BACKGROUND A progressive decrease in exclusive breastfeeding(BF)is observed in Latin America and the Caribbean compared with global results.The possibility of being breastfed and continuing BF for>6 months is lower...BACKGROUND A progressive decrease in exclusive breastfeeding(BF)is observed in Latin America and the Caribbean compared with global results.The possibility of being breastfed and continuing BF for>6 months is lower in low birth weight than in healthy-weight infants.AIM To identify factors associated with BF maintenance and promotion,with particular attention to low-and middle-income countries,by studying geographic,socioeconomic,and individual or neonatal health factors.METHODS A scoping review was conducted in 2018 using the conceptual model of social determinants of health published by the Commission on Equity and Health Inequalities in the United States.The extracted data with common characteristics were synthesized and categorized into two main themes:(1)Sociodemographic factors and proximal determinants involved in the initiation and maintenance of BF in low-birth-weight term infants in Latin America;and(2)individual characteristics related to the self-efficacy capacity for BF maintenance and adherence in low-birth-weight term infants.RESULTS This study identified maternal age,educational level,maternal economic capacity,social stratum,exposure to BF substitutes,access to BF information,and quality of health services as mediators for maintaining BF.CONCLUSION Individual self-efficacy factors that enable BF adherence in at-risk populations should be analyzed for better health outcomes.展开更多
Traditional Chinese medicine(TCM) arrived from China to Latin America and the Caribbean in the 1840s due to the massive migration of Chinese people to the region. In a few years, the press noticed the presence of Chin...Traditional Chinese medicine(TCM) arrived from China to Latin America and the Caribbean in the 1840s due to the massive migration of Chinese people to the region. In a few years, the press noticed the presence of Chinese herbalists practicing in different cities and countries regardless of the demographic weight of the Chinese community. The fascination with Chinese doctors implicated not only the press but also the literature, a phenomenon particularly observed in Cuba. In the first decades of the 20th century, the reactivation of Chinese immigration to the region fostered an anti-Chinese climate that materialized in more significant migratory restrictions and control of their businesses, such as what happened with Chinese herbalists. These herbalists who practiced inside and outside the Chinese community started to object to criticism and persecution by the conservative press and professional doctors. Despite this, Chinese doctors will continue to maintain their support of a significant number of ill persons. This work seeks to illuminate the historical relevance of TCM in Latin America and the Caribbean, focusing on the cases of Peru, Chile, and Cuba. This last country was far from China culturally and geographically, but as in many other small towns in the region, Chinese medicine presented an alternative to the treatment of illnesses.展开更多
A large-scale wave of mass protests broke out in fifteen Latin American countries during 2019.Some protests led to the resignation of the president and the collapse of the government.Others caused social unrest and bl...A large-scale wave of mass protests broke out in fifteen Latin American countries during 2019.Some protests led to the resignation of the president and the collapse of the government.Others caused social unrest and bloody conflicts.Some protests led to a national"curfew",and the government was forced to cancel major international conferences.For a time,over ten countries were engaged in turbulent and chaotic activities.Accordingly,the 2019 Latin American protests were also dubbed"Latin America’s Turmoil"by the international media.The scale,scope and impact of the protests have been rarely seen over the last forty years.They constituted part of the global chaos of 2019.The cause was not only the anxious response of the Latin American countries facing global changes not seen for a century,but also a concentrated outbreak of political,economic and social contradictions that has been accumulating in certain Latin American countries over a long period of time.Facing unprecedented global change over a century,the Latin American countries will be able to usher in the"Latin American Spring"only if they carry out profound reform with great courage,and achieve significant progress in their political systems,economic structures,and social security systems.展开更多
This paper aims to review and analyze the literature on the expansion of Chinese firms to Latin America. In order to achieve this objective, it first reviews the literature on the internationalization of Chinese MNCs,...This paper aims to review and analyze the literature on the expansion of Chinese firms to Latin America. In order to achieve this objective, it first reviews the literature on the internationalization of Chinese MNCs, the theoretical frameworks discussed in the literature and the principal features of companies from China. Second, it describes the economic and political relations between the countries, specifically the threats and opportunities for Latin America and the trade and investment trends. The review shows that the majority of the current literature on Chinese MNCs has a focus on their expansion to developed countries, on the conceptual framework needed to understand this expansion, and on the competition for foreign investments from developed countries. As a result, the analysis makes evident that research gaps seem to exist in the following areas： （1） the relative value of Chinese companies＇ existing advantages, （2） the sustainability of these advantages once the lead, probably given by OEMs or JVs, had been exhausted, （3） research works based on quantitative and comparative data, （4） the motives for FDI, （5） the entry mode, configuration, control and strategy of Chinese companies investing in Latin America, and （6） the potential opportunities presented to European companies operating in Latin America.展开更多
