Handgrip Strength and Upper Limb Anthropometric Characteristics among Latin American Female Volleyball Players.

Background: In volleyball, the upper limb dimensions and grip strength greatly influence offensive and defensive movements during a match. However, the relationship between these parameters remains underexplored in elite female volleyball players. Objective: This study aimed to contrast the upper limb anthropometric characteristics and handgrip strength (HGS) of female elite volleyball players against a control group. Methods: Selected upper limb anthropometric parameters and maximal HGS of 42 female volleyball players and 40 non-athletes were measured. Results: Players exhibited higher values in almost all variables studied than non-athletes. The differences were statistically significant (p < 0.001) except for body mass index and elbow and wrist diameters. Players showed a moderate correlation between dominant HGS and hand parameters (length r = 0.43 and breadth r = 0.63; p < 0.05). Weak correlations were identified with height, upper arm length, elbow diameter, and hand shape index (r = 0.32 to 0.38; p < 0.05). In the non-dominant hand, a moderate correlation with handbreadth (r = 0.55, p ≤ 0.01) and weak correlations with upper arm length, wrist diameter, hand length, and hand shape index (r = 0.32 to 0.35; p ≤ 0.05) was found. Conclusions: These findings underscore the importance of the upper limb anthropometric parameters as predictors of HGS and their utility in athlete selection. Future research should investigate biomechanical factors influencing HGS and injury prevention.

Accelerated atherosclerosis in Anti-Neutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibody-Associated Vasculitis: case report.

Accelerated atherosclerosis has been identified as a complication of multiple autoimmune diseases, among which Anti-Neutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibody-Associated Vasculitis stands out. We describe the case of a 60-year-old patient with a history of hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and chronic kidney disease of unknown etiology, who presented two acute coronary syndromes with only a six-month difference. Rapid progression of coronary involvement was evidenced, along with increased markers of inflammatory response, usual interstitial pneumonia on tomography, and positive anti-myeloperoxidase antibodies (anti-MPO), leading to the diagnosis of microscopic polyangiitis (MPA). In these cases, timely diagnostic suspicion is crucial, as early treatment significantly impacts the course and prognosis of the disease.

Cross-Sectional Analysis of Colombian University Students' Perceptions of Mental Health during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Repercussions on Academic Achievement.

BACKGROUND: During the COVID-19 pandemic, the increase in academic activities at home negatively impacted mental health, due to significant levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. We investigated the association of depression and anxiety with university students' academic performance during the COVID-19 lockdown in Bucaramanga, Colombia. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted through an online survey during the lockdown, through the use of the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and the grade-point average. RESULTS: 1090 females, out of 1957 students, with mean age 22.2 ± 5.3 years, participated in the study. The prevalence of low academic performance was higher in men (4.7% p = 0.014). As for mental health, 2.5% of the students were classified as "definite cases" of anxiety and 8.2% were diagnosed with depression. Women with a low academic performance had a greater percentage of being "definite cases" (3.8%) of anxiety as compared to men (1.1%). Regarding depression, in men, 12.2% of those with low academic performance were "definite cases" (6.9% p < 0.05); in females with low academic performance, 10.1% were "definite cases" of depression, according to the Poisson regression analysis. The probability of low performance was 100% higher for women identified as "doubtful cases" of depression (PR = 2.0; 95% CI: 1.10-5.18, p = 0.03). CONCLUSIONS: A positive association between the severity of anxiety/depression and lower grades, especially in women, was found. Mental health should be a special concern when considering university students, in order to improve their academic performance.

Physical Activity Levels and Psychological Well-Being during COVID-19 Lockdown among University Students and Employees.

During the lockdown for the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), entire populations were instructed to live in home confinement. We investigated the effects of the COVID-19 lockdown on the physical activity (PA) and mental health of students and employees in a Colombian University. A cross-sectional study was conducted through an online survey during the first isolation. A total of 431 respondents (192 males) aged 18-60 years old (28.1 ± 11.1 years) participated. The international Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) and the short version of the Psychological General Well-Being Index (PGWBI-S) were used. The lockdown had a negative effect on PA levels, with students exhibiting the greatest decrease (~34%; p ˂ 0.001) compared to employees (~24%; p ˂ 0.01). The analysis showed a greater change in PA behavior before and during the lockdown in highly active student participants (5750 vs. 5141 MET min/week; p < 0.05). Additionally, the psychological assessment revealed a lower score in students compared to employees in the male (70.1 vs. 82.6) and female groups (60.2 vs. 79.6). Moreover, the results revealed an influence of sex, with only the female students exhibiting a state of distress. Self-reported PA and psychological well-being were compromised during the COVID-19 lockdown in the academic community, with students and females being more affected.

