Utilization of Reproductive and Child Health Services and Client Satisfaction from Urban Primary Health Centers by Recently Delivered Women Living in Urban Slums of Lucknow, India

Background: Due to rapid urbanization, there is an increase in population in slums often lacking access to basic health services. Objective: The purpose of this study was to assess the utilization of reproductive and child health services by recently delivered women and their children residing in catchment areas of urban PHCs, to evaluate their level of satisfaction and to determine the factors associated with utilization of these services by recently delivered women. Settings and Design: The study was conducted in the catchment areas of urban primary health centre of Lucknow. Methods and Material: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 320 women having children less than 24 months in the slums covered under selected U-PHCs, sampled through a multi-stage random sampling technique using a semi-structured questionnaire. Statistical analysis used: SPSS-26 and MedCalc software were used for data analysis. Results: Utilization of RCH services by recently delivered women from UPHC was 39%. About 24% of recently delivered women availed ANC services from UPHC and 56.7% utilized family planning services and 95.8% immunization services for children. Child care services for diarrhea and ARI were availed by 9.9 and 3.1% of women, respectively. Satisfaction regarding maternal care and immunization services was seen in 84 and 95.8% of women. Poor satisfaction regarding child care was seen in 56.5% of women. Conclusions: The utilization of RCH services was found to be poor in the study population. Most recently delivered women were satisfied with all services except child care.

ACCESS TO SAFE DRINKING WATER REMAINS NEED OF HOUR IN PREVENTING BACTERIAL AND PARASITIC DIARRHEA AMONGST UNDER 5 CHILDREN

In India, diarrhea prevalence among under 5 years children remains high and is associated with a wide range of bacteria, parasites, and viruses, transmitted through contaminated food and water. The present study aimed at the detection of enteric pathogens in children with diarrhea and its relationship to the source of drinking water. Fecal samples were collected from 157 children from July 2021 to July 2022. Among 157 children, parasitic and bacterial pathogens were detected in 4.5% (7/157). Parasites were detected in 2% (Giardia 67%, H nana in 33%) and bacteria in 2.5% (Ecoli O157 in 75% and salmonella in 25%) cases. Specific sources of drinking water more often associated with diarrhea were hand pumps (43%), house tap water (28.6%), bore well (14.2%), and well (14.2%) cases. Thus, demonstrating the persistence of significant pathogens and re-emphasizing that diarrheal illnesses are preventable through safe drinking water practices.

Impact of Saccharomyces boulardii on jaundice in premature infants undergoing phototherapy

Abstract Objectives To evaluate the therapeutic effect of Saccharomyces boulardii supplementation on jaundice in premature infants undergoing phototherapy. Methods In this article, the authors reviewed 100 hospitalized jaundiced premature infants under 35 weeks of gestational age. All infants were assigned to a control group (n= 45) and a treatment group (n= 55) randomly. The infants in the treatment group received S. boulardii supplementation by undergoing phototherapy and the infants in the control group were only treated by phototherapy. The total serum bilirubin levels were detected before and at the end of phototherapy, and transcutaneous bilirubin levels were measured on the 1st, 4th, 8th and 15th day of treatment. The duration of jaundice resolution and phototherapy, stool frequency, and characteristics were compared after phototherapy. Results The duration of jaundice resolution and phototherapy were shortened. Total serum bilirubin level was lower than the control group at the end of phototherapy (p < 0.05). Transcutaneous bilirubin levels decreased more significantly on the 8th and 15th day of treatment (p < 0.05), while there were no significant differences on the post-treatment 1st and 4th day (p > 0.05). In addition, bowel movements including stool frequency and Bristol Stool Form Scale ratings of stools also improved after treatment. Conclusions S. boulardii in combination with phototherapy is effective and safe in reducing bilirubin levels and duration of phototherapy, accelerating jaundice resolution in premature infants with jaundice. The procedure also provided an ideal therapeutic effect of diarrhea induced by phototherapy to promote compliance and maternal-infant bonding.

Diarrea en pacientes con COVID-19 y en el síndrome pos-COVID

La COVID-19, actual pandemia global, es causada por el coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, capaz de provocar un síndrome respiratorio agudo grave. Esta enfermedad es multisistémica y heterogénea, y no siempre se relaciona con la gravedad de la enfermedad pulmonar. De hecho, hasta un tercio de los pacientes puede presentar síntomas gastrointestinales como la diarrea -que se ha reportado como uno de los de mayor impacto-, tanto a consecuencia de la infección aguda como del síndrome pos-COVID-19. Además, los diversos esquemas de tratamientos que se indican pueden tener efectos sobre la diarrea, lo que la convierte en un motivo frecuente de consulta en la especialidad de gastroenterología. Los pacientes con enfermedades intestinales previas podrían ser más susceptibles a esta manifestación. Debido a esto, se realizó una búsqueda exhaustiva de artículos sobre el tema, publicados en revistas científicas de alta visibilidad, cubanas y extranjeras, con el objetivo de exponer las causas y características de la diarrea que se presenta en pacientes infectados con SARS-CoV-2. Se recopilaron 168 artículos, de los cuales 30 fueron utilizados en la presente revisión, que permitirá documentar a los médicos de asistencia, para un mejor manejo de la diarrea en pacientes en las fases mencionadas.

