Retrospective review of medicine utilization for noncommunicable diseases in three public sector pharmacies in Jamaica / Revisión retrospectiva del uso de medicamentos para enfermedades no transmisibles en tres farmacias del sector público de Jamaica / Revisão retrospectiva do uso de medicamentos para doenças não transmissíveis em três farmácias da rede pública na Jamaica

ABSTRACT Objective. The rational use of medicines offers a cost-saving strategy to maximize therapeutic outcomes for developing and developed countries. The aim of this study was to evaluate the rational use of medicines for selected noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) at three pharmacies at public hospitals in Jamaica using the World Health Organization's (WHO's) prescribing indicators. Methods. In this retrospective cross-sectional study, prescriptions for adult outpatients containing at least one medicine for cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or asthma that were filled between January and July 2019 were reviewed using WHO's prescribing indicators for the rational use of medicines. Data were analyzed and expressed as descriptive and inferential statistics. For all analyses conducted, significance was determined at P < 0.05. Results. A total of 1 500 prescriptions covering 5 979 medicines were reviewed; prescriptions were mostly written for female patients aged 42-60 years. Polypharmacy was observed in 35.6% (534) of prescriptions, and there was an average of 4 medicines per prescription, with a maximum of 17. Most of the prescriptions at each site were filled, with the main reason for not dispensing a medicine being that it was out of stock. Generic prescribing was high for all sites, accounting for more than 95% (5 722) of prescribed medicines. There was full compliance with prescribing according to the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines at two of the sites, but it was just off the target at Site 1, by 1.4%. Conclusions. The WHO guidelines for the rational use of medicines were followed with respect to the proportion of medicines prescribed from the WHO Model List and the proportion of antibiotics prescribed. The number of medicines per prescription and the proportion of medicines prescribed by generic name did not meet the WHO criteria. However, prescribing was aligned with treatment guidelines for the selected NCDs.

RESUMEN Objetivo. El uso racional de los medicamentos proporciona una estrategia de ahorro de costos para maximizar los resultados terapéuticos tanto en los países en desarrollo como en los países desarrollados. El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar el uso racional de medicamentos para algunas enfermedades no transmisibles (ENT) seleccionadas en tres farmacias de hospitales públicos de Jamaica, usando los indicadores de prescripción de la Organización Mundial de la Salud (OMS). Métodos. En este estudio transversal retrospectivo se examinaron las prescripciones realizadas a pacientes ambulatorios adultos que incluían al menos un medicamento para enfermedades cardiovasculares, diabetes, cáncer, enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica o asma, dispensadas entre enero y julio del 2019, utilizando los indicadores de prescripción para el uso racional de medicamentos de la OMS. Los datos se analizaron y expresaron mediante estadística descriptiva e inferencial. Para todos los análisis realizados se estableció un nivel de significación de p <0,05. Resultados. Se examinó un total de 1 500 prescripciones que incluían 5 979 medicamentos; la mayor parte de ellas correspondían a pacientes de sexo femenino de 42 a 60 años. Se observó que había polimedicación en el 35,6% (534) de las prescripciones, con un promedio de 4 y un máximo de 17 medicamentos por receta. En todos los centros se dispensó la mayor parte de los medicamentos prescritos, y el motivo principal para no hacerlo fue la falta de existencias del medicamento en cuestión. La prescripción de genéricos fue elevada en todos los centros y supuso más del 95% (5 722) de los medicamentos prescritos. En dos centros la prescripción se realizó en su totalidad de acuerdo con la Lista Modelo de Medicamentos Esenciales de la OMS, pero en el centro 1 no se alcanzó el objetivo por un 1,4%. Conclusiones. Se siguieron las directrices de la OMS para el uso racional de medicamentos en cuanto a la proporción de medicamentos prescritos de la Lista Modelo de la OMS y la proporción de antibióticos prescritos. El número de medicamentos por receta y la proporción de medicamentos prescritos mediante su nombre genérico no cumplieron con los criterios de la OMS. Sin embargo, las prescripciones estaban en consonancia con las directrices de tratamiento de las enfermedades no transmisibles seleccionadas.

RESUMO Objetivo. O uso racional de medicamentos é uma estratégia de contenção de custos para maximizar os resultados terapêuticos em países desenvolvidos e em desenvolvimento. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o uso racional de medicamentos para algumas doenças não transmissíveis selecionadas em três farmácias de hospitais públicos na Jamaica a partir dos indicadores de prescrição preconizados pela Organização Mundial da Saúde (OMS). Métodos. Estudo transversal retrospectivo que avaliou receitas médicas de pacientes ambulatoriais adultos contendo pelo menos um medicamento prescrito para doença cardiovascular, diabetes, câncer, doença pulmonar obstrutiva crônica ou asma e dispensadas entre janeiro e julho de 2019. A avaliação foi realizada a partir dos indicadores de prescrição preconizados pela OMS para o uso racional de medicamentos. Os dados obtidos foram analisados por meio de estatísticas descritivas e inferenciais. O nível de significância de p <0,05 foi adotado em todas as análises. Resultados. Ao todo, foram analisadas 1 500 receitas médicas compreendendo 5 979 medicamentos. Em sua maioria, as receitas foram prescritas para pacientes do sexo feminino com idades entre 42 e 60 anos. A polifarmácia foi observada em 35,6% (534) das receitas; em média, foram prescritos 4 medicamentos, até um máximo de 17. As farmácias estudadas dispensaram a maior parte dos medicamentos receitados. O principal motivo para não fornecer algum medicamento foi o desabastecimento. O percentual de medicamentos genéricos foi alto em todos os locais, representando mais de 95% (5 722) do volume receitado. Houve plena observância da Lista Modelo de Medicamentos Essenciais da OMS nas receitas analisadas em dois dos locais estudos, e observância quase completa (diferença de 1,4%) no local 1. Conclusões. As diretrizes da OMS de uso racional de medicamentos foram cumpridas no que se refere ao percentual de medicamentos receitados de acordo com a Lista Modelo da OMS e o percentual de antibióticos receitados. Os critérios da OMS não foram cumpridos quanto ao número de medicamentos por receita e ao percentual receitado usando o nome genérico. Porém, os medicamentos foram receitados de acordo com as diretrizes terapêuticas para as doenças não transmissíveis selecionadas.

Utility of Panoramic Radiographs in the Screening of Individuals with Edentulous Arches: A Need-Analysis Study

Abstract Objective: To evaluate the utility of panoramic radiographs in pre-prosthetic screening of edentulous arches. Material and Methods: Panoramic radiographs taken for three years were retrospectively analyzed. Observations from the radiographs shall be categorized and classified into either of the two categories, namely: 'findings with minimal impact on denture fabrication' and 'findings which affect denture fabrication and require further evaluation.' Anatomic variations, jaw pathologies, and residual ridge resorption patterns were assessed. Results: This study included the initial screening of 23,020 panoramic radiographs, out of which 505 (showing either one or both edentulous arches) were included for the study purpose. The age range of the subjects was from 21 to 94 years. 52.6% of the radiographs showed positive findings. More than half of the radiographs belonged to the males (52.5%). Hyperpneumatization of the maxillary sinus, crestal position of the mental foramen, and retained root fragments were the most common entities noted in the radiographs. Changes in the mental foramen were significantly higher in males than females (p=0.002). Conclusion: Observations from this study showed that panoramic radiographs have high utility for screening edentulous arches, and they should be used in routine clinical practice before denture fabrication.

