Um esclarecimento sobre a real necessidade de realizar a reposição hormonal de testosterona no homem / A clarification on the real need for testosterone hormone replacement in men / Una aclaración sobre la necesidad real de sustituir la hormona testosterona en los hombres

O artigo é uma revisão sobre os aspectos relacionados ao envelhecimento masculino e necessidades de tratamentos, com ênfase no hipogonadismo tardio, baixa produção de testosterona e possível desenvolvimento do Distúrbio Androgênico do Envelhecimento Masculino (DAEM). O objetivo foi apresentar o DAEM e suas implicações sobre a qualidade de vida do paciente para promover e validar o tratamento, quando realmente for apropriado, para esse quadro clínico. Utilizou-se como a fonte de pesquisa Google Acadêmico, banco de dados Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde e do PubMed foram obtidos artigos com as aplicações dos seguintes filtros: 2010-2023 e descritores em saúde (andropausa, reposição hormonal, testosterona, DAEM, hipogonadismo e síndromes metabólicas). Os critérios de inclusão utilizados foram a disponibilidade integral dos artigos, ter os idiomas inglês e português, e abordar o tema da Doença Androgênica do Envelhecimento, todas as suas repercussões sobre a qualidade de vida do homem e, sobretudo, o seu tratamento. Para excluir artigos encontrados na busca, foram observadas obras que apenas tangenciam o tema e tinham enfoque em outros aspectos, como: estética e esporte. Após a aplicação do método, 14 trabalhos foram selecionados por estabelecerem grande relação com o tema. Esse distúrbio acarreta para o indivíduo um conjunto de sinais e sintomas capazes de comprometer sua qualidade de vida: disfunção erétil, baixa libido, obesidade, redução de massa magra ou sarcopenia, osteoporose e distúrbios do humor. O diagnóstico é feito clinicamente e através de exames laboratoriais de dosagem sérica de testosterona. Perante a confirmação diagnóstica e sem patologizar processos fisiológicos do envelhecimento, o tratamento indicado é a reposição de testosterona que tende a normalizar o quadro do idoso por amenizar ou finalizar os sinais e sintomas desse paciente, proporcionando-o uma terceira idade com qualidade de vida. Vale destacar que as disposições de formulações de testosterona são inúmeras: orais, transdérmicas, intramusculares ou injetáveis. A via de administração depende da situação individual de cada paciente e cada tipo de medicamento tem seus benefícios se comparado aos outros, seja por comparação entre efeitos colaterais, estabilidade de níveis séricos hormonais, custo e acesso. O DAEM precisa ser identificado e diagnosticado naqueles pacientes que necessitam de um tratamento por apresentar sinais e sintomas prejudiciais ao bem-estar. Para isso, a indústria farmacêutica disponibiliza uma gama de formas de administração de testosterona. Entretanto, é preciso ter clareza sobre a real necessidade de medicar um paciente.

The article is a review of aspects related to male aging and treatment needs, with an emphasis on late-onset hypogonadism, low testosterone production and the possible development of Androgenic Male Aging Disorder (AMAD). The aim was to present the AMAD and its implications for the patient's quality of life in order to promote and validate treatment, where appropriate, for this clinical condition. The search source used was Google Scholar, the Virtual Health Library database and PubMed, where articles were obtained using the following filters: 2010-2023 and health descriptors (andropause, hormone replacement, testosterone, AMAD, hypogonadism and metabolic syndromes). The inclusion criteria used were that the articles were available in full, that they were in English and Portuguese, and that they dealt with the subject of Androgenic Ageing Disorder, all its repercussions on men's quality of life and, above all, its treatment. To exclude articles found in the search, we looked at works that only touched on the subject and focused on other aspects, such as aesthetics and sport. After applying the method, 14 articles were selected because they were closely related to the topic. This disorder leads to a set of signs and symptoms that can compromise the individual's quality of life: erectile dysfunction, low libido, obesity, reduced lean mass or sarcopenia, osteoporosis and mood disorders. The diagnosis is made clinically and through laboratory tests of serum testosterone levels. Once the diagnosis has been confirmed and without pathologizing the physiological processes of ageing, the treatment indicated is testosterone replacement, which tends to normalize the condition of the elderly by easing or ending the signs and symptoms of the patient, providing them with a quality old age. It's worth noting that there are many different formulations of testosterone: oral, transdermal, intramuscular or injectable. The route of administration depends on the individual situation of each patient and each type of medication has its benefits compared to the others, whether it's a comparison of side effects, stability of serum hormone levels, cost and accessibility. AMAD needs to be identified and diagnosed in those patients who need treatment because they have signs and symptoms that are detrimental to their well-being. To this end, the pharmaceutical industry offers a range of forms of testosterone administration. However, it is necessary to be clear about the real need to medicate a patient.

