Development of a protocol for standardized use of a water-soluble contrast agent with polyethylene glycol in post-mortem CT angiography.

Computed tomography angiography (PMCTA) is increasingly used in postmortem cases. Standardized validated protocols permit to compare different PMCTA images and make it more easily to defend a case in court. In addition to the well-known technique by Grabherr et al. (2011) which is using paraffin oil as a carrier substance, water-soluble polyethylene glycol 200 (PEG200) can be used in combination with the contrast agent Accupaque® 300. As to date, there exists no standardized protocol for the use of this contrast agent mixture, the aim of this study was to develop a protocol using it. Between 2012 and 2022, 23 PMCTA with PEG200 and Accupaque®300 were performed at the University Centre of Legal Medicine Lausanne (Switzerland) and the Institute of Forensic Medicine Munich (Germany). The images obtained were evaluated regarding the opacification of the vessels and possible artefacts. The best image quality was obtained with a mixing ratio of 1:15 (Accupaque®300:PEG200) and a perfusion volume of 1000 ml in the arterial, 1400 ml in the venous and 350 ml in the dynamic phase. The infusion rates described by Grabherr et al. were confirmed for the three phases. Overall, the opacification of the vessels was diagnostically sufficient. In 13 cases no opacification of the right coronary artery was observed due to a stratification artefact. By using the PMCTA protocol with PEG200 as a carrier, a good overall image quality can be achieved. This protocol offers the possibility to standardize PMCTA with PEG200.

Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio on postoperative day three as a biochemical predictor of clinically significant pancreatic fistula in patients undergoing distal pancreatectomy.

INTRODUCTION AND AIMS: Distal pancreatectomy is a frequent procedure and postoperative fistula, its most common complication, has an incidence of 30 to 60%. The aim of the present work was to study the role of the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio and the platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio, as indicators of inflammatory response in the setting of pancreatic fistula. METHODS: A retrospective observational study was conducted on patients that underwent distal pancreatectomy. The diagnosis of postoperative pancreatic fistula was made according to the definition proposed by the International Study Group on Pancreatic Fistula. The relation of postoperative pancreatic fistula to the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio and the platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio was determined in the postoperative evaluation. SPSS v.21 software was utilized for the statistical analysis and a P<.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: A total of 12 patients (27.2%) developed grade B or grade C postoperative pancreatic fistula. ROC curves were constructed and a threshold of 8.3 (PPV 0.40, NPV 0.86) was established for the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, with an area under the curve of 0.71, sensitivity of 0.81, and specificity of 0.62, whereas a threshold of 33.2 (PPV 0.50, NPV 0.84) was established for the platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio, with an area under the curve of 0.72, sensitivity of 0.72, and specificity of 0.71. CONCLUSION: The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio and the platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio are serologic markers that can aid in identifying patients that will present with grade B or grade C postoperative pancreatic fistula, thus helping to provide an opportune focus on care and resources.

Inhibition of Aspergillus carbonarius growth and Ochratoxin A production using lactic acid bacteria cultivated in an optimized medium.

The Gram-positive bacteria lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are used in the food industry but are also known for inhibiting certain food spoilage microorganisms, especially fungi. Sources of nitrogen (N) for culture media are generally organic and expensive. Many attempts have been made to formulate economical culture media with alternative N sources obtained from agricultural and industrial byproducts. This study describes the design and optimization of an inexpensive culture medium for Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (formerly Lactobacillus plantarum) MZ809351 strain B31. The culture medium was optimized using statistical experimental designs to identify the factors with the most significant effects on biomass concentration to reduce the overall cost, aiming to obtain a biomass concentration similar to that obtained with the reference LAB culture medium (de Man, Rogosa and Sharpe; MRS). Sodium acetate and magnesium sulfate were the most significant factors (p < 0.005), and their contents were reduced by 22 % and 40 %, respectively, without affecting biomass concentration. Malt germ extract (MGE) was used as an alternative nitrogen source to replace meat extract (ME) and proteose peptone (PP). Through these experiments, the composition of a culture medium that is less expensive than MRS broth was defined, which produced a biomass concentration (3.8 g/L) similar to that obtained with MRS medium. The inhibitory effects of two LAB strains isolated from the Ivory Coast and Mexico on the growth and production of ochratoxin A (OTA) in an ochratoxigenic fungus was tested. The minimum cellular concentration of the LAB to prevent the development of Aspergillus carbonarius Ac 089 and the production of OTA was determined in a model assay in Petri dishes. The conditions to inhibit the germination of A. carbonarius Ac 089 and the production of OTA were found. Using the optimized medium and a ratio of 2 × 104 LAB/spore (1 × 108 CFU/mL) strain B7 (L. plantarum MZ809351) and 2 × 103 LAB/spore (1 × 107 CFU/mL) strain B31 (L. plantarum MN922335) completely inhibited the growth of the fungus. A ratio of 2 × 105 LAB/spore (1 × 109 CFU/mL) was required to inhibit OTA production with strains B7 and B31. This study indicates the potential of cultivating LAB in an optimized and inexpensive culture medium for use as a biological control agent against ochratoxigenic fungi in food.

