Meta-analysis of Distribution Frequency of Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome in Primary Osteoporosis / 中国实验方剂学杂志

ObjectiveTo systematically evaluate the distribution of traditional Chinese medicine（TCM） syndromes of primary osteoporosis（POP） in China by using evidence-based medicine methods， and to understand the distribution law of the syndromes. MethodChina National Knowledge Infrastructure（CNKI）， VIP Chinese Science and Technology Journal Database（VIP）， WanFang Data Knowledge Service Platform（WanFang） and China Biology Medicine（CBM） were searched to obtain representative literature， and each database was searched from the 1994 World Health Organization defined diagnostic criteria for osteoporosis until May 1， 2023. Two researchers independently screened literature according to the criteria， extracted data， and cross-checked them. Meta analysis was conducted using R4.1.3， and subgroup analysis was performed. ResultA total of 56 Chinese papers were included， involving 14 415 patients. After standardized classification of syndromes， 11 articles were excluded， and Meta analysis results of the ultimately included 45 Chinese articles showed that the distribution frequencies of liver-kidney Yin deficiency syndrome， spleen-kidney Yang deficiency syndrome and kidney deficiency and blood stasis syndrome in 12 723 patients were 27%［95% confidence interval（CI） 0.24-0.31］， 32%（95% CI 0.29-0.36）， 36%（95% CI 0.30-0.42）. Subgroup analysis showed that there was a statistically significant difference in the distribution of the three TCM syndromes in the north and south（P<0.05）. In addition， the incidence of TCM syndrome fractures in different types of POP was 15%（95% CI 0.09-0.24） for liver-kidney Yin deficiency syndrome， 20%（95% CI 0.12-0.30） for spleen-kidney Yang deficiency syndrome， and 31%（95% CI 0.25-0.39） for kidney deficiency and blood stasis syndrome. ConclusionThe distribution of syndromes in POP patients is mainly kidney deficiency， accompanied by liver and spleen dysfunction. Liver-kidney Yin deficiency syndrome， spleen-kidney Yang deficiency syndrome and kidney deficiency and blood stasis syndrome are all the main syndromes of POP and osteoporotic fractures， and kidney deficiency and blood stasis syndrome is most closely related to the development of osteoporotic fractures. The reference standards for syndrome determination among the included studies are inconsistent， and in the future， it is necessary to focus on their determination standards to obtain consensus research results， at the same time， conduct large-scale syndrome research to obtain representative research results， providing a basis for clinical practice and research.

Oral health of an indigenous population in northeastern Brazil: a cross-sectional Study of the Fulni-ô ethnic group

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: There is a lack of studies evaluating the oral health of traditional indigenous communities in Brazil. OBJECTIVES: Thus, the objective of this study was to describe the oral health characteristics of the indigenous Fulni-ô ethnic group in Northeast Brazil. DESIGN AND SETTING: A cross-sectional observational investigation was conducted within the Project on Atherosclerosis among Indigenous Populations. METHODS: This study included participants of both sexes from the Fulni-ô ethnic group. The participants included in this investigation underwent a comprehensive oral health evaluation by a registered and experienced dentist to assess oral health and identify potentially malignant oral lesions. Participants with suspicious lesions were referred for biopsy. Shapiro-Wilk, Mann-Whitney, and Student's t-tests were used, and measures of central tendency and dispersion were described. Statistical significance was 5%. RESULTS: A total of 104 individuals were included in this study. The prevalence of the use of tobacco derivatives was 94.0%, with similarities between sexes. The prevalence of oral changes in this study population was 84.4%. Fifty-one individuals who underwent oral reassessment were referred for oral lesion biopsy. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrated a high prevalence of oral alterations in the Fulni-ô population. Histopathological analyses indicated the presence of mild oral epithelial dysplasia in five cases.

Quality of life of older adults in Family Health Strategy: a cross-sectional study

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: With the increase in the older adult population, it is essential to identify the living and health conditions that can impact the quality of life of these individuals. OBJECTIVES: To identify the domains and factors associated with the quality of life of older adults under the Family Health Strategy program. DESIGN AND SETTING: This was a cross-sectional analytical study was conducted in the municipality of Palmas, Tocantins, Brazil. METHODS: We assessed 449 older adults enrolled in the Family Health Strategy program. Data were collected between April and July, 2018. World Health Organization Quality of Life Assessment (WHOQOL-OLD) was used to assess the quality of life (QoL) and multiple linear regression was used to estimate the factors associated with QoL. RESULTS: The QoL domain with the highest score was death and dying (mean = 70.4), and the lowest score was for sensory functions (mean = 61.0 points). The factors associated with QoL were single marital status (β = -4.55; P = 0.014), level of independence for daily living activities (β = 4.92; P < 0.001), self-assessment of regular health (β = 5.35; P < 0.001), and poor health (β = -8.67; P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: The death and dying domain of QoL presented the highest score. Marital status, impairment in daily activities, and health self-assessment were associated with QoL.