El artículo es una revisión de los aspectos relacionados con el envejecimiento masculino y las necesidades de tratamiento, con énfasis en el hipogonadismo de inicio tardío, la baja producción de testosterona y el posible desarrollo del Trastorno Androgénico del Envejecimiento Masculino (TAME). El objetivo fue presentar el TAME y sus implicaciones en la calidad de vida del paciente, con el fin de promover y validar el tratamiento de esta condición clínica, cuando sea apropiado. La fuente de búsqueda utilizada fue Google Scholar, la base de datos de la Biblioteca Virtual de Salud y PubMed, donde se obtuvieron artículos utilizando los siguientes filtros: 2010-2023 y descriptores de salud (andropausia, reemplazo hormonal, testosterona, TAME, hipogonadismo y síndromes metabólicos). Los criterios de inclusión utilizados fueron que los artículos estuvieran disponibles en su totalidad, en inglés y portugués, y que abordaran el tema del Trastorno Androgénico del Envejecimiento, todas sus repercusiones en la calidad de vida de los hombres y, sobre todo, su tratamiento. Para excluir los artículos encontrados en la búsqueda, se consideraron los trabajos que sólo tocaban el tema y se centraban en otros aspectos, como la estética y el deporte. Tras aplicar el método, se seleccionaron 14 artículos por estar estrechamente relacionados con el tema. Este trastorno conlleva un conjunto de signos y síntomas que pueden comprometer la calidad de vida del individuo: disfunción eréctil, libido baja, obesidad, reducción de la masa magra o sarcopenia, osteoporosis y trastornos del estado de ánimo. El diagnóstico se realiza clínicamente y mediante pruebas de laboratorio de los niveles séricos de testosterona. Una vez confirmado el diagnóstico y sin patologizar los procesos fisiológicos del envejecimiento, el tratamiento indicado es el reemplazo de testosterona, que tiende a normalizar la condición del anciano, aliviando o terminando con sus signos y síntomas, proporcionándole una vejez con calidad de vida. Cabe destacar que existen diversas formulaciones de testosterona: oral, transdérmica, intramuscular o inyectable. La vía de administración depende de la situación individual de cada paciente y cada tipo de medicación tiene sus ventajas frente a las demás, ya sea en comparación con los efectos secundarios, la estabilidad de los niveles séricos de la hormona, el coste y la accesibilidad. Es necesario identificar y diagnosticar el TAME en aquellos pacientes que necesitan tratamiento porque presentan signos y síntomas perjudiciales para su bienestar. Para ello, la industria farmacéutica ofrece diversas formas de administración de testosterona. Sin embargo, es necesario tener clara la necesidad real de medicar a un paciente.

Advancement in the development of mRNA-based vaccines for respiratory viruses.

Acute respiratory infections are the leading cause of death and illness in children under 5 years old and represent a significant burden in older adults. Primarily caused by viruses infecting the lower respiratory tract, symptoms include cough, congestion, and low-grade fever, potentially leading to bronchiolitis and pneumonia. Messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA)-based vaccines are biopharmaceutical formulations that employ mRNA molecules to induce specific immune responses, facilitating the expression of viral or bacterial antigens and promoting immunization against infectious diseases. Notably, this technology had significant relevance during the COVID-19 pandemic, as these formulations helped to limit SARS-CoV-2 virus infections, hospitalizations, and deaths. Importantly, mRNA vaccines promise to be implemented as new alternatives for fighting other respiratory viruses, such as influenza, human respiratory syncytial virus, and human metapneumovirus. This review article analyzes mRNA-based vaccines' main contributions, perspectives, challenges, and implications against respiratory viruses.

Transactional sex and risky sexual practices in Jamaica.

