Leveraging technology to improve access to medical education in anatomy and physiology in resource-limited settings: A mixed methods study.

This study assesses the acceptability, appropriateness, feasibility, and efficacy of a novel asynchronous video-based intervention for teaching respiratory physiology and anatomy to medical students in resource-limited settings. A series of short video lectures on pleural anatomy, pulmonary physiology, and pathophysiology was created using Lightboard and screen capture technology. These were uploaded to YouTube and Google Drive and made available to 1st-3rd year medical students at two Latin American universities for 1 week. Employing a parallel-convergent mixed methods design, we conducted surveys, focus groups, interviews, and pre/post testing for qualitative and quantitative data. Thematic Analysis was used to analyze qualitative data and McNemar's test for quantitative analysis. Seventy-six students participated. The videos' short format, interactivity, and Lightboard style were highly valued for their flexibility, time efficiency, and educational impact. Students recognized their clinical relevance and trusted their content, suggesting potential applicability in similar settings. Despite infrastructure and connectivity challenges, the use of flexible streaming and downloadable options facilitated learning. Survey results indicated high levels of feasibility (99%), appropriateness (95%), and acceptability (95%), with significant knowledge gains observed (37% correct pre-test answers vs. 56% post-test, p < 0.0001). Our findings demonstrate high acceptability, appropriateness, feasibility, and efficacy of a targeted asynchronous education centered on short-format videos in resource-limited settings, enabling robust learning despite local barriers. Flexible access is key for overcoming localized barriers. Taking an adaptive, learner-centered approach to content creation and delivery to address constraints was pivotal to success. Our modular videos could serve as versatile models for flexible education in resource-constrained settings.

[Evaluation of Implementation of the HEARTS Initiative in a Rural Community in Venezuela, 2023Avaliação da implementação da iniciativa HEARTS em uma comunidade rural da Venezuela, 2023]. / Evaluación de la implementación de la iniciativa HEARTS en una comunidad rural de Venezuela, 2023.

Objective: To evaluate the implementation of HEARTS strategies in a community in the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela. Methods: Quasi-experimental study evaluating the cascade of care, driving factors, and maturity and performance indicators four months after implementation of the HEARTS initiative in 52 patients with high blood pressure (BP) in the community of La Marroquina. The data were processed using SPSS® Statistics, version 25.0. Student's t-distribution and chi-square tests were applied to determine statistical significance. Results: Fifty patients, 63.5% of them with a low educational level and low or very low socioeconomic status, completed the four-month monitoring period. At baseline, 11.5% had controlled BP and 40.4% initiated monotherapy. By the fourth month, 100% of patients with high BP had been diagnosed, 92% had received treatment, and 52% had achieved control of their BP. Seventy-two percent were receiving combined therapy. Seventy percent of the hypertensive individuals maintained blood pressure levels <140/90 mmHg. The maturity index score was 4 of 5, and the performance index was classified as incipient. Conclusion: This work shows that, in a short time, a good maturity index was achieved through the implementation, by medical and supervised non-medical personnel, of a standardized protocol for diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of high blood pressure in a rural population. Rates of diagnosis, treatment, and BP control improved, with incipient performance results. Sustaining this initiative will have a major impact on the health of this population. Its implementation as a national public health policy is recommended.

Objetivo: Avaliar a implementação das estratégias da iniciativa HEARTS em uma comunidade da República Bolivariana da Venezuela. Métodos: Estudo quase-experimental que avaliou a cascata de cuidados, fatores determinantes e índices de maturidade e desempenho quatro meses após a implementação da iniciativa HEARTS na comunidade de La Marroquina, Venezuela. Foram avaliados 52 pacientes com hipertensão arterial. A análise estatística foi realizada no software SPSS®, versão 25.0. O teste t de Student e o teste qui-quadrado foram usados para determinar a significância estatística. Resultados: Cinquenta pacientes completaram o acompanhamento de quatro meses. Desses, 63,5% tinham baixa escolaridade e nível socioeconômico baixo ou muito baixo. No início do estudo, 11,5% apresentavam doença controlada e 40,4% estavam em monoterapia. No quarto mês, 100% dos pacientes com hipertensão arterial haviam sido diagnosticados, 92% haviam recebido tratamento, 52% haviam atingido a meta de controle da hipertensão e 72% estavam recebendo terapia combinada. Dos pacientes com hipertensão, 70% mantinham níveis pressóricos <140 × 90 mmHg. O índice de maturidade foi avaliado como nível 4 (de 5), e o desempenho foi classificado como incipiente. Conclusão: Este estudo demonstra, após pouco tempo, um bom índice de maturidade na implementação de um protocolo padronizado de diagnóstico, tratamento e acompanhamento da hipertensão arterial em uma população rural atendida por pessoal médico e não médico supervisionado. Observa-se melhoria das taxas de diagnóstico, tratamento e controle dos pacientes com hipertensão, demonstrando de forma incipiente seu desempenho. Dar continuidade a essa iniciativa terá uma repercussão importante na saúde dessa população. Recomendando-se que a iniciativa seja implementada como política nacional de saúde pública.

Outbreak of Intermediate Species Leptospira venezuelensis Spread by Rodents to Cows and Humans in L. interrogans-Endemic Region, Venezuela.