Hartmann's procedure versus primary anastomosis for Hinchey stage III diverticulitis: a prospective case-control study.

INTRODUCTION: Hartmann's procedure (HP) is the conventional treatment in patients with complicated diverticulitis. Segmental resection with primary anastomosis (PA) is a treatment alternative for those patients. Our aim was to compare the postoperative results of HP and PA in patients with complicated diverticulitis (Hinchey stage III). METHODS: A case-control study was conducted on patients operated on for purulent Hinchey stage III diverticulitis, within the time frame of 2000 and 2019. RESULTS: Twenty-seven patients that underwent PA were compared with 27 that underwent HP. The patients that underwent HP had a greater probability of morbidity at 30 days (OR 3.5; 95% CI 1.13-11.25), as well as a greater probability of major complications (OR 10.9; 95% CI 1.26-95.05). CONCLUSION: The patients that underwent segmental resection and PA presented with lower morbidity rates and higher stoma reversal rates than the patients that underwent HP.

Efectos de un programa de rehabilitación remota en atención primaria en salud, posterior al alta hospitalaria por COVID-19: estudio observacional / Effects of a remote rehabilitation program in primary health care, after hospital discharge due to COVID-19: observational study

Se ha reportado un importante daño sistémico de los pacientes afectados por COVID-19, y aún existen interrogantes sobre las secuelas a largo plazo. Surge ante esto la necesidad de plantear programas de rehabilitación de los sistemas primarios de atención, que respondan a estas necesidades. Se realizó un programa de 6 semanas de rehabilitación remota, con seguimiento y progreso semanal, posterior al alta hospitalaria por COVID-19 a 114 usuarios de 4 centros de atención primaria de la comuna de El Bosque, Santiago, R. Metropolitana. Se incluyó a pacientes de edades entre 21 y 93 años, combinando los principios del ejercicio terapéutico individualizado, una evaluación presencial previo y posterior a las 6 semanas de trabajo. Los indicadores evaluados fueron: Minimental Abreviado, 1 Minute Sit to Stand Test (1min STST), Timed Up and Go (TUG), índice de Barthel y FRAIL. Se hicieron análisis inferenciales y descriptivos y se encontraron mejoras favorables en los indicadores de condición física (TUG y 1'STST), Índice de Barthel y el Simple "FRAIL" Questionnaire Screening Tool (FRAIL). En conclusión, si bien la mayoría de los indicadores tuvieron resultados favorables, es necesario seguir estudiando herramientas de evaluación más sensibles e intervenciones específicas que se adapten a las necesidades de las personas.

Significant systemic damage has been reported in patients affected by COVID-19, and questions remain about long-term sequelae. Therefore, the need arises to propose rehabilitation programs for primary care systems that respond to these needs. A 6-week program of remote rehabilitation, with weekly follow-up and progress, after hospital discharge for COVID-19 was carried out on 114 users from 4 primary care centers in the commune of El Bosque, Santiago, Chile. The program included patients from 21 to 93 years-old, combining the principles of individualized therapeutic exercise, a face-to-face evaluation before and after 6 weeks of work. The indicators evaluated were: Abbreviated Minimental, 1 minute Sit to Stand Test (1 min STST), Timed Up and Go (TUG), Barthel index and the Simple "FRAIL" Questionnaire Screening Tool (FRAIL). Inferential and descriptive analyses were carried out and favorable improvements were found in the indicators of physical condition (TUG and 1min STST), Barthel Index and FRAIL. In conclusion, while most of the indicators had favorable results, it is required to further explore more sensitive assessment tools and targeted interventions that are tailored to people's needs.

Efficacy and safety of ripretinib in patients with KIT-altered metastatic melanoma.

