Effect of Baihe Yuzi Prescription on CFTR， AQP， and ZIP Ion Channels and Oxidative Stress in Epididymis of Oligoasthenozoospermia Rats / 中国实验方剂学杂志

ObjectiveTo observe the effects of Baihe Yuzi prescription （BYP） on the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator （CFTR）， aquaporin （AQP）， zinc/iron-regulated transporter-like protein （ZIP） and local oxidative stress in epididymis of oligoasthenozoospermia （OAS） rats， and to explore the mechanism of its intervention in OAS. MethodAfter 35 rats were acclimatized for 1 week， 7 rats were randomly selected as the normal group， and the remaining 28 rats were given tripterygium glycosides （TG） 30 mg·kg-1. After 4 weeks of modeling， they were randomly divided into 4 groups： model group， BYP low-dose group （LBYP）， BYP high-dose group （HBYP） and levocarnitine group， with 7 rats in each group. The rats in the normal group and model group were given normal saline at the same dosage. The levocarnitine group rats were given L-carnitine oral liquid （100 mg·kg-1） by gavage. The LBYP group rats were given BYP 6.3 g·kg-1， and the HBYP group rats were given BYP 12.6 g·kg-1 by gavage once a day for consecutive 4 weeks. After the end of the intervention， sperm count and motility of all rats were detected， the histopathological structure of epididymis was observed by hematoxylin-eosin （HE） staining， and the expressions of CFTR， AQP9， AQP3， ZIP8， ZIP12 and other proteins were detected by Western blot. The contents of α-glycosidase （α-GC）， sialic acid （SA）， carnitine， superoxide dismutase （SOD）， glutathione peroxidase （GSH-Px） and malondialdehyde （MDA） were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay （ELISA）. Total zinc content was measured using an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer. Free zinc ion content was detected by zinc ion probes. ResultCompared with those in the normal group， the sperm count and motility of rats were decreased and the epididymal structure was disordered in the model group. The contents of α-GC and carnitine were decreased in epididymis （P<0.05）. MDA levels were increased， while SOD， GSH-Px and zinc levels were decreased （P<0.05）. The expressions of CFTR and ZIP12 in the head and cauda of the epididymis were down-regulated， and AQP3 expression was up-regulated. The expression of ZIP8 in the cauda epididymis was up-regulated （P<0.05）. Compared with the model group， BYP can significantly improve the sperm count and motility， the epididymal structure of OAS rats and the levels of α-GC and carnitine （P<0.05）. The expressions of CFTR and ZIP12 in the head and cauda of the epididymis were up-regulated， while the expressions of ZIP8 in the cauda epididymis and AQP3 in the head of the epididymis were decreased （P<0.05）. The SOD and GSH-Px levels and total zinc content in epididymis were increased， and the MDA levels were decreased （P<0.05）. ConclusionBYP may improve the sperm quality and repair epididymal tissue structure and function of OAS rats， by regulating the expressions of CFTR， AQP3， and ZIP12 ion channels and local antioxidant mechanism.

Alternativa terapéutica para mejorar la calidad de vida en pacientes con fibrosis quística y discinesia ciliar primaria / Therapeutic alternative to improve quality of life in patients with cystic fibrosis and primary ciliary dyskinesia

Objective: To evaluate the clinical response of patients with cystic fibrosis and primary ciliary dyskinesia after endoscopic sinus surgery at the Dr. Robert Reid Cabral Children's Hospital from September 2021 to February 2022. Methods: An ambispective, cross-sectional, observational case series study was conducted, where the study population was made up of patients with cystic fibrosis and primary ciliary dyskinesia at the Dr. Robert Reid Cabral children's hospital during the study period. Inclusion criteria: Patients older than 6 years with a confirmed diagnosis of cystic fibrosis and primary ciliary dyskinesia (Genetic test with 2 homozygous mutations, positives electrolytes in sweat), severe respiratory symptoms of CRS that did not improve with conventional treatment and underwent endoscopic surgery for sinuses. Results: Of a total of 41 patients, only 10 met the inclusion criteria, the most prevalent age range was 14 to 18 years. Both CF and PCD patients decreased the frequency of CRS symptoms. After ENC, there were discrete changes in lung function, and only patients with severe to moderate disease increased % of FEV1. Most of the patients did not require admission after surgery. The most common germ found in nasopharyngeal and sputum cultures in preoperative patients was Pseudomonas aeruginosa in 86%; after ESS there was a significant increase in MRSA colonization in both CF and PCD patients. More than 50% of postoperative patients improved their quality of life, so endoscopic sinus surgery is effective in this population in the treatment of chronic rhinosinusitis.

