Características de recién nacidos hijos de madre con IgM positiva para el Virus Herpes Simplex

Introducción: El herpes connatal es una entidad infrecuente asociada a elevada morbimortalidad. La probabilidad de transmisión al recién nacido va de 5% al 85%. El diagnóstico se dificulta por falta de clínica, serología no confiable y por la no disponibilidad de PCR en los servicios públicos de países en vías de desarrollo. La IgM en gestantes podría ser utilizada como un marcador de sospecha para evaluar al neonato. Objetivo: Caracterizar a los recién nacidos, hijos de gestantes con IgM positiva para HVS 1-2 y la frecuencia de encefalitis en los infantes. Materiales y métodos : Estudio observacional, descriptivo, prospectivo, realizado de mayo de 2020 a octubre de 2021. Se incluyeron recién nacidos (RN) de madres con IgM positiva para Herpes Virus Simplex (HVS) a partir de la segunda mitad del embarazo. En el RN se realizó serología IgG e IgM, y además, PCR- RT para HVS 1-2 en sangre y/o LCR, excluyéndose los nacidos en otras maternidades y/o sin datos de serología materna. Resultados: 36 pacientes. Edad materna 28 años (DS + 4), 5% con antecedentes de HVS, 61% cesárea. 36% prematuros, 13% RCIU. Síntomas agudos en el RN 22%. De ellos, 19% plaquetopenia, 44% alteración de GOT. 63% PCR HVS en sangre y 44% en LCR. Se encontró hemorragia, hidrocefalia, leucomalacia en 27%. No se encontró diferencias en la expresión clínica por tipo de parto. Conclusiones: Los RN hijos de gestantes con IgM positiva para VHS desde la segunda mitad del embarazo o periparto, presentaron infección por VHS determinada por PCR en sangre o LCR, independiente de la vía del parto. El diagnóstico serológico en embarazadas permite la pesquisa, diagnóstico y tratamiento temprano del RN.

Introduction: neonatal herpes is a rare entity associated with high morbidity and mortality. The probability of transmission to the newborn ranges from 5% to 85%. The diagnosis is difficult due to the lack of clinical signs, unreliable serology and the non-availability of PCR in public services in developing countries. IgM in pregnant women could be used as a suspected marker to evaluate the neonate. Objective: To characterize newborn children of pregnant women with positive IgM for HSV 1-2 and the prevalence of encephalitis in infants. Materials and methods: Observational, descriptive, prospective study, carried out from May 2020 to October 2021. Newborns (NB) of mothers with positive IgM for Herpes Virus Simplex (HSV) from the second half of pregnancy were included. In newborns, IgG and IgM were performed, and in addition, PCR-RT for HSV 1-2 in blood and/or CSF, excluding those born in other hospitales and/or without maternal serology data. Results: We included 36 patients. Maternal age was 28 years (DS + 4), 5% with a history of HSV. 61% were delivered via cesarean section, 36% were premature, 13% had IUGR. 22% of the newborns had acute symptoms. 19% had thrombocytopenia, 44% had GOT alteration. 63% were PCR positive for HSV in serum and 44% were CSF-positive. Hemorrhage, hydrocephalus and leukomalacia were found in 27%. No differences were found in clinical expression by type of delivery. Conclusions: Newborns born to pregnant women with positive IgM for HSV from the second half of pregnancy or peripartum, presented HSV infection as determined by PCR in blood or CSF, regardless of the route of delivery. Serological diagnosis in pregnant women allows early screening, diagnosis and treatment of the NB.

Progress in subclinical research of kidney xenotransplantation / 器官移植

Xenotransplantation is an efficient pathway to solve the problem of transplant organ source deficiency in clinical settings. With the increasing progress of gene editing technique and immune suppression regimen, important development has been achieved on researches regarding pig to non-human primate kidney xenotransplantation, which provides a good condition for the introduction of the technique in the clinical application. In view of the substantial difference between human and non-human primate, and to meet the needs of current ethic requirements, it is necessary to perform subclinical studies for pig to human kidney xenotransplantation. In recent years, such subclinical studies with regard to the genetically modified pig to brain death recipient kidney xenotransplantation had been performed, indicating that kidney xenotransplantation gradually began to transit to the clinical development stage. However, donor/recipient selection and immune suppression regimen has not reached a consensus yet, and has to be clarified in subclinical studies. In this article, the current status and confronted problems of donor/recipient selection, immune suppression regimen and post transplantation management in the subclinical studies of kidney xenotransplantation were reviewed, aiming to promote the clinical transformation of kidney xenotransplantation to the clinical application.

Regressão espontânea do carcinoma hepatocelular: foco nos fatores de risco associados / Spontaneous regression of hepatocellular carcinoma: focusing in the associated risk factors

ABSTRACT Background: Spontaneous regression (SR) is defined as the partial or complete disappearance of a tumor, in the absence of a specific treatment. Evidence of the SR in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is rare. Objective: The authors aimed to review all the cases of SR of HCC in two reference centers of Southern Brazil, highlighting the main characteristics. Methods: Data of all patients with HCC were retrospectively reviewed looking for the occurrence of SR in patients from two tertiary centers in Southern Brazil, in the last five years. The diagnosis of cirrhosis was established according to clinical, laboratory and imaging data, as well as upper endoscopy or histopathological examination when necessary. The diagnosis of HCC was based on typical findings according to radiologic criteria (LIRADS) or histopathological examination. Spontaneous regression was defined as a partial or complete involution of a HCC in the absence of a specific therapy. Results: From all cases of HCC in the last 5 years (n=433), there were five cases of SR. Three (60%) were men, the mean age was 62.6 (50.0-76.0) years, and the etiology was HCV in 3 (60%). Complete regression was observed in three patients (60%), one patient (20%) presented partial regression, and one (20%) relapesed and died. The time of follow-up varied between 12 and 21 months. In this presentation, it was highlighted one case of SR observed after COVID-19 infection in a patient with cirrhosis. The possible mechanisms involved in this situation were reviewed, emphasizing the most common like hypoxia and immunological. There were also one patient submitted to a surgical procedure as a possible fator involved and three patients without obvious risk factors. Conclusion: This phenomenon will possibly contribute to a better understanding of the pathophysiological mechanisms of HCC.

