Prevalence of suspected abuse of non-institutionalized older people treated in primary care. PRESENCIA study.

OBJECTIVES: To determine the prevalence of suspected abuse of non-institutionalised elderly people and the associated variables. PATIENTS AND METHOD: Observational, descriptive, cross-sectional, multicentre study in patients aged 65 years or older, non-institutionalised, consecutively selected in primary care (PC). The EASI questionnaires (Suspected Elderly Abuse Index), the EAI questionnaire (Suspected Abuse Index in patients with cognitive impairment), the Barthel index, and the EUROQOL-5D questionnaire were used with patients, and the CASE questionnaire and the Zarit test were used with caregivers. Socio-demographic, health, and quality of life variables were analysed in all patients. RESULTS: Eight hundred four patients were included, mean age 78.9±7.9 years, 58.3% women. The prevalence of suspected abuse was 11.3% (95% CI: 9.1%-13.9%). Suspected abuse was more frequent in women than in men (14.4% vs. 7.1%; odds ratio (OR)=1.97; 95% CI=1.1-3.4; p=0.016) and in those who lived with two or more people compared to those who lived alone (18.4% vs. 7.3%; OR=2.42; 95% CI=1.1-5.0; p=0.017). Among older patients, the lower their dependency, the lower the prevalence of suspected abuse (30.0% in highly dependent vs. 8.7% in non-dependent: p-trend=0.006); and the better the perceived health status, the lower the prevalence of suspected abuse (29.6% in poor health status vs. 6.9% in optimal health status; p-trend=<0.001). Among caregivers, the prevalence of suspected abuse was 20.4% (95% CI=12.8%-28.0%). A trend of higher prevalence of suspected abuse could be observed with higher scores on the CASE questionnaire (56.3% at high risk and 9.6% with no risk of abuse; p-trend=0.007). In the case of the ZARIT questionnaire with scores below 47, the prevalence of suspected abuse was 9.1%, and for scores above 55, it was 52.6% (p-trend<0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The results of the PRESENCIA study show that approximately 1 in 10 patients aged ≥65 meet the criteria for suspected abuse. The probability of abuse increases in women, in patients with greater dependency and in patients with poorer perceived health status. Caregivers with greater overload and greater risk presented a greater suspicion of elder abuse.

Granulomatous Panniculitis as an Initial Manifestation of Sjögren Syndrome.

ABSTRACT: A 65-year-old woman presented with unexplained weight loss, recurrent fever, and a dermatosis with painful nodules on the extremities. Biopsies showed focal lobular panniculitis with neutrophilic microgranulomas. Comprehensive investigations ruled out infection and hematologic and solid organ neoplasms. Laboratory results showed anti-Ro/SSA and anti-La/SSB antibody positivity, and elevated inflammatory markers. Dry mouth and eye were confirmed. The diagnosis of Sjögren syndrome with cutaneous panniculitis was established. Prednisone treatment with 30 mg/d resulted in remission of fever and pain improvement. This case emphasizes Sjögren syndrome as an autoimmune disease with multiple cutaneous manifestations and highlights its association with granulomatous panniculitis.

Epidemiología y caracterización molecular de las miopatías genéticas en adultos en una región del sureste de España / Epidemiology and molecular characterization of adult genetic myopathies in a southeastern region of Spain

