Phytochemical profile and biological activities of Bromelia antiacantha extracts / Perfil fitoquímico e atividades biológicas de extratos de Bromelia antiacantha

Reports from popular medicine usually act as a basis for the development of new drugs from natural compounds with therapeutic actions for serious diseases and prevalence such as cancer. Bromelia antiacantha Bertol. is a species of the Bromeliaceae family, considered an unconventional food plant, found in the south and midwest regions of Brazil. Despite the high nutritional content and pharmacological potential of its fruits, few scientific studies report its biological actions. Thus, this study evaluates the phytochemical profile of aqueous and ethanol extracts obtained from B. antiacantha fruits, as well as their possible antioxidant, antitumor, and cytotoxic activities. The aqueous extract exhibited phenolic compounds and flavonoids, while ethanol extracts indicated the presence of flavonoids and coumarin in their composition, regardless of the region of collection. The ethanolic extract demonstrated a more promising antioxidant effect than the aqueous extract and also induced a significant inhibition in the viability of human cervical cancer cells of the SiHa strain. In addition, treatment with both extracts did not alter the viability of non-tumor cells of the immortalized human keratinocyte lineage (HaCaT). These results bring new data about extracts obtained from a native plant, edible and traditionally used in popular medicine, opening new perspectives for its possible therapeutic application.

Relatos da medicina popular costumam atuar como referencial para o desenvolvimento de novos fármacos a partir de moléculas naturais com ações terapêuticas para doenças de alta gravidade e prevalência como o câncer. Bromelia antiacantha Bertol. é uma espécie da família Bromeliaceae, considerada uma planta alimentícia não convencional (PANC), encontrada nas regiões sul e centro-oeste do Brasil. Apesar do alto teor nutritivo e potencial farmacológico de seus frutos, poucos estudos científicos relatam suas ações biológicas. Desta forma, este estudo avalia o perfil fitoquímico de extratos aquoso e etanólico obtidos de frutos de B. antiacantha, bem como a sua possível ação antioxidante, antitumoral e citotóxica. O extrato aquoso apresentou compostos fenólicos e flavonoides, enquanto os extratos etanólicos apontam a presença de flavonóides e cumarina em sua composição, independente da região de coleta. O extrato etanólico demonstrou efeito antioxidante mais promissor do que o extrato aquoso e também induziu uma inibição significativa na viabilidade de células humanas de câncer cervical da linhagem SiHa. Além disso, o tratamento com ambos extratos não alterou a viabilidade de células não tumorais da linhagem de queratinócitos humanos imortalizados (HaCaT). Estes dados trazem novas informações sobre extratos obtidos de uma espécie vegetal nativa, comestível e já utilizada tradicionalmente, mas abrindo novas perspectivas quanto a possíveis aplicações terapêuticas.

Phytochemical profile and biological activities of Bromelia antiacantha extracts

Abstract Reports from popular medicine usually act as a basis for the development of new drugs from natural compounds with therapeutic actions for serious diseases and prevalence such as cancer. Bromelia antiacantha Bertol. is a species of the Bromeliaceae family, considered an unconventional food plant, found in the south and midwest regions of Brazil. Despite the high nutritional content and pharmacological potential of its fruits, few scientific studies report its biological actions. Thus, this study evaluates the phytochemical profile of aqueous and ethanol extracts obtained from B. antiacantha fruits, as well as their possible antioxidant, antitumor, and cytotoxic activities. The aqueous extract exhibited phenolic compounds and flavonoids, while ethanol extracts indicated the presence of flavonoids and coumarin in their composition, regardless of the region of collection. The ethanolic extract demonstrated a more promising antioxidant effect than the aqueous extract and also induced a significant inhibition in the viability of human cervical cancer cells of the SiHa strain. In addition, treatment with both extracts did not alter the viability of non-tumor cells of the immortalized human keratinocyte lineage (HaCaT). These results bring new data about extracts obtained from a native plant, edible and traditionally used in popular medicine, opening new perspectives for its possible therapeutic application.