RESUMO Contexto: A evidência da regressão espontânea (RE) no carcinoma hepatocelular (CHC) é rara. Objetivo: Revisar todos os casos de RE de CHC em dois centros de referência do Sul do Brasil, destacando as principais características. Métodos: Os dados de todos os pacientes com CHC foram revisados retrospectivamente buscando a ocorrência de RE em pacientes de dois centros terciários do Sul do Brasil, nos últimos 5 anos. O diagnóstico de cirrose foi estabelecido de acordo com dados clínicos, laboratoriais e de imagem, além de endoscopia digestiva alta ou exame histopatológico quando necessário. O diagnóstico de CHC foi baseado em achados típicos de acordo com critérios radiológicos (LIRADS) ou exame histopatológico. A RE foi definida como uma involução parcial ou completa de um CHC na ausência de terapia específica. Resultados: Do total de casos de CHC nos últimos 5 anos (n=433), houve cinco casos de RE. Três (60%) eram homens, a média de idade foi de 62,6 (50,0-76,0) anos, a etiologia foi virus da hepatite C em 3 (60%). A regressão completa foi observada em três pacientes (60%), um paciente (20%) apresentou regressão parcial e um (20%) apresentou recidiva e evoluiu a óbito. O tempo de seguimento variou entre 12 e 21 meses. Nesta apresentação foi destacado um caso (20%) de RE observado após infecção por COVID-19 em paciente com cirrose. Foram revisados os possíveis mecanismos envolvidos nesta situação, enfatizando os mais comuns como hipóxia e imunológicos. Houve também um paciente submetido a procedimento cirúrgico como possível fator envolvido e três pacientes sem fatores de risco evidentes. Conclusão: Este fenômeno possivelmente contribuirá para uma melhor compreensão dos mecanismos fisiopatológicos do CHC.

Vacina contra zika: desenvolvimento, agenciamentos e controvérsias sociotécnicas / Zika vaccine: development, assemblages, and sociotechnical controversies

Resumo O ensaio teórico discute as controvérsias sobre o desenvolvimento da vacina contra a zika, evidenciando as negociações que envolvem as escolhas técnico-científicas e os efeitos da definição do "perfil do produto alvo da vacina" (TPP) para uso somente no cenário emergencial. São propostas três perspectivas de análise em diálogo com os Estudos Sociais da Ciência: os fluxos de estabelecimento de normativas pela Organização Mundial da Saúde (OMS), as narrativas publicadas em revistas especializadas e de um grupo de entrevistados. Concluímos que os termos de definição do TPP ajudaram a constituir a política ontológica da OMS, implicando: exposição, responsabilização e culpabilização de mulheres pela prevenção da síndrome congênita da zika; instituição de certas estratégias de vacinação; invisibilização de outros cenários possíveis; maior espaço de aceitação de determinadas plataformas; ampliação das desigualdades globais. Tal política ontológica engendrou uma potente racionalidade emergencial que distinguiu a vacina da necessidade social da vacinação, empurrando a última para a invisibilidade.

Abstract The theoretical essay discusses the controversies about the zika vaccine development, highlighting negotiations which involve technical-scientific choices and the effects of defining the Vaccine Target Product Profile (TPP) for use only in the emergency scenario. Three perspectives of analysis are presented aligned with the Social Studies of Science: the flows of normative establishment provided by the World Health Organization (WHO), the narratives published in specialized journals and the discuss of a group of interviewees. We conclude that the definition terms of TPP supported the establishment of the WHO ontological policy, implying in exposure, accountability and culpability of women for the prevention of Congenital Zika Syndrome; definition of certain vaccination strategies; making other possible scenarios invisible; greater acceptance of certain platforms; widening global inequalities. Such an ontological policy engendered a potent emergency rationality that distinguished the vaccine from the social need for vaccination, pushing the second one towards invisibility.

Síndrome congênita do Zika vírus: o papel da atenção primária e da rede de saúde / Congenital Zika virus syndrome: the role of primary health care and healthcare network

Resumo O artigo objetiva compreender a rede de atenção e os desafios que as crianças com síndrome congênita do Zika vírus (SCZ) e seus cuidadores enfrentam para garantir o cuidado integral. Trata-se de estudo qualitativo, parte de pesquisa desenvolvida no Hospital das Clínicas da Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, que acompanhou 151 crianças com suspeita para SCZ. Foram realizados dois grupos focais, um com trabalhadores de saúde e outro com cuidadores. As crianças com SCZ percorrem longas distâncias, frequentando diversos serviços da rede. Observou-se a dificuldade de condução e de reconhecimento do papel de equipe de referência da APS, resultando em um cuidado fracionado, com obstáculos à comunicação entre serviços e ausência de atenção às cuidadoras. Percebeu-se uma rede fragilizada, com encontros fragmentados e olhar reduzido. É fundamental que os esforços priorizem o fortalecimento do vínculo entre os nós da rede de atenção e apoio. Os atributos essenciais e derivados da APS são determinantes para a rede de serviços e a oferta de cuidados às crianças com a SCZ e seus familiares.

