Understanding the dynamics of deceased organ donation and utilization in Colombia.

Objective: To obtain a comprehensive overview of organ donation, organ utilization, and discard in the entire donation process in Colombia. Methods: A retrospective study of 1 451 possible donors, distributed in three regions of Colombia, evaluated in 2022. The general characteristics, diagnosis, and causes of contraindication for potential donors were described. Results: Among the 1 451 possible donors, 441 (30.4%) fulfilled brain death criteria, constituting the potential donor pool. Families consented to organ donation in 141 medically suitable cases, while 60 instances utilized legal presumption, leading to 201 eligible donors (13.9%). Of those, 160 (11.0%) were actual donors (in whom operative incision was made with the intent of organ recovery or who had at least one organ recovered). Finally, we identified 147 utilized donors (10.1%) (from whom at least one organ was transplanted). Statistically significant differences were found between age, sex, diagnosis of brain death, and donor critical pathway between regions. A total of 411 organs were transplanted from 147 utilized donors, with kidneys being the most frequently procured and transplanted organs, accounting for 280 (68.1%) of the total. This was followed by 85 livers (20.7%), 31 hearts (7.5%), 14 lungs (3.4%), and 1 pancreas (0.2%). The discard rate of procured deceased donors was 8.1%. Conclusions: About one-tenth of donors are effectively used for transplantation purposes. Our findings highlight areas of success and challenges, providing a basis for future improvements in Colombia.

Understanding the dynamics of deceased organ donation and utilization in Colombia / Examen de la dinámica de la donación y utilización de órganos de personas fallecidas en Colombia / Entendendo a dinâmica da doação e do aproveitamento de órgãos de pessoas falecidas na Colômbia

ABSTRACT Objective. To obtain a comprehensive overview of organ donation, organ utilization, and discard in the entire donation process in Colombia. Methods. A retrospective study of 1 451 possible donors, distributed in three regions of Colombia, evaluated in 2022. The general characteristics, diagnosis, and causes of contraindication for potential donors were described. Results. Among the 1 451 possible donors, 441 (30.4%) fulfilled brain death criteria, constituting the potential donor pool. Families consented to organ donation in 141 medically suitable cases, while 60 instances utilized legal presumption, leading to 201 eligible donors (13.9%). Of those, 160 (11.0%) were actual donors (in whom operative incision was made with the intent of organ recovery or who had at least one organ recovered). Finally, we identified 147 utilized donors (10.1%) (from whom at least one organ was transplanted). Statistically significant differences were found between age, sex, diagnosis of brain death, and donor critical pathway between regions. A total of 411 organs were transplanted from 147 utilized donors, with kidneys being the most frequently procured and transplanted organs, accounting for 280 (68.1%) of the total. This was followed by 85 livers (20.7%), 31 hearts (7.5%), 14 lungs (3.4%), and 1 pancreas (0.2%). The discard rate of procured deceased donors was 8.1%. Conclusions. About one-tenth of donors are effectively used for transplantation purposes. Our findings highlight areas of success and challenges, providing a basis for future improvements in Colombia.

RESUMEN Objetivo. Presentar una descripción integral de la donación, utilización y descarte de órganos en todo el proceso de donación en Colombia. Métodos. Estudio retrospectivo de 1 451 donantes posibles, distribuidos en tres regiones de Colombia, que fueron evaluados en el 2022. Se describen las características generales, el diagnóstico y las causas de contraindicación de los donantes potenciales. Resultados. De los 1 451 donantes posibles, 441 (30,4%) cumplían con los criterios de muerte encefálica y constituyeron el conjunto de donantes potenciales. Las familias consintieron la donación de órganos en 141 casos aptos desde el punto de vista médico, mientras que en 60 casos se recurrió a la presunción legal, con lo que se llegó a 201 donantes aptos (13,9%). De estos, 160 (11,0%) fueron donantes reales (en los que se les practicó una incisión quirúrgica para la extracción de órganos o se obtuvo al menos un órgano). En última instancia, hubo 147 donantes utilizados (10,1%) (de los que se trasplantó al menos un órgano). Se observaron diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre las regiones en cuanto a edad, sexo, diagnóstico de muerte encefálica y vía crítica del donante. Se trasplantaron un total de 411 órganos procedentes de 147 donantes utilizados; los riñones fueron los órganos obtenidos y trasplantados con mayor frecuencia, ya que supusieron 280 (68,1%) del total de órganos, seguidos del hígado (85, 20,7%), el corazón (31 , 7,5%), los pulmones (14, 3,4%) y el páncreas (1, 0,2%). La tasa de descarte de los donantes fallecidos disponibles fue del 8,1%. Conclusiones. Aproximadamente una décima parte de los donantes son utilizados, de hecho, para realizar trasplantes. Estos datos destacan las áreas en las que se han obtenido buenos resultados y aquellas en las que se presentan desafíos, lo cual proporciona una base para futuras mejoras en Colombia.

RESUMO Objetivo. Obter uma visão geral e abrangente da doação, do aproveitamento e do descarte de órgãos em todo o processo de doação na Colômbia. Métodos. Estudo retrospectivo de 1 451 possíveis doadores em três regiões da Colômbia que foram avaliados em 2022. Foram descritas as características gerais, o diagnóstico e os motivos para a contraindicação de potenciais doadores. Resultados. Dentre os 1 451 possíveis doadores, 441 (30,4%) preencheram os critérios de morte encefálica, formando o grupo de potenciais doadores. Em 141 casos considerados clinicamente aptos, as famílias consentiram com a doação de órgãos, e em 60 casos utilizou-se o princípio da presunção legal, resultando em 201 doadores elegíveis (13,9%). Desses, 160 (11,0%) foram doadores efetivos (ou seja, doadores nos quais foi feita uma incisão cirúrgica com a intenção de remover um órgão ou pessoas com pelo menos um órgão removido). Por fim, foram identificados 147 doadores utilizados (10,1%) (ou seja, que doaram pelo menos um órgão que foi transplantado). Foram encontradas diferenças estatisticamente significantes entre idade, sexo, diagnóstico de morte encefálica e itinerário crítico de doação entre as regiões. Um total de 411 órgãos foram transplantados de 147 doadores utilizados. Os rins foram os órgãos mais frequentemente removidos e transplantados, representando 280 (68,1%) do total, seguido de 85 fígados (20,7%), 31 corações (7,5%), 14 pulmões (3,4%) e 1 pâncreas (0,2%). A taxa de descarte de doadores falecidos com órgãos removidos foi de 8,1%. Conclusões. Cerca de um décimo dos doadores são efetivamente usados para fins de transplante. Nossos achados destacam áreas de sucesso e desafios, oferecendo uma base para futuras melhorias na Colômbia.

