Use of multiplex PCR in pleural effusion: is it necessary to change the paradigm of culture-based methods?

The microbiological diagnosis of pleural effusion is based largely on classical microbiology methods, but these methods have a high rate of false negative results. Some previous studies have shown improved diagnostic performance for pathogens such as Streptococcus pneumoniae using molecular biology methods. We present the use of a multiplex PCR platform (BIOFIRE FILMARRAY Pneumonia Panel) for the aetiological diagnosis of pleural effusion in paediatric pneumonia. We present a case series of 17 pleural fluid samples that were processed by culture-based microbiology and molecular biology methods. Microbiological isolation was successful in four cases (25 %) through traditional culture methods. In contrast, the molecular biology panels allowed for detection in 16 out of 17 cases (94 %). The results from these panels led to a change in management for nine out of the 17 cases (52 %). This study found an increase in aetiological diagnosis in complicated pneumonia in children by using molecular biology methods, which led to a significant change in patient management.

Virological evidence of the impact of non-pharmaceutical interventions against COVID-19 in Ecuador, a resource-limited setting.

Ecuador had substantial COVID-19-mortality during 2020 despite early implementation of non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs). Resource-limited settings like Ecuador have high proportions of informal labour which entail high human mobility, questioning efficacy of NPIs. We performed a retrospective observational study in Ecuador's national reference laboratory for viral respiratory infections during March 2020-February 2021 using stored respiratory specimens from 1950 patients, corresponding to 2.3% of all samples analysed within the Ecuadorian national surveillance system per week. During 2020, detection of SARS-CoV-2 (Pearson correlation; r = -0.74; p = 0.01) and other respiratory viruses (Pearson correlation; r = -0.68; p = 0.02) by real-time RT-PCR correlated negatively with NPIs stringency. Among respiratory viruses, adenoviruses (Fisher's exact-test; p = 0.026), parainfluenzaviruses (p = 0.04), enteroviruses (p < 0.0001) and metapneumoviruses (p < 0.0001) occurred significantly more frequently during months of absent or non-stringent NPIs (characterized by <55% stringency according to the Oxford stringency index data for Ecuador). Phylogenomic analyses of 632 newly characterized SARS-CoV-2 genomes revealed 100 near-parallel SARS-CoV-2 introductions during early 2020 in the absence of NPIs. NPI stringency correlated negatively with the number of circulating SARS-CoV-2 lineages during 2020 (r = -0.69; p = 0.02). Phylogeographic reconstructions showed differential SARS-CoV-2 dispersion patterns during 2020, with more short-distance transitions potentially associated with recreational activity during non-stringent NPIs. There were also fewer geographic transitions during strict NPIs (n = 450) than during non-stringent or absent NPIs (n = 580). Virological evidence supports that NPIs had an effect on virus spread and distribution in Ecuador, providing a template for future epidemics in resource-limited settings and contributing to a balanced assessment of societal costs entailed by strict NPIs.

Prácticas culturales de cuidado en el binomio madre-hijo durante el puerperio: Revisión integrativa / Cultural practices of care in the binomial mother-child during the puerperium: Integrative review / Práticas culturais de cuidado no binômio mãe-filho durante o puerpério: Revisão integrativa

Resumen Objetivo: identificar en la literatura las prácticas culturales de cuidado postnatal que realizan las mujeres y su familia durante el puerperio. Metodología: se realizó una revisión integrativa a través de búsqueda en las bases de datos: Gale Cengage Learning, Scielo, Redalyc, Dialnet, EBSCO, Proquest, Science Direct, PubMed y Medigraphic en idiomas inglés, español y portugués entre 2014 y 2019, utilizando los términos: prácticas de cuidado cultural, cuidado en el puerperio, cuidado al recién nacido y cuidado de enfermería materno perinatal; los datos se analizaron a partir de la construcción de una matriz en Excel. Resultados: se obtuvieron 70 artículos, de los cuales emergieron cuatro categorías temáticas de prácticas de cuidado cultural: cuidado de la mujer consigo misma, cuidado del neonato por la madre/familia, cuidado institucional de la puérpera y del neonato, siendo la lactancia materna el factor común entre las ellas. Conclusiones: la identificación de diversas prácticas de cuidado postnatal en el ámbito hospitalario y ambulatorio varían por aspectos sociales, económicos y culturales, pero la mayoría de ellas favorecen el vínculo con el neonato. Es difícil establecer prácticas culturales generalizadas y estáticas en Colombia, debido a la diversidad cultural dentro de cada país.

Abstract Objective: To identify in the literature the cultural practices of postnatal care carried out by women and their families during the puerperium. Methodology: an integrative review was carried out through a search in the Gale Cengage Learning, Scielo, Redalyc, Dialnet, EBSCO, Proquest, Science Direct, PubMed and Medigraphic databases in English, Spanish and Portuguese between 2014 and 2019, using the terms: cultural care practices, puerperium care, newborn care and maternal and perinatal nursing care. The data were analyzed from the construction of a matrix in Excel. Results: A total of 70 articles were obtained, from which four thematic categories of cultural care practices emerged: self-care of the woman, care of the newborn by the mother/family, institutional care of the puerperal woman and the newborn, with breastfeeding being the common factor among them. Conclusions: the identification of different postnatal care practices in the hospital and outpatient settings varies according to social, economic and cultural aspects, but most of them favor bonding with the newborn. It is difficult to establish generalized and static cultural practices in Colombia due to the cultural diversity within each country.