Leptospirosis is a common but underdiagnosed zoonosis. We conducted a 1-year prospective study in La Guaira State, Venezuela, analyzing 71 hospitalized patients who had possible leptospirosis and sampling local rodents and dairy cows. Leptospira rrs gene PCR test results were positive in blood or urine samples from 37/71 patients. Leptospira spp. were isolated from cultured blood or urine samples of 36/71 patients; 29 had L. interrogans, 3 L. noguchii, and 4 L. venezuelensis. Conjunctival suffusion was the most distinguishing clinical sign, many patients had liver involvement, and 8/30 patients with L. interrogans infections died. The Leptospira spp. found in humans were also isolated from local rodents; L. interrogans and L. venezuelensis were isolated from cows on a nearby, rodent-infested farm. Phylogenetic clustering of L. venezuelensis isolates suggested a recently expanded outbreak strain spread by rodents. Increased awareness of leptospirosis prevalence and rapid diagnostic tests are needed to improve patient outcomes.

Cardiac Amyloidosis in Venezuela: A Pending Issue.

Cardiac amyloidosis (CA) is an infiltrative disease characterized by the deposition of misfolded proteins in cardiac interstitial tissue. Interest towards studying this pathology has been growing in the last decade, as new epidemiological insights have revealed that it is not as uncommon as previously believed. Likewise, advances in non-invasive diagnostic approaches and the identification of molecules that modify its long-term progression, even in terms of mortality, have also bolstered interest in CA. Despite this global panorama, in Venezuela, limitations remain regarding the diagnosis of CA, partly associated with a lack of knowledge of the disease. Therefore, additional efforts are necessary for clinical cardiologists to hone their diagnostic skills regarding this disease, as opportune identification is an essential step for its effective management.

A decade of analysis describe of maternal and neonatal characteristics of live births in southern Brazil / Una década de descripción de las características maternas y neonatales de los nacidos vivos en el sur de Brasil

Introduction: Child health is conditioned by the circumstances of pregnancy, childbirth, and early life. Objective: To describe the maternal and neonatal characteristics of live births (LBs) in the Information System on Live Births of Santa Catarina (SC), Brazil. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study describedthe maternal and neonatal characteristics of 940,059 LBs, from 2010 to 2019. Pearson's chi-square test and Fisher's exact test were conducted, with a statistical significance level of p < 0.05. Results: The mean values of maternal age, number of live children, and number of fetal deaths as well as abortions were 27.1 years, 0.9, and 0.2, respectively. The averages of the number of gestation weeks, number of prenatal consultations, the start date of the prenatal care, and birth weight were 38.5 weeks, 8.1 months, 2.5 monthsand 3,217.1 grams, respectively. Low birth weight (LBW) was prevalent among mothers without education (p < 0.001), including those without prenatal visits (p < 0.001). A higher prevalence of being underweight was observed among female neonates (p < 0.001) and with a maternal age of ≥ 40 years (10.8%; p < 0.001) compared to newborns with good vitality. Newborns with good vitality had a low prevalence of underweight (p < 0.001). The frequency of the variables studied increased, comparing the beginning and end of the period and whether the differences are statistically significant. Conclusions: The study draws attention to the need for interventions to improve the indicators that determine LBW(AU)

Introducción: La salud infantil está condicionada por las circunstancias del embarazo, parto y primeras etapas de la vida. Objetivo: Describir las características maternas y neonatales de los nacidos vivos en el Sistema de Información de Nacidos Vivos de Santa Catarina, Brasil. Materiales y métodos: Estudio transversal describiendo las características maternas y neonatales de 940.059 nacidos vivos entre 2010 y 2019. Se realizó la prueba de chi cuadrado de Pearson y exacta de Fisher y se estableció p < 0,05. Resultados: Los valores medios para la edad materna, el número de nacidos vivos y el número de mortinatos y abortos espontáneos fueron 27,1, 0,9 y 0,2, respectivamente. Las medias del número de semanas de gestación, el número de visitas prenatales, la fecha de inicio de la atención prenatal y el peso al nacer fueron 38,5 semanas (DE 2,2), 8,1 meses, 2,5 meses y 3 217,1 gramos, respectivamente. El bajo peso al nacer (BPN) fue prevalente entre las madres sin estudios (p < 0,001), incluidas las que no acudieron a una cita prenatal (p < 0,001). Hubo una mayor prevalencia de BPN en neonatos de sexo femenino (p < 0,001) con madres de edad ≥ 40 años (10,8%; p < 0,001). Los neonatos con buena vitalidad tuvieron una baja prevalencia de BPN (p < 0,001). La frecuencia de las variables estudiadas aumentó al comparar el inicio y el final del período y si las diferencias son estadísticamente significativas. Conclusiones: El estudio llama la atención sobre la necesidad de intervenciones para mejorar los indicadores que determinan el BPN(AU)

Asociación de la salud cardiometabólica de preescolares y sus padres con características nutricionales y sociodemográficas familiares / Association of cardiometabolic health of preschoolers and their parents with family sociodemographic characteristics

