SARS-CoV-2 and the ocular surface: test accuracy and viral load / SARS-CoV-2 e a superfície ocular: acurácia dos testes e carga viral

ABSTRACT Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the pre-sence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) RNA in the ocular surface of individuals clinically suspected of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and determine the accuracy of different approaches of molecular testing on the ocular surface based on the nasopharyngeal positivity status for COVID-19. Methods: A total of 152 individuals with suspected COVID-19 symptoms who simultaneously underwent nasopharyngeal and two different tear film collection techniques for quantitative reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) were included. Tears were collected and randomized: one eye had the filter strip for the Schirmer test and the contralateral eye had conjunctival swab/cytology in the inferior fornix. All patients underwent slit lamp biomicroscopy. The accuracy of various ocular surface collection techniques used for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 RNA was determined. Results: Of the 152 patients enrolled in the study, 86 (56.6%) had COVID-19 confirmed by nasopharyngeal PCR. Both tear film collection techniques detected viral particles: the Schirmer test was positive in 16.3% (14/86) and the conjunctival swab/cytology in 17.4% (15/86), with no statistically significant differences. No positive ocular tests were found among those with negative nasopharyngeal PCR tests. The overall agreement of the ocular tests was 92.7%, and in combination, the sensitivity would increase to 23.2%. The mean cycle threshold values in the nasopharyngeal, Schirmer, and conjunctival swab/cytology tests were 18.2 ± 5.3, 35.6 ± 1.4, and 36.4 ± 3.9, respectively. Compared with the nasopharyngeal test, the Schirmer (p=0.001) and conjunctival swab/cytology (p<0.001) tests had significantly different Ct values. Conclusion: The Schirmer (16.3%) and conjunctival swab (17.4%) tests were comparably capable of detecting SARS-CoV-2 RNA in the ocular surface by RT-PCR accurately based on nasopharyngeal status and demonstrated indistinct sensitivity and specificity. Simultaneous specimen sampling and processing from the nasopharyngeal, Schirmer, and conjunctival swab/cytology tests demonstrated significantly lower viral load in both ocular surface approaches than in the nasopharyngeal test. Ocular manifestations detected by slit lamp biomicroscopy were not associated with ocular RT-PCR positivity.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar a presença de RNA de coronavírus 2 causador de síndrome respiratória aguda grave (SARS-CoV-2) na superfície ocular de indivíduos clinicamente suspeitos com COVID-19 e determinar a precisão de diferentes abordagens de testes moleculares na superfície ocular com base no status de positividade do RT-qPCR de nasofaringe para COVID-19. Métodos: 152 indivíduos com sintomas suspeitos para a COVID-19 foram submetidos a coleta de reação em cadeia da polimerase de nasofaringe simultaneamente a duas técnicas diferentes de coleta de filme lacrimal para RT-qPCR: aleatoriamente, um olho com a tira filtro do teste de Schirmer e, o olho contralateral, com citologia (swab) conjuntival no fórnice inferior. Todos os indivíduos foram submetidos à biomicroscopia com lâmpada de fenda. Resultados: Dos 152 pacientes, 86 (56,6%) tiveram a COVID-19 confirmada por PCR de nasofaringe. Ambas as técnicas de coleta detectaram partículas virais: o teste de Schirmer foi positivo em 16,3% (14/86) e a citologia conjuntival em 17,4% (15/86), sem diferenças estatisticamente significativas. Não houve testes oculares positivos entre aqueles com reação em cadeia da polimerase de nasofaringe negativo. A concordância geral dos testes oculares foi de 92,7% e, em combinação, a sensibilidade aumentaria para 23,2%. Os valores médios do limiar de ciclo nos testes de nasofaringe, Schirmer e citologia conjuntival foram 18,2 ± 5,3, 35,6 ± 1,4 e 36,4 ± 3,9, respectivamente. Conclusão: Os testes de Schirmer (16,3%) e swab conjuntival (17,4%) foram igualmente capazes de detectar RNA de SARS-CoV-2 na superfície ocular por RT-PCR e demonstraram sensibilidade e especificidade indistintas. A coleta simultânea de amostras ao processamento dos testes de RT-PCR de nasofaringe, Schirmer e citologia (swab) conjuntival demonstraram carga viral significativamente menor em ambas as abordagens da superfície ocular em comparação com o teste de nasofaringe. As manifestações oculares detectadas pela biomicroscopia com lâmpada de fenda não foram claramente associadas à positividade do RT-PCR ocular.

Confecção de guia multifuncional para planejamento de reabilitação implantossuportada: relato de caso / Preparation of a multifuncional guide for the planning of implant-supported rehabilitations: case report / Elaboración de una guía multifuncional para la planificación de rehabilitación implantosoportada: informede caso

Introdução:Em busca da estética e da função mastigatória,é cada vez mais crescente aprocurapor reabilitações implantossuportadas. O guia multifuncional surgepara orientar a disponibilidade óssea e contribuir no planejamento da instalação tridimensional dos implantes, seguindo os princípios do planejamento reverso.Objetivo:Descrever, por meio de um caso clínico, a possibilidade de obtenção de resultados de excelente previsibilidade em coroas unitárias implantossuportadas, por meio do uso de guias multifuncionais, no planejamento do início ao fim de tratamento.Relato decaso:Paciente A.M.F, 44 anos, sexo feminino, compareceu à clínica de Prótese dentária do Departamento de Odontologia/UFRN com queixa de insatisfação da sua prótese removível e harmonia do sorriso. Ao exame clínico e radiográfico, observou-se ausência do elemento 12, apresentando um espaço interoclusal de 5mm e distância médio-distal de 7mm. Foi confeccionado o guia em resina acrílica, o qual foi preenchido o espaço desdentado com um dente de estoque. Em seguida, o dente deste guia teve seu centro perfurado com uma broca esférica para peça reta na região de cíngulo e com isso, preenchida com guta percha em bastão. Após isso, o paciente foi encaminhado para realizar uma tomografia computadorizada cone beam com o guia multifuncional em posição.As imagens obtidas permitiram o planejamento para instalação do implante, como inclinação e posicionamento favorável, bem como ausência de disponibilidade óssea na região. Além disso, o guia funcionou em outras etapas do tratamento da paciente, como na fase provisória.Conclusão:Os guias auxiliam em diversas fases do tratamento e permitem maior previsibilidade dos resultados em reabilitações protéticas unitárias implantossuportadas, apresentando-se como um dispositivo promissorpara ocorreto posicionamento do implante (AU).

