Cierre de conducto arterioso persistente con dispositivo OcclutechTM, experiencia en un país andino / Closure of patent ductus arteriosus with OcclutechTM device, experience in an andean country

Resumen Objetivo: Presentar la experiencia en un país andino con el dispositivo OcclutechTM Duct Occluder para el cierre del conducto arterioso persistente. Método: Estudio observacional, retrospectivo, de corte transversal con análisis estadístico básico. Periodo: diciembre/2014 a diciembre/2022. Datos: historia clínica, informes de laboratorio de cateterismo. Resultados: Cuarenta y seis pacientes; de sexo femenino 71.3%, de sexo masculino 28.7%; edad: 0.6-38 años (mediana [Me]: 5.2); peso: 6.3-60 kg (Me: 16.5). Procedencia: andina 91.3%, costa 8.7%. Tipos de conducto arterioso persistente: E 54.4%, A 32.6%, D 13%. Diámetro ductal mínimo: 1.8-11.8 mm (Me: 3.5). Presión media de la arteria pulmonar previo a la oclusión: 14-67 mmHg (Me: 27). Índice de resistencias vasculares pulmonares previo a la oclusión: 0.28-4.9 UW/m2 (Me: 1.3). Fueron catalogados como conductos arteriosos persistentes hipertensivos seis de ellos. Tasa de oclusión: inmediata el 47.8%, a las 24 horas el 81%, a los seis meses el 100%. Tiempo de fluoroscopia: 2-13.8 minutos (Me: 4). Complicaciones: un dispositivo migrado. Seguimiento: 1-6.5 años. Conclusiones: El dispositivo OcclutechTM Duct Occluder fue efectivo y seguro para el cierre de conducto arterioso persistente tipo E, A y D en habitantes de baja y alta altitud, ya sea que estos hubieran sido niños o adultos, incluso cuando estos conductos arteriosos fueron hipertensivos.

Abstract Objective: To communicate the experience in an Andean country with the OcclutechTM Duct Occluder device for the closure of patent ductus arteriosus. Method: Observational, retrospective, cross-sectional study with basic statistical analysis. Period: December/2014 to December/2022. Data: medical chart, reports of catheterization. Results: Forty-six patients, female 71.3%, male 28.7%; age: 0.6-38 years-old (median [Me]: 5.2); weight: 6.3-60 kg (Me: 16.5). Origin: andean 91.3%, coast 8.7%. Types of patent ductus arteriosus: E 54.4%, A 32.6%, D 13%. Minimum ductal diameter: 1.8-11.8 mm (Me: 3.5). Mean pulmonary artery pressure prior to occlusion: 14-67 mmHg (Me: 27). Pulmonary vascular resistance index prior to occlusion: 0.28-4.9 WU/m2 (Me: 1.3). Six of them were classified as hypertensive patent ductus arteriosus. Occlusion rate: 47.8% immediate, 81% at 24 hours, 100% after six months. Fluoroscopy time: 2-13.8 minutes (Me: 4). Complications: a migrated device. Follow-up: 1-6.5 years. Conclusions: OcclutechTM Duct Occluder device was effective and safe for the closure of patent ductus arteriosus type E, A and D in low-altitude and high-altitude dwellers, whether they were children or adults, even when these ductus arteriosus were hypertensive.

Parameters of pubertal growth spurt in children and adolescents living at high altitude in Peru

Abstract Objectives: The aim was to estimate the pubertal growth height of children and adolescents living in a high-altitude region of Peru using the Preece-Baines model 1 (1 PB). Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in schoolchildren from the department of Puno (Peru) between 3841 and 3874 masl. The age range was between 4 and 17 years. Standing height was evaluated. 1 PB was used to infer the mathematical and biological parameters of stature. Results: Mathematical parameters estimated by the 1 PB model reflected small residual standard error (RSE) values in both sexes (0.25 in boys and 0.27 in girls). In boys, the age at which peak velocity was reached (APHV) was estimated at 13.21 ± 0.33years. While in girls it was 9.96 ± 0.26years (p < 0.05). In general, girls reached APHV (y) 3.25 years earlier than boys. On the other hand, the growth velocity of maximum height [APHV (cm/y)] of boys was higher (6.33 ± 6.06 cm/y) relative to girls (6.06 ± 0.32 cm/y). Estimated final adult height (EFAH) in boys was reached at 166.020 ± 0.99 cm and height at maximum growth velocity (HPHV) was 153.07 ± 0.67 cm, while in girls they were significantly lower (EFAH; 153.74 ± 0.44 cm and HPHV: 139.73 ± 0.84 cm). Conclusions: This study showed that girls living in Puno at a high altitude in Peru reached APHV 3 years earlier than boys and at the same time reflected slower PHV. These results suggest that pubertal growth at high altitudes is slower in both sexes and especially in girls. Thus, modeling physical growth may be an important step in understanding the onset of puberty at different latitudes.

