Cystic fibrosis: when neonatal screening is unsatisfactory for early diagnosis / Fibrose cística: quando a triagem neonatal é insatisfatória para o diagnóstico precoce

Abstract Introduction: cystic fibrosis newborn screening must enable its earlier diagnosis, which may enhance outcomes. This study was a series case of delayed-diagnosis children submitted to cystic fibrosis newborn screening. Description: fourteen children were included; eight (57.1%) were due to false-negative screening, while six (42.9%) were due to processing errors. Two samples collected after 30 days of life were incorrectly classified as negative, and four infants with a positive test could not be located due to screening processing errors. Cystic fibrosis diagnosis was confirmed at a median (IQR) age of 5.3 (4.2-7.4) months. Poor nutritional status was the most prevalent clinical sign at diagnosis, being present in 78.6% of infants. The mean (SD) weight-for-length and length-for-age Z-scores were -3.46 (0.84) and -3.99 (1.16), respectively. Half of the children had Pseudo-Bartter syndrome, and 42.9% had breathing difficulties. Twelve children (85.7%) required hospitalization, with a median (IQR) length of stay of 17.0 (11.5-26.5) days. Discussion: newborn screening had some faults, from incorrect collections to inefficient active search. Early identification of these children in which screening was unsatisfactory is essential, emphasizing the importance and efforts to not miss them. In the case of a failed test, healthcare professionals must be prepared to recognize the main symptoms and signs of the disease.

Resumo Introdução: a triagem neonatal para fibrose cística deve contribuir para diagnóstico precoce e melhor prognóstico da doença. O estudo é uma série de casos com lactentes submetidos à triagem, porém com diagnóstico tardio da doença. Descrição: quatorze crianças foram incluídas; oito (57,1%) com triagem falso-negativo e seis (42,9%) com erros processuais na triagem neonatal. Duas amostras foram coletadas tardiamente, sendo incorretamente classificadas como negativas e quatro lactentes com triagem positiva não foram localizados, por erros na busca ativa. Confirmou-se o diagnóstico da fibrose cística com idade mediana (IIQ) de 5,3 (4,2-7,4) meses. O Comprometimento nutricional precoce foi o sinal clínico mais prevalente ao diagnóstico, presente em 78,6% das crianças. Os Z escores médios (SD) do peso para altura e altura para idade foram -3,46 (0,84) e -3,99 (1,16), respectivamente. Metade das crianças teve síndrome de Pseudo-Bartter e 42,9% dificuldade respiratória. Doze crianças (85,7%) precisaram hospitalização com tempo mediano de permanência de 17 dias. Discussão: a triagem neonatal para fibrose cística apresentou falhas, desde testes falso-negativos, coletas incorretas, até problemas com a busca ativa. Entretanto, o diagnóstico ágil é essencial e os profissionais de saúde devem reconhecer os sintomas e sinais precoces da doença, mesmo quando a triagem neonatal não for satisfatória.

Accessing Dementia Care in Brazil: An Analysis of Case Vignettes.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Despite the rapid increase in the number of people living with dementia in Brazil, dementia care is limited. This study describes how people living with dementia and their carers access care, treatment, and support, and identifies what characteristics are likely to enable or prevent access. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: We created 10 vignettes to illustrate fictitious but realistic scenarios involving people living with dementia in Brazil. The vignettes explore a combination of socioeconomic and demographic variables. They were completed using an in-depth desk review of the dementia care landscape in Brazil; a Strengths, Opportunities, Weaknesses, and Threats (SWOT) analysis of the desk review; and expert knowledge. The analysis focused on identifying common sources of service provision, barriers of access to care and support, and specific issues experienced by some population groups. FINDINGS: Access to a dementia diagnosis, care, and support for people living with dementia in Brazil is limited. Demographic and socio-economic circumstances play a role in determining the type of services to which a person might have access. Poor knowledge about dementia, lack of capacity in the health system, and lack of formal long-term care support are among the identified barriers to accessing timely diagnosis, care, and support in the country. DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS: Understanding the barriers and facilitators of access to diagnosis, treatment, and support for people with dementia and families with different demographic and socioeconomic characteristics is crucial for designing dementia policies that are context-specific and responsive to the care needs of different socioeconomic groups in Brazil.

