[Translated article] Therapeutic management, adherence, and clinical outcomes of heart failure in Andalucía. ANDALIC Protocol.

Heart failure is a prevalent syndrome with high mortality rates, representing a significant economic burden in terms of healthcare. The lack of systematic information about the treatment and adherence of patients with heart failure limits the understanding of these aspects and potentially the improvement of clinical outcomes. OBJECTIVE: To describe the clinical characteristics, therapeutic management, adherence, persistence, and clinical results, as well as the association between these variables, in a cohort of patients with heart failure in Andalusia. DESIGN: This study will be an observational, population-based, retrospective cohort study. Data of patients discharged from an Andalusian hospital with a diagnosis of heart failure between 2014 and 2023 will be extracted from the Andalusian population health database. ANALYSIS: The statistical analysis will incorporate the following strategies: (1) Descriptive analysis of the characteristics of the population cohort, adherence measures, and clinical outcomes. (2) Bivariate analyses to study the association of covariates with adherence, persistence, and clinical results. (3) Multivariate logistic regression and Cox regression analysis including relevant covariates. (4) To evaluate changes over time, multivariate Poisson regression models will be used. By conducting this comprehensive study, we aim to gain valuable insights into the clinical characteristics, treatment management, and adherence of heart failure patients in Andalusia, as well as to identify factors that may influence clinical outcomes. These findings could be critical both for the development of optimised strategies that improve medical care and quality of life of patients and for mitigating the health burden of HF in the region.

Persistence of peasant life in a riverside community of Las Mojarras (Chocó, Colombia): analysis from a social wellbeing approach / Persistencia de la vida campesina en una comunidad ribereña de las mojarras (chocó, colombia): análisis desde un enfoque de bienestar social

Resumen La presente investigación indaga por la persistencia de la vida campesina en Los Chenchos, una comunidad ribereña del Pacífico colombiano de 50 habitantes. A partir de un enfoque de bienestar social se examinan dimensiones materiales, relacionales y subjetivas que han permitido a esta comunidad mantener sus medios de vida en un entorno cambiante. Para esto se siguió una metodología mixta basada en observación participante, entrevistas etnográficas y una evaluación cuantitativa-descriptiva de las tres dimensiones del bienestar social en cada uno de los 18 hogares de la comunidad. Se encontró que las decisiones de las personas están motivadas por ciertas preferencias adaptativas, tales como conseguir la estabilidad productiva del hogar, asumir una forma de vida valorada y preservar una red de relaciones familiares, las cuales soportan y posibilitan la vida campesina.

Abstract This manuscript provides insights about the persistence ofpeasant life in Los Chenchos, a riverine community in the Colombian Pacific. Following a social wellbeing approach, we examine the material, relational and subjective dimensions underlying the persistence of this community in their ancestral territory despite profound social and economic challenges marked by regional land use change and the emergence of illegal and extractive economies. We followed a sequential mixed-methods approach based on participant observation, ethnographic interviews and a descriptive census of the three dimensions of social wellbeing in the 18 households that make the community. Employing the social wellbeing approach provided an understanding of how achieving a desired way of life is an adaptive response that draws on values associated with small-scale agricultural production and family networks.

[Translated article] Real-world persistence with dolutegravir/lamivudine versus bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir-alafenamide among persons with HIV.

OBJETIVES: The main objective was to compare the persistence between dolutegravir/lamivudine (DTG/3TC) and bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir-alafenamide (BIC/FTC/TAF) and to analyze reasons for discontinuation. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective, non-interventional, descriptive, and longitudinal study. All human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) patients over 18 years treated with DTG/3TC or BIC/FTC/TAF in our center were included. Persistence after first year was compared using the χ2 test. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was performed. RESULTS: Three hundred fifty-eight patients were included. 99.5% versus 90.99% of patients were persistent after the first year for DTG/3TC and BIC/FTC/TAF respectively (p=.001). Persistence with DGT/3TC was 1237 days (IC95% 1216-1258) and persistence with BIC/FTC/TAF was 986 days [(IC95% 950-1021); p<.001]. The difference was remained after adjusting for covariates with the cox regression model [HR=8.2 (IC95% 1.03-64.9), p=.047]. The main reasons for discontinuation for BIC/FTC/TAF were toxicity/tolerability. CONCLUSION: In our study, patients have a high persistence. Patients on DTG/3TC treatment are more persistent compared to BIC/FTC/TAF, although BIC/FTC/TAF have worse baseline characteristics. The main reason for discontinuation of BIC/FTC/TAF is tolerability/toxicity.

Therapeutic management, adherence, and clinical outcomes of heart failure in Andalucía. ANDALIC Protocol. / Manejo terapéutico, adherencia y resultados clínicos de la insuficiencia cardiaca en Andalucía. Protocolo ANDALIC.

