Effect of a pescetarian and vegan diet on fatty acid composition in blood and spermatozoa in young healthy men.

INTRODUCTION: There is a growing interest in vegetarian and vegan diets, but both can potentially affect tissue fatty acids (FA) composition. We aimed to evaluate the effect of vegetarian diets on plasma, erythrocytes, and sperm n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFA) status in healthy young men. METHODS: Four groups were studied: i) men consuming a regular omnivore diet (OMV-1, n = 35); ii) men consuming an omnivore diet but excluding fish and seafood (OMV-2, n = 34); iii) men consuming a pescetarian diet (including dairy, eggs, fish, and seafood) (PESC, n = 36); and iv) men following a strict vegan diet (VEG, n = 35). Participants in each group should follow their diet for at least the previous 12 months. Diet evaluation used a structured validated food frequency questionnaire. FA composition was measured in plasma, erythrocyte phospho-lipids, and spermatozoa by gas-liquid chromatography, expressed as a mole percentage of the total FA content. RESULTS: Main findings showed higher alpha-linolenic fatty acid (ALA) and total n-3 PUFA dietary intake in the VEG group. In plasma, arachidonic and eicosapentaenoic acids were higher in OMV and PESC groups, whereas docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) level was lower in VEG. Higher ALA, but reduced DHA and total n-3 PUFA levels were found in erythrocytes and spermatozoa in the VEG group. CONCLUSION: Higher dietary ALA intake was found in pescetarians and vegan men. However, the higher ALA intake was not reflected in higher DHA content in the evaluated tissues. PUFA assessment, with particular emphasis in DHA, are necessary to improve PUFA status in vegan men.

Vitamin D: a 14-year retrospective study at a clinical laboratory in Brazil

ABSTRACT Objective: This study aimed to assess vitamin D (25OHD) levels in individuals who underwent an examination at a private laboratory (between latitudes 14° and 22° south) over 14 years, stratified by sex, age, and epidemiological profiles, and determine variations in the number of tests performed over the years. Materials and methods: All records of 25OHD tests performed at a private clinical laboratory in Brazil were analyzed. This retrospective cross-sectional study included patients stratified by sex (female or male), age range (0-17, 18-40, 41-59, and ≥ 60 years), and year of testing. The final sample size was 193,725 patients. Categorical variables are presented as absolute and relative frequencies and numerical variables as means ± standard deviation. Comparisons between groups were performed using the equality of proportions test. Results: The number of tests performed steeply increased since 2010. More tests were performed in female individuals (73.3%) and individuals aged 41-59 years (32.2%). Most samples (68.0%) demonstrated sufficient vitamin D status. Women had a higher incidence of vitamin D deficiency than men (33.1% and 26.6%, respectively; p < 0.001). Individuals aged ≥ 60 years had the highest incidence of vitamin D deficiency (68.4%), while individuals aged 0-17 years had the lowest (32.2%) (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Despite increased testing and attention given to vitamin D in recent years, our study demonstrates high levels of deficiency in a country with geographical conditions favorable to its production.

Vitamin D: a 14-year retrospective study at a clinical laboratory in Brazil.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess vitamin D (25OHD) levels in individuals who underwent an examination at a private laboratory (between latitudes 14° and 22° south) over 14 years, stratified by sex, age, and epidemiological profiles, and determine variations in the number of tests performed over the years. METHODS: All records of 25OHD tests performed at a private clinical laboratory in Brazil were analyzed. This retrospective cross-sectional study included patients stratified by sex (female or male), age range (0-17, 18-40, 41-59, and ≥ 60 years), and year of testing. The final sample size was 193,725 patients. Categorical variables are presented as absolute and relative frequencies and numerical variables as means ± standard deviation. Comparisons between groups were performed using the equality of proportions test. RESULTS: The number of tests performed steeply increased since 2010. More tests were performed in female individuals (73.3%) and individuals aged 41-59 years (32.2%). Most samples (68.0%) demonstrated sufficient vitamin D status. Women had a higher incidence of vitamin D deficiency than men (33.1% and 26.6%, respectively; p < 0.001). Individuals aged ≥ 60 years had the highest incidence of vitamin D deficiency (68.4%), while individuals aged 0-17 years had the lowest (32.2%) (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Despite increased testing and attention given to vitamin D in recent years, our study demonstrates high levels of deficiency in a country with geographical conditions favorable to its production.