Percepciones de aceptabilidad y reticencia a las vacunas contra la COVID-19 en el Perú / Perceptions of acceptance and reluctance to COVID-19 vaccination in Peru

RESUMEN Objetivos. Explorar los factores que predisponen la aceptabilidad o reticencia a la vacunación contra la COVID-19 utilizando métodos cualitativos. Materiales y métodos. Estudio cualitativo descriptivo realizado entre abril y junio del 2021. Se utilizó una guía de entrevista semiestructurada que exploró las percepciones de los participantes de diferentes regiones del Perú con relación a la aplicación de la vacuna para la COVID-19, tomando como marco teórico el modelo de creencias en salud, cuyas dimensiones son: susceptibilidad, severidad, beneficios, barreras y estímulos asociados para ejecutar la acción. Resultados. Se entrevistó a treinta personas, en su mayoría mujeres. Para los participantes la eficacia de las vacunas se relaciona con el país de procedencia, además, consideran que es importante conocer los efectos a largo plazo en la salud luego de la aplicación de la vacuna. La información recibida por las autoridades gubernamentales y sanitarias puede ser un factor decisivo para la aplicación de la vacuna. Las personas con la intención de no vacunarse sienten que las estrategias de promoción de la vacunación vulneran sus derechos humanos. Conclusiones. Existe un grupo de personas indecisas o inseguras de recibir las vacunas contra la COVID-19 en quienes es necesario fomentar estímulos de acuerdo con sus preocupaciones y necesidades. Las autoridades gubernamentales y sanitarias deben trabajar conjuntamente para mejorar la confianza de la población y brindar mensajes que despejen las principales dudas sobre la eficacia y las reacciones adversas de las vacunas.

ABSTRACT Objectives. To explore factors that influence the acceptance or reluctance to COVID-19 vaccination using qualitative methods. Materials and methods. Descriptive qualitative study conducted between April and June 2021. A semi-structured interview guide was used to explore the perceptions of participants from different regions of Peru regarding COVID-19 vaccination. The Health Belief Model was used as theoretical framework and its dimensions are: susceptibility, severity, benefits, barriers, and cues to action. Results. We interviewed 30 people, mostly were women. For the participants, the efficacy of vaccines is related to the country of origin of the vaccines; in addition, they consider that it is important to know the long-term effects on health after vaccination. The information received by governmental and health authorities can be a decisive factor for vaccination. People with the intention of not being vaccinated feel that vaccination promotion strategies violate their human rights. Conclusions. There is a group of people undecided or unsure about receiving COVID-19 vaccines who need to be encouraged according to their concerns and needs. Governmental and health authorities should work together to improve the confidence of the population and provide messages to clarify doubts about the efficacy and adverse reactions of vaccines.

Interactions Between Intensive Care and Palliative Care Are Influenced by Training, Professionals' Perceptions and Institutional Barriers.

Background: There is growing interest in the use of a Palliative care approach in Intensive care. However, it tends to remain inconsistent, infrequent or non-existent, as does its acceptance by intensive care physicians. This study sought to explore the perceptions, level of knowledge, perceived barriers, and practices of physicians regarding palliative care practices (PC) in Intensive Care Units (ICU). Methods: Descriptive-correlational study. Participating physicians working in ICU in Colombia (n = 101) completed an ad hoc questionnaire that included subscales of perceptions, knowledge, perceived barriers, and PC practices in ICU. A Structural Equation Model (PLS-SEM) was used to examine the reciprocal relationships between the measured variables and those that could predict interaction practices between the 2 specialties. Results: First, results from the measurement model to examine the validity and reliability of the latent variables found (PC training, favorable perceptions about PC, institutional barriers, and ICU-PC interaction practices) and their indicators were obtained. Second, the structural model found that, a greater number of hours of PC training, a favorable perception of PC and a lower perception of institutional barriers are related to greater interaction between PC and ICU, particularly when emotional or family problems are detected. Conclusions: PC-ICU interactions are influenced by training, a positive perception of PC and less perceived institutional barriers. An integrated ICU-PC model that strengthens the PC training of those who work in ICU and provides clearer guidelines for interaction practices, may help overcome perceived barriers and improve the perception of the potential impact of PC.

Urine transferrin as an early endothelial dysfunction marker in type 2 diabetic patients without nephropathy: a case control study.

