RESUMEN Este estudio busca analizar el marco normativo existente en Paraguay para la atención a estudiantes con altas capacidades intelectuales, con el fin de identificar desafíos y oportunidades. Se empleó un enfoque cualitativo y transversal, utilizando una metodología descriptiva y exploratoria para el análisis bibliográfico de la legislación relevante. El análisis reveló un marco legal general y específico, centrado en la Ley 5136/13 y la Resolución 1188/23, que aborda la atención de niños y adolescentes con altas capacidades. Se destaca la importancia de desarrollar políticas que mejoren el acceso de estos estudiantes, especialmente aquellos con recursos limitados, a programas de calidad. Se sugiere la promoción de la excelencia educativa, tanto dentro como fuera de Paraguay, anticipando y respondiendo a los desafíos específicos que enfrenta este grupo. La investigación subraya la necesidad de políticas inclusivas y efectivas para apoyar el desarrollo integral de estudiantes con altas capacidades en diferentes etapas educativas.

ABSTRACT This study seeks to analyze the existing regulatory framework in Paraguay for provisions for stu- dents with high intellectual abilities, to identify challenges and opportunities. A qualitative and cross-sectional approach was employed, using a descriptive and exploratory methodology for the bibliographic analysis of relevant legislation. The analysis revealed a general and specific le- gal framework, focusing on Law 5136/13 and Resolution 1188/23, which addresses provisions for children and adolescents with high abilities. The importance of developing policies that improve the access of these students to quality programs is highlighted, especially of those students with limited resources. Additionally, it suggests the promotion of educational excellence, both within and outside Paraguay, anticipating and responding to the specific challenges faced by this group. The research underscores the need for inclusive and effective policies to support the comprehensive development of students with high abilities at different educational stages.

RESUMEN Introducción: La sífilis en embarazadas, sigue siendo un gran problema de salud pública en todo el mundo, y en Paraguay, no es la excepción. La sífilis congénita puede provocar abortos, muertes fetales y neonatales, peso bajo al nacer, prematuridad y otras anomalías congénitas, el conocimiento general de la población en edad fértil es fundamental. Objetivo: Analizar los conocimientos y prácticas sobre sífilis materna y sífilis congénita en adolescentes embarazadas en un Hospital General de Paraguay. Metodología: Se realizó un estudio cualitativo, fenomenológico descriptivo. Para la recolección de datos se utilizó la entrevista, simple que fue grabada con previa autorización del participante, la conclusión y recomendación serán entregados a la institución y a las adolescentes embarazadas. Resultados: Participaron diez adolescentes, en su mayoría de 19 años de edad, cinco conocen que la sífilis se transmite a través de las relaciones sexuales, sin embargo, desconocen acerca de cómo se transmite la sífilis congénita. Cinco de las adolescentes menciona haber iniciado las relaciones sexuales a los 16 años. Dos adolescentes a los 15 años, dos a los 14 años y una a los 17 años, nueve de las adolescentes embarazadas mencionan acudir a sus controles prenatales de forma periódica. Dos aún no se han realizado el test de VDRL. Discusión: Se concluye en cuanto al conocimiento, que solo cinco de diez adolescentes conocen acerca de la sífilis, sin embargo, no conocen sobre la sífilis congénita. En cuanto a las prácticas preventivas, 10 acuden de forma periódica a sus controles prenatales.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Syphilis in pregnant women continues to be a major public health problem throughout the world, and in Paraguay, it is no exception. Congenital syphilis can cause abortions, fetal and neonatal deaths, low birth weight, prematurity, and other congenital anomalies; general knowledge of the population of childbearing age is essential. Objective: To analyze the knowledge and practices about maternal syphilis and congenital syphilis in pregnant adolescents in a General Hospital in Paraguay. Methodology: A qualitative, descriptive phenomenological study was carried out. A simple interview was used to collect data, which was recorded with prior authorization from the participant. The conclusion and recommendation will be delivered to the institution and to the pregnant adolescents. Results: Ten adolescents participated, mostly 19 years of age, five know that syphilis is transmitted through sexual relations, however, they do not know how congenital syphilis is transmitted. Five of the adolescent’s mention having started sexual relations at the age of 16. Two adolescents at 15 years old, two at 14 years old and one at 17 years old, nine of the pregnant adolescent’s mention attending their prenatal check-ups periodically. Two have not yet been tested for VDRL. Discussion: It is concluded in terms of knowledge that only five out of ten adolescents know about syphilis; however, they do not know about congenital syphilis. Regarding preventive practices, 10 attend their prenatal check-ups periodically.