Abstract The article aims to understand the care network and the challenges that children with congenital Zika virus syndrome (CZS) and their caregivers face to ensure comprehensive care. This is a qualitative study, part of research carried out at the Hospital das Clínicas of the Federal University of Pernambuco, which followed 151 children suspected of having CZS. Two focus groups were carried out, one with health workers and the other with caregivers. Children with CZS travel long distances, attending various network services. Difficulty in conducting and recognizing the role of the PHC reference team was observed, resulting in fractional care, with obstacles to communication between services and lack of attention to caregivers. A fragile network was perceived, with fragmented meetings and a reduced look. It is fundamental that the efforts prioritize the strengthening of the bond between the nodes of the care and support network. The essential and derivative attributes of PHC are crucial for the network of services and the provision of care for children with CZS and their families.

Characterization of linguistic development of children affected by congenital Zika virus syndrome as compared to typically developing peers / Caracterização do desenvolvimento infantil e linguístico de crianças acometidas da Síndrome Congênita do Zika Vírus comparadas com crianças de desenvolvimento típico

ABSTRACT Purpose: to describe the development, focusing on language, of children affected by congenital Zika syndrome and compare it with that of typically developing children. Methods: a quantitative, observational, cross-sectional, case-control study. Data from the group of children with congenital Zika virus syndrome (case) were matched for sex and age with data from the group of typically developing children without comorbidities (control). The research included 20 parents/guardians of the children in the case group and 20 parents/guardians of the children in the control group, using interview as an adapted instrument. The data underwent descriptive and inferential statistical analysis, through association tests and comparison of means, with the significance level set at 5%. Results: there was a statistical difference in motor, auditory, and language development between the groups, according to the parents' perception. Conclusion: Based on the caregivers' reports, most of the case group communicated non-verbally through babbling, shouting, and eye contact, whereas the minority communicated through dialogue, understood simple orders, and performed imitative behaviors, symbolic play, and shared attention. On the other hand, the control group communicated through complex sentences constructed into narratives.

RESUMO Objetivo: descrever o desenvolvimento infantil, com enfoque na linguagem, de crianças acometidas da síndrome congênita do Zika e compará-lo com o de crianças com desenvolvimento típico. Métodos: trata-se de um estudo observacional, transversal, do tipo caso-controle, e de natureza quantitativa. Os dados do grupo de crianças com Síndrome Congênita do Zika vírus (caso) foram pareados por sexo e idade com os dados do grupo de crianças sem comorbidades e desenvolvimento típico (controle). Participaram da pesquisa, 20 responsáveis pelas crianças do grupo caso e 20 pelas crianças do grupo controle e o instrumento utilizado foi uma entrevista adaptada. Os dados foram examinados por meio de uma análise estatística descritiva e inferencial por meio de testes de associação e de comparação de médias, com nível de significância de 5%. Resultados: foi observada diferença estatística entre os grupos estudados, referente ao desenvolvimento infantil, no âmbito motor, auditivo e de linguagem, com base na percepção dos pais. Conclusão: diante das informações dos cuidadores, a comunicação da maioria do grupo caso ocorre de forma não verbal por meio de gorjeios, gritos e contato visual; e a minoria comunica-se por diálogo, compreende ordens simples, realiza condutas imitativas, brincar simbólico e tem atenção compartilhada. Diferentemente, o grupo controle comunica-se por meio de frases complexas presentes em narrativas.

Encoding of speech sounds with frequency-following response in infants with Congenital Zika Syndrome: A case-controlled study

ABSTRACT Purpose: to investigate the frequency-following response (FFR) for sustained neural activity. Methods: 39 individuals, aged between 20 to 47 months old were divided into 2 groups: (i) 20 individuals without prenatal exposure to the congenital Zika syndrome (CZS) or hydrocephaly, normal development, no risk factors for hearing loss or syndromic hearing impairment and (ii) 19 individuals diagnosed with CZS and microcephaly - based on imaging studies linked to the clinical presentation of the condition. All participants exhibited normal click-ABR tests. FFR waveforms were documented using the /da/ syllable employing the Navigator Pro. The statistical analysis used was ANOVA (p-value <0.05). Results: no distinctions were observed concerning the variables of group, age, or gender with respect to FFR latency values, except for an interaction between gender and group for latency values associated with waves V and F. Children with CZS and microcephaly showed a difference for latency values in wave V for both males and females, when compared to the control group. Conclusion: children presented with CZS and microcephaly showed higher average latencies for waves V, A, C, D and F (male) compared to the control group, whereas, in waves E, F (female) and O they showed higher values in the control group.

