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This study assessed the effect of Jiedu Tongluo Shengjin formulation on plasma IgG levels in pSS patients. 89 pSS patients were randomized into treatment (45 cases; 1 drop-out) and control (44 cases) groups using the random number table method. The control group received hydroxychloroquine sulfate and a placebo dose of Jiedu Tongluo Shengjin. The treatment group received hydroxychloroquine sulfate and the original Jiedu Tongluo Shengjin formulation. The treatment group showed significant decreases in SS disease activity index, TCM syndrome score, plasma IgG, and ESR, and significant increases in tear film break-up time, tear flow rate, salivary flow rate, C3, and C4 levels (p<0.05). No significant changes were observed in the control group (p>0.05). Jiedu Tongluo Shengjin effectively reduced eye and mouth dryness in pSS patients by improving inflammation and immune status.

Este estudio evaluó el efecto de la formulación Jiedu Tongluo Shengjin sobre los niveles de IgG en plasma en pacientes con Síndrome de Sjögren primario (pSS). Se asignaron 89 pacientes con pSS al grupo de tratamiento (45 casos; 1 paciente se retiró) y al grupo de control (44 casos) utilizando el método de tabla de números aleatorios. El grupo de control recibió sulfato de hidroxicloroquina y una dosis placebo de Jiedu Tongluo Shengjin. El grupo de tratamiento recibió sulfato dehidroxicloroquina y la formulación original de Jiedu Tongluo Shengjin. El grupo de tratamiento mostró descensos significativos en el índice de actividad del síndrome de Sjögren, el puntaje TCM de síndrome, los niveles de IgG en plasma, la velocidad de sedimentación eritrocitaria y los niveles de C3 y C4 (p<0.05). No se observaron cambios significativos en el grupo de control (p>0.05). Jiedu Tongluo Shengjin redujo efectivamente la sequedad ocular y bucal en pacientes con pSS al mejorar la inflamación y el estado inmunitario.

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El estudio piloto sobre el uso de muestras de sangre capilar para la realización de coagulograma básico tuvo como objetivo evaluar la concordancia entre las pruebas de coagulación realizadas con sangre capilar y venosa en pacientes pediátricos, específicamente en el contexto de procedimientos quirúrgicos. Material y población: muestras seleccionadas de 10 pacientes de 1 a 6 años con indicación deun procedimiento quirúrgico en el Hospital de Pediatría Prof.Dr. Juan P. Garrahan. Resultados: el error Index resultó menor +/- 1 en todas las muestras y el coeficiente de determinación (R2) fue mayor a 0,9. Este análisis buscó resolver el problema frecuente de dificultad en la obtención de muestras venosas en niños, que puede conllevar múltiples intentos dolorosos de punción (AU)

This pilot study evaluated the concordance between coagulation tests performed using capillary and venous blood samples in pediatric patients undergoing surgical procedures. Materials and Methods: Samples were collected from 10 patients aged 1 to 6 years with a surgical indication at the Hospital de Pediatría Prof. Dr. Juan P. Garrahan. Results: The error index was within +/-1 for all samples, and the determination coefficient (R²) exceeded 0.9. This study aimed to address the common challenge of the difficulty of obtaining venous samples in children, which often requires multiple painful puncture attempts (AU)

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A síndrome respiratória aguda grave (SRAG) é caracterizada por sintomas de febre alta, tosse e dispneia, e, na maioria dos casos, relacionada a uma quantidade reduzida de agentes infecciosos. O objetivo foi avaliar a prevalência dos vírus respiratórios Influenza A (FluA), vírus sincicial respiratório (RSV) e do novo coronavírus (SARS-CoV-2) em pacientes com internação hospitalar por SRAG. Estudo transversal, com pacientes em internação hospitalar com SRAG entre novembro de 2021 e maio de 2022. Dados sociodemográficos e clínicos e amostras da nasofaringe foram coletados/as, as quais foram submetidas à extração de RNA e testadas quanto à positividade para Influenza A, RSV e SARS-CoV-2 por meio da técnica de PCR em tempo real pelo método SYBR Green. Foram incluídos 42 pacientes, sendo 59,5% do sexo feminino, 57,1% idosos, 54,8% com ensino fundamental. A maior parte dos pacientes reportou hábito tabagista prévio ou atual (54,8%), não etilista (73,8%) e 83,3% deles apresentavam alguma comorbidade, sendo hipertensão arterial sistêmica e diabetes mellitus tipo 2 as mais prevalentes. Um total de 10,5% dos pacientes testou positivo para FluA, nenhuma amostra positiva para RSV e 76,3% positivos para SARS-CoV-2. Na população estudada, SRAG com agravo hospitalar foi observado em maior proporção, em mulheres, idosos e pessoas com comorbidades, embora sem significância estatística, sendo o novo coronavírus o agente etiológico mais relacionado, o que evidencia a patogenicidade desse agente e suas consequências ainda são evidentes após quase 2 anos de período pandêmico.

Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) is characterized by symptoms of high fever, cough and dyspnea, and is in most cases related to a reduced amount of infectious agents. The objective was to assess the prevalence of respiratory viruses Influenza A (FluA), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and the new coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) in patients hospitalized for SARS. Cross-sectional study, with patients hospitalized with SARS between November 2021 and May 2022. Sociodemographic and clinical data and nasopharyngeal samples were collected, which were subjected to RNA extraction and tested for positivity for Influenza A, RSV and SARS-CoV-2 using the real-time PCR technique using the SYBR Green method. 42 patients were included, 59.5% female, 57.1% elderly, 54.8% with primary education. Most patients reported previous or current smoking habits (54.8%), non-drinkers (73.8) and 83.3% of them had some comorbidity, with systemic arterial hypertension and type 2 diabetes mellitus being the most prevalent. A total of 10.5% of patients tested positive for FluA, no samples positive for RSV, and 76.3% positive for SARS-CoV-2. In the studied population, SARS with hospital injury was observed more frequently in women and the elderly, with associated comorbidities, with the new coronavirus being the most related etiological agent, which shows, although not statistically significant, that the pathogenicity of this agent and its consequences are still evident after almost 2 years of period pandemic.