RESUMEN Introducción: Las barreras de acceso a los servicios de salud primario conforman estructuras sociales que agravan la situación de salud de los adolescentes, impactando negativamente en el ejercicio pleno de la salud sexual reproductiva, situando a los adolescentes en una población de riesgo social. Objetivo: Determinar las barreras en el acceso a los servicios primarios de Salud Sexual y Reproductiva de atención diferenciada a los adolescentes del Centro de Salud I - 4 Pampa Grande Tumbes 2018. Metodología: Estudio analítico de caso control, se entrevistaron a 288 adolescentes del tercero, cuarto y quinto de secundaria de la institución educativa pública Túpac Amaru del centro poblado Pampa Grande de Tumbes en el año 2019, entre experimento y control con una razón de 1 a 1. Se aplicaron cuestionarios anónimos para evaluar las barreras de accesibilidad a los servicios primarios de salud. Se recogieron variables: características sociodemográficas y culturales que son consideradas, como barreras de acceso a los servicios de salud. Se realizó un análisis descriptivo e inferencial con el programa SPSS® v.23. Resultados: La edad, sexo e ingreso económico están directa y significativamente relacionadas con la accesibilidad a los servicios de salud sexual y reproductiva (p<0.01 IC 95 %); La disposición de recursos económicos para asumir los costos de traslado al centro de salud (OR = 4,23); la utilización del transporte público (OR = 1,58), el conocimiento de los servicios de salud sexual y reproductiva (OR = 1,15) incrementan la probabilidad de acceder a los servicios de salud sexual y reproductiva de los adolescentes. Discusión: Las barreras socioeconómicas a los servicios de salud sexual y reproductiva de los adolescentes son modificables y dependen de la gestión en salud pública.

ABSTRACT Introduction: The barriers to access to primary health services make up social structures that aggravate the health situation of adolescents, negatively impacting the full exercise of reproductive sexual health, placing adolescents in a population at social risk. Objective: To determine the barriers in the access to the primary services of Sexual and Reproductive Health of differentiated attention to the adolescents of the Health Center I - 4 Pampa Grande Tumbes 2018. Methods: Analytical case control study, 288 adolescents from the third, fourth and fifth grade of secondary school of the public educational institution Túpac Amaru in the Pampa Grande de Tumbes town center were interviewed in 2019, between experiment and control with a ratio of 1 to 1. Anonymous questionnaires were applied to assess accessibility barriers to primary health services. Variables were collected: sociodemographic and cultural characteristics that are considered as barriers to access to health services. A descriptive and inferential analysis was carried out with the SPSS® v.23 program. Results: Age, sex and economic income are directly and significantly related to accessibility to sexual and reproductive health services (p<0.01 95% CI); The availability of economic resources to assume the costs of transportation to the health center (OR = 4.23); the use of public transport (OR = 1.58), knowledge of sexual and reproductive health services (OR = 1.15) increase the probability of accessing sexual and reproductive health services for adolescents. Discussion: Socioeconomic barriers to sexual and reproductive health services for adolescents are modifiable and depend on public health management.

The presence of moral values and spiritual practice are highly significant aspects in the life of any young person, serving as safeguards against potential behavioral issues. This study analyzed conceptual approaches as to the quality of spiritual life in adolescent students. To this end, a systematic review was carried out in the WoS, Scopus and SciELO databases by following the PRISMA method. As an outcome of this enquiry, 21 papers showcased a close relationship among the beliefs, values, emotional expressions of adolescents and their psychological well-being. Young people who felt closely connected to their spiritual side had better levels of happiness in different areas of their lives: personal satisfaction, a deeper sense of purpose and healthier interpersonal relationships. Cultural factors, religious traditions and social norms significantly had a big impact on how young people thought about and understood their spiritual dimension too. In conclusion, it is necessary to recognize that the connection with the spiritual dimension can really help young people feel better emotionally and mentally. Likewise, the cultural and social context in which adolescents operate must be taken into account for a deeper understanding of their spirituality.

