Cytokine and T cell responses in post-chikungunya viral arthritis: A cross-sectional study.

OBJECTIVE: To define the relationship between chronic chikungunya post-viral arthritis disease severity, cytokine response and T cell subsets in order to identify potential targets for therapy. METHODS: Participants with chikungunya arthritis were recruited from Colombia from 2019-2021. Arthritis disease severity was quantified using the Disease Activity Score-28 and an Arthritis-Flare Questionnaire adapted for chikungunya arthritis. Plasma cytokine concentrations (interleukin (IL)-1ß, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-12p70, IL-13, interferon-γ and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)) were measured using a Meso Scale Diagnostics assay. Peripheral blood T cell subsets were measured using flow cytometry. RESULTS: Among participants with chikungunya arthritis (N = 158), IL-2 levels and frequency of regulatory T cells (Tregs) were low. Increased arthritis disease activity was associated with higher levels of inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, TNF and CRP) and immunoregulatory cytokine IL-10 (p<0.05). Increased arthritis flare activity was associated with higher Treg frequencies (p<0.05) without affecting T effector (Teff) frequencies, Treg/Teff ratios and Treg subsets. Finally, elevated levels of IL-2 were correlated with increased Treg frequency, percent Tregs out of CD4+ T cells, and Treg subsets expressing immunosuppressive markers, while also correlating with an increased percent Teff out of live lymphocytes (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: Chikungunya arthritis is characterized by increased inflammatory cytokines and deficient IL-2 and Treg responses. Greater levels of IL-2 were associated with improved Treg numbers and immunosuppressive markers. Future research may consider targeting these pathways for therapy.

Novel Insights into the Cardioprotective Effects of the Peptides of the Counter-Regulatory Renin-Angiotensin System.

Currently, cardiovascular diseases are a major contributor to morbidity and mortality worldwide, having a significant negative impact on both the economy and public health. The renin-angiotensin system contributes to a high spectrum of cardiovascular disorders and is essential for maintaining normal cardiovascular homeostasis. Overactivation of the classical renin-angiotensin system is one of the most important pathophysiological mechanisms in the progression of cardiovascular diseases. The counter-regulatory renin-angiotensin system is an alternate pathway which favors the synthesis of different peptides, including Angiotensin-(1-7), Angiotensin-(1-9), and Alamandine. These peptides, via the angiotensin type 2 receptor (AT2R), MasR, and MrgD, initiate multiple downstream signaling pathways that culminate in the activation of various cardioprotective mechanisms, such as decreased cardiac fibrosis, decreased myocardial hypertrophy, vasodilation, decreased blood pressure, natriuresis, and nitric oxide synthesis. These cardioprotective effects position them as therapeutic alternatives for reducing the progression of cardiovascular diseases. This review aims to show the latest findings on the cardioprotective effects of the main peptides of the counter-regulatory renin-angiotensin system.

Novel Strategies to Improve the Cardioprotective Effects of Cardioplegia.

The use of cardioprotective strategies as adjuvants of cardioplegic solutions has become an ideal alternative for the improvement of post-surgery heart recovery. The choice of the optimal cardioplegia, as well as its distribution mechanism, remains controversial in the field of cardiovascular surgery. There is still a need to search for new and better cardioprotective methods during cardioplegic procedures. New techniques for the management of cardiovascular complications during cardioplegia have evolved with new alternatives and additives, and each new strategy provides a tool to neutralize the damage after ischemia/reperfusion events. Researchers and clinicians have committed themselves to studying the effect of new strategies and adjuvant components with the potential to improve the cardioprotective effect of cardioplegic solutions in preventing myocardial ischemia/reperfusion-induced injury during cardiac surgery. The aim of this review is to explore the different types of cardioplegia, their protection mechanisms, and which strategies have been proposed to enhance the function of these solutions in hearts exposed to cardiovascular pathologies that require surgical alternatives for their corrective progression.

Effects of Metformin on Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury: New Evidence and Mechanisms.