Resumo Relatos da medicina popular costumam atuar como referencial para o desenvolvimento de novos fármacos a partir de moléculas naturais com ações terapêuticas para doenças de alta gravidade e prevalência como o câncer. Bromelia antiacantha Bertol. é uma espécie da família Bromeliaceae, considerada uma planta alimentícia não convencional (PANC), encontrada nas regiões sul e centro-oeste do Brasil. Apesar do alto teor nutritivo e potencial farmacológico de seus frutos, poucos estudos científicos relatam suas ações biológicas. Desta forma, este estudo avalia o perfil fitoquímico de extratos aquoso e etanólico obtidos de frutos de B. antiacantha, bem como a sua possível ação antioxidante, antitumoral e citotóxica. O extrato aquoso apresentou compostos fenólicos e flavonoides, enquanto os extratos etanólicos apontam a presença de flavonóides e cumarina em sua composição, independente da região de coleta. O extrato etanólico demonstrou efeito antioxidante mais promissor do que o extrato aquoso e também induziu uma inibição significativa na viabilidade de células humanas de câncer cervical da linhagem SiHa. Além disso, o tratamento com ambos extratos não alterou a viabilidade de células não tumorais da linhagem de queratinócitos humanos imortalizados (HaCaT). Estes dados trazem novas informações sobre extratos obtidos de uma espécie vegetal nativa, comestível e já utilizada tradicionalmente, mas abrindo novas perspectivas quanto a possíveis aplicações terapêuticas.

Total hip arthroplasty associated with transverse subtrochanteric shortening osteotomy and conical stem fixation in Crowe type IV hip dysplasia.

PURPOSE: Total hip arthroplasty (THA) in high-dislocated hip dysplasia is a surgical challenge, presenting difficulties in the biomechanical reconstruction of the hip. The purpose of the present study is to analyze clinical and radiological outcomes of a series of patients with Crowe type IV hip dysplasia who underwent a THA with transverse subtrochanteric shortening osteotomy and conical stem fixation in our Hip surgery unit. METHODS: This non-interventional retrospective study included all patients diagnosed with Crowe type IV hip dysplasia who underwent a THA using a subtrochanteric shortening osteotomy and uncemented conical stem fixation between January 1, 2008, and December 31, 2015. Demographic, clinical and radiologic data were analyzed, including Harris Hip Score and Oxford Hip Score. RESULTS: Seventeen hips in 13 patients were included in the final analysis. All patients were women and mean age was 39 years (range 35-45). Mean follow-up was 5.6 years (range 1-8). Average length of the osteotomy was 3.4 cm (range 3-4.5) and mean lowering of the center of rotation was 5.67 cm (range 3.8-9.1). Mean time for bone union was 5.5 months. No nerve palsy or non-union was detected at the end of follow-up period. CONCLUSION: The use of cementless conical stem fixation associated with a transverse subtrochanteric shortening osteotomy for treating Crowe type IV hip dysplasia permits to correct the rotational alterations of the femur and provides good stability of the osteotomy, with very low risk of nerve palsy and non-union rates.

Diaphragmatic hernia after radiofrequency ablation of liver metastases: a case report and review of the literature.

A diaphragmatic hernia is the protrusion of abdominal tissues into the thoracic cavity secondary to a defect in the diaphragm. Reviewing the literature, we found only 44 references to diaphragmatic hernia secondary to percutaneous radiofrequency treatment. The vast majority of these cases were secondary to the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma in segments V and VIII. Nevertheless, to date, this is the first reported case of diaphragmatic hernia after radiofrequency ablation of a liver metastasis from colorectal cancer. Complications secondary to diaphragmatic hernias are very diverse. The principal risk factor for complications is the contents of the hernia; when small bowel or colon segments protrude in the thoracic cavity, they can become incarcerated. Asymptomatic cases have also been reported in which the diaphragmatic hernia was discovered during follow-up. The pathophysiological mechanism is not totally clear, but it is thought that these diaphragmatic hernias might be caused by locoregional thermal damage. Given that most communications correspond to asymptomatic and/or treated cases, it is likely that the incidence is underestimated. However, due to the advent of percutaneous treatments, this complication might be reported more often in the future. Most cases are treated with primary herniorrhaphy, done with a laparoscopic or open approach at the surgeon's discretion; no evidence supports the use of one approach over the other. Nevertheless, it seems clear that surgery is the only definitive treatment, as well as the treatment of choice if complications develop. However, in asymptomatic patients in whom a diaphragmatic hernia is discovered in follow-up imaging studies, management should probably be guided by the patient's overall condition, taking into account the potential risks of complications (contents, diameter of the opening into the thoracic cavity …).

DC electrical stimulation enhances proliferation and differentiation on N2a and MC3T3 cell lines.