Introduction:In search of esthetics and improved masticatory function, the demand for implant-supported rehabilitation is increasing. Multifunctional guides emerge to assess bone availability and help plan the three-dimensional installation of implants, following the principles of reverse planning. Objective:To describe, through a clinical case, the possibility of obtaining excellent predictability in implant-supported single crowns, through the use of multifunctional guides, inthe planning of a treatment from beginning to end. Case report:Patient A.M.F, 44 years old, female, came to the Prosthodontics clinic at the Department of Dentistry/UFRN complaining of dissatisfaction with her removable prosthesis and the harmony of her smile. Clinical and radiographic examination revealed the absence of element 12, with an interocclusal space of 5mm and a mid-distal distance of 7mm. The acrylic resin guide was made and the edentulous space was filled with a stock tooth. The center of theguide tooth was then drilled with a spherical straight-bit burr in the cingulum region and filled with gutta-percha stick. The patient was then referred for a cone beam computed tomography with the multifunctional guide in position. The images obtained allowed planning for implant installation, such as favorable inclination and positioning, as well as the absence of bone availability in the region. In addition, the guide was effective during other stages of the patient's treatment, such as the provisional phase.Conclusion:The guides assist in various phases of treatment and allow greater predictability of results in implant-supported single prosthetic rehabilitations, presenting themselves as a promising device for correct implant positioning (AU).

Introducción:En busca de estética y función masticatoria, la demanda de rehabilitaciones implantosoportadas es cada vez mayor. La guía multifuncional hasurgido para orientar la disponibilidad ósea y ayudar a planificar la instalación tridimensional de implantes, siguiendo los principios de la planificación inversa. Objetivo: Describir, a través de un caso clínico, la posibilidad de obtener una excelente predictibilidad en coronas unitarias implantosoportadas, mediante el uso de guías multifuncionales, en la planificación desde el início hasta el final del tratamiento. Informe de caso: Paciente A.M.F, 44 años, sexo femenino, compareció a la clínica de Prostodoncia del Departamento de Odontología/UFRN quejándose estar insatisfecha con su prótesis removible y con la armonía de su sonrisa. El examen clínico y radiográfico reveló la ausencia del elemento 12, con un espacio interoclusal de 5 mm y una distancia medio-distal de 7 mm. Se confeccionó una guía de resina acrílica y se rellenó el espacio edéntulo con un diente provisorio. A continuación, se perforó el centro del diente guía con una broca recta esférica en la región del cíngulo y se le rellenó con gutapercha en barra. Posteriormente, el paciente fue remitido a una tomografía computarizada cone beamcon la guía multifuncional en posición. Las imágenes obtenidas permitieron planificar la instalación del implante, como inclinación y posicionamiento favorables, así como la ausencia de disponibilidad ósea en la región. La guía también funcionó en otras fases del tratamiento del paciente, como en la fase provisional. Conclusión:Las guías ayudan en varias fases del tratamiento y permiten una mayor previsibilidadde los resultados en rehabilitaciones protésicas unitarias implantosoportadas, presentándose como un dispositivo prometedor para el correcto posicionamiento de los implantes (AU).

Cacería para autoconsumo durante la pandemia de COVID-19: el caso de las comunidades Matsigenkas del Parque Nacional del Manu

En este trabajo, se hipotetiza el periodo de aislamiento, la inmovilización y la migración inversa que sucedidos durante la pandemia del COVID-19 (años 2020 y 2021) incrementaron la capacidad de caza de las comunidades Matsigenkas asentadas en el Parque Nacional del Manu (PN Manu). Para esto, evaluamos los cambios en los patrones del volumen de extracción de la caza a través de un monitoreo participativo utilizando el modelo de monitoreo de la intensidad de cacería. Se evidenció que hubo un incremento de la capacidad de caza de las comunidades nativas. Los volúmenes más altos de extracción y el mayor incremento del número de cazadores, esfuerzo y área de cacería se dieron en el periodo 2020 - 2021, cuando las medidas de aislamiento e inmovilización fueron establecidas. Sin embargo, hubo una disminución de los indicadores para la temporada 2021 - 2022, año en que se flexibilizaron las medidas de aislamiento y se dio la reactivación económica, permitiendo que las personas retornaran a sus actividades económicas y educativas fuera del PN Manu. Se debe considerar que los efectos de solo un año de pandemia sobre los medios de subsistencia de las comunidades pudieron afectar la abundancia de la fauna silvestre, donde el mono maquisapa y mono choro (especies vulnerables) tuvieron altos incrementos de extracción. Por otro lado, nuestros resultados indicarían que el buen estado de conservación del PN Manu permitió la provisión de alimentos a las comunidades durante la pandemia. Se recomienda la planificación de programas que mitiguen los efectos negativos de pandemias o eventos semejantes, además se señala la importancia de medir el grado de resiliencia de las principales especies de caza, ya que el incremento de caza también podría tener efectos sobre la seguridad alimentaria de estas comunidades.

