Clinical application of amino-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide concentration in amniotic fluid for the prediction of preterm birth in symptomatic women.

BACKGROUND: Preterm birth accounts for 60% to 80% of neonatal mortality. Approximately one-third of preterm births are caused by the spontaneous onset of preterm labor. Nevertheless, 70% to 90% of women diagnosed with preterm labor will not deliver within 7 days. Thus, many women will be unnecessarily treated by preterm labor with risk medications. Better tools are needed to categorize women in preterm labor into high or low risk of preterm delivery. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the amino-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide concentration in the amniotic fluid as a prognostic test to predict the risk of delivery within 48 hours or 7 days and before 34 0/7 or 37 0/7 weeks of gestation in women in preterm labor. STUDY DESIGN: A total of 102 pregnant women presenting signs and symptoms of spontaneous preterm birth (22 0/7 to 34 0/7 weeks of gestation) were included. Amniotic fluid was obtained by amniocentesis, and amino-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide concentration was measured. Below normal concentration was defined as <0.5 multiples of the median of the standard curve according to gestational age. The risk of preterm delivery was estimated according to normal or lower-than-normal amino-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide concentrations. The predictive capacity of the test (below normal amino-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide concentration) was evaluated to identify spontaneous preterm birth at 48 hours or 7 days from amniocentesis and less than 34 0/7 or 37 0/7 weeks at delivery. RESULTS: For the outcome delivery within 48 hours, lower-than-normal amino-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide concentration had 94.6% sensitivity, 73.8% specificity, 96.0% negative predictive value, 3.61 positive likelihood ratio, and 0.07 negative likelihood ratio. For the outcome delivery within 7 days, the test had 93.9% sensitivity, 88.7% specificity, 94.0% negative predictive value, 8.31 positive likelihood ratio, and 0.07 negative likelihood ratio. For the outcomes of spontaneous preterm birth before 34 0/7 and 37 0/7 weeks of gestation, below normal amino-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide concentrations had 80.0% sensitivity, 83.0% specificity, 78.0% negative predictive value, 4.70 positive likelihood ratio, and 0.24 negative likelihood ratio and 64.1% sensitivity, 91.7% specificity, 44.0% negative predictive value, 7.70 positive likelihood ratio, and 0.39 negative likelihood ratio, respectively. CONCLUSION: Among patients in spontaneous preterm labor, the detection of lower-than-normal amino-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide concentrations (<0.5 multiples of the median) in amniotic fluid has an excellent predictive capacity to identify those patients at low risk of preterm delivery within 48 hours or 7 days.

Intra-amniotic Candida albicans Infection Treated With Liposomal Amphotericin B With a Successful Neonatal Outcome.

Intra-amniotic infection with Candida species is an uncommon but severe condition with high fetal morbimortality and no established clinical guidelines for its management. We report a Candida albicans intra-amniotic infection diagnosed in a 25-week pregnant woman, successfully treated with high-dose liposomal amphotericin B. Pregnancy was prolonged until 30 weeks, and despite persistently positive Candida cultures in amniotic fluid, a healthy newborn was delivered without evidence of systemic infection. Amphotericin concentration was determined at birth, revealing levels over 30 times higher in mother's and cord blood than in the amniotic fluid, probably explaining the clinical protection despite failure in obtaining fungal clearance.

Unraveling the socio-environmental drivers during the early COVID-19 pandemic in China.

The effect of environmental and socioeconomic conditions on the global pandemic of COVID-19 had been widely studied, yet their influence during the early outbreak remains less explored. Unraveling these relationships represents a key knowledge to prevent potential outbreaks of similar pathogens in the future. This study aims to determine the influence of socioeconomic, infrastructure, air pollution, and weather variables on the relative risk of infection in the initial phase of the COVID-19 pandemic in China. A spatio-temporal Bayesian zero-inflated Poisson model is used to test for the effect of 13 socioeconomic, urban infrastructure, air pollution, and weather variables on the relative risk of COVID-19 disease in 122 cities of China. The results show that socioeconomic and urban infrastructure variables did not have a significant effect on the relative risk of COVID-19. Meanwhile, COVID-19 relative risk was negatively associated with temperature, wind speed, and carbon monoxide, while nitrous dioxide and the human modification index presented a positive effect. Pollution gases presented a marked variability during the study period, showing a decrease of CO. These findings suggest that controlling and monitoring urban emissions of pollutant gases is a key factor for the reduction of risk derived from COVID-19.