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Abstract Introduction: Emerging and re-emerging arboviral infections have become a public health challenge in the Americas due to their epidemic potential. Objective: To determine the spatio-temporal distribution of the dengue, Zika, and chikungunya viruses during an epidemic period in Cali, Colombia. Materials and methods: Multi-method descriptive ecological and exploratory study of confirmed and suspected cases reported to the epidemiological surveillance system between 2014 and 2016. Results: 40,168 cases were analyzed, and it was found that dengue was the most frequent arboviral infection (59.2 %). The most affected individuals were women (65 %) and those with a mean age of 34.5 years. Although arboviral infections spread out throughout the city, the three diseases were concentrated in significant groups located at the center-east and northeast areas of Cali (p<0.01; z=-203.7). Conclusions: This study identified critical zones for the three arboviral infections, which are located in areas with low socioeconomic status. Likewise, the results suggest that in addition to eco-epidemiological and bio-psychosocial factors, temperature, precipitation, and the aedic index may play an important role in the spatio-temporal behavior of these diseases. A multidisciplinary and collaborative approach is necessary, which must involve communities and authorities to implement effective control strategies, especially during epidemic periods.

Resumen Introducción: Las arbovirosis emergentes y reemergentes representan un reto de salud pública en las Américas, debido a su potencial epidémico. Objetivo: Determinar la distribución espaciotemporal de los virus del dengue, el Zika y el chikunguña, en un periodo epidémico en Cali. Materiales y métodos: Estudio multimétodo descriptivo y ecológico exploratorio de casos confirmados y presuntos notificados al sistema de vigilancia epidemiológica, entre 2014 y 2016. Resultados: Se analizaron 40.168 casos, se encontró que el dengue fue la arbovirosis más frecuente (59,2 %). Los individuos más afectados tenían una edad media de 34,5 años y eran predominantemente mujeres (65 %). Las arbovirosis se distribuyeron en toda la ciudad, pero se identificaron agrupamientos significativos en el centro-este y noreste de Cali para las tres enfermedades (p<0,01; z=-203,7). Conclusión: Este estudio destaca la identificación de zonas críticas para las tres arbovirosis que se localizan en áreas con rezago socioeconómico. Además, los resultados sugieren que factores eco-epidemiológicos y biopsicosociales adicionales a la temperatura, las precipitaciones y el índice aédico pueden desempeñar un papel importante en el comportamiento espaciotemporal de estas enfermedades. Se recomienda una aproximación multidisciplinaria y colaborativa, involucrando a la comunidad y las autoridades, para implementar estrategias de control efectivas, especialmente durante periodos epidémicos.

Resumo Introdução: Arbovírus emergentes e reemergentes representam um desafio de saúde pública nas Américas, devido ao seu potencial epidêmico. Objetivo: Determinar a distribuição espaço-temporal dos vírus dengue, Zika e chikungunya, em período epidêmico em Cali. Materiais e métodos: Estudo multimetodo, descritivo e ecológico exploratório de casos confirmados e suspeitos notificados ao sistema de vigilância epidemiológica, entre 2014 e 2016. Resultados: foram analisados 40.168 casos, constatou-se que a dengue foi a arbovirose mais frequente (59,2 %). Os indivíduos mais acometidos tinham idade média de 34,5 anos e eram predominantemente mulheres (65 %). Os arbovírus foram distribuídos por toda a cidade, mas foram identificados aglomerados significativos no centro-leste e nordeste de Cali para as três doenças (p<0,01; z=-203,7). Conclusão: Este estudo destaca a identificação de zonas críticas para as três arboviroses que estão localizadas em áreas com atraso socioeconômico. Além disso, os resultados sugerem que fatores eco-epidemiológicos e biopsicossociais adicionais à temperatura, à precipitação e ao índice aedico podem desempenhar um papel importante no comportamento espaço-temporal destas doenças. Recomenda-se uma abordagem multidisciplinar e colaborativa, envolvendo a comunidade e as autoridades, para implementar estratégias de controlo eficazes, especialmente durante períodos epidémicos.

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Objetivo: analisar a incidência e os fatores relacionados à obstrução de cateter intravenoso periférico em adultos hospitalizados. Método: uma coorte prospectiva, realizada a partir da observação de 203 cateteres, entre fevereiro de 2019 e maio de 2020, em hospital público e de ensino brasileiro. Foram consideradas variáveis clínicas e do cateter. Os dados foram analisados descritivamente e por estatística inferencial. Resultados: o tempo de permanência variou entre um a 15 dias e a obstrução ocorreu em 7,5% das observações. Houve aumento do risco de obstrução em relação ao sexo (RR=0,49 / p=0,186), à idade (RR=1,20/ p=0,732), aos cateteres de maior calibre (RR=0,53/ p=0,250), à inserção no dorso da mão até antebraço (RR=2,33/ p=0,114) e ao tempo do cateter in situ (RR=033/ p=0,433). Conclusão: O cuidado diário e observação do cateter intravenoso periférico são importantes para minimizar o surgimento de complicações locais e sistêmicas e manter a patência do dispositivo.

Objective: to analyze the incidence and factors related to peripheral intravenous catheter obstruction in hospitalized adults. Method: a prospective cohort, based on the observation of 203 catheters, between February 2019 and May 2020, in a Brazilian public teaching hospital. Clinical and catheter variables were taken into account. The data was analyzed descriptively and using inferential statistics. Results: the length of stay ranged from one to 15 days and obstruction occurred in 7.5% of the observations. There was an increased obstruction risk in relation to gender (RR=0.49 / p=0.186), age (RR=1.20/ p=0.732), larger catheters (RR=0.53/ p=0.250), insertion in the back of the hand up to the forearm (RR=2.33/ p=0.114) and the time length the catheter was in situ (RR=033/ p=0.433). Conclusion: Daily care and observation of the peripheral intravenous catheter is important to minimize the appearance of local and systemic complications and maintain the patency of the device.