Objetivo: Evaluar la respuesta clínica de los pacientes con fibrosis quística y discinesia ciliar primaria posterior a la cirugía endoscópica de senos paranasales en el Hospital Infantil Dr. Robert Reid Cabral en el período septiembre 2021 a febrero 2022. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio observacional tipo serie de casos, de corte transversal y ambispectivo, donde la población estudiada estuvo conformada por los pacientes con fibrosis quística y discinesia ciliar primaria del hospital infantil Dr. Robert Reid Cabral en el período de estudio. Criterios de inclusión: Pacientes mayores de 6 años con diagnóstico confirmado de fibrosis quística y discinesia ciliar primaria (Prueba genética con 2 mutaciones homocigotas, electrolitos en sudor positivos), síntomas respiratorios severos de RSC que no mejoraron con tratamiento convencional y sometidos a la cirugía endoscópica de senos paranasales. Resultados: De un total de 41 pacientes, sólo 10 cumplieron con los criterios de inclusión, el rango de edad más prevalente fue de 14 a 18 años. Tanto los pacientes con FQ como los de DCP disminuyeron la frecuencia de los síntomas de RSC. Posterior a la CEN hubo cambios discretos en la función pulmonar, y sólo los pacientes con enfermedad grave a moderada aumentaron el % de FEV1. La mayoría de los pacientes no ameritaron ingresos posterior a la cirugía. El germen más común encontrado en los cultivos nasofaríngeo y esputo en los pacientes preoperatorios fue la Pseudomonas aeruginosa en el 86%, luego de la CEN hubo un aumento significativo de la colonización por MRSA tanto en los pacientes con FQ como en los de DCP. Más del 50% de los pacientes postquirúrgicos mejoraron su calidad de vida, por lo que la cirugía endoscópica de senos paranasales es efectiva en dicha población en el tratamiento de la rinosinusitis crónica.

Cystic fibrosis: when neonatal screening is unsatisfactory for early diagnosis / Fibrose cística: quando a triagem neonatal é insatisfatória para o diagnóstico precoce

Abstract Introduction: cystic fibrosis newborn screening must enable its earlier diagnosis, which may enhance outcomes. This study was a series case of delayed-diagnosis children submitted to cystic fibrosis newborn screening. Description: fourteen children were included; eight (57.1%) were due to false-negative screening, while six (42.9%) were due to processing errors. Two samples collected after 30 days of life were incorrectly classified as negative, and four infants with a positive test could not be located due to screening processing errors. Cystic fibrosis diagnosis was confirmed at a median (IQR) age of 5.3 (4.2-7.4) months. Poor nutritional status was the most prevalent clinical sign at diagnosis, being present in 78.6% of infants. The mean (SD) weight-for-length and length-for-age Z-scores were -3.46 (0.84) and -3.99 (1.16), respectively. Half of the children had Pseudo-Bartter syndrome, and 42.9% had breathing difficulties. Twelve children (85.7%) required hospitalization, with a median (IQR) length of stay of 17.0 (11.5-26.5) days. Discussion: newborn screening had some faults, from incorrect collections to inefficient active search. Early identification of these children in which screening was unsatisfactory is essential, emphasizing the importance and efforts to not miss them. In the case of a failed test, healthcare professionals must be prepared to recognize the main symptoms and signs of the disease.

Resumo Introdução: a triagem neonatal para fibrose cística deve contribuir para diagnóstico precoce e melhor prognóstico da doença. O estudo é uma série de casos com lactentes submetidos à triagem, porém com diagnóstico tardio da doença. Descrição: quatorze crianças foram incluídas; oito (57,1%) com triagem falso-negativo e seis (42,9%) com erros processuais na triagem neonatal. Duas amostras foram coletadas tardiamente, sendo incorretamente classificadas como negativas e quatro lactentes com triagem positiva não foram localizados, por erros na busca ativa. Confirmou-se o diagnóstico da fibrose cística com idade mediana (IIQ) de 5,3 (4,2-7,4) meses. O Comprometimento nutricional precoce foi o sinal clínico mais prevalente ao diagnóstico, presente em 78,6% das crianças. Os Z escores médios (SD) do peso para altura e altura para idade foram -3,46 (0,84) e -3,99 (1,16), respectivamente. Metade das crianças teve síndrome de Pseudo-Bartter e 42,9% dificuldade respiratória. Doze crianças (85,7%) precisaram hospitalização com tempo mediano de permanência de 17 dias. Discussão: a triagem neonatal para fibrose cística apresentou falhas, desde testes falso-negativos, coletas incorretas, até problemas com a busca ativa. Entretanto, o diagnóstico ágil é essencial e os profissionais de saúde devem reconhecer os sintomas e sinais precoces da doença, mesmo quando a triagem neonatal não for satisfatória.

Impact of COVID-19 social distancing recommendations on pulmonary function, nutritional status, and morbidity in patients with cystic fibrosis / Impacto das recomendações de distanciamento social por COVID-19 sobre a função pulmonar, estado nutricional e morbidade em pacientes com fibrose cística

