Sepsis 3-hour bundle compliance and prognosis in emergency department patients aged 65 years or older. / Cumplimiento del paquete de medidas en las primeras tres horas en urgencias y su relación con el pronóstico de los pacientes mayores de 65 años con sepsis.

OBJECTIVES: To analyze 3-hour bundle compliance in for patients aged 65 years or older with sepsis treated in our emergency department (ED) and to explore the association between compliance and mortality. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Retrospective observational study in patients aged 65 years or older treated in our ED between January 1, 2020 and December 31, 2022. Factors associated with mortality at the end of the episode were also analyzed. RESULTS: Data for 190 patients were analyzed; 98 (51%) were men. Eighty-five (45%) were aged between 65 and 79 years, and 105 (55%) were aged 80 years or older. Mortality was higher in the patients over 80 years of age (62%) vs 33% of the patients under 80 years of age (P = .001). Overall mean survival time was 38 days (95% CI, 28-48 days). Cox regression analysis showed that 3-hour bundle compliance was associated with longer survival (HR, 0.56; 95% CI, 0.34-0.95; P = .03). Mean survival in patients older than 80 years was 21 days (95% CI, 13-30 days), and 3-hour bundle compliance was associated with longer survival (hazard ratio, 0.51; 95% CI, 0.3-0.9; P = .02). CONCLUSION: Three-hour sepsis bundle compliance in the ED was associated with longer survival in patients aged 65 years or older.

OBJETIVO: Analizar el cumplimiento del paquete de medidas de tratamiento de la sepsis en las primeras 3 horas de asistencia en urgencias y su relación con la mortalidad en una cohorte de pacientes $ 65 años. METODO: Estudio observacional retrospectivo. Se seleccionaron los pacientes con una edad $ 65 años visitados en urgencias del 1 de enero de 2020 al 31 de diciembre de 2022 diagnosticados de sepsis o shock séptico. Se determinaron los factores asociados a mortalidad al final del episodio. RESULTADOS: Se incluyeron 190 pacientes, 98 (51%) varones y 85 (45%) tenían una edad 65­79 años (añosos) y 105 (55%) $ 80 años (muy añosos). La mortalidad al final del episodio fue mayor en el grupo de pacientes muy añosos (62% vs 33%, p = 0,001). La media de supervivencia fue de 38 días (IC 95%: 28-48). Mediante regresión de Cox se determinó que el cumplimiento del paquete de medidas en las primeras tres horas se asoció a mayor supervivencia (HR: 0,56, IC 95%: 0,34-0,95 p = 0,03). En el grupo de pacientes muy añosos, la media de supervivencia fue de 21 días (IC 95%: 1-30); el cumplimiento de las medidas dentro de las primeras 3 horas se asoció a mayor supervivencia (HR: 0,51, IC 95%: 0,3-0,9 p = 0,02). CONCLUSIONES: El cumplimiento del paquete de medidas en las primeras 3 horas se asoció con una mayor supervivencia en los pacientes mayores de 65 años con sepsis en urgencias.

Assessment of postoperative morbidity in Spanish hospitals: Results from a national survey.

BACKGROUND: The methodology used for recording, evaluating and reporting postoperative complications (PC) is unknown. The aim of the present study was to determine how PC are recorded, evaluated, and reported in General and Digestive Surgery Services (GDSS) in Spain, and to assess their stance on morbidity audits. METHODS: Using a cross-sectional study design, an anonymous survey of 50 questions was sent to all the heads of GDSS at hospitals in Spain. RESULTS: The survey was answered by 67 out of 222 services (30.2%). These services have a reference population (RP) of 15 715 174 inhabitants, representing 33% of the Spanish population. Only 15 services reported being requested to supply data on morbidity by their hospital administrators. Eighteen GDSS, with a RP of 3 241 000 (20.6%) did not record PC. Among these, 7 were accredited for some area of training. Thirty-six GDSS (RP 8 753 174 (55.7%) did not provide details on all PC in patients' discharge reports. Twenty-four (37%) of the 65 GDSS that had started using a new surgical procedure/technique had not recorded PC in any way. Sixty-five GDSS were not concerned by the prospect of their results being audited, and 65 thought that a more comprehensive knowledge of PC would help them improve their results. Out of the 37 GDSS that reported publishing their results, 27 had consulted only one source of information: medical progress records in 11 cases, and discharge reports in 9. CONCLUSIONS: This study reflects serious deficiencies in the recording, evaluation and reporting of PC by GDSS in Spain.