Introducción Las miopatías genéticas constituyen un conjunto de enfermedades raras que impactan significativamente en la funcionalidad y la calidad de vida del paciente. Un diagnóstico temprano de las miopatías genéticas puede prevenir complicaciones futuras y proporcionar a las familias asesoramiento genético. A pesar del impacto sustancial de las miopatías genéticas en población adulta, la epidemiología global de estos trastornos está inadecuadamente abordada en la bibliografía.ObjetivosMejorar el entendimiento tanto de la epidemiología como de la genética de estos trastornos en la provincia de Alicante, situada en el sureste de España. Material y métodos. Entre 2020 y 2022, se llevó a cabo un estudio observacional prospectivo en el área de salud Alicante-Hospital General, que incluyó a pacientes de 16 años o más con sospecha de miopatías genéticas. Se recopilaron datos sociodemográficos, clínicos y genéticos. La fecha de referencia para el cálculo de la prevalencia se estableció el 31 de diciembre de 2022. Se utilizaron datos demográficos oficiales del área de salud para establecer la población en riesgo.ResultadosEn total, se identificó a 83 pacientes con miopatía genéticamente confirmada, lo que dio lugar a una prevalencia total de 29,59 casos por cada 100.000 habitantes. El rendimiento diagnóstico de las pruebas genéticas moleculares fue del 69,16%. Las miopatías genéticas más frecuentes incluyeron la distrofia miotónica (27,5%), las distrofinopatías (15,7%) y la distrofia facioescapulohumeral (15,7%).ConclusiónLa prevalencia de las miopatías genéticas puede variar considerablemente dependiendo de la región geográfica y la población estudiada. El análisis del rendimiento diagnóstico sugiere que los estudios genéticos deberían considerarse útiles en el diagnóstico de las miopatías genéticas. (AU)

Introduction. Genetic myopathies constitute a collection of rare diseases that significantly impact patient functionality and quality of life. Early diagnosis of genetic myopathies can prevent future complications and provide families with genetic counselling. Despite the substantial impact of genetic myopathies on the adult population, the global epidemiology of these disorders is inadequately addressed in the literature.Aims. To enhance understanding of both the epidemiology and genetics of these disorders within the province of Alicante, situated in southeastern Spain.Material and methods. Between 2020 and 2022, a prospective observational study was conducted at the Alicante Health Area-General Hospital, enrolling patients aged 16 years or older with suspected genetic myopathies. Sociodemographic, clinical, and genetic data were collected. The reference date for prevalence calculation was established as December 31, 2022. Official demographic data of the health area were used to set the population at risk.Results. In total, 83 patients were identified with confirmed genetically related myopathy, resulting in an overall prevalence of 29.59 cases per 100,000 inhabitants. The diagnostic yield for molecular genetic testing was found to be 69.16%. The most prevalent genetic myopathies identified included myotonic dystrophy (27.5%), dystrophinopathies (15.7%), and facioscapulohumeral dystrophy (15.7%).Conclusion. The prevalence of GMs can vary considerably depending on the geographical region and the studied population. The analysis of diagnostic yield suggests that genetic studies should be considered useful in the diagnosis of genetic myopathies. (AU)

[Sistematic review on the influence of leadership style on job satisfaction of health professionals]. / Revisión sistemática sobre la influencia del estilo de liderazgo en la satisfacción laboral de los profesionales de la salud.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: Healthcare organisations are highly complex entities that live with a high risk of instability. In order to minimise this instability, interactions and personal relationships play a major role and accordingly the figure of the leader gains full significance. The leadership style used can produce different reactions and lead to multiple outcomes, including job satisfaction. The aim of the present review is to correlate leadership style with job satisfaction in healthcare professionals. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A systematic review was carried out in BVS, Cochrane plus, CINAHL, ApaPsycinfo and Pubmed, selecting publications that mentioned leadership styles and job satisfaction in healthcare professionals. Publications search strategy were limited for the 5-10last years, full text availability and language of writing: English, French and Spanish. Review-type publications were excluded. Of the 1566 initial titles, 15 were selected for analysis. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: The transformational style showed the highest number of positive correlations, followed by the authentic and transactional styles. On the other hand, the passive and laissez-faire styles showed a negative correlation regardless of the professional category to which they belonged. The results of this study provide a starting point for adopting effective leadership styles to optimise the recruitment and training processes of staff in management and coordination roles.

Endogenous OptoRhoGEFs reveal biophysical principles of epithelial tissue furrowing.

During development, epithelia function as malleable substrates that undergo extensive remodeling to shape developing embryos. Optogenetic control of Rho signaling provides an avenue to investigate the mechanisms of epithelial morphogenesis, but transgenic optogenetic tools can be limited by variability in tool expression levels and deleterious effects of transgenic overexpression on development. Here, we use CRISPR/Cas9 to tag Drosophila RhoGEF2 and Cysts/Dp114RhoGEF with components of the iLID/SspB optogenetic heterodimer, permitting light-dependent control over endogenous protein activities. Using quantitative optogenetic perturbations, we uncover a dose-dependence of tissue furrow depth and bending behavior on RhoGEF recruitment, revealing mechanisms by which developing embryos can shape tissues into particular morphologies. We show that at the onset of gastrulation, furrows formed by cell lateral contraction are oriented and size-constrained by a stiff basal actomyosin layer. Our findings demonstrate the use of quantitative, 3D-patterned perturbations of cell contractility to precisely shape tissue structures and interrogate developmental mechanics.