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the impact of COVID-19 social distancing recommendations on nutritional status, pulmonary function, and morbidity in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). Methods: A retrospective cohort study including patients older than six years with a diagnosis of CF was performed. Demographic and clinical data, anthropometric measurements, pulmonary function, days of antibiotic use, and length of hospital stay were recorded. Variables were recorded at three time points relative to the baseline for implementation of social distancing measures: T-1 (14 months before implementation), T0 (baseline), and T1 (14 months after implementation). Delta (Δ) was calculated for each period: Δ1 (pre-pandemic T0-T-1) and Δ2 (pandemic T1-T0). Results: The study included 25 patients, with a mean age of 11.7±4.3 years. The mean forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1) was 85.6±23.6%, and body mass index (BMI) was 17.5±3.0 kg/m2. When comparing the two periods (Δ1 and Δ2), there was a significant increase in the FEV1/forced vital capacity (FVC) ratio (p=0.013) and in the forced expiratory flow between 25 and 75% of vital capacity (FEF25-75%) (p=0.037) in the pandemic period. There was also a significant reduction (p=0.005) in the use of antibiotics in the pandemic period compared with the pre-pandemic period. The Δ1 and Δ2 values did not differ significantly for BMI, FEV1, or length of hospital stay. Conclusions: COVID-19 social distancing recommendations had a positive impact (decrease) on morbidity (use of antibiotics) and small airway obstruction (FEF25-75%) in patients with CF.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar o impacto das recomendações de medidas de distanciamento social por COVID-19 sobre estado nutricional, função pulmonar e morbidade em pacientes com fibrose cística (FC). Métodos: Estudo de coorte, retrospectivo, que incluiu pacientes com diagnóstico de FC e idade superior a seis anos. Foram registrados os dados demográficos, antropométricos, clínicos, de função pulmonar e o total de dias de uso de antibiótico e de hospitalizações. As variáveis foram registradas em três momentos relativos ao início das recomendações de distanciamento social: T-1 (14 meses antes), T0 (início das recomendações) e T1 (14 meses depois). Foram calculados deltas (Δ) para cada um dos períodos: Δ1 (pré-pandemia T0-T-1) e Δ2 (pandemia T1-T0). Resultados: Vinte e cinco pacientes, com média de idade de 11,7±4,3 anos, sendo 76% homozigotos para Δf508 e 28% colonizados por Pseudomonas aeruginosa, foram incluídos. A média do volume expiratório forçado no primeiro segundo (VEF1) foi de 85,6±23,6 (% do previsto) e o índice de massa corporal (IMC) foi de 17,5±3,0 kg/m2. Ao compararmos os períodos (Δ1 e Δ2), houve aumento significativo do VEF1/CVF (p=0,013) e do FEF25-75% (p=0,037) no período das recomendações de distanciamento. Também se observou redução significativa (p=0,005) do uso de antibióticos no período da pandemia em comparação ao período anterior a ela. Não houve diferenças significativas nos deltas para o IMC, VEF1 e dias de hospitalização. Conclusões: As recomendações de distanciamento social por COVID-19 tiveram impacto positivo (redução) sobre a morbidade (uso de antibióticos) e a obstrução de vias aéreas de menor calibre (FEF25-75%) em pacientes com FC.

Evolución clínico funcional de pacientes con fibrosis quística tratados con lumacaftor/ivacaftor en un centro pediátrico. Serie de casos / Clinical and functional course of patients with cystic fibrosis treated with lumacaftor/ivacaftor at a children's hospital. A case series

Los moduladores de la proteína reguladora transmembrana de fibrosis quística (CFTR) tratan el defecto de esta proteína. El objetivo es describir la evolución de niños con fibrosis quística tratados con lumacaftor/ivacaftor. Se trata de una serie de 13 pacientes de 6 a 18 años con ≥ 6 meses de tratamiento. Se analizaron el volumen espiratorio forzado en el primer segundo (VEF1), puntaje Z del índice de masa corporal (IMC), antibioticoterapia/año, antes del tratamiento y durante 24 meses posteriores. A los 12 meses (9/13) y 24 meses (5/13), la mediana de cambio del porcentaje del predicho VEF1 (ppVEF1) fue de 0,5 pp [-2-12] y 15 pp [8,7-15,2], y del puntaje Z de IMC de 0,32 puntos [-0,2-0,5] y 1,23 puntos [0,3-1,6]. El primer año (11/13) la mediana de días de uso de antibiótico disminuyó de 57 a 28 (oral) y de 27 a 0 (intravenoso). Dos niños evidenciaron eventos adversos asociados.

Cystic fibrosis transmembrane regulator (CFTR) modulators treat defective CFTR protein. Our objective is to describe the course of children with cystic fibrosis treated with lumacaftor/ivacaftor. This is a case series of 13 patients aged 6 to 18 years with ≥ 6 months of treatment. Forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1), body mass index (BMI) Z-score, antibiotic therapy/year, before treatment and for 24 months after treatment were analyzed. At 12 months (9/13) and 24 months (5/13), the median change in the percent predicted FEV1 (ppFEV1) was 0.5 pp (-2­12) and 15 pp (8.7­15.2) and the BMI Z-score was 0.32 points (-0.2­0.5) and 1.23 points (0.3­1.6). In the first year, in 11/13 patients, the median number of days of antibiotic use decreased from 57 to 28 (oral) and from 27 to 0 (intravenous). Two children had associated adverse events.

