Artificial intelligence model for tumoral clinical decision support systems.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Comparative diagnostic in brain tumor evaluation makes possible to use the available information of a medical center to compare similar cases when a new patient is evaluated. By leveraging Artificial Intelligence models, the proposed system is able of retrieving the most similar cases of brain tumors for a given query. The primary objective is to enhance the diagnostic process by generating more accurate representations of medical images, with a particular focus on patient-specific normal features and pathologies. A key distinction from previous models lies in its ability to produce enriched image descriptors solely from binary information, eliminating the need for costly and difficult to obtain tumor segmentation. METHODS: The proposed model uses Artificial Intelligence to detect patient features to recommend the most similar cases from a database. The system not only suggests similar cases but also balances the representation of healthy and abnormal features in its design. This not only encourages the generalization of its use but also aids clinicians in their decision-making processes. This generalization makes possible for future research in different medical diagnosis areas with almost not any change in the system. RESULTS: We conducted a comparative analysis of our approach in relation to similar studies. The proposed architecture obtains a Dice coefficient of 0.474 in both tumoral and healthy regions of the patients, which outperforms previous literature. Our proposed model excels at extracting and combining anatomical and pathological features from brain Magnetic Resonances (MRs), achieving state-of-the-art results while relying on less expensive label information. This substantially reduces the overall cost of the training process. Our findings highlight the significant potential for improving the efficiency and accuracy of comparative diagnostics and the treatment of tumoral pathologies. CONCLUSIONS: This paper provides substantial grounds for further exploration of the broader applicability and optimization of the proposed architecture to enhance clinical decision-making. The novel approach presented in this work marks a significant advancement in the field of medical diagnosis, particularly in the context of Artificial Intelligence-assisted image retrieval, and promises to reduce costs and improve the quality of patient care using Artificial Intelligence as a support tool instead of a black box system.

Formulative Study and Characterization of Novel Biomaterials Based on Chitosan/Hydrolyzed Collagen Films.

To date, the need for biomaterials capable of improving the treatment of chronic skin wounds remains a clinical challenge. The aim of the present work is to formulate and characterize chitosan (Cs)/hydrolyzed collagen (HC) films as potential biomaterials with improved mechanical and hydration performances compared to single component formulations. Films were made by the solvent casting method, with or without glycerin and/or PEG1500 as plasticizers, resulting in a total of eight formulations. All films were characterized by their physico-chemical characteristics and their mechanical and hydration features. A full factorial design was also used to statistically assess the effect of HC concentration, type and concentration of plasticizers and their possible interactions on mechanical and swelling behaviors. Solid state characterization confirmed the hybrid nature of the films, with suggested electrostatic interactions between Cs and HC. Mechanical and swelling properties, along with the analysis of the experimental design, allowed the identification of formulations containing high HC concentration (2% w/v) and glycerin or glycerin/PEG1500 as more suitable candidates for skin wound treatment. Finally, viability assay of immortalized human keratinocytes (HaCaT) showed no statistical differences in cell survival compared to the complete culture medium, suggesting their potential as a promising tool for biomedical applications.

Effects of layer-by-layer coating on activated carbon electrodes for capacitive deionization.

Recently, the need for obtaining, reusing, or purifying water has become a crucial issue. The capacitive deionization (CDI) method, which is based on the electric double layer (EDL) concept, can be applied to ion adsorption from an aqueous solution. This process is carried out by applying a potential difference to highly porous electrodes while pumping salty solution between them, partially removing the ions present in the solution and keeping them in the surface of the electrodes. The use of coated carbon electrodes with one polyelectrolyte layer, turning them into "soft electrodes" (SEs), has been proved to improve the efficiency of the system with respect to its original configuration. In this work, we investigate the effect on the ion adsorption and the efficiency of the process when implementing the coating technique known as layer-by-layer (LbL) on the electrode. This consists in successively coating the electrode surfaces with polyelectrolyte layers, alternating their charge polarity in each step. We tested the effect of the number of layers deposited, as well as the impact of this technique by using different carbons. We found that the second polyelectrolyte layer adheres more than the first layer, serving as a support or seed when it is not dense and uniformly distributed. In contrast, if the first layer is well adhered, a third layer is needed to observe improvements in adsorption and process efficiency. The adsorption of the polymer layers depends in any instance on the porosity of the carbon.