Risks and benefits of sharing patient information on social media: a digital dilemma.

Social media (SoMe) has witnessed remarkable growth and emerged as a dominant method of communication worldwide. Platforms such as Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube have become important tools of the digital native generation. In the field of medicine, particularly, cardiology, attitudes towards SoMe have shifted, and professionals increasingly utilize it to share scientific findings, network with experts, and enhance teaching and learning. Notably, SoMe is being leveraged for teaching purposes, including the sharing of challenging and intriguing cases. However, sharing patient data, including photos or images, online carries significant implications and risks, potentially compromising individual privacy both online and offline. Privacy and data protection are fundamental rights within European Union treaties, and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) serves as the cornerstone of data protection legislation. The GDPR outlines crucial requirements, such as obtaining 'consent' and implementing 'anonymization', that must be met before sharing sensitive and patient-identifiable information. Additionally, it is vital to consider the patient's perspective and prioritize ethical and social considerations when addressing challenges associated with sharing patient information on SoMe platforms. Given the absence of a peer-review process and clear guidelines, we present an initial approach, a code of conduct, and recommendations for the ethical use of SoMe. In conclusion, this comprehensive review underscores the importance of a balanced approach that ensures patient privacy and upholds ethical standards while harnessing the immense potential of SoMe to advance cardiology practice and facilitate knowledge dissemination.

Mitochondrial Chaperone Code: Just warming up.

More than 99% of the mitochondrial proteome is encoded by the nucleus and requires refolding following import. Therefore, mitochondrial proteins require the coordinated action of molecular chaperones for their folding and activation. Several heat shock protein (Hsp) molecular chaperones, including members of the Hsp27, Hsp40/70, and Hsp90 families, as well as the chaperonin complex Hsp60/10 have an established role in mitochondrial protein import and folding. The "Chaperone Code" describes the regulation of chaperone activity by dynamic post-translational modifications; however, little is known about the post-translational regulation of mitochondrial chaperones. Dissecting the regulation of chaperone function is essential for understanding their differential regulation in pathogenic conditions and the potential development of efficacious therapeutic strategies. Here, we summarize the recent literature on post-translational regulation of mitochondrial chaperones, the consequences for mitochondrial function, and potential implications for disease.

Diagnostic and therapeutic complexity of Susac syndrome.

A 40-year-old man who attended the emergency department with a scotoma in right eye. He mentioned hearing difficulties and headache for months and he had sensory and motor deficits in the previous days. In the ophthalmic examination, the right eye had areas of arterial occlusion. MRI revealed hyperintense lesions. The patient was diagnosed with Susac syndrome. He was treated with systemic steroids, however, it was not enough to control the condition. Rituximab and intravenous immunoglobulins were added, which allowed the improvement of neurological symptoms, but the alteration of the visual field and the hearing defect did not recover. Early diagnosis of this pathology is essential, since delaying treatment can cause irreversible consequences. Sometimes it is difficult given the wide variety of symptoms and the course of the disease. Ocular manifestations may raise suspicion when the general symptoms are nonspecific.

The fundamental role of pH in CH4 bioconversion into polyhydroxybutyrate in mixed methanotrophic cultures.