Enfermedad hepática en la fibrosis quística pediátrica. Una revisión de los conocimientos actuales / Cystic fibrosis liver disease in children ­ A review of our current understanding

La fibrosis quística, la segunda enfermedad genética más frecuente, es el resultado de una proteína de canal mutada, la CFTR, que secreta iones de cloro que fluidifican las secreciones. La esperanza de vida en los pacientes ha aumentado en años recientes gracias a mejoras en el tratamiento. No obstante, las complicaciones hepáticas son la tercera causa de muerte y la comprensión de su fisiopatología es aún deficiente. Se considera que la obstrucción biliar secundaria a la presencia de secreciones espesas conduce a la cirrosis. Sin embargo, el ácido ursodesoxicólico no ha modificado la historia natural. Además, la presencia de hipertensión portal en ausencia de cirrosis no puede ser explicada. Se ha propuesto el rol de la CFTR como modulador de tolerancia inmune, que explica la presencia de una inflamación portal persistente que culmina en fibrosis. El eje intestino-hígado tendría un rol importante en la presentación y la progresión de esta enfermedad

Cystic fibrosis is the second most common genetic disease in infancy. It is the result of a mutated channel protein, the CFTR, which secretes chloride ions, fluidifying secretions. Recent improvements in the treatment have increased life expectancy in these patients. Nevertheless, liver involvement remains the third cause of death. Unfortunately, our understating of the physiopathology is still deficient. Biliary obstruction secondary to the presence of thick secretions is considered to lead to cirrhosis. However, treatment with ursodeoxycolic acid has not changed the natural history. Furthermore, the presence of portal hypertension in the absence of cirrhosis cannot be explained. Recently, the role of CFTR as modulator of immune tolerance has been proposed, which could explain the presence of a persistent portal inflammation leading to fibrosis, and the gut-liver axis would also have a role in disease presentation and progression.

Programa de actividades físico-terapéuticas para educandos con fibrosis quística

La investigación se realizó en el municipio Jiguaní, provincia de Granma, Cuba. Se inició, a partir de la limitada atención que reciben los educandos fibroquísticos en el contexto escolar; pues, en el sistema educativo cubano no hay evidencias de programas de actividades físico-terapéuticas que orienten la prescripción de ejercicios físicos y tengan en cuenta las posibilidades, potencialidades y necesidades de estos niños. La investigación tiene como objetivo elaborar un programa de actividades físico-terapéuticas, caracterizado por un enfoque integral físico-educativo que mejore la condición física orientada a la salud de educandos con fibrosis quística. Para su desarrollo, se efectuó un estudio correlacional, con diseño pre-experimental en el período comprendido entre septiembre 2019 y junio 2021. Se emplearon métodos teóricos, empíricos y estadístico-matemáticos, así como técnicas de investigación, entre ellos: analítico-sintético, hipotético-deductivo, sistémico estructural-funcional, revisión documental, observación estructurada, criterio de expertos, entrevista, triangulación metodológica y estadística descriptiva e inferencial. A partir de un muestreo intencional, se seleccionaron cuatro educandos con manifestaciones clínicas de las vías respiratorias, baja autoestima y escasa condición física, que representan el total de la población, para el 100 %, con una edad promedio de nueve años. En los resultados del experimento, mediante los indicadores evaluados con la implementación del programa de actividades físico-terapéuticas, se observaron cambios significativos en el 100 % de la muestra, con ello mejoró la condición física orientada a la salud en educandos con fibrosis quística.

A pesquisa foi realizada no município de Jiguaní, província de Granma, Cuba. Ela foi iniciada devido à atenção limitada que os alunos fibrocísticos recebem no contexto escolar, uma vez que no sistema educacional cubano não há evidências de programas de atividades físico-terapêuticas que orientem a prescrição de exercícios físicos e levem em conta as possibilidades, o potencial e as necessidades dessas crianças. O objetivo desta pesquisa é elaborar um programa de atividades físico-terapêuticas, caracterizado por um enfoque físico-educacional integral que melhore a condição física orientada para a saúde dos alunos com fibrose cística. Para seu desenvolvimento, foi realizado um estudo correlacional, com um desenho pré-experimental no período entre setembro de 2019 e junho de 2021. Foram utilizados métodos teóricos, empíricos e estatístico-matemáticos, bem como técnicas de pesquisa, incluindo: analítico-sintético, hipotético-dedutivo, estrutural-funcional sistêmico, revisão documental, observação estruturada, julgamento de especialistas, entrevista, triangulação metodológica e estatística descritiva e inferencial. A partir de uma amostragem intencional, foram selecionados quatro alunos com manifestações clínicas do trato respiratório, baixa autoestima e condição física ruim, representando 100% da população total, com idade média de nove anos. Nos resultados do experimento, por meio dos indicadores avaliados com a implementação do programa de atividades físico-terapêuticas, foram observadas mudanças significativas em 100% da amostra, melhorando assim a condição física voltada para a saúde dos alunos com fibrose cística.

The research was carried out in the Jiguaní municipality, Granma province, Cuba. It began, from the limited attention that fibrocystic students receive in the school context due to in the Cuban educational system there is no evidence of physical-therapeutic activity programs that guide the prescription of physical exercises and take into account the possibilities, potentialities and needs of these children. The objective of the research is to develop a program of physical-therapeutic activities, characterized by a comprehensive physical -educational approach that improves the health-oriented physical condition of students with cystic fibrosis. For its development, a correlational study was carried out, with a pre-experimental design in the period between September 2019 and June 2021. Theoretical, empirical and statistical-mathematical methods were used, as well as research techniques, including: analytical-synthetic, hypothetical-deductive, structural-functional systemic, documentary review, structured observation, expert judgment, interview, methodological triangulation and descriptive and inferential statistics. From an intentional sampling, four students with clinical manifestations of the respiratory tract, low self-esteem and poor physical condition were selected, representing the total population, for 100 %, with an average age of nine years. In the results of the experiment, through the indicators evaluated with the implementation of the program of physical-therapeutic activities, significant changes were observed in 100 % of the sample, thereby improving the health-oriented physical condition in students with cystic fibrosis.