Insatisfação com a imagem corporal e baixa aderência ao padrão alimentar ocidental em escolares: um estudo transversal / Body image dissatisfaction and low adherence to the Western dietary standard among schoolchildren: a cross-sectional study

Resumo Este estudo objetivou identificar padrões alimentares e avaliar a associação entre percepção da imagem corporal e esses padrões em escolares. Um estudo transversal foi conduzido em 385 escolares (ambos os sexos, 10-17 anos de idade) de 4 escolas públicas de Salvador, Brasil. Dois recordatórios alimentares de 24h não consecutivos foram aplicados e o padrão alimentar foi determinado por Análise Fatorial Exploratória, após ajuste dos dados dietéticos pelo Multiple Source Method. Para avaliar percepção da imagem corporal, nós usamos uma escala brasileira de silhuetas. Avaliamos as associações entre percepção da imagem corporal e padrões alimentares usando o modelo de regressão logística politômica ajustado para covariáveis. Três padrões alimentares foram obtidos: "padrão ocidental", "padrão saudável" e "comidas típicas/junk food". Após ajuste, adolescentes que desejavam uma silhueta menor (2,48 [IC95%: 1,04-6,11], 3,49 [IC95%: 1,35-9,05] e 2,87 [IC95%: 1,13-7,26]) tinham mais chances de aderir aos quintis de menor consumo do padrão ocidental, comparados àqueles satisfeitos com sua imagem corporal. Nenhuma associação foi identificada nos outros dois padrões alimentares. Adolescentes insatisfeitos com seus corpos tendem a aderir menos a padrões alimentares não saudáveis.

Abstract This study aimed to identify dietary patterns and to evaluate the association between body image perception and these patterns among schoolchildren. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 385 schoolchildren (both sexes, 10-17 years old) from four public schools in Salvador, Brazil. Two non-consecutive 24-hour dietary recalls were applied, and the dietary pattern was determined by Exploratory Factor Analysis after adjustment of dietary data using the Multiple Source Method. To evaluate body image perception, the Brazilian body shape silhouette was used. The associations between body image perception and dietary patterns using the polytomous logistic regression model adjusted for covariables was assessed. Three dietary patterns were obtained: "Western standard," unhealthy, "healthy pattern" and "typical dishes/ junk food." After adjustment, adolescents who wished for a slimmer silhouette (2.48 [95%CI: 1.04-6.11], 3.49 [95%CI: 1.35-9.05] and 2.87 [95%CI: 1.13-7.26]) were more likely to adhere to the quintiles with the lowest consumption of the Western standard, compared to those satisfied with their body image. No associations were identified in the other two dietary patterns. Adolescents dissatisfied with their bodies tend to adhere less to unhealthy dietary patterns.

The pain reported by postpartum women in rooming-in according to the mode of delivery / Dor relatada por puérperas no alojamento conjunto segundo a via de nascimento

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Pain is the most frequently reported symptom in the immediate puerperium. The aim of this study was to quantify pain levels and sociodemographic, obstetric, and care characteristics associated with severe pain and inadequate analgesia according to the mode of delivery. METHODS: Observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study conducted between October and December 2020, with a sample of 229 postpartum women considered eligible (baby born alive, weighing > 500 g and/or gestational age > 22 weeks) to answer the study questionnaire. RESULTS: The mean reported pain was 5.34 by Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and there was a difference (p<0.001) between modes of delivery. Cesarean section was associated with severe pain (p=0.006) and pain above eight on the VAS (p=0.02). Vaginal delivery was associated with the perception of inadequate analgesia (p=0.04). Severe pain reported was associated with the admission of the baby to the ICU (p=0.01) and cases of postpartum hemorrhage (p=0.002). Among women who gave birth vaginally, there was an association between severe pain and instrumental delivery (p=0.05). Reported severe pain was associated with difficulties in self-care (p<0.001) and care of the newborn (p= 0.02), sensation of weakness (p<0.001), and fainting (p=0.002). The perception of inadequate analgesia was associated with vaginal birth (p=0.04) end non-white skin color (p=0,03). CONCLUSION: The average reported pain was moderate. Intense pain and the perception of inadequate analgesia were associated with instrumental delivery, newborns being referred to the NICU, postpartum hemorrhage, and non-white skin color.

RESUMO JUSTIFICATIVA E OBJETIVOS: A dor é o sintoma mais frequentemente relatado no puerpério imediato. O objetivo deste estudo foi quantificar os níveis de dor e as características sociodemográficas, obstétricas e da assistência associadas à dor intensa e à percepção de analgesia inadequada segundo a via de nascimento. MÉTODOS: Estudo observacional, descritivo, transversal, conduzido entre outubro e dezembro de 2020, com uma amostra de 229 puérperas consideradas elegíveis (nativivos com peso > 500g e/ou idade gestacional > 22 semanas) para responder ao questionário do estudo. RESULTADOS: A média de dor relatada foi 5,3 pela Escala Analógica Visual (EAV) e houve diferença (p<0,001) entre as vias de nascimento. A cesariana apresentou associação com dor intensa referida (p=0,006) e dor acima de oito pela EAV (p=0,02). O parto vaginal obteve associação com percepção de analgesia inadequada (p=0,04). Entre as mulheres que referiram dor intensa, houve associação com recém-nascido encaminhado à unidade de terapia intensiva neonatal (UTIN) (p=0,01) e nos casos de hemorragia pós-parto (p=0,002). Entre as mulheres que tiveram parto vaginal, também houve associação entre dor intensa e o parto instrumental (p=0,05). Dor intensa referida teve associação com dificuldades para o autocuidado (p<0,001) e do recém-nascido (p=0,02), sensação de fraqueza (p<0,001) e de desmaio (p= 0,002). A percepção de analgesia inadequada esteve associada a parto vaginal (p=0,04) e cor da pele não branca (p=0,03). CONCLUSÃO: A média de dor relatada foi moderada. Dor intensa e percepção de analgesia inadequada estiveram associadas com parto instrumental, recém-nascido encaminhado à UTIN, hemorragia pós-parto e cor de pele não branca.