BACKGROUND: Albumin, along with other proteins, is abnormally eliminated via the urine during early stages of diabetic nephropathy. Moreover, endothelial dysfunction (ED) accompanying early diabetic nephropathy may develop even before microalbuminuria is detectable. Transferrin has a molecular weight comparable to albumin, whereas transferrinuria and microalbuminuria in a 24-h urine sample may comparably reflect early diabetic nephropathy. Whereas transferrin metabolism is related with ED during very early diabetic nephropathy has not been elucidated yet. This case-control study aimed to evaluate the relation between ED and urine transferrin, even before early diabetic nephropathy is present. METHODS: Patients were enrolled from two study sites in Mexico City: Ticomán General Hospital (healthy controls); and a Specialized Clinic for the Management of the Diabetic Patient (cases). All patients provided written informed consent. The primary endpoint was the correlation between urinary transferrin concentration and ED measured in type 2 diabetic patients without albuminuria. ED was evaluated by ultrasonographic validated measurements, which included carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) and flow mediated dilation (FMD). Plasma biomarkers included glycated hemoglobin, creatinine, cholesterol and triglycerides, as well as urine albumin, transferrin and evidence of urinary tract infection. RESULTS: Sixty patients with type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (t2DM; n = 30) or without t2DM (n = 30), both negative for microalbuminuria, were recruited. The group with t2DM were older, with higher values of HbA1c and higher ED. This group also showed significant differences in urine transferrin and urine/plasma transferrin ratio, as compared with healthy controls (14.4 vs. 18.7 mg/mL, p = 0.04, and 74.2 vs. 49.5; p = 0.01; respectively). Moreover, urine transferrin correlated with higher CIMT values (r = 0.37, p = 0.04), being particularly significant for t2DM population. CIMT also correlated with time from t2DM diagnosis (r = 0.48, p < 0.001) and HbA1c (r = 0.48; p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Urine transferrin correlated with subclinical atherogenesis in patients with t2DM without renal failure, suggesting its potential to identify cardiovascular risk in patients at very early nephropathy stage without microalbuminuria.

Quality of the Italian Websites for Parental Guidance on the Indications for Tonsillectomy in Children.

Introduction The quality of information on websites about tonsillectomy regarding the knowledge level may be low. Tonsillectomy is a surgical procedure to hypertrophy of the palatine and pharyngeal tonsils. So, it is an invasive procedure with possible complications, which creates insecurity in parents. Significantly, Internet searches have been increased to address possible health concerns, questioning the quality of websites about tonsillectomy. Objective To evaluate the readability, reliability, and comprehensiveness of the Italian websites dedicated to parental guidance regarding the indications for tonsillectomy in children. Methods The search engine google.it was used to search the websites. The Gulpease index, which is a widely used readability formula ranging from 0 (difficult) to 100 (easy readability), was employed to evaluate these websites. The Health on the Net Code of Conduct (HONcode) was used to assess the quality of information, by taking ethical principles into account, with values ranging from 0 to 13. The content comprehensiveness of the web pages was assessed by assigning points ranging from 1 (very insufficient) to 5 (very satisfying) to each page. A final comparison with previous studies on tonsillectomy published on websites from other countries was performed. Results Fourteen Italian websites were selected, and the Gulpease index showed a mean average of 40.77 ± 8.45. The mean of the HONcode analysis was 6.00 ± 1.92, in which the principles with the poorest scores were Attribution and Update . As far as the comprehensiveness of the websites is concerned, the resulting mean was 2.57 ± 0.77, in which Indications was the topic with the highest mean, whereas Benefits was the one with the lowest. Conclusion The Italian websites were characterized by a lower readability level, a middle position regarding ethical principles, and the same (insufficient) comprehensiveness of tonsillectomy when compared with websites from different countries.

Percepciones de residentes de Medicina General Integral sobre la atención al adulto mayor / Perceptions of residents of first year of General Comprehensive Medicine about the elderly adult care

Introducción:Los retos económicos y sociales que conducen al envejecimiento poblacional acelerado, impactan de forma significativa, en el sector de la salud.Objetivo:Identificar las percepciones de los residentes de primer año de Medicina General Integral, sobre la atención al adulto mayor, en el Nivel Primario de Salud.Métodos:Se realizó un estudio observacional, exploratorio de tipo cualitativo, en el municipio San Miguel del Padrón, provincia La Habana, durante los cursos 2016-2017 y 2017-2018. La muestra la conformaron 11 residentes de primer año, de la especialidad de Medicina General Integral. Se aplicó un cuestionario constituido por dos preguntas abiertas que exploraban las percepciones, acerca de su preparación para la atención al adulto mayor y su calidad, en el Nivel Primario de Salud. Las respuestas fueron resumidas en cuatro categorías para su posterior análisis: respuestas positivas o negativas, ambiguas y contradictorias, según su contenido.Resultados:Las percepciones de los residentes acerca de su preparación para la atención médica al adulto mayor, solo un residente respondió estar capacitado, cinco respondieron no estarlo y otros cinco emitieron respuestas contradictorias. Con respecto a las percepciones de los residentes sobre la calidad de la atención, nueve refirieron aspectos negativos y dos ofrecieron respuestas ambiguas.Conclusiones:El personal médico que trabaja en la Atención Primaria de Salud, demanda acciones de formación, superación y capacitación que posibiliten los cambios de las actitudes y los comportamientos, para ofrecer una atención integral, digna y humana al adulto mayor.(AU)