Multiple copy number variation in a patient with Kleefstra syndrome / Múltiplas variações de número de cópias em paciente com síndrome de Kleefstra

ABSTRACT Objective: To report a rare case of a patient with a molecular diagnosis of Kleefstra syndrome (KS) who has four other chromosomal alterations involving pathogenic variants. Case description: Male patient, two years old, with global delay, including in neuropsychomotor development, ocular hypertelorism, broad forehead, brachycephaly, hypotonia, ligament laxity, unilateral single palmar crease and arachnoid cyst. The microarray-based comparative genomic hybridization (a-CGH) identified copy number variations (CNVs) in five regions: 9q34.3, 6p22.1, Yq11.223, Yp11.23, and 2q24.1. The heterozygous microdeletion in 9q34.3 involving the EHMT1 gene confirms the diagnosis of KS. Comments: The presence of pathogenic CNVs and/or those of uncertain significance, located on chromosomes 2, 6 and Y, may be contributing to a variability in the patient's clinical condition (arachnoid cyst, single palmar fold and ligament laxity), compared to other individuals with only KS genetic alteration, making the dignosis of the disease harder.

RESUMO Objetivo: Relatar um caso raro de paciente com diagnóstico molecular de síndrome de Kleefstra (SK) que apresenta quatro outras alterações cromossômicas envolvendo variantes patogênicas. Descrição do caso: Paciente masculino, dois anos de idade, com atraso global de desenvolvimento neuropsicomotor, hipertelorismo ocular, fronte ampla, braquicefalia, hipotonia, frouxidão ligamentar, prega palmar única unilateral e cisto aracnoide. Exame de hibridização genômica comparativa (a-CGH) identificou variações de número de cópias (CNV) em cinco regiões: 9q34.3, 6p22.1, Yq11.223, Yp11.23 e 2q24.1. A microdeleção heterozigótica em 9q34.3 confirma o diagnóstico de síndrome de Kleefstra. Comentários: A presença das CNV patogênicas e/ou de significado incerto, localizadas nos cromossomos 2, 6 e Y, pode estar contribuindo para uma variabilidade no quadro clínico do paciente (cisto aracnoide, prega palmar única e frouxidão ligamentar) em relação a outros indivíduos somente com alteração genética da SK, dificultando o diagnóstico da doença.

Evidence of intrauterine device insertion by nurses in Primary Health Care: an integrative review / Evidencias de inserción de dispositivos intrauterinos por parte de enfermeros en Atención Primaria de Salud: revisión integradora / Evidências da inserção de dispositivo intrauterino por enfermeiros na Atenção Primária à Saúde: revisão integrativa

ABSTRACT Objectives: to synthesize and analyze evidence on intrauterine device insertion by nurses in Primary Health Care. Methods: an integrative review, carried out in the BDENF, CINAHL, LILACS, SciELO, Scopus, PubMed and Web of Science databases in June 2022, delimiting the period from 1960 to 2022. Results: 141 articles were identified in the initial search, and 10 studies made up the final sample. Four (40%) were developed in the United States and one (10%) in Brazil, with publications from 1979 to 2021. The findings were grouped into three categories: Nurse training to insert an intrauterine device; Nurses' competency to insert an intrauterine device; and Women's access to intrauterine devices. Conclusions: nurse theoretical and practical training is a prominent element, consolidated in the favorable outcomes of insertions performed by nurses and satisfaction among women, a practice that has expanded access to the contraceptive method in Primary Health Care.

RESUMEN Objetivos: sintetizar y analizar la evidencia sobre la inserción de dispositivos intrauterinos por parte de enfermeras en la Atención Primaria de Salud. Métodos: revisión integrativa, realizada en las bases de datos BDENF, CINAHL, LILACS, SciELO, Scopus, PubMed y Web of Science en junio de 2022, delimitando el período de 1960 a 2022. Resultados: se identificaron 141 artículos en la búsqueda inicial y 10 publicaciones conformaron la muestra final. Cuatro (40%) fueron desarrollados en Estados Unidos y uno (10%) en Brasil, con publicaciones de 1979 a 2021. Los hallazgos se agruparon en tres categorías: Capacitación de enfermeras para insertar un dispositivo intrauterino; Competencia de las enfermeras para insertar un dispositivo intrauterino; y Acceso de las mujeres a los dispositivos intrauterinos. Conclusiones: la formación teórica y práctica de los enfermeros es un elemento destacado, consolidado en los resultados favorables de las inserciones realizadas por los enfermeros y la satisfacción de las mujeres, práctica que ha ampliado el acceso al método anticonceptivo en la Atención Primaria de Salud.

RESUMO Objetivos: sintetizar e analisar as evidências da inserção de dispositivo intrauterino por enfermeiros na Atenção Primária à Saúde. Métodos: revisão integrativa, realizada nas bases de dados BDENF, CINAHL, LILACS, SciELO, Scopus, PubMed e Web of Science em junho de 2022, delimitando-se o período de 1960 a 2022. Resultados: identificaram-se 141 artigos na busca inicial, e 10 publicações compuseram a amostra final. Quatro (40%) foram desenvolvidos nos Estados Unidos e um (10%) no Brasil, sendo publicações de 1979 a 2021. Os achados foram agrupados em três categorias: Treinamento dos enfermeiros para inserção de dispositivo intrauterino; Competência dos enfermeiros para inserção de dispositivo intrauterino; e Acesso das mulheres aos dispositivos intrauterinos. Conclusões: o treinamento teórico e prático dos enfermeiros é um elemento de destaque, consolidado nos desfechos favoráveis das inserções realizadas por enfermeiros e satisfação entre as mulheres, prática que tem ampliado o acesso ao método contraceptivo na Atenção Primária à Saúde.