Corrección del prolapso de cúpula vaginal mediante colpopexia vía abdominal

Introducción: Las disfunciones del suelo pélvico se consideran un problema de salud en el mundo y constituyen una de las indicaciones de operaciones ginecológicas más comunes. Entre sus variantes está el prolapso de la cúpula vaginal. Objetivos: Evaluar los resultados de la corrección del prolapso de cúpula vaginal por la técnica de colpopexia, mediante fijación con tiras aponeuróticas a la pared abdominal anterior. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio observacional, descriptivo. Las variables utilizadas fueron la edad, presencia de comorbilidades, el número de cirugías previas y el grado de satisfacción subjetivo de las pacientes, luego del procedimiento. Resultados: Hubo predominio de edades avanzadas en la muestra estudiada con 89,5 % de pacientes mayores de 55 años. En la mayoría de las pacientes se encontró una o más comorbilidades que favorecieron la presencia de esta afección. Un total de 8 pacientes habían sido sometidas a una cirugía correctora previa para el prolapso (30,7 %). Al mes de la cirugía el 80,7 % tenía una puntuación de 1-3 de la escala de evaluación PGI-I, valor que fue en ascenso y alcanzó el 96,1 % a los 3 meses, el 100 % a los 6 meses y al año. Conclusiones: La corrección del prolapso de la cúpula vaginal, mediante colpopexia por vía abdominal es una alternativa de tratamiento para las pacientes, fundamentalmente jóvenes o que quieren conservar la funcionalidad vaginal y la vida sexual activa.

Introduction: Pelvic floor dysfunctions are considered a health problem in the world, and constitute one of the most common indications for gynecological surgery. Among its variants is the prolapse of the vaginal vault. Objectives: To evaluate the results of the correction of the vaginal vault prolapse by the colpopexy technique by means of fixation with aponeurotic strips to the anterior abdominal wall. Methods: An observational, descriptive, retrospective study was carried out. The variables used were age, presence of comorbidities, the number of previous surgeries and the degree of subjective satisfaction of the patients after the procedure. Results: There was a predominance of advanced ages in the sample studied with 89.5% of patients older than 55 years. In most of the patients, one or more comorbidities were found that favored the presence of this condition. A total of 8 patients had undergone previous corrective surgery for the prolapse (30.7%). One month after surgery, 80.7% had a score of 1-3 on the evaluation, a value that increased and reached 96.1% at 3 months, and 100% at 6 months, and one year. Conclusions: Vaginal vault prolapse correction by mean of abdominal way colpopexy is therapeutic alternative, mainly young, and those who want to preserve vaginal functionality, and active sexual life.

Embedding Biomimetic Magnetic Nanoparticles Coupled with Peptide AS-48 into PLGA to Treat Intracellular Pathogens.

Among the strategies employed to overcome the development of multidrug-resistant bacteria, directed chemotherapy combined with local therapies (e.g., magnetic hyperthermia) has gained great interest. A nano-assembly coupling the antimicrobial peptide AS-48 to biomimetic magnetic nanoparticles (AS-48-BMNPs) was demonstrated to have potent bactericidal effects on both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria when the antimicrobial activity of the peptide was combined with magnetic hyperthermia. Nevertheless, intracellular pathogens remain challenging due to the difficulty of the drug reaching the bacterium. Thus, improving the cellular uptake of the nanocarrier is crucial for the success of the treatment. In the present study, we demonstrate the embedding cellular uptake of the original nano-assembly into THP-1, reducing the toxicity of AS-48 toward healthy THP-1 cells. We optimized the design of PLGA[AS-48-BMNPs] in terms of size, colloidal stability, and hyperthermia activity (either magnetic or photothermal). The stability of the nano-formulation at physiological pH values was evaluated by studying the AS-48 release at this pH value. The influence of pH and hyperthermia on the AS-48 release from the nano-formulation was also studied. These results show a slower AS-48 release from PLGA[AS-48-BMNPs] compared to previous nano-formulations, which could make this new nano-formulation suitable for longer extended treatments of intracellular pathogens. PLGA[AS-48-BMNPs] are internalized in THP-1 cells where AS-48 is liberated slowly, which may be useful to treat diseases and prevent infection caused by intracellular pathogens. The treatment will be more efficient combined with hyperthermia or photothermia.

Combined Magnetic Hyperthermia and Photothermia with Polyelectrolyte/Gold-Coated Magnetic Nanorods.