Introduction:The economic and social challenges that conduct an accelerated population aging, impact in a significant way in the health sector.Objective:To identify the perceptions of the residents of first year in General Comprehensive Medicine, about the elder adult carefulness in Primary Health Care.Methods:An observational exploratory qualitative study was carried out in San Miguel del Padron municipality, La Habana province, during the courses 2016-2017 and 2017-2018. The sample was formed by 11 residents of first year, of the specialty General Comprehensive Medicine, they were asked to answer a questionnaire formed by two open questions which explored perceptions about their qualification for the for the elderly adult care in Primary Health Care in a voluntary and anonymous way. The answers were summarized in four categories for their further analysis: positive or negative, ambiguous and contradictory answers according to their content.Results:The perceptions of the residents about their qualification for the elderly adult medical care were: Only one resident answered to be qualified, five answered that they were not prepared and other five gave contradictory answers. Related to the perceptions of the residents about the care quality, nine reported negative aspects and two gave ambiguous answers.Conclusions:Physicians who work in Primary Health Care, ask qualification actions to make possible changes in the attitudes and behaviors, to offer a comprehensive and human assistance to the elder adults.(AU)

Delayed onset muscle soreness intensity affects muscular performance / El Dolor muscular de aparición tardía afecta el desempeño muscular

Abstract Background: The study of functional impact of delayed onset muscle soreness has been limited to describe the decline on maximal isometric contraction, but muscular work and time to peak torque has not been examined yet. Purpose: To describe the changes induced by a session of lengthening contractions on muscle performance and delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS). Methods: A quasi-experimental study was conducted in the Institutional laboratory; Twenty healthy men; mean age 21 SD 0.34 were recruited, all subjects performed 200 lengthening contractions of the quadriceps at 120°/s. Isometric and isokinetic peak torque, muscular work, time to peak torque, DOMS and creatine kinase activity were assessed at baseline, 48 h and 96 h post-exercise. The muscle performance was assessed with an isokinetic dynamometer and DOMS with a visual analog scale (VAS). Results: Relative to baseline, isometric and isokinetic peak torque and muscular work decreased in ~30% at 48 h post-exercise; delayed onset muscle soreness increased ~300%, which remained at 96 h post-exercise. Conclusions: These reflect that the decline in muscular performance is due to the changes in peak torque and muscular work, which has greater implications on muscle function. No changes were detected in time to peak torque. The alterations in muscular performance variables are accompanied by delayed onset muscle soreness which has also a negative impact on force production (29% of the drop on peak torque is explain by soreness intensity).

Resumen Introducción: Los estudios de impacto funcional del dolor muscular de aparición tardía (DMAT) se han limitado a describir la disminución de la contracción isométrica máxima, pero aún no se ha examinado el trabajo muscular y el tiempo del torque máximo. Objetivo: Describir los cambios inducidos por una sesión de ejercicio excéntrico sobre el rendimiento muscular y DMAT. Método: se realizó un estudio cuasi-experimental, los participantes fueron veinte hombres sanos; edad media 21 DE 0,34, todos los sujetos realizaron 200 contracciones excéntricas del cuádriceps a 120°/s. Se evaluó el torque pico isométrico e isocinético, el trabajo muscular, el tiempo hasta el torque máximo, DMAT y la actividad de la creatina quinasa al inicio, 48 h y 96 h después del ejercicio, el rendimiento muscular se evaluó con un dinamómetro isocinético y DOMS con una escala análoga visual (EAV). Resultados: en relación con la línea de base, el torque pico isométrico e isocinético y el trabajo muscular disminuyeron en ~ 30 % a las 48 h post-ejercicio; El dolor muscular de aparición tardía aumentó ~300 %, que permaneció 96 h después del ejercicio. Conclusiones: los resultados reflejan que la disminución del rendimiento muscular se debe a los cambios en el torque pico y trabajo muscular, lo que tiene mayores implicaciones en la función muscular. No se detectaron cambios en el tiempo hasta el torque máximo. Las alteraciones en las variables de rendimiento muscular se acompañan de DMAT que también tiene un impacto negativo en la producción de fuerza (el 29 % de la caída en el torque máximo se explica por la intensidad del dolor).