Alternativas de procesos para la búsqueda de casos de tuberculosis bajo condiciones económicas limitadas. Cuba 2022-2025 / Process Alternatives for the Tuberculosis Case Finding under Limited Economic Conditions. Cuba 2022-2025

Ejecutar procesos efectivos de búsqueda de casos de tuberculosis es crucial para acele-rar el paso hacia su eliminación. El empeoramiento de las condiciones económicas mun-diales y nacionales no nos permite aplicar extensivamente las tecnologías rápidas mo-leculares idóneas de diagnóstico. Consideramos sensato entonces aplicar algoritmos alternativos que satisfagan las necesidades nacionales presentes hasta que las condi-ciones permitan la cobertura completa de las tecnologías moleculares recomendadas. Sugerimos introducir la radiografía digital para todos los algoritmos, utilizar mejor la microscopía de fluorescencia LED y la óptica convencional ya probadas. En conclusión, es preciso que este enfoque de trabajo, que procura optimizar la efectividad y eficiencia del programa, se introduzca en la práctica cotidiana hasta que lo idóneo sea permisible

Executing effective tuberculosis case-finding processes is crucial to accelerate the path towards elimination of the disease. The worsening of global and national economic conditions do not allow us to extensively apply rapid molecular diagnostic technolo-gies. We consider it sensible and necessary to apply alternative algorithms that meet the current national needs, until conditions allow full coverage of the recommended molecular technologies. We suggest introducing digital X-rays for all algorithms, bet-ter use of LED fluorescence microscopy and conventional optics already appropriate-ly tested. In conclusion, it is necessary that this approach that seeks to optimize the effectiveness and efficiency of the Cuban program be introduced into daily practice until the ideal is permissible

A multidisciplinary approach reveals a new species of glassfrog from Colombia (Anura: Centrolenidae: Nymphargus).

Anurans of the family Centrolenidae are a highly diverse clade of Neotropical treefrogs. In the last two decades, glassfrogs have become a model system for studies in ecology and evolutionary biology, in part because their taxonomy and phylogenetic relationships are considered relatively well established. However, there are still many gaps in our knowledge, for example, which morphological characters are important for species delimitation. Consequently, several species complexes in Centrolenidae remain unresolved. Using data on external and internal morphology of adult individuals, tadpoles, advertisement call traits and genetic sequences, we describe a new species of glassfrog (Nymphargus pijao sp. nov.) endemic to Colombia that has been previously missasigned to Nymphargus griffithsi. We include in this description data of three phenotypic characters related to pectoral musculature and testis size, which have been traditionally overlooked in studies about the taxonomy and systematics of glassfrogs. In addition, we present details of a low-cost method implemented in the field to rear tadpoles of the new species. This methodology can solve common problems during the management and care of glassfrogs egg masses and tadpoles, and hence, promotes their description for more species and a better knowledge of the anuran biodiversity in Neotropics.

Forgotten Heroes: Experiences of Health Care Support Workers Regarding Burnout and Resilience During Pandemic, A Qualitative Approach.

OBJECTIVES: Health care support workers have been facing several challenges due to the stressful environment in COVID-19 pandemic. Because of the gap in literature, it is mandatory to explore their experiences to identify burnout, predisposing factors, and possible interventions. METHODS: We conducted qualitative research with a hermeneutic phenomenological method. Participants belonged to cleaning services, security, and hospital administration areas at a hospital in Bogotá. We used semistructured individual interviews. The analysis approaches were deductive and inductive. RESULTS: As main concepts, we found the following: fear of infection and coping mechanisms, dealing with COVID-19 and being part of the health care support system, overwhelming workload and motivation to keep going and socioeconomic conditions. CONCLUSIONS: We found burnout predisposing factors; however, the participants did not express symptoms of burnout syndrome. We believe protective factors such as resilience are influential concerning this outcome.

Above- and below-ground trait coordination in tree seedlings depend on the most limiting resource: a test comparing a wet and a dry tropical forest in Mexico.

The study of above- and below-ground organ plant coordination is crucial for understanding the biophysical constraints and trade-offs involved in species' performance under different environmental conditions. Environmental stress is expected to increase constraints on species trait combinations, resulting in stronger coordination among the organs involved in the acquisition and processing of the most limiting resource. To test this hypothesis, we compared the coordination of trait combinations in 94 tree seedling species from two tropical forest systems in Mexico: dry and moist. In general, we expected that the water limitation experienced by dry forest species would result in stronger leaf-stem-root coordination than light limitation experienced by moist forest species. Using multiple correlations analyses and tools derived from network theory, we found similar functional trait coordination between forests. However, the most important traits differed between the forest types. While in the dry forest the most central traits were all related to water storage (leaf and stem water content and root thickness), in the moist forest they were related to the capacity to store water in leaves (leaf water content), root efficiency to capture resources (specific root length), and stem toughness (wood density). Our findings indicate that there is a shift in the relative importance of mechanisms to face the most limiting resource in contrasting tropical forests.

Evaluation of the effect of conventional and natural antifungals on motility and kinetics of cooled stallion semen.

