Automatic Detection of Focal Cortical Dysplasia Using MRI: A Systematic Review.

Focal cortical dysplasia (FCD) is a congenital brain malformation that is closely associated with epilepsy. Early and accurate diagnosis is essential for effectively treating and managing FCD. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-one of the most commonly used non-invasive neuroimaging methods for evaluating the structure of the brain-is often implemented along with automatic methods to diagnose FCD. In this review, we define three categories for FCD identification based on MRI: visual, semi-automatic, and fully automatic methods. By conducting a systematic review following the PRISMA statement, we identified 65 relevant papers that have contributed to our understanding of automatic FCD identification techniques. The results of this review present a comprehensive overview of the current state-of-the-art in the field of automatic FCD identification and highlight the progress made and challenges ahead in developing reliable, efficient methods for automatic FCD diagnosis using MRI images. Future developments in this area will most likely lead to the integration of these automatic identification tools into medical image-viewing software, providing neurologists and radiologists with enhanced diagnostic capabilities. Moreover, new MRI sequences and higher-field-strength scanners will offer improved resolution and anatomical detail for precise FCD characterization. This review summarizes the current state of automatic FCD identification, thereby contributing to a deeper understanding and the advancement of FCD diagnosis and management.

Current evidence for pharmacological management of pediatric concussion: a systematic review.

PURPOSE: Mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) is a global public health problem and its current management is limited to rest and symptom management. Despite frequent use of drugs for symptom control, there is a lack of consensus on the optimal pharmacological management of post-concussive symptoms. We reviewed the relevant literature to compile the evidence about the pharmaceutical management of pediatric mTBI. METHODS: We performed a systematic review of the literature available in PubMed, Cochrane CENTRAL, and ClinicalTrials.Gov as well as through citation tracing. A modified PICO framework was used for the construction of search strategy and eligibility criteria. Risk of bias was assessed using RoB-2 tool for randomized and ROBINS-I for non-randomized studies. RESULTS: A total of 6260 articles were screened for eligibility. After exclusions, a total of 88 articles received full text review. A total of 15 reports representing 13 studies (5 randomized clinical trials, 1 prospective randomized cohort study, 1 prospective cohort study, and 6 retrospective cohort studies) met the eligibility criteria and were included in the review. We identified 16 pharmacological interventions in a total of 931 pediatric patients with mTBI. Amytriptiline (n = 4), ondansetron (n = 3), melatonin (n = 3), metoclopramide (n = 2), magnesium (n = 2), and topiramate (n = 2) were investigated in multiple studies. All RCTs were relatively of small size (n ≤ 33/group). CONCLUSION: The available evidence supporting pharmacological intervention in pediatric mild traumatic brain injury is scarce. We propose a framework to facilitate future collaborative research efforts to test and validate various pharmacological interventions for acute and persistent post-concussive symptoms in children.

Responsive neurostimulation in pediatric patients with drug-resistant epilepsy.

OBJECTIVE: Medically refractory epilepsy remains a therapeutic challenge when resective surgery is not a practical option and indirect neurostimulation efficacy may be limited. In these instances responsive neurostimulation (RNS) has been used in adults, with good outcomes in most patients. However, the utility of RNS in children and young adults has not been systematically explored. In this study, the authors present a single institution's experience with RNS in pediatric patients. METHODS: A single-center retrospective chart review of patients who underwent RNS implantation at Phoenix Children's Hospital during the 4-year period between January 2018 and December 2021 was performed. RESULTS: Following evaluation for epilepsy surgery, 22 patients underwent RNS implantation using different anatomical targets depending on the predetermined epileptic focus/network. In the cohort, 59% of patients were male, the mean age at implantation was 16.4 years (range 6-22 years), and the mean follow-up time was 2.7 years (range 1.0-4.3 years). All patients had a preoperative noninvasive evaluation that included MRI, video-electroencephalography, and resting-state functional MRI. Additionally, 13 patients underwent invasive monitoring with stereo-electroencephalography to help determine RNS targets. All patients had variable positive responses with reduction of seizure frequency and/or intensity. Overall, seizure frequency reduction of > 50% was seen in the majority (86%) of patients. There were two complications: one patient experienced transitory weakness and one generator failed, requiring replacement. A patient died of sudden unexpected death in epilepsy 3 years after implantation despite being seizure free during the previous year. CONCLUSIONS: RNS used in children with medically refractory epilepsy improved seizure control after implantation, with decreases in seizure frequency > 50% from preoperative baseline in the majority of patients. Preliminary findings indicate that functional MRI and stereo-electroencephalography were helpful for RNS targeting and that RNS can be used safely even in young children.