BACKGROUND: Transactional sex relationships (TSRs) create financial and emotional support for men and women, as well as an increased sexual risk. Studies have reported high HIV and STI transmission rates among young women in transactional sex relationships. However, little is known about TSR prevalence in Jamaica and risky sexual practices among participants. This study investigates the sexual behaviour of Jamaicans in TSR. METHODS: Secondary data analysis of a national survey revealed that 586 participants (38%) self-reported being in at least one TSR in the last 12 months. We also identified a third category called "Benefluids", who play both roles of benefactor and beneficiary in transactional sex relationships. RESULTS: 59 percent of male Benefluids had two to five transactional sex relationship partners in the last 12 months, compared to 40% of female Benefluids. Twenty-eight percent of female Benefluids reported sexually transmitted infection symptoms in the last 12 months compared to 13.5% of male Benefluids. While females reported more sexually transmitted infection symptoms, young men had the highest sexual risk precursors. CONCLUSIONS: People in transactional sex relationships often play the role of beneficiaries and benefactors to meet material and sexual needs but this increases the risk of STI symptoms.

Fusarium Keratitis: A Systematic Review (1969 to 2023).

BACKGROUND: Mycotic keratitis (MK) represents a corneal infection, with Fusarium species identified as the leading cause. Fusarium is a genus of filamentous fungi commonly found in soil and plants. While many Fusarium species are harmless, some can cause serious infections in humans and animals, particularly Fusarium keratitis, that can lead to severe ocular infections, prevalent cause of monocular blindness in tropical and subtropical regions of the world. Due to its incidence and importance in ophthalmology, we conducted a systematic analysis of clinical cases to increase our understanding of Fusarium keratitis by gathering clinical and demographic data. METHODS: To conduct an analysis of Fusarium keratitis, we looked through the literature from the databases PubMed, Embase, Lilacs, and Google Scholar and found 99 papers that, between March 1969 and September 2023, corresponded to 163 cases of Fusarium keratitis. RESULTS: Our analysis revealed the Fusarium solani species complex as the predominant isolate, with females disproportionately affected by Fusarium keratitis. Notably, contact lens usage emerged as a significant risk factor, implicated in nearly half of cases. Diagnosis primarily relied on culture, while treatment predominantly involved topical natamycin, amphotericin B, and/or voriconazole. Surprisingly, our findings demonstrated a prevalence of cases originating from the United States, suggesting potential underreporting and underestimation of this mycosis in tropical regions. This shows the imperative for heightened vigilance, particularly in underdeveloped regions with substantial agricultural activity, where Fusarium infections may be more prevalent than currently reported. CONCLUSION: Our study sheds light on the clinical complexities of Fusarium keratitis and emphasizes the need for further research and surveillance to effectively tackle this vision-threatening condition. Furthermore, a timely identification and early initiation of antifungal treatment appear to be as important as the choice of initial treatment itself.

Challenges and trends in Gram-negative bacterial infections in critically neonates: A seven-and-a-half-year observational study.

BACKGROUND: Analyze the incidence, risk factors, and fatality rates of bloodstream infections by Gram-negative bacteria (GNB-BSIs) in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. METHODS: This study employs a retrospective cohort design utilizing records of neonates admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit between January 2015 and June 2022. RESULTS: Among 1,495 neonates, 5.2% developed GNB-BSIs. The average incidence of infection per 1,000 patient-days was 2.9. Primary risk factors for infection that included preceeding carbapenem use were significant risk factors (odds ratio=514.4; P < .01) and fourth-generation cephalosporins (odds ratio=66; P < .01). Among the 85 GNB, 75.3% were fermenters, and 24.7% were non-fermenters. Of the isolates, 14.1% produced extended-spectrum beta-lactamase, and 2.3% carbapenem-resistant. Infection correlated with prolonged hospital stays (10-39days) and increased mortality (10%-29.9%). CONCLUSIONS: The high incidence of GNB-BSIs was exacerbated by the preceeding use of broad-spectrum antimicrobials, increasing the presence of multidrug-resistant isolates and fatality rates. These findings emphasize the importance of active surveillance.

Spatial and seasonal distribution of Leptospira spp. seropositive horses in the Northeast region of Brazil.

