Anti-M2-pyruvate kinase autoantibodies are correlated with digestive damage in human Chagas disease.

Background: Determining esophageal and colon involvement in patients with Chagas disease occurs through invasive and uncomfortable examinations, which in most cases are not performed. The objective of this study was to assess the involvement of anti-M2-pyruvate kinase (M2-PK) autoantibodies in the development of digestive alterations and/or in the diagnosis of the digestive form of human Chagas disease.

Methods: The total IgG and isotype (IgG1, IgG2, IgG3, IgG4) production was quantified using the antigen of Trypanosoma cruzi and the human M2-PK recombinant protein via the ELISA technique.

Translation and Cultural Adaptation of an E-Health Program to Promote Positive Mental Health Among Family Caregivers in Portugal.

Caring for a dependent individual, particularly over an extended period, places significant strain on family caregivers, often leading to adverse physical, mental, emotional, social, and economic outcomes for both caregivers and those they care for. Common challenges include anxiety, depression, loneliness, and diminished overall well-being. E-health applications have emerged as effective tools to support family caregivers by promoting positive mental health through online interventions, enhancing problem-solving skills, autonomy, interpersonal relationships, self-control, and a prosocial attitude.

Effects of Neuraxial or General Anesthesia on the Incidence of Postoperative Pulmonary Complications in Patients Undergoing Peripheral Vascular Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Objectives: Postoperative complications after major surgery, especially in vascular procedures, are associated with a significant increase in costs and mortality. Postoperative pulmonary complications (PPCs) have a notable impact on morbidity and mortality. The primary aim of this present study was to evaluate the effects of spinal anesthesia compared with general anesthesia on the incidence of PPCs in patients undergoing lower extremity bypass surgery.

Assessment of COVID-19 incidence after performing pulmonary function tests during the pandemic: Findings from a real-life cohort.

Background: Pulmonary function testing (PFT) is paramount in assessing patients with respiratory symptoms and chronic cardiopulmonary diseases. Although seminal studies have demonstrated that PFT generates aerosols, this simple observation does not confirm the potential for enhanced pathogen transmission.

Objective: We aimed to describe the frequency of patients who developed suspected symptoms of COVID-19, prompting SARS-CoV-2 testing after undergoing PFT during the reopening of a laboratory amid the deceleration of the pandemic.