Bovine leptospirosis: effects on reproduction and an approach to research in Colombia.

Leptospirosis is the most widespread zoonosis worldwide, causing severe effects on beef and dairy cattle farming and other livestock. Colombia geographical location in the tropical zone, high biodiversity, and climatic conditions promote Leptospira growth and prevalence. This review article presents state-of-the-art knowledge about the effects of leptospirosis on bovine reproduction and a critical analysis of the research carried out in Colombia. The analysis of the information allows us to infer a sustained increase in prevalence over the last decade in the densest livestock production areas and a high serovar diversity of circulating pathogenic Leptospira. Given the zoonotic nature of leptospirosis, an inter-institutional effort is required to implement prevention, control, and monitoring programs under one-health concept.

Central Nervous System Metabolism in Autism, Epilepsy and Developmental Delays: A Cerebrospinal Fluid Analysis.

Neurodevelopmental disorders are associated with metabolic pathway imbalances; however, most metabolic measurements are made peripherally, leaving central metabolic disturbances under-investigated. Cerebrospinal fluid obtained intraoperatively from children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD, n = 34), developmental delays (DD, n = 20), and those without known DD/ASD (n = 34) was analyzed using large-scale targeted mass spectrometry. Eighteen also had epilepsy (EPI). Metabolites significantly related to ASD, DD and EPI were identified by linear models and entered into metabolite-metabolite network pathway analysis. Common disrupted pathways were analyzed for each group of interest. Central metabolites most involved in metabolic pathways were L-cysteine, adenine, and dodecanoic acid for ASD; nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate, L-aspartic acid, and glycine for EPI; and adenosine triphosphate, L-glutamine, ornithine, L-arginine, L-lysine, citrulline, and L-homoserine for DD. Amino acid and energy metabolism pathways were most disrupted in all disorders, but the source of the disruption was different for each disorder. Disruption in vitamin and one-carbon metabolism was associated with DD and EPI, lipid pathway disruption was associated with EPI and redox metabolism disruption was related to ASD. Two microbiome metabolites were also detected in the CSF: shikimic and cis-cis-muconic acid. Overall, this study provides increased insight into unique metabolic disruptions in distinct but overlapping neurodevelopmental disorders.

Seroprevalence of antibodies to Chlamydia abortus and risk factors in cattle from Villavicencio, Colombia.

Chlamydia abortus is a Gram-negative obligate intracellular bacterium, responsible for abortions and reproductive problems. The disease has a high zoonotic potential and causes great economic losses in ruminant farmers. A cross-sectional study was carried out with 514 cattle from 24 farms of Villavicencio, Colombia. The blood samples were collected from each individual animal and analyzed by Indirect Elisa for immunoglobulin G (IgG) in blood serum (Idexx Chlamydiosis total Ab test). A serum was considered positive when the optical density (OD) of the sample was ≥30% of that of the positive control serum. Data on potential risk factors associated with the disease were collected through a questionnaire in each farm and analyzed. The individual and herd prevalence was estimated. A risk factors analysis was performed through univariate and multivariable using the software SPSS version 20. The animal level seroprevalence was found to be 47.1% and the herd 91.6%. The prevalence in cattle aged 0-1, 1-3 and >4 years was 23.8%; 31.4% and 51.4% respectively. The risk factors associated with the prevalence of disease were female sex (OR = 2.102 CI: 1.066-4.144), age older than 4 years (OR = 2.707 CI: 1.667-4.394), presence of canines on the farm (OR = 2.556 CI: 1.560-4.189) and retention of placenta (OR = 2.678 CI: 1.670-4.295). A high prevalence was identified, suggesting natural infection where the pathogen could be transmitted to humans at the animal-human interface.

Prevalence of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder in antioquia between 2016 and 2018.