Resumo Objetivo: identificar na literatura as práticas culturais de cuidado post natal que realizam as mulheres e sua família durante o puerpério. Metodologia: Realizou-se uma revisão integrativa a través de busca nas bases de dados: Gale Cengage Learning, Scielo, Redalyc, Dialnet, EBSCO, Proquest, Science Direct, PubMed e Medigraphic em idiomas inglês, espanhol e português entre 2014 e 2019, utilizando os termos: práticas de cuidado cultural, cuidado no puerpério, cuidado ao recém-nascido e cuidado de enfermaria materna perinatal; os dados se analisaram a partir da construção de uma matriz em Excel. Resultados: obtiveram-se 70 artigos, dos quais emergiram quatro categorias temáticas de práticas de cuidado cultural: cuidado da mulher consigo mesma, cuidado do neonato pela mãe/família, cuidado institucional da puérpera e do neonato, sendo a lactância materna o fator comum entre elas. Conclusões: a identificação de diversas práticas de cuidado pós-natal no âmbito hospitalário e ambulatório variam por aspeitos sociais, econômicos e culturais, mas a maioria de elas favorece o vínculo com o neonato. É difícil estabelecer práticas culturais generalizadas e estáticas na Colômbia, devido à diversidade cultural dentro de cada país.

Gender disparities in multiple sclerosis research and leadership: A Colombian perspective.

Background: The neurological academic field is an illustrative example of persistent gender-related disparities reflected in compensation, funding, leadership, promotion, publishing, and recognition. Several studies indicate that neurology is one of the most underrepresented specialties with female physicians as first authors, but also has one of the highest gender payment gaps. Neglecting the role of women in academic leadership positions hinders the visibility and recognition of research and leadership in multiple sclerosis (MS). Increasing diversity within academia has positive effects, such as widening focus and expanding the plurality of research outputs. The gender gap and visibility of female MS clinicians and researchers remains an unexplored research topic in our country despite the rising number of female neurologists. Objective: This study aims to establish the gender distribution between researchers and clinical neurologists in multiple sclerosis in Colombia and raise awareness about gender disparities in this area. Methods: We applied a cross-sectional survey study of Colombian neurologists and neurology residents currently members of the Colombian Neurology Association. Mean and standard deviation (SD) were used for quantitative variables and frequency for qualitative variables. To evaluate the influence of gender, logarithmic regression was used. Data were analyzed in SPSS 26. Results: A total of 201 participants agreed to complete the survey, most of whom were female (n = 135, 67.2%). All the Colombian regions were represented in the survey. Of those surveyed, 31.5% (n = 64) had an interest in demyelinating diseases and MS, of which 46.8% (n = 30) were female. Of the women with MS training, only 50% (n =5) had more than three publications as the first author of a scientific article compared to men (n = 5, 83%). After adjusting the number of publications by gender, there were no significant differences between men and women (median 2.0[2, 1.21] vs. 2[2, 0.5], p = 0.904). However, only 16.6% (n = 5) of women had a visible academic, leadership, or teaching position compared with men 75.7% (n = 25). When adjusting the salary income by gender, we found a statistically significant difference between women and men (median 2.0 [5, 1.47] vs. 3 [5, 1.65], p = 0.006). Women in MS earned between USD 2,500 and 3,800 per month; while men earned between USD 3,800 to 5,070. Conclusion: Despite a higher number of female neurologists trained in MS in Colombia, our data suggest considerable differences and gender gaps with regard to diverse opportunities at the academic, salary promotion, leadership, teaching, and recognition levels between male and female MS neurologists.

Many ways, one microorganism: Several approaches to study Malassezia in interactions with model hosts.

Malassezia, a lipophilic and lipid-dependent yeast, is a microorganism of current interest to mycobiologists because of its role as a commensal or pathogen in health conditions such as dermatological diseases, fungemia, and, as discovered recently, cancer and certain neurological disorders. Various novel approaches in the study of Malassezia have led to increased knowledge of the cellular and molecular mechanisms of this yeast. However, additional efforts are needed for more comprehensive understanding of the behavior of Malassezia in interactions with the host. This article reviews advances useful in the experimental field for Malassezia.

Caracterización de los pacientes con enfermedades vasculares periféricas fallecidos en un período de cuatro años / Characterization of patients with peripheral vascular diseases who died in a period of four years

Introducción: Las enfermedades vasculares periféricas constituyen un problema de salud en el ámbito mundial por resultar causa importante de discapacidad y de invalidez. Objetivo: Caracterizar a los pacientes con enfermedades vasculares periféricas fallecidos en un período de cuatro años. Método: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo y analítico en los pacientes fallecidos entre enero de 2015 y diciembre de 2018. Se estudiaron variables sociodemográficas y clínicas. Se estimaron las frecuencias absolutas y relativas, así como la tasa de mortalidad. Se identificó la asociación entre las variables con la causa directa de muerte. Resultados: El 42,7 por ciento de los diabéticos fallecieron; de estos, el 57,5 por ciento estaban descompensados. La hipertensión arterial, el tabaquismo y la diabetes mellitus fueron los factores de riesgo más frecuentes. La tasa de mortalidad total resultó 0,171/1000 ingresos. Como enfermedades arteriales más frecuente aparecieron los AAA (28,1 por ciento ) y la angiopatía diabética (25 por ciento ); y, como parte de esta última, el pie (25,7 por ciento ). La aneurismectomía con injerto por sustitución representó la cirugía revascularizadora más realizada (58,8 por ciento ). El shock hipovolémico y el tromboembolismo pulmonar predominaron como complicaciones posquirúrgicas (15,7 por ciento ). El shock séptico (31,6 por ciento ) y la bronconeumonía bacteriana (25,7 por ciento) fueron las causas directas de muerte. Conclusiones: Se logró caracterizar a los pacientes con enfermedades vasculares periféricas fallecidos en los últimos cuatro años, por lo que estimaron la tasa de prevalencia y la tendencia anual de la mortalidad en el Instituto Nacional de Angiología y Cirugía Vascular en ese período; asimismo, las variables asociadas a las causas directas de muerte(AU)

