Scale-free dynamics of COVID-19 in a Brazilian city.

A common basis to address the dynamics of directly transmitted infectious diseases, such as COVID-19, are compartmental (or SIR) models. SIR models typically assume homogenous population mixing, a simplification that is convenient but unrealistic. Here we validate an existing model of a scale-free fractal infection process using high-resolution data on COVID-19 spread in São Caetano, Brazil. We find that transmission can be described by a network in which each infectious individual has a small number of susceptible contacts, of the order of 2-5. This model parameter correlated tightly with physical distancing measured by mobile phone data, such that in periods of greater distancing the model recovered a lower average number of contacts, and vice versa. We show that the SIR model is a special case of our scale-free fractal process model in which the parameter that reflects population structure is set at unity, indicating homogeneous mixing. Our more general framework better explained the dynamics of COVID-19 in São Caetano, used fewer parameters than a standard SIR model and accounted for geographically localized clusters of disease. Our model requires further validation in other locations and with other directly transmitted infectious agents.

Stratifying risk outcomes among adult COVID-19 inpatients with high flow oxygen: The R4 score.

BACKGROUND: High flow oxygen therapy (HFO) is a widely used intervention for pulmonary complications. Amid the coronavirus infectious disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, HFO became a popular alternative to conventional oxygen supplementation therapies. Risk stratification tools have been repurposed -and new ones developed- to estimate outcome risks among COVID-19 patients. This study aims to provide a simple risk stratification system to predict invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) or death among COVID-19 inpatients on HFO. METHODS: Among 529 adult inpatients with COVID-19 pneumonia, we selected unadjusted clinical risk factors for developing the composite endpoint of IMV or death. The risk for the primary outcome by each category was estimated using a Cox proportional hazards model. Bootstrapping was used to validate the results. RESULTS: Age above 62, eGFR under 60 ml/min, room air SpO2 ≤89 % upon admission, history of hypertension, history of diabetes, and any comorbidity (cancer, cardiovascular disease, COPD/ asthma, hypothyroidism, or autoimmune disease) were considered for the score. Each of the six criteria scored 1 point. The score was further simplified into 4 categories: 1) 0 criteria, 2) 1 criterion, 3) 2-3 criteria, and 4) ≥4 criteria. Taking the first category as the reference, risk estimates for the primary endpoint were HR; 2.94 [1.67 - 5.26], 4.08 [2.63 - 7.05], and 6.63 [3.74 - 11.77], respectively. In ROC analysis, the AUC for the model was 0.72. CONCLUSIONS: Our score uses simple criteria to estimate the risk for IMV or death among COVID-19 inpatients with HFO. Higher category reflects consistent increases in risk for the endpoint.

Unfolding of crumpled thin sheets.

Crumpled thin sheets are complex fractal structures whose physical properties are influenced by a hierarchy of ridges. In this paper, we report experiments that measure the stress-strain relation and show the coexistence of phases in the stretching of crumpled surfaces. The pull stress showed a change from a linear Hookean regime to a sublinear scaling with an exponent of 0.65±0.03, which is identified with the Hurst exponent of the crumpled sheets. The stress fluctuations are studied. The statistical distribution of force peaks is analyzed. It is shown that the unpacking of crumpled sheets is guided by a hierarchical order of ridges.

Genome-wide DNA methylation profiling in anorexia nervosa discordant identical twins.

Up until now, no study has looked specifically at epigenomic landscapes throughout twin samples, discordant for Anorexia nervosa (AN). Our goal was to find evidence to confirm the hypothesis that epigenetic variations play a key role in the aetiology of AN. In this study, we quantified genome-wide patterns of DNA methylation using the Infinium Human DNA Methylation EPIC BeadChip array ("850 K") in DNA samples isolated from whole blood collected from a group of 7 monozygotic twin pairs discordant for AN. Results were then validated performing a genome-wide DNA methylation profiling using DNA extracted from whole blood of a group of non-family-related AN patients and a group of healthy controls. Our first analysis using the twin sample revealed 9 CpGs associated to a gene. The validation analysis showed two statistically significant CpGs with the rank regression method related to two genes associated to metabolic traits, PPP2R2C and CHST1. When doing beta regression, 6 of them showed statistically significant differences, including 3 CpGs associated to genes JAM3, UBAP2L and SYNJ2. Finally, the overall pattern of results shows genetic links to phenotypes which the literature has constantly related to AN, including metabolic and psychological traits. The genes PPP2R2C and CHST1 have both been linked to the metabolic traits type 2 diabetes through GWAS studies. The genes UBAP2L and SYNJ2 have been related to other psychiatric comorbidity.