BACKGROUND: There are few epidemiological studies published in the world evaluating the prevalence of Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder (NMOSD). The true prevalence of the disease is not known and the studies carried out are based on the diagnostic criteria used prior to 2015. OBJECTIVE: To determine the prevalence of NMOSD in Antioquia, from January 2016 to December 2018. METHODS: The prevalence of NMOSD in Antioquia was determined using the Capture-Recapture Method. Eight centers in the Department of Antioquia for the care of patients with neurological diseases were included. The data was collected between 2016 and 2018. RESULTS: A total of 221 consultation histories, 169 patients with a diagnosis of NMOSD were identified. The prevalence was 4.03 cases/100,000 inhabitants (95% confidence interval (CI) 3.3-4.8) of whom (87.5%), were women and the predominant race was Mestizo (81.6%). The most frequent initial presentation was optic neuritis (ON) (50.9%). Most of the patients had motor or visual disability (86.4%) and the treatment most used was Rituximab (47.9%). CONCLUSION: The prevalence of NMOSD in Antioquia is one of the highest reported in the world, except for the French Antilles. More studies are required to know the prevalence of this disease in the Colombian population.

Significados y experiencias personales de perdón y reconciliación en mujeres víctimas y mujeres excombatientes de las FARC / Meanings and personal experiences of forgiveness and reconciliation in women who are victims and ex-combatents of the FARC

Este trabajo pretende comprender la experiencia subjetiva de mujeres víctimas y excombatientes de las FARC en torno al perdón y la reconciliación. Para ello, se realizó una investigación de corte cualitativo con enfoque fenomenológico-hermenéutico, basada en postulados de la psicología social crítica latinoamericana. Las técnicas para recolectar información fueron la observación participante, la entrevista en profundidad y los grupos de conversación, en donde participaron 8 víctimas y 4 excombatientes. Se realizó un análisis hermenéutico de contenido, identificando concepciones que las participantes tienen sobre perdón y reconciliación, identificando experiencias vividas. Uno de los principales hallazgos es que en el proceso para perdonar y reconciliarse, las participantes transforman su subjetividad, asumiendo reivindicar sus derechos ante el Estado y redescubriendo su humanidad después de la guerra; finalmente, las excombatientes cam-bian las armas por palabras

This work aims to understand the subjective experience of women victims and women ex-combatants of the FARC, around forgiveness and reconciliation. For this purpose, a qualitative research was conducted with a phenomenological-hermeneutic approach, based on postulates of Latin American critical social psychology. The techniques to collect information were participant observation, in-depth interview and conversation groups, in which 8 victims and 4 ex-combatants participated. a hermeneutical analysis of content was carried out, identifying conceptions that the participants have about forgiveness and reconciliation, identifying lived experiences. One of the main findings is that, in the process of forgiving and reconciling, the participants transform their subjectivity, assuming to restore their rights before the State and rediscovering their humanity after the war. Finally, ex-combatants change weapons for words

Severe Pediatric TBI Management in a Middle-Income Country and a High-Income Country: A Comparative Assessment of Two Centers.

Background: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a global public health issue with over 10 million deaths or hospitalizations each year. However, access to specialized care is dependent on institutional resources and public health policy. Phoenix Children's Hospital USA (PCH) and the Neiva University Hospital, Colombia (NUH) compared the management and outcomes of pediatric patients with severe TBI over 5 years to establish differences between outcomes of patients managed in countries of varying resources availability. Methods: We conducted a retrospective review of individuals between 0 and 17 years of age, with a diagnosis of severe TBI and admitted to PCH and NUH between 2010 and 2015. Data collected included Glasgow coma scores, intensive care unit monitoring, and Glasgow outcome scores. Pearson Chi-square, Fisher exact, T-test, or Wilcoxon-rank sum test was used to compare outcomes. Results: One hundred and one subjects met the inclusion criteria. NUH employed intracranial pressure monitoring less frequently than PCH (p = 0.000), but surgical decompression and subdural evacuation were higher at PCH (p = 0.031 and p = 0.003). Mortality rates were similar between the institutions (15% PCH, 17% NUH) as were functional outcomes (52% PCH, 54% NUH). Conclusions: Differences between centers included time to specialized care and utilization of monitoring. No significant differences were evidenced in survival and the overall functional outcomes.

Mild Traumatic Brain Injury and Postconcussive Symptom Endorsement: A Parallel Comparison Between Two Nonclinical Cohorts.

