Abstract Background Previous studies have established normal and reference values for Pulse Wave Velocity (PWV). However, the PWV value that has the strongest association with cardiovascular biomarkers remains poorly understood. Objective This study aimed to determine the PWV value more likely to be associated with left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), increased intima-media thickness (IMT), and presence of carotid plaques in patients with hypertension. Methods This cross-sectional study included 119 patients. Analysis of receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves was performed for each cardiovascular biomarker. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results According to the ROC curve analysis, the PWV values were 8.1 m/s, 8.2 m/s, and 8.7 for the LVH, IMT, and presence of carotid plaques, respectively. A PWV value of 8.2 m/s was identified as the best parameter to determine the three TOD biomarkers. PWV above 8.2 m/s was associated with increased CIMT (p = 0.004) and the presence of carotid plaques (p = 0.003) and LVH (p<0.001). PWV above 8.2 showed greater sensitivity for increased CIMT (AUC = 0.678, sensitivity = 62.2), LVH (AUC = 0.717, sensitivity = 87.2), and the presence of plaques (AUC = 0.649, sensitivity = 74.51) in the ROC curve analysis. Conclusion The PWV value 8.2 m/s was more sensitive in early identifying the existence of cardiovascular biomarkers of TOD.

Resumo Fundamento Estudos prévios estabeleceram valores de normalidade e de referência da Velocidade de Onda de Pulso (VOP). Porém, qual valor de VOP que apresenta a associação mais forte com biomarcadores cardiovasculares ainda é pouco conhecido. Objetivo Identificar o valor de VOP com maior possibilidade de estar associado com hipertrofia ventricular esquerda (HVE), aumento da espessura íntima-média carotídea (EIMC), e presença de placas carotídeas em pacientes hipertensos. Métodos Este é um estudo transversal de 119 pacientes. Análise de curvas características de operação do receptor (ROC) foi realizada para cada biomarcador cardiovascular. A diferença estatística foi estabelecida em p<0,05. Resultados Segundo análises das curvas ROC, valores de VOP de 8,1m/s para HVE, 8,2m/s para EMIC aumentada e 8,7m/s para a presença de placa carotídea foram encontrados, respectivamente. O valor de VOP de 8,2m/s foi definido como melhor o parâmetro para encontrar os três biomarcadores de LOA. A VOP acima de 8,2m/s associou-se ao aumento da EMIC (p = 0,004), à presença de placas carotídeas (p = 0,003) e à HVE (p < 0,001). A VOP acima de 8,2m/s apresentou maior sensibilidade para EMIC aumentada (AUC = 0,678, sensibilidade 62,2), HVE (AUC = 0,717, sensibilidade 87,2), e presença de placas (AUC = 0,649, sensibilidade 74,51) na análise das curvas ROC. Conclusão O valor de 8,2m/s de VOP foi mais sensível em identificar, precocemente, a existência de biomarcadores cardiovasculares de LOA.

Resumo Fundamento O tratamento adequado e a obtenção das metas na hipertensão arterial são importantes na redução dos desfechos cardiovasculares. Objetivos Descrever os bloqueadores do receptor de angiotensina (BRA) em monoterapia ou combinação dupla e a taxa de controle da hipertensão arterial. Métodos Estudo transversal que avaliou pacientes em uso de BRA entre 2017 e 2020. Foram excluídos aqueles em uso de três ou mais anti-hipertensivos. As variáveis analisadas foram: sexo, idade, índice de massa corporal, medidas válidas da medida residencial da pressão arterial (MRPA); pressão arterial sistólica (PAS) e diastólica (PAD) obtidas pela MRPA e de forma casual; variabilidade pressórica; classe dos anti-hipertensivos e dos BRAs. Foram utilizados testes de t pareado, qui-quadrado e Fisher, além de sobreposição dos intervalos de confiança de 95% com nível de significância de 5% (p < 0,05). Resultados Foram selecionados 17.013 pacientes; destes, 12.813 preencheram os critérios, dos quais 62,1% eram do sexo feminino. O número médio de medidas válidas foi de 23,3 (±2,0), com médias para a PAS de 126,8±15,8 mmHg e 133,5±20,1 mmHg (p < 0,001) e para a PAD de 79,1±9,7 mmHg e 83,6±11,9 mmHg (p < 0,001) pela MRPA e medida casual, respectivamente. Losartana foi o BRA mais utilizado e o que apresentou comportamentos mais elevados da pressão arterial. As combinações de BRA com diuréticos ou com antagonistas de canal de cálcio tiveram menores valores de pressão arterial. Conclusões Losartana foi utilizada em mais da metade dos pacientes, apesar de ser a menos eficiente na redução e no controle da pressão arterial.