La fibrosis quística en niños en el Ecuador / Cystic fibrosis in children in Ecuador

Objetivo: analizar la fibrosis quística en niños en el Ecuador. Metodología: Revisión sistemática de 21 publicaciones relacionadas al tema, específicamente 13 articulos de investigación en contexto ecuatoriano. Resultados y conclusión: En el Ecuador la incidencia de la enfermedad es de 1 por cada 11.110 habitantes y cada año nacen aproximadamente 23 niños con esta afección, teniéndose en cuenta las mutaciones en el CFTR, entorpecen el diagnóstico molecular, así como se ha estudiado un caso pediátrico de FQ con complicaciones en pancreatitis, siendo esto inusual en la población infantil, siendo considerable proseguir con investigaciones conducentes a tener una mejor referencia científica de la FQ en el Ecuador.

Objective: to analyze cystic fibrosis in children in Ecuador. Methodology: Systematic review of 21 publications related to the subject, specifically 13 research articles in the Ecuadorian context. Results and conclusion: In Ecuador the incidence of the disease is 1 for every 11,110 inhabitants and each year approximately 23 children are born with this condition, taking into account CFTR mutations, which hinder molecular diagnosis, as well as a study pediatric case of CF with complications in pancreatitis, this being unusual in the child population, it is important to continue with research leading to a better scientific reference of CF in Ecuador.

Transición en las enfermedades crónicas gastrointestinales. Del cuidado pediátrico al del adulto / Transition in chronic gastrointestinal diseases. From pediatric to adult care

Los avances tecnológicos y del conocimiento hicieron que un mayor número de pacientes con enfermedad crónica gastrointestinal pasen de ser atendidos por el pediatra al control por los médicos de adultos durante una de las etapas más vulnerables de la vida: la adolescencia. El Grupo de Trabajo de Transición del Comité de Gastroenterología de la Sociedad Argentina de Pediatría realizó una búsqueda de literatura exhaustiva y convocó a especialistas referentes del país, con el objeto de unificar los criterios basados en la evidencia y la experiencia. De esta manera, se proponen una serie de recomendaciones para todo el equipo de salud (pediatra, gastroenterólogo infantil, nutricionista, gastroenterólogo de adultos, psicólogo, enfermería), incluso para pacientes y familias, que faciliten el proceso de transición y optimicen el seguimiento, el control, la prevención de complicaciones y la calidad de vida de los pacientes con enfermedades crónicas gastrointestinales

Technological advances and the globalization of knowledge have led to a considerable increase in the number of patients with chronic gastrointestinal disease who transition from pediatric to adult care during one of the most vulnerable life stages: adolescence. The Transition Working Group of the Gastroenterology Committee of the Sociedad Argentina de Pediatría conducted an exhaustive literature search and summoned leading specialists in the most frequent chronic pathologies from all over the country to unify criteria based on evidence and experience. As a result, a series of recommendations are proposed for the whole health team (pediatrician, pediatric gastroenterologist, nutritionist, adult gastroenterologist, psychologist, and nurse) including patients and families, to facilitate the transition process, optimize follow-up, prevent complications, and improve the quality of life of patients with chronic gastrointestinal diseases.

Combined multi-channel intraluminal impedance measurement and pHmetry in the detection of gastroesophageal reflux disease in children with cystic fibrosis

Abstract Objective To assess the prevalence of GERD exclusively by means of multichannel intraluminal impedanciometry associated with pH monitoring (MIIpH) and compare it with respiratory symptoms in children with CF. To compare MIIpH with pHmetry alone to perform GERD diagnosis. Methods An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted with children diagnosed with CF who underwent MIIpH. Clinical and laboratory markers, including respiratory and digestive symptoms, were used for comparative analyses. High-resolution chest computed tomography was performed on patients with symptoms of chronic lung disease. Severity was classified according to the Bhalla score. Results A total of 29 children < 10 yo (18 girls) were evaluated; 19 of whom with physiological GER and 10 with GERD. Of the children with GERD, seven had predominantly acid GER, two acid+non-acid GER, and one non-acid GER. Three patients had GERD diagnosed only by MIIpH. Bhalla scores ranged from seven to 17.75 with no significant relationship with GERD. The number of pulmonary exacerbations was associated with a decrease in esophageal clearance regardless of the position in pHmetry and MIIpH. Conclusions The prevalence of GERD was 34% in children with CF. There was no association between respiratory disease severity and GER types. MIIpH detected 30% more patients with GERD than pHmetry.