In this work, we hypothesize that the period of isolation, immobilization, and reverse migration that occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic (years 2020 and 2021) increased the hunting capacity of the Matsigenka communities settled in Manu National Park (PN Manu). To evaluate this, we assessed changes in hunting volume patterns through participatory monitoring using the hunting intensity monitoring model. It was evident that there was an increase in the hunting capacity of Matsigenka communities. The highest extraction volumes and the greatest increase in the number of hunters, hunting effort, and hunting area occurred in the 2020-2021 period, the year in which isolation and immobilization measures were established. However, there was a decrease in the indicators for the 2021-2022 period, the year in which isolation measures were relaxed and economic reactivation occurred, allowing people to return to their economic and educational activities outside PN Manu. It should be considered that the effects of only one year of the pandemic on the livelihoods of the communities could have affected the abundance of wildlife, with vulnerable species such as maquisapa monkeys and choro monkeys experiencing high extraction rates. On the other hand, our results indicate that the good conservation status of PN Manu provided food provisions for the communities during the pandemic. Planning programs to mitigate the negative effects of pandemics or similar events is recommended, and the importance of measuring the resilience of key hunting species is emphasized, as increased hunting could also have effects on the food security of these communities.

Remodelado eléctrico reverso en pacientes tratados con terapia de resincronización cardíaca / Reverse electrical remodeling in patients under cardiac resynchronization therapy

RESUMEN Introducción : La terapia de resincronización cardíaca (TRC) se indica en pacientes que habitualmente presentan remodelado cardíaco generado por dilatación y disincronía contráctil. La TRC contribuye al remodelado reverso, relacionado con menor mortalidad y hospitalizaciones por insuficiencia cardíaca (IC). Se han observado además mejoras en la conducción intraventricular, con reducción del tiempo de activación. La cuantificación del remodelado eléctrico reverso se ha subutilizado como parámetro de respuesta, con escasos reportes sobre su asociación con la respuesta clínica-estructural. Objetivo : Analizar el remodelado eléctrico reverso intraventricular como parámetro de respuesta a la TRC. Métodos: Se incluyeron pacientes con más de 6 meses de implante. Se obtuvo un ECG con estimulación desactivada (QRS intrínseco, QRSi, post TRC), y por ecocardiograma transtorácico se definió la fracción de eyección ventricular izquierda (FEVI), el diámetro de fin de diástole del ventrículo izquierdo (DFDVI) y la presencia de insuficiencia mitral. Se clasificó a los pacientes según la respuesta clínica-estructural. El remodelado eléctrico se caracterizó con la comparación de la duración del QRS pre y post TRC y la valoración de los cambios del QRS (ΔQRSi) entre grupos. Resultados : Se incluyeron 23 pacientes. Un 39% presentó disminución >10 mseg del QRSi. Observamos un QRSi de -9,3 ± 20,7 mseg en respondedores, y 11,25 ± 18,9 mseg en no respondedores (p = 0,027), más acentuada en los hiper respondedores (ΔQRSi: -14,44 ± 17,40 mseg, p = 0,026). Las mujeres con QRS ≥150 mseg pre TRC exhibieron disminución significativa del QRSi (p = 0,0195). Conclusiones : El remodelado eléctrico reverso se comprobó en 39% de los pacientes que recibieron TRC. Observamos una relación significativa del QRSi con la respuesta clínica-estructural, mayor en hiper respondedores. Mujeres con QRS ancho pre-TRC exhiben remodelado eléctrico reverso más acentuado. Este es un parámetro de fácil acceso e interpretación durante los controles ambulatorios.

ABSTRACT Introduction : Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) is indicated in patients who often present cardiac remodeling due to dilatation and contractile dyssynchrony. CRT contributes to reverse remodeling which is associated with reduced mortality and heart failure (HF) hospitalizations. Improvements in intraventricular conduction with decreased ventricular activation time have also been observed. The quantification of reverse electrical remodeling has been underused as a parameter of response, and there are few reports on its association with the clinical-structural response. Objective : To analyze intraventricular reverse electrical remodeling as a parameter of response to CRT in living individuals. Methods : We included patients implanted at least 6 months ago. A deactivated stimulation ECG (post-CRT intrinsic QRS) was obtained, and by means of transthoracic echocardiography (TTE), the left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), the left ventricular end-diastolic diameter (LVEDD) and the presence of mitral regurgitation were defined. Patients were classified according to their clinical-structural response. Electrical remodeling was characterized by comparing pre- and post-CRT QRS duration and assessing QRS changes (ΔiQRS) between groups. Results : A total of 23 patients were included, 39% of which showed a >10 ms decrease in iQRS. We observed a iQRS of -9.3±20.7 ms in responders, and of 11.25±18.9 ms in non-responders (p=0.027), more marked in hyper-responders (ΔiQRS: -14.44±17.40 ms, p=0.026). Women with pre-CRT QRS ≥150 ms showed a significant decrease in iQRS (p=0.0195). Conclusion : Reverse electrical remodeling was found in 39% of the patients under CRT. We noted a significant relationship between iQRS and clinical-structural response, higher in hyper-responders. Women with wider pre-CRT QRS showed more marked reverse electrical remodeling. This parameter is accessible and easy to read in outpatient visits.

Factores de riesgo tradicionales de enfermedad cardiovascular y su valor predictivo en el adulto mayor

Introducción: En la vejez, el valor predictivo de los factores de riesgo tradicionales es inconsistente. Con el aumento de la edad, las asociaciones entre los factores de riesgo tradicionales y las enfermedades cardiovasculares cambian. Objetivo: Recopilar información sobre los factores de riesgo tradicionales de enfermedad cardiovascular y su valor predictivo en el adulto mayor. Métodos: En el policlínico "Ramón López Peña" de Santiago de Cuba, en el período comprendido entre enero y mayo de 2022, se realizó una revisión sobre el tema. La búsqueda se realizó a partir de las bases de datos Pubmed, Infomed y SciELO, sin restricción de fechas, en los idiomas español e inglés. Resultados: Los hallazgos más recientes sugieren que los factores de riesgo tradicionales para la enfermedad cardiovascular podrían ser predictores más débiles del riesgo futuro en los ancianos, mientras que la fuerza de otros factores aumenta con la edad. Las personas mayores constituyen un subgrupo especial en el que otros factores como la polifarmacia, la hipotensión ortostática, la depresión y la condición física han demostrado ser determinantes potencialmente importantes de su riesgo cardiovascular. Conclusiones: El valor predictivo de la presión arterial, el colesterol y la obesidad en los ancianos disminuye o incluso se invierte, mientras que otros como la polifarmacia, la fragilidad y el deterioro cognitivo parecen ser prometedores.