Abstract Background Adequate treatment of arterial hypertension and achieving arterial hypertension goals in are important in reducing cardiovascular outcomes. Objectives To describe angiotensin receptor blockers in monotherapy or double combination therapy and the rate of arterial hypertension control. Methods This cross-sectional study evaluated patients who were using angiotensin receptor blockers between 2017 and 2020. Those using three or more antihypertensive drugs were excluded. The analyzed variables included sex, age, body mass index, valid home blood pressure monitoring (HBPM) measurements, casual and HBPM systolic and diastolic blood pressure measurements, blood pressure variability, and antihypertensive and angiotensin receptor blocker class. Paired t, chi-square, and Fisher’s exact tests were used, as well as overlapping 95% confidence intervals and a significance level of 5% (p < 0.05). Results Of 17,013 patients, 12,813 met the inclusion criteria, 62.1% of whom were female. The mean number of valid measurements was 23.3 (SD, 2.0). The mean HBPM and casual measurements for systolic blood pressure were 126.8 (SD, 15.8) mmHg and 133.5 (SD, 20.1) mmHg (p <0.001), respectively, while those for diastolic blood pressure were 79.1 (SD, 9.7 mmHg) and 83.6 (SD, 11.9) mmHg (p <0.001), respectively. Losartan was the most common angiotensin receptor blocker and resulted in the highest blood pressure values. Combinations of angiotensin receptor blockers with diuretics or calcium channel antagonists resulted in lower blood pressure values. Conclusions More than half of the patients used losartan, although it was the least efficient drug for reducing and controlling blood pressure.

Resumo Fundamento Os efeitos da redução na ingestão do sal sobre a pressão arterial (PA) casual de hipertensos já foram amplamente estudados, entretanto essa análise ainda é escassa no contexto da redução exclusiva do sal de adição na rigidez arterial e em indivíduos normotensos e pré-hipertensos. Objetivo Avaliar os efeitos da redução progressiva na ingestão do sal de adição (de 6 para 4 g/dia) sobre os valores da pressão periférica e central, a rigidez arterial em normotensos, pré-hipertensos e hipertensos. Métodos Ensaio clínico, simples cego com 13 semanas de seguimento. Foram avaliados normotensos (≤130/85 mmHg), pré-hipertensos (≥130 e <139/≥85 e <90 mmHg) e hipertensos estágio 1 (≥140 e <160/≥90 e <100 mmHg). Utilizou-se medida casual e monitorização residencial da PA com aparelho automático OMRON 705CP, medida central da PA com Sphygmocor®, dosagem do sódio urinário de 24h (colhido no intervalo entre cada visita) e mensuração de sal de adição. Foi adotado nível de significância p<0,05 para todas as análises. Resultados Foram avaliados 55 participantes (18 normotensos; 15 pré-hipertensos; 22 hipertensos) com mediana 48 anos (IQ:39-54). Os grupos foram semelhantes em relação a idade e sexo. Não houve diferença entre medidas de PA e excreção de sódio antes e depois da intervenção. Os parâmetros de rigidez arterial também não sofreram alterações significativas. Conclusão A redução gradativa da ingestão de sal de adição num seguimento de 13 semanas não foi capaz de reduzir de maneira significativa os valores periféricos e centrais da PA. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2020; 114(3):554-561)