Use of Methylene Blue to Treat Vasoplegia Syndrome in Cystic Fibrosis Patients Undergoing Lung Transplantation: A Case Series

Background: Several studies have demonstrated the utility of methylene blue (MB) to treat vasoplegic syndrome (VS), but some have cautioned against its routine use in lung transplantation with only two cases described in prominent literature. Cystic fibrosis patients commonly have chronic infections which predispose them to a systemic inflammatory syndrome-like vasoplegic response during lung transplantation. We present 13 cystic fibrosis patients who underwent lung transplantation and received MB for vasoplegic syndrome while on cardiopulmonary bypass, with or without inhaled pulmonary vasodilator therapy. Methods: Single?center, retrospective, case series analysis of cystic fibrosis patients who underwent lung transplant and received MB for vasoplegia. We defined the primary outcome as 30-day mortality, and secondary outcomes as primary graft failure, 1-year mortality, postoperative complications, and hemodynamic response to MB. Results: MB was associated with a significant increase in mean arterial pressure (MAP) (P < 0.001) in all patients, and 84.6% (11/13) of the patients had either a decrease or no change in vasopressor requirement. No patients developed acute primary graft dysfunction and there was 100% 30?day and 1?year survival. One patient required Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) for hypoxemia and 69% (9/13) of the patients had evidence of postoperative right ventricular dysfunction, but no patients required a right ventricular assist device. Conclusion: This case series demonstrates the effectiveness of MB in treating vasoplegia in cystic fibrosis patients during lung transplantation, without evidence of primary graft dysfunction, 30?day or 1?year mortality. The safety of MB regarding hypoxemia and increased pulmonary vascular resistance requires further investigation.

Five-year performance analysis of a cystic fibrosis newborn screening program in northeastern Brazil

Abstract Objective: To analyze the performance of the cystic fibrosis (CF) newborn screening (NBS) program over its first five years in a Brazilian northeastern state. Methods: A population-based study using a screening algorithm based on immunoreactive trypsinogen (IRT)/IRT. Data were retrieved from the state referral screening center registry. The program performance was evaluated using descriptive indicators such as the results of an active search, coverage, newborn's age at the time of blood sampling, the time between sample collection and its arrival at the laboratory, and the child's age at diagnosis of disease. Results: The public CF screening program covered 82.6% of the 1,017,576 births that occurred, with an accumulated five-year incidence of 1:20,767 live births. The median (25th-75th) age at diagnosis was 3.5 (2.3-7.3) months. The sampling before 7 days of life for the first IRT (IRT1) increased between 2013 and 2017 from 42.2 to 48.3%. Around 5% of IRT1 samples and 30% of the second samples were collected after 30 days of life. In the first and second stages of screening, 23.6% and 19.9% of the infants, respectively, were lost to follow-up. In both stages of screening, the samples were retained at the health units for a median (25th-75th) of 9.0 (7.0-13.0) days. Conclusions: The coverage by the CF-NBS program was satisfactory as compared to other Brazilian state rates and the percentage of IRT1 samples collected within the first week of life increased progressively. However, time of samples retention at the health units, inappropriate sampling, inherent methodological problems, and loss of follow-up need to improve.

Systematic review on fecal calprotectin in cystic fibrosis

Abstract Objectives: Fecal calprotectin is an inflammatory marker used for monitoring intestinal diseases. It has been studied as a marker of intestinal inflammation in cystic fibrosis (CF), a multi-systemic genetic disease caused by alterations to the CFTR gene. Manifestations of the disease favor a systemic inflammation not limited to the respiratory tract, therefore, calprotectin is a non-invasive and effective diagnostic method. The aim of the study was to perform a systematic review of the literature with a qualitative synthesis of studies. Sources: The articles were selected from PubMed, Web of Science, Scielo and Lilacs. Summary of the findings: Nine studies were selected for that qualitative synthesis, one was a randomized clinical trial, and eight were case-control or cohort designs. Most studies have indicated that calprotectin is a marker of systemic inflammation in CF and not just intestinal inflammation. Calprotectin is an aid in monitoring inflammatory bowel conditions in patients with cystic fibrosis. Conclusion: Further studies should be conducted to investigate the role of this marker in the systemic inflammation of CF.

Identification of risk genes in Chinese nonobstructive azoospermia patients based on whole-exome sequencing / 亚洲男科学杂志(英文版)

Nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA) is a severe condition in infertile men, and increasing numbers of causative genes have been identified during the last few decades. Although certain causative genes can explain the presence of NOA in some patients, a proportion of NOA patients remain to be addressed. This study aimed to investigate potential high-risk genes associated with spermatogenesis in idiopathic NOA patients by whole-exome sequencing. Whole-exome sequencing was performed in 46 male patients diagnosed with NOA. First, screening was performed for 119 genes known to be related to male infertility. Next, further screening was performed to determine potential high-risk causative genes for NOA by comparisons with 68 healthy male controls. Finally, risk genes with high/specific expression in the testes were selected and their expression fluctuations during spermatogenesis were graphed. The frequency of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene pathogenic variant carriers was higher in the NOA patients compared with the healthy controls. Potential risk genes that may be causes of NOA were identified, including seven genes that were highly/specifically expressed in the testes. Four risk genes previously reported to be involved in spermatogenesis (MutS homolog 5 [MSH5], cilia- and flagella-associated protein 54 [CFAP54], MAP7 domain containing 3 [MAP7D3], and coiled-coil domain containing 33 [CCDC33]) and three novel risk genes (coiled-coil domain containing 168 [CCDC168], chromosome 16 open reading frame 96 [C16orf96], and serine protease 48 [PRSS48]) were identified to be highly or specifically expressed in the testes and significantly different in the 46 NOA patients compared with 68 healthy controls. This study on clinical NOA patients provides further evidence for the four previously reported risk genes. The present findings pave the way for further functional investigations and provide candidate risk genes for genetic diagnosis of NOA.