Introduction: In old age, the predictive value of common risk factors is inconsistent. With increasing age, the associations between common risk factors and cardiovascular disease change. Objective: To collect information on the common risk factors for cardiovascular disease and their predictive value in the elderly. Methods: A review on this subject was carried out at Ramón López Peña community clinic in Santiago de Cuba, from January to May 2022. The search was carried out from Pubmed, Infomed and SciELO databases, with no date restrictions, in Spanish and English. Results: The most recent findings suggest that common risk factors for cardiovascular disease might be weaker predictors of future risk in the elderly, while the strength of other factors increases with age. Older people constitute a special subgroup in which other factors such as polypharmacy, orthostatic hypotension, depression, and physical condition have been shown to be potentially important determinants of their cardiovascular risk. Conclusions: The predictive value of blood pressure, cholesterol and obesity in the elderly decreases or even reverses, while others such as polypharmacy, frailty and cognitive impairment appear to be promising.

Knowledge regarding reverse osmosis (R.O) waste water utilization among general public in urban areas

Introduction: Reverse osmosis (RO) is a water purification process that uses a partial permeable membrane to remove ions, unwanted molecules and larger particles from drinking water. In reverse osmosis, an applied pressure is used to overcome osmotic pressure, a colligative property that is driven by chemical potential differences of the solvent, a thermodynamic parameter. In the process of reverse osmosis the amount of water that is drained is a concern area for the people using the R.O. filtration device in their household because it wasted about 70% of the water to purify just one liter of water. This R.O. waste water can be utilized for various purposes such as washing vehicle like car bike etc, cleaning toilet this study is aimed to assess the knowledge reverse osmosis waste water utilization among general public at Indore. Objectives: 1. To assess the pretest knowledge regarding reverse osmosis (R.O) waste water utilization among general public. 2. To assess the posttest knowledge regarding reverse osmosis waste water utilization among general public. 3. To evaluate the effectiveness of structured teaching program on reverse osmosis (R.O) waste water utilization among general public. Hypothesis: H1- there will be significant difference between pretest and posttest knowledge who received structured teaching program regarding the utilization of waste R.O water. Materials and Methods: Quantitative, pre-experimental, one group pretest posttest design was adopted for the study. Total of 60 general public selected by using simple randomized sampling technique was used. Description of Tools: Structured knowledge questionnaire. Result: Data was analyzes using descriptive and inferential statistics. Major Finding: In the pre-test majority of the sample (44 out of 60, 73.3%) had inadequate knowledge and in the post-test, majority (54 out of 60, 90%) had adequate knowledge regarding reverse osmosis. A paired‘t’ test was done and it showed a‘t’ value of 22.34 at 0.05 level of significance, this indicates the effectiveness of structured teaching programme in enhancing the knowledge of the general public. There was no association found between the mean pre-test knowledge of the general public. There was no association found between the mean pre-test knowledge scorer with the selected socio-demographic variable such as age (?2 = 8.643), gender (?2 = 4.455), education qualification (?2 = 4.706), Occupation (?2 = 2.531), number of family member (?2 = 5.653) and previous knowledge about reverse osmosis filter water (?2 =0.393). Conclusion: There is a significant difference between the mean pre-test and post-test knowledge score among general public regarding reverse osmosis waste water utilization.

Perfusão arterial reversa gemelar: revisão da literatura / Twin reverse arterial perfusion: literature review

A perfusão arterial reversa gemelar é uma anormalidade rara que pode ocorrer em gestações gemelares monocoriônicas. Consiste em uma alteração na circulação fetoplacentária, com desvio de sangue de um dos gemelares para o outro, por meio de anastomoses arterioarteriais e venovenosas na superfície placentária e anastomoses arteriovenosas em áreas de circulação placentária compartilhada. O feto bombeador pode desenvolver insuficiência cardíaca devido ao aumento do débito cardíaco, e o feto receptor, perfundido por sangue pobre em oxigênio por meio do fluxo reverso, é severamente malformado, incompatível com a vida extrauterina. Este artigo apresenta o caso de uma gestação gemelar monocoriônica diamniótica, com manejo clínico conservador. O objetivo é relatar um caso de complicação rara de gestações monozigóticas e revisar condutas para diagnóstico e manejo adequado.(AU)

Twin reverse arterial perfusion is a rare abnormality that can occur in monochorionic twin pregnancies. It consists of an alteration in the fetal-placental circulation, with blood diversion from one of the twins to the other, through arterio-arterial and veno- venous anastomosis on the placental surface and arterio-venous anastomosis in areas of shared placental circulation. The pumping fetus may develop heart failure due to increased cardiac output, and the recipient fetus, perfused by oxygen-poor blood through reverse flow, is severely malformed, incompatible with extrauterine life. This article presents the case of a monochorionic diamniotic twin pregnancy, with conservative clinical management. The objective is to report a case of rare complication of monozygotic pregnancies and review procedures for diagnosis and adequate management.(AU)

RT-qPCR-based pool testing for the diagnosis of COVID-19

ABSTRACT This study proposes a strategy for large-scale testing among a large number of people for the early diagnosis of COVID-19 to elucidate the epidemiological situation. Pool testing involves the analysis of pooled samples. This study aimed to discuss a reverse transcription technique followed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction using pool testing to detect SARS-CoV-2 in nasopharyngeal swab samples. The study proposes an innovative diagnostic strategy that contributes to resource optimization, cost reduction, and improved agility of feedback from results.

Reverse Potts for the Treatment of Severe Idiopathic Pulmonary Hypertension in Children

ABSTRACT Idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension is a rare and progressive disease with poor prognosis. Many patients progressively worsen even when using combinations of specific drugs for its treatment. Herein, we present our experience in the management of three children with severe pulmonary arterial hypertension refractory to clinical treatment who underwent Potts surgery in addition to clinical treatment.