The search for new drugs with the potential to ensure therapeutic success in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases has become an essential pathway to follow for health organizations and committees around the world. In June 2021, the World Health Organization listed cardiovascular diseases as one of the main causes of death worldwide, representing 32% of them. The most common is coronary artery disease, which causes the death of cardiomyocytes, the cells responsible for cardiac contractility, through ischemia and subsequent reperfusion, which leads to heart failure in the medium and short term. Metformin is one of the most-used drugs for the control of diabetes, which has shown effects beyond the control of hyperglycemia. Some of these effects are mediated by the regulation of cellular energy metabolism, inhibiting apoptosis, reduction of cell death through regulation of autophagy and reduction of mitochondrial dysfunction with further reduction of oxidative stress. This suggests that metformin may attenuate left ventricular dysfunction induced by myocardial ischemia; preclinical and clinical trials have shown promising results, particularly in the setting of acute myocardial infarction. This is a review of the molecular and pharmacological mechanisms of the cardioprotective effects of metformin during myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury.

The Role of METTL3 in the Progression of Cardiac Fibrosis.

Cardiac fibrosis is known as the expansion of the cardiac interstitium through excessive deposition of extracellular matrix proteins; this process is performed by a multifunctional cell known as the cardiac fibroblast. After the myocardial injury, these cells are activated as a repair program, increase, and switch to a contractile phenotype, which is evidenced by an increase in alpha- smooth muscle actin. Likewise, there is an increase in type I and III collagen, which are considered profibrotic biomarkers. It is believed that one of the proteins involved in cardiac remodeling is METTL3, which is the enzyme responsible for N6-methyladenosine (m6A) methylation, the most common and abundant epigenetic modification of eukaryotic mRNA. This review focuses on recent studies in which the possible role of METTL3 in the progression of fibrosis has been demonstrated, mainly in cardiac fibrogenesis.

Mechanisms of the Quorum Sensing Systems of Pseudomonas Aeruginosa: Host and Bacteria.

Quorum-sensing is a communication mechanism between bacteria with the ability to activate signaling pathways in the bacterium and in the host cells. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a pathogen with high clinical relevance due to its vast virulence factors repertory and wide antibiotic resistance mechanisms. Due to this, it has become a pathogen of interest for developing new antimicrobial agents in recent years. P. aeruginosa has three major QS systems that regulate a wide gene range linked with virulence factors, metabolic regulation, and environment adaption. Consequently, inhibiting this communication mechanism would be a strategy to prevent the pathologic progression of the infections caused by this bacterium. In this review, we aim to overview the current studies about the signaling mechanisms of the QS system of P. aeruginosa and its effects on this bacterium and the host.

Accreditation of Quality in Primary Health Care in Chile: Perception of the Teams from Accredited Family Healthcare Centers.

This study aimed to investigate the perception of the health teams belonging to the Family Healthcare Centers (CESFAMs) that are accredited, regarding the process of implementation and the achievement of accreditation. A qualitative approach was applied, with contributions from grounded theory, through the technique of individual in-depth interviews and focus groups. The interviews were carried out in nine accredited CESFAMs. For the presentation, organization and analysis of the data, Atlas.ti V9 software was used. From the results, derived from the open phase of the analysis, obtained from the opinions of the participants, a total of 26 categories emerged relating to the facilitating and hindering factors of the process. From the axial phase, it was possible to establish central categories that were related to quality management policies, the structure of Primary Health Care (PHC), participation and co-construction, and leadership and change management. In conclusion, the discourse of the teams reveals the need to have necessary conditions for the accreditation process, which are mainly related to training, characteristics of the types of leadership and teamwork in harmony with the process. Finally, the study reveals a gap in the community participation in this process, which suggests continuing this line of research.

Potential of Angiotensin-(1-7) in COVID-19 Treatment.

The new coronavirus currently named SARS-CoV-2 was announced by the World Health Organization as the virus causing the COVID-19 pandemic. The pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2 initiates upon contact of a structural spike protein with the angiotensin II-converting enzyme receptor, leading to the induction of inflammatory mechanisms and progression to severe disease in some cases. Currently, studies have emerged linking COVID-19 with angiotensin-(1-7), demonstrating the potential of angiotensin-(1-7)/Mas Receptor axis induction to control disease severity due to its antiinflammatory, vasodilator, antioxidant, antiproliferative, anticoagulant, antiangiogenic and fibrosis inhibitory effects. The renin angiotensin-system peptide Angiotensin-(1-7) shows a high therapeutic potential for COVID-19 mainly because of its ability to counteract the adverse effects caused in various organs due to angiotensin II-converting enzyme blockade. In light of these factors, the use of convalescent plasma conjugated therapy and Ang (1-7) agonists for the treatment of COVID-19 patients could be recommended. The differential expression of ACE2 and the varied response to SARSCoV- 2 are thought to be connected. According to several investigations, ACE2 antibodies and pharmacological inhibitors might be used to prevent viral entry. Given its capacity to eliminate the virus while ensuring lung and cardiovascular protection by regulating the inflammatory response, angiotensin-( 1-7) is expected to be a safe choice. However, more clinical evidence is required to clarify the therapeutic usage of this peptide. The aim of this review article is to present an update of scientific data and clinical trials on the therapeutic potential of angiotensin-(1-7) in patients with COVID-19.