Estado de salud y frecuencia de factores predisponentes para covid-19 grave, población universitaria / Health status and frequency of predisposing factors for severe COVID-19, university population

INTRODUCCIÓN: La COVID-19 ha provocado diversas consecuencias en el mundo, actualmente se siguen estudiando sus factores predisponentes y consecuencias. El objetivo del presente estudio fue determinar el estado de salud y la frecuencia de los factores de riesgo para COVID-19 grave en estudiantes, docentes y administrativos universitarios. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: Estudio descriptivo de corte transversal, se aplicó un cuestionario virtual. Se recopiló información epidemiológica personal y del entorno cercano, grupo sanguíneo, hacinamiento en administrativos, peso y talla. RESULTADOS: Se obtuvo la información de 209 docentes, 103 administrativos y 1556 estudiantes. En docentes el 49.52% tiene alguna enfermedad crónica, el 29% tuvo COVID-19. En administrativos, el 56.31% tiene alguna enfermedad crónica, el 29% tuvo COVID-19. En estudiantes el 30% tiene enfermedad crónica, el 24.42% tuvo COVID-19. La mayoría de los docentes tiene sobrepeso, principalmente el sexo masculino desde los 51 años. El 50% del personal administrativo presenta sobrepeso, en igual proporción en ambos sexos y a partir de 41 años. En estudiantes la mayoría tiene un estado nutricional normal, el 27,9% presenta sobrepeso, siendo mayor en el sexo femenino y en el grupo de 20 a 25 años de edad. CONCLUSIONES: Son factores frecuentes en docentes y administrativos la edad, enfermedad crónica, grupo sanguíneo diferente de 0Rh positivo y sobrepeso.

INTRODUCTION: COVID-19 has caused various consequences in the world, its predisposing factors and consequences are currently being studied. The objective of this study was to determine the state of health and the frequency of risk factors for severe COVID-19 in university students, teachers, and administrators. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Descriptive cross-sectional study, a virtual questionnaire was applied. Personal epidemiological information and information about the immediate environment, blood group, overcrowding in administrative offices, weight and height were collected. RESULTS: Information was obtained from 209 teachers, 103 administrators and 1556 students. In teachers, 49.52% have some chronic disease, 29% had COVID-19. In administrative, 56.31% have some chronic disease, 29% had COVID-19. In students, 30% have a chronic disease, 24.42% had COVID-19. Most of the teachers are overweight, mainly the male sex from the age of 51. 50% of the administrative staff is overweight, in equal proportion in both sexes and from 41 years of age. In students, the majority have a normal nutritional status, 27.9% are overweight, being higher in the female sex and in the group of 20 to 25 years of age. CONCLUSIONS: Frequent factors in teachers and administrators are age, chronic illness, blood group other than 0Rh positive, and overweight

Estado ácido-base en obstetricia crítica y altitud / Acid-base status in critical care obstetrics at altitude

OBJETIVO: describir el estado ácido base en pacientes obstétricas críticamente enfermas a muy alta altitud, al momento de su ingreso a la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos. MATERIAL Y MÉTODO: estudio descriptivo transversal. Se incluyen todas las pacientes obstétricas internadas en la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos Adultos del Hospital del Norte de la ciudad de El Alto, La Paz a 4150 metros sobre el nivel del mar, ingresadas en el periodo enero 2019-enero 2022. RESULTADOS: se ingresaron 79 pacientes, con media de edad de 29 años (desviación estándar 8.06 años), 52 casos (66%) por preeclampsia severa, 14 casos (18%) por hemorragia obstétrica, 8 casos (10%) por sepsis obstétrica y 5 (6%) por diagnósticos diversos como taquicardia supraventricular e intoxicaciones, existieron 8 pacientes fallecidas (10% de mortalidad) destacando la sepsis obstétrica con mayor fallecimiento y mayor tiempo de internación. CONCLUSIÓN: los cambios fisiológicos propios del embarazo, la convierten en una paciente de riesgo, identificando la diferencia de iones fuertes aparente y abreviada como posibles factores pronóstico en la paciente obstétrica en estado crítico. PALABRAS CLAVE: estado acido-base, obstetricia crítica, gran altitud

OBJECTIVE: to describe the acid base status in critically ill obstetric patients at very high altitude, at the time of admission to the Intensive Care Unit. METHODOLOGY: retrospective descriptive study. All obstetric patients admitted to the Adult Intensive Care Unit of the Hospital del Norte in the city of El Alto, La Paz at 4150 meters above sea level, in the period January 2019-January 2022, are included. RESULTS: 79 patients were admitted, with a mean age of 29 years (standard deviation 8.06 years), 52 cases (66%) due to severe preeclampsia, 14 cases (18%) due to obstetric hemorrhage, 8 cases (10%) due to obstetric sepsis. and 5 (6%) due to various diagnoses such as supraventricular tachycardia and poisoning, there were 8 deceased patients (10% mortality), highlighting obstetric sepsis with the highest death rate and longest hospital stay. DISCUSSION: the physiological changes during pregnancy make her a risk patient, identifying the apparent and abbreviated strong ion difference as possible prognostic factors in the critically ill obstetric patient

Frecuencia de síndrome metabólico en adultos mayores de la ciudad El Alto-Bolivia, gestión 2019 / Frequency of metabolic syndrome among elderly people in the city of El Alto, Bolivia, in 2019

INTRODUCCIÓN: el síndrome metabólico es una entidad compleja, compuesta por factores de riesgo cardiaco como: Obesidad, Diabetes. Hipertensión, dislipemia etc. OBJETIVO: determinar la frecuencia de síndrome metabólico en adultos mayores de la ciudad El Alto, durante la gestión 2019. METODOLOGÍA: investigación transversal cuantitativa, se evaluaron a 124 individuos, reclutados en Auki Utas por el gobierno autónomo municipal de El Alto, mediante coordinación con la Unidad de Protección al Adulto Mayor, durante la gestión 2019. Previo consentimiento informado, se determinó antropometría, tensión arterial, toma de muestra de sangre venosa, para procesamiento de pruebas bioquímicas, (glucemia, triglicéridos, colesterol total, HDL colesterol y LDL colesterol). RESULTADOS: el 62% (77/124) de la población estudiada se encuadra dentro del diagnóstico de síndrome metabólico, presentando datos alterados en por lo menos tres de los criterios evaluados. CONCLUSIONES: la población estudiada presenta altos porcentajes de síndrome metabólico, con mayor tendencia a la obesidad e hipertensión, por lo que es importante la promoción y prevención, ya que el sobrepeso y obesidad son factores de riesgo para la resistencia a la insulina, determinante de los demás criterios (marcadores), actividades de promoción y prevención son necesarias en la ciudad de El Alto, para evitar morbimortalidad por síndrome metabólico