Objetivo: analizar la incidencia y los factores relacionados con la obstrucción del catéter intravenoso periférico en adultos hospitalizados. Método: cohorte prospectiva, realizada mediante la observación de 203 catéteres, entre febrero de 2019 y mayo de 2020, en un hospital escuela público brasileño. Se consideraron variables clínicas y del catéter. Los datos se analizaron de forma descriptiva y mediante estadística inferencial. Resultados: el tiempo de permanencia varió entre uno y 15 días y la obstrucción ocurrió en el 7,5% de las observaciones. Hubo mayor riesgo de obstrucción en relación con el sexo (RR=0,49 / p=0,186), la edad (RR=1,20 / p=0,732), los catéteres de mayor calibre (RR=0,53 / p= 0,250), la inserción en el dorso de la mano hasta el antebrazo (RR=2,33/ p=0,114) y el tiempo del catéter in situ (RR=033/ p=0,433). Conclusión: el cuidado diario y la observación del catéter intravenoso periférico son importantes para minimizar la aparición de complicaciones locales y sistémicas y mantener la permeabilidad del dispositivo.

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Com o aumento do uso de telas na população pediátrica, esta pesquisa objetiva avaliar a influência do padrão de uso e tempo de tela na qualidade de vida infantil. Trata-se de estudo observacional, transversal e analítico realizado com mães, pais e outros responsáveis por crianças em idade pré-escolar (de 2 a 4 anos) em uma cidade do nordeste brasileiro, totalizando 198 crianças. A coleta de dados foi realizada via Google Forms e a qualidade de vida verificada usando o instrumento PedsQL 4.0. A maioria das crianças utiliza as telas por mais de uma hora por dia (69,19%), acima do recomendado pelas entidades médicas. Verificou-se a influência do uso de mídias digitais na qualidade de vida infantil: piores padrões de uso estavam relacionados a prejuízos na saúde física (p=0,012) e emocional (p entre 0,006 e 0,046). O tempo de tela elevado correlacionou-se com impactos na esfera social da vida da criança (p=0,043).

With the increase in screen use in the pediatric population, this research aims to assess the influence of screen use patterns and screen time on children's quality of life. This is an observational, cross-sectional, and analytical study conducted with mothers, fathers, and other guardians of preschool children (aged from 2 to 4 years old) in a city in northeastern Brazil, totaling 198 children. Data collection was performed via Google Forms and quality of life was assessed using the PedsQL 4.0 instrument. Most children use screens for over an hour a day (69.19%), more than that recommended by medical organizations. The influence of digital media use on children's quality of life was verified: worse usage patterns were related to damage to physical health (p=0.012) and emotional health (p between 0.006 and 0.046). High screen time correlated with impacts on the social dimension of the child's life (p=0.043).

Con el aumento del uso de pantallas en la población pediátrica, esta investigación tiene como objetivo evaluar la influencia del patrón de uso y el tiempo de pantalla en la calidad de vida de los niños. Se trata de un estudio observacional, transversal y analítico realizado con madres, padres y responsables de niños en edad preescolar (de 2 a 4 años) en una ciudad del noreste de Brasil, totalizando 198 niños. La recolección de datos se realizó mediante Google Forms y la calidad de vida se verificó mediante el instrumento PedsQL 4.0. La mayoría de los niños utiliza pantallas más de una hora al día (69,19%), por encima de lo recomendado por las entidades médicas. Se verificó la influencia del uso de medios digitales en la calidad de vida de los niños: peores patrones de uso se relacionaron con pérdidas en la salud física (p=0,012) y emocional (p entre 0,006 y 0,046). El elevado tiempo de pantalla se correlacionó con impactos en la esfera social de la vida del niño (p=0,043).

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A South Indian dish was developed using Pangasius fish (Pangasius hypophthalmus) fillet chunks in masalas as a medium. The aim of the current study was to optimize the various F? values for Pangasius fillet chunks packed in masala, using flexible, retortable pouches. After being processed at different lethality levels, the product showed a similar heating and cooling lag factor. For F? values of 7.37 and 8.12 minutes, the total process time were 26.94 and 31.37 minutes, respectively. The fh values for products processed at F? values of 7.37 and 8.12 minutes were 13 and 16.5 minutes, respectively. The cook value obtained for the thermally processed product was 64.70 minutes for F? 7.37 minutes and 65.87 minutes for F? 8.12 minutes. Over a storage duration of up to 90 days, all instrumental texture indicators exhibited a declining pattern. The product processed at Fo value of 7.37 and 8.12 minutes were achieved commercial sterility. The product processed at F? 7.37 minutes was considered more favourable based on organoleptic assessment.

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Background: Allergic conjunctivitis (AC) is a prevalent ocular condition triggered by environmental allergens, causing significant discomfort and reduced quality of life. Dry Eye Disease (DED), marked by ocular discomfort and visual disturbances, frequently overlaps with AC symptoms. This study examines the prevalence of DED in AC patients and explores the relationship between different AC types and DED severity. Method: A cross-sectional, observational study was conducted from June to September 2023 in the Department of Ophthalmology at a tertiary center in North India. A total of 264 AC patients aged 18 years and older with itchy eyes were included. Patients with contact lens use, recent ocular surgery, trauma, corneal pathology, or certain systemic diseases were excluded. DED was assessed using the Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI), Schirmer’s test, and Tear Film Break-Up Time (TFBUT). Results: DED was found in 70% of AC patients, with 20% mild, 19% moderate, and 32% severe cases. Females were more affected (64%). VKC patients showed higher tear production and better TFBUT scores. PAC patients had the most severe DED. Conclusion: DED is common in AC patients, with PAC associated with more severe DED, while VKC shows milder symptoms. Tailored treatment approaches are needed for managing AC and DED.