Leptospirosis is an anthropozoonosis of economic and public health importance, caused by bacteria of the genus Leptospira. Horses are deemed important in its transmission chain due to their proximity to humans, and because the species is often asymptomatic, making these animals potential silent reservoirs. In this context, the objectives of this study were to determine the prevalence of seropositive horses for Leptospira spp., and to identify the presence of Leptospira spp. serogroups and antibody titers, the occurrence of areas with higher density of infection cases and demographic characteristics associated with seropositivity in the states of Paraíba (PB), Pernambuco (PE), Rio Grande do Norte (RN) and Ceará (CE), in the Northeast region of Brazil, during rainy (May and June) and dry (October and November) seasons from 2017 to 2019. Using the microscopic agglutination test (MAT), 1152 equine serum samples from 225 municipalities were analyzed. Anti-Leptospira antibodies were detected in 23.9 % (95 % CI= 21.4 - 26.3 %) of the samples in the three-year period, with a frequency of 30.4 % (95 % CI= 26.7 - 34.2 %) during the rainy period (with greater emphasis on the Ballum serogroup) and 17.4 % (95 % CI= 14.3 - 20.5 %) in the dry period (with greater emphasis on the Sejroe serogroup). Age of horses ≥ 6 years (6-10 years, 11-15 years and ≥ 16 years), rainy season, and animal belonging to Pernambuco state were factors with higher seropositivities. Regarding spatial distribution, a higher percentage of seropositive animals was observed in Pernambuco (P < 0.05), in interstate border areas, and large urban centers, with a spatial cluster detected in the dry season of 2018 with relative risk of 2.8 (P = 0.049) times higher in municipalities within the cluster. It is suggested that measures for controlling rodents and contact with wild animals in equine farming, both in rainy and dry periods, combined with care regarding the use of pastures shared with cattle and the adoption of immunoprophylaxis are important in preventing and controlling leptospirosis in horses in the Northeast region of Brazil.

Long-lasting effects of control measures on trends in incidence in neonatal late-onset sepsis due to multiresistant bacteria in a Brazilian neonatal unit.

BACKGROUND: In response to a 1995 outbreak of sepsis caused by multidrug-resistant (MR) Gram-negative bacteria (GNB), a Brazilian level III neonatal unit established a series of control and prevention measures. This study evaluated the long-term effects of these measures on late-onset neonatal sepsis (LONS) caused by MR bacteria from 2000 to 2020 and examined their impact on in-hospital mortality. METHODS: Newborns with LONS and positive cultures for Staphylococcus aureus, GNB, and Enterococcus sp were selected, adhering to Center for Desease Control and Prevention and local criteria. Joinpoint regression analysis was used to assess annual trends. RESULTS: Over the 21-year period, the overall LONS rate was 4.6%, showing a significant decline from 2000 to 2016 (P < .0001, slope -0.36). However, from 2016 to 2020, there was a non-significant increase in sepsis rates (slope +0.92, P = .08). MR sepsis were in 15.8% of sepsis cases and displayed a non-significant upward trend (slope +0.50, P = .08) with no major shifts. In-hospital mortality rates for MR and non-MR LONS showed no significant differences (P = .413). DISCUSSION: The study indicates a low prevalence of MR sepsis due to effective antimicrobial use and educational interventions. CONCLUSIONS: MR sepsis prevalence remained low and stable, not increasing in-hospital mortality.

Humans seropositive for Trypanosoma cruzi co-infected with intestinal helminths have higher infectiousness, parasitaemia and Th2-type response in the Argentine Chaco.

BACKGROUND: The Gran Chaco ecoregion is a well-known hotspot of several neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) including Chagas disease, soil-transmitted helminthiasis and multiparasitic infections. Interspecific interactions between parasite species can modify host susceptibility, pathogenesis and transmissibility through immunomodulation. Our objective was to test the association between human co-infection with intestinal parasites and host parasitaemia, infectiousness to the vector and immunological profiles in Trypanosoma cruzi-seropositive individuals residing in an endemic region of the Argentine Chaco. METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional serological survey for T. cruzi infection along with an intestinal parasite survey in two adjacent rural villages. Each participant was tested for T. cruzi and Strongyloides stercoralis infection by serodiagnosis, and by coprological tests for intestinal parasite detection. Trypanosoma cruzi bloodstream parasite load was determined by quantitative PCR (qPCR), host infectiousness by artificial xenodiagnosis and serum human cytokine levels by flow cytometry. RESULTS: The seroprevalence for T. cruzi was 16.1% and for S. stercoralis 11.5% (n = 87). We found 25.3% of patients with Enterobius vermicularis. The most frequent protozoan parasites were Blastocystis spp. (39.1%), Giardia lamblia (6.9%) and Cryptosporidium spp. (3.4%). Multiparasitism occurred in 36.8% of the examined patients. Co-infection ranged from 6.9% to 8.1% for T. cruzi-seropositive humans simultaneously infected with at least one protozoan or helminth species, respectively. The relative odds of being positive by qPCR or xenodiagnosis (i.e. infectious) of 28 T. cruzi-seropositive patients was eight times higher in people co-infected with at least one helminth species than in patients with no such co-infection. Trypanosoma cruzi parasite load and host infectiousness were positively associated with helminth co-infection in a multiple regression analysis. Interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) response, measured in relation to interleukin (IL)-4 among humans infected with T. cruzi only, was 1.5-fold higher than for T. cruzi-seropositive patients co-infected with helminths. The median concentration of IL-4 was significantly higher in T. cruzi-seropositive patients with a positive qPCR test than in qPCR-negative patients. CONCLUSIONS: Our results show a high level of multiparasitism and suggest that co-infection with intestinal helminths increased T. cruzi parasitaemia and upregulated the Th2-type response in the study patients.