INTRODUCTION: metabolic syndrome is a complex entity, composed of cardiac risk factors such as: obesity, diabetes. hypertension, dyslipidemia, etc. OBJECTIVE: determine a baseline regarding metabolic syndrome in older adults in the El Alto city, which can be used in the future to carry out potential preventive interventions. METHODOLOGY: quali-quantitative research, studied 124 individuals, recruited in Auki Utas by the Autonomous Municipal Government of El Alto city, through coordination with the Protection Unit for the Elderly, during the 2019 administration. Prior informed consent, anthropometry was determined blood pressure, venous blood sampling, for processing biochemical tests (blood glucose, triglycerides, cholesterol, HDL and LDL). RESULTS: 62% (77/124) of the studied population falls within the diagnosis of metabolic syndrome, presenting altered data in at least three of the evaluated entities. CONCLUSIONS: the population studied presents high percentages of metabolic syndrome, with a greater tendency to obesity and hypertension, so promotion and prevention is important, since overweight and obesity are risk factors for insulin resistance, a determinant of the other criteria (markers), promotion and prevention activities are necessary in the El Alto city, to avoid morbidity and mortality due to metabolic syndrome

Influencia de la altitud y el estado de hidratación en los soldados de la VIII Brigada de Montaña al nivel de alta montaña / Influence of altitude and hydration status on soldiers of the VIII Mountain Brigade at high mountain level

Resumen Introducción: realizar ejercicio en altitudes elevadas merece consideraciones especiales a la hora de determinar las necesidades de líquidos en los deportistas y más aún en las tropas de montaña del ejército. Mantener un estado de euhidratación durante la actividad física es imprescindible para evitar complicaciones en la salud. Esta investigación tiene como objetivo identificar el estado de hidratación en los soldados de la Brigada de Montaña VIII del Ejército Argentino con asiento en Mendoza, Argentina en el año 2021. Materiales y método: estudio descriptivo, observacional, longitudinal. La muestra fue conformada por 87 soldados masculinos. Los datos recopilados incluyeron la cantidad y tipo de ingesta de líquidos, la gravedad específica urinaria mediante un refractómetro manual, el porcentaje de cambio de peso y la percepción subjetiva de sed. El análisis estadístico para variables cualitativas se realizó con la prueba χ2 y con IC 95%, las cuantitativas se compararon mediante la prueba t-Student. Resultados: el 96,5% de los soldados se hidrataron con agua. La ingesta media de líquidos fue 1,34±0,74 litros (L), con una ingesta máxima de 4 L y un mínimo de 0,5 L. El 36% de la muestra presentó una pérdida de peso corporal superior al 2% al finalizar la actividad, la diferencia relativa referida al peso inicial medio fue 1,7±1,4%. Al finalizar, el 43% clasificó como euhidratado y 29% como hipohidratado severo según la gravedad específica urinaria. Según la percepción subjetiva de sed al finalizar solo un 14% de los soldados no tenía sed. Conclusión: el estudio reflejó que el 64% de los soldados mantuvo una estrategia de reposición de líquidos óptima, dado que las pérdidas de peso se limitaron a lo esperable.

Abstract Introduction: exercising at high altitudes deserves special considerations when it comes to determining fluid requirements in athletes, especially in Army mountain troops. Maintaining a state of euhydration during physical activity is essential to avoid health complications. The aim of this research is to identify the hydration status of soldiers of the VIII Mountain Brigade of the Argentine Army based in Mendoza, Argentina in 2021. Materials and method: descriptive, observational, longitudinal study. The sample consisted of 87 male soldiers. The data collected included the amount and type of fluid intake, urinary specific gravity by using a manual refractometer, percentage of weight change and subjective perception of thirst. Statistical analysis for qualitative variables was done with the χ2 test and 95% CI, quantitative variables were compared using the t-Student test. Results: 96.5% of soldiers hydrated themselves with water. The mean fluid intake was 1.34±0.74 liters (L), with a maximum intake of 4 L and a minimum of 0.5 L. 36% percent of the sample presented a body weight loss of more than 2% at the end of the activity, the relative difference referred to the mean initial weight was 1.7±1.4%. At the end, 43% were classified as euhydrated and 29% as severely hypohydrated according to specific urinary gravity. According to the subjective perception of thirst at the end, only 14% of the soldiers were not thirsty. Conclusion: the study showed that 64% of the soldiers maintained an optimal fluid replacement strategy, given that weight losses were limited to what was expected.

Tratamiento quirúrgico del divertículo de Zenker; un caso clínico; Hospital Militar Central de La Paz (COSSMIL) gestión 2022 / Surgical treatment of Zenker's diverticulum, a Clinical Case Central Military Hospital of La Paz (COSSMIL) gestión 2022

Se presenta un caso clínico de una paciente de 66 años de edad masculino que acude a nuestro hospital (COOSMIL), después de hacer una anamnesis donde el paciente manifiestas molestias como tos, regurgitación y mal alientos (halitosis) y se le hace exámenes complementarios y se llega a un diagnóstico de divertículo faringo-esofágico o Zenker. Esta patología no es muy frecuente, pero se presenta en ancianos por una alteración anatomo-funcional que es un debilitamiento del músculo esofágico Hay tres divertículos esofágicos de los cuales el divertículo de Zenker es el más común aunque es relativamente raro que se presente, en la mayoría de las personas en edad seniles. Después de analizar el tamaño y forma del divertículo de este paciente se toma la decisión de una intervención quirúrgica el más acertado por el tamaño que mide es la diverticulectomia este tratamiento quirúrgico actualmente se continúa realizando en esta patología y con buen pronóstico de vida del paciente. Actualmente, el paciente se encuentra en buen estado salud y su recuperación es favorable desde la operación hasta el momento.