Heart failure is a prevalent syndrome with high mortality rates, representing a significant economic burden in terms of healthcare. The lack of systematic information about the treatment and adherence of patients with heart failure limits the understanding of these aspects and potentially the improvement of clinical outcomes. OBJECTIVE: To describe the clinical characteristics, therapeutic management, adherence, persistence and clinical results, as well as the association between these variables, in a cohort of patients with heart failure in Andalusia. DESIGN: This study will be an observational, population-based, retrospective cohort study. Data of patients discharged from an Andalusian hospital with a diagnosis of heart failure between 2014 and 2023 will be extracted from the Andalusian population health database. ANALYSIS: The statistical analysis will incorporate the following strategies: 1) Descriptive analysis of the characteristics of the population cohort, adherence measures, and clinical outcomes. 2) Bivariate analyses to study the association of covariates with adherence, persistence and clinical results. 3) Multivariate logistic regression and Cox regression analysis including relevant covariates. 4) To evaluate changes over time, multivariate Poisson regression models will be used. By conducting this comprehensive study, we aim to gain valuable insights into the clinical characteristics, treatment management, and adherence of heart failure patients in Andalusia, as well as to identify factors that may influence clinical outcomes. These findings could be critical both for the development of optimized strategies that improve medical care and quality of life of patients and for mitigating the health burden of HF in the region.

Real-world persistence with dolutegravir/lamivudine versus bictegravir/emtricitabina/tenofovir-alafenamide among people with HIV. / Persistencia de los tratamientos con dolutegravir/lamivudina y bictegravir/emtricitabina/tenofovir-alafenamida en personas con VIH en la práctica real.

OBJETIVES: The main objective was to compare the persistence between dolutegravir/lamivudine (DTG/3TC) and bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir-alafenamide (BIC/FTC/TAF) and to analyze reasons for discontinuation. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective, non-interventional, descriptive and longitudinal study. All human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) patients over 18 years treated with DTG/3TC or BIC/FTC/TAF in our center were included. Persistence after first year was compared using the χ2 test. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was performed. RESULTS: Three hundred fifty-eight patients were included. 99.5% versus 90.99% of patients were persistent after the first year for DTG/3TC and BIC/FTC/TAF respectively (p = 0.001). Persistence with DGT/3TC was 1,237 days (IC95% 1,216-1,258) and persistence with BIC/FTC/TAF was 986 days ([IC95% 950-1,021]; p < 0.001). The difference was remained after adjusting for covariates with the cox regression model (HR= 8.2 [IC95% 1.03-64.9], p = 0.047). The main reasons for discontinuation for BIC/FTC/TAF were toxicity/tolerability. CONCLUSION: In our study patients had a high persistence. Patients on DTG/3TC treatment were more persistent compared to BIC/FTC/TAF, although BIC/FTC/TAF have worse baseline characteristics. The main reason for discontinuation of BIC/FTC/TAF was tolerability/toxicity.

Untreated combined persistent fetal vasculature with "coralliform" cataract in a Hispanic 21 year-old male.

Persistent fetal vasculature is a spectrum of ocular abnormalities linked to an incomplete regression of the fetal ocular vasculature. A 21-years old male patient came to the outpatient clinic reporting low vision and strabismus in his left eye since 3 years of age. Ophtalmological examination revealed a normal right eye, while the left eye had a best corrected visual acuity of hand-motion perception, a 30 prism diopters esotropia, a "coralliform" cataract and a vitreous stalk joining the posterior face of the lens and the optic nerve. The coralliform cataract possessed spindle-shaped processes radiating out of its center in an axial direction and was located in the posterior subcapsular area. The patient elected to not undergo vitreoretinal surgery due to the poor visual prognosis. The unusual cataract present in the described patient could be related to his untreated status, as previous authors have reported that untreated cataracts in persistent fetal vasculature may undergo diverse degenerations.

Real-world apremilast use in biologic-naïve psoriatic arthritis patients. Data from Spanish clinical practice.

INTRODUCTION: Apremilast is approved for treatment of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis (PsA). Real-world evidence on apremilast effectiveness in clinical practice is limited. METHODS: Observational study enrolling adult patients, across 21 Spanish centres, who had initiated apremilast in the prior 6 (±1) months and were biologic naive. Data were collected at routine follow-up visits 6 and 12 months after apremilast initiation. Primary outcome was 6 and 12-month persistence to apremilast. Secondary outcomes included Disease Activity for PsA (DAPSA), joint erosions, enthesitis, dactylitis, and patient-reported quality of life (QoL, measured using the PsA impact of disease [PsAID] questionnaire). RESULTS: We included 59 patients. Most had oligoarticular PsA, moderate disease activity, and high comorbidity burden. Three-quarters were continuing apremilast at 6 months and two-thirds at 12 months; mean (SD) apremilast treatment duration was 9.43 (1.75) months. DAPSA scores showed improved disease activity: one-third of patients in remission or low activity at apremilast initiation versus 62% and 78% at 6 and 12 months, respectively. Eleven of 46 patients with radiographic assessments had joint erosions at apremilast initiation and none at month 12. Median (Q1, Q3) number of swollen joints was 4.0 (2.0, 6.0) at apremilast initiation versus 0.0 (0.0, 2.0) at 12 months. Incidence of dactylitis and enthesitis decreased between apremilast initiation (35.6% and 28.8%, respectively) and month 12 (11.6% and 2.4%, respectively). Over two-thirds of patients had a PSAID-9 score <4 (cut-off for patient-acceptable symptom state) at month 12. CONCLUSIONS: In Spanish clinical practice, two-thirds of PsA patients continued apremilast at 12 months, with clinical benefits at the joint level, no radiographic progression of erosions, and a positive impact on patient-reported QoL. Trial registration number Clinicaltrials.gov: NCT03828045.

