Beryllium disease among construction trade workers at Department of Energy nuclear sites: A follow-up.

BACKGROUND: Construction workers at U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) nuclear weapons facilities are screened to identify DOE-related occupational illnesses, including beryllium sensitization (BeS) and chronic beryllium disease (CBD). The study objectives were to estimate beryllium disease risks and the CBD claims acceptance rate in the energy workers' benefits program. METHODS: Workers diagnosed with BeS via beryllium lymphocyte proliferation test (BeLPT) included in screening examinations were interviewed about subsequent diagnosis of CBD. We estimated the proportion who developed CBD based on the ratio of CBD cases, based on self-reported compensation claim status, to all workers with BeS interviewed. We used stratified analyses to explore trends in disease frequency by age, race, sex, DOE employment duration, site, trade group, and cigarette smoking history. RESULTS: Between 1998 and 2020, 21,854 workers received a BeLPT; 262 (1.20%) had BeS (two abnormals or one abnormal plus one borderline test); 212 (0.97%) had a single abnormal BeLPT. Of 177 BeS workers interviewed, 35 (19.8%) reported an accepted CBD compensation claim. The claims acceptance rate among BeS workers increased with years of DOE employment, from 8.4% with <5 years to 33.3% for >25 or more years. Five of 68 interviewed workers with a single positive BeLPT reported CBD claim acceptance; an additional CBD case was confirmed by chart review (8.8%). CONCLUSIONS: Years of DOE work predict the risk of developing CBD among those sensitized and getting a claim for CBD accepted. Ongoing surveillance and increased awareness of the risk of beryllium exposure and CBD as an occupational disease among construction workers are needed.

Pharmacokinetics of a new fixed-dose combination of candesartan cilexetil, hydrochlorothiazide, and rosuvastatin in healthy adult subjects.

BACKGROUND: A fixed-dose combination (FDC) of candesartan cilexetil, hydrochlorothiazide and rosuvastatin (CC/HCTZ/RSV) has been developed to enhance patient compliance in the primary prevention of cardiovascular diseases. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate if the combination of the product components in the new FDC capsule formulation affects their respective pharmacokinetic and in vitro dissolution patterns. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In vitro dissolution profiles were compared in USP-43 and in biorelevant dissolution media. In vivo comparisons were obtained in a randomized, open-label, single-dose, two-treatment, two-way crossover study in 24 healthy subjects. During each treatment period, subjects received the test formulation (FDC hard capsule containing CC/HCTZ/RSV) or the reference formulation (co-administration of a FDC CC/HCTZ tablet and a RSV tablet). Plasma samples were collected periodically over 48 hours post-dose. Safety and tolerability were assessed. RESULTS: Dissolution profiles of all active drugs in the Test (capsule) and Reference Products (as tablets) were within the tolerance dissolution criteria of USP-43 conditions. HCTZ dissolution profiles were closely similar whereas those for RSV and CC did not match at specific pHs. In the pharmacokinetic study, the 90% confidence intervals (CIs) for the geometric least-square mean ratios of Cmax, AUC0-last, and AUC0-inf were 0.95 - 1.18, 0.95 - 1.15 and 0.95 - 1.13 (CC); 0.91 - 1.10, 0.96 - 1.08, and 0.96 - 1.09 (HCTZ) and 0.82 - 1.23, 0.81 - 1.13, and 0.82 - 1.12 (RSV), respectively. All adverse events were mild. CONCLUSION: The new FDC product (Sinlip Prevent), a stable FDC hard capsule, was bioequivalent (similar pharmacokinetics) when compared to the co-administration of the components and may be considered as a suitable and simplified medication for cardiovascular disease management.

Burnout syndrome, anxiety, depression and occupational well-being among Peru hospital staff during the COVID-19 pandemic / Síndrome de Burnout, ansiedad, depresión y bienestar laboral en personal hospitalario de Perú durante la pandemia de COVID-19