A case of a male patient of 66 years old was referred to our hospital (COSSMIL), after making an anamnesis in which the patient manifested cough, regurgitation and bad breath (halitosis). After further examination a the diagnosis is pharyngo-esophageal diverticulum or Zenker. This condition is rare, but sometimes it happens in elders due to an anatomical and functional alteration caused by is an esophagus muscle weakening. There are three esophageal diverticula in which the Zenker diverticulum is the most common but relatively rarely to occur in elder people. Before analyzing the size and shape of the diverticulum in this patient, the decision is proceed with surgery, the most recommended solution for measuring the size of the diverticulectomy. is The surgical treatment is still being applied in this pathology, with a high probability of success. Currently, the patient is in good health and the recovery from surgery is favorable so far.

Uso de cánula nasal de alto flujo artesanal como oxigenoterapia en insuficiencia respiratoria por COVID-19 / Use of artisanal high flow nasal cannula as oxygen therapy in respiratory failure due to COVID-19

Los riesgos asociados a la neumonía por (SARS-CoV-2) es la generación de insuficiencia respiratoria secundaria que en algunos casos desencadenara al tan temido síndrome de distres respiratorio (SDRA); Informes sobre atención clínica, indican que tiene una incidencia (SDRA) de 3-10 % con necesidad de Asistencia Respiratoria Mecánica (ARM) en pacientes hospitalizados; por lo que dispositivos de oxigenación no invasivos siguen siendo una opción atractiva, de forma inicial. Caso clínico: mujer de 47 años con insuficiencia respiratoria secundario a neumonía por COVID-19, por la gravedad se indica su ingreso a terapia intensiva, pero por razones de falta de unidad es manejada en unidad respiratoria, con el uso de dispositivos de oxigenación de armado ARTESAL, de manera exitosa, con la utilización de CNAF-artesanal, se pretende mejorar el trabajo respiratorio, índices de oxigenación, mientras se da tratamiento a la infección por el COVID-19; el objetivo del presente caso es reportar el presente caso con evolución favorable a la literatura disponible. Discusión: El uso de terapia de oxigenación con dispositivo de Cánula Nasal de Alto Flujo, aún no ha sido normatizado en pacientes con COVID-19, pero existe evidencia clínica sobre los efectos beneficiosos en la insuficiencia respiratoria en neonatos mas no en adultos. Conclusión: El uso temprano de la CNAF-artesanal en la insuficiencia respiratoria resulta muy atractivo, más aún con dispositivo de confección artesanal, da una opción más al paciente fuera de UTI, pudiendo apoyar en evitar la intubación y su ingreso a ventilación mecánica.

The risks associated with pneumonia (SARS-CoV-2) is the generation of secondary respiratory failure that in some cases will trigger the much feared respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS); Reports on clinical care indicate that it has an incidence (ARDS) of 3-10% with the need for Mechanical Respiratory Assistance (ARM) in hospitalized patients; so non-invasive oxygenation devices remain an attractive option, initially. Clinical case: a 47-year-old woman with respiratory failure secondary to covid-19 pneumonia. Due to the severity, her admission to intensive care is indicated, but for reasons of lack of unity, she is managed in a common room, with the use of high-pressure oxygenation devices. ARTISAL assembly, successfully, with the use of CNAF-artisanal, is intended to improve the work of breathing, and oxygenation indices, while treating the infection by COVID-19; The objective of this case is to report the present case with a favorable evolution based on the available literature. Discussion: The use of oxygenation therapy with a High Flow Nasal Cannula device has not yet been standardized in patients with COVID-19, but there is clinical evidence on the beneficial effects in respiratory failure in neonates but not in adults. Conclusion: The early use of the artisan HFNC in respiratory failure is very attractive, even more so with an artisanal device, it gives the patient another option outside the ICU, being able to help avoid intubation and admission to mechanical ventilation.

Functional and morphological evaluation of the meibomian glands and ocular surface assessment at high altitude

Purpose: To compare the function and morphology of the meibomian glands and the ocular surface of individuals from highland and lowland. Methods: This was a randomized controlled trial. The study was performed with 104 individuals (51 individuals from the highland and 53 individuals from the lowland). Detailed eye examinations comprising tear meniscus height, lipid layer grading, non?invasive Keratograph tear breakup time (NIKBUT), and scoring of the meibomian glands from the upper and lower eyelids of the individuals were performed by Keratograph 5M (OCULUS, Wetzlar, Germany). Symptoms related to dry eye disease were assessed using the Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI). Results: In the highland group, tear meniscus height was lower (P = 0.024), lipid layer grade, as well as all the meiboscores were higher (P < 0.05) than that in the lowland group. The OSDI (P = 0.018) and the percentage of dry eye disease were also higher as compared to that of the lowland group (P = 0.032). The first NIKBUT and average NIKBUT did not differ significantly between groups. The frequency of plugged meibomian gland orifices was greater in the lowland group compared to the highland group (P = 0.036). Conclusion: It was observed that dry eye disease was more common in the highland group. The morphological changes of meibomian gland dropout were significant in highlanders as demonstrated objectively with Keratograph 5M. Our study may raise a concern for environmental influences on ocular surface changes