COVID-19, the current global pandemic, is produced by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus, capable of causing a severe acute respiratory syndrome. This disease is multi-systemic and heterogeneous, and is not always related to the severity of the lung disease. In fact, up to a third of the patients can show gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhea-which has been reported as one of the most impactful-both as a consequence of the acute infection and of the post-COVID-19 syndrome. In addition, the various treatment schemes indicated may have effects on diarrhea, what makes them a frequent reason for consultation in the specialty of gastroenterology. Patients with previous intestinal diseases could be more susceptible to this manifestation. Due to this, an exhaustive search of articles on the theme, published in Cuban and foreign journals of high visibility, was carried out, with the aim of exposing the causes and characteristics of the diarrhea that occurs in patients infected by SARS-CoV-2. 168 articles were compiled, of which 30 were used in the current review, which will allow documenting the attending physician for a better management of diarrhea in patients in the mentioned phases.

Vulnerabilidade social e ocorrência de doenças diarreicas agudas em uma Região de Saúde de Pernambuco / Social vulnerability and occurrence of acute diarrheal diseases in a Health Region of Pernambuco / Vulnerabilidad social y presencia de enfermedades diarreicas agudas en una Región de Salud de Pernambuco

As doenças diarreicas agudas (DDA) são consideradas um grave problema de saúde pública mundial. No Brasil, elas afetam de forma desproporcional a população, majoritariamente as que se encontram expostas a condicionantes de determinação social que expressam sua vulnerabilidade. O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar a ocorrência de casos de DDA nos municípios da XII Região de Saúde do estado de Pernambuco e sua correlação com os indicadores de vulnerabilidade social de seus municípios. Trata-se de um estudo de natureza epidemiológica e de caráter analítico ecológico realizado na XII Região de Saúde do estado de Pernambuco, no período de 2016 a 2020. Os dados foram coletados no Sistema de Informação da Vigilância Epidemiológica de Doenças Diarreicas Agudas e no Atlas da Vulnerabilidade Social do Instituto de Pesquisa Econômica Aplicada. Foram utilizados o coeficiente de correlação de Pearson e a regressão linear simples. Verificou-se correlação negativa estatisticamente significante entre a ocorrência de casos de DDA e os índices de vulnerabilidade social de renda e trabalho (p = 0,029). Concluiu-se que a alta vulnerabilidade social de renda e trabalho da população comprova sua relação com as DDA, sendo necessária a criação de políticas públicas mais eficientes para sua prevenção e controle.

Acute diarrheal diseases (ADD) are considered a serious public health problem worldwide. In Brazil, they disproportionately affect the population, mostly those that are exposed to conditions of social determination that express their social vulnerability. The objective of this study was to analyze the occurrence of ADD cases in the municipalities of the XII Health Region of the state of Pernambuco and its correlation with the indexes of social vulnerability in their municipalities. This is an epidemiological study with an ecological analytical character carried out in the XII Health Region of the state of Pernambuco, from 2016 to 2020. Data were collected from the Information System of the Epidemiological Surveillance of Acute Diarrheal Diseases and the Atlas of Social Vulnerability of the Institute of Applied Economic Research. Pearson's correlation coefficient and simple linear regression were used. There was a statistically significant negative correlation between the occurrence of ADD cases and the indexes of social vulnerability of income and work (p = 0.029). In conclusion, the population's high social vulnerability in terms of income and work proved its relationship with ADD, making it necessary to create more efficient public policies for its prevention and control.

Las enfermedades diarreicas agudas (EDA) son un grave problema de salud pública a nivel mundial. En Brasil, afectan de manera desproporcionada a la población, en su mayoría las que están expuestas a condicionantes de determinación social que expresan su vulnerabilidad. El objetivo de este estudio es analizar la ocurrencia de casos de EDA en los municipios de la XII Región Sanitaria del estado de Pernambuco (Brasil) y su correlación con los indicadores de vulnerabilidad social en sus municipios. Se trata de un estudio epidemiológico con carácter analítico ecológico, realizado en la XII Región Sanitaria del estado de Pernambuco, en el período de 2016 a 2020. Los datos se recolectaron del Sistema de Información de Vigilancia Epidemiológica de Enfermedades Diarreicas Agudas y del Atlas de Vulnerabilidad Social del Instituto de Investigaciones Económicas Aplicadas. Se utilizaron el coeficiente de correlación de Pearson y la regresión lineal simple. Hubo una correlación negativa estadísticamente significativa entre la ocurrencia de casos de EDA y los indicadores de vulnerabilidad social ingreso y trabajo (p = 0,029). Se concluye que la alta vulnerabilidad social de ingresos y trabajo de la población demuestra su relación con las EDA, lo que hace necesario implementar políticas públicas más eficientes para su prevención y control.