Microbial growth in semen may cause a decline of sperm quality and fertility; however, the addition of antifungals to semen extender has been shown to impair the overall fertility of the sperm. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antifungal activity of conventional and natural compounds, and their effect on the motility and kinetics of cooled stallion semen. A total of 15 ejaculates from five stallions were collected using the artificial vagina. Each ejaculate was supplemented with: fluconazole at 12.5 (F1), 25 (F2) and 50 (F3) mg/ml; amphotericin-B at 6.5 (A1), 12.5 (A2) and 25 (A3) mg/ml (A3); clotrimazole at 12.5 (C1), 25 (C2) and 50 (C3) mg/ml; isoespintanol at 50 (I1), 100 (I2) and 150 (I3) µM; thymol at 50 (T1), 100 (T2) and 150 (T3) µM; and a control without supplementation. Motility and kinetics of semen at 0, 24 and 48 hr of cooling at 15°C were assessed using computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA). At hour 48 of cooling, the antifungal effect of the treatments was evaluated. At hour 0 of cooling, amphotericin-B and I3 showed a reduction in most of the motility and kinetic parameters evaluated (p < .05). These treatments, and also C2 and C3, showed similar results at 24 and 48 hr of cooling. Thymol maintained motility and kinetics of the spermatozoa at all evaluated refrigeration times. Besides, I2 showed a decrease (p < .05) in the colony-forming unit compared to that in the control. It is concluded that thymol and isospintanol could be added as natural antifungals in extenders for stallion semen refrigeration.

Food Parenting Practices and Feeding Styles and Their Relations with Weight Status in Children in Latin America and the Caribbean.

While a growing body of literature looks at the associations between food parenting practices, and feeding styles, and child's weight status in developed countries, little is known for less developed countries, in general, and the Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) region, in particular. This study systemically reviews and synthesizes existing evidence on the associations between child caregivers' food parenting practices and feeding styles and 2 to 12-year-old child weight status. Keywords were used to search in PubMed, Web of Science, PsycINFO, and Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature. Among the ten eligible articles, all of them reported significant associations between food parenting practices and feeding styles and child weight status. Existing studies have limitations, mainly related to cross-sectional convenience samples, which limit the generalization of the results. Additionally, small sample, heterogeneous feeding measures and weight related outcomes were other limitations. Future research is needed to understand caregiver-child interactions in the food situation and its link to child weight status in 2 to 12-year-old children in areas of LAC with diverse forms of malnutrition and contextual factors of countries.

Factores predictores de aparición de fibrilación auricular en pacientes con miocardiopatía dilatada / Predicting factors of atrial fibrillation in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy

Resumen Introducción El uso de terapia anticoagulante en pacientes con miocardiopatía dilatada es controvertido. El riesgo hemorrágico hace que habitualmente no se use en pacientes en ritmo sinusal. Objetivo Analizar los factores predictores de fibrilación auricular (FA) en pacientes con miocardiopatía dilatada y fracción de eyección del ventrículo izquierdo (FEVI) < 40. Método: Se estudiaron los pacientes incluidos en el registro multicéntrico UMBRELLA a quienes se había implantado un desfibrilador (DAI) bicameral o tricameral y que presentaban miocardiopatía dilatada isquémica o no isquémica y FEVI < 40%. Se definió FA como cualquier episodio > 30 segundos de duración y una frecuencia auricular > 175 latidos por minuto. Resultados Se incluyeron 684 enfermos. La mediana de edad fue de 70 años (rango intercuartílico [RIQ]: 62-77). El 79.1% eran varones. La FEVI fue < 30% en el 76.3%. El 87.3% presentaban insuficiencia cardiaca (ICC) clínica. Se implantó un DAI resincronizador en el 59.5%. El 51.2% tenían bloqueo de rama izquierda del haz de His y el 7.1% de rama derecha (BRDHH). Se documentó FA en el 49% de los enfermos con una mediana de seguimiento de 29.93 meses (RIQ: 14.78-45.63). Las variables que se relacionaron con la aparición de FA fueron la presencia de ICC (hazard ratio [HR]: 2; intervalo de confianza del 95% [IC 95%]: 1.31-3.04; p = 0.001), el BRDHH (HR: 1.48; IC 95%: 1-2-18; p = 0.045), el ictus previo (HR: 2.11; IC 95%: 1.4-3.19; p < 0.001) y la edad > 75 años (HR: 1.21; IC 95%: 1.05-1.40; p = 0.008). Conclusiones La edad > 75 años, el BRDHH, la ICC y el ictus previo predicen la aparición de FA en la población con miocardiopatía dilatada y FEVI < 40%.

Abstract Introduction Anticoagulant treatment in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy and sinus rhythm is controversial due to haemorrhage risk. Objective To analyze the factors predicting atrial fibrillation (AF) in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy and ejection fraction (LVEF) < 40%. Method All patients included in UMBRELLA multicentre registry without AF, who had a dual or three-chamber implantable cardiac defibrillator (ICD), dilated cardiomyopathy and LVEF < 40% were included. AF was defined as any episode > 30 seconds of duration and atrial frequency > 175 bpm. Results 684 patients were included. Median age was 70 years (IQR 62-77); 79.1% were male. LVEF was < 30% in 76.3% of cases; 87.3% presented clinical heart failure (CHF). A CRT-D was implanted in 59.5%; 51.2% of patients presented Left Bundle Branch Block (LBBB) and 7.1% presented Right Bundle Branch Block (RBBB). AF was documented in 49% of patients, with a median follow-up of 29.93 months (IQR: 14.78-45.63). The presence of CHF (HR: 2; 95% CI: 1.31-3.04; p = 0.001), RBBB (HR: 1.48; 95% CI: 1-2-18; p = 0.045), previous stroke (HR: 2.11; 95% CI: 1.4-3.19; p < 0.001) and age > 75 years (HR: 1.21; 95% CI: 1.05-1.40; p = 0.008) were associated with diagnosis of AF. Conclusions Age > 75 years, RBBB, CHF and previous stroke are predictors of AF development in the population with dilated cardiomyopathy and LVEF < 40%.