Adapted Original Music as an Environmental Enrichment in an Intensive Pig Production System Reduced Aggression in Weaned Pigs during Regrouping.

In intensive swine production systems,, the practice of regrouping unfamiliar pigs is common, often leading to aggressive behavior. Although the effect of different musical genres composed for humans has been evaluated in pigs to mitigate aggression, there have been few attempts to create music specifically for pigs. Here, we assess whether sensory stimulation through music, created by adapting the acoustic parameters in the sound mix, induces changes in the aggressive behaviors of pigs during regrouping. Six litters of 10-week-old piglets were randomly selected and assigned to different treatments. The control group (Group A) received no intervention, while Group B was exposed to music for two continuous hours in the morning and afternoon from the time of regrouping. Group C received musical stimulation for one continuous hour in the morning following regrouping. A significant reduction in the frequency and duration of aggressive behaviors was observed in the groups that received musical stimulation during regrouping. Additionally, social, and individual play behaviors showed a decrease in the musical stimulation groups. These findings provide evidence for the effectiveness of created music as a strategy in reducing aggressive behavior during pig regrouping, which can enhance the welfare of pigs and offer a practical solution for pig producers to minimize aggression and its associated negative impacts.

Red Fluorescent Protein Variant with a Dual-Peak Emission of Fluorescence.

The marine environment is a rich reservoir of diverse biological entities, many of which possess unique properties that are of immense value to biotechnological applications. One such example is the red fluorescent protein derived from the coral Discosoma sp. This protein, encoded by the DsRed gene, has been the subject of extensive research due to its potential applications in various fields. In the study, a variant of the red fluorescent protein was generated through random mutagenesis using the DsRed2 gene as a template. The process employed error-prone PCR (epPCR) to introduce random mutations, leading to the isolation of twelve gene variants. Among these, one variant stood out due to its unique spectral properties, exhibiting dual fluorescence emission at both 480 nm (green) and 550 nm (red). This novel variant was expressed in both Escherichia coli and zebrafish (Danio rerio) muscle, confirming the dual fluorescence emission in both model systems. One of the immediate applications of this novel protein variant is in ornamental aquaculture. The dual fluorescence can serve as a unique marker or trait, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of aquatic species in ornamental settings.

TMEM106B is a receptor mediating ACE2-independent SARS-CoV-2 cell entry.

SARS-CoV-2 is associated with broad tissue tropism, a characteristic often determined by the availability of entry receptors on host cells. Here, we show that TMEM106B, a lysosomal transmembrane protein, can serve as an alternative receptor for SARS-CoV-2 entry into angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2)-negative cells. Spike substitution E484D increased TMEM106B binding, thereby enhancing TMEM106B-mediated entry. TMEM106B-specific monoclonal antibodies blocked SARS-CoV-2 infection, demonstrating a role of TMEM106B in viral entry. Using X-ray crystallography, cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM), and hydrogen-deuterium exchange mass spectrometry (HDX-MS), we show that the luminal domain (LD) of TMEM106B engages the receptor-binding motif of SARS-CoV-2 spike. Finally, we show that TMEM106B promotes spike-mediated syncytium formation, suggesting a role of TMEM106B in viral fusion. Together, our findings identify an ACE2-independent SARS-CoV-2 infection mechanism that involves cooperative interactions with the receptors heparan sulfate and TMEM106B.

A new automatic method for tracking rats in the Morris water maze.

Morris water maze (MWM) test is widely used to evaluate the learning and memory deficits in rodents. Image processing and pattern recognition can be used to analyse videos and recognize automatically the tracking in MWM. There are several commercial and free access software that allows analyzing the behavioral tasks although they also have limitations such as automation, cost, user intervention among other things. The aim of this paper was to develop a new image processing technique to automatically analyse the track of the rat in the MWM, which we called RatsTrack. The MWM test was performed with an animal model for Alzheimer, and the videos were recorded to measure the distance, time, and speed. The segmentation method based on the projection of the video frames was made for pool identification, eliminating the rat, while conserving the shape of the pool. Then, the Hough transformation was used to recognize the position and radius of the pool. Finally, the frame in which the rat is released into the pool was established automatically using mathematical morphology techniques and added as a plugin on free access ImageJ software. The new image processing technique, RatsTrack, successfully detected and located the pool and rat without user intervention, significantly decreasing operational time and providing results for distance, time, speed, and acceleration parameters of the MWM test. Alzheimer's rats compared with the control group presented significant data measured with the RatsTrack. RatsTrack is a plugin of ImageJ software and will be made freely available for public use.

