The potential role of renin angiotensin system in acute leukemia: a narrative review.

Acute leukemias (ALs) are the most common cancers in pediatric population. There are two types of ALs: acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Some studies suggest that the Renin Angiotensin System (RAS) has a role in ALs. RAS signaling modulates, directly and indirectly, cellular activity in different cancers, affecting tumor cells and angiogenesis. Our review aimed to summarize the role of RAS in ALs and to explore future perspectives for the treatment of these hematological malignancies by modulating RAS molecules. The database including Pubmed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and Scielo were searched to find articles about RAS molecules in ALL and in pediatric patients. The search terms were "RAS", "Acute Leukemia", "ALL", "Angiotensin-(1-7)", "Pediatric", "Cancer", "Angiotensin II", "AML". In the bone marrow, RAS has been found to play a key role in blood cell formation, affecting several processes including apoptosis, cell proliferation, mobilization, intracellular signaling, angiogenesis, fibrosis, and inflammation. Local tissue RAS modulates tumor growth and metastasis through autocrine and paracrine actions. RAS mainly acts via two molecules, Angiotensin II (Ang II) and Angiotensin (1-7) [Ang-(1-7)]. While Ang II promotes tumor cell growth and stimulates angiogenesis, Ang-(1-7) inhibits the proliferation of neoplastic cells and the angiogenesis, suggesting a potential therapeutic role of this molecule in ALL. The interaction between ALs and RAS reveals a complex network of molecules that can affect the hematopoiesis and the development of hematological cancers. Understanding these interactions could pave the way for innovative therapeutic approaches targeting RAS components.

Analysis of fetal heart rate fluctuations in women diagnosed with preeclampsia during the latent phase of labor.

Introduction: Fetal heart rate variability (fHRV) is a tool used to investigate the functioning of the fetal autonomic nervous system. Despite the significance of preeclampsia, fHRV during the latent phase of labor has not been extensively studied. This study aimed to evaluate fetal cardiac autonomic activity by using linear and nonlinear indices of fHRV analysis in women diagnosed with preeclampsia without hypertensive treatment during gestation, compared to normotensive women during the latent phase of labor. Methods: A cross-sectional and exploratory study was conducted among pregnant women in the latent phase of labor, forming three study groups: normotensive or control (C, 38.8 ± 1.3 weeks of pregnancy, n = 22), preeclampsia with moderate features (P, 37.6 ± 1.4 weeks of pregnancy n = 10), and preeclampsia with severe features (SP, 36.9 ± 1.2 weeks of pregnancy, n = 12). None of the participants received anti-hypertensive treatment during their pregnancy. Linear and nonlinear features of beat-to-beat fHRV, including temporal, frequency, symbolic dynamics, and entropy measures, were analyzed to compare normotensive and preeclamptic groups. Results: Significantly lower values of multiscale entropy (MSE) and short-term complexity index (Ci) were observed in the preeclamptic groups compared to the C group (p < 0.05). Additionally, higher values of SDNN (standard deviation of R-R intervals) and higher values of low-frequency power (LF) were found in the P group compared to the C group. Conclusion: Our findings indicate that changes in the complexity of fetal heart rate fluctuations may indicate possible disruptions in the autonomic nervous system of fetuses in groups affected by undiagnosed preeclampsia during pregnancy. Reduced complexity and shifts in fetal autonomic cardiac activity could be associated with preeclampsia's pathophysiological mechanisms during the latent phase of labor.

The perception of healthcare professionals, through their own personal experiences, of the use of music therapy in hospitalised children and adolescents.

BACKGROUND: Music therapy is an emerging and useful methodology for improving patient environments within healthcare fields. However, although it has been shown that music therapy interventions with hospitalised children and adolescents have been used for decades with positive effects, there are currently very few studies that specifically describe the perspectives of healthcare professionals regarding the value of music therapy when applied in these patients. OBJECTIVES: To describe the insights of healthcare professionals regarding music therapy, both on a personal level and in terms of its usefulness in the care of hospitalised children and adolescents. DESIGN: This was a qualitative descriptive-exploratory study with focus groups. PARTICIPANTS: Eighteen healthcare professionals. METHODS: In January 2023, two focus groups, containing nine healthcare professionals each, were created to collect data regarding their experiences concerning the effect of music therapy on hospitalised children and adolescents. Before recording their opinions, all these professionals participated in an interactive music therapy session. The thematic analysis in this work was performed using MAXQDA® software. RESULTS: Two main categories emerged: (a) the effects of music therapy on healthcare professionals, and (b) the benefits of music therapy to patients (children and adolescents). CONCLUSIONS: Music therapy was valued positively by healthcare professionals who described the benefits its use has for hospitalised children and adolescents. They also expressed positive viewpoints regarding the use of music therapy to improve their own self-knowledge and self-care. IMPLICATIONS TO PRACTICE: Healthcare professionals may utilise music therapists to improve patient outcomes and reduce the negative effects of hospitalisation.

Prevalence, Risk Factors, and Relationship between Reproductive Performance and the Presence of Antibodies against Coxiellosis in Dairy Farm Milk Tanks in the Northwest of Spain.