BACKGROUND: Ripretinib, a broad-spectrum KIT and platelet-derived growth factor receptor A switch-control tyrosine kinase inhibitor, is approved for the treatment of adult patients with advanced gastrointestinal stromal tumor as ≥ fourth-line therapy. We present the efficacy and safety of ripretinib in patients with KIT-altered metastatic melanoma enrolled in the expansion phase of the ripretinib phase I study. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Patients with KIT-altered metastatic melanoma were enrolled and treated with ripretinib at the recommended phase II dose of 150 mg once daily in 28-day cycles. Investigator-assessed responses according to Response Evaluation Criteria In Solid Tumors version 1.1 were carried out on day 1 of cycles 3, 5, 7, every three cycles thereafter, and at a final study visit. RESULTS: A total of 26 patients with KIT-altered metastatic melanoma (25 with KIT mutations, 1 with KIT-amplification) were enrolled. Patients had received prior immunotherapy (n = 23, 88%) and KIT inhibitor therapy (n = 9, 35%). Confirmed objective response rate (ORR) was 23% [95% confidence interval (CI) 9%-44%; one complete and five partial responses] with a median duration of response of 9.1 months (range, 6.9-31.3 months). Median progression-free survival (mPFS) was 7.3 months (95% CI 1.9-13.6 months). Patients without prior KIT inhibitor therapy had a higher ORR and longer mPFS (n = 17, ORR 29%, mPFS 10.2 months) than those who had received prior KIT inhibitor treatment (n = 9, ORR 11%, mPFS 2.9 months). The most common treatment-related treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) of any grade in ≥15% of patients were increased lipase, alopecia, actinic keratosis, myalgia, arthralgia, decreased appetite, fatigue, hyperkeratosis, nausea, and palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia syndrome. There were no grade ≥4 treatment-related TEAEs. CONCLUSIONS: In this phase I study, ripretinib demonstrated encouraging efficacy and a well-tolerated safety profile in patients with KIT-altered metastatic melanoma, suggesting ripretinib may have a clinically meaningful role in treating these patients.

The effect of early experiences in barn owl (Tyto alba) behaviour. Acquisition-expression time of neophobia and filial imprinting. Implications for management and conservation.

In birds, early experiences determine the later behavioural phenotype of individuals and their way of adapting to the challenges they encounter in their environment. We investigated how the degree of exposure of barn owl chicks to humans and their biological parents influenced their behavioural response to humans and different environments. Only the treatment groups raised by human beings, or those that remained for less time with their biological parents (15 days posthatching), learned to fly towards their trainer. However, the two groups of chicks that were raised the longest by their biological parents (20 and 25 days) never flew towards their trainer. In these last groups, the filial imprint was shown not to be able to be reversed. Neophobia was estimated to emerge between 17 and 19 days of age, as barn owls were able to recognize the environment in which they were habituated, showing fear of a new environment. Birds were able to recognize the person who raised them and objects with which they had been raised. The results obtained in this work can help to establish breeding protocols in this and other species of birds of prey, which improve their adaptability to the environment where they will live, whether in captivity or in the wild.

Organic fertilization influences nematode diversity and maturity index in coffee tree plantations using an agroforestry system.

In conventional coffee farming, soil fauna can be negatively affected by the intensive management practices adopted and the use of an agroforestry system (AFS) is an alternative to reduce these impacts. In coffee AFS, soil nutrition is provided mainly using organic fertilizers. This soil management favors the microbiota and can alter the population dynamics of some organisms. Our objective was to evaluate the effect of organic fertilizers on the nematode community in coffee AFS and to determine their impact on soil ecology. Soil samples were collected from three coffee AFS and a nearby Atlantic rainforest fragment. Nematodes were extracted from the samples and identified to the genus. The identified populations were compared using several community and diversity indices to determine the environmental conditions of the systems under evaluation. No differences in total abundance among nematode communities were found in the four areas evaluated. Regarding trophic groups, the coffee AFS treated with either cow manure or poultry litter favored the trophic group of bacterivores. Plant-parasitic nematodes were more abundant in soils of both the naturally fertilized coffee AFS and the Atlantic rainforest fragment. The maturity and structural indexes indicated that the Atlantic rainforest fragment and the naturally fertilized coffee AFS had similar ecological functions. On the other hand, soils fertilized with cow manure were less diverse, had higher dominance in the community, and showed less ecological stability. The nematode communities found in the AFS were similar to those seen in the forest fragment indicating that is possible to produce coffee sustainably without negatively affecting soil quality.