Dr. Carlos Eduardo Albert Chacón: de "los que aman y fundan" / Dr. Carlos Eduardo Albert Chacón: of "those who love and found"

Introducción: En 2019, se cumplieron 50 años de la designación como director del Hospital General Docente Dr. Enrique Cabrera del Dr. Carlos Eduardo Albert Chacón. Objetivo: Divulgar sus cualidades y valores, experiencias y conocimientos durante toda su fructífera vida. Desarrollo: Sus estudios cursados en todos los niveles y en la Carrera de Medicina; sus distintos cargos, Servicio Médico Social Rural, sus inquietudes revolucionarias, primero, y luego su incondicionalidad a la Revolución, misiones internacionalistas, actividades y categorías científicas, y su trayectoria en el Hospital Dr. Enrique Cabrera, en el que fuera director, así como Presidente del Consejo Científico durante más de diez años hasta 2016. Conclusiones: La actitud de vanguardia de su vida, plena de valores humanos y revolucionarios. Guía incuestionable para las jóvenes generaciones, a las que ha formado con su ejemplo, ética y nivel profesional(AU)

Introduction: In 2019, there was the 50th anniversary of the appointment of Dr. Carlos Eduardo Albert Chacón as Director of Dr. Enrique Cabrera General Teaching Hospital. Objective: To spread his qualities, values, experiences and knowledge throughout his whole successful life. Development: His studies taken at all levels and his medical studies; his Rural Social Medical Service, concerns and unconditional dedication to the Revolution; his internationalist missions, activities and scientific category as well as his professional career at Dr. Enrique Cabrera General Teaching Hospital where he worked as director and President of the Scientific Board for more than ten years until 2016 are highlighted in this work. Conclusions: His positive attitude towards life which was plenty of human values and revolutionary thoughts and actions has been an irrefutable guide for the young generations that he has educated with his example, ethics and professional level(AU)

Detection of Helicobacter pylori in gastric cancer tissue through histopathology, immunohistochemistry and real-time reverse transcription-PCR.

Aim:Helicobacter pylori is usually detected based on hematoxylin-eosin (H-E) features, but, immunohistochemistry (IHC) and real-time PCR (RT-PCR) are more precise in chronic-gastritis. We evaluated the relevance of these tests in Peruvian gastric cancer samples. Materials & methods: We performed and evaluated H-E, IHC staining and RT-PCR in 288 gastric tumors. Slides were independently evaluated by three pathologists. Results:H. pylori was detected in 167/287 through H-E, 140/288 through IHC and 175/288 through RT-PCR, and positive-status were associated (p < 0.001). H. pylori detection by H-E had a good concordance with IHC (kappa index = 0.632) but poor with RT-PCR (kappa index = 0.317). Higher median gene-copies were found in high H. pylori density through H-E or IHC (p < 0.001). Conclusion: H-E evaluation is accurate in gastric cancer, and IHC and RT-PCR can complement its results.

Prevalencia de dolor y manejo en la central de emergencias / Prevalence of pain and management in emergency department

OBJETIVOS: Estimar prevalencia de dolor como motivo de consulta en la Central de Emergencias de Adultos (CEA). MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: Corte transversal que incluyó consultas en la CEA del Hospital Italiano de Buenos Aires entre 2016-2017. Se consideraron casos aquellos con dolor según subset terminológico en el motivo principal de la epicrisis. Se recolectaron variables desde bases de datos secundarias de alta calidad y a través de revisión manual. RESULTADOS: La prevalencia fue 52%(196/373) con IC95% 47-57%. Los pacientes eran 68% de sexo femenino, con edad media de 51 años, y la mayoría se asignaron a áreas de baja complejidad para su atención. Casi el 20% (38/196) recibió algún tratamiento analgésico siendo la vía de administración más frecuente intravenosa (52%). El registro inicial de dolor ocurrió sólo un 12% por enfermería y en 83% por médicos. CONCLUSIÓN: Se requiere mejorar el registro para garantizar valoración y manejo efectivo de dolor (AU)

OBJETIVE: To estimate pain prevalence as a reason for consultation at Emergency Department (ED). METHODS: Cross sectional with consultations admitted to ED of Hospital Italiano de Buenos Aires between 2016-2017. Cases were defines as those with a terminological subset according to the main reason. Variables were collected from secondary databases of high quality and manual review. RESULTS: Prevalence was 52% (196/373) with 95%CI 47-57. Patients were 68% female, with a mean age of 51 years, and most were assigned to areas of low complexity for their attention. Almost 20% (38/196) received some analgesic treatment, being intravenous (52%) the most frequent route of administration. Initial recording of pain occurred only 12% by nurses and 83% by physicians. CONCLUSION: Registration is required to improve for ensure effective assessment and management of pain (AU)

Level of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes and density of infiltrating immune cells in different malignancies.