Clostridioides difficile: Characterization of the circulating toxinotypes in an Argentinean public hospital / Clostridioides difficile: caracterización de los toxinotipos circulantes en un hospital público de Argentina

Abstract Clostridioides difficile is a spore-forming anaerobe microorganism associated to nosocomial diarrhea. Its virulence is mainly associated with TcdA and TcdB toxins, encoded by their respective tcdA and tcdB genes. These genes are part of the pathogenicity locus (PaLoc). Our aim was to characterize relevant C. difficile toxinotypes circulating in the hospital setting. The tcdA and tcdB genes were amplified and digested with different restriction enzymes: EcoRI for tcdA; HincII and AccI for tcdB. In addition, the presence of the cdtB (binary toxin) gene, TcdA and TcdB toxins by dot blot and the cytotoxic effect of culture supernatants on Vero cells, were evaluated. Altogether, these studies revealed three different circulating toxinotypes according to Rupnik's classification: 0, I and VIII, being the latter the most prevalent one. Even though more studies are certainly necessary (e.g. sequencing analysis), it is worth noting that the occurrence of toxinotype I could be related to the introduction of bacteria from different geographical origins. The multivariate analysis conducted on the laboratory values of individuals infected with the most prevalent toxinotype (VIII) showed that the isolates associated with fatal outcomes (GCD13, GCD14 and GCD22) are located in regions of the biplots related to altered laboratory values at admission. In other patients, although laboratory values at admission were not correlated, levels of urea, creatinine and white blood cells were positively correlated after the infection was diagnosed. Our study reveals the circulation of different toxinotypes of C. difficile strains in this public hospital. The variety of toxinotypes can arise from pre-existing microorganisms as well as through the introduction of bacteria from other geographical regions. The existence of microorganisms with different pathogenic potential is relevant for the control, follow-up, and treatment of the infections.

Resumen Clostridioides difficile es un anaerobio esporulado que se asocia con episodios de diarreas hospitalarias. Su virulencia se encuentra vinculada, principalmente, a las toxinas TcdA y TcdB, codificadas por sus respectivos genes, tcdA y tcdB, que son parte de un locus de patogenicidad (PaLoc). Nuestro objetivo fue caracterizar los toxinotipos de C. difficile circulantes en un hospital público. Los genes tcdA y tcdB fueron amplificados y digeridos con diferentes enzimas de restricción: EcoRI para tcdA; HincII y AccI para tcdB. Además, se evaluó la presencia de cdtB (gen de la toxina binaria B) y de las toxinas A y B (por dot blot), así como el efecto citotóxico de sobrenadantes de cultivo sobre células Vero. En conjunto, estos estudios revelaron tres toxinotipos circulantes según la clasificación de Rupnik: 0, I y VIII; el más prevalente fue el último. Aunque son necesarios más estudios (ej., secuenciación), es interesante notar que la presencia del toxinotipo I podría estar relacionada con la introducción de bacterias de diferente origen geográfico. En los pacientes infectados con el toxinotipo VIII, el análisis multivariante de los resultados de laboratorio mostró que los aislamientos asociados a decesos (GCD13, GCD14 y GCD22) estaban situados en regiones de los biplots relacionados con valores de laboratorio alterados al momento de la internación. En los otros pacientes, aunque no se observó correlación entre los valores de laboratorio al momento de la internación y la evolución clínica, los niveles de urea, creatinina y recuento de glóbulos blancos estuvieron correlacionados positivamente entre sí una vez diagnosticada la infección. Nuestro estudio revela la circulación de diferentes toxinotipos de C. difficile en un mismo hospital público. La variedad de toxinotipos puede originarse a partir de microorganismos preexistentes en la región, así como también por la introducción de bacterias provenientes de otras regiones geográficas. La existencia de microorganismos con diferente potencial patogénico es relevante para el control, el seguimiento y el tratamiento de las infecciones.

Síndrome post-colecistectomía: análisis de una cohorte prospectiva / Post-cholecystectomy syndrome: Descriptive analysis of a prospective cohort