Introduction: Peripheral vascular diseases are a global health problem because they are a major cause of disability. Objective: Characterize patients with peripheral vascular diseases who died over a period of four years. Method: A descriptive and analytical study was conducted in patients who died between January 2015 and December 2018. Socio-demographic and clinical variables were studied. Absolute and relative frequencies were estimated, as well as the mortality rate. The association between the variables with the direct cause of death was identified. Results: 42.7 percent of diabetic patients died; of these, 57.5 percent were decompensated. High blood pressure, smoking and diabetes mellitus were the most frequent risk factors. The total mortality rate was 0.171/1000 admissions. The most frequent arterial diseases were AAA (28.1 percent) and diabetic angiopathy (25 percent); and, as part of the latter, foot angiopathy (25.7 percent). Aneurysmectomy with graft substitution represented the most performed revascularizing surgery (58.8 percent). Hypovolemic shock and pulmonary thromboembolism predominated as post-surgical complications (15.7 percent). Septic shock (31.6 percent) and bacterial bronchopneumonia (25.7 percent) were the direct causes of death. Conclusions: It was possible to characterize patients with peripheral vascular diseases who died in the last four years, so they estimated the prevalence rate and the annual trend of mortality at the National Institute of Angiology and Vascular Surgery in that period; also, the variables associated with direct causes of death(AU)

Complicaciones posquirúrgicas en pacientes con aneurisma de la aorta abdominal operados electivamente / Post-surgical complications in patients with electively operated abdominal aortic aneurysm

Introducción: Los aneurismas aórticos abdominales constituyen un problema de salud por la alta mortalidad que provocan. Su seguimiento y tratamiento son fundamentales para evitar las complicaciones posquirúrgicas. Objetivo: Caracterizar las principales complicaciones posquirúrgicas de los pacientes con aneurisma de la aorta abdominal operados electivamente. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio observacional y descriptivo en 94 pacientes operados de forma electiva en el Instituto Nacional de Angiología y Cirugía Vascular por presentar un diagnóstico de aneurisma de la aorta abdominal. Las variables de estudio fueron: edad, sexo, color de la piel, enfermedades asociadas, diámetro del aneurisma, profilaxis antibiótica, tiempo quirúrgico, tipo de prótesis vascular, tipo de complicación posoperatoria, tiempo de aparición de las complicaciones, estadía hospitalaria posoperatoria y estado al egreso. Se determinaron las frecuencias absolutas y relativas. Resultados: El 56,4 por ciento de los pacientes operados presentó algún tipo de complicación, las cuales fueron más frecuentes en el sexo masculino por encima de los 60 años. Las más predominantes resultaron la bronconeumonía (24,5 por ciento) y las arritmias cardíacas (20,8 por ciento). La proporción de complicaciones se mostró mayor en los pacientes con injertos bifurcados, así como en aquellos sin profilaxis y con un tiempo quirúrgico prolongado. Hubo mayor frecuencia de enfermedades cardiovasculares entre los fallecidos. Conclusiones: En los pacientes operados de forma electiva de aneurisma de la aorta abdominal predominaron las complicaciones respiratorias y cardiovasculares, estas últimas provocaron un aumento en la mortalidad(AU)

Introduction: Abdominal aortic aneurysms are a health problem because of the high mortality they cause. Their follow-up and treatment are essential to avoid post-surgical complications. Objective: Characterize the main post-surgical complications of patients with electively operated abdominal aortic aneurysm. Methods: An observational and descriptive study was conducted in 94 electively operated patients at the National Institute of Angiology and Vascular Surgery after having a diagnosis of abdominal aortic aneurysm. The study variables were: age, sex, skin color, associated diseases, aneurysm diameter, antibiotic prophylaxis, surgical time, type of vascular prosthesis, type of postoperative complication, time of onset of complications, postoperative hospital stay, and state at discharge moment. Absolute and relative frequencies were determined. Results: 56.4 percent of operated patients had some form of complication, which were more common in the males over 60 years. The most predominant complications were bronchopneumonie (24.5 percent) and cardiac arrhythmias (20.8 percent). The proportion of complications was shown to be higher in patients with forked grafts, as well as in those without prophylaxis and with prolonged surgical time. There was a higher frequency of cardiovascular diseases among the deceased patients. Conclusions: In patients electively operated of abdominal aortic aneurysm, there was a predominance of respiratory and cardiovascular complications, and the latter caused an increase in mortality(AU)

Back to the Basics: Two Approaches for the Identification and Extraction of Lipid Droplets from Malassezia pachydermatis CBS1879 and Malassezia globosa CBS7966.

Malassezia spp. are lipid-dependent yeasts that have been related to skin mycobiota and dermatological and systemic diseases. Study of lipid droplets (LDs) is relevant to elucidate the unknown role of these organelles in Malassezia and to gain a broader overview of lipid metabolism in Malassezia. Here, we standardized two protocols for the analysis of LDs in M. pachydermatis and M. globosa. The first describes co-staining for confocal laser-scanning fluorescence microscopy, and the second details extraction and purification of LDs. The double stain is achieved with three different neutral lipid fluorophores, namely Nile Red, BODIPY™ 493/503, and HCS LipidTOX™ Deep Red Neutral, in combination with Calcofluor White. For LD extraction, cell wall rupture is conducted using Trichoderma harzianum enzymes and cycles of vortexing with zirconium beads. LD purification is performed in a three-step ultracentrifugation process. These standardizations will contribute to the study of the dynamics, morphology, and composition of LDs in Malassezia. © 2021 Wiley Periodicals LLC. Basic Protocol 1: Lipid droplet fluorescence staining Basic Protocol 2: Lipid droplet extraction and purification Support Protocol: Malassezia spp. culture conditions.