Management of Infections in Palliative Care Patients at the End-of-Life and Active Process of Death: A Brazilian Retrospective Study.

Background: There is a lack of specific studies on the management of infections in patients receiving palliative care (PC) in the final stages of life and during the active process of death, related to specific nursing care. There is clinical and social importance as patients in PC represent a vulnerable population, and adequate management of infections is crucial to improve quality of life and the experience of comfort. Objective: This study analyzed how infections are managed in patients undergoing PC at the end-of-life and in the active process of death in two hospital health services. Design: This is an observational, analytical, and retrospective study. Settings: Data collection took place in two hospitals that assist individuals who are hospitalized under PC, located in Brazil, in a city in the interior of the state of São Paulo. Measurements and Results: The sample consisted of 113 medical records, in which the oncological diagnosis was the most prevalent. There was a predominance of infection diagnoses based on the patient's clinical symptoms, the main focus being the pulmonary, in individuals at the end-of-life. The management of infection in the study sample occurred through care and procedures that generate physical discomfort, however aiming at relieving symptoms. Such findings must be documented, as they invite us to reflect on our practical attitudes and what it means to be comfortable for these people, making it possible to incorporate this information into the design of interventions focused on enhancing the experience of comfort.

Detecting sexually transmitted infections beyond the syndromic approach: lessons from a rural setting in Chiapas, Mexico.

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) are a critical global health concern, with low- and middle-income countries carrying the highest burden. The development of rapid point-of-care STI tests has enabled screening in settings without laboratory access. Yet, high-need settings face unique challenges that may influence the implementation and uptake of STI screening. This piece discusses lessons learned from the implementation of STI screening in a rural, low-resource setting in Chiapas, Mexico. Despite minimal privacy and a low staff-to-patient ratio, a streamlined approach was developed to destigmatize and maximize STI screening. The clinic team developed strategies through practice, including incorporating screening into triage procedures and offering screening to family members. This protocol led to an average screening rate of 37% within three months and acceptance of screening by family units. It was observed that access to treatment was necessary to alleviate patient hesitation to screening due to fears of a positive result. As STI screening increases globally, healthcare systems must develop robust access to treatment to effectively prevent and treat STIs worldwide.

Two-Step Conservative Surgery for Complicated Forms of Diabetes-Related Foot Osteomyelitis.

Diabetes-related foot osteomyelitis (DFO) is a common yet complex condition, often complicated by concurrent soft tissue infections (STIs). This study evaluates the efficacy of a two-step conservative surgical approach, hypothesizing that it offers comparable outcomes to a one-step procedure. Conducted on a cohort of 93 patients with DFO, the study categorized cases into two types: OM1 (osteomyelitis without STI) and OM2 (osteomyelitis with STI). OM2 was further subdivided into OM2a (early diagnosis) and OM2b (late diagnosis), with OM2 patients undergoing initial soft tissue debridement followed by elective bone surgery. The results indicated no significant differences in infection recurrence or amputation rates between the two surgical approaches, with recurrence observed in 20.7% of cases and amputations in 10.8%. The two-step procedure was associated with higher inflammatory responses and greater need for antibiotics and hospital admissions. However, these factors did not translate into increased recurrence or amputation compared to the one-step procedure. The study supports the two-step approach as a safe and effective method for managing complicated DFO cases, providing a viable alternative to immediate amputation or single-stage surgery. Despite some limitations, including regional specificity and potential underdiagnosis in late-diagnosed cases, the findings offer valuable insights for clinical management and suggest further research to refine treatment protocols. The study's strengths include confirmed histopathological diagnoses and consistent follow-up, reinforcing the validity of the two-step surgical approach for complex DFO treatment.