Presence of bacterial DNA in thrombotic material of patients with myocardial infarction.

Infectious agents have been suggested to be involved in etiopathogenesis of Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS). However, the relationship between bacterial infection and acute myocardial infarction (AMI) has not yet been completely clarified. The objective of this study is to detect bacterial DNA in thrombotic material of patients with ACS with ST-segment elevation (STEMI) treated with Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PPCI). We studied 109 consecutive patients with STEMI, who underwent thrombus aspiration and arterial peripheral blood sampling. Testing for bacterial DNA was performed by probe-based real-time Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). 12 probes and primers were used for the detection of Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, Chlamydia pneumoniae, viridans group streptococci, Porphyromonas gingivalis, Fusobacterium nucleatum, Tannarella forsythia, Treponema denticola, Helycobacter pylori, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Staphylococus aureus,  Prevotella intermedia and Streptococcus mutans. Thus, DNA of four species of bacteria was detected in 10 of the 109 patients studied. The most frequent species was viridans group streptococci (6 patients, 5.5%), followed by Staphylococus aureus (2 patients, 1.8%). Moreover, a patient had DNA of Porphyromonas gingivalis (0.9%); and another patient had DNA of Prevotella intermedia (0.9%). Bacterial DNA was not detected in peripheral blood of any of our patients. In conclusion, DNA of four species of endodontic and periodontal bacteria was detected in thrombotic material of 10 STEMI patients. Bacterial DNA was not detected in the peripheral blood of patients with bacterial DNA in their thrombotic material. Bacteria could be latently present in plaques and might play a role in plaque instability and thrombus formation leading to ACS.

The effect of denudation and injection timing in the reproductive outcomes of ICSI cycles: new insights into the risk of in vitro oocyte ageing.

STUDY QUESTION: Does the time elapsed between oocyte pick-up (OPU) and denudation or injection affect the probability of achieving a live birth (LB) in ICSI cycles? SUMMARY ANSWER: Prolonged oocyte culture before denudation (>4 h) was associated with an increase in clinical pregnancy (CP), LB and cumulative LB (CLB) rates when compared with earlier denudation timings. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY: Oocyte maturation is a complex and dynamic process involving structural and biochemical modifications in the cell necessary to support fertilization and early embryo development. While meiotic competence is easily identifiable by the presence of an extruded first polar body, cytoplasmic maturation cannot be assessed microscopically. Culturing oocytes with their surrounding cumulus cells (CCs) prior to ICSI can enhance the completion of in vitro cytoplasmic maturation; conversely, prolonged culture may induce cell degeneration. The optimal culture intervals prior to oocyte denudation and/or injection have not yet been established and may prove relevant for the improvement of ICSI reproductive outcomes. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION: This is a single-centre retrospective cohort analysis of 1378 ICSI cycles performed between January 2005 and October 2018. Data were categorized according to: (i) the time interval between OPU and denudation (<3 h, 3-4 h and ≥4 h), (ii) the time interval between denudation and ICSI (<1.5 h, 1.5-2 h, ≥2 h) and (iii) the time interval between OPU and ICSI (<5 h, 5-6 h and ≥6 h). The effect of these timings on fertilization, CP, LB and CLB rates were compared. The culture intervals between different procedures were dependent exclusively on laboratory workload. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS: ICSI cycles performed in women younger than 40 years old using autologous gametes with at least one metaphase II injected oocyte were included. The effect of oocyte culture duration prior to denudation and injection of the oocytes was compared using multivariable regression accounting for potential confounding variables. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE: Fertilization and oocyte damage rate after ICSI was found to be independent of the time interval to denudation (<3 h, 3-4 h and ≥4 h) and/or injection (<5 h, 5-6 h and ≥6 h). Extending oocyte culture before denudation significantly improved CP (29.5%, 42.7% and 50.6%, respectively), LB (25.1%, 34.4% and 40.7%, respectively) and CLB rates (26.0%, 36.1% and 42.2%, respectively), particularly if the time interval was at least 4 h. Additionally, LB (31.7%, 35.8% and 27.4%, respectively) and CLB rates (34.2%, 36.6% and 27.7%, respectively) were also dependent on the time from OPU to injection. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION: This study is limited by its retrospective nature and potential unmeasured confounding cannot be excluded. Furthermore, the effect of even shorter or longer periods of culture before denudation and/or injection were not evaluated and should not be extrapolated from these results. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS: Our findings propose new evidence of a previously unrecognized protective effect of the CCs-oocyte interactions in human ART, raising the question of a possible downstream effect in embryogenesis which significantly affects LB rates. Additionally, this is the first study to suggest a negative effect of further extending culture before ICSI on LB and CLB rates, thus potentially allowing for the narrowing of an optimal ICSI time interval. Simple strategies such as the establishment of more effective time frames to perform these procedures and adjusting laboratory practice may prove beneficial, ultimately improving ICSI reproductive outcomes. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S): None. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: N/A.

