Revista de Investigación e Información en Salud

Chemical markers as a crucial tool for diagnosing patients with COVID-19 and lung involvement

Karen Yanfrainy Rodriguez Losada — 2025-06-27

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Beta thalassemia minor in pregnancy: is it a clinically relevant condition?

Michael Ortega Sierra — 2025-06-27

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Case report: Acquired CNS demyelinating syndrome in a pediatric patient

María Fernanda Rocha Anaya Ferrel — 2025-06-27

Acquired demyelinating syndromes (ADS) in pediatrics are neurological disorders that result in the loss of myelin in the central nervous system, affecting nerve impulse conduction. These include multiple sclerosis, neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders with aquaporin 4 antibodies (NMOSD-AQP4+), and myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody-associated disease (MOGAD). A case of a 4-year-old child diagnosed with an acquired demyelinating syndrome of the central nervous system (CNS), with a high suspicion of MOGAD, is presented.

Omental infarction, a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge: clinical case report

Dennis Marcelo Ticona Ledezma — 2025-06-27

This case report describes a patient with omental infarction (OI) managed in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of Hospital Obrero N°3 in Santa Cruz. Several authors have pointed out that OI is rare; the unique feature of this case lies in its presentation and management in an intensive care setting, which is unusual since OI is usually treated conservatively. This report contributes to the literature by documenting a possible more severe or complicated presentation of this rare entity, especially in Bolivia, where there are no previous publications. Clinical findings included acute abdominal pain, the clinical suspicion of which led to the diagnosis, although specific symptoms are not detailed in this abstract. Computed axial tomography (CT) was crucial in identifying the typical features of omental infarction. The primary diagnosis was omental infarction. The treatment implemented was outlined in the ICU, suggesting more intensive than conservative management. The results highlight the importance of considering OI in the differential diagnosis of acute abdomen, even in critically ill patients. As a take-home lesson, this report underlines the need to maintain a high index of suspicion for omental infarction, even in atypical presentations requiring intensive care, and highlights the critical role of CT for its timely diagnosis.

Effects of the combination of photobiomodulation and aerobic exercises to treat localized adiposity of the abdominal region in patients aged 20 to 25 years. Case report

Franklin Daniel Gutierrez Canelas — 2025-06-27

Localized adiposity is the accumulation of small amounts of adipose tissue in specific areas of the body, causing a visible increase in volume and altering the overall shape of the body contour. This aesthetic problem most frequently affects women. This research aims to determine the effects of combining photobiomodulation and aerobic exercise will help treat localized adiposity in the abdominal region in female patients aged 20 to 25 years. The research was framed within a series of cases, where a comparison was made between two therapeutic interventions; 6 patients were divided into 2 groups: group (A) patients undergoing treatment with photobiomodulation plus aerobic exercise, group (B) patients with only the application of photobiomodulation. A dermatofunctional assessment form was developed for initial data collection. After the assessment, the therapeutic approach was implemented through the application of photobiomodulation and aerobic exercises established during 10 sessions, 3 times a week, obtaining greater effectiveness in group (A). The results showed greater effectiveness in group A, evidencing a significant reduction in abdominal adiposity, as well as improvements in the anthropometric parameters evaluated. It is concluded that the combination of photobiomodulation and aerobic exercises is an effective strategy for the treatment of localized adiposity in women.

Inflammatory paradental cyst associated with a horizontally impacted third molar: case report

Christian Ruben Cusi Fernandez — 2025-06-27

Inflammatory paradental cyst (IPC) is a rare odontogenic lesion usually associated with partially erupted or impacted mandibular third molars. Radiographically, it presents as a well-circumscribed radiolucent image and can be clinically confused with a dentigerous cyst. This article presents the case of an 18-year-old patient with a symptomatic, horizontally positioned mandibular third molar, with a histopathologically confirmed diagnosis of IPC. The clinical, radiographic, and histological features are discussed, as well as the importance of early differential diagnosis for appropriate management.