The pandemic’s huge impact on all countries and regions is the biggest black swan event in 2020 and the biggest gray rhino event in 2021.Though Latin America was the last continent attacked by COVID-19,it became in 2...The pandemic’s huge impact on all countries and regions is the biggest black swan event in 2020 and the biggest gray rhino event in 2021.Though Latin America was the last continent attacked by COVID-19,it became in 2020 the designated epicenter of infection,surpassing Europe and catching up with the United States.The rapidity of spread in Latin America,the wide range and high incidence of infections,and the death toll were larger than in other places.The pandemic has resulted in the largest economic recession in Latin American history.It also has a significant impact on China-Latin America relations.When the pandemic in Latin American will end depends on large-scale,wide application of vaccines,strict prevention and control,and international cooperation.丁he pandemic reveals the fierce contradiction between society and nature.展开更多
Latin America shows one of the highest incidence rates of gastric cancer in the world,with variations in mortality rates among nations or even within countries belonging to this region.Gastric cancer is the result of ...Latin America shows one of the highest incidence rates of gastric cancer in the world,with variations in mortality rates among nations or even within countries belonging to this region.Gastric cancer is the result of a multifactorial complex process,for which a multistep model of carcinogenesis is currently accepted.Additionally to the infection with Helicobacter pylori,that plays a major role,environmental factors as well as genetic susceptibility factors are significant players at different stages in the gastric cancer process.The differences in population origin,demographic structure,socio-economic development,and the impact of globalization lifestyles experienced in Latin America in the last decades,all together offer opportunities for studying in this context the influence of genetic polymorphisms in the susceptibility to gastric cancer.The aim of this article is to discuss current trends on gastric cancer in Latin American countries and to review the available published information about studies of association of gene polymorphisms involved in gastric cancer susceptibility from this region of the world.A total of 40 genes or genomic regions and69 genetic variants,58%representing markers involved in inflammatory response,have been used in a number of studies in which predominates a low number of individuals(cases and controls)included.Polymorphisms of IL-1B(-511 C/T,14 studies;-31 T/C,10 studies)and IL-1RN(variable number of tandem repeats,17 studies)are the most represented ones in the reviewed studies.Other genetic variants recently evaluated in large metaanalyses and associated with gastric cancer risk were also analyzed in a few studies[e.g.,prostate stem cell antigen(PSCA),CDH1,Survivin].Further and better analysis centered in gene polymorphisms linked to other covariates,epidemiological studies and the information provided by meta-analyses and genome-wide association studies should help to improve our understanding of gastric cancer etiology in order to develop appropriate health programs in Latin America.展开更多
Hepatitis B virus(HBV)infection is the leading cause of severe chronic liver disease.This article provides a critical view of the importance of genomic medicine for the study of HBV infection and its clinical outcomes...Hepatitis B virus(HBV)infection is the leading cause of severe chronic liver disease.This article provides a critical view of the importance of genomic medicine for the study of HBV infection and its clinical outcomes in Latin America.Three levels of evolutionary adaptation may correlate with the clinical outcomes of HBV infection.Infections in Latin America are predominantly of genotype H in Mexico and genotype F in Central and South America;these strains have historically circulated among the indigenous population.Both genotypes appear to be linked to a benign course of disease among the native and mestizo Mexicans and native South Americans.In contrast,genotypes F,A and D are common in acute and chronic infections among mestizos with Caucasian ancestry.Hepatocellular carcinoma is rare in Mexicans,but it has been associated with genotype F1b among Argentineans.This observation illustrates the significance of ascertaining the genetic and environmental factors involved in the development of HBV-related liver disease in Latin America,which contrast with those reported in other regions of the world.展开更多