Aim: To correlate levels of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) evaluated using the International Immuno-Oncology Biomarker Working Group methodology, and both density of tumor-infiltrating immune cell and clinicopathological features in different malignancies. Methods: 209 pathological samples from gastric cancer, cervical cancer (CC), non-small-lung cancer, cutaneous melanoma (CM) and glioblastoma were tested for TIL in hematoxylin eosin, and density of CD3+, CD4+, CD8+, CD20+, CD68+ and CD163+ cells by digital analysis. Results: TIL levels were higher in invasive margin compartments (IMC). TIL in IMC, intratumoral and stromal compartments predicted survival. CC and gastric cancer had higher TIL in intratumoral; CC and CM had higher TIL in stromal compartment and IMC. CM had the highest density of lymphocyte and macrophage populations. CD20 density was associated with survival in the whole series. Conclusion: Standardized evaluation of TIL levels may provide valuable prognostic information in a spectrum of different malignancies.

Infección nosocomial por Acinetobacter y su efecto en un hospital de segundo nivel / Nosocomial infection due to Acinetobacter and its effect on a second level hospital

Resumen OBJETIVOS: Determinar la frecuencia de infecciones nosocomiales por Acinetobacter baumannii e identificar las características que inciden en la probabilidad de ocurrencia de estas infecciones. MATERIAL Y MÉTODO: Estudio transversal analítico que incluyó todos los pacientes con reporte de cultivo positivo para Acinetobacter en el Hospital General Ticomán de enero de 2016 a diciembre de 2017. Se utilizó el programa SPSS y Graphpad Prism 0.7 para análisis estadístico con homogeneidad de x 2, análisis de supervivencia con estimado de Kaplan-Meier, OR y prueba de U de Mann-Whitney. RESULTADOS: Se analizaron 80 pacientes, se formaron dos grupos: muertos (n = 40) y vivos (n = 40) con infección por Acinetobacter. La media de edad fue de 52 ± 16 años; 61.3% era de sexo masculino; la media de estancia hospitalaria fue de 28 ± 19 días; el foco infeccioso más frecuente fue el pulmonar (72%); 76% requirió apoyo mecánico ventilatorio, se realizó punto de corte con base en los días de ventilación < 7 días y > 7 días con lo que se obtuvo valor p = 0.0013. El análisis de supervivencia con Kaplan-Meier concluyó que la estancia en Medicina Interna aumenta la mortalidad (p = 0.012). CONCLUSIÓN: La supervivencia disminuye en pacientes con apoyo ventilatorio durante más de siete días y foco infeccioso pulmonar.

Abstract OBJECTIVES: To determine the frequency of nosocomial infections due to Acinetobacter baumannii and to identify the characteristics influencing the probability of these infections. MATERIAL AND METHOD: An analytical cross-sectional design was carried out, including all patients with a positive culture report for Acinetobacter in the General Hospital of Ticoman, Mexico City, from January 2016 to December 2017. SPSS and Graphpad Prism 0.7 software were used for statistical analysis with x 2 homogeneity, survival analysis with Kaplan-Meier estimate, OR and Mann Whitney U test. RESULTS: An analysis of 80 patients was performed, 2 groups were formed: dead (n = 40) and alive (n = 40) with Acinetobacter infection. Mean age was 52 ± 16 years, 61.3% were male; mean hospital stay was of 28 ± 19 days, the most frequent infectious focus was pulmonary (72%); 76% required mechanical ventilatory support, a cut-off was performed based on ventilation days < 7 days and > 7 days, obtaining p value = 0.0013. The survival analysis with Kaplan-Meier concluded that the stay in Internal Medicine increased mortality (p = 0.012). CONCLUSION: Survival decreases in patients with ventilatory support for > 7 days and pulmonary infectious focus.

El índice neutrófilo/linfocito como predictor de morbilidad y mortalidad en neumonía por influenza / The neutrophil/lymphocyte index as a predictor of morbidity and mortality in pneumonia due to influenza

Resumen: OBJETIVO: Demostrar si el índice neutrófilo/linfocito predice la mortalidad en pacientes con neumonía tipo influenza. MATERIAL Y MÉTODO: Estudio de casos y controles, observacional, analítico, transversal, retrospectivo y retrolectivo que incluyó pacientes con neumonía por influenza que padecieron neumonía aguda grave de 2009 a 2017. Se calculó APACHE II, SMART COP y el índice neutrófilo/linfocito (INL). Se determinó supervivencia mediante Kaplan y Meier, para la asociación entre INL y mortalidad, APACHE II, SMART COP y comorbilidades se usó χ2 y razón de momios (RM), así como correlación entre APACHE II, SMART COP e INL. RESULTADOS: Se incluyeron 69 pacientes. La RM entre el INL y la mortalidad fue de 0.174 (p = 0.533; IC95% 0.274 a 2.08). Hubo asociación significativa entre el INL y componentes del síndrome metabólico en pacientes vivos. No hubo diferencia en la supervivencia entre INL mayor o menor de 7. Correlación positiva entre APACHE II e INL de 0.4295 (p = 0.0002; IC95% 0.00 a 0.063). CONCLUSIONES: Existe asociación entre el INL y el síndrome metabólico en pacientes vivos, así como correlación positiva con APACHE II. No hay asociación entre el INL y mortalidad. El punto de corte del INL se desplazó cuatro puntos comparado con otras poblaciones.