The Effectiveness of Additional Core Stability Exercises in Improving Dynamic Sitting Balance, Gait and Functional Rehabilitation for Subacute Stroke Patients (CORE-Trial): Study Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: Trunk impairment produces disorders of motor control, balance and gait. Core stability exercises (CSE) are a good strategy to improve local strength of trunk, balance and gait. Methods and analysis: This is a single-blind multicenter randomized controlled trial. Two parallel groups are compared, and both perform the same type of therapy. A control group (CG) (n = 110) performs conventional physiotherapy (CP) (1 h per session) focused on improving balance. An experimental group (EG) (n = 110) performs CSE (30 min) in addition to CP (30 min) (1 h/session in total). EG is divided in two subgroups, in which only half of patients (n = 55) perform CSE plus transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS). Primary outcome measures are dynamic sitting, assessed by a Spanish version of Trunk Impairment Scale and stepping, assessed by Brunel Balance Assessment. Secondary outcomes are postural control, assessed by Postural Assessment Scale for Stroke patients; standing balance and risk of fall assessed by Berg Balance Scale; gait speed by BTS G-Walk (accelerometer); rate of falls, lower-limb spasticity by Modified Ashworth Scale; activities of daily living by Barthel Index; and quality of life by EQ-5D-5L. These are evaluated at baseline (T0), at three weeks (T1), at five weeks (end of the intervention) (T2), at 17 weeks (T3) and at 29 weeks (T4). Study duration per patient is 29 weeks (a five-week intervention, followed by a 24-week post-intervention).

A Predictive Model for Gastrocnemius Tightness in Forefoot Pain and Intractable Plantar Keratosis of the Second Rocker.

BACKGROUND: Many people experience gastrocnemius tightness. Few studies demonstrate the relationship between gastrocnemius tightness and forefoot pathology. This study aimed to define the association between intractable plantar keratosis of the second rocker (IPK2) (also known as well-localized IPK or discrete keratosis) and metatarsalgia. METHODS: The Silfverskiöld (ST) and lunge (LT) tests, used for measuring ankle dorsiflexion, were applied to diagnose gastrocnemius tightness. An instrument for measuring accurate performance and the force to be applied (1.7-2.0 kg of force to the ankle dorsiflexion) complemented the ST for clinical diagnosis and to obtain repeatedly reliable results (the authors apply force manually, which is difficult to quantify accurately). RESULTS: Of 122 patients studied, 74 were used to devise a prediction model from a logistic regression analysis that determines the probability of presenting gastrocnemius tightness in each test (LT and ST) with the following variables: metatarsalgia, IPK2, and maximum static pressure (baropodometry). The IPK2 plays the principal role in predicting this pathology, with the highest Wald values (6.611 for LT and 5.063 for ST). Metatarsalgia induces a somewhat lower change (66.7% LT and 64.3% ST). The maximum pressure of the forefoot is equally significant (P = .043 LT and P = .025 ST), taking α < .05 as the significance level. CONCLUSIONS: The results of this validation report confirm that a model composed of metatarsalgia, IPK2, and maximum pressure in static acts as a predictive method for gastrocnemius tightness.

Executive summary: Consensus document of GEHEP of the Spanish Society of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology (SEIMC), along with SOCIDROGALCOHOL, SEPD and SOMAPA on hepatitis C virus infection management in drug users / Resumen ejecutivo: Documento de consenso de GEHEP, perteneciente a la Sociedad Española de Enfermedades Infecciosas y Microbiología Clínica (SEIMC), junto a SOCIDROGALCOHOL, SEPD y SOMAPA, sobre el manejo de la infección por virus de la hepatitis C en usuarios de drogas

The micro-elimination of HCV infection in drug users (DU) in our area is a priority in order to achieve the overall elimination of this disease. Coordinated action between specialists in addiction treatment, microbiologists and physicians who treat HCV infection is required to implement infection screening, to achieve universal access to treatment and to prevent new infections and reinfections. The objective of this document was to come to a consensus on the screening, hospital referral, treatment, follow-up and prevention of HCV infection in DU by an expert panel from GEHEP/SEIMC and three scientific societies of addiction treating physicians: SEPD, SOCIDROGALCOHOL and SOMAPA

La microeliminación de la infección por VHC en pacientes usuarios de drogas (UD) es una prioridad para lograr la eliminación global de esta enfermedad. Se requiere una acción coordinada de especialistas en el tratamiento de adicciones, microbiólogos y médicos que tratan la infección por VHC para realizar el cribado de los pacientes, garantizar el acceso al tratamiento y prevenir nuevas infecciones y reinfecciones. El objetivo de este documento fue consensuar las medidas de cribado, envío a unidades hospitalarias, tratamiento, seguimiento y prevención de la infección por VHC en UD, por parte de un panel de expertos de GEHEP/SEIMC y 3 sociedades científicas implicadas en el tratamiento de las adicciones: SEPD, SOCIDROGALCOHOL y SOMAPA

Ketamina, un nuevo agente terapéutico para la depresión / Ketamine, a New Therapeutic Agent for Depression

Resumen: El trastorno depresivo mayor (TDM) afecta aproximadamente a una de cada 10 personas en México y es una de las primeras 5 causas de discapacidad a nivel global. Las opciones de tratamiento actuales son limitadas debido a que solo actúan en algunos de los factores fisiopatológicos relacionados con esta enfermedad, además de que los efectos sobre la depresión suelen ser retardados. Esto implica una importante limitación en disminuir la discapacidad que origina e impide una acción rápida ante la ideación suicida. Recientemente, la ketamina (un anestésico) ha probado tener propiedades antidepresivas a través de su actividad sobre el sistema de neurotransmisión glutamatérgica (ningún otro tratamiento actúa a este nivel). Logra mejoría de los síntomas depresivos en horas y ha resultado útil en pacientes que no responden a los tratamientos disponibles en la actualidad. Recientemente se aprobó su utilización para el tratamiento de este trastorno. Sin embargo, aún quedan interrogantes sobre sus mecanismos de acción antidepresiva, seguridad y efectos secundarios, entre otros.