La presencia de valores morales y la práctica espiritual son aspectos de gran importancia en la vida de cualquier joven, pues sirven de resguardo frente a posibles problemas de conducta. Este estudio analizó las aproximaciones conceptuales sobre la calidad de la vida espiritual en estudiantes adolescentes. Para ello, se realizó una revisión sistemática siguiendo el método PRISMA, en las bases de datos WoS, Scopus y SciELO. Se encontraron 21 artículos que mostraron estrecha relación entre las creencias, valores y expresiones emocionales de los adolescentes y su bienestar psicológico. Aquellos jóvenes que experimentaron una mayor conexión con su espiritualidad mostraron niveles más altos en las dimensiones de bienestar que intervienen en su calidad de vida: satisfacción personal, un sentido de propósito más profundo y relaciones interpersonales más saludables. Los factores culturales, las tradiciones religiosas y las normas sociales influyeron significativamente en cómo los jóvenes abordaron y comprendieron su dimensión espiritual. En conclusión, es necesario reconocer que la conexión con la dimensión espiritual puede contribuir de manera significativa al bienestar emocional y mental de los jóvenes. Asimismo, se debe tener en cuenta el contexto cultural y social en el que se desenvuelven los adolescentes para una comprensión más profunda de su espiritualidad.

A presença de valores morais e da prática espiritual são aspectos de grande importância na vida de qualquer jovem, pois servem de salvaguarda contra possíveis problemas comportamentais. Este estudo analisou abordagens conceituais sobre a qualidade de vida espiritual em adolescentes estudantes. Para tanto, foi realizada uma revisão sistemática seguindo o método PRISMA, nas bases de dados WoS, Scopus e SciELO. Foram encontrados 21 artigos que mostraram uma estreita relação entre as crenças, valores e expressões emocionais dos adolescentes e seu bem-estar psicológico. Os jovens que vivenciaram uma maior ligação com a sua espiritualidade apresentaram níveis mais elevados nas dimensões de bem-estar que intervêm na sua qualidade de vida: satisfação pessoal, sentido de propósito mais profundo e relações interpessoais mais saudáveis. Fatores culturais, tradições religiosas e normas sociais influenciaram significativamente a forma como os jovens abordavam e compreendiam a sua dimensão espiritual. Concluindo, é necessário reconhecer que a ligação com a dimensão espiritual pode contribuir significativamente para o bem-estar emocional e mental dos jovens. Da mesma forma, o contexto cultural e social em que os adolescentes se inserem deve ser levado em consideração para uma compreensão mais profunda da sua espiritualidade.

Este trabajo se enmarca en una problemática creciente: la transformación o pérdida de expresiones culturales populares, como el festejo navideño del pueblo Saraguro. Por tal razón, se diseñó un e-book sobre los principales personajes que participan de este acto cultural, para que los jóvenes lo comprendan y revaloren. La ilustración de los personajes constituye un recurso idóneo para fortalecer la identidad cultural de niños y jóvenes de la comunidad Saraguro, debido a su empleo de herramientas digitales. Se aplicó una metodología mixta, y se utilizó la técnica de observación participante a cuarenta jóvenes y adolescentes de una comunidad Saraguro (Chukidel Ayllu Llakta-Lagunas) y entrevistas en profundidad a tres expertos, que sirvieron de base para la elección y diseño digital de los personajes típicos de la Navidad. El estudio demuestra, por un lado, que los jóvenes conocen los aspectos fundamentales de la tradición navideña, pese a los cambios que esta ha experimentado a través del tiempo y, por otro, que la ilustración digital se conforma como un vehículo de difusión cultural idóneo para la población joven.

Este trabalho insere-se num problema crescente: a transformação ou perda de expressões culturais populares, como a celebração do Natal do povo Saraguro. Por isso, foi elaborado um e-book sobre os principais personagens que participam deste evento cultural, para que os jovens o compreendam e valorizem. A ilustração dos personagens constitui um recurso ideal para fortalecer a identidade cultural das crianças e jovens da comunidade Saraguro, devido ao uso de ferramentas digitais. Foi aplicada uma metodologia mista e utilizada a técnica de observação participante com quarenta jovens e adolescentes de uma comunidade Saraguro (Chukidel Ayllu Llakta-Lagunas) e entrevistas em profundidade com três especialistas, que serviram de base para a seleção e design digital dos personagens típicos do Natal. O estudo demonstra, por um lado, que os jovens conhecem os aspectos fundamentais da tradição natalícia, apesar das mudanças que sofreu ao longo do tempo e, por outro, que a ilustração digital é um veículo ideal de divulgação cultural para a população jovem.