Pesquisa de enfermedad arterial periférica de miembros inferiores en personas mayores de 50 años / Investigation of lower limb peripheral artery disease in people over the age of 50

Introducción: La enfermedad arterial periférica de miembros inferiores se considera un problema de salud por presentar elevadas tasas de morbi-mortalidad y de amputaciones no traumáticas. En ocasiones se desconoce su presencia en los adultos de la población general. Objetivo: Evaluar mediante pesquiza la presencia de la enfermedad arterial periférica de miembros inferiores en personas mayores de 50 años de la población. Métodos: Estudio descriptivo y analítico en 235 personas mayores de 50 años de diferentes municipios de la capital. El diagnóstico de la enfermedad arterial se realizó por examen físico y estudio hemodinámico. Se analizaron variables sociodemográficas y algunos factores de riego cardiovasculares. Se trabajó con un nivel de confiabilidad del 95 por ciento. Resultados: Predominaron el sexo femenino (68,1 por ciento), la piel blanca (53,2 por ciento) y el grupo etáreo entre 50 y 69 años (68,1 por ciento). Hubo mayor frecuencia de la enfermedad en el sexo masculino (70,5 por ciento). El 55,7 por ciento presentó macroangiopatía diabética. Las prevalencias encontradas para la enfermedad arterial periférica y para los factores de riesgo fueron de 51,9 por ciento y de 91,5 por ciento, respectivamente. El 64,7 por ciento de las personas presentaban tres o más factores. La hipertensión (χ 2 = 23,66; p = 0,0000; OR: 3,88) y la obesidad (χ 2 = 8,74; p < 0,001; OR: 1,38) estuvieron asociadas con la enfermedad arterial periférica. Conclusiones: Las personas mayores de 50 años de edad, del sexo masculino y con más de tres factores de riesgo tienen un riesgo elevado de presentar una enfermedad arterial periférica de miembros inferiores(AU)

Introduction: Lower limb peripheral artery disease is considered a health problem because it has high rates of morbidity-mortality and non-traumatic amputations. Its presence in adults in the general population is sometimes unknown. Objective: Assess by investigation the presence of peripheral artery disease of lower limbs in people of the population over 50 years. Methods: Descriptive and analytical study in 235 people over 50 years from different municipalities of the capital. The diagnosis of arterial disease was made by physical examination and hemodynamic study. Sociodemographic variables and some cardiovascular risk factors were analyzed. The reliability level was of 95 percent. Results: Female sex (68.1 percent), white skin (53.2 percent) and the age group between 50 and 69 years (68.1 percent) predominated. There was a higher frequency of the disease in the male sex (70.5 percent). 55.7 percent had diabetic macroangiopathy. The prevalences found for peripheral artery disease and risk factors were 51.9 percent and 91.5 percent, respectively. 64.7 percent of people had three or more factors. Hypertension (χ 2 = 23.66; p = 0.0000; OR: 3.88) and obesity (χ 2 = 8,74; p < 0,001; OR: 1,38) were associated with peripheral artery disease. Conclusions: People over 50 years of age, males and with more than three risk factors have a high risk of developing peripheral lower limb artery disease(AU)

Caracterización de los pacientes con fístulas arterio-venosas para hemodiálisis / Description of patients with arterio-venous fistulas for haemodialysis

Introducción: La fístula arterio-venosa para hemodiálisis es el acceso vascular utilizado con mayor frecuencia. De su adecuada funcionalidad depende la calidad de vida de los pacientes con enfermedad renal crónica. Objetivo: Caracterizar a los pacientes a los que se les confeccionó fístulas arterio-venosas para hemodiálisis. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo retrospectivo en 73 pacientes, a los que se les confeccionó una fístula arterio-venosa para hemodiálisis. Las variables de estudio fueron: edad, sexo, tipo de fístula arterio-venosa, localización, complicaciones y tratamiento quirúrgico de las complicaciones. Resultados: Se encontró un predominio del sexo masculino y del grupo etario entre 51 y 60 años. El 94,6 por ciento de las fístulas realizadas fueron autólogas; y, de estas, el 44,1 por ciento, radio-cefálicas. El 27,3 por ciento de las autólogas y el 20 por ciento de las protésicas se presentó trombosis, y el 18,2 por ciento y el 40 por ciento presentaron hipertensión venosa para las autólogas y protésicas, respectivamente. El 43,5 por ciento de los tratamientos realizados frente a las complicaciones resultó la confección de una nueva fístula. Conclusiones: Los pacientes a los que se les confeccionó fístulas arterio-venosas eran predominantemente adultos mayores del sexo masculino y las fístulas más realizadas fueron las autólogas radio-cefálicas. Como principal complicación de las fístulas se encontró la trombosis y se realizaron escasos procederes para el rescate de estas(AU)

Introduction: Arterio-venous fistula for haemodialysis is the most commonly used vascular access. Its proper functionality depends on the quality of life of patients with chronic kidney disease. Objective: Describe patients to whom were made arterio-venous fistulas for haemodialysis. Methods: A retrospective descriptive study was conducted in 73 patients to whom were made an arterio-venous fistula for haemodialysis. The study variables were: age, sex, type of arterio-venous fistula, location, complications and surgical treatment of complications. Results: It was found a predominance of male sex and the age group of 51 to 60 years. 94.6 percent of the fistulas made were autologous; and, of these, 44.1 percent were radio-cephalic. 27.3 percent of the autologous fistulas and 20 percent of the prosthetics ones developed thrombosis, and 18.2 percent and 40 percent showed venous hypertension for autologous and prosthetic fistulas, respectively. 43.5 percent of the treatments performed to face complications resulted in the making of a new fistula. Conclusions: The patients to whom were made arterio-venous fistulas were predominantly older adults of the male sex and the most performed fistulas were the radio-cephalic autologous. As the main complication of fistulas, thrombosis was found and a few practices were performed to rescue them(AU)

Complicaciones posoperatorias en la fase temprana de la endarterectomía carotídea / Postoperative complication in the early stage of carotid endarterectomy