Abstract Background Although the effects of salt intake reduction on casual blood pressure have been extensively studied in hypertensive individuals, data on reductions of added salt on arterial stiffness in both normotensive and prehypertensive subjects are scarce. Objective To evaluate the effects of progressive reduction in added salt intake (from 6 grams to 4 grams per day) on peripheral and central blood pressure and arterial stiffness in normotensive, prehypertensive and hypertensive individuals. Methods This was a single-blinded clinical trial with 13 weeks of follow-up. Normotensive (≤ 130/85 mmHg), prehypertensive (≥ 130 e < 139/≥ 85 e < 90 mmHg) and stage 1 hypertensive individuals (< 139/≥ 85 and < 90 mmHg) were assessed. Casual blood pressure measurements and ambulatory blood pressure monitoring were performed using the automated OMRON 705CP device, and central blood pressure was measured using the Sphygmocor®. Twenty-four-hour urinary sodium excretion and the amounts of added salt consumed were measured. Statistically significance level was set at p < 0.05 for all analysis. Results A total of 55 participants (18 normotensive, 15 prehypertensive and 22 hypertensive), median age 48 years (IQR:39-54) were studied. The groups were not different in age or sex. No difference was observed in blood pressure or sodium excretion levels before and after the intervention. No significant changes in arterial stiffness parameters were observed. Conclusion The progressive reduction in added salt intake during a period of 13 weeks did not cause significant reductions in peripheral and central blood pressure. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2020; 114(3):554-561)

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to evaluate the potential relationship between oxidative stress, dietary intake, and serum levels of antioxidants in patients with a complete hydatidiform mole (CHM) compared with controls. METHODS: This was an observational cross-sectional study conducted in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. A total of 140 women were enrolled in this study and divided into four groups: 43 patients with CHM, 33 women who had had an abortion, 32 healthy pregnant women, and 32 healthy non-pregnant women. All participants underwent blood sampling, assessment using a semiquantitative food frequency questionnaire, and anthropometric measurement. Blood samples were collected after overnight fasting (10-12 h). Vitamin levels (A, C, and E) were determined by ultra-performance liquid chromatography, and gamma-glutamyl transferase levels were assessed using an automated quantitative analysis system (Dimension®, Siemens). RESULTS: Although all groups showed sufficient serum vitamin A and E levels, the participants had inadequate dietary intake of these vitamins. Conversely, all groups had an insufficient serum level of vitamin C, despite adequate intake. The gamma-glutamyl transferase values did not differ significantly among the groups. However, elevated serum levels of this enzyme were observed in several patients. CONCLUSIONS: All groups exhibited high levels of oxidative stress, as evaluated by gamma-glutamyl transferase levels, and had inadequate intake of antioxidant vitamins. Therefore, the high exposure to oxidative stress found in our study, even in healthy pregnant and non-pregnant women, may increase the incidence of CHM in this region.

ABSTRACT The Health National System acquires a higher development every day and has a technological equipment according to the science and technique progress, so it requires a professional training that responds to its interests and demands. To such effects, the process of post degree training in statistics for the graduates in Health Information Systems is epistemologically supported in this work, taking into account its significance as a training-investigative process, as well as the professional training as one of the post degree subsystems, guided to the solution of problems related to the updating and systematizing of knowledge, which will allow graduates to reach a performance level according to the scientific, technological, social, economic and cultural development, manifested in their professional practice.

RESUMEN El Sistema Nacional de Salud adquiere cada día un mayor desarrollo y dispone de un equipamiento tecnológico acorde con el avance de la ciencia y la técnica, de modo que requiere de una capacitación profesional que responda a sus intereses y exigencias. A tales efectos, en el presente artículo se fundamenta epistemológicamente el proceso de superación de posgrado en estadística para los licenciados en Sistemas de Información en Salud, teniendo en cuenta su significación como un proceso formativo-investigativo, así como la superación profesional como uno de los subsistemas del posgrado, orientado a la solución de problemas relacionados con la actualización y sistematización de conocimientos, lo cual permitirá a dichos graduados alcanzar un nivel de desempeño en correspondencia con el desarrollo científico, tecnológico, social, económico y cultural, manifestado en el ejercicio de su profesión.

Abstract INTRODUCTION: Dengue is one of the most important mosquito-borne infections. Severe cases are more frequently observed in adults. However, in 2008, the State of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, experienced a severe dengue epidemic that primarily affected children and caused many cases of dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) and death. METHODS: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted to examine laboratory diagnosis and clinical epidemiologic factors for confirmed dengue cases in patients aged less than 16 years, from January to June 2008, at a municipal hospital in the City of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Variables associated with severe outcomes and P values less than .05 were evaluated by means of a logistic regression model. RESULTS: Of the 419 dengue cases studied, 296 were classified as DHF and 123 as classical dengue. Six patients who had DHF died. In multivariate analysis, some laboratory and clinical variables were independently associated with DHF: age 5 years or older (odds ratio [OR], 4.94; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.30-18.71), abdominal pain (OR, 8.59; 95% CI, 3.17-23.27), hepatomegaly (OR, 15.87; 95% CI, 5.38-46.85), and positive tourniquet test (OR, 10.84; 95% CI, 3.96-29.71). Hypoalbuminemia occurred more frequently than hemoconcentration in DHF cases, and high aminotransferase levels were associated with severity. CONCLUSIONS: Age greater than 5 years, abdominal pain, painful hepatomegaly, and positive tourniquet test were predictors of DHF. The high frequency of hepatic impairment suggests that acetaminophen should be avoided in severe cases of dengue.