Multifocal epithelial hyperplasia: an understudied infectious disease affecting ethnic groups. A mini review.

Focal Epithelial Hyperplasia or Multifocal Epithelial Hyperplasia (MEH), also known as Heck's disease, is considered a rare pathology of the oral mucosa associated with human papillomavirus types 13 and 32. For reasons not fully understood, MEH disproportionally affects specific populations of indigenous groups around the world. After the first reports in Native Americans, the epidemiology of the disease has been described in different geographical regions mainly related to particular indigenous populations, the majority of the studies are clinical case reports, but the biological determinants are still unknown. Some suggested risk factors include chronic irritation caused by smoking, a galvanic current, vitamin A deficiency, and/or a familial-genetic predisposition; however, the scientific evidence is not solid due the scarcity of case-control studies or longitudinal cohorts. In light of the evidence, further study of the pathology of MEH should be considered and proper clinical trials for effective treatments should be designed. The disease warrants further study as it is considered as neglected by research and it affects rural/remote population groups usually living in adverse socioeconomic conditions.

The implications of healthcare professionals wearing jewelry on patient care biosafety: observational insights and experimental approaches.

The use of jewelry among healthcare professionals poses a risk of cross contamination due to potential bacterial accumulation and spread. Through a mixed-method design, this study first analyzed the implications of healthcare professionals wearing jewelry on patient care biosafety as well as on the residual bacterial load of hands and rings after hand hygiene. Firstly, an observational prevalence study to verify whether nursing professionals wear personal accessories during healthcare assistance was carried out. Second, an experimental design involving intentional contamination and hygiene of the hands, with and without a ring, was conducted. The bacterial load of both hands and rings was measured by counting colony forming units. The observational study showed that nursing workers frequently wear jewelry during healthcare assistance. Nonetheless, the experimental study did not indicate differences in bacterial contamination between hands with and without a ring, despite the hand hygiene procedure applied. In conclusion, many nursing workers wear jewelry in the workplace. Although hands with and without a ring exhibited similar microbial load, rings appeared as a potential source of bacterial contamination, reinforcing the need to remove jewelry during working hours. Hand hygiene using alcohol, or soap and water significantly decreased the bacterial load on the participants' hands, with handwashing proving to be the most efficient method for removing intentional contamination.

Epidemiological changes of invasive fungal disease in children with cancer: Prospective study of the National Child Program of Antineoplastic Drugs network, Chile.

BACKGROUND: Invasive fungal diseases (IFD) are high morbidity and mortality infections in children with cancer suffering episodes of high-risk febrile neutropenia (HRFN). IFD epidemiology has changed in the last two decades, with an increasing incidence in recent years due to the growing number of immunocompromised children at risk for IFD. The aim of this study was to evaluate the incidence of IFD in children with cancer in the period 2016-2020 compared to 2004-2006 in six hospitals in Chile. METHODS: Prospective, multicentre study, carried out between 2016 and 2020 in six hospitals in Chile. The defined cohort corresponds to a dynamic group of HRFN episodes in patients <18 years old with cancer, who at the fourth day of evolution still presented fever and neutropenia (persistent HRFN). Each episode was followed until resolution of FN. The incidence of IFD was calculated between 2016 and 2020 and compared with data obtained in the period 2004-2006. The incidence rate was estimated. RESULTS: A total of 777 episodes of HRFN were analysed; 257 (33.1%) were considered as persistent-HRFN occurring in 174 patients. The median age was 7 years (IQR: 3-12 years) and 52.3% (N = 91) were male. Fifty-three episodes of IFD were detected: 21 proven, 14 probable and 18 possible. Possible IFD were excluded, leaving 239 episodes of persistent-HRFN with an IFD incidence of 14.6% (95% CI 10.5-19.9) and an incidence rate of 13.6 IFD cases per 1000 days of neutropenia (95% CI 9.5-20.0). Compared to 2004-2006 cohort (incidence: 8.5% (95% CI 5.2-13.5)), a significant increase in incidence of 6.1% (95% CI 0.2-12.1, p = .047) was detected in cohorts between 2016 and 2020. CONCLUSION: We observed a significant increase in IFD in 2016-2020, compared to 2004-2006 period.