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This randomized clinical trial compared the efficacy of tacker versus suture fixation methods for mesh attachment in laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) hernia repair. Conducted on 20 patients, the study assessed pain levels, operative time, and complication rates associated with each technique. Findings revealed that suture fixation resulted in significantly lower pain scores at 6 and 24 hours postoperatively compared to tacker fixation (p<0.001). The average operative time was notably shorter for tacker fixation (100 minutes) compared to suture fixation (130 minutes). Complication rates, including hematoma, seroma, and scrotal edema, were similar between the two groups. These results suggest that while suture fixation may offer superior pain management, tacker fixation may be more time-efficient. Further research with larger samples and longer follow-up is needed to evaluate long-term outcomes and recurrence rates to comprehensively compare the two fixation techniques.

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Introducción La progresión del cáncer de mama involucra mecanismos fisiológicos como metástasis. Los retrasos en diagnóstico y tratamiento aumentan el riesgo de mortalidad y se asocian a barreras de acceso a la salud. En Chile, el cáncer de mama es altamente prevalente y su diagnóstico temprano ha mejorado, aunque persisten disparidades en el proceso de enfermedad. Este estudio caracterizó exámenes de diagnóstico y etapificación, tiempos de espera y perfiles sociodemográficos para identificar demoras e inequidades en la atención. Métodos Estudio de encuesta. Utilizando una muestra no probabilística, se aplicó un cuestionario en plataforma encriptada previo consentimiento informado. En el instrumento se recogieron datos de exámenes solicitados, tiempos asociados, etapificación y características sociodemográficas. Estas variables fueron analizadas utilizando estadística descriptiva, test de asociación, intervalos de confianza y test de comparación utilizando . Resultados Se logró una muestra de 263 personas. Los exámenes más solicitados fueron biopsia (99,62%) y exámenes de sangre (80,23%). La mediana de exámenes solicitados fue de 6 (Q1:4, Q3:8), con media 5,87 (desviación estándar: 2,24). No se observaron diferencias significativas en el porcentaje de personas a quienes se solicitó la totalidad de exámenes según variables estudiadas. Los intervalos día-hora-resultado oscilaron entre 1 y 365 días. La mediana día-hora-resultado de la biopsia fue de 15 días (Q1:10, Q3:30). Las personas entre 40 y 49 años, no residentes de la capital, pertenecientes al quintil I de ingreso, con educación media, del sistema público de salud, con diagnóstico en etapa tardía presentaron mayores medianas de día-hora-resultado en biopsia. No hubo diferencia significativa en la cantidad de exámenes solicitados según etapificación (I a II y III a IV). Conclusiones La biopsia en Chile es el examen de elección para la confirmación diagnóstica en cáncer de mama. Otros exámenes son solicitados independientemente de la etapa del diagnóstico, existiendo una discordancia con las recomendaciones de la guía clínica. El pronóstico del cáncer es crucial, especialmente en países con mayores inequidades.

Introduction Breast cancer progression involves physiological mechanisms such as metastasis. Delays in diagnosis and treatment increase the risk of mortality and are associated with barriers to healthcare access. In Chile, breast cancer is highly prevalent, and early diagnosis has improved, although disparities in the disease evolution persist. This study characterized diagnostic and staging tests, waiting times, and sociodemographic profiles to identify delays and inequities in care. Methods Survey study. Using a non-probabilistic sample, a questionnaire was applied in an encrypted platform with prior informed consent. The instrument collected data on requested tests, associated times, staging, and sociodemographic characteristics. These variables were analyzed using descriptive statistics, tests of association, confidence intervals, and comparison tests using bootstrapping. Results A sample of 263 persons was obtained. The most requested tests were biopsy (99.62%) and blood tests (80.23%). The median number of tests requested was six (Q1:4, Q3:8), with a mean of 5.87 (standard deviation: 2.24). No significant differences were observed in the percentage of persons from whom the total number of examinations were requested according to the studied variables. The day-hour-result intervals ranged from 1 to 365 days. The median day-hour-result of the biopsy was 15 days (Q1:10, Q3:30). People between 40 and 49 years old, non-residents of the capital city, belonging to income quintile I, with high school education, from the public health system, with late-stage diagnosis had higher median day-hour-result in biopsy. There was no significant difference in the number of requested tests according to staging (I and II, or III and IV). Conclusions Biopsy in Chile is the test of choice for diagnostic confirmation in breast cancer. Other tests are requested regardless of the diagnosis stage, contrary to the recommendations of clinical guidelines. Cancer prognosis is crucial, especially in countries with greater inequalities.

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Background: Rickettsial infections are zoonotic diseases transmitted between mites, ticks, or fleas and animals, particularly rodents. Despite being underdiagnosed, they are a significant cause of Fever of Unknown Origin (FUO) globally, including India. Timely diagnosis is crucial as untreated cases can have fatality rates as high as 30-35%, emphasizing the need for rapid diagnostic methods. This study aims to diagnose clinically suspected cases of rickettsial fever by utilizing both the traditional Weil-Felix serological test and the more advanced PanR8 real-time PCR. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted between December 2017 and June 2019 at Bangalore Medical College. A total of 100 blood samples were collected from clinically suspected rickettsial fever patients. Serological diagnosis using the Weil-Felix test and molecular confirmation via PanR8 real-time PCR targeting the 23S rRNA of Rickettsia species was performed. Data analysis was done using descriptive statistics to interpret prevalence and symptom correlations. Results: Out of 100 samples, 37% showed positivity for OX-19 and OX-2 antigens in the Weil-Felix test. In the real-time PCR, 7% of samples tested positive for Rickettsia species, with a p<0.05, showing a significant correlation between PCR and Weil-Felix results in high-titer cases. The majority of patients (100%) had a fever, 46% had a rash, and hepatosplenomegaly was observed in 20%. Conclusion: The study demonstrated the utility of both Weil-Felix test and PanR8 real-time PCR for diagnosing rickettsial infections. The PanR8 real-time PCR improved diagnostic accuracy and reduced turnaround time, proving valuable in clinical settings.