Five-year performance analysis of a cystic fibrosis newborn screening program in northeastern Brazil

Abstract Objective: To analyze the performance of the cystic fibrosis (CF) newborn screening (NBS) program over its first five years in a Brazilian northeastern state. Methods: A population-based study using a screening algorithm based on immunoreactive trypsinogen (IRT)/IRT. Data were retrieved from the state referral screening center registry. The program performance was evaluated using descriptive indicators such as the results of an active search, coverage, newborn's age at the time of blood sampling, the time between sample collection and its arrival at the laboratory, and the child's age at diagnosis of disease. Results: The public CF screening program covered 82.6% of the 1,017,576 births that occurred, with an accumulated five-year incidence of 1:20,767 live births. The median (25th-75th) age at diagnosis was 3.5 (2.3-7.3) months. The sampling before 7 days of life for the first IRT (IRT1) increased between 2013 and 2017 from 42.2 to 48.3%. Around 5% of IRT1 samples and 30% of the second samples were collected after 30 days of life. In the first and second stages of screening, 23.6% and 19.9% of the infants, respectively, were lost to follow-up. In both stages of screening, the samples were retained at the health units for a median (25th-75th) of 9.0 (7.0-13.0) days. Conclusions: The coverage by the CF-NBS program was satisfactory as compared to other Brazilian state rates and the percentage of IRT1 samples collected within the first week of life increased progressively. However, time of samples retention at the health units, inappropriate sampling, inherent methodological problems, and loss of follow-up need to improve.

Five-year performance analysis of a cystic fibrosis newborn screening program in northeastern Brazil.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the performance of the cystic fibrosis (CF) newborn screening (NBS) program over its first five years in a Brazilian northeastern state. METHOD: A population-based study using a screening algorithm based on immunoreactive trypsinogen (IRT)/IRT. Data were retrieved from the state referral screening center registry. The program performance was evaluated using descriptive indicators such as the results of an active search, coverage, newborn's age at the time of blood sampling, the time between sample collection and its arrival at the laboratory, and the child's age at diagnosis of disease. RESULTS: The public CF screening program covered 82.6% of the 1,017,576 births that occurred, with an accumulated five-year incidence of 1:20,767 live births. The median (25th-75th) age at diagnosis was 3.5 (2.3-7.3) months. The sampling before 7 days of life for the first IRT (IRT1) increased between 2013 and 2017 from 42.2 to 48.3%. Around 5% of IRT1 samples and 30% of the second samples were collected after 30 days of life. In the first and second stages of screening, 23.6% and 19.9% of the infants, respectively, were lost to follow-up. In both stages of screening, the samples were retained at the health units for a median (25th-75th) of 9.0 (7.0-13.0) days. CONCLUSIONS: The coverage by the CF-NBS program was satisfactory as compared to other Brazilian state rates and the percentage of IRT1 samples collected within the first week of life increased progressively. However, time of samples retention at the health units, inappropriate sampling, inherent methodological problems, and loss of follow-up need to improve.

Central auditory processing in children after traumatic brain injury.

INTRODUCTION: Traumatic brain injury can impair the central auditory pathways and auditory cortex. Hence, individuals who suffered a traumatic brain injury may be at risk of central auditory processing disorders, which can be identified with behavioral tests that assess central auditory function. OBJECTIVE: To characterize and compare the performance of children and adolescents with and without a history of traumatic brain injury in behavioral tests that assess central auditory processing. METHOD: The sample comprised 8- to 18-year-old individuals of both sexes who suffered moderate or severe closed traumatic brain injury 3 to 24 months before their participation in the study and whose hearing thresholds were normal. These individuals were matched for sex and age with other subjects without a history of traumatic brain injury and submitted to behavioral assessment of the central auditory processing with special tests to assess hearing skills (namely, auditory closure, figure-ground, and temporal processing), selected according to their chronological age and response-ability. RESULTS: The study group performed statistically worse than the comparison group in auditory closure, figure-ground in verbal dichotic listening, and temporal ordering. The central auditory processing tests with abnormal results in the comparison group were different from those in the study group. CONCLUSION: Central auditory processing disorders were identified in all subjects of the study group, especially involving auditory closure and temporal processing skills, in comparison with subjects without a history of traumatic brain injury.

Reducing dementia-related stigma and discrimination among community health workers in Brazil: protocol for a randomised controlled feasibility trial.

INTRODUCTION: Stigma and discrimination among healthcare workers can hinder diagnosis and the provision of appropriate care in dementia. This study is aimed at developing, delivering and evaluating the feasibility of a group antistigma intervention to improve knowledge, attitudes and behaviours in relation to people living with dementia among community health workers (CHWs). METHODS AND ANALYSIS: This will be a randomised controlled feasibility trial conducted with 150 CHWs from 14 primary care units (PCUs) in São Paulo, Brazil. PCUs will be randomly allocated (1:1) in two parallel groups-experimental group or control group. Participants from PCUs allocated to the experimental group will receive a 3-day group intervention involving audio-visual and printed materials as well as elements of social contact. The control group will keep their usual routine. Knowledge, attitude and intended behaviour stigma-based outcomes will be assessed at baseline and at follow-up (30 days after intervention) to both groups, with additional questions on feasibility for the experimental group at follow-up. Around 10-15 participants will take part in follow-up semistructured interviews to further explore feasibility. Quantitative analyses will follow an 'intention to treat' approach. Qualitative data will be analysed using content analysis. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: This study was approved by the National Commission for Ethics in Research in Brazil (n. 5.510.113). Every participant will sign a consent form. Results will be disseminated through academic journals and events related to dementia. The intervention materials will be made available online.