Associations of SARS-CoV-2 cycle threshold values with age, gender, sample collection setting, and pandemic period

ABSTRACT Cycle threshold (Ct) values in COVID-19 reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) tests estimate the viral load in biological samples. Studies have investigated variables associated with SARS-CoV-2 viral load, aiming to identify factors associated with higher transmissibility. Using the results from tests performed between May/2020-July/2022 obtained from the database of a referent hospital in Sao Paulo, Brazil, we investigated associations between Ct values and patient's age, gender, sample collection setting and pandemic period according to the predominant SARS-CoV-2 variant locally. We also examined variations in Ct values, COVID-19 incidence, mortality, and vaccination coverage over time. The study sample included 42,741 tests. Gender was not significantly associated with Ct values. Age, sample collection setting and the pandemic period were significantly associated with Ct values even after adjustment to the multivariable model. Results showed lower Ct values in older groups, during the Gamma and Delta periods, and in samples collected in emergency units; and higher Ct values in children under 10 years old, home-based tests, during the Omicron period. We found evidence of a linear trend in the association between age and Ct values, with Ct values decreasing as age increases. We found no clear temporal associations between Ct values and local indicators of COVID-19 incidence, mortality, or vaccination between February/2020-November/2022. Our findings suggest that SARS-CoV-2 Ct values, a proxy for viral load and transmissibility, can be influenced by demographic and epidemiological variables.

Descarte de antimicrobianos vencidos e/ou em desuso: estudo de caso / Disposal of expired and/or discontinued antimicrobials - case study / Descarto de antimicrobiales muertos y/o desaparecidos: estudio de casos

A temática do descarte inadequado de medicamentos e sua relevância no desenvolvimento dos mecanismos de resistência aos antibióticos são os menos debatidos na literatura. Portanto, este trabalho tem como objetivo apresentar e discutir os dados obtidos sobre o recebimento de antimicrobianos vencidos e/ou sem uso descartados no ponto de coleta de medicamentos localizado no Departamento de Ciências Farmacêuticas, da Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Campus Recife. Ao todo foram recolhidos 50,03 kg de medicamentos, dos quais 4,12 kg eram de antimicrobianos, sendo a terceira classe farmacológica mais frequente; destes, 93,07% (n=1.948 unidades) estavam vencidos e a forma farmacêutica mais encontrada foram os comprimidos (36,32%). Entre as classes de antibióticos predominaram, em relação ao mecanismo de ação, os que inibem a síntese proteica (29,33%), e pela estrutura química, as quinolonas (17,45%). A realização do descarte adequado desses medicamentos possibilita uma redução dos impactos que esse quantitativo recolhido causaria no meio ambiente. Portanto, deve-se investir em campanhas de conscientização sobre o uso correto dos medicamentos e seguimento da prescrição médica para evitar consumo indiscriminado destes fármacos. Com base o que estabelece o Decreto n° 10.388/2020, o descarte correto de medicamentos precisa ser divulgado, para que os estabelecimentos realizem a logística reversa dessas substâncias.

The issue of inappropriate disposal of medicines and its relevance in development of mechanisms of resistance to antibiotics is the least discussed in the literature. Therefore, this work aims to present and discuss the data obtained on the receipt of expired and/or unused antimicrobials discarded at the medication collection point located in the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Pernambuco, Campus Recife. In all, 50.03 kg of drugs were collected, of which 4.12 kg were antimicrobials, being the third most frequent pharmacological class; of these, 93.07% (n=1,948 units) were expired and the most common pharmaceutical form was pills (36.32%). Among the classes of antibiotics, in terms of mechanism of action, those that inhibit protein synthesis (29.33%) and chemical structure, quinolones (17.45%) predominated. Carrying out the proper disposal of these medicines makes it possible to reduce the impacts that this collected quantity would cause on the environment. Therefore, one should invest in awareness campaigns about the correct use of medicines and follow-up of medical prescriptions to avoid indiscriminate consumption of these drugs. Based on the provisions of Decree No. 10.388/2020, the correct disposal of medicines needs to be disclosed, so that establishments carry out the reverse logistics of these substances.

La cuestión de la eliminación inadecuada de los medicamentos y su relevancia en el desarrollo de mecanismos de resistencia a los antibióticos son los menos discutidos en la literatura. Por lo tanto, este trabajo tiene el objetivo de presentar y discutir los datos obtenidos sobre la recepción de antimicrobianos perdidos y/o no utilizados desechados en el punto de recolección de medicamentos ubicado en el Departamento de Ciencias Farmacéuticas de la Universidad Federal de Pernambuco, Campus Recife. En total, se tomaron 50,03 kg de medicamentos, de los cuales 4,12 kg fueron antimicrobianos, siendo la tercera clase farmacológica más común el 93,07% (n=1.948 unidades) retrasada y la forma farmacéutica más encontrada fueron los comprimidos (36,32%). Entre las clases de antibióticos predominaron, en relación con el mecanismo de acción, las que inhiben la síntesis de proteínas (29,33%), y por la estructura química, las quinolonas (17,45%). La eliminación adecuada de estos medicamentos permite reducir el impacto que esta cantidad recolectada podría causar en el medio ambiente. Por lo tanto, se deberían invertir en campañas de sensibilización sobre el uso correcto de medicamentos y el seguimiento de las recetas médicas para evitar el consumo indiscriminado de estos medicamentos. Sobre la base del Decreto no 10.388/2020, es necesario hacer pública la eliminación correcta de los medicamentos, para que los establecimientos realicen la logística inversa de estas sustancias.