Climate change and plastic pollution are likely the most relevant challenges for the environment in the 21st century. Developing cost-effective technologies for the bioconversion of methane (CH4) into polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) could simultaneously mitigate CH4 emissions and boost the commercialization of biodegradable polymers. Despite the fact that the role of temperature, nitrogen deprivation, CH4:O2 ratio or micronutrients availability on the PHA accumulation capacity of methanotrophs has been carefully explored, there is still a need for optimization of the CH4-to-PHA bioconversion process prior to becoming a feasible platform in future biorefineries. In this study, the influence of different cultivation broth pH values (5.5, 7, 8.5 and 10) on bacterial biomass growth, CH4 bioconversion rate, PHA accumulation capacity and bacterial community structure was investigated in a stirred tank bioreactor under nitrogen deprivation conditions. Higher CH4 elimination rates were obtained at increasing pH, with a maximum value of 50.4 ± 2.7 g CH4·m-3·h-1 observed at pH 8.5. This was likely mediated by an increased ionic strength in the mineral medium, which enhanced the gas-liquid mass transfer. Interestingly, higher PHB accumulations were observed at decreasing pH, with the highest PHB contents recorded at a pH 5.5 (43.7 ± 3.4 %w·w-1). The strong selective pressure of low pH towards the growth of Type II methanotrophic bacteria could explain this finding. The genus Methylocystis increased its abundance from 34 % up to 85 and 90 % at pH 5.5 and 7, respectively. On the contrary, Methylocystis was less abundant in the community enriched at pH 8.5 (14 %). The accumulation of intracellular PHB as energy and carbon storage material allowed the maintenance of high CH4 biodegradation rates during 48 h after complete nitrogen deprivation. The results here obtained demonstrated for the first time a crucial and multifactorial role of pH on the bioconversion performance of CH4 into PHA.

Usefulness of thoracic ultrasound in the assessment of removal of indwelling pleural catheter in patients with malignant pleural effusion.

INTRODUCTION: There are no defined criteria for deciding to remove a non-functioning indwelling pleural catheter (IPC) when lung re-expansion on chest X-ray is incomplete. Chest computed tomography (chest CT) is usually used. The objective of this work is to validate the usefulness of chest ultrasound performed by a pulmonologist and by a radiologist compared to chest CT. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Prospective, descriptive, multidisciplinary and multicenter study including patients with malignant pleural effusion and non-functioning IPC without lung reexpansion. Decisions made on the basis of chest ultrasound performed by a pulmonologist, and performed by a radiologist, were compared with chest CT as the gold standard. RESULTS: 18 patients were analyzed, all of them underwent ultrasound by a pulmonologist and chest CT and in 11 of them also ultrasound by a radiologist. The ultrasound performed by the pulmonologist presents a sensitivity of 60%, specificity of 100%, PPV 100% and NPV 66% in the decision of the correct removal of the IPC. The concordance of both ultrasounds (pulmonologist and radiologist) was 100%, with a kappa index of 1. The 4 discordant cases were those in which the IPC was not located on the ultrasound. CONCLUSIONS: Thoracic ultrasound performed by an expert pulmonologist is a valid and simple tool to determine spontaneous pleurodesis and remove a non-functioning IPC, which would make it possible to avoid chest CT in those cases in which lung reexpansion is observed with ultrasonography.

Osteoporotic vertebral fractures: Natural history and impact. / Fracturas vertebrales osteoporóticas: historia natural e impacto.

Osteoporosis, and the consequences derived from it, such as fragility fractures, constitute a growing public health problem. Suffering from a fracture of this nature is the main risk factor for suffering a new fracture. It is documented that vertebral compression fractures lead to significant morbidity and mortality, in the short and long term, as well as other complications, such as sagittal imbalance and hyperkyphosis of the segment. However, we have not found documentation that analyzes the medium and long-term consequences of these injuries, assessing the type of treatment used, and the economic impact they represent. The purpose of this review is to analyze the main recent literature on the subject and make a breakdown of the consequences of these fractures in various spheres, such as economic, quality of life, sagittal balance and radiographic parameters, pain or mortality; as well as a brief analysis of epidemiology and natural history. CONCLUSION: Osteoporotic fractures constitute an emerging problem, both in the medical and economic fields. The consequences and sequelae on the patient are multiple and although surgical options offer good long-term results, it is necessary to properly select the patient, through multidisciplinary teams, to try to minimize potential complications.

Epidemiology and molecular characterization of adult genetic myopathies in a southeastern region of Spain. / Epidemiología y caracterización molecular de las miopatías genéticas en adultos en una región del sureste de España.