Brain tuberculoma in a patient with unsuspected immunocompromise

Daisy Leticia Jimenez Bogado — 2025-06-27

Central nervous system tuberculosis is one of the most severe forms of extrapulmonary tuberculosis, presenting infrequently but with high morbidity and mortality. It is more prevalent in developing countries, and while its occurrence in immunocompetent individuals is rare, there has been a notable increase in cases among those with compromised immune systems. The most common cause of brain abscesses in patients without severe immunosuppression is bacterial infection, typically originating from the oral cavity. In contrast, immunocompromised patients may harbor a wider range of pathogens, including fungi, while bacterial species are more commonly identified in immunocompetent individuals. The organisms isolated from a brain abscess often provide crucial insights into the primary source of infection and may reveal undiagnosed underlying conditions in the patient. We present the case of a 72-year-old male with a medical history of hypertension, dry cough, weight loss, fatigue, and anorexia, who developed dysarthria, confusion, and right-sided facial paralysis. Imaging and serological tests confirmed a diagnosis of brain abscess with perilesional edema. During hospitalization, hematological abnormalities, including persistent leukopenia and hypereosinophilia, prompted further investigation for immunosuppression. A brain biopsy excluded granulomas and neoplasia, while a myelogram revealed myelodysplastic syndrome. The patient showed clinical improvement following empirical antibiotic and antibacterial treatment.

The most common cause of brain abscesses in patients without severe immunosuppression is bacterial infection, typically originating from the oral cavity. In contrast, immunocompromised patients may harbor a wider range of pathogens, including fungi, while bacterial species are more commonly identified in immunocompetent individuals. The organisms isolated from a brain abscess often provide crucial insights into the primary source of infection and may reveal undiagnosed underlying conditions in the patient.

We present the case of a 72-year-old male with a medical history of hypertension, dry cough, weight loss, fatigue, and anorexia, who developed dysarthria, confusion, and right-sided facial paralysis. Imaging and serological tests confirmed a diagnosis of brain abscess with perilesional edema. During hospitalization, hematological abnormalities, including persistent leukopenia and hypereosinophilia, prompted further investigation for immunosuppression. A brain biopsy excluded granulomas and neoplasia, while a myelogram revealed myelodysplastic syndrome. The patient showed clinical improvement following empirical antibiotic and antibacterial treatment.

Español Ossifying fibroma in pediatrics: a case report

Vania Dafne Terrazas Lizarazu — 2025-06-27

Juvenile ossifying fibroma is a benign fibro-osseous lesion with aggressive biological potential that typically affects the craniofacial skeleton in children and adolescents. It is a large, asymptomatic tumor with aggressive behavior. Radiographically, it presents as a well-demarcated radiolucent or multitrabecular area that causes expansion and thinning of the tables. It has a recurrence rate ranging from 30% to 56%, associated with conservative treatment. The treatment of choice is surgical resection. We report the case of a juvenile ossifying fibroma in a 9-year-old male patient who presented with a 3-month history of asymptomatic swelling in the right upper jaw region, but with altered facial aesthetics. An incisional biopsy was performed, which revealed a juvenile ossifying fibroma. It was decided to perform a partial maxillectomy with preservation of the orbital floor with safety margins. Two weeks after the operation, no signs of recurrence were evident, and the patient's progress was favorable.

Traumatic ulcer on the tongue simulating malignancy: Case report

Judith Mollo Lopez — 2025-06-27

An oral ulcer is a break in the continuity of the oral epithelium, caused by traumatic, chemical, thermal, electrical, or mechanical factors. This report presents the case of a 50-year-old male patient referred due to suspected oral cancer. The patient had undergone dental treatment on tooth 4.8, which fractured a month later, causing friction against the tongue. Three weeks later, an ulcer appeared and progressively increased in size. Clinical examination revealed an 11 × 8 mm ulcer on the right lateral border of the tongue, with elevated, indurated edges, keratotic areas, and a firm consistency. It was diagnosed as a traumatic ulcer caused by a sharp cusp. Treatment involved removing the causative factor and applying a solution containing Tannic Acid, Calcium Pantothenate, and Lidocaine (Bucozone) three times a day for five days. After seven days, the lesion had reduced to 5 × 3 mm and was asymptomatic. By day 14, the lesion had completely healed. This case highlights the importance of accurate diagnosis based on a thorough clinical history and examination, as oral ulcers can mimic malignant lesions and lead to incorrect treatment if not properly identified.