La familia es la voz del paciente en la interacción con la enfermera / A família como a voz do paciente na interação enfermeira-paciente / Family as the Patient's Voice in Nurse-Patient Interaction

Introducción: La familia experimenta un reto importante cuando uno de sus miembros está hospitalizado, pues los obliga a modificar sus dinámicas en términos de funciones y roles. Esta investigación cualitativa se realizó con familiares que acompañaron a uno de sus integrantes durante una experiencia de hospitalización; se consideró familia a quienes compartieran una historia en común con el paciente. Objetivo: Comprender el significado que le da la familia al papel que desempeña con el paciente en la interacción con las enfermeras durante el tiempo de hospitalización. Materiales y Métodos: Se utilizó el enfoque etnográfico. Se aplicaron 10 entrevistas a personas adultas. Se obtuvo información hasta lograr la saturación. Se tuvo en cuenta los criterios de rigor y los principios éticos. Resultados: La familia considera que tienen el derecho de ser la voz del paciente para interactuar con la enfermera, y la asume como una de sus funciones en su rol cuidador, para lograrlo es indispensable que ésta acuda al llamado, atienda, acompañe y brinde al paciente unos cuidados mínimos requeridos, relacionados primordialmente con la esfera física, de tal forma que en esa interacción demuestre su calidad humana, reconozca las necesidades del paciente y base su comunicación en la verdad y la cercanía. La familia espera una enfermera que los reconozca y los eduque, así mismo que les diga la verdad y se muestre cercana. Conclusiones: La familia se constituye en la voz del paciente como derecho connatural filial y en ese sentido, asume el cuidado del paciente con apoyo de las enfermeras, quienes tienen el deber de generar confianza y buen trato.

Introduction: Families experience a major challenge when a next of kin is admitted to hospital as family dynamics are forced to change in terms of duties and roles. Qualitative research has been conducted with family members who supported one of their next of kin during their hospitalization. Family members were defined as those who had shared a common history with patients. Objective: To understand the meaning given by families to the patient's voice role in the interaction with nurses during hospitalization. Materials and Methods: An ethnographic approach was used. Complete information was collected from 10 interviews with adults. Strict criteria and ethical principles were also applied. Results: Families consider that their right is to be the patient's voice to interact with nurses, assuming it as one of their caregiving functions. To this end, nurses must respond to the call, assist, accompany and provide patients with minimal care required, primarily related to physical care, so they can demonstrate their human qualities, recognize patients' needs and communicate on the basis of truth and closeness when interacting with patients. Families expect that nurses would recognize and instruct them, as well as tell the truth and be close to them. Conclusions: Families are the patient's voice as a matter of connatural right, assuming patients' care supported by nurses, who are in charge of building trust and providing good care.

Introdução: As famílias experimentam um grande desafio quando um parente próximo é hospitalizado, pois as dinâmicas familiares são forçadas a mudar em termos de deveres e papéis. Esta pesquisa qualitativa foi realizada com membros da família que acompanharam um de seus parentes durante a hospitalização. Os membros da família foram definidos como aqueles que tinham compartilhado uma história comum com os pacientes. Objetivo: Entender o significado dado pelas famílias ao papel da voz do paciente na interação com enfermeiros durante a hospitalização. Materiais e métodos: Uma abordagem etnográfica foi utilizada. Informações completas foram coletadas a partir de 10 entrevistas com adultos. Critérios rígidos e princípios éticos também foram aplicados. Resultados: As famílias consideram que tem o direito de ser a voz do paciente para interagir com enfermeiros, assumindo-a como uma de suas funções de cuidado. Para isso, os enfermeiros devem responder ao chamado, prestar assistência, acompanhar e prover aos pacientes os cuidados mínimos necessários, principalmente relacionados ao cuidado físico, para que possam demonstrar suas qualidades humanas, reconhecer as necessidades dos pacientes e se comunicar com base na verdade e na proximidade ao interagir com os pacientes. As famílias esperam que os enfermeiros os reconheçam e os instruam, assim como que digam a verdade e estejam próximos deles. Conclusões: As famílias são a voz do paciente como uma questão de direito conatural, assumindo os cuidados dos pacientes apoiados por enfermeiros, que são responsáveis por construir confiança e prestar bons cuidados.

Opiniones de actores de salud sobre la estrategia de búsqueda activa de casos de tuberculosis / Opinions of health stakeholders on the active search strategy for tuberculosis cases

Introducción: La pesquisa activa de casos de tuberculosis en la Atención Primaria de Salud como parte del programa de control de la enfermedad en Cuba, tiene retos de implementación que requieren ser estudiados. Objetivo: Explorar las opiniones de los actores de salud involucrados en la implementación de la pesquisa activa de casos de tuberculosis en Las Tunas. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio cualitativo, en dos etapas, anidado en un estudio de intervención en Las Tunas. En la primera etapa (septiembre-diciembre, 2010) se entrevistaron médicos y enfermeras de la familia de los municipios Jobabo y Las Tunas; y en la segunda etapa (marzo, 2012), todos los jefes de programa (provincial y municipales) y un experto en tuberculosis. Se utilizaron categorías de análisis deductivas e inductivas. Resultados: La pesquisa activa de casos de tuberculosis se reconoció como un procedimiento novedoso asociado a la búsqueda de sintomáticos respiratorios en el hogar, la dispensarización y el trabajo con grupos vulnerables. Al inicio hubo barreras para la implementación del procedimiento, posteriormente fue aceptado. Las ventajas fueron: diagnóstico oportuno e incremento del número de casos pesquisados, entre otras. La falta de tiempo, el incremento en la carga de trabajo y la fluctuación del personal fueron las principales dificultades. Conclusiones: El estudio proporciona información valiosa para la implementación del procedimiento como parte del programa de control de la tuberculosis. Devela la brecha entre la percepción de los actores involucrados en la implementación de intervenciones en salud en estudios pilotos y la que tienen los implicados en su puesta en práctica(AU)