Vitreous metastasis from cutaneous melanoma: diagnosis and management / Metástase vítrea de melanoma cutâneo: diagnóstico e tratamento

ABSTRACT Purpose: To report the clinical findings, treatments, and outcomes in a series of patients with vitreous metastasis from cutaneous melanoma. Methods: This single-center, retrospective, interventional case series included patients with biopsy-confirmed vitreous metastasis from cutaneous melanoma diagnosed between 1997 and 2020. Standard 23- or 25-gauge pars plana vitrectomy was performed for diagnostic sampling. Sclerotomies were treated with double or triple freeze-thaw cryotherapy. Perioperative intravitreal injections of melphalan (32 µg/0.075 mL) were administered, when indicated. Visual acuity, intraocular pressure, and systemic and ocular treatment responses were reported. Results: Five eyes of five patients with unilateral vitreous metastasis from cutaneous melanoma were identified. The median age at diagnosis was 84 (range, 37-88) years. The median follow-up after ophthalmic diagnosis was 28 (8.5-36) months; one patient did not have a follow-up. The initial visual acuity ranged from 20/30 to hand motions. Baseline clinical findings included pigmented or non-pigmented cellular infiltration of the vitreous (5/5), anterior segment (4/5), and retina (3/5). Four patients had secondary glaucoma. Systemic therapy included checkpoint inhibitor immunotherapy (n=3, all with partial/complete response), systemic chemotherapy (n=2), surgical resection (n=3), and radiation (n=2). The median time from primary diagnosis to vitreous metastasis was 2 (2-15) years. One patient had an active systemic disease at the time of vitreous metastasis. The final visual acuity ranged from 20/40 to no light perception. Ophthalmic treatment included vitrectomy in all five patients, intravitreal administration of melphalan in three, and intravitreal administration of methotrexate in one. One patient required enucleation, and histopathology revealed extensive invasion by melanoma cells. Conclusions: Vitreous metastasis from cutaneous melanoma can present as a diffuse infiltration of pigmented or non-pigmented cells into the vitreous and may be misdiagnosed as uveitis. Diagnostic pars plana vitrectomy and periodic intravitreal chemotherapy may be indicated.

RESUMO Objetivo: Descrever os achados clínicos, tratamentos, e desfechos em uma série de pacientes com me tástases vítreas de melanoma cutâneo. Métodos: Série retrospectiva de casos de único centro com intervenção. Pacientes incluídos tiveram seu diagnóstico de MVMC confirmado por biópsia entre 1997 e 2020. Vitrectomia via pars plana com 23 ou 25 gauge foram realizadas para obter espécimens. Esclerotomias foram tratadas com crioterapia em duplo ou triplo congelamento. Injeção intravítrea perioperatória de melfalano (32 ug/0,075 mL) foi administrada quando necessário. Foram relatados acuidade visual, pressão intraocular, resposta terapêutica sistêmica e ocular. Resultados: Cinco olhos de 5 pacientes com metástases vítreas de melanoma cutâneo unilateral foram identificados. Idade média de diagnóstico foi 84 anos (variando de 37-88). Seguimento médio após diagnóstico oftalmológico foi 28 (8,5-36) meses; 1 paciente não teve acompanhamento. Acuidade visual inicial variou de 20/30 a movimentos de mão. Achados clínicos iniciais incluíram infiltração de células pigmentadas e não-pigmentadas no vítreo (5/5), segmento anterior (4/5), e retina (3/5). Quatro pacientes tiveram glaucoma secundário. Tratamento sistêmico incluiu imunoterapia com inibidores da via de sinalização (3 - todos com resposta parcial/completa), quimioterapia sistêmica (2), ressecção cirúrgica (3), e irradiação (2). Intervalo médio entre diagnóstico primário e metástases vítreas foi 2 (2-15) anos. Um paciente teve doença sistêmica ativa simultânea as metástases vítreas. Acuidade visual final variou entre 20/40 e SPL. Tratamento oftalmológico incluiu vitrectomia nos 5 pacientes, melfalano intravítreo em 3 e metotrexato intravítreo em 1. Um paciente precisou de enucleação. A histopatologia revelou invasão celular extensa de melanoma. Conclusões: Metástases vítreas de melanoma cutâneo pode se manifestar como uma infiltração difusa de células pigmentadas e não-pigmentadas no vítreo e erroneamente diagnosticada como uveites. Vitrectomia diagnóstica e quimioterapia intravítrea periódica podem estar indicadas.

Quantitative relationship between physical activity and antihypertensives in elderly women / Relación cuantitativa entre actividad física y antihipertensivos en ancianas / Relação quantitativa entre atividade física e anti-hipertensivos em idosas

ABSTRACT Introduction: Physical activity is an important tool to manage systemic arterial hypertension. However, less is known about the relationship of physical activity with the number of antihypertensive drugs used by older adults. Objective: The aim of this study was to compare the number of antihypertensive drugs used by older female adults (aged ≥ 60 years) with a low level of physical activity with the number used by those with a high level of physical activity, and to verify how many participants used more than two antihypertensive drugs. Methods: Twenty-eight physically active older women with systemic arterial hypertension who participated in a physical activity program for community-dwelling older female adults were divided into two groups: participants who presented lower habitual physical activity levels were placed in group 1 and participants that presented higher habitual physical activity levels were placed in group 2, according to the Baecke questionnaire. In addition, the number of antihypertensive drugs used by participants was collected. Results: The number of prescribed antihypertensive drugs was 2.0 (median) for both groups investigated. There was no significant difference between groups regarding the number of antihypertensive tablets prescribed (p>0.05). Although there was no statistical difference, a higher proportion of participants from the lower physical activity group used more than two antihypertensive drugs. Conclusion: The level of habitual physical activity did not affect the number of antihypertensive tablets used by hypertensive elderly women. Level of evidence II; Therapeutic studies - investigation of treatment results.

RESUMEN Introducción: La actividad física es una herramienta importante para el manejo de la hipertensión arterial sistémica. Sin embargo, se sabe poco sobre la relación de la actividad física con la cantidad de medicamentos antihipertensivos utilizados por las ancianas. Objetivo: El objetivo de este estudio fue hacer una comparación entre el número de medicamentos antihipertensivos utilizados por mujeres adultas mayores (≥ 60 años) y bajo nivel de actividad física con el número utilizado por aquellas con alto nivel de actividad física, y verificar cuántas de las participantes usaron más de dos medicamentos antihipertensivos. Métodos: Veintiocho ancianas físicamente activas con hipertensión arterial sistémica que participaron en un programa de actividad física para mujeres adultas mayores residentes en la comunidad fueran divididas en dos grupos: las participantes que presentaron niveles más bajos de actividad física habitual se ubicaron en el grupo 1 y las participantes que presentaron los mayores niveles de actividad física se ubicaron en el grupo 2, según el cuestionario de Baecke. Además, se recogió el número de medicamentos antihipertensivos utilizados por las participantes. Resultados: El número de comprimidos antihipertensivos prescritos fue de 2,0 (mediana) para ambos grupos investigados. No hubo diferencia significativa entre los grupos en cuanto al número de medicamentos antihipertensivos prescritos (p>0,05). Aunque no hubo diferencia estadística, una mayor proporción de participantes del grupo de menor actividad física usó más de dos medicamentos antihipertensivos. Conclusión: El nivel de actividad física habitual no afectó el número de comprimidos antihipertensivos utilizados por las ancianas hipertensas. Nivel de evidencia II; Estudios terapéuticos: investigación de los resultados del tratamiento.

