What are the best methods for rapid reviews of the research evidence? A systematic review of reviews and primary studies.

Rapid review methodology aims to facilitate faster conduct of systematic reviews to meet the needs of the decision-maker, while also maintaining quality and credibility. This systematic review aimed to determine the impact of different methodological shortcuts for undertaking rapid reviews on the risk of bias (RoB) of the results of the review. Review stages for which reviews and primary studies were sought included the preparation of a protocol, question formulation, inclusion criteria, searching, selection, data extraction, RoB assessment, synthesis, and reporting. We searched 11 electronic databases in April 2022, and conducted some supplementary searching. Reviewers worked in pairs to screen, select, extract data, and assess the RoB of included reviews and studies. We included 15 systematic reviews, 7 scoping reviews, and 65 primary studies. We found that several commonly used shortcuts in rapid reviews are likely to increase the RoB in the results. These include restrictions based on publication date, use of a single electronic database as a source of studies, and use of a single reviewer for screening titles and abstracts, selecting studies based on the full-text, and for extracting data. Authors of rapid reviews should be transparent in reporting their use of these shortcuts and acknowledge the possibility of them causing bias in the results. This review also highlights shortcuts that can save time without increasing the risk of bias. Further research is needed for both systematic and rapid reviews on faster methods for accurate data extraction and RoB assessment, and on development of more precise search strategies.

Canine Mammary Cancer: State of the Art and Future Perspectives.

Mammary cancer is the most frequently diagnosed neoplasia in women and non-spayed female dogs and is one of the leading causes of death in both species. Canines develop spontaneous mammary tumors that share a significant number of biological, clinical, pathological and molecular characteristics with human breast cancers. This review provides a detailed description of the histological, molecular and clinical aspects of mammary cancer in canines; it discusses risk factors and currently available diagnostic and treatment options, as well as remaining challenges and unanswered questions. The incidence of mammary tumors is highly variable and is impacted by biological, pathological, cultural and socioeconomic factors, including hormonal status, breed, advanced age, obesity and diet. Diagnosis is mainly based on histopathology, although several efforts have been made to establish a molecular classification of canine mammary tumors to widen the spectrum of treatment options, which today rely heavily on surgical removal of tumors. Lastly, standardization of clinical study protocols, development of canine-specific biological tools, establishment of adequate dog-specific disease biomarkers and identification of targets for the development of new therapies that could improve survival and have less adverse effects than chemotherapy are among the remaining challenges.

Greater agreement is required to harness the potential of health intelligence: a critical interpretive synthesis.

OBJECTIVES: To synthesize existing knowledge on the features of, and approaches to, health intelligence, including definitions, key concepts, frameworks, methods and tools, types of evidence used, and research gaps. STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING: We applied a critical interpretive synthesis methodology, combining systematic searching, purposive sampling, and inductive analysis to explore the topic. We conducted electronic and supplementary searches to identify records (papers, books, websites) based on their potential relevance to health intelligence. The key themes identified in the literature were combined under each of the compass subquestions and circulated among the research team for discussion and interpretation. RESULTS: Of the 290 records screened, 40 were included in the synthesis. There is no clear definition of health intelligence in the literature. Some records describe it in similar terms as public health surveillance. Some focus on the use of artificial intelligence, while others refer to health intelligence in a military or security sense. And some authors have suggested a broader definition of health intelligence that explicitly includes the concepts of synthesis of research evidence for informed decision making. CONCLUSION: Rather than developing a new or all-encompassing definition, we suggest incorporating the concept and scope of health intelligence within the evidence ecosystem.

Factors influencing adults to drop out of intensive lifestyle interventions for weight loss.

Reducing ≥5% of body weight can decrease the risk of developing chronic diseases in adults with excess weight. Although Intensive Lifestyle Interventions (ILIs) that include cognitive-behavioral techniques to improve physical activity and eating habits are the best approach for losing weight, the failure to retain participants is a barrier to their successful implementation. We aimed to investigate the factors influencing adults to drop out of ILIs for weight loss at six months. We conducted retrospective multiple logistic regression analysis of 268 participants with excess weight (body mass index ≥ 25 kg/m2) from a multicenter study (n = 237, in-person ILI in five clinics, delivered by nutrition interns), and a randomized controlled trial (n = 31, one online ILI, delivered by a master's degree student). The same research team conducted both studies in Northern Mexico, using the same intervention components, and identical instruments and techniques to collect the data. We found that older participants (≥50 years) were less likely to drop out of the ILI for weight loss compared to participants <35 years old (OR = 0.34, 95% CI = 0.16-0.70). For each unit increase in the bodily pain scale of the SF-36 (less perceived pain), the risk of dropping out decreased by 2% (OR = 0.98, 95% CI = 0.97, 0.996), while a change in the interventionist during the 6-month intervention more than doubled the risk of dropping out (OR 2.25, 95% CI = 1.23-4.14). Retention in ILIs may be improved by ensuring that the same interventionist remains during the six-month intervention. In addition, ILIs may need further tailoring for younger ages and for participants with higher perceived pain.