Abstract: Major depressive disorder affects about one in every 10 people in Mexico and is one of the first 5 causes of disability worldwide. Current treatment options are limited and only act upon some factors associated in its physiopathology. Moreover, the effects on depression are not immediate, which is a great limitation in obtaining a benefit over disability caused by this disorder and impedes a rapid action in the scenario of suicidality. Recently, ketamine (an anesthetic) has shown to have antidepressant properties by acting in the glutamate neurotransmission system (while no other current treatment acts on this level). It offers benefits in depressive symptoms in a matter of hours and has proven to be useful in patients that do not benefit from current therapeutic options. Recently, it has been approved for the treatment of depression. However, there are still many questions about its antidepressant mechanisms of action, safety, side effects, among others.

Executive summary: Consensus document of GEHEP of the Spanish Society of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology (SEIMC), along with SOCIDROGALCOHOL, SEPD and SOMAPA on hepatitis C virus infection management in drug users.

The micro-elimination of HCV infection in drug users (DU) in our area is a priority in order to achieve the overall elimination of this disease. Coordinated action between specialists in addiction treatment, microbiologists and physicians who treat HCV infection is required to implement infection screening, to achieve universal access to treatment and to prevent new infections and reinfections. The objective of this document was to come to a consensus on the screening, hospital referral, treatment, follow-up and prevention of HCV infection in DU by an expert panel from GEHEP/SEIMC and three scientific societies of addiction treating physicians: SEPD, SOCIDROGALCOHOL and SOMAPA.

Validation and reliability of the Spanish version of the Function in Sitting Test (S-FIST) to assess sitting balance in subacute post-stroke adult patients.

BACKGROUND: Function in Sitting Test (FIST) is a clinical functional assessment of sitting balance validated in adults with stroke. For a major use of this, the test is recommended to be translated in Spanish-speaking countries. OBJECTIVES: Translate to Spanish the FIST and determine its intra-rater and inter-rater reliabilities and concurrent validity as a measure of sitting balance in adult individuals with stroke. METHODS: The original version was translated into Spanish and was agreed by a team of experts. A back-translation into English was subsequently performed and sent to the original author, who approved this version named from now Spanish version of Function in Sitting Test (S-FIST). Sixty post-stroke patients' performance was recorded on a videotape. These videos were then used to carry out four measurements to assess the intra-rater and inter-rater reliabilities; two of these were performed by the same rater and the third and fourth by a second and third rater. RESULTS: The S-FIST meets the following requirements: good construct validity and high correlation with Spanish version of Trunk Impairment Scale 2.0 (S-TIS 2.0) scores (r = 0.791) Spearman's rank, high internal consistency (Cronbach's α-coefficient = 0.97), and high intra-rater and inter-rater reliabilities for the summed scores assessed by intra-class correlation coefficient were 0.999 and 0.997, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The S-FIST is valid and reliable and can be recommended for use in the evaluation of dynamic and sitting balance and trunk control in future research and clinical practice on post-stroke patients. Guidelines for treatment and level of quality of trunk activity can be derived from its use.

Long-term follow-up of a randomized controlled trial on additional core stability exercises training for improving dynamic sitting balance and trunk control in stroke patients.

OBJECTIVE: Analyse the effect of core stability exercises in addition to conventional physiotherapy training three months after the intervention ended. DESIGN: A randomized controlled trial. SETTING: Outpatient services. SUBJECTS: Seventy-nine stroke survivors. INTERVENTIONS: In the intervention period, both groups underwent conventional physiotherapy performed five days/week for five weeks, and in addition the experimental group performed core stability exercises for 15 minutes/day. Afterwards, during a three-month follow-up period, both groups underwent usual care that could eventually include conventional physiotherapy or physical exercise but not in a controlled condition. MAIN MEASURES: Primary outcome was trunk control and dynamic sitting balance assessed by the Spanish-Version of Trunk Impairment Scale 2.0 and Function in Sitting Test. Secondary outcomes were standing balance and gait evaluated by the Berg Balance Scale, Tinetti Test, Brunel Balance Assessment, Spanish-Version of Postural Assessment Scale for Stroke and activities of daily living using the Barthel Index. RESULTS: A total of 68 subjects out of 79 completed the three-month follow-up period. The mean difference (SD) between groups was 0.78 (1.51) points ( p = 0.003) for total score on the Spanish-Version of Trunk Impairment Scale 2.0, 2.52 (6.46) points ( p = 0.009) for Function in Sitting Test, dynamic standing balance was 3.30 (9.21) points ( p= 0.009) on the Berg Balance Scale, gait was 0.82 (1.88) points ( p = 0.002) by Brunel Balance Assessment (stepping), and 1.11 (2.94) points ( p = 0.044) by Tinetti Test (gait), all in favour of core stability exercises. CONCLUSIONS: Core stability exercises plus conventional physiotherapy have a positive long-term effect on improving dynamic sitting and standing balance and gait in post-stroke patients.