Frecuencia y factores relacionados a hemorragia intraventricular en neonatos prematuros atendidos en el servicio de neonatología Hospital Materno Infantil- CNS, durante la gestión 2015 / Frequency and factors related to intraventricular hemorrhage in premature neonates treated in the neonatology service Hospital Materno Infantil- CNS (mother & child hospital) during year 2015

OBJETIVO: conocer la frecuencia y los factores relacionados a hemorragia intraventricular en neonatos prematuros atendidos en el Servicio de Neonatología del Hospital Materno Infantil C.N.S durante la gestión 2015. MÉTODO: estudio transversal. Se incluyó a todo recién nacido prematuro menor o igual a 34 semanas nacidos en la institución, que presentaron hemorragia intraventricular. Se utilizó estadística descriptiva, se determinaron porcentajes en las variables nominales y medidas de tendencia central de variables maternas y neonatales. RESULTADOS: se registraron el nacimiento de 102 pacientes menores de 34 semanas de edad gestacional, presentaron hemorragia intraventricular el 13,7%; de los mismos el 43% de los pacientes presentó hemorragia intraventricular grado I, el 28,6% grado II, 21,4% grado III y 7,1% grado IV, pertenecieron al sexo masculino 78%, el 64% de pacientes con hemorragia intraventricular fueron prematuros precoces, seguido del prematuro moderado 21% y 14% prematuro extremo. Los grados severos se presentaron en el prematuro extremo con predominio. El 50% de los prematuros con hemorragia intraventricular no recibió maduración prenatal, 86% presentó alteraciones ventilatorias con hipoxemia en 42,9%, recibió soporte inotrópico 42,9%, usó de cargas con solución fisiológica en las primeras 72 horas de vida el 57% y soluciones hiperosmolares el 35%, fueron politransfundidos 42,9%. CONCLUSIONES: los factores con mayor frecuencia presentes en neonatos prematuros con hemorragia intraventricular fueron menor peso y edad gestacional; requerimiento de reanimación, alteraciones ventilatorias, hemodinámicas, uso de cargas, soluciones hiperosmolares, transfusión.

OBJECTIVE: to know the frequency and related factors with intraventricular hemorrhage in newborn premature infants treated in the Neonatology Service of the Maternal and Child Hospital C.N.S during the 2015 management. METHOD: cross sectional study. All premature infants less than or equal to 34 weeks born in the institution with intraventricular hemorrhage were included. Maternal and neonatal variables were analyzed using descriptive statistics. RESULTS: the birth of 102 patients under 34 weeks of gestational age were registered, 13.7% presented intraventricular hemorrhage; of these, 43% of the patients presented grade I intraventricular hemorrhage, 28.6% grade II, 21.4% grade III and 7.1% grade IV, belonged to 78% male, 64% of patients with Intraventricular hemorrhage were premature, followed by moderate premature 21% and extreme 14% premature. Severe grades occurred in the extreme premature with predominance. 50% of premature infants with intraventricular hemorrhage did not receive prenatal maturation, 86% presented ventilatory abnormalities with hypoxemia in 42.9%, received inotropic support 42.9%, used loads with physiological solution in the first 72 hours of life 57 % and hyperosmolar solutions 35%, 42.9% were transfused. CONCLUSIONS: the factors most frequently related with intraventricular hemorrhage in the premature infant are lower weight and gestational age; requirement of resuscitation, ventilatory, hemodynamic alterations, load use, hyperosmolar solutions, transfusion.

Dieta Cetogénica en el paciente con epilepsia refractaria / Ketogenic Diet in patients with refractory epilepsy