Weight loss is hard. The best way to do it is to enroll in an intervention that includes frequent sessions with a health coach who uses cognitive-behavioral techniques to help participants improve their eating and physical activity habits. Retaining participants in these types of intervention is a challenge for health practitioners and researchers. Our objective was to identify the factors that increase the participants' risk of dropping out of the intervention. We analyzed the data of 268 Mexican adults who participated in studies that evaluated intensive lifestyle interventions for weight loss. We found that participants who are younger, experience more pain, and whose health coaches are replaced before the intervention is completed have a higher risk of dropping out of the intervention. By accounting for these factors when designing the intervention, we could increase the chances that participants stay in the intervention until the end. This way they are more likely to be successful in losing weight.

A comprehensive monitoring and evaluation framework for evidence to policy networks.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the development of a framework for monitoring and evaluating knowledge translation (KT) networks. METHOD: The framework was developed using mixed methods over four phases, including i) a targeted literature review of KT networks, activities and indicators, ii) two scoping reviews to further enhance the set of indicators, iii) peer-reviews by international KT experts and an online expert consultation, and iv) piloting. RESULTS: A comprehensive theory of change (ToC) and indicators, both for the Network Secretariat and its participating member countries, were identified to develop the monitoring and evaluation framework. The framework includes (i) a ToC, including three key indicator domains across the results chain (outputs, short term outcomes, intermediate outcomes), and (ii) indicators for the three key domains, that can be selected depending on the stage of network maturity, along with suggested data collection methods. The three key indicator domains are 1) KT capacity and skill building; 2) network (structure, governance and leadership); and 3) KT/evidence-informed policy value and culture. CONCLUSION: The monitoring and evaluation framework that links KT activities with policy and health outcomes fills an important gap in optimizing KT procedures, generating lessons learned and increasing accountability of major multipartner KT networks.

Evidence for Human-to-Human Transmission of Hantavirus: A Systematic Review.

BACKGROUND: Hantavirus is known to be transmitted from rodents to humans. However, some reports from Argentina and Chile have claimed that the hantavirus strain Andes virus (ANDV) can cause human-to-human transmission of the disease. The aim of this systematic review was to assess the evidence for human-to-human transmission of hantavirus. METHODS: We searched PubMed (inception to 28 February 2021), Cochrane Central, Embase, LILACS and SciELO (inception to 3 July 2020), and other sources. We included studies that assessed whether interpersonal contact with a person with laboratory-confirmed hantavirus infection led to human-to-human transmission. Two reviewers conducted screening, selection, data extraction, and risk of bias assessment. RESULTS: Twenty-two studies met the inclusion criteria. Meta-analysis was not possible due to heterogeneity. With the exception of 1 prospective cohort study of ANDV in Chile with serious risk of bias, evidence from comparative studies (strongest level of evidence available) does not support human-to-human transmission of hantavirus infection. Noncomparative studies with a critical risk of bias suggest that human-to-human transmission of ANDV may be possible. CONCLUSIONS: The balance of the evidence does not support the claim of human-to-human transmission of ANDV. Well-designed cohort and case-control studies that control for co-exposure to rodents are needed to inform public health recommendations.