INTRODUCTION: The prevalence of mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) is commonly estimated based on indirect metrics such as emergency department visits and self-reporting tools. The study of postconcussive symptoms faces similar challenges because of their unspecific character and indistinct causality. In this article, we compare two nonclinical, epidemiological studies that addressed these two elements and were performed within a relatively narrow period in the state of Colorado. MATERIALS AND METHODS: De-identified datasets were obtained from a random digit-dialed survey study conducted by the Craig Hospital and a study surveying soldiers returning from deployment by Defense and Veteran Traumatic Brain Injury Center. Information pertinent to participants' demographics, a history of mTBI, and symptom endorsement was extracted and homogenized in order to establish a parallel comparison between the populations of the two studies. RESULTS: From the 1,558 (Warrior Strong, 679; Craig Hospital, 879) records selected for analysis, 43% reported a history of at least one mTBI. The prevalence was significantly higher among individuals from the Defense and Veteran Traumatic Brain Injury Center study independent of gender or race. Repetitive injuries were reported by 15% of the total combined cohort and were more prevalent among males. Symptom endorsement was significantly higher in individuals with a positive history of mTBI, but over 80% of those with a negative history of mTBI endorsed at least one of the symptoms interrogated. Significant differences were observed between the military and the civilian populations in terms of the types and frequencies of the symptoms endorsed. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of mTBI and associated symptoms identified in the two study populations is higher than that of previously reported. This suggests that not all individuals sustaining concussion seek medical care and highlights the limitations of using clinical reports to assess such estimates. The lack of appropriate mechanisms to determine symptom presence and causality remains a challenge. However, the differences observed in symptom reporting between cohorts raise questions about the nature of the symptoms, the impact on the quality of life for different individuals, and the effects on military health and force readiness.

Hallazgos radiológicos de un astrocitoma pilocítico diseminado, en una adolescente colombiana / Radiological findings of a disseminated pilocytic astrocytoma in a Colombian teenager

El astrocitoma pilocítico (AP) es el tumor más común del sistema nervioso central (SNC) en la población pediátrica. Es considerado un glioma circunscrito debido a su curso benigno. Aparece como una lesión bien determinada, típicamente quística, con un nódulo mural hiperintenso. Tiene una lenta tasa de crecimiento y baja celularidad. El AP se origina principalmente en el cerebelo, la vía óptica y la región hipotalámica/quiasmática. Se presenta un caso inusual de diseminación de un AP de fosa posterior al canal espinal en una adolescente de 16 años.

Pilocytic astrocytoma (PA) is the most common Central Nervous System (CNS) tumor in the pediatric population. It is regarded as a Circumscribed Glioma, due to its benign course. PA is a well-circumscribed, typically cystic lesion with a hyper-intense mural nodule. It shows a slow rate of growth and low cellularity. PA arises mostly in the cerebellum, optic pathway and hypothalamic/chiasmatic region. We report an unusual case of PA dissemination from the posterior fossa to the spinal canal in a 16 year old teenager.

Chemical Characterization and Antiradical Properties of Pyroligneous Acid from a Preserved Bamboo, Guadua angustifolia Kunth

Abstract Pyroligneous acid (PA) was obtained by condensation of the vapors produced in the thermal decomposition of culms residues from Guadua angustifolia Kunth (G. angustifolia) cultivated in Colombia, with and without previous preservation treatment with borax salts. Chemical characterization by GC-MS showed that PA extracts has high content of phenolic compounds. Mequinol, isocreosol, 4-ethylphenol, 4-ethyl-2-methoxyphenol, 3,5-dimethoxy-4-hydroxytoluene and 2,6-dimethoxyphenol were the most abundant substances, identified. The total phenolic content (TPC) and DPPH free radical scavenging activity, were investigated. TPC showed a concentration of 1.959 mg GA g-1±0.010 and 3.844 mg GA g-1±0.027 to PAC and PAS samples. These samples also exhibited high DPPH activity of 70.975%±0.921 and, 16.667%±0.298, respectively. The chemical composition, TPC and DPPH results indicate that the PA extracts obtained from G. angustifolia may be used as a raw material in the food industry as natural preservative, in medicine as alternative to antibiotics and in agriculture as insect repellent and foliar fertilizer.