Relationships between internet addiction, smartphone addiction, sleep quality, and academic performance among high-school students

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: In this study, we aimed to evaluate the relationships between Internet addiction, smartphone addiction, sleep quality, and academic success. METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, high-school students were surveyed to evaluate sleep quality, Internet addiction, and smartphone addiction. Students were queried about their demographics, and grade averages from the previous term were taken as an indicator of academic success. RESULTS: A total of 1,959 students were enrolled in this study, with 1,034 (52.8%) girls and 925 (47.2%) boys, and the median age of the participants was 16 (13-21) years. Multivariate analyses found that poor sleep quality in students who did not have breakfast before going to school was 1.58 times higher than those who did (p<0.001). Students who stayed in a dormitory had 1.79 times more poor sleep quality than those who stayed with their family, and a one-unit increase in the total score of the Young's Internet Addiction Test short form resulted in a 1.08-fold increase (both, p<0.001). CONCLUSION: Our study has shown that students' sleep quality was predicted to be lower if they stayed in a dormitory and skipped breakfast. In addition, Internet and smartphone addictions have a negative effect on sleep quality and academic performance.

La empatía de los enfermeros con los pacientes en los hospitales públicos / Working nurses' empathy with patients in public hospitals / A empatia dos enfermeiros com os pacientes em hospitais públicos

Objetivo: determinar los niveles de empatía en profesionales de enfermería de un hospital de alta complejidad, relacionar la edad con la empatía (y cada una de sus dimensiones), y establecer si existen diferencias entre estos niveles según el tipo de jornada laboral. Método: diseño comparativo, correlacional y transversal. La muestra utilizada (n=271) constituyó el 40,9% del total de profesionales de enfermería. Se estudiaron las propiedades psicométricas de la Escala de Empatía de Jefferson para Profesionales de la Salud. Se calcularon estadísticos descriptivos: media y desviación estándar. La asociación entre empatía y edad se estimó mediante ecuaciones de regresión y significancia estadística de los coeficientes de regresión, luego de evaluar el tipo de curva mediante análisis de varianza. Resultados: se identificó el modelo subyacente de las tres dimensiones de la empatía. Los valores de los estadísticos descriptivos observados fueron relativamente bajos en empatía y sus dimensiones. Los niveles de empatía no se asociaron con el rango de edad. No se encontraron diferencias en la empatía entre los tipos de horarios de trabajo. Se encontró variabilidad en las dimensiones: "cuidado compasivo" y "ponerse en los zapatos del paciente". Conclusión: estos resultados muestran que los niveles de empatía observados pueden implicar un desempeño deficiente en el cuidado empático de los pacientes.

Objective: to determine the levels of empathy in professional nurses of a high-complexity hospital, to relate age to empathy (and each one of its dimensions), and to establish if there are differences between these levels according to the type of working schedules. Method: comparative, correlational and cross-sectional design. The sample used (n=271) constituted 40.9% of the total number of nursing professionals. Psychometric properties of the Jefferson Scale of Empathy for Health Professionals were studied. Descriptive statistics were calculated: mean and standard deviation. The association between empathy and age was estimated using regression equations and statistical significance of the regression coefficients, after evaluating the type of curve using variance analysis. Results: the underlying model of three dimensions of empathy was identified. The values of the descriptive statistics observed were relatively low in empathy and its dimensions. Empathy levels were not associated with the age range. No differences in empathy were found between the types of work schedules. Variability was found in the dimensions: "compassionate care" and "Walking on the patient's shoes". Conclusion: these results show that the levels of empathy observed may imply a deficient performance in empathetic care for patients.

Objetivo: determinar os níveis de empatia em enfermeiros profissionais de um hospital de alta complexidade, relacionar a idade com a empatia (e cada uma das suas dimensões) e verificar se existem diferenças entre esses níveis, de acordo com o tipo de horário de trabalho. Método: delineamento comparativo, correlacional e transversal. A amostra utilizada (n=271) constituiu 40,9% do total de profissionais de enfermagem. Foram estudadas as propriedades psicométricas da Escala de Empatia de Jefferson para Profissionais da Saúde. Foram calculadas estatísticas descritivas: média e desvio padrão. A associação entre empatia e idade foi estimada por meio de equações de regressão e significância estatística dos coeficientes de regressão, após avaliação do tipo de curva por meio de análise de variância. Resultados: o modelo subjacente de três dimensões de empatia foi identificado. Os valores das estatísticas descritivas observados foram relativamente baixos em empatia e suas dimensões. Níveis de empatia não foram associados com a faixa etária. Não foram encontradas diferenças de empatia entre os tipos de horários de trabalho. Foi encontrada variabilidade nas dimensões: "cuidado compassivo" e "colocar-se no lugar do paciente". Conclusão: esses resultados mostram que os níveis de empatia observados podem implicar em um desempenho deficiente no atendimento empático aos pacientes.