BACKGROUND: Electrical stimulation is a novel tool to promote the differentiation and proliferation of precursor cells. In this work we have studied the effects of direct current (DC) electrical stimulation on neuroblastoma (N2a) and osteoblast (MC3T3) cell lines as a model for nervous and bone tissue regeneration, respectively. We have developed the electronics and encapsulation of a proposed stimulation system and designed a setup and protocol to stimulate cell cultures. METHODS: Cell cultures were subjected to several assays to assess the effects of electrical stimulation on them. N2a cells were analyzed using microscope images and an inmunofluorescence assay, differentiated cells were counted and neurites were measured. MC3T3 cells were subjected to an AlamarBlue assay for viability, ALP activity was measured, and a real time PCR was carried out. RESULTS: Our results show that electrically stimulated cells had more tendency to differentiate in both cell lines when compared to non-stimulated cultures, paired with a promotion of neurite growth and polarization in N2a cells and an increase in proliferation in MC3T3 cell line. CONCLUSIONS: These results prove the effectiveness of electrical stimulation as a tool for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, both for neural and bone injuries. Bone progenitor cells submitted to electrical stimulation have a higher tendency to differentiate and proliferate, filling the gaps present in injuries. On the other hand, neuronal progenitor cells differentiate, and their neurites can be polarized to follow the electric field applied.

[Translated article] Necrotising fasciitis: Management experience over the last two decades in our hospital.

BACKGROUND: Necrotising fasciitis is a potentially life-threatening soft tissue infection that mainly affects the fascia and deep planes, with a very high mortality rate and severe related complications. AIM: To evaluate clinical and demographic characteristics of patients with necrotising fasciitis in our hospital and to describe their diagnostic and therapeutic management. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Retrospective review of medical records of 21 patients diagnosed with necrotising fasciitis with limb involvement between January 2003 and February 2021 in our hospital. Demographic data, clinical features and details of management and prognosis were collected for each patient. RESULTS: Of 21 patients included, 15 were male (71.43%), with a mean age at diagnosis of 54.38±19.55 years. The most frequent comorbidities were insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus in seven patients (33.33%) and a history of cancer in five patients (23.81%). Infection was monomicrobial in 14 cases (66.66%), with Streptococcus pyogenes being the most frequent microorganism; multiple pathogens were isolated in 2 patients (9.52%) and no microorganism was identified in 5 patients (23.81%). All patients underwent surgery at our hospital, with a mean of 4.14±3.98 surgeries. Only one patient underwent amputation of the affected limb. The mean hospital stay was 23.14±16.44 days, with an overall mortality of 47.62% (10 cases). CONCLUSIONS: Despite being a rare disease, necrotising fasciitis is a very aggressive pathology, with a high mortality rate, especially in immunocompromised patients. Advanced age and oncological disease are potential factors of worse prognosis in the evolution of this condition.

Evaluation of the prognostic value of the metabolic volumetric parameters calculated with 18F-FDG PET/CT and its value added to the molecular characteristics in patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: Metabolic tumor volume (MTV) and total lesion glycolysis (TLG) are prognostic predictors in patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). The objective of this study is to evaluate the prognostic impact of the baseline volumetric parameters calculated with positron emission tomography/computed tomography with 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG PET/CT) and its added value to the molecular characteristics in patients with DLBCL not otherwise specified (NOS). METHODOLOGY: This is a retrospective observational study, which included 35 patients who underwent a baseline 18F-FDG PET/CT prior to treatment. A univariate analysis of the volumetric parameters (MTV and TLG), immunohistochemical study and chromosomal translocations were performed. The method for calculating the volumetric parameters was the SUV 2.5 threshold. The comparison between the predictive models was selected based on the information criterion value of Akaike (AIC), bayesian (BIC) and Harrell's C, after performing a Cox proportional hazards regression model. In addition, a univariate analysis of the volumetric parameters was performed according to the data of the immunohistochemical study using the Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney test. RESULTS: A univariate analysis revealed that VMT and TLG are predictors of progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS), with a high discrimination capacity. Adding VMT and TLG to the immunohistochemical study and chromosomal translocation provided a better prognostic value for PFS and OS in patients diagnosed with DLBCL-NOS. Likewise, it was evidenced that the values of the volumetric parameters were lower in patients who presented a germinal center B cell phenotype (GCB) compared to patients with an activated B cell phenotype (ABC) who presented higher values. CONCLUSION: MTV and TLG added to the immunohistochemical study and chromosomal translocation provided a better prognostic value for PFS and OS in patients diagnosed with DLBCL-NOS.