A spatial case-control study on symptomatic and inapparent primary dengue infections in an endemic city in Brazil

ABSTRACT We conducted a spatial case-control study nested in a dengue incidence cohort to explore the role of the spatial and socioeconomic factors in the proportion of symptomatic (cases) and inapparent primary dengue virus infections (controls). Cohort participants were children and adolescents (2 to 16 years of age) at the beginning of the follow-up. Case definitions were, for symptomatic cases, fever plus a positive lab result for acute dengue (NS1, RT-PCR, ELISA IgM/IgG), and for inapparent infection a positive result for dengue IgG (ELISA) in subjects without symptoms and with a previously negative result at baseline. The covariates included sociodemographic factors, residential location, and socioeconomic context variables of the census tracts of residence of cases and controls. We used principal component analysis to reduce the contextual covariates, with the component values assigned to each one based on their residences. The data were modeled in a Bayesian context, considering the spatial dependence. The final sample consisted of 692 children, 274 cases and 418 controls, from the first year of follow-up (2014-2015). Being male, older age, higher educational level of the head of the family and having a larger number of rooms in the household were associated with a greater chance of presenting dengue symptomatic infection at the individual level. The contextual covariates were not associated with the outcome. Inapparent dengue infection has extensive epidemiological consequences. Relying solely on notifications of symptomatic dengue infections underestimates the number of cases, preserves a silent source of the disease, potentially spreading the virus to unaffected areas.

Evaluation of the quality of prenatal care in Colombia during the 2016 Zika outbreak in endemic and non-endemic areas / Evaluación de la calidad del cuidado prenatal en Colombia durante la epidemia de Zika en el 2016 en regiones endémicas y no endémicas

Objetive: To evaluate the quality of prenatal care during the outbreak of Zika virus infection in endemic and non-endemic vector-borne regions in Colombia. Materials and methods: A descriptive study of prenatal care supplemented by interviews to explore personal experiences during the epidemic. A total of 40 pregnant women in endemic areas and 44 in nonendemic areas participated. Information collected included previous pregnancies, reasons for starting prenatal care, information about Zika, prenatal care (activities of doctors, nurses, laboratories, and images), and perceptions of quality. Then, 8 interviews were conducted with pregnant women diagnosed with Zika. Questioned about knowledge of Zika and the quality of medical care services. Results: Problems with laboratories and diagnostic images were found in both regions and dehumanizing treatment in the endemic region. Women from the endemic region received news and communications about the effects of Zika during pregnancy, causing anxiety and fear among some women. The quality of health care was not what the women expected and they thought they would receive more care from doctors and nurses. Discussion: Our findings show deficiencies in education provided in health institutions. The experience during prenatal control in the endemic regions was imprecise and the information came from other sources, different from the health sector. Adittionally, support and follow-up was deficient as well. It's possible that health professionals have few knowledge about information management, which generated confusion, fear and uncertainty among the pregnant women about the adverse effects on the newborns. Conclusions: Findings suggest deficiencies in the technical quality of the prenatal care provided, particularly in the region that was endemic for vector-borne diseases. Reproductive health services and the technical quality of prenatal care need to be strengthened, especially during a sanitary crisis.

Objetivo: Evaluar la calidad de la atención prenatal durante la epidemia de Zika en regiones endémicas y no endémicas de infecciones trasmitidas por vectores en Colombia. Materiales y Métodos: Estudio descriptivo de la atención prenatal complementado con entrevistas, con el fin de explorar experiencias personales durante la epidemia. Participaron 40 gestantes en zona endémica y 44 en no endémicas. La información recolectada incluyó embarazos previos, razones para iniciar control prenatal, información sobre Zika, control prenatal (actividades de médicos, enfermeras, laboratorios e imágenes) y percepción de calidad. Luego se realizaron 8 entrevistas a gestantes con diagnóstico de Zika. Se interrogó sobre conocimiento del Zika y calidad de los servicios de atención médica. Resultados: Se encontraron problemas con laboratorios e imágenes diagnósticas en ambas regiones y trato deshumanizado en la región endémica. Las gestantes en la región endémica recibieron noticias y comunicados sobre los efectos de Zika durante el embarazo, lo que causó ansiedad y miedo en algunas mujeres. La calidad de la atención medica no era la deseada y pensaron que recibirían mejor atención de médicos y enfermeras. Discusión: Nuestros hallazgos demuestran educación deficiente en las instituciones de salud. La experiencia durante el control prenatal en las regiones endémicas fue imprecisa y venía de fuentes diferentes al sector salud. Además, el soporte y seguimiento fue deficiente. Es probable que el personal de salud tenga poco conocimiento sobre cómo manejar la información, lo cual generó confusión, miedo e incertidumbre entre las gestantes sobre los efectos adversos en los bebes. Conclusiones: Los hallazgos sugieren deficiencia en la calidad técnica de la atención prenatal, particularmente en la región endémica. Es necesario fortalecer los servicios de salud reproductiva y la calidad técnica de la atención prenatal, especialmente durante crisis sanitaria.

Síndrome de Ramsay Hunt en paciente epiléptico en Santander, Colombia: Reporte de caso / Ramsay Hunt Syndrome in an epileptic patient in Santander, Colombia: Case report

El Síndrome de Ramsay Hunt es una entidad infrecuente, con una incidencia de 5 por cada 100.000 personas por año. Esta condición se caracteriza por una reactivación del virus de la varicela-zoster en el nervio facial. Su diagnóstico implica un reto para el médico puesto que suele ser netamente clínico, con la aparición de una triada consistente en: otalgia, parálisis facial ipsilateral y vesículas en el canal auditivo. El objetivo del artículo es presentar el caso de una mujer de 49 años de edad, con antecedente de epilepsia en tratamiento anticonvulsivante, quien ingresa con la triada clínica antes descrita, asociada a visión borrosa derecha y vértigo. La paciente fue tratada con antivirales y corticoides orales, presentando una resolución clínica favorable dado una reducción de más del 50% de las lesiones cutáneas. No se identificaron diferencias respecto a la presentación clínica de este síndrome al compararse con pacientes no epilépticos.