Introducción: La enfermedad carotídea es una de las formas de presentación de la enfermedad cerebrovascular, que se encuentra entre las principales causas de morbi-mortalidad y de invalidez en el mundo. La endarterectomía carotídea resulta el tratamiento quirúrgico por excelencia. Objetivo: Caracterizar las complicaciones posoperatorias en la fase temprana de la endarterctomia carotídea en un período de cinco años. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo y retrospectivo de corte transversal en 35 pacientes ingresados en el Instituto de Angiología, que fueron operados mediante endarterectomía carotídea por presentar enfermedad carotídea. Se analizaron las variables sociodemográficas, clínicas y quirúrgicas. Se utilizó la estadística descriptiva e inferencial. Resultados: Hubo un predominio del sexo masculino (72,2 por ciento) y de los mayores de 60 años. Las comorbilidades más frecuentes fueron la hipertensión arterial (94,4 por ciento), el tabaquismo (77,8 por ciento) y la enfermedad arterial periférica (61,1 por ciento). El 50 por ciento de todos los pacientes presentó complicaciones en la fase temprana de la cirugía sin mortalidad; la más frecuente resultó el hematoma de la herida (44,4 por ciento), que estuvo presente en el 50 por ciento de las endarterectomías convencionales. Los operados con anestesia general presentaron mayor número de complicaciones, excepto el hematoma, que se observó más en el empleo de anestesia loco-regional. El ictus posoperatorio ocurrió en pacientes con anestesia general. Conclusiones: Las características de las complicaciones posoperatorias en la fase temprana de la endarterectomía carotídea identificadas se asociaron con los tipos de endarterectomía y anestesia, y las comorbilidades(AU)

Introduction: Carotid disease is one of the onset manifestations of cerebrovascular disease, which is among the main causes of morbidity, mortality and disability worldwide. Carotid endarterectomy is the gold standard surgical treatment. Objective: To characterize postoperative complications in the early phase of carotid endarterectomy. Methods: A descriptive and retrospective cross-sectional study was carried out with 35 patients admitted to the Institute of Angiology and who underwent carotid endarterectomy due to carotid disease. Sociodemographic, clinical and surgical variables were analyzed. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used. Results: There was a predominance of males (72.2 perecnt) and of patients aged more than 60 years. The most frequent comorbidities were arterial hypertension (94.4 percent), smoking (77.8 percent), and peripheral arterial disease (61.1 percent). 50 percent of all patients presented complications in the early phase of surgery and without mortality; the most frequent was wound hematoma (44.4 percent), accounting for 50 percent of conventional endarterectomies. Those operated on with general anesthesia presented a greater number of complications, except for hematoma, observed more in the use of local-regional anesthesia. Postoperative stroke occurred in patients under general anesthesia. Conclusions: The characteristics of postoperative complications identified in the early phase of carotid endarterectomy were associated with the types of endarterectomy, anesthesia, and comorbidities(AU)

Analysis of Malassezia Lipidome Disclosed Differences Among the Species and Reveals Presence of Unusual Yeast Lipids.

Malassezia yeasts are lipid dependent and part of the human and animal skin microbiome. However, they are also associated with a variety of dermatological conditions and even cause systemic infections. How these yeasts can live as commensals on the skin and switch to a pathogenic stage has long been a matter of debate. Lipids are important cellular molecules, and understanding the lipid metabolism and composition of Malassezia species is crucial to comprehending their biology and host-microbe interaction. Here, we investigated the lipid composition of Malassezia strains grown to the stationary phase in a complex Dixon medium broth. In this study, we perform a lipidomic analysis of a subset of species; in addition, we conducted a gene prediction analysis for the detection of lipid metabolic proteins. We identified 18 lipid classes and 428 lipidic compounds. The most commonly found lipids were triglycerides (TAG), sterol (CH), diglycerides (DG), fatty acids (FAs), phosphatidylcholine (PC), phosphatidylethanolamine (PE), ceramides, cholesteryl ester (CE), sphingomyelin (SM), acylcarnitine, and lysophospholipids. Particularly, we found a low content of CEs in Malassezia furfur, atypical M. furfur, and Malassezia pachydermatis and undetectable traces of these components in Malassezia globosa, Malassezia restricta, and Malassezia sympodialis. Remarkably, uncommon lipids in yeast, like diacylglyceryltrimethylhomoserine and FA esters of hydroxyl FAs, were found in a variable concentration in these Malassezia species. The latter are bioactive lipids recently reported to have antidiabetic and anti-inflammatory properties. The results obtained can be used to discriminate different Malassezia species and offer a new overview of the lipid composition of these yeasts. We could confirm the presence and the absence of certain lipid-biosynthesis genes in specific species. Further analyses are necessary to continue disclosing the complex lipidome of Malassezia species and the impact of the lipid metabolism in connection with the host interaction.

Visibilidad de la Revista Cubana de Angiología y Cirugía Vascular en el período 2014-2018 / Visibility of the cuban journal of angiology and vascular surgery in the period from 2014 to 2018

Introducción: La Revista Cubana de Angiología y Cirugía Vascular tiene como misión contribuir al desarrollo de la especialidad, mediante la publicación de artículos científicos nacionales y extranjeros de alta calidad. Objetivo: Evaluar la visibilidad de la Revista Cubana de Angiología y Cirugía Vascular en el período 2014-2018. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo, observacional y retrospectivo sobre la visibilidad alcanzada en el período 2014-2018. La muestra estuvo constituida por todos los tipos de artículos publicados en la Revista Cubana de Angiología y Cirugía Vascular en la etapa estudiada y se tomó como referencia la base de datos SciELO regional. Resultados: La Revista Cubana de Angiología y Cirugía Vascular entre 2014 y 2018 publicó un total de 110 trabajos científicos con una frecuencia semestral. Los años 2015 y 2017 fueron los de mayor cantidad de publicaciones, mientras que en 2014 y 2018 se contribuyó, con más publicaciones, con otras revistas cubanas. Los artículos originales resultaron la modalidad que más aportó con un total de 45, equivalente a un 40,9 por ciento. Conclusiones: La revista podría mejorar su visibilidad si se indexara en más bases de datos como Scopus y Medline, y se introdujera en redes sociales científicas como LinkedIn y Research Gate(AU)