Introducción: Existe escaso conocimiento sobre la asociación entre marcadores cardiometabólicos en preescolares con características nutricionales y sociodemográficos familiares. Objetivo: Determinar la asociación entre marcadores cardiometabólicos de preescolares y sus padres con las características nutricionales y sociodemográficas familiares. Materiales y Métodos: Estudio de corte transversal, de asociación y correlación entre variables Padre-Hijo/a de carácter multicéntrico, en el cual participaron 140 sujetos (70 preescolares y su respectivo padre o madre). Las variables fueron estado nutricional, composición corporal, fuerza prensil y presión arterial de padres/madres y sus hijos/as preescolares y variables sociodemográficas de las familias. Resultados: Existió diferencia significativa al 5% respecto de la obesidad de los padres con la de los hijos/as, se presentó correlación positiva (0,397) entre las variables "porcentaje de grasa" padres e hijos/as. En relación al "nivel de escolaridad de la madre" hubo diferencia significativa con el "porcentaje de grasa" de los hijos/as (p<0,011). Existió similarmente diferencia significativa (p=0,033) entre la variable "tener hermanos" respecto a la variable "porcentaje de grasa" de los hijos/as. Finalmente se presentó asociación entre "usa Tablet" (dispositivo audiovisual) y "presión arterial" de los hijos/as (p=0,030). La variable "usa Tablet" se asoció significativamente con la "fuerza prensil" de los hijos/as (p=0,044). Conclusiones: Padres obesos con alto porcentaje de grasa tienen hijos/as preescolares con bajo perfil cardiometabólico; las variables nivel educacional inferior de la madre y tener hermanos se asociaron a un mayor porcentaje de grasa en los hijos/as, conjuntamente el uso de Tablet en preescolares mostró mayores niveles de presión arterial y menor fuerza prensil(AU)

Introduction: Little is known about the association between cardiometabolic markers in preschoolers with family nutritional and socio- demographic characteristics. Objective: To determine the association between cardiometabolic markers in preschoolers and their parents with family nutritional and sociodemographic characteristics. Materials and methods: cross-sectional study of association and correlation between parent-child variables, multicenter, 140 subjects participated (70 preschoolers and their respective parents). The variables were nutritional status, body composition, prehensile strength and blood pressure of parents and their preschool children and sociodemographic variables of the families. Results: There was a significant difference at 5% between parents' obesity and children's obesity, with a positive correlation (0.397) between the variable "percentage of fat" parents/children. In relation to the "mother's level of schooling" there was a significant difference with the "percentage of fat" of the children (p<0.011). Similarly, there was a significant difference (p=0.033) between the variable "Having siblings" with respect to the variable "percentage of fat" of the children. Finally, there was an association between "Tablet use" (audiovisual device) and "blood pressure" of the children (p=0.030). The variable "Tablet use" was significantly associated with the "prehensile strength" of the children (p=0.044). Conclusions: Obese parents with a high percentage of fat have preschool children with a low cardiometabolic profile; the variables lower educational level of the mother and having siblings were associated with a higher percentage of fatness in children; together, the use of Tablet in preschoolers showed higher levels of blood pressure and lower prehensile strength(AU)

Asociación del índice de masa corporal con la insatisfacción corporal en escolares / Association of body mass index with body dissatisfaction in schoolchildren

Introducción: La malnutrición por exceso causa sobrepeso y obesidad, siendo un problema de salud pública, que se ha presentado en los primeros años de vida. Investigaciones realizadas han informado la existencia de insatisfacción corporal relacionada con el peso, debido a los estándares de belleza establecidos en la sociedad. Objetivo: asociar el índice de masa corporal con la insatisfacción corporal y percepción de la imagen corporal de los escolares. Materiales y métodos: estudio transversal con 610 escolares. El estado nutricional se clasificó según el puntaje z del IMC. Para determinar la insatisfacción corporal y la percepción de la imagen corporal, se aplicó una escala de imagen corporal infantil de siete fotografías, con un valor del 1 al 7 de acuerdo con el tamaño creciente, y el rango final del IMC. Se calculó la diferencia entre la figura que los participantes consideraron ideal y la forma corporal percibida. Resultados: el 47,3% presentaron sobrepeso y obesidad. La insatisfacción corporal fue mayor en las niñas con sobrepeso y obesidad (p = 0,013). El IMC correlacionó con la insatisfacción corporal (rho(608) = 0,480; p < 0,001) y la percepción de la imagen corporal (rho(608) = 0,433; p < 0,001). Conclusiones: El IMC se relacionó positivamente con la insatisfacción corporal y la percepción de la imagen corporal; esto podría elevar el riesgo de presentar trastornos alimentarios, contribuir al mantenimiento del exceso de peso corporal, al no percibirse con exceso de peso, es menos probable que realicen acciones para controlarlo(AU)

Introduction: Excessive malnutrition causes overweight and obesity, being a public health problem, which has occurred in the first years of life. Research has reported the existence of body dissatisfaction related to weight, due to beauty standards established in society. Objective: to associate the BMI with body dissatisfaction and body image perception of schoolchildren. Materials and methods: cross-sectional study of 610 schoolchildren. Nutritional status was classified according to the BMI z score. To determine body dissatisfaction and body image perception, a child body image scale of seven photographs was applied, with a value of 1 to 7 according to the increasing size, and the final range of the BMI. The difference between the figure that participants considered ideal, and the perceived body shape was calculated. Results: 47.3% were overweight and obese. Body dissatisfaction was higher in overweight and obese girls (p = 0.013). BMI correlated with body dissatisfaction (rho(608) = 0.480; p < 0.001) and body image perception (rho(608) = 0.433; p < 0.001). Conclusions: BMI was positively related to body dissatisfaction and body image perception; this could increase the risk of developing eating disorders, contribute to the maintenance of excess body weight, as it is not perceived with excess weight, are less likely to take actions to control it(AU)

Postoperative Complications in Emergency Surgeries at a Referral Hospital in Eastern Venezuela.