Resumo Fundamento: A Caminhada Ecológica que ocorre anualmente no Brasil, é um evento único por sua distância (310 Km) e dinâmica de realização (média de 62 km/dia por 5 dias, com ritmo médio de 7,6 km/h). Embora os efeitos benéficos de exercícios de intensidade moderada sejam bem conhecidos, os efeitos do exercício intenso e de longa duração ainda requerem estudo. Objetivo: Avaliar os efeitos da modalidade mista caminhada/corrida em vários parâmetros de pressão arterial (PA) 30 dias antes (A0) do evento, e ao final dos dias 2 (A2), 3 (A3) e 4 (A4) da caminhada. Métodos: Foram medidas PA sistólica e diastólica central (cPAS e cPAD, respectivamente), PA sistólica e diastólica periférica (pPAS e pPAD, respectivamente), pressão de pulso central (cPP), pressão de pulso periférica (pPP), pressão de pulso amplificada (aPP), augmentation index ajustado (AIx75%) e velocidade da onda de pulso (VOP) com Mobil-O-Graph® (IEM, Stolberg, Alemanha) em 25 atletas do sexo masculino (idade média, 45,3 ± 9,1 anos). Foi considerado significativo valor de p < 0,05. Resultados: Houve redução de cPAS de A0 para A2 (109,5 para 118,1 mmHg) e de A0 para A3 (109,5 para 102,5 mmHg); redução de pPP de A0 para A2 (49,2 para 38,2 mmHg) e de A0 para A4 (49,2 para 41,2 mmHg); redução de aPP de A0 para A1 (15,6 para 9,5 mmHg), de A0 para A2 (15,6 para 8,0 mmHg) e de A0 para A3 (15,6 para 11,2 mmHg). VOP correlacionou-se com idade. Conclusões: A PA caiu nos primeiros dias da caminhada de longa distância, retornando a níveis próximos aos basais no final, e a VOP correlacionou-se fortemente com idade. Esse tipo de exercício promove efeitos na PA e na VOP similares aos vistos em esportes de longa duração e alta intensidade. Tais mudanças em indivíduos saudáveis e treinados não parecem aumentar os riscos cardiovasculares. Este foi o primeiro estudo a avaliar os efeitos desse tipo de exercício no sistema cardiovascular.

Abstract Background: An ecological hiking occurs yearly in Brazil. It is a unique event because of its distance (310 km) and dynamics (mean of 62 km/day for 5 days with mean pace of 7.6 km/h). Although beneficial effects of moderate-intensity exercises are well-known, the effects of intense and long-duration exercise still require study. Objective: To evaluate the effects of mixed walking/running race on various blood pressure (BP) parameters 30 days before (A0), on the 2nd (A2), 3rd (A3), and 4th (A4) days after completing the day's stage. Methods: Central systolic (cSBP) and diastolic BP (cDBP), peripheral systolic (pSBP) and diastolic BP (pDBP), central pulse pressure (cPP), peripheral pulse pressure (pPP), amplified pulse pressure (aPP), corrected augmentation index (AIx75%) and pulse wave velocity (PWV) were measured using an oscillometric Mobil-O-Graph® (IEM, Stolberg, Germany) in 25 male athletes (mean age of 45.3 ± 9.1 years). A p value < 0.05 was considered a statistically-significant difference. Results: cSBP decreased from A0 to A2 (109.5 to 118.1 mmHg) and from A0 to A3 (109.5 to 102.5 mmHg); pPP decrease from A0 to A2 (49.2 to 38.2 mmHg) and from A0 to A4 (49.2 to 41.2 mmHg); aPP decrease from A0 to A1 (15.6 to 9.5 mmHg), from A0 to A2 (15.6 to 8.0 mmHg) and from A0 to A3 (15.6 to 11.2 mmHg). PWV correlated with age. Conclusions: Blood pressure dropped on the first days of the race and returned to close to baseline values at the end. PWV correlates strongly with age. This type of exercise promotes effects on BP and PWV similar to those seen in long-duration, high-intensity sports. These changes in trained healthy individuals do not seem to increase cardiovascular risks. This was the first study to assess the effects of this type of exercise on the cardiovascular system.