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: To demonstrate if neutrophil/lymphocyte index predicts mortality in patients with influenza-like pneumonia. MATERIAL AND METHOD: A case-control, observational, analytical, cross-sectional, retrospective and retrolective study with patients with influenza like pneumonia who developed severe acute pneumonia from 2009 to 2017. APACHE II, SMART COP and neutrophil lymphocyte index (INL) were calculated. Survival was determined by Kaplan and Meier, for the association between INL and mortality, APACHE II, SMART COP and comorbidities was used χ2 and odds ratio (OR), as well as correlation between APACHE II, SMART COP and INL. RESULTS: There were included 69 patients. OR between the INL and mortality was of 0.174 (p = 0.533, IC95% 0.274-2.08). There was significant association between INL and components of the metabolic syndrome in living patients. There was no difference in survival between INL greater or less than 7. Positive correlation between APACHE II and INL of 0.4295 (p = 0.0002, IC95% 0.00 to 0.063). CONCLUSIONS: There is an association between INL and metabolic syndrome in liv- ing patients, as well as a positive correlation with APACHE II. There is no association between INL and mortality. The cutoff point of the INL shifted 4 points compared to other populations.

Microalbuminuria como marcador de daño renal en pacientes con hipertensión arterial / Microalbuminuria as a marker of kidney damage in patients with arterial hypertension

Introducción: La hipertensión arterial es un poderoso factor de riesgo de daño renal. La prevalencia es muy alta entre los pacientes con Enfermedad Renal Crónica. Objetivo: Determinar la presencia de Microalbuminuria y su valor como marcador de daño renal en pacientes con diagnóstico de Hipertensión arterial. Material y Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo, longitudinal y prospectivo de 123 pacientes. Se determinó edad, sexo, cifras de colesterol, triglicéridos, creatinina y microalbuminuria y factores de riesgo vascular. Se utilizó la estadística descriptiva e inferencial. Resultados: El 40,7 Microalbuminuria as a marker of kidney damage in patients with arterial hypertension de los pacientes pertenecen al grupo de más de 70 años con predominio del sexo masculino (65 por ciento), 62,6 Microalbuminuria as a marker of kidney damage in patients with arterial hypertension presentaron microalbuminuria, 97,3 Microalbuminuria as a marker of kidney damage in patients with arterial hypertension tenían factores de riesgo asociados con prevalencia aumentada del tabaquismo, dislipidemia, obesidad y enfermedades vasculares asociadas con RP>1. Predominó el grupo mayor de 70 años, del sexo masculino, con presencia de microalbuminuria. La presencia de más de tres factores de riesgo se asoció a la microalbuminuria. La presencia de microalbuminuria aumentó con los años de evolución de la enfermedad. Predominó el estadio 3 de la Enfermedad Renal Crónica en los pacientes con hipertensión arterial y microalbuminuria y se relacionó directamente con los años de evolución de la hipertensión arterial. Conclusiones: La determinación de la microalbuminuria en los pacientes con hipertensión arterial es un marcador de riesgo importante y sencillo para determinar el daño renal subclínico y está muy relacionado con el incremento de la edad del paciente, años de hipertensión y asociación con otros factores de riesgo vasculares(AU)

Introduction: Arterial hypertension is a powerful risk factor for kidney damage. The prevalence is very high among patients with chronic kidney disease. Objective: To determine the presence of microalbuminuria as a marker of kidney damage in patients with arterial hypertension admitted between September 2016 and September 2017. Material and Methods: A descriptive, longitudinal, prospective study was conducted in 123 patients. Age; sex; cholesterol, triglycerides, creatinine and microalbuminuria levels and vascular risk factors were determined. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used. Results: The 40.7 percent of patients belong to the group of patients of age more than 70 years, predominating the male sex (65 percent); 62.6 percent of them presented microalbuminuria and 97.3 percent had risk factors associated with an increased prevalence of smoking, dyslipidemia, obesity, and vascular diseases associated with RP> 1. The group of patients older than 70 years, male, and with presence of microalbuminuria predominated in the study. The presence of more than three risk factors was associated with microalbuminuria. The presence of microalbuminuria increased with the years of evolution of the disease. Stage 3 of chronic kidney disease predominated in patients with arterial hypertension and microalbuminuria and it was directly related to the years of evolution of arterial hypertension. Conclusions: The determination of microalbuminuria in patients with arterial hypertension is a simple and important risk marker to determine subclinical kidney damage and it is closely related to the increase in the age of the patient, the years of hypertension, and the association with other risk factors for vascular disease(AU)

Sleep Clinical Record application in Brazilian children and its comparison with Italian children.