Macronutrient omission influences morphological parameters, growth, and yield in Arracacia xanthorrhiza Bancroft.

Mineral nutrition in arracacha is a critical production factor that conditions harvest yield. Few studies have been developed in nutrition and physiology, this does not allow to the design of ideal fertilization programs; consequences are increased production costs, soil degradation, and low-quality storage roots. Therefore, this study aimed to characterize the symptoms associated with macronutrient deficiency in arracacha plants and its effect on morphological parameters, the accumulation of fresh and dry biomass, and the distribution of dry matter in the different organs. Under greenhouse conditions, the experiment was conducted in Cajamarca, Tolima, Colombia. A completely randomized design was implemented, with seven treatments and six replicates (6 solutions lacking N, P, K, Ca, Mg, and S and Hoagland complete solution). Forty-two seedlings were transplanted, to which the complete solution was applied for 75 days, increasing the concentrations from 0.25 M to 1 M, and then nutritional deficiencies were induced. Deficiencies caused by macronutrients in arracacha plants exhibited visual symptoms and changes in their morphology. The omission of N, Ca, and S generated the most severe symptoms, drastically affecting plant height, leaf width, number of leaves, and plant mass accumulation. In the case of P, leaves became small and intense green with a violet margin. The Mg and K generated leaves with interveinal and margin chlorosis. Plants with the omission of macronutrients allocated dry mass in the following order: stem, storage roots, propagules, and leaves.

Barreras para las actividades de investigación en los programas de residencia: estudio de métodos mixtos / Barriers for research activities in residency programs: A mix-methods study

Introducción Las actividades de investigación tienen un impacto positivo en el rendimiento de los médicos residentes. Falta información sobre investigaciones desarrolladas por residentes de países en vías de desarrollo. Nuestro objetivo fue evaluar las barreras y facilitadores para la investigación en programas de residencia en una Facultad de Medicina de América Latina. Métodos Se llevó a cabo un diseño de estudio de metodología mixta. Utilizamos un enfoque de teoría fundamentada para la fase cualitativa, recopilando los datos a través de entrevistas semiestructuradas y grupos focales con profesores y residentes. Para la fase cuantitativa, se administraron encuestas a residentes y profesores. Para evaluar las propiedades psicométricas de las encuestas utilizamos análisis factorial y scree plot (validez); alfa de Cronbach y coeficiente de Correlación Intraclase (confiabilidad). Resultados Se realizaron grupos focales que incluyeron diez profesores y quince residentes, y se identificaron los siguientes dominios: a) facilitadores para la participación de los residentes, b) barreras, c) estrategias para introducir la investigación en el currículo, d) argumentos que respaldan las actividades de investigación durante la residencia, y e) perfil de los residentes motivados en la investigación. Tanto los residentes como el profesorado identificaron la falta de tiempo protegido y la ausencia de tutoría adecuada como las principales barreras. Se encontró una brecha de género relacionada con las publicaciones internacionales (34% vs 66% mujeres/hombres), las mujeres percibieron que las actividades de investigación 'compiten con otras actividades' (OR: 2.04, IC 95% 1.03 a 4.07). Conclusiones Los residentes y profesores de una universidad latinoamericana de alta productividad valoran mucho la investigación. La presencia de brecha de género, la falta de tiempo protegido y de tutorías destacan como las principales barreras. Las estrategias propuestas para mejorar la investigación dentro de los programas de residencia son: establecer un programa de tutoría interdisciplinario entre residentes e investigadores; promover las rotaciones electivas; y premiar propuestas que consideren la equidad de género.