Introduction: The active case finding of tuberculosis in Primary Health Care as part of the disease control program in Cuba, has challenges at implementation that need to be studied. Objective: To explore the opinions of the health stakeholders involved in the implementation of active case finding of tuberculosis in Las Tunas. Methods: A qualitative study was carried out in two stages, nested in an intervention study in Las Tunas. In the first stage (September-December, 2010) family doctors and nurses in Jobabo and Las Tunas municipalities were interviewed; and in the second stage (March 2012), all program managers (provincial and municipal) and an expert on tuberculosis were interviewed. Deductive and inductive analysis categories were used. Results: The active case finding of tuberculosis was recognized as a novel procedure associated with the screening for respiratory symptoms among all family members during home visits, classification of the entire population into risk groups and working with vulnerable groups. At the beginning there were barriers to the implementation of this procedure, which was subsequently accepted. Timely diagnosis and increase in the number of cases investigated were the advantages, among others. The lack of time, the increase in workload and the staff turnover were the main difficulties. Conclusions: This study provides valuable information for implementing this procedure as part of tuberculosis control program. It reveals the gap between the perception of the stakeholders involved in the implementation of health interventions in pilot studies and from those engaged in their implementation(AU)

Moving Closer to Tuberculosis Elimination through Institutional Scientific Collaboration: Opportunities for Cuba and the USA.

Global efforts to eliminate tuberculosis by 2050 continue to challenge health systems. In countries with low reported tuberculosis incidence, such as the USA (3.1/100,000 population) and Cuba (6.9/100,000), differences in classification by income level and health systems' overall organizational structure are evident. However, the two countries' low tuberculosis incidence, geographic proximity, robust research capacity and shared health priority for tuberculosis elimination provide fertile territory to strengthen collaboration for tuberculosis control in clinical, laboratory and community settings. Two tuberculosis symposia in Cuba-one at the Cuba Salud Convention in 2015 and the other at the International Forum on Hygiene and Epidemiology in 2016-were instrumental in stimulating dialogue on continued efforts towards eliminating tuberculosis by 2050. In this article, we describe tuberculosis burden in the USA and Cuba, critically analyze strengths and challenges experienced in areas of low tuberculosis incidence and provide recommendations for future institutional collaboration to support tuberculosis elimination and improved population health. KEYWORDS Tuberculosis/epidemiology, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, prevention, communicable disease control, disease eradication, disease elimination, international cooperation, Cuba, USA.

Eliminación de la tuberculosis en Cuba: contribuciones recientes, resultados y desafíos / Elimination of tuberculosis in Cuba: recent contributions, results and challenges

Desde el 70 al 80 Aniversario de la fundación del Instituto de Medicina Tropical "Pedro Kourí", los investigadores, profesionales y técnicos de este centro, han laborado en cooperación con diversas instituciones académicas y de los servicios de salud de Cuba (en equipos multidisciplinarios) en las tareas de desarrollo científico, innovación tecnológica y construcción de capacidades. Este artículo resume las principales investigaciones realizadas sobre la tuberculosis desde 2008-2017; como contribuciones al Programa Nacional de Control y Eliminación de la Tuberculosis con la perspectiva de aumentar la calidad, efectividad y eficiencia de las acciones y acelerar la solución de la incidencia y la mortalidad por tuberculosis, para la investigación, la vigilancia y control de la tuberculosis. Se presentan evidencias que fundamentan las innovaciones en el manejo clínico terapéutico de pacientes inmunocompetentes e inmunocomprometidos, en niños y adolescentes, sobre las indicaciones para el control de la infección tuberculosa latente, la vigilancia de los desenlaces del tratamiento anti-tuberculosis, la investigación de contactos de casos, los cambios en el sistema de registro e información, el monitoreo y evaluación de la calidad de la detección de casos de tuberculosis, el impacto sobre la morbilidad y la mortalidad.

During the period extending from the 70th to the 80th anniversary of the founding of Pedro Kouri Tropical Medicine Institute, researchers, professionals and technicians from the center, in joint cooperation with a variety of Cuban academic and health care institutions, have integrated into multidisciplinary teams engaged in tasks related to scientific development, technological innovation and capacity building. The paper summarizes the main research studies about tuberculosis conducted from 2008 to 2017 as contributions to the National Tuberculosis Control and Elimination Program, with a view to enhancing the quality, effectiveness and efficiency of actions, swiftly finding a solution to tuberculosis incidence and mortality, and fostering tuberculosis research, surveillance and control. Evidence is presented which substantiates innovations in the clinical therapeutic management of both immunocompetent and immunocompromised patients, children and adolescents, and indications are provided for latent tuberculosis infection control, surveillance of anti-tuberculosis treatment outcomes, investigation of case contacts, changes in the record and information system, quality monitoring and evaluation of the detection of tuberculosis cases, and impact on morbidity and mortality.

Desde las primeras nociones sobre la tuberculosis hasta la estrategia "fin de la tuberculosis": desafíos sociales para la infancia en México

La tuberculosis, que afecta al hombre desde el periodo neolítico, se mantiene como un importante problema de salud mundial, incluida la tuberculosis en niños y adolescentes. México mantiene una carga de la enfermedad importante pese al progreso alcanzado en su control durante el siglo XX y el inicio del siglo XXI. Para continuar avanzando en este control es necesario priorizar la prevención de la infección tuberculosa latente y su progresión a tuberculosis activa. Particularmente, debe ser priorizada la prevención de la infección tuberculosa latente y la atención y control de la tuberculosis en los niños y adolescentes; todo esto basado en la acción favorecedora de la atención a la determinación social de la tuberculosis mediante la disminución y en no pocas circunstancias, de la supresión de las inequidades en la salud. Este artículo tiene el objetivo de informar los aspectos esenciales de la tuberculosis para aprovechar las oportunidades presentes de avanzar en su control y poner fin a ella como deuda social inaplazable en México. La estrategia "fin de la tuberculosis" después de 2015, debe ser implementada extensiva e intensivamente. Sus metas son ambiciosas pero alcanzables si se introducen nuevas herramientas, procesos de apoyo social y de construcción de capacidades fomentadas por el compromiso estatal-gubernamental dentro de los objetivos de desarrollo sostenible.