Central auditory processing in children after traumatic brain injury

Abstract Introduction: Traumatic brain injury can impair the central auditory pathways and auditory cortex. Hence, individuals who suffered a traumatic brain injury may be at risk of central auditory processing disorders, which can be identified with behavioral tests that assess central auditory function. Objective: To characterize and compare the performance of children and adolescents with and without a history of traumatic brain injury in behavioral tests that assess central auditory processing. Method: The sample comprised 8- to 18-year-old individuals of both sexes who suffered moderate or severe closed traumatic brain injury 3 to 24 months before their participation in the study and whose hearing thresholds were normal. These individuals were matched for sex and age with other subjects without a history of traumatic brain injury and submitted to behavioral assessment of the central auditory processing with special tests to assess hearing skills (namely, auditory closure, figure-ground, and temporal processing), selected according to their chronological age and response-ability. Results: The study group performed statistically worse than the comparison group in auditory closure, figure-ground in verbal dichotic listening, and temporal ordering. The central auditory processing tests with abnormal results in the comparison group were different from those in the study group. Conclusion: Central auditory processing disorders were identified in all subjects of the study group, especially involving auditory closure and temporal processing skills, in comparison with subjects without a history of traumatic brain injury.

Intrinsic Motivation of Medical Students from a College with Active Methodology in Brazil: a Cross-Sectional Study / Motivação Intrínseca do Estudante de Medicina de uma Faculdade com Metodologia Ativa no Brasil: Estudo Transversal

ABSTRACT A cross-sectional study based on the Self Determination Theory to identify intrinsic motivation in the tutorial group scenario, and its associated factors in 276 medical students from a college in the Northeast of Brazil between October and December 2016. The Intrinsic Motivation Inventory was utilized following its adaptation and cross-cultural translation. Variables studied: age, gender, marital status, financial dependents, number of attempts at the university entrance exam for the medical course, current semester of study, previous undergraduate training, living with parents, choice of course by parental influence or pressure. Uni and multivariate Poisson analysis were carried out to assess the factors associated with intrinsic motivation; p <0.05 was considered as the significance level for statistical purposes. Average motivation score was 3.8, which indicates motivation. In 2 nd , 6 th and 10 th semester medicine students, the final model maintained as the variable associated with intrinsic motivation those who attempted the medical school entrance exam once or twice compared to those who had had three or more attempts (PR = 0.88, 95% CI (0.79-0.97), p = 0.011). In the analyses assessed by semester, in the second semester, students who had prior undergraduate training before medical school compared to those who had not was the remaining variable (PR = 0.92, 95% IC (0.87-0.97), p = 0.005). In the sixth semester, no statistically significant difference was found, and in the tenth semester the variable of those who attempted the medical school entrance exam once or twice remained (PR = 0.65, 95% IC (0.47-0.88), p = 0.006). The students seemed to be motivated in the group tutorial activity. The fewer number of medical school entry exam attempts and having previous undergraduate training were variables that showed association with intrinsic motivation.

RESUMO Estudo transversal baseado na Teoria da Autodeterminação para identificar a motivação intrínseca no cenário do grupo tutorial e seus fatores associados em 276 estudantes de Medicina de uma faculdade do Nordeste do Brasil entre outubro e dezembro de 2016, tendo sido utilizado o Inventário de Motivação Intrínseca, após sua tradução e adaptação transcultural. Variáveis estudadas: idade, sexo, estado civil, dependentes financeiros, número de tentativas no vestibular para ingresso no curso de Medicina, período em curso, graduação anterior, residência com os pais, escolha do curso por influência ou por pressão dos pais. Realizadas análises uni- e multivariada de Poisson para analisar os fatores associados à motivação intrínseca, foi considerado como nível de significância para fins estatísticos o valor p<0,05. O escore médio da motivação foi de 3,8, indicando motivação. Em estudantes do segundo, sexto e décimo períodos do curso de Medicina, permaneceram no modelo final como variável associada à motivação intrínseca aqueles que haviam realizado uma ou duas tentativas no vestibular, quando comparados aos estudantes que tinham realizado três ou mais tentativas (RP=0,88; IC95%(0,79-0,97); p = 0,011). Nas análises discriminadas por período, no segundo período, permaneceram no modelo final os estudantes que possuíam graduação anterior ao curso de Medicina, quando comparados aos que não possuíam (RP=0,92; IC95% (0,87-0,97); p = 0,005). No sexto período, nenhuma diferença estatisticamente significante foi encontrada; e no décimo período, a variável de ter realizado uma ou duas tentativas no vestibular (RP=0,65; IC95% (0,47-0,88); p = 0,006). Os estudantes se mostraram motivados na atividade do grupo tutorial. O menor número de tentativas no vestibular para ingresso no curso de Medicina e possuir graduação anterior foram variáveis que se mostraram associadas à motivação intrínseca.