Responses of monogenean species to variations in abiotic parameters in tilapiculture.

Fish farming is becoming an increasingly popular agricultural activity, and water quality in these environments is a major concern. Fish parasites, such as monogeneans, respond to changes in abiotic conditions, either with an increase or decrease in population. This study aimed to identify gill monogeneans and analyse their relationships with abiotic factors during the ontogenetic development of Nile tilapia over the fish culture cycle in Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. Fish were sampled monthly for eight months, and a total of 200 fish were collected. The physical and chemical water parameters were measured and correlated with the abundance of each monogenean species. Over the fish culture cycle, the physical and chemical parameters fluctuated, and the water quality decreased. The parasites found included Cichlidogyrus tilapiae, Cichlidogyrus thurstonae, Cichlidogyrus sclerosus, Cichlidogyrus halli and Scutogyrus longicornis. The abundances of all species showed significant differences during ontogenetic development (body size) and C. tilapiae, C. sclerosus, C. thurstonae and S. longicornis were correlated with changes in abiotic conditions. However, C. halli was not significantly correlated with any of the evaluated physical or chemical parameters. Understanding how different monogenean species respond to changes in the physical and chemical parameters of water during a production cycle can prevent peaks in abundance and subsequent sanitary problems.

Calidad de la educación sexual recibida en el contexto escolar y su asociación a conductas sexuales en adolescentes chilenos, según datos VIII Encuesta Nacional de la Juventud / Quality of sexual education received in the school context and its association with sexual behaviors in Chilean adolescents, according to data from the VIII National Youth Survey

OBJETIVO: Evaluar la calidad de la educación sexual recibida en el contexto escolar y su asociación a conductas sexuales en adolescentes chilenos. MÉTODOS: Estudio transversal y analítico. La muestra correspondió a adolescentes de ambos sexos de 15 a 19 años, se obtuvo de una base de datos con representación nacional. Se evaluó la calidad de la educación sexual recibida en el contexto escolar como buena, regular y mala. Se realizó análisis descriptivo y de asociación entre las variables. Se calculó OR (Odds ratio) y RRR (Relative-risk ratios) ajustado por sexo, edad en años cumplidos, grupo socioeconómico y zona. RESULTADOS: La muestra correspondió a 1.049 adolescentes sexualmente activos, de estos el 21,83% correspondió al grupo con evaluación mala, 44,16% con evaluación regular y 34,01% con evaluación buena. La razón entre adolescentes que no usaron condón en la última relación sexual versus usaron condón, es 1,64 veces mayor en los adolescentes con evaluación mala de la educación sexual recibida (OR: 1,64; IC95%: 1,01 - 2,68). La razón entre adolescentes que tuvieron dos o más parejas sexuales en el último año versus ninguna o una, es 2,15 veces mayor en los adolescentes con evaluación mala de la educación sexual recibida (OR: 2,15; IC95%: 1,30 - 3,56). CONCLUSIÓN: Los participantes de este estudio evalúan la educación sexual recibida mayoritariamente como regular, existiendo una asociación con las conductas sexuales. Es importante realizar estudios en profundidad que permitan conocer por qué los adolescentes evalúan sólo como regular la educación sexual recibida en el sistema escolar.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the quality of the sexual education received in the school context and its association with sexual behaviors in Chilean adolescents. METHODS: Cross-sectional and analytical study. The sample corresponded to adolescents of both sexes from 15 to 19 years old, it was obtained from a database with national representation. The quality of the sexual education received in the school context was evaluated as good, regular and bad. Descriptive and association analysis were performed between the variables. OR (Odds ratio) and RRR (Relative-risk ratios) adjusted for sex, age in completed years, socioeconomic group and area were calculated. RESULTS: The sample corresponded to 1,049 sexually active adolescents, of these, 21.83% corresponded to the group with bad "Evaluation", 44.16% with regular "Evaluation" and 34.01% with good "Evaluation". The ratio among adolescents who did not use a condom in the last sexual relationship versus those who used a condom is 1.64 times higher in adolescents with a poor evaluation of sexual education received (OR: 1.64; 95% CI: 1.01 - 2.68). The ratio among adolescents who had two or more sexual partners in the last year versus those who had neither or one, is 2.15 times higher in adolescents with poor evaluation of sexual education received (OR: 2.15; 95% CI: 1.30 - 3.56). CONCLUSION: The participants of this study evaluate the sexual education received mostly as regular, with an association with sexual behaviors. It is important to conduct in-depth studies that allow us to know why adolescents evaluate the sexual education received in the school system as regular only.