Introduction: The Revista Cubana de Angiología y Cirugía Vascular [Cuban Journal of Angiology and Vascular Surgery] has the mission of contributing to the development of the specialty, by publishing high-quality national and foreign scientific articles. Objective: To assess the visibility of the Cuban Journal of Angiology and Vascular Surgery in the period from 2014 to 2018. Methods: A descriptive, observational and retrospective study was carried out about the visibility achieved in the period from 2014 to 2018. The sample consisted of all the types of articles published in the Cuban Journal of Angiology and Vascular Surgery during the stage studied. The regional database SciELO was used as a reference. Results: The Cuban Journal of Angiology and Vascular Surgery, between 2014 and 2018, published a total of 110 scientific papers in a biannual frequency. The years 2015 and 2017 were the ones with the greatest amounts of publications, while, in 2014 and 2018, other Cuban journals were contributed with more publications. Original articles are the modality that contributed the most, with a total of 45, accounting for 40.9 percent. Conclusions: The journal could improve its visibility if it were indexed in more databases, such as Scopus and Medline, and if it were introduced in scientific social media, such as LinkedIn and Research Gate(AU)

Reflexividad, autonomía y consentimiento. Un análisis de las experiencias de mujeres en la búsqueda de un parto fisiológico en la Ciudad de Buenos Aires / Reflexividade, autonomia e consentimento. Uma análise das experiências de mulheres na busca por um parto fisiológico na Cidade de Buenos Aires / Reflexivity, autonomy and consent. An analysis of womens experiences in the search for a physiological birth in the City of Buenos Aires

Resumen En este artículo se analiza el uso del consentimiento informado en torno a partos y nacimientos, mediante el análisis de las estrategias que efectúan las mujeres gestantes de la Ciudad de Buenos Aires en pos del reconocimiento de sus cuerpos, sus bebés, la fisiología de sus partos y el respeto por sus decisiones informadas. A partir de una investigación etnográfica, se analizan las tensiones que experimentan en sus intentos por hacer respetar sus necesidades, derechos y elecciones. Diferentes estrategias (directivas anticipadas, plan de parto, etc.) son desplegadas por las mujeres para efectivizar su protagonismo en las decisiones médicas respecto de sus partos. Este trabajo sugiere que el consentimiento informado no solo es un procedimiento médico formal que utilizan los/as médicos/as para avalar sus decisiones y dejar por sentado la aceptación del paciente, sino que se trata de una herramienta por la cual las mujeres se apropian y movilizan en sus interacciones con el sistema de salud.

Resumo Este artigo analisa o uso do consentimento informado em torno de partos e nascimentos, analisando as estratégias adotadas por gestantes na cidade de Buenos Aires, a fim de reconhecer seus corpos, seus bebês, a fisiologia de seus nascimentos e respeito por suas decisões informadas. A partir de uma investigação etnográfica, são analisadas as tensões que elas experimentam em suas tentativas de reforçar suas necessidades, direitos e escolhas. Estratégias diferentes (diretrizes antecipadas, plano de parto, etc.) são adotadas pelas mulheres para desempenhar seu papel nas decisões médicas sobre seus partos. Este artigo sugere que o consentimento informado não é apenas um procedimento médico formal que os/as médicos/as usam para apoiar suas decisões e dar como certa a aceitação da paciente, mas que é uma ferramenta pela qual as mulheres se apropriam e mobilizam suas interações com o sistema de saúde.

Abstract This paper inquires about the use of informed consent in childbirths and labours, analysing the strategies employed by pregnant women in Buenos Aires Capital City in pursuit of the recognition of their bodies, their babies, the physiology of their labours and the respect of their informed choices. In the context of an ethnographic study, the tensions that women experience in their attempts to make their needs, rights and decisions respected are analyzed. Different strategies (advance healthcare directive, birth plans, etc.) are devised by women to secure their central position in the decision-making related to their labours. This study suggests that informed consent is not only a formal medical procedure that physicians use to support their decision and have a written document of the patient's agreement, but also a tool used by women to seize control of their interactions in the health-care system.

Tratamientos utilizados en los pacientes hospitalizados por úlceras flebostáticas / Treatments Used in Patients Hospitalized for Phlebostatic Ulcers

Introducción: Las úlceras flebostáticas son de difícil curación, no existe un tratamiento único y efectivo, por lo que hay que combinarlos en un mismo paciente. Objetivo: Identificar los tratamientos utilizados en los pacientes ingresados por úlceras flebostáticas y la relación entre el tiempo de estadía hospitalaria, el tratamiento recibido y el estado de las úlceras al egreso hospitalario. Métodos: Estudio descriptivo ambispectivo en 121 ingresos hospitalario con el diagnóstico de úlceras flebostáticas. Las variables de estudio fueron: tratamientos recibidos, estado de la lesión al egreso y estadía hospitalaria. Se asociaron las variables entre sí utilizando la prueba Ji-cuadrada no paramétrica para variables independientes. Resultados: En los 121 ingresos se realizó tratamiento convencional, el 93,4 por ciento recibió antibióticos; el 60,3 po ciento tratamiento compresivo; y quirúrgico en el 56,2 por ciento, con predominio del injerto libre de piel en 72,1 por ciento de estos tratamientos quirúrgicos. El 42,2 por ciento egresó con la lesión curada (tratamiento quirúrgico). Se encontraron asociaciones directas entre el tratamiento quirúrgico con la estadía hospitalaria (( 2 = 31,22; p= 0,0001), con la cura de la lesión (( 2 = 19,92; p= 0,0100) y con su estado al alta hospitalaria (( 2 = 36,07; p= 0,0001). Conclusiones: El tratamiento más empleado es el quirúrgico y dentro de estos, el autoinjerto dermo-epidérmico es el más utilizado, puesto que presenta los mejores resultados en cuanto a la curación de la lesión pero mayor estadía hospitalaria en los pacientes(AU)