Poor compliance with school food environment guidelines in elementary schools in Northwest Mexico: A cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: In Mexico, 35.5% of school-age children were overweight or obese in 2018. The school food environment is important because children spend a significant part of their time at school and consume one-third to one-half of their daily meals there. In 2014, a Federal Government guideline for the sale and distribution of food and beverages in Mexican schools was published (the AGREEMENT) but the extent of its implementation is not known. METHODS: Descriptive cross-sectional study in a representative, random sample of elementary schools, using the tools of the INFORMAS network. Data collection included: a) an interview with a school authority; b) a checklist of items available in the school canteen; c) a checklist of the school breakfast menu; and d) an evaluation of the physical environment. The main indicators were: percentage of implementation (self-report) of the AGREEMENT and percentage of compliance (researcher verified) with the AGREEMENT (based on tools b and c). RESULTS: 119 schools participated (response rate 87.5%), with 15.1% (95%CI 9.2-22.8) of the schools reporting having fully implemented the AGREEMENT. However, only 1% (95%CI 0-5.3) of the school canteens and 71.4% (95%CI 57.8-82.7) of the school breakfast menus fully complied with the AGREEMENT. A variety of sugar-sweetened beverages and energy-dense, nutrient poor products were found in the school canteens. Further, only 43.7% of the water fountains in schools were functional and 23.4% were clean. In only 24.4% of schools had the school authorities received formal training related to the AGREEMENT and in 28.6% of schools had the parents received information about the AGREEMENT. CONCLUSION: The AGREEMENT has been poorly implemented in elementary schools in Mexico. Actions are needed to encourage and support its full implementation to improve the food environment in Mexican schools.

Preliminary Results of the Planet Nutrition Program on Obesity Parameters in Mexican Schoolchildren: Pilot Single-School Randomized Controlled Trial.

School-based obesity prevention programs are key to promoting healthy habits. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the Planet Nutrition program on BMI z-score and other parameters compared to a control group of Mexican schoolchildren after 9 weeks of intervention. The effect of the summer holidays on the BMI z-score was also evaluated at 23 weeks. A pilot randomized controlled trial design was used and 41 schoolchildren were randomized (21 intervention group and 20 control). The program included 18 nutrition education sessions, 20 physical activity classes and six brochures for parents. At 9 weeks, no significant differences were found between the intervention and control groups in the change in BMI z-score (-0.11, 95% CI -0.23, 0.01). Significant differences were observed in some secondary outcomes: body fat percentage (-1.72, 95% CI -3.42, -0.02), waist circumference (-3.45, 95% CI -5.55, -1.36), physical activity (0.44, 95% CI 0.01, 0.88) and nutrition knowledge (1.15, 95% CI 0.27, 2.03). Summer holidays negatively affected the BMI z-score in both groups, reducing the difference observed between groups at 9 weeks (-0.07, 95% CI -0.22, 0.07). The Planet Nutrition program showed favorable effects in some obesity and lifestyle parameters in the short term.

Evaluation of the performance and achievements of the WHO Evidence-informed Policy Network (EVIPNet) Europe.

BACKGROUND: The Evidence-informed Policy Network (EVIPNet) is one of the key mechanisms introduced by WHO to reduce the research-to-policy gap. EVIPNet Europe was launched in 2012. We evaluated the performance and achievements of EVIPNet Europe with the overall aims (1) to inform future developments and strategic planning of EVIPNet Europe and (2) to contribute to the evidence base for organisational knowledge translation activities by sharing the lessons learnt. METHODS: The evaluation covered the WHO Secretariat of EVIPNet Europe and its 21 member countries, from its inception to mid-2018. A mixed methods design was used to assess changes in three domains, including triangulation of quantitative and qualitative methods, based on the EVIPNet Europe Monitoring & Evaluation framework and theory of change. Data were collected between August and October 2018. Data collection comprised documentary review, social media analysis, online country evaluation, key informant interviews and validated tools. Two case studies were also developed. RESULTS: The evaluation showed promising results as well as lessons to guide the future development of EVIPNet in the WHO European Region and other regions of the world. EVIPNet Europe appears to be filling a niche in promoting the capacity of Network member countries for evidence-informed policy-making. There is evidence that EVIPNet Europe's capacity-building programme of work is improving knowledge and skills at the individual level. There has been an increase in activity and outputs since its establishment and evidence has been used to inform new policies in some member countries. However, the speed at which member countries are developing or publishing products varies greatly and no formalised knowledge translation platforms have yet been created. Financial and human resources are limited and staff turnover is a cause for concern, both at the WHO Secretariat and country team levels. CONCLUSIONS: Six years since the launch of EVIPNet Europe, the Network has grown quickly, is clearly valued and has had some successes. However, more work and support are needed if it is to achieve its vision of a Europe in which high-quality, context-sensitive evidence routinely informs health decision-making processes that ultimately serve to strengthen health outcomes across the Region.