Role of Bladder Functional Testing Prior to Surgeries for Benign Prostatic Obstruction.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: There is no consensus on preoperative functional testing prior to surgeries for benign prostatic obstruction causing lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). RECENT FINDINGS: Surgical management offers definite benefits, but the results are not always satisfactory. The urodynamic study (UDS) is the gold standard for assessing bladder outlet obstruction (BOO) which is the best predictor of surgical success. Yet, it is not recommended by our urologic societies as standard testing prior to surgery. In this narrative review of the literature, we report recent findings and controversies regarding the benefits and downside of UDS, and the use of other less-invasive approaches to achieve this goal. The lack of strong evidence for or against performing UDS was surprising. Prospective UDS data may not predict surgical outcomes if there is no consensus on criteria that directs surgical intervention. However, confirming the presence of BOO and characterizing the bladder function to identify detrusor over- and underactivity may help counselling and setting patient's post-operative expectations. Urocuff, a non-invasive testing offers promising results to address this problem with a less-invasive assessment of BOO. We emphasize better pre-operative characterization of patients to confirm BOO and better define subgroups to improve surgical decision-making.

Correlation Between Hemoglobin Glycation Index Measured by Continuous Glucose Monitoring With Complications in Type 1 Diabetes.

OBJECTIVE: HbA1C is the "gold standard" parameter to evaluate glycemic control in diabetes; however, its correlation with mean glucose is not always perfect. The objective of this study was to correlate continuous glucose monitoring (CGM)-derived hemoglobin glycation index (HGI) with microvascular complications. METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional study including permanent users of CGM with type 1 diabetes mellitus or latent autoimmune diabetes of the adult. HGI was estimated, and presence of microvascular complications was compared in subgroups with high or low HGI. A logistic regression analysis to assess the contribution of high HGI to chronic kidney disease (CKD) was performed. RESULTS: In total, 52 participants who were aged 39.7 ± 14.7 years, with 73.1% women and 15.5 years (IQR, 7.5-29 years) since diagnosis, were included; 32.7% recorded diabetic retinopathy, 25% CKD, and 19.2% neuropathy. The median HbA1C was 7.6% (60 mmol/mol) and glucose management indicator (GMI) 7.0% (53 mmol/mol). The average HGI was 0.55% ± 0.66%. The measured HbA1C was higher in the group with high HGI (8.1% [65 mmol/mol] vs 6.9% [52 mmol/mol]; P < .001), whereas GMI (7.0% [53 mmol/mol] vs 7.0% [53 mmol/mol]; P = .495) and mean glucose were similar in both groups (153 mg/dL vs 153 mg/dL; P = .564). In the high HGI group, higher occurrence of CKD (P = .016) and neuropathy were observed (P = .025). High HGI was associated with increased risk of CKD (odds ratio [OR]: 5.05; 95% CI: 1.02-24.8; P = .04) after adjusting for time since diagnosis (OR: 1.09; 95% CI: 1.02-1.16; P = .008). CONCLUSION: High HGI measured by CGM may be a useful marker for increased risk of microvascular diabetic complications.

Alopecia Areata in Latin America: Where are We and Where are We Going?

Alopecia areata (AA) represents an underrecognized burden in Latin America (LA), severely impacting quality of life (QoL). This impact is exacerbated by limited access to specialized dermatologic care and therapies for AA within and among nations. Many of the unmet needs for AA globally also exist in LA. The region has geographic, ethnic, cultural, and economic conditions. With new AA medicines targeting immunologic pathways on the horizon, LA must prepare regarding regulatory issues, reimbursement, awareness, and education to give adequate and timely treatment for patients with AA. To address these issues, the Americas Health Foundation convened a panel of six dermatologists from Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, and Mexico who are experts in AA and its comorbidities for a 3-day virtual meeting to discuss AA diagnosis and treatment in LA and create a manuscript offering recommendations to address discussed barriers. This publication examines unmet AA needs in LA, treatment, and innovative therapies and recommends improving AA care. Access constraints to conventional and novel medicines hinder appropriate treatments for patients. Therapy initiation delays can affect QoL, mental health, and disease progression. People with AA face stigmas, discrimination, and misconceptions owing to a lack of disease awareness. With promising new treatments for AA on the horizon, all stakeholders must coordinate efforts to enhance LA's AA management landscape and improve patient outcomes.

Role of the arts in the life and mental health of young people that participate in artistic organizations in Colombia: a qualitative study.