Ramsay Hunt Syndrome is a rare entity, with an incidence of 5 per 100,000 people per year. This condition is characterized by a reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus in the facial nerve. Its diagnosis implies a challenge for the physician since it is usually a clinical diagnosis, with the appearance of a clinical triad consisting of: otalgia, ipsilateral facial paralysis and vesicles in the ear canal. The objective of the article is to present the case of a 49-year-old woman, with a history of epilepsy receiving anticonvulsant treatment, who was admitted with the aforementioned clinical triad, associated with blurred right vision and vertigo. The patient was treated with oral antiviral management and oral corticosteroids, presenting a favorable clinical resolution given a reduction of more than 50% of the skin lesions. No differences were identified regarding the clinical presentation of this syndrome when compared with non-epileptic patients.

Desarrollo y validación de un método de suspensión basado en células Vero para la detección del virus Zika / Development and validation of a vero cell-based suspension method for the detection of Zika virus

Objetivo . Desarrollar y validar un método de suspensión celular utilizando células Vero 76 para el cultivo del virus Zika (ZIKV) basado en la infección de células recién sembradas no adheridas. Material y métodos . Se utilizaron tres multiplicidades de infección diferentes del ZIKV para desarrollar y comparar este novedoso método con el método estándar de monocapa de células confluentes. Además, validamos preliminarmente el método de suspensión utilizando muestras clínicas caracterizadas como positivas o negativas para el ZIKV. El método estándar de monocapa se utilizó como método de referencia, y el aislamiento viral se confirmó mediante un RT-PCR específico del ZIKV. Se estimó la sensibilidad e intervalos de confianza del 95% para el método de suspensión. Asimismo, se realizó una comparación técnica del método de suspensión contra el método de monocapa. Resultados . Nuestros hallazgos sugieren que tanto la carga viral como la replicación del ZIKV fueron comparables entre los métodos de infección en monocapa y en suspensión. Aunque ambos métodos fueron adecuados para cultivar y aislar el ZIKV, el método de suspensión se caracterizó por ser más fácil, barato y rápido, así como una técnica de aislamiento sensible. En comparación con el método de monocapa, el método de suspensión fue cuatro veces más sensible en la detección del ZIKV en casos inconclusos por RT-PCR. Conclusiones . El método de suspensión tiene el potencial de ser un método eficaz para cultivar y aislar el ZIKV y su uso es potencialmente útil tanto en la investigación como en entornos clínicos.

Objective. To develop and validate a cell suspension method using Vero 76 cells for culturing Zika virus (ZIKV) based on infection of detached freshly seeded cells. Material and methods. Three different multiplicities of infection of ZIKV were used to develop and compare this novel method to the standard confluent cell monolayer method. In addition, we preliminary validated the cell suspension method using well-characterized ZIKV positive and negative clinical samples. The standard confluent cell monolayer method was used as the reference method, and viral isolation was confirmed by a ZIKV-specific RT-PCR. The sensitivity and its 95% confidence intervals for the cell suspension method were estimated. Also, a technical comparison of the cell suspension method against the cell monolayer method was performed. Results. Our findings suggested that both the viral load and replication of ZIKV were comparable between both monolayer- and suspension-infection methods. Although both methods were suitable for culturing and isolating ZIKV, the cell suspension method was easier, cheaper, and quicker as well as a sensitive isolation technique. The cell suspension method was significantly more sensitive in detecting Zika in inconclusive cases by RT-PCR, with a fourfold increase compared to the confluent cell monolayer method. Conclusion. The cell suspension method has the potential to be an effective method for cultivating and isolating ZIKV and its application is potentially useful in both research and clinical settings.

Evaluación del neurodesarrollo en niños con exposición intrauterina al virus del Zika: estudio observacional transversal / Developmental assessment of children with intrauterine exposure to Zika virus: cross-sectional observational study

El virus del Zika produce desenlaces adversos para el desarrollo del sistema nervioso. Este estudio describe el neurodesarrollo cognitivo, adaptativo, comunicativo, social y motor de niños expuestos intrauterinamente al virus del Zika y hace una evaluación del neurodesarrollo con la escala de Battelle a los tres años después del nacimiento. Participaron 30 niños con una media de edad al momento de la evaluación de 37,5 (RIC: 35,7-39,2) meses. Se halló una edad equivalente en meses en las áreas: motora 25,8 (DE: 7,8), adaptativa 26,7 (DE: 5,8), comunicativa 30,2 (DE: 6,9), personal social 33,5 (DE: 8,3) y cognitiva 35,6 (DE: 5,9). Los niños presentaron retraso en el desarrollo para la edad cronológica, 25 niños presentaban retraso en una de las cinco áreas evaluadas. Una alta proporción de niños expuestos al virus del Zika durante la gestación presentaron retraso en el desarrollo, principalmente en el dominio adaptativo y motor.

Zika virus infection affects the development of the nervous system. This study describes the cognitive, adaptative, communicative, social and motor neurodevelopment of children exposed to Zika virus in utero. We used the Batelle scale to assess neurodevelopment three years after birth. Thirty children were included, who had a mean age at evaluation of 37.5 (IQR: 35.7-39.2) months. We found the following equivalent ages in months for each area: motor 25.8 (SD: 7.8), adaptive 26.7 (SD: 5.8), communicative 30.2 (SD: 6.9), social personal 33.5 (SD: 8.3) and cognitive 35.6 (SD: 5.9). Children showed development delay for their chronological age, 25 children were delayed in one of the five areas assessed. A high rate of children exposed to Zika virus during gestation presented delayed developmental age, mainly regarding the adaptive and motor areas.