Evaluación del estado nutricional de yodo en una población de embarazadas / Assessment of iodine nutritional status in a pregnant women population

Introducción: el déficit de yodo en embarazadas puede perjudicar la salud de la madre y del recién nacido, está relacionado con diversas complicaciones obstétricas como abortos espontáneos, muertes fetales, anomalías congénitas, aumento de la mortalidad perinatal y el cretinismo. La Organización Mundial de la Salud (OMS) establece que el déficit de yodo sigue siendo la principal causa global evitable tanto de retraso mental como de parálisis cerebral, y afecta en grado variable el desarrollo y bienestar de millones de personas en el mundo. Las embarazadas constituyen una población vulnerable, con altos requerimientos de yodo. No se han realizado estudios en embarazadas en Uruguay luego de la yodación universal de la sal (1999). Objetivo principal: evaluar el estado nutricional de yodo en una población de embarazadas. Objetivo secundario: obtener una impresión cualitativa de las posibles fuentes de yodo nutricionales en esta población. Material y método: se realizó una encuesta nutricional específicamente confeccionada y se recolectaron muestras de la primera orina de la mañana para determinar yoduria en mujeres embarazadas independientemente del trimestre. Se consideró deficiencia de yodo para esta población una excreción urinaria media por debajo de 150 ?g/l (OMS, 2007). Resultados: se analizaron 96 muestras de orina. La mediana de la excreción urinaria media de yodo para esta población fue de 182 ?g/l, considerándose en rango de normalidad para las embarazadas valores entre 150 y 249 ?g/l. Conclusiones: este estudio ha confirmado que la excreción urinaria de yodo en la orina está en el rango adecuado a lo establecido por la OMS.

Abstract Introduction: iodine deficit in pregnant women may have a negative effect on the mother and the newborn, and it is associated to several obstetric complications such as spontaneous abortion, fetal death, congenital anomalies, increase of perinatal mortality and cretinism. The World Health Organization (WHO) establishes that iodine deficit is still the main global avoidable cause for mental retardation and brain palsy, and it affects the development and wellbeing of millions of people around the world at different levels. Pregnant women are a vulnerable population with high requirements. No studies in the pregnant women population have been conducted in Uruguay after the universal salt iodation in 1999. Main objective: assessment of iodine nutritional condition in a pregnant women population Secondary objective: to obtain a qualitative impression of the possible sources of nutritional iodine in this population. Methods: a specially prepared nutritional survey was conducted and first morning urine samples were collected to determine ioduria in pregnant women, regardless of the trimester. In this population, iodine deficiency was defined for this population when urine excretion was below 150 ?g/l (WHO, 2007). Results: ninety six urine samples were analysed. Median of the average urinary excretion for this population was 182 ?g/l, normal rates being between 150 and 249 ?g/l. Conclusions: the study confirmed iodine urinary excretion lies within the adequate range established by the WHO.

Resumo Introdução: a deficiência de iodo em gestantes pode prejudicar a saúde da mãe e do recém-nascido e está relacionado com diversas complicações obstétricas como abortos espontâneos, mortes fetais, anomalias congénitas, aumento da mortalidade perinatal e também com o cretinismo. A Organização Mundial da Saúde (OMS) declarou que a deficiência de iodo continua sendo a principal causa global evitável tanto de retraso mental como de paralisia cerebral, e que afeta, em diferentes graus, o desenvolvimento e o bem-estar de milhões de pessoas no mundo. As gestantes são uma população vulnerável com altos requerimentos. No Uruguay, desde 1999 quando começou a iodetação universal do sal, não são realizados estudos em gestantes. Objetivo principal: avaliar o estado nutricional de iodo em uma população de gestantes. Objetivo secundário: obter uma relação qualitativa das possíveis fontes nutricionais de iodo nesta população. Material e métodos: realizou-se um inquérito nutricional e foram coletadas amostras da primeira urina da manhã para determinar iodúria em gestantes em qualquer trimestre da gravidez. Nesta população considerou-se deficiência de iodo uma excreção urinaria média inferior a 150 ?g/l (OMS, 2007). Resultados: foram analisadas 96 amostras de urina. A mediana da excreção urinaria media de iodo nesta população foi de 182 ?g/l, considerando como normais valores entre 150 e 249 ?g/l. Conclusões: este estudo confirmou que a excreção urinaria de iodo está compreendida no intervalo considerado adequado de acordo com o estabelecido pela OMS.

