The intestinal microbiome of infants with cow's milk-induced FPIES is enriched in taxa and genes of enterobacteria.

OBJECTIVES: Food protein-induced enterocolitis syndrome (FPIES) is a severe type of non-IgE (immunoglobulin E)-mediated (NIM) food allergy, with cow's milk (CM) being the most common offending food. The relationship between the gut microbiota and its metabolites with the inflammatory process in infants with CM FPIES is unknown, although evidence suggests a microbial dysbiosis in NIM patients. This study was performed to contribute to the knowledge of the interaction between the gut microbiota and its derived metabolites with the local immune system in feces of infants with CM FPIES at diagnosis. METHODS: Twelve infants with CM FPIES and a matched healthy control group were recruited and the gut microbiota was investigated by 16S amplicon and shotgun sequencing. Fatty acids (FAs) were measured by gas chromatography, while immune factors were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and Luminex technology. RESULTS: A specific pattern of microbiota in the gut of CM FPIES patients was found, characterized by a high abundance of enterobacteria. Also, an intense excretion of FAs in the feces of these infants was observed. Furthermore, correlations were found between fecal bifidobacteria and immune factors. CONCLUSION: These fecal determinations may be useful to gain insight into the pathophysiology of this syndrome and should be taken in consideration for future studies of FPIES patients.

In vitro, ex vivo, instrumental and clinical evaluation of a topical cream on the signs of periorbital ageing.

OBJECTIVE: Periorbital skin ageing signs are multidimensional, highly visible and a concern for many. We evaluated the potential efficacy of an eye cream to diminish these signs. METHODS: Biological markers associated with ageing, barrier function and homeostasis were analysed in vitro to determine the effects of topically applied eye cream, compared to those of a placebo using human skin tissue models and/or explants. Collagen IV, elastin and bone morphogenic protein 4 (BMP4) expression was investigated by immunohistochemical labelling, while filaggrin, kallikrein 7 (KLK7) and HB-EGF were evaluated by RT-qPCR. IL-1α and melanin levels in darkly pigmented skin models were also quantified. The protective effect of the cream on glycation was assessed by a non-enzymatic assay. Finally, the benefits of twice-daily applications of the eye cream for 56 days were instrumentally and clinically evaluated on 33 women. RESULTS: Only the eye cream, not the placebo, stimulated collagen IV and BMP4 protein expression, as well as increased elastin fibre length. It also led to higher HB-EGF, filaggrin and KLK7 mRNA levels. The placebo and the eye cream did not induce changes in IL-1α and melanin levels, but both reduced non-enzymatic glycation. When assessing the in vivo effects of the cream, short-term results indicated skin hydration, transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and skin profilometry improvement within 15 min. Instrumental evaluations of wrinkles showed a reduction after 7 days, which was clinically perceivable after 28 or 56 days. The eye-opening angle and eyelid sagging also improved after seven and 28 days, respectively. Finally, dark circles became lighter within 7 days (instrumental measurement) or 28 days (clinical assessment). CONCLUSION: The instrumental and clinical evaluations revealed that the eye cream reduced all periorbital ageing signs evaluated. Its effects are supported by the in vitro and ex vivo analyses of molecular markers.

OBJECTIF: Les signes de vieillissement de la peau périorbitaire sont nombreux, très visibles et préoccupent de nombreuses personnes. Nous avons évalué l'efficacité potentielle d'une crème pour les yeux pour atténuer ces signes. MÉTHODES: Les marqueurs biologiques associés au vieillissement, à la fonction barrière et à l'homéostasie de la peau ont été analysés in vitro pour évaluer l'efficacité d'une crème pour les yeux appliquée localement. Ces effets ont été comparés à ceux d'un placebo, sur des modèles et/ou des explants de tissus cutanés humains. L'expression du collagène IV, de l'élastine et de la protéine morphogénique osseuse 4 (BMP4) a été étudiée par marquage immunohistochimique. Celle de la filaggrine, de la kallikréine 7 (KLK7), et du HB­EGF par RT­qPCR. Les niveaux d'IL­1α et de mélanine dans un modèle de peau pigmentée ont également été quantifiés. L'effet protecteur de la crème sur la glycation a été évalué par un test non enzymatique. Enfin, les bénéfices d'une application biquotidienne de la crème pour les yeux ont été évalués instrumentalement et cliniquement sur 33 femmes pendant 56 jours. RÉSULTATS: Seule la crème pour les yeux a stimulé l'expression du collagène IV et de BMP4 en comparaison avec le placebo. La crème est aussi la seule à augmenter la longueur des fibres d'élastine. Elle a également entraîné une augmentation des niveaux d'ARNm de HB­EGF, de la filaggrine et de KLK7. Le placebo et la crème pour les yeux n'ont pas modifié les niveaux d'IL­1α et de la mélanine, mais ont tous deux réduit la glycation non enzymatique. Lors de l'évaluation des effets in vivo, les résultats à court terme ont montré une amélioration de l'hydratation de la peau, de la Perte Insensible en Eau (PIE) et du profil de la peau en 15 min. Les évaluations instrumentales de la profondeur des rides ont indiqué une réduction après 7 jours d'application, réduction cliniquement perceptible après 28 ou 56 jours. La crème périorbitale induit également une amélioration de l'angle d'ouverture des yeux et de l'affaissement des paupières respectivement après 7 et 28 jours. Enfin, les cernes sont devenus plus clairs après 7 jours (mesure instrumentale) ou 28 jours (évaluation clinique). CONCLUSION: Les évaluations instrumentales et cliniques ont révélé que la crème pour les yeux réduisait tous les signes de vieillissement périorbitaires évalués. Ses effets sont confirmés par les analyses in vitro et ex vivo des marqueurs moléculaires.

Protein Painting Mass Spectrometry in the Discovery of Interaction Sites within the Acetylcholine Binding Protein.

Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) are a family of ligand-gated ion channel receptors that contribute to cognition, memory, and motor control in many organisms. The pharmacological targeting of these receptors, using small molecules or peptides, presents an important strategy for the development of drugs that can treat important human diseases, including neurodegenerative disorders. The Aplysia californica acetylcholine binding protein (Ac-AChBP) is a structural surrogate of the nAChR with high homology to the extracellular ligand binding domain of homopentameric nAChRs. In this study, we optimized protein-painting-based mass spectrometry to identify regions of interaction between the Ac-AChBP and several nAChR ligands. Using molecular dyes that adhere to the surface of a solubilized Ac-AChBP complex, we identified amino acid residues that constitute a contact site within the Ac-AChBP for α-bungarotoxin, choline, nicotine, and amyloid-ß 1-42. By integrating innovation in protein painting mass spectrometry with computational structural modeling, we present a new experimental tool for analyzing protein interactions of the nAChR.

Contrasting defence mechanisms against spider mite infestation in cyanogenic and non-cyanogenic legumes.

Understanding the complex interactions between plants and herbivores is essential for improving crop resistance. Aiming to expand the role of cyanogenesis in plant defence, we investigated the response of the cyanogenic Phaseolus lunatus (lima bean) and the non-cyanogenic Phaseolus vulgaris (common bean) to Tetranychus urticae (spider mite) infestation. Despite mite infesting both legumes, leaf damage infringed by this feeder was reduced in lima bean. Comparative transcriptome analyses revealed that both species exhibited substantial metabolic and transcriptional changes upon infestation, although alterations in P. lunatus were significantly more pronounced. Specific differences in amino acid homeostasis and key genes associated with the cyanogenic pathway were observed in these species, as well as the upregulation of the mandelonitrile lyase gene (PlMNL1) following T. urticae feeding. Concomitantly, the PIMNL1 activity increased. Lima bean plants also displayed an induction of ß-cyanoalanine synthase (PlCYSC1), a key enzyme for cyanide detoxification, suggesting an internal regulatory mechanism to manage the toxicity of their defence responses. These findings contribute to our understanding of the legume-herbivore interactions and underscore the potential role of cyanogenesis in the elaboration of specific defensive responses, even within the same genus, which may reflect distinctive evolutionary adaptations or varying metabolic capabilities between species.

Plant Cyanogenic-Derived Metabolites and Herbivore Counter-Defences.

The release of cyanide from cyanogenic precursors is the central core of the plant defences based on the cyanogenesis process. Although cyanide is formed as a coproduct of some metabolic routes, its production is mostly due to the degradation of cyanohydrins originating from cyanogenic glycosides in cyanogenic plants and the 4-OH-ICN route in Brassicaceae. Cyanohydrins are then hydrolysed in a reversible reaction generating cyanide, being both, cyanohydrins and cyanide, toxic compounds with potential defensive properties against pests and pathogens. Based on the production of cyanogenic-derived molecules in response to the damage caused by herbivore infestation, in this review, we compile the actual knowledge of plant cyanogenic events in the plant-pest context. Besides the defensive potential, the mode of action, and the targets of the cyanogenic compounds to combat phytophagous insects and acari, special attention has been paid to arthropod responses and the strategies to overcome the impact of cyanogenesis. Physiological and behavioural adaptations, as well as cyanide detoxification by ß-cyanoalanine synthases, rhodaneses, and cyanases are common ways of phytophagous arthropods defences against the cyanide produced by plants. Much experimental work is needed to further understand the complexities and specificities of the defence-counter-defence system to be applied in breeding programs.

A novel professional-use synergistic peel technology to reduce visible hyperpigmentation on face: Clinical evidence and mechanistic understanding by computational biology and optical biopsy.

Topicals and chemical peels are the standard of care for management of facial hyperpigmentation. However, traditional therapies have come under recent scrutiny, such as topical hydroquinone (HQ) has some regulatory restrictions, and high concentration trichloroacetic acid (TCA) peel pose a risk in patients with skin of colour. The objective of our research was to identify, investigate and elucidate the mechanism of action of a novel TCA- and HQ-free professional-use chemical peel to manage common types of facial hyperpigmentation. Using computational modelling and in vitro assays on tyrosinase, we identified proprietary multi-acid synergistic technology (MAST). After a single application on human skin explants, MAST peel was found to be more effective than a commercial HQ peel in inhibiting melanin (histochemical imaging and gene expression). All participants completed the case study (N = 9) without any adverse events. After administration of the MAST peel by a dermatologist, the scoring and VISIA photography reported improvements in hyperpigmentation, texture and erythema, which could be linked to underlying pathophysiological changes in skin after peeling, visualized by non-invasive optical biopsy of face. Using reflectance confocal microscopy (VivaScope®) and multiphoton tomography (MPTflex™), we observed reduction in melanin, increase in metabolic activity of keratinocytes, and no signs of inflammatory cells after peeling. Subsequent swabbing of the cheek skin found no microbiota dysbiosis resulting from the chemical peel. The strong efficacy with minimum downtime and no adverse events could be linked to the synergistic action of the ingredients in the novel HQ- and TCA-free professional peel technology.

Spider mite herbivory induces an ABA-driven stomatal defense.

Arthropod herbivory poses a serious threat to crop yield, prompting plants to employ intricate defense mechanisms against pest feeding. The generalist pest 2-spotted spider mite (Tetranychus urticae) inflicts rapid damage and remains challenging due to its broad target range. In this study, we explored the Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) response to T. urticae infestation, revealing the induction of abscisic acid (ABA), a hormone typically associated with abiotic stress adaptation, and stomatal closure during water stress. Leveraging a Forster resonance energy transfer (FRET)-based ABA biosensor (nlsABACUS2-400n), we observed elevated ABA levels in various leaf cell types postmite feeding. While ABA's role in pest resistance or susceptibility has been debated, an ABA-deficient mutant exhibited increased mite infestation alongside intact canonical biotic stress signaling, indicating an independent function of ABA in mite defense. We established that ABA-triggered stomatal closure effectively hinders mite feeding and minimizes leaf cell damage through genetic and pharmacological interventions targeting ABA levels, ABA signaling, stomatal aperture, and density. This study underscores the critical interplay between biotic and abiotic stresses in plants, highlighting how the vulnerability to mite infestation arising from open stomata, crucial for transpiration and photosynthesis, reinforces the intricate relationship between these stress types.