BACKGROUND: Adolescents and young adults are vulnerable to developing mental distress. However, evidence suggests that more than half of the young people with symptoms of depression and anxiety overcome their distress within a year. However, there is little research on the exact resources that young people use and help them to recover. The aim of this study was to explore how arts activities can support the recovery of young people engaged with arts organizations in Bogota. METHODS: We recruited 38 participants from two arts organizations in Bogotá and conducted six focus groups embedded within artistic workshops. The type of activities in the workshops varied reflecting the different teaching methods of the two organizations. The focus group discussions were recorded and analyzed using thematic analysis. RESULTS: Five themes explained how arts activities can help young people participating in artistic organizations to overcome mental distress: i) allowing the expression of emotions; ii) helping to manage and transform emotions; iii) distracting from problems; iv) facilitating social support and relationships; and v) contributing to the identity of young people. CONCLUSIONS: For young people who participate in artistic organizations, the arts are a resource for overcoming negative emotions such as anxiety, depression, and sadness. The beneficial role of arts activities includes different process of managing, expressing, and distracting from distress, and it differs depending on whether arts are perceived as a professional vocation or a hobby.

COVID-19 Pandemic Response Preparedness and Risk Perceptions Among Peruvian Veterinarians and Animal Care Workers.

Peruvian veterinarians and animal care workers (VACW) are primary responders in the event of disasters or emergencies, yet they face unique concerns that could impede or block their essential functions in public health preparedness in comparison with VACWs in other countries. In this study, we used the Ready, Willing, and Able model via electronic survey to evaluate the perception of risks and barriers that Peruvian VACWs faced when deciding whether to continue working during the COVID-19 pandemic between July and December 2020. We used logistic regression models to evaluate associations between demographic characteristics, perceived role, and contact scores with 8 outcomes: knowledge of COVID-19; confidence in safety protocols; perceived threat; perceived job efficacy; perceived barriers; and readiness, willingness, and ability to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. Less than 50% of respondents reported barriers to report to work during the pandemic. Respondents who reported higher contact with coworkers had an increased confidence in safety protocols (OR 5.16; 95% CI, 1.36 to 19.61) and willingness (OR 3.76; 95% CI, 1.14 to 12.47) to respond to the pandemic. Close contacts with essential workers and higher economic income were associated with higher reported knowledge of COVID-19. Respondents with higher perceived job efficacy had higher odds of reporting being ready, willing, and able to respond to COVID-19, while those who identified more barriers to report to work had lower odds of being ready, willing, and able to respond. The findings from this study, which showed differences from VACWs in the United States, can be used by individuals designing programs to improve pandemic and disaster preparedness in this essential, yet understudied and vulnerable, workforce.

Trombosis venosa abdominal en una población adulta seguida en una clínica de anticoagulación / Abdominal venous thrombosis in an adult population followed in an anticoagulation clinic

Resumen Introducción: La trombosis venosa abdominal es inusual y es una de las formas menos estudiada de la enfermedad tromboembólica venosa. Objetivo: Describir las características epidemiológicas, los factores de riesgo, las complicaciones y el manejo anticoagulante en pacientes con diagnóstico de trombosis venosa abdominal, atendidos en una clínica de anticoagulación en Cali, Colombia. Materiales y método: Estudio descriptivo en el que se identificaron 83 pacientes con diagnóstico de trombosis venosa abdominal, manejados en la clínica de anticoagulación de la Fundación Valle del Lili, entre los años 2011 y 2019. La edad promedio fue de 53.3 ± 17.4 años y el 59% eran de sexo femenino. Fue más frecuente en las venas mesentéricas (19%), seguidas de la vena porta (18%). Los antecedentes incluyen cáncer, hipertensión arterial y estado hipercoagulable/trombofilia. Conclusiones: La trombosis venosa abdominal es una patología poco frecuente. El principal compromiso se presenta en la vena mesentérica. La enoxaparina es el manejo más frecuente. Los pacientes requieren en su mayoría anticoagulación extendida.

Abstract Introduction: Abdominal venous thrombosis is rare condition and is one of the least studied forms of venous thromboembolic disease. Objective: To describe the epidemiological characteristics, risk factors, complications and anticoagulant management in patients with a diagnosis of abdominal venous thrombosis, treated at an anticoagulation clinic in Cali, Colombia. Materials and method: Descriptive study, 83 patients with diagnosis of abdominal venous thrombosis were identified, managed in the anticoagulation clinic of Fundación Valle del Lili, between the years 2011 and 2019. The average age was 53.3 ± 17.4, and 59% female. More frequent in mesenteric veins (19%), followed by portal vein (18%). Personal antecedent includes cancer, high blood pressure, and hypercoagulable/thrombophilia status. Conclusions: Abdominal vein thrombosis is a rare disease. The main compromise occurs at the level of the mesenteric vein. Enoxaparin is the most common management. Most patients require extended anticoagulation.