Background Postoperative complications (POC) are undesirable consequences of surgery and are a major area of concern adversely affecting the quality of surgical care and patient safety. Emergency surgery has been observed to have a higher incidence of different POC. The analysis of POC is of great importance due to their impact on the quality of life of patients and because they have become an indicator to measure the quality of hospital services. Objective This study aimed to describe the POC of emergency surgeries in patients from the general surgery department of a referral hospital in eastern Venezuela. Methodology A cross-sectional retrospective study was conducted, including patients undergoing emergency surgery at "Dr. Luis Razetti" University Hospital, Barcelona, Venezuela, between November 2022 and May 2023. Results Medical records of 178 patients were analyzed. Most were male (53.7%), with an average age of 34.98 and a standard deviation of 18.2 years. POC was registered in 28 (15.7%) patients, with surgical site infection being the most common in 21 (39.62%) patients. Those over 65 years old (21.4% vs. 6.4%, p=0.013), patients with a history of hypertension (25% vs. 6.3%, p=0.002), hypoalbuminemia (100% vs. 43.8%, p=0.027), diagnosed with peritonitis due to hollow viscus perforation (21.4% vs. 6%, p=0.007), trauma (25% vs. 9.3%, p=0.018), and those with a midline incision (75% vs. 31.3%, p<0.001) had a higher frequency of POC. There was a mortality rate of 2.8% with no significant difference based on the development of POC. Conclusion POC represents a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in patients undergoing emergency surgeries. The studied sample showed a similar frequency of POC compared to previous reports but with lower mortality. Complications were associated with higher frequencies of hypertension, midline approach, hypoalbuminemia, and emergency surgery for peritonitis due to hollow viscus perforation and trauma.

The Venezuelan Humanitarian Crisis, Out-Migration, and Household Change Among Venezuelans in Venezuela and Abroad.

International migration is increasingly characterized by the need to evade threats to survival. Nevertheless, demographic understandings of how families-rather than individuals alone-decide to migrate or separate in response to threats remain limited. Focusing on the recent humanitarian crisis in Venezuela, we analyze 2012-2016 data on Venezuelans in Venezuela and 2018-2020 data on UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees)-registered Venezuelans in nine receiving countries to illuminate the evolution of threats Venezuelans sought to evade, how threat evasion transformed households away from previous norms, the selection of migrants into different receiving countries and household structures, and demographic disparities in migrants' odds of reporting changes to their household because of specific migration-related processes (e.g., leaving someone in Venezuela, leaving someone in another country). Results underscore a simultaneous escalation of economic, safety, and political concerns that informed Venezuelans' increasing intentions to out-migrate. Where Venezuelans migrated and who ended up in their households abroad varied by demographic background and migration experiences. Among UNHCR-registered Venezuelans, 43% left family members in Venezuela, and more than 10% left or were left behind by members in another country. Such household separations, however, were unevenly distributed across factors such as age, gender, and country of reception.

Varicela neonatal tardía: presentación en un paciente pediátrico / Late neonatalchickenpox: presentation in a pediatric patient

La varicela es una infección poco frecuente durante la gestación, el riesgo para el feto y las manifestaciones clínicas, variarán en función del momento del embarazo en que se produce la infección materna, cuando la erupción maculopapular materna se produce entre los 5 días previos al parto y las 48 horas posteriores, se habla de varicela neonatal tardía. La clínica es grave, con afectación visceral (pulmonar, cerebral, hepática, hemorragias cutáneas, etc.) y un 30 % de los casos desarrollarán una varicela fulminante. Se presenta el caso de neonato masculino que consultó por lesiones en piel, tipo pápulas eritematosas y vesiculares pleomorfas, de distribución dispersa. Con evolución clínica tórpida, permaneció 24 horas en la institución, con franco deterioro respiratorio y neurológico, compatible con cuadro de varicela neonatal tardía fulminante(AU)

Chickenpox is considered a rare infection during pregnancy, the risk to the fetus and the clinical manifestations will vary depending on the time of pregnancy when the maternal infection occurs, when the maternal maculo-papular injuries occurs within the previous 5 days after delivery and 48 hours after, there is talk of late neonatal chickenpox. The symptoms are severe with visceral involvement (lung, brain, liver, skin bleeding, etc.) and 30% of cases will develop fulminant chickenpox. We present the case of a male neonate who consults due to skin lesions, such as erythematous papules and pleomorphic vesicles, with scattered distribution. With a torpid clinical course, who remains in the institution for 24 hours, with frank respiratory and neurological deterioration compatible with late-neonatal fulminant varicella symptoms(AU)

Terminología anatómica: un camino difíci / Anatomical terminology: a difficult pat

En el presente artículo se hace una revisión sistemática o evaluativa de carácter descriptivo-exploratorio donde se buscaron los estudios más relevantes de forma sistematizada en relación a la terminología anatómica, se abordó su historia, su evolución hasta el presente y las dificultades existentes para su correcta aplicación y difusión(AU)