To estimate Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) recurrence rate in Latin America, a region with a significant H. pylori prevalence and gastric cancer burden. METHODSPubMed, LILACS, SciELO, Cochrane databases and abstracts...To estimate Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) recurrence rate in Latin America, a region with a significant H. pylori prevalence and gastric cancer burden. METHODSPubMed, LILACS, SciELO, Cochrane databases and abstracts from relevant meetings were reviewed. Information collected included: Participants’ characteristics, recruitment strategy, diagnostic modality, treatment arms, follow-up and recurrence rates. Recurrence was calculated using 100-patients-year rates, and data were pooled using a random effects model. The I<sup>2</sup> statistic assessed between study heterogeneity. Meta-regression analyses evaluated for effect modifying variables. RESULTSLiterature search yielded 163 articles. Twelve studies involving 4848 patients from 9 countries met inclusion criteria. Four hundred and thirty-two reinfections were recorded in 5487 person-years of follow-up. Pooled analysis showed a recurrence rate of 7.9 cases per 100 person-years (95%CI: 5.3-10.5). Meta-regression revealed that neither the antibiotic schema, a second antibiotic course, nor the diagnostic modality had an impact on the observed risk of recurrence. The recurrence rate in the first year after treatment, predominantly recrudescence, was 11.2 (6.1-16.4) per 100 patient years. Recurrence in subsequent years, was only 6.2 (3.8-8.7). CONCLUSIONH. pylori recurrence rates in Latin America are significant, and with geographic variability, yet are acceptable based upon the current literature for consideration of large scale intervention trials. Further research in Latin America is warranted to evaluate the efficacy, cost-effectiveness, and potential adverse outcomes of proposed eradication programs.展开更多
AIM: To optimize diagnosis and treatment guidelines for this geographic region, a panel of gastroenterologists, epidemiologists, and basic scientists carried out a structured evaluation of available literature.
Agro-food and agro-industrial systems in Latin America must anticipate future trends and ensure permanent adjustment ofresearch priorities to the evolving global needs. Innovations should follow the logic of productiv...Agro-food and agro-industrial systems in Latin America must anticipate future trends and ensure permanent adjustment ofresearch priorities to the evolving global needs. Innovations should follow the logic of productive chains, which are highly dependentupon knowledge and technology. Agribusiness sector needs to reinvent itself for efficiently providing new products based on stricterquality controls, traceability, and greater diversification. In the region, alfalfa has an enormous potential to be cultivated for multiplepurposes other than just animal products, going from pharmaceutical and cosmetic industry to human consumption. No singleorganization or isolated group of scientists hold alone the capacity to deal with increasingly complex and dynamic productionsystems in order to efficiently compete in a globalized market. These challenges require an interdisciplinary approach, not only to adomestic level but also to an international one. The present paper proposed the constitution of a virtual alfalfa network platform forarticulating and guiding alfalfa research efforts in Latin America. The network will focus on identifying the most important needs forLatin America, promoting an active interaction among educational and scientific institutions through collaborative research projects.The platform comprises four main research axes: (1) efficient production (agronomy);(2) animal production (diversified feeds);(3)quality and innocuousness applied (human feeding);(4) novel products (pharmaceutical and cosmetics). During the initial phase, theBrazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (EMBRAPA, Brazil) and National Institute of Agricultural Technology (INTA,Argentina) will jointly coordinate the network.展开更多
Latin America is characterized by ethnic, geographical, cultural, and economic diversity; therefore, training in gastroenterology in the region must be considered in this context. The continent’s medical education is...Latin America is characterized by ethnic, geographical, cultural, and economic diversity; therefore, training in gastroenterology in the region must be considered in this context. The continent’s medical education is characterized by a lack of standards and the volume of research continues to be relatively small. There is a multiplicity of events in general gastroenterology and in sub-disciplines, both at regional and local levels, which ensure that many colleagues have access to information. Medical education programs must be based on a clinical vision and be considered in close contact with the patients. The programs should be properly supervised, appropriately defined, and evaluated on a regular basis. The disparity between the patients’ needs, the scarce resources available, and the pressures exerted by the health systems on doctors are frequent cited by those complaining of poor professionalism. Teaching development can play a critical role in ensuring the quality of teaching and learning in universities. Continuing professional development programs activities must be planned on the basis of the doctors’ needs, with clearly defined objectives and using proper learning methodologies designed for adults. They must be evaluated and accredited by a competent body, so that they may become the basis of a professional regulatory system. The specialty has made progress in the last decades, offering doctors various possibilities for professional development. The world gastroenterology organization has contributed to the speciality through three distinctive, but closely inter-related, programs: Training Centers, Train-the-Trainers, and Global Guidelines, in which Latin America is deeply involved.展开更多
