Low-cost and simple PCR process for access to molecular diagnosis of HTLV-1/2 in low-resource countries.

Background: HTLV-1/2 exhibit a widespread distribution globally and are associated with severe clinical manifestations, necessitating precise viral identification for diagnosis. Currently, there are no official diagnostic guidelines, and a variety of published protocols exists. We introduce an enhanced nested real-time PCR technique followed by high-resolution melting (rtPCR-HRM), designed to offer a cost-effective and straightforward tool for the simultaneous identification of both viruses.

Increased risk of false-positive HIV ELISA results after COVID-19.

Objective: From the first-generation options available in 1985, tests to detect HIV-1 specific antibodies have increased its sensitivity and specificity. HIV-1 and SARS-CoV-2 surface glycoproteins present a certain degree of homology and shared epitope motifs, which results of relevance as both pandemics coexist. Here, we aimed to evaluate the rate of false-positive HIV serology results among individuals with COVID-19 diagnosis and in vaccinated individuals.

Evaluation of the size of cardiac structures in patients with high body mass index.

Aims: Isometric indexation of cardiac structures fails in patients with overweight. The aim of the study was to evaluate the LA indexed volume (LAVOL), left ventricular end-diastolic diameter (LVEDD), left ventricular mass index (LVMI), and the aortic sinus diameter (AOSD) in healthy subjects with normal and high BMI and find the allometric correction exponent.

Methods: Four hundred and thirty patients without cardiac pathology were analyzed.

Behavior of right atrial strain in high systolic pulmonary artery pressure.

Aims: Evaluate the ability of right atrial (RA) strain to predict systolic pulmonary artery pressure (SPAP).

Methods And Results: A total of 102 patients were prospectively enrolled. Conventional echocardiographic measures were performed.