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic has had serious consequences for the mental health of individuals, especially health care providers, who have experienced symptoms of stress, anxiety and depression that affect their personal, family and social lives. This situation has led health entities to evaluate the negative effects and to design interventions. Objective: To establish the relationship between burnout syndrome, anxiety, depression and work well-being, considering sociodemographic and work variables, including differences according to the type of work. Methods: The present study is non-causal, comparative, cross-sectional and prospective. The sampling was intentional non-probabilistic, with a total of 366 participants from three hospitals in Ancash (Peru) under COVID-19 conditions during the second wave. For the measurement of the variables, the Maslach Burnout Inventory, the Goldberg anxiety/depression subscales and the Sánchez-Cánovas work well-being subscales were used. Results: The results indicated multiple relationships among burnout syndrome, anxiety, depression and work well-being (p <0.05). Likewise, these relationships were also presented considering some sociodemographic and labor variables (p <0.05). Conclusions: The variables studied have a significant relationship in the health care personnel examined. Based on these findings, it is possible to have a baseline of the mental health of health personnel to plan interventions that emphasize those variables and groups at risk that require special attention(AU)

Introducción: La pandemia de COVID-19 ha tenido graves consecuencias para la salud mental de las personas, especialmente de los profesionales de la salud, quienes han experimentado síntomas de estrés, ansiedad y depresión que afectan su vida personal, familiar y social. Esta situación ha llevado a las entidades de salud a evaluar los efectos negativos y diseñar intervenciones. Objetivo: Establecer la relación entre el síndrome de Burnout, la ansiedad, la depresión y el bienestar laboral, considerando variables sociodemográficas y laborales, incluyendo diferencias según el tipo de trabajo. Métodos: El presente estudio es no causal, comparativo, transversal y prospectivo. El muestreo fue no probabilístico intencional, con un total de 366 participantes de tres hospitales de Ancash (Perú) en condiciones de COVID-19 durante la segunda ola. Para la medición de las variables se utilizaron el Inventario de Burnout de Maslach, las subescalas de ansiedad/depresión de Goldberg y las subescalas de bienestar laboral de Sánchez-Cánovas. Resultados: Los resultados indicaron múltiples relaciones entre síndrome de burnout, ansiedad, depresión y bienestar laboral (p<0,05). Asimismo, estas relaciones también se presentaron considerando algunas variables sociodemográficas y laborales (p<0,05). Conclusiones: Las variables estudiadas tienen una relación significativa en el personal sanitario examinado. Con base en estos hallazgos, es posible tener una línea de base de la salud mental del personal de salud para planificar intervenciones que enfaticen aquellas variables y grupos en riesgo que requieren atención especial(AU)

Experience and perception of risk associated with knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding dengue in Riohacha, Colombia. / Experiencia y percepción del riesgo asociados a conocimientos, actitudes y prácticas sobre dengue en Riohacha, Colombia.

Recognition of the determinants of knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP), which could be conditioned by the experiences and perceptions of the population at risk, is essential for the control of dengue. The scope of this article is to estimate the relationship between the risk perception and dengue diagnosis experiences with KAPs on dengue in an endemic Colombian population. A cross-sectional study with multi-stage random sampling was conducted. Adjusted prevalence ratios (aPR) were estimated using regression models as measures of association. Of the 206 families interviewed, 7% know dengue is caused by a virus and less than 40% recognize other symptoms besides fever. As control strategies, 31% eliminate hatchery sites and 58% use fumigation, though 73% perceive the risk of dengue. The association was identified between the perception of the risk of dengue and knowledge about the vector (aPR = 3.32 CI95% 1.06-10.36), and the experience of diagnosis of dengue with the attitude towards dengue control (aPR = 1.61 CI95% 1.09-2.37). Risk perception and experience with dengue could become determinants of KAPs in relation to this disease.

Para el control del dengue es esencial el reconocimiento de los determinantes de los conocimientos, actitudes y prácticas (CAP), los cuales podrían estar condicionados por las experiencias y percepciones de la población a riesgo. El propósito de este artículo es estimar la asociación entre la percepción del riesgo y la experiencia de dengue con los CAP sobre dengue, en una población endémica de Colombia. Estudio analítico de corte transversal y muestreo probabilístico, polietápico por conglomerados. Como medidas de asociación se estimaron las razones de prevalencia ajustadas (RPa) usando modelos de regresión. Se entrevistaron 206 familias. El 7% saben que la enfermedad del dengue es causada por un virus y menos del 40% reconocen otros síntomas diferentes a la fiebre. El 31% practica la eliminación de criaderos y el 58% fumiga como estrategias de control. El 73% percibe el riesgo de dengue. Se estimó una asociación significativa de la percepción del riesgo de dengue con el conocimiento sobre el vector (RPa = 3,32 IC95% 1,06-10,36). Además, el antecedente de diagnóstico de dengue se asoció con la actitud frente a su control (RPa = 1,61 IC95% 1,09-2,37). La percepción del riesgo y la experiencia con dengue podrían ser determinantes de los CAP en relación a esta enfermedad.