Graphene oxide films as a novel tool for the modulation of myeloid-derived suppressor cell activity in the context of multiple sclerosis.

Despite the pharmacological arsenal approved for Multiple Sclerosis (MS), there are treatment-reluctant patients for whom cell therapy appears as the only therapeutic alternative. Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) are immature cells of the innate immunity able to control the immune response and to promote oligodendroglial differentiation in the MS animal model experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). However, when isolated and cultured for cell therapy purposes, MDSCs lose their beneficial immunomodulatory properties. To prevent this important drawback, culture devices need to be designed so that MDSCs maintain a state of immaturity and immunosuppressive function similar to that exerted in the donor organism. With this aim, we select graphene oxide (GO) as a promising candidate as it has been described as a biocompatible nanomaterial with the capacity to biologically modulate different cell types, yet its immunoactive potential has been poorly explored to date. In this work, we have fabricated GO films with two distintive redox and roughness properties and explore their impact in MDSC culture right after isolation. Our results show that MDSCs isolated from immune organs of EAE mice maintain an immature phenotype and highly immunosuppressive activity on T lymphocytes after being cultured on highly-reduced GO films (rGO200) compared to those grown on conventional glass coverslips. This immunomodulation effect is depleted when MDSCs are exposed to slightly rougher and more oxidized GO substrates (rGO90), in which cells experience a significant reduction in cell size associated with the activation of apoptosis. Taken together, the exposure of MDSCs to GO substrates with different redox state and roughness is presented as a good strategy to control MDSC activity in vitro. The versatility of GO nanomaterials in regards to the impact of their physico-chemical properties in immunomodulation opens the door to their selective therapeutic potential for pathologies where MDSCs need to be enhanced (MS) or inhibited (cancer).

Gut microbiota and inflammatory mediators differentiate IgE mediated and non-IgE mediated cases of cow's milk protein at diagnosis.

OBJECTIVE: Analyze fecal and blood samples at point of diagnosis in IgE mediated cow's milk protein allergy (CMPA) and non-IgE mediated (NIM)-CMPA patients to look for potential new biomarkers. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Fourteen patients with IgE mediated CMPA and 13 with NIM-CMPA were recruited in three hospitals in the north of Spain, and were compared with 25 infants from a control group of the same age range. To characterize intestinal microbiota, 16S rDNA gene and internal transcribed spacer amplicons of bifidobacteria were sequenced with Illumina technology. Fatty acids were analyzed by gas chromatography, meanwhile intestinal inflammation markers were quantified by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and a multiplex system. Immunological analysis of blood was performed by flow cytometry. RESULTS: The fecal results obtained in the NIM-CMPA group stand out. Among them, a significant reduction in the abundance of Bifidobacteriaceae and Bifidobacterium sequences with respect to controls was observed. Bifidobacterial species were also different, highlighting the lower abundance of Bifidobacterium breve sequences. Fecal calprotectin levels were found to be significantly elevated in relation to IgE mediated patients. Also, a higher excretion of IL-10 and a lower excretion of IL-1ra and platelet derived growth factor-BB was found in NIM-CMPA patients. CONCLUSIONS: The differential fecal parameters found in NIM-CMPA patients could be useful in the diagnosis of NIM food allergy to CM proteins.

Contrasting plant transcriptome responses between a pierce-sucking and a chewing herbivore go beyond the infestation site.

BACKGROUND: Plants have acquired a repertoire of mechanisms to combat biotic stressors, which may vary depending on the feeding strategies of herbivores and the plant species. Hormonal regulation crucially modulates this malleable defense response. Jasmonic acid (JA) and salicylic acid (SA) stand out as pivotal regulators of defense, while other hormones like abscisic acid (ABA), ethylene (ET), gibberellic acid (GA) or auxin also play a role in modulating plant-pest interactions. The plant defense response has been described to elicit effects in distal tissues, whereby aboveground herbivory can influence belowground response, and vice versa. This impact on distal tissues may be contingent upon the feeding guild, even affecting both the recovery of infested tissues and those that have not suffered active infestation. RESULTS: To study how phytophagous with distinct feeding strategies may differently trigger the plant defense response during and after infestation in both infested and distal tissues, Arabidopsis thaliana L. rosettes were infested separately with the chewing herbivore Pieris brassicae L. and the piercing-sucker Tetranychus urticae Koch. Moderate infestation conditions were selected for both pests, though no quantitative control of damage levels was carried out. Feeding mode did distinctly influence the transcriptomic response of the plant under these conditions. Though overall affected processes were similar under either infestation, their magnitude differed significantly. Plants infested with P. brassicae exhibited a short-term response, involving stress-related genes, JA and ABA regulation and suppressing growth-related genes. In contrast, T. urticae elicited a longer transcriptomic response in plants, albeit with a lower degree of differential expression, in particular influencing SA regulation. These distinct defense responses transcended beyond infestation and through the roots, where hormonal response, flavonoid regulation or cell wall reorganization were differentially affected. CONCLUSION: These outcomes confirm that the existent divergent transcriptomic responses elicited by herbivores employing distinct feeding strategies possess the capacity to extend beyond infestation and even affect tissues that have not been directly infested. This remarks the importance of considering the entire plant's response to localized biotic stresses.