Prevalencia del déficit de vitamina D en una población de embarazadas que se asisten en el Centro Hospitalario Pereira Rossell / Prevalence of vitamin D Deficiency in pregnant women who are followed in the Pereira Rossell Hospital Center

Introducción: la falta de vitamina D (Vit D) en las embarazadas puede perjudicar la salud de la madre y del niño si no es diagnosticada y tratada adecuadamente. Su déficit está relacionado con diversas complicaciones obstétricas, como la preeclampsia y la diabetes gestacional y del recién nacido, bajo peso al nacer e hipocalcemia; pobre crecimiento posnatal, fragilidad ósea y aumento de la incidencia de enfermedades autoinmunes. Múltiples estudios muestran que la falta de Vit D ocurre con una extraordinaria frecuencia que oscila entre 18% y 84% dependiendo de la población estudiada, sin embargo no tenemos datos nacionales. Objetivo: conocer la prevalencia de deficiencia e insuficiencia de Vit D en una población de mujeres embarazadas de un hospital público de Montevideo, el Centro Hospitalario Pereira Rossell. Material y método: se realizaron cuestionarios especialmente confeccionados y extracciones de sangre en embarazadas del tercer trimestre para creatininemia, calcio total en sangre, albuminemia, PTH intacta y 25 (OH) Vit D, previa firma de consentimiento informado. Se consideró como deficiencia severa una concentración de Vit D < 10 ng/ml; deficiencia 10-20 ng/ml; insuficiente 20-30 ng/ml, y suficiente > 30 ng/ml. Resultados: de 71 muestras analizadas, 3 (4,3%) tuvieron niveles de suficiencia, 18 tuvieron insuficiencia (25,7%), 30 deficiencia (42,9%) y 19 severa deficiencia (27,1%). Conclusiones: tal como ocurre a nivel internacional el déficit de Vit D en la población estudiada se presenta con una frecuencia extraordinaria. Se requiere la pronta atención de este problema para evitar complicaciones en la embarazada y en el recién nacido.

Abstract Introduction: vitamin D deficiency in pregnant women may be harmful or the mother’s and the child’s health if it is not adequately diagnosed and treated. Its deficiency has been associated to several obstetric complications such as pre-eclampsia and gestational diabetes and diabetes of the newborn, low birth weight and hypocalcemia; poor postnatal growth, bone fragility and increase if autoimmune disorders. Multiple studies show that vitamin D deficiency happens very frequently, between 18% and 84%, depending on the population studied. However, there are no national data. Objective: to learn about the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency in a population of pregnant women in the Pereira Rossell Hospital center, a public hospital of Montevideo, Method: surveys that were specially designed and blood tests in pregnant women during their third trimester of pregnancy for creatininemia, total calcium in blood and albuminemia, serum 25(OH)D3 and intact PTH were determined, upon the signature of an informed consent. A concentration of vitamin D < 10 ng/ml was considered to be a severe deficiency, 10-20 ng/ml was deficient, 20-30 ng/ml was insufficient and > 30 ng/ml was considered to be sufficient. Results: out of 71 samples analysed, 3 (4.3%) revealed sufficient levels, 18 were insufficient (25.7%), 30 were deficient (42.9%) and 19 were severely deficient (27.1%). Conclusions: just as it happens globally, vitamin D deficiency in the population studied is extraordinarily frequent. Attention needs to paid to this issue to avoid complications in pregnant women and newborns.

Resumo Introdução: a falta de vitamina D (Vit D) em gestantes pode prejudicar a saúde da mãe e da criança se não é diagnosticada e tratada adequadamente. Sua deficiência está relacionada com diversas complicações obstétricas, como a pré-eclâmpsia e a diabetes gestacional e, do recém-nascido como baixo peso ao nascer e hipocalcemia, pobre crescimento pós-natal, fragilidade óssea e aumento da incidência de doenças autoimunes. Vários estudos mostram que a falta de Vit D tem uma frequência extraordinária que varia entre 18% e 84% dependendo da população estudada, no entanto não temos dados nacionais. Objetivo: conhecer a prevalência de deficiência e insuficiência de Vit D em uma população de gestantes de um hospital público de Montevidéu, o Centro Hospitalar Pereira Rossell. Material e método: foram realizadas entrevistas e foram tomadas amostras de sangue gestantes no terceiro trimestre para dosificacão de creatininemia, cálcio total, albuminemia, PTH intacta e 25 (OH) Vit D; previamente foi solicitada a assinatura de consentimento informado. Foram classificadas como deficiência severa concentrações de Vit D < 10 ng/ml; deficiência valores entre 10-20 ng/ml, insuficiente 20-30 ng/ml, e suficiente > 30 ng/ml. Resultados: das 71 amostras analisadas, 3 (4,3%) apresentaram níveis de suficiência, 18 insuficiências (25,7%), 30 deficiências (42,9%) e 19 deficiências grave (27,1%). Conclusões: a deficiência de Vit D na população estudada se apresenta com una frequência extraordinária como o informado a nível global. É necessário atender este problema rapidamente para evitar complicações na gestante e no recém-nascido.

Validation of the Spanish version of the Trunk Impairment Scale Version 2.0 (TIS 2.0) to assess dynamic sitting balance and coordination in post-stroke adult patients.