Phytochemical profile and biological activities of Bromelia antiacantha extracts.

Reports from popular medicine usually act as a basis for the development of new drugs from natural compounds with therapeutic actions for serious diseases and prevalence such as cancer. Bromelia antiacantha Bertol. is a species of the Bromeliaceae family, considered an unconventional food plant, found in the south and midwest regions of Brazil. Despite the high nutritional content and pharmacological potential of its fruits, few scientific studies report its biological actions. Thus, this study evaluates the phytochemical profile of aqueous and ethanol extracts obtained from B. antiacantha fruits, as well as their possible antioxidant, antitumor, and cytotoxic activities. The aqueous extract exhibited phenolic compounds and flavonoids, while ethanol extracts indicated the presence of flavonoids and coumarin in their composition, regardless of the region of collection. The ethanolic extract demonstrated a more promising antioxidant effect than the aqueous extract and also induced a significant inhibition in the viability of human cervical cancer cells of the SiHa strain. In addition, treatment with both extracts did not alter the viability of non-tumor cells of the immortalized human keratinocyte lineage (HaCaT). These results bring new data about extracts obtained from a native plant, edible and traditionally used in popular medicine, opening new perspectives for its possible therapeutic application.

Long-term exposure to GDNF induces dephosphorylation of Ret, AKT, and ERK1/2, and is ineffective at protecting midbrain dopaminergic neurons in cellular models of Parkinson's disease.

Glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) promotes differentiation, proliferation, and survival in different cell types, including dopaminergic neurons. Thus, GDNF has been proposed as a promising neuroprotective therapy in Parkinson's disease. Although findings from cellular and animal models of Parkinson's disease were encouraging, results emerging from clinical trials were not as good as expected, probably due to the inappropriate administration protocols. Despite the growing information on GDNF action mechanisms, many aspects of its pharmacological effects are still unclear and data from different studies are still contradictory. Considering that GDNF action mechanisms are mediated by its receptor tyrosine kinase Ret, which activates PI3K/AKT and MAPK/ERK signaling pathways, we aimed to investigate Ret activation and its effect over both signaling pathways in midbrain cell cultures treated with GDNF at different doses (0.3, 1, and 10 ng/ml) and times (15 min, 24 h, 24 h (7 days), and 7 continuous days). The results showed that short-term or acute (15 min, 24 h, and 24 h (7 days)) GDNF treatment in rat midbrain neurons increases Tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) expression and the phosphorylation levels of Ret (Tyr 1062), AKT (Ser 473), ERK1/2 (Thr202/Tyr204), S6 (Ser 235/236), and GSK3-ß (Ser 9). However, the phosphorylation level of these kinases, TH expression, and dopamine uptake, decreased below basal levels after long-term or prolonged treatment with 1 and 10 ng/ml GDNF (7 continuous days). Our data suggest that long-term GDNF treatment inactivates the receptor by an unknown mechanism, affecting its neuroprotective capacity against degeneration caused by 6-OHDA or rotenone, while short-term exposure to GDNF promoted dopaminergic cell survival. These findings highlight the need to find new and more effective long-acting therapeutic approaches for disorders in which GDNF plays a beneficial role, including Parkinson's disease. In this regard, it is necessary to propose new GDNF treatment guidelines to regulate and control its long-term expression levels and optimize the clinical use of this trophic factor in patients with Parkinson's disease.

The combined coronal-transconjunctival approach: an innovative surgical access for orbital exenteration in craniofacial resection.

Malignant tumours arising in the paranasal sinuses or maxilla usually spread to the surrounding regions. The skull base and the anterior cranial fossa are frequently affected as well. When the resection of a tumour involves an orbital exenteration, a transconjunctival-perilimbic incision can be added to a coronal approach in order to preserve the eyelids and the conjunctiva, avoiding cutaneous midfacial incisions. Patients with a diagnosis of malignant tumour affecting the orbit, upper jaw, paranasal sinuses, and/or anterior skull base were eligible for this technique. Tumoural invasion of the eyelids, conjunctiva, lacrimal system, or surrounding skin was considered a contraindication for this technique. A retrospective study of the clinical records was performed and age, type of tumour, location, and reconstructive technique were evaluated. Eight patients referred to the study department between 2015 and 2019 were selected. All patients underwent craniofacial surgery and orbital exenteration. The transconjunctival-perilimbic approach was combined with a coronal incision in all cases. In our experience, the transconjunctival-perilimbic approach to orbital exenteration proposed in this paper can be used successfully in skull base surgery. Combined with a coronal and transmandibular approach, it allows wide access to the facial skeleton/anterior skull base while avoiding skin incisions in the midface.