INTRODUCTION: Genetic myopathies constitute a collection of rare diseases that significantly impact patient functionality and quality of life. Early diagnosis of genetic myopathies can prevent future complications and provide families with genetic counselling. Despite the substantial impact of genetic myopathies on the adult population, the global epidemiology of these disorders is inadequately addressed in the literature. AIMS: To enhance understanding of both the epidemiology and genetics of these disorders within the province of Alicante, situated in southeastern Spain. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Between 2020 and 2022, a prospective observational study was conducted at the Alicante Health Area-General Hospital, enrolling patients aged 16 years or older with suspected genetic myopathies. Sociodemographic, clinical, and genetic data were collected. The reference date for prevalence calculation was established as December 31, 2022. Official demographic data of the health area were used to set the population at risk. RESULTS: In total, 83 patients were identified with confirmed genetically related myopathy, resulting in an overall prevalence of 29.59 cases per 100,000 inhabitants. The diagnostic yield for molecular genetic testing was found to be 69.16%. The most prevalent genetic myopathies identified included myotonic dystrophy (27.5%), dystrophinopathies (15.7%), and facioscapulohumeral dystrophy (15.7%). CONCLUSION: The prevalence of GMs can vary considerably depending on the geographical region and the studied population. The analysis of diagnostic yield suggests that genetic studies should be considered useful in the diagnosis of genetic myopathies.

TITLE: Epidemiología y caracterización molecular de las miopatías genéticas en adultos en una región del sureste de España.Introducción. Las miopatías genéticas constituyen un conjunto de enfermedades raras que impactan significativamente en la funcionalidad y la calidad de vida del paciente. Un diagnóstico temprano de las miopatías genéticas puede prevenir complicaciones futuras y proporcionar a las familias asesoramiento genético. A pesar del impacto sustancial de las miopatías genéticas en población adulta, la epidemiología global de estos trastornos está inadecuadamente abordada en la bibliografía. Objetivos. Mejorar el entendimiento tanto de la epidemiología como de la genética de estos trastornos en la provincia de Alicante, situada en el sureste de España. Material y métodos. Entre 2020 y 2022, se llevó a cabo un estudio observacional prospectivo en el área de salud Alicante-Hospital General, que incluyó a pacientes de 16 años o más con sospecha de miopatías genéticas. Se recopilaron datos sociodemográficos, clínicos y genéticos. La fecha de referencia para el cálculo de la prevalencia se estableció el 31 de diciembre de 2022. Se utilizaron datos demográficos oficiales del área de salud para establecer la población en riesgo. Resultados. En total, se identificó a 83 pacientes con miopatía genéticamente confirmada, lo que dio lugar a una prevalencia total de 29,59 casos por cada 100.000 habitantes. El rendimiento diagnóstico de las pruebas genéticas moleculares fue del 69,16%. Las miopatías genéticas más frecuentes incluyeron la distrofia miotónica (27,5%), las distrofinopatías (15,7%) y la distrofia facioescapulohumeral (15,7%). Conclusión. La prevalencia de las miopatías genéticas puede variar considerablemente dependiendo de la región geográfica y la población estudiada. El análisis del rendimiento diagnóstico sugiere que los estudios genéticos deberían considerarse útiles en el diagnóstico de las miopatías genéticas.

[Translated article] Epidemiological, Clinical, and Allergic Profile of Psoriatic Patients. Evaluation of the Spanish Registry of Contact Dermatitis and Cutaneous Allergy (REIDAC).

BACKGROUND: Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory dermatosis whose clinical and topographic distribution requires differential diagnosis, or the possible association with allergic contact dermatitis (ACD), requiring patch testing (PT) as part of the diagnostic procedure. OBJECTIVES: To describe the epidemiological, clinical, and allergic profile of patients with a primary or secondary diagnosis of psoriasis undergoing PT and compare them with patients with a diagnosis of ACD at the end of the diagnostic process. METHODS: Cross-sectional study with data from REIDAC from 2018 through 2023 of selected patients with a diagnosis of psoriasis and/or ACD. RESULTS: A total of 11 502 patients were included, 513 of whom had been diagnosed with primary or secondary psoriasis, 3640 with ACD, and 108 with both diseases. Men were more predominant in the groups of patients with psoriasis, psoriasis+ACD, and lesions were more predominantly seen in the hands with little association with atopic factors vs the ACD group. The rate of positivity in PT to the 2022 Spanish battery of allergens was lower in the group with psoriasis only in 27% of the patients. The most common allergens found in the psoriasis group were also the most common ones found in the overall ACD population. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, 36.2% of psoriatic patients tested positive in PT to the 2022 Spanish battery of allergens, which proved that this association is not uncommon. Overall, psoriatic patients had a higher mean age, were more predominantly men, and showed more hand involvement.