Experiencia y percepción del riesgo asociados a conocimientos, actitudes y prácticas sobre dengue en Riohacha, Colombia / Experience and perception of risk associated with knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding dengue in Riohacha, Colombia

Resumen Para el control del dengue es esencial el reconocimiento de los determinantes de los conocimientos, actitudes y prácticas (CAP), los cuales podrían estar condicionados por las experiencias y percepciones de la población a riesgo. El propósito de este artículo es estimar la asociación entre la percepción del riesgo y la experiencia de dengue con los CAP sobre dengue, en una población endémica de Colombia. Estudio analítico de corte transversal y muestreo probabilístico, polietápico por conglomerados. Como medidas de asociación se estimaron las razones de prevalencia ajustadas (RPa) usando modelos de regresión. Se entrevistaron 206 familias. El 7% saben que la enfermedad del dengue es causada por un virus y menos del 40% reconocen otros síntomas diferentes a la fiebre. El 31% practica la eliminación de criaderos y el 58% fumiga como estrategias de control. El 73% percibe el riesgo de dengue. Se estimó una asociación significativa de la percepción del riesgo de dengue con el conocimiento sobre el vector (RPa = 3,32 IC95% 1,06-10,36). Además, el antecedente de diagnóstico de dengue se asoció con la actitud frente a su control (RPa = 1,61 IC95% 1,09-2,37). La percepción del riesgo y la experiencia con dengue podrían ser determinantes de los CAP en relación a esta enfermedad.

Abstract Recognition of the determinants of knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP), which could be conditioned by the experiences and perceptions of the population at risk, is essential for the control of dengue. The scope of this article is to estimate the relationship between the risk perception and dengue diagnosis experiences with KAPs on dengue in an endemic Colombian population. A cross-sectional study with multi-stage random sampling was conducted. Adjusted prevalence ratios (aPR) were estimated using regression models as measures of association. Of the 206 families interviewed, 7% know dengue is caused by a virus and less than 40% recognize other symptoms besides fever. As control strategies, 31% eliminate hatchery sites and 58% use fumigation, though 73% perceive the risk of dengue. The association was identified between the perception of the risk of dengue and knowledge about the vector (aPR = 3.32 CI95% 1.06-10.36), and the experience of diagnosis of dengue with the attitude towards dengue control (aPR = 1.61 CI95% 1.09-2.37). Risk perception and experience with dengue could become determinants of KAPs in relation to this disease.

Effect of high temperatures on teeth fixed with an orthodontic bracket. An in vitro study.

In cases of incineration, where the identification of victims by conventional methods is impossible, teeth and dental materials become an available source of evidence - thanks to their ability to resist high temperatures. Currently, there is no experimental research to determine the behavior of the bracket and the dental structure when it is attached to the tooth after being exposed to high temperatures. An experimental in vitro study was carried out on 60 upper and lower premolar teeth (30 with a cemented bracket and 30 teeth without a bracket) that were exposed to six temperature ranges (200 °C, 400 °C, 600 °C, 800 °C, 1000 °C and 1200 °C). With the help of an Optiks® binocular stereomicroscope, macroscopic changes were described for each temperature; in addition, the mesio-distal diameter of the crown of the teeth and the bracket were measured before and after the incineration. A comparison of the diameters between the groups [the experimental group and the control group] and between the different temperatures was made. Both teeth, with brackets and without brackets showed macroscopic changes, such as fissures, cracks, fragmentation, enamel bursting and enamel and dentin separation according to the temperature range exposed. The detachment of the bracket was presented at 600 °C - leaving a mark on the dental surface. At above 1000 °C, the crown of the tooth with bracket acquired a pink color and the surface of the bracket became rough and opaque. At above 400 °C, both groups experienced an expansion in the crown dimension without significant differences. The results of this research suggest that teeth with attached brackets are equally resistant as the teeth without brackets, and that the adhesion of these attachments to the dental structure leave characteristics that allow them to be differentiated from teeth without braces -as well as suggesting the orientation to the temperature exposure.