Respuesta en la atención del cáncer durante la pandemia por COVID-19 en Colombia: gestión en clínicas y hospitales / Cancer Care Response During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Colombia: Management in Clinics and Hospitals / Resposta no atendimento ao câncer durante a pandemia de COVID-19 na Colômbia: gestão em clínicas e hospitais

Introducción. El principal reto en la atención del cáncer durante la pandemia causada por la COVID-19 fue asegurar la oportunidad en el diagnóstico y tratamiento a cerca de 100,000 casos nuevos de cáncer al año en Colombia. El objetivo de esta investigación fue conocer la respuesta de las Instituciones Prestadoras de Servicios de Salud sobre su gestión en los servicios para la atención de la patología oncológica en el primer semestre del año 2020. Metodología. Estudio descriptivo y transversal tipo encuesta sobre la caracterización de los pacientes oncológicos con COVID-19, la capacidad instalada, la atención integral del cáncer, la implementación de telesalud/telemedicina y el apoyo institucional durante la pandemia. Participaron veinticinco prestadores con servicio de cirugía oncológica y quimioterapia o radioterapia. Resultados. El 56% de prestadores reportó pacientes oncológicos con COVID-19. Todos reportaron cambios de gestión en la capacidad resolutiva ante la pandemia: el 76% acondicionó infraestructura y dispositivos, el 84% adoptó la telesalud/telemedicina y el 92% recibió asistencia en planes de acción. El 48% de las instituciones prestadoras evidenciaron una disminución en el tamizaje de cáncer. Discusión. Este estudio evidencia que la emergencia de la pandemia obligó a apresurar los esfuerzos de infraestructura y recursos en las entidades oncológicas de Colombia. Los resultados obtenidos en la disminución de tamización de cáncer a nivel nacional se equiparán con los datos reportados por distintos países, incluyendo la región de las Américas. Conclusión. Los hallazgos evidencian la necesidad de mejorar la capacidad de respuesta del sistema de salud en escenarios de emergencia sanitaria que eviten el retraso en la atención y las acciones en salud pública del cáncer.

Introduction. The main challenge in cancer care during the COVID-19 pandemic was to ensure the timelines of diagnosis and treatment of nearly 100,000 new cancer cases per year in Colombia. The objective of this research was to know the response of the Health Service Provider Institutions on their management of services for cancer care in the first semester of the year 2020. Methodology. Descriptive, cross-sectional, survey-type study on the characterization of cancer patients with COVID-19, installed capacity, comprehensive cancer care, telehealth/telemedicine implementation, and institutional support during the pandemic. Twenty-five providers with oncological surgery and chemotherapy or radiotherapy services participated. Results. Fifty-six percent of providers reported cancer patients with COVID-19. Everyone reported management changes in pandemic response capacity: 76% upgraded infrastructure and devices, 84% adopted telehealth/telemedicine and 92% received assistance in action plans. Forty-eight percent of the provider institutions showed a decrease in cancer screening. Discussion. This study shows that the emergency of the pandemic forced to rush the efforts of infrastructure and resources in the oncological entities of Colombia. The results obtained in the decrease of cancer screening nationally will be equated with the data reported by different countries, including the Americas region. Conclusion. The findings show the need to improve the response capacity of the health care system in health emergency scenarios to avoid delays in cancer care and public health actions.