Prevalence, impact and management of hypertension-mediated organ damage in type 2 diabetes patients.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the prevalence, impact and management of hypertension-mediated organ damage (HMOD) according to the presence of type 2 diabetes (T2DM). METHODS: IBERICAN is an ongoing multicenter, observational and prospective study, including outpatients aged 18-85 years who attended the Primary Care setting in Spain. In this study, the prevalence, impact and management of HMOD according to the presence of T2DM at baseline were analyzed. RESULTS: At baseline, 8066 patients (20.2% T2DM, 28.6% HMOD) were analyzed. Among patients with T2DM, 31.7% had hypertension, 29.8% dyslipidemia and 29.4% obesity and 49.3% had ≥1 HMOD, mainly high pulse pressure (29.6%), albuminuria (16.2%) and moderate renal impairment (13.6%). The presence of T2DM significantly increased the risk of having CV risk factors and HMOD. Among T2DM population, patients with HMOD had more dyslipidemia (78.2% vs 70.5%; P=0.001), hypertension (75.4% vs 66.4%; P=0.001), any CV disease (39.6% vs 16.1%; P=0.001) and received more drugs. Despite the majority of types of glucose-lowering agents were more frequently taken by those patients with HMOD, compared to the total T2DM population, the use of SGLT2 inhibitors and GLP-1 receptor agonists was marginal. CONCLUSIONS: In patients daily attended in primary care setting in Spain, one in five patients had T2DM and nearly half of these patients had HMOD. In patients with T2DM, the presence of HMOD was associated with a higher risk of CV risk factors and CV disease. Despite the very high CV risk, the use of glucose-lowering agents with proven CV benefit was markedly low.

Standard and Expanded Series Patch Testing Update by the Spanish Contact Dermatitis and Skin Allergy Research Group (GEIDAC). / Actualización de la batería estándar y batería ampliada de pruebas alérgicas de contacto por el Grupo Español de Investigación en Dermatitis de Contacto y Alergia Cutánea (GEIDAC).

After the meeting held by the Spanish Contact Dermatitis and Skin Allergy Research Group (GEIDAC) back in October 2021, changes were suggested to the Spanish standard series patch testing. Hydroxyethyl methacrylate (2% pet.), textile dye mixt (6.6% pet.), linalool hydroperoxide (1% pet.), and limonene hydroperoxide (0.3% pet.) were, then, added to the series that agreed upon in 2016. Ethyldiamine and phenoxyethanol were excluded. Methyldibromoglutaronitrile, the mixture of sesquiterpene lactones, and hydroxyisohexyl 3-cyclohexene (Lyral) were alo added to the extended Spanish series of 2022.

Conceptualizing Sexual Wellbeing: A Qualitative Investigation to Inform Development of a Measure (Natsal-SW).

Despite increasing scientific and policy interest in sexual wellbeing, it remains poorly conceptualized. Many studies purporting to measure it instead measure related but distinct concepts, such as sexual satisfaction. This lack of conceptual clarity impedes understanding, measuring, and improving sexual wellbeing. We present qualitative research from multi-stage, mixed-methods work to develop a new measure of sexual wellbeing (Natsal-SW) for the fourth British National Survey of Sexual Attitudes & Lifestyles. Literature review and discussion generated a conceptual framework with seven proposed domains: respect, self-esteem, comfort, self-determination, safety and security, forgiveness, and resilience. Semi-structured interviews with 40 adults aged 18-64 then explored whether and how these domains aligned with participants' own understandings, experiences, and language of sexual wellbeing. Data were analyzed thematically. Participants conceptualized sexual wellbeing as distinct from sexual satisfaction and sexual health and as multidimensional, dynamic, and socially and structurally influenced. All seven proposed domains resonated with accounts of sexual wellbeing as a general construct. The personal salience of different domains and their dimensions varied between individuals (especially by gender and sexual orientation) and fluctuated individually over time. This study clarifies dimensions of domains that participants considered important, providing an empirical basis to inform development of a new measure of sexual wellbeing.