Introducción. El síndrome post-colecistectomía fue descrito hace más de 70 años y se define como la presencia de síntomas gastrointestinales que pueden persistir después de la colecistectomía o aparecer como nuevos síntomas. Este síndrome, poco conocido, puede manifestarse desde pocos meses hasta varios años luego de la cirugía y ocurre entre 5 % y 40 % de los pacientes. Método. Estudio de cohorte prospectiva, que incluyó pacientes a quienes se les realizó colecistectomía laparoscópica en tres unidades quirúrgicas de Bogotá, D.C., Colombia, durante un período de ocho meses, con seguimientos periódicos durante dos años. El síndrome post-colecistectomía se definió como la presencia de al menos un síntoma gastrointestinal a partir del primer mes de la cirugía. Resultados. Se incluyeron 380 pacientes de los cuales 183 (48,2 %) desarrollaron el síndrome. La edad tuvo diferencia estadísticamente significativa entre aquellos que lo desarrollaron y los que no (p=0,024). La diarrea fue el único síntoma preoperatorio asociado al desarrollo del síndrome. El síndrome post-colecistectomía se encontró en el 42,1 % de los pacientes al primer mes de seguimiento y en el 17,4 % al segundo año. Conclusiones. El síndrome post-colecistectomía ocurre en un porcentaje importante de pacientes. En concordancia con la literatura, se encontró que la diarrea prequirúrgica es un factor de riesgo independiente para el desarrollo del síndrome. Se recomienda un adecuado seguimiento de los pacientes después de una colecistectomía

Introduction. Post-cholecystectomy syndrome (PCS) was described more than 70 years ago and is defined as the presence of gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms that may persist after cholecystectomy or can present as new symptoms. This little-known syndrome can appear from a few months to several years after surgery and occurs between 5% and 40% of patients. Method. Prospective cohort study, which included patients who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy in three surgical units in Bogotá, Colombia, during a period of eight months, with periodic follow-up for two years. PCS was defined as the presence of at least one GI symptom from the first month after surgery. Results. Three-hundred and eighty patients were included, of which 183 (48.2%) developed the syndrome. Age had a statistically significant difference between those who developed PCS and those who did not (p=0.024). Diarrhea was the only preoperative symptom associated with the development of PCS. Post-cholecystectomy syndrome was found in 42.1% at the first month of follow-up and in 17.4% at the second year. Conclusions. Post-cholecystectomy syndrome occurs in a significant percentage of patients. Consistent with the literature, preoperative diarrhea was found to be an independent risk factor for the development of the syndrome. Adequate follow-up of patients after cholecystectomy is recommended

Appropriateness of drug usage in acute pediatric diarrhea – A prospective observational study

Background: Pediatric diarrhea is the 3rd foremost cause of childhood mortality all over the world. Although these are self-limiting, irrational antibiotic use and polypharmacy are prevalent in their treatment. Antimicrobial therapy is recommended in bacterial diarrhea and severely malnourished children only. Inappropriate use of drugs for the treatment of acute diarrhea can be minimized by adhering to standard guidelines. Aims and Objectives: The objectives of this study were as follows: (1) To evaluate the appropriateness of drug treatment in Acute Pediatric Diarrhea and (2) to assess the appropriateness of antibiotic treatment in diarrhea based on modified Kunin’s criteria. Materials and Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted for 12 months at the pediatric inpatient unit of Bidar Institute of Medical Sciences, Bidar. Prescriptions of 400 cases of acute diarrhea were evaluated for the appropriateness of drug usage using Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP) guidelines and modified Kunin’s criteria. Results: Among the 400 acute diarrhea cases, majority were male (54.75%) and below 5 years (58.25%). Oral rehydration solution (ORS) was given to 337 patients and IV fluids to 324 cases. About 55.5% patients were prescribed antibiotics. In 75.67% prescriptions, the antibiotic use was not necessary (modified Kunin’s criteria category V). Only 12.5% prescriptions adhered to IAP guidelines (2006), which included ORS and Zinc. About 54.5% patients were prescribed probiotics and 80% were prescribed antiemetics (ondansetron), which is not appropriate as per guidelines. Conclusion: Majority of patients were prescribed ORS, but only few were given zinc as an adjunctive therapy. Thus, we found that adherence to IAP 2006 guidelines was very low in our setup. Based on our observations, we suggest that prescribers should make use of standard treatment guidelines and choose appropriate drugs and their formulations so that irrational use of drugs can be minimized.

Mutación DGAT1 en dos hermanas con falla de medro: reporte de caso / DGAT1 mutation in two sisters with failure to thrive: a case report

Las diarreas y enteropatías congénitas (CODE por su sigla en inglés) son un grupo de trastornos monogénicos que se han descrito en los últimos años. Dentro de las CODE, la mutación del gen de la diacilglicerol o-aciltransferasa 1 (DGAT1) es un trastorno enzimático poco común asociado con diarrea crónica grave de aparición temprana. El objetivo es presentar a dos hermanas que consultaron por diarrea crónica, retraso en el crecimiento, vómitos e hipoalbuminemia en la primera infancia. En ambas pacientes se encontró un compuesto heterocigota de la mutación del DGAT1. Esta mutación se describió previamente en la población asiática; sin embargo, estas son las dos primeras pacientes en tener esta mutación en la población latinoamericana. Estos dos casos pueden ampliar nuestro conocimiento sobre las diarreas congénitas en general y las características clínicas de los pacientes con mutaciones en DGAT1 en particular.