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The drug store inside the tertiary care teaching hospital assumes a crucial part in understanding consideration by streamlining the administration of procuring, distribution, and processes of drug standardization and dispensing. Objectives of the study were to study the purchase order, calculate the lead time of procurement, analysing the physical stock against the virtual stock and ?nd out the bottlenecks. It was an observational descriptive study conducted over 60 days in the main pharmacy of the hospital. As a result, it was observed that the internal lead time of the procurement process was unusually long resulting in frequent stock-outs of certain drugs. There was a delay in updating the stock in the system software resulting virtual stock-outs whereas the physical stock was more than what was required. Virtual inventory systems, when well-managed, can minimize stockouts through real-time tracking and automated reordering.

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Background: Oesophageal malignancies (OC) are the sixth most common cause of cancer?related mortality worldwide. Traditional risk factors for OC include smoking, alcohol consumption, and poorly controlled acid reflux; however, the trends in the last decade have pointed out the potential carcinogenic roles of infectious agents, especially Human Papillomavirus (HPV), in the development of OC. The prevalence of HPV infection in OC varies greatly worldwide, mainly due to the inconsistencies of the detection assays employed. This study attempted to establish the association between high?risk HPV and oesophageal malignancies by detecting the transcriptionally active HPV mRNA. Materials and Methods: In this cross?sectional study, 30 malignant oesophageal samples were subjected to real?time PCR to detect high?risk HPV?16 and 18 by targeting transcriptionally active E6/E7 genes. The positive samples were further subjected to viral load assessment. Results: Histopathological analysis of the patients showed that a moderately differentiated squamous cell carcinoma was seen in 56.2% of the cases. Of the 30 samples, 4 (13.3%) showed positive for HPV?16 E6/E7, and none showed positive for HPV?18 E6/ E7. The viral load of HPV?16 E6/E7 in the positive samples was lesser than the copies present in the well?established cell line, SiHa. Conclusion: The role of HPV in the etiopathogenesis of oesophageal malignancies is unclear. Based on this study and the supporting data presented, it can be said that the association of high?risk HPV infection in oesophageal cancers does exist, but whether it is clinically and etiologically significant is the question that needs to be answered. Multicenter studies from different geographical locations, employing multiple molecular methods with a larger sample size, could aid in a better understanding of the etiopathogenesis of HPV in OC.

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Background: Alcohol dependence develops because of repeated alcohol intake. Alcohol damages the cardiac autonomic nerve fibers leading to autonomic imbalance, resulting in reduced heart rate variability (HRV). HRV refers to the complex beat-to-beat variation in the heart rate, produced by the interplay of sympathetic and parasympathetic neural activity at the Sino-atrial node. Our body works effectively in parasympathetic activity dominance. The time domain indices of HRV are specific markers of parasympathetic activity. A decrease in the time domain parameters indicates reduced parasympathetic activity in the heart, indicating cardiac autonomic dysfunction with vagal neuropathy. Aims and Objectives: The objectives of the study are as follows: (1) To assess the HRV in alcohol-dependent individuals using time domain indices. (2) To compare the HRV between alcoholic-dependent individuals and non-alcoholic subjects. Materials and Methods: A total of 110 individuals in the age group of 20–55 years were recruited for our study. Among them, 55 were alcohol-dependent individuals selected based on the diagnostic and statistical manual-IV, international classification of diseases-10 criteria, and 55 age and gender-matched volunteers were selected as healthy non-alcoholic controls. Short-term HRV was recorded in a supine posture, and the results were interpreted. Statistical analysis was done using the software SPSS version 21.0. Results: Our results showed a significant reduction in the time-domain parameters of HRV – SDNN, RMSSD, NN50, and pNN50 in the alcohol-dependent individuals compared to the controls, suggesting reduced parasympathetic activity in the heart indicating cardiac autonomic neuropathy. Conclusion: Alcohol affects the cardiac autonomic status leading to sudden death due to arrhythmias. HRV can be used as a non-invasive test to assess cardiac autonomic dysfunction and its biofeedback can help alcohol-dependent individuals to adopt healthy lifestyle measures.

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Objetivo: identificar a prevalência e os fatores associados ao tempo prolongado de hospitalização das pessoas idosas. Métodos: Estudo transversal, com 228 pessoas idosas hospitalizadas. O tempo prolongado de internação foi determinado pelo Kanbam, sistema institucionalizado, que considera pacientes com o dobro da permanência determinada pelo diagnóstico ou procedimento mais um dia. Os dados sociodemográficos e fatores associados foram obtidos dos prontuários e por meio de entrevista à beira do leito. A análise compreendeu a estatística descritiva, uni e bivariada. Resultados: A prevalência de pessoas idosas com tempo prolongado de hospitalização foi de 48,2%, com predomínio do sexo masculino. Os fatores associados (p<0,05) foram: possuir cuidador, astenia, acidentes por quedas e acidente vascular cereberal. Conclusão: Considerou-se uma prevalência alta de internação prolongada entre os idosos, sendo essa associada a fatores modificáveis, como a ocorrência de quedas e acidentes vascular cerebral. Tais achados subsidiam ações mais assertivas para a população idosa.