Comparative effectiveness and drug survival of biosimilar infliximab CPT-13 vs. reference infliximab in inflammatory bowel disease: A retrospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Studies have investigated the efficacy and safety of switching to the biosimilar infliximab (CT-P13) in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). However, there is limited research directly comparing the effectiveness, drug survival, and pharmacokinetic profiles of the reference infliximab (IFX) and CT-P13 in real clinical settings. OBJECTIVE: To compare the effectiveness and drug survival of CPT-13 and reference IFX at weeks 26 and 52, and to determine the pharmacokinetic profiles and safety profile in real-world settings. METHODS: A retrospective observational cohort analysis was conducted at a single center. The study compared the proportion of patients achieving clinical remission and experiencing poor clinical outcomes at weeks 26 and 52. The drug survival rate of CT-P13 and reference infliximab was also assessed during the follow-up period. RESULTS: A total of 153 patients were included in the study, 39.2% receiving CPT-13 and 60.8% reference IFX. At week 26, clinical remission rates were 66.7% (CPT-13: 74.4% vs. reference IFX: 62.3%, p=0.178), and at week 52, they were 64% (CPT-13: 85.4% vs. reference IFX: 63.0%, p=0.012). Subgroup analysis with therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) found no significant differences at week 26 (CPT-13: 74.4% vs. reference IFX: 58.8%, p=0.235) or at week 52 (CPT-13: 85.4% vs. reference IFX: 68.8%, p=0.153). CONCLUSION: Our study demonstrates comparable efficacy, drug survival, pharmacokinetic profiles, and incidence of immunogenicity between both drugs in a real clinical setting. Further studies with greater statistical power are needed to validate these findings.

Coexistence of persistent fetal vasculature and retinoblastoma in the same eye.

BACKGROUND: As retinoblastoma (RB) is the most frequent primary intraocular malignant tumor in childhood, it should be the main pathology to rule out in pediatric patients with leukocoria. Persistence of fetal vasculature (PFV) is within the differential diagnosis of leukocoria, a vitreous disorder arising from a defect in the involution of the hyaloid vasculature in the embryonic stage, which affects normal ocular development and commonly produces associated microophthalmia. An early diagnosis and timely treatment are crucial for a better prognosis and life expectancy of the child. CASE REPORT: We present a case of retinoblastoma and coexisting with PFV: a 2-years-and 11-months-old male with no red reflex, and vasculature and yellowish-white membrane behind the lens of the right eye. B-mode ultrasound with disorganization of the vitreous cavity with high reflectivity echoes suggestive of calcification. On examination we found an enlarged eyeball, rubeosis iridis, posterior vasculature, intraocular pressure 28 mmHg. Computed tomography with heterogeneous intraocular mass with hyperdense regions. With a diagnosis of probable retinoblastoma, enucleation was performed. Histopathology reported moderately differentiated retinoblastoma coexisting with PFV. CONCLUSIONS: The finding of these two diagnoses in the same eye is very rare due to the different pathophysiology.

INTRODUCCIÓN: El retinoblastoma (RB) es el tumor maligno primario intraocular más frecuente en la infancia y debe ser la principal patología a descartar en los pacientes pediátricos con leucocoria. La persistencia de la vasculatura fetal (PVF) está dentro del diagnóstico diferencial de la leucocoria, un trastorno del vítreo que surge de un defecto en la involución de la vasculatura hialoidea en la etapa embrionaria que afecta al desarrollo ocular normal y comúnmente produce microoftalmia asociada. El diagnóstico temprano y tratamiento oportuno son cruciales para un buen pronóstico y mejor esperanza de vida del infante. CASO CLÍNICO: Presentamos un caso de coexistencia de retinoblastoma y PVF: paciente de sexo masculino de 2 años y 11 meses sin reflejo rojo y vasculatura y membrana blanco-amarillenta detrás del cristalino en el ojo derecho. La ecografía en modo B con desorganización de la cavidad vítrea con ecos de alta reflectividad sugestivos de calcificación. A la exploración se observó globo ocular agrandado, rubeosis iridis, vasculatura posterior, presión intraocular 28 mmHg. Tomografía computarizada con masa intraocular heterogénea con regiones hiperdensas. Con diagnóstico de probable retinoblastoma, se realizó la enucleación. La histopatología informó el hallazgo de retinoblastoma moderadamente diferenciado coexistente con PVF. CONCLUSIONES: El hallazgo de estos dos diagnósticos en un mismo ojo es muy poco frecuente debido a la diferente fisiopatología.