Background: The first 1000 days of life, including pregnancy and the first 2 years of age have been considered essential for an adequate development and growth. Several studies have stated that malnutrition during pre...Background: The first 1000 days of life, including pregnancy and the first 2 years of age have been considered essential for an adequate development and growth. Several studies have stated that malnutrition during pregnancy and not having a normal birth weight have negative impact on childhood and adulthood, and contribute to burden of disease. Adequate information on this matter provides the possibility for making recommendations on health and nutrition policies. Objective: The aim is to describe the nutritional status during the first 1000 days in four countries of Latin America: Colombia, Argentina, Chile and Brazil. Methods: The analysis consists of two complementary approaches: 1) An extensive search on published and gray literature and a critical analysis of secondary data bases was conducted in Colombia, Argentina, Chile and Brazil following a standardized methodology in 2013. Maternal and child nutritional status, breast feeding, nutri-tional deficiencies, and dietary habits during the first 1000 days were the variables of interest;2) Information gaps were identified, interviews to local experts from academia, government and hospitals were conducted to fill each of the countries information gap. Data was organized in an online data base called NutriPl@net. Results: Despite the inherent country differences, the nutritional challenges during the first 1000 days are similar. Obesity prevalence is increasing in pregnant women. Under weight remains a problem in all 4 countries, with the highest prevalence in Argentina. Over weight prevalence is highest in Chile and obesity prevalence in Brazil. Micronutrient deficiencies in pregnant women have been described, especially high for folic acid, iron, zinc, vitamins A, B6, B12, C, E and riboflavin. Moreover, in the region, anemia is the most common micronutrient deficiency during pregnancy. Gestational diabetes, hypertension, obesity and pre-eclampsia are major causes of maternal, perinatal and infant morbidity and mortality. Conclusions: In order to understand regional and country-specific needs, it is fundamental to collect standardized information related to the nutrition status during the first 1000 days. The low prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding and micronutrient deficiencies such as iron, zinc and vitamin A as risk factors for morbidity and mortality in children 0 - 2 years old is common and priority issues in the region. Persistence of anemia despite the use of fortified foods and supplementation remains a problem, and no complete data regarding sugar, sodium and fatty acids consumption and changes in the diet and habits before, during and after pregnancy are available. The gaps that are found to justify the need for further studies including population based surveys with standardized methodology that can warrant comparability.展开更多
In November,Chinese President Xi Jinping had state-visits to some Latin-American countries including Ecuador,Peru and Chile.In 2015,according to the President Xi,China has pledged to work with Latin America to increas...In November,Chinese President Xi Jinping had state-visits to some Latin-American countries including Ecuador,Peru and Chile.In 2015,according to the President Xi,China has pledged to work with Latin America to increase bilateral trade to 500 billion U.S.dollars and elevate investment in the region to 250 billion US dollars by 2025.展开更多
In 1997, many Latin American countries will continue with their constitution-al and legal reforms in the political, administrative and electoral fields, which willbe the main tasks before them in the year. At present,...In 1997, many Latin American countries will continue with their constitution-al and legal reforms in the political, administrative and electoral fields, which willbe the main tasks before them in the year. At present, Mexico is in the process ofa transition from a de facto one-party rule to a more democratic and open politicalsystem. The main challenge it faces now is how to complete the transition smooth-ly. And what the public is most concerned about is how the various Mexican politi-展开更多
In 2015, 634387 million people(9% of the world's population) resided in Latin America(LA), with half of those populating Brazil and Mexico. The LA Dialysis and Transplant Registry was initiated in 1991, with the a...In 2015, 634387 million people(9% of the world's population) resided in Latin America(LA), with half of those populating Brazil and Mexico. The LA Dialysis and Transplant Registry was initiated in 1991, with the aim of collecting data on renal replacement therapy(RRT) from the 20 LA-affiliated countries. Since then, the Registry has revealed a trend of increasing prevalence and incidence of end-stage kidney disease on RRT, which is ongoing and is correlated with gross national income, life expectancy at birth, and percentage of population that is older than 65 years. In addition, the rate of kidney transplantation has increased yearly, with > 70% being performed from deceased donors. According to the numbers reported for 2013, the rates of prevalence, incidence and transplantation