Single-center "Argentine" analysis of post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorders: incidence, histopathological characteristics and EBV status

ABSTRACT Introduction: Post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorders (PTLDs) are a heterogeneous group of lymphoid proliferations occurring after solid organ or bone marrow transplantation. The primary aims of our study were to characterize cumulative incidence of PTLDs, clinical and pathological features according to the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) status and survival. Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study on adult and pediatric patients, from January 2001 to December 2017. The cumulative incidence of PTLD was calculated by analyzing all the patients transplanted at our hospital, based on the database of the Organ Donation and Ablation Authority of Argentina (INCUCAI). The Kaplan-Meier method was used to plot the survival. Results: Fifty-eight cases of biopsy-confirmed PTLD were identified and 12 cases of clinical data were incomplete and these patients were excluded. The median age at the time of the PTLD diagnosis was 17.5 years (interquartile range [IQR] 9 - 57). The median interval between transplant and PTLD diagnosis was 39 months (IQR 9 - 113). The most commonly transplanted organ was the liver (24 cases, 52.2%), followed by kidney (20 cases, 43.5%). The Epstein-Barr encoding region in situ hybridization (EBER ISH) was positive in 29 (69.8%) of the 43 evaluable biopsies. The PTLD cumulative incidence was 1.84% (95%CI 1.77 - 1.91) for solid organ and 0.84% (95%CI 0.48 - 1.2) for bone marrow transplant patients. The overall survival rate at 5 years was 0.77 (95%CI 0.61 - 0.87). Subgroups by the EBV EBER status, transplant type, PTLD subtype and age group (adult vs. pediatric) showed no statistically significant association with the overall survival. Conclusion: The PTLD incidence was similar to that of previous series and the EBER did not appear as a relevant factor in our patient survival.

Impetrações judiciais de mães de crianças com síndrome congênita do vírus zika: das motivações aos desfechos / Impetracciones judiciales de madres de personas menores con síndrome congénito del virus zika: De las motivaciones a los resultados / Judicial impetractions of mothers of children with congenital zika virus syndrome: From motivations to outcomes

Introdução: As famílias de crianças com Síndrome Congênita do Zika (SCZ) convivem com dificuldades para suprir suas necessidades de saúde, portanto acionam o poder judiciário para gozar do seu direito à saúde. Objetivo: Apreender as principais motivações das impetrações judiciais requeridas por mães de crianças com SCZ e seus desfechos. Metodologia: Estudo exploratório documental com abordagem qualitativa, realizado no sítio eletrônico JusBrasil e coleta procedida em março de 2020. Foram incluídas 15 impetrações judiciais publicadas entre janeiro de 2016 e junho de 2019. A análise lexical através do software IRaMuTeQ e a análise de conteúdo temática foram realizadas. Resultados: O acesso às tecnologias assistivas é a principal motivação para impetrações judiciais, com vistas a assegurar melhora no desenvolvimento da criança e consequente independência da criança. As decisões judiciais beneficiaram as crianças com SCZ, fundamentadas no direito à saúde, direito à vida e proteção, e o direito de ir e vir. Conclusão: Para mitigar os impactos da judicialização da saúde as autoridades sanitárias e judiciárias podem investir em melhor vigilância e monitoramento dos fatores de risco e morbidades; rigor nos protocolos sanitários que envolvem migração de pessoas em zonas fronteiriças; ofertas de condições ambientais e de moradia dignas; realização de cuidados preventivos com destaque para a eficiência da imunização; além da organização e funcionamento de uma rede de atenção à saúde eficaz com abordagem interdisciplinar.

Introducción: Las familias de personas menores con síndrome de zika congénito (SZC) viven con dificultades para satisfacer sus necesidades de salud, por lo que hacen un llamado al Poder Judicial para gozar de este derecho. Objetivo: Conocer las principales motivaciones de las demandas presentadas por madres de niños y niñas con SZC y sus desenlaces. Metodología: Estudio documental exploratorio con enfoque cualitativo, realizado en el sitio web de JusBrasil y recogido en marzo de 2020. Se incluyeron 15 juicios publicados entre enero de 2016 y junio de 2019 en JusBrasil. Se realizó el análisis léxico a través del software IRaMuTeQ y el análisis de contenido temático. Resultados: El acceso a las tecnologías asistenciales es la principal motivación de las demandas, con el fin de asegurar la mejora en el desarrollo de la persona menor y su consecuente independencia. Las decisiones judiciales beneficiaron a niñas y niños con SZC, basadas en los derechos a la salud, a la vida y protección y a ir y venir. Conclusiones: Para mitigar los impactos de la judicialización en salud, las autoridades sanitarias y judiciales pueden invertir en una mejor vigilancia y seguimiento de los factores de riesgo y morbilidades, rigor en los protocolos sanitarios que implican la migración de personas en zonas fronterizas, ofrecer condiciones ambientales y habitacionales dignas, realizar cuidados preventivos, con énfasis en la eficiencia de la inmunización, además de la organización y operación de una red de atención de salud efectiva con enfoque interdisciplinario.

