Deregulation of lactate permeability using a small-molecule transporter (Lactrans-1) disturbs intracellular pH and triggers cancer cell death.

Due to the relevance of lactic acidosis in cancer, several therapeutic strategies have been developed targeting its production and/or regulation. In this matter, inhibition approaches of key proteins such as lactate dehydrogenase or monocarboxylate transporters have showed promising results, however, metabolic plasticity and tumor heterogeneity limits their efficacy. In this study, we explored the anticancer potential of a new strategy based on disturbing lactate permeability independently of monocarboxylate transporters activity using a small molecule ionophore named Lactrans-1. Derived from click-tambjamines, Lactrans-1 facilitates transmembrane lactate transportation in liposome models and reduces cancer cell viability. The results showed that Lactrans-1 triggered both apoptosis and necrosis depending on the cell line tested, displaying a synergistic effect in combination with first-line standard chemotherapeutic cisplatin. The ability of this compound to transport outward lactate anions was confirmed in A549 and HeLa cells, two cancer cell lines having distinct rates of lactate production. In addition, through cell viability reversion experiments it was possible to establish a correlation between the amount of lactate transported and the cytotoxic effect exhibited. The movement of lactate anions was accompanied with intracellular pH disturbances that included basification of lysosomes and acidification of the cytosol and mitochondria. We also observed mitochondrial swelling, increased ROS production and activation of oxidative stress signaling pathways p38-MAPK and JNK/SAPK. Our findings provide evidence that enhancement of lactate permeability is critical for cellular pH homeostasis and effective to trigger cancer cell death, suggesting that Lactrans-1 may be a promising anticancer therapy.

Grade III chondrosarcoma of the left iliopubic branch: A case report.

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE: Chondrosarcomas are the third most frequent malignant bone tumors. With pelvic bones being their most common primary location, diagnosis and treatment of these tumors is especially challenging due to the diverse clinical manifestations and involvement of critical anatomic structures. We present the case of a grade III pelvic chondrosarcoma of the left iliopubic branch managed through a multidisciplinary approach. CASE PRESENTATION: A 26-year-old male patient presented with a 1-year history of a mass in the left iliopubic branch. The imaging findings suggested chondrosarcoma and showed extrinsic compression of pelvic structures causing right hydronephrosis, marked elongation and tortuosity of the sigmoid colon, and anterior and superior displacement of the bladder. Following multidisciplinary meeting it was decided to perform a left hemicolectomy, colostomy, and internal hemipelvectomy in the 1-2-3 left zones, with resection of the intrapelvic and intra-abdominal tumor, and preservation of the left lower extremity. The patient presented two episodes of intestinal obstruction, which resolved with medical management. Was discharged without presenting further complications. CLINICAL DISCUSSION: Chondrosarcomas management demands a methodical approach. Appropriate surgical strategy requires individualization according