Introdução. O principal desafio no tratamento do câncer durante a pandemia causada pelo COVID-19 foi garantir oportunidade no diagnóstico e tratamento de quase 100,000 novos casos de câncer por ano na Colômbia. O objetivo desta pesquisa foi conhecer a resposta das Instituições Prestadoras de Serviços de Saúde sobre sua gestão nos serviços para atendimento de patologia oncológica no primeiro semestre do ano de 2020. Metodologia. Estudo descritivo e transversal do tipo enquete sobre caracterização de pacientes oncológicos com COVID-19, capacidade instalada, atenção integral ao câncer, implantação de telessaúde/telemedicina e apoio institucional durante a pandemia. Participaram vinte e cinco prestadores de serviços de cirurgia oncológica e quimioterapia ou radioterapia. Resultados. 56% dos provedores relataram pacientes oncológicos com COVID-19. Todos relataram mudanças de gestão na capacidade de resposta diante da pandemia: 76% adaptaram infraestrutura e dispositivos, 84% adotaram telessaúde/telemedicina e 92% receberam assistência em planos de ação. 48% das instituições prestadoras apresentaram uma diminuição no rastreamento do câncer. Discussão. Este estudo mostra que a emergência da pandemia obrigou a acelerar os esforços de infraestrutura e recursos nas entidades oncológicas da Colômbia. Os resultados obtidos na redução do rastreamento do câncer em nível nacional são equivalentes com os dados relatados por diferentes países, incluindo a região das Américas. Conclusão. Os achados mostram a necessidade de melhorar a capacidade de resposta do sistema de saúde em cenários de emergência sanitária que evitem atrasos no atendimento e nas ações de saúde pública para o câncer.

Accessibility in People with Disabilities in Primary Healthcare Centers: A Dimension of the Quality of Care.

The purpose of this research is to evaluate universal accessibility in primary healthcare (PHC) centers in the Atacama region, Chile, through an analytical cross-sectional study with a quality approach, which uses the external audit model with the application of a dichotomous comparison guideline, evaluating levels of compliance with four dimensions of universal accessibility described in the literature: participation, information, accessibility chain and architectural aspects. This was carried out in 18 PHC, and set as Lower Control Limit (LCL) of 70% to compare levels of compliance, and a hierarchical model and k-mean analysis were applied. Results: Very low compliance averages were obtained, 37.7% participation, 4% information, 44.4% access chain, and 63.9% architectural aspects, indicating a critical situation. Moreover, the cluster comparison allowed to observe that a group of healthcare centers complies more than other groups, which requires more attention. Conclusions: The low level of accessibility for people with disabilities may be associated with various factors that require further monitoring and analysis. However, low levels of accessibility require changing the way of relating to this vulnerable group of the population, and considering including them in the design and reasonable adjustments made in PHC centers. The findings from this research open the possibility for future research that increases understanding of how to reduce barriers in a such wide variety of forms of disability.

Combined atrial fibrillation ablation and balloon mitral commissurotomy in patients with rheumatic mitral stenosis.

INTRODUCTION: Ablation of atrial fibrillation (AF) is usually not considered in patients with rheumatic mitral stenosis (RMS). We analyzed the results of a combined procedure of AF ablation and percutaneous balloon mitral commissurotomy (PBMC). METHODS: We prospectively included 22 patients with severe RMS to undergo a combined PBMC + AF ablation procedure. Noninvasive mapping of the atria was also performed. A historical sample of propensity-scored matched patients who underwent PBMC alone was used as controls. The primary endpoint was freedom from AF/AT at 1-year. Multivariate analysis evaluated sinus rhythm (SR) predictors. RESULTS: Successful pulmonary vein isolation and electrocardiographic imaging-based drivers ablation was performed in 20 patients following PBMC. At 1-year, 75% of the patients in the combined group were in SR compared to 40% in the propensity-score matched group (p = 0.004). The composite of AF recurrence, need for mitral surgery and all-cause mortality was also more frequent in the control group (65% vs. 30%; p = 0.005). Catheter ablation (odds ratio [OR] 1.58; 95% confidence interval [CI] [1.17-17.37]; p = 0.04) and AF type (OR 1.46; 95% CI [1.05-82.64]; p < 0.001) were the only independent predictors of SR at 1-year. Noninvasive mapping in the combined group showed that the number of simultaneous rotors (OR 2.10; 95% CI [1.41-10.2]; p = 0.04) was the only independent predictor of AF. CONCLUSION: A combined procedure of AF ablation and PBMC significantly increased the proportion of patients in sinus rhythm at 1-year. Noninvasive mapping may help to improve AF characterization and guide personalized AF treatment.

Characterization of Communes with Quality Accredited Primary Healthcare Centers in Chile.