Nota editorial

Rommer Alex Ortega Martinez — 2025-06-27

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Evaluation of the Analytical Performance of Transaminases and Alkaline Phosphatase, in automated equipment versus semi-automated equipment

Isabel Paola Dávila Colque — 2025-06-27

Introduction: In the clinical laboratory, it is important to evaluate a method before being used, even more so when a team is implemented or when it is desired to compare between others that perform the same measurement, this evaluation allows to design and implement an adequate internal quality control (ICC), in addition to comparing the performance and stability of the measurement system, to guarantee the reliability of the results. The objective of the present work is to evaluate the analytical performance of transaminases and alkaline phosphatase in an automated equipment, compared to a semi-automated equipment. Material and Methods: Observational, prospective, longitudinal study at the application level, where the EP15-A2 protocol was used to verify precision and accuracy, using commercial control material, subsequently the sigma metric was calculated for six months, to evaluate the performance of the method. Results: When verifying precision and accuracy in transaminases and alkaline phosphatase, the values were accepted according to the EP15A2 protocol. The sigma metric obtained was greater than 4, indicating good performance in both teams. Discussion: It is concluded that both teams met the precision and accuracy verification requirements, and the verification was accepted. According to the sigma metric, it is concluded that the automated team performs better than the semi-automated team.

Prevalence and characteristics of legal and illegal substance use among medical students at Universidad Privada del Valle: A public health study

Pamela Ivette Pardo Ramirez — 2025-06-27

Introduction: The consumption of substances, both legal and illegal, is on the rise, especially among young people worldwide, resulting in an increase in related accidents and deaths. It is crucial to understand the consumption patterns among university students to assess the need for intervention. Materials and methods: A descriptive, quantitative, cross-sectional study was conducted with medical students at the Universidad Privada del Valle in 2023. The WHO's ASSIST (Alcohol, Smoking, and Substance Involvement Screening Test) questionnaire was used to detect substance use. Results: A total of 206 students aged 19 to 27 participated, with 58.5% female and 41.5% male. Alcohol was consumed by 95% of participants, tobacco by 65%, and cannabis by 32%. Significant associations were found between alcohol and tobacco use (65.6%), tobacco and cannabis use (91%), and alcohol and cannabis use (33.8%). There was a relationship between alcohol and tobacco use (RR = 7, χ²(1, N = 206) = 15, p < 0.05). No significant differences in alcohol or tobacco consumption were found by gender. Males showed a higher risk of consuming cannabis (RR = 1.25, χ²(1, N = 206) = 5.9, p < 0.05). According to ASSIST, 55% of the students needed brief intervention, and 6% required intensive treatment for alcohol use, with the rest being proportionally lower. Discussion: The study reveals alarming levels of licit and illicit substance use. There are students in need of intervention and intensive treatment, highlighting the urgency of addressing this public health issue.

Dyslipidemia and associated factors in patients hospitalized in internal medicine of the Caja Petrolera de Salud of Santa Cruz, Bolivia

Javier Rodrigo Llanos Baldivieso — 2025-06-27

Introduction: Cardiovascular diseases (CVD), the leading cause of death globally, are linked to dyslipidemia, a lipid disorder with critical public health implications. This study sought to determine the frequency of dyslipidemia and its associated factors in hospitalized patients. Material and methods: A quantitative, observational, descriptive-cross-sectional study with a deductive approach was conducted from April 29 to May 3, 2024, at the Caja Petrolera de Salud (Petroleum Health Fund) in Santa Cruz, Bolivia. Fifty-seven adult Internal Medicine patients were selected by convenience, following inclusion criteria: age ≥18 years, hospitalization ≥24 hours, and availability of clinical records. Patients with cancer or terminal illnesses were excluded. Data were collected through medical record review and a structured questionnaire validated by experts (Cronbach's α = 0,78). The analysis included descriptive statistics, chi-square test, relative risk (RR), and p-value. Results: Dyslipidemia was present in 35% of cases, with hypertriglyceridemia predominating (50%), followed by a mixed profile (hypertriglyceridemia and hypercholesterolemia) (35%) and hypercholesterolemia (15%). Ninety-five percent were men (relative risk = 24, p < 0,05). Other associated factors included family history (relative risk = 3.6, p < 0,05), obesity (80% of cases), and medication use (65%). Discussion: Dyslipidemia is prevalent in older men and is linked to obesity and pharmacotherapy. Comprehensive preventive strategies are needed.