Panorama de la ectasia coronaria en el Instituto Nacional de Cardiología Ignacio Chávez: un estudio transversal / Outlook of coronary ectasia at the National Institute of Cardiology Ignacio Chávez: a cross-sectional study

Resumen Introducción: La ectasia coronaria (EC) es una remodelación patológica con una prevalencia mundial baja. Se define como una dilatación difusa mayor a 1.5 veces el diámetro de los segmentos adyacentes de esta o diferentes arterias coronarias. Objetivo: Documentar las características clínicas y angiográficas, y el tratamiento médico que reciben los pacientes con diagnóstico de EC en el Instituto Nacional de Cardiología (INC). Métodos: Estudio de tipo transversal con diseño no experimental descriptivo, con un muestreo por conveniencia no probabilístico. Resultados: De 69 pacientes que asistieron al INC con diagnóstico de EC la mayor parte eran hombres, con una media de edad de 56 ± 11 años, el factor de riesgo coronario más común en los pacientes con EC fue el tabaquismo, en 40 (58%); se asoció un infarto agudo de miocardio con elevación del segmento ST (IAMCEST) en 45 (65.2%), de localización frecuente en la cara inferior 18 (40%), relacionado con la arteria más afectada, la coronaria derecha 48 (69.6%), seguida de la circunfleja 39 (56.5%). Destaca el uso preferente de la terapia antiplaquetaria dual con anticoagulante (APD+ACO) en 40 (58%) al egreso de cada paciente del INC. Conclusión: La EC es una remodelación patológica no infrecuente en el INC. En este estudio se evidenció que el SCA-IAMCEST es la manifestación más típica de la EC, la coronariografía diagnóstica identificó un Markis tipo 3, por lo que se esperaría una tasa baja de mortalidad y recurrencia de eventos cardiovasculares y a pesar de no existir un consenso sobre la terapia ideal, en el INC se prefiere el tratamiento individualizado, recomendando modificación en el estilo de vida y empleando como tratamiento médico el uso de la triple terapia (APD+ACO) solo al momento de egreso del paciente.

Abstract Introduction: Coronary Ectasia (CE) is a pathological remodeling with a low worldwide prevalence. It is defined as a diffuse dilatation greater than 1.5 times the diameter of the adjacent segments of the same or different coronary arteries. Objective: To document the clinical and angiographic characteristics, and medical treatment at the discharge of patients diagnosed with coronary ectasia who attended the National Institute of Cardiology (INC). Methods: Cross-sectional study with a non-experimental descriptive design, with a non-probabilistic convenience sampling. Results: Of 69 patients who attended the INC with a diagnosis of CD, most were men, with a mean age of 56 + 11 years, the most common coronary risk factor in patients with CE was smoking 58% (40); it was associated mostly with an acute myocardial infarction ST-segment elevation (STEMI) 65.2% (45), of frequent location in the lower face 40% (18), correlated with the most affected artery is the Right Coronary Artery (CD) 69.6% (48), followed by the circumflex (Cx) 56.5% (39). A mean LVEF of 47 + 9.72 was evident within the ventricular function. As well as the preferential use of dual antiplatelet therapy with anticoagulant (DAP + OAC) in 58% (40) at the discharge of each patient from the INC. Conclusion: CE is a not uncommon pathological remodeling in INC. This study showed that STEMI is the most typical manifestation of CE, diagnostic coronary angiography identified a type 3 Markis, so a low rate of mortality and recurrence of cardiovascular events would be expected, and despite the lack of consensus on the ideal therapy, at the INC individualized treatment is preferred, recommending lifestyle changes, and using triple therapy (DAP + OAC) as a medical treatment only at the time of patient discharge.

Evaluation of Antibiotic Prophylaxis Prescriptions for Infectious Endocarditis Before Oral Procedures Between Cardiologists and Dentists

Abstract Background Infective endocarditis (IE) is a serious disease with a high mortality rate. Antibiotic prophylaxis for bacterial endocarditis before invasive procedures has been recommended in patients with predisposing cardiac conditions since 1960, but contemporary guidelines worldwide have proposed changes. Objective To evaluate the knowledge and pattern of prescription by cardiologists and dentists regarding antibiotic prophylaxis for bacterial endocarditis before risky oral procedures. Methods This is an observational and cross-sectional study. Data were obtained from an online questionnaire, sent to cardiologists and dentists linked to specialty societies, in the first semester of 2021. Data analysis was performed using descriptive statistics, and comparisons between variables were done in an exploratory approach. The significance level adopted was 5%. Results From 613 responders, 82.5% of cardiologists and 79.5% of dentists reported prescribing antibiotic prophylaxis for patients at high and moderate risk for IE. Of dental procedures capable of generating bacteremia, all were correctly identified by more than 50.0% of the sample. As for the habits of daily living, flossing and toothbrushing had almost 50.0% of correct answers, chewing had only 17.3%, and 40.9% reported that none of the actions presented a risk of bacteremia. When comparing variables, the correct prescription of amoxicillin (2 g, 30-60 minutes before the procedure) was more prevalent among cardiologists and in responders with less than 20 years of graduation (p<0.01). Conclusion In the present study, the prescription of antibiotic prophylaxis for IE were frequent for high- and moderate-risk patients, before oral/dental procedures. Partial knowledge was found about endocarditis, which highlights the need for continuous medical/dental education.