Tuberculosis has affected humankind since Neolithic times, and continues to be an important health problem worldwide, including child and adolescent tuberculosis. Mexico exhibits a considerable disease burden, despite the progress achieved in its control during the 20th and early 21st centuries. To continue advancing in such control it is necessary to prioritize prevention of latent tuberculosis infection and its development into active tuberculosis. Particular emphasis should be placed on prevention of latent tuberculosis infection and care and control of tuberculosis in children and adolescents, based on the favorable effect of attention to social determination of tuberculosis by means of the reduction and oftentimes elimination of health inequities. The present paper describes the essential aspects of tuberculosis with a view to making good use of current opportunities to advance in its control and put an end to the disease as an unpostponable social debt in Mexico. The "end TB" strategy of 2015 should be implemented both extensively an intensively. Its goals are ambitious, but they may be reached with the introduction of new tools, social support processes, and actions aimed at building capacities fostered by state-government commitment as part of the sustainable development goals.

Aplicación de la digitopuntura en pacientes con cefalea migrañosa. Policlínico Contreras, Matanzas, 2014 / Digitopuncture application in patients with migrainous cephalalgia. Contreras Policlinic, Matanzas, 2014

Introducción: la cefalea es toda sensación dolorosa que tiene lugar en la parte superior de la cabeza, desde el reborde orbitario hasta la nuca. Constituye la primera causa de acudir al neurólogo y uno de los motivos más frecuentes en consultas de Medicina Interna. La cefalea tipo tensión es frecuente en la práctica diaria y la más invalidante desde los puntos de vistas físico, social, económico y psicológico. Objetivo: mostrar la actuación de Enfermería en el alivio de la migraña y describir la efectividad de la digitopuntura en pacientes con cefalea migrañosa, del Policlínico Contreras, primer trimestre de 2014. Materiales y métodos: estudio observacional, descriptivo y transversal. El grupo de estudio, 120 pacientes que acudieron a la consulta de Medicina Natural y Tradicional. Resultados: la edad de mayor incidencia 25-34 años, con 47.4 %. Prevaleció el sexo femenino, en un 70 %; la duración del dolor mostró un 43.3 % de afectación. Transcurrió entre las 4 y 8 horas, y siempre tuvo relación con el estrés, en 44.2 %; en un 69.2 % existió relación del dolor con la ingestión de alimentos. Se alivió con el sueño el 61.7 %, y el 52,5 % alcanzaron estado evolutivo excelente. Conclusiones: la aplicación de la digitopuntura a pacientes con cefalea migrañosa contribuyó a que los casos estudiados evolucionaran satisfactoriamente, expresando alivio del dolor. El tratamiento demostró efectividad y contribuyó a la disminución de drogas utilizadas en esta entidad, disminución de gastos económicos que implica el consumo de las mismas; lograr reincorporar a la vida laboral y social en un menor tiempo al paciente (AU).

Introduction: cephalalgia is any painful sensation occurring in the superior part of the head, from the orbital ridge to the nape. It is the first cause of visiting a neurologist and one of the most frequent causes of Internal Medicine consultations. The tension-kind cephalalgia is frequent in daily practice and the most invaliding one from the physical, social, economic and psychological point of view. Aim: to show Nursery behavior in migraine alleviation and to describe the digitopuncture effectiveness in patients with migrainous cephalalgia from Contreras Policlinic in the first trimester of 2014. Materials and methods: observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study. The studied group was 120 patients assisting the consultation of Natural and Traditional Medicine. Outcomes: the 25-34 age group was the one that showed higher incidence, with 47.4 %. The female sex prevailed with 70 %; pain lasting had 44.3 % of affectation. It lasted between 4 and 8 hours, always related to stress in 44.2 %. There it was a relation between pain and food intake in 69.2 %. 61.7 % of the cases were lessened with sleep, and 52.5 % achieved an excellent evolving status. Conclusions: Acupuncture application to patients with migrainous cephalalgia contributed to the satisfactory evolution of the studied cases: The patients expressed pain relieve. The treatment showed effectiveness and facilitated the decrease of drug usage in this entity, also diminishing the economic expenses its use implies; the patients reincorporated to social and working life in a shorter time period (AU).

Aplicación de la digitopuntura en pacientes con cefalea migrañosa. Policlínico Contreras, Matanzas, 2014 / Digitopuncture application in patients with migrainous cephalalgia. Contreras Policlinic, Matanzas, 2014

Introducción: la cefalea es toda sensación dolorosa que tiene lugar en la parte superior de la cabeza, desde el reborde orbitario hasta la nuca. Constituye la primera causa de acudir al neurólogo y uno de los motivos más frecuentes en consultas de Medicina Interna. La cefalea tipo tensión es frecuente en la práctica diaria y la más invalidante desde los puntos de vistas físico, social, económico y psicológico. Objetivo: mostrar la actuación de Enfermería en el alivio de la migraña y describir la efectividad de la digitopuntura en pacientes con cefalea migrañosa, del Policlínico Contreras, primer trimestre de 2014. Materiales y métodos: estudio observacional, descriptivo y transversal. El grupo de estudio, 120 pacientes que acudieron a la consulta de Medicina Natural y Tradicional. Resultados: la edad de mayor incidencia 25-34 años, con 47.4 %. Prevaleció el sexo femenino, en un 70 %; la duración del dolor mostró un 43.3 % de afectación. Transcurrió entre las 4 y 8 horas, y siempre tuvo relación con el estrés, en 44.2 %; en un 69.2 % existió relación del dolor con la ingestión de alimentos. Se alivió con el sueño el 61.7 %, y el 52,5 % alcanzaron estado evolutivo excelente. Conclusiones: la aplicación de la digitopuntura a pacientes con cefalea migrañosa contribuyó a que los casos estudiados evolucionaran satisfactoriamente, expresando alivio del dolor. El tratamiento demostró efectividad y contribuyó a la disminución de drogas utilizadas en esta entidad, disminución de gastos económicos que implica el consumo de las mismas; lograr reincorporar a la vida laboral y social en un menor tiempo al paciente (AU).