Salud sexual y salud reproductiva en mujeres jóvenes con consumo de sustancias en Chile según datos VIII encuesta nacional de la juventud / Sexual health and reproductive health in young women with substance consumption in Chile according to data VIII national youth survey

OBJETIVOS: Determinar la asociación entre el consumo de sustancias y características de salud sexual y reproductiva de mujeres jóvenes en Chile. MÉTODOS: Estudio transversal analítico en mujeres entre 15 a 24 años. Se formaron 3 grupos: Sin consumo de sustancias (SCS), Consumo no problemático de sustancias (CNPS) y Consumo problemático de sustancias (CPS). Se realizó análisis descriptivo y de asociación entre las variables. Se ajustaron modelos de regresión logística múltiple y ordinal múltiple. RESULTADOS: Muestra de 2.589 jóvenes, el 37,8% correspondió al grupo SCS, 46,3% al grupo CSNP y 15,9% al grupo CPS. En promedio la edad de inicio de actividad sexual fue menor en el grupo CPS (15,9 años p = 0,001) mostrando mayor porcentajes de sexo oral, anal, no uno de condón, relaciones sexuales con parejas menos estables, mayor número de parejas sexuales y violencia en la pareja, (p =0,001). En este grupo se incrementa 5,84 el riesgo de tener la última relación sexual con pareja menos estable (IC95%: 3,90 - 12,01) y 8,35 veces el riesgo de tener 2 o más parejas sexuales (últimos 12 meses) (IC95%: 5,35 - 16,34). En el grupo CNPS se incrementa 1,11 veces el riesgo de tener la última relación sexual con pareja menos estable (IC95%: 1,43 - 3,12), 1,01 veces tener 2 y más parejas sexuales (últimos 12 meses) (IC95%: 1,20 - 3,36). CONCLUSIONES: Reconociéndose que la sexualidad es multifactorial, las mujeres con consumo de sustancias viven situaciones que facilitan riesgos para su salud sexual. El consumo en mujeres jóvenes es un problema de salud pública que presenta desafíos para su abordaje.

OBJECTIVES: To determine the association between substance use and characteristics of sexual and reproductive health of young women in Chile. METHODS: Analytical cross-sectional study in women between 15 and 24 years. Three groups were formed: No substance use (SCS), Non-problematic substance use (CNPS) and Problem substance use (CPS). Descriptive and association analysis was performed between the variables. Multiple logistic regression and multiple ordinal models were adjusted. RESULTS: Sample of 2,589 young people, 37.8% corresponded to the SCS group, 46.3% to the CSNP group and 15.9% to the CPS group. On average the age of onset of sexual activity was lower in the CPS group (15.9 years p = 0.001) showing higher percentages of oral, anal sex, not a condom, sex with less stable partners, greater number of sexual partners and violence in the couple, (p = 0.001). In this group the risk of having the last sexual relationship with a less stable partner is increased 5.84 (95% CI: 3.90 - 12.01) and 8.35 times the risk of having 2 or more sexual partners (last 12 months) (95% CI: 5.35-16.34). In the CNPS group the risk of having the last sexual relationship with a less stable partner is increased 1.11 times (95% CI: 1.43 - 3.12), 1.01 times having 2 and more sexual partners (last 12 months) (95% CI: 1.20-3.36). CONCLUSIONS: Recognizing that sexuality is multifactorial, women with substance use experience situations that facilitate risks to their sexual health. Consumption in young women is a public health problem that presents challenges for its approach.