Awareness of emergency contraceptive pills among female patients of family planning unit of tertiary care teaching hospital, Rajkot, Gujarat, India

Background: In India, sizeable population of pregnancies are either unplanned or unwanted and thus these pregnancies add to the population burden or the women may resort to pregnancy termination by traditional or harmful methods leading to serious health consequences. Emergency contraception, developed from trials and research during the past 10 years with aim to cut down the occurrence of unwanted and unintended pregnancies and abortion is one most important step being taken to solve the problem. Aims and Objectives: The objectives of the study were to assess the awareness regarding contraception and emergency contraceptive pills among female patients of reproductive age group and to evaluate any association between marital status, type of family and family member as a sister, education, and awareness about contraception and emergency contraceptive pills. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among women of reproductive age group over a period of 3 months after obtaining written informed consent. Data were collected regarding demographic parameters, knowledge of different contraceptive measures, and emergency contraceptive pills using an anonymous pretested structured questionnaire. Statistical analysis was done using Microsoft Excel sheet and Medcalc software. Results: A total of 253 women were included in the study. Majority of them were married (94.5%), literate (74.7%), belong to joint family (71.5%), having no history of abortion (69.2%), and having sister in their family (76.7%). About 67.2% know contraceptive methods and the most common source of information was a hospital (58.3%). About 15% were aware of emergency contraceptive pills and audio-visual (71%) is the most common source of information. Awareness about contraception was more in literate women and opposite to this awareness about emergency contraceptives pills was more in illiterate women. Those having sister in their family having more knowledge about contraception and emergency contraceptive pills. Conclusions: Awareness about emergency contraceptive pills is very low. Education can play important role either directly or indirectly to create awareness about emergency contraceptive pills.

Depression Among Elderly Women in Rural Mandya, Karnataka: A Cross Sectional Study

Background: Depression is characterized by persistent sadness and lack of interest or pleasure in enjoyable activities and disturbed sleep and appetite. Women suffer from depression the most, as the hurdles faced by Indian women include lack of awareness, stigma, disadvantaged position of women, multiple roles, increased levels of stress, and domestic violence.This study is to determine the prevalence of depression among elderly women and to determine the factors affecting it. Methodology: This cross-sectional study was conducted among 783 elderly women (aged 60 years or more), residing in rural Mandya (South Karnataka) by interviewing them using a semi-structured proforma. Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-15) was used to assess depression. Mean, standarddeviation and proportion were used for descriptive statistics. Chi square test was used to de-termine association of risk factors. Results: The prevalence of depression was found to be 31.6%. The major factors affecting depression were increasing age, illness and loneliness. Conclusions: The prevalence of depression in the elderly women was high (31.6%). By identifying risk fac-tors for depression among the elderly population and screening them on time, we can reduce the severity and burden of the disease to a greater extent.

25-Hydroxyvitamin D as a biomarker of vitamin D status in plaque psoriasis and other dermatological diseases: a cross-sectional study

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Hypovitaminosis D is a public health problem associated with several chronic inflammatory and immunological diseases, including psoriasis. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of hypovitaminosis D in patients with plaque psoriasis. A comparison was made between vitamin D levels in patients with psoriasis and those with other non-inflammatory dermatoses without photosensitivity. In addition, it evaluated the effects of the patients' Fitzpatrick skin phototype and the season of the year on the serum levels of vitamin D. DESIGN AND SETTINGS: A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted at an outpatient clinic in a university center in Juiz de Fora (MG), Brazil. METHODS: A review of dermatology patients' demographic data, including skin phototype and serum levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D], over 12 months in 2016. RESULTS: This study included 554 patients: 300 patients allocated to the plaque psoriasis group and 254 control patients with other dermatological diseases. Regarding the season of the year, 229, 132, 62, and 131 participants were evaluated in summer, autumn, winter, and spring, respectively. As for the skin phototype, 397, 139, and 18 patients had phototypes III, IV, and V, respectively. The serum levels of 25(OH)D were significantly lower in the psoriasis group (24.91 ± 7.16 ng/mL) than in the control group (30.37 ± 8.14 ng/mL). CONCLUSIONS: Hypovitaminosis D (< 30 ng/mL) was present in 76.66% of patients with psoriasis versus 53.94% of control patients. Vitamin D deficiency (< 20 ng/mL) was observed in 25% of the patients with psoriasis versus 8.66% in the control group (P < 0.001). The season and patient's skin phototype were independent predictors of serum vitamin D levels.

Knowledge about COVID-19 and perception of health safety among mexican dental students / Conocimiento sobre COVID-19 y percepción de seguridad en la salud de estudiantes mexicanos de odontología

This study aimed: 1) to investigate sources of information used by students to learn about COVID-19, 2) to investigate levels of knowledge about COVID-19 and about conditions for the treatment of patients during the COVID-19 lockdown, and 3) to evaluate students' perceptions of safety regarding their return to in-person activities at the School of Dentistry. Dental students answered a questionnaire (29 items; n=371) that explored the aims of the study, based on a Likert scale (Cronbach's alpha, 0.778). Data were tested with the Mann-Whitney U test and Kendall's Tau-c. Dental students received information about COVID-19 from the Mexican Health Ministry as their first source (45.28%). Students had good knowledge about the main characteristics of COVID-19, and 59.3% of students had excellent knowledge about the factors relevant to dental treatment of patients. Half of the students said they felt safe regarding a possible return to in-person activities at the dental school, while the other half did not. Statistically significant differences were noted between the students' scholar year and their level of knowledge (P<0.001) and between their perception of safety (very unsafe, unsafe, safe, and very safe) and scholar year (P=0.000). Dental students had good knowledge about COVID-19 and about the dental care for patients during the lockdown. Half of the dental students felt unsafe about a possible return to in-person school activities.