BACKGROUND: In recent years the Trunk Impairment Scale version 2.0 (TIS 2.0) has been a frequently used scale to assess dynamic sitting balance and trunk control for stroke patients. OBJECTIVE: To translate the TIS 2.0 into Spanish and validate it as an instrument to evaluate dynamic sitting balance and trunk control and coordination for post-stroke adult patients. METHODS: The original version was translated into Spanish and was agreed by a team of experts. A back-translation into English was subsequently performed and sent to the original author, who approved this version. 58 post-stroke patients' performance was recorded on a videotape. These videos were then used to carry out four measurements to assess the intra-rater and inter-rater reliability, two of these were performed by the same rater and the third and fourth by a second and third rater. RESULTS: The reliability was calculated by the Kappa index, and was superior to 0.80 for intra-rater reliability, while inter-rater reliability varied from 0.487 to 1. Cronbach's alpha for internal consistency was 0.896 and to subscales dynamic sitting balance and coordination were 0.899 and 0.613 respectively. Intra-class correlations (ICC) for the summed scores of the different subscales were above 0.90 for all of them. CONCLUSION: The Spanish version of the TIS 2.0 is valid and reliable, and can be recommended for use in the evaluation of dynamic sitting balance and trunk control and coordination in future research on post-stroke patients. Guidelines for treatment and level of quality of trunk activity can be derived from its use.

The effect of additional core stability exercises on improving dynamic sitting balance and trunk control for subacute stroke patients: a randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVE: To examine the effect of core stability exercises on trunk control, dynamic sitting and standing balance, gait, and activities of daily living in subacute stroke patients. DESIGN: A randomized controlled trial. SETTING: Inpatient rehabilitation hospital in two centres. SUBJECTS: Eighty patients (mean of 23.25 (±16.7) days post-stroke) were randomly assigned to an experimental group and a control group. INTERVENTIONS: Both groups underwent conventional therapy for five days/week for five weeks and the experimental group performed core stability exercises for 15 min/day. The patients were assessed before and after intervention. MAIN MEASURES: The Trunk Impairment Scale (Spanish-Version) and Function in Sitting Test were used to measure the primary outcome of dynamic sitting balance. Secondary outcome measures were standing balance and gait as evaluated via Berg Balance Scale, Tinetti Test, Brunel Balance Assessment, Postural Assessment Scale for Stroke (Spanish-Version), and activities of daily living using Barthel Index. RESULTS: The experimental group showed statistically significant differences for all of the total scale scores (P<0.05), except for the sitting section of the Brunel Balance Assessment. The mean (SD) difference between groups in Trunk Impairment Scale total score was 3.40 (±4.12) points, and its subscale dynamic sitting balance was 2.28 (±3.29). The Berg Balance Scale was 14.54 (±18.19) points, and the Barthel Index was 13.17 (±25.27) points. Collectively, these results were in favour of the experimental group. CONCLUSIONS: Core stability exercises in addition to conventional therapy improves trunk control, dynamic sitting balance, standing balance, gait and activities of daily living in subacute post-stroke patients.

Capacitación de residentes de ginecología en urgencias obstétricas mediante simulación clínica / Training gynecology residents in obstetric urgencies using clinical simulation

La necesidad de preservar la seguridad de los pacientes durante el proceso de aprendizaje ha determinado que la educación médica basada en el uso de las simulaciones se haya convertido en un imperativo ético. Objetivo: describir el taller de capacitación de residentes en la resolución de situaciones críticas frecuentes en la práctica obstétrica mediante simulación clínica desarrollado en el Centro Hospitalario Pereira Rossell. Material y método: el programa fue dirigido a los residentes de la Clínica Ginecotocológica “A”. Participaron un total de 17 residentes. Se utilizó la simulación como herramienta de aprendizaje por primera vez en nuestro medio. Se diseñaron dos escenarios clínicos, y mediante una viñeta clínica, y en algún caso con la participación de una actriz –paciente simulado–, se pretende que el residente actúe como lo haría en una situación real. Se realizó una lista de cotejos para ser evaluados por sus pares, pre y postest y encuesta de satisfacción del curso. Resultados: se evidenció un índice significativamente más alto de respuestas correctas en el postest en relación con el pretest, 92% y 69%, respectivamente, con una p < 0,001. El 100% de los participantes concuerdan en la utilidad de la simulación clínica, destacando que la misma les permitió reflexionar acerca de su práctica diaria. Conclusiones: la simulación es una iniciativa favorable para el desarrollo del área de educación médica, ya que propone un espacio para que los alumnos puedan desarrollar destrezas y habilidades, enfrentándose con una mayor seguridad a los pacientes reales...

The need to preserve patients’ safety during the learning process has determined that medical training based on the use of simulation has become an ethical must.Objective: to describe a workshop developed to at the Pereira Rossell Hospital Center to train residents in the resolution of frequent critical situations in obstetrics through clinical simulation.Method: the program aimed at residents of Clinica Ginecotocológica “A”. Seventeen residents took part in the workshop which used simulation as a learning instrument for the first time in our country. Two clinical scenarios were designed, and the goal is for residents to act as if it were a real situation. The workshop covers a clinical list, and in certain cases actors take part – pretending they are patients. A certain number of items were assessed by their peers, before and after the test and a course satisfaction survey was prepared.Results: a significant higher rate of correct answers was evidenced in the post-test when compared to the pre-test (92% and 69% respectively), p<0,001. All participants agree on the usefulness of clinical simulation, pointing out it enables their reflecting on their daily practice.Conclusions: simulation is a favorable initiative to develop the medical education area, since it allows a space for students to develop skills before facing real patients with a greater degree of confidence...