Riesgo de osteorradionecrosis de los maxilares según el tipo de radioterapia

Introducción: El cáncer de cabeza y cuello es el séptimo más común a nivel mundial. Las opciones terapéuticas para su manejo incluyen la radioterapia, la cual debe procurar un equilibrio entre la eliminación del tumor y la preservación del tejido sano porque su aplicación implica el riesgo de desarrollar una osteorradionecrosis de los maxilares. Objetivo: Valorar si el riesgo de que se produzca osteorradionecrosis de los maxilares varía en función del tipo de radioterapia. Métodos: Diseño documental, retrospectivo basado en los principios de las revisiones sistemáticas exploratorias según lo establece la lista de chequeo PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR). Se realizaron búsquedas en inglés y español en PubMed, LILACS, ScienceDirect, Tripdatabase y Epistemonikos. Resultados: En total se incluyeron 12 estudios publicados entre 2016 y 2022 con diversos diseños de investigación; el estudio de cohorte retrospectivo fue el que tuvo mayor representación. Se analizaron distintas opciones de radioterapia y sus protocolos, entre ellos, la radioterapia de intensidad modulada, la terapia de protones de intensidad modulada, la radioterapia corporal estereotáctica y la radioterapia tridimensional. La literatura refiere que los protocolos que implican dosis totales más bajas representan un menor riesgo de osteorradionecrosis. Conclusiones: El riesgo de osteorradionecrosis de los maxilares debe atribuirse, en mayor medida, a la dosis total de radiación recibida por el paciente y a la dosis por fracción que al tipo de radioterapia.

Introduction: Head and neck cancer is the seventh most common cancer worldwide. Therapeutic options for its management include radiotherapy, which should seek a balance between tumor elimination and preservation of healthy tissue because its application implies the risk of developing osteoradionecrosis of the jaws. Objective: To assess whether the risk of developing osteoradionecrosis of the jaws varies according to the type of radiotherapy. Methods : Documentary, retrospective design based on the principles of exploratory systematic reviews as established by the PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) checklist. PubMed, LILACS, ScienceDirect, Tripdatabase and Epistemonikos were searched in English and Spanish. Results: In total, 12 studies published between 2016 and 2022 with various research designs were included; the retrospective cohort study had the highest representation. Different radiotherapy options and their protocols were analyzed, including intensity-modulated radiotherapy, intensity-modulated proton therapy, stereotactic body radiotherapy, and three-dimensional radiotherapy. The literature refers that protocols involving lower total doses represent a lower risk of osteoradionecrosis. Conclusions: The risk of osteoradionecrosis of the jaws should be attributed, to a greater extent, to the total radiation dose received by the patient and the dose per fraction than to the type of radiotherapy.

Utilidad de los índices aterogénicos del perfil lipídico en el diagnóstico de aterosclerosis subclínica / Utility of the atherogenic indices of the lipid profile in the diagnosis of subclinical atherosclerosis

Introducción: Los índices aterogénicos hacen referencia a un conjunto de indicadores bioquímicos que a partir de la relación entre variables lipídicas permiten predecir el riesgo de daño aterosclerótico. Objetivo: Evaluar la utilidad de los índices aterogénicos en el diagnóstico de aterosclerosis subclínica en pacientes con dislipidemia. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo en 812 pacientes con diagnóstico clínico de dislipidemia en el Hospital Clínico Quirúrgico Hermanos Ameijeiras, en el período 2015-2020. Resultados: La edad media de los pacientes fue de 56,79 ± 10,24 años, predominó el grupo de 60 y más años con un 40,9 por ciento y el sexo femenino para un 73,8 por ciento. El 61,2 por ciento de los pacientes tienen presente algún tipo de obesidad. La presencia de HTA y el consumo de tabaco afectan el 52 por ciento y 24,6 por ciento de la población estudiada. El 74,8 por ciento (607 casos) fue clasificado como riesgo cardiovascular medio según los criterios de Framingham, mientras que el 12,9 por ciento fue clasificado como riesgo alto. Se identificaron 323 (39,8 por ciento) pacientes con presencia de aterosclerosis subclínica. Las diferencias de los valores medios de los índices aterogénicos entre los grupos con presencia de aterosclerosis subclínica fueron estadísticamente significativas para los índices cCtotal/ cHDL y cLDL/cHDL (p<0,05). En el análisis multivariado los índices asociados al riesgo de presentar aterosclerosis subclínica fueron la relación cCtotal/cHDL (R=1,11) y cLDL/cHDL (R=1,12) (p<0,05). Conclusiones: Los índices aterogénicos son de utilidad en el diagnóstico de aterosclerosis subclínica, los cocientes cCtotal/cHDL y cLDL/cHDL son los que están asociados significativamente con la probabilidad de presentar daño aterosclerótico carotideo(AU)

Introduction: Atherogenic indices refer to a set of biochemical indicators that, based on the relationship between lipid variables, allow predicting the risk of atherosclerotic damage. Objective: To evaluate the usefulness of atherogenic indices in the diagnosis of subclinical atherosclerosis in patients with dyslipidemia. Methods: A descriptive study was carried out in 812 patients with clinical diagnosis of dyslipidemia at Hermanos Ameijeiras Surgical Clinical Hospital, from 2015 to 2020. Results: The mean age of the patients was 56.79 ± 10.24 years, the group of 60 and over predominated with 40.9percent and the female sex with 73.8percent. Some type of obesity was present in 61.2percent of the patients. The presence of hypertension and tobacco consumption affect 52percent and 24.6percent of the population studied, respectively. 74.8percent (607 cases) were classified as medium cardiovascular risk according to Framingham criteria, while 12.9percent were classified as high risk. Three hundred twenty three (39.8percent) patients with subclinical atherosclerosis were identified. The differences in the mean values of the atherogenic indices between the groups with subclinical atherosclerosis were statistically significant for the total C/HDLc and LDLc/HDLc indices (p<0.05). In the multivariate analysis, the indices associated with the risk of subclinical atherosclerosis were the ratio of Total C/HDLc (R=1.11) and LDLc/HDLc (R=1.12) (p<0.05). Conclusions: The atherogenic indices are useful in the diagnosis of subclinical atherosclerosis; cCtotal/cHDL and cLDL/cHDL ratios are those that are significantly associated with the probability of carotid atherosclerotic damage(AU)

Blefaroplastia realizada con láser de CO2 versus radiocirugía en pacientes con dermatochalasis / Blepharoplasty performed with CO2 laser versus radiosurgery in patients with dermatochalasis