Introduction: Families of children with Congenital Zika Syndrome (CSZ) live with difficulties to meet their health needs; therefore, they resort to the law system in order claim their right to health. Objective: To apprehend the main motivations and outcomes of the lawsuits filed by mothers of children with CSZ. Methodology: Exploratory documentary study with a qualitative approach carried out on the JusBrasil website and collected in March 2020. The study included 15 lawsuits published between January 2016 and June 2019 in JusBrasil. A lexical analysis through the IRaMuTeQ software and a thematic content analysis were performed. Results: The access to assistive technologies is the main motivation for the lawsuits; these are issued with the objective to ensure improvement in the child's development and further independence of the child. Court decisions benefited children with CSZ based on the right to health, the right to life and protection, and the right to come and go. Conclusion: To mitigate the impacts of health judicialization, health and judicial authorities can invest in better surveillance and monitoring of the risk factors and morbidities, strictness in the health protocols that involve migration of people in border areas, offering of decent environmental and housing conditions, execution of preventive care with emphasis on the efficiency of immunization, as well as the organization and execution of an effective health care network with an interdisciplinary approach.

Fiebre de origen desconocido como forma de presentación de fiebre chikungunya en varón joven

La fiebre chikungunya es una enfermedad viral descrita por primera vez en 1952. Actualmente se informan brotes esporádicos de fiebre chikungunya a nivel país (abril 2022). Presentamos el caso de un varón joven con fiebre chikungunya en fase subaguda la cual se presentó al ingreso hospitalario como fiebre de origen desconocido.

Chikungunya fever is a viral disease first described in 1952. Sporadic outbreaks of chikungunya fever are currently reported nationwide (April 2022). We present the case of a young man with chikungunya fever in the subacute phase which presented at hospital admission as fever of unknown origin.

Relationship between microcephaly and indicators of social inequality in the state of Paraíba, Brazil

ABSTRACT Objective To analyze the relationship between microcephaly and social inequality indicators in the state of Paraíba during the biennium January 2015 and December 2016. Methods Ecological study with data from newborn microcephaly records and municipal socioeconomic, environmental, and demographic indicators was conducted using two health information systems from the Brazilian Ministry of Health (SINASC and SINAN) and the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics. A Poisson multiple regression model was applied with a significance level of 5%. Results Among 223 municipalities in Paraíba, 74 registered new cases of microcephaly. The number of Zika virus cases, number of inhabitants, number of households without adequate water supply, and household income were predictor variables of the number of new cases of microcephaly in Paraíba. Conclusion Microcephaly is associated with indicators of social inequality in Paraíba. Zika virus cases, water supply, and family income are the indicators that best explain the increase in microcephaly cases. Therefore, these variables must be monitored by health professionals and authorities.

Health-related quality of life in children with cerebral palsy associated with congenital Zika infection / Qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde em crianças com paralisia cerebral associada a síndrome da Zika congênita

Abstract Objective: To describe the health-related quality of life (QOL) in children with cerebral palsy (CP) associated with congenital Zika infection. Methods: Cross-sectional study of a consecutive series of children, followed in a referral multicentric rehabilitation network in Brazil. We invited the caregivers to respond to the Brazilian version of the Caregiver Priorities & Child Health Index of Life with Disabilities (CPCHILDTM) questionnaire. Statistical analysis was performed with the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) 26.0™. We used absolute and relative frequencies for categorical variables and mean and standard deviation for continuous variables. Results: The sample consisted of 193 children, at mean age of 50.3±7.6 months. We observed a predominance of children with cerebral palsy (CP) with Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) level V (93.7%). Epilepsy (88.4%) was the most common comorbidity. CPCHILDTM mean scores were activities of daily living (ADL)/personal care 43.2±12.6; positioning, transferring and mobility 33.7±16.5; comfort and emotions 84.4±15.2; communication and social interaction (CoSI) 48.2±24.3; health 70.9±17.1; and overall quality of life (OQOL) 72.1±17.1. Total score was 54.8±11.3. Conclusions: Among children with cerebral palsy (CP) related to congenital Zika syndrome, the quality of life (QOL) scores were very similar to other populations with cerebral palsy (CP). The activities of positioning, transferring and mobility had the greatest impact on health-related quality of life (QOL). Rehabilitation strategies and public policies should prioritize aspects related to mobility for this population.

RESUMO Objetivo: Descrever a qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde em crianças com paralisia cerebral associada à infecção congênita pelo zika. Métodos: Estudo transversal de série consecutiva de casos de crianças acompanhadas em uma rede multicêntrica de reabilitação no Brasil. Convidamos o(s) cuidador(es) a responder à versão brasileira do Caregiver Priorities & Child Health Index of Life with Disabilities (CPCHILDTM). A análise estatística foi realizada com o pacote estatístico Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) 26.0™. Para variáveis categóricas, foram utilizadas frequências absolutas e relativas e, para variáveis contínuas, média e desvio padrão. Resultados: Cento e noventa e três crianças, com idade média de 50,3±7,6 meses, foram incluídas. Observou-se predomínio de crianças com paralisia cerebral Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) nível V (93,7%). Epilepsia (88,4%) foi a comorbidade mais comum. As pontuações médias do CPCHILDTM foram: atividades de vida diária/cuidados pessoais 43,2±12,6; posicionamento, transferência e mobilidade 33,7±16,5; conforto e emoções 84,4±15,2; comunicação e interação social 48,2±24,3; saúde 70,9±17,1; e qualidade de vida geral 72,1±17,1. A pontuação total foi 54,8±11,3. Conclusões: Entre as crianças com paralisia cerebral relacionada à síndrome do zika congênita, as atividades de posicionamento, transferência e mobilidade tiveram maior impacto na qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde, semelhantemente a outras etiologias de paralisia cerebral. As estratégias de reabilitação e as políticas públicas devem priorizar os aspectos relacionados à mobilidade dessa população.