Q fever is a zoonotic disease that has been associated with reproductive problems in animals. As there is little epidemiological data regarding the distribution and risk factors of this disorder in cattle, the objective of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of Coxiella burnetii among dairy herds in the northwest of Spain, and to determine the on-farm risk factors associated with the disease and its effects on reproductive performance. Bulk tank milk (BTM) samples were collected from 262 commercial dairy herds from A Coruña, Lugo, and Pontevedra provinces. Data about location, mean age, and herd management features were obtained. A commercial indirect ELISA kit was used to determine the presence of antibodies against C. burnetii in BTM samples. The relationship between seropositivity to C. burnetii and the risk factors was checked using a Pearson's χ2 test and a classification tree analysis. In addition, a one-way ANOVA test and the Mann-Whitney U test were used to check the impact of seropositivity to C. burnetii on reproductive performance. A total of 60.1% of the farms tested positive for coxiellosis, the herd size, the external purchase of livestock, and the geographical area were identified as the main risk factors. Conception rate and first-service conception rate were significantly lower (p < 0.05) in positive farms (37.1 and 32.9%) compared to negative farms (39.8 and 36.1%). Similarly, positive farms had significant higher incidence of endometritis (13.7% vs. 11.2%, p < 0.05). Consequently, a high seropositivity and slightly negative effects of coxiellosis on reproductive performance were observed, which intensifies the need for further research, including the identification an active infection in positive herds and the characterization of the genotype.

Diagnóstico de la evaluación del desempeño profesional pedagógico del tutor de Medicina General Integral

Introducción: La evaluación del desempeño profesional pedagógico del tutor es vital para elevar la calidad del proceso educativo. Objetivo: Diagnosticar el estado actual de la evaluación del desempeño profesional pedagógico del tutor de Medicina General Integral. Materiales y métodos: Se realizó una investigación descriptiva de corte transversal, con enfoque mixto, entre marzo y septiembre de 2022, en la Filial de Ciencias Médicas Dr. Eusebio Hernández Pérez, de Colón, en la provincia de Matanzas. Variable: el desempeño profesional pedagógico del tutor de Medicina General Integral. Unidades de estudio: 78 tutores, 275 residentes y 44 directivos. Dimensiones: cognoscitiva, procedimental y comportamental. Métodos: teóricos: análisis-síntesis e inducción-deducción; empíricos: análisis documental, encuesta, entrevista, observación; estadísticos: medidas de resumen para variables cualitativas y cuantitativas: frecuencias absolutas y relativas. Procedimientos: parametrización, triangulación metodológica. Resultados: Se identificaron problemas según las dimensiones cognoscitiva (poco dominio de las modalidades de educación en el trabajo y en la didáctica en la tutoría; poca preparación en metodología de la investigación y en buscadores de información científica en salud), procedimental (no correspondencia entre actividades presenciales y las de tutoría, poco nivel para planificar, ejecutar y controlar actividades), y comportamental (poca participación en superación relacionada con la tutoría, en eventos y poca producción científica). Las potencialidades se identificaron según las dimensiones procedimental (nivel de integración de conocimientos; promoción de cooperación y trabajo en equipo; relación entre temas de investigación y el banco de problemas del policlínico), y comportamental (nivel en que estimula el reforzamiento de valores y la ética médica; promoción de empatía y comunicación efectiva con el residente). Conclusiones: El diagnóstico permitió identificar problemas y potencialidades del objeto estudiado. Se propone una alternativa propia de las ciencias de la educación médica para resolver el problema científico, que es la elaboración de una metodología.

Introduction: The evaluation of the professional pedagogical performance of the tutor is vital to raise the quality of the educative process. Objective: To diagnose the current status of the professional pedagogical performance of the tutor of Comprehensive General Medicine. Materials and methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional research, with mixed approach, was carried out between March and September 2022, in the Campus of Medical Sciences Dr. Eusebio Hernández Pérez, from Colon, in the province of Matanzas. Variable: professional pedagogical performance of the tutor of Comprehensive General Medicine. Units of study: 78 tutors, 275 residents and 44 members of the management staff. Dimensions: cognitive, procedural, and behavioral. Methods: theoretical methods: analysis-synthesis and induction-deduction; empirical methods: documentary analysis; surveys; interviews; observation. Statistical methods: summary measures for qualitative and quantitative variables; absolute and relative frequencies. Procedures: parameterization, methodological triangulation. Results: Problems were identified according to the cognitive dimensions (little mastery of the modalities of education at work and tutorship didactics; little training in research methodology and in search engines for scientific information in health); procedural dimension: no correspondence between face-to-face and tutoring activities, low level of planning, executing and controlling activities); and behavioral dimension (little participation in upgrading activities related to tutorship, in events, and little scientific production). Potentialities were identified according to procedural dimensions (level of knowledge integration; promotion of cooperation and teamwork promotion; relationship between research topics and policlinic's problem bank), and behavioral (level at which it stimulates the reinforcement values and medical ethics; promotion of empathy and effective communication with the resident). Conclusions: The diagnosis allowed the authors to identify problems and potentialities of the object studied. An alternative specific of the medical education sciences is proposed to solve the scientific problem, which is the elaboration of a methodology.