Objective: to identify the prevalence and factors associated with prolonged hospitalization of elderly people. Methods: Cross-sectional study, with 228 hospitalized elderly people. The prolonged hospitalization time was determined by Kanbam, an institutionalized system, which considers patients with twice the length of stay determined by the diagnosis or procedure plus one day. Sociodemographic data and associated factors were obtained from medical records and through bedside interviews. The analysis comprised descriptive, uni and bivariate statistics. Results: The prevalence of elderly people with prolonged hospitalization time was 48.2%, with a predominance of males. Associated factors (p<0.05) were: having a caregiver, asthenia, accidents due to falls and stroke. Conclusion: It was considered a high prevalence of prolonged hospitalization among the elderly, which is associated with modifiable factors, such as the occurrence of falls and strokes. Such findings support more assertive actions for the elderly population.

Objetivo: identificar la prevalencia y los factores asociados a la hospitalización prolongada de personas mayores. Métodos: Estudio transversal, con 228 ancianos hospitalizados. El tiempo prolongado de hospitalización fue determinado por Kanbam, un sistema institucionalizado, que considera pacientes con el doble de estancia determinada por el diagnóstico o procedimiento más un día. Los datos sociodemográficos y los factores asociados se obtuvieron de los registros médicos y mediante entrevistas a pie de cama. El análisis comprendió estadística descriptiva, uni y bivariada. Resultados: La prevalencia de ancianos con tiempo de internación prolongada fue del 48,2%, con predominio del sexo masculino. Los factores asociados (p<0,05) fueron: tener cuidador, astenia, accidentes por caídas e ictus. Conclusión: Se consideró una alta prevalencia de hospitalización prolongada entre los ancianos, lo que se asocia con factores modificables, como la ocurrencia de caídas y accidentes cerebrovasculares. Estos hallazgos respaldan acciones más asertivas para la población de edad avanzada.

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Objective: To compare hip reaction time and postural balance between community-dwelling and institutionalized elderly individuals. Method: We conducted a cross-sectional, controlled study. Thirty-four elderly volunteers were assessed and allocated to two groups: the Community-Dwelling Elderly Group (CDEG) (age= 68.630 ± 5.353 years; BMI= 27.464 ± 3.185 kg/m2) and the Institutionalized Elderly Group (IEG) (age= 72.080 ± 5.123 years; BMI= 26.091 ± 4.189 kg/m2). All participants were evaluated for postural balance using right and left single-leg stance tests, both with and without vision, and hip abduction total reaction time using the PhysioPlay device equipped with the KinectTM sensor (Microsoft, USA). Results: A significant difference between the groups was observed in single-leg stance time with eyes open (Left: p= 0.004; Right: p= 0.001) and with eyes closed (Left: p= 0.044; Right: p= 0.037). The reaction time for hip abduction in both hips did not show significant differences between the groups (p>0.05). Conclusion: The IEG exhibited shorter single-leg support time on both legs compared to the CDEG, no differences in hip abduction reaction time, indicating that reaction time is impaired in both groups.

Objetivo: Comparar o tempo de reação do quadril e o equilíbrio postural entre idosos residentes na comunidade e institucionalizados. Métodos: Foi realizado um estudo transversal e controlado. Trinta e quatro idosos voluntários foram avaliados e alocados em dois grupos: Grupo de Idosos Comunitários (CDEG) (idade= 68.630 ± 5.353 anos; IMC= 27,464 ± 3,185 kg/m2) e o Grupo de Idosos Institucionalizados (IEG) (idade= 72,080 ± 5,123 anos; IMC= 26,091 ± 4,189 kg/m2). Todos os participantes foram avaliados quanto ao equilíbrio postural por meio de testes de apoio unipodal direito e esquerdo, com e sem visão, e tempo total de reação de abdução do quadril usando o aparelho PhysioPlay equipado com o sensor KinectTM (Microsoft, EUA). Resultados: Observou-se diferença significativa entre os grupos no tempo de apoio unipodal com os olhos abertos (Esquerda: p= 0,004; Direita: p= 0,001) e com os olhos fechados (Esquerda: p= 0,044; Direita: p= 0,037). O tempo de reação para abdução do quadril em ambos os quadris não apresentou diferenças significativas entre os grupos (p>0,05). Conclusão: O IEG exibiu menor tempo de apoio unipodal em ambas as pernas em comparação com o CDEG, sem diferenças no tempo de reação de abdução do quadril, indicando que o tempo de reação está comprometido em ambos os grupos.

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Introducción: el fibrinógeno es esencial en la hemostasia y formación de coágulos. Existen varios métodos para su cuantificación, siendo el método de Clauss el recomendado por su precisión, frente al método derivado del tiempo de protrombina, que tiende a sobreestimar los valores. El propósito de este trabajo es comparar ambos métodos para corroborar si existen diferencias significativas en los resultados de fibrinógeno en los pacientes del Hospital Central de las Fuerzas Armadas. Materiales y métodos: se analizaron 153 muestras de pacientes, divididos en tres grupos: Grupo 1: fibrinógeno elevado (>450 mg/dL) y resto de crasis normal. Grupo 2: INR >1,4 y fibrinógeno elevado. Grupo 3: fibrinógeno bajo (<200 mg/dL). Se compararon los resultados de fibrinógeno derivado y el método de Clauss mediante regresión Passing-Bablok, Deming y Bland Altman. Resultados: el fibrinógeno derivado mostró un sesgo positivo en todos los grupos. Aunque se confirmó una relación lineal entre ambos métodos, el análisis de Bland Altman indicó diferencias estadísticamente significativas (p<0.0001). El sesgo fue del 33% para los grupos 1 y 3; y 26% para el grupo 2. Discusión y conclusión: el método derivado sobreestima los niveles de fibrinógeno, lo que puede generar diagnósticos erróneos, particularmente en pacientes con niveles bajos o altos. El método de Clauss es más preciso y confiable, y debe preferirse para pacientes con alteraciones críticas como hipofibrinogenemia o disfibrinogenemias y para su uso correcto como marcador de inflamación sistémica.