Audit of emergency obstetric referrals at a Tertiary Center in Kano

Introduction: Maternal and perinatal deaths could be prevented if functional referral systems are in place to allow pregnant women to get appropriate services when complications occur. Methodology: The study was a 1-year retrospective study of obstetric referrals in Aminu Kano Teaching hospital, from 1st January to 31st December 2019. Records of all emergency obstetrics patients referred to the hospital for 1 year were reviewed. A structured proforma was used to extract information such as sociodemographic characteristics of the patients, indications for referral, and pre-referral treatment. The care given at the receiving hospital was extracted from the patients' folders. An Audit standard was developed and the findings were compared with the standards in order to determine how the referral system in the study area perform in relation to the standard. Results: There were total of 180 referrals, the mean age of the women was 28.5 ± 6.3 years. Majority (52%) of the patients were referred from Secondary Centres and only 10% were transported with an ambulance. The most common diagnosis at the time of referral was severe preeclampsia. More than half of the patients (63%) had to wait for 30 to 60 minutes before they see a doctor. All the patients were offered high quality care and majority (70%) were delivered via caesarean section. Conclusion: There were lapses in the management of patients before referral; failure to identify high risk conditions, delay in referral, and lack of treatment during transit to the referral centre.

Establishment and application of hepatic organoid model of hepatitis B virus infection / 中华传染病杂志

Objective:To establish the hepatic organoid of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection on the basis of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) and an inverted colloidal crystal polyethylene glycol scaffold (ICC), and to evaluate the antiviral effect of nucleoside drugs.Methods:iPSC was differentiated into hepatocyte-like cells (HLC), and inoculated into ICC to construct a hepatic organoid. The relative mRNA expressions of Nanog homeobox (NANOG), sex determining region Y-box (SOX) 2, SOX17, forkhead box protein A2 (FOXA2), alpha fetoprotein (AFP) and albumin (ALB) were detected by real time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Confocal laser microscopy was used to photograph the three-dimension (3D) structure of organs. The expression of sodium taurocholate cotransporting polypeptide (NTCP) in HLC was analyzed by Western blot and immunofluorescence. HepG2.2.15 cells were used to extract HBV virus particles to infect hepatic organoid. The relative expression of HBV pregenome RNA (pgRNA) in cells was detected by RT-qPCR. The expressions of hepatitis B core antigen (HBcAg) and hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) in cytoplasm were observed under confocal laser microscopy. A total of 0.5 μmol/L entecavir and 0.5 μmol/L lamivudine were used to treat the infected cells respectively. The relative expression of HBV pgRNA in infected and uninfected cells was detected by RT-qPCR. Independent sample t test and one-way analysis of variance were used for statistical analysis. Results:Within 21 days of iPSC differentiation, the mRNA expressions of NANOG and SOX2 in stem cells markers decreased ( F=158.90 and 8.31, respectivley; P<0.001 and P=0.002, respectively), while the mRNA expressions of SOX17 and FOXA2 in the endoderm increased first and then decreased ( F=37.23 and 82.57, respectively, both P<0.001). In the later stage of differentiation, the mRNA expressions of AFP and ALB in liver cells increased ( F=4.65 and 34.64, respectively, P=0.012 and P<0.001, respectively), and all differences were statistically significant. NTCP was highly expressed in differentiated cells detected by Western blot and fluorescence microscopy, the protein expression level was 0.803±0.099. Confocal laser microscopy confirmed that the differentiated cells expressed ALB and presented spherical structure in ICC. The expression of HBV pgRNA and the immunostaining of HBsAg and HBcAg confirmed that HBV successfully infected hepatic organoid. Three days after the application of entecavir and lamivudine, the HBV pgRNA level decreased significantly both in entecavir group (0.665±0.220) and lamivudine group (0.503±0.117) compared to the uninfected cells (3.347±0.454), and the differences were both statistically significant ( t=10.53 and 12.72, respectively, both P<0.001). Conclusions:HLC display hepatic specific genes ALB and NTCP. Hepatic organoids constructed with iPSC and ICC have human liver function and can be infected by HBV. Entecavir and lamivudine could effectively inhibit the replication of HBV in hepatic organoids.

Blood donors with HBV core anti-body: a follow-up study / 中国输血杂志

【Objective】 To evaluate the role of anti-HBc detection in current blood screening strategy by the follow-up of repeated donors with antibody to hepatitis B virus core antigen. 【Methods】 Plasma samples were collected randomly from Dalian Blood Center. to test anti-HBc(dual reagents) and anti-HBs via ELISA. The re-donation of eligible donors who were anti-HBc+ and donors reactive to HBV detection were followed up. 【Results】 A total of 1 291 plasma samples were collected randomly from May 2017 to March 2018, among which 405 samples(31.4%)were anti-HBc+. The median age of anti-HBc+ group was observed much higher than that of anti-HBc-group (39 vs 31 years old) (P0.05). Among the 405 anti-HBc+ donors, 3 donors were OBI (0.7%), of which one was screened out in second donation. No HBV DNA was detected out in 3 OBI cases. 【Conclusion】 Although anti-HBc detection is not suitable in blood screening currently, it is of great value in the assessment of blood donor re-entry for HBV reactive donors in blood screening due to the high anti-HBc prevalence among blood donors.