A necessidade de preservar a segurança dos pacientes durante o processo de aprendizagem determinou que a educação médica baseada no uso de simulações tenha se convertido em um imperativo ético.Objetivo: descrever a oficina de trabalho de capacitação de residentes na resolução de situações críticas frequentes na prática obstétrica utilizando simulação clínica desenvolvida no Centro Hospitalario Pereira Rossell.Material e método: o programa estava dirigido a residentes da Clínica Ginecotocológica “A”. Participaram 17 residentes. A simulação foi utilizada como ferramenta de aprendizagem pela primeira vez no nosso meio. Foram criadas duas situações clínicas, e com o apoio de uma ementa e contexto, e em algum caso com a participação de uma atriz (paciente simulada), buscava-se que o residente agisse como se estivesse em uma situação real. Foram elaboradas: uma lista de comparação para ser avaliada por seus pares, pré e pós-teste e uma pesquisa de opinião para conhecer o grau de satisfação com a atividade.Resultados: um índice significativamente mais alto de respostas corretas no pós-teste comparado com o pré-teste, 92% e 69%, respectivamente, com p < 0,001, foi registrado. 100% dos participantes concordaram com a utilidade da simulação clínica, destacando que esta lhes permitiu reflexionar sobre sua prática diária.Conclusões: a simulação é uma iniciativa que favorece o desenvolvimento da área de educação médica, pois propõe um espaço no qual os alunos podem desenvolver destrezas e habilidades, dando-lhes mais segurança quando atendam pacientes reais...

[Spanish translation and validation of the Postural Assessment Scale for Stroke Patients (PASS) to assess balance and postural control in adult post-stroke patients]. / Traducción y validación al español de la Postural Assessment Scale for Stroke Patients (PASS) para la valoración del equilibrio y del control postural en pacientes postictus.

INTRODUCTION: In the last years the Postural Assessment Scale for Stroke Patients (PASS) has become in the most common utility to assess balance and postural control in adult patients who have suffered a stroke, especially in the acute and subacute phase. AIM: To translate the PASS into Spanish and to validate it as an instrument to evaluate balance and postural control in adult stroke patients in Spain. PATIENTS AND METHODS: The French version was translated into Spanish, this version was agreed by a team of experts. Later a back-translation was made into French and was sent to original author, who approved this version. To assess the interrater and intrarater reliability were performed four measurements on 60 post-stroke patients which was recorded a videotape. Two of these measurements were performed by the same rater, and the third and fourth by a second and third rater. RESULTS: The values refer to the total score of the scale and reflect a reliability of 0.999. They also show a reliability greater than 0.90 in each of the items in both intrarater and interrater comparisons as an internal consistency of 0.94. CONCLUSIONS: The Spanish version of PASS is valid and can reliably evaluate balance and postural control for adult stroke survivors.

TITLE: Traduccion y validacion al español de la Postural Assessment Scale for Stroke Patients (PASS) para la valoracion del equilibrio y del control postural en pacientes postictus.Introduccion. En los ultimos años, la Postural Assessment Scale for Stroke Patients (PASS) se ha convertido en la escala mas utilizada para valorar el equilibrio y el control postural en pacientes adultos que han sufrido un ictus, especialmente en la fase aguda y subaguda. Objetivo. Traducir y validar la PASS para la poblacion española como instrumento de valoracion del equilibrio y el control postural en pacientes adultos postictus. Pacientes y metodos. Se tradujo al español la version original francesa de la PASS; dicha version fue consensuada por un equipo de expertos. Posteriormente se hizo una retrotraduccion al frances y se envio al autor de la escala, el cual aprobo dicha version. Seguidamente se evaluo la fiabilidad intra e interobservador; para ello se llevaron a cabo cuatro mediciones a 60 pacientes postictus, a partir de una videograbacion. Dos de estas mediciones fueron realizadas por el mismo observador, y la tercera y cuarta, por un segundo y tercer observadores. Resultados. Los valores obtenidos referidos a la puntuacion total de la escala reflejan un indice de fiabilidad del 0,999; tambien muestran una fiabilidad superior a 0,90 en cada uno de los items, tanto en las comparaciones intraobservador como interobservador, y una consistencia interna del 0,94. Conclusion. La version española de la PASS es valida y fiable para valorar el equilibrio y el control postural en pacientes adultos postictus.