Edad de inicio sexual y asociación a variables de salud sexual y violencia en la relación de pareja en adolescentes chilenos / Age of sexual initiation and association with variables of sexual health and violence in the couple relationship in Chilean adolescents

RESUMEN Objetivo Analizar la edad de inicio sexual y su asociación a variables de salud sexual y violencia en la relación de pareja (VRP) en adolescentes chilenos. Métodos Estudio transversal y analítico. La muestra se obtuvo de base de datos con representación nacional. Se realizó análisis de regresión logística múltiple controlando por edad y grupo socioeconómico y estratificando por sexo para determinar asociación entre las variables. Resultados En mujeres, el inicio sexual temprano (antes de los 15 años) aumenta en 0,85 veces el riesgo de embarazo no planificado (OR: 1,85; IC95%: 1,08 - 3,15). En hombres el inicio sexual temprano aumenta en 2.33 veces el riego de no usar anticonceptivo en la primera relación sexual (OR: 3,33; IC95%: 1,85 - 6,01) y 4.33 veces de tener 2 y más parejas sexuales durante los últimos 12 meses (OR: 5,33; IC95%: 3,25 - 8,75). La prevalencia de VRP fue 10%, siendo la violencia psicológica la más frecuente en hombres y en mujeres. En las mujeres, la edad de inicio sexual temprano aumenta 5,72 veces el riesgo de violencia física (OR: 6,72; IC95%: 2,52 - 17,87) y 7,82 veces violencia psicológica (OR: 8,82; IC95%: 4,10 - 19,0). Las adolescentes que presentan un inicio temprano de actividad sexual, muestran más frecuencia de prácticas de control y abuso hacia su pareja, en comparación con los hombres. Conclusiones El inicio sexual temprano y la VRP existen con una frecuencia preocupante, existiendo asociación entre ambas, en especial en mujeres, lo que aumenta el riesgo para la salud en general. Es necesaria la capacitación de los equipos de salud y educación e implementación de estrategias integrales que contribuyan a promover la salud y bienestar de los adolescentes.

ABSTRACT Objective To analyze the age of sexual debut, its association with variables of sexual health and intimate partner violence (PV) in Chilean adolescents. Methods Cross-sectional and analytical study. The sample was obtained from a database with national representation. Multiple logistic regression analysis was carried out controlling by age and socioeconomic group and stratifying by sex to determine association between the variables. Results In women, the age of early sexual initiation increases in 0.85 times the risk of unplanned pregnancy (OR: 1.85, 95% CI: 1.08 - 3.15). In men, the age of early sexual debut increases by 2.33 times the risk of not using contraception in the first sexual relationship (OR: 3.33, 95% CI: 1.85 - 6.01) and 4.33 times of having 2 and more sexual partners during the last 12 months (OR: 5.33, 95% CI: 3.25 - 8.75). The prevalence of PV was 10%, psychological violence was the most frequent in men and women. In women, the age of early sexual initiation increases 5.72 times the risk of physical violence (OR: 6.72, 95% CI: 2.52 17.87) and 7.82 times psychological violence (OR: 8.82; 95% CI: 4.10 - 19.0) Adolescents who have an early onset of sexual activity show more evidence of control practices and abuse toward their partner, compared to men. Conclusions Intimate partner violence exists with a worrisome frequency, having an association with early sexual initiation, especially in women, increasing the risk to health in general. It is necessary to train health and education teams and implement comprehensive strategies that contribute to promoting the health and well-being of adolescents.

Four Years' Experience in the Diagnosis of Very Long-Chain Acyl-CoA Dehydrogenase Deficiency in Infants Detected in Three Spanish Newborn Screening Centers.