Estudio médico-forense de la muerte bajo custodia durante el terrorismo de Estado en Uruguay / Medical-forensic study of deaths in police custody during the period of State terrorism in Uruguay / Estudo médico-forense de morte sob custódia durante o terrorismo de Estado no Uruguai

Resumen: Toda muerte bajo custodia es potencialmente ilícita por acción u omisión del Estado. Se presenta el reporte sistematizado desde la perspectiva forense de la muerte bajo custodia en la prisión política en Uruguay durante el terrorismo de Estado. Objetivos: a) conocer la magnitud del fenómeno; b) caracterizar a las víctimas; c) determinar causas, maneras y circunstancias de las muertes en los casos que aún no habían sido estudiados; d) sistematizar las causas, maneras y circunstancias de muerte en toda la población estudiada. Material y métodos: se empleó la nómina oficial de víctimas del período de terrorismo de Estado y se estudió la información pública y/o accesible para investigaciones académicas. Las muertes no estudiadas previamente fueron analizadas por una Junta Médica que dictaminó en base a la metodología de la autopsia histórica. Resultados: entre 27/06/1973 y 28/02/1985 murieron bajo custodia en Uruguay por motivos políticos 108 personas; 36 (33%) en un centro de detención clandestino o irregular, 34 (31%) en un establecimiento de detención regular, 19 (18%) continúan como detenidos desaparecidos y 19 (18%) murieron durante operativos de detención o represión. El 81% fueron hombres y la edad media fue 37 años. El 67% eran obreros o empleados y el 23% estudiantes. El 69% fueron muertes violentas y la tortura fue la causa principal de muerte. En nueve de las 32 muertes naturales se demostraron negligencias o fallas asistenciales con ostensible incidencia en el resultado letal. Conclusiones: los resultados obtenidos confirman plenamente el principio general de que se trata de muertes potencialmente ilícitas y la consecuente necesidad de una investigación exhaustiva.

Summary: All deaths in police custody are potentially illicit on account of the government's acts of commission or acts of omission. The study presents a systematized report from the forensic perspective, of deaths in police custody of political prisoners in Uruguay during the period of state terrorism. Objectives: a) to learn about the scale of the phenomenon; b) to characterize victims; c) to determine the causes, ways and circumstances of deaths in the cases that had not been studied yet; d) to systematize the causes, modes and circumstances of death in all the studied population. Method: the study used the official list of victims for the period of State terrorism and analyzed both public information and information that was available for academic research. The deaths that had not been previously studied were reviewed by a Medical Board that rendered a decision through a historic autopsy. Results: in Uruguay, 108 people died for political reasons in police custody from June 27, 1973 to February 28, 1985; 36 (33%) victims died in a clandestine or irregular detention center, 34 (31%) in a regular prison; 19 (18%) are still missing and 19 (18%) died during detention or repression operations. 81% of victims were male and average age was 37 years old. 67% were workers or employees and 23% were students. 69% accounted for violent deaths and torture was the main cause. Negligence and failures in care were seen in 9 out of the 32 natural deaths, what evidently impacts the lethal outcome. Conclusions: the results obtained fully confirm the general principle that these are potentially illicit.

Resumo: Toda morte sob custódia é potencialmente ilegal por ação ou omissão do Estado. O relatório sistematizado é apresentado desde a perspectiva forense da morte sob custódia na prisão política no Uruguai durante o terrorismo de Estado. Objetivos: a) Conhecer a magnitude do fenômeno; b) Caracterizar as vítimas; c) Determinar as causas, formas e circunstâncias dos óbitos em casos ainda não estudados. d) Sistematizar as causas, formas e circunstâncias de morte em toda a população estudada. Material e métodos: foi utilizada a lista oficial de vítimas do período do terrorismo de Estado e foram estudadas as informações públicas e/ou acessíveis para pesquisas acadêmicas. Os óbitos não estudados anteriormente foram analisados por uma Junta Médica que decidiu de acordo com a metodologia da autópsia histórica. Resultados: entre 27/06/1973 e 28/02/1985, 108 pessoas morreram sob custódia no Uruguai por motivos políticos; 36 (33%) em centro de detenção clandestino ou irregular, 34 (31%) em centro de detenção regular, 19 (18%) continuam como detentos desaparecidos e 19 (18%) morreram durante operações de detenção ou repressão. 81% eram homens e a média de idade foi de 37 anos. 67% eram trabalhadores ou empregados e 23% estudantes. 69% foram mortes violentas e a tortura foi a principal causa. Em 9 dos 32 óbitos naturais, foram demonstradas negligências ou falhas assistenciais, com incidência ostensiva no resultado letal. Conclusões: os resultados obtidos confirmam plenamente o princípio geral de que se trata de mortes potencialmente ilícitas e a consequente necessidade de uma investigação exaustiva.