Infrared Fingerprint Engineering: A Molecular-Design Approach to Long-Wave Infrared Transparency with Polymeric Materials.

Optical technologies in the long-wave infrared (LWIR) spectrum (7-14 µm) offer important advantages for high-resolution thermal imaging in near or complete darkness. The use of polymeric transmissive materials for IR imaging offers numerous cost and processing advantages but suffers from inferior optical properties in the LWIR spectrum. A major challenge in the design of LWIR-transparent organic materials is that nearly all organic molecules absorb in this spectral window which lies within the so-called IR-fingerprint region. We report on a new molecular-design approach to prepare high refractive index polymers with enhanced LWIR transparency. Computational methods were used to accelerate the design of novel molecules and polymers. Using this approach, we have prepared chalcogenide hybrid inorganic/organic polymers (CHIPs) with enhanced LWIR transparency and thermomechanical properties via inverse vulcanization of elemental sulfur with new organic co-monomers.

Silicone optical elements for cost-effective freeform solar concentration.

The use of silicone optical elements is demonstrated for a concentrated photovoltaic system. These components show over 96% transmission through most of the solar spectrum and excellent temperature stability. Unique moldability enables the use of complex freeform designs. A light, compact, and cost-effective concentrated photovoltaic system based on silicone optics is proposed. In this system, air-plasma treatment is utilized to overcome the mechanical properties of silicone and difficulties with coating to reduce Fresnel loss. Lens arrays and waveguides are fabricated by injection molding following freeform optical design by LightTools. First-order characterizations are also performed.

La neumonía nosocomial en hospital provincial de Pinar del Río / Nosocomial pneumonia in the provincial hospital of Pinar del Río

RESUMEN Introducción: ante la presencia de una neumonía nosocomial, se debe prestar una adecuada atención, tratamiento, recuperación y seguimiento a los pacientes por lo que es imprescindible fortalecer estrategias y acciones para prevenir las defunciones y secuelas asociadas. Objetivo: describir las características clínicas y epidemiológicas de la neumonía nosocomial en el Hospital Clínico Quirúrgico Docente Dr. León Cuervo Rubio durante el año 2017. Métodos: se realizó un estudio descriptivo, transversal y retrospectivo en el hospital provincial de elección de Pinar del Río, durante el año 2017.El universo estuvo constituido por 157 pacientes y la muestra de estudio quedó conformada por 113 pacientes que cumplieron los criterios de selección muestral. El procesamiento estadístico de la información se realizó utilizando medios computarizados y reflejados por estadística descriptiva en frecuencias absolutas y relativas porcentuales. Resultados: prevaleció el grupo etario de 70 a 79 años y el sexo masculino, resultando la hipertensión arterial la enfermedad prevaleciente en pacientes con neumonía nosocomial. El germen aislado más significativo resultó ser el estafilococo coagulasa positivo y dentro de las causas de ingreso se evidenciaron las enfermedades respiratorias. Conclusiones: se describieron las características clínicas y epidemiológicas de la neumonía nosocomial en los pacientes hospitalizados en el Hospital Clínico Quirúrgico Docente Dr. León Cuervo Rubio, un estudio que enriquece y amplía el trabajo asistencial hacia una mayor calidad de atención a dichos pacientes, así como disminución de las morbimortalidades.

ABSTRACT Introduction: during the onset of nosocomial pneumonia, adequate assistance, treatment, recovery and follow-up must be given to patients. It is therefore essential to strengthen strategies and actions to prevent deaths and the associated sequelae. Objective: to describe the clinical and epidemiological characteristics of nosocomial pneumonia at Dr. León Cuervo Rubio Teaching Clinical Surgical Hospital in 2017. Methods: a descriptive, cross-sectional and retrospective study was conducted at this provincial hospital in Pinar del Río during 2017; 157 patients represented the target group and 113 patients met the inclusion criteria for sample choice. The statistical processing of the information was carried out using computerized means and reflected by descriptive statistics in absolute and relative percentage frequencies. Results: the age group of 70 to 79 years and male sex prevailed, where hypertension was the prevailing disorder in patients with nosocomial pneumonia. The most significant isolated germ was coagulase-positive staphylococcus and respiratory diseases were evidenced among the causes of admission. Conclusions: the clinical and epidemiological characteristics of nosocomial pneumonia in patients hospitalized at Dr. León Cuervo Rubio Teaching Clinical Surgical Hospital were explained, a study that enriches and expands the medical assistance towards a care of better quality to these patients, as well as a reduction in morbidity and mortality rates.