Verminous bronchitis and pneumonia by nasal trematodes in Greater Caribbean manatees from Puerto Rico.

Five adult Greater Caribbean manatees Trichechus manatus manatus were found stranded on various coasts of Puerto Rico; 2 stranded alive and 3 stranded dead. Clinical signs observed in live-stranded manatees included emaciation, weakness, bradypnea, arrhythmia, and nasal mucus discharge. Postmortem examinations revealed serosanguinous, mucohemorrhagic, or suppurative exudate in bronchi associated with luminal adult Pulmonicola cochleotrema (range: 18-182 trematodes), accompanied by pulmonary abscesses in 2 cases. Histologically, we observed eosinophilic bronchopneumonia of varying severity (n = 4) and chronic erosive to eosinophilic tracheobronchitis (n = 4) with squamous metaplasia (n = 3) and intralesional trematodes and eggs. The trematode identity was confirmed and compared through molecular analysis for the amplified 18S rDNA fragment. Comorbidities included enteric chiorchosis (n = 5), gastric heterocheilosis (n = 4), malnutrition (n = 4), trauma related to watercraft collision (n = 3), systemic toxoplasmosis (n = 1), acute bacterial peritonitis (n = 1), and interstitial nephritis (n = 1), suggesting that immunosuppression was a predisposing factor for lower respiratory tract pulmonicolosis. Based on lesion severity, clinical signs, and the presence and absence of other findings to explain death, this condition was considered the primary cause of death in 1 manatee, a contributory cause of death in 3 manatees, and an incidental finding in 1 individual. These clinicopathological descriptions will facilitate the diagnosis and clinical management of pulmonicolosis in T. manatus, a species endangered with extinction.

Case report: Disseminated Cladophialophora bantiana phaeohyphomycosis in a dog with hepatic dysfunction, and concurrent ehrlichiosis.

A 1-year-old mixed breed dog initially presented with marked ascites due to a low-protein transudate resulting from portal hypertension. Laboratory evaluation revealed non-regenerative anemia, lymphopenia, thrombocytopenia, evidence of hepatic insufficiency [hypoalbuminemia, decreased urea, increased post-prandial bile acids, prolonged activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT)] and Ehrlichia canis infection. Approximately a week later, the dog was declining and was euthanized. On autopsy, multifocal hepatic granulomas and acquired portosystemic shunts (APSS) were seen. Imprint cytology revealed fungal hyphae and pyogranulomatous inflammation in the liver and brain. Disseminated Cladophialophora bantiana phaeohyphomycosis was diagnosed by histologic examination, culture and PCR. Immunosuppression due to ehrlichiosis is suspected to have predisposed this animal to fungal infection. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first report of C. bantiana in the West Indies.

Manejo cirúrgico de ferimento auto-infligido por arma de fogo em região maxilofacial / Surgical management of self-inflicted injury by gun in the maxillofacial region

INTRODUÇÃO: O manejo dos pacientes vítimas de PAF possui vertentes divergentes a respeito do tratamento cirúrgico, que pode ser realizado de forma imedata ou tardia. Em lesões auto-infligidas, a distância entre a arma e a região acometida é menor, causando consequências estéticas e funcionais mais devastadoras. Aliado ao fato desse tipo de trauma criar uma ferida suja devido à comunicação com a cavidade oral e seios paranasais, o manejo das lesões representam um desafio mesmo à cirurgiões experientes. OBJETIVO: Estre trabalho relata o manejo cirúrgico de uma ferida auto-infligida por arma de fogo que resultou em avulsão dos tecidos moles na região maxilofacial. DESCRIÇÃO DO CASO: Paciente do sexo masculino, 35 anos, vítima de projétil de arma de fogo auto-infligido em região maxilofacial, cursando com extenso ferimento em região de língua e mento. Clinicamente, o paciente não apresentava sinais de fratura em ossos da face. Ambos os ferimentos apresentavam secreção purulenta e o paciente manifestava disfonia devido a grande destruição tecidual. CONSIDERAÇÕES FINAIS: O tratamento de ferimentos por arma de fogo não só é um grande desafio para o cirurgião, como para toda a equipe multidisciplinar requerida para tais casos, visto que não há protocolos bem definidos para o tratamento dessas lesões(AU)