Síndrome da deiscência do canal semicircular superior: relato de dois casos / Semicircular superior canal dehiscence: cases reports

RESUMO A Síndrome da Deiscência do Canal Semicircular Superior (SDCSS) é caracterizada pelo desgaste da camada óssea que recobre o canal semicircular superior. São sintomas comuns da SDCSS a presença de vertigem associada à nistagmos induzidos por estímulos sonoros intensos ou por modificações das pressões intracraniana ou da orelha média. O objetivo deste trabalho é descrever os achados audiólogicos e vestibulares de dois pacientes com diagnóstico de Síndrome da Deiscência do Canal Semicircular Superior, com diagnóstico confirmado por meio de tomografia computadorizada. Foram realizadas meatoscopia, anamnese, audiometria tonal e vocal seguida das medidas de imitância acústica, Weber audiométrico, pesquisa do fenômeno de Túlio e manobra de Valsalva, realizados pela mesma pesquisadora em uma única sessão. Foram observados gap aéreo-ósseo, curva timpanométrica tipo A e reflexos acústicos presentes. O gap aéreo-ósseo apresenta-se com maior amplitude nas frequências baixas. As queixas auditivas não foram relatadas pelas pacientes como os primeiros sintomas. O Weber mostrou lateralização, nos dois casos, confirmando a presença de gap. O fenômeno de Túlio apresentou-se positivo para vertigem em ambos os casos. A manobra de Valsalva apresentou alteração em apenas um caso.

ABSTRACT The Superior Semicircular Canal Dehiscence Syndrome (SSCDS) is characterized by bone wear layer overlying the superior semicircular canal. Common symptoms of SSCDS the presence of vertigo associated with nystagmus induced by intense sound stimuli or changes in intracranial pressure or middle ear. The aim of this study is to describe the audiological and vestibular findings of two patients diagnosed with Superior Semicircular Canal Deiscence Syndrome, with confirmed diagnosis by computed tomography. Meatoscopy, anamnesis, pure tone audiometry and vocal followed by the acoustic impedance measurements, audiometric Weber, research Tulio phenomenon and Valsalva maneuver, performed by the same researcher in one session were held. Air-bone gap were observed, type A tympanometric curve and acoustic reflex. The air-bone gap is presented with greater amplitude at low frequencies. Hearing complaints were not reported by patients as the first symptoms. Weber showed lateralization in both cases, confirming the presence of gap. The Thulium phenomenon is positive for vertigo in both cases. The Valsalva maneuver showed a change in only one case.

Application of Choices criteria in Brazil: impact on nutrient intake and adequacy of food products in relation to compounds associated to the risk of non-transmissible chronic diseases.

One of the aims of this work was to evaluate the impact of introducing products that are in agreement with the Choices criteria in the usual diet of the Brazilian population. However, due to the insufficient information on key compounds related to non-transmissible chronic diseases (NTCD) in the national food composition database, the nutritional information of food labels was collected. A food composition database of industrialized products was created (1720 products) and their data were evaluated according to the Choices criteria. The replacement of typical products by products that are in accordance to the Choices criteria may cause a decrease in the intake of saturated (52%) and trans fatty acids (92%), energy (14%) and sodium (47%), as well as an increase in the intake of DF (87%); improving the diet nutritional profile. This procedure can be used as important part in a strategy for decreasing the risk for NTCD.