Prevalencia de las cardiopatías congénitas en relación con la altura sobre el nivel del mar en una región de Colombia / Prevalence of congenital heart disease in relation to height above sea level in a region of Colombia

Resumen Introducción: Las cardiopatías congénitas son los trastornos congénitos más frecuentes en la población mundial, se manifiestan generalmente después del nacimiento. Las altitudes entre 2,500 y 3,500 metros sobre el nivel del mar se han relacionado con la alta incidencia de cardiopatías congénitas como el ductus arterioso persistente, los defectos del septum auricular y los defectos del septum ventricular. Objetivo: Caracterizar clínica y sociodemográficamente los pacientes con diagnóstico de cardiopatías congénitas procedentes de altitudes bajas, moderadas y altas en un hospital regional de Colombia. Metodología: Estudio observacional, descriptivo retrospectivo. Se incluyeron todos los pacientes menores de 18 años con diagnóstico de cardiopatías congénitas, atendidos en el Hospital Universitario San Rafael de Tunja entre el 2015 y 2021. Resultados: El 51.9% de los pacientes eran de sexo masculino, el 16.3% tenían antecedente de prematurez y el 9.1% tenían diagnóstico de síndrome de Down. Las cardiopatías más frecuentes fueron: ductus arterioso persistente (35.1%), seguido de comunicación interventricular (21.6%) y comunicación intrauricular (19.7%). Conclusiones: Se deben establecer estrategias como el tamizaje y diagnóstico oportuno de las cardiopatías congénitas en poblaciones de riesgo con el fin de mejorar el pronóstico de vida de los pacientes y desenlace de la enfermedad.

Abstract Introduction: Congenital heart diseases are the most common congenital disorders in the world population, they generally manifest after birth. Altitudes between 2,500-3,500 meters above sea level have been linked to the high incidence of congenital heart diseases such as patent ductus arteriosus, atrial septum defects, and ventricular septum defects. Objetives: To characterize clinically and sociodemographically the patients diagnosed with congenital heart disease from low, moderate and high altitudes in a regional hospital in Colombia. Methodology: Observational, descriptive retrospective study. All patients under 18 years of age with a diagnosis of congenital heart disease, treated at the San Rafael de Tunja University Hospital between 2015 and 2021, were included. Results: 51.9% of the patients were male, 16.3% had a history of prematurity and 9.1% had a diagnosis of Down syndrome. The most frequent heart diseases were: persistent ductus arteriosus 35.1%, followed by ventricular communication representing 21.6% and intra-atrial communication with 19.7%). Conclusions: They must eestablish strategies such as screening and timely diagnosis of congenital heart disease in at-risk populations in order to improve the life prognosis of patients and the outcome of the disease.

Male reproductive system and simulated high-altitude environment: preliminary results in rats / 亚洲男科学杂志(英文版)

This study assessed the effects of a simulated high-altitude environment on the reproductive system of prepubertal male rats and the reversibility of these effects upon return to a normal environment. Three-week-old male Wistar rats were randomly allocated to 4 groups that were exposed to different conditions: a normal environment for 6 weeks and 12 weeks, respectively, hypobaric hypoxia for 6 weeks, and hypobaric hypoxia for 6 weeks followed by a normal environment for 6 weeks. Multiple pathophysiological parameters were evaluated at the histological, endocrine, and molecular levels. Hypobaric hypoxia exposure for 6 weeks during the prepubertal phase significantly altered physiological parameters, body functions, blood indices, and reproductive potential. Six weeks after returning to a normal environment, the damaged reproductive functions partially recovered due to compensatory mechanisms. However, several changes were not reversed after returning to a normal environment for 6 weeks, including disorders of body development and metabolism, increased red blood cells, increased fasting blood glucose, abnormal blood lipid metabolism, decreased testicular and epididymis weights, abnormal reproductive hormone levels, excessive apoptosis of reproductive cells, and decreased sperm concentration. In summary, a hypobaric hypoxic environment significantly impaired the reproductive function of prepubertal male rats, and a return to normal conditions during the postpubertal phase did not fully recover these impairments.

Protective Effect of Huangqi Baihe Granules on Acute Brain Injury in Rats with High Altitude Hypoxia Based on HIF-1α/NF-κB/NLRP3 Signal Pathway / 中国实验方剂学杂志