The accreditation process of primary healthcare centers in Chile has not had the same progress as in hospitals, which show high levels of compliance. The purpose of this research is to characterize the communes that have accredited family healthcare centers (CESFAMs) through socio-economic, municipal management, clinical management, and population variables by performing a principal components analysis (PCA) with biplot analysis and a grouping of communes through a hierarchical analysis. The biplot analysis and hierarchical analysis yielded the formation of three large groups of communes with accredited CESFAMs, characterized mainly by population size, number of people registered in the municipal health system, socioeconomic indicators, and financial management and clinical management variables. It was found that the communes that have accredited CESFAMs are characterized by dissimilar behavior in relation to the variables analyzed. Through the model used, it was possible to establish at least three groups of communes according to their behavior against these variables. Of these, the variables of a municipal financial nature were not decisive in achieving the accreditation of the CESFAMs of these communes. Therefore, it is possible that there are other variables or factors that could be facilitating the achievement of accreditation processes.

Experiences and perceptions on sexuality, risk and STI/HIV prevention campaigns by university students. Designing a digital intervention. / Experiencias y percepciones sobre sexualidad, riesgo y campañas de prevención de ITS/VIH por estudiantes universitarios. Diseñando una intervención digital.

This study reports on the qualitative phase of a study that seeks to design a digital intervention for the prevention of STI / HIV and promotion of sexual health in university students. The experience and perception that university students have about sexuality, risk and prevention campaigns are addressed through focus groups. Semi-structured interviews are conducted with key informants. The results reveal that sexual education is limited and restricted to the biological aspect, as well as loaded with prejudices and gender biases, which narrows the information provided to the student population. Wavering prevention strategies that fail to motivate students or offer them opportunities for making informed and independent decisions about their sexual health are apparent. The STI / HIV campaigns assessed are distant, fear-based and not inclusive. Interventions in sexual health do not weigh experiential aspects of youth sexuality, as they are based on models of ideal and stereotyped behavior, discarding first-person narratives and their rich complexity. It is imperative to innovate in the prevention of STI/HIV, formulating interventions based on an integrative, multidisciplinary and contextualized design that values the theory and experience of the target populations.

Damos cuenta de la fase cualitativa de una investigación que busca diseñar una intervención digital de prevención de ITS/VIH y promoción de salud sexual en jóvenes universitarios. A partir de grupos focales se abordó la experiencia y percepción que universitarios tienen sobre sexualidad, riesgo y campañas de prevención. Se realizan entrevistas semiestructuradas a informantes claves. Los resultados muestran que la educación sexual es escasa, reducida a lo biológico, cargada de prejuicios y sesgos de género, limitando el manejo de información por la población estudiantil. Se evidencian estrategias vacilantes de prevención, no logrando motivar ni ofrecer oportunidades para la toma de decisiones conscientes y autónomas en salud sexual. Las campañas de ITS/VIH se evaluaron poco inclusivas, lejanas y basadas en el miedo. Las intervenciones en salud sexual han fallado en sopesar aspectos experienciales de la sexualidad juvenil, basándose en modelos de comportamiento ideal y estereotipado, desechando narrativas en primera persona y su rica complejidad. Es imperativo innovar en la prevención de ITS/VIH, formulando intervenciones basadas en un diseño integrador, multidisciplinar y situado, que valore la teoría y la experiencia de las poblaciones objetivo.

Experiencias y percepciones sobre sexualidad, riesgo y campañas de prevención de ITS/VIH por estudiantes universitarios. Diseñando una intervención digital / Experiences and perceptions on sexuality, risk and STI/HIV prevention campaigns by university students. Designing a digital intervention

Resumen Damos cuenta de la fase cualitativa de una investigación que busca diseñar una intervención digital de prevención de ITS/VIH y promoción de salud sexual en jóvenes universitarios. A partir de grupos focales se abordó la experiencia y percepción que universitarios tienen sobre sexualidad, riesgo y campañas de prevención. Se realizan entrevistas semiestructuradas a informantes claves. Los resultados muestran que la educación sexual es escasa, reducida a lo biológico, cargada de prejuicios y sesgos de género, limitando el manejo de información por la población estudiantil. Se evidencian estrategias vacilantes de prevención, no logrando motivar ni ofrecer oportunidades para la toma de decisiones conscientes y autónomas en salud sexual. Las campañas de ITS/VIH se evaluaron poco inclusivas, lejanas y basadas en el miedo. Las intervenciones en salud sexual han fallado en sopesar aspectos experienciales de la sexualidad juvenil, basándose en modelos de comportamiento ideal y estereotipado, desechando narrativas en primera persona y su rica complejidad. Es imperativo innovar en la prevención de ITS/VIH, formulando intervenciones basadas en un diseño integrador, multidisciplinar y situado, que valore la teoría y la experiencia de las poblaciones objetivo.