RESUMO Introdução: A atividade física é uma importante ferramenta no manejo da hipertensão arterial sistêmica. No entanto, pouco se sabe sobre a relação entre a atividade física e a quantidade de anti-hipertensivos usados por idosos. Objetivo: O objetivo deste estudo foi realizar uma comparação entre o número de anti-hipertensivos usados por idosas (≥ 60 anos) com baixo nível de atividade física com o número usado por aquelas com alto nível de atividade física, verificando quantas participantes usaram mais de dois anti-hipertensivos. Métodos: Vinte e oito idosas fisicamente ativas com hipertensão arterial sistêmica que participavam de um programa de atividade física para idosas da comunidade foram divididas em dois grupos: as participantes que apresentaram níveis mais baixos de atividade física habitual foram colocadas no grupo 1 e as participantes que apresentaram maiores níveis de atividade física foram colocados no grupo 2, de acordo com o questionário de Baecke. Ademais, coletou-se o número de medicamentos anti-hipertensivos utilizados pelas participantes. Resultados: O número de fármacos anti-hipertensivos prescritos foi de 2,0 (mediana) para ambos os grupos investigados. Não houve diferença significativa entre os grupos quanto ao número de comprimidos anti-hipertensivos prescritos (p>0,05). Embora não tenha havido diferença estatística, uma maior proporção de participantes entre o grupo de menor atividade física utilizava mais de dois anti-hipertensivos. Conclusão: O nível de atividade física habitual não afetou a quantidade de comprimidos anti-hipertensivos utilizados pelas idosas hipertensas. Nível de evidência II; Estudos terapêuticos - Investigação dos resultados do tratamento.

Are we ready to stratify BI-RADS 4 lesions observed on magnetic resonance imaging? A real-world noninferiority/equivalence analysis / Estamos prontos para estratificar lesões BI-RADS 4 na ressonância magnética? Uma análise de não inferioridade/equivalência do mundo real

Abstract Objective: To demonstrate that positive predictive values (PPVs) for suspicious (category 4) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings that have been stratified are equivalent to those stipulated in the American College of Radiology Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS) for mammography and ultrasound. Materials and Methods: This retrospective analysis of electronic medical records generated between January 4, 2016 and December 29, 2021 provided 365 patients in which 419 suspicious (BI-RADS category 4) findings were subcategorized as BI-RADS 4A, 4B or 4C. Malignant and nonmalignant outcomes were determined by pathologic analyses, follow-up, or both. For each subcategory, the level 2 PPV (PPV2) was calculated and tested for equivalence/noninferiority against the established benchmarks. Results: Of the 419 findings evaluated, 168 (40.1%) were categorized as malignant and 251 (59.9%) were categorized as nonmalignant. The PPV2 for subcategory 4A was 14.2% (95% CI: 9.3-20.4%), whereas it was 41.2% (95% CI: 32.8-49.9%) for subcategory 4B and 77.2% (95% CI: 68.4-84.5%) for subcategory 4C. Multivariate analysis showed a significantly different cancer yield for each subcategory (p < 0.001). Conclusion: We found that stratification of suspicious findings by MRI criteria is feasible, and malignancy probabilities for sub-categories 4B and 4C are equivalent to the values established for the other imaging methods in the BI-RADS. Nevertheless, low suspicion (4A) findings might show slightly higher malignancy rates.

Resumo Objetivo: Demonstrar que os valores preditivos positivos (VPPs) para lesões suspeitas (categoria 4) identificadas por ressonância magnética (RM) são equivalentes aos estipulados no ACR BI-RADS para mamografia e ultrassonografia. Materiais e Métodos: Análise retrospectiva de dados em prontuário eletrônico, entre 4 de janeiro de 2016 e 29 de dezembro de 2021, resultou em 365 pacientes elegíveis, com 419 lesões classificadas como BI-RADS 4A, 4B ou 4C. Desfechos malignos e não malignos foram determinados por estudo patológico e/ou acompanhamento. Realizamos o cálculo do VPP nível 2 (VPP2) para cada subcategoria e testamos para não inferioridade/equivalência em relação aos valores de referência. Resultados: Dos 419 achados, 168 (40,1%) foram malignos e 251 (59,9%), não malignos. O VPP2 para subcategoria 4A foi 14,2% (IC 95%: 9,3-20,4%), para 4B foi 41,2% (IC 95%:, 32,8-49,9%) e para 4C foi 77,2% (IC 95%: 68,4-84,5%). Análise multivariada demonstrou diferenças estatisticamente significantes entre as subcategorias (p < 0,001). Conclusão: A estratificação de achados suspeitos por RM é factível, sendo que a probabilidade de malignidade das subcategorias 4B e 4C é equivalente à estabelecida para outros métodos de imagem pelo BI-RADS. Contudo, lesões de baixa suspeição (4A) podem apresentar taxas mais altas de malignidade.

Is it Always Laryngopharyngeal Reflux? How Voice Disorders Can Manifest as LPR

Introduction: Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) manifests with a constellation of common throat symptoms and inconclusive signs on laryngoscopic exam. It is a diagnosis, often made clinically, that can lead to prescriptions of proton pump inhibitors that are unnecessary and potentially harmful. Glottic insufficiency (GI) and the accompanying hyperfunctional laryngeal behaviors can also present with similar, common throat complaints that may or may not include a qualitative change to the voice. Methods: This is a reflection article. It is written to summarize, explain, and support with evidence the opinion of the author on the topic of how symptoms of voice disorders can easily be mistaken for symptoms of LPR. The offered reflection is based on his experience, research and the available literature. Reflection: This article intends to explore the similarities between GI and LPR, how to ultimately differentiate them and how to approach treatment with a broader differential diagnosis. Conclusion: LPR and GI can present with identical, vague throat, and voice symptoms. Empiric medication trials, behavioral interventions and objective laryngovideostroboscopy, impedance-based reflux, and esophageal motility testing may all be needed, sometimes in a trial and error fashion, to correctly diagnose and treat a patient's symptoms.

Introducción: El reflujo laríngeo-faríngeo (LPR, por sus siglas en inglés) se manifiesta con una serie de síntomas comunes en la garganta y signos no concluyentes en el examen larinoscópico. Es un diagnóstico que a menudo se realiza clínicamente y que puede llevar a la prescripción de inhibidores de la bomba de protones que son innecesarios y potencialmente perjudiciales. La insuficiencia glótica (IG) y los comportamientos laríngeos hiperfuncionales que la acompañan también pueden presentar síntomas de garganta comunes similares, que pueden o no incluir un cambio cualitativo en la voz. Métodos: Este es un artículo de reflexión. Está escrito para resumir, explicar y respaldar con evidencia la opinión del autor sobre cómo los síntomas de los trastornos de la voz pueden confundirse fácilmente con los síntomas del LPR. La reflexión ofrecida se basa en su experiencia, investigación y la literatura disponible. Reflexión: Este artículo tiene la intención de explorar las similitudes entre la IG y el LPR, cómo diferenciarlos finalmente y cómo abordar el tratamiento con un diagnóstico diferencial más amplio. Conclusión: El LPR y la IG pueden presentar síntomas idénticos y vagos en la garganta y la voz. Puede ser necesario realizar ensayos de medicación empírica, intervenciones conductuales y pruebas objetivas de laringovideostroboscopia, reflujo basado en impedancia y motilidad esofágica, a veces de manera experimental, para diagnosticar y tratar correctamente los síntomas de un paciente.