Efectividad de la trombolisis en el infarto agudo del miocardio en hospital Abel Santamaría Cuadrado / Effectiveness of thrombolysis in acute myocardial infarction at Abel Santamaria Cuadrado General Teaching Hospital

RESUMEN Introducción: el infarto del miocardio es la principal causa de muerte en pacientes adultos. La elección de la mejor estrategia de revascularización requiere participación interdisciplinaria, lo que hace necesaria la retroalimentación sobre el uso y efectividad de la trombólisis. Objetivo: determinar la efectividad de la trombolisis en el infarto agudo del miocardio en el servicio de emergencias del Hospital General Docente "Abel Santamaría Cuadrado" durante el 2017. Métodos: se realizó una investigación observacional, descriptiva y transversal en pacientes con diagnóstico de infarto agudo del miocardio que acudieron al servicio de emergencias del Hospital General Docente Abel Santamaría Cuadrado, de Pinar del Río durante el 2017. El universo lo integraron 352 pacientes con IMA, y la muestra por los 252 pacientes trombolizados. Las técnicas de procesamiento y análisis fueron la distribución en frecuencias absolutas y relativas, así como la prueba estadística de ji cuadrado. Se respetaron los principios bioéticos. Resultados: predominó el sexo masculino y edades entre 60 y 69 años. Prevaleció la implantación del tratamiento por debajo de las seis horas. Sobresalieron como reacciones adversas la hipotensión arterial y las extrasístoles. Preponderó la desaparición del dolor y regresión de los cambios isquémicos electrocardiográficos como criterios de reperfusión. Conclusiones: resultó efectiva la trombolisis farmacológica en pacientes con infarto agudo del miocardio, disminuyendo la mortalidad y complicaciones asociadas. La trombolisis se muestra como una estrategia de reperfusión segura usada en los pacientes con SCACEST en el Hospital General Docente Abel Santamaría de la ciudad de Pinar del Río.

ABSTRACT Introduction: myocardial infarction is the main cause of death in adult patients. The election of the best strategy of revascularization requires of an interdisciplinary participation, which leads to the feedback concerning the use and effectiveness of thrombolysis. Objective: to determine the effectiveness of thrombolysis in the acute myocardial infarction in the emergency services at Abel Santamaria Cuadrado General Teaching Hospital during 2017. Methods: an observational, descriptive and cross-sectional research was conducted with patients suffering from acute myocardial infarction attending emergency services of Abel Santamaria Cuadrado General Teaching Hospital during 2017. The target group included 352 patients with acute myocardial infarction, and the sample was comprised of 252 patients who underwent thrombolysis. The techniques of processing and analysis were distributed in absolute and relative frequencies, using also the statistical chi-square test. Bioethical principles were met. Results: male sex and ages between 60 and 69 years old predominated. The complement of the treatment was initiated under the sis hours. As the main adverse reactions, hypotension and extrasystole stood up. The relief of the pain predominated and the regression of ischemic electrocardiographic changes as criteria of reperfusion. Conclusions: pharmacologic thrombolysis resulted effective in patients with acute myocardial infarction, decreasing the mortality rate and associated complications. Thrombolysis is shown as a secure reperfusion strategy applied to patients with SCACEST at Abel Santamaria Cuadrado General Teaching Hospital in Pinar del Río province.

Caracterización clínico-epidemiológica de pacientes con enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica reagudizada / A clinic and epidemiologic characterization of patients with acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Fundamento: en los últimos años se ha incrementado la incidencia, prevalencia e ingreso en pacientes con enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica reagudizada, donde requieren cuidados especiales y atención integral para su manejo.Objetivo: caracterizar clínica y epidemiológicamente los pacientes con enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica reagudizada.Métodos: se realizó un estudio descriptivo y transversal en el Hospital General Docente Abel Santamaría Cuadrado de la ciudad Pinar del Río durante el año 2016. El universo de estudio estuvo constituido por 83 pacientes con diagnóstico de enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica reagudizada. En todas las pruebas estadísticas se consideró un nivel de significación de alfa<0,05, se respetó la ética médica.Resultados: predominó el grupo etario de 65 a 69 años y el sexo masculino. Prevalecieron los fumadores que contaban entre 70 y 74 años de edad. Fueron superiores los pacientes bajo peso así como la estadía hospitalaria entre siete y 14 días sobre todo en pacientes fumadores. El hábito de fumar constituyó el factor de riesgo predominante, mientras la hipertensión arterial resultó la comorbilidad relevante.Conclusiones: la caracterización de los aspectos clínicos y epidemiológicos relacionados con la enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica reagudizada se comportó similar a otras casuísticas analizadas, posibilitando desarrollar estrategias preventivas de exacerbación en el mejoramiento de la calidad de vida y un menor de riesgo de complicaciones o secuelas asociadas(AU)