Role of mucociliary clearance system in respiratory diseases / 中南大学学报(医学版)

Mucociliary clearance system is the primary innate defense mechanism of the lung. It plays a vital role in protecting airways from microbes and irritants infection. Mucociliary clearance system, which is mediated by the actions of airway and submucosal gland epithelial cells, plays a critical role in a multilayered defense system via secreting fluids, electrolytes, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory proteins, and mucus onto airway surfaces. Changes in environment, drugs or diseases can lead to mucus overproduction and cilia dysfunction, which in turn decrease the rate of mucociliary clearance and enhance mucus gathering. The dysfunction of mucociliary clearance system often occurs in several respiratory diseases, such as primary ciliary dysfunction, cystic fibrosis, asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, which are characterized by goblet cell metaplasia, submucosal gland cell hypertrophy, mucus hypersecretion, cilia adhesion, lodging and loss, and airway obstruction.

Telehealth for children and adolescents with chronic pulmonary disease: systematic review / Telessaúde para crianças e adolescentes com doenças pulmonares crônicas: revisão sistemática

Abstract Objective: To revise the impact of telehealth on the quality of life, reduction in pulmonary exacerbations, number of days using antibiotics, adherence to treatment, pulmonary function, emergency visits, hospitalizations, and the nutritional status of individuals with asthma and cystic fibrosis. Data source: Four databases were used, MEDLINE, LILACS, Web of Science and Cochrane, as well as manual searches in English, Portuguese and Spanish. Randomized clinical trials, published between January 2010 and December 2020, with participants aged 0 to 20 years, were included. Data synthesis: Seventy-one records were identified after the removal of duplicates; however, twelve trials were eligible for synthesis. Included trials utilized: mobile phone applications (n=5), web platforms (n= 4), mobile telemedicine unit (n=1), software with an electronic record (n=1), remote spirometer (n=1), and active video games platform (n=1). Three trials used two tools, including telephone calls. Among the different types of interventions, improvement in adherence, quality of life, and physiologic variables were observed for mobile application interventions and game platforms compared to usual care. Visits to the emergency department, unscheduled medical appointments, and hospitalizations were not reduced. There was considerable heterogeneity among studies. Conclusions: The findings suggest that better control of symptoms, quality of life, and adherence to treatment can be attributed to the technological interventions used. Nevertheless, further research is needed to compare telehealth with face-to-face care and to indicate the most effective tools in the routine care of children with chronic lung diseases.

RESUMO Objetivo: Revisar o impacto da telessaúde na qualidade de vida, redução das exacerbações pulmonares, número de dias em uso de antibióticos, adesão ao tratamento, função pulmonar, visitas à emergência, hospitalizações e estado nutricional de indivíduos com asma e fibrose cística. Fontes de dados: Foram utilizadas quatro base de dados, sendo, MEDLINE, LILACS, Web of Science e Cochrane, além de pesquisas manuais nos idiomas inglês, português e espanhol. Foram incluídos ensaios clínicos randomizados, publicados no período de janeiro de 2010 a dezembro de 2020, com participantes de 0 a 20 anos. Síntese dos dados: Setenta e um registros foram identificados após a remoção das duplicatas e doze estudos foram elegíveis para síntese. Os ensaios utilizaram aplicativos para celular (n=5), plataformas da web (n= 4), unidade de telemedicina móvel (n=1), software com registro eletrônico (n=1), espirômetro remoto (n=1) e plataforma ativa de videogames (n=1). Três ensaios utilizaram duas ferramentas, incluindo chamadas telefônicas. Entre os diferentes tipos de intervenções, observou-se melhora na adesão, qualidade de vida e de variáveis fisiológicas para intervenções de aplicativos móveis e plataformas de jogos em comparação com os cuidados habituais. Visitas ao pronto-socorro, consultas médicas não agendadas e internações não foram reduzidas. Houve considerável heterogeneidade entre os estudos. Conclusões: Os achados sugerem que a melhora do controle dos sintomas, da qualidade de vida e da adesão ao tratamento podem ser atribuídos às intervenções tecnológicas utilizadas. No entanto, mais pesquisas são necessárias para comparar a telessaúde com o atendimento presencial e indicar as ferramentas mais efetivas na rotina de cuidados à população infantil com doenças crônicas pulmonares.