Objetivo: Describir los resultados de las blefaroplastias con láser de CO2 y radiocirugía realizada a pacientes con dermatochalasis del párpado superior en el Hospital "Hermanos Ameijeiras". Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo longitudinal en pacientes del servicio de Oftalmología. Después de aplicar los criterios de selección la muestra quedó conformada por los primeros 100 pacientes que asistieron de forma consecutiva y se dividieron al azar en dos grupos de 50 casos cada uno, al grupo A se le realizó blefaroplastia superior transcutánea con radiofrecuencia y al grupo B se le realizó blefaroplastia superior transcutánea con láser de CO2. Resultados: En ambos predominaron los pacientes entre los 60 a 79 años, el sexo femenino y los de color de piel blanca (p>0,05); se logró una reducción completa de la piel redundante en más de un 50 pr ciento. El tiempo quirúrgico promedio con el láser de CO2 fue de 31.5 min y con radiofrecuencia de 35,9 min. El sangrado intraoperatorio fue menor en operados con el láser de CO2. La satisfacción de los pacientes fue buena en ambos grupos. Complicaciones posoperatorias: el 16 del grupo A y el 11% del B, presentaron alguna complicación. Conclusiones: Se observó que con el uso del láser de CO2 el tiempo quirúrgico, el sangrado intraoperatorio y las complicaciones disminuyeron; con lo cual mejoró el aprovechamiento del salón. Ambas técnicas mostraron un elevado grado de satisfacción y mejoría de la estética palpebral por lo que son efectivas y seguras(AU)

Objective: To describe the results of CO2 laser blepharoplasty and radiosurgery performed in patients with upper eyelid dermatochalasis. Methods: A descriptive longitudinal study was carried out in patients of the Ophthalmology Service of the Clinical Surgical Hospital "Hermanos Ameijeiras". After applying the selection criteria, the sample consisted of the first 100 patients who attended consecutively and were randomly divided into two groups of 50 cases each. Group A underwent transcutaneous upper blepharoplasty with radiofrequency and group B underwent transcutaneous upper blepharoplasty with CO2 laser. Results: In both groups, patients between 60 and 79 years of age, female gender and white skin color predominated (p>0.05); a complete reduction of redundant skin was achieved in more than 50 percnt. The average surgical time with CO2 laser was 31.5 min and with radiofrequency 35.9 min. Intraoperative bleeding was lower in those operated with the CO2 laser. Patient satisfaction was good in both groups. Postoperative complications: 16 por ciento of group A and 11 percent of group B presented some complication. Conclusions: It was observed that with the use of CO2 laser the surgical time, intraoperative bleeding and complications decreased; thus improving room utilization. Both techniques showed a high degree of satisfaction and improvement of palpebral aesthetics, so they are effective and safe(AU)

Utilidad del monitoreo continuo del electroencefalograma en el paciente crítico / Utility of continuous electroencephalogram monitoring in the critical patients

Introducción: El monitoreo continuo del Electroencefalograma, es la recogida simultánea de la actividad cerebral y la conducta clínica por un período de horas a días. Por el alto costo de la técnica aún no está muy difundida. Objetivos: Evaluar la utilidad del monitoreo electroencefalográfico continuo en el paciente crítico. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo, retrospectivo y longitudinal en 118 sujetos mayores de 19 años ingresados en las unidades de terapia del Hospital Clínico Quirúrgico Hermanos Ameijeiras; entre noviembre 2016 a octubre 2018 con indicación de un Electroencefalograma continuo. Se consideraron variables clínicas y electroencefalográficas: escala de Glasgow, ocurrencia de crisis, diagnóstico, estado al egreso, anormalidad del Electroencefalograma, descargas epileptiformes, sospecha de estatus epiléptico no convulsivo por electroencefalograma entre otras. Los datos se procesaron con test de Chi cuadrado, test de Mc Nemar y test t de student, se empleó un nivel de significación de p≤0.05. Resultados: 60 de los pacientes pertenecían al sexo femenino, la mediana de las edades fue 67,5 años. La escala de Glasgow mostró asociación significativa con el grado de anormalidad del electroencefalograma (p=0,001), es la arreactividad y la discontinuidad de la actividad de base predictores de pobre pronóstico. Se observaron descargas epileptiformes periódicas en 100 pacientes. Se definió estatus epiléptico no convulsivo en 56 sujetos (37,28 por ciento) y en 81 sujetos (68,64 por ciento) el resultado del electroencefalograma motivó una conducta médica. Conclusiones: El monitoreo continuo del electroencefalograma es útil en el diagnóstico y manejo del paciente con episodios no convulsivos, permite formular un pronóstico neurológico y orientó la conducta médica(AU)

Introduction: The continuous monitoring of the electroencephalogram is the simultaneous collection of brain activity and clinical behavior for a period of hours to days. Due to the high cost of the technique, it is not yet widely used. Objectives: To evaluate the usefulness of continuous electroencephalographic monitoring in critically ill patients. Methods: A descriptive, retrospective and longitudinal study was carried out in 118 subjects over 19 years of age admitted to the therapy units at Hermanos Ameijeiras Surgical Clinical Hospital; from November 2016 to October 2018. They were indicated a continuous electroencephalogram. Clinical and electroencephalographic variables were considered, such as Glasgow scale, seizure occurrence, diagnosis, discharge status, electroencephalogram abnormality, epileptiform discharges, suspicion of nonconvulsive status epilepticus by electroencephalogram, among others. The data was processed with the Chi square test, the Mc Nemar test and the student's t test, using significance level of p≤0.05. Results: Sixty patients were female, the median age was 67.5 years. The Glasgow scale showed significant association with the degree of electroencephalogram abnormality (p=0.001). A reactivity and discontinuity of baseline activity are predictors of poor prognosis. Periodic epileptiform discharges were observed in 100 patients. Non-convulsive status epilepticus was defined in 56 subjects (37.28 percent) and in 81 subjects (68.64 percent) the result of the electroencephalogram motivated a medical procedure. Conclusions: The continuous monitoring of the electroencephalogram is useful in the diagnosis and management of patients with non-convulsive episodes, it allows formulating a neurological prognosis and guided medical conduct(AU)