Long-term treatment persistence and maintained reduction of LDL-cholesterol levels with evolocumab over 30 months: Results from the Spanish cohort of the European prospective HEYMANS study.

AIMS: Limited data exist on low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) level variability or long-term persistence with the monoclonal antibody evolocumab in routine clinical practice. HEYMANS (NCT02770131) is the first multi-country, multicenter, observational study of European patients initiating evolocumab as part of their routine clinical management, based on local reimbursement criteria (overall data recently published). The aim of this analysis is to describe clinical characteristics, baseline and changes in LDL-C levels, treatment patterns and persistence to evolocumab over 30 months in the Spanish cohort using data from the HEYMANS Registry. METHODS: HEYMANS was a prospective study of adult patients (≥18 years) who received at least one dose of evolocumab. A total of 1951 patients were enrolled from 12 countries and were followed up for 30 months after evolocumab initiation. Data were collected for 6 months before evolocumab initiation and up to 30 months thereafter. The Spanish cohort included patients who started evolocumab in routine clinical practice from March 2016 to September 2019. Demographic and clinical characteristics, lipid-lowering therapies (LLT), and lipid levels were collected. RESULTS: In total, 201 patients were included in the Spanish cohort. Median follow-up (Q1-Q3) was 30.0 (12-30) months. A total of 61.7% of patients were men and the mean (standard deviation) age was 59.5 (10.8) years. Most patients (68.7%) had experienced a prior cardiovascular event, 45.3% had coronary artery disease or stable angina, and 60.2% had a diagnosis of familial hypercholesterolemia. Overall, 57.7% of patients were receiving treatment with statins, most of them with high-intensity statins (85.3%); 45.8% of patients were intolerant to statins, and 26.4% of patients did not receive any LLT. At baseline, median (Q1-Q3) LDL-C levels were 151 (123-197) mg/dL. After 3 months of treatment, baseline LDL-C decreased by 66% to a median of 50 (30-83) mg/dL and these levels were maintained over time, with a median LDL-C of 55 (40-99) mg/dL at 30 months. At months 10-12 of treatment, LDL-C levels<55mg/dL were achieved by 56.3% of patients. LDL-C levels<70mg/dL were achieved by 70.1% of patients, and a lowering of LDL-C levels ≥50% was achieved by 76.8% of patients. The percentage of patients on evolocumab treatment was 95% at 12 months and 93% at 30 months. CONCLUSIONS: In the Spanish cohort in routine clinical practice, evolocumab therapy provided a reduction in LDL-C levels consistent with that reported in previous clinical trials, which was sustained during 30 months of follow-up. Treatment with evolocumab was started at LDL-C levels 50% higher than those recommended by The Spanish Society of Arteriosclerosis and the Therapeutic Positioning Report. The probability of achieving the 2019 ESC/EAS LDL-C goals would improve with combination therapy and also with a lower LDL-C threshold when starting evolocumab. Persistence to evolocumab remained high during follow-up, with a very low percentage of discontinuation (5% at 12 months; 7% at 30 months).

Implante de marcapasos a través de la vena cava superior izquierda persistente por ausencia de vena cava superior derecha. Reporte de un caso / Pacemaker implantation through the persistent left superior vena cava due to the absence of the right superior vena cava. Report of a case / Implante de marcapasso pela veia cava superior esquerda persistente devido à ausência da veia cava superior direita. Relato de um caso

Resumen: Introducción: la persistencia de la vena cava superior izquierda (PVCSI) tiene una prevalencia de 0.21% en la población general. Presentación del caso: masculino de 67 años de edad diagnosticado con bloqueo auriculoventricular (AV) de tercer grado y que requirió colocación de marcapasos; sin embargo, debido a la ausencia de la vena cava superior derecha, corroborado por angiotomografía, se colocó marcapasos definitivo a través de la vena cava superior izquierda persistente. Conclusión: la persistencia de la vena cava superior izquierda (PVCSI) es la anomalía venosa torácica más común. Puede causar una serie de síntomas clínicamente significativos, incluso en un corazón con anatomía normal. La colocación de marcapasos dificulta la fijación del electrodo debido al recorrido tortuoso que genera.

Abstract: Introduction: the persistence of the left superior vena cava (PLSVC) has a prevalence of 0.21% in the general population. Case presentation: 67-year-old male diagnosed with third-degree AV block, requiring pacemaker placement. However, due to the absence of a right superior vena cava, corroborated by CT angiography, a definitive pacemaker was placed through a persistent left superior vena cava. Conclusion: the persistence of the left superior vena cava (PLSVC) is the most common thoracic venous anomaly. It can cause a number of clinically significant symptoms, even in a heart with normal anatomy. Pacemaker placement makes electrode fixation difficult due to tortuous travel.