Construcción y validación de un instrumento para evaluar el desempeño pedagógico del tutor de Medicina General Integral

Introducción: Para evaluar resulta imprescindible la construcción de herramientas en función de establecer resultados medibles. Objetivo: Construir y validar un instrumento para evaluar el desempeño profesional pedagógico del tutor de la especialidad de Medicina General Integral. Materiales y métodos: Enfoque mixto, diseño transversal analítico. Métodos: teóricos: análisis y síntesis, inducción-deducción, enfoque sistémico; empíricos: análisis documental, encuesta a tutores y residentes, observación y criterio de expertos; estadísticos: estadística descriptiva (valores absolutos y porcentuales), coeficiente alfa de Cronbach, coeficiente W de Kendall. Procedimientos: parametrización y triangulación metodológica. Fases: revisión bibliográfica, parametrización, análisis de validez de contenido, confiabilidad y aplicabilidad. Resultados: Se elaboró un instrumento con tres dimensiones (cognoscitiva, procedimental y comportamental) y 19 indicadores. Se seleccionaron 15 expertos. Más del 70 % evaluaron los ítems según los criterios de Moriyama en la categoría Mucho. El cálculo del coeficiente W de Kendall sugirió una alta concordancia entre los jueces. El instrumento final contó con 18 ítems. El coeficiente alfa de Cronbach resultó en 0,83 (alta confiabilidad). Con su aplicación se identificaron siete problemas y seis potencialidades, lo cual demostró su validez en la práctica para el diagnóstico. Conclusiones: El instrumento construido evidenció buenas condiciones de validez teórica y práctica, lo cual permitirá direccionar las acciones de superación para los tutores de la especialidad de Medicina General Integral. También puede complementar la evaluación profesoral, al particularizar en el cumplimiento de las funciones del tutor.

Introduction: To evaluate, the construction of tools able to establish measurable results is essential. Objective: To build and validate an instrument to evaluate the professional pedagogical performance of the tutor of the Comprehensive General Medicine specialist. Materials and methods: Mixed approach, cross-sectional, analytical design. Theoretical methods: analysis and synthesis; induction-deduction; systemic approach. Empirical methods: documentary analysis; survey to tutors and residents; observation, and experts' judgment. Statistical methods: descriptive statistics (absolute and percentage value), Cronbach Alpha coefficient; Kendall's W coefficient. Procedures: parametrization and methodological triangulation. Phases: bibliographic review; parametrization; analysis of content validity; reliability, and applicability. Results: An instrument was developed with three dimensions (cognitive, procedural and behavioral) and 19 indicators. 15 experts were chosen. More than 70% evaluated the items according to Moriyama criteria in the category A lot. The calculation of the Kendall's W coefficient suggested a high concordance between judges. The final instrument had 18 items. Cronbach Alpha coefficient resulted in 0.83 (high reliability). With its application, seven problems and six potentialities were identified, which demonstrated its validity in practice for diagnostic. Conclusions: The built document showed good conditions of theoretical and practical validity, which will allow directing the training actions for the tutors in the specialty of Comprehensive General Medicine. It can also complement the professorial evaluation, by particularizing in the fulfillment of the tutor's functions.

Portal hypertension increases the risk of hepatic decompensation after 90Yttrium radioembolization in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma: a cohort study.

Background: Transarterial radioembolization (TARE) is increasingly used in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This treatment can induce or impair portal hypertension, leading to hepatic decompensation. TARE also promotes changes in liver and spleen volumes that may modify therapeutic decisions and outcomes after therapy. Objectives: We aimed to investigate the impact of TARE on the incidence of decompensation events and its predictive factors. Design: In all, 63 consecutive patients treated with TARE between February 2012 and December 2018 were retrospectively included. Methods: We assessed clinical (including Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer stage, portal hypertension assessment, and liver decompensation), laboratory parameters, and liver and spleen volumes before and 6 and 12 weeks after treatment. A multivariate analysis was performed. Results: In total, 18 out of 63 (28.6%) patients had liver decompensation (ascites, variceal bleeding, jaundice, or encephalopathy) within the first 3 months after therapy, not associated with tumor progression. Clinically significant portal hypertension (CSPH) and bilobar treatment independently predicted the development of liver decompensation after TARE. A significant volume increase in the non-treated hemi-liver was observed only in patients with unilobar treatment (median volume increase of 20.2% in patients with right lobe TARE; p = 0.007), especially in those without CSPH. Spleen volume also increased after TARE (median volume increase of 16.1%; p = 0.0001) and was associated with worsening liver function scores and decreased platelet count. Conclusion: Bilobar TARE and CSPH may be associated with an increased risk of liver decompensation in patients with intermediate or advanced HCC. A careful assessment considering these variables before therapy may optimize candidate selection and improve treatment planning.

[Indicadores de salud perinatal en una región española entre los años 2015 y 2020.] / Perinatal health indicators in a region of Spain corresponding to the period 2015 to 2020.