Criterios predictores en el diagnóstico de la hipercolesterolemia familiar / Predictive criteria in the diagnosis of familial hypercholesterolemia

Introducción: La hipercolesterolemia familiar es una enfermedad con alta prevalencia, no tratada acorta la esperanza de vida, por lo que el diagnóstico a edades tempranas resulta fundamental. Las pruebas genéticas constituyen el gold standard para el diagnóstico de hipercolesterolemia familiar, sin embargo, la no disponibilidad del test genético no debe constituir un impedimento para la adecuada conducta en estos casos. Objetivo: Identificar criterios clínicos predictores en el diagnóstico por pesquisa de la hipercolesterolemia familiar. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo prospectivo a partir de una muestra de 393 pacientes (casos índices) de HF en el Hospital Clínico Quirúrgico Hermanos Ameijeiras; durante el período 2008-2018. Resultados: En la pesquisa familiar fueron identificados 177 (15,66 por ciento) nuevos casos de hipercolesterolemia familiar, de ellos se clasifican como casos positivos 35 (19,77 por ciento), casos probables 58 (32,77 por ciento) y casos posibles 84 (47,46 por ciento). Las categorías del estrato Make early diagnosis to prevent early death MEDPED y la edad del caso índice resultaron ser las variables clínicas de interés con mayor probabilidad para identificar nuevos casos de hipercolesterolemia familiar. Conclusiones: los criterios clínicos estandarizados de la escala make early diagnosis to prevent early death P y la edad del caso índice resultaron ser indicadores predictivos de gran valor para identificar y estratificar casos con variantes fenotípicas de hipercolesterolemia familiar(AU)

Introduction: Familial hypercholesterolemia is a disease with high prevalence; it shortens life expectancy if it is not treated, so early diagnosis is essential. Genetic tests are the gold standard for the diagnosis of familial hypercholesterolemia, however, the unavailability of the genetic test should not be an obstacle to proper conduct in these cases. Objective: To identify predictive clinical criteria in the diagnosis by screening of familial hypercholesterolemia. Methods: A prospective descriptive study was carried out from a sample of 393 patients (index cases) of FH at Hermanos Ameijeiras Surgical Clinical Hospital from 2008 to 2018. Results: In the family investigation, 177 (15.66 percent) new cases of familial hypercholesterolemia were identified, 35 of them (19.77 percent) are classified as positive cases, 58 (32.77 percent) as probable cases and 84 as possible cases (47.46 percent)The stratum categories of Make Early Diagnosis to Prevent Early Death (MEDPED) and the age of the index case turned out to be the clinical variables of interest with the greatest probability to identify new cases of familial hypercholesterolemia. Conclusions: The standardized clinical criteria of the make early diagnosis to prevent early death P scale and the age of the index case turned out to be highly valuable predictive indicators to identify and stratify cases with phenotypic variants of familial hypercholesterolemia(AU)

Mucormicosis rino-orbito-cerebral en paciente con diagnóstico presuntivo de COVID-19

La mucormicosis es una infección fúngica producida por hongos del orden Mucoral, que se desarrolla con mayor frecuencia en pacientes inmunocomprometidos, caracterizada por producir invasión de vasos sanguíneos con posterior trombosis e isquemia del área de lesión lo que produce manifestaciones rinocerebral, cutánea, gastrointestinal, diseminada y miscelánea. En la actualidad con el resurgimiento del Coronavirus y el uso desmedido de esteroides se ha evidenciado un incremento en los casos de Mucormicosis asociados a esta patología. Se presenta el caso de una paciente de 55 años de edad, quien recibió tratamiento para infección presuntiva por COVID-19 y que desarrolló manifestaciones clínicas de mucormicosis rino-orbito- cerebral

Mucormycosis is a fungal infection produced by fungi of the Mucoral order, which develops more frequently in immunocompromised patients, characterized by causing invasion of blood vessels with subsequent thrombosis and ischemia of the lesion area which produces rhinocerebral, cutaneous, gastrointestinal, disseminated manifestations and miscellaneous. At present, with the resurgence of the Coronavirus and the excessive use of steroids, there has been an increase in the cases of Mucormycosis associated with this pathology. The case of a 55- year-old patient is presented, who received treatment for presumptive infection by COVID-19 and who developed clinical manifestations of rhino-orbito-cerebral Mucormycosis, with subsequent mycological diagnosis

Hiperglucemia en ayuno como factor pronóstico en cirugía cardíaca / Fasting hyperglycemia as a prognostic factor in cardiac surgery

Introducción: La hiperglucemia de ayuno es un factor pronóstico en cirugía. Encontrar el umbral de riesgo mayor en cirugía cardiovascular es una necesidad en la práctica médica actual. Objetivo: Estimar el umbral glucémico ideal de ayuno para un mejor pronóstico en la evolución clínica de los pacientes sometidos a cirugía cardiaca. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo prospectivo en pacientes sometidos a cirugía cardíaca, en el Hospital Hermanos Ameijeiras durante el periodo de enero a junio del año 2017. La muestra quedó constituida por 191 pacientes, a todos los pacientes se les determinó glucemia de ayuno. Se empleó la prueba de independencia Ji-cuadrado (X2) para evaluar la asociación entre variables. Se realizó un análisis de regresión logística para identificar el efecto independiente de las variables estudiadas. Además, se construyó una curva Receiver Operating Characteristic Curve (por sus siglas en inglés) en la que se graficaron especificidad 1 y sensibilidad para cada punto de corte definido para los valores glucémicos. Resultados: La edad de los pacientes predominó entre 40-69 años, el sexo masculino representó 60,7 por ciento de la muestra, el 55,5 por ciento presentó glucemias normales y solo el 1,6 por ciento presentó glucemias mayores a 15 mmol/L. El 33,5 por ciento presentó algún tipo de complicación, los pacientes que presentaron complicaciones tenían la glucemia por encima de 9,9 mmol/L en el 84,4 por ciento. En el análisis multivariado solo hubo significación estadística para la aparición de complicaciones para la glucemia mayor a 10 mmol/L. Conclusiones: La hiperglucemia de ayuno se asoció a mayor riesgo de complicaciones(AU)