INTRODUCCIÓN: La epilepsia afecta a 0,5% a 1% de la población, iniciándose en la infancia en el 60% de los casos. El 25% de los niños que la presentan, tienen epilepsia refractaria (ER) a fármacos antiepilépticos (FAE) y en ellos la dieta cetogénica (DC) surge como un tratamiento no farmacológico efectivo. OBJETIVO: Evaluar el impacto de la DC en el número de crisis, en la calidad de vida y bienestar del paciente y su entorno. PACIENTES Y MÉTODO: Se revisaron los registros médicos de los pacientes con diagnóstico de ER que recibieron DC entre los años 2008 y 2018 registrando variables: edad, diagnóstico, número de crisis, número de FAE, respuesta y complicaciones. La DC se inició en todos los casos con el paciente hospitalizado durante un período no mayor a siete días, en el cual se realizó evaluación nutricional antropométrica con medición de peso y talla según condición clínica. RESULTADOS: Se analizaron 35 DC. La mediana de edad al inicio fue 4,8 años con rango intercuartil (RIC) de 2,3-6,8 años. Se utilizó DC clásica en 49% de los pacientes, Dieta Atkins Modificada en 37% y Dieta de Bajo Índice Glicémico en 14%. Su promedio de duración fue 13 meses + 11 DS meses. Luego de tres meses de iniciada la DC, la reducción de al menos un 50% de las crisis se observó en 82% de los casos, de los cuales 22,8% presentaron reducción de más de 90% y 20% quedó libre de crisis. Se registraron efectos secundarios en 21 pacientes, la mayoría gastrointestinales (62%) y dislipidemia (14%). Todos los efectos secundarios se resolvieron con manejo médico. CONCLUSIONES: La DC es un tratamiento efectivo en pacientes pediátricos con ER y las complicaciones asociadas fueron fácilmente controla das por un equipo multidisciplinario.

INTRODUCTION: Epilepsy affects 0.5 to 1% of the population. 25% of pediatric patients have drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE). Ketogenic Diet (KD) emerges as an effective, non-pharmacological treatment in this group. OBJECTIVE: To describe the effect of KD on seizure control and nutritional status in children whit DRE. PATIENTS AND METHOD: We reviewed the medical records of patients with DRE treated with KD, between 2008 and 2018, evaluating age, diagnosis, number of seizures, number of antiepileptic drugs used, clinical outcomes, and complications. The KD was initiated in all patients hospitalized for a period no longer than seven days, who were evaluated for their nutritional and anthropometric sta tus, with weight and height measurements according to the clinical condition. RESULTS: We analyzed 35 KD in 33 cases. The median age of KD initiation was 4.8 years with an interquartile range (IQR) of 2-3 to 6.8 years. Classical KD was used in 49% of patients, Modified Atkins Diet (MAD) in 37%, and Low-Glycemic Index Treatment (LGIT) in 14% of cases. The average duration was 13 months (SD 11 months). After three months of using KD, we observed at least 50% reduction of seizures in 82% (27/33) of the patients, out of these, 22.8% presented 90% or more reduction of seizures, and 20% ended up seizure-free. Adverse events were observed in 21 patients, mainly gastrointestinal (62%) and dyslipidemia (14%), without effect on height. All side effects resolved with medical ma nagement. CONCLUSIONS: KD is a useful treatment in pediatric patients with DRE without nutritional impact. The adverse events were easily controlled if the patients are evaluated by a multidisciplinary team, according to international guidelines.

Ketogenic Diet in patients with refractory epilepsy. / Dieta Cetogénica en el paciente con epilepsia refractaria.

INTRODUCTION: Epilepsy affects 0.5 to 1% of the population. 25% of pediatric patients have drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE). Ketogenic Diet (KD) emerges as an effective, non-pharmacological treatment in this group. OBJECTIVE: To describe the effect of KD on seizure control and nutritional status in children whit DRE. PATIENTS AND METHOD: We reviewed the medical records of patients with DRE treated with KD, between 2008 and 2018, evaluating age, diagnosis, number of seizures, number of antiepileptic drugs used, clinical outcomes, and complications. The KD was initiated in all patients hospitalized for a period no longer than seven days, who were evaluated for their nutritional and anthropometric sta tus, with weight and height measurements according to the clinical condition. RESULTS: We analyzed 35 KD in 33 cases. The median age of KD initiation was 4.8 years with an interquartile range (IQR) of 2-3 to 6.8 years. Classical KD was used in 49% of patients, Modified Atkins Diet (MAD) in 37%, and Low-Glycemic Index Treatment (LGIT) in 14% of cases. The average duration was 13 months (SD 11 months). After three months of using KD, we observed at least 50% reduction of seizures in 82% (27/33) of the patients, out of these, 22.8% presented 90% or more reduction of seizures, and 20% ended up seizure-free. Adverse events were observed in 21 patients, mainly gastrointestinal (62%) and dyslipidemia (14%), without effect on height. All side effects resolved with medical ma nagement. CONCLUSIONS: KD is a useful treatment in pediatric patients with DRE without nutritional impact. The adverse events were easily controlled if the patients are evaluated by a multidisciplinary team, according to international guidelines.