Recomendaciones de la Asociación Colombiana de Neurología para el uso de anticuerpos monoclonales antiCGRP en la profilaxis de migraña / Recommendations on the use of the antiCGRP monoclonal antibodies for migraine prophylaxis on behalf of the Colombian Association of Neurology

RESUMEN INTRODUCCIÓN: El desarrollo de anticuerpos monoclonales (mAbs) contra el péptido relacionado con el gen de la calcitonina (CGRP) ha determinado una nueva era terapéutica en la profilaxis de migraña, demostrando su efectividad en pacientes con migraña episódica (ME) y migraña crónica (MC), con respuesta desde pacientes naïve hasta refractarios a múltiples medicamentos. La disminución del 50% de los ataques de migraña al mes (DMM) durante los primeros 3 meses de uso es el desenlace aproximado en el 50% de los pacientes que reciben esta terapia. OBJETIVO: Este consenso de la Asociación Colombiana de Neurología (ACN) tiene el objetivo de guiar la selección y uso racional de los mAbs antiCGRP en pacientes con ME y MC. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: El comité de cefalea de la ACN mediante la aplicación de la metodología Delphi y discusiones en reuniones posteriores desarrolló un documento en formato de consenso soportado en literatura y recomendaciones de expertos. RESULTADOS: Se obtuvieron respuestas de 14 expertos en cefalea sobre moléculas utilizadas en profilaxis de migraña, analizando su aplicabilidad en situaciones clínicas frecuentes. DISCUSIÓN: Los mAbs antiCGRP han demostrado efectividad con adecuado soporte fisiopatológico, considerando que son moléculas de alto precio en una enfermedad de alta prevalencia, existe la necesidad de guíar la selección del paciente que mejor puede beneficiarse de su administración CONCLUSIONES: Los mAbs antiCGRP están recomendados en pacientes con ME y MC que presentan falla terapéutica a otras moléculas profilácticas.

ABSTRACT INTRODUCTION: The development of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) against Calcitonin Gene Related Peptide (CGRP) has determined a new therapeutic era in migraine prophylaxis, demonstrating its effectiveness in patients with episodic migraine (EM) and chronic migraine (CM), obtaining a response in naive patients and in those who are refractory to multiple medications. A 50% decrease in migraine attacks per month during the first 3 months of use is the approximate outcome in 50% of patients receiving this therapy. OBJECTIVE: This consensus from the Colombian Association of Neurology (ACN) has the objective of serving as a guide for the rational use of antiCGRP mAbs in patients with EM and CM. METHODS AND MATERIALS: The headache committee through the application of the Delphi methodology and discussions in subsequent meetings, develops this consensus, supported in the published literature and expert recommendations. RESULTS: Fourteen answers from headache experts were received regarding the use of drugs for migraine prophylaxis, analyzing their applicability in frequent clinical situations. DISCUSSION: AntiCGRP mAbs have proved their effectiveness with adequate pathophysiological support, but with a high price in a highly prevalent disease, there is then a need to select the patient who best benefits from this therapy. CONCLUSIONS: AntiCGRP mAbs are recommended in patients with EM and CM that have previously failed to other prophylactic drugs.

Epidemiologic features and burden of atopic dermatitis in adolescent and adult patients: A cross-sectional multicenter study.