Sleeve gastrectomy for idiopathic acute gastric dilatation with transmural necrosis.

Acute gastric dilatation (AGD) is usually related to eating disorders, postoperative status and mechanical obstruction of the duodenum. When intragastric pressure is augmented, it can lead to alteration of blood flow and result in transmural necrosis. However, there are very few reports on idiopathic AGD and so here we describe the case of a 26-year-old woman diagnosed with AGD without any apparent cause. Conservative treatment was initially conducted, but because of the persistence of dilatation, presence of gastric ulcer and gastric pneumatosis, a surgical approach was necessary. During surgery, gastric necrosis was observed in the greater curvature. A sleeve gastrectomy was conducted from the angle of His to the antrum. No complications were present during the postoperative course. Oeso-gastro-duodenal barium study showed no signs of gastric emptying and psychiatric evaluation ruled out any eating disorder.

Intraoral anastomosis in maxillary microvascular reconstruction after oncological excision.

Microvascular anastomosis using an intraoral approach can avoid unnecessary external incisions thus improving patient satisfaction. Furthermore, in case of short pedicle flaps, the lack of proximity of the recipient vessels can be a problem in microvascular reconstruction of the midface. We present our experience in six patients treated for tumours affecting the midface and reconstructed with microvascular flaps through anastomosis to the intraoral aspect of the facial vessels, with the aim of reviewing the use of this technique. Our results showed that intraoral anastomosis is a feasible technique that can be used in the reconstruction after tumours resection, avoiding additional external incisions in patients with no previous cervicotomy incisions. In two cases, a vein graft was interposed to perform the intraoral arterial anastomosis in a tension-free situation without increasing morbidity. The technical features and advantages of intraoral anastomosis were reviewed.

[Evaluation of the collaboration between Primary and Hospital Care in order to improve inappropriate prescription]. / Evaluación de la colaboración entre atención primaria y hospitalaria para mejorar la polimedicación inapropiada.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the implementation of a collaborative experience between Primary (PC) and Hospital Care (HC) aimed at reducing potentially inappropriate prescribing (PIP) in patients with polypharmacy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Collaborative experience including a controlled before-after intervention study, carried out in the Donostialdea Integrated Health Organization (IHO), with Bilbao Basurto IHO as control group, Osakidetza, Basque Health Service. Participant were 227 PC physicians and physicians from 7 hospital services, and patients with 5 or more drugs meeting at least one PIP criteria. The intervention consisted of communication and knowledge between professionals, PC-HC consensus, training, identification of patients at risk, medication review, evaluation and feed-back. The collaboration process (agreements, consensus documents, training activities) and the change in the prevalence of PIP in polymedicated patients (using computerised health records) were evaluated. RESULTS: A total of 21 PIP criteria and 6 recommendation documents were agreed. An analysis was performed on 15,570 PIP from OSI Donostialdea and 24,866 from the control group. The prevalence of PIP in polymedicated patients was reduced by -4.53% (95% CI: -4.71 to -4.36, P< .0001) in comparison with the control group. The before-after differences were statistically significant across the 7 services. CONCLUSIONS: PC-HC collaboration is feasible and, along with other intervention components, reduces inappropriate polypharmacy in the context of a recently integrated healthcare organisation. The collaboration process is complex and requires continuous monitoring, policy involvement, leadership that encourages health professional participation, and intensive use of information systems.

Biological mesh reconstruction versus primary closure for preventing perineal morbidity after extralevator abdominoperineal excision: a multicentre retrospective study.