Introduction: Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) is a safe and effective endoscopic surgical procedure for enteral access and gastrointestinal decompression, and it is an excellent alternative to surgical gastrostomy. There are various clinical indications and these mainly include the need for prolonged enteral nutritional support due to complications from neurological, geriatric and oncological diseases and decompression of the gastrointestinal tract. Although safe and effective, a number of possible complications relating to the time (early or late complications) and severity (minor or major complications) may occur. Objective: To evaluate the indications and complications relating to PEG among selected patients at the digestive endoscopy service of a regional referral hospital. Materials and methods: A retrospective study on patients who underwent PEG between May 2013 and April 2015 was conducted. The patients were identified through searching the medical records and using a standardized data form. Results: 53 cases were analyzed. The average age was 70.47 years and 60.37% of the patients were women. The main indication identified was the need for enteral nutritional support, and 73.58% of these indications were derived from neurological complications, 15.09% from geriatric complications and 9.43% from oncological complications and 1.88% were due to gastrointestinal decompression. Complications occurred in 24.52% of the cases: 23.07% were major and 76.93% were minor. Regarding the time, there were eight cases of late complications and five of early complications. Conclusion: PEG was shown to be an effective and safe method for enteral access. The indication and complication rates were similar to those reported in the literature.

Introducción: La gastrostomía endoscópica percutânea (GEP) es un procedimento endoscópico-quirúrgico seguro y efectivo para el acceso enteral y para la descompresión gastrointestinal, constituyéndose como una excelente alternativa a la gastrostomía quirúrgica. Las indicaciones clínicas son variadas y comprenden principalmente: necesidad de soporte nutricional enteral prolongado por complicaciones de las enfermedades neurológicas, geriátricas y oncológicas, así como la descompresión del tracto gastrointestinal. Aunque es segura y eficaz, se puede producir una serie de posibles complicaciones relacionadas al momento (precoz temprano o tardío) de la realización del procedimiento y a la gravedad (mayor o menor). Objetivo: Evaluar las indicaciones y complicaciones relacionadas a la realización de la GEP en pacientes seleccionados de un sector de endoscopia digestiva de un hospital regional de referencias. Materiales y métodos: Fue realizado un estudio retrospectivo de los pacientes sometidos a la GEP en el periodo de mayo de 2013 a abril de 2015. Los pacientes fueron identificados a partir de la investigación de los registros y formulario estándar de datos. Resultados: Fueron analizados 53 casos. La edad media fue de 70,47 años con un 60,37% del sexo femenino. La indicación principal verificada fue la necesidad de soporte nutricional enteral, siendo 73,58% por complicaciones neurológicas, 15,09% geriátricas, 9,43% oncológicas; y 1,88% de las indicaciones fueron para descomprensión gastrointestinal. Ocurrieron complicaciones en 24,52% de los pacientes: 23,07% mayores y 76,93% menores. En relación al momento, fueron verificados ocho casos de complicaciones tardías y cinco de complicaciones precoces (tempranas). Conclusión: La GEP se mostró como un método eficaz y seguro para el acceso enteral. Los índices de complicación fueron semejantes a los datos evidenciados en la literatura.

La decisión de contratar los servicios de un establecimiento hotelero está cada vez más influenciada por los comentarios online de los consumidores. A partir de las valoraciones emitidas por los usuarios de TripAdvisor, esta investigación analiza los índices de satisfacción de los clientes de 2.211 hoteles. El estudio realiza cuatro contribuciones principales. Primero, se muestra un análisis comparado de las puntuaciones de los hoteles situados en las zonas turísticas de la costa de España y del sur de Portugal. Segundo, se observan diferencias significativas en el número de comentarios y en la puntuación global media obtenida en función de la zona turística. Tercero, se pone de manifiesto que los clientes suelen calificar positivamente sus experiencias en los hoteles. Cuarto, el valor de la satisfacción global de un hotel aumenta conforme lo hace el número de comentarios recibidos por habitación. Por lo tanto, una conclusión importante de este trabajo es que las empresas hoteleras deben animar a sus clientes para que realicen comentarios para contrarrestar el efecto de los comentarios negativos.