Caracterización epidemiológica, clínica y de laboratorio en pacientes positivos persistentes a COVID-19

Introducción: La COVID-19 es una preocupación mundial, requiere enfoque integral para reducir la transmisión, comenzando por la detección de casos, atención hospitalaria y seguimiento posterior. Objetivo: Caracterizar a pacientes positivos persistentes a COVID-19 en cuanto a epidemiología, clínica y datos de laboratorio. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo transversal en 16 pacientes positivos persistentes a SARS-CoV-2 diagnosticados por RCP-TR en hisopado nasofaríngeo, en el Hospital Comandante Manuel Fajardo Rivero de Santa Clara en el período de septiembre 2020 a noviembre 2020. Resultados: Predominó el sexo femenino en un 75 %, el grupo de edad más representativo fue de 40-59 años de edad (68,75 %), el 37,50 % de los casos fueron asintomáticos y el síntoma más frecuente fue la fiebre menor de siete días 31,25 %. Existió linfopenia en el hemograma inicial con media en 27,49, índice neutrófilo leucocitario por encima de tres en cuatro pacientes con una media inicial 3,42. Estadía hospitalaria de 20,75 días de promedio. La mitad no tenía historia de enfermedad conocida, la comorbilidad más frecuente fue la hipertensión arterial 43,75 %. El índice neutrófilo leucocitario por encima de tres en pacientes con comorbilidades, evolutivo para todos menor de tres. Conclusiones: Predominó el sexo femenino, el grupo de edad más representativo fue de 40-59 años, es frecuente que se presenten asintomáticos y la fiebre fue el síntoma más usual. Existió linfopenia en el hemograma inicial. La mitad de los contagiados sin comorbilidades. El índice neutrófilo leucocitario evolutivo fue menor de tres para todos los pacientes.

Introduction: COVID-19 is a global concern, it requires a comprehensive approach to reduce transmission, starting with case detection, hospital care and subsequent follow-up. Objective: To characterize persistent COVID-19 positive patients in terms of epidemiology, clinical and laboratory data. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out in 16 persistent SARS-CoV-2 positive patients diagnosed by RT-CPR in nasopharyngeal swab, at Comandante Manuel Fajardo Rivero Hospital of Santa Clara in the period from September 2020 to November 2020. Results: The female sex predominated in 75%, the most representative age group was 40-59 years of age (68.75%), 37.50% of the cases were asymptomatic and the most frequent symptom was fever less than seven days 31.25%. There was lymphopenia in the initial hemogram with an average of 27.49, and a leukocyte neutrophil index above three in 4 patients with an initial average of 3.42. Hospital stay of 20.75 days on average. Half had no history of known disease, the most frequent comorbidity was arterial hypertension 43.75 %. The neutrophil leukocyte index above 3 in patients with comorbidities, evolutionary for all pariente was less than 3. Conclusions: The female sex predominates, the most representative age group is 40-59 years, it is frequent that they present asymptomatic and fever is the most usual symptom. There is lymphopenia on the initial blood count. Half of those infected without comorbidities. The evolutionary leukocyte neutrophil index was less than 3 for all patients.

Health education can save the environment from medicine residues

Abstract The incorrect disposal of medicines and their environmental impact has been related to the health medicalization and the improper use of medication by society. In this sense, it is very important to know the profile of drug disposal for foster health policies. The aim was to identify the profile of disposal of medicines by the population, including the cost perspective. This is an inquiry descriptive study that began in September 2019. Medicine disposal health education program was carried out over six months in two University pharmacies. A questionnaire for sociodemographic and discarded medicines data collection was applied. Logistic regression analysis for variables association of correct disposal and the chi-square and t-student analysis for comparison between disposal programs were performed for a level of 5% and test power of 80%. Medicines weighed 23.3 kg and 28.5 kg, with the cost variation from US$ 13.5 to US$ 16.1 until the final treatment. The correct disposal was strongly associated with the disposal reason (p=0.013), source of information (p=0.006), prescription (p=0.03), form of use (p=0.01), acquisition source (p=0.001), cost with medication (p=0.0001), education (p=0.028) and age (p=0.05). The correct medicine disposal was associated with important features of the community related to education health.

Argon plasma application on the surface of titanium implants: osseointegration study / Aplicação de plasma de argônio na superfície de implantes de titânio: estudo de osseointegração

Introduction: The development of new biomaterials with improved properties is a trend in regenerative medicine. The successful healing of implants is related to their osseointegration and the topographic geometry of their surface. Treatment with argon plasma acts on the surface of the implants, bringing several benefits to their osseointegration in the body. Material and Methods: Previously the in vivo study, the topography implants were observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Following the implants were inserted in 14 male rats, and one perforation was made in the right and left tibias for implant placement without the surface treatment (control group), and with the argon plasma surface treatment (experimental group), respectively. The rats were euthanized at 4 weeks, a time in which tibia fragments were submitted for histological and histomorphometric examination, and torque removal test for comparison and analysis of osseointegration. Results: The SEM images showed the argon plasma surface treatment altered the topography. At the end of the study, both greater bone formation and better osseointegration were verified in the experimental group, and a statistically significant difference between the groups was observed. Conclusion: It was concluded that implants with this surface treatment can bring more practicality in the rehabilitation treatment, and more comfort in the patients' postoperative time (AU)

Introdução: O desenvolvimento de novos biomateriais com propriedades aprimoradas é uma tendência na medicina regenerativa. A cicatrização bem-sucedida dos implantes está relacionada à sua osseointegração e à geometria topográfica de sua superfície. O tratamento com plasma de argônio atua na superfície dos implantes, trazendo diversos benefícios para sua osseointegração no corpo. Materiais e Métodos: Antes do estudo in vivo, a topografia dos implantes foi observada por microscopia eletrônica de varredura (MEV). Em seguida, os implantes foram inseridos em 14 ratos machos, e uma perfuração foi feita nas tíbias direita e esquerda para a colocação do implante sem o tratamento de superfície (grupo controle) e com o tratamento de superfície de plasma de argônio (grupo experimental), respectivamente. Os ratos foram sacrificados após 4 semanas, momento em que fragmentos das tíbias foram submetidos a exame histológico e histomorfométrico, além do teste de remoção de torque para comparação e análise da osseointegração. Resultados: As imagens de MEV mostraram que o tratamento de superfície com plasma de argônio alterou a topografia. Ao final do estudo, foi verificada maior formação óssea e melhor osseointegração no grupo experimental, e foi observada diferença estatisticamente significativa entre os grupos. Conclusão: Concluiu-se que os implantes com esse tratamento de superfície podem trazer mais praticidade no tratamento de reabilitação e maior conforto no pós-operatório dos pacientes (AU)