OBJECTIVE: The availability in the literature of data related to perinatal variables in the Spanish population is very scarce. The aim of this study was to know the evolution of perinatal health indicators according to the risk groups of prematurity and birth weight, the proportion of multiple births, caesarean section and stillbirths. METHODS: We conducted a population-based cross-sectional study of births in eleven hospitals in Castilla y León (January 2015 to June 2020). There were 70,024 newborns from 68,769 deliveries. Jointpoint regression analysis was used to identify changes in trend over the years, and binomial logistic regression was used to adjust for the potential interaction of hospital type, sex, type of delivery and multiple births on the frequencies of prematurity and death. RESULTS: There was a 19.9% decrease in deliveries and a 42% decrease in multiple births, with no change in preterm (7.7%) and stillbirths (0.44%). The percentage of caesarean sections was 21.5% with a slight downward trend over time. Death (stillbirth) was associated with preterm multiple birth; especially with the male-male combination (p<0.05). Late preterm and early term newborns showed higher risk of death compared to term newborns: OR 7.7 (95%CI 5.6-10.7) and 2.4 (95%CI 1.6-3.6), respectively; as well as the low birth weight group (OR 17.6; 95%CI 13.9-22.2) and small for gestational age (OR 3.4; 95%CI 1.9-5.8), compared to those of adequate weight. CONCLUSIONS: Prior to the development of the COVID-19 pandemic there is a decline in births, including multiple births, with no change in stillbirths or prematurity. Late preterm and early term newborns are at increased risk of intrauterine death.

OBJETIVO: La disponibilidad en la literatura de datos relacionados con variables perinatales en la población española son muy escasos. El objetivo de este estudio fue conocer la evolución de los indicadores de salud perinatal atendiendo a los grupos de riesgo de prematuridad y de peso al nacimiento, la proporción de parto múltiple, de cesárea y de mortinatos. METODOS: Se realizó un estudio transversal poblacional de los partos en once hospitales de Castilla y León (enero de 2015 a junio de 2020). Hubo 70.024 recién nacidos (RN) procedentes de 68.769 partos. Se utilizó el análisis de regresión Jointpoint para identificar cambios en la tendencia a lo largo de los años, y la regresión logística binomial para ajustar la potencial interacción del tipo de hospital, el sexo, el tipo de parto y el parto múltiple en las frecuencias de prematuridad y de fallecimiento. RESULTADOS: Hubo un descenso de partos del 19,9% y de los múltiples del 42%, sin cambios en los RN prematuros (7,7%) ni en los mortinatos (0,44%). El porcentaje de cesáreas fue del 21,5% con una ligera tendencia temporal descendente. El fallecimiento (mortinato) se asoció al parto múltiple pretérmino; especialmente a la combinación varón-varón (p<0,05). Los RN pretérminos tardíos y términos precoces mostraron mayor riesgo de fallecer frente a los RN a término: OR 7,7 (IC95% 5,6-10,7) y 2,4 (IC95% 1,6-3,6), respectivamente; así como el grupo de bajo peso (OR 17,6; IC95% 13,9-22,2) y el pequeño para la edad gestacional (OR 3,4; IC95% 1,9-5,8), frente a los de peso adecuado. CONCLUSIONES: Previo al desarrollo de la pandemia por COVID-19 existe un descenso de la natalidad, incluidos los partos múltiples, sin cambios en los mortinatos ni en la prematuridad. Los RN pretérminos tardío y términos precoces tienen mayor riesgo de fallecer intraútero.

Modulation of vagal activity may help reduce neurodevelopmental damage in the offspring of mothers with pre-eclampsia.

Maternal Immune Activation (MIA) has been linked to the pathogenesis of pre-eclampsia and adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes in the offspring, such as cognitive deficits, behavioral abnormalities, and mental disorders. Pre-eclampsia is associated with an activation of the immune system characterized by persistently elevated levels of proinflammatory cytokines, as well as a decrease in immunoregulatory factors. The Cholinergic Anti-inflammatory Pathway (CAP) may play a relevant role in regulating the maternal inflammatory response during pre-eclampsia and protecting the developing fetus from inflammation-induced damage. Dysregulation in the CAP has been associated with the clinical evolution of pre-eclampsia. Some studies suggest that therapeutic stimulation of this pathway may improve maternal and fetal outcomes in preclinical models of pre-eclampsia. Modulation of vagal activity influences the CAP, improving maternal hemodynamics, limiting the inflammatory response, and promoting the growth of new neurons, which enhances synaptic plasticity and improves fetal neurodevelopment. Therefore, we postulate that modulation of vagal activity may improve maternal and fetal outcomes in pre-eclampsia by targeting underlying immune dysregulation and promoting better fetal neurodevelopment. In this perspective, we explore the clinical and experimental evidence of electrical, pharmacological, physical, and biological stimulation mechanisms capable of inducing therapeutical CAP, which may be applied in pre-eclampsia to improve the mother's and offspring's quality of life.

Examining the Use of Autonomous Systems for Home Health Support Using a Smart Mirror.

The home is becoming a key location for healthcare delivery, including the use of technology driven by autonomous systems (AS) to monitor and support healthcare plans. Using the example of a smart mirror, this paper describes the outcomes of focus groups with people with multiple sclerosis (MS; n = 6) and people who have had a stroke (n = 15) to understand their attitudes towards the use of AS for healthcare in the home. Qualitative data were analysed using a thematic analysis. The results indicate that the use of such technology depends on the level of adaptability and responsiveness to users' specific circumstances, including their relationships with the healthcare system. A smart mirror would need to support manual entry, responsive goal setting, the effective aggregation of data sources and integration with other technology, have a range of input methods, be supportive rather than prescriptive in messaging, and give the user full control of their data. The barriers to its adoption include a perceived lack of portability and practicality, a lack of accessibility and inclusivity, a sense of redundancy, feeling overwhelmed by multiple technological devices, and a lack of trust in data sharing. These results inform the development and deployment of future health technologies based on the lived experiences of people with health conditions who require ongoing care.