ObjectiveTo observe the effect of Huangqi Baihe granules on the hypoxia-inducible factor 1α （HIF-1α）/nuclear factor-κB （NF-κB）/NOD-like receptor hot protein domain related protein 3 （NLRP3） signaling pathway in a rat model of high altitude hypoxia. MethodSixty male SPF SD rats were randomly divided into blank group， model group， dexamethasone group （5 mg·kg-1）， and high， middle， and low-dose groups of Huangqi Baihe granules （4.1， 2.05， 1.025 g·kg-1）. Among them， each Chinese medicine group was administrated orally for continuously 14 d， once a day， and the dexamethasone group was injected intraperitoneally for continuously 3 d as the positive control group. On the 15th d， the model group， dexamethasone group， and high， middle， and low dose groups of Huangqi Baihe granules were exposed to the simulated high altitude， low pressure， and low oxygen environment in the animal low-pressure simulation cabin， and the exposure lasted for 3 d. Blood was collected from the abdominal aorta and serum was separated， and the brain tissue was taken after being killed. Hematoxylin-eosin （HE） staining was used to observe the pathological changes in brain tissue. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay （ELISA） was used to detect the content of tumor necrosis factor-α （TNF-α）， interleukin-6 （IL-6）， and interleukin-1β （IL-1β） in rat serum. Western blot was used to detect HIF-1α， NLRP3， phosphorylated nuclear factor-κB （p-NF-κB）， NF-κB， desquamation D （GSDMD）， and cysteine aspartate-specitis protein-1（Caspase-1） in rats of each group. The mRNA expression levels of HIF-1α， NLRP3， NF-κB p65， GSDMD， and Caspase-1 were detected by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction （Real-time PCR）. ResultThe results of HE staining showed that as compared with the normal group， the pathological sections of brain tissues in the model group showed that pyramidal cells were loosely arranged and distributed in disorder， with different sizes. Compared with the model group， the pathological changes in pyramidal cells in the dexamethasone group and high and middle-dose groups of Huangqi Baihe granules were reduced. The results of ELISA showed that as compared with the normal group， the content of TNF-α， IL-6， and IL-1β in the serum of rats in the model group was significantly higher （P<0.01）. Compared with the model group， the content of TNF-α， IL-6， and IL-1β in the serum of rats in the dexamethasone group and high and middle-dose groups of Huangqi Baihe granules decreased significantly （P<0.05， P<0.01）. The results of Western blot showed that as compared with the normal group， the relative protein expression levels of HIF-1α， NLRP3， p-NF-κB p65， GSDMD， and Caspase-1 in the brain tissue of the model group were significantly higher （P<0.01）. As compared with the model group， the relative expressions of HIF-1α， NLRP3， p-NF-κB p65， GSDMD， and Caspase-1 in the brain tissue of rats in the dexamethasone group and the high-dose group of Huangqi Baihe granules were significantly decreased （P<0.05， P<0.01）. The relative protein expression levels of HIF-1α， NLRP3， p-NF-κB p65， and Caspase-1 in the brain tissue of rats in the middle-dose group of Huangqi Baihe granules decreased significantly （P<0.01）， and the relative protein expression of HIF-1α in the brain tissue of rats in the low-dose group of Huangqi Baihe granules was reduced （P<0.05）. The Real-time PCR analysis showed that as compared with the normal group， the mRNA expression levels of HIF-1α， NLRP3， NF-κB p65， GSDMD， and Caspase-1 in the brain tissue of the model group were significantly increased （P<0.01）. As compared with the model group， the mRNA expression levels of HIF-1α， NLRP3， NF-κB p65， GSDMD， and Caspase-1 in the brain tissue of rats in the dexamethasone group were significantly decreased （P<0.01）. The mRNA expression levels of HIF-1α， NF-κB p65， GSDMD， and Caspase-1 in the brain tissue of rats in the high-dose group of Huangqi Baihe granules decreased significantly （P<0.01）. The mRNA expression levels of HIF-1α， NLRP3， and Caspase-1in the brain tissue of rats in the middle-dose group of Huangqi granules decreased （P<0.05， P<0.01）. ConclusionThe protective effect of Huangqi Baihe granules on acute brain injury in low-pressure hypoxic rats may be related to the HIF-1α/NF-κB/NLRP3 signaling pathway.

Safety and feasibility of thoracic surgery for high-altitude patients in the high-altitude medical center / 中国胸心血管外科临床杂志

@#Objective     To investigate the safety of thoracic surgery for high-altitude patients in local medical center. Methods    We retrospectively collected 258 high-altitude patients who received thoracic surgery in West China Hospital, Sichuan University (plain medical center, 54 patients) and People's Hospital of Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture (high-altitude medical center, 204 patients) from January 2013 to July 2019. There were 175 males and 83 females with an average age of 43.0±16.8 years. Perioperative indicators, postoperative complications and related risk factors of patients were analyzed. Results    The rate of minimally invasive surgery in the high-altitude medical center was statistically lower than that in the plain medical center (11.8% vs. 55.6%, P<0.001). The surgical proportions of tuberculous empyema (41.2% vs. 1.9%, P<0.001) and pulmonary hydatid (15.2% vs. 0.0%, P=0.002) in the high-altitude medical center were statistically higher than those in the plain medical center. There was no statistical difference in perioperative mortality (0.5% vs. 1.9%, P=0.379) or complication rate within 30 days after operation (7.4% vs. 11.1%, P=0.402) between the high-altitude center and the plain medical center. Univariate and multivariate analyses showed that body mass index≥ 25 kg/m2 (OR=8.647, P<0.001) and esophageal rupture/perforation were independent risk factors for the occurrence of postoperative complications (OR=15.720, P<0.001). Conclusion    Thoracic surgery in the high-altitude medical center is safe and feasible.

Visual analysis of studies on traditional Chinese medicine for prevention and treatment of high-altitude disease / 环境与职业医学