Magnetite nanorods (MNRs) are synthesized based on the use of hematite nanoparticles of the desired geometry and dimensions as templates. The nanorods are shown to be highly monodisperse, with a 5:1 axial ratio, and with a 275 nm long semiaxis. The MNRs are intended to be employed as magnetic hyperthermia and photothermia agents, and as drug vehicles. To achieve a better control of their photothermia response, the particles are coated with a layer of gold, after applying a branched polyethyleneimine (PEI, 2 kDa molecular weight) shell. Magnetic hyperthermia is performed by application of alternating magnetic fields with frequencies in the range 118-210 kHz and amplitudes up to 22 kA/m. Photothermia is carried out by subjecting the particles to a near-infrared (850 nm) laser, and three monochromatic lasers in the visible spectrum with wavelengths 480 nm, 505 nm, and 638 nm. Best results are obtained with the 505 nm laser, because of the proximity between this wavelength and that of the plasmon resonance. A so-called dual therapy is also tested, and the heating of the samples is found to be faster than with either method separately, so the strengths of the individual fields can be reduced. Due to toxicity concerns with PEI coatings, viability of human hepatoblastoma HepG2 cells was tested after contact with nanorod suspensions up to 500 µg/mL in concentration. It was found that the cell viability was indistinguishable from control systems, so the particles can be considered non-cytotoxic in vitro. Finally, the release of the antitumor drug doxorubicin is investigated for the first time in the presence of the two external fields, and of their combination, with a clear improvement in the rate of drug release in the latter case.

Enhanced Cytotoxic Effect of TAT-PLGA-Embedded DOXO Carried by Biomimetic Magnetic Nanoparticles upon Combination with Magnetic Hyperthermia and Photothermia.

The synergy between directed chemotherapy and thermal therapy (both magnetic hyperthermia and photothermia) mediated by a nanoassembly composed of functionalized biomimetic magnetic nanoparticles (BMNPs) with the chemotherapeutic drug doxorubicin (DOXO) covered by the polymer poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA), decorated with TAT peptide (here referred to as TAT-PLGA(DOXO-BMNPs)) is explored in the present study. The rationale behind this nanoassembly lies in an optimization of the nanoformulation DOXO-BMNPs, already demonstrated to be more efficient against tumor cells, both in vitro and in vivo, than systemic traditional therapies. By embedding DOXO-BMNPs into PLGA, which is further functionalized with the cell-penetrating TAT peptide, the resulting nanoassembly is able to mediate drug transport (using DOXO as a drug model) and behaves as a hyperthermic agent (induced by an alternating magnetic field (AMF) or by laser irradiation with a laser power density of 2 W/cm2). Our results obtained using the HepG2 cell line show that there is a synergy between chemotherapy and thermal therapy that results in a stronger cytotoxic effect when compared to that caused by the soluble DOXO. This is probably due to the enhanced DOXO release occurring upon the application of the thermal therapy, as well as the induced local temperature rise mediated by BMNPs in the nanoassembly following exposition to AMF or to near-infrared (NIR) laser irradiation. These results represent a proof of concept demonstrating that TAT-PLGA(DOXO-BMNPs) can be used to efficiently combine therapies against tumor cells, which is a step forward in the transition from systemic to local treatments.

Corrosion Prediction of Weathered Galvanised Structures Using Machine Learning Techniques.

Galvanised steel atmospheric corrosion is a complex multifactorial phenomenon that globally affects many structures, equipment, and sectors. Moreover, the International Organization of Standardization (ISO) standards require specific pollutant depositions values for any atmosphere classification or corrosion loss prediction result. The aim of this research is to develop predictive models to estimate corrosion loss based on easily worldwide available parameters. Experimental data from internationally validated studies were used for the data mining process, basing their characterisation on seven globally accessible qualitative and quantitative variables. Self-Organising Maps including both supervised and unsupervised layers were used to predict first-year corrosion loss, its corrosivity categories, and an uncertainty range. Additionally, a formula optimised with Newton's method has been proposed for extrapolating these results to long-term results. The predictions obtained were compared with real values using Euclidean distances to know its similarity degree, offering high prediction performance. Specifically, evaluation results showed an average saving of up to 16% in coatings using these predictions. Therefore, using the proposed models reduces the uncertainty of the final structures state by predicting their material loss, avoiding initial over-dimensioning of structures, and meeting the principles of efficiency and sustainability, thus reducing costs.