In the present article a systematic or evaluative review of descriptive-exploration nature is made, where the most relevant studies searched in a systematic way in relation to the anatomic terminology, its history, its evolution to the present and the existing difficulties for its correct application and dissemination were addresse(AU)

Listeria monocytogenesy mecanismo de caballo de Troya a través de la barrera hematoencefálica / isteria monocytogenesand Trojan horse mechanism across the blood-brain barrier

Las infecciones del sistema nervioso central son potencialmente mortales, causadas por patógenos, como bacterias, virus y hongos. Para llegar hasta el cerebro, los microorganismos utilizan diversas vías y formas. Este patogeno es una bacteria grampositiva corta, flagelar e intracelular, con la capacidad de inducir su internalización en células fagocíticas (monocitos/macrófagos) y no fagocíticas (células endoteliales). Al infectar los macrófagos, estos microorganismos se valen de su capacidad de fijación, adhesión y migración transendotelial, para cruzar la barrera hematoencefálica, finalmente, generando meningitis bacteriana. En esta revisión describimos el mecanismo de caballo de Troya usado por Listeria monocytogenespara invadir el cerebro en el desarrollo de enfermedades infecciosas e incorporamos nuevos conocimientos sobre moléculas que intervienen en dicho mecanismo(AU)

Central nervous system infections are life-threatening, caused by pathogens such as bacteria, viruses and fungi. To access the brain, microorganisms use various mechanisms. Listeria monocytogenes is a short, flagellar and intracellular gram-positive bacterium, with the ability to induce its internalization in phagocytic (monocytes/macrophages) and non-phagocytic (endothelial cells) cells. By infecting macrophages, these microorganisms take advantage of their binding, adhesion, and transendothelial migrationcapacity to cross the blood-brain barrier, finally generating bacterial meningitis. In this review we describe the Trojan horse mechanism used by Listeria monocytogenesto invade the brain in the development of infectious diseases and we incorporate new knowledge about molecules that intervene in this mechanism(AU)

Eficacia y seguridad de la técnica americana modificada en un puerto de trabajo para colecistectomía laparoscópica / Efficacy and safety of the modified american technique in a working port for laparoscopic

Objetivo: Evaluar la eficacia y seguridad de la técnica americana modificada con un puerto de trabajo (TAMPT) en línea media para colecistectomía laparoscópica. Métodos: Se elaboró estudio prospectivo, comparativo, descriptivo de corte transversal, en pacientes con litiasis vesicular en el servicio de Cirugía General del Hospital Universitario de Caracas, durante enero-agosto 2022. Resultados: se realizaron 79 colecistectomía laparoscópicas, 34 por técnica americana y 45 con TAMPT. La TAMPT (40.26%) se ejecutó con intervalo de 30-60 min. La estancia hospitalaria promedio global fue 1,75 ± 0,87 días. El promedio global de dolor a las 24 horas fue de 4,43 ± 0,68, según escala visual analógica (EVA). Los procedimientos realizados con TAMPT no presentaron complicaciones, con la técnica americana, se reportó dos: bilioma y lesión de víscera hueca, representando 2.54%. Conclusiones: La TAMPT, ha demostrado ser una técnica segura y eficaz como tratamiento quirúrgico de la litiasis vesicular, tanto para procedimientos electivos como de emergencia(AU)

Objective: To determine the efficacy and safety of the modified American technique in a working port (MATWP) for laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Methods: A prospective, comparative, descriptive, cross-sectional, descriptive study was elaborate. In patients with vesicular lithiasis in the General Surgery Service of the Hospital Universitario de Caracas, during January-August 2022.Results: 79 laparoscopic cholecystectomies were performed, 34 by American technique and 45 with modified technique. The modified technique (40.26%) was performed with an interval of 30-60 min. The overall average hospital stay was 1.75 ± 0.87 days.The global average pain at 24 hours was 4.43 ± 0.68, according to visual analog scale (VAS).The procedures performed with MATWP did notpresent complications; the American technique reported two bilioma and hollow viscera lesion, representing an overall rateof 2.54%. Conclusions: MATWP has proven to be a safe and effective technique for surgical treatment of gallbladder stones, both for elective and emergency procedure(AU)

Tratamiento quirúrgico de las neoplasias en la glándula parótida / Surgical treatment of the neoplasmsof the parotid gland

Objetivo: Caracterizar a pacientes con diagnóstico de neoplasias en glándula parótida, según el procedimiento quirúrgico efectuado, la técnica de identificación del nervio facial, y la relación de los hallazgos patológicos definitivos con los estudios de muestreo histológico preoperatorio. Métodos: Estudio multidisciplinario, multiinstitucional, descriptivo, cuantitativo y retrospectivo de 26 pacientes con diagnóstico de neoplasias en glándula parótida entre el año 2018 al 2023. Se dividieron de acuerdo a la histología en benignas y malignas. Las distintas frecuencias fueron expresadas en número y porcentaje. Se calculó la sensibilidad y especificidad de la punción con aguja fina como prueba de muestreo histológico. Resultados: Categoría benigna: 16 pacientes (61,5% %). El resto de la serie, diez pacientes, de la categoría de tumores malignos (38,5%). La lobectomía superficial parotídea fue el procedimiento más frecuente en las neoplasias benignas (75%) y malignas (60%). La técnica anterógrada de identificación del nervio facial fue la más común. Entre 25% a 30% de parálisis temporales en ambos grupos. La sensibilidad y especificidad de la punción con aguja fina para el diagnóstico de neoplasias benignas fue de 92,3% y 50%, el porcentaje de falsos negativos de 5,8%. Conclusión: La lobectomía superficial de la glándula parótida y la técnica anterógrada representaron el procedimiento quirúrgico y la técnica de identificación del nervio facial más frecuentemente realizado en ambas categorías. La baja especificidad de la punción con aguja fina y el porcentaje de falsos negativos representaron algunas de las dificultades a afrontar para decidir la extensión del tratamiento quirúrgico(AU)