Introduction: Fibrinogen is essential in hemostasis and clot formation. There are several methods for its quantification, being the Clauss method the recommended one due to its precision, as opposed to the method derived from prothrombin time, which tends to overestimate the values. The purpose of this study is to compare both methods to corroborate whether there are significant differences in fibrinogen results in patients at the Hospital Central de las Fuerzas Armadas. Materials and Methods: 153 patient samples were analyzed, divided into three groups: Group 1: Elevated fibrinogen (>450 mg/dL) and normal remaining crassis. Group 2: INR >1.4 and elevated fibrinogen. Group 3: Low fibrinogen (<200 mg/dL). The results of derived fibrinogen and Clauss method were compared by Passing-Bablok, Deming and Bland Altman regression. Results: Derived fibrinogen showed a positive bias in all groups. Although a linear relationship between both methods was confirmed, Bland Altman analysis indicated statistically significant differences (p<0.0001). The bias was 33% for groups 1 and 3; and 26% for group 2. Discussion and Conclusion: The derived method overestimates fibrinogen levels, which can lead to erroneous diagnoses, particularly in patients with low or high levels. The Clauss method is more accurate and reliable, and should be preferred for patients with critical alterations such as hypofibrinogenemia or dysfibrinogenemia and for its correct use as a marker of systemic inflammation.

Introdução: o fibrinogênio é essencial na hemostasia e na formação de coágulos. Existem vários métodos para sua quantificação, sendo o método de Clauss recomendado por sua precisão, em oposição ao método derivado do tempo de protrombina, que tende a superestimar os valores. O objetivo deste estudo é comparar os dois métodos para corroborar se há diferenças significativas nos resultados de fibrinogênio em pacientes do Hospital Central de las Fuerzas Armadas. Materiais e Métodos: Foram analisadas 153 amostras de pacientes, divididas em três grupos: Grupo 1: Fibrinogênio elevado (>450 mg/dL) e crase restante normal. Grupo 2: INR >1,4 e fibrinogênio elevado. Grupo 3: Fibrinogênio baixo (<200 mg/dL). Os resultados do fibrinogênio derivado e do método de Clauss foram comparados usando a regressão de Passing-Bablok, Deming e Bland Altman. Resultados: O fibrinogênio derivado apresentou um viés positivo em todos os grupos. Embora tenha sido confirmada uma relação linear entre os dois métodos, a análise de Bland Altman indicou diferenças estatisticamente significativas (p<0,0001). O viés foi de 33% para os grupos 1 e 3 e de 26% para o grupo 2. Discussão e conclusão: O método derivado superestima os níveis de fibrinogênio, o que pode levar a um diagnóstico incorreto, principalmente em pacientes com níveis baixos ou altos. O método de Clauss é mais preciso e confiável, e deve ser preferido para pacientes com alterações críticas, como hipofibrinogenemia ou disfibrinogenemia, e para seu uso correto como marcador de inflamação sistêmica.

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Pernambuco is among the states with the highest detection and mortality rates for tuberculosis, a disease directly related to social and health inequalities. We proposed to analyze the epidemiological characteristics of tuberculosis from 2011 to 2020 in the health macroregions of Pernambuco. Methods: this was an ecological study of notified cases of tuberculosis confirmed in the macroregions of the state of Pernambuco between 2011 and 2020. The behavior of tuberculosis in Pernambuco over time and space was analyzed. Results: there were 56,700 confirmed cases of tuberculosis per municipality of residence in Pernambuco during the study period. The overall average detection rate for the period was 35.6/100,000 inhabitants, with the highest rate recorded in macroregion 1, with 58.45 cases/100,000 inhabitants, and the lowest in macroregion 3, with 19.74 cases/100,000 inhabitants. The results show an increase in the concentration of cases in the state's Metropolitan Region. Conclusion: tuberculosis control requires contextual actions to improve people's general living conditions. Social support is aimed at socially vulnerable people in general, and there is no specific support for this public.(AU)

Pernambuco está entre os estados com maiores coeficientes de detecção e mortalidade por tuberculose, doença diretamente relacionada às iniquidades social e de saúde. Propõe-se analisar as características epidemiológicas da tuberculose no período de 2011 a 2020 nas macrorregiões de saúde de Pernambuco. Métodos: estudo ecológico que considerou os casos notificados confirmados para tuberculose nas macrorregiões do estado de Pernambuco entre 2011 e 2020. Analisou-se o comportamento da tuberculose em Pernambuco no tempo e no espaço. Resultados: houve um registro de 56,7 mil casos confirmados de tuberculose por município de residência em Pernambuco no período do estudo. A média geral da taxa de detecção no período foi de 35,6/100 mil habitantes, sendo a maior taxa registrada na macrorregião 1, com 58,45 casos/100 mil habitantes, e a menor, na macrorregião 3, com 19,74 casos/100 mil habitantes. Os resultados mostram aumento na concentração de casos na Região Metropolitana do estado. Conclusão: o controle da tuberculose necessita de ações contextuais, no sentido de melhorar a condição geral de vida das pessoas. O suporte social é destinado às pessoas em vulnerabilidade social no geral, não havendo suporte específico a esse público.(AU)