This study addresses a growing issue: the transformation or loss of popular cultural expressions, such as the Christmas celebration of the Saraguro people. Consequently, an e-book was designed focusing on the main characters involved in this cultural event, aiming for young individuals to comprehend and revalue it. The illustration of these characters serves as a suitable resource to strengthen the cultural identity of children and youth in the Saraguro community, due to its use of digital tools. A mixed methodology was applied, employing participant observation techniques with forty young individuals and adolescents from the Saraguro community (Chukidel Ayllu Llakta-Lagunas), along with in-depth interviews with three experts. These methods served as the foundation for the selection and digital design of typical Christmas characters. The study demonstrates, on one hand, that the youth are acquainted with the fundamental aspects of the Christmas tradition, despite the changes it has undergone over time, and on the other hand, that digital illustration serves as an ideal vehicle for cultural dissemination among the young population.

Objective:&nbsp;This study aimed to research the factors that cause school dropout and whether technology can positively influence the reduction of this phenomenon in adolescents between 11 and 17 years old.&nbsp;Method:&nbsp;The research was conducted under a qualitative-exploratory approach, according to Hurtado (2010) through an in-depth interview based on Hernández-Sampieri et al. (2017). The sample was 92 students, from two schools located in two different regions in Costa Rica for the year 2021. Results: The gender distribution and the dropout rate in the selected sample indicate that the male gender has the highest dropout rate with 65.22%, some studies can corroborate like Santodomingo (April 19, 2021), the main reasons for this result are the abundance of unskilled jobs for men and the value system associated with the male gender. Findings: The female gender has a higher level of dropout in rural areas (53.12%), and one important reason is teenage pregnancy. Conclusions: Students who drop out of the school system do so mainly for reasons associated with a lack of interest in classes and economic problems in the family environment. Finally, it is concluded that for a virtual education process to be successful, it is not only enough to use technology as a tool, the teacher must establish a teaching model that is agile, flexible, and dynamic to maintain the student's interest. Among the recommendations, measures are proposed to reduce school dropout rates in the institutions.

Objetivo: Este estudio tuvo como objetivo investigar los factores que causan el abandono escolar y si la tecnología puede influir positivamente en la reducción de este fenómeno en adolescentes entre 11 y 17 años. Método: La investigación se realizó bajo un enfoque cualitativo-exploratorio, según Hurtado (2010) a través de una entrevista en profundidad basada en Hernández-Sampieri et al. (2017). La muestra fue de 92 estudiantes, de dos colegios ubicados en dos regiones diferentes de Costa Rica para el año 2021. Resultados: La distribución por género y la tasa de deserción en la muestra seleccionada indican que el género masculino tiene la mayor tasa de deserción con un 65,22%, algunos estudios lo pueden corroborar como Santodomingo (April 19, 2021), las principales razones de este resultado son la abundancia de trabajos no calificados para los hombres y el sistema de valores asociado al género masculino. Conclusiones: El género femenino tiene un mayor nivel de deserción en el área rural (53,12%), y una razón importante es el embarazo adolescente. Conclusiones: Los estudiantes que abandonan el sistema escolar lo hacen principalmente por razones asociadas a la falta de interés en las clases y problemas económicos en el entorno familiar. Finalmente, se concluye que para que un proceso de educación virtual sea exitoso, no sólo basta con utilizar la tecnología como herramienta, el docente debe establecer un modelo de enseñanza ágil, flexible y dinámico para mantener el interés del alumno. Entre las recomendaciones, se proponen medidas para reducir el abandono escolar en las instituciones.