Traducción y validación al español de la Postural Assessment Scale for Stroke Patients (PASS) para la valoración del equilibrio y del control postural en pacientes postictus / Spanish translation and validation of the Postural Assessment Scale for Stroke Patients (PASS) to assess balance and postural control in adult post-stroke patients

Introducción. En los últimos años, la Postural Assessment Scale for Stroke Patients (PASS) se ha convertido en la escala más utilizada para valorar el equilibrio y el control postural en pacientes adultos que han sufrido un ictus, especialmente en la fase aguda y subaguda. Objetivo. Traducir y validar la PASS para la población española como instrumento de valoración del equilibrio y el control postural en pacientes adultos postictus. Pacientes y métodos. Se tradujo al español la versión original francesa de la PASS; dicha versión fue consensuada por un equipo de expertos. Posteriormente se hizo una retrotraducción al francés y se envió al autor de la escala, el cual aprobó dicha versión. Seguidamente se evaluó la fiabilidad intra e interobservador; para ello se llevaron a cabo cuatro mediciones a 60 pacientes postictus, a partir de una videograbación. Dos de estas mediciones fueron realizadas por el mismo observador, y la tercera y cuarta, por un segundo y tercer observadores. Resultados. Los valores obtenidos referidos a la puntuación total de la escala reflejan un índice de fiabilidad del 0,999; también muestran una fiabilidad superior a 0,90 en cada uno de los ítems, tanto en las comparaciones intraobservador como interobservador, y una consistencia interna del 0,94. Conclusión. La versión española de la PASS es válida y fiable para valorar el equilibrio y el control postural en pacientes adultos postictus (AU)

Introduction. In the last years the Postural Assessment Scale for Stroke Patients (PASS) has become in the most common utility to assess balance and postural control in adult patients who have suffered a stroke, especially in the acute and subacute phase. Aim. To translate the PASS into Spanish and to validate it as an instrument to evaluate balance and postural control in adult stroke patients in Spain. Patients and methods. The French version was translated into Spanish, this version was agreed by a team of experts. Later a back-translation was made into French and was sent to original author, who approved this version. To assess the interrater and intrarater reliability were performed four measurements on 60 post-stroke patients which was recorded a videotape. Two of these measurements were performed by the same rater, and the third and fourth by a second and third rater. Results. The values refer to the total score of the scale and reflect a reliability of 0.999. They also show a reliability greater than 0.90 in each of the items in both intrarater and interrater comparisons as an internal consistency of 0.94. Conclusi (AU)

Prevalencia de controles prenatales incompletos en un servicio de maternidad y su relación con complicaciones neonatales / Prevalence of prenatal complete care in a Maternity and their relationship to neonatal complications

El control prenatal reduce la morbilidad y mortalidad materna y perinatal, partos prematuros y el número de productos con bajo peso al nacer, a la vez que permite identificar factores de riesgo, lo cual hace posible establecer acciones preventivas y terapéuticas oportunas durante el embarazo. Se considera control prenatal completo (CPC) al que cumple con las siguientes premisas: precoz, periódico, completo y de amplia cobertura. Con el objetivo de determinar la prevalencia de CPC en la población de embarazadas que consultaron al servicio de maternidad del hospital ôAngela I. de Llanoö y establecer la relación entre el número de controles y complicaciones neonatales precoces, se llevó a cabo un estudio retrospectivo en el que se analizaron las historias clínicas del periodo junio a diciembre de 2010. Sobre 823 mujeres incluidas en el estudio, el 51% no presentó controles que cumplieran con los criterios de precocidad,cantidad, distribución, integralidad y calidad; las complicaciones neonatales fueron mayores en el grupo de controles incompletos. El 6,2% de los recién nacidos en el grupo sin control presentó bajo peso. El ingreso a neonatología fue del 9,7% en el grupo de controles incompletos y del 4,9% en el de controles completos. El porcentaje de óbitos fetales fue del 1,1% en el grupo de controles incompletos. Puede concluirse que los controles prenatales en la población estudiada se asocian con un mejor control y salud fetal neonatal, menor número de complicaciones y menos óbitos y fetos muertos, lo cual coincide con lo encontrado enotros lugares del país y de Latinoamérica. (AU)

Prenatal care reduces morbidity and both maternal and perinatal mortality, premature births and the number of products with low birth weight; additionally, it helps to identify risk factors making possible to establish appropriate preventive and therapeutic actions during pregnancy. Prenatal care is considered complete with the following premises: early, periodic, complete and comprehensive coverage. To determine the prevalence of complete prenatal care (CPC) among pregnant women and to establish the relationship between the number of controls and early neonatal complications, we performed a retrospective study analyzing the medical records of the Service of Maternity of the Hospital ôAngela I. Llanoö, in a period from June to December 2010.Among 823 studied women, the 51% had no controls that met the criteria of precocity, quantity, distribution, integrity and quality, so we can also see that neonatal complications were higher in the group of controls incomplete. We found that the 6.2% of newborns in the uncontrolled group had low birth weight. The entrance to the nursery was 9.7% in the control group and 4.9% among the incomplete control group.The percentage of stillbirths was 1.1% in the incomplete control group. In conclusion, we found that prenatal care was associated with better fetal control and neonatal health, fewer complications, deaths and stillbirths, which agree with that found elsewhere in the country and Latin America