Assessment of Luteal Function Using Rectal Palpation, B-Mode Ultrasonography, and Progesterone Determination to Improve Recipient Selection in Embryo Transfer Programs.

Proper selection of recipients determines the success of embryo transfer (ET) programs. Therefore, the objectives of this study were to assess the accuracy of rectal palpation (RP) in selecting recipients according to the size and firmness of their corpus luteum (CL) compared to ultrasonography (US) and progesterone determination (P4); to check if US or P4 provide additional information to RP with regard to selecting animals with higher odds of maintaining the pregnancy; and to verify the reliability of the presence of a cavity and the volume of the CL within the ovary (%CLOV) as predictors of the ET outcome. In Experiment 1, measurements for the largest and minor diameter (LADCL and MIDCL), CL area, and P4 at ET day were collected, as well as the RP score, in 94 heifers. In Experiment 2, measurements for the LADCL, MIDCL, CL volume, %CLOV, and presence of a cavity were collected, as well as data about the procedure and metabolic markers, in 108 heifers. No differences were found in Experiment 1, whereas in Experiment 2, just a tendency was observed for the variable of veterinarian. Consequently, these results suggest that RP and US are useful methods to select recipients with, that US and P4 do not offer additional data to use to select animals with higher odds of maintaining pregnancy, and that neither %CLOV nor cavitary CL were good indicators for pregnancy rates.

The Impact of Donor Risk Index, Recipients' and Operative Characteristics on Post Liver Transplant One-Year Graft Failure: A Cohort Analysis.

Background and Aims: The donor risk index (DRI) quantifies donor-related characteristics potentially associated with increased risk of early graft failure. We aimed to assess the impact of the DRI, recipient and perioperative factors on post liver transplant (LT) outcomes. Methods: This was a single-center retrospective cohort study including all adult (≥18 years) patients who underwent LT from 01/2019 to 12/2019 at Curry Cabral Hospital, Lisbon, Portugal. Primary endpoint was 1-year graft failure post LT. Associations were studied with logistic regression. Results: A total of 131 cadaveric donor LT procedures were performed in 116 recipients. Recipients' median (IQR) age was 57 (47-64) years and 101/131 (77.1%) were males. Cirrhosis was the underlying etiology in 95/131 (81.2%) transplants. Based on 8 predefined donors' characteristics, median (IQR) DRI was 1.96 (1.67-2.16). Following adjustment for MELDNa score pre LT and SOFA score (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.91 [0.56-1.47]) or lactate (aOR [95% CI] = 2.76 [0.71-10.7]) upon intensive care unit (ICU) admission post LT, DRI was not associated with 1-year graft failure. However, higher SOFA score (aOR [95% CI] = 1.20 [1.05-1.37]) or lactate (aOR [95% CI] = 1.27 [1.10-1.46]) upon ICU admission post LT were independently associated with higher odds of 1-year graft failure. Conclusions: In a recent cohort of patients who underwent LT, DRI, despite being high, was not associated with 1-year graft failure, but SOFA score or lactate upon ICU admission post LT were.

Introdução: O índice de risco do dador (DRI) quantifica as características relacionadas com o dador potencialmente associadas com risco acrescido de falência precoce do enxerto. Procurou-se avaliar o impacto do DRI e factores relacionados com os receptores e cirurgia nos resultados clínicos após transplante hepático (LT). Materiais e Métodos: Estudo coorte retrospectivo de centro único incluindo todos os doentes adultos (≥18 anos) que receberam LT entre 01/2019 e 12/2019 no Hospital Curry Cabral, Lisboa, Portugal. O endpoint primário foi a falência do enxerto após um ano do LT. As associações foram estudadas com regressão logística. Resultados: Um total de 131 transplantes de dadores cadavéricos foram realizados em 116 receptores. A idade mediana (IQR) destes foi 57 (47­64) anos e 101/131 (77.1%) eram homens. A cirrose foi a etiologia subjacente em 95/131 (81.2%) transplantes. Com base nas 8 características dos dadores predefinidas, o DRI mediano (IQR) foi 1.96 (1.67­2.16). Após ajuste para o score MELDNa pre LT e o score SOFA (odds ratio ajustado [aOR], intervalo de confiança 95% [CI] = 0.91 [0.56­1.47]) ou o lactato (aOR [95% CI] = 2.76 [0.71­10.7]) após admissão na unidade de cuidados intensivos (ICU) pós LT, o DRI não se associou com a falência do enxerto um ano depois do LT. Contudo, um maior score SOFA (aOR [95% CI] = 1.20 [1.05­1.37]) ou lactato (aOR [95% CI] = 1.27 [1.10­1.46]) após admissão na ICU depois do LT associaram-se independentemente com a falência do enxerto um ano depois do LT. Conclusões: Num coorte recente de doentes submetidos a LT, o DRI, apesar de alto, não se associou com a falência precoce do enxerto precoce. Contudo, o score SOFA ou lactato após admissão na ICU depois do LT associaram-se com a falência precoce do enxerto.