Hotel booking decisions are increasingly influenced by consumer feedback available on social media sites. Using data submitted by customers on TripAdvisor, this study analyzes the customer satisfaction ratings posted for 2,211 hotels. The study provides four key contributions to our knowledge on this subject. Firstly, a comparative analysis was conducted of customer ratings for hotels located on the Spanish coast and Portugal’s southern coast. Secondly, significant differences were found in the number of comments and average online review ratings, which showed a correlation to the tourism destinations’ geographical locations. Thirdly, the study found that customers tend to rate their hotel experiences positively. Fourthly, the customers’ overall level of satisfaction with a hotel tends to increase proportionately based on the number of customer feedback comments posted for that hotel. Consequently, one of this study’s findings is that hotels should encourage their customers to post comments on customer review websites to balance out any negative feedback.

RESUMO: Objetivo: Descrever a metodologia de um estudo sobre associações entre crescimento intrauterino restrito (CIUR) e prevalência de sobrepeso, obesidade e hipertensão arterial em escolares. Métodos: O estudo, conduzido em dois estágios, foi desenvolvido em 2 escolas municipais de Niterói (RJ) de junho a dezembro de 2010, sendo elegíveis todos os escolares de 6 a 14 anos. O primeiro estágio consistiu em um inquérito nutricional e de potenciais fatores de risco. Foram aplicados questionários aos responsáveis e adolescentes. Concomitantemente, foram selecionados os participantes de um estudo caso-controle, com casos prevalentes definidos como todos os escolares que apresentaram excesso de peso (Z-score de índice de massa corporal -IMC/idade/sexo > +1,00). O grupo controle consistiu em uma amostra aleatória da população de estudo do inquérito, o que permitiu o cálculo de razões de prevalências. Foram realizados bioimpedância elétrica, exames de sangue, ultrassonografia da carótida e entrevistas. As variáveis proxy de CIUR foram definidas a partir de informações sobre peso ao nascer (PN) e idade gestacional (IG). Adicionalmente, foram coletadas informações sobre os dois primeiros anos de vida dos escolares a partir de seus prontuários médicos. Resultado s: Entre os 1.040 escolares elegíveis, participaram do estudo 795 escolares (76,4%). A taxa de retorno do questionário enviado para os responsáveis foi de 85,1%. Para o estudo caso-controle, 62,5% (n = 363) dos selecionados participaram, resultando em uma razão caso:controle de 1:1,8. Foram localizados 55,8% (n = 444) dos prontuários, dos quais em 65,7% (n = 292) foram coletadas informações dos primeiros anos de vida. Conclusão: O presente estudo permitirá a análise de múltiplos desfechos e exposições relacionados ao CIUR e alterações metabólicas.

ABSTRACT: Objective: To describe the methodological features of a study on the association between restricted intrauterine growth and prevalence of overweight, obesity and hypertension in school aged children. Methods: The study was conducted in two stages in two public schools in Niterói (RJ), from June through December 2010. All students aged 6 to 14 years were eligible to participate. The first stage consisted of an interview to collect information on demographic variables, diet and other variables. A sample was selected for the second stage, in order to conduct an equivalent of a case-cohort study. There was an interval of about 15 days between the two stages. Cases were overweight students, defined as a Z-score for BMI/age/sex > +1.00 in the first stage. Controls were selected by using a random schedule in which the sample frame was the whole cohort. Bioelectrical impedance analysis, carotid ultrasound to measure intimal-medial thickness, blood measurements and interviews were obtained. Gestational age and weight at birth were used to define proxy variables of restricted intrauterine growth. Early health information was obtained from medical registers. Results: The study participation was 76.4% (n = 795) out of 1,040 eligible to participate). 85.1% of parent's questionnaires were returned. 62.5% of the eligible children participated in the case-control study (case: control ratio = 1:1.8). Early life health information was obtained from 292 children. Conclusion: The present study has the potential to provide important information about multiple outcomes and exposures related to restricted intrauterine growth and metabolic abnormalities.