Detección de anticuerpos contra Neospora caninum en caninos del área urbana y rural de Cumaral, Meta-Colombia

RESUMEN Objetivo. Estimar la seroprevalencia a Neospora caninum en caninos del área urbana y rural de Cumaral, Meta y determinar algunos factores de riesgo asociados a la seropositividad. Materiales y métodos. Se efectuó un estudio transversal en 222 perros (112 perros del área urbana y 110 del área rural). El tamaño de la muestra fue calculado en el programa Epidat v. 3.1. Los sueros sanguíneos fueron analizados mediante la técnica de Inmunofluorescencia Indirecta para IgG con un kit comercial. Los análisis de frecuencias, chi-cuadrado, fueron realizados mediante el paquete estadístico SPSS v. 25.0 Resultados. La seroprevalencia general fue 36.9% (IC95%: 30.9-43.5 %). La seropositividad entre los grupos fue: urbana (38.4 %) y rural (35.5%) (p>0.05), machos (36.9%) y hembras (36.9%) (p >0.05); en cachorros (32.7%), jóvenes (40.0%) y adultos (37.4%) (p>0.05), en contacto con predios pecuarios (40.7%) y sin contacto (35.2%) (p>0.05). Conclusiones. La seroprevalencia observada fue alta en las dos poblaciones analizadas y sugiere que los caninos han estado en contacto con el parásito, posiblemente por diferentes fuentes de infección que requieren ser estudiadas posteriormente.

ABSTRACT Objective. To estimate the seroprevalence to Neospora caninum in canines of the urban and rural area of Cumaral, Meta and determine some risk factors associated with seropositivity. Materials and methods. A cross-sectional study was carried out in 222 dogs (112 dogs from the urban area and 110 dogs from the rural area), the sample size was calculated by using Epidat v program. 3.1. The sera were analyzed using the Indirect Immunofluorescence technique for IgG with a commercial kit. Frequency analyzes by chi-square of independence were performed in SPSS v. 25.0 Results. The general seroprevalence was 36.9% (95% CI: 30.9-43.5%). The seropositivity between the groups was: urban (38.4%) and rural (35.5%) (p>0.05), males (36.9%) and females (36.9%) (p>0.05); in puppies (32.7%), youth (40.0%) and adults (37.4%) (p>0.05), in contact with livestock farms (40.7%) and without contact (35.2 %) (p>0.05), Conclusions. The seroprevalence observed was high in the two populations analyzed and suggests that the canines have been in contact with the parasite, possibly due to different sources of infection that need to be studied later.

Changes in attentional processing following neurofeedback in patients with persistent post-concussive symptoms: a pilot study.

OBJECTIVE: Persistent post-concussive symptoms (PPCS) often include attention deficits, particularly orienting and executive attention. Research in other clinical populations has demonstrated that neurofeedback therapy (NFT) is effective at improving orienting and executive attention, although its effects on attentional networks in patients with PPCS are unknown. METHOD: In this single-group pilot study, we examined attention-related event-related potentials (ERPs) - N1 and P3 - and cognitive outcomes following Live Z-score training (LZT), a variant of NFT. RESULTS: No changes in early selective attention, as indexed by N1 amplitude, were observed; however, P3 amplitude, which indexes neural resource allocation, increased following LZT and returned to baseline by 3 months. Cognitive performance improved following treatment, which was sustained at 3 months. The magnitude of change in P3 and ANT performance did not differ between orienting or executive attention, suggesting LZT improved general attentional processing efficiency. CONCLUSION: Our results suggest that LZT may positively affect attention globally, but does not target specific attention networks. These pilot data warrant the initiation of a clinical trial evaluating the effectiveness of LZT for treating attention deficits in patients with PPCS.

Comparison of autograft versus allograft in the surgical repair of pediatric obstetrical brachial plexus injuries.

OBJECTIVE: The goal of this study was to determine the functional efficacy of acellular processed nerve allograft (ALG) as compared to sural nerve autograft (AUG) harvested at time of surgery for children with obstetrical brachial plexus injury (OBPI). METHODS: A retrospective review of records was performed in patients who underwent surgical repair of OBPI between 2009 and 2015 at Phoenix Children's Hospital. Patients were grouped based on the type of nerve graft used (AUG using the patient's own sural nerve or decellularized processed cadaveric nerve ALG) and compared in terms of motor strength, British Medical Research Council score, functionality (Mallet scale score), surgical time, rate of complications, and need for further intervention. RESULTS: A total of 52 records were identified meeting study criteria. Sural nerve AUG was used in 22 cases and ALG in 30 cases. Changes from pre- to postsurgical assessment of motor strength were significant for all muscle groups measured except for elbow extension for both groups. All Mallet scores increased significantly. No significant differences were observed in motor strength and functional components between groups. Interventions using ALG had shorter operative times than those performed using AUG. No significant difference was observed in terms of need for further intervention. Two patients (9%) in the AUG group developed stitch abscesses at the harvest site, whereas there were no infectious complications reported in the ALG group. CONCLUSIONS: These findings suggest equivalence in terms of muscle strength and functional outcomes between the use of AUG and ALG for patients with OBPI. However, the less invasive character of ALG repair decreases surgical time and risk of complications.