Los objetivos del estudio fueron 1) investigar que fuentes de información usaron los participantes para conocer sobre la COVID-19, 2) evaluar cuál es el nivel de conocimiento que tienen sobre COVID-19 y la atención a pacientes durante la contingencia, y 3) evaluar la percepción de seguridad sobre el regreso a actividades presenciales en la facultad. Estudio transversal. Se aplicó un cuestionario en línea (29 ítems; n=371) que exploró cada objetivo e incluyó una escala de Likert (Alfa de Cronbach de 0.778). Los datos fueron analizados con las pruebas de U de Mann Whitney y con Tau-c de Kendall. La mayoría de los participantes obtuvieron información sobre la COVID-19 a través de la Secretaría de Salud (45.28%), tuvieron un conocimiento bueno sobre las generalidades de la COVID-19 y el 59.3% tuvo un conocimiento excelente sobre la atención a pacientes. La mitad de los encuestados tuvo una percepción de inseguridad en un posible regreso a actividades en la facultad. Hubo diferencia estadística significativa para la asociación entre año escolar y grado de conocimiento (p<0.001) y entre la percepción en la seguridad en el regreso a actividades (muy inseguro, inseguro, seguro y muy seguro) y el grado escolar (P=0.000). Los participantes tuvieron buen conocimiento sobre las generalidades de la COVID-19 y sobre la atención a pacientes en situación de contingencia. La mitad de los EO sienten inseguridad sobre un posible regreso a actividades.

Crystalline lens decentration and tilt in eyes with different axial lengths and their associated factors

Purpose: To analyze crystalline lens decentration and tilt in eyes with different axial lengths (ALs) using a swept?source anterior segment optical coherence tomography (SS?AS?OCT). Methods: Patients with normal right eyes who visited our hospital between December 2020 and January 2021 were included in this cross?sectional study. Data on crystalline lens decentration and tilt, AL, aqueous depth (AD), central corneal thickness (CCT), lens thickness (LT), lens vault (LV), anterior chamber width (ACW), and angle ? were collected. Results: A total of 252 patients were included and divided into normal (n = 82), medium–long (n = 89), and long (n = 81) AL groups. The average age of these patients was 43.63 ± 17.02 years. The crystalline lens decentration (0.16 ± 0.08, 0.16 ± 0.09, and 0.20 ± 0.09 mm, P = 0.009) and tilt (4.58° ± 1.42°, 4.06° ± 1.32°, and 2.84° ± 1.19°, P < 0.001) were significantly different among the normal, medium, and long AL groups. Crystalline lens decentration was correlated with AL (r = 0.466, P = 0.004), AD (r = 0.358, P = 0.006), ACW (r = ?0.004, P = 0.020), LT (r = ?0.141, P = 0.013), and LV (r = ?0.371, P = 0.003). Crystalline lens tilt was correlated with age (r = 0.312, P < 0.001), AL (r = ?0.592, P < 0.001), AD (r = ?0.436, P < 0.001), ACW (r = ?0.018, P = 0.004), LT (r = 0.216, P = 0.001), and LV (r = 0.311, P = 0.003). Conclusion: Crystalline lens decentration was positively correlated with AL, and tilt was negatively correlated with AL

Infant And Young Child Feeding Practices and Infections Pattern in Children Up To 24 Months Age Attending Outdoor Patient Department of a Tertiary Care Hospital of South Gujarat

Background: Optimal infant and young child feeding practices (IYCF) are effective public health intervention to enhance child survival, nutrition and development. There is also documented evidence regarding the pro-tective effect of optimal IYCF practices against diarrhoea and ARTI. The objective is to assess knowledge and practices regarding IYCF among study participants & to explore the association of feeding practices of mothers with the morbidities (infections) in their children. Methodology: The present study was a hospital based cross-sectional study, carried out during September 2019 to March 2021. A total of 380 mothers of children less than two years attending OPD of Institute of child health, Nirmal hospital private limited, a tertiary care multi-specialty hospital was interviewed using pre-designed and pretested questionnaire. Results: Feeding practices during early days of life to be reasonably good among study participants with al-most 2/3rd of the study participants practicing them. Mean number of morbidity episodes requiring consulta-tion were significantly lower in the children whose mothers practiced optimal IYCF practices. Conclusion: Poor feeding practices in children had significant association with morbidity episodes of diar-rhoea and ARTI in children.