Adherence to heart rate training zones in an exercise training program in adults with coronary artery disease

Objectives: To investigate the effect of exercise intensity on functional capacity in individuals with coronary artery disease, assess adherence to the heart rate training zone (HRTZ), and relationship between trained intensity and functional capacity. Methods: Retrospective study led with medical records of 54 outpatients with coronary artery disease in a public hospital. The prescribed intensity started at 50 ­60% of heart rate reserve, increasing monthly to 70 ­80% by the third month. Spearman's test was used to assess the correlation between improvement in distance in the incremental shuttle walk test (ISWT), exercise intensity, and rating of perceived exertion (Borg­RPE). Adherence was classified as 'below' when HRTZ was not achieved in any phase of the program, 'intermediate' when HR was within the HRTZ for one or two months, and 'above' when HR was at or higher than HRTZ two months. Improvement was tested with t-test and one-way ANOVA. Results: 51.9% of participants had an increase in ISWT of ≥70 m (p < 0.0001). In at least one month, 50.9% trained below HRTZ. Trained intensity did not go below 8.6% of the prescribed minimal threshold of HRTZ. Changes in ISWT were not significantly correlated with exercise intensity (p = 0.87) or Borg­RPE (p = 0.16). Conclusion: While a significant increase in functional capacity was found, considerable heterogeneity in changes were observed. This may, in part, be related to adherence to HRTZ with progressive exercise intensity and to the variability in exercise volume incardiovascular rehabilitation programs.

A web-based survey to map the electromyography practice in Brazil / Uma enquete via internet para mapear a prática de eletromiografia no Brasil

Abstract Background Detailed information about the electromyography practice in Brazil is largely unavailable. Objective To evaluate where and how electromyography is performed in Brazil, as well as regional disparities and the professional and academic credentials of electromyographers. Methods We conducted an internet-based survey of active Brazilian electromyographers. The websites of health insurance companies, professional academies, medical cooperatives, online search engines, and social networks in each Brazilian state were screened and we evaluated the credentials of each electromyographer listed in the Brazilian Federal Medical Board (BFMB) registration website and their online curricula vitae in the Brazilian National Council for Scientific and Technological Development (Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico, CNPq, in Portuguese). We also evaluated the same parameters in a control group of non-electromyographer neurologists randomly matched by geographical distribution and gender. Results We found 469 electromyographers (384 neurologists and 85 non-neurologists), with a male predominance. In total, 81.9% were BFMB-certified neurologists, 49.9%, BFMB-certified clinical neurophysiologists, and 10.4%, BFMB-certified physiatrists. Among the non-neurologists, 48.2% were physiatrists. Most electromyographers practiced in states on the Southern and Southeastern regions of Brazil. When adjusted by population, the Federal District and the states of Mato Grosso do Sul and Goiás presented the highest of eletromyographers density. Electromyographers were not more likely to have current/past academic affiliations. Conclusion In Brazil, electromyography is performed predominantly by neurologists, and half of them are BFMB-certified clinical neurophysiologists. The present study highlights regional disparities and may guide government-based initiatives, for instance, to improve the diagnosis of leprosy and the management of neuromuscular disorders within the Brazilian territory.

Resumo Antecedentes Informações detalhadas sobre a prática de eletromiografia no Brasil são em grande parte indisponíveis. Objetivo Avaliar onde e como a eletromiografia é realizada no Brasil, as disparidades regionais, e as credenciais profissionais e acadêmicas dos eletromiografistas. Métodos Realizamos uma enquete via internet de eletromiografistas brasileiros ativos. Foram rastreados sites de operadoras de planos de saúde, academias profissionais médicas, cooperativas médicas, ferramentas de busca online e redes sociais em cada estado brasileiro. Em seguida, avaliamos as credenciais de cada eletromiografista listado no site de registro do Conselho Federal de Medicina (CFM) e seus curricula vitae online no Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq). Também avaliamos os mesmos parâmetros em um grupo controle de neurologistas não eletromiografistas pareados aleatoriamente por distribuição geográfica e gênero. Resultados Encontramos 469 eletromiografistas (384 neurologistas e 85 não neurologistas), com predominância do sexo masculino. Ao todo, 81,9% eram neurologistas com certificação confirmada pelo site do CFM, 49,9%, neurofisiologistas clínicos com certificação confirmada pelo site do CFM, e 10,4%, fisiatras com certificação confirmada pelo mesmo site. Entre os não neurologistas, 48,2% eram fisiatras. A maioria dos eletromiografistas atuava nos estados do Sul e do Sudeste. Quando ajustados pela população, o Distrito Federal e os estados de Mato Grosso do Sul e Goiás apresentaram a maior densidade de eletromiografistas. Os eletromiografistas não eram mais propensos a ter vínculos acadêmicos atuais/passados. Conclusão No Brasil, a eletromiografia é realizada predominantemente por neurologistas, e metade deles são neurofisiologistas clínicos com certificação confirmada pelo site do CFM. Este estudo destacou as disparidades regionais, e pode orientar ações governamentais para, por exemplo, melhorar o diagnóstico da hanseníase e o manejo das doenças neuromusculares no território brasileiro.

Infecciones por helmintos intestinales en Chile: Análisis retrospectivo en Santiago, años 2015-2019

Introducción: Existe escasa evidencia epidemiológica actual sobre helmintos intestinales en Chile. Objetivo: Describir la prevalencia de infecciones por helmintos intestinales en un centro de salud en Santiago, Chile. Métodos: Análisis retrospectivo de helmintos intestinales diagnosticados en muestras parasitológicas de rutina en el Laboratorio de Microbiología de Clínica Alemana de Santiago, entre los años 2015 y 2019. Las pruebas diagnósticas se seleccionaron según la solicitud médica. Los datos se obtuvieron de los sistemas informáticos del laboratorio y se analizaron de manera anonimizada. Resultados: Se detectaron 127 infecciones por helmintos en 11.809 muestras estudiadas (1,1%). Estas infecciones fueron: 78 (61,4%) Enterobius vermicularis, 25 (19,6%) Dibothriocephalus/Adenocephalus spp., 9 (7,1%) Taenia spp., 6 (4,7%) Pseudoterranova spp., 5 (3,9%) Strongyloides stercoralis y 4 (3,1%) Ascaris lumbricoides. Enterobius vermicularis predominó en niños y adolescentes; Dibothriocephalus/ Adenocephalus spp. predominó en adultos. Conclusión: El estudio proporciona información epidemiológica actual sobre la distribución de helmintos intestinales en muestras clínicas en Santiago, Chile. Enterobius vermicularis fue prevalente, seguido de helmintos transmitidos por alimentos mientras que los transmitidos por el suelo solo se detectaron ocasionalmente. El surgimiento de difilobotriasis y anisakidosis (pseudoterranoviasis), es relevante y posiblemente se relacione con cambios en las condiciones de vida y la cultura alimentaria en Chile.