Background Plateau environment may pose a serious impact on the physiological and psychological stress of people stationed on a plateau, especially for those engaged in military training and occupational activities. There is an urgent need to find drugs to prevent and treat injuries caused by high-altitude environment. Objective To analyze the current status, hotspots, and future trends of domestic and international research in the field of prevention and treatment of high-altitude disease (HAD) by traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), and provide references for scientific research. Methods Web of Science Core Collection (WOSCC) and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) were searched for literature on TCM and HAD published from inception to 2022. Excel, CiteSpace, VOSviewer, and RStudio softwares were used to conduct visual analysis on the number of publications, types of publications, journals, authors, research institutions, and keywords. Results A total of 501 publications were evaluated in the present study, including 443 Chinese publications and 58 English publications. The annual number of publications showed a rising trend. MA Huiping was the leading author in number of publications in Chinese (37 publications), and ZHANG Yi and MENG Xianli were the leading authors in the number of publications in English (both 8 publications), respectively. The institutions with the most publications in Chinese were The 940th Hospital of Joint Logistics Support Force of Chinese People's Liberation Army and Lanzhou General Hospital of Lanzhou Military Region (both 32 publications), and the institution with the most publications in English was Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (8 publications), respectively. The Chinese and English journals with the largest number of publications were the Journal of High Altitude Medicine (39 publications) and the Journal of Ethnopharmacology (10 publications), respectively. The most highly cited Chinese and English literature included Effects of rhodiola on the free radical metabolism and serum creatine kinase after exercise at plateau (61 citations) and Anti-hypoxic activity at simulated high altitude was isolated in petroleum ether extract of Saussurea involucrate (68 citations) , respectively. The most frequent keywords in the Chinese and English literature were high altitude polycythemia and oxidative stress, respectively. The keyword time zone and emergence maps showed that the research hotspots in this field shifted from prevention and treatment of HAD to animal experiments, and then to mechanisms of action, in which oxidative stress, hypoxic injury, inflammation, and apoptosis were the main focuses. Conclusion The research of TCM against HAD is identified from early clinical observation to associations between clinical outcome variation and pharmacological mechanisms, and further to applying multi-omics techniques to explore the physical basis of TCM efficacy and mechanisms of action with focuses like TCM formula and single herb active ingredients, so as to elaborate potential scientific connotation of TCM against HAD.

Progress on factors affecting gastrointestinal function and drug protection in high altitude hypoxia environment / 药学实践杂志

Due to factors such as low pressure, low oxygen and cold in the plateau environment, people who enter the plateau rapidly are susceptible to digestive system diseases, such as upper abdominal pain, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting and other gastrointestinal dysfunction, which seriously affect the health and work ability of people who enter the plateau rapidly. The gastrointestinal dysfunction caused by the rapid advance to the plateau is mainly reflected in three aspects: gastrointestinal motility dysfunction, impaired mucosal barrier function, and intestinal flora imbalance. At present, the pathogenesis of gastrointestinal dysfunction is still not very clear, and there are fewer drugs for targeted prevention and treatment. Gastrointestinal hormones, oxygen free radicals, inflammatory factors, intestinal flora and other factors, as well as the protective effects of related drugs were reviewed in this paper to provide treatment options and theoretical basis for the prevention and treatment of the gastrointestinal emergency response caused by entering the plateau.

Risk factors for and the prediction of cognitive dysfunction early after a stroke in some hospital of Qinghai Province / 中华物理医学与康复杂志

Objective:To explore the local prevalence of early cognitive dysfunction after a stroke in some hospital of Qinghai province, analyze its risk factors and construct a risk factor model.Methods:A prospective cross-sectional survey was conducted among 854 stroke patients at 3 hospitals in Qinghai Province. The survey solicited demographic data, clinical data, and information about the respondents′ diet and leisure activities. Within 14 days after stroke onset, all of the participants′ cognitive performance was quantified using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). Those with scores ≤27 formed the cognitive impairment group ( n=569), while the rest were the normal cognition group ( n=285). Through univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression analysis, the relationship between each factor and the outcome was clarified, and a prediction model was established in the form of a regression equation. The model′s receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve was computed. Results:The incidence of acute cognitive impairment after stroke was 66.6%. Univariate analysis showed that there were significant differences between the two group in terms of age, sex, ethnicity, education, occupation, altitude, living with a spouse and social support. Stroke type, hemiplegia, a history of hypertension, and triglyceride and D-2 polymer levels were significant predictors, as were ADL score, leisure activity level, and weekly consumption of fruits, nuts and salt. The multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that age, being female, hemorrhagic stroke, hypertension, and living at high altitude were independent risk factors for cognitive impairment at the acute stage of stroke. However, education, occupation, leisure activity and consumption of triglycerides and nuts were independent protective factors. The prediction model showed an area under the ROC curve of 0.832, with sensitivity of 0.698 and specificity of 0.814.Conclusions:The prevalence of cognitive dysfunction in the acute stage of stroke is high in some hospital of Qinghai province. Age, being female, hemorrhagic stroke, hypertension and high altitude living are independent risk factors for stroke, while education, an occupation, leisure activity and triglyceride and nut consumption are protective factors. The risk factor model established in this study has good predictive ability with this population, with whom it can be used to formulate interventions to improve the life quality of stroke survivors.

Intraocular pressure distribution and reference interval of high-altitude eye health screening population from Xining, Qinghai / 中华实验眼科杂志

Objective:To investigate the distribution of intraocular pressure (IOP) in high-altitude population aged 18 years and over in Xining, Qinghai and establish the reference interval (RI) of IOP.Methods:A cross-sectional study was conducted in Xining, Qinghai Province at 2.271 km above sea level from September 2019 to May 2020.Ophthalmic examinations and IOP measurement were conducted among subjects from Physical Examination Center of Qinghai Provincial People's Hospital.The subjects who had been living in Xining without leaving for three months were enrolled.Ophthalmic examinations included vision examination, IOP measurement, slit-lamp microscopy, fundus photography, anterior and posterior segment optical coherence tomography.IOP was measured using Goldmann applanation tonometry under local anesthesia.Subjects with factors that could cause significant changes in IOP and affect the accuracy of IOP measurement, and those who were unable to receive IOP measurement were excluded.Subjects were grouped according to sex, age and ethnicity, and the distribution and RI of IOP were compared among all groups.This study adhered to the Declaration of Helsinki.The study protocol was approved by the Ethics Committee of Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University (No.TRECKY2017-024). Written informed consent was obtained from each subject.Results:A total of 6 120 subjects (6 120 eyes) aged 18-90 years old were enrolled, including 2 850 males and 3 270 females with average age of (45.54±13.85) years.The average IOP of high-altitude population in Xining, Qinghai Province was (14.32±1.93) mmHg (1 mmHg=0.133 kPa), with the RI of 10.54-18.10 mmHg.The average IOP was (14.42±1.98) mmHg in male with the RI of 10.54-18.30 mmHg, (14.23±1.88) mmHg in female with the RI of 10.55-17.91 mmHg.The IOP of male was higher than that of female ( t=3.71, P<0.001). The IOP of Han, Tibetan, Hui and other nationalities were (14.38±1.91), (13.93±2.06), (14.21±1.87), (13.94±1.95) mmHg, respectively, with a statistically significant overall difference ( F=6.73, P<0.001). The IOP of Han nationality was significantly higher than that of Tibetan, Hui and other nationalities, and the differences were statistically significant (all at P<0.05). Conclusions:RI of IOP in high-altitude population from Xining, Qinghai is lower compared with normal altitude area.