Resistance profile of microorganisms isolated from pediatric patients at the Manuel Ascencio Villarroel Children's Hospital

Damaris Yupanqui Fernández — 2025-06-27

Objectives: Determine the resistance profile of microorganisms isolated from pediatric patients treated at the Manuel Ascencio Villarroel Children's Hospital, Cochabamba, Bolivia.

Methods: A quantitative, descriptive and correlational study was carried out in 97 pediatric patients. For the analysis, biochemical tests and antibiograms were used following the standards established by the CLSI.

Introduction: To determine the resistance profile of microorganisms isolated from pediatric patients treated at the Manuel Ascencio Villarroel Children's Hospital, Cochabamba, Bolivia. Materials and methods: A quantitative, descriptive and correlational study was carried out in 97 pediatric patients. For the analysis, biochemical tests and antibiograms were used following the standards established by the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI). Results: Escherichia coli was the most frequent microorganism in the isolates, with 28,9%, followed by Burkholderia cepacia with 21,6% and Pseudomonas aeruginosa with 11,3%. Escherichia coli showed high resistance to ampicillin, cefazolin and sulfatrimethoprim, while Pseudomonas aeruginosa showed notable resistance to imipenem and ceftazidime. For its part, Burkholderia cepacia showed resistance to both ceftazidime and meropenem. The production of extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBL) in Escherichia coli (16,5%) and cAMP in Pseudomonas aeruginosa (8,2%) were identified as resistance mechanisms. Discussion: The findings show a high rate of resistance to commonly used antibiotics, suggesting caution in empiric therapy and continued surveillance for antimicrobial resistance.

Conclusions: Findings show a high rate of resistance to commonly used antibiotics, suggesting caution in empiric therapy and continued surveillance for antimicrobial resistance.

Maternal-fetal complications of dengue fever during pregnancy: a public health challenge

Paola Toffoletti — 2025-06-27

Introduction: Dengue is caused by the vectors Aedes Aegypti and Aedes Albopictus, producing mild to severe symptoms, including death. Mortality is associated with the circulating strain, the host's immunological characteristics, and the preparedness of the health system. The importance lies in preventing transmission to avoid and reduce complications and mortality. The objective was to identify maternal-fetal complications of dengue during pregnancy in patients at a public hospital in Paraguay. Materials and methods: Descriptive, observational, cross-sectional, retrospective. Criteria: Inclusion: Pregnant patients diagnosed with dengue; patients with complete medical records. English: Exclusion: Patients who registered not wanting to participate in research. Results: 40% of dengue diagnoses were in the age range of 26 to 30 years, with the third trimester being the most affected with 47%, affecting between 36 to 40 weeks, 55% of patients consulted for fever and 21% for fever and headache, among maternal complications were identified in 12% threatened premature delivery, 9% gestational hypertension and 5% of fetal complications was low birth weight. Discussion: Problems associated with dengue in pregnant women include pregnancy-related hypertension, risk of premature delivery and hemorrhages, have been identified as health emergencies due to their devastating impact on the health of the population. We recommend the elimination of mosquito breeding sites, personal protection against mosquito bites, use of mosquito nets; active participation of the community.