Objective: To evaluate the surgical procedure, technique identification of nerve facial and correlate the pathological findings withthe preoperative histological sampling studies, in patients with neoplasms parotid underwent surgery. Methods: Study multi-institutiona, multi-disciplinary, descriptive y quantitative of 26 patients with neoplasm parotid between the years 2018 to 2023. We divided in two categories benign and malignant. The frequency was expressed in number and percentage. It was calculated the sensibility and specificity of the fine needle puncture. Results: Category benign: 16 patients (61,5% %). Malignant, ten patients (38,5%). The lobectomy superficial was the surgical procedure more frequent in the neoplasm benign (75%) and malignant (60%). The anterograde technique of identification of nerve facial was the more common. Between 25% and 30% presents facial palsytemporal. The sensibility and specificity of the fine needle puncture were 92,3% y 50%, the percentage of false negatives was 5,8%. Conclusion: In this study the lobectomy superficial and anterograde technique were the surgical procedure and technique of identification of nerve facial more frequent in both categories. The low specificity of fine needle puncture and the percentage of false negatives were some of the difficulties to affront in the decision of the surgery exten(AU)

Alteraciones psiquiátricas en pacientes con antecedentes de infección por SARS-CoV-2 / Psychiatric alterations in patients with a history of SARS-CoV-2 infection

Objetivo: Caracterizar los trastornos mentales de los pacientes consultantes del Servicio de Psiquiatría del Hospital Universitario de Caracas enero 2020 ­enero 2021, que acudieron por primera vez y habían presentado infección por COVID-19 3 a 6 meses antes de consultar. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio observacional, descriptivo, retrospectivo, de corte transversal en pacientes que acudieron al Servicio de Psiquiatría del Hospital Universitario de Caracas para emergencia (por primera vez y sucesivas) por presentar patologías mentales durante y posterior a infección por COVID-19 durante el periodo enero 2020-enero 2021. Resultados: De 718 pacientes, 53 que acudieron con patologías mentales habían presentado infección previa por COVID-19 representando el 7,38%. Edad promedio 27-29 años (66,03 %). La mayoría del sexo femenino (71,69 %). El 77,35 % provenían del Distrito Capital; el 18,86 % del estado Miranda, siendo el estado civil predominante la soltería con 73,58 %; el 56,60 % estaban desempleados y el 79,24 % no poseían nivel de instrucción. En relación a los diagnósticos: trastorno depresivo mayor con síntomas ansiosos (30,18 %), trastorno depresivo (18,86 %), episodio maniforme (1,88 %) episodio psicótico agudo (18,86 %), trastorno de ansiedad generalizada (7,54 %), entre otros. Conclusión: Los síntomas psiquiátricos originados por infección por COVID-19 aparecen de forma más tardía y persisten después de la infección. Las mujeres manifestaron mayor riesgo de presentar síntomas relacionados con la salud mental; se asocia a alto nivel de vulnerabilidad a causa de la influencia de los roles sociales, ciclo reproductivo y mayor morbilidad psiquiátrica(AU)

Objective: To characterize the mental disorders of the consulting patients of the Psychiatry Service of the University Hospital of Caracas January 2020 -January 2021, who came for the first time and hapresented COVID-19 infection 3 to 6 monthsbefore consulting. Methods: An observational, descriptive, retrospective, cross-sectional study was carried out in patients who attended the Psychiatry Service of the University Hospital of Caracas for emergencies (for the first time and successive ones) due to presenting mental pathologies during and after COVID-19 during the period January 2020-January 2021. Results: Of 718 patients, 53 who came with mental pathologies had previous COVID-19 infection, representing 7.38%. Average age 27-29 years(66.03%). The majority were female (71.69%). 77.35% came from the Capital District; 18.86% from the state of Miranda, with the predominant marital status being single with 73.58%; 56.60% were unemployed and 79.24% had no educational level. In relation to the diagnoses: major depressive disorder with anxious symptoms (30.18%), depressive disorder (18.86%), maniform episode (1.88%), acute psychotic episode (18.86%), generalized anxiety disorder (7.54%), among others. Conclusion: Psychiatric symptoms caused by COVID-19 infection appear later and persist after infection. Women expressed a greater risk of presenting symptoms related to mental health; It is associated with a high level of vulnerability due to the influence of social roles, reproductive cycle and greater psychiatric morbidit(AU)

Complicaciones y mortalidad en pacientes neurocríticos / Complications and mortality in neurocritic patients