Poly(ethylene-imine)-Functionalized Magnetite Nanoparticles Derivatized with Folic Acid: Heating and Targeting Properties.

Magnetite nanoparticles (MNPs) coated by branched poly (ethylene-imine) (PEI) were synthesized in a one-pot. Three molecular weights of PEI were tested, namely, 1.8 kDa (sample MNP-1), 10 kDa (sample MNP-2), and 25 kDa (sample MNP-3). The MNP-1 particles were further functionalized with folic acid (FA) (sample MNP-4). The four types of particles were found to behave magnetically as superparamagnetic, with MNP-1 showing the highest magnetization saturation. The particles were evaluated as possible hyperthermia agents by subjecting them to magnetic fields of 12 kA/m strength and frequencies ranging between 115 and 175 kHz. MNP-1 released the maximum heating power, reaching 330 W/g at the highest frequency, in the high side of reported values for spherical MNPs. In vitro cell viability assays of MNP-1 and MNP-4 against three cell lines expressing different levels of FA receptors (FR), namely, HEK (low expression), and HeLa (high expression), and HepG2 (high expression), demonstrated that they are not cytotoxic. When the cells were incubated in the presence of a 175 kHz magnetic field, a significant reduction in cell viability and clone formation was obtained for the high expressing FR cells incubated with MNP-4, suggesting that MNP-4 particles are good candidates for magnetic field hyperthermia and active targeting.

Modulation of the Magnetic Hyperthermia Response Using Different Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticle Morphologies.

The use of magnetic nanoparticles in hyperthermia, that is, heating induced by alternating magnetic fields, is gaining interest as a non-invasive, free of side effects technique that can be considered as a co-adjuvant of other cancer treatments. Having sufficient control on the field characteristics, within admissible limits, the focus is presently on the magnetic material. In the present contribution, no attempt has been made of using other composition than superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPION), or of applying surface functionalization, which opens a wider range of choices. We have used a hydrothermal synthesis route that allows preparing SPION nanoparticles in the 40 nm size range, with spherical, cuboidal or rod-like shapes, by minor changes in the synthesis steps. The three kinds of particles (an attempt to produce star-shaped colloids yielded hematite) were demonstrated to have the magnetite (or maghemite) crystallinity. Magnetization cycles showed virtually no hysteresis and demonstrated the superparamagnetic nature of the particles, cuboidal ones displaying saturation magnetization comparable to bulk magnetite, followed by rods and spheres. The three types were used as hyperthermia agents using magnetic fields of 20 kA/m amplitude and frequency in the range 136-205 kHz. All samples demonstrated to be able to raise the solution temperature from room values to 45 °C in a mere 60 s. Not all of them performed the same way, though. Cuboidal magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) displayed the maximum heating power (SAR or specific absorption rate), ranging in fact among the highest reported with these geometries and raw magnetite composition.

Improving the Cellular Uptake of Biomimetic Magnetic Nanoparticles.

Magnetococcus marinus magnetosome-associated protein MamC, expressed as recombinant, has been proven to mediate the formation of novel biomimetic magnetic nanoparticles (BMNPs) that are successful drug nanocarriers for targeted chemotherapy and hyperthermia agents. These BMNPs present several advantages over inorganic magnetic nanoparticles, such as larger sizes that allow the former to have larger magnetic moment per particle, and an isoelectric point at acidic pH values, which allows both the stable functionalization of BMNPs at physiological pH value and the molecule release at acidic (tumor) environments, simply based on electrostatic interactions. However, difficulties for BMNPs cell internalization still hold back the efficiency of these nanoparticles as drug nanocarriers and hyperthermia agents. In the present study we explore the enhanced BMNPs internalization following upon their encapsulation by poly (lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA), a Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved molecule. Internalization is further optimized by the functionalization of the nanoformulation with the cell-penetrating TAT peptide (TATp). Our results evidence that cells treated with the nanoformulation [TAT-PLGA(BMNPs)] show up to 80% more iron internalized (after 72 h) compared to that of cells treated with BMNPs (40%), without any significant decrease in cell viability. This nanoformulation showing optimal internalization is further characterized. In particular, the present manuscript demonstrates that neither its magnetic properties nor its performance as a hyperthermia agent are significantly altered due to the encapsulation. In vitro experiments demonstrate that, following upon the application of an alternating magnetic field on U87MG cells treated with BMNPs and TAT-PLGA(BMNPs), the cytotoxic effect of BMNPs was not affected by the TAT-PLGA enveloping. Based on that, difficulties shown in previous studies related to poor cell uptake of BMNPs can be overcome by the novel nanoassembly described here.