Objetivo: Este estudo teve como objetivo investigar os fatores que causam a evasão escolar e se a tecnologia pode influenciar positivamente a redução desse fenômeno em adolescentes entre 11 e 17 anos. Método: a pesquisa foi realizada sob uma abordagem qualitativa-exploratória, conforme Hurtado (2010) por meio de uma entrevista em profundidade baseada em Hernández-Sampieri et al. (2017). A amostra foi composta por 92 alunos, de duas escolas localizadas em duas regiões diferentes da Costa Rica, para o ano de 2021. Resultados: a distribuição de gênero e a taxa de evasão na amostra selecionada indicam que o gênero masculino tem a maior taxa de evasão com 65,22%, alguns estudos podem corroborar isso como Santodomingo (April 19, 2021), as principais razões para esse resultado são a abundância de empregos não qualificados para homens e o sistema de valores associado ao gênero masculino. Conclusões: O gênero feminino tem um nível mais alto de abandono escolar na área rural (53,12%), e um motivo importante é a gravidez na adolescência. Conclusões: Os alunos que abandonam o sistema escolar o fazem principalmente por motivos associados à falta de interesse nas aulas e a problemas econômicos no ambiente familiar. Por fim, conclui-se que, para que um processo de educação virtual seja bem-sucedido, não basta usar a tecnologia como ferramenta; o professor deve estabelecer um modelo de ensino ágil, flexível e dinâmico para manter o interesse do aluno. Entre as recomendações, são propostas medidas para reduzir o abandono escolar precoce nas instituições.

Resumen El objetivo del presente estudio fue caracterizar en los puntos de venta de Costa Rica las estrategias de mercadeo utilizadas en alimentos y bebidas no alcohólicas dirigidas a la población infantil, adolescente y a sus padres o tutores (compradores), que influyen en la compra de productos de alto contenido energético y bajo valor nutricional. La recolección de datos se realizó en el 2018 mediante una guía de observación aplicada al punto de venta (n:12) y un cuestionario dirigido a los padres o tutores (n: 72) de la población infantil y adolescente. Se encontró que la estrategia de mercadeo utilizada con mayor frecuencia en el área de entrada, caja y salida del punto de venta fue la reducción de precios (79,0; 87,5 y 88,0%, respectivamente). En los puntos de venta existe un empleo frecuente y variado de estrategias de mercadeo de productos alimenticios densamente calóricos y con un exceso de nutrientes críticos que son relevantes en salud pública por su asociación con la obesidad y enfermedades no transmisibles.

Abstract The aim of this study was to characterize in the retail outlets the marketing strategies used in food and non-alcoholic beverages aimed at children, adolescents, and their parents or guardians (shoppers) which influence the purchase of products of high energy content and low nutritional value in Costa Rica. Data collection was carried out in 2018 with an observation guide applied at the retail outlets (RO) (n: 12) and a questionnaire aimed at parents or guardians (shoppers) (n: 72) of the child and adolescent population. The study found that the marketing strategy most frequently used in the entry, cash and exit area the retail outlets was price reduction (79,0, 87.5 and 88,0%, respectively).There is a frequent and varied use of marketing strategies in retail outlets for calorie-dense food products with an excess of critical nutrients that are relevant in public health due to their association with obesity and non-communicable diseases.

Resumen Introducción: La educación sexual es uno de los pilares básicos del desarrollo humano por cuanto potencia la autonomía de las personas y el desarrollo de una sexualidad plena. Objetivo: Este estudio buscó describir la percepción respecto a la educación sexual de adolescentes de dos establecimientos educacionales de Talcahuano, Chile. Método: Se realizó un estudio de corte transversal de carácter descriptivo con 309 estudiantes de dos colegios ubicados en la Comuna de Talcahuano, región del Bío-Bío, Chile. Se aplicó de forma presencial un cuestionario de autorreporte. Los datos fueron analizados mediante el software IBM Statistics SPSS v.22. Resultados: El 61,8% reportó recibir educación sexual en su establecimiento y casi la totalidad consideró necesario aprender sobre ello. Un 52,7% refirió que sus establecimientos generaban instancias para hablar de sexualidad. En relación con las temáticas que deberían ser incluidas en la educación sexual, «Valores, respeto, ética», «Anticonceptivos y prevención de infecciones de transmisión sexual» y «Amor y afectividad» fueron las más preferidas. Conclusión: Pese a la existencia de instancias de educación sexual en los establecimientos educacionales y a la transversal opinión de que es necesario aprender sobre este tema, existe una baja percepción respecto a su suficiencia.