Objetivo: Relacionar las complicaciones y el riesgo de muerte en pacientes neurocríticos admitidos en la unidad de cuidados intensivos (UCI) del Hospital Universitario de Caracas durante un período de 5 meses. Métodos: investigación observacional, prospectiva, descriptiva. La muestra estuvo conformada por 65 pacientes neurocríticos, ≥ 18 años, con patologías médicas o quirúrgicas, ingresados en la UCI. El análisis estadístico incluyó la determinación de frecuencias, promedios, porcentajes y medias para descripción de variables y el T de Student. Resultados: La edad promedio fue 50,98 ± 16,66 años; la población masculinarepresentó el 50,76%. Entre las complicaciones, la mayor incidencia correspondió a las no infecciosas (70,77 %) y los trastornos ácido-básicos de tipo metabólico, la anemia y las alteraciones electrolíticas fueron las más frecuentes; el 29,23% de los pacientes presentaron complicaciones infecciosas, y la neumonía asociada a ventilación mecánica fue la más frecuente (73,91 %). La comorbilidad con mayor incidencia fue hipertensión arterial sistémica (53,84%). El 90.70% requirió ventilación mecánica y el tiempo en VM fue 4.29 ± 6.43 días. La estancia en UCI fue 5.96 ± 7.72 días. El 29,23% presentó un puntaje en la escala APACHE II entre 5-9; el SAPS II presentó mayor incidencia entre los 6-21 y 22-37 puntos con (66,70%); el SOFA al ingreso se reportó < 15 puntos en 98,46% y > 15 en 1,53%. La mortalidad del grupo fue 23,08 % (n=15). Conclusiones: Las complicaciones no infecciosas predominaron sobre las infecciosas las primeras íntimamente relacionadas con la mortalida(AU)

Objective: To relate complications and the risk of death in neurocritical patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) of the University Hospital of Caracas during a period of 5 months. Methods: observational, prospective, descriptive research. The sample was made up of 65 neurocritical patients, ≥ 18 years old, with medical or surgical pathologies, admitted to the ICU.The statistical analysis included the determination of frequencies, averages, percentages and meansfor description of variables and Student's T.Results: The average age was 50.98 ± 16.66 years; the male population represented 50.76%. Among the complications, the highest incidence corresponded to non-infectious complications (70.77%) and metabolic acid-base disorders, anemia and electrolyte alterations were the most frequent; 29.23% of patients presented infectious complications, and pneumonia associated with mechanical ventilation was the most frequent (73.91%). The comorbidity with the highest incidence was systemic arterial hypertension (53.84%), 90.70% required mechanical ventilation and the time on MV was 4.29 ± 6.43 days. The ICU stay was 5.96 ± 7.72 days. 29.23% had a score on the APACHE II scale between 5-9; SAPS II presented the highest incidence between 6-21 and 22-37 points with (66.70%); The SOFA upon admission was reported to be < 15 points in 98.46% and > 15 in 1.53%. The mortality of the group was 23.08% (n=15). Conclusions: Non-infectious complications predominated over infectious complications, the former being closely related to mortalit(AU)

Escoliosis idiopática del adolescente / Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis

La escoliosis idiopática del Adolescente (EIA) es una deformidad tridimensional de la columna vertebral que aqueja de diversas formas la condición de vida de quien la padece, afectando el desarrollo físico y psicológico del paciente. Proponemos evaluar el resultado clínico, radiológico y el componente de calidad de vida de pacientes tratados quirúrgicamente con EIA, en el servicio de Neurocirugía, Hospital Jesús Yerena del Lídice. Se evaluó patrón de la curva, clasificación según Lenke, ángulo de Cobb pre y postquirúrgico, edad de tratamiento quirúrgico, gradode corrección, calidad de vida según cuestionario SRS-22 pre y postquirúrgica, valoración funcional mediante la escala de discapacidad de Oswestry (ODI) y complicaciones postoperatorias. Se estudiaron 22 casos (95 % femenino), el principal grupo etario fue de 11-14 años (55 %), la escoliosis tipo 1 fue la predominante (60 %), el ángulo de Cobb inicial fue mayor a 50° (50 %) y la madurez esquelética principal fue Risser 3 (55 %). La edad de resolución quirúrgica predominante fue entre 15-18 años (60 %), el grado de corrección postoperatorio fue de 75-100 % (73 %) y la densidad de los tornillos pediculares fue de 1.4-1.7 (64 %). En el cuestionario SRS-22, hubo mayor afectación en las dimensiones de autoimagen con una media de 1.8 y la valoración por ODI mostró un índice de incapacidad mínima, que fue mejorando en los controles sucesivos. Nuestra principal complicación fueron las infecciones (36 %). Concluimos que la cirugía correctiva temprana en la EIA ofrece a una mejoría clínica, radiológica y de la calidadde vida de estos paciente(AU)