Background: Epidemiological information on the current prevalence of intestinal helminths in Chile is scarce. Aim: To describe the prevalence of different intestinal helminth infections in a healthcare center in Santiago, Chile. Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of intestinal helminths diagnosed in routine parasitological samples in the microbiological laboratory of Clínica Alemana Santiago, Chile, between 2015 and 2019. Diagnostic tests were applied according to the sender's request. Data were obtained from laboratory information systems and analyzed in an anonymized manner. Results: Among 11,809 samples, 127 (1.1%) helminth infections were detected, of those, 78 (61.4%) were Enterobius vermicularis, 25 (19.6%) Dibothriocephalus/Adenocephalus spp., 9 (7.1%) Taenia spp., 6 (4.7%) Pseudoterranova spp., 5 (3.9%) Strongyloides stercoralis, and 4 (3.1%) Ascaris lumbricoides. Enterobius vermicularis was predominant among children and adolescents, while Dibothriocephalus/Adenocephalus spp. was the most frequent helminth in adults. Conclusion: The study provides updated epidemiological information on distribution of helminth infections in clinical samples in Santiago, Chile. After E. vermicularis, food-borne helminths were second most prevalent, while soiltransmitted helminths were very rarely detected. The emergence of diphyllobothriasis and anisakidosis (pseudoterranoviasis) is noteworthy and possibly related to changes in living conditions and food culture in Chile.

Improvement of hedonic perception of odors as a marker of treatment response to escitalopram: olfactory changes through an open-label antidepressant trial

Objectives: To assess olfactory functions (threshold, identification, and hedonic valence) of depressed subjects before and after an 8-week trial of escitalopram and compare the results of responders and nonresponders. Methods: Fifty-two depressed subjects were recruited. Participants received escitalopram and were evaluated at two visits: baseline (V0) and week 8 (V8). They were categorized as responders (Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale [MADRS] score reduction of > 50%) or nonresponders to treatment. Participants were evaluated with the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI) at V0 and, at V0 and V8, completed psychometric and olfactory assessments, including MADRS and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), as well as the Sniffin' Sticks® test (threshold and identification tasks). The hedonic valence of smell was assessed on a 10-cm linear scale after presenting two pleasant and two unpleasant odors. Forty-three participants completed the study (24 responders and 19 nonresponders). The Mann-Whitney, chi-square, and Fisher's exact tests were used to compare olfactory, clinical, and demographic variables between groups and within the same group at V0 and V8. The Spearman coefficient was used to calculate the correlation between clinical characteristics and olfactory variables. Results: The hedonic score of pleasant odors increased significantly between V0 and V8 only for responders (V = 61.5, p = 0.018), with no significant change in nonresponders (V = 90.5, p = 0.879). Comparison of olfactory performances between groups at V0 and V8 separately did not show a significant difference between responders and nonresponders to escitalopram. Olfactory threshold and identification scores were not different between V0 and V8 for responders or nonresponders. Conclusion: Depressed subjects have olfactory anhedonia, which appears to regress following a positive antidepressant response. Hedonic valence may be an indicator of cognitive changes associated with depression; improvement of this valence may indicate a clinical response to antidepressants.

Characterization of Salivary Gland Pain: A Review of the Literature / Caracterización del Dolor de Glándulas Salivales: Revisión de la Literatura

SUMMARY: The salivary glands in pathological conditions produce countless different clinical presentations, and due to their complex neuroanatomy, their pain symptoms vary widely. However, in the literature to date, few studies characterize salivary gland pain. The aim of this study was to conduct a literature review concerning the clinical characteristics of pain in various salivary gland pathologies. A literature review was done through a systematic search of scientific articles in the Web of Science (WoS), MEDLINE, Scopus, and Elton B. Stephens Company (EBSCO) databases. The free terms "salivary gland", "parotid gland", "submaxillary gland", "sublingual gland", and "pain" were used along with the Boolean operators OR and AND. The search yielded a total of 1896 articles, of which 60 fulfilled the inclusion criteria and were ultimately included in this review. It is described that pain is a nonspecific symptom of a glandular pathology and is characterized mainly by the location of the pain, which is correlated with the anatomical location of the affected salivary gland. Among the painful salivary gland pathologies, we found inflammatory disorders, including infections, obstructions, disorders secondary to hyposalivation; systemic autoimmune diseases; neoplasms, and neuropathic pain disorders. The diagnosis and management of salivary gland pain require knowledge of the causes and mechanisms of the pain, and it is to recognize the signs and symptoms of salivary gland disorders to be able to diagnose and treat them.

Las glándulas salivales en condiciones patológicas producen un sinfín de presentaciones clínicas diferentes, y debido a su compleja neuroanatomía generan variaciones en su sintomatología dolorosa. Sin embargo, en la literatura hasta ahora son escasos los estudios que caracterizan el dolor de glándulas salivales. El objetivo de este estudio fue realizar una revisión de la literatura respecto a las características clínicas del dolor en diversas patologías de glándulas salivales. Se realizó una revisión de la literatura, a través de la búsqueda sistemática de artículos científicos en las bases de datos Web of Science (WoS), MEDLINE, Scopus y Elton B. Stephens Company (EBSCO). A través de los términos libres: "salivary gland", "parotid gland", "submaxillary gland", "sublingual gland", "pain", junto con los operadores booleanos OR y AND. La búsqueda arrojó un total de 1896 artículos, de los cuales 60 cumplieron los criterios de inclusión y fueron finalmente incluidos en esta revisión. Se describe que el dolor es un síntoma poco específico para la patología glandular y está caracterizado principalmente por la localización del dolor, el cual se correlaciona con la ubicación anatómica de la glándula salival afectada. Dentro de las patologías dolorosas de glándulas salivales encontramos los trastornos inflamatorios, incluidas infecciones, obstrucciones, trastornos secundarios a hiposalivación; enfermedades sistémicas autoinmunes; neoplasias y trastornos de dolor neuropático. El diagnóstico y manejo del dolor de glándulas salivales requiere del conocimiento de las causas y mecanismos del dolor, siendo necesario reconocer los signos y síntomas de los trastornos de glándulas salivales para ser capaces de diagnosticarlos y tratarlos.