Introduction: Phlebostatic ulcers are difficult to heal; there is no single and effective treatment, so several treatments must be combined in the same patient. Objective: To identify the treatments used in patients admitted for phlebostatic ulcers and the relationship between hospital stay, treatment received, condition of the ulcers at hospital discharge. Methods: Ambispective descriptive study of 121 hospital admissions with the diagnosis of phlebostatic ulcers. The study variables were treatments received, status of the injury at discharge, and hospital stay. The variables were associated with each other, using the non-parametric Chi-square test for independent variables. Results: The 121 admissions received conventional treatment. 93.4 percent received antibiotics; 60.3 percent, compression treatment; and 56.2 percent, surgical treatment, with predominance of free skin grafting in 72.1 percent of these surgical treatments. 42.2 percent was discharged with the lesion healed (by surgical treatment). Direct associations were found between surgical treatment with hospital stay (( 2 = 31.22; p = 0.0001), with the cure of the lesion (( 2 = 19.92; p=0.0100), and with the ulcer state at hospital discharge (( 2 =36.07; p= 0.0001). Conclusions: The most used treatment is the surgical one, specifically the dermo-epidermal autograft, which presented the best outcome regarding the healing of the injury, but a longer hospital stay for the patients(AU)

Vitamin D and other environmental risk factors in Colombian patients with multiple sclerosis.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to explore the association between MS and vitamin D levels, as well as Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) seropositivity and smoking history in a Colombian population. METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional study between 2017 and 2018. We measured vitamin D levels and EBV antibody titers and administered a questionnaire to assess dietary habits, smoking, second-hand smoking and duration of smoking, sunlight exposure, physical activity, and personal and family history in individuals with and without multiple sclerosis during adolescence. A multivariable logistic regression model was then performed to explore the association between vitamin D status and MS. RESULTS: A total of 87 individuals with MS (mean age 40.9 years; 65.52% females) and 87 without MS (mean age 55 years; 65.52% females) were included in the analysis. In the multivariable analysis, after controlling for supplementation vitamin D levels did not differ between both groups and no difference was found regarding tobacco smoke exposure. The proportion of individuals who tested positive for anti-EBV nuclear antigen was significantly higher in individuals with MS (95.4% vs 82.76%, p = 0.028) CONCLUSION: : We did not find a statistically significant association between MS and vitamin D levels while anti-EBV nuclear antigen titers behaved as previously described in the literature. This study provides new evidence of the association between MS and different risk factors in our country, reinforcing the hypothesis that the pathogenesis of MS is multifactorial. Further studies are needed to better define the association between environmental factors and the development of MS in low prevalence areas.

Perfil lipídico mínimo para el diagnóstico del riesgo de enfermedad vascular periférica de los miembros inferiores / Minimum lipid profile for the diagnostic of the peripheral vascular disease's risk

Introducción: El perfil lipídico mínimo está relacionado con la enfermedad vascular de tipo aterosclerótica, pero se desconoce cuál es el tipo de perfil más frecuente en los adultos y el tipo de riesgo que representan para la enfermedad vascular periférica de los miembros inferiores. Objetivo: Determinar si el perfil lipídico mínimo sirve para diagnosticar el riesgo de enfermedad vascular periférica de los miembros inferiores. Métodos: Se trabajó con 533 muestra sanguíneas de personas adultas de diferentes municipios de la provincia La Habana. Se cuantificaron las concentraciones de colesterol total y de triglicéridos. Se calculó la media y la desviación estándar. Se diagnosticó y clasificó la hiperlipemia, se identificó el riesgo de enfermedad vascular periférica de los miembros inferiores y su asociación con la hiperlipemia. Se trabajó con un nivel de confiabilidad del 95 por ciento (a=0,05). Resultados: Los perfiles lipídicos mínimos más frecuentes fueron: el hipercolesterolemia leve (46,0 por ciento) y la hipertrigliceridemia (22,6 por ciento). El 53,8 por ciento presentó riesgo de enfermedad vascular periférica de los miembros inferiores entre potencial (24,8 por ciento) y alto (29,0 por ciento). Existió una asociación entre la hiperlipemia y la presencia de enfermedades vasculares periféricas de los miembros inferiores (chi cuadrada= 120,4; p= 0,00000). Se detectó que el 50 por ciento de las personas requería de un tratamiento hipolipemiante. Conclusión: El perfil lipídico mínimo sirve para diagnosticar el tipo de riesgo de enfermedad vascular periférica de los miembros inferiores. Se observó una fuerte asociación de dicha enfermedad con la presencia de hiperlipemia(AU)