Synergistic Photothermal-Chemotherapy Based on the Use of Biomimetic Magnetic Nanoparticles.

MamC-mediated biomimetic magnetic nanoparticles (BMNPs) have emerged as one of the most promising nanomaterials due to their magnetic features (superparamagnetic character and large magnetic moment per particle), their novel surface properties determined by MamC, their biocompatibility and their ability as magnetic hyperthermia agents. However, the current clinical application of magnetic hyperthermia is limited due to the fact that, in order to be able to reach an effective temperature at the target site, relatively high nanoparticle concentration, as well as high magnetic field strength and/or AC frequency are needed. In the present study, the potential of BMNPs to increase the temperature upon irradiation of a laser beam in the near infrared, at a wavelength at which tissues become partially transparent, is explored. Moreover, our results also demonstrate the synergy between photothermia and chemotherapy in terms of drug release and cytotoxicity, by using BMNPs functionalized with doxorubicin, and the effectiveness of this combination therapy against tumor cells in in vitro experiments. Therefore, the findings of the present study open the possibility of a novel, alternative approach to fight localized tumors.

Fluid restriction versus volume expansion in children with diarrhea-associated HUS: a retrospective observational study.

BACKGROUND: Fifty percent of patients with typical diarrhea-associated hemolytic uremic syndrome (D+HUS) require kidney replacement therapy (KRT). In these patients, dehydration worsens disease prognosis. We evaluated dialysis requirement, presence of seizures, and mortality rate among patients diagnosed with D+HUS treated with volume expansion (VE) versus fluid restriction (FR). METHODS: Thirty-five patients with D+HUS were enrolled; 16 received VE and 19 were historical patients who received conventional FR. RESULTS: Upon admission or during treatment, neither group presented evidence of fluid overload. The VE group received higher volumes of saline (VE 27 ml/kg [10-30] over a 3-h period vs. FR 0 ml), had higher urine output after 12 h (VE vs. FR: OR 6.2 [1.2-41.6], P = 0.03), and required less dialysis (VE 2 [12.5%, CI 95% 0-29] vs. FR 9 [47.4%, CI 95% 24-70], P = 0.035). The VE group had an absolute risk reduction of 0.34 (CI 95% 0.07-0.63); hence, three patients treated with VE were required to avoid one KRT. VE also corrected initial hyponatremia and maintained serum sodium within normal ranges. No statistical differences were observed regarding number of patients with seizures (P = 0.08) or mortality (P = 1.0). CONCLUSIONS: VE markedly reduces the number of patients requiring KRT and keeps serum sodium within a normal range. We propose to initially hydrate every patient with D+HUS and without signs of fluid overload, with 10 ml/kg/h 0.9% saline solution IV, over a 3-h period. Afterwards, if urine output is ≥ 0.5 ml/kg/h, it is recommended to not dialyze and continue IV hydration schedule with isotonic (D5) saline solution, according to their needs.

Experiencias en el tratamiento del embarazo ectópico del cuerno uterino / Treatment experiences about uterine horn ectopic pregnancy

Introducción: El embarazo intersticial es poco frecuente y su mortalidad es superior a otras localizaciones. Su diagnóstico cada vez más precoz, permite escoger tratamientos menos agresivos. La piedra angular, es la hemostasia. Objetivo: Describir los resultados del tratamiento de pacientes atendidas por embarazo ectópico del cuerno. Método: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo en 18 mujeres con embarazo ectópico intersticial, atendidas en el Hospital Militar Central Dr. Luis Díaz Soto del 2010 al 2019. Fueron tratadas mediante laparotomía y sutura circular del cuerno, con posterior resección cornual y extracción del material ovular. Se estudiaron las variables edad, factores de riesgo, tiempo quirúrgico, sangramiento transoperatorio, evolución (complicaciones, recuperación, fracción beta de la gonadotropina coriónica, controles ecográficos posoperatorios) y estadía hospitalaria. Resultados: El 72 por ciento de las pacientes estuvo entre 20 - 25 años, el 61,1 por ciento tuvo antecedentes de abortos provocados, seguido de enfermedad inflamatoria pélvica en el 44,4 por ciento. La media del tiempo quirúrgico fue de 36 minutos. Ninguna paciente tuvo sangramiento en el sitio de la cirugía. La fracción beta de la gonadotropina coriónica, se negativizó a la cuarta semana y los controles ecográficos posoperatorios de todas las pacientes fueron normales el día 15. En todas las pacientes se utilizó la sutura en jareta. Conclusiones: Los resultados en el tratamiento de las pacientes atendidas por embarazo instersticial, fueron favorables, la reparación de la pared uterina se realizó mediante un procedimiento seguro que mostró la aplicabilidad de la sutura en jareta. Se evitaron las pérdidas sanguíneas y complicaciones como la histerectomía(AU)