Características clínicas y microbiológicas de la infección de vías urinarias bajas en población ambulatoria / Clinical and Microbiological Characteristics of Lower Urinary Tract Infections in an Outpatient Population

Introducción: El tratamiento de las infecciones del tracto urinario es casi siempre empírico, lo que genera una serie de problemas en la consulta diaria. Objetivo: Caracterizar clínica y microbiológicamente las infecciones de vías urinarias bajas no complicadas en pacientes de una clínica de primer nivel. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio transversal descriptivo. La identificación de las bacterias del cultivo de orina se efectuó por métodos establecidos. La prueba de susceptibilidad a los antimicrobianos se realizó por la técnica Kirby-Bauer. Se utilizó el programa estadístico SPSS versión 26, con la prueba de ji al cuadrado y un análisis multivariado discriminante. Se calculó también razón de momios con el programa Epi-Info. Resultados: Se incluyeron 270 pacientes, con frecuencia de 39,3 por ciento de cultivos positivos, y Escherichia coli como la especie predominante. Se identificaron, además, 31,3 por ciento de bacterias Gram positivas. Se presentó significancia estadística entre la infección urinaria y factores como el sexo, y la infección del tracto urinario previa en las mujeres. Se obtuvo 100 por ciento de cepas resistentes a ampicilina. En general, se obtuvieron porcentajes de resistencia altos en los antimicrobianos probados. Conclusiones: Escherichia coli fue la especie más frecuentemente aislada, sin embargo, existe una serie de microorganismos implicados en enfermedades del tracto genital como Gardnerella vaginalis, que parecen estar involucrados en la etiología de las infecciones del tracto urinario. Se identificaron factores de riesgo como el sexo biológico y las infecciones previas en mujeres. Se obtuvieron porcentajes de resistencia altos en los antimicrobianos probados(AU)

Introduction: The management of urinary tract infections is almost always empirical, which generates a series of problems in the daily consultation. Objective: To characterize, clinically and microbiologically, uncomplicated lower urinary tract infections in patients of a primary level clinic. Methods: A descriptive and cross-sectional study was carried out. Bacterial identification in urine culture was performed by established methods. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed using the Kirby-Bauer technique. The statistical software SPSS (version 26) was used, with the chi squared test and multivariate discriminant analysis. Odds ratios were also calculated with the Epi-Info program. Results: A total of 270 patients were included, with a 39.3percent frequency of positive cultures and Escherichia coli as the predominant species. In addition, 31.3percent of Gram-positive bacteria were identified. There was statistical significance between urinary tract infection and factors such as sex or previous urinary tract infection in women. One result was 100percent of ampicillin-resistant strains. In general, high percentages of resistance were obtained for the tested antimicrobials. Conclusions: Escherichia coli was the most frequently isolated species; however, there is a number of microorganisms implicated in genital tract diseases, such as Gardnerella vaginalis, which appear to be involved in the etiology of urinary tract infections. Risk factors such as biological sex and previous infections in women were identified. High percentages of resistance were obtained for the tested antimicrobials(AU)

Adverse events following COVID-19 vaccination: A cross-sectional study

Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines are essential to tear out the COVID-19 pandemic. COVAXIN and COVISHIELD were the first licensed vaccines in India for public use. For safety surveillance reporting, adverse events following immunization were an essential and integral part of the postlicensure phase for benefit- risk analysis of vaccines. Public trust in newly introduced vaccines will be strengthened by monitoring vaccine safety. So this study was planned to find out adverse events following COVISHIELD vaccination and the association of some factors with adverse events following COVISHIELD vaccination among vaccinees at vaccination centers of tertiary care hospitals. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out among vaccinees at vaccination centers in tertiary care hospitals. Data was collected through Google forms containing a structured questionnaire. Results: A total of 530 adverse events following immunization (AEFI) were reported by 146 (39.46%) participants, where one participant experienced more than one AEFI with the COVISHIELD vaccine. The most common reported AEFI were myalgia (104 [19.62%]), fever (104 [19.62%]), and fatigue/lethargy (104 [19.62%]), followed by pain at the injection site (80 [15.09%]). Participants who experienced AEFI with other vaccines and had a previous history of COVID-19 infection were found to be significant independent predictors of AEFI with the COVISHIELD vaccine. Conclusion: Most AEFIs were mild and lasted for a short duration, subsiding on symptomatic treatment. We found only the history of AFFI with other vaccines and previous infection with COVID-19 as significant predictors for the occurrence of AEFI with the COVISHIELD vaccine.

Is vitamin D status relevant to psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis? A retrospective cross-sectional study

Abstract BACKGROUND: Psoriasis is a systemic, immune-mediated disease characterized by inflammatory manifestations in the skin and joints. Vitamin D deficiency is currently considered a pandemic and is associated with comorbidities including psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis (PsA). OBJECTIVES: To determine the prevalence of hypovitaminosis D [25(OH)D] in patients with plaque psoriasis, with and without PsA, and of independent predictors of serum 25(OH)D levels. DESIGN AND SETTING: Retrospective cross-sectional study conducted among 300 patients at an outpatient clinic in a university center in Juiz de Fora, Minas Gerais, Brazil. METHODS: Demographic and clinical data (psoriasis area and severity index [PASI], family history, age at onset, disease duration, and the presence of PsA according to Classification Criteria for Psoriatic Arthritis), skin phototype, and season of the year were reviewed. RESULTS: Hypovitaminosis D (< 30 ng/mL) was highly prevalent in patients with psoriasis with and without PsA (82.2% and 74.9%, respectively). An inverse correlation between PASI and vitamin D was found (without PsA r = -0.59 and, PsA r = -0.52, P < 0.001), and multivariate regression revealed that hypovitaminosis D was associated with disease severity, season, and phototype. It was confirmed by binary logistic regression between PASI and vitamin D deficiency (< 30 ng/mL), (odds ratio, OR 1.78 CI: -0.20-0.53, P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Hypovitaminosis D (< 30 ng/mL) was highly prevalent in psoriatic patients with and without PsA. Season and skin phototype were associated with 25(OH)D levels. An inverse association between PASI and serum 25(OH)D levels was established.