Background: over the last years the incidence, prevalence, and entrance in patients with acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease has increased, requiring special cares and integral attention for their handling.Objective: to characterize clinically and epidemically the patients with acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.Methods: a descriptive and transversal study was carried out in Abel Santamaría hospital in Pinar del Río city during 2016. The universe of study was composed by 83 patients with acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. In all the statistical tests a level of alpha significance <0,05 was considered. Medical ethics was respected.Results: the 65 to 69 age group and male sex prevailed. Smokers of 70 and 74 years of age prevailed as well. Low weight patients were superior as well as the ones with hospital demurrage between 7 and 14 days, mainly smokers. The habit of smoking constituted the predominant risk factor, while hypertension was the relevant comorbility.Conclusions: characterization of the clinical and epidemic aspects related with acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease behaved similar to other analyzed casuistries, facilitating the developing of preventive strategies of exacerbation in the improvement of the quality of life and a smaller risk of complications or associate sequels(AU)

Optical and mechanical tolerances in hybrid concentrated thermal-PV solar trough.

Hybrid thermal-PV solar trough collectors combine concentrated photovoltaics and concentrated solar power technology to harvest and store solar energy. In this work, the optical and mechanical requirements for optimal efficiency are analyzed using non-sequential ray tracing techniques. The results are used to generate opto-mechanical tolerances that can be compared to those of traditional solar collectors. We also explore ideas on how to relieve tracking tolerances for single-axis solar collectors. The objective is to establish a basis for tolerances required for the fabrication and manufacturing of hybrid solar trough collectors.

One Dimensional Photonic Crystals Using Ultrahigh Refractive Index Chalcogenide Hybrid Inorganic/Organic Polymers.

We report on the fabrication of wholly polymeric one-dimensional (1-D) photonic crystals (i.e., Bragg reflectors, Bragg mirrors) via solution processing for use in the near (NIR) and the short wave (SWIR) infrared spectrum (1-2 µm) with very high reflectance (R ∼ 90-97%). Facile fabrication of these highly reflective films was enabled by direct access to solution processable, ultrahigh refractive index polymers, termed, Chalcogenide Hybrid Inorganic/Organic Polymers (CHIPs). The high refractive index (n) of CHIPs materials (n = 1.75-2.10) allowed for the production of narrow band IR Bragg reflectors with high refractive index contrast (Δn ∼ 0.5) when fabricated with low n polymers, such as cellulose acetate (n = 1.47). This is the highest refractive index contrast (Δn ∼ 0.5) demonstrated for an all-polymeric Bragg mirror which directly enabled high reflectivity from films with 22 layers or less. Facile access to modular, thin, highly reflective films from inexpensive CHIPs materials offers a new route to IR Bragg reflectors and other reflective coatings with potential applications for IR photonics, commercial sensing, and LIDAR applications.

In-house standardization and validation of a multiplex RT-PCR assay for the detection of 13 respiratory viruses / Estandarización interna y validación de un ensayo RT-PRC múltiple para la detección de 13 virus respiratorios

Background. Multiplex real time PCR is increasingly used to diagnose respiratory viruses and has shown to be superior to traditional methods, such as culture and antigen detection. Objective. Standardization and validation of a multiplex real-time PCR assay for the detection of 13 respiratory viruses. Methods. The assay was validated using RNA control targets and comparing results to single-target PCR's. Results. Using RNA controls the multiplex format was found to be as sensitive and specific as the single-target PCRs, and no competition was observed between targets. The efficiencies for most of the reactions were approximately 90%, but a lower efficiency was found for Parainfluenza 2 with a rate of amplification in each cycle of 86.63%. On the other hand, a higher efficiency was observed in respiratory syncytial virus A and respiratory syncytial virus B ((93.07% each). Conclusion: This multiplex RT-PCR format shows an adequate efficiency, demonstrating an excellent sensitivity, specificity and repeatability for all the studied respiratory viruses.