RESUMO: Objetivo: Descrever a metodologia de um estudo sobre associações entre crescimento intrauterino restrito (CIUR) e prevalência de sobrepeso, obesidade e hipertensão arterial em escolares. Métodos: O estudo, conduzido em dois estágios, foi desenvolvido em 2 escolas municipais de Niterói (RJ) de junho a dezembro de 2010, sendo elegíveis todos os escolares de 6 a 14 anos. O primeiro estágio consistiu em um inquérito nutricional e de potenciais fatores de risco. Foram aplicados questionários aos responsáveis e adolescentes. Concomitantemente, foram selecionados os participantes de um estudo caso-controle, com casos prevalentes definidos como todos os escolares que apresentaram excesso de peso (Z-score de índice de massa corporal -IMC/idade/sexo > +1,00). O grupo controle consistiu em uma amostra aleatória da população de estudo do inquérito, o que permitiu o cálculo de razões de prevalências. Foram realizados bioimpedância elétrica, exames de sangue, ultrassonografia da carótida e entrevistas. As variáveis proxy de CIUR foram definidas a partir de informações sobre peso ao nascer (PN) e idade gestacional (IG). Adicionalmente, foram coletadas informações sobre os dois primeiros anos de vida dos escolares a partir de seus prontuários médicos. Resultado s: Entre os 1.040 escolares elegíveis, participaram do estudo 795 escolares (76,4%). A taxa de retorno do questionário enviado para os responsáveis foi de 85,1%. Para o estudo caso-controle, 62,5% (n = 363) dos selecionados participaram, resultando em uma razão caso:controle de 1:1,8. Foram localizados 55,8% (n = 444) dos prontuários, dos quais em 65,7% (n = 292) foram coletadas informações dos primeiros anos de vida. Conclusão: O presente estudo permitirá a análise de múltiplos desfechos e exposições relacionados ao CIUR e alterações metabólicas.

ABSTRACT: Objective: To describe the methodological features of a study on the association between restricted intrauterine growth and prevalence of overweight, obesity and hypertension in school aged children. Methods: The study was conducted in two stages in two public schools in Niterói (RJ), from June through December 2010. All students aged 6 to 14 years were eligible to participate. The first stage consisted of an interview to collect information on demographic variables, diet and other variables. A sample was selected for the second stage, in order to conduct an equivalent of a case-cohort study. There was an interval of about 15 days between the two stages. Cases were overweight students, defined as a Z-score for BMI/age/sex > +1.00 in the first stage. Controls were selected by using a random schedule in which the sample frame was the whole cohort. Bioelectrical impedance analysis, carotid ultrasound to measure intimal-medial thickness, blood measurements and interviews were obtained. Gestational age and weight at birth were used to define proxy variables of restricted intrauterine growth. Early health information was obtained from medical registers. Results: The study participation was 76.4% (n = 795) out of 1,040 eligible to participate). 85.1% of parent's questionnaires were returned. 62.5% of the eligible children participated in the case-control study (case: control ratio = 1:1.8). Early life health information was obtained from 292 children. Conclusion: The present study has the potential to provide important information about multiple outcomes and exposures related to restricted intrauterine growth and metabolic abnormalities.

In this work, a didactic strategy formed by four stages, directed to the health technology students who study the optometry, optics and rehabilitation careers is presented, with the objective of making dynamic and developing their scientific self-training through the teaching-educational process of the Computing and Investigation disciplines. The validation of the strategy and its implementation were carried out by means of the specialists criteria, with the use of theoretical and practical methods, and of procedures for gathering the information that was tabulated later on. The main results were represented by the increase in the participation on scientific activities as final evaluative way of some subjects, the improvement in the quality of the presented works, the increase of motivation for investigative activities and the increase of affiliated students to the scientific societies of their careers

En este trabajo se presenta una estrategia didáctica conformada por cuatro etapas, dirigida a los estudiantes de tecnología de la salud que cursan las carreras de optometría, óptica y rehabilitación en salud, con vistas a dinamizar y desarrollar la autoformación científica de estos a través del proceso docente-educativo de la disciplina Informática e Investigación. La validación de la estrategia y su implementación se realizaron mediante los criterios de especialistas, con la aplicación de métodos teóricos y prácticos, y de procedimientos para la recolección de la información, que posteriormente fue tabulada. Los principales resultados se significaron a través del incremento en la participación de las actividades científicas como forma evaluativa final de algunas asignaturas, el mejoramiento en la calidad de los trabajos presentados, el aumento de la motivación por las actividades investigativas y el incremento de los estudiantes afiliados a las sociedades científicas de sus carreras