Caracterización clínica y epidemiológica de pacientes con Covid-19 atendidos en Servicio de Emergencia del Hospital Clínico Universidad de Chile entre marzo y mayo 2020 / Clinical and epidemiological characterization of patients with Covid-19 treated in the Emergency Service of the Hospital Clínico Universidad de Chile between March and May 2020

In December 2019, a novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) emerged in China and has spread globally, creating a pandemic. The objective of this is study is to determinate clinical and epidemiological characteristics of patients with coronavirus en emergency department. The HCUCH Emergency Service treated a total of 6959 patients between March 13th and May 31th, of whom 1.278 were positive and had confirmed with coronavirus. The male sex was the most prevalent (59.7%). The most frequent symptoms in both groups were cough, myalgia and fever. In the group of ambulatory patients, headache stood out in 50% and in hospitalized patients, dyspnea with 67%. The mortality rate in hospitalized patients was 15.6%. Of these, 66.6% were older than 65 years. Regarding diagnosis of hospital discharge, 87.5% correspond to pneumonia. There is a higher prevalence of coronavirus disease in male patients. The most frequent comorbidities in hospitalized patients were HT and DM2. The highest rate of hospitalization and case fatality in people over 65 years of age. This information helps to characterize the profile of patients at risk in which prevention efforts should be focused. (AU)

Impacto funcional y psicosocial del uso de prótesis de bajo costo en impresión 3D en amputado unilateral de antebrazo: estudio de un caso / Functional and psychosocial impact of the use of low cost 3D prosthesis in a subject with unilateral forearm amputation: case report

Introducción: Los pacientes que presentan una amputación a nivel transradial cuentan con oferta reducida de dispositivos protésicos (gancho y mano cosmética). Postulamos que disponer de nuevos sistemas protésicos 3D de bajo costo y la experiencia de su uso, permitirá aumentar las opciones para mejorar funcionalidad, actividad y participación. Objetivo: Evaluar el impacto funcional y psicosocial del uso de mano protésica manufacturada con impresión 3D. Método: Se seleccionó un paciente Teletón con amputación transradial de antebrazo izquierdo nivel tercio medio, 15 años de edad, con consentimiento informado. Se tomó molde en yeso y confeccionó prótesis 3D fabricada en acrilonitrilo butadieno estireno (ABS) y ácido poli-láctico (PLA); el pulgar tiene dos articulaciones y los demás dedos tres articulaciones. La prótesis la constituyen también el antebrazo y muñeca. El usuario recibió cuatro sesiones de entrenamiento con la prótesis en el lapso de un mes. Las evaluaciones con pauta de funcionalidad de mano Bilan 400 points modificada, índice funcional de las extremidades superiores (UEFI) y escala del impacto psicosocial de la asistencia tecnológica (PIADS), se aplicaron previo al ingreso, a tres y once meses de seguimiento. Resultados: La funcionalidad de mano mostró un incremento de alrededor de 30% con ambos instrumentos. En medición PIADS, competencia, autoestima y adaptabilidad, variaron de ningún efecto de la asistencia tecnológica, hasta el máximo de 3 puntos para adaptabilidad en el seguimiento a 11 meses. Conclusión: Este estudio de caso destaca potenciales beneficios del uso de prótesis de extremidad superior en el desempeño funcional y calidad de vida.

Introduction: The range of prosthetic devices (hooks and cosmetic hands) is limited for transradial amputation patients. Having new low-cost 3D prosthetic systems available, as well as experience on how to use them, will increase the options for better functionality, activity and participation. Objective: To assess functional and psychosocial impact of the use of 3D printed prosthetic hand. Method: A 15 year-old Teleton patient was selected with a middle third transradial amputation of the left forearm; informed consent was obtained. A plaster mold was taken and a 3D prosthesis was made using acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) and polylactic acid (PLA); the thumb had two articulations and the other fingers had three articulations. The prosthesis comprised also forearm and wrist. The user attended four prosthetic training sessions in a month. Modified Bilan 400 points scale for hand functionality, upper extremity functional index (UEFI) and the psychosocial impact of assistive devices scale (PIADS) were applied before admittance, and then at three and eleven months of follow up. Results: Hand functionality showed an increase of approximately 30% with both measuring instruments. In case of PIADS, competence, self-esteem and adaptability varied, from no effect of technology assistance, to the maximum of 3 points in adaptability at the eleven-month follow up. Conclusion: This case study highlights potential benefits of using upper limb 3D prosthesis on daily functional performance and quality of life.