Antecedentes. PRC múltiple en tiempo real es usada cada vez más para el diagnóstico de virus respiratorios y ha mostrado ser superior a metodos tradicionales, como cultivo y detección de antígeno. Objetivo. Estandarizar y validar una PRC múltiple en tiempo real para la detección de 13 virus respiratorios. Metodos. El ensayo fue realizado usando blanco de RNA control y comparando los resultados a blancos únicos de PCR. Resultados. Usando el RNA control, el formato de multiplex era tan sensible y específico como la PCR. Las eficiencias para la mayoría de las reacciones de aproximadamente el 90%, pero una eficiencia baja fue encontrada para influenza 2 con una tasa de amplificación en cada ciclo de 86.63%. Por otra parte, una mayor eficiencia fue observada en virus sincitial respitario A y B (93, 67% cada uno). Conclusión. Este formato RT-PCR múltiple muestra una adecuada eficiencia, demostrando un excelente especificidad y reproducibilidad para todos los virus respiratorios estudiados.

Caracterización clínico epidemiológica de las enfermedades cerebrovasculares en una unidad de cuidados progresivos / Clinical and epidemiological characterization of cerebrovascular diseases in a progressive care unit

Fundamento: las enfermedades cerebrovasculares constituyen la afección neurológica aguda más frecuente y una de las principales causas de muerte, discapacidad y minusvalía en el adulto.Objetivo: describir las características clínicas y epidemiológicas de las enfermedades cerebrovasculares en pacientes atendidos en la Unidad de Cuidados Progresivos del Hospital General Docente “Abel Santamaría Cuadrado” de Pinar del Río, durante el primer semestre del año 2016.Métodos: se realizó un estudio descriptivo, transversal y retrospectivo, en el referido servicio y hospital, durante el período de tiempo declarado. La muestra estuvo constituida por 89 pacientes del servicio, diagnosticados con alguna enfermedad cerebrovascular. Se identificó el tipo de evento cerebrovascular, incidencia de factores de riesgo asociados, complicaciones, según grupos de edades y sexo. El procesamiento estadístico de los datos se realizó utilizando frecuencias absolutas y porcentajes.Resultados: en el estudio predominaron: el evento isquémico con 79,5 por ciento, el grupo de edades de 70 a 79 años con el 39,7 por ciento y el sexo masculino con un 65,4 por ciento. Relacionado con los factores de riesgo asociados prevaleció la hipertensión arterial en ambos eventos con más de 80 por ciento, siendo las infecciones respiratorias la complicación más frecuente en dichos pacientes con un 41 por ciento.Conclusiones: se lograron describir características clínicas y epidemiológicas de las enfermedades cerebrovasculares en la muestra de estudio, con predominio del evento isquémico (AU)

Background: cerebrovascular diseases represent the most frequent acute neurological conditions and are one of the leading causes of death and disability in adult people.Objective: o describe the clinical and epidemiological characteristics of cerebrovascular diseases in a progressive care unit.Methods: a descriptive, cross-sectional and retrospective study was conducted at the progressive care unit of “Abel Santamaría Cuadrado” General Teaching Hospital from Pinar del Río, during the first half of 2016. The study sample was made up of 89 patients of the service diagnosed with a cerebrovascular disease. The statistical processing of the data was carried out using absolute frequencies and percentages and respecting medical ethics.Results: the study showed a prevalence of the ischemic condition with 79,5 percent, the 70 to 79 age group with 39,7 percent and the male sex with 65,4 percent. Regarding the risk factors there was a prevalence of arterial hypertension in both conditions with more than 80 percent. Respiratory infections were the most frequent complications in those patients with 41 percent. Conclusions: the clinical and epidemiological characteristics of cerebrovascular diseases were described. The study widened the work in the progressive care units, contributing to a highest quality of the medical attention to those patients (AU)

Type-Specific Identification of Genital Human Papillomavirus Infection in Women with Cytological Abnormality.