Knowledge translation strategies for dissemination with a focus on healthcare recipients: an overview of systematic reviews.

BACKGROUND: While there is an ample literature on the evaluation of knowledge translation interventions aimed at healthcare providers, managers, and policy-makers, there has been less focus on patients and their informal caregivers. Further, no overview of the literature on dissemination strategies aimed at healthcare users and their caregivers has been conducted. The overview has two specific research questions: (1) to determine the most effective strategies that have been used to disseminate knowledge to healthcare recipients, and (2) to determine the barriers (and facilitators) to dissemination of knowledge to this group. METHODS: This overview used systematic review methods and was conducted according to a pre-defined protocol. A comprehensive search of ten databases and five websites was conducted. Both published and unpublished reviews in English, Spanish, or Portuguese were included. A methodological quality assessment was conducted; low-quality reviews were excluded. A narrative synthesis was undertaken, informed by a matrix of strategy by outcome measure. The Health System Evidence taxonomy for "consumer targeted strategies" was used to separate strategies into one of six categories. RESULTS: We identified 44 systematic reviews that describe the effective strategies to disseminate health knowledge to the public, patients, and caregivers. Some of these reviews also describe the most important barriers to the uptake of these effective strategies. When analyzing those strategies with the greatest potential to achieve behavioral changes, the majority of strategies with sufficient evidence of effectiveness were combined, frequent, and/or intense over time. Further, strategies focused on the patient, with tailored interventions, and those that seek to acquire skills and competencies were more effective in achieving these changes. In relation to barriers and facilitators, while the lack of health literacy or e-literacy could increase inequities, the benefits of social media were also emphasized, for example by widening access to health information for ethnic minorities and lower socioeconomic groups. CONCLUSIONS: Those interventions that have been shown to be effective in improving knowledge uptake or health behaviors should be implemented in practice, programs, and policies-if not already implemented. When implementing strategies, decision-makers should consider the barriers and facilitators identified by this overview to ensure maximum effectiveness. PROTOCOL REGISTRATION: PROSPERO: CRD42018093245.

Systematic review of the effectiveness of selected drugs for preventive chemotherapy for Taenia solium taeniasis.

BACKGROUND: Preventive chemotherapy is a useful tool for the control of Taenia solium taeniasis and cysticercosis. The aim of this systematic review is to assess the scientific evidence concerning the effectiveness and safety of different drugs in preventive chemotherapy for T. solium taeniasis in endemic populations. METHODS: A systematic review was conducted of controlled and uncontrolled studies, assessing the efficacy and adverse effects (among other outcomes) of albendazole, niclosamide and/or praziquantel for preventive chemotherapy of T. solium taeniasis. A comprehensive search was conducted for published and unpublished studies. Two reviewers screened articles, completed the data extraction and assessment of risk of bias. A meta-analysis of cure rate and relative reduction in prevalence was performed. The protocol for this review was registered on the International prospective register of systematic reviews (PROSPERO), number CRD42018112533. RESULTS: We identified 3555 records, of which we included 20 primary studies reported across 33 articles. Meta-analyses of drug and dose showed that a single dose of praziquantel 10mg/kg, albendazole 400mg per day for three consecutive days, or niclosamide 2g, resulted in better cure rates for T. solium taeniasis (99.5%, 96.4% and 84.3%, respectively) than praziquantel 5mg/kg or single dose albendazole 400mg (89.0% and 52.0%, respectively). These findings have a low certainty of evidence due to high risk of bias in individual studies and heterogeneity in combined estimates. In relation to side-effects, most studies reported either no or only mild and transient side-effects within the first three days following drug administration for all drugs and doses. CONCLUSION: Evidence indicated that praziquantel 10mg/kg, niclosamide 2g, and triple dose albendazole 400mg were effective as taenicides and could be considered for use in mass drug administration programs for the control of T. solium taeniasis. Evidence was not found that any of these drugs caused severe side effects at the indicated doses, although the extent of the available evidence was limited.