Introduction Research activities have a positive impact on the performance of residents. However, information on research conducted by residents from developing countries is scarce. Our study sought to identify the barriers and facilitators for developing research in medical residency programs in a Latin-American faculty of medicine. Methods A mixed methodology study design was carried out. We used a grounded theory approach for the qualitative phase, collecting data through semi-structured interviews and focus groups with faculty and residents. For the quantitative phase, surveys were administered to residents and teachers. We used factor analysis and scree plot (validity), Cronbach's alpha, and Intraclass correlation coefficient (reliability) to evaluate the surveys' psychometric properties. Results Focus groups involving ten faculty members and 15 residents were conducted, and the following domains were identified: a) facilitators for resident participation, b) barriers, c) strategies for introducing research into the curriculum, d) arguments supporting research activities throughout medical residency, and e) profile of research-motivated residents. Both residents and faculty members identified a lack of protected time and adequate mentoring as the major barriers. A gender gap was found related to international publications (34% vs. 66% women/men); women perceived that research activities 'compete with other activities' (OR: 2.04, 95% CI 1.03 to 4.07). Conclusions Research is highly valued by both residents and faculty members at a Latin-American university with a strong academic output. Major barriers to promoting research in this context include lack of protected time and effective mentoring, and gender gaps. Strategies proposed to improve research within medical residency programs include: establishing an interdisciplinary mentoring program between residents and researchers, promoting elective rotations, and rewarding proposals that consider gender equity.

Barriers for research activities in residency programs: A mix-methods study.

Introduction: Research activities have a positive impact on the performance of residents. However, information on research conducted by residents from developing countries is scarce. Our study sought to identify the barriers and facilitators for developing research in medical residency programs in a Latin-American faculty of medicine. Methods: A mixed methodology study design was carried out. We used a grounded theory approach for the qualitative phase, collecting data through semi-structured interviews and focus groups with faculty and residents. For the quantitative phase, surveys were administered to residents and teachers. We used factor analysis and scree plot (validity), Cronbach's alpha, and Intraclass correlation coefficient (reliability) to evaluate the surveys' psychometric properties. Results: Focus groups involving ten faculty members and 15 residents were conducted, and the following domains were identified: a) facilitators for resident participation, b) barriers, c) strategies for introducing research into the curriculum, d) arguments supporting research activities throughout medical residency, and e) profile of research-motivated residents. Both residents and faculty members identified a lack of protected time and adequate mentoring as the major barriers. A gender gap was found related to international publications (34% vs. 66% women/men); women perceived that research activities 'compete with other activities' (OR: 2.04, 95% CI 1.03 to 4.07). Conclusions: Research is highly valued by both residents and faculty members at a Latin-American university with a strong academic output. Major barriers to promoting research in this context include lack of protected time and effective mentoring, and gender gaps. Strategies proposed to improve research within medical residency programs include: establishing an interdisciplinary mentoring program between residents and researchers, promoting elective rotations, and rewarding proposals that consider gender equity.

Introducción: Las actividades de investigación tienen un impacto positivo en el rendimiento de los médicos residentes. Falta información sobre investigaciones desarrolladas por residentes de países en vías de desarrollo. Nuestro objetivo fue evaluar las barreras y facilitadores para la investigación en programas de residencia en una Facultad de Medicina de América Latina. Métodos: Se llevó a cabo un diseño de estudio de metodología mixta. Utilizamos un enfoque de teoría fundamentada para la fase cualitativa, recopilando los datos a través de entrevistas semiestructuradas y grupos focales con profesores y residentes. Para la fase cuantitativa, se administraron encuestas a residentes y profesores. Para evaluar las propiedades psicométricas de las encuestas utilizamos análisis factorial y scree plot (validez); alfa de Cronbach y coeficiente de Correlación Intraclase (confiabilidad). Resultados: Se realizaron grupos focales que incluyeron diez profesores y quince residentes, y se identificaron los siguientes dominios: a) facilitadores para la participación de los residentes, b) barreras, c) estrategias para introducir la investigación en el currículo, d) argumentos que respaldan las actividades de investigación durante la residencia, y e) perfil de los residentes motivados en la investigación. Tanto los residentes como el profesorado identificaron la falta de tiempo protegido y la ausencia de tutoría adecuada como las principales barreras. Se encontró una brecha de género relacionada con las publicaciones internacionales (34% vs 66% mujeres/hombres), las mujeres percibieron que las actividades de investigación 'compiten con otras actividades' (OR: 2.04, IC 95% 1.03 a 4.07). Conclusiones: Los residentes y profesores de una universidad latinoamericana de alta productividad valoran mucho la investigación. La presencia de brecha de género, la falta de tiempo protegido y de tutorías destacan como las principales barreras. Las estrategias propuestas para mejorar la investigación dentro de los programas de residencia son: establecer un programa de tutoría interdisciplinario entre residentes e investigadores; promover las rotaciones electivas; y premiar propuestas que consideren la equidad de género.