were(in patients per million population) 669, 149 and 19.4, respectively. Hemodialysis was the treatment of choice(90%), and 43% of the patients undergoing this treatment was located in Brazil; in contrast, peritoneal dialysis prevailed in Costa Rica, El Salvador and Guatemala. To date, the Registry remains the only source of RRT data available to healthcare authorities in many LA countries. It not only serves to promote knowledge regarding epidemiology of end-stage renal disease and the related RRT but also for training of nephrologists and renal researchers, to improve understanding and clinical application of dialysis and transplantation services. In LA, accessibility to RRT is still limited and it remains necessary to develop effective programs that will reduce risk factors, promote early diagnosis and treatment of chronic kidney disease, and strengthen transplantation programs.展开更多
Remarkable adjustments in foreign policy have been made hy the 33 LatinAmerican countries,the major influential ones in particular,since the adventof the 1990s.The inperative for making drastic policy adjustments orig...Remarkable adjustments in foreign policy have been made hy the 33 LatinAmerican countries,the major influential ones in particular,since the adventof the 1990s.The inperative for making drastic policy adjustments originates fromthe urgent need to meet the challenges resulting from the end of the Cold War andthe transformed world power balance.展开更多
文摘BACKGROUND A progressive decrease in exclusive breastfeeding(BF)is observed in Latin America and the Caribbean compared with global results.The possibility of being breastfed and continuing BF for>6 months is lower in low birth weight than in healthy-weight infants.AIM To identify factors associated with BF maintenance and promotion,with particular attention to low-and middle-income countries,by studying geographic,socioeconomic,and individual or neonatal health factors.METHODS A scoping review was conducted in 2018 using the conceptual model of social determinants of health published by the Commission on Equity and Health Inequalities in the United States.The extracted data with common characteristics were synthesized and categorized into two main themes:(1)Sociodemographic factors and proximal determinants involved in the initiation and maintenance of BF in low-birth-weight term infants in Latin America;and(2)individual characteristics related to the self-efficacy capacity for BF maintenance and adherence in low-birth-weight term infants.RESULTS This study identified maternal age,educational level,maternal economic capacity,social stratum,exposure to BF substitutes,access to BF information,and quality of health services as mediators for maintaining BF.CONCLUSION Individual self-efficacy factors that enable BF adherence in at-risk populations should be analyzed for better health outcomes.
基金funded by ANID—Millennium Science Initiative Program (No. NCS2022_053)。
文摘Traditional Chinese medicine(TCM) arrived from China to Latin America and the Caribbean in the 1840s due to the massive migration of Chinese people to the region. In a few years, the press noticed the presence of Chinese herbalists practicing in different cities and countries regardless of the demographic weight of the Chinese community. The fascination with Chinese doctors implicated not only the press but also the literature, a phenomenon particularly observed in Cuba. In the first decades of the 20th century, the reactivation of Chinese immigration to the region fostered an anti-Chinese climate that materialized in more significant migratory restrictions and control of their businesses, such as what happened with Chinese herbalists. These herbalists who practiced inside and outside the Chinese community started to object to criticism and persecution by the conservative press and professional doctors. Despite this, Chinese doctors will continue to maintain their support of a significant number of ill persons. This work seeks to illuminate the historical relevance of TCM in Latin America and the Caribbean, focusing on the cases of Peru, Chile, and Cuba. This last country was far from China culturally and geographically, but as in many other small towns in the region, Chinese medicine presented an alternative to the treatment of illnesses.
文摘A large-scale wave of mass protests broke out in fifteen Latin American countries during 2019.Some protests led to the resignation of the president and the collapse of the government.Others caused social unrest and bloody conflicts.Some protests led to a national"curfew",and the government was forced to cancel major international conferences.For a time,over ten countries were engaged in turbulent and chaotic activities.Accordingly,the 2019 Latin American protests were also dubbed"Latin America’s Turmoil"by the international media.The scale,scope and impact of the protests have been rarely seen over the last forty years.They constituted part of the global chaos of 2019.The cause was not only the anxious response of the Latin American countries facing global changes not seen for a century,but also a concentrated outbreak of political,economic and social contradictions that has been accumulating in certain Latin American countries over a long period of time.Facing unprecedented global change over a century,the Latin American countries will be able to usher in the"Latin American Spring"only if they carry out profound reform with great courage,and achieve significant progress in their political systems,economic structures,and social security systems.