Abstract Introduction: Sex education is one of the basic pillars of human development because it enhances people’s autonomy and the development of full sexuality. Objective: This study sought to describe the perception regarding sex education of adolescents from two educational establishments in Talcahuano, Chile. Method: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted with 309 students from two schools located in the Talcahuano Commune, Bío-Bío region, Chile. A self-report questionnaire was applied in person. Data were analyzed using IBM Statistics SPSS v.22 software. Results: 61.8% reported receiving sex education in their establishment and almost all considered it necessary to learn about it. 52.7% reported that their establishments generated instances to talk about sexuality. In relation to the topics that should be included in sex education, “Values, respect, ethics”, “Contraceptives and prevention of sexually transmitted infections” and “Love and affectivity” were the most preferred. Conclusion: Despite the existence of instances of sex education in educational establishments, and the transversal opinion that it is necessary to learn about this subject, there is a low perception regarding its adequacy.

Resumen Introducción: Las infecciones de transmisión sexual (ITS) se adquieren principalmente por el contacto sexual y pueden afectar a personas de cualquier edad, sin embargo los adolescentes son el grupo etario más afectado, por tanto es probable que sus conductas sean más de riesgo que protectoras. Objetivo: El objetivo de la investigación es determinar la relación entre el nivel de educación sexual y el conocimiento sobre ITS y las conductas de riesgo y protectoras en los jóvenes. Método: Investigación de diseño analítico, estudio de tipo descriptivo, transversal con datos de tipo cuantitativos, con una muestra de 130 hombres y mujeres, considerando 10 personas por edad desde los 18 a los 30 años. Resultados: No existe relación estadísticamente significativa entre la educación sexual y las conductas de riesgo y/o protectores (p > 0,05), ni tampoco entre la educación sexual y el uso del preservativo, tanto interno como externo (p > 0,05). Conclusión: A pesar de tener educación sexual, no todas las personas utilizan de forma frecuente los anticonceptivos de barrera y principalmente es sorprendente el poco uso del condón de vagina en la población en general, siendo las personas de orientación heterosexual las que lo utilizan menos.

Abstract Introduction: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are mainly acquired through sexual contact and can affect people of any age; however, adolescents are the most affected age group, therefore, it is likely that their behaviors are more risky than protective. Objective: The objective of the research is to determine the relationship between the level of sexual education and knowledge about STIs and risk and protective behaviors in young people. Method: Analytical design research, descriptive, cross-sectional study with quantitative data, with a sample of 130 men and women, considering 10 people by age from 18 to 30 years. Results: There is no statistically significant relationship between sexual education and risk and/or protective behaviors (p > 0.05) nor between sexual education and condom use, both internal and external (p > 0.05). Conclusion: Despite having sexual education, not all people use frequently barrier contraceptives and, mainly, the little use of the vaginal condom in the general population is surprising, with people of heterosexual orientation being those that use it less.

With this study we aimed to investigate the impact of a 12-week manipulative skills exercise programme on the motor proficiency of young individuals with intellectual disabilities. A total of 32 learners diagnosed with mild intellectual disabilities, with an average age of 17.81 ± 1.44 years, were divided into 2 equal-sized groups: a control group and an experimental group engaged in a manipulative skills intervention programme. Motor proficiency was assessed using the short form of the Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency Second Edition (BOT™-2), while the participants' coordination level was evaluated using the Body Coordination composite of the BOT™-2. Results show that the manipulative skills intervention programme led to significant improvements in the experimental group's total motor proficiency score on the short form BOT™-2 (45.31 ± 12.01 vs. 37.12 ± 7.00, ANCOVA: F = 48.65, p = 0.00) as well as the Body Coordination composite (42.69 ± 11.31 vs. 39.84 ± 11.75, ANCOVA: F = 44.35, p = 0.00). These findings suggest that the experimental exercise programme had a positive effect on enhancing the motor proficiency of young individuals with mild intellectual disabilities.