Efecto de la variante Ómicron sobre la incidencia y la letalidad durante la 6 onda epidémica COVID-19 en España / Effect of the Omicron variant on cumulative incidence of infection and lethality during the sixth wave of the COVID-19 epidemic in Spain

La pandemia COVID-19 ha puesto a prueba los sistemas sanitarios a nivel mundial. Las sucesivas ondas epidémicas han mostrado características diferentes. La variante Ómicron del SARS-CoV-2 modificó el comportamiento epidémico que habían seguido las variantes previas. El objetivo de este análisis fue determinar las características epidemiológicas de la COVID-19 durante la 6.ª onda epidémica y sus diferencias según predominara las variantes Delta u Ómicron. Se analizaron los datos epidemiológicos correspondientes a la 6.ª onda epidémica publicados por los organismos oficiales, y se analizaron la incidencia acumulada de infección (IA-I) y las tasas de letalidad (TL), tanto del conjunto de España como de las diferentes Comunidades Autónomas, en el conjunto de la población y por grupos etarios. Los resultados mostraron que la IA-I era mayor con la variante Ómicron (10,89 vs. 0,75% con Delta) mientras que la TL lo era con la variante Delta (4,2 vs. 1,3‰ con Ómicron), así como una mayor tasa de hospitalización e ingreso en UCI con la variante Delta.(AU)

The COVID-19 pandemic has strained healthcare systems globally. The successive epidemic waves have shown different characteristics. The Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2 modified the epidemic behavior that previous variants had followed. The aim of this analysis was to determine the epidemiological characteristics of COVID-19 during the sixth epidemic wave and its differences according to the predominance of the Delta or Omicron variants. The epidemiological data corresponding to the sixth wave of the epidemic published by official organizations were analyzed, and the cumulative incidence of infection (CI-I) and case fatality rates (CFR) were calculated, both for Spain as a whole and for the different Autonomous Communities, in the population as a whole and by age groups. The results showed that the CI-I was higher with the Ómicron variant (10.89% vs 0.75% with Delta) while the CFR was higher with the Delta variant (4.2‰ vs 1.3‰ with Ómicron), as well as a higher rate of hospitalization and ICU admission with the Delta variant.(AU)

[Translated article] Four-year Epidemiological Surveillance of the Spanish Registry of Research in Contact Dermatitis and Cutaneous Allergy: Current Situation and Trends.

BACKGROUND: The epidemiological surveillance of contact dermatitis is one of the objectives of the Spanish Registry of Research in Contact Dermatitis and Cutaneous Allergy. Knowing whether the prevalence of positive tests to the different allergens changes over time is important for this monitoring process. OBJECTIVES: To describe the various temporary trends in allergen positivity in the GEIDAC standard series from 2018 through December 31, 2022. METHODS: This was a multicenter, observational trial of consecutive patients analyzed via patch tests as part of the study of possible allergic contact dermatitises collected prospectively within the Spanish Registry of Research in Contact Dermatitis and Cutaneous Allergy. The data was analyzed using 2 statistical tests: one homogeneity test (to describe the changes seen over time) and one trend test (to see whether the changes described followed a linear trend). RESULTS: A total of 11327 patients were included in the study. Overall, the allergens associated with a highest sensitization were nickel sulfate, methylisothiazolinone, cobalt chloride, methylchloroisothiazolinone/methylisothiazolinone, and fragrance mix i. A statistically significant decrease was found in the percentage of methylisothiazolinone positive tests across the study years with an orderly trend. CONCLUSIONS: Although various changes were seen in the sensitizations trends to several allergens of the standard testing, it became obvious that a high sensitization to nickel, methylchloroisothiazolinone/methylisothiazolinone and fragrances mix i remained. Only a significant downward trend was seen for methylisothiazolinone.