Evaluación hemodinámica y respuesta al óxido nítrico inhalado ante hipoxia y acidosis en cerdos recién nacidos / Evaluate the effect of inhaled nitric oxide on hemodynamic response to hypoxia and acidosis in newborn pigs

La hipertensión pulmonar (HTP) es un trastorno de la adaptación a la vida extrauterina de muchos recién nacidos. La hipoxia y la acidosis son factores desencadenantes y perpetuadores de la misma. Objetivos: evaluar el efecto del óxido nítrico inhalado (ONi) a la respuesta vascular pulmonar a la hipoxia y acidosis en cerdos recién nacidos. Material y método: se diseñó una serie de intervenciones experimentales en cerdos recién nacidos, sedados, anestesiados y en asistencia ventilatoria mecánica. El protocolo experimental consistió en inducir hipoxia en forma controlada y progresiva (FiO2 desde 0,21 (basal) hasta 0,14; 0,10 o 0,08, mezclando nitrógeno con aire), entre 6 y 10 minutos, valorando la respuesta hemodinámica. Estabilizada la respuesta a la hipoxia con elevación en meseta de la presión arterial pulmonar (PAP) y sistémica, se administró ONi a 20 ppm. Mediante infusión de HCl 0,1 N i/v se estabilizó el pH en diferentes valores en los cuales se reiteraron esta serie de experimentos. Resultados: se encontró que el descenso de la FiO2 (debajo de 0,21) produce una caída de la saturación y un aumento inmediato de la PAP a diferentes pH y una efectividad del ONi para descender la PAP próximo a 70%. Sin embargo a pH más bajo la existencia de acidosis genera un nivel basal de PAP elevado con respecto a pH 7,4, que el ONi no desciende. En cuanto a la HTP desarrollada ante diferentes FiO2 se confirmó que la elevación de la PAP es gradualmente más elevada. Conclusión: en la investigación experimental en cerdos recién nacidos se observa que los eventos hipóxicos de breve duración generan HTP e inestabilidad sobre la hemodinamia sistémica. De igual modo la acidosis induce un incremento en la PAP basal en este modelo experimental. En estas condiciones la aplicación de ONi desciende la PAP eficazmente sin alterar la hemodinamia sistémica. Es más efectiva su acción a pH normal que en acidosis.

Pulmonary hypertension (HTP) is a frequently pathological situation of maladaptation to the extratuerine life in newborns. Hypoxia and acidosis are key factors capable of evoking the referred situation and can also act as a perpetuator factor of it. Objectives: To evaluate the effect of inhaled nitric oxide (iNO) on pulmonary vascular response to hypoxia and acidosis in newborn pigs. Material and methods: we performed a series of experimental interventions in newborn pigs, sedated, anesthetized and mechanical ventilation. The experimental protocol was to induce hypoxia in a controlled and progressive (FiO2 from 0.21 (baseline) to 0.14, 0.10 or 0.08, mixing nitrogen with air), between 6 and 10 minutes, evaluating the hemodynamic response. Stabilized response to hypoxia plateau elevation in pulmonary artery pressure (PAP) and systemic administered iNO at 20 ppm. By infusión of HC1 0.1 N i/v was stable at different pH valúes which were reiterated in this series of experiments. Results: we found that the decrease in FiO2 (below 0,21) produces a fall in saturation and an immediate increase in PAP at different pH and an ERA of iNO for the PAP down near 70%. However, at lower pH, the presence of acidosis produces a basal level of PAP high relative to pH 7.4, which does not descend iNO. As PH developed at different FiO2 was confirmed that the elevation of the PAP is gradually higher. Conclusion: experimental research in newborn pigs shows that the short-term hypoxic events genérate HTP and instability on systemic hemodynamics. Similarly acidosis induces an increase in baseline PAP in this experimental model. Under these conditions the application of iNO decreases the PAP effectively without altering systemic hemodynamics. Its action is more effective than normal pH in acidosis.

Evaluación hermodinámica y respuesta al óxido nítrico inhalado / Hemodynamic assessment and response to inhaled nitric oxide to hypoxia and acidosis un newborn pigs

La hipertensión pulmonar (HTP) es un trastorno de la adaptación a la vida extrauterina de muchos recién nacidos. La hipoxia y la acidosis son factores desencadenantes y perpetuadores de la misma. Objetivos: evaluar el efecto del óxido nítrico inhalado (ONi) a la respuesta vascular pulmonar a la hipoxia y acidosis en cerdos recién nacidos. Material y método: se diseñó una serie de intervenciones experimentales en cerdos recién nacidos, sedados, anestesiados y en asistencia ventilatoria mecánica. El protocolo experimental consistió en inducir hipoxia en forma controlada y progresiva (FiO2 desde 0,21 (basal) hasta 0,14; 0,10 o 0,08, mezclando nitrógeno con aire), entre 6 y 10 minutos, valorando la respuesta hemodinámica. Estabilizada la respuesta a la hipoxia con elevación en meseta de la presión arterial pulmonar (PAP) y sistémica, se administró ONi a 20 ppm. Mediante infusión de HCl 0,1 N i/v se estabilizó el pH en diferentes valores en los cuales se reiteraron esta serie de experimentos. Resultados: se encontró que el descenso de la FiO2 (debajo de 0,21) produce una caída de la saturación y un aumento inmediato de la PAP a diferentes pH y una efectividad del ONi para descender la PAP próximo a 70%. Sin embargo a pH más bajo la existencia de acidosis genera un nivel basal de PAP elevado con respecto a pH 7,4, que el ONi no desciende. En cuanto a la HTP desarrollada ante diferentes FiO2 se confirmó que la elevación de la PAP es gradualmente más elevada. Conclusión: en la investigación experimental en cerdos recién nacidos se observa que los eventos hipóxicos de breve duración generan HTP e inestabilidad sobre la hemodinamia sistémica. De igual modo la acidosis induce un incremento en la PAP basal en este modelo experimental. En estas condiciones la aplicación de ONi desciende la PAP eficazmente sin alterar la hemodinamia sistémica. Es más efectiva su acción a pH normal que en acidosis.