Attitudes towards qualitative research by nursing students at a university in Colombia: A classroom experience

Carlos Arturo Pineda Barrera — 2025-06-27

Introduction: Research is an essential component of the educational process for students in the Nursing specialty; the objective of this study was to learn about nursing students' attitudes towards qualitative research. Material and methods: Qualitative narrative and reflection through the focus group technique with four students from different semesters of the nursing program. Results: The students who participated in the focus group showed a certain number of experiences and their attitudes reflect fear, anxiety and fear in the execution and appropriation of knowledge regarding qualitative research. They are also aware that it is an indispensable methodology in their training as nurses. Discussion: in the field of health research, qualitative research represents all forms of health research. an epistemological revolution, an approach to the subjective built around reflections on metaphors related to health, illness, life, death, generating opportunities for the development of new epistemological visions based on the multifaceted confluence. Nursing students must maintain a positive attitude towards the methodological rigor demanded by the qualitative route, since as future health care providers they must acquire solid knowledge in this field.

Misconceptions among health science students: A descriptive analysis of the most common myths

Guillermo Romani Pillpe — 2025-06-27

Introduction: To determine the prevalence of misconceptions in Health Sciences students. Materials and methods: Quantitative approach; basic type, non-experimental design and simple descriptive scope. Likewise, it is important to specify that the instrument used was a questionnaire (19 items), which measures the five dimensions: vaccines, cancer, pain management, mental health and epilepsy. Results: They show polarization and misinformation on various health topics. Regarding vaccines, the majority reject myths such as the relationship with autism (91,2%; p = 0,009), although variabilities persist (M = 8,18; SD = 1,96). Regarding cancer, uncertainties predominate regarding its severity and treatments (64.7% and 47,1% unsure), with partial knowledge (M = 6,54; SD = 1,34; p = 0,003). In pain management, gaps are observed regarding its multidimensionality (M=6,68; SD=1,47; p<0.001). In mental health, stigma persists (M=5,15; p<0,001). Regarding epilepsy, although 97,1% reject its contagion, confusion persists regarding causes and treatments (M=5,15). Discussion: It can be concluded that specific and accessible educational interventions are needed to combat erroneous beliefs and promote informed decisions based on scientific evidence.

Stress, coping, and self-care in female teachers: Impact of COVID-19

Rosa Isabel Garza Sanchez — 2025-06-27

Introduction: In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, the well-being of teaching staff became especially relevant due to the drastic changes in work and personal dynamics, creating an environment of high emotional demand. Female teachers, in particular, faced a greater overload of responsibilities. The objective of this study was to examine the relationship between stress levels, coping styles, and self-care among female education teachers in Coahuila, Mexico, during the COVID-19 pandemic. Materials and Methods: This was a quantitative, cross-sectional, correlational study conducted with a non-probabilistic convenience sample of 100 female teachers, with a mean age of 36 years (SD = 7,49). Participants reported spending an average of 5,96 hours per day in front of a screen for work-related activities. Two instruments were used: Kenneth M. Nowack’s Stress Profile and the Self-Care Agency Assessment Scale (ASA). Descriptive statistics were calculated, and Pearson correlation coefficients were estimated. Results: The findings show that higher stress levels are associated with a decrease in both self-care behaviors and coping strategies among teachers. Additionally, a positive relationship was found between self-care and the coping styles adopted by the participants. Discussion: Self-care proves to be a key protective factor against stress and plays an essential role in the coping strategies used by teachers. Promoting self-care may significantly contribute to their physical and emotional well-being, particularly in high-demand contexts such as those experienced during the pandemic.

Prevalence of diseases by sex in Peruvian adolescents, January to september 2017

Jose Ander Asenjo-Alarcón — 2025-06-27

Introduction: Adolescence occurs with physiological, psychological and social changes that can impact the different facets of adolescents; therefore, timely interventions will be decisive in marking their future. The objective was to determine the prevalence of diseases according to sex in Peruvian adolescents. Material and methods: Observational, analytical, retrospective study. 37,398 adolescents were treated in 24 departments and Metropolitan Lima, with diseases of various kinds, according to data published by the Ministry of Health of Peru on its website. Absolute and relative frequencies were used to generate results; in the comparison of frequencies by sex, the chi square of homogeneity was used with a significant p-value of p < 0,05 and 95% confidence. Results: The most prevalent infectious and non-infectious diseases in adolescents were intestinal parasitosis (57,4%), iron deficiency anemia (26,0%), and complicated acute respiratory infections (11,0%). According to sex, intestinal parasitosis is more prevalent in men (60.2%), iron deficiency anemia in women (30,6%) and complicated acute respiratory infections in men (13,0%), for skin and bone diseases, acne (3,5%), kyphosis (1,1%) and scoliosis (0,4%) were more prevalent in men. Discussion: The most prevalent infectious disease in Peruvian adolescents was intestinal parasitosis, and the non-infectious disease was iron deficiency anemia. There are also statistically significant differences by sex in the prevalence of intestinal parasitosis, iron deficiency anemia, complicated acute respiratory infections, acne, kyphosis, and scoliosis. Professional and appropriate treatment in each case will promote the proper development of adolescents.