Identification of very long-chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency is possible in the expanded newborn screening (NBS) due to the increase in tetradecenoylcarnitine (C14:1) and in the C14:1/C2, C14:1/C16, C14:1/C12:1 ratios detected in dried blood spots. Nevertheless, different confirmatory tests must be performed to confirm the final diagnosis. We have revised the NBS results and the results of the confirmatory tests (plasma acylcarnitine profiles, molecular findings, and lymphocytes VLCAD activity) for 36 cases detected in three Spanish NBS centers during 4 years, correlating these with the clinical outcome and treatment. Our aim was to distinguish unambiguously true cases from disease carriers in order to obtain useful diagnostic information for clinicians that can be applied in the follow-up of neonates identified by NBS.Increases in C14:1 and of the different ratios, the presence of two pathogenic mutations, and deficient enzyme activity in lymphocytes (<12% of the intra-assay control) identified 12 true-positive cases. These cases were given nutritional therapy and all of them are asymptomatic, except one. Seventeen individuals were considered disease carriers based on the mild increase in plasma C14:1, in conjunction with the presence of only one mutation and/or intermediate residual activity (18-57%). In addition, seven cases were classified as false positives, with normal biochemical parameters and no mutations in the exonic region of ACADVL. All these carriers and the false positive cases remained asymptomatic. The combined evaluation of the acylcarnitine profiles, genetic results, and residual enzyme activities have proven useful to definitively classify individuals with suspected VLCAD deficiency into true-positive cases and carriers, and to decide which cases need treatment.

Use of Paliperidone Palmitate Throughout a Schizoaffective Disorder Patient's Gestation Period.

Introduction: Paliperidone palmitate treatment of schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder is effective and well tolerated, but there is almost no data on its safety during pregnancy. Case report: An analysis is made of the safety and tolerability of paliperidone palmitate treatment throughout the gestation period in a 34-year-old patient diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder. Discussion: Paliperidone palmitate treatment throughout the gestation period was safe and well tolerated by both mother and foetus, there being no malformations or other perinatal complications in the newborn to date.

Consejería y seguimiento en la elección de un método anticonceptivo en adolescentes que consultan por prevención de embarazo / Contraception counseling and follow up in teens that ask for pregnancy prevention

La Consejería para la anticoncepción, es un proceso interactivo entre un consejero y la adolescente, don- de el primero actúa como facilitador ayudando a la joven en la elección de un método anticonceptivo (MACs), educando sobre el uso correcto y consistente del método elegido. OBJETIVO: Caracterizar los componentes de una consejería efectiva para la elección y continuidad de MACs en adolescentes que solicitan atención, para prevenir un embarazo. Método: Se realizó una búsqueda bibliográfica de artículos científicos, guía clínicas y re- comendaciones, sobre tres momentos de la prestación de consejería de anticoncepción: elección del anticonceptivo, continuidad de uso y cambio de MAC. CONCLUSIÓN: La consejería es parte fundamental tanto para la elección como apoyo en la continuidad y uso de un anticonceptivo, así como para la asesoría frente a un cambio de MAC. Profesionales especialistas en atención de adolescentes cuentan con más habilidades para reconocer las necesidades de la consultante como técnicas de comunicación, que favorecen el uso consistente de un MAC, mejorando el bienestar reproductivo y sexual de la adolescente.

INTRODUCTION: The contraception counseling is an interactive process between a counselor and an adolescent, where the counselor acts as a facilitator, thus helping the teenager to choose a birth control method, as well as teaching how its proper and consistent use. AIM: Characterize the components of an effective birth control counseling: for choosing the method and monitoring contraception in adolescents seeking care for pregnancy prevention. Method: A literature search on the topic was performed. Comprising: scientific articles, clinical guidelines and recommendations on three instances of contraceptive counseling: contraceptive choice, continuity of use and change of MAC. CONCLUSION: Counseling is a central part for: the birth control method selection, the method in use continuation, and also when a change is in need. An adolescent’s Health Professional has more skills to recognize the needs of an in adolescent and able to develop communication skills, helping and promoting a consistent use of contraceptives and improve the reproductive and sexual well-being of adolescents.

Thyroid Function in Human Obesity: Underlying Mechanisms.