Congenital diarrhea and enteropathies (CODEs) are a group of monogenic disorders that have been described in recent years. Within the CODEs, the mutation in the diacylglycerol O-acyltransferase 1 (DGAT1) gene is a rare enzyme disorder associated with severe, early-onset chronic diarrhea. Our objective is to describe the case of 2 sisters who consulted for chronic diarrhea, growth retardation, vomiting, and hypoalbuminemia in early childhood. A compound heterozygous DGAT1 mutation was found in both patients. This mutation was previously described in the Asian population; however, these are the first 2 patients to show this mutation in the Latin American population. These 2 cases may expand our knowledge about congenital diarrhea in general and the clinical characteristics of patients with DGAT1 mutations in particular.

Clinical Signs of Seasonal Disease Dynamics in Calves Caused by Rotavirus and Coronavirus Infections

The study of animal diseases increases the relevance of the livestock industry, which is the main leading component of the strategy for the development of agriculture in Azerbaijan. An important roleour country. Their research is critical in the implementation of measures to combat rotavirus and coronavirus infections in infant calves. The primary goal of this study was to investigate the seasonal dynamics of accompanying diarrhea in calves caused by rotavirus and coronavirus infection. The research was carried out on farms located in the northwestern region of the Azerbaijan republic. Fecal samples were used as material and tested by chromatographic immunoassay for the qualitative detection of rotavirus and coronavirus antigen. The study revealed that the clinical signs of diarrhea in calves caused by rotavirus and coronavirus infections in farms located in the northwest region of the country are relatively similar. However, there was a relatively higher incidence of rotovirus infection, and mortality relative to coronavirus was at a lower level. The occurrence of secondary pneumonia in patients with coronavirus was noted as one of the main clinical signs. The study showed that the trend of infection and death from both diseases changes in different seasons of the year, which from season to season and, as a result, becoming massive causes serious damage to farms, becoming widespread in spring, autumn, and winter.

Diphyllobotrium Spp. como causa de diarrea crónica diagnosticada solo por colonoscopia o cápsula endoscópica

Se presentan dos pacientes con diarrea crónica, con múltiples estudios negativos, y que tenían en común la deficiencia de vitamina B12. Ambos pacientes tenían estudios repetitivos de parásitos en heces negativos. Sólo al realizarse colonoscopía en el primer caso y la cápsula endoscópica en el segundo, se pudo diagnosticar formas adultas de Diphyllobotrium spp. Luego del tratamiento antiparasitario, ambos pacientes remitieron completamente sus síntomas.

We present two patients with chronic diarrhea, with multiple negative studies, both had in common vitamin B12 deficiency. Both patients had multiple studies of parasites in negative stool. Only after colonoscopy in the first case and capsule endoscopy in the second case, it was possible to diagnose the adult forms of Diphyllobotrium spp. After treatment, both patients completely resolved their symptoms.

Malacoplaquia del colon: Rara enfermedad que puede presentarse como un sindrome consuntivo

La malacoplaquia del colon es una causa inusual de diarrea crónica y puede presentarse como una enfermedad consuntiva. A nivel de colon produce lesiones ulceradas y nodulares erosionadas, similares a las de otras enfermedades infecciosas o granulomatosas más comunes. El diagnostico se basa en el estudio anatomopatológico que muestra acúmulos de histiocitos en la lámina propia, en cuyo interior se observan unas inclusiones redondeadas, positivas a la tinción de Von Kossa, denominadas cuerpos de Michaelis-Gutmann. Presentamos el caso de un varón 55 años, sin otras enfermedades asociadas, que debutó con diarrea, baja ponderal y anemia, mostrando una respuesta clínica muy favorable con el uso de antibióticos.

Colonic malacoplakia is an unusual cause of chronic diarrhea, and it may present as a consumptive disease. At the colon, it can induce ulcerative and erosive nodular lesions, that mimic other common granulomatous or infectious diseases. Diagnosis is support in biopsies showing groups of histiocytes, with typical Michaelis-Gutmann inclusions, which are positive with the Von Kossa stain. We present the case of a 55-year-old male, without associated diseases, who presented with diarrhea, weight loss and anemia, showing a very good clinical response to antibiotics.

Effect of Wumeisan on Gut Lactase Activity and Microflora Diversity of Mice with Dysbacteriosis Diarrhea / 中国实验方剂学杂志