INTRODUCTION: The management of patients who are victims of FAP has divergent aspects regarding surgical treatment, which can be performed immediately or late. In self-inflicted injuries, the distance between the weapon and the affected region is smaller, causing more devastating aesthetic and functional consequences. Allied to the fact that this type of trauma creates a dirty wound due to the communication with the oral cavity and paranasal sinuses, the management of injuries represents a challenge even for experienced surgeons. OBJECTIVE: This paper reports the surgical management of a self-inflicted gunshot wound that resulted in soft tissue avulsion in the maxillofacial region. CASE DESCRIPTION: Male patient, 35 years old, victim of a self-inflicted firearm projectile in the maxillofacial region, coursing with extensive injury in the region of the tongue and chin. Clinically, the patient did not show signs of facial bone fractures. Both wounds had purulent secretion and the patient had dysphonia due to extensive tissue destruction. FINAL CONSIDERATIONS: The treatment of gunshot wounds is not only a great challenge for the surgeon, but also for the entire multidisciplinary team required for such cases, since there are no well-defined protocols for the treatment of these injuries(AU)

Análise qualitativa sobre a atuação e as experiências dos enfermeiros na gestão hospitalar frente à COVID-19 / Qualitative analysis of nurses' performance and experiences in hospital management in the face of COVID-19

Resumo Objetivou-se analisar a atuação dos enfermeiros na gestão hospitalar frente à COVID-19. O estudo teve uma abordagem qualitativa, do tipo descritivo e exploratório. O cenário foi um hospital que se transformou totalmente para atendimento de pacientes com COVID-19. No momento da coleta de dados, dez enfermeiros estavam à frente da gestão dos serviços, e todos participaram da entrevista semiestruturada. Os dados, após análise temática, foram apresentados em três categorias representativas dos elementos da tríade de Donabedian, ou seja, estrutura, processo e resultado. A categoria 1 realçou a reconfiguração da estrutura hospitalar a partir da gestão de materiais e das pessoas; a categoria 2 abordou a reestruturação do processo de trabalho para alcance das metas com segurança e qualidade; e a categoria 3 focou nas experiências dos enfermeiros na descrição dos resultados alcançados e esperados. A análise evidenciou a importância do trabalho em equipe, do envolvimento e da adaptação do gestor diante dos desafios da doença nova e ameaçadora da vida, dos recursos escassos e da complexidade das relações humanas na crise. Na liderança transformacional esses enfermeiros incentivaram a mudança de comportamento, o crescimento profissional, e resiliência.

Abstract This study aimed to analyze the role of nurses in hospital management in the face of COVID-19. The study had a qualitative, descriptive, and exploratory approach. The setting was a hospital that was completely transformed to care for patients with COVID-19. At the time of data collection, ten nurses managed the services, and all participated in the semi-structured interview. After thematic analysis, the data were presented in three categories, representing the elements of Donabedian's triad: structure, process, and result. Category 1 highlighted the hospital structure reconfiguration based on material and people management; category 2 addressed the work process restructuring to achieve goals with safety and quality; and category 3 focused on nurses' experiences in describing the results achieved and expected. The analysis highlighted the importance of teamwork, involvement, and adaptation of managers in the face of the challenges of a new and life-threatening disease, scarce resources, and the complexity of human relationships in the crisis. In transformational leadership, these nurses encouraged behavior change, professional growth, and resilience.

Predominance of CD137+ And TNF-α Expressing CD8+ Central Memory T Cells in Mild COVID-19 Recovered Patients Upon SARS-CoV-2 Re-Exposure.

INTRODUCTION: Memory CD8+ T cells are essential for long-term immune protection in viral infections, including COVID-19. METHODS: This study examined the responses of CD8+ TEM, TEMRA, and TCM subsets from unvaccinated individuals who had recovered from mild and severe COVID-19 by flow cytometry. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: The peptides triggered a higher frequency of CD8+ TCM cells in the recovered mild group. CD8+ TCM and TEM cells showed heterogeneity in CD137 expression between evaluated groups. In addition, a predominance of CD137 expression in naïve CD8+ T cells, TCM, and TEM was observed in the mild recovered group when stimulated with peptides. Furthermore, CD8+ TCM and TEM cell subsets from mild recovered volunteers had higher TNF-α expression. In contrast, the expression partner of IFN-γ, IL-10, and IL-17 indicated an antiviral signature by CD8+ TEMRA cells. These findings underscore the distinct functional capabilities of each memory T cell subset in individuals who have recovered from COVID-19 upon re-exposure to SARS-CoV-2 antigens.