Obesity is associated with several metabolic and endocrine disorders; and changes in plasma concentrations, secretion patterns, and clearance of various hormones are observed in obese patients. In this context, recent research has shown that overweight can influence the function of the thyroid gland, usually leading to increased thyrotropin concentrations and changes in the ratio between the hormones triiodothyronine and thyroxine, though within the normal range. The etiology of these changes is still unclear; however, several mechanisms have been proposed including the adaptive process to increase energy expenditure, hyperleptinemia, changes in the activity of deiodinases, the presence of thyroid hormones resistance, chronic low-grade inflammation, and insulin resistance. Although the clinical implications have not been clarified, studies suggest that these changes in the thyroid function of obese individuals may contribute to the worsening of metabolic complications and the development of diseases in the thyroid gland.

Patrón de sangrado uterino en adolescentes usuarias de implante anticonceptivo subdérmico de etonogestrel / Uterine bleeding patterns of adolescents using the long term etonogestrel contraceptive implant

Objetivo: Describir las características del patrón sangrado uterino de las adolescentes que usan el implante anticonceptivo sudérmico de etonogestrel (IASE) que concurren a un centro especializado en salud sexual y reproductiva de adolescentes en Santiago, Chile, y su asociación con variables biopsicosocial. Método: Estudio de cohorte retrospectiva de las usuarias de IASE. Los datos fueron analizados utilizando la ecuación de estimación generalizada, análisis de sobrevida de Kaplan Meier y test de log-rank. Resultados: La cohorte incluyó a 62 adolescentes. La media de edad fue de 16,2 años. Las participantes recibieron asesoramiento anticonceptivo antes de la inserción del IASE, y fueron seguidas durante tres años. Los patrones de sangrado más frecuentes durante el primer año fue el de amenorrea (40,5%) y el sangrado aceptable (27,1%), mientras que el menos frecuente fue prolongado y/o sangrado frecuente (15,8%). De acuerdo con el análisis de sobrevida, la única variable biopsicosocial asociado con patrón prolongado y/o sangrado frecuente fue condición médica previa. Cinco adolescentes (8%) se retiraron el IASE. Conclusiones: El IASE es una opción anticonceptiva segura y altamente eficaz para las adolescentes, independientemente de la paridad. La consejería es de gran importancia para fomentar la tolerancia y la adhesión al implante.

Objectives: To describe uterine bleeding patterns of adolescents using the long term etonogestrel contraceptive implant (ENG implant) attending a specialized adolescent sexual and reproductive health centre in Santiago, Chile, and test their association with bio-psychosocial variables. Methods: A retrospective cohort study of ENG implant users was conducted and data were analysed using the Generalized Estimating Equation, Kaplan Meier Survival Analysis and Log-Rank Test. Results: The cohort included 62 adolescents with and average age at inclusion of 16.2 years. Participants received contraceptive counselling prior to insertion of an ENG implant, and were followed up for three years. The most frequent bleeding patterns during the first year were amenorrhea (40.5%) and acceptable bleeding (27.1%), whilst the least frequent was prolonged and/or frequent bleeding (15.8%). According to the survival analysis, the only bio-psychosocial variable associated with prolonged and/or frequent bleeding was prior medical condition. Five adolescents (8%) withdrew from the treatment. Conclusions: The ENG implant is a safe and highly effective contraceptive option for adolescents, regardless of parity. Counselling is of great importance to foster tolerance and adherence to the ENG implant.

Implicancias del marco legal chileno en la prevención del embarazo adolescente: conflicto e inseguridad en los profesionales de la salud / Implications of chilean legal framework in teen pregnancy prevention: conflict and insecurity in health professionals

Background: Teenage pregnancy is a psychosocial and multifactorial problem described as a lack of exercise of rights in sexual and reproductive health. There are important aspects in the doctor-patient relationship and confidentiality that directly affect the continuity and quality of care. There are controversies in the laws relating to the provision of contraception and confidentiality, and those that protect the sexual indemnity, especially in adolescents under 14 years. Aim: To describe the implications of the legal framework for professional midwives in the care of adolescents younger than 14 years in sexual and reproductive health. Material and Methods: In-depth interviews were conducted to 13 female and 2 male midwives working at Primary Health Care Centers in the Metropolitan Region. Results: The attention of adolescents younger than 14 years in sexual and reproductive health involves medical-legal issues for health professionals. All professionals recognize that mandatory reporting sexual activity is a complex situation. All professionals notify pregnancies. In relation to the delivery of contraception, clinical care is problematic since professionals should take shelter from a legal standpoint. Conclusions: The medical-legal context of pregnant women under 14 years of age care generates a context of uncertainty and fear for professionals and becomes a source of conflict and insecurity in the exercise of the profession.