Bactericidal efficacy of hospital disinfectants in Burkholderia cepacia

Helen Jhoana Calderon Quisbert — 2025-06-27

Introduction: Healthcare-associated infections highlight the need for effective disinfectants in hospital settings, especially given the growing resistance of certain pathogens to antibiotics and disinfectants. Therefore, the use of effective disinfectants capable of neutralizing microorganisms such as Burkholderia cepacia is required. These microorganisms represent a significant risk in hospitals due to their adaptability and persistence in the environment. The objective of this study was to determine the bactericidal efficacy of disinfecting agents based on the concentration and exposure time to Burkholderia cepacia. Materials and methods: This experimental, cross-sectional study evaluated five disinfectants commonly used in hospitals: sodium hypochlorite, quaternary ammonium chloride, chlorhexidine, alcohol, and povidone-iodine, exposing them to the microorganism at pure concentrations and in 0,5% and 1% dilutions. The AOAC (Association of Official Analytical Chemists) dilution method, a quantitative suspension assay, was used to measure the bactericidal capacity of disinfectants under controlled conditions. Results: All disinfectants achieved full bactericidal efficacy (100%) at minimal exposure times (30 seconds), except for alcohol (99,95%). In particular, sodium hypochlorite and chlorhexidine demonstrated optimal efficacy at dilute concentrations (0,5% and 1%), showing rapid and sustained bactericidal activity. Discussion: These findings indicate that alcohol requires longer times for complete elimination of Burkholderia cepacia. This study emphasizes the importance of choosing the type of disinfectant, optimizing the concentration and exposure time to reduce nosocomial infections.

Antimicrobial sensitivity of Mycobacterium tuberculosis treated in a tertiary care hospital in Colombia

Erica Marcela Aranguren Reina — 2025-06-27

Introduction: Tuberculosis (TB) continues to be a global public health problem; its pathogenesis develops mainly in the lung, but can affect other organs such as the kidneys, brain, spine and skin; the objective was to determine antimicrobial sensitivity by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for TB, nested in a medium-complexity hospital in Colombia. Materials and methods. A retrospective cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out on cases detected with tuberculosis in the period between January and August 2023. The tools used were hospital validation databases, as well as the follow-up book and manual report of the area from which the results were obtained, which were analyzed. Results: There were 205 patients with suspected infection by the M. tuberculosis complex, of which 45 positive samples with a sensitivity profile. The mean age was 49,2 years (SD ± 21,90) (95% CI: 42,8-55,6), and males were the most common gender, representing 60.0%. The samples analyzed were sputum (82,2%), secretions (non-sputum, such as abscesses and wounds) (6,67%), gastric fluid (4,4%), and endotracheal tube (2,2%). Stratified analysis by sample revealed rifampicin susceptibility of 77,7%; the highest risk factor was smokers or psychoactive drug users (11,0%). Discussion: Nested PCR diagnosis identified susceptible tuberculosis in the majority of patients. Cigarette smoking, psychoactive drug use, and exposure to biomass generate a high predisposition to tuberculosis; these data call for its implementation

The Verifying easy lite plus equipment specifications for electrolyte quantification at the Oruro Reference Hospital