Knowledge translation strategies for dissemination with a focus on healthcare recipients: an overview of systematic reviews

Contexto: Embora haja uma ampla literatura sobre a avaliação de intervenções de tradução de conhecimento voltadas para profissionais de saúde, gestores e formuladores de políticas, tem havido menos foco nos pacientes e seus cuidadores informais. Além disso, nenhuma visão geral da literatura sobre estratégias de divulgação direcionadas aos usuários de saúde e seus cuidadores foi realizada. A visão geral tem duas questões específicas de pesquisa: (1) para determinar as estratégias mais eficazes que foram usadas para disseminar o conhecimento aos destinatários da saúde, e (2) para determinar as barreiras (e facilitadores) para a disseminação do conhecimento para este grupo. Métodos: Esta visão geral utilizou métodos de revisão sistemática e foi conduzida de acordo com um protocolo pré-definido. Uma pesquisa abrangente de dez bancos de dados e cinco sites foi realizada. Foram incluídas revisões publicadas e não publicadas em inglês, espanhol ou português. Foi realizada uma avaliação da qualidade metodológica; comentários de baixa qualidade foram excluídos. Foi realizada uma síntese narrativa, informada por uma matriz de estratégia por medida de resultado. A taxonomia de evidências do sistema de saúde para "estratégias direcionadas ao consumidor" foi usada para separar as estratégias em uma das seis categorias. Resultados: Identificamos 44 revisões sistemáticas que descrevem as estratégias eficazes para disseminar o conhecimento em saúde para o público, pacientes e cuidadores. Algumas dessas análises também descrevem as barreiras mais importantes para a adoção dessas estratégias eficazes. Ao analisar as estratégias com maior potencial para alcançar mudanças comportamentais, a maioria das estratégias com evidências suficientes de eficácia foram combinadas, frequentes e / ou intensas ao longo do tempo. Além disso, as estratégias voltadas para o paciente, com intervenções sob medida, e aquelas que buscam adquirir habilidades e competências foram mais eficazes para alcançar essas mudanças. Em relação às barreiras e facilitadores, embora a falta de alfabetização em saúde ou e-alfabetização possa aumentar as iniquidades, os benefícios das mídias sociais também foram enfatizados, Conclusões: Aquelas intervenções que se mostraram eficazes na melhoria da absorção de conhecimento ou comportamentos de saúde devem ser implementadas na prática, programas e políticas, se ainda não implementadas. Ao implementar estratégias, os tomadores de decisão devem considerar as barreiras e facilitadores identificados por esta visão geral para garantir a eficácia máxima.

Background: While there is an ample literature on the evaluation of knowledge translation interventions aimed at healthcare providers, managers, and policy-makers, there has been less focus on patients and their informal caregivers. Further, no overview of the literature on dissemination strategies aimed at healthcare users and their caregivers has been conducted. The overview has two specific research questions: (1) to determine the most effective strategies that have been used to disseminate knowledge to healthcare recipients, and (2) to determine the barriers (and facilitators) to dissemination of knowledge to this group. Methods: This overview used systematic review methods and was conducted according to a pre-defined protocol. A comprehensive search of ten databases and five websites was conducted. Both published and unpublished reviews in English, Spanish, or Portuguese were included. A methodological quality assessment was conducted; low-quality reviews were excluded. A narrative synthesis was undertaken, informed by a matrix of strategy by outcome measure. The Health System Evidence taxonomy for "consumer targeted strategies" was used to separate strategies into one of six categories. Results: We identified 44 systematic reviews that describe the effective strategies to disseminate health knowledge to the public, patients, and caregivers. Some of these reviews also describe the most important barriers to the uptake of these effective strategies. When analyzing those strategies with the greatest potential to achieve behavioral changes, the majority of strategies with sufficient evidence of effectiveness were combined, frequent, and/or intense over time. Further, strategies focused on the patient, with tailored interventions, and those that seek to acquire skills and competencies were more effective in achieving these changes. In relation to barriers and facilitators, while the lack of health literacy or e-literacy could increase inequities, the benefits of social media were also emphasized, for example by widening access to health information for ethnic minorities and lower socioeconomic groups. Conclusions: Those interventions that have been shown to be effective in improving knowledge uptake or health behaviors should be implemented in practice, programs, and policies­if not already implemented. When implementing strategies, decision-makers should consider the barriers and facilitators identified by this overview to ensure maximum effectiveness. Protocol registration: PROSPERO: CRD42018093245

Effectiveness of the Diabetes Prevention Program for Obesity Treatment in Real World Clinical Practice in a Middle-Income Country in Latin America.

The Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) is effective for the prevention of type 2 diabetes by weight loss with diet and physical activity. However, there is little evidence as to whether this program could be translated into real-world clinical practice in Latin American countries. The objective of this work was to evaluate the effectiveness of the DPP for the management of overweightness and obesity at 6 and 12 months in clinical practice in Mexico. This was a non-controlled intervention study implemented in five public clinics in northern Mexico. Two hundred and thirty-seven adults aged 45.7 ± 9.9 years with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 34.4 ± 5.4 kg/m2 received group sessions with an adaptation of the DPP, in addition to nutrition counseling. One hundred and thirty-three (56%) participants concluded the 6 month phase. They showed a significant weight loss, ranging from 2.76 ± 4.76 to 7.92 ± 6.85 kg (p ≤ 0.01) in the clinics. The intention-to-treat analysis showed a more conservative weight loss. Participant retention at the end of 12 months was low (40%). The implementation of the DPP in different public clinics in Mexico was effective in the management of obesity in the short term, but better strategies are required to improve participant retention in the long term.

Risk factors for chronic kidney disease of non-traditional causes: a systematic review.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the potential associations between chronic kidney disease of uncertain or non-traditional etiology (CKDnT) and agrochemicals, heat stress, heavy metals, and other factors identified in the literature in any region of the world and at any time. METHODS: This was a systematic review of the most frequent exposures suspected to be possible causes of CKDnT. A search was conducted of PubMed, LILACS, World Wide Science electronic databases, among other sources. Only medium- and high-quality studies were included. The synthesis of evidence included a narrative synthesis, meta-analysis, and meta-regression. RESULTS: Four systematic reviews and 61 primary studies were included. Results of the meta-analysis suggest that exposure to agrochemicals and working in agriculture increase the risk of CKDnT, but this only reached significance for working in agriculture. When cross-sectional studies were excluded, agrochemical exposure became significant. However, there is substantial heterogeneity in the effect sizes. CONCLUSIONS: Based on the existing evidence and the precautionary principle, it is important to implement preventive measures to mitigate the damage caused by CKDnT to both agricultural workers and their communities (i.e., improvement of working conditions, cautious management of agrochemicals, etc.). More high-quality research is needed to measure impact and to build the evidence base.

Risk factors for chronic kidney disease of non-traditional causes: a systematic review

[ABSTRACT]. Objectives. To evaluate the potential associations between chronic kidney disease of uncertain or nontraditional etiology (CKDnT) and agrochemicals, heat stress, heavy metals, and other factors identified in the literature in any region of the world and at any time. Methods. This was a systematic review of the most frequent exposures suspected to be possible causes of CKDnT. A search was conducted of PubMed, LILACS, World Wide Science electronic databases, among other sources. Only medium- and high-quality studies were included. The synthesis of evidence included a narrative synthesis, meta-analysis, and meta-regression. Results. Four systematic reviews and 61 primary studies were included. Results of the meta-analysis suggest that exposure to agrochemicals and working in agriculture increase the risk of CKDnT, but this only reached significance for working in agriculture. When cross-sectional studies were excluded, agrochemical exposure became significant. However, there is substantial heterogeneity in the effect sizes. Conclusions. Based on the existing evidence and the precautionary principle, it is important to implement preventive measures to mitigate the damage caused by CKDnT to both agricultural workers and their communities (i.e., improvement of working conditions, cautious management of agrochemicals, etc.). More high-quality research is needed to measure impact and to build the evidence base.

[RESUMEN]. Objetivos. Evaluar las posibles asociaciones de la enfermedad renal crónica de etiología incierta o no tradicional (ERCnT) con los agroquímicos, el estrés por calor, los metales pesados y otros factores señalados en la bibliografía de cualquier región del mundo y en cualquier período. Métodos. La presente es una revisión sistemática de las exposiciones más frecuentes que se sospecha podrían ser posibles causas de la ERCnT. Se realizó una búsqueda en las bases de datos electrónicas de PubMed, LILACS y World Wide Science, entre otras fuentes. Se incluyeron solamente estudios de calidad media y alta. La síntesis de la evidencias incluyó síntesis narrativa, metanálisis y metarregresión. Resultados. Se incluyeron cuatro revisiones sistemáticas y 61 estudios primarios. Los resultados del metaanálisis sugieren que la exposición a agroquímicos y el trabajo agrícola aumentan el riesgo de ERCnT, pero esto solo alcanzó un nivel significativo con respecto al trabajo agrícola. Al excluir los estudios transversales, la exposición a agroquímicos se tornó significativa. Sin embargo, existe una heterogeneidad sustancial en las magnitudes del efecto. Conclusiones. Con base en las pruebas científicas existentes y en el principio de precaución, es importante aplicar medidas preventivas para mitigar el daño ocasionado por la ERCnT tanto para los agricultores como para sus comunidades (es decir, mejoras en las condiciones de trabajo, uso prudente de agroquímicos, etc.). Es necesario aumentar la investigación de alta calidad para medir el impacto y ampliar la base de pruebas científicas.