[Implications of chilean legal framework in teen pregnancy prevention: conflict and insecurity in health professionals]. / Implicancias del marco legal chileno en la prevención del embarazo adolescente: conflicto e inseguridad en los profesionales de la salud.

BACKGROUND: Teenage pregnancy is a psychosocial and multifactorial problem described as a lack of exercise of rights in sexual and reproductive health. There are important aspects in the doctor-patient relationship and confidentiality that directly affect the continuity and quality of care. There are controversies in the laws relating to the provision of contraception and confidentiality, and those that protect the sexual indemnity, especially in adolescents under 14 years. AIM: To describe the implications of the legal framework for professional midwives in the care of adolescents younger than 14 years in sexual and reproductive health. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In-depth interviews were conducted to 13 female and 2 male midwives working at Primary Health Care Centers in the Metropolitan Region. RESULTS: The attention of adolescents younger than 14 years in sexual and reproductive health involves medical-legal issues for health professionals. All professionals recognize that mandatory reporting sexual activity is a complex situation. All professionals notify pregnancies. In relation to the delivery of contraception, clinical care is problematic since professionals should take shelter from a legal standpoint. CONCLUSIONS: The medical-legal context of pregnant women under 14 years of age care generates a context of uncertainty and fear for professionals and becomes a source of conflict and insecurity in the exercise of the profession.

Strengthening of Porcelain Provided by Resin Cements and Flowable Composites.

This study evaluated the effect of mechanical properties of resin-based luting agents on the strength of resin-coated porcelain. The luting agents tested were two flowable resin composites (Filtek Z350 Flow and Tetric-N Flow), a light-cured resin cement (Variolink Veneer [VV]), and a dual-cured resin cement (Variolink II) in either light-cured (base paste) or dual-cured (base + catalyst pastes [VD]) mode. Flexural strength (σf) and modulus of elasticity (Ef) of the luting agents were measured in three-point bending mode (n=5). Porcelain discs (Vita VM7) were tested either untreated (control) or acid etched, silanized, and coated with the luting agents. Biaxial flexural strength (σbf) of the porcelain discs was tested using a ball-on-ring setup (n=30). The σbf of the resin-coated specimens was calculated at z-axial positions for multilayer specimens in the ball-on-ring test: position z = 0 (ceramic surface at the bonded interface) and position z = -t2 (luting agent surface above ring). The σf and Ef data were subjected to analysis of variance and the Student-Newman-Keuls test (α=0.05). A Weibull analysis was performed for σbf data. Weibull modulus (m) and characteristic strength (σ0) were calculated. Linear regression analyses investigated the relationship between mechanical properties of the luting agents and the strengthening of porcelain. VD had higher and VV had lower mechanical strength than the other materials. At z = 0, all resin-coated groups had higher σbf than the control group. No significant differences between the luting agents were observed for σbf and σ0. At z = -t2, VD had the highest σbf and σ0, whereas VV had the poorest results. No significant differences in m were observed across groups. A linear increase in flexural strength of the porcelain was associated with increased σf and Ef of the luting agents at position z = -t2. In conclusion, resin coating and use of luting agents with better physical properties generally improved the mechanical performance of porcelain.

A new species of Pterinopelma (Araneae: Theraphosidae) from the highlands of the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil and description of the male of P. sazimai

We describe a new species of tarantula from the highlands of the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. Males of the new species can be distinguished from congeners by having palpal bulb keels weakly developed, and metatarsus I strongly curved, touching apex of retrolateral spur when folded. Females can be distinguished by the color pattern, carapace and legs black with conspicuous white rings on distal femora, patellae, tibiae, and metatarsi. The male of Pterinopelma felipeleitei sp. nov. was previously misidentified and described under the name Pterinopelma sazimai Bertani, Nagahama & Fukushima, 2011. The true male of P. sazimai is herein described from a specimen collected near the type locality. Similar to the conspecific female, this male has characteristic blue iridescent setae covering the carapace, chelicerae, legs, and palps. The new species is sympatric with P. sazimai. Both species inhabit a habitat locally known as 'campos rupestres'