ObjectiveTo explore the effects of Wumeisan on gut lactase activity and microflora diversity of mice with dysbacteriosis diarrhea. MethodThe mice were randomly divided into 4 groups， namely， the normal group， the model group， and the low-dose and high-dose Wumeisan groups， with 8 mice in each group. The mouse model was made by gavage of mixed antibiotics for 7 d， and the low-dose and high-dose Wumeisan groups （5.98， 11.96 g·kg-1） were given gavage for 7 d continuously. The normal group and the model group were given the same volume of sterile water. The changes in the body weight， food intake， and diarrhea of mice were recorded. Feces were collected after the last administration， and the lactase activity was detected by the colorimetric method. The gut microbiota changes were detected by the 16S rRNA high-throughput sequencing technology. ResultCompared with those in the normal group， the mice in the model group had dilute and soft stools， reduced body mass， reduced food intake， reduced lactase activity， significantly reduced intestinal flora diversity， and significant changes in the relative abundance phylum and genus levels of flora. Compared with the model group， Wumeisan reduced the diarrhea rate of mice， promoted the rapid recovery of body weight and food intake， increased the lactase activity decreased by antibiotic， improved the community abundance and diversity of mice with dysbacteriosis， and made the species composition closer to that in the normal group. The abundance of three phyla （Bacteroidota， Proteobacteria， Verrucomicrobiota） and nine genera （Odoribacter， Enterococcus， Clostridium innocuum group， etc.） of mice with diarrhea were regulated by Wumeisan. Among them， norank f Muribaculaceae， norank f norank o Clostridia UCG-014， Lachnospiraceae NK4A136 group， and Odoribacter showed significant positive correlation with the body weight and lactase activity， and Escherichia-Shigella， Enterobacter， Enterococcus， and Clostridium innocuum group showed significant positive correlation with the diarrhea rate. Function prediction showed that the high-dose Wumeisan significantly reseted 6 functional levels of metabolism， genetic information processing， and human diseases， and had positive effects on endocrine and metabolic diseases， immune diseases， infectious disease， and parasitic infectious diseases. ConclusionWumeisan can relieve the symptoms of dysbacteriological diarrhea by increasing the lactase activity and regulating the gut microbiota composition.

Epidemiological characteristics and influencing factors of Blastocystis hominis infection among children with diarrhea under five years of age in Guangzhou City / 中国血吸虫病防治杂志

Objective To investigate the prevalence and influencing factors of Blastocystis hominis infection among children with diarrhea under five years of age in Guangzhou City. Methods Children with diarrhea under 5 years of age admitted to Guangzhou Children’s hospital, Guangzhou Maternity and Child Healthcare Hospital and Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center during the period between January 1 and December 31, 2020, were enrolled. Participants’ demographics, living environments and health status were collected using questionnaire surveys. Stool samples were collected from participants and nucleic acid was extracted. B. hominis infection was identified using PCR assay and sequence alignment, and the factors affecting B. hominis infection among children with diarrhea under 5 years of age were identified using univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression analysis. Results A total of 684 children with diarrhea under 5 years of age were enrolled, including 468 male children and 216 female children, with a mean age of (1.79 ± 1.12) years. The overall prevalence of B. hominis infection was 4.97% [34/684, 95% confidential interval (CI): (3.59%, 6.86%)] among participants, and there was no significant difference in the prevalence of B. hominis infection between children with chronic [7.52% (20/266), 95% CI: (4.92%, 11.33%)] and acute diarrhea [3.35% (14/418), 95% CI: (2.01%, 5.54%)] (χ2 = 5.983, P = 0.014). Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified keeping pet [odds ratio (OR) = 6.298, 95% CI: (2.711, 14.633)], drinking non-tap water [OR = 4.522, 95% CI: (1.769, 11.561)], lactose intolerance [OR = 4.221, 95% CI: (1.043, 17.087)], antibiotic use [OR = 0.125, 95% CI: (0.017, 0.944)] and chronic diarrhea [OR = 2.172, 95% CI: (1.018, 4.637)] as factors affecting B. hominis infection among children with diarrhea under 5 years of age in Guangzhou City. Conclusions B. hominis infections is detected in children with diarrhea under five years of age in Guangzhou City. Improving home environments and pet-keeping hygiene is recommended to reduce the likelihood of B. hominis infection among children.

Epidemiological characteristics and risk factors analysis of pneumonia complicated with antibiotic-associated diarrhea in children in Chongzhou, Sichuan Province / 公共卫生与预防医学

Objective To analyze the epidemiological characteristics and risk factors of antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD) in children with pneumonia in Chongzhou, Sichuan Province, and to provide a theoretical basis for the diagnosis and treatment of AAD in children with pneumonia. Methods A total of 394 children with pneumonia admitted to our hospital from June 2018 to June 2021 were selected and divided into control group and AAD group according to whether the children had AAD. Univariate analysis and logistic regression were used to analyze the risk factors of pediatric pneumonia complicated with AAD. Results There were 79 cases of children with pneumonia complicated with AAD (20.05%). The average age of the ADD group was significantly lower than that of the control group (P<0.05). There were significant differences between the two groups in age of onset, length of hospital stay, type of antibiotics combined use, duration of antibiotics application, proportion of bacterial use of probiotics, and type of antibiotics (P<0.05). The age of onset <3 years old, duration of antibiotics application ≥5 days, combined use of three kinds of antibiotics, use of cephalosporin antibiotics, and no use of probiotics are independent risk factors for AAD in children with pneumonia. Conclusion The risk of AAD in children with pneumonia in Chongzhou is high, and the main pathogens are Candida and Escherichia coli. For children with cephalosporin antibiotics use, long application time of antibiotics, and onset age <3 years old, early application of probiotics should be done to reduce the risk of pediatric pneumonia complicated with AAD.