Fungal Allergy: Pattern of sensitization over the past 11 years

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: Although the prevalence of sensitization to fungi is not precisely known, it can reach 50% in inner cities and has been identified as a risk factor in the development of asthma. Whereas the prevalence of allergic diseases is increasing, it is unclear whether the same occurs with sensitization to fungi. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A retrospective study was performed at the "Hospital Infantil de México Federico Gómez". From skin tests taken between 2004 and 2015, information was gathered about Alternaria alternata, Aspergillus fumigatus, Candida albicans, Cladosporium herbarum, Mucor mucedo and Penicillium notatum. The participating patients were 2-18 years old, presented some type of allergic condition, and underwent immediate hypersensitivity tests to the fungi herein examined. Descriptive analysis and chi-squared distribution were used. RESULTS: Of the 8794 patients included in the study, 14% showed a negative result to the entire panel of environmental allergens. The remaining 7565 individuals displayed sensitization to at least one fungus, which most frequently was Aspergillus, with a rate of 16.8%. When the patients were divided into age groups, the same trend was observed. The highest percentage of sensitization (58%) toward at least one type of fungus was found in 2014, and the lowest percentage (49.8%) in 2008. CONCLUSION: The rate of sensitization to at least one type of fungus was presently over 50%, higher than that detected in other medical centers in Mexico. This rate was constant over the 11-year study, and Aspergillus exhibited the greatest frequency of sensitization among the patients

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Syphilis, human immunodeficiency virus, herpes genital and hepatitis B in a women's prison in Cochabamba, Bolivia: prevalence and risk factors.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the prevalence and factors associated with syphilis, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B (HBV) and herpes type 2 (HSV2) among women in the prison of San Sebastian in Cochabamba (Bolivia). MATERIAL AND METHODS: We carried out a cross-sectional study including a standardized questionnaire to assess socio-demographics characteristics and risk factors (sexual practices and exposure to blood); and serological tests for syphilis, HSV2, VIH, and HBV. We performed bivariate and multivariate analyses to test the associations between variables of interest and infections. RESULTS: A total of 219 out of 220 prisoners (99.5%) participated in the study. For syphilis, 12.8% of participants had both reactive tests (RPR+/TPPA+). The prevalence of HSV2 and VIH was 62.6% and 1.4%, respectively. Anti-HBc, indicating a resolved or chronic HBV, was positive in 11.9% of participants and 0.5% had active HBV (HBsAg positive). A low level of education was associated with syphilis, HSV2 and HBV. Having occasional sexual partners was associated with syphilis and HSV2. Being over 36 years old and having more than 3 children were associated with HBV. The number of sexual partners, history of prostitution and rape, having sexual intercourses in prison and detention time were not associated with any of these infections. DISCUSSION: The prevalence of syphilis, HIV, HSV2 and HBV was higher in this vulnerable female population than in the general population in Bolivia. Control measures in detention are needed to limit the spread of these infections both in prisons and in the community.

Impacto del Ácido Fólico en la Incidencia de Fisuras Labiopalatinas de la Población Occidente de la Región Metropolitana, Chile / Impact of Folic Acid on the Incidence of Cleft Lip and Palate of the Western Population of the Metropolitan Region, Chile

RESUMEN: La fisura labiopalatina ha tenido una alta frecuencia en la población chilena. A partir del 2000 se inició el programa de fortificación de la harina con ácido fólico a fin de disminuir los defectos del tubo neural. El objetivo de este estudio fue determinar el impacto que presenta la incorporación del ácido fólico en la incidencia de fisuras labiopalatinas de la población del área occidente de la Región Metropolitana. Se recopiló información a partir de las fichas clínicas de la Fundación Gantz seleccionando a los recién nacidos entre 1990 y 2009, correspondientes a las comunas del Servicio de Salud Occidente de la Región Metropolitana. Desde el 2000 hasta el 2004 se observó una disminución importante en las tasas de fisura labiopalatina, con una tasa de 0,88 fisurados por 1000 recién nacidos vivos. Posteriormente se observó un incremento a partir del 2005 hasta el 2009 llegando a una tasa de 1,52 fisurados por 1000 recién nacidos vivos. En conclusión, el efecto protector del ácido fólico se evidencia en la disminución de las tasas de los recién nacidos con fisuras durante los primeros años de su implementación. Sin embargo, posteriormente se observó un aumento de dichas tasas, lo cual podría deberse al incumplimiento de la norma.