Abstract This study reports on the qualitative phase of a study that seeks to design a digital intervention for the prevention of STI / HIV and promotion of sexual health in university students. The experience and perception that university students have about sexuality, risk and prevention campaigns are addressed through focus groups. Semi-structured interviews are conducted with key informants. The results reveal that sexual education is limited and restricted to the biological aspect, as well as loaded with prejudices and gender biases, which narrows the information provided to the student population. Wavering prevention strategies that fail to motivate students or offer them opportunities for making informed and independent decisions about their sexual health are apparent. The STI / HIV campaigns assessed are distant, fear-based and not inclusive. Interventions in sexual health do not weigh experiential aspects of youth sexuality, as they are based on models of ideal and stereotyped behavior, discarding first-person narratives and their rich complexity. It is imperative to innovate in the prevention of STI/HIV, formulating interventions based on an integrative, multidisciplinary and contextualized design that values the theory and experience of the target populations.

Recent Insights into COVID-19 in Children and Clinical Recommendations.

Pediatric coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) have been recognized in multiple countries globally. In this review, we provide recent insights into SARS-CoV-2 infection in children from epidemiological, clinical, and laboratory perspectives, including reports on the disease course and therapy. We highlight key features of SARS-CoV-2 infection in children, the relationship between MIS-C and Kawasaki disease, and summarize treatment guidelines for COVID-19 in children from institutional protocols from Colombia, case reports, recommendations based on expert consensus, and official statements from organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO), United States Center for Disease Control (CDC), Colombian Association of Infectious Diseases, and the Colombian Society of Pediatrics. Finally, we discuss gaps in research with suggestions for future research on the pathogenesis underlying pediatric COVID-19.

Evolution of infant mortality in Chile and how it has been reflected in scientific publications between 1980 and 2019. / Evolución de la mortalidad infantil en Chile y su reflejo en las publicaciones científicas entre 1980 y 2019.

INTRODUCTION: One of the Millennium Development Goals is to reduce the child mortality rate (CMR), an indicator still present in the Sustainable Development Goals (2015-2030). At the same time, scientific investigations and reports were necessary to assess the behavior of the infant mortality rate (IMR) and the effectiveness of interventions to approach it. OBJECTIVE: To describe IMR behavior in Chile and how it has been reflected in the scientific publications made in the 1980-2019 period. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Implementation of the multivariate adaptive regression spline (MARS) method in relation to IMR between 1980 and 2016, and search for related articles published between 1980 and 2019 in SciELO, Lilacs, PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Embase. The analysis included IMR behavior and its reflection in the publications made in that period. RESULTS: IMR decreased from 28 % to 7.2 % per 1000 live births between 1980 and 2016 (-74 %) and 82 publications were identified in this period. Two types of studies about IMR were reported as of the cutoff point of 1996. In the first period, studies focused on preventable diseases and interventions, while IMR showed a slowing down in its reduction. After the cutoff point, studies focused on non-preventable diseases and factors related to inequalities and inequities. CONCLUSIONS: IMR prevails as a synthetic indicator of health conditions. Changes in its evolution and causes have been reflected in publications, which have shifted their focus and areas of interest in accordance with the changes in this indicator.

Introducción. Los Objetivos de Desarrollo del Milenio incluyen la reducción de la tasa de mortalidad infantil (TMI), indicador que sigue vigente en las metas de los Objetivos de Desarrollo Sostenible (2015-2030). En paralelo, se requirieron investigaciones y reportes científicos para evaluar el comportamiento de la TMI y la efectividad de intervenciones para su abordaje. Objetivo. Describir el comportamiento de la TMI en Chile y su reflejo en las publicaciones científicas durante el período 1980-2019. Material y métodos. Aplicación del método de regresión lineal multivariable adaptiva (MARS, por su sigla en inglés) sobre las TMI entre 1980 y 2016, y búsqueda de artículos relacionados publicados entre 1980 y 2019 en SciELO, Lilacs, PubMed, Cochrane Library y Embase. Se analizó el comportamiento de la TMI y su reflejo en las publicaciones del período. Resultados. Hubo una reducción de la TMI de 28 ‰ a 7,2 ‰ nacidos vivos entre 1980 y 2016 (-74 %) y se identificaron 82 publicaciones en el período. Se registraron dos tipos de estudio sobre la TMI a partir de un punto de corte en 1996. En el primer período, los estudios abordaron patologías evitables e intervenciones, a la par de una reducción de la velocidad de descenso de la TMI. Posteriormente al punto de corte, los estudios se enfocaron en enfermedades no evitables y factores relacionados con inequidades y desigualdades. Conclusiones. La TMI prevalece como indicador sintético de las condiciones de salud. Las modificaciones en su evolución y sus causas se han reflejado en las publicaciones, que han variado sus énfasis y focos de atención según el cambio en este indicador.