Pancreas Rejection in the Artificial Intelligence Era: New Tool for Signal Patients at Risk.

INTRODUCTION: Pancreas transplantation is currently the only treatment that can re-establish normal endocrine pancreatic function. Despite all efforts, pancreas allograft survival and rejection remain major clinical problems. The purpose of this study was to identify features that could signal patients at risk of pancreas allograft rejection. METHODS: We collected 74 features from 79 patients who underwent simultaneous pancreas-kidney transplantation (SPK) and used two widely-applicable classification methods, the Naive Bayesian Classifier and Support Vector Machine, to build predictive models. We used the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve and classification accuracy to evaluate the predictive performance via leave-one-out cross-validation. RESULTS: Rejection events were identified in 13 SPK patients (17.8%). In feature selection approach, it was possible to identify 10 features, namely: previous treatment for diabetes mellitus with long-term Insulin (U/I/day), type of dialysis (peritoneal dialysis, hemodialysis, or pre-emptive), de novo DSA, vPRA_Pre-Transplant (%), donor blood glucose, pancreas donor risk index (pDRI), recipient height, dialysis time (days), warm ischemia (minutes), recipient of intensive care (days). The results showed that the Naive Bayes and Support Vector Machine classifiers prediction performed very well, with an AUROC and classification accuracy of 0.97 and 0.87, respectively, in the first model and 0.96 and 0.94 in the second model. CONCLUSION: Our results indicated that it is feasible to develop successful classifiers for the prediction of graft rejection. The Naive Bayesian generated nomogram can be used for rejection probability prediction, thus supporting clinical decision making.

Importancia social de la preparación pedagógica del tutor en la formación del médico general integral

Introducción: la figura del tutor es de vital importancia en la formación del especialista en medicina general integral. Objetivo: fundamentar la importancia del desempeño profesional pedagógico del tutor en la formación del especialista en medicina general integral en la sociedad cubana. Materiales y métodos: se realizó un análisis documental a partir de una búsqueda sobre el tema, de enero de 2020 a agosto de 2022, en las bases de datos PubMed y SciELO, y en el motor de búsqueda Google Académico. Se evaluaron artículos de revisión, de investigación y páginas web -en español, portugués e inglés- que hicieran referencia al tema a través del título. Fueron excluidos los artículos que no cumplieron con estas condiciones. Conclusiones: la medicina familiar es eminentemente social, por su objeto y misión en la comunidad, de ahí que garantizar la formación de profesionales integrales que involucren en su desarrollo los contenidos y habilidades de la especialidad, junto a valores y formas de actuación acorde con los principios de la sociedad socialista, supondrá una mayor resolutividad de los problemas de salud de la población y, por ende, una mayor calidad de vida.

Introduction: the figure of the tutor is of vital importance in the training of the specialist in comprehensive general medicine. Objective: to base the importance of the professional pedagogical performance in the training of the specialist in comprehensive general medicine in Cuban society. Materials and methods: a documental analysis was carried out froma search on the subject, from January 2020 to August in PubMed and SciELO databases and in the Google Scholar search engine. Review and research articles and web pages-in Spanish, Portuguese and English-that referred to the subject in the title were evaluated. Articles that did not meet this condition were excluded. Conclusions: family medicine is eminently social, due to its objective and mission in the community, hence guaranteeing the training of comprehensive professionals who involve the contents and skills of the specialty in their development, along with values and forms of action in accordance with the principles of the socialist society, will suppose a better resolution of the health problems of the population, and therefore, a better quality of life.

Comparison between transrectal palpation, B-mode and Doppler ultrasonography to assess luteal function in Holstein cattle.

Introduction: Over the years, the most common methods for monitoring reproductive health in cattle have varied from transrectal palpation to B-mode ultrasonography. Nowadays, some portable ultrasound equipment includes the Doppler mode. Therefore, the aim of this study was to compare the accuracy of the different methods to assess corpus luteum (CL) functionality. Methods: In Experiment 1, 53 Holstein lactating cows undergoing a synchronization protocol were examined via transrectal palpation and B-mode scanning. Measurements for the largest diameter (LAD) and subjective size of CL (SCLS) were collected. Data were analyzed using correlation analysis and ROC Curves. In Experiment 2, 30 Holstein non-lactating cows with a CL were administered PGF2α and examined several times after injection, first in B-mode and then with Power Doppler. Measurements for LAD, CL area (CLA) and subjective and objective CL blood flow were collected. Blood samples were taken in both experiments to determine P4 concentration. Data were analyzed using correlation analysis and the GLM repeated measures test. Results: Results for Experiment 1 showed that LAD was more accurate than SCLS. In Experiment 2, CLA was the best measurement to assess CL function, although both subjective and objective CL blood flow offer accurate information 24 h after PGF2α administration. Discussion: Consequently, ultrasonography provides more accurate information about CL function than transrectal palpation. Although CLA seems to be an earlier indicator of luteal function than blood flow, 24 h after the onset of luteolysis, both parameters are valid.