OBJECTIVE: To apply the Sleep Clinical Record (SCR) to a sample of Brazilian children with sleep complaints, to compare the results with Italian children, and to identify variables that influence phenotype. METHODS: Brazilian and Italian children, 4-11 years of age and matched for age, gender, obesity, and apnea-hypopnea index and who presented with complaints related to sleep, were selected. The instrument used was the SCR, and the procedure used was full-night cardiorespiratory monitoring. RESULTS: The sample consisted of 51 Brazilian children and 102 Italian children. Brazilian children presented with oral breathing (55%), tonsillar hypertrophy (69%), Friedman palate position (88%), malocclusion (84%), and OSAS score (Brouilette questionnaire) (55%). The SCR among obese Brazilian children was higher as compared to that in nonobese subjects (obese, 10.84 vs nonobese, 9.13; p = 0.03). In the comparison between Brazilian and Italian children, the total Brazilian SCR was higher than the Italian SCR score (Brazilian SCR, 10.21 ± 7.56; Italian SCR, 8.95 ± 2.55; p = 0.002). The Italian SCR score was influenced by obesity, whereas the Brazilian SCR was influenced by others symptoms (daytime sleepiness, enuresis, nocturnal choking, headache, limb movements). CONCLUSION: Brazilian children with sleep-disordered breathing show a higher SCR score as compared to Italian children. Obesity and tonsillar hypertrophy, Friedman palate position alteration, and dental malocclusion further influenced the total SCR score among Brazilian children. This may be due to access difficulties in Brazil where children should have more assistance to obtain medical care.

Allergic Proctocolitis Is a Risk Factor for Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders in Children.

OBJECTIVE: To test the hypothesis that allergic proctocolitis, a cause of self-limiting rectal bleeding in infants, can predispose to the development of functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) later in childhood. STUDY DESIGN: We studied a cohort of 80 consecutive patients diagnosed with allergic proctocolitis. Their sibling or matched children presenting to the same hospital for minor trauma served as controls. Parents of the patients with allergic proctocolitis and controls participated in a telephone interview every 12 months until the child was at least 4 years old. At that time, they were asked to complete the parental Questionnaire on Pediatric Gastrointestinal Symptoms, Rome III version. RESULTS: Sixteen of the 160 subjects (10.0%) included in the study met the Rome III criteria for FGIDs. Among the 80 patients with allergic proctocolitis, 12 (15.0%) reported FGIDs, compared with 4 of 80 (5.0%) controls (P = .035). After adjustment for age and sex, the OR for FGIDs in allergic proctocolitis group was 4.39 (95% CI, 1.03-18.68). FGIDs were significantly associated with iron deficiency anemia, duration of hematochezia, and younger age at presentation. In a multivariate analysis, only the duration of hematochezia was significantly associated with the development of FGIDs (OR, 3.14; 95% CI,1.72-5.74). CONCLUSIONS: We have identified allergic proctocolitis as a new risk factor for the development of FGIDs in children. Our data suggest that not only infection, but also a transient early-life allergic inflammatory trigger may induce persistent digestive symptoms, supporting the existence of "postinflammatory" FGIDs.

Detection of Helicobacter pylori DNA in Formalin-Fixed Paraffin-Embedded Gastric Biopsies Using Laser Microdissection and qPCR.

Molecular detection and analysis of virulence factors of Helicobacter pylori depends on the specificity of cell selection in the gastric biopsies. The laser microdissection (LM) instruments combine microscopy with laser cut sectioning. This combination allows one to choose only the bacteria that are in direct contact with epithelial cells in the gastric biopsy sample, avoiding those microorganisms attached to the mucus layer in the sample. The average concentration of DNA isolated from 25 cuts with selected bacteria is around 1.94 ng/µL, which is enough DNA to perform a qPCR protocol using real-time instruments to amplify 16sDNA or virulence factors like cagA or vacA. Consequently, the application of these technologies in the molecular analysis of Helicobacter pylori directly in contact with the surface of gastric epithelial cells is more precise and could yield better insights about the complex mechanisms of interactions between pathogen and host. Insights derived from research using the techniques described herein may in future facilitate prevention of infection or improved therapeutic options.