Effects of air pollution and weather on the initial COVID-19 outbreaks in United States, Italy, Spain, and China: A comparative study.

Contrasting effects have been identified in association of weather (temperature and humidity) and pollutant gases with COVID-19 infection, which could be derived from the influence of lockdowns and season change. The influence of pollutant gases and climate during the initial phases of the pandemic, before the closures and the change of season in the northern hemisphere, is unknown. Here, we used a spatial-temporal Bayesian zero-inflated-Poisson model to test for short-term associations of weather and pollutant gases with the relative risk of COVID-19 disease in China (first outbreak) and the countries with more cases during the initial pandemic (the United States, Spain and Italy), considering also the effects of season and lockdown. We found contrasting association between pollutant gases and COVID-19 risk in the United States, Italy, and Spain, while in China it was negatively associated (except for SO2 ). COVID-19 risk was positively associated with specific humidity in all countries, while temperature presented a negative effect. Our findings showed that short-term associations of air pollutants with COVID-19 infection vary strongly between countries, while generalized effects of temperature (negative) and humidity (positive) with COVID-19 was found. Our results show novel information about the influence of pollution and weather on the initial outbreaks, which contribute to unravel the mechanisms during the beginning of the pandemic.

Functional consequences of SARS-CoV-2 infection in pregnant women, fetoplacental unit, and neonate.

The SARS-CoV-2 infection causes COVID-19 disease, characterized by acute respiratory distress syndrome, bilateral pneumonia, and organ failure. The consequences of maternal SARS-CoV-2 infection for the pregnant woman, fetus, and neonate are controversial. Thus, it is required to determine whether there is viral and non-viral vertical transmission in COVID-19. The disease caused by SARS-CoV-2 leads to functional alterations in asymptomatic and symptomatic pregnant women, the fetoplacental unit and the neonate. Several diseases of pregnancy, including COVID-19, affect the fetoplacental function, which causes in utero programming for young and adult diseases. A generalized inflammatory state and a higher risk of infection are seen in pregnant women with COVID-19. Obesity, diabetes mellitus, and hypertension may increase the vulnerability of pregnant women to infection by SARS-CoV-2. Alpha, Delta, and Omicron variants of SARS-CoV-2 show specific mutations that seem to increase the capacity of the virus to infect the pregnant woman, likely due to increasing its interaction via the virus S protein and angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 receptors. This review shows the literature addressing to what extent COVID-19 in pregnancy affects the pregnant woman, fetoplacental unit, and neonate. Prospective studies that are key in managing SARS-CoV-2 infection in pregnancy are discussed.

Eficiencia del entrenamiento simulado del parto vaginal en estudiantes de enfermería/obstetricia / The efficiency of simulated vaginal birth training in nursing/midwifery students

Introducción: la competencia "asistencia del parto vaginal" se adquiere, parcialmente, mediante simulación en estudiantes de enfermería/obstetricia. Sin embargo, no se ha reportado cuantos partos simulados son necesarios para que estos estudiantes adquieran la mínima competencia. Métodos: estudio cuasi experimental que incluyó a todos los alumnos del internado hospitalario en salud de la mujer, en el segundo semestre del año 2020, excluyendo aquellos que hubieran tenido exposición a la simulación o atención clínica de partos vagina-les. Se evaluó una intervención de práctica simulada en la atención del parto normal en tres etapas: 1) texto, 2) video y 3) simulación. Los estudiantes efectúan tres atenciones simuladas, un evaluador ciego evaluó su rendimiento con una pauta de cotejo (máximo 37 puntos) y se midió la satisfacción con una pauta de evaluación validada. Resultados: el rendimiento de los alumnos mejora significativamente (p < 0.001) con la repetición de la simulación (28,3; 34,3 y 36,7 puntos en 1°, 2° y 3° intento). El porcentaje de estudiantes que logra el umbral de mínima competencia es de 6%, 67% y 100 %, en cada repetición (p < 0.001) Conclusiones: en este grupo de estudiantes, tres repeti-ciones de la simulación/debriefing son suficientes para superar el umbral de mínima competencia. Esta información es útil para definir los recursos necesarios en simulación en atención del parto vaginal en estudiantes de enfermería/obstetricia.