Objective Dual-Task Turning Measures for Return-to-Duty Assessment After Mild Traumatic Brain Injury: The ReTURN Study Protocol.

Determining readiness for duty after mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) is essential for the safety of service members and their unit. Currently, these decisions are primarily based on self-reported symptoms, objective measures that assess a single system, or standardized physical or cognitive tests that may be insensitive or lack ecological validity for warrior tasks. While significant technological advancements have been made in a variety of assessments of these individual systems, assessments of isolated tasks are neither diagnostically accurate nor representative of the demands imposed by daily life and military activities. Emerging evidence suggests that complex tasks, such as dual-task paradigms or turning, have utility in probing functional deficits after mTBI. Objective measures from turning tasks in single- or dual-task conditions, therefore, may be highly valuable for clinical assessments and return-to-duty decisions after mTBI. The goals of this study are to assess the diagnostic accuracy, predictive capacity, and responsiveness to rehabilitation of objective, dual-task turning measures within an mTBI population. These goals will be accomplished over two phases. Phase 1 will enroll civilians at three sites and active-duty service members at one site to examine the diagnostic accuracy and predictive capacity of dual-task turning outcomes. Phase 1 participants will complete a series of turning tasks while wearing inertial sensors and a battery of clinical questionnaires, neurocognitive testing, and standard clinical assessments of function. Phase 2 will enroll active-duty service members referred for rehabilitation from two military medical treatment facilities to investigate the responsiveness to rehabilitation of objective dual-task turning measures. Phase 2 participants will complete two assessments of turning while wearing inertial sensors: a baseline assessment prior to the first rehabilitation session and a post-rehabilitation assessment after the physical therapist determines the participant has completed his/her rehabilitation course. A variable selection procedure will then be implemented to determine the best task and outcome measure for return-to-duty decisions based on diagnostic accuracy, predictive capacity, and responsiveness to rehabilitation. Overall, the results of this study will provide guidance and potential new tools for clinical decisions in individuals with mTBI. Clinical Trial Registration: clinicaltrials.gov, Identifier NCT03892291.

[Profile of antimicrobial resistance in isolates of Staphylococcus spp. obtained from bovine milk in Colombia]. / Perfil de resistencia antimicrobiana en aislamientos de Staphylococcus spp. obtenidos de leche bovina en Colombia.

Staphylococcus spp. is one of the pathogens that cause bovine mastitis and may present multiple resistance to different antimicrobial groups. The aim of this study was to phenotypically identify Staphylococcus spp. isolates obtained from bovine milk and to characterize their antimicrobial resistance profile. The 101 strains were classified by phenotypic tests, their resistance to oxacillin, cefoxitin, penicillin, ampicillin, tetracycline, kanamycin, sulfamethoxazole / trimethoprim, clindamycin and erythromycin was determined by the Kirby-Bauer technique and the presence of resistance genes by PCR. A total of 65 strains was S. aureus and 36 strains were coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS). We found different patterns of resistance to antibiotics evaluated in strains of S. aureus and CoNS, only the resistance to ampicillin was found associated with the species (p<0.005). In the 101 strains, the mecA gene was detected in 27%, aph(3')-IIIa in 75.2%, aac(6')/aph(2")-3 in 47.4%, ant(4')-Ia in 32.7%, tetM in 63% and tetK in 43.6%; however, no association was found with the resistance to penicillin, ampicillin, cefoxitin, kanamycin and tetracycline, respectively (p>0.05). On the other hand, the blaZ gene was found in 59.4% of the 101 strains and the ermCgene in 62.3%, which was associated with resistance to ß-lactams and macrolides, respectively (p<0.001). In this study, antimicrobial multiresistance was found in S. aureus and CoNS strains. This finding impacts on the dairy industry, representing a risk to public health.

Implementation of a Generalized Vestibular Rehabilitation Approach.