Introduction: The minimum lipid profile is related to atherosclerotic vascular disease, but it is not known what is the most common type in adults and the kind of risk it represent for peripheral vascular disease of the lower limbs. Objective: To determine if the minimum lipid profile is used to diagnose the risk of peripheral vascular disease of the lower limbs. Methods: It was carried out a study with 533 blood sample of adults from different municipalities in Havana province. Concentrations of total cholesterol and triglycerides were quantified. Average and standard deviation were calculated. Hyperlipidemia was diagnosed and classified, the risk of peripheral vascular disease of the lower limbs and the association of the latter with hyperlipidemia were identified. The level of reliability used was of 95 percent (a= 0.05). Results: The most common minimum lipid profiles were: mild hypercholesterolemia (46 percent) and hypertriglyceridemia (22.6 percent). 53.8 percent presented a risk of peripheral vascular disease of the lower limbs between potential (24.8 percent) and high (29 percent). There was a relation between the hyperlipidemia and the presence of peripheral vascular diseases of the lower limbs (chi-cudrada= 120.4, p= 0.00000). It was detected that 50 percent of the people required a hypolipidemic treatment. Conclusion: The minimum lipid profile is used to diagnose the risk's type of peripheral vascular disease of the lower limbs, observing a strong relation of the latter with the presence of hyperlipidemia(AU)

Caracterización de los pacientes hospitalizados por úlceras flebostáticas / Characterization of the patients hospitalized due to phlebostatic ulcers

Introducción: Las úlceras en los miembros inferiores se relacionan desde los tiempos antiguos con las venas varicosas; es aceptado que dichas úlceras son una enfermedad frecuente y un grave problema de salud pública en todo el mundo y que la gran mayoría es el resultado de una insuficiencia venosa crónica. Objetivo: Caracterizar a los a los pacientes hospitalizados por úlceras flebostáticas. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio ambispectivo en 81 pacientes ingresados con el diagnóstico de úlceras flebostáticas. Las variables de estudio fueron: edad, sexo, cantidad de ingresos y estadía hospitalaria. Resultados: Se encontró un predominio del sexo femenino y de los mayores de 60 años en los 121 ingresos realizados. El 72,8 por ciento ingresó una sola vez y el 18,2 por ciento en más de una ocasión. La estadía hospitalaria fue de más de 21 días en el 55,4 por ciento. Conclusiones: Los pacientes hospitalizados con úlceras flebostáticas son predominantemente adultos mayores del sexo femenino, presentan una baja frecuencia de reingresos y una estadía hospitalaria prolongada(AU)

Introduction: The ulcers in the lower limbs are related from the old times with the varicose veins; it is accepted that the same ones are a frequent illness and a serious problem of public health in the world, and the great majority is the result of chronic venous insufficiency. Objective: To characterize the patients hospitalized due to phlebostatic ulcers. Methods: It was carried out an ambispective study in 81 patients admitted with the diagnosis of phlebostatic ulcers. The study variables were: age, sex, quantity of hospital admissions and hospital stay. Results: It was predominant in the 121 of the hospital admission: the female sex and people older than 60 years. 72.8 percent of the patients were admitted one time and 18.2 percent in more than one occasion. The hospital demurrage was of more than 21 days in 55.4 percent of the cases. Conclusions: The patients hospitalized due to phlebostatic ulcers are predominantly female elder people. It was possible to characterize the patients hospitalized with a low frequency of hospital re-admission and hospital demurrage(AU)

Enfermedades vasculares periféricas y niveles de calidad de vida en adultos mayores del municipio Boyeros / Peripheral vascular diseases and life quality levels in elderly adults of Boyeros municipality

Objetivo: Determinar la prevalencia de las enfermedades vasculares periféricas y los niveles de calidad de vida en los adultos mayores. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio prospectivo y analítico en una muestra aleatorizada (n= 200) de los residentes del municipio Boyeros. Se analizaron solo los adultos mayores (n= 58). Las enfermedades vasculares periféricas se diagnosticaron por examen físico-vascular, estudio hemodinámico y ultrasonográficos. Se aplicó el cuestionario genérico de calidad de vida SF-36. Resultados: La tasa de enfermedades vasculares periféricas fue de 12 por 10 000; donde las más prevalentes fueron: las flebopatías (9,3), la enfermedad arterial periférica de los miembros inferiores (5,7) y la enfermedad carotidea (4,4). El porcentaje se incrementó en el grupo entre 70 y 79 años. El 31,8 por ciento presentaron dos o más enfermedades. En más del 80 por ciento el diagnóstico fue precoz. La hipertensión arterial (85,2 por ciento) fue el factor de riesgo más frecuente. No se halló diferencias (p < 0,05) en ninguna de las escalas de calidad de vida al comparar los adultos mayores con y sin enfermedad vascular. En los enfermos las medidas sumarias salud mental y salud física oscilaron entre moderada y baja. Los enfermos fueron remitidos a sus áreas de salud para recibir el tratamiento oportuno. Conclusiones: El municipio Boyeros presentó elevadas tasas de prevalencia de enfermedades vasculares periféricas en los adultos mayores con una afectación importante en las medidas sumarias de niveles de calidad Salud mental y Salud física(AU)

Objective: To determine the prevalence of peripheral vascular diseases and the life quality levels in elderly. Methods: A prospective and analytical study was conducted in a randomized sample (n = 200) of the residents of Boyeros municipality in Havana, analyzing only the elderly (n = 58). Peripheral vascular diseases were diagnosed by physical-vascular examination, hemodynamic and ultrasonographic studies. The SF-36 generic life quality questionnaire was applied. Results: The rate of peripheral vascular diseases was of 12 by 10 000, where the most prevalent were: flebopathy (9.3), peripheral arterial disease of the lower limbs (5.7) and carotid disease (4.4). The percentage increased in the group from 70 to 79 years old. 31.8 percent showed two or more diseases. In more than the 80 percent, the diagnosis was precocious. Arterial hypertension (85.2 percent), obesity (59.3 percent) and hyperlipidemia (42.6 percent) were the most common risk factors. No differences (p< 0.05) were found in any of the quality of life scales when comparing elderly with and without vascular disease. In ill patients, the summary measures mental health and physical health oscillated between moderate and low. The ill patients were referred to their health areas to receive timely treatment. Conclusions: Boyeros municipality presented high rates of prevalence of peripheral vascular diseases in elderly with an important impact on the summary measures of quality levels called mental health and physical health(AU)