Introduction: Fasting hyperglycemia is a prognostic factor in surgery. Finding the highest risk threshold in cardiovascular surgery is a necessity in current medical practice. Objective: To estimate the ideal fasting glycemic threshold for a better prognosis in the clinical evolution of patients undergoing cardiac surgery. Methods: A prospective descriptive study was carried out in patients undergoing cardiac surgery, at Hermanos Ameijeiras Hospital from January to June 2017. The sample consisted of 191 patients; fasting blood glucose was determined in all patients. The Chi-square (X2) test of independence was used to evaluate the association between variables. A logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the independent effect of the variables studied. In addition, a Receiver Operating Characteristic Curve was constructed in which 1-specificity and sensitivity were plotted for each cut-off point defined for the glycemic values. Results: The 40-69 years age of the patients predominated, the male sex represented 60.7 percent of the sample, 55.5 percent had normal blood glucose levels and only 1.6 percent showed blood glucose levels higher than 15 mmol/L. Moreover, 33.5 percent had some type of complication; the patients with complications had blood glucose levels above 9.9 mmol/L in 84.4 percent. In the multivariate analysis, there was only statistical significance for the appearance of complications for glycaemia higher than 10 mmol/L. Conclusions: Fasting hyperglycemia was associated with higher risk of complications(AU)

Reacción de hipersensibilidad secundaria al uso de bloqueadores neuromusculares / Hypersensitivity reaction secondary to the use of neuromuscular blockers

Resumen: Introducción: La anafilaxia perioperatoria constituye una condición clínica potencialmente letal. La causa más frecuente se atribuye a los bloqueadores neuromusculares. Objetivo: Identificar la incidencia de reacciones anafilácticas secundarias al uso de bloqueadores neuromusculares. Material y métodos: Se realizó una investigación descriptiva, observacional, de corte transversal para evaluar la incidencia de reacciones anafilácticas secundarias al uso de bloqueantes neuromusculares. El estudio se realizó en el Hospital «Hermanos Ameijeiras¼ en el período comprendido entre enero de 2016 y diciembre de 2018. Resultados: Del total de intervenciones quirúrgicas electivas, 3,431 requirieron anestesia general y el uso de bloqueadores neuromusculares. Predominó el sexo femenino en 75% de los casos, el grupo etario de 60 años y más con 68 pacientes (32.7%), el estado físico ASA II, 98 pacientes (41.1%). La media del IMC fue de 22.7 ± 1.14. La media del tiempo quirúrgico fue de 190 ± 42.5 min. De todos los fármacos el más utilizado fue el atracurio en 90 pacientes (43.3%) seguido del vecuronio 79 (38.0%) y el rocuronio 39 (18.8%). El número de eventos adversos fue escaso. Sólo se encontraron cuatro, dos con atracurio (50%), uno con rocuronio y uno con vecuronio 25% respectivamente. Conclusiones: Se constató la presencia de reacciones anafilácticas por el uso de bloqueadores neuromusculares, mismas que se manifestaron en un corto período al inicio de la inducción. El atracurio presentó la mayor frecuencia y todas fueron de intensidad leve.

Abstract: Introduction: Perioperative anaphylaxis is a potentially lethal clinical condition. The most frequent cause is attributed to neuromuscular blockers. Objective: To identify the incidence of anaphylactic reactions secondary to the use of neuromuscular blockers. Material and methods: A descriptive, observational, cross-sectional investigation was conducted to assess the incidence of anaphylactic reactions secondary to the use of neuromuscular blockers. The study was carried out at the «Hermanos Ameijeiras¼ Hospital, in the period between january 2016 and december 2018. Results: Of the total elective surgical interventions, 3,431 required general anesthesia and the use of neuromuscular blockers. The female sex predominated with 75%, the age group of 60 years and over with 68 patients (32.7%), ASA II physical condition, 98 patients (41.1%). The average BMI was 22.7 ± 1.14. The mean surgical time was 190 ± 42.5 min. Of all the drugs the most used was atracurium in 90 patients (43.3%), followed by vecuronium 79 (38.0%) and rocuronium 39 (18.8%). The number of adverse events was low. Only four were found, two with atracurium (50%), one with rocuronium and one with 25% vecuronium respectively. Conclusions: The presence of anaphylactic reactions was observed with the use of neuromuscular blockers, which occurred in a short period at the beginning of induction. The atracurium presented the highest frequency and all were of mild intensity.

Bloqueo regional intraarticular con anestésicos locales en cirugía artroscópica de rodilla / Regional intra-articular block with local anesthetics in arthroscopic knee surgery