Introduction: Interstitial pregnancy is rare and its mortality is higher than in other locations. Its increasingly early diagnosis allows the choice of less aggressive treatments. The cornerstone is hemostasis. Objective: To describe the results of the treatment of patients treated for ectopic horn pregnancy. Method: A descriptive study was carried out in 18 women with interstitial ectopic pregnancy, treated at the Hospital Militar Central Dr. Luis Díaz Soto from 2010 to 2019. They were treated by laparotomy and circular suture of the horn, with subsequent cornual resection and extraction of ovular material. The variables age, risk factors, surgical time, intraoperative bleeding, evolution (complications, recovery, beta fraction of chorionic gonadotropin, postoperative ultrasound controls) and hospital stay were studied. Results: 72 percent of the patients were between 20 - 25 years old, 61.1 percent had a history of induced abortions, followed by pelvic inflammatory disease in 44.4 percent. The mean surgical time was 36 minutes. No patient had bleeding at the surgery site. The beta fraction of chorionic gonadotropin was negative at the fourth week and postoperative ultrasound controls of all patients were normal on day 15. The drawstring suture was used in all patients. Conclusions: The results in the treatment of the patients attended for interstitial pregnancy were favorable, the repair of the uterine wall was carried out by means of a safe procedure that showed the applicability of the drawstring suture. Blood loss and complications such as hysterectomy were avoided(AU))

Caracterización clínico epidemiológica de las gestantes sospechosas y positivas a la COVID-19 / Clinical epidemiological characterization of pregnant women suspected and positive for covid-19

Introducción: El gremio médico se encuentra en función del estudio y tratamiento de la COVID-19, enfermedad producida por un nuevo coronavirus, denominado 2019-nCoV. Las gestantes son un grupo poblacional de alto riesgo para esta entidad. Objetivo: Determinar las diferencias clínico epidemiológicas de las gestantes sospechosas y positivas a la COVID-19. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo, observacional, de corte transversal en 56 pacientes, que fueron agrupadas en sospechosas a la COVID-19 y positivas. Las variables utilizadas fueron edad, comorbilidad asociada, edad gestacional, presencia de síntomas y fuente de infección. La información se obtuvo de las historias clínicas de las gestantes. Resultados: Las pacientes sospechosas, tenían una media de edad de 25 años, 51,0 por ciento cursaba el tercer trimestre del embarazo, el 87,7 por ciento presentaba síntomas al ingreso, el 40,8 por ciento no tenían comorbilidad, y en el 75,5 por ciento no se determinó la fuente de posible contagio. Las pacientes positivas, tuvieron una media de edad de 27 años, 66,6 por ciento estaba en el primer trimestre de la gestación, el 83,3 por ciento asintomáticas y no presentaron comorbilidad. El 50 por ciento fueron contacto de casos positivos. Conclusiones: Existieron diferencias clínicas y epidemiológicas, entre las pacientes sospechosas y positivas a la COVID-19(AU)

Introduction: The medical profession is occupied on the study and treatment of COVID-19, a disease caused by a new coronavirus, called 2019-nCoV. Pregnant women are a high-risk population group for this disease. Objective: To determine the clinical and epidemiological differences of the pregnant women suspect of and positive for COVID-19. Methods: A descriptive, observational, cross-sectional study was carried out in 56 patients, who were grouped as suspect to COVID-19 and positive. The variables used were age, associated comorbidity, gestational age, presence of symptoms and source of infection. The information was obtained from the clinical records of the pregnant women. Results: The suspect patients had a mean age of 25 years, 51.0 percent were in the third trimester of pregnancy, 87.7 percent had symptoms upon admission, 40.8 percent had no comorbidity, and in 75, 5 percent the source of possible contagion was not determined. The positive patients had a mean age of 27 years, 66.6 percent were in the first trimester of pregnancy, 83.3 percent were asymptomatic and did not present comorbidity. 50 percent were contact with positive cases. Conclusions: There were clinical and epidemiological differences between the suspect and positive patients for COVID-19(AU)

Biomimetic Magnetite Nanoparticles as Targeted Drug Nanocarriers and Mediators of Hyperthermia in an Experimental Cancer Model.