Pulmonary hypertension (HTP) is a frequently pathological situation of maladaptation to the extratuerine life in newborns. Hypoxia and acidosis are key factors capable of evoking the referred situation and can also act as a perpetuator factor of it. Objectives: To evaluate the effect of inhaled nitric oxide (iNO) on pulmonary vascular response to hypoxia and acidosis in newborn pigs. Material and methods: we performed a series of experimental interventions in newborn pigs, sedated, anesthetized and mechanical ventilation. The experimental protocol was to induce hypoxia in a controlled and progressive (FiO2 from 0.21 (baseline) to 0.14, 0.10 or 0.08, mixing nitrogen with air), between 6 and 10 minutes, evaluating the hemodynamic response. Stabilized response to hypoxia plateau elevation in pulmonary artery pressure (PAP) and systemic administered iNO at 20 ppm. By infusion of HCl 0.1 N i/v was stable at different pH values which were reiterated in this series of experiments. Results: we found that the decrease in FiO2 (below 0,21) produces a fall in saturation and an immediate increase in PAP at different pH and an ERA of iNO for the PAP down near 70%. However, at lower pH, the presence of acidosis produces a basal level of PAP high relative to pH 7.4, which does not descend iNO. As PH developed at different FiO2 was confirmed that the elevation of the PAP is gradually higher.Conclusion: experimental research in newborn pigs shows that the short-term hypoxic events generate HTP and instability on systemic hemodynamics. Similarly acidosis induces an increase in baseline PAP in this experimental model. Under these conditions the application of iNO decreases the PAP effectively without altering systemic hemodynamics...

[Hemipteran diversity (Cicadellidae and Clastopteridae) in three coffee production zones affected by Xylella fastidiosa (Wells et al.) in Costa Rica]. / Diversidad de cicadélidos y clastoptéridos (Hemiptera) en tres zonas productoras de café afectadas por Xylella fastidiosa Wells et al. en Costa Rica.

A survey was conducted during 2002, 2003 and 2004 to determine the leafhopper species composition, abundance, richness, diversity, evenness, occurrence and flight activity among three coffee production zones of Costa Rica. Yellow sticky traps were used to qualify and quantify the number of aerial leafhoppers during the sampling period. A total of 82,500 individuals, belonging to 139 species within nine leafhopper subfamilies, were trapped. San Isidro de León Cortés site presented the highest diversity from the three surveyed sites. Twenty five species were frequently trapped at least in one of the studied zones, and only Coelidiana sp.1, Osbornellus sp.1, Scaphytopius sp.1 and Empoasca sp. were trapped throughout the sampling period. The flight activity of the taxa that contain the main vectors of Xylella fastidiosa Wells et al. showed differences among the sampling zones.

Diversidad de cicadélidos y clastoptéridos (Hemiptera) en tres zonas productoras de café afectadas por Xylella fastidiosa Wells et al. en Costa Rica / Hemipteran diversity (Cicadellidae and Clastopteridae) in three coffee production zones affected by Xylella fastidiosa (Wells et al.) in Costa Rica

Se realizó un estudio durante los años 2002, 2003 y 2004, con el fin de determinar la composición, la abundancia, riqueza, diversidad, equidad, ocurrencia y fluctuación temporal de las especies de saltahojas en tres zonas productoras de café de Costa Rica. Se utilizaron trampas amarillas pegajosas para clasificar y cuantificar el número de saltahojas adultos durante el período de muestreo. Se encontró un total de 82.500 individuos, pertenecientes a 139 especies ubicadas dentro de nueve subfamilias. San Isidro de León Cortés presentó la mayor diversidad entre los sitios estudiados. Veinticinco especies se encontraron frecuentemente en al menos uno de los sitios muestreados, y solamente Coelidiana sp.1, Osbornellus sp.1, Scaphytopius sp.1 y Empoasca sp. se capturaron a lo largo de todo el período de estudio. La fluctuación temporal de los taxa que comprenden los principales vectores de X. fastidiosa Wells et al. mostró diferencias entre las zonas estudiadas.