Resumen: Introducción: La técnica anestésica de elección para la artroscopía está determinada por los requerimientos quirúrgicos intraoperatorios y pretende optimizar la recuperación, el control del dolor postoperatorio y facilitar el alta precoz. Objetivo: Evaluar los resultados del bloqueo regional intraarticular con anestésicos locales en la cirugía artroscópica de rodilla. Material y métodos: Se realizó un estudio observacional, descriptivo, de corte transversal para evaluar los resultados del bloqueo regional intraarticular con anestésicos locales en la cirugía artroscópica de rodilla, en el Hospital Clínico Quirúrgico «Hermanos Ameijeiras¼, en el período comprendido entre febrero de 2013 y febrero de 2016. El estudio incluyó un total de 120 pacientes, distribuidos en dos grupos de 60 cada uno. Grupo AS: se utilizó anestesia subaracnoidea y Grupo AI: se realizó anestesia intraarticular con anestesia local. Resultados: El grupo etario más frecuente fue entre 60-69 años, 28.3% en el Grupo AS y 35.0% en el Grupo IA, sin diferencias significativas (p = 0.683). Predominó el sexo femenino sobre el masculino (42/18 vs 44/16), sin diferencias significativas (p = 0.839). Predominó el ASA I, en 56.7 y 43.3%, según técnica anestésica, sin diferencias significativas (p = 0.092). La rodilla derecha predominó sobre la izquierda. La entidad nosológica más frecuente fue la plica presente en 58.3% del Grupo AS y 60% en el Grupo IA (p = 0.408). La osteoartritis de rodilla, según grupos, se presentó en 46.7 % en el grupo AS y en 50.0% del grupo AI. El dolor postoperatorio estuvo presente en 21.7% del grupo AS y en 10% en el Grupo IA. Existieron diferencias significativas entre grupos (p = 0.0114). Las complicaciones según grupos, se presentaron en el doble de pacientes del grupo AS (30%) que en el Grupo IA (15%) con diferencias significativas (p = 0.049). Conclusiones: Los resultados del bloqueo regional intraarticular con anestésicos locales en la cirugía artroscópica de rodilla constituye una técnica anestésica fácil de realizar y que brinda seguridad al paciente.

Abstract. Introduction: The anesthetic technique of choice for arthroscopy is determined by the intraoperative surgical requirements and aims to optimize recovery, postoperative pain control and facilitate early discharge. Objective: To evaluate the results of intra-articular regional block with local anesthetics in arthroscopic knee surgery. Material and methods: An observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted to evaluate the results of the intra-articular regional block with local anesthetics in arthroscopic knee surgery at the «Hermanos Ameijeiras¼ Clinical Surgical Hospital, in the period between February 2013 and February 2016. The study included a total of 120 patients, distributed in two groups of 60 each. Group AS: subarachnoid anesthesia and Group AI: intra-articular regional block with local anesthetics. Results: The most frequent age group was between 60-69 years, 28.3% in group SA and 35.0% in group IA, without significant differences (p = 0.683). Female sex predominated over male (42/18 vs 44/16), without significant differences (p = 0.839). ASA I predominated, in 56.7% and 43.3%, according to anesthetic technique, without significant differences (p = 0.092). The right knee predominated over the left. The most frequent nosological entity was the escrow present in 58.3% of the AS group and 60% in the group IA (p = 0.408). Osteoarthritis of the knee, according to groups, was presented in 46.7% in the AS group and 50.0% in the AI group. Postoperative pain was present in 21.7% of the AS group and 10% in the Group IA. There were significant differences between groups (p = 0.0114). Complications according to groups occurred in twice as many patients in the AS group (30.0%) as in group IA (15.0%) with significant differences (p = 0.049). Conclusions: The results of intra-articular regional block with local anesthetics in arthroscopic knee surgery is an anesthetic technique that is easy to perform and provides patient safety.

Coinfección VIH-sífilis en pacientes con diagnóstico reciente de infección por virus de inmunodeficiencia humana, octubre 2018 - mayo 2019, Unidad de Infectología. Ciudad Hospitalaria Dr. Enrique Tejera

El VIH/Sida sigue siendo uno de los mayores problemas de salud pública a nivel mundial, comparte mecanismo de transmisión con la sífilis, por lo que la coinfección puede ocurrir. Objetivo: Describir las características clínico-epidemiológicas, serológicas e inmunológicas de los pacientes con diagnóstico reciente de VIH/Sida coinfectados con sífilis. Metodología: Investigación clínica, descriptiva, transversal, retrospectiva, apoyada en una revisión bibliográfica. Se incluyeron pacientes mayores de 18 años atendidos en la Unidad de Infectología de la Ciudad Hospitalaria Dr. Enrique Tejera. Resultados: Se evaluaron 64 pacientes, de los cuales el 15,62 % presentó coinfección VIH-sífilis, el 80 % fueron hombres, y la edad media de la muestra fue 33,6 ± 14,03 años, el mecanismo de transmisión más frecuente fue HSH en un 50 %, dos terceras partes de los pacientes manifestaron haber tenido 3 o más parejas sexuales en el último año, y uno de ellos trabajaba en la prostitución. En los contactos sexuales 90 % refirió uso ocasional o nulo de las medidas de protección. Los motivos para la realización del diagnóstico de coinfección VIH-sífilis fueron la presencia de signos o síntomas sugestivos de la enfermedad luética (40 %) y el hallazgo casual en el screening del paciente VIH (30 %). El 60 % presentaba sífilis latente y 30 % sífilis secundaria. El 50 % de los pacientes evaluados presentó un valor de LTCD4<200 cel/mm3. Conclusión: Es necesario realizar regularmente investigación de ETS en el paciente con VIH, así como fomentar y desarrollar estrategias preventivas en nuestro medio.

HIV/AIDS remains one of the biggest public health problems worldwide, it shares transmission mechanism with syphilis, so coinfection can occur. Objective: Describe the clinical-epidemiological, serological and immunological characteristics of patients with a recent diagnosis of HIV/AIDS co-infected with syphilis. Methodology: Clinical, descriptive, cross-sectional, retrospective research, supported by a literature review. Patients older than 18 years of age attended in the Infectious Unit of the Dr. Enrique Tejera Hospital City were included. Results: 64 patients were evaluated, of which 15.62 % had HIV-syphilis coinfection, 80 % were men, and the mean age of the sample was 33.6 ± 14.03 years, the most frequent transmission mechanism was 50 % MSM, two thirds of the patients reported having had 3 or more sexual partners in the last year, and one of them worked in prostitution. In sexual contacts 90 % reported occasional or no use of protective measures. The reasons for the diagnosis of HIV-syphilis co-infection were the presence of signs or symptoms suggestive of the disease (40 %) and the casual finding in the screening of the HIV patient (30 %). 60 % had latent syphilis and 30 % secondary syphilis. 50 % of the patients evaluated had a LTCD4 value <200 cel/mm3. Conclusion: It is necessary to regularly conduct STD research in patients with HIV, as well as to promote and develop preventive strategies in our environment.