BACKGROUND: The 95-95-95 strategy implementation is a positive initiative for moving the HIV tide towards elimination, with a focus on addressing the huge inequalities in existence in access to HIV services OBJECTIVES: To establish performance towards the 90-90-90 and 95-95-95 targets and trends in HIV positivity rates since strategy implementation rollout in the City of Johannesburg (CoJ), South Africa METHODS: This was a descriptive study, part of the bigger quasi-experimental study using the monthly District Health Information System during the implementation and rollout of the 90-90-90 strategy. HIV access trends were tracked and compared with the set strategy implementation targets. In addition, the HIV positivity rate was analysed to observe trends. A time trend analysis for aggregated data was performed on all the measured indicators to determine whether the decrease or increase was statistically significant. P<0.05 was used to indicate statistical significance RESULTS: The study has shown that by March 2022, 15 months after December 2020, CoJ had reached 91-65-88. There were significant steady increases in the number of people who knew their HIV status (slope = 0.044, p<0.001) and initiating on antiretroviral therapy (ART) (slope = 0.001, p<0.001), and significant decreases for overall HIV positivity rate (slope = -0.016, p<0.001), adolescent positivity rate (slope = -0.0087, p<0.001) and antenatal care HIV positivity rate (slope = -0.013, p<0.001 CONCLUSION: This study has established positive progress made by the CoJ towards HIV testing, ART initiation, viral load suppression and HIV positivity rate. On the other hand, gaps in linkage to care after testing positive have been highlighted. It is therefore critical in the 95-95-95 strategy implementation era to focus on finding those missed during the 90-90-90 phase through revised and renewed innovative approaches

Resumo A microbiota gastrointestinal regula as funções do corpo e desempenha um papel importante na sua saúde. A disbiose leva a uma série de doenças crônicas, como diabetes, obesidade, inflamação, aterosclerose, etc. No entanto, essas doenças podem ser prevenidas pelo uso de probióticos − microrganismos vivos que beneficiam a microflora e, portanto, melhoram a saúde do organismo hospedeiro. Os probióticos mais comuns incluem bactérias do ácido láctico dos gêneros Bifidobacterium e Propionibacterium. Nós estudamos as propriedades probióticas das seguintes cepas: Bifidobacterium adolescentis АС-1909, Bifidobacterium longum infantis АС-1912, Propionibacterium jensenii В-6085, Propionibacterium freudenreichii В-11921, Propionibacterium thoenii В-6082 В-6082 acid e Propionibacterium thoenii В-6082 В-6082 acidibion. A atividade antimicrobiana foi determinada pelo método de 'blocos de ágar' contra as seguintes culturas de teste: Escherichia coli ATCC 25922, Salmonella enterica ATCC 14028, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923, Pseudomonas aeruginosa B6643, Proteus vulgaris ATCC 63 e Listeria monocytogenes moderada atividade ATCC 7644. Uma atividade antimicrobiana moderada contra todas as culturas de teste foi registrado em Bifidobacterium adolescentis АС-1909, Propionibacterium jensenii В-6085 e Propionibacterium thoenii В-6082. A atividade antioxidante foi determinada pelo método de inibição do DPPH em todas as cepas de ácido lático. Nosso estudo indicou que algumas cepas de Propionibacterium e Bifidobacterium − ou, teoricamente, seus consórcios − poderiam ser usadas como culturas probióticas em suplementos dietéticos ou alimentos funcionais para prevenir uma série de doenças crônicas.

Abstract The gastrointestinal microflora regulates the body’s functions and plays an important role in its health. Dysbiosis leads to a number of chronic diseases such as diabetes, obesity, inflammation, atherosclerosis, etc. However, these diseases can be prevented by using probiotics – living microorganisms that benefit the microflora and, therefore, improve the host organism's health. The most common probiotics include lactic acid bacteria of the Bifidobacterium and Propionibacterium genera. We studied the probiotic properties of the following strains: Bifidobacterium adolescentis АС-1909, Bifidobacterium longum infantis АС-1912, Propionibacterium jensenii В-6085, Propionibacterium freudenreichii В-11921, Propionibacterium thoenii В-6082, and Propionibacterium acidipropionici В-5723. Antimicrobial activity was determined by the ‘agar blocks’ method against the following test cultures: Escherichia coli ATCC 25922, Salmonella enterica ATCC 14028, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923, Pseudomonas aeruginosa B6643, Proteus vulgaris ATCC 63, and Listeria monocytogenes ATCC 7644. Moderate antimicrobial activity against all the test cultures was registered in Bifidobacterium adolescentis АС-1909, Propionibacterium jensenii В-6085, and Propionibacterium thoenii В-6082. Antioxidant activity was determined by the DPPH inhibition method in all the lactic acid strains. Our study indicated that some Propionibacterium and Bifidobacterium strains or, theoretically, their consortia could be used as probiotic cultures in dietary supplements or functional foods to prevent a number of chronic diseases.