文摘This paper aims to review and analyze the literature on the expansion of Chinese firms to Latin America. In order to achieve this objective, it first reviews the literature on the internationalization of Chinese MNCs, the theoretical frameworks discussed in the literature and the principal features of companies from China. Second, it describes the economic and political relations between the countries, specifically the threats and opportunities for Latin America and the trade and investment trends. The review shows that the majority of the current literature on Chinese MNCs has a focus on their expansion to developed countries, on the conceptual framework needed to understand this expansion, and on the competition for foreign investments from developed countries. As a result, the analysis makes evident that research gaps seem to exist in the following areas： （1） the relative value of Chinese companies＇ existing advantages, （2） the sustainability of these advantages once the lead, probably given by OEMs or JVs, had been exhausted, （3） research works based on quantitative and comparative data, （4） the motives for FDI, （5） the entry mode, configuration, control and strategy of Chinese companies investing in Latin America, and （6） the potential opportunities presented to European companies operating in Latin America.
文摘The pandemic’s huge impact on all countries and regions is the biggest black swan event in 2020 and the biggest gray rhino event in 2021.Though Latin America was the last continent attacked by COVID-19,it became in 2020 the designated epicenter of infection,surpassing Europe and catching up with the United States.The rapidity of spread in Latin America,the wide range and high incidence of infections,and the death toll were larger than in other places.The pandemic has resulted in the largest economic recession in Latin American history.It also has a significant impact on China-Latin America relations.When the pandemic in Latin American will end depends on large-scale,wide application of vaccines,strict prevention and control,and international cooperation.丁he pandemic reveals the fierce contradiction between society and nature.
文摘Latin America shows one of the highest incidence rates of gastric cancer in the world,with variations in mortality rates among nations or even within countries belonging to this region.Gastric cancer is the result of a multifactorial complex process,for which a multistep model of carcinogenesis is currently accepted.Additionally to the infection with Helicobacter pylori,that plays a major role,environmental factors as well as genetic susceptibility factors are significant players at different stages in the gastric cancer process.The differences in population origin,demographic structure,socio-economic development,and the impact of globalization lifestyles experienced in Latin America in the last decades,all together offer opportunities for studying in this context the influence of genetic polymorphisms in the susceptibility to gastric cancer.The aim of this article is to discuss current trends on gastric cancer in Latin American countries and to review the available published information about studies of association of gene polymorphisms involved in gastric cancer susceptibility from this region of the world.A total of 40 genes or genomic regions and69 genetic variants,58%representing markers involved in inflammatory response,have been used in a number of studies in which predominates a low number of individuals(cases and controls)included.Polymorphisms of IL-1B(-511 C/T,14 studies;-31 T/C,10 studies)and IL-1RN(variable number of tandem repeats,17 studies)are the most represented ones in the reviewed studies.Other genetic variants recently evaluated in large metaanalyses and associated with gastric cancer risk were also analyzed in a few studies[e.g.,prostate stem cell antigen(PSCA),CDH1,Survivin].Further and better analysis centered in gene polymorphisms linked to other covariates,epidemiological studies and the information provided by meta-analyses and genome-wide association studies should help to improve our understanding of gastric cancer etiology in order to develop appropriate health programs in Latin America.
基金Supported by The National Council of Science and Technology,Fondo Sectorial Salud-2010-1-139085the Jalisco State Council of Science and Technology,COECYTJAL-Universidad de Guadalajara 5-2010-1-1041 to Roman S,Guadalajara,Jalisco,Mexico
文摘Hepatitis B virus(HBV)infection is the leading cause of severe chronic liver disease.This article provides a critical view of the importance of genomic medicine for the study of HBV infection and its clinical outcomes in Latin America.Three levels of evolutionary adaptation may correlate with the clinical outcomes of HBV infection.Infections in Latin America are predominantly of genotype H in Mexico and genotype F in Central and South America;these strains have historically circulated among the indigenous population.Both genotypes appear to be linked to a benign course of disease among the native and mestizo Mexicans and native South Americans.In contrast,genotypes F,A and D are common in acute and chronic infections among mestizos with Caucasian ancestry.Hepatocellular carcinoma is rare in Mexicans,but it has been associated with genotype F1b among Argentineans.This observation illustrates the significance of ascertaining the genetic and environmental factors involved in the development of HBV-related liver disease in Latin America,which contrast with those reported in other regions of the world.