Introduction: cephalalgia is any painful sensation occurring in the superior part of the head, from the orbital ridge to the nape. It is the first cause of visiting a neurologist and one of the most frequent causes of Internal Medicine consultations. The tension-kind cephalalgia is frequent in daily practice and the most invaliding one from the physical, social, economic and psychological point of view. Aim: to show Nursery behavior in migraine alleviation and to describe the digitopuncture effectiveness in patients with migrainous cephalalgia from Contreras Policlinic in the first trimester of 2014. Materials and methods: observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study. The studied group was 120 patients assisting the consultation of Natural and Traditional Medicine. Outcomes: the 25-34 age group was the one that showed higher incidence, with 47.4 %. The female sex prevailed with 70 %; pain lasting had 44.3 % of affectation. It lasted between 4 and 8 hours, always related to stress in 44.2 %. There it was a relation between pain and food intake in 69.2 %. 61.7 % of the cases were lessened with sleep, and 52.5 % achieved an excellent evolving status. Conclusions: Acupuncture application to patients with migrainous cephalalgia contributed to the satisfactory evolution of the studied cases: The patients expressed pain relieve. The treatment showed effectiveness and facilitated the decrease of drug usage in this entity, also diminishing the economic expenses its use implies; the patients reincorporated to social and working life in a shorter time period (AU).

Innovative Tuberculosis Symposium held during Cuba Salud 2015.

The fourth Tuberculosis (TB) Symposium, held during the Cuba Salud 2015 International Convention, highlighted advancements in research on TB and Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) by interdisciplinary teams from academic and federal institutions in Cuba, Colombia, Mexico, and the Dominican Republic. Delegates focused on the targets presented in the World Health Organization End TB Strategy for 2016-2035 and elaborated on four primary themes: 1) attention to vulnerable populations such as immunocompromised individuals, health care workers, and residents of long-term institutions such as prisons and nursing homes; 2) identification of active and latent TB cases through contact investigations; 3) spread and control of drug-resistant Mtb strains; and 4) advancements in the development of novel vaccines or "booster" immunizations. This international TB forum served as a platform for experts in diverse disciplines in these Latin American countries to discuss challenges faced by TB research and control programs, proposing novel research initiatives and promoting collaborative teamwork strategies for TB elimination. In solidarity, collaborative efforts in TB control require identification of symptomatic individuals, rapid diagnostic testing for TB, drug susceptibility assays on Mtb strains, and management that provide universal and gratuitous access to directly observed short-course therapy.

Magnitud de la pesquisa activa en diagnóstico de tuberculosis implementada en grupos vulnerables, Matanzas 2009-2013 / Magnitude of the active screening in tuberculosis diagnosis implemented in vulnerable groups, Matanzas 2009-2013

Introducción: la tuberculosis constituye, aún, un importante problema de salud. La Organización Mundial de la Salud está tratando de lograr una disminución radical de la carga de esta enfermedad y reducir a la mitad su prevalencia y mortalidad con su estrategia Alto a la tuberculosis. El Programa Nacional de Control de la Tuberculosis iniciado en 1962, recomienda la búsqueda sistemática de los casos de tuberculosis en los grupos vulnerables.Objetivo: informar los resultados diagnósticos de la localización de casos, a través de la pesquisa activa o sistemática en grupos vulnerables, de la provincia de Matanzas, bajo las condiciones de operación del Programa Nacional de Control de la Tuberculosis de Cuba. Materiales y Métodos: el equipo de salud desde julio, 2009 a diciembre, 2013, realizó una investigación descriptiva y de corte transversal, pesquisa activa para diagnóstico de tuberculosis en grupos vulnerables. Resultados: el volumen de la pesquisa activa en personas de los grupos vulnerables, las tuberculinas y los rayos x de tórax realizados se incrementaron por años. El mayor número de pesquisados correspondió al adulto mayor, seguidos de diabéticos y personas que viven en asentamientos críticos. La prevalencia de infección tuberculosis latente total, fue de un 0.089 por ciento en estos grupos. Los casos que se diagnosticaron (todas las formas) fueron principalmente en alcohólicos, ex reclusos e inmunodeprimidos. Del total de los casos de tuberculosis BAAR+, en los 5 años, el 43,9 por ciento se diagnosticó mediante la pesquisa activa. Conclusiones: la tuberculosis fue mayormente diagnosticada en los grupos vulnerables, mediante la pesquisa activa. Se identificó que es bajo la prevalencia de esta infección latente en estos grupos(AU)

Background: tuberculosis is still an important health problem. The World Health Organization is trying to achieve a radical decrease of this disease load and to reduce its prevalence and mortality to the half with its strategy Stop tuberculosis. The National Program of Tuberculosis Control, started in 1962, recommends the systematic search of the tuberculosis cases in the vulnerable groups. Aim: to inform the diagnosis results of case localization through the active or systematic screening in vulnerable groups of the province of Matanzas, under the operational conditions of the National Program of Tuberculosis Control of Cuba. Materials and methods: from July 2009 to december 2013, the health team carried out a cross-sectional, descriptive research of the active screening for diagnosing tuberculosis in vulnerable groups. Outcomes: the volume of the active screening in persons from the vulnerable groups, the tuberculin skin tests, and thorax X rays increased per years. The highest number of screened persons corresponded to elder people, followed by diabetic ones and people living in critical places. The prevalence of the total latent tuberculosis infection was 0.089 percent in these groups. The diagnosed cases (all of the forms) were mainly among alcohol abusers, ex-prisoners and immunodepressed people. 43,9percent of the total of AFB+ tuberculosis cases in the five years was diagnosed through the active screening.Conclusions: tuberculosis was mainly diagnosed in the vulnerable groups, through the active screening. It was identified that the prevalence of this latent infection is low in these groups(AU)