AIM: The aim of the study was to compare the incidence of perineal hernia and the perineal wound morbidity following extralevator abdominoperineal excision (ELAPE) between two groups - primary perineal closure and reconstruction with a biological mesh. METHOD: One hundred and forty-seven consecutive patients who underwent ELAPE for primary rectal cancer between January 2007 and December 2018 in two tertiary referral centres were retrospectively identified from prospective databases. Perineal closure was carried out via primary closure or with a biological mesh (porcine dermal collagen mesh). Outcome measures were perineal hernia and perineal wound morbidity (infection, dehiscence, persistent sinus and chronic pain). RESULTS: A total of 139 patients were included in the study. A prophylactic mesh was used in 80 (57.5%) and primary closure was practised in 59 (42.4%) patients. The median follow-up was 30 (interquartile range 46.88) months. Thirty patients (21.6%) developed perineal hernia. No significant differences were found between prophylactic mesh and primary closure (16.3% vs 23.3%, P = 0.07). The median period between surgery and hernia diagnosis was 8 months in the primary closure group and 24 months in the mesh group (P < 0.01). Perineal wound morbidity was significantly higher in the prophylactic mesh group (55% vs 33.9%, P < 0.01). CONCLUSION: In our study, the use of a biological mesh did not reduce the rate of perineal hernia, although it did delay its appearance. Perineal closure using a biological mesh may increase perineal morbidity, both acute and chronic.

Evaluation of the prognostic value of different methods of calculating the tumour metabolic volume with 18F-FDG PET/CT, in patients with diffuse large cell B-cell lymphoma. / Evaluación del valor pronóstico de los diferentes métodos de cálculo del volumen metabólico tumoral con 18F-FDG PET/TC, en pacientes con linfoma B difuso de células grandes.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: Metabolic tumor volume (MTV) is a promising indicator of prognosis in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). The aim of the present study is to evaluate the different methods for the calculation of the basal metabolic tumor volume with 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) in the patients with DLBCL, relating each one of the volumes measured with progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). METHODOLOGY: This is a retrospective analytical cohort study, in which 34 patients underwent to 18F-FDG PET/CT baseline prior to treatment. We compared three SUV thresholds 2.5, SUV 40% of the maximum SUV and SUV mean hepatic uptake (PERCIST) for the calculation of MTV and total lesion glycolysis (TLG) biomarkers, relating them to the PFS and OS. The best predictive model was selected based on the Akaike's information criterion (AIC) after performing a Cox proportional hazards regression. RESULTS: In relation to the PFS, they show statistically significant differences: MTV 2.5, TLG 2.5, MTV 40, TLG 40, MTV and TLG calculated with the PERCIST threshold. Among these, the one that has a lower AIC is MTV 2.5, so it is considered the best parameter to predict the PFS. With respect to OS, it shows statistically significant differences: MTV 2.5, VMT and TLG calculated with the PERCIST threshold. Among these three, the one with the lowest AIC is MTV 2.5, which is why it is considered the best parameter to predict OS. In addition, a higher value of MTV and total tumor glycolysis (TLG), is associated with worse PFS and OS CONCLUSION: The MTV calculated with the threshold SUV 2.5 seems to be the best parameter to predict PFS and OS in patients diagnosed with DLBCL with 18F-FDG PET/CT.

Aprendizaje de una simulación: paciente COVID-19 positivo para cirugía de urgencia / Learning from a simulation: Patient COVID-19 positive for emergency surgery

Resumen: Se realizó una simulación in situ del proceso de atención de paciente con diagnóstico de COVID-19 programado para una cirugía de urgencia. Se observó desde la llegada al Departamento de Urgencias y hasta su salida del quirófano. Se llevaron a cabo los protocolos previamente establecidos y se observó por áreas de oportunidad.

Abstract: An in situ simulation was performed of a patient with COVID-19 diagnosis that is schedule for emergency surgery. From the arrival to the Emergency Department to the exit from the operating theatre. Previously stablished protocols were performed, and areas of improvement were looked for.

Determinación de las características funcionales de los nódulos tiroideos mediante imágenes de medicina nuclear en pacientes que acudieron al Instituto de Investigaciones en Ciencias de la Salud - UNA, en el periodo 2016-2019 / Determination of the functional characteristics of thyroid nodules through nuclear medicine images in patients, who attended the Instituto de Investigaciones en Ciencias de la Salud - UNA, in the period 2016-2019