[RESUMO]. Objetivos. Avaliar as associações em potencial entre doença renal crônica de etiologia incerta ou não tradicional e produtos agroquímicos, estresse térmico, metais pesados e outros fatores identificados na literatura em qualquer região do globo ou espaço de tempo. Métodos. Trata-se de uma revisão sistemática dos tipos mais comuns de exposição suspeitas de serem possíveis causas de doença renal crônica de etiologia incerta ou não tradicional. Foram pesquisadas as bases de dados eletrônicas PubMed, LILACS, World Wide Science, entre outras fontes. Somente foram incluídos estudos de qualidade intermediária e alta. Síntese narrativa, meta-análise e metarregressão foram usadas para sumarizar as evidências. Resultados. Este estudo compreendeu quatro estudos de revisão sistemática e 61 estudos primários. Os resultados da meta-análise indicaram que a exposição a produtos agroquímicos e o trabalho na agricultura aumentam o risco de doença renal crônica de etiologia incerta ou não tradicional, com risco significativo apenas para o trabalho na agricultura. Após a exclusão dos estudos transversais, a exposição a produtos agroquímicos também representou um risco significativo. Porém, observou-se considerável heterogeneidade nos tamanhos do efeito. Conclusões. Diante das evidências existentes e com base no princípio da precaução, é importante implementar medidas preventivas para atenuar os danos causados pela doença renal crônica de etiologia incerta ou não tradicional aos trabalhadores e às comunidades agrícolas, como melhoria das condições de trabalho e manipulação cautelosa dos produtos agroquímicos, entre outros. Faz-se necessário realizar outras pesquisas de alta qualidade para avaliar o impacto e aumentar a base de evidências.

Food insecurity was associated with low quality diet and low HDL level in mothers of Northwest Mexico relying on fisheries for livelihood.

BACKGROUND: food insecurity occurs when quality and quantity of food is insufficient for maintaining healthy nutritional and food profiles. OBJECTIVES: to determine if food insecurity is associated with dietary and biochemical measures in mothers of the northwest of Mexico, which relies primarily on fisheries for livelihood. METHODS: a cross-sectional study was conducted with 116 mothers of the Northwest of Mexico. A socioeconomic survey, food security scale, andtwo non-consecutive 24-hour recalls were applied. Anthropometric  measurements were made and hemoglobin, glucose and cholesterol levelswere measured. The association between key measures and food insecurity was assessed using logistic and linear regression. RESULTS: two-thirds (68%) of households experienced food insecurity. Mothers with mild insecurity had 3.7 and 3.2 times higher odds of not consuming fruits and vegetables, respectively, and 4.9 times higher odds of consuming sweetened non-dairy drinks (p = 0.04; 0.04 and 0.05, respectively). In addition, they consumed less protein (ß = -3.22%; p < 0.01) and more carbohydrates (ß = 6.04%; p = 0.02) compared with mothers with food security. Mothers with severe insecurity consumed less iodine (ß = -24.41 µg; p = 0.03) and had lower levels of HDL cholesterol (ß = -12.01 mg/dl; p = 0.03) than mothers with food security. CONCLUSIONS: food insecurity was associated with low quality diet and low levels of HDL cholesterol in mothers of Northwest Mexico relying on fisheries for livelihood.