Biomimetic magnetic nanoparticles mediated by magnetosome proteins (BMNPs) are potential innovative tools for cancer therapy since, besides being multifunctional platforms, they can be manipulated by an external gradient magnetic field (GMF) and/or an alternating magnetic field (AMF), mediating targeting and hyperthermia, respectively. We evaluated the cytocompatibility/cytotoxicity of BMNPs and Doxorubicin (DOXO)-BMNPs in the presence/absence of GMF in 4T1 and MCF-7 cells as well as their cellular uptake. We analyzed the biocompatibility and in vivo distribution of BMNPs as well as the effect of DOXO-BMNPs in BALB/c mice bearing 4T1 induced mammary carcinomas after applying GMF and AMF. Results: GMF enhanced the cell uptake of both BMNPs and DOXO-BMNPs and the cytotoxicity of DOXO-BMNPs. BMNPs were biocompatible when injected intravenously in BALB/c mice. The application of GMF on 4T1 tumors after each of the repeated (6×) iv administrations of DOXO-BMNPs enhanced tumor growth inhibition when compared to any other treatment, including that with soluble DOXO. Moreover, injection of DOXO-BMNPs in the tumor combined with application of an AMF resulted in a significant tumor weight reduction. These promising results show the suitability of BMNPs as magnetic nanocarriers for local targeted chemotherapy and as local agents for hyperthermia.

Caracterización clínico epidemiológica de las gestantes sospechosas y positivas a la COVID-19 / Clinical epidemiological characterization of pregnant women suspected and positive for covid-19

Introducción: El gremio médico se encuentra en función del estudio y tratamiento de la COVID-19, enfermedad producida por un nuevo coronavirus, denominado 2019-nCoV. Las gestantes son un grupo poblacional de alto riesgo para esta entidad. Objetivo: Determinar las diferencias clínico epidemiológicas de las gestantes sospechosas y positivas a la COVID-19. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo, observacional, de corte transversal en 56 pacientes, que fueron agrupadas en sospechosas de la COVID-19, y pacientes positivas. Las variables utilizadas fueron edad, comorbilidad asociada, edad gestacional, presencia de síntomas y fuente de infección. La información obtenida se recogió de las historias clínicas de las gestantes. Resultados: Las pacientes sospechosas, tenían una media de edad de 25 años, 51,0 por ciento cursaba el tercer trimestre del embarazo, el 87,7 por ciento presentaba síntomas al ingreso, el 40,8 por ciento no tenían comorbilidad, y en el 75,5 por ciento no se determinó la fuente de posible contagio. Las pacientes positivas, tuvieron una media de edad de 27 años, 66,6 por ciento estaba en el primer trimestre de la gestación, el 83,3 por ciento asintomáticas y no presentaron comorbilidad. El 50 por ciento fueron contacto de casos positivos. Conclusiones: Existen diferencias clínicas y epidemiológicas, entre las pacientes sospechosas y positivas a la COVID-19(AU)

Introduction: The medical profession is based on the study and treatment of COVID-19, a disease caused by a new coronavirus, called 2019-nCoV. Pregnant women are a high-risk population group for this entity. Objective: To describe the clinical-epidemiological characteristics of pregnant women suspected and positive for covid-19 admitted to the HMC Dr. "Luis Díaz Soto", in the period from 16 March to 31 May 2020. Material and Methods: A descriptive, observational, cross-sectional study was carried out. The sample was made up of 56 patients. Two study groups were created, the first with patients suspected of the disease, and the second with positive patients. The variables used were age, associated comorbidity, gestational age, presence of symptoms and source of infection. The information obtained was collected from the medical records of pregnant women. Results: Patients suspected had an average age of 25 years, 51.0 percent were in the third trimester of pregnancy, 87.7 percent had symptoms on admission, 40.8 percent had no comorbidity, and 75.5 percent had no source of infection. The positive patients had an average age of 27 years, 66.6 percent were in the first trimester, and 83.3 percent were asymptomatic, and had no comorbidity. 50 percent were positive case contact. Conclusions: There were clinical and epidemiological differences between the patients suspected and positive for COVID-19(AU)

Nanoformulation Design Including MamC-Mediated Biomimetic Nanoparticles Allows the Simultaneous Application of Targeted Drug Delivery and Magnetic Hyperthermia.