Molecular Diagnosis of Leishmaniasis in Spain: Development and Validation of Ready-To-Use Gel-Form Nested and Real-Time PCRs To Detect Leishmania spp.

Leishmaniasis is an endemic parasitic disease in at least 98 countries. In Spain, it is considered a zoonosis caused by Leishmania infantum, with an annual incidence of 0.62 cases/100,000 inhabitants. The predominant clinical manifestations are the cutaneous (CL) and visceral forms (VL), and the diagnosis is performed by parasitological, serological, and molecular tests. At the WHO Collaborating Center for Leishmaniasis (WHOCCLeish), routine diagnostic tests are based on a nested PCR (Ln-PCR), culture, and serological tests. To simplify our PCR protocol, we aimed to develop and validate a ready-to-use nested gel-form PCR (LeishGelPCR) and a duplex real-time PCR (qPCR) that allowed simultaneous detection of Leishmania and mammalian DNA as an internal control (Leish-qPCR). Clinical validation was performed in 200 samples from the WHOCCLeish collection; 92 and 85 out of 94 and 87 samples were positive by LeishGelPCR and Leish-qPCR, respectively, showing a sensitivity of 98% in both approaches. The specificity was 100% for LeishGelPCR and 98% for Leish-qPCR. The limits of detection of both protocols were similar (0.5 and 0.2 parasites/reaction). Parasite loads in VL and CL forms were similar, although high loads were observed when invasive samples were tested. In conclusion, LeishGelPCR and Leish-qPCR showed excellent performance in the diagnosis of leishmaniasis. These new forms of 18S rRNA gene PCR are equivalent to Ln-PCR and can be introduced in the algorithm for CL and VL diagnosis. IMPORTANCE Although the gold standard for diagnosis of leishmaniasis is the microscopic observation of amastigotes, molecular techniques are becoming a cost-efficient alternative. Currently, PCR is a routine resource that is used in many reference microbiology laboratories. In this article, we have described two ways to improve the reproducibility and usability of the molecular detection of Leishmania spp. These new approaches could be introduced even in middle- and low-resource laboratories; one is a ready-to-use gel-form system of a nested PCR and the other is a real-time PCR. We show why molecular diagnosis is the best methodology to confirm a clinical suspicion of leishmaniasis with higher sensitivity than traditional methods, thus facilitating early diagnosis and timely treatment of human leishmaniasis.

Multiphoton FLIM Analyses of Native and UVA-Modified Synthetic Melanins.

To better understand the impact of solar light exposure on human skin, the chemical characterization of native melanins and their structural photo-modifications is of central interest. As the methods used today are invasive, we investigated the possibility of using multiphoton fluorescence lifetime (FLIM) imaging, along with phasor and bi-exponential fitting analyses, as a non-invasive alternative method for the chemical analysis of native and UVA-exposed melanins. We demonstrated that multiphoton FLIM allows the discrimination between native DHI, DHICA, Dopa eumelanins, pheomelanin, and mixed eu-/pheo-melanin polymers. We exposed melanin samples to high UVA doses to maximize their structural modifications. The UVA-induced oxidative, photo-degradation, and crosslinking changes were evidenced via an increase in fluorescence lifetimes along with a decrease in their relative contributions. Moreover, we introduced a new phasor parameter of a relative fraction of a UVA-modified species and provided evidence for its sensitivity in assessing the UVA effects. Globally, the fluorescence lifetime properties were modulated in a melanin-dependent and UVA dose-dependent manner, with the strongest modifications being observed for DHICA eumelanin and the weakest for pheomelanin. Multiphoton FLIM phasor and bi-exponential analyses hold promising perspectives for in vivo human skin mixed melanins characterization under UVA or other sunlight exposure conditions.

Maximum tumor-absorbed dose measured by voxel-based multicompartmental dosimetry as a response predictor in yttrium-90 radiation segmentectomy for hepatocellular carcinoma.

OBJECTIVE: Advances in hepatic radioembolization are based on a selective approach with radical intent and the use of multicompartment dosimetric analysis. The objective of this study is to assess the utility of voxel-based dosimetry in the quantification of actual absorbed doses in radiation segmentectomy procedures and to establish cutoff values predictive of response. METHODS: Ambispective study in hepatocarcinoma patients treated with radiation segmentectomy. Calculated dosimetric parameters were mean tumor-absorbed dose, maximum tumor AD, minimal tumor AD in 30, 50, and 70% of tumor volume and mean AD in non-tumor liver. The actual absorbed dose (aAD) was calculated on the Y-90-PET/CT image using 3D voxel-based dosimetry software. To assess radiological response, localized mRECIST criteria were used. The objective response rate (ORR) was defined as CR or PR. RESULTS: Twenty-four HCC patients, BCLC 0 (5), A (17) and B (2) were included. The mean yttrium-90 administered activity was 1.38 GBq in a mean angiosome volume of 206.9 cc and tumor volume 56.01 cc. The mean theoretical AD was 306.3 Gy and aAD 352 Gy. A very low concordance was observed between both parameters (rho_c 0.027). ORR at 3 and 6 m was 84.21% and 92.31%, respectively. Statistically significant relationship was observed between the maximum tumor-absorbed dose and complete radiological response at 3 m (p 0.022). CONCLUSION: A segmental approach with radical intention leads to response rates greater than 90%, being the tumor maximum absorbed dose the dosimetric parameter that best predicts radiological response in voxel-based dosimetry.