Tumor markers expression levels in gastric cancer patient's peripheral blood by rt-pcr assessment / Avaliação por rt-pcr de expressão de marcadores tumorais em sangue periférico de pacientes com câncer gástrico

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Hematological recurrence is the second most frequent cause of failure in the treatment of gastric cancer. The detection of circulating tumor markers in peripheral blood by quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) method may be a useful tool to predict recurrence and determine the patient's prognosis. However, no consensus has been reached regarding the association between the tumor markers level in peripheral blood and its impact on patient survival. AIMS: To evaluate the expression of the circulating tumor markers CK20 and MUC1 in peripheral blood samples from patients with gastric cancer by qRT-PCR, and to verify the association of their expression levels with clinicopathological characteristics and survival. METHODS: A total of 31 patients with gastric adenocarcinoma were prospectively included in this study. CK20 and MUC1 expression levels were analyzed from peripheral blood by the qRT-PCR technique. RESULTS: There was no statistically significant (p>0.05) association between CK20 expression levels and clinical, pathological, and surgical features. Higher MUC1 expression levels were associated with female patients (p=0.01). There was a correlation between both gene levels (R=0.81, p<0.001), and CK20 level and tumor size (R=0.39, p=0.034). CONCLUSIONS: CK20 and MUC1 expression levels could be assessed by qRT-PCR from total peripheral blood samples of patients with gastric cancer. CK20 levels were correlated to MUC1 levels as well as to tumor size. There was no difference in disease-free survival and overall survival regarding both genetic markers expression in this series.

RESUMO RACIONAL: A recorrência hematológica é a segunda causa mais frequente de falha no tratamento do câncer gástrico. A detecção de marcadores tumorais circulantes no sangue periférico, pelo método de reação em cadeia da polimerase de transcrição reversa quantitativa (qRT-PCR) pode ser uma ferramenta útil para prever a recorrência e determinar o prognóstico do paciente. No entanto, ainda não foi alcançado consenso em relação à associação entre o nível de marcadores tumorais circulantes no sangue periférico e seu impacto na sobrevida do paciente. OBJETIVOS: Avaliar a expressão de CK20 e MUC1 em amostras de sangue periférico de pacientes com câncer gástrico por meio de qRT-PCR e verificar a associação dos níveis de expressão com características clinicopatológicas e sobrevida. MÉTODOS: Trinta e um pacientes com adenocarcinoma gástrico foram incluídos, prospectivamente. Os níveis de expressão de CK20 e MUC1 foram analisados a partir de sangue periférico por meio de qRT-PCR. RESULTADOS: Não houve associação estatisticamente significativa (p>0,05) entre os níveis de expressão de CK20 com características clínicas, patológicas e cirúrgicas. Níveis mais elevados de expressão de MUC1 estavam associados a pacientes do sexo feminino (p=0,01). Houve correlação entre os níveis de ambos os genes (R=0,81, p<0,001), nível de CK20 e tamanho do tumor (R=0,39, p=0,034). CONCLUSÕES: Os níveis de CK20 e MUC1 podem ser avaliados por qRT-PCR a partir de amostras de sangue periférico total de pacientes com câncer gástrico, os níveis de CK20 estavam correlacionados com os de MUC1, assim como tamanho do tumor. Não houve diferença de sobrevida global ou livre de doença em relação à expressão de ambos marcadores genéticos nesta série.

Two cases of bilateral reverse shoulder arthroplasty performed in patients with rheumatoid arthritis / Journal of Rural Medicine

Bilateral shoulder joint disorders caused by rheumatoid arthritis significantly impair daily functioning owing to a lack of contralateral compensation. In Japan, reverse shoulder joint prostheses were approved in 2014. This was expected to improve the surgical outcomes of rheumatoid shoulder arthroplasty. We report two patients with rheumatoid arthritis who underwent bilateral reverse shoulder arthroplasty. This study aims to evaluate their postoperative clinical outcomes and activities of daily living. The patients were women in their 70s with stage III class 2 rheumatoid arthritis. Their treatment and postoperative activities of daily living were retrospectively reviewed. The first patient underwent the inlay type and experienced a residual limitation of external rotation postoperatively; therefore, she was restricted to dress with front-open clothes. However, she was able to undress after the lining of the garment was changed to a slippery material. The second patient underwent the onlay type and showed almost no limitations in postoperative activities of daily living. She was able to undress with an external rotation of 40–50°. Bilateral reverse shoulder arthroplasty improved range of motion, the Japanese Orthopaedic Association shoulder score, and functional outcomes. Only a few difficulties were encountered in the activities of daily living.

Study on the influencing factors and mechanism of cholesterol polyps and cholesterol calculus in gallbladder / 中华肝胆外科杂志