The design of novel nanomaterials that can be used as multifunctional platforms allowing the combination of therapies is gaining increased interest. Moreover, if this nanomaterial is intended for a targeted drug delivery, the use of several guidance methods to increase guidance efficiency is also crucial. Magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) allow this combination of therapies and guidance strategies. In fact, MNPs can be used simultaneously as drug nanocarriers and magnetic hyperthermia agents and, moreover, they can be guided toward the target by an external magnetic field and by their functionalization with a specific probe. However, it is difficult to find a system based on MNPs that exhibits optimal conditions as a drug nanocarrier and as a magnetic hyperthermia agent. In this work, a novel nanoformulation is proposed to be used as a multifunctional platform that also allows dual complementary guidance. This nanoformulation is based on mixtures of inorganic magnetic nanoparticles (M) that have been shown to be optimal hyperthermia agents, and biomimetic magnetic nanoparticles (BM), that have been shown to be highly efficient drug nanocarriers. The presence of the magnetosome protein MamC at the surface of BM confers novel surface properties that allow for the efficient and stable functionalization of these nanoparticles without the need of further coating, with the release of the relevant molecule being pH-dependent, improved by magnetic hyperthermia. The BM are functionalized with Doxorubicin (DOXO) as a model drug and with an antibody that allows for dual guidance based on a magnetic field and on an antibody. The present study represents a proof of concept to optimize the nanoformulation composition in order to provide the best performance in terms of the magnetic hyperthermia agent and drug nanocarrier.

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in HepG2 cancer cell line through the application of localized alternating magnetic field.

Recent studies have shown the potential of magnetic hyperthermia in cancer treatments. However, the underlying mechanisms involved have not been yet fully described. In particular, the cell death related to magnetic hyperthermia observed in cultures incubated with low concentration of magnetic nanoparticles and under a low intensity alternating magnetic field, in which a macroscopic temperature rise is not observed, is still not understood. In the present study, we investigate the production of intracellular Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) as a mechanism to induce cell death under these conditions. In this study, the production and influence of ROS on the viability of HepG2 human hepatoma cells (used as a model cell line) are analyzed under the application of variable magnetic fields using hyperthermia agents, such as biomimetic magnetic nanoparticles (BMNPs) mediated by magnetosome MamC protein from Magnetococcus marinus MC-1. The results show that intracellular ROS production increases up to ∼90% following upon the exposure of AMF to HepG2 cells containing BMNPs, which could determine the loss of cell viability (up to ∼40% reduction) without a significant rise in temperature. Such ROS production is linked to mitochondrial dysfunction caused by the application of AMF to cells containing BMNPs.

Hyperthermia-Triggered Doxorubicin Release from Polymer-Coated Magnetic Nanorods.

In this paper, it is proposed that polymer-coated magnetic nanorods (MNRs) can be used with the advantage of a double objective: first, to serve as magnetic hyperthermia agents, and second, to be used as magnetic vehicles for the antitumor drug doxorubicin (DOX). Two different synthetic methodologies (hydrothermal and co-precipitation) were used to obtain MNRs of maghemite and magnetite. They were coated with poly(ethyleneimine) and poly(sodium 4-styrenesulfonate), and loaded with DOX, using the Layer-by-Layer technique. Evidence of the polymer coating and the drug loading was justified by ATR-FTIR and electrophoretic mobility measurements, and the composition of the coated nanorods was obtained by a thermogravimetric analysis. The nanorods were tested as magnetic hyperthermia agents, and it was found that they provided sufficiently large heating rates to be used as adjuvant therapy against solid tumors. DOX loading and release were determined by UV-visible spectroscopy, and it was found that up to 50% of the loaded drug was released in about 5 h, although the rate of release could be regulated by simultaneous application of hyperthermia, which acts as a sort of external release-trigger. Shape control offers another physical property of the particles as candidates to interact with tumor cells, and particles that are not too elongated can easily find their way through the cell membrane.