Resumo: Introdução: a persistência da veia cava superior esquerda (PVCSI) tem uma prevalência de 0.21% na população geral. Apresentação do caso: Homem de 67 anos com diagnóstico de bloqueio AV de terceiro grau, necessitando de colocação de marcapasso. No entanto, devido à ausência da veia cava superior direita, corroborada pela angiotomografia, colocou-se marcapasso definitivo através da veia cava superior esquerda persistente. Conclusão: a persistência da veia cava superior esquerda (PVCSI) é a anomalia venosa torácica mais comum. Pode causar uma série de sintomas clinicamente significativos, mesmo em um coração com anatomia normal. A colocação do marcapasso dificulta a fixação do eletrodo devido ao trajeto tortuoso.

Coexistencia de vasculatura fetal persistente y retinoblastoma en el mismo ojo / Coexistence of persistent fetal vasculature and retinoblastoma in the same eye

Resumen Introducción: El retinoblastoma (RB) es el tumor maligno primario intraocular más frecuente en la infancia y debe ser la principal patología a descartar en los pacientes pediátricos con leucocoria. La persistencia de la vasculatura fetal (PVF) está dentro del diagnóstico diferencial de la leucocoria, un trastorno del vítreo que surge de un defecto en la involución de la vasculatura hialoidea en la etapa embrionaria que afecta al desarrollo ocular normal y comúnmente produce microoftalmia asociada. El diagnóstico temprano y tratamiento oportuno son cruciales para un buen pronóstico y mejor esperanza de vida del infante. Caso clínico: Presentamos un caso de coexistencia de retinoblastoma y PVF: paciente de sexo masculino de 2 años y 11 meses sin reflejo rojo y vasculatura y membrana blanco-amarillenta detrás del cristalino en el ojo derecho. La ecografía en modo B con desorganización de la cavidad vítrea con ecos de alta reflectividad sugestivos de calcificación. A la exploración se observó globo ocular agrandado, rubeosis iridis, vasculatura posterior, presión intraocular 28 mmHg. Tomografía computarizada con masa intraocular heterogénea con regiones hiperdensas. Con diagnóstico de probable retinoblastoma, se realizó la enucleación. La histopatología informó el hallazgo de retinoblastoma moderadamente diferenciado coexistente con PVF. Conclusiones: El hallazgo de estos dos diagnósticos en un mismo ojo es muy poco frecuente debido a la diferente fisiopatología.

Abstract Background: As retinoblastoma (RB) is the most frequent primary intraocular malignant tumor in childhood, it should be the main pathology to rule out in pediatric patients with leukocoria. Persistence of fetal vasculature (PFV) is within the differential diagnosis of leukocoria, a vitreous disorder arising from a defect in the involution of the hyaloid vasculature in the embryonic stage, which affects normal ocular development and commonly produces associated microophthalmia. An early diagnosis and timely treatment are crucial for a better prognosis and life expectancy of the child. Case report: We present a case of retinoblastoma and coexisting with PFV: a 2-years-and 11-months-old male with no red reflex, and vasculature and yellowish-white membrane behind the lens of the right eye. B-mode ultrasound with disorganization of the vitreous cavity with high reflectivity echoes suggestive of calcification. On examination we found an enlarged eyeball, rubeosis iridis, posterior vasculature, intraocular pressure 28 mmHg. Computed tomography with heterogeneous intraocular mass with hyperdense regions. With a diagnosis of probable retinoblastoma, enucleation was performed. Histopathology reported moderately differentiated retinoblastoma coexisting with PFV. Conclusions: The finding of these two diagnoses in the same eye is very rare due to the different pathophysiology.

Evidencias complementarias de validez de la Escala Grit-S y adaptación de la Escala para medir la agencia y el empoderamiento en Colombia

Introducción: el constructo grit predice el desempeño en distintos dominios; aunque con resultados variables en la estructura de las pruebas. El objetivo de la investigación es aportar evidencias de validez de la Grit-S, a través de la confirmación de la estructura y la convergencia con la Escala para Medir Agencia Personal y Empoderamiento. Método: en primer lugar, estudiantes universitarios (n = 313) de modalidad virtual respondieron la prueba Grit-S y se efectuó un análisis factorial confirmatorio de la prueba. A continuación, se evaluó la convergencia con la Escala para Medir Agencia Personal y Empoderamiento. Resultados: Los hallazgos sugieren mantener la estructura bifactorial de Grit-S. Por otra parte, se adaptó la escala de agencia y empoderamiento a través de un análisis factorial exploratorio, con una estructura de cuatro factores que explican el 44.6 % de la varianza. A su vez, la correlación de las subdimensiones de Grit-S y la escala de agencia y empoderamiento son positivas. Conclusiones: La prueba Grit-S es válida y sensible a dimensiones de funcionamiento individual, por la convergencia con las subdime0nsiones de agencia y la baja relación con el empoderamiento social.