Food insecurity was associated with low quality diet and low HDL level in mothers of Northwest Mexico relying on fisheries for livelihood / La inseguridad alimentaria se asoció con una dieta de baja calidad y bajo nivel de HDL en madres de familia del noroeste de México que dependen de la pesca como medio de subsistencia

Background: food insecurity occurs when quality and quantity of food is insufficient for maintaining healthy nutritional and food profiles. Objectives: to determine if food insecurity is associated with dietary and biochemical measures in mothers of the northwest of Mexico, which relies primarily on fisheries for livelihood. Methods: a cross-sectional study was conducted with 116 mothers of the Northwest of Mexico. A socioeconomic survey, food security scale, and two non-consecutive 24-hour recalls were applied. Anthropometric measurements were made and hemoglobin, glucose and cholesterol levels were measured. The association between key measures and food insecurity was assessed using logistic and linear regression. Results: two-thirds (68%) of households experienced food insecurity. Mothers with mild insecurity had 3.7 and 3.2 times higher odds of not consuming fruits and vegetables, respectively, and 4.9 times higher odds of consuming sweetened non-dairy drinks (p = 0.04; 0.04 and 0.05, respectively). In addition, they consumed less protein (β = -3.22%; p < 0.01) and more carbohydrates (β = 6.04%; p = 0.02) compared with mothers with food security. Mothers with severe insecurity consumed less iodine (β = -24.41 μg; p = 0.03) and had lower levels of HDL cholesterol (β = -12.01 mg/dl; p = 0.03) than mothers with food security. Conclusions: food insecurity was associated with low quality diet and low levels of HDL cholesterol in mothers of Northwest Mexico relying on fisheries for livelihood

Introducción: la inseguridad alimentaria ocurre cuando la calidad y la cantidad de alimentos son insuficientes para mantener un perfil nutricional y alimentario saludable. Objetivos: determinar si la inseguridad alimentaria está asociada con indicadores dietéticos y bioquímicos en madres del noroeste de México que dependen principalmente de la pesca como medio de subsistencia. Métodos: se realizó un estudio transversal con 116 madres del noroeste de México. Se aplicó una encuesta socioeconómica, una escala de seguridad alimentaria y dos recordatorios de 24 horas. Se realizaron mediciones antropométricas y se midieron los niveles de hemoglobina, glucosa y colesterol. La asociación entre las medidas clave y la inseguridad alimentaria se evaluó mediante regresión logística y lineal. Resultados: dos tercios (68%) de los hogares experimentaron inseguridad alimentaria. Las madres con inseguridad leve tuvieron una probabilidad 3,7 y 3,2 veces mayor de no consumir frutas y verduras, respectivamente, y 4,9 veces más probabilidad de consumir bebidas endulzadas no lácteas (p = 0,04; 0,04 y 0,05, respectivamente). Además, consumieron menos proteínas (β = -3,22%; p < 0,01) y más carbohidratos (β = 6,04%; p = 0,02) en comparación con madres con seguridad alimentaria. Las madres con inseguridad severa consumieron menos yodo (β = -24,41 μg; p = 0,03) y tuvieron niveles más bajos de colesterol HDL (β = -12,01 mg/dl; p = 0,03) que las madres con seguridad alimentaria. Conclusiones: la inseguridad alimentaria se asoció con una dieta de baja calidad y bajos niveles de colesterol HDL en madres del noroeste de México que dependen de la pesca como medio de vida

Prevalence of asymptomatic Zika virus infection: a systematic review.

OBJECTIVE: To conduct a systematic review to estimate the prevalence of asymptomatic Zika virus infection in the general population and in specific population groups. METHODS: We searched PubMed®, Embase® and LILACS online databases from inception to 26 January 2018. We included observational epidemiological studies where laboratory testing was used to confirm positive exposure of participants to Zika virus and in which Zika virus symptom status was also recorded. We excluded studies in which having symptoms of Zika virus was a criterion for inclusion. The main outcome assessed was percentage of all Zika virus-positive participants who were asymptomatic. We used a quality-effects approach and the double arcsine transformation for the meta-analysis. FINDINGS: We assessed 753 studies for inclusion, of which 23 were included in the meta-analysis, totalling 11 305 Zika virus-positive participants. The high degree of heterogeneity in the studies (I2 = 99%) suggests that the pooled prevalence of asymptomatic Zika virus-positive participants was probably not a robust estimate. Analysis based on subgroups of the population (general population, returned travellers, blood donors, adults with Guillain-Barré syndrome, pregnant women and babies with microcephaly) was not able to explain the heterogeneity. Funnel and Doi plots showed major asymmetry, suggesting selection bias or true heterogeneity. CONCLUSION: Better-quality research is needed, using standardized methods, to determine the true prevalence of asymptomatic Zika virus and whether it varies between populations or over time.

Correction: Risk of bias and confounding of observational studies of Zika virus infection: A scoping review of research protocols.

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0180220.].