, we find an estimated moderate impact of disability due to TTH (between 0.037 and 0.15 per person, 0.06–0.09% for the population). Productivity and efficiency losses were observed and were very heterogeneous. The willingness to pay for effective treatment would range from $1.32 to $9.20 per month. Quality of life is low, between 28.2 and 28.4 points out of 100, and health-related quality of life seems to improve significantly with treatment.ConclusionsDespite the high heterogeneity of the results, we can conclude that tension headache is characterized by a moderate impact on disability, on productivity and efficiency at work or school, and on the quality of life of those who suffer it.

[The indirect costs of tension type headache. A systematic literature review]. / Los costes indirectos de la cefalea tensional. Una revisión sistemática de la literatura.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this work was to systematically review the published literature in relation to the estimated indirect costs associated with TTH. DESIGN: This systematic review followed the Preferred Reporting Items Statement for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyzes (PRISMA). DATA SOURCES: The review was performed in two main databases, PubMed and EconLit, and was completed with the gray literature search. STUDY SELECTION: The basic criterion for the inclusion of studies was that they present at least one measure of indirect costs specific to TTH. DATA EXTRACTION: 12 studies were finally selected for information extraction. Of all the selected articles, the characteristics of the study design, the types of costs included, as well as the measurement instrument, and the main results were synthesized. RESULTS: The search yielded a total of 568 studies. Heterogeneity was found in the designs and samples/populations of the included studies. Only two studies estimated direct and indirect costs for TTH. Among the most notable results, we find an estimated moderate impact of disability due to TTH (between 0.037 and 0.15 per person, 0.06-0.09% for the population). Productivity and efficiency losses were observed and were very heterogeneous. The willingness to pay for effective treatment would range from $1.32 to $9.20 per month. Quality of life is low, between 28.2 and 28.4 points out of 100, and health-related quality of life seems to improve significantly with treatment. CONCLUSIONS: Despite the high heterogeneity of the results, we can conclude that tension headache is characterized by a moderate impact on disability, on productivity and efficiency at work or school, and on the quality of life of those who suffer it.

Platinum-Rare Earth Alloy Electrocatalysts for the Oxygen Reduction Reaction: A Brief Overview.

The development of highly active and long-term stable electrocatalysts for the cathode of proton-exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFC) is a paramount requirement for high performance and durable PEMFC stacks. In this regard, alloying Pt with rare earth metals (REM) has emerged as a promising approach. This short review summarizes and discusses the most relevant advances on Pt-REM alloy electrocatalysts, from bulk polycrystalline surfaces to carbon supported nanostructures, for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), and their implementation in PEMFCs, and is a starting point to establish the challenges in synthesis and design and properties goals for novel Pt-REM alloys.

Implementación de un programa de educación maternal en medio acuático / Implementation of a maternal education program in an aquatic environment

Objetivo: evaluar la efectividad de una intervención de educación maternal en medio acuático guiado por matronas en mujeres gestantes en seguimiento en Atención Primaria.Método: estudio cuasi-experimental, longitudinal y prospectivo. Participarán las mujeres gestantes pertenecientes a los centros de salud adscritos al programa de educación maternal que hayan realizado el seguimiento completo del embarazo en los centros de salud ubicados en el distrito de Usera (Madrid), y cuyo parto haya tenido lugar en el hospital de referencia. El programa de educación maternal consta de seis sesiones de 50 minutos de duración, que incluye ejercicios acuáticos dirigidos por las matronas del centro de salud. La variable principal será el porcentaje de partos eutócicos. Entre las variables secundarias se analizará el control del dolor y el traumatismo perineal. Se llevará a cabo análisis descriptivo. Para la comparación entre grupos se usarán los test estadísticos adecuados al tipo de variables.Conclusión: con la implementación del programa se pretende disminuir la tasa de cesáreas.(AU)

Objective: to evaluate the effectiveness of a maternal education intervention in an aquatic environment and guided by midwives for pregnant women under follow-up by Primary Care.Method: a quasi-experimental, longitudinal and prospective study, which will include pregnant women from the Primary Care centres affiliated with the Maternal Education Program, who have received complete follow-up for their pregnancy in the health centres at the Usera district (Madrid), and with delivery taking place in their hospital of reference. The Maternal Education program consists of six 50-minute sessions, and includes aquatic exercises guided by the Primary Care centre midwives. The primary endpoint will be the proportion of normal deliveries. The secondary endpoints will include the analysis of pain management and perineal trauma. Descriptive analysis will be conducted. The statistical tests adequate for this type of endpoints will be used for comparison between arms.Conclusion: the implementation of the program intends to reduce the rate of Caesarean deliveries.(AU)

[Statistical literacy and risk communication for COVID-19 vaccination: a scoping reviewLiteracia estatística e comunicação de risco para a vacinação contra a COVID-19: revisão de escopo]. / Alfabetización estadística y comunicación de riesgo para la vacunación contra la COVID-19: una revisión de alcance.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the role of statistical literacy and proper risk communication in communication strategies related to COVID-19 vaccination. METHODS: A scoping review was carried out in January 2021, with the keywords "statistical literacy," "risk communication," "health communication," and "pandemic," in the Pan American Health Organization Virtual Health Library, PubMed, Web of Science, EBSCO, and Google Scholar databases. No filters were applied for dates, language, or publication type. RESULTS: Of the 87 articles identified, four met the inclusion criteria. Four main messages were recognized that relate statistical literacy and risk communication: 1) risk communication and statistical literacy level affect individual and collective decision-making; 2) communication of uncertainty should include what is known and not known with regard to statistics and risks; 3) the use of graphics and visuals is key to appropriately informing the population; and 4) different formats should be used to improve communication, always adjusted to the population's statistical literacy level. CONCLUSIONS: Statistical literacy plays a key role in communicating risks related to health in general and COVID-19 vaccination in particular. In health emergencies, proper communication of risk and associated uncertainty should be clear, transparent, and timely.

OBJETIVO: Descrever o papel da literacia estatística e da comunicação correta de riscos nas estratégias de comunicação relacionadas à vacinação contra a COVID-19. MÉTODOS: Em janeiro de 2021, foi realizada uma revisão de escopo com as palavras-chave "statistical literacy", "risk communication", "health communication" e "pandemic" nos bancos de dados da Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde da Organização Pan-Americana da Saúde, PubMed, Web of Science, EBSCO e Google Scholar. Não foi aplicado filtro de data, idioma ou tipo de publicação. RESULTADOS: Dos 87 artigos identificados, quatro atenderam aos critérios de inclusão. Foram reconhecidas quatro mensagens principais relacionadas à literacia estatística e à comunicação de risco: 1) a comunicação de risco e o nível de literacia estatística afetam a tomada de decisão individual e coletiva; 2) a comunicação da incerteza deve incluir o que é conhecido e desconhecido sobre estatísticas e riscos; 3) o uso de gráficos e visualizações é fundamental para informar adequadamente a população; e 4) devem ser usados diferentes formatos para melhorar a comunicação, sempre ajustados ao nível de literacia estatística da população. CONCLUSÕES: A literacia estatística desempenha um papel fundamental na comunicação dos riscos relacionados à saúde em geral e à vacinação contra a COVID-19 em particular. Em situações de emergência de saúde, a comunicação correta do risco e da incerteza a ele associada deve ser clara, transparente e oportuna.

Alfabetización estadística y comunicación de riesgo para la vacunación contra la COVID-19: una revisión de alcance

[RESUMEN]. Objetivo. Describir el papel que desempeñan la alfabetización estadística y la correcta comunicación de riesgo en las estrategias de comunicación relacionadas con la vacunación contra la COVID-19. Métodos. Se realizó una revisión de alcance en enero del 2021, con las palabras clave “ statistical literacy ”, “ risk communication”, “health communication ” y “ pandemic ” en las bases de datos de la Biblioteca Virtual en Salud de la Organización Panamericana de la Salud, PubMed, Web of Science, EBSCO y Google Académico. No se aplicaron filtros para fechas, idioma o tipos de publicación. Resultados. De los 87 artículos identificados, cuatro cumplieron con los criterios de inclusión. Se recono-cieron cuatro mensajes principales que relacionan la alfabetización estadística y la comunicación de riesgo: 1) la comunicación de riesgo y el nivel de alfabetización estadística afectan a la toma de decisión individual y colectiva, 2) la comunicación de la incertidumbre debe incluir lo que se sabe y no se sabe respecto a las estadísticas y los riesgos, 3) el uso de gráficos y visualizaciones es clave para informar apropiadamente a la población y 4) deben utilizarse diferentes formatos para mejorar la comunicación, siempre ajustados al nivel de alfabetización estadística de la población. Conclusiones. La alfabetización estadística desempeña un papel clave en la comunicación de los riesgos relacionados con la salud en general y la vacunación contra la COVID-19 en particular. En situaciones de emergencia sanitaria, la correcta comunicación de riesgo y de la incertidumbre asociada debe ser clara, transparente y oportuna.

[ABSTRACT]. Objective. To describe the role of statistical literacy and proper risk communication in communication strate-gies related to COVID-19 vaccination.Methods. A scoping review was carried out in January 2021, with the keywords “statistical literacy,” “risk com-munication,” “health communication,” and “pandemic,” in the Pan American Health Organization Virtual Health Library, PubMed, Web of Science, EBSCO, and Google Scholar databases. No filters were applied for dates, language, or publication type.Results. Of the 87 articles identified, four met the inclusion criteria. Four main messages were recognized that relate statistical literacy and risk communication: 1) risk communication and statistical literacy level affect indi-vidual and collective decision-making; 2) communication of uncertainty should include what is known and not known with regard to statistics and risks; 3) the use of graphics and visuals is key to appropriately informing the population; and 4) different formats should be used to improve communication, always adjusted to the population’s statistical literacy level.Conclusions. Statistical literacy plays a key role in communicating risks related to health in general and COVID-19 vaccination in particular. In health emergencies, proper communication of risk and associated uncertainty should be clear, transparent, and timely.

[RESUMO]. Objetivo. Descrever o papel da literacia estatística e da comunicação correta de riscos nas estratégias de comunicação relacionadas à vacinação contra a COVID-19.Métodos. Em janeiro de 2021, foi realizada uma revisão de escopo com as palavras-chave “statistical lite-racy”, “risk communication”, “health communication” e “pandemic” nos bancos de dados da Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde da Organização Pan-Americana da Saúde, PubMed, Web of Science, EBSCO e Google Scholar. Não foi aplicado filtro de data, idioma ou tipo de publicação.Resultados. Dos 87 artigos identificados, quatro atenderam aos critérios de inclusão. Foram reconhecidas quatro mensagens principais relacionadas à literacia estatística e à comunicação de risco: 1) a comunicação de risco e o nível de literacia estatística afetam a tomada de decisão individual e coletiva; 2) a comunicação da incerteza deve incluir o que é conhecido e desconhecido sobre estatísticas e riscos; 3) o uso de gráficos e visualizações é fundamental para informar adequadamente a população; e 4) devem ser usados diferentes formatos para melhorar a comunicação, sempre ajustados ao nível de literacia estatística da população.Conclusões. A literacia estatística desempenha um papel fundamental na comunicação dos riscos relaciona-dos à saúde em geral e à vacinação contra a COVID-19 em particular. Em situações de emergência de saúde, a comunicação correta do risco e da incerteza a ele associada deve ser clara, transparente e oportuna.

Infección de un muñón por Leuconostoc spp, reporte de un caso y revisión de la literatura / Infection of a stump by Leuconostoc, a case report and review of the literature

Resumen La infección del muñón después de amputaciones traumáticas tiene una prevalencia hasta del 34%. Las bacterias más frecuentemente aisladas son Staphylococcus aureus, Enterobacterales como Escherichia coli; Pseudomonas aeruginosa, entre otras. Estas infecciones ocurren por la inoculación directa en el momento del trauma o por gérmenes nosocomiales; la realización de curaciones de las heridas con emplastos vegetales es una práctica aún frecuente en zonas rurales de nuestro país pero su relación con infección del sitio operatorio ha sido poco explorada en la literatura. Leuconostoc spp. es un coco Gram positivo encontrado en territorio agrícola y utilizado en la industria de alimentos. Se presenta un caso de infección de un muñón transfemoral por Leuconostoc, después de una amputación traumática del miembro inferior en una paciente previamente sana con una posible asociación a curaciones con emplastos vegetales.

Abstract Infection of a traumatic amputation stump has a prevalence of 34%. The most common bacteria isolated are Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Enterobacterales such as Escherichia coli. These infections occur by direct inoculation in the moment of the trauma or by nosocomial germs. Infections secondary to manipulation of the wounds with vegetable plasters have few case reports in the literature. Leuconostoc spp. is a Gram-positive coccobacillus commonly found in agricultural territory and used in the food industry. There are few case reports in the literature about bone infections by Leuconostocs pp. We present a case of an infection of the operative site of a transfemoral stump by Leuconostoc spp. after a traumatic amputation of the lower limb in a previously healthy patient who had a possible association to cures with vegetable plasters.