Resumo Helicobacter pylori (HP) é um elemento vital na etiologia de úlceras pépticas e câncer gástrico. Esta pesquisa teve como objetivo determinar a frequência, distribuição e determinantes da infecção por HP em adultos e adolescentes com sintomas gástricos no distrito de Haripur, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Paquistão. Este estudo transversal foi realizado de junho de 2018 a junho de 2020 no Departamento de Tecnologia de Laboratórios Médicos da Universidade de Haripur, Paquistão. A presença de HP foi uma variável de pesquisa, enquanto sexo, faixas etárias, escolaridade, superlotação, hábitos alimentares, ingestão de leite, fonte de água potável e contato com animais foram variáveis de agrupamento. A técnica imunocromatográfica (TIC) foi utilizada para a detecção sorológica de anticorpos para HP. Todas as variáveis foram representadas por frequência e percentual com IC 95%. A prevalência de HP e sua distribuição por oito variáveis sociodemográficas foi comprovada pelo teste de ajuste do qui-quadrado, enquanto a associação foi verificada pelo teste de associação do qui-quadrado. Do total de 1.160 casos, 557 (48%) foram positivos para HP. A prevalência populacional foi maior em homens, na faixa etária de 20 a 40 anos, analfabetos, família ≤ 10 pessoas, consumindo comida de restaurante, usando tetra pack, usando água municipal e tendo contato com animais. A prevalência observada de HP foi semelhante à sua prevalência esperada na população. A distribuição observada de HP na amostra foi diferente de sua distribuição esperada na população por oito variáveis sociodemográficas. A presença de HP foi associada a todas as oito variáveis sociodemográficas além das faixas etárias.

Abstract Helicobacter pylori (HP) is a vital element in the etiology of peptic ulcers and gastric cancer. This research aimed to determine the frequency, distribution, and determinants of HP infection in adults and adolescents with gastric symptoms in district Haripur, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. This cross-sectional study was performed from June 2018 to June 2020 at the Medical Laboratory Technology Department, The University of Haripur, Pakistan. Presence of HP was a research variable, while sex, age groups, education status, overcrowding, dining habits, milk intake, drinking water source and animal contact were grouping variables. Immuno-chromatographic technique (ICT) was used to for serological detection of HP antibodies. All variables were represented by frequency and percentage with 95%CI. Prevalence of HP and its distribution by eight socio-demographic variables was testified by the chi-square goodness-of-fit test while association was testified by chi-square test of association. Out of total 1160 cases, 557 (48%) were positive for HP. Population prevalence was higher in men, in the age group 20-40 years, illiterate, family size ≤ 10 persons, taking restaurant food, using tetra pack, using municipal water, and having animal contact. The observed prevalence of HP was similar to its expected prevalence in the population. The observed distribution of HP in the sample was different from its expected distribution in population by eight socio-demographic variables. Presence of HP was associated with all eight socio-demographic variables besides age groups.

Resumo Objetivou-se realizar uma análise espacial da taxa de mortalidade hospitalar (TMH) por síndrome respiratória aguda grave (SRAG) atribuída à COVID-19 em crianças e adolescentes no Brasil no período de 2020 a 2021. Utilizou-se o método de cluster para agrupar as unidades federativas (UFs) com base na TMH. Em 2020, clusters com altas TMHs foram formados por UFs Norte/Nordeste. Em 2021, houve redução na TMH. Os clusters com maiores taxas permaneceram na região N/NE. Diferenças regionais foram observadas nas TMHs. Os achados podem refletir as desigualdades sociais e o acesso à atenção hospitalar, principalmente na faixa etária de menores de 1 ano pela gravidade da doença neste grupo.

Abstract The objective was to perform a spatial analysis of the hospital mortality rate (HMR) due to severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) attributed to COVID-19 among children and adolescents in Brazil from 2020 to 2021. A cluster method was used to group federal units (FUs) based on HMR. In 2020, clusters with high HMRs were formed by north/northeast FUs. In 2021, there was a reduction in HMR. Clusters with higher rates remained in the N/NE region. Regional differences were observed in the HMR. The findings may reflect social inequalities and access to hospital care, especially in the under 1-year-old age group due to the severity of the disease in this group.