Magnitud de la pesquisa activa en diagnóstico de tuberculosis implementada en grupos vulnerables. Matanzas 2009-2013 / Magnitude of the active screening in tuberculosis diagnosis implemented in vulnerable groups. Matanzas 2009-2013

Introducción: la tuberculosis constituye, aún, un importante problema de salud. La Organización Mundial de la Salud está tratando de lograr una disminución radical de la carga de esta enfermedad y reducir a la mitad su prevalencia y mortalidad con su estrategia Alto a la tuberculosis. El Programa Nacional de Control de la Tuberculosis iniciado en 1962, recomienda la búsqueda sistemática de los casos de tuberculosis en los grupos vulnerables. Objetivo: informar los resultados diagnósticos de la localización de casos, a través de la pesquisa activa o sistemática en grupos vulnerables, de la provincia de Matanzas, bajo las condiciones de operación del Programa Nacional de Control de la Tuberculosis de Cuba. Materiales y Métodos: el equipo de salud desde julio/2009 a diciembre/ 2013, realizó una investigación descriptiva y de corte transversal, pesquisa activa para diagnóstico de tuberculosis en grupos vulnerables. Resultados: el volumen de la pesquisa activa en personas de los grupos vulnerables, las tuberculinas y los rayos x de tórax realizados se incrementaron por años. El mayor número de pesquisados correspondió al adulto mayor, seguidos de diabéticos y personas que viven en asentamientos críticos. La prevalencia de infección tuberculosis latente total, fue de un 0.089 % en estos grupos. Los casos que se diagnosticaron (todas las formas) fueron principalmente en alcohólicos, ex reclusos e inmunodeprimidos. Del total de los casos de tuberculosis BAAR+, en los 5 años, el 43,9 % se diagnosticó mediante la pesquisa activa. Conclusiones: la tuberculosis fue mayormente diagnosticada en los grupos vulnerables, mediante la pesquisa activa. Se identificó que es bajo la prevalencia de esta infección latente en estos grupos.

Background: tuberculosis is still an important health problem. The World Health Organization is trying to achieve a radical decrease of this disease load and to reduce its prevalence and mortality to the half with its strategy "Stop tuberculosis". The National Program of Tuberculosis Control, started in 1962, recommends the systematic search of the tuberculosis cases in the vulnerable groups. Aim: to inform the diagnosis results of case localization through the active or systematic screening in vulnerable groups of the province of Matanzas, under the operational conditions of the National Program of Tuberculosis Control of Cuba. Materials and methods: from July 2009 to december 2013, the health team carried out a cross-sectional, descriptive research of the active screening for diagnosing tuberculosis in vulnerable groups. Outcomes: the volume of the active screening in persons from the vulnerable groups, the tuberculin skin tests, and thorax X rays increased per years. The highest number of screened persons corresponded to elder people, followed by diabetic ones and people living in critical places. The prevalence of the total latent tuberculosis infection was 0.089 % in these groups. The diagnosed cases (all of the forms) were mainly among alcohol abusers, ex-prisoners and immunodepressed people. 43.9 % of the total of AFB+ tuberculosis cases in the five years was diagnosed through the active screening. Conclusions: tuberculosis was mainly diagnosed in the vulnerable groups, through the active screening. It was identified that the prevalence of this latent infection is low in these groups.

Detección temprana de Hipotiroidismo congénito y Fenilcetonuria a través del cribado neonatal en el estado Cojedes / Early detection of Phenylketonuria and congenital Hypothyroidism with newborn screening

El hipotiroidismo congénito y la fenilcetonuria son trastornos del metabolismo cuyas consecuencias clínicas ocasionan un grave retardo mental, así como la aparición de secuelas físicas y neurológicas que afectan el desarrollo del niño. Una de las herramientas que fortalecen el diagnostico precoz es el cribado neonatal. La finalidad de esta investigación es determinar en forma temprana la incidencia casos de hipotiroidismo congénito y fenilcetonuria (PKU) neonatal en el estado Cojedes durante el período Enero de 2008 - Diciembre de 2014. Métodos: La investigación se enmarcó en un diseño de investigación no experimental, retrospectivo y descriptivo, dirigida a una población conformada por recién nacidos vivos a quienes se les realizó en sangre seca sobre papel de filtro la cuantificación de la hormona estimulante de tiroides (TSH) por método ELISA y prueba fluorescente para la cuantificación de la concentración de fenilalanina (PHE). La técnica de recolección de datos empleada fue la Escala de Estimación. Resultados: De 54.152 recién nacidos vivos en este periodo se realizó el cribado metabólico a 35.988 recién nacidos lo que representa un 66,46 % de la población sometida al mismo. Se registraron 4 casos positivos para TSH constituyendo un 0,01 %, representando el 50 % el sexo masculino y 50 % el sexo femenino, con una incidencia de 1:2276 y ningún caso para PKU. Recomendación: Ofrecer información de la importancia de la Pesquisa o Cribado Metabólico Neonatal de estas patologías a las mujeres embarazadas.

Congenital hypothyroidism and phenylketonuria are metabolic disorders which may have clinical consequences and cause severe mental retardation, and the appearance of physical and neurological sequelae that affect child development. One of the tools that strengthen early diagnosis is neonatal screening, The purpose of this research is to determine the incidence early cases of congenital hypothyroidism and phenylketonuria ( PKU) neonatal in Cojedes state during the period January 2008 - December 2014. The research was part of a pattern of non-experimental, retrospective and descriptive research, led to a population consisting of live births who were held in dried blood on filter paper quantitation of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) ELISA method and fluorescent probe for quantification of the concentration of phenylalanine (PHE). The data collection technique used was the rating scale. Results: Of 54,152 live births in this period metabolic screening was performed at 35,988 newborns which represent 66.46 % of the population subjected to it. 4 positive cases were recorded for TSH constituting 0.01 %, representing 50% males and 50 % females, with an incidence of 1: 2276 and no case for PKU. Recommendation: Provide information on the importance of Neonatal Metabolic Research or screening of these diseases to pregnant women.