BACKGROUND: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is considered as one of the most frequent chronic skin conditions. Previous AD epidemiologic studies have been mainly retrospective and/or have been performed through surveys instead of in-person visits. Epidemiological studies concerning AD in Latin American countries are scarce. OBJECTIVE: To describe sociodemographic and clinical features and the economic burden of AD on children and adult patients in Colombia through in-person visits. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study of 212 patients that included sociodemographic and clinimetric data. The diagnostic criteria of Hanifin and Rajka was used and data relating to disease distribution, disease severity (through the BSA: Body surface area; EASI: Eczema Area and Severity Index; SCORAD: Scoring Atopic Dermatitis), Fitzpatrick's skin phototypes, personal and familiar history of allergic diseases, previous treatments, and personal history of comorbidities, was collected. RESULTS: Patient age range was 12-76, and 52.8% were female. Disease distribution was mainly flexural (19.6%). Early age start, Denni-Morgan fold, and infections tendency were more frequent in adolescents compared to adults. Mean age of diagnosis was 12 years old, AD diagnosis was made mostly by a dermatologist, 48.1% (102 patients) reported alcohol consumption, and 59% of consumers were heavy drinkers. Comorbidities found were: chronic rhinitis (68.9%) food allergy (32.5%), allergic conjunctivitis (29.7%), and asthma (28.8%). Around 81% earned less than $896 US dollars and 59% invested 6-30% of their monthly budget yearly, and 40% had work or school absenteeism. Mean scores of BSA, EASI, and SCORAD involvement were 32.6, 13.7, and 42.4, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: This study adds well-supported data through an in-depth clinical and economical characterization of Colombian adolescents and adult patients with atopic dermatitis and shows its high impact and burden on patients and their families. It also contributes to understand the burden of AD in Latin America.

The genomic basis of army ant chemosensory adaptations.

The evolution of mass raiding has allowed army ants to become dominant arthropod predators in the tropics. Although a century of research has led to many discoveries about behavioural, morphological and physiological adaptations in army ants, almost nothing is known about the molecular basis of army ant biology. Here we report the genome of the iconic New World army ant Eciton burchellii, and show that it is unusually compact, with a reduced gene complement relative to other ants. In contrast to this overall reduction, a particular gene subfamily (9-exon ORs) expressed predominantly in female antennae is expanded. This subfamily has previously been linked to the recognition of hydrocarbons, key olfactory cues used in insect communication and prey discrimination. Confocal microscopy of the brain showed a corresponding expansion in a putative hydrocarbon response centre within the antennal lobe, while scanning electron microscopy of the antenna revealed a particularly high density of hydrocarbon-sensitive sensory hairs. E. burchellii shares these features with its predatory and more cryptic relative, the clonal raider ant. By integrating genomic, transcriptomic and anatomical analyses in a comparative context, our work thus provides evidence that army ants and their relatives possess a suite of modifications in the chemosensory system that may be involved in behavioural coordination and prey selection during social predation. It also lays the groundwork for future studies of army ant biology at the molecular level.

Glycemic control, treatment and complications in patients with type 1 diabetes amongst healthcare settings in Mexico.

AIMS: Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is a growing chronic disease. Evidence of whether the healthcare setting affects management and glycemic control is scarce. We evaluate outcomes in patients with T1D in private and public healthcare settings in Mexico, registered in the National T1D Registry in Mexico (RENACED-DT1). METHODS: Biochemical parameters, diabetes education, and treatment were analyzed considering the data registered in the last visit. Development of chronic complications was determined during follow-up. RESULTS: We included 1,603 patients; 71.5% (n = 1,146) registered in the public system, and 28.5% (n = 457) in a private institution. Patients in the public setting had higher HbA1c (8.6%, IQR: 7.3%-10.5% vs 7.7%, IQR: 7.0%-8.8%; p < 0.001). Indicators of diabetes education, glucose monitoring, and use of insulin-pumps were lower in the public setting. Patients in the public setting were at higher risk of diabetic chronic kidney disease, retinopathy, and neuropathy. Diabetes knowledge was a mediator between type of healthcare setting and the likelihood of achieving glycemic control. CONCLUSIONS: Patients registered in public healthcare settings have an adverse metabolic profile and higher risk of complications. Social factors need to be addressed in order to implement multidisciplinary measures focused on diabetes education for patients with T1D in Mexico.

[Double catheter J: ultrasound guided placement, experience initial.] / Catéter doble J: colocación guiada por ultrasonido, experiencia inicial.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES:  The ureteral catheter is used to provide adequate drainage of the upper urinary tract. They have been used to prevent or relieve ureteral obstruction due to multiple causes. The literature mentions the standard placement of double J catheter guided by fluoroscopy, reporting the use of ultrasound exclusively in cases of pregnant patients in order to avoid ionizing radiation. Based on the aforementioned, the primary objective was to evaluate the placement of double J catheter guided by ultrasound, as an alter native technique to the use of the fluoroscope in ureteral obstructions, as secondary objectives the intensity of the pain and the complications of the procedure. MATERIALS AND METHODS: An observational, descriptive and prospective study was carried out with 41patients who attended the lithiasis consultation. RESULTS: A total of 41 patients who under went double J catheter guided by ultrasound were evaluated, achieving it successfully in 35 of the cases, resulting in bad position in 2 patients and being impossible to insert it in 4. Averageage was 41 years, size of the lithium 10.41mm. The complications presented were 17% with the use of the scale of Clavien modified these complications were represented as follows: 4.9% grade I back pain, 7.2% grade II lower urinary tract symptoms, lower tract infections, and 4.9% grade IIIa malposition. CONCLUSIONS: The placement of ureteral catheters guided by ultrasound, represent a useful tool, safe, with manageable complications, taking place in times adjusted to the procedure.