INTRODUCTION: Vestibular dysfunction is common in military populations as the result of traumatic brain injury, blast exposure, and/or repetitive acoustic insult. Vestibular rehabilitation (VR) has been proven to be an effective approach in the treatment of vestibular dysfunction. VR consists of a series of exercises prescribed on the basis of individual patient needs by a vestibular trained physical therapist (PT). A generalized approach to VR in a military setting could help widen the system capacity to take care of patients with vestibular symptoms, shorten waiting times for patients without impacting the burden on PTs. The rehabilitation team at the Warrior Recovery Center on Fort Carson, Colorado, developed a generalized approach in which a series of exercises were administered to individuals with vestibular dysfunction. The implementation of this approach was evaluated for quality improvement purposes and is presented below. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We utilized a combined observational/survey approach to evaluate the patients' tolerance to a variety of exercises provocative of dizziness symptoms, their overall satisfaction with the intervention, the appropriateness of the allocated resources, and the providers' confidence with the treatment and its administration. Research staff members were present as observers in all therapy sessions during the 3-month implementation period and administered surveys to patients and clinical staff at pre-established time points. Descriptive analysis was performed to summarize observations and responses to surveys. Linear regression was utilized to evaluate if a reduction in the number of patient:provider interactions occurred over the course of the implementation period. RESULTS: A total of 25 therapy sessions took place during the implementation period. Each visit lasted an average of 56 minutes with 6 minutes allocated for set up, 45 minutes for intervention and 5 minutes for cleanup. The mean number of patients per session was 3 (Max 6, Min 1) with one staff member running the intervention 56% of the time and two staff members running the intervention 44% of the time. Exercise tolerance was at 99% and the need for one-on-one interactions between providers and patients was easily attained at a 3:1 patient:provider rate. Survey assessment demonstrated 100% patient satisfaction with the program and 100% provider confidence with treatment delivery. CONCLUSION: Generalized Vestibular Rehabilitation Treatment (GVRT) was successfully implemented at the Warrior Recovery Center at Fort Carson, Colorado. The individual exercises used during the interventions were challenging to patients yet well tolerated. Resource allocation was appropriate in terms of personnel, time, and equipment. Both the clinical staff and the patients felt comfortable with the therapy and subjectively found it to be effective. The project provided valuable information to clinical staff, administrators, and the organization.

Semi-Automated Neurofeedback Therapy for Persistent Postconcussive Symptoms in a Military Clinical Setting: A Feasibility Study.

INTRODUCTION: Neurofeedback therapy (NFT) has demonstrated effectiveness for reducing persistent symptoms following traumatic brain injury (TBI); however, its reliance on NFT experts for administration and high number of treatment sessions limits its use in military medicine. Here, we assess the feasibility of live Z-score training (LZT)-a variant of NFT that requires fewer treatment sessions and can be administered by nonexperts-for use in a military clinical setting. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A single group design feasibility study was conducted to assess acceptability, tolerance, treatment satisfaction, and change in symptoms after a 6-week LZT intervention in 38 Service Members (SMs) with persistent symptoms comorbid with or secondary to mild TBI. Acceptance and feasibility were assessed using treatment completion and patients' satisfaction with treatment. To evaluate changes in symptom status, a battery of self-report questionnaires was administered at baseline, posttreatment, and 3-month follow-up to evaluate changes in psychological, neurobehavioral, sleep, pain, and headache symptoms, as well as self-efficacy in symptom management and life satisfaction. RESULTS: Participants tolerated the treatment well and reported a positive experience. Symptom improvement was observed, including depressive, neurobehavioral, and pain-related symptoms, with effects sustained at 3-month follow-up. CONCLUSION: LZT treatment appears to be a feasible, non-pharmacological therapy amenable to SMs. Results from this pilot study promote further investigation of LZT as an intervention for SMs with persistent symptoms following TBI.

Assessment of a multiplex detection method for Salmonella enterica, Escherichia coli O157:H7, and Listeria monocytogenes in cow milk / Determinación de un método de detección múltiple para Salmonella enterica, Escherichia coli O157:H7 y Listeria monocytogenes en leche de vaca / Determinação de um método de detecção múltipla para Salmonella enterica, Escherichia coli O157:H7 e Listeria monocytogenes em leite de vaca