Between the end of 2013 and the beginning of 2014 the most internationally influential hypertension guidelines were published. Although there are no major differences between them, there are discrepancies that can have an impact on treatment and prognosis for individuals with hypertension. This article analyzes the main controversial elements in the guides and presents the recommendations of the Sociedad Centroamericana y del Caribe de Hipertensión y Prevención Cardiovascular (Caribbean Society for Hypertension and Cardiovascular Prevention). The main differences are found a) in the categorization of prehypertension, b) in the use of global cardiovascular risk in the decision to begin antihypertensive treatment, c) in the validity of beta-blockers as first-line drugs in treating uncomplicated hypertension, and d) the increase in the therapeutic goal of maintaining values between < 140/90 and < 150/90 mmHg in patients over 60 years of age with no history of diabetes or chronic kidney disease. All the factors in favor of and against accepting each of these four controversial criteria are analyzed critically and the observations made by the Society are included. The conclusion is that there are pros and cons for all controversial elements in the hypertension guides. However, the weight of the evidence and clinical judgment favor subdividing prehypertension into stages I and II, seeking a therapeutic goal of maintaining systolic blood pressure below 140 mmHg in all the hypertensive patients under 80 years of age, retaining beta-blockers as first-line drugs in uncomplicated hypertension, and not delaying the start of drug treatment for hypertension stage I with low global cardiovascular risk. Finally, seven recommendations by the Society based on the analysis are included.

Entre finales de 2013 y principios de 2014 se publicaron las guías de hipertensión arterial (HTA) más influyentes a nivel internacional. Aunque no existen grandes diferencias entre ellas, hay discrepancias que pueden repercutir en el tratamiento y el pronóstico de las personas con hipertensión. En este artículo se analizan los principales elementos polémicos de estas guías y se emiten las recomendaciones de la Sociedad Centroamericana y del Caribe de Hipertensión y Prevención Cardiovascular sobre el tema. Las principales divergencias se centran en la categoría de prehipertensión arterial, el uso del riesgo cardiovascular global en la decisión de iniciar el tratamiento antihipertensivo, la vigencia de los betabloqueantes como medicamentos de primera línea en el tratamiento de la HTA no complicada, y el aumento del objetivo terapéutico de mantener las cifras de tensión arterial entre < 140/90 mmHg y < 150/90 mmHg en pacientes mayores de 60 años de edad, sin antecedentes personales de diabetes ni de enfermedad renal crónica. Se analizan críticamente todos los factores a favor y en contra de aceptar cada uno de estos cuatro elementos controvertidos y se incluyen los comentarios que sobre ellos ha realizado la Sociedad. Se concluye que todos los elementos polémicos de las guías de la HTA tienen elementos a favor y en contra. Sin embargo, el peso de la evidencia o el juicio clínico están a favor de subdividir la prehipertensión (Grado I y II), buscar la meta terapéutica de mantener la tensión sistólica de < 140 mmHg en todos los hipertensos de menos de 80 años de edad, mantener a los betabloqueantes como medicamentos de primera línea en la HTA no complicada, y no demorar el inicio del tratamiento farmacológico de la HTA Grado I de bajo riesgo cardiovascular global. Finalmente, se incluyen siete recomendaciones de la Sociedad basadas en los análisis realizados.

In this work, the process of the graduate's professional training in health technology is epistemologically supported, emphasizing in the process of scientific training and the gnoseologic characteristics which determine, from the psychological point of view, the investigation process. Also, different approaches and criteria are defined, as well as the dynamics of the investigation, which favors the appropriation of the logic in the scientific thought of these students

En este trabajo se fundamenta de forma epistemológica el proceso de formación profesional del licenciado en tecnología de la salud, enfatizando en el proceso de instrucción científica y las características gnoseológicas que determinan, desde el punto de vista psicológico, el proceso de investigación. Asimismo, se definen diferentes criterios y enfoques asumidos, así como la dinámica de la investigación científica, que favorece la apropiación de la lógica en el pensamiento científico de estos estudiantes