nuclear permiten visualizar la estructura y función de un órgano, tejido, hueso o sistema dentro del cuerpo, entre ellos la glándula tiroidea, la cual puede presentar un nódulo tiroideo y este es importante diagnosticar por su potencial malignidad. Objetivo: Determinar las características funcionales de los nódulos tiroideos en 183 pacientes que asistieron al Servicio de Medicina Nuclear del Instituto de Investigaciones en Ciencias de la Salud - UNA durante el período de noviembre del 2016 - noviembre del 2019. Metodología: Fue utilizada la gammacámara SPECT doble cabezal, siguiendo protocolo estandarizado, con administración de pertecnetato de sodio. Resultados: Se observó que la gran mayoría de los pacientes corresponden al sexo femenino 89%, así como que el 64% provienen de la capital y del departamento central; las patologías detectadas corresponden a bocio en 82%, 15% a nódulos (hipercaptantes, hipocaptantes y autónomos) y casos particulares de tiroiditis, tiroides ectópica y adenoma tóxico. La medicina nuclear está directamente involucrada tanto en el diagnóstico como en el tratamiento de la enfermedad tiroidea, por lo que se requiere una comprensión de la fisiopatología y el manejo de los trastornos de la tiroides, de manera a que las políticas de salud pública sean implementadas para el fortalecimiento de la lucha contra estas enfermedades. Conclusión: El trabajo de investigación realizado comprobó que un mayoritario porcentaje de participantes de sexo femenino (89%), con enfermedades tiroideas asistieron al IICS/UNA, y que la frecuencia de bocio entre la totalidad de pacientes que participaron de este estudio fué de 151/183 (82%), los pacientes provenían en su mayoría de hospitales de referencia del departamento Central y coinciden con la localización geográfica de los domicilios de los pacientes, quienes provenían principalmente del mismo departamento Central 118/183 (64%), no obstante también participaron del trabajo de investigación pacientes provenientes de otros departamentos del país. Palabras claves: Diagnóstico, medicina nuclear, tiroides, tecnología nuclear en salud, SPECT

Introduction: The images obtained by nuclear medicine allow to visualize the structure and function of an organ, tissue, bone or system inside the body, including the thyroid gland, which can present a thyroid nodule and this is important to diagnose for its potential malignancy. Objective: To determine the functional characteristics of the thyroid nodules were determined in 183 patients, who attended the Nuclear Medicine Service at the Instituto de Investigaciones en Ciencias de la Salud during the period of November 2016 - November 2019. Methodology: It was used the dual head SPECT gamma camera following a standardized protocol with administration of sodium pertechnetate. Result: It was observed that most of the patients corresponded to the female sex 89 %, as well as that 64% came from the capital and the central department. The pathologies detected corresponded to goiter in 82%, 15% to nodules (hypercaptant, hypocaptant and autonoms) and particular cases of thyroiditis, ectopic thyroid and toxic adenoma. Nuclear medicine is directly involved both in the diagnosis and in the treatment of thyroid disease, therefore it requires an understanding of the pathophysiology and management of thyroid disorders in order that public health policies are implemented for strengthening the fight against these diseases. Conclusion: The research carried out showed that a majority percentage of female participants (89%), with thyroid diseases attended IICS / UNA, and the frequency of goiter among all patients who participated in this study was 151/183 ( 82%), the patients mostly they came the reference hospitals in the Central department and coincide with the geographic location of the patients' homes, who tested mainly from the same Central department 118/183 (64%), also participate in the research work patients from other departments of the country. Keywords: Diagnosis, nuclear medicine, thyroid, health technology, SPECT.

Impact of cirrhosis in patients undergoing laparoscopic liver resection in a nationwide multicentre survey.

BACKGROUND: The aim was to analyse the impact of cirrhosis on short-term outcomes after laparoscopic liver resection (LLR) in a multicentre national cohort study. METHODS: This retrospective study included all patients undergoing LLR in 27 centres between 2000 and 2017. Cirrhosis was defined as F4 fibrosis on pathological examination. Short-term outcomes of patients with and without liver cirrhosis were compared after propensity score matching by centre volume, demographic and tumour characteristics, and extent of resection. RESULTS: Among 3150 patients included, LLR was performed in 774 patients with (24·6 per cent) and 2376 (75·4 per cent) without cirrhosis. Severe complication and mortality rates in patients with cirrhosis were 10·6 and 2·6 per cent respectively. Posthepatectomy liver failure (PHLF) developed in 3·6 per cent of patients with cirrhosis and was the major cause of death (11 of 20 patients). After matching, patients with cirrhosis tended to have higher rates of severe complications (odds ratio (OR) 1·74, 95 per cent c.i. 0·92 to 3·41; P = 0·096) and PHLF (OR 7·13, 0·91 to 323·10; P = 0·068) than those without cirrhosis. They also had a higher risk of death (OR 5·13, 1·08 to 48·61; P = 0·039). Rates of cardiorespiratory complications (P = 0·338), bile leakage (P = 0·286) and reoperation (P = 0·352) were similar in the two groups. Patients with cirrhosis had a longer hospital stay than those without (11 versus 8 days; P = 0·018). Centre expertise was an independent protective factor against PHLF in patients with cirrhosis (OR 0·33, 0·14 to 0·76; P = 0·010). CONCLUSION: Underlying cirrhosis remains an independent risk factor for impaired outcomes in patients undergoing LLR, even in expert centres.