A survey was conducted during 2002, 2003 and 2004 to determine the leafhopper species composition, abundance, richness, diversity, evenness, occurrence and flight activity among three coffee production zones of Costa Rica. Yellow sticky traps were used to qualify and quantify the number of aerial leafhoppers during the sampling period. A total of 82,500 individuals, belonging to 139 species within nine leafhopper subfamilies, were trapped. San Isidro de León Cortés site presented the highest diversity from the three surveyed sites. Twenty five species were frequently trapped at least in one of the studied zones, and only Coelidiana sp.1, Osbornellus sp.1, Scaphytopius sp.1 and Empoasca sp. were trapped throughout the sampling period. The flight activity of the taxa that contain the main vectors of Xylella fastidiosa Wells et al. showed differences among the sampling zones.

Tratamiento de la hiperdinamia en el trabajo de parto con atosibán / Atosiban therapy for uterine hyperactivity during labour

Objetivo: El objetivo principal ha sido conocer laefectividad del atosibán como tratamiento tocolíticointraparto; como objetivo secundario se haestablecido la identificación de los efectossecundarios provocados por el tocolíticoadministrado.Material y método: Se realizó un estudiodescriptivo incluyendo a las pacientes en períodode dilatación que presentaran hiperdinamia uterina,con o sin repercusión fetal. Este estudio se realizódesde el 1 de julio de 2003 hasta el 31 de agostode 2004; se obtuvo un total de 80 parturientas, deltotal de 9.017 partos asistidos en este período. Serealizó el análisis estadístico mediante la prueba delos signos para variables cuantitativas y la pruebade la χ2 con corrección de Yates para variablescualitativas (SPSS v.12 for Windows®).Resultado: Se logró una efectividad total o parcialen un 93,8% de los casos. No se encontrarondiferencias estadísticamente significativas en lapresión arterial ni en la frecuencia cardíacamaterna en relación con la administración deatosibán. No hubo efectos secundarios tras laadministración de atosibán en el 85% de laspacientes; se registraron náuseas y vómitos en un13,7 % de las pacientes y sólo hubo un caso dehipotensión sintomática.Conclusiones: El atosibán es una opción segura yeficaz para el tratamiento de las hiperdinamias deltrabajo de parto

Objective: The primary objective of the study wasto assess the effectiveness of atosiban as a tocolyticdrug during labour. A secondary objective was toidentify the adverse effects of this drug.Material and methods: A descriptive study wasperformed including patients who had uterine hyperactivity during labor whether resulting in fetalcompromise or not. We included 80 patients froma total of 9017 deliveries assisted during the studyperiod in our hospital (from 1st July 2003 until 31stof August 2004). Numeric data were comparedwith the sign test and categorical data werecompared with χ2 test with Yates’ correction(SPSS v.12 for Windows®).Results: Total or partial effectiveness was achievedin 93.8% of the patients. No statistically significantdifferences were found in relation to bloodpressure or maternal heart rate after atosibanadministration. No adverse effects were noted in85% of the patients after drug administration, 13.7%of the patients had nausea and vomiting, and onlyone patient had symptomatic hypotension.Conclusions: Atosiban is a safe and effectiveoption for the treatment of uterine hyperactivityduring labor