INTRODUCCIÓN Y OBJETIVOS: El catéter ureteral es utilizado para proporcionar un drenaje adecuado del tracto urinario superior. Se han usado para prevenir o aliviar la obstrucción ureteral por múltiples causas. La literatura menciona la colocación estándar de catéter doble J guiado por fluoroscopia, reportándose el uso de ultrasonido exclusivamente en casos de pacientes embarazadas con el fin de evitarlas radiaciones ionizantes. Sobre la base de los antes expuesto, se consideró como objetivo primario evaluar la colocación de catéter doble J guiado por ultrasonido, como técnica alternativa al uso del fluoroscopio en obstrucciones ureterales, como objetivos secundarios se evaluaron, el tiempo de colocación del catéter, la intensidad del dolor y las complicaciones del procedimiento. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: Se realizó un estudio observacional, descriptivo y prospectivo, con 41 pacientes que acudieron a la consulta de litiasis.RESULTADOS: Se evaluaron en total 41 pacientes a quienes se les colocó catéter doble J guiado por ultrasonido, lográndose la misma de forma exitosa en 35 de los casos, resultando en mal posición en 2 pacientes y siendo imposible la inserción del mismo en 4. La edad promedio fue 41 años, tamaño del lito 10,41mm. Las complicaciones presentadas fueron del 17% con el uso de la escala de Clavien modificado, dichas complicaciones fueron representadas de la siguiente manera: 4,9% grado I dolor lumbar, 7,2% grado II síntomas del tracto urinario bajo e infecciones del tracto inferior, y 4,9% grado IIIa mal posición.CONCLUSIONES: La colocación de catéteres ureteralesguiados por ultrasonido, representan una herramientaútil, segura, con complicaciones manejables, efectuándoseen tiempos ajustados al procedimiento.

Atopic dermatitis in the COVID-19 era: Results from a web-based survey.

Given that the COVID-19 era has changed the behavior of all individuals, and since previous reports about its possible impact on atopic dermatitis (AD) patients remained speculative, in this survey we aimed to explore the real impact of COVID-19 among AD patients. All participants provided verbal consent prior to completing the survey. A 37-question web-based survey with no personal identifiers was sent to 212 previously identified AD patients. Itching, sleep disturbances, SARS-CoV-2, illness cost, economic dependence, monthly income, and monthly investment in AD before and during the pandemic, were all included in the analysis. A response rate of 73.1% was obtained. The mean age of participants was 30 years-old, and 57% were women. Around 75% reported AD worsening, and 59.4% of the patients reported sleep problems. Uncertainty, anxiety, and pessimism were frequent during the pandemic. Only 1.3% tested positive for SARS-CoV-2, and it was only significantly associated with comorbidities (p=0.03; Chi2 Test). A significant difference was found in economic dependence and monthly income when compared between before and during the pandemic. This study provides probably the best possible assessment of the clinical, social, and economic effects of the pandemic on patients with an already proven diagnosis of AD.

Occurrence and Accumulation of Human Enteric Viruses and Phages in Process Water from the Fresh Produce Industry.

The virological quality of process water (PW) used by the produce industry has received limited attention. As a first step to overcoming technical limitations in monitoring viruses in PW, the analytical performance of ultrafiltration was assessed to concentrate viral particles from 20 L of spiked PW. The selected method used for sample concentration of PW was carefully validated, thus enabling the accurate quantification and estimation of viral titers of human enteric viruses and phages. PW from the produce industry was collected periodically from the washing tanks of commercial facilities. The analysis of coliphages was performed by plaque assay, while the occurrence of enteric viruses and crAssphage was determined by molecular techniques. Significant differences in the physicochemical composition of PW, mostly due to the different nature of fresh produce types and differences in the sanitizer used in commercial operation, were observed. Accumulation of crAssphage and coliphages was observed in PW, but correlation with human enteric viruses was not possible due to the low prevalence of these pathogens in the PW analyzed. The obtained results showed that depending on the type of product washed, the product/water ratio and the residual concentrations of the sanitizers, the prevalence and concentration of bacteriophages changed significantly.