Mountaineering And Altitude Sickness: A Study of AMS Prevalence among Climbers of Mount Kinabalu, Malaysia

@#Introduction: Adventure tourism has become one of Malaysia’s most attractive tourism demands, and mountain climbing is rapidly becoming a popular recreational sport. Exploring mountain adventures offers a dynamic experience, preserving this fascinating activity, yet the climbers are exposed to the risk of altitude sickness, such as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of AMS and investigate the effects of high-altitude sickness on the climber profile associated with climbing at Mount Kinabalu, Malaysia. Methods:. The Lake Louise acute mountain sickness LLS score questionnaire collected 95 climber’s data at four different altitudes. SPO2 and Pulse rate was (PR) measured using a finger pulse oximeter. In a cohort study, AMS was measured on day one at 1866m (1st station), 3622m (2nd station), and day two at 3810m (3rd station), and 4095m (4th station). Results: At the altitude of 1866 (Timpohon Gate), the prevalence of AMS was 0%, 30% at 3622m (Laban Rata), 34.7% at 3810m (Sayat-Sayat), and 37.9% at 4095m (Low’s Peak). The overall prevalence of AMS was 37.9% and the majority of AMS cases were moderate in severity and the LLS score is significant with Pulse Rate and peripheral capillary oxygen saturation (SPO2). Conclusion: Concisely, this finding has triggered a need for consideration from multi agencies to enhance mountaineering guidance, especially for beginners or inexperienced hikers, for a suitable package for climbing attempts to reduce the incidence of AMS among Mount Kinabalu climbers.

Risk factors associated with different types of Henoch-Schönlein purpura in Tibetan patients at high altitude / 北京大学学报(医学版)

OBJECTIVE@#To investigate the risk factors of different types of Henoch-Schönlein purpura (HSP) in Tibetan patients at high altitude, as to provide reference for correctly identifying high-risk patients.@*METHODS@#A retrospective study was used to analyze the 304 HSP patients admitted to Tibet Autonomous Region People's Hospital from April 2014 to March 2022. The gender, age, allergic history, family history, clinical type, laboratory indexes (hemoglobin, platelet count, eosinophil, C-reactive protein (CRP), albumin, immunoglobulin G, immunoglobulin A, complement C3 and C4) were analyzed retrospectively. Univariate and multivariate Logistic regression analysis to screen for risk factors affecting different types of HSP.@*RESULTS@#Renal HSP patients showed higher IgA [(9.2±1.7) g/L vs. (6.4±2.4) g/L, P=0.015], lower complement C3 [(203.3±21.6) mg/dL vs. (301.1±19.5) mg/dL, P=0.043], and complement C4 [(33.5±2.3) mg/dL vs. (53.0±7.2) mg/dL, P=0.032]. The patients with abdominal HSP showed lower levels of hemoglobin [(119.6±19.6) g/L vs. (146.6±47.3) g/L, P=0.038] and plasma albumin [24.8 (22.1, 33.9) g/L vs. 32.6 (24.6, 35.1) g/L, P=0.045]. The patients with articular HSP exhibited higher CRP [13.5 (0.2, 20.6) g/L vs. 7.5 (0.1, 15.2) g/L, P=0.036] and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) [24 (5, 40) mm/h vs. 15 (4, 30) mm/h, P=0.049]. Elevated IgA and decreased complement C4 were risk factors for renal HSP, anemia and decreased plasma albumin were risk factors for abdominal HSP, and elevated CRP was a risk factor for articular HSP.@*CONCLUSION@#The clinical characteristics of different types of HSP in plateau areas were different. Patients with high IgA, low complement C4, anemia, hypoalbuminemia, and significantly elevated CRP should be highly vigilant. Early and effective intervention can improve the clinical efficacy, avoid severe development, and improve the prognosis.

The modulation and mechanisms of high-altitude hypoxia in drug transport across the blood-brain barrier / 药学学报

The function of the central nervous system was significantly altered under high-altitude hypoxia, and these changes lead to central nervous system disease and affected the metabolism of drugs in vivo. The blood-brain barrier is essential for maintaining central nervous system stability and plays a key role in the regulation of drug metabolism, and barrier structure and dysfunction affect drug transport to the brain. Changes in the structure and function of the blood-brain barrier and the transport of drugs across the blood-brain barrier under high-altitude hypoxia are regulated by changes in brain microvascular endothelial cells, astrocytes and pericytes, and are regulated by drug metabolism factors such as drug transporters and drug metabolizing enzymes. This article reviews the effects of high-altitude hypoxia on the structure and function of the blood-brain barrier and the effects of changes in the blood-brain barrier on drug metabolism. We investigate the regulatory effects and underlying mechanisms of the blood-brain barrier and related pathways such as transcription factors, inflammatory factors and nuclear receptors on drug transport under high-altitude hypoxia.