Abstract Raw cow milk is considered one of the most important vehicles for pathogenic bacteria like Salmonella spp., Escherichia coli O157:H7, and Listeria monocytogenes. These three bacteria are responsible for foodborne diseases. Routine microbiological methods to detect these microorganisms in cow milk can be complicated and time consuming. The aim of this work was to evaluate a method to simultaneously detect Salmonella spp., Escherichia coli O157:H7, and Listeria monocytogenes in experimentally contaminated cow milk. The assessed method combined a standard microbiological culture step, using a pre-enrichment medium that favors the growth of the three focal microorganisms: SEL broth, followed by a single PCR assay. A total of 43 interference bacterial strains were used to evaluate the method's specificity. The detection rate for the microbiological method with standard culture media was 10 UFC/mL, and that of the PCR detection, following pre-enrichment in SEL broth, was 10 UFC/mL for S. enterica and L. monocytogenes and between 1 and 5 UFC/mL for E. coli O157:H7. The PCR method showed specificity for the reference strains. Simultaneous detection by multiple PCR using SEL broth was successful for the detection of S. enterica, E. coli O157:H7, and L. monocytogenes in samples of experimentally contaminated cow milk, featuring both a high detection rate and a high specificity. This approach promises to be a feasible routine procedure when testing milk samples in industry and public health control setups.

Resumen La leche cruda de vaca se considera uno de los vehículos más importantes de bacterias patógenas como Salmonella spp., Escherichia coli O157:H7 y Listeria monocytogenes. Estas tres bacterias son responsables de enfermedades transmitidas por alimentos. Los métodos microbiológicos de rutina para detectar estos microorganismos en leche cruda de vaca pueden ser complicados y requerir mucho tiempo. El objetivo de este trabajo fue evaluar un método para detectar simultáneamente Salmonella spp., Escherichia coli O157:H7 y Listeria monocytogenes en leche de vaca contaminada experimentalmente. El método utilizado combinó una etapa de pre-enriquecimiento con cultivo microbiológico estándar utilizando un medio que favorece el crecimiento de los tres microrganismos focales (caldo SEL) seguido de un único ensayo de PCR. Se utilizaron 43 cepas de microorganismos de interferencia para evaluar la especificidad del método. La tasa de detección para el método de cultivo microbiológico estándar fue de 10 UFC/mL, y la de detección por PCR, después de pre-enriquecimiento en caldo SEL, fue de 10 UFC/mL para S. enterica y L. monocytogenes y entre 1 y 5 UFC/ mL para E. coli O157:H7. El método PCR mostró especificidad para las cepas de referencia. La detección simultánea por PCR múltiple, luego de pre-enriquecimiento en caldo SEL fue exitosa para la detección de S. enterica, E. coli O157:H7 y L. monocytogenes en muestras de leche de vaca contaminada experimentalmente, mostrando tanto una alta tasa de detección como una alta especificidad. Esta aproximación promete ser un procedimiento de rutina factible cuando se analizan muestras de leche en la industria y en actividades de control de salud pública.

Resumo O leite de vaca cru é considerado um dos mais importantes veículos para bactéricas patogênicas como Salmonella spp., Escherichia coli O157:H7 e Listeria monocytogenes. Estas três bactérias são responsáveis por enfermidades transmitidas por alimentos. Os métodos microbiológicos de rotina para detectar estes micro-organismos em leite de vaca cru podem ser complicados e demandantes de tempo. O objetivo de este trabalho foi avaliar um método para detectar simultaneamente Salmonella spp., Escherichia coli O157:H7 e Listeria monocytogenes em leite de vaca contaminado experimentalmente. O método utilizado combinou uma etapa de pré- enriquecimento com cultura microbiológica padrão utilizando um meio que favorece o crescimento dos três micro-organismos focais (caldo SEL). Utilizaram-se 43 cepas de micro-organismos de interferência para avaliar a especificidade do método. A taxa de detecção para o método de cultura microbiológica padrão foi de 10 UFC/mL, e a de detecção por PCR, posteriormente ao pré-enriquecimento em caldo SEL, foi de 10 UFC/mL para S. enterica e L. monocytogenes e entre 1 e 5 UFC/mL para E. coli O157:H7. O método por PCR mostrou especificidade para as cepas de referência. A detecção simultânea por PCR múltiplex, logo do pré-enriquecimento em caldo SEL, foi exitosa para a detecção de S. entérica, E. coli O157:H7 e L. monocytogenes em amostras de leite de vaca contaminado experimentalmente, demostrando tanto uma alta taxa de detecção como uma alta especificidade. Esta aproximação promete ser um procedimento de rotina viável quando se analisam amostras de leite na indústria e nas atividades de controle de saúde pública.