Introduction: Vaginal delivery assistance competence is acquired partially by simulation in nursing/midwifery students. However, it has yet to be reported how many simulated deliveries are necessary for these students to develop the minimum competence. Methods: Quasi-experimental study, all the hospital internship in women>s health students were included in the second semester of 2020, excluding those exposed to the simulation or clinical care of vaginal births. A simulated practice intervention in vaginal delivery care in three stages: 1) text, 2) video, and 3) simulation, was evaluated. The students performed three simulations, a blind observer evaluated their performance with a comparison guideline (maximum 37 points), and their satisfaction was measured with a validated evaluation guideline. Results: The performance of the students improve significantly (p <0.001) with the repetition of the simulation (28.3, 34.3, and 36.7 points in the first, second and third attempts). The percentage of students who achieve the minimum proficiency threshold is 6%, 67%, and 100% in each repetition (p <0.001). Conclusions: In this group of students, three repetitions of the simulation/debriefing are sufficient to exceed the threshold of minimum competence. This information is helpful in defining the necessary resources in simulation in vaginal delivery care in nursing/midwifery students.

Increased Circulating Levels of PCSK9 and Pro-Atherogenic Lipoprotein Profile in Pregnant Women with Maternal Supraphysiological Hypercholesterolemia.

Maternal physiological hypercholesterolemia (MPH) occurs during pregnancy to assure fetal development. Some pregnant women develop maternal supraphysiological hypercholesterolemia (MSPH) characterized by increased levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL). We aim to determine if proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) levels (a protein that regulate the availability of LDL receptor in the cells surface), as well as the composition and function of LDL, are modulated in MSPH women. This study included 122 pregnant women. Maternal total cholesterol (TC), LDL, triglycerides and PCSK9 increased from first (T1) to third trimester (T3) in MPH women. At T3, maternal TC, LDL, PCSK9 and placental abundances of PCSK9 were significantly higher in MPSH compared to MPH. Circulating PCSK9 levels were correlated with LDL at T3. In MSPH women, the levels of lipid peroxidation and oxidized LDL were significantly higher compared to MPH. LDL isolated from MSPH women presented significantly higher triglycerides and ApoB but lower levels of ApoAI compared to MPH. The formation of conjugated dienes was earlier in LDL from MSPH and in endothelial cells incubated with these LDLs; the levels of reactive oxygen species were significantly higher compared to LDL from MPH. We conclude that increased maternal PCSK9 would contribute to the maternal elevated levels of pro-atherogenic LDL in MSPH, which could eventually be related to maternal vascular dysfunction.

Maternal outcomes and risk factors for COVID-19 severity among pregnant women.

Pregnant women may be at higher risk of severe complications associated with the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which may lead to obstetrical complications. We performed a case control study comparing pregnant women with severe coronavirus disease 19 (cases) to pregnant women with a milder form (controls) enrolled in the COVI-Preg international registry cohort between March 24 and July 26, 2020. Risk factors for severity, obstetrical and immediate neonatal outcomes were assessed. A total of 926 pregnant women with a positive test for SARS-CoV-2 were included, among which 92 (9.9%) presented with severe COVID-19 disease. Risk factors for severe maternal outcomes were pulmonary comorbidities [aOR 4.3, 95% CI 1.9-9.5], hypertensive disorders [aOR 2.7, 95% CI 1.0-7.0] and diabetes [aOR2.2, 95% CI 1.1-4.5]. Pregnant women with severe maternal outcomes were at higher risk of caesarean section [70.7% (n = 53/75)], preterm delivery [62.7% (n = 32/51)] and newborns requiring admission to the neonatal intensive care unit [41.3% (n = 31/75)]. In this study, several risk factors for developing severe complications of SARS-CoV-2 infection among pregnant women were identified including pulmonary comorbidities, hypertensive disorders and diabetes. Obstetrical and neonatal outcomes appear to be influenced by the severity of maternal disease.