: Pernambuco se encuentra entre los estados con mayores tasas de detección y mortalidad por tuberculosis, enfermedad directamente relacionada con las desigualdades sociales y sanitarias. El objetivo es analizar las características epidemiológicas de la tuberculosis entre 2011 y 2020 en las macrorregiones sanitarias de Pernambuco. Métodos: estudio ecológico que analizó los casos notificados confirmados de tuberculosis en las macrorregiones del estado de Pernambuco entre 2011 y 2020. Se analizó el comportamiento de la tuberculosis en Pernambuco en tiempo y en espacio. Resultados: hubo 56.700 casos confirmados de tuberculosis por municipio de residencia en Pernambuco durante el período de estudio. La tasa media global de detección en el período fue de 35,6/100.000 habitantes, registrándose la tasa más alta en la macrorregión 1, con 58,45 casos/100.000 habitantes, y la más baja en la macrorregión 3, con 19,74 casos/100.000 habitantes. Los resultados muestran un aumento de la concentración de casos en la región metropolitana del estado. Conclusión: el control de la tuberculosis requiere acciones contextuales para mejorar las condiciones generales de vida de las personas. El apoyo social está dirigido a las personas socialmente vulnerables en general, y no hay apoyo específico para este público.(AU)

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Background and Objectives: American tegumentary leishmaniasis (ATL) is a public health concern, and its control remains a challenge in territories with significant social vulnerability. Piauí is one of the most socially vulnerable states in Brazil, and knowing the profile of notifications can serve as support in the implementation of more efficient interventions. Thus, this study aimed to analyze the temporal trend of ATL cases in the state of Piauí between 2007 and 2022. Methods: this is a quantitative and retrospective study, carried out using secondary data on ATL cases notified in the Notifiable Diseases Information System (SINAN)/Ministry of Health/Department of Health and Environmental Surveillance, available in DATASUS. The variables analyzed were year/month of notification, municipality of residence and notification, education, race, sex, age, confirmation criteria, evolution, clinical form and type of entry. Results: 1,407 cases were notified in the state, with an incidence of 3.88 and 2.75 at the beginning and end of the period. There was a predominance of males (61.42%), aged between 40 and 59 years old (33.12%), incomplete elementary school (54.86%) and race/skin color brown (69,08%). The cutaneous form was predominant (90.3%), with 59.4% of cases having a clinical-laboratory diagnosis. Of the total, 58.1% cases progressed to cure. Conclusion: ATL has emerged as a frequently notified condition, posing a significant challenge to local public health, affecting a specific social profile that requires actions at different levels of care, with a positive impact on the prevention and control of the disease in the state.(AU)

Justificativa e Objetivos: a leishmaniose tegumentar americana (LTA) é um problema de saúde pública, e seu controle persiste um desafio em territórios com expressiva vulnerabilidade social. O Piauí é um dos estados do Brasil mais vulneráveis socialmente, e conhecer o perfil das notificações pode servir de apoio na implementação de intervenções mais eficientes. Assim, este trabalho teve como objetivo analisar a tendência temporal dos casos de LTA no estado do Piauí entre os anos de 2007 e 2022. Métodos: trata-se de estudo quantitativo e retrospectivo, realizado a partir de dados secundários, de casos de LTA, notificados no Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação (SINAN)/Ministério da Saúde/Secretaria de Vigilância em Saúde e Ambiente, disponibilizados no DATASUS. As variáveis analisadas foram ano/mês de notificação, município de residência e de notificação, escolaridade, raça, sexo, idade, critérios de confirmação, evolução, forma clínica e tipo de entrada. Resultados: foram notificados 1.407 casos no estado, com incidência de 3,88 e 2,75 no início e fim do período. Houve predominância do sexo masculino (61,42%), idade entre 40 e 59 anos (33,12%), ensino fundamental incompleto (54,86%) e raça/cor parda (69,08%). A forma cutânea foi predominante (90,3%), com 59,4% dos casos com diagnóstico clínico-laboratorial. Do total, 58,1% casos evoluíram para cura. Conclusão: a LTA emergiu como uma condição frequentemente notificada, configurando-se um desafio significativo para a saúde pública local, atingindo um perfil social específico que necessita de ações nos diversos níveis de atenção, com impacto positivo na prevenção e controle da doença no estado.(AU)

Justificación y Objetivos: la leishmaniasis cutánea americana (LCA) es un problema de salud pública y su control sigue siendo un desafío en territorios con importante vulnerabilidad social. Piauí es uno de los estados socialmente más vulnerables de Brasil, y conocer el perfil de las notificaciones puede apoyar la implementación de intervenciones más eficientes. Por tanto, este trabajo tuvo como objetivo analizar la tendencia temporal de los casos de LCA en el estado de Piauí entre los años 2007 y 2022. Métodos: se trata de un estudio cuantitativo y retrospectivo, realizado a partir de datos secundarios, de casos de LCA, reportados en el Sistema de Información de Enfermedades de Declaración Obligatoria (SINAN)/Ministerio de Salud/Secretaría de Vigilancia de Salud y Ambiente, disponible en DATASUS. Las variables analizadas fueron año/mes de notificación, municipio de residencia y notificación, escolaridad, raza, sexo, edad, criterios de confirmación, evolución, forma clínica y tipo de ingreso. Resultados: se reportaron 1,407 casos en el estado, con una incidencia de 3.88 y 2.75 al inicio y al final del período. Hubo predominio del sexo masculino (61,42%), con edades entre 40 y 59 años (33,12%), educación primaria incompleta (54,86%) y color de piel/raza parda (69,08%). La forma cutánea fue predominante (90,3%), teniendo el 59,4% de los casos diagnóstico clínico-laboratorio. Del total, el 58,1% de los casos progresaron hasta la curación. Conclusión: la LTA ha surgido como una patología reportada con frecuencia, planteando un importante desafío para la salud pública local, alcanzando un perfil social específico que requiere acciones en los diferentes niveles de atención, con un impacto positivo en la prevención y control de la enfermedad en el estado.(AU)

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Today's digital era has gifted the modern generation with a variety of smart electronic audiovisual gadgets which has eventually reached children and is keeping them busy for a significant part of the day. This cross sectional questionnaire based study has been conducted on 237 subjects below 18 years of age by obtaining data from their guardians to find out the ocular manifestations in them to establish a correlation between screening time and occurrence of symptoms and a directly proportional trend has been observed between the two parameters