Tendencia de la cesárea: una reflexión desde la ética / Cesarean section trend: a reflection from ethics / Tendência à cesárea: uma reflexão a partir da ética

Resumen: Las estadísticas mundiales muestran una tendencia al alza en las tasas de cesáreas que superan el 15% recomendado por la OPS/OMS. Esta cirugía se ha convertido en la más frecuente en los países de ingresos medios y altos. Algunos estudios sugieren que no todas estas cesáreas estarían justificadas. Al respecto se plantean algunas reflexiones sobre los dilemas éticos que se pueden observar desde varias posiciones teóricas, como el consecuencialismo, el kantianismo, la ética de la virtud y la teoría feminista. A su vez, estos dilemas están inmersos en múltiples factores individuales, sociales y culturales, entre otros. Desde la salud pública se debe revisar el parámetro actual definido como "rango aceptable" de cesáreas, ya que puede ser demasiado bajo. Igualmente se recomienda la aplicación de medidas para fortalecer en los pacientes el deseo de un parto normal, cuando sea posible, a través de información y educación oportuna durante la atención prenatal. Las decisiones del profesional de la salud y de las mujeres deben estar respaldadas por la mejor información disponible.

Abstract: World statistics show an upward trend in Cesarean section rates that exceed the 15% recommended by PAHO / WHO. This surgery has become the most common in high- and middle-income countries. Some studies suggest that not all these caesarean sections would be justified. In this regard, some reflections are made on the ethical dilemmas that can be observed from various theoretical positions such as consequentialism, Kantianism, the ethics of virtue and feminist theory. In turn, these dilemmas are immersed in multiple individuals, social and cultural factors, among others. From Public Health, the current parameter defined as the "acceptable range" of Caesarean sections should be reviewed as it may be too low. It is also recommended that measures be applied to strengthen patients' desire for a normal delivery whenever possible through timely information and education during prenatal care. The decisions of the health professional and women must be supported by the best information available.

Resumo: As estatísticas mundiais mostram uma tendência de alta nas taxas de cesáreas que superam em 15% o recomendado pela OPAS/OMS. Esta cirurgia se converteu na mais frequente em países de renda média e alta. Alguns estudos sugerem que não todas estas cesáreas seriam justificadas. A esse respeito se colocam algumas reflexões sobre os dilemas éticos que se podem observar desde várias posiciones teóricas, como o consequencialismo, o kantianismo, a ética da virtude e a teoria feminista. Por sua vez, estes dilemas estão imersos em múltiplos fatores individuais, sociais e culturais, entre outros. Deve-se revisar, a partir da saúde pública, o parâmetro atual definido como "faixa aceitável" de cesáreas, já que pode ser demasiado baixo. Igualmente se recomenda a aplicação de medidas para fortalecer nas pacientes o desejo de um parto normal, quando possível, através de informação e educação oportuna durante a assistência pré-natal. As decisões do profissional da saúde e das mulheres devem estar respaldadas pela melhor informação disponível.

Evolución de la mortalidad infantil en Chile y su reflejo en las publicaciones científicas entre 1980 y 2019 / Evolution of infant mortality in Chile and how it has been reflected in scientific publications between 1980 and 2019

Introducción. Los Objetivos de Desarrollo del Milenio incluyen la reducción de la tasa de mortalidad infantil (TMI), indicador que sigue vigente en las metas de los Objetivos de Desarrollo Sostenible (2015-2030). En paralelo, se requirieron investigaciones y reportes científicos para evaluar el comportamiento de la TMI y la efectividad de intervenciones para su abordaje. Objetivo. Describir el comportamiento de la TMI en Chile y su reflejo en las publicaciones científicas durante el período 1980-2019. Material y métodos. Aplicación del método de regresión lineal multivariable adaptiva (MARS, por su sigla en inglés) sobre las TMI entre 1980 y 2016, y búsqueda de artículos relacionados publicados entre 1980 y 2019 en SciELO, Lilacs, PubMed, Cochrane Library y Embase. Se analizó el comportamiento de la TMI y su reflejo en las publicaciones del período. Resultados. Hubo una reducción de la TMI de 28 ‰ a 7,2 ‰ nacidos vivos entre 1980 y 2016 (-74 %) y se identificaron 82 publicaciones en el período. Se registraron dos tipos de estudio sobre la TMI a partir de un punto de corte en 1996 En el primer período, los estudios abordaron patologías evitables e intervenciones, a la par de una reducción de la velocidad de descenso de la TMI. Posteriormente al punto de corte, los estudios se enfocaron en enfermedades no evitables y factores relacionados con inequidades y desigualdades. Conclusiones. La TMI prevalece como indicador sintético de las condiciones de salud. Las modificaciones en su evolución y sus causas se han reflejado en las publicaciones, que han variado sus énfasis y focos de atención según el cambio en este indicador