Relación de las Enfermedades Crónicas no Transmisibles y Ejercicio Físico en la Población Chilena entre los años 2015-2016 / Risk of Retention of Secretions in Patients with Invasive Mechanical Ventilation

Introducción. Las prevalencias de la inactividad física, el sedentarismo y el sobrepeso y obesidad han aumentado sus índices durante los últimos años en Chile, lo que conlleva al desarrollo y aparición de diversas enfermedades crónicas no transmisibles, como por ejemplo, hipertensión arterial, diabetes mellitus e inclusive enfermedades respiratorias, las cuales repercuten negativamente en la población y deterioran la calidad de vida de las personas, independientemente el sexo y el rango etario. El ejercicio físico es una de las principales herramientas utilizadas por diversos profesionales de la salud como método de prevención y tratamiento en la población afectada, inclusive representa una alternativa de menor costo. Objetivo. Relacionar el ejercicio físico de alta y mediana intensidad con las enfermedades crónicas no transmisibles en personas mayores a 18 años residentes en Chile durante el periodo 2015-2016. Métodos. Análisis cuantitativo, descriptivo, transversal y retrospectivo de base secundaria ENCAVI 2015-2016, de residentes en Chile mayores de 18 años y con al menos una de las siguientes condiciones de salud: Hipertensión arterial, Diabetes Mellitus y enfermedades respiratorias crónicas no transmisibles. Resultados. Todas las variables presentan relaciones significativas (p<0,005) (HTA, DM, enfermedades respiratorias, edad, horas sentado, ejercicio físico de moderada y alta intensidad. Sin embargo, las variables de ejercicio físico moderada intensidad y enfermedades respiratorias (p=0,578) y las variables de sexo y horas sentado (p=0,005) no presentan relación significativa. Discusión. El ejercicio físico de moderada intensidad es el que tiene mejor respuesta ante las diferentes patologías según diferentes autores, por otro lado, en la recopilación de datos podemos encontrar que este tipo de ejercicio es efectivo en la Diabetes Mellitus. Conclusiones. Según los datos analizados, mientras mayor frecuencia de ejercicio físico de alta intensidad (en días) y ejercicio físico de moderada intensidad (en horas) se realice durante los últimos días de la semana, los diagnósticos de las enfermedades crónicas no transmisibles (HTA, DM) y enfermedades respiratorias se verán controladas, mientras que, cuando existe menor frecuencia del ejercicio físico realizado durante los últimos días de la semana, tiende a existir mayor diagnóstico.

Background. The prevalence of physical inactivity, sedentary lifestyle, and overweight and obesity have increased their rates in recent years in Chile, which leads to the development and appearance of various chronic non-communicable diseases, such as for example, arterial hypertension, diabetes mellitus and even respiratory diseases, which have a negative impact on the population and deteriorate the quality of life of people, regardless of gender and age range (7). Physical exercise is one of the main tools used by various health professionals as a method of prevention and treatment in the affected population, even representing a lower cost alternative. Objetive. To relate high and medium intensity physical exercise with chronic non-communicable diseases in people over 18 years of age residing in Chile during the period 2015-2016. Methods. Quantitative, descriptive, cross-sectional and retrospective analysis of the ENCAVI 2015-2016 secondary base of residents in Chile over 18 years of age and with at least one of the following health conditions: High blood pressure, Diabetes Mellitus and chronic non-communicable respiratory diseases. Results. All the variables present significant relationships (p<0.005) (HTN, DM, respiratory diseases, age, hours sitting, moderate and high intensity physical exercise. However, the variables of moderate intensity physical exercise and respiratory diseases (p=0.578) and the variables of sex and sitting hours (p=0.005) do not present a significant relationship. Discussion. Moderate intensity physical exercise is the one that has the best response to different pathologies according to different authors, on the other hand, in data collection we can found that this type of exercise is effective in Diabetes Mellitus. Conclusions. According to the data analyzed, the greater the frequency of high-intensity physical exercise (in days) and moderate-intensity physical exercise (in hours) performed during the last days of the week, the diagnoses of chronic non-communicable diseases (HTN, DM) and respiratory diseases will be controlled, while, when there is less frequency of physical exercise carried out during the last days of the week, there tends to be a greater diagnosis.

Prevalence of fibromyalgia in a Brazilian series of patients with multiple sclerosis / Prevalência de fibromialgia em uma série brasileira de pacientes com esclerose múltipla

Abstract Background The prevalence of pain in patients with multiple sclerosis is remarkable. Fibromyalgia has been considered as one of the forms of chronic pain encompassed in multiple sclerosis, but data are restricted to studies from Europe and North America. Objective To assess the prevalence of fibromyalgia in a series of Brazilian patients with multiple sclerosis and the characteristics of this comorbidity. Methods The present cross-sectional study included 60 consecutive adult patients with multiple sclerosis. Upon consent, participants underwent a thorough evaluation for disability, fatigue, quality of life, presence of fibromyalgia, depression, and anxiety. Results The prevalence of fibromyalgia was 11.7%, a figure similar to that observed in previous studies. Patients with the comorbidity exhibited worse scores on fatigue (median and interquartile range [IQR]: 68 [48-70] versus 39 [16.5-49]; p < 0.001), quality of life (mean ± standard deviation [SD]: 96.5 ± 35.9 versus 124.8 ± 28.8; p = 0.021), anxiety (mean ± SD: 22.7 ± 15.1 versus 13.8 ± 8.4; p = 0.021), and depression (median and IQR: 23 [6-28] versus 6 [3-12.5]; p = 0.034) indices than patients without fibromyalgia. There was a strong positive correlation between depression and anxiety scores with fatigue (r = 0.773 and r = 0.773, respectively; p < 0.001). Conversely, a moderate negative correlation appeared between the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), fatigue, and depression scores with quality of life (r= −0.587, r= −0.551, r= −0.502, respectively; p < 0.001). Conclusion Fibromyalgia is a comorbidity of multiple sclerosis that can enhance fatigue and decrease quality of life, although depression, anxiety, and disability are factors that can potentiate the impact of the comorbidity.