Objective:To explore the pathogenesis of gallbladder cholesteryl polyps (GCP) and gallbladder cholesterol calculus (GCC) by studying the different changes of mucin (MUC) expression and reverse cholesterol transporter (RCT) in gallbladder mucosa epithelium.Methods:The data of 10 GCP patients (GCP group), 10 GCC patients (GCC group) and 5 patients with normal gallbladder resection (control group) were retrospectively analyzed, who underwent cholecystectomy in the Department of General Surgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University from January to December 2021. Among the 10 patients in the GCP group, there were 5 males and 5 females, aged (43.40±9.59) years old. Among the 10 patients in the GCC group, 5 males and 5 female, aged (45.00±8.13) years old. Among the 5 patients in the control group, there were 3 males and 2 females, aged (43.80±6.01) years old. Immunohistochemical analysis was used to investigate the expression differences of various subtypes of MUC and RCT [ATP binding cassette transporter G1 (ABCG1) and B group type I scavenger receptor (SR-BI)] among each group.Results:Compared with the control group, the expression of MUC1 (3.40±0.70 vs. 0), MUC5AC (1.50±0.53 vs. 0), MUC6 (4.70±0.48 vs. 0), and ABCG1 (3.50±0.53 vs. 1.60±0.55) in the gallbladder mucosa of the GCP group increased, while the expression score of SR-BI decreased (1.70±0.48 vs. 3.40±0.55), with statistical significance (all P<0.001). Compared with the control group, the expression of MUC1 (4.80±0.42 vs. 0), MUC5AC (4.70±0.48 vs. 0), MUC6 (3.30±0.67 vs. 0), and ABCG1 (3.40±0.52 vs. 1.60±0.55) in the gallbladder mucosa of the GCC group increased, while the expression score of SR-BI decreased (0 vs. 3.40±0.55), with statistically significant differences (all P<0.001). Conclusion:The different expression levels of MUC1, MUC5AC, MUC6, and RCT proteins lead to the differential formation of GCP and GCC on the basis of the co-pathogenesis in high cholesterol in bile.

Research into the fixation stability of the glenoid baseplate in reverse shoulder arthroplasty / 中华创伤骨科杂志

Reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) was proposed to deal with rotator cuff tear arthropathy in the 1970s and improved from 1985 to 1995 by Dr. Grammont who designed the contemporary type of reverse shoulder prosthesis successfully. The number of RSAs has grown rapidly over the past decade. Currently, the indications for RSA include, in addition to rotator cuff tear arthropathy, massive rotator cuff tears which can not be repaired, proximal humerus fractures or their sequelae, inflammatory shoulder disease, osteoarthritis with abnormal glenoid morphology, anatomic revision after failed total shoulder arthroplasty or hemiarthroplasty, and shoulder tumors. Absolute contraindications to RSA include infection, complete axillary nerve palsy, neuropathic shoulder arthropathy, and glenoid bone loss. At present, the stability of the glenoid baseplate, an important factor affecting the incidence of postoperative complications, is mainly achieved by implantation of the screws for the glenoid baseplate base. Therefore, correct implantation of the screws is of great significance to reduce the complications in RSA.

Treatment of tibial plateau fractures using modified double reverse traction technique / 中华创伤骨科杂志

Objective:To study the clinical efficacy of our modified double reverse traction technique in the treatment of tibial plateau fractures.Methods:A retrospective study was conducted of the 66 patients with tibial plateau fracture who had been treated by our modified double reverse traction technique at Articular Department, Zhongshan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine from March 2019 to December 2021. There were 37 males and 29 females, with an age of (44±14) years. The double reverse traction technique was used in all patients for reduction of the tibial plateau fracture, and their collapsed articular surfaces were restored by our self-designed universal high affinity prying technique, or by fibular graft support, or by the hooping technique to restore the transverse diameter of the tibial plateau which had been widened. The outcomes of fracture reduction at 2 days postoperation were recorded and evaluated by Rasmussen imaging assessment. Complications were also recorded. The visual analog scale (VAS) pain scores and Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) scores were compared between preoperation, 3 and 6 months postoperation and the rates of fracture healing between 3 and 6 months postoperation.Results:This group of 66 patients was followed up for 12.0(8.0, 16.5) months. The Rasmussen imaging assessment at 2 days postoperation: 60 excellent, 4 good, and 2 fair cases, yielding an excellent to good rate of 97.0% (64/66). At 3 and 6 months postoperation, the VAS scores [1 (0, 1) and 0 (0, 1)] and HSS scores [84 (78, 88) and 91 (85, 95)] were significantly improved compared with those before operation [4 (3, 5) and 36 (29, 39)], and the values at 6 months postoperation were significantly improved compared with those at 3 months postoperation ( P<0.05). The rate of clinical fracture healing at 6 months postoperation (100%, 66/66) was significantly higher than that at 3 months postoperation (77.3%, 51/66) ( P<0.05). Perioperatively, no adverse events were observed like incision infection, deep vein thrombosis of lower limbs, or failure or exposure of internal fixation, except for delayed incision healing in only one patient. Conclusion:In the minimally invasive surgery for tibial plateau fractures, our modified double reverse traction technique can result in excellent fracture reduction by imaging assessment, fine functional recovery of the knee joint and relief of pain.

Diagnosis and treatment of posterior shoulder dislocation combined with reverse Hill-Sachs lesion / 中华创伤骨科杂志

Objective:To explore the diagnosis and treatment of posterior shoulder dislocation combined with reverse Hill-Sachs lesion.Methods:Two male patients were treated at Department of Joint Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University for posterior shoulder dislocation combined with reverse Hill-Sachs lesion from August to November 2022. Case 1 was a 46-year-old man, admitted 1 day after right should injury, and case 2 a 57-year-old man, admitted 2 days after right should injury. The injury was caused by electric shock in both, and their fractures were fresh with an injury area>50%. After anatomical reduction of the collapsed humeral head via the pectoralis major deltoid approach, an artificial bone was implanted and fixated with countersunk screws in both cases to reduce the shoulder joint. The Constant-Murley scale and visual analogue scale (VAS) were used to evaluate the functional recovery of the shoulder and pain after treatment.Results:No such perioperative complications as incision infection, brachial plexus injury or vascular injury was observed in either of the 2 patients. Reexamination 3 months after surgery showed in case 1: 110° of shoulder anterior flexion, 90° of shoulder abduction, 30° of external rotation (neutral position), 70° of internal rotation (neutral position), 70 points of Constant-Murley shoulder score, and 3 points of VAS pain score; in case 2: 130° of shoulder anterior flexion, 120° of shoulder abduction, 50° of external rotation (neutral position), 80° of internal rotation (neutral position), 70 points of Constant-Murley shoulder score, and 2 points of VAS pain score.Conclusion:For patients with posterior shoulder dislocation complicated with reverse Hill-Sachs lesion and humeral head collapse greater than 50%, open reduction and screw internal fixation combined with artificial bone grafting can achieve good short-term curative efficacy.