Introduction. One of the Millennium Development Goals is to reduce the child mortality rate (CMR), an indicator still present in the Sustainable Development Goals (2015-2030). At the same time, scientific investigations and reports were necessary to assess the behavior of the infant mortality rate (IMR) and the effectiveness of interventions to approach it. Objective. To describe IMR behavior in Chile and how it has been reflected in the scientific publications made in the 1980-2019 period. Material and methods. Implementation of the multivariate adaptive regression spline (MARS) method in relation to IMR between 1980 and 2016, and search for related articles published between 1980 and 2019 in SciELO, Lilacs, PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Embase. The analysis included IMR behavior and its reflection in the publications made in that period. Results. IMR decreased from 28 % to 7.2 % per 1000 live births between 1980 and 2016 (-74 %) and 82 publications were identified in this period. Two types of studies about IMR were reported as of the cutoff point of 1996. In the first period, studies focused on preventable diseases and interventions, while IMR showed a slowing down in its reduction. After the cutoff point, studies focused on non-preventable diseases and factors related to inequalities and inequities. Conclusions. IMR prevails as a synthetic indicator of health conditions. Changes in its evolution and causes have been reflected in publications, which have shifted their focus and areas of interest in accordance with the changes in this indicator.

Validación de un instrumento para evaluar consejería adolescente diferenciada en un centro de salud / Validation of an instrument for assessing adolescent counseling differentiated in a health center

RESUMEN La OMS/OPS admite que los patrones de conducta sexuales de los adolescentes y jóvenes han cambiado. Se afirma la consejería adolescente ha mostrado buenos resultados. Por ello el propósito de este estudio es evaluar un cuestionario que evaluará este tipo de intervención. Objetivos Establecer la validez de constructo y la confiabilidad de un instrumento para evaluar consejería en adolescentes asistentes al centro de salud Rucahueche. Métodos Estudio exploratorio con una muestra de 151 adolescentes entre 15 y 19 años, a los que se les aplicó un cuestionario autoadministrado. La validez de constructo y de consistencia interna fue evaluada por análisis factorial y el Alfa de Cronbach, respectivamente. Resultados El análisis factorial identificó en 3 dimensiones 10 constructos, los cuales explicaron el 62% - 67% de su variabilidad. A su vez, el análisis de consistencia interna obtuvo una puntuación de alfa de 0,934. Conclusiones El instrumento mostró evidencias de validez de constructo y de confiabilidad. Dichos análisis indican la factibilidad de aplicación del instrumento. Sin embargo, la validación del instrumento aún es un reto, debido a su relevancia para una mirada más profunda sobre la atención y la gestión en la atención de adolescentes. Por tanto, se considerará seguir haciendo estudios para explorar su dimensionalidad y validez de contenido.

ABSTRACT The WHO/PAHO admits that the sexual behavior patterns of adolescents and young people have changed. It is claimed adolescent counseling has shown good results. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to evaluate a questionnaire that will evaluate this type of intervention. Objectives To establish the construct validity and reliability of an instrument for assessing adolescent counseling attending the health center Rucahueche. Methods An exploratory study with a sample of 151 adolescents aged 15 to 19 years, who were applied a self-administered questionnaire. Construct validity and internal consistency was assessed by factor analysis and Cronbach's alpha, respectively. Results: Factor analysis identified three dimensions 10 constructs, which accounted for 62% -67% of its variability. In turn, analysis of internal consistency score was alpha of 0.934. Conclusions The instrument showed evidence of construct validity and reliability. These analyzes indícate the feasibility of the instrument. However, validation of the instrument is still a challenge, because of its relevance to a deeper look on the care and management in adolescent care. Therefore, it is deemed to continue doing studies to explore the dimensionality and content validity.