ANTECEDENTES: El objetivo de este estudio fue analizar el impacto de la cirrosis en los resultados a corto plazo después de la resección hepática laparoscópica (laparoscopic liver resection, LLR) en un estudio de cohortes multicéntrico nacional. MÉTODOS: Este estudio retrospectivo incluyó todos los pacientes sometidos a LLR en 27 centros entre 2000 y 2017. La cirrosis se definió como fibrosis F4 en el examen histopatológico. Los resultados a corto plazo de los pacientes con hígado cirrótico (cirrhotic liver CL) (pacientes CL) y los pacientes con hígado no cirrótico (non-cirrhotic liver, NCL) (pacientes NCL) se compararon después de realizar un emparejamiento por puntaje de propension del volumen del centro, las características demográficas y del tumor, y la extensión de la resección. RESULTADOS: Del total de 3.150 pacientes incluidos, se realizó LLR en 774 (24,6%) pacientes CL y en 2.376 (75,4%) pacientes NCL. Las tasas de complicaciones graves y mortalidad en el grupo de pacientes CL fueron del 10,6% y 2,6%, respectivamente. La insuficiencia hepática posterior a la hepatectomía (post-hepatectomy liver failure, PHLF) fue la principal causa de mortalidad (55% de los casos) y se produjo en el 3,6% de los casos en pacientes CL. Después del emparejamiento, los pacientes CL tendieron a tener tasas más altas de complicaciones graves (razón de oportunidades, odds ratio, OR 1,74; i.c. del 95% 0,92-0,41; P = 0,096) y de PHLF (OR 7,13; i.c. del 95% 0,91-323,10; P = 0,068) en comparación con los pacientes NCL. Los pacientes CL estuvieron expuestos a un mayor riesgo de mortalidad (OR 5,13; i.c. del 95% 1,08-48,6; P = 0,039) en comparación con los pacientes NCL. Los pacientes CL presentaron tasas similares de complicaciones cardiorrespiratorias graves (P = 0,338), de fuga biliar (P = 0,286) y de reintervenciones (P = 0,352) que los pacientes NCL. Los pacientes CL tuvieron una estancia hospitalaria más larga (11 versus 8 días; P = 0,018) que los pacientes NCL. La experiencia del centro fue un factor protector independiente de PHLF (OR 0,33; i.c. del 95% 0,14-0,76; P = 0,010) pacientes CL. CONCLUSIÓN: La presencia de cirrosis subyacente sigue siendo un factor de riesgo independiente de peores resultados en pacientes sometidos a resección hepática laparoscópica, incluso en centros con experiencia.

Colorectal cancer guidelines seldom include the patient perspective.

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to describe how colorectal practice guidelines (PGs) incorporate the patient perspective. STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING: We searched in the Guidelines International Network library, MEDLINE, National Guideline Clearinghouse, NHS Evidence database, and TRIP database. Two authors independently selected the PGs. We considered recommendations rated or worded as weak or conditional or suggesting multiple options, as potentially preference sensitive. Two authors independently evaluated if, in potentially sensitive recommendations, the patient perspective was incorporated. RESULTS: We included 28 PGs that contained 588 recommendations, being 256 potentially preference sensitive. Ten PGs (36%) included patients in the development process, and 12 (43%) provided information about patients' perspectives. Nine PGs (32%) included recommendations in which the patient perspective was explicitly considered, and 13 (46.4%) that recommended a discussion with the patient. From a total of 588 recommendations, 9.7% (25/256) of potentially preference-sensitive recommendations considered the patient perspective. The inclusion of patients in the development process was associated with a more frequent incorporation of the patient perspective in potentially preference sensitive recommendations (70% vs. 0%; P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Guideline users should be aware that the incorporation of the patient perspective in colorectal cancer PGs is suboptimal. Guideline developers should make efforts to incorporate the patient perspective, especially in preference-sensitive recommendations.