Introduction: Grit is a construct that can predict performance in different domains. This research aims to provide evidence about the validity of the Grit-S Scale through a factorial structure confirmatory analysis and a convergence study with the Scale to Measure Personal Agency and Empowerment. Method: Firstly, university students from virtual learning programs (n = 313) answered the Grit-S Scale, and a confirmatory analysis was performed. Afterwards, the Scale to measure personal agency and empowerment was used to evaluate the convergence validity of the Grit-S Scale. Results: Findings confirm that the Grit-S scale has a bifactorial structure. On the other hand, the ESAGE Scale was adapted using an Exploratory Factorial Analysis, with four factors that explain 44.6% of the variance. Correlations between Grit-S subdimensions and the ESAGE Scale are positive and statistically significant. Conclusions: The Grit-S scale accurately measures Grit. Besides, it is possible to confirm the relationship between Grit and personality traits considering its convergence with the agency dimension in the Scale to measure personal agency and the low relationship with the social empowerment dimension.

Encefalitis por Virus Herpes Simplex con PCR persistentemente positivo en líquido cefalorraquídeo. A propósito de un caso neonatal

RESUMEN Las infecciones por herpes virus en la etapa neonatal pueden causar una alta morbimortalidad. La persistencia del virus, a pesar del tratamiento de primera línea, puede llevar a consecuencias devastadoras para el paciente. Presentamos el caso de un paciente neonato con persistencia de Virus Herpes Simplex en LCR, en el cual fue necesario iniciar foscarnet para contener la infección.

ABSTRACT Herpes virus infections in the neonatal stage can cause high morbidity and mortality. The persistence of the virus, despite first-line treatment, can lead to devastating consequences for the patient. We present the case of a neonatal patient with persistence of Herpes Simplex Virus in the CSF, in whic foscarnet treatment was required to contain the infection.

Serological follow up of positive SARS-CoV-2 cases / Seguimiento serológico de casos positivos a SARS-CoV-2

Abstract: Objective: To describe the humoral response in a cohort with mild and asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection previously identified in a community-based serological survey. Materials and methods: This study was an observational follow up of 193 subjects previously identified with positive anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies invited for a second test 112 days after the first sampling. All completed a standardized electronic questionnaire. IgM/IgG antibodies were determined using a qualitative IgM/IgG chemiluminescent immunoassay. Results: Among the 193 eligible subjects, a total of 174 (90%) attended the follow-up visit, and their serum samples were tested. Of the samples, 171 (98.3%) were still positive, and 3 (1.7%) were negative. Also, the cut-off index (COI) value of the immunoassay significantly increased from the first to the second test (P <0.001). Conclusions: Our findings support a sustained humoral response in individuals with mild and asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection up to 112 days after a positive serologic baseline test, accompanied by increasing antibody titers.

Resumen: Objetivo: Describir la respuesta humoral en una cohorte con una infección leve o asintomática por SARS-CoV-2, previamente identificada en una encuesta serológica comunitaria. Material y métodos: Se realizó un seguimiento observacional de 193 individuos previamente identificados con anticuerpos IgM/IgG anti-SARS-CoV-2 invitados 112 días después de una determinación serológica inicial. Todos los participantes completaron un cuestionario electrónico estandarizado. Se determinaron los anticuerpos IgM/IgG mediante un inmunoensayo quimioluminiscente cualitativo. Resultados: De entre los 193 sujetos elegibles, 174 (90%) acudieron al seguimiento. De las muestras, 171 (98.3%) eran positivas y 3 (1.7%) negativas. Además, el valor de COI del inmunoenasayo se incrementó al comparar la primera y segunda determinación (P <0.001). Conclusiones: Los presentes resultados apoyan una respuesta humoral sostenida en individuos con infección por SARS-CoV-2 con síntomas leves o asintomática hasta 112 días después de una prueba serológica positiva, acompañada de incremento en los títulos de anticuerpos.

Time-lagged effects of habitat fragmentation on terrestrial mammals in Madagascar.

Biodiversity is severely threatened by habitat destruction. As a consequence of habitat destruction, the remaining habitat becomes more fragmented. This results in time-lagged population extirpations in remaining fragments when these are too small to support populations in the long term. If these time-lagged effects are ignored, the long-term impacts of habitat loss and fragmentation will be underestimated. We quantified the magnitude of time-lagged effects of habitat fragmentation for 157 nonvolant terrestrial mammal species in Madagascar, one of the biodiversity hotspots with the highest rates of habitat loss and fragmentation. We refined species' geographic ranges based on habitat preferences and elevation limits and then estimated which habitat fragments were too small to support a population for at least 100 years given stochastic population fluctuations. We also evaluated whether time-lagged effects would change the threat status of species according to the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List assessment framework. We used allometric relationships to obtain the population parameters required to simulate the population dynamics of each species, and we quantified the consequences of uncertainty in these parameter estimates by repeating the analyses with a range of plausible parameter values. Based on the median outcomes, we found that for 34 species (22% of the 157 species) at least 10% of their current habitat contained unviable populations. Eight species (5%) had a higher threat status when accounting for time-lagged effects. Based on 0.95-quantile values, following a precautionary principle, for 108 species (69%) at least 10% of their habitat contained unviable populations, and 51 species (32%) had a higher threat status. Our results highlight the need to preserve continuous habitat and improve connectivity between habitat fragments. Moreover, our findings may help to identify species for which time-lagged effects are most severe and which may thus benefit the most from conservation actions.