Mayda Roxana Alvarez Atora — 2025-06-27

Introduction: Establishing a quality management system in a clinical laboratory, which includes internal quality control, allowed obtaining the total measurement error (TME), which was less than the total acceptable error (TE<TEa), thus demonstrating the validity and clinical utility of the method used. The objective of this study was to evaluate sigma performance in electrolyte determination over a semester. To achieve this, the clinical laboratory used the total acceptable error (TME), trueness (bias), and imprecision (coefficient of variation). Material and methods: All guidelines were followed to implement the CLSI EP 15-A3 protocol (Standardization protocol approved in its third version, by the CLSI, to verify precision and estimate bias.) in the Easy Lite Plus ® equipment (registered trademark equipment), with the aim of checking the repeatability of the data obtained through its ion selective method for the electrolyte trio. To verify the reproducibility of the data, the data were analyzed monthly for a semester and represented in decision graphs of the method. Results: Results exceeding six sigma (6 σ) of world-class performance were achieved over a five-day period. A semiannual evaluation of sigma performance was also conducted, achieving acceptable results based on the selected quality requirement. Discussion: The use of strict quality specifications reduces sigma levels and provides a more accurate and authentic view of test quality. Verifying analytical procedures promotes a culture of quality and encourages continuous improvement in analytical practice.

The Bacterial, fungal, and parasitic load in samples of crushed coca leaves, Chapareña, and Yungueña

Roberto Triveño Cespedes — 2025-06-27

Introduction: In Bolivia, coca leaves are used for medicinal purposes; they are chewed whole or crushed with additives to improve their flavor; however, poor handling is a risk for consumers due to the presence of microorganisms. The objective was to evaluate the bacterial, fungal, and parasitic load in samples of crushed coca leaves, Chapareña, and Yungueña. Material and methods: An observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study with a quantitative approach. 33 samples of crushed coca, 33 Yungueña, and 33 Chapareña were evaluated. The following were counted: mesophilic aerobic bacteria (MAB), total coliform bacteria (TCB), Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), molds and yeasts, and Salmonella spp. and parasites were also detected. Results: The average BAM in chapareña coca was 2.0*109 CFU/g, for Yungueña it was 6.6*109 CFU/g and 2.4*109 CFU/g for machucada. The average BCT was 9.8*108 CFU/g for chapareña, 3.1*109 CFU/g for Yungueña and 7.7*108 CFU/g for machucada. Chapareña coca had a S. aureus count 1.5*108 CFU/g lower than Yungueña and machucada, the average of molds and yeasts was 9.0*109 CFU/g for chapareña, 7.6*108 CFU/g for Yungueña and 5.7*108 CFU/g for machucada, results outside of those established according to the consulted regulations. Salmonella spp. were identified in eight samples of mashed coca. Giardia lamblia cysts were also present in two of the samples. The Kruskal-Wallis test revealed significant differences in BCT counts between mashed coca, Chapareña, and Yungueña coca. Discussion: The mashed coca, Chapareña, and Yungueña coca samples showed abundant bacterial and fungal contamination, with values higher than those established in the different regulations consulted. The presence of parasitic cysts was also evident

Objective: To evaluate the bacterial, fungal, and parasitic load in samples of crushed coca leaves from Chapareña and Yungueña.

Methods: An observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study with a quantitative approach. 33 samples of crushed coca, 33 Yungueña, and 33 Chapareña were evaluated. A count of BAM, CT, S. aureus, molds, and yeasts was performed, and Salmonella spp. and parasites were also identified. Results: The average BAM in chapareña coca was 2.0*109 CFU/ml, for Yungueña it was 6.6*109 CFU/ml and 2.4*109 CFU/ml for machucada. The average CT was 9.8*108 CFU/ml for chapareña, 3.1*109 CFU/ml for Yungueña and 7.7*108 CFU/ml for machucada. The chapareña coca leaf showed an average contamination by S. aureus of 1.5*108 CFU/ml lower than machucada and Yungueña, the average of molds and yeasts was 9.0*109 CFU/ml for chapareña, 7.6*108 CFU/ml for Yungueña and 5.7*108 CFU/ml for machucada, results above the established; Salmonella spp. was identified in eight samples of machucada. The Kruskal-Wallis test revealed significant differences in the CT counts for crushed coca, Chapareña, and Yungueña coca.