ABSTRACT: Cleft lip and palate has had a high frequency in the Chilean population. From the year 2000 a flour fortification program with folic acid was initiated in order to reduce the defects of the neural tube. The objective of this study was to determine the impact of the incorporation of folic acid in the incidence of cleft lip and palate of the population of the western area of the Metropolitan Region. Information was collected from clinical records of the Gantz Foundation, selecting newborns from 1990 to 2009, corresponding to the districts of the western sector of the Metropolitan Region. From 2000 to 2004 there was a significant decrease in cleft lip and palate rates, with a rate of 0.88 cases per 1000 live births. Subsequently, an increase was observed from 2005 to 2009, reaching a rate of 1.52 cases per 1000 live births. In conclusion, the protective effect of folic acid is evidenced in the reduction of the rates of newborns with cleft palate during the first years of its implementation. However, an increase in these rates was subsequently observed, which could be due to noncompliance with the standard.

Fungal Allergy: Pattern of sensitization over the past 11 years.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: Although the prevalence of sensitization to fungi is not precisely known, it can reach 50% in inner cities and has been identified as a risk factor in the development of asthma. Whereas the prevalence of allergic diseases is increasing, it is unclear whether the same occurs with sensitization to fungi. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A retrospective study was performed at the "Hospital Infantil de México Federico Gómez". From skin tests taken between 2004 and 2015, information was gathered about Alternaria alternata, Aspergillus fumigatus, Candida albicans, Cladosporium herbarum, Mucor mucedo and Penicillium notatum. The participating patients were 2-18 years old, presented some type of allergic condition, and underwent immediate hypersensitivity tests to the fungi herein examined. Descriptive analysis and chi-squared distribution were used. RESULTS: Of the 8794 patients included in the study, 14% showed a negative result to the entire panel of environmental allergens. The remaining 7565 individuals displayed sensitization to at least one fungus, which most frequently was Aspergillus, with a rate of 16.8%. When the patients were divided into age groups, the same trend was observed. The highest percentage of sensitization (58%) toward at least one type of fungus was found in 2014, and the lowest percentage (49.8%) in 2008. CONCLUSION: The rate of sensitization to at least one type of fungus was presently over 50%, higher than that detected in other medical centers in Mexico. This rate was constant over the 11-year study, and Aspergillus exhibited the greatest frequency of sensitization among the patients.

Manejo Quirúrgico de Múltiples Condilomas de la Mucosa Oral en Paciente Bajo Terapia Antirretroviral de Gran Actividad / Surgical Management of Multiple Condylomas in the Oral Mucosa in Patient Undergoing Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy

RESUMEN: El objetivo de este estudio fue reportar un caso clínico donde se realizó el manejo quirúrgico de múltiples condilomas de la mucosa oral en un paciente infectado por Virus de Inmunodeficiencia Humana (VIH) bajo Terapia Antirretroviral de Gran Actividad (TARGA). Hombre de 58 años en tratamiento por infección con VIH en TARGA hace 17 años, que acude al Servicio de Cirugía Maxilofacial del Hospital Barros Luco-Trudeau con múltiples lesiones verruciformes ubicadas en margen y cara dorsal de lengua, cara interna de ambas mejillas y labio inferior. Se realizó escisión quirúrgica de las lesiones de labio, cara dorsal de lengua y cara interna de mejilla del lado derecho, obteniéndose el diagnóstico histopatológico de condiloma. Tras 2 meses de realizar la cirugía se obtuvo recurrencia. La recurrencia de las lesiones puede originarse por la recrudescencia del virus latente adyacente al lecho quirúrgico y, por ello, deben considerarse otras alternativas de tratamiento. Por el impacto en la función, estética, potencial de contagio y malignización, es necesario su tratamiento.

ABSTRACT: The objective of this study was to report a clinical case in which surgical management of multiple condylomas in the oral mucosa was performed in a patient infected by Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) who is under highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). A 58-yearold man, under HAART for 17 years for HIV infection, was admitted at the Maxillofacial Surgery Service at the Hospital Barros Luco-Trudeau as he was experiencing multiple verrucous lesions located on the lateral margin and dorsum of the tongue, as well as on the inner face of both cheeks and the lower lip. A surgical excision of the lesions on the lip, dorsum of the tongue and inner face of the right cheek was performed, where the histopathological diagnosis of condyloma was obtained. There was a recurrence two months after surgery. Recurrence of the lesions may be due to the recrudescence of the latent virus adjacent to the surgical bed and, therefore, other treatment alternatives should be considered. Treatment is necessary due to the impact on the function, aesthetics, and the potential to become contagious and malignant.