Prevalence of Ivermectin use to prevent COVID-19 during the pandemic in Mato Grosso: cross-sectional home-based study / Prevalência do uso de ivermectina para prevenir COVID-19 durante a pandemia em Mato Grosso: estudo transversal de base domiciliar

ABSTRACT Objective: To analyze the use of ivermectin as COVID-19 prevention method by the population of Mato Grosso in 2020. Methods: This is a home-based survey, carried out between September and October 2020, in 10 pole cities of the socioeconomic regions of State. The use of ivermectin was evaluated through the question: "Did you take ivermectin to prevent COVID-19?". Sociodemographic variables (sex, age group, education, family income), current work situation, being benefitted by government financial programs, as well as symptoms, seroprevalence of antibodies against SARS-CoV-2, and previous diagnosis of COVID-19 were evaluated. Prevalence and their associations were estimated using the chi-square test. Results: 4.206 individuals were evaluated for prevalence of ivermectin use; 58.3% of the individuals responded positively, this rate being higher in the municipalities of the western region of the state (66.6%). There was no significant difference between sexes, but the prevalence was higher among people aged 50-59 years (69.7%), who were white (66.5%), with complete higher education or more (68.8%) and higher family income (≥3 minimum wages-64.2%). The use of this drug was even higher among participants who considered their knowledge of the disease good or very good (65.0%), who reported having symptoms of COVID-19 (75.3%), and who had been previously diagnosed with the disease (91.2%). Conclusion: There was a high prevalence of use of ivermectin as a method to prevent covid-19 by the population of Mato Grosso, indicating the need for strategies to inform the population about the risks of off-label use of drugs and to combat the advertising of drugs that are ineffective against COVID-19.

RESUMO Objetivo: Analisar a utilização de ivermectina como prevenção da COVID-19 pela população de Mato Grosso em 2020. Métodos: Trata-se de um inquérito de base domiciliar, realizado entre setembro e outubro de 2020, em dez municípios-polos das regiões socioeconômicas do estado. O uso da ivermectina foi avaliado por meio da pergunta: "Tomou ivermectina para prevenir a COVID-19?". Foram avaliadas as variáveis sociodemográficas (sexo, faixa etária, escolaridade, renda familiar), a situação de trabalho atual, o recebimento de benefícios financeiros governamentais, bem como sintomas, a soroprevalência de anticorpos contra SARS-CoV-2 e o diagnóstico prévio de COVID-19. As estimativas de prevalência e suas associações foram realizadas por meio do teste χ2. Resultados: Foram analisados 4.206 indivíduos, e a prevalência de uso de ivermectina foi de 58,3%, sendo maior nos municípios da região Oeste (66,6%). Não houve diferença significativa entre os sexos, a prevalência foi maior na da faixa etária de 50-59 anos (69,7%), em pessoas brancas (66,5%), com ensino superior completo ou mais (68,8%) e maior renda familiar (≥3 salários-mínimos — 64,2%). A utilização do medicamento ainda foi maior entre os que consideraram seu conhecimento sobre a doença como bom ou muito bom (65,0%), entre os que referiram ter apresentado sintomas de COVID-19 (75,3%) e que foram diagnosticados com a doença previamente (91,2%). Conclusão: Verifica-se a elevada a prevalência do uso de ivermectina para a prevenção da COVID-19 pela população de Mato Grosso, indicando a necessidade de estratégias para informar a população sobre os riscos do uso off-label de medicamentos e combater a publicidade de medicamentos sem eficácia contra COVID-19.

Correlation between stomach disharmony and daily diets among students of Chinese medicine colleges and universities in China / 中国基层医药

Objective:To analyze the correlation between gastric disharmony and daily eating behaviors in college students, and to provide intervention measures for improving gastric disharmony among college students.Methods:From April 10 to 30, 2021, 3 825 college students from five Chinese medicine colleges and universities in China were selected for this study using the multi-level sampling method. The information regarding college student's general situation, daily eating behavior, and stomach disharmony was collected by questionnaire.Results:A total of 3 700 valid questionnaires were collected, with an effective response rate of 96.73%. The average age was (20.0 ± 3.0) years, and 66.41% of college students included in this study were female. Students with different characteristics had different gastric disharmonies and eating behaviors, and gastric disharmony was correlated with eating behavior. Multivariate analysis results showed that snacking ( OR = 1.11, 95% CI: 1.02-1.21), partial eclipse ( OR = 1.12, 95% CI: 1.00-1.26), picky eaters ( OR = 1.23, 95% CI: 1.08-1.41), and supper ( OR = 1.19, 95% CI: 1.04-1.36) were positively correlated with gastric disharmony. Eating regular meals ( OR = 0.86, 95% CI: 0.79-0.94) and 80% fullness ( OR = 0.89, 95% CI: 0.81-0.98) were negatively correlated with gastric disharmony. Conclusion:Poor eating behaviors may be an important factor leading to gastric disharmony.