OBJECTIVES: To estimate the frequency of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and the genotype distribution of HPV among women with a Pap smear showing atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASC-US) attending the Program for the Detection and Control of Cervical Cancer in Bogotá, Colombia. STUDY DESIGN: Cervical samples from 200 women with an ASC-US Pap smear were analyzed for the presence of HPV DNA and genotype distribution using a commercial molecular technique (Linear Array®; Roche Molecular Systems, USA). RESULTS: HPV infection was found in 140 women (70%). High-risk HPV types were present in 46.4% of the samples; 16.4% showed a low-risk HPV type, and 37.1% showed both. Of the positive samples, 42.9% were infected with a single viral genotype, whereas 57.1% exhibited multiple HPV infections. The most common HPV genotypes were HPV 16, 53, and 52 with a prevalence of 26.4, 16.4, and 13.6%, respectively. CONCLUSION: The epidemiological characterization of HPV infections described in this study might guide actions for epidemiological surveillance to strengthen the program in Bogotá and to develop appropriate HPV vaccination programs.

Serum vitamin D and functional impairment in octogenarian women.

PURPOSE: Serum vitamin D deficiency has been associated with frailty in people aged 65 and over, however its relationship with functional impairment has not been investigated in octogenerian (aged 80-90 years) institutionalized women. METHODS: We assessed functional impairment in this latter group by measuring frailty syndrome and other geriatric and psychological assessment scales: the Tinetti gait and balance index to determine the risk for falls, the Barthel index to measure the basic activities of daily living, the Lawton index for instrumental activities, the mini-mental score examination test for cognitive impairment, the Yesavage scale for geriatric depression, and the Norton scale for the risk of ulceration. RESULTS: Frail individuals had significantly reduced serum vitamin D concentrations (measured as total 25-hydroxyvitamin D; 25(OH)D) compared to robust individuals, but reduced 25(OH)D concentration did not significantly correlate with frailty syndrome severity, and mean 25(OH)D concentrations were within the recommended levels in all groups. The 25(OH)D concentration did not correlate with any of the blood analytical parameters measured and with the geriatric assessment scales used, suggesting a selective relationship with frailty. CONCLUSION: These results highlight the need to individualize treatment such as vitamin D supplementation in order to treat frailty syndrome.

Diabetes mellitus y enfermedad renal crónica en adultos mayores. Una revisión necesaria / Diabetes mellitus and chronic kidney disease in the elderly. A necessary revision

Introducción: el envejecimiento trae como consecuencias daños en la función renal y alteraciones en el metabolismo en los hidratos de carbono. La enfermedad renal crónica es una complicación frecuente de la diabetes mellitus; es ésta la principal causa que requiere tratamiento sustitutivo renal. En la actualidad la elevada esperanza de vida, junto con la alta incidencia de diabetes mellitus, lleva consigo un aumento de la diabetes relacionada con la enfermedad renal crónica en el adulto mayor.Objetivo: realizar una revisión sobre diabetes mellitus y enfermedad renal crónica en el adulto mayor, con énfasis en características fundamentales de actualidad sobre el tema.Método: se realizó una búsqueda exhaustiva de la bibliografía, en la que no se hicieron restricciones respecto al tipo de estudio. Se revisaron los resúmenes y, en los casos necesarios los artículos completos; se tuvieron en cuenta todos los artículos que incluían recomendaciones sobre diabetes mellitus y enfermedad renal crónica en el adulto mayor.Conclusiones: la revisión mostró que la diabetes mellitus y la enfermedad renal crónica constituyen enfermedades de alta prevalencia en el adulto mayor, que se acompañan de alteraciones orgánicas y funcionales propias de la edad(AU)

Introduction: aging brings damaging consequences in renal function and alterations in the metabolism of carbohydrates. Chronic kidney disease is a common complication of diabetes mellitus; this is the main cause that requires renal replacement therapy. Actually the high life expectancy, and the high incidence of diabetes mellitus, leads to an increase in diabetes-related chronic kidney disease in the elderly.Objective: to carried out a review on diabetes mellitus and chronic kidney disease in the elderly, with emphasis on fundamental characteristics of news on the subject.Method: a comprehensive literature search was carried out, which were no restrictions on the type of study. Abstracts were reviewed and, where necessary the full articles; all items included recommendations on diabetes mellitus and chronic kidney disease in the elderly were taken into account.Conclusions: the review showed that diabetes mellitus and chronic kidney disease are the major diseases in the elderly, which are accompanied by organic and functional alterations of age(AU)