基金Supported by In part grants from the United States National Institutes of Health,Nos.CA1255884,CA167773,CA028842(to Morgan DR)
文摘To estimate Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) recurrence rate in Latin America, a region with a significant H. pylori prevalence and gastric cancer burden. METHODSPubMed, LILACS, SciELO, Cochrane databases and abstracts from relevant meetings were reviewed. Information collected included: Participants’ characteristics, recruitment strategy, diagnostic modality, treatment arms, follow-up and recurrence rates. Recurrence was calculated using 100-patients-year rates, and data were pooled using a random effects model. The I<sup>2</sup> statistic assessed between study heterogeneity. Meta-regression analyses evaluated for effect modifying variables. RESULTSLiterature search yielded 163 articles. Twelve studies involving 4848 patients from 9 countries met inclusion criteria. Four hundred and thirty-two reinfections were recorded in 5487 person-years of follow-up. Pooled analysis showed a recurrence rate of 7.9 cases per 100 person-years (95%CI: 5.3-10.5). Meta-regression revealed that neither the antibiotic schema, a second antibiotic course, nor the diagnostic modality had an impact on the observed risk of recurrence. The recurrence rate in the first year after treatment, predominantly recrudescence, was 11.2 (6.1-16.4) per 100 patient years. Recurrence in subsequent years, was only 6.2 (3.8-8.7). CONCLUSIONH. pylori recurrence rates in Latin America are significant, and with geographic variability, yet are acceptable based upon the current literature for consideration of large scale intervention trials. Further research in Latin America is warranted to evaluate the efficacy, cost-effectiveness, and potential adverse outcomes of proposed eradication programs.
文摘AIM: To optimize diagnosis and treatment guidelines for this geographic region, a panel of gastroenterologists, epidemiologists, and basic scientists carried out a structured evaluation of available literature.
文摘Agro-food and agro-industrial systems in Latin America must anticipate future trends and ensure permanent adjustment ofresearch priorities to the evolving global needs. Innovations should follow the logic of productive chains, which are highly dependentupon knowledge and technology. Agribusiness sector needs to reinvent itself for efficiently providing new products based on stricterquality controls, traceability, and greater diversification. In the region, alfalfa has an enormous potential to be cultivated for multiplepurposes other than just animal products, going from pharmaceutical and cosmetic industry to human consumption. No singleorganization or isolated group of scientists hold alone the capacity to deal with increasingly complex and dynamic productionsystems in order to efficiently compete in a globalized market. These challenges require an interdisciplinary approach, not only to adomestic level but also to an international one. The present paper proposed the constitution of a virtual alfalfa network platform forarticulating and guiding alfalfa research efforts in Latin America. The network will focus on identifying the most important needs forLatin America, promoting an active interaction among educational and scientific institutions through collaborative research projects.The platform comprises four main research axes: (1) efficient production (agronomy);(2) animal production (diversified feeds);(3)quality and innocuousness applied (human feeding);(4) novel products (pharmaceutical and cosmetics). During the initial phase, theBrazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (EMBRAPA, Brazil) and National Institute of Agricultural Technology (INTA,Argentina) will jointly coordinate the network.
文摘Latin America is characterized by ethnic, geographical, cultural, and economic diversity; therefore, training in gastroenterology in the region must be considered in this context. The continent’s medical education is characterized by a lack of standards and the volume of research continues to be relatively small. There is a multiplicity of events in general gastroenterology and in sub-disciplines, both at regional and local levels, which ensure that many colleagues have access to information. Medical education programs must be based on a clinical vision and be considered in close contact with the patients. The programs should be properly supervised, appropriately defined, and evaluated on a regular basis. The disparity between the patients’ needs, the scarce resources available, and the pressures exerted by the health systems on doctors are frequent cited by those complaining of poor professionalism. Teaching development can play a critical role in ensuring the quality of teaching and learning in universities. Continuing professional development programs activities must be planned on the basis of the doctors’ needs, with clearly defined objectives and using proper learning methodologies designed for adults. They must be evaluated and accredited by a competent body, so that they may become the basis of a professional regulatory system. The specialty has made progress in the last decades, offering doctors various possibilities for professional development. The world gastroenterology organization has contributed to the speciality through three distinctive, but closely inter-related, programs: Training Centers, Train-the-Trainers, and Global Guidelines, in which Latin America is deeply involved.