Conclusions: The crushed coca, Chapareña, and Yungueña coca samples showed abundant bacterial and fungal contamination, with values higher than established values.

Emotional state level of patients in hemodialysis

Kamila Katherine Mendieta Rocha — 2025-06-27

Introduction: Patients with chronic kidney failure experience several physical, psychological, social and/or spiritual changes. In addition, they suffer from emotional disturbances caused by the disease itself or by hemodialysis treatment; the objective was to determine the level of emotional state of patients on hemodialysis. Materials and methods: A quantitative and descriptive approach was used with a non-experimental, cross-sectional design in the hemodialysis service of Hospital Obrero N°2, Caja Nacional de Salud. The variables used are the influencing factors: gender, age, marital status, employment status and duration of hemodialysis treatment. The instruments used were the hospital anxiety and depression scale (HADS) and the Connor-Davidson resilience scale (CD-RISC). Results: A total of 110 patients participated in this study; The factors that influence patients' emotional state are gender (female), age, marital status (married), employment status (unemployment), and length of hemodialysis treatment. According to the HADS scale, 53,6% of patients suffer from severe anxiety, 39,1% from mild anxiety, and 7,3% from normal anxiety. Regarding depression, 52,7% suffer from severe depression, 42,7% from mild depression, and 4,5% from normal depression. A large proportion of patients show low levels of resilience, with 95,5%. Discussion: This study identified alterations in emotional state in patients receiving hemodialysis treatment. All patients suffer from anxiety and depression, as well as a low level of resilience.

Impact of nutritional status in early childhood: Comprehensive assessment of children aged 3 to 5 at the Maria Serrana Educational Center, Paraguay

Gerardo Armando Picon — 2025-06-27

Introduction: Nutritional status in early childhood is crucial for children's growth, development, and future health. In Paraguay, multiple factors such as parental education level, food availability, and parenting habits influence child nutrition. The present study aimed to assess the nutritional status of children aged 3 to 5 at the María Serrana Educational Center in Asunción, identifying dietary patterns, physical activity levels, and associated socio-familial factors. Material and methods: A mixed approach was used, with a descriptive, cross-sectional, and non-experimental design. The sample included 90 children and their parents. Semi-structured interviews, observation guides, and anthropometric measurements were conducted. The data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics (chi-square and ANOVA). Results: The results revealed that 13% of the children were overweight or mildly obese, while 4% were underweight. High consumption of ultra-processed foods, low fruit and vegetable intake, and limited physical activity were observed. Low maternal educational level and lack of regular pediatric checkups were significantly associated with altered nutritional status. Discussion: From a theoretical and state-of-the-art perspective, the findings were discussed using the Orem and Pender framework, highlighting the need to empower families in self-care and health promotion. It is concluded that educational and community interventions are crucial to reverse the trend of childhood malnutrition and promote healthy habits from an early age.

morphometric analysis of the lingula in dry adult bolivian mandibles

Christian Ruben Cusi Fernandez — 2025-06-27

Introduction: To determine the morphometric characteristics of the mandibular lingula in dry adult Bolivian mandibles and its relationship with dentition.

Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 196 dry mandibles (392 hemimandibles), classified into three groups: bilaterally dentate, bilaterally edentulous, and unilaterally edentulous. Distances from the lingula to the anterior, posterior, superior, and inferior borders of the mandibular ramus, as well as its height in relation to the occlusal plane, were measured using a digital caliper (accuracy: 0,01 mm).

Results: In bilaterally dentate mandibles, the lingula was located 16,3 ± 2,5 mm from the anterior border and 20,7 ± 2,7 mm from the superior border. In bilaterally edentulous mandibles, these distances were smaller (14,8 ± 2,6 mm and 19,7 ± 2,6 mm, respectively). The height of the lingula varied significantly: −2,2 mm below the occlusal plane in dentate mandibles versus +9,5 mm above the plane in edentulous ones (p < 0,05).

Discussion: The position of the lingula varies according to dental status, suggesting that anesthetic and surgical techniques should be adjusted accordingly. These findings provide anatomical foundations to reduce failures in inferior alveolar nerve blocks.