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is a three-dimensional deformity of the spine that affects the living condition of those who suffer from it in various ways, affecting the physical and psychological development of the patient. We propose to evaluate the clinical and radiological outcome and the quality-of-life component of patients treated surgically with EIA, in the Neurosurgery Service, Hospital Jesús Yerena del Lídice. Curve pattern, Lenke classification, pre-and post-surgical Cobb angle, age at surgical treatment, degree of correction, quality of life according to pre-and post-surgical SRS-22 questionnaire, functional assessment using the Oswestry Disability Scale (ODI) and postoperative complications were evaluated. 22 cases were studied (95% female), the main age group was 11-14 years (55%), type 1 scoliosis was predominant (60%), the initial Cobb angle was greater than 50° (50%) and the main skeletal maturity was Risser 3 (55%). The predominant age of surgical resolution was between 15-18 years (60%), the degree of postoperative correction was 75-100% (73%) and the density of pedicle screws was 1.4-1.7 (64%). In the SRS-22 questionnaire, there was greater impairment in the self-image dimensions with a mean of 1.8 and the ODI assessment showed aminimal disability index, which improved in successive controls. Our main complication was infections (36%). We conclude that early corrective surgery in AIS offers clinical, radiological and quality of life improvement for these patient(AU)

Persistent Food Insecurity and Material Hardships: A Latent Class Analysis of Experiences among Venezuelan Refugees and Migrants in Urban Colombia.

The causes and conditions of displacement often increase the vulnerability of migrant and refugee populations to food insecurity, alongside other material hardships. We aimed to examine the multidimensional aspects and patterns of food insecurity and other material hardships in a cross-sectional sample of 6221 Venezuelan refugees and migrants in urban Colombia using a latent class analysis. Using multinomial and logistic regression models, we investigated the demographic and migratory experiences associated with identified classes and how class membership is associated with multiple health outcomes among Venezuelan refugees and migrants, respectively. Approximately two thirds of the sample was comprised cisgender women, and the participants had a median age of 32 years (IQR: 26-41). Four heterogeneous classes of food insecurity and material hardships emerged: Class 1-low food insecurity and material hardship; Class 2-high food insecurity and material hardship; Class 3-high income hardship with insufficient food intake; and Class 4-income hardship with food affordability challenges. Class 2 reflected the most severe food insecurity and material hardships and had the highest class membership; Venezuelans with an irregular migration status were almost 1.5 times more likely to belong to this class. Food insecurity and material hardship class membership was independently associated with self-rated health, mental health symptoms, and recent violence victimization and marginally associated with infectious disease outcomes (laboratory-confirmed HIV and/or syphilis infection). Social safety nets, social protection, and other interventions that reduce and prevent material hardships and food insecurity among refugees and migrants, alongside the host community, may improve public health, support development, and reduce healthcare costs. In the long term, regularization and social policies for migrants aimed at enhancing refugees' and migrants' social and economic inclusion may contribute to improving food security in this population.

Comparative reproductive ecology of Old and New World Trogons, an order in decline across the world.

Many tropical species show declining populations. The pantropical order Trogoniformes has 76% of its species ranked as declining, reflecting a worldwide problem. Here, we report on the reproductive ecology and life history traits of the declining and near-threatened old world Whitehead's Trogon (Harpactes whiteheadi), the declining new world Collared Trogon (Trogon collaris), and the stable Masked Trogon (T. personatus). We also reviewed the literature on reproductive ecology and life history traits of trogons to assess possible commonalities that might help explain population declines. We found that the declining Whitehead's and Collared Trogons had reasonable nest success (32% and 25%, respectively), while the stable Masked Trogon had poor reproductive success (9%), all contrary to population trends. However, the limited literature data suggested that poor reproductive success may be common among trogons, which may contribute to population declines. Parents fed young at a low rate and had long on-bouts for incubation and nestling warming that reduced activity at the nest, as favored by high nest predation risk over evolutionary time. We found that young fledged from the nest with poorly developed wings, as also favored by high nest predation risk. Evolved nestling periods among trogon species suggests that poor wing development is likely common. Wing development has been shown to affect juvenile survival after leaving the nest. The poor wing development may be an important contributor to population declines that deserves more attention. Evolved life history traits are important to recognize as creating population vulnerabilities in a changing world.

Understanding the factors associated with COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in Venezuela.

BACKGROUND: Despite nearly a quarter of Venezuelans remaining unvaccinated against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), the factors contributing to vaccine hesitancy in the country have not been thoroughly investigated. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted from October 15th to 30th, 2022, using a knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) survey to identify factors associated with COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy. RESULTS: The study analyzed data from 1,930 participants from all 24 states of Venezuela. The majority (93.4%) were vaccinated. The mean age was 40 years, predominantly female (67.3%), and held a university degree (70.6%). The mean KAP score was significantly higher among vaccinated individuals compared to unvaccinated ones (7.79 vs. 3.94 points for knowledge, 40 vs. 24 points for attitudes, and 16 vs. 10 points for practices, all p < 0.001). Increases in the scores for KAP were associated with increased odds of being vaccinated (84.6%, 25.6%, and 33% respectively for each one-point increase, all p < 0.001). Certain demographic factors such as marital status, occupation, religious beliefs, monthly income, and location influence COVID-19 vaccine knowledge. Higher income and certain occupations decrease the odds of low knowledge, while residing in specific states increases it. Attitudes towards the COVID-19 vaccine are influenced by age, health status, vaccination status, and location. Higher income and absence of certain health conditions decrease the odds of negative attitudes. Lastly, age, occupation, monthly income, and location affect vaccine practices. Advanced age and higher income decrease the odds of inappropriate practices, while residing in La Guaira state increases them. CONCLUSION: Factors such as age, education level, occupation, monthly income, and location were found to be associated with knowledge and attitudes towards COVID-19 vaccine among the surveyed Venezuelans.