Paracoccidioidomycosis with digestive manifestations in a pediatric patient / Paracoccidioidomicosis con manifestaciones digestivas en un paciente pediátrico

Abstract Background: Paracoccidioidomycosis is a systemic infection caused by the fungus Paracoccidioides. It may present in two forms: an acute/subacute form, whose most frequent manifestations include weight loss, fever, anemia, and adenopathy, and a chronic condition with mainly respiratory symptoms. Digestive symptoms, although they may occur, are not frequently reported. Paracoccidioidomycosis usually affects adult male agricultural workers; thus, its presentation in children is rare. Case report: We describe the case of a 9-year-old male patient diagnosed with paracoccidioidomycosis, who showed abdominal pain and diarrhea as initial manifestations of the disease. Conclusions: This case is reported not only because of the age of presentation but also due to the existence of digestive symptoms from the onset of the disease, both infrequently reported in the literature.

Resumen Introducción: La paracoccidioidomicosis es una infección sistémica producida por el hongo Paracoccidioides. Se puede presentar de dos formasuna forma aguda/subaguda, cuyas manifestaciones más frecuentes incluyen pérdida de peso, fiebre, anemia y adenopatías, y una forma crónica con manifestaciones principalmente respiratorias. Las manifestaciones digestivas, aunque pueden presentarse, no se reportan frecuentemente. La paracoccidioidomicosis afecta usualmente a varones adultos que trabajan en labores agrícolas, por lo que su presentación en niños es poco frecuente. Caso clínico: Se describe el caso de un paciente de sexo masculino de 9 años de edad con diagnóstico de paracoccidioidomicosis, con dolor abdominal y diarrea como manifestaciones iniciales de la enfermedad. Conclusiones: Se reporta este caso, no solamente por la edad de presentación, sino también por la existencia de síntomas digestivos desde el inicio de la enfermedad, ambos reportados en forma infrecuente en la literatura.

Current trends in the management of acute diarrhea in children below 5 years of age

Background: Diarrhea can cause significant deaths and morbidity in children whose age is below 5 years in developing countries. In children under five, it is the third cause of mortality. Aims and Objectives: The main aim of this study was to examine recent trends in the management of acute diarrhea in children below 5 years of age and to identify the pattern of pharmacotherapy for acute diarrhea in children the specific age group of <5 years of age. Materials and Methods: A non-interventional study that was prospective and observational in nature was conducted in 50 patients that were admitted in the pediatric wards at a teaching hospital that was tertiary care. Only those participants whose parents/guardian gave written informed consent were included in the study. Results: Of enrolled 50 patients, 30 (60%) were male patients and 20 (40%) were female patients. Most patients (42%) were between the ages of 6 months–1 year. All the 50 participants were prescribed WHO-ORS and Zinc. About 60% of children were administered the antibiotics with intravenous fluids. Antipyretics were administered to 90% children, antispasmodic and antisecretory agents to 40%, and probiotics to 92% children. The commonly used antibiotics were ceftriaxone, cefpodoxime, metronidazole, ofloxacin, and ornidazole. Conclusion: There was strict adherence to guidelines for treating the children who suffered with acute diarrhea. However, there was poor awareness among the parents regarding the compliance to the treatment, hygienic practices, and its consequences.

Impact of breastfeeding on respiratory and gastrointestinal infections in infants of Muslim mothers of Kolkata, India

Background: Breast milk contains some proteins whose functions are not nutritive but anti-infective, which prevents infants from infections. Objective: The objective of the present study was to evaluate an association between the occurrence of diarrhea and respiratory tract infection (RTI) and breastfeeding among infants of Muslim mothers in Kolkata. Materials and Methods: An observational cross-sectional community-based study was conducted among mother–infant pairs of a total of 540 numbers in Muslim-dominated urban slums of Kolkata. The study period was from November 1, 2017, to October 31, 2018. Results: The findings indicated that 82.22% of breastfed infants had no diarrhea, and the absence of RTI was observed in 69.81%. It was also noted that both episodes of diarrhea and RTI in infants become less when the duration of breastfeeding increases. The study also significantly (P < 0.001 and P = 0.03) revealed that the occurrence of diarrhea and RTI was found to have lower incidence in colostrum-fed babies. Out of 391 colostrum- fed babies, about 85.42% had no diarrhea, and the absence of RTI was noticed in 72.12%. In conclusion, breast milk gives protection to babies against diarrheal diseases and RTI. It is the most appropriate food for infants. Conclusions: It is concluded that the prevention of RTI and diarrhea in infants, exclusive breastfeeding (EBF), early initiation of breastfeeding, and avoidance of bottle feeding should be the best practice to be recommended. To explore appropriate intervention strategies for reinforcing early initiation and continuation of EBF from birth to 6 months of life.