La biodiversidad se encuentra seriamente amenazada por la destrucción del hábitat. Como consecuencia de esta destrucción, el hábitat remanente se vuelve más fragmentado. Esto resulta en extirpaciones poblacionales retardadas dentro de los fragmentos restantes cuando éstos son muy pequeños para mantener a las poblaciones a largo plazo. Si se ignoran estos efectos retardados, se subestimarán los impactos a largo plazo de la pérdida del hábitat y la fragmentación. Cuantificamos la magnitud de los efectos retardados de la fragmentación del hábitat para 157 especies de mamíferos terrestres no voladores en Madagascar, uno de los puntos calientes de biodiversidad con las tasas más elevadas de pérdida del hábitat y fragmentación. Depuramos las extensiones geográficas de las especies con base en las preferencias de hábitat y los límites de elevación y después estimamos cuáles fragmentos de hábitat eran muy pequeños para mantener una población durante al menos cien años dadas las fluctuaciones estocásticas de las poblaciones. También analizamos si los efectos retardados cambiarían el estado de amenaza de la especie de acuerdo con el programa de evaluación de la Lista Roja de la UICN. Usamos relaciones alométricas para obtener los parámetros poblacionales requeridos para simular las dinámicas poblacionales de cada especie y cuantificamos las consecuencias de la incertidumbre en estos parámetros estimados mediante análisis repetidos con una gama de valores plausibles de los parámetros. Con base en los resultados promedio, descubrimos que para 34 especies (22% de las 157 especies) al menos el 10% de su hábitat actual tiene poblaciones inviables. Ocho especies (5%) cambiaron a un estado más elevado de amenaza cuando se consideraron los efectos retardados. Con base en los valores del centil 0.95, adherido a un principio precautorio, para 108 especies (32%) al menos el 10% de su hábitat tiene poblaciones inviables y 51 especies (32%) cambiaron negativamente su estado de amenaza. Nuestros resultados resaltan la necesidad de conservar la continuidad de los hábitats y mejorar la conectividad entre los fragmentos. Además, nuestros hallazgos pueden ayudar a identificar especies para las cuales los efectos retardados son más serios y que podrían beneficiarse más con las acciones de conservación.

Implicaciones de los virus Zika y Chikungunya en el semen durante la transmisión sexual / Implications of Zika and Chikungunya viruses in semen during sexual transmission

Introducción: Los brotes de enfermedades causados por los virus Zika (VZIK) y Chikungunya (VCHIK) representan un problema de salud pública para muchos países tropicales y subtropicales. Objetivo: Discutir las implicaciones del hallazgo del VZIK y del VCHIK en el semen, y su relación con la transmisión sexual y la fertilidad masculina. Métodos: Se realizó una revisión narrativa de la literatura usando artículos indexados en PubMed (Medline), Embase y Scopus. Información, análisis y síntesis: Si bien los mosquitos del género Aedes son el vector principal y transmiten ambos virus, la transmisión sexual es una vía de infección significativa del VZIK y una posible ruta alterna para el VCHIK. La diseminación de estas arbovirosis vía linfática y sanguínea contribuye a la infección de diversos tejidos, incluyendo el tracto reproductivo masculino, donde el VZIK puede persistir. La infección de los testículos y quizás también de las glándulas accesorias del sistema reproductor masculino, se asocia con síntomas genitourinarios o alteraciones espermáticas, relacionadas con la detección del virus por largos periodos. Aunque no hay evidencia contundente sobre la presencia del VCHIK en el tracto genital masculino, se ha hallado en orina y semen. Además, se ha sugerido una posible persistencia en macrófagos que pueden infiltrar diferentes tejidos periféricos y cumplir una función de reservorio. Conclusiones: Hay presencia y persistencia de los virus Zika y Chikungunya en el tracto reproductor masculino. La infección en el semen se asocia con la transmisión sexual del virus, y con la alteración en la producción y calidad de los espermatozoides, con consecuencias clínicas graves en la salud sexual y reproductiva de los hombres infectados(AU)