The prevalence of vascular and metabolic complications after lung transplant in people with cystic fibrosis in a Dutch cohort

Abstract Background With improvements in care for people with Cystic Fibrosis (pwCF), total survival after Lung Transplantation (LTx) will be longer. Therefore, this population's up-to-date analysis of late-onset post-transplant metabolic and vascular complications will be more relevant in current clinical practice. Methods We studied 100 pwCF who underwent an LTx between 2001 and 2020 at the University Medical Centre Utrecht, the Netherlands. The median age at transplant was 31 years and 55 percent was male. We assessed survival, the prevalence of metabolic complications (diabetes, renal damage, dyslipidemia, and metabolic syndrome), and vascular complications (hypertension, heart rhythm disease, micro-, and macrovascular disease). In addition, differences in risks for developing complications based on sex and overall survival were analyzed. Results The prevalence of macrovascular disease raised to 15.9 percent 15 years post-LTx. The prevalence of diabetes increased from 63 percent at LTx to over 90 percent 15 years post-LTx and the prevalence of dyslipidemia increased from 21 percent to over 80 percent. Survival 1-, 2-, 5-, and 10 years post-transplant were 84, 80, 76, and 58 percent respectively. No significant differences were found based on sex. Conclusion This study shows that the prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors increases after LTx for CF, potentially leading to major complications. These data emphasize the necessity of regular check-ups for metabolic and vascular complications after LTx with specific attention to renal damage. Early recognition of these complications is crucial and will lead to earlier intervention, which could lead to improved prognosis after lung transplantation.

El regulador de transmembrana de fibrosis quística (CFTR) disfuncional y sus efectos extrapulmonares / The dysfunction of transmembrane regulator in cystic fibrosis (CFTR) and its extrapulmonary effects

El daño del regulador de transmembrana de fibrosis quística (CFTR) puede causar una enfermedad grave fuera de los pulmones. El canal de cloruro (Cl-) ha sido el más estudiado, sin embargo, el bicarbonato (HCO3 -) tiene un rol muy importante en el comportamiento de las secreciones y la inflamación secundaria. El hecho de que CFTR funcione no sólo como un canal de Cl- sino también de HCO3- es un campo para la investigación y el desarrollo de fármacos para pacientes con daño genético o adquirido, este último frecuente en la población general. Algunos moduladores de CFTR pueden tener un beneficio terapéutico en el tratamiento de pancreatitis en ambas situaciones. La disfunción del CFTR a nivel renal puede resultar excepcionalmente en alcalosis metabólica y reducción del impulso ventilatorio. Hasta la fecha no está claro cuales serian sus efectos en los sistemas gastrointestinal y hepatobiliar.

Transmembrane regulator in cystic fibrosis (CFTR) can cause severe disease outside of the lungs. The chloride channel (Cl-) has been the most studied, however bicarbonate (HCO3 -) has a very important role in the behavior of secretions and secondary inflammation. The fact that CFTR works not only as a Cl- channel but also as an HCO3- channel is a field for research and development of drugs for patients with genetic or acquired damage, the latter frequent in the general population. Some CFTR modulators may have a therapeutic benefit in the treatment of pancreatitis in both situations. CFTR dysfunction at the renal level can exceptionally result in metabolic alkalosis and reduced ventilatory drive. To date it is not clear what its effects on the gastrointestinal and hepatobiliary systems would be.

Actualización en fibrosis quística: diabetes relacionada a fibrosis quística en la era de los moduladores del regulador de transmembrana de fibrosis quística (CFTR) / Update on cystic fibrosis/cystic fibrosis related diabete in the era of transmembrane regulator in cystic fibrosis (CFTR)

Las disglicemias, objetivadas en el test de tolerancia a la glucosa de 2 horas y en el monitoreo continuo de glicemia, son el factor de riesgo principal para el desarrollo de la diabetes relacionada a fibrosis quística (FQ) (DRFQ), la que constituiría la etapa final de un continuo de alteraciones del metabolismo de la glucosa en los pacientes con FQ. Estas disglicemias se deben tanto al daño directo de las células de los islotes pancreáticos productores de insulina, como al aumento de la resistencia a la insulina asociada al estado inflamatorio sistémico de la FQ. El uso cada vez más precoz de los moduladores del CFTR debiera contribuir a evitar el desarrollo de DRFQ y sus complicaciones. La siguiente revisión se enfoca en los efectos de los moduladores del CFTR en la tolerancia a la glucosa en pacientes con FQ.

Dysglycemia, observed in the 2-hour glucose tolerance test and in the continuous monitoring of glycemia, are the main risk factor for the development of diabetes related to cystic fibrosis (CF), which constitutes the final stage of a continuum of impaired glucose metabolism in people with CF. These dysglycemias are due both to direct damage to insulin-producing pancreatic islet cells, and to increased insulin resistance associated with the systemic inflammatory state of CF. The increasingly early use of CFTR modulators should help prevent the development of CRFD and its complications. The following review focuses on the effects of regulador de transmembrana de fibrosis quística (CFTR) modulators on glucose tolerance in people with CF.

Actualización en fibrosis quística estándares de atención para pacientes con diagnóstico de fibrosis quística con terapia moduladora: informe de la Sociedad Europea de Fibrosis Quística 2023 / Standards of care for patients with a diagnosis of cystic fibrosis who are on modulator therapy: report of the European Fibrosis Cystic Society 2023

La fibrosis quística ha entrado en la era de la terapia específica con los moduladores, útiles en variantes genéticas definidas por estudio molecular, con resultados clínicos exitosos. Este es un resumen de la publicación reciente de la Sociedad Respiratoria Europea que establece los estándares de cuidado para los pacientes que reciben este tratamiento.

Cystic fibrosis has entered the era of specific therapy called modulators, useful in genetic variants defined by molecular study, with successful clinical results. This is a summary of the recent publication of the European Respiratory Society that establishes the standards of care for patients receiving this treatment.