Presence of diarrhea associated with better outcomes in patients with COVID-19 – A prospective evaluation

Purpose: Gastrointestinal (GI) manifestations have been well documented in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), but its clinical impact on the course of the disease is debatable. Majority of the available data is retrospective, and hence this prospective study was planned to study the impact of GI symptoms on COVID-19 outcome. Methods: All COVID-19 patients admitted in a tertiary care centre from August–October 2020 were screened and patients without pre-existing GI diseases were included. A detailed history of the various symptoms including duration was documented. Various baseline laboratory investigations and inflammatory markers were conducted as per the protocol. Patients with and without diarrhea were compared for the various disease outcome parameters. Results: Of the 244 patients screened, 203 patients (128 males; 63.1%) were included. Respiratory symptoms alone were present in 49 (24.1%), GI symptoms alone in 20 (9.9%) and 117 (57.6%) had both. Overall GI symptoms was noted in 137 (67.5%) cases with the commonest being diarrhea (61; 30.0%). Patients with both respiratory and any GI symptoms showed a lower trend towards need for mechanical ventilation (12.2% vs 7.7%; p ¼ 0.35) and mortality (10.2% vs 4.3%; p ¼ 0.14) compared to respiratory symptoms alone, although not statistically significant. Patients with diarrhea (n ¼ 61) had no mortality (0% vs 7.7%; p ¼ 0.036) or need for mechanical ventilation and shorter hospital stay compared to those who did not have diarrhea. Conclusion: GI symptoms are frequent in patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection and the commonest is diarrhea. Diarrhea is a harbinger of better outcome with lower mortality among COVID-19 positive patients.

Infecciones por Clostridioides (Clostridium) difficile en un hospital geriátrico de Costa Rica

Objetivo: Describir las características de los pacientes adultos mayores con diagnóstico de infecciones por Clostridium difficile en un hospital geriátrico en Costa Rica con el propósito de contribuir a mejorar su manejo y llevar a una reducción de la morbimortalidad y costos asociados a su atención. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio observacional retrospectivo con información demográfica y clínica de 141 pacientes admitidos en el Hospital Nacional de Geriatría y Gerontología Dr. Raúl Blanco Cervantes de Costa Rica del 2015 al 2018, quienes presentaron una prueba inmunocromatográfica de detección de antígeno y/o toxinas de C. difficile positiva en heces diarreicas. Las variables continuas se compararon mediante una prueba de ANOVA, mientras que las categóricas, por una prueba exacta de Fisher. Los factores de riesgo para cada uno de los grupos se evaluaron por análisis univariante. Los valores de p < 0,05 se consideraron estadísticamente significativos con un 95% de confianza. Resultados: Se estudiaron 141 pacientes con diarrea asociada a C. difficile. Los pacientes tenían una edad promedio de 83 años y 57% eran mujeres. Un 35% de los casos eran de origen comunitario y 27% fueron severos. El consumo de antimicrobianos fue dado principalmente por cefalosporinas y fluoroquinolonas. El tratamiento más utilizado fue el metronidazol (81%) y la mortalidad relacionada con la infección por C. difficile a los 30 días fue de un 35%. Conclusiones: Este es el primer reporte epidemiológico de infección por C. difficile que describe a un grupo de pacientes geriátricos hospitalizados y sus factores de riesgo asociados, que pone en manifiesto un porcentaje importante de casos comunitarios y graves, lo que llama a establecer guías locales y grupos específicos para el tratamiento y prevención de dicha infección.

Aim: To describe the characteristics of elder patients diagnosed with Clostridioides (Clostridium) difficile infection in a geriatric hospital in Costa Rica. Methods: A retrospective observational study was done with demographic and clinical information from 141 patients admitted in the National Geriatric and Gerontology Hospital of Costa Rica from 2015 to 2018, who presented a positive immunochromatographic test for the detection of C. difficile antigen and/or toxins in diarrheic feces. Continuous variables were compared through one-way ANOVA test, while categorical variables were compared using Fisher's exact test. The risk factors for each of the groups were evaluated by univariate analysis. P values < 0.05 were considered statistically significant with 95% confidence. Results: We studied 141 patients with diarrhea associated with C. difficile, the average age of the patients was 83 years and 75% were women. 35% of the cases were community acquired and 27% were severe cases. Antimicrobial consumption was given mainly by cephalosporins and fluoroquinolones. Metronidazol was the most used treatment (81%) and the C. difficile associated mortality 30 days post infection was 35%. Conclusion: This is the first epidemiological report of C. difficile infection in elderly hospitalized population. Also, it evidences an important percentage of community acquired and severe cases, calling for the establishment of local treatment and prevention guidelines for this infection.