Introduction: Disease outbreaks caused by Zika (ZIKV) and Chikungunya (CHIKV) viruses represent a public health problem for many tropical and subtropical countries. Objective: To discuss the implications of finding ZIKV and CHIKV in semen, and their relationship to sexual transmission and male fertility. Methods: A narrative review of the literature was carried out using articles indexed in PubMed (Medline), Embase and Scopus. Information, Analysis and Synthesis: Although Aedes mosquitoes are the primary vector and transmit both viruses, sexual transmission is a significant route of infection for ZIKV and a possible alternate route for CHIKV. Spread of these arboviruses via lymphatic and blood routes contributes to infection of various tissues, including the male reproductive tract, where ZIKV may persist. Infection of the testes and probably of the accessory glands of the male reproductive system is associated with genitourinary symptoms or sperm alterations, related to the detection of the virus for long periods. Although there is no conclusive evidence of the presence of CHIKV in the male genital tract, it has been found in urine and semen. In addition, a possible persistence in macrophages that can infiltrate different peripheral tissues and function as reservoir has been suggested. Conclusions: Zika and Chikungunya viruses can be present and persist in the male reproductive tract. Infection in semen is associated with sexual transmission of the virus and with alterations in the production and quality of spermatozoa, with serious clinical consequences in the sexual and reproductive health of infected men(AU)

Resource use and healthcare costs in patients with overactive bladder who initiate treatment with mirabegron or antimuscarinic monotherapy in Catalonia: the MIRACAT study.

INTRODUCTION AND AIM: Overactive bladder (OAB) negatively impacts patient quality of life and may be associated with high resource use. Our aim was to describe the resource use, costs and persistence associated with mirabegron (MB) or antimuscarinic (AM) treatment in patients with OAB. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Observational retrospective study of medical records in adult patients initiating OAB treatment with MB or AM in Catalonia. Healthcare resource use (visits, hospital stays, tests, medication, absorbent pads) in the first year after treatment initiation was collected. Associated costs were estimated (є, reference year 2019), as well as treatment persistence. Treatment discontinuation was defined as the absence of prescription for at least 45 days or treatment change. RESULTS: The mean cost per patient (SD) was є 1,640.20 (є 1,227.60) with MB and є 2,159.20 (є 2,264.40) with AM; the associated healthcare resource use cost was lower with MB compared to AM, except for OAB drug costs. Persistence after 12 months of treatment initiation was higher in MB (42.1%) compared to AM (33.0%), as was the median time until treatment discontinuation: 299 (95% CI: 270-328) vs 240 days (95% CI: 230-250). CONCLUSIONS: Lower healthcare resource use was observed with MB compared to AM in the first year of index treatment, resulting in a lower mean direct cost per patient and year, despite its higher acquisition cost. Increased treatment persistence, as well as rational use of available treatments improves OAB management and, in return, patients' quality of life.

Caracterización clínica epidemiológica de las secuelas COVID-19 en adultos recuperados de un hospital de Huancayo

Objetivo. Describir las características clínicas y epidemiológicas de la persistencia de síntomas post-COVID-19 en una población atendida en un hospital de la ciudad de Huancayo, distrito del Tambo. Métodos. El estudio tuvo enfoque cuantitativo de tipo transversal, retrospectivo y observacional. La población fue 110 historias clínicas de los adultos recuperados de la COVID-19, siendo la muestra de 88 pacientes seleccionados por un muestreo no probabilístico. Los instrumentos fueron las historias clínicas de los pacientes y la prueba estadística fue descriptiva. Resultados. Se analizo los casos clinicos de los pacientes con secuelas de Covid-19 y se encontro que el grupo de edad de 36 ­ 59 años fueron los mas afectados, donde predomino el sexo femenino. Los síntomas más frecuentes fueron fatiga, seguida de dificultad para respirar, dolor en el pecho y tos. Las características clínicas que todos los pacientes presentaron, incluyeron síntomas principales como: fatiga, tos y dolor en el pecho; el tratamiento fue en base a dexametasona, azitromicina y amoxicilina con un promedio de estadía en el hospital de 2-4 semanas. Conclusiones. Existe un mayor predominio en pacientes del sexo femenino, adultas de 36 a 59 años, la mayoria con antecedentes de diabetes, asociandose asi la persistencia de sintomas post covid al sexo, diabetes y edad.

Use and persistence of lipid-lowering therapy in patients with severe hypercholesterolemia: A prospective study. / Estudio prospectivo sobre uso y persistencia de tratamiento hipolipidemiante en pacientes con hipercolesterolemia severa.

INTRODUCTION: Statins are the first line of treatment in patients with severe hypercholesterolemia (SH). However, despite the knowledge regarding its effectiveness and security for preventing cardiovascular diseases, treatment is a major challenge. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A prospective observational study was conducted by telephone survey to determine cardiovascular risk factors, annual monitoring, statins use and persistence and new-onset cardiovascular events (CVE) after 5 years in patients with SH including in a program for detection of familial hypercholesterolemia. RESULTS: 115 participants were analysed, the median age was 56 ±10 being 74% females. 63.4% of women and 43% of men had been correctly controlled in the last year. Patients on lipid lowering drugs stratified by sex was 38.8% in women and 26.7% in men, however, only 22 participants (31.8%) were persistence with statins since 2015.Overall, 48% of the patients presented a CVE and 3.4% died. Multivariate analysis did not reveal predictors for CVE. CONCLUSIONS: In our population with SH we found a high risk to present a CVE and a dramatic low use and persistence with the treatment.