Resumo Antecedentes A prevalência de dor em pacientes com esclerose múltipla é significativa. A fibromialgia é considerada uma forma de dor crônica encontrada na esclerose múltipla, mas os dados são restritos a estudos europeus e da América do Norte. Objetivo Avaliar a prevalência de fibromialgia em uma série de pacientes com esclerose múltipla e as características desta comorbidade. Métodos O presente estudo transversal incluiu consecutivamente 60 pacientes adultos com esclerose múltipla. Após o consentimento, os participantes foram submetidos à avaliação para determinação de incapacidade, fadiga, qualidade de vida, presença de fibromialgia, depressão e ansiedade. Resultados A prevalência de fibromialgia foi de 11,7%, similar ao observado em estudos prévios. Pacientes com a comorbidade apresentaram piores escores de fadiga (mediana e intervalo interquartil [IIQ]: 68 [48-70] versus 39 [16,5-49]; p < 0,001], qualidade de vida (média ± desvio padrão [DP]: 96,5 ± 35,9 versus 124,8 ± 28,8; p = 0,021), ansiedade (média ± DP: 22,7 ± 15,1 versus 13,8 ± 8,4; p = 0,021) e depressão (mediana e IIQ: 23 (6-28) versus 6 (3-12,5); p = 0,034] do que pacientes sem fibromialgia. Houve correlação positiva forte dos escores de depressão e de ansiedade com a fadiga (r = 0,773 e r = 0,773, respectivamente; p < 0,001). Concomitantemente, houve correlação negativa moderada entre os escores de escala de estado de incapacidade expandida, fadiga e depressão com a qualidade de vida (r = - 0,587, r = - 0,551, r = - 0,502, respectivamente; p < 0,001). Conclusão A fibromialgia é uma comorbidade de esclerose múltipla que pode aumentar a fadiga e diminuir a qualidade de vida, embora depressão, ansiedade e incapacidade sejam fatores potencializadores dessa morbidade associada.

Measuring categorisation in pre-school children: new toolkit, new insights

Introduction: whilst recent years have witnessed considerable research into infant categorisation, its development during the pre-school period has garnered far less interest and innovation. Objective: this paper documents the development of a valid and reliable new toolkit for measuring categorisation in children, designed to allow fine-grained differentiation through four short tasks. Methods: the paper outlines how a pilot study with 55 children reduced confounding variables, ruled out several explanations for performance variations and enabled procedural refinements. It then documents a study conducted with 190 children aged 30-60 months. Results: this more sophisticated testing mechanism challenges previously accepted developmental norms and suggests both sex and socio-economic status (and their interaction) influence categorisational abilities in pre-schoolers. Conclusion: the results indicate that preschool children's ability to categorise varies markedly, with implications for their capacity to access formal education.

Introdução: embora nos últimos anos tenha havido pesquisas consideráveis sobre a categorização infantil, seu desenvolvimento durante o período pré-escolar atraiu muito menos interesse e inovação. Objetivo: este artigo documenta o desenvolvimento de um novo kit de ferramentas válido e confiável para medir a categorização em crianças, projetado para permitir diferenciação refinada por meio de quatro tarefas curtas. Método: o artigo descreve como um estudo piloto com 55 crianças reduziu variáveis de confusão, descartou várias explicações para variações de desempenho e permitiu refinamentos de procedimentos. Em seguida, documenta um estudo realizado com 190 crianças de 30 a 60 meses. Resultados: este mecanismo de teste mais sofisticado desafia as normas de desenvolvimento previamente aceitas e sugere que o sexo e o status socioeconômico (e sua interação) influenciam as habilidades de categorização em pré-escolares. Conclusão: os resultados indicam que a capacidade de categorização dos pré-escolares varia acentuadamente, com implicações na sua capacidade de acesso à educação forma

Sobrepeso y obesidad en Chile: Consideraciones para su abordaje en un contexto de inequidad social

Con 3 de cada 4 personas viviendo con sobrepeso u obesidad, la prevalencia de IMC elevado en Chile es de las más altas del continente, mostrando un patrón de distribución inequitativo mediado por determinantes estructurales que modelan el comportamiento en salud (seguridad social, nivel socioeconómico, educación, género, entre otros). Las características socioeconómicas del país, nación de ingresos altos con marcada inequidad, son poco comunes y representan un desafío adicional a la hora de diseñar intervenciones en salud. Una alta concentración de riqueza permite ser clasificado como país de ingresos altos aun cuando la mayor parte de la población pertenecería a una clase social vulnerable, cuyos ingresos se ven acompañados de recursos sociales y simbólicos que dificultan doblemente la adopción de un "estilo de vida" saludable. A pesar de las múltiples estrategias nutricionales implementadas, la prevalencia de sobrepeso y obesidad continúa en aumento. Se postula como gran responsable al insistente uso de modelos basados en elección y responsabilidad individual, que buscan modificar factores de riesgo conductuales (sedentarismo y alta ingesta calórica) sin neutralizar los determinantes estructurales que predisponen esa conducta. Favorablemente, la última Política Nacional de Nutrición reconoce la "determinación social de la alimentación", representando un cambio de paradigma que confiere cierto optimismo y cuya eficacia deberá ser evaluada en los próximos años.

With 3 out of 4 people living with overweight or obesity, the national prevalence of high BMI is among the highest on the continent, thus showing an inequitable distribution pattern mediated by structural determinants that shape health behavior (social security, socioeconomic status, education, gender, among others). The socioeconomic features of the country, a high-income nation with marked inequity, are unusual and represent an additional challenge when designing health interventions. A high concentration of wealth allows it to be classified as a high-income country even though most of the population would belong to a vulnerable social class, whose income is accompanied by social and symbolic resources that make it doubly challenging to adopt a healthy "lifestyle". Despite the multiple nutritional strategies implemented, the prevalence of overweight and obesity continues to increase. The insistent use of models based on individual choice and responsibility, which seek to modify behavioral risk factors (sedentary lifestyle and high caloric intake) without neutralizing the structural determinants predisposing this behavior, is postulated as highly responsible. Favorably, the latest National Nutrition Policy recognizes the "social determination of food", representing a paradigm shift that confers some optimism and whose effectiveness has to be evaluated in the coming years.

Association of sunlight exposure with visual impairment in an Indian fishing community

Purpose: Indian fishermen belong to a marginalized population and are continuously exposed to extreme occupational hazards and sunlight. A high prevalence of visual impairment (VI) is reported in the coastal fishing community. We aimed to investigate the association between VI and sunlight exposure measurement (SEM). Methods: In this cross?sectional observational study, 270 eyes of 135 participants were enrolled from a coastal fishing village. Participants underwent a comprehensive ophthalmic examination, which included best?corrected visual acuity (BCVA), and anterior and posterior segment examination. Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) and SEM questionnaire were administered to estimate the level of dry eye and ultraviolet?B (UV?B) exposure, respectively. VI was defined as presenting visual acuity worse than 6/12 (logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution [logMAR] > 0.3). Results: The mean age and spherical equivalent were 50.56 ± 11.72 years (range: 18–80 years) and 0.36 ± 1.68 diopters (D) (range: ?7.0 to +3.0 D), respectively. Age, SEM, OSDI, fishing as an occupation, and cataract were significantly associated with higher odds of VI in univariate analysis. Refraction, gender, education level, smoking status, amblyopia, systematic, and other ocular diseases were not significantly associated with VI. In the multivariate analysis, age, SEM, and presence of cataract remained significantly associated with a higher risk for VI. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve values for age and SEM scores demonstrate a fair index of discrimination for the detection of VI. Conclusion: SEM level is directly associated with a higher risk of VI among fishermen. The fishing community might benefit from regular eye examinations and awareness about the harmful effects of sunlight exposure and preventive measures.