文摘Background: The first 1000 days of life, including pregnancy and the first 2 years of age have been considered essential for an adequate development and growth. Several studies have stated that malnutrition during pregnancy and not having a normal birth weight have negative impact on childhood and adulthood, and contribute to burden of disease. Adequate information on this matter provides the possibility for making recommendations on health and nutrition policies. Objective: The aim is to describe the nutritional status during the first 1000 days in four countries of Latin America: Colombia, Argentina, Chile and Brazil. Methods: The analysis consists of two complementary approaches: 1) An extensive search on published and gray literature and a critical analysis of secondary data bases was conducted in Colombia, Argentina, Chile and Brazil following a standardized methodology in 2013. Maternal and child nutritional status, breast feeding, nutri-tional deficiencies, and dietary habits during the first 1000 days were the variables of interest;2) Information gaps were identified, interviews to local experts from academia, government and hospitals were conducted to fill each of the countries information gap. Data was organized in an online data base called NutriPl@net. Results: Despite the inherent country differences, the nutritional challenges during the first 1000 days are similar. Obesity prevalence is increasing in pregnant women. Under weight remains a problem in all 4 countries, with the highest prevalence in Argentina. Over weight prevalence is highest in Chile and obesity prevalence in Brazil. Micronutrient deficiencies in pregnant women have been described, especially high for folic acid, iron, zinc, vitamins A, B6, B12, C, E and riboflavin. Moreover, in the region, anemia is the most common micronutrient deficiency during pregnancy. Gestational diabetes, hypertension, obesity and pre-eclampsia are major causes of maternal, perinatal and infant morbidity and mortality. Conclusions: In order to understand regional and country-specific needs, it is fundamental to collect standardized information related to the nutrition status during the first 1000 days. The low prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding and micronutrient deficiencies such as iron, zinc and vitamin A as risk factors for morbidity and mortality in children 0 - 2 years old is common and priority issues in the region. Persistence of anemia despite the use of fortified foods and supplementation remains a problem, and no complete data regarding sugar, sodium and fatty acids consumption and changes in the diet and habits before, during and after pregnancy are available. The gaps that are found to justify the need for further studies including population based surveys with standardized methodology that can warrant comparability.
文摘In November,Chinese President Xi Jinping had state-visits to some Latin-American countries including Ecuador,Peru and Chile.In 2015,according to the President Xi,China has pledged to work with Latin America to increase bilateral trade to 500 billion U.S.dollars and elevate investment in the region to 250 billion US dollars by 2025.
文摘In 1997, many Latin American countries will continue with their constitution-al and legal reforms in the political, administrative and electoral fields, which willbe the main tasks before them in the year. At present, Mexico is in the process ofa transition from a de facto one-party rule to a more democratic and open politicalsystem. The main challenge it faces now is how to complete the transition smooth-ly. And what the public is most concerned about is how the various Mexican politi-
文摘In 2015, 634387 million people(9% of the world's population) resided in Latin America(LA), with half of those populating Brazil and Mexico. The LA Dialysis and Transplant Registry was initiated in 1991, with the aim of collecting data on renal replacement therapy(RRT) from the 20 LA-affiliated countries. Since then, the Registry has revealed a trend of increasing prevalence and incidence of end-stage kidney disease on RRT, which is ongoing and is correlated with gross national income, life expectancy at birth, and percentage of population that is older than 65 years. In addition, the rate of kidney transplantation has increased yearly, with > 70% being performed from deceased donors. According to the numbers reported for 2013, the rates of prevalence, incidence and transplantation were(in patients per million population) 669, 149 and 19.4, respectively. Hemodialysis was the treatment of choice(90%), and 43% of the patients undergoing this treatment was located in Brazil; in contrast, peritoneal dialysis prevailed in Costa Rica, El Salvador and Guatemala. To date, the Registry remains the only source of RRT data available to healthcare authorities in many LA countries. It not only serves to promote knowledge regarding epidemiology of end-stage renal disease and the related RRT but also for training of nephrologists and renal researchers, to improve understanding and clinical application of dialysis and transplantation services. In LA, accessibility to RRT is still limited and it remains necessary to develop effective programs that will reduce risk factors, promote early diagnosis and treatment of chronic kidney disease, and strengthen transplantation programs.
文摘Remarkable adjustments in foreign policy have been made hy the 33 LatinAmerican countries,the major influential ones in particular,since the adventof the 1990s.The inperative for making drastic policy adjustments originates fromthe urgent need to meet the challenges resulting from the end of the Cold War andthe transformed world power balance.