A Multifaceted Campaign to Combat COVID-19 Misinformation in the Hispanic Community.

At the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Public Good Projects, Hispanic Communications Network and World Voices Media joined forces to launch a nationwide, multifaceted campaign which aimed to increase vaccine confidence and decrease misinformation on social media within Hispanic communities. We created a Spanish vaccine misinformation tracking system to detect and assess misinformation circulating in online Spanish conversations. We used our media monitoring findings to work with Hispanic social media (SM) influencers, volunteers, and celebrities to spread pro-vaccine messaging online. We created misinformation-responsive SM assets, newsletters, talking points and trainings for Hispanic-serving community-based organizations (CBOs) to help them respond to misinformation and increase vaccine uptake. We used our misinformation findings to inform the creation of mass media communications such as radio PSAs and op-eds. In Year 1, our new Spanish monitoring system captured and organized 35 M Spanish and 212.7 M English posts about COVID-19 misinformation. We recruited 496 paid influencers, 2 Hispanic celebrities and 1,034 digital volunteers. We sent 70 newsletters to an average of 1539 CBO subscribers, containing 206 talking points and 344 resources (SM assets, toolkits, videos) in English and Spanish to support their outreach. Our radio PSAs reached 26.9 M people and the op-eds reached 2.9 M people. This project shows the proliferation of misinformation circulating in online Spanish conversations. It also shows we were effective at reaching our target audience with fact-based COVID-19 misinformation prebunk and debunk messaging.

Efectividad del ejercicio más suplementación con vitamina D3 sobre la masa y fuerza muscular de pacientes con artritis reumatoidea / Effectiveness of exercise and vitamin D3 on muscle mass and strength in rheumatoid arthritis

Introducción. La artritis reumatoidea es una enfermedad autoinmune con un proceso inflamatorio crónico de las articulaciones y con una respuesta catabólica incrementada que predispone a una elevada pérdida de la masa muscular. Objetivo. Evaluar la efectividad de un programa de ejercicios de resistencia más suplementación con vitamina D3 en la movilidad, la masa y la fuerza muscular de pacientes con artritis reumatoidea que acuden a la consulta de medicina física y rehabilitación. Métodos. Ensayo clínico controlado y aleatorizado realizado en 30 pacientes distribuidos equitativamente en tres grupos: grupo control, grupo con ejercicios durante 10 semanas y un grupo con ejercicios durante 10 semanas más suplementación con 2.000 UI de vitamina D3. Las variables fueron evaluadas al inicio del estudio y a las 10 semanas de iniciada la intervención. Resultados. La edad media de los participantes fue 57,73 años y la gran mayoría (93.3%) eran mujeres. En el primer ítem de la evaluación de la escala SPPB (test de equilibrio) se observó un promedio inicial de 3,5 y final de 3,7, en el segundo ítem (test de velocidad de marcha) el promedio inicial fue de 2,8 y el final, de 3,3, y en el tercer ítem (test de levantarse de la silla) el promedio inicial fue de 1,1 y el final, de 1,6, con un resultado significativo final entre ellos (p<0,001). La medición de la masa mediante ultrasonido evidenció un valor significativo en el grupo de ejercicios más suplementación con vitamina D3. Conclusión. La intervención durante 10 semanas de ejercicios de fuerza más suplementación con vitamina D3 (2.000 UI) produce una mejoría sobre los ítems de la escala SPPB y sobre la masa muscular de los músculos bíceps braquial y recto anterior femoral, lo cual podría incidir sobre la disminución del riesgo de caídas en pacientes con artritis reumatoidea.

Introduction. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease with a chronic inflammatory process of the joints and an increased catabolic response that predisposes to a high loss of muscle mass. Objective. To evaluate the effectiveness of a resistance exercise program plus supplementation with vitamin D3 on the mobility, and the muscle mass and strength of patients with rheumatoid arthritis who attend the consultation of physical medicine and rehabilitation. Methods. Randomized controlled clinical trial conducted in 30 patients equitably distributed into three groups: control group, group with exercises for 10 weeks and a group with exercises for 10 weeks plus supplementation with 2,000 IU of vitamin D3. The variables were evaluated at the beginning of the study and 10 weeks after the start of the intervention. Results. The mean age of the participants was 57.73 years and the vast majority of them (93.3%) were women. In the first item of the evaluation in the SPPB scale (balance test) an initial average of 3.5 and a final average of 3.7 was observed, in the second item (gait speed test) the initial average was 2.8 and the second was 3.3, and in the third item (standing up from a chair) the initial average was 1.1, and the final was 1.6, with a significant final result between them (p<0.001). The measurement of the mass using ultrasound evidenced a significant value in the group of exercises plus supplementation with vitamin D3. Conclusion. The intervention during 10 weeks of strength exercises plus supplementation with vitamin D3 (2,000 IU) produces an improvement in the items of the SPPB scale and in the muscle mass of the biceps brachii and rectus femoris, which might have an impact on the reduction of the risk of falls in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.