Asistencia obstétrica y trauma perineal / Obstetric care and perineal trauma

Objetivos: En nuestro centro ha disminuido de forma significativa la frecuencia global de episiotomías, al mismo tiempo que se ha incrementado la frecuencia de realización de episiotomías centrales; por ello, nos planteamos el presente trabajo con 2 objetivos: a) comprobar que la práctica restrictiva de la episiotomía se acompaña de una menor frecuencia de daño perineal y b) determinar el daño perineal derivado del uso predominante de la episiotomía central. Material y método: Se han analizado 90.030 partos vaginales en el Hospital Universitario Materno-Infantil de Canarias desde el 1 de enero de 1992 hasta el 31 de diciembre de 2005. Se han estudiado la frecuencia de episiotomía y su modalidad, la frecuencia de desgarros y la gravedad de éstos, así como la relación entre el tipo de episiotomía y la frecuencia y la gravedad de los desgarros de periné; además, hemos realizado el mismo estudio en los partos en que se ha aplicado fórceps. Para constatar las diferencias estadísticas se ha utilizado la prueba de la χ2, estableciendo el nivel de significación en un valor de probabilidad inferior al 5%. Cuando se detectaron diferencias estadísticamente significativas, se calcularon la odds ratio y su intervalo de confianza del 95%. Se utilizó el paquete estadístico SPSS V. 11. Resultados: La frecuencia de episiotomía ha descendido de un 73,3% en el año 1992 a un 38,2% en 2005. La frecuencia de episiotomía mediolateral ha descendido del 59,3% en el año 1992 al 18,2% en 2005; las episiotomías centrales han aumentado del 14 al 20%. Se ha observado un incremento en el número de desgarros de grados I y II, pero no variaba de forma significativa la frecuencia de desgarros de grados III y IV. La frecuencia de desgarros de grados I o II es significativamente más elevada cuando no se realiza ningún tipo de episiotomía. No hay diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre las frecuencias de desgarros de grados I o II de las parturientas a las que se les ha realizado una episiotomía central o mediolateral. No hay diferencias estadísticas entre las frecuencias de desgarros de grados III o IV en las parturientas a las que se realizó una episiotomía central o mediolateral. En relación con el parto vaginal con aplicación de fórceps, cuando no se practica una episiotomía asistimos a una mayor frecuencia de desgarros, tanto de los de grados I o II (49,5%) como de los de grados III o IV (8,4%); son significativas las diferencias con las frecuencias de desgarros en las parturientas con episiotomía central (un 8,4% de desgarros de grados I o II y un 4,2% de grados III o IV) o mediolateral (un 10,2% de desgarros de grados I o II y un 4% de grados III o IV). No hay diferencias en la frecuencia de desgarros de grados III o IV al comparar las parturientas con episiotomía central con las parturientas con episiotomía mediolateral. Conclusiones: a) Se debe seguir una estrategia de episiotomía restrictiva en la asistencia al parto vaginal; b) se debe practicar una episiotomía central siempre que, a juicio del profesional asistente, la evolución del trabajo de parto, el expulsivo y las características del periné lo permitan, ya que no se incrementa la frecuencia de desgarros de grados III-IV, y c) en los partos asistidos mediante aplicación de fórceps, se debe ser más liberal en la realización de una episiotomía, pero utilizando de forma preferente la episiotomía central, ya que, si su indicación es adecuada, no se incrementa la frecuencia de desgarros de grados III-IV

Objectives: In our center, the overall frequency of episiotomy has markedly decreased while the frequency of midline episiotomy has increased. The aims of the present study were two-fold: a) to determine whether restrictive episiotomy is associated with a lower frequency of perineal injury, and b) to identify perineal injury due to the predominant use of midline episiotomy. Material and method: A total of 90,030 vaginal deliveries in the Hospital Universitario Materno Infantil de Canarias from January 1, 1992 to December 31, 2005 were studied. The frequency and type of episiotomy, the frequency of tears and their severity, and the association between type of episiotomy and the frequency and severity of perineal tears were analyzed. In addition, the same variables were studied in forceps deliveries. The chi-squared test was used and statistical significance was set at a probability value of less than 5%. When statistically significant differences were detected, odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals were calculated. The SPSS V.11 statistical package was used. Results: The frequency of episiotomy decreased from 73.3% in 1992 to 38.2% in 2005. The frequency of mediolateral episiotomy decreased from 59.3% in 1992 to 18.2% in 2005 while that of midline episiotomy increased from 14% to 20%. The number of grade I and II tears increased while no significant changes in the frequency of grade III and IV tears were observed. The frequency of grade I and II tears was significantly higher when episiotomy was not performed. No statistically significant differences were found in the frequency of grade I and II tears between midline and mediolateral episiotomy or in the frequency of grade III and IV tears between these two procedures. In forceps deliveries, the frequency of tears, both grades I and II (49.5%) and grades III and IV (8.4%), was higher when episiotomy was not performed and significant differences were found in comparison with the frequency of tears in women with midline episiotomy (8.4% grade I or II tears and 4.2% grades III or IV) or mediolateral episiotomy (10.2% grade I or II tears and 4% grades III or IV tears). No differences were found in the frequency of grade III and IV tears between midline and mediolateral episiotomy. Conclusions: a) A restrictive episiotomy policy should be followed in vaginal deliveries; b) midline episiotomy should be performed whenever, in the obstetrician's opinion, the course of labor and expulsion and the perineal characteristics allow this procedure, since it does not increase the frequency of grade III-IV tears, and c) episiotomy should be performed more frequently in forceps deliveries, with a preference for midline episiotomy since, if correctly indicated, this procedure does not increase the frequency of grade III-IV tears