Maternal and perinatal outcomes of a venous thromboembolism high-risk cohort using a multidisciplinary treatment approach.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the maternal and perinatal outcomes in a cohort of pregnant women at high risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE). METHODS: Women at high risk of VTE were evaluated in a multidisciplinary program using a complete diagnostic workup, and specific prophylactic or therapeutic treatment. RESULTS: Women were considered at high risk of VTE in 57% (85/148) because of prior (75) or current (10) thromboembolism, and in 27% (40/148) of the cases due to adverse obstetric history. Thrombophilia was diagnosed in 57% of the cases (85/148), either in patients with previous thromboembolism (48%, 41/85) or without a history of thrombosis (70%, 44/63). The most common thrombophilia was antiphospholipid syndrome in 34% (29/85) of the cases. Under respective prophylactic or therapeutic treatment, there were no VTE during pregnancy (0%, 0/148), whereas four events occurred during the puerperium (3%, 4/148). An adverse obstetric outcome was present in 5% (7/148) of all pregnancies, with four early spontaneous abortions (3%, 4/148) and three late miscarriages (2%, 3/148). CONCLUSION: Pregnant women at high risk of VTE can be effectively managed using a risk-adapted treatment. Our results support prospective enrollment and a multidisciplinary assessment of VTE in high-risk pregnant women.

Diferencias epidemiológicas podrían explicar la mayor mortalidad infantil de Chile comparada con Cuba / Epidemiological difference could explain the higher infant mortality in Chile compared with Cuba

INTRODUCCIÓN: Cuba presenta la tasa de mortalidad infantil más baja de Latinoamérica, mientras que Chile presenta una tasa de mortalidad infantil sobre el promedio de los países de la Organización para la Cooperación y el Desarrollo Económico (OECD, Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development). OBJETIVO: Comparar la epidemiología de la mortalidad infantil entre Chile y Cuba para detectar características que puedan explicar las diferencias encontradas. MÉTODO: Análisis comparativo entre Chile y Cuba de la mortalidad infantil, causas de mortalidad, peso del nacido vivo y edad materna, en el año 2015. RESULTADOS: Cuba presentó menor mortalidad infantil, neonatal precoz y tardía que Chile, sin diferencia en mortalidad posneonatal. Chile presentó una mayor mortalidad infantil por alteraciones del sistema nervioso, sistema urinario, alteraciones cromosómicas, síndrome de dificultad respiratoria y trastornos relacionados con la duración corta de la gestación. Chile presentó mayor frecuencia de madres ≥ 35 años y nacidos vivos (NV) con peso < 2.500 g. No se analizaron los posibles efectos de las inequidades en salud por ausencia de datos. CONCLUSIONES: Es posible atribuir la menor mortalidad infantil de Cuba a: 1) aborto selectivo por malformaciones congénitas y anomalías cromosómicas; 2) menor riesgo epidemiológico de la población de embarazadas cubanas; y 3) menor frecuencia de NV con bajo peso al nacer

INTRODUCTION: Cuba has the lowest infant mortality rate in Latin America, while Chile has an infant mortality rate above the average of Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) countries. OBJECTIVE: To compare the epidemiology of infant mortality between Chile and Cuba in order to find characteristics that may explain the differences found. METHOD: Comparative analysis between Chile and Cuba of infant mortality rate, causes of mortality, live birth weight, and maternal age, in 2015. RESULTS: Cuba had a lower infant, neonatal, early and late mortality than Chile, with no differences in post-neonatal mortality. Chile had a higher infant mortality due to, alterations of the nervous system, urinary system, chromosomal alterations, respiratory distress syndrome, and disorders related to the short duration of gestation. Chile had a higher frequency of mothers ≥ 35 years old and live births weighing < 2,500 g. The possible effects of health inequities could not be analyzed due to lack of data. CONCLUSIONS: It is possible to attribute the lower infant mortality rate in Cuba to: selective abortion due to congenital malformations and chromosomal anomalies, lower epidemiological risk of the Cuban pregnant population, and lower frequency of live births with low birth weight

[Epidemiological difference could explain the higher infant mortality in Chile compared with Cuba]. / Diferencias epidemiológicas podrían explicar la mayor mortalidad infantil de Chile comparada con Cuba.

INTRODUCTION: Cuba has the lowest infant mortality rate in Latin America, while Chile has an infant mortality rate above the average of Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) countries. OBJECTIVE: To compare the epidemiology of infant mortality between Chile and Cuba in order to find characteristics that may explain the differences found. METHOD: Comparative analysis between Chile and Cuba of infant mortality rate, causes of mortality, live birth weight, and maternal age, in 2015. RESULTS: Cuba had a lower infant, neonatal, early and late mortality than Chile, with no differences in post-neonatal mortality. Chile had a higher infant mortality due to, alterations of the nervous system, urinary system, chromosomal alterations, respiratory distress syndrome, and disorders related to the short duration of gestation. Chile had a higher frequency of mothers ≥ 35 years old and live births weighing <2,500 g. The possible effects of health inequities could not be analyzed due to lack of data. CONCLUSIONS: It is possible to attribute the lower infant mortality rate in Cuba to: selective abortion due to congenital malformations and chromosomal anomalies, lower epidemiological risk of the Cuban pregnant population, and lower frequency of live births with low birth weight.

The Myometrium in Pregnant Women with Obesity.

Obesity is a worldwide public health problem, affecting at least one-third of pregnant women. One of the main problems of obesity during pregnancy is the resulting high rate of cesarean section. The leading cause of this higher frequency of cesarean sections in obese women, compared with that in nonobese women, is an altered myometrial function that leads to lower frequency and potency of contractions. In this article, the disruptions of myometrial myocytes were reviewed in obese women during pregnancy that may explain the dysfunctional labor. The myometrium of obese women exhibited lower expression of connexin43, a lower function of the oxytocin receptor, and higher activity of the potassium channels. Adipokines, such as leptin, visfatin, and apelin, whose concentrations are higher in obese women, decreased myometrial contractility, perhaps by inhibiting the myometrial RhoA/ROCK pathway. The characteristically higher cholesterol levels of obese women alter myometrial myocyte cell membranes, especially the caveolae, inhibiting oxytocin receptor function, and increasing the K+ channel activity. All these changes in the myometrial cells or their environment decrease myometrial contractility, at least partially explaining the higher rate of cesarean of sections in obese women.

Expansion of the Emerging Fungal Pathogen Cryptococcus bacillisporus Into America: Linking Phylogenetic Origin, Geographical Spread and Population Under Exposure Risk.

In 2018 the fungal pathogen Cryptococcus bacillisporus (AFLP5/VGIII) was isolated for the first time in Chile, representing the only report in a temperate region in South America. We reconstructed the colonization process of C. bacillisporus in Chile, estimating the phylogenetic origin, the potential spread zone, and the population at risk. We performed a phylogenetic analysis of the strain and modeled the environmental niche of the pathogen projecting its potential spread zone into the new colonized region. Finally, we generated risk maps and quantified the people under potential risk. Phylogenetic analysis showed high similarity between the Chilean isolate and two clonal clusters from California, United States and Colombia in South America. The pathogen can expand into all the temperate Mediterranean zone in central Chile and western Argentina, exposing more than 12 million people to this pathogen in Chile. This study has epidemiological and public health implications for the response to a potential C. bacillisporus outbreak, optimizing budgets, routing for screening diagnosis, and treatment implementation.

Corruption and instutitions: An analysis for the Colombian case.

This paper identifies the main determinants of errors in the allocation of spending by the Colombian Government. Using information from the Electronic Public Procurement System (SECOP), the determinants of the probability of an addition to a contract are identified. The errors of the government can be interpreted as an approximation of their corruption. The average income and educational level of a colombian department are found to directly influence the probability of an addition. Using the estimation of the binary choice models, the forecast error of an addition is estimated, it is found that public and civil works contracts have more forecast error, forming an ideal mechanism for thefts and accumulation of bribes. Our results show that predicting an addition can be done with high certainty.

Spatial Quantification of the Population Exposed to Cryptococcus neoformans and Cryptococcus gattii Species Complexes in Europe: Estimating the Immunocompetent and HIV/AIDS Patients Under Risk.

Cryptococcus is an important fungal pathogen worldwide, causing serious clinical manifestations that can affect immunocompetent patients and can be particularly severe for immunocompromised patients. The Cryptococcus gattii s.s. (AFLP4/VGI), Cryptococcus tetragattii (AFLP/VGIV), Cryptococcus neoformans, and Cryptococcus deneoformans have been isolated from both clinical and environmental sources in Europe. We aim to quantify the people in Europe and the entire Mediterranean area who are under risk associated with each of the three fungal pathogens in a spatially explicit way, generating a series of maps and population statistics per country. Niche modeling was applied to estimate the potential distribution of each fungal pathogen, then these models were overlapped with a map of population density to estimate risk levels. The potential number of people per risk level and per country was quantified using a map of population count per pixel. Prevalence of HIV per country was also included in the analysis to quantify the HIV-infected population under potential risk. People under risk associated with exposure to C. gattii species (C. gattii s.s. and C. tetragattii) reached 137.65 million, whereas those exposed to C. neoformans and C. deneoformans were 268.58 and 360.78 million people, respectively. More than a half million HIV-infected patients are exposed to each of the two species of the C. neoformans species complex, and more than 200,000 to the C. gattii species complex. The present results can be useful for public health planning by European governments, focusing on the provision of inputs for a "screen-and-treat" approach, availability of medical resources, and continuous monitoring programs in risk zones.

Relations between economic development, violence and corruption: A nonparametric approach with DEA and data panel.

This research analyses the connection between homicides, corruption, and economic development in Colombian government departments. This empirical research explores the trends of homicides, corruption, and economic development utilizing different estimation techniques: DEA and econometric analysis with panel data. The DEA is applied to assess socioeconomic performance and interactions of homicides, corruption, and economic progress in Colombian, according to the rank and uncertainty of corruption and violence. Econometric models are Generalized Method of Moments (GMM) estimates to determine the incidence of some institutional and socioeconomic variables on the score range of uncertainty and risk generated by DEA in terms of the level of corruption and homicides. Estimates with DEA data envelopment analysis shows that the risk score associated with homicides and corruption has different tendencies, socioeconomic and political instability are causes that explain the behaviour of this variable over time. The results of the panel data estimation show that there are several hypotheses and theories that explain the effects of corruption and violence on the economic development of countries. This finding indicates the importance of developing effective policies that strengthen public administration, the judicial structure, and public social spending and thus rupture the cycles of corruption and homicides that prevent the creation of sustained economic growth and development.

Enseñanza de la atención del parto vaginal utilizando simuladores / Teaching vaginal delivery care using simulators

La simulación en docencia en ciencias de la salud, permite integrar conocimientos y desarrollar habilidades previo a la práctica clínica, logrando competencias complejas. Además, permite a los estudiantes implementar un cuidado personalizado, pensar críticamente y mejorar la confianza en sus capacidades. Objetivo: evaluar la contribución de la simulación de la atención del parto, en la adquisición de una habilidad esencial para alumnos que optan a desempeñarse en el área obstétrica. Materiales y métodos: se realizó una búsqueda bibliográfica basada en datos PubMed que incluyó las palabras claves simulation, labor y education y sus equivalentes en español. Se excluyeron los títulos relacionados con "anestesia en obstetricia" y "hemorragia postparto". Se revisaron investigaciones observacionales, descriptivos, revisiones narrativas y sistemáticas, ensayos controlados, estudios cuasi experimentales y prospectivos. Resultados: Se seleccionaron 50 artículos que contenían al menos una de las palabras clave y estaban relacionados con "obstetricia" o "parto", logrando acceder a 46 de ellos. La simulación de parto es una estrategia educativa exitosa, que permite a los alumnos sentirse más confiados, mejora el trabajo en equipo, incrementa el grado de conocimiento, mejora habilidades y permite cuidar a las usuarias sin riesgos. Conclusiones: la simulación es un método educativo que permite a los estudiantes practicar lo aprendido en clases antes de iniciar la experiencia clínica, disminuyendo el riesgo de la atención de pacientes por alumnos. Se recomienda el uso de la simulación en la docencia de atención del parto vaginal como una herramienta exitosa que contribuye en la adquisición de habilidades clínicas.(AU)

Simulation in health sciences education allows knowledge integration and skills development before clinical practice,achieving complex skills. Also, simulation enhances students personalized care attitude, think critically and gain confidence. Objective: we aim to attest to the contribution of childbirth simulation in the acquisition of essential proficiency for midwifery students. Materials and methods: we conducted a bibliographic search in the PubMed database, using the keywords: simulation, labor, and education, either in English or Spanish. We excluded articles related to obstetric anesthesia and postpartum hemorrhage. We reviewed observational, descriptive, narrative and systematic reviews, controlled trials, quasi-experimental and prospective studies. Results: we select fifty articles, obtaining access to 46 of them. Childbirth simulation educational strategy, improving student's self-confidence, teamwork, knowledge, clinical skills and lowering patient´s risks. Conclusions: simulation is an educational method that allows students to practice what they have learned in class before starting the clinical experience, decreasing the risk of patient care by students The use of simulation in teaching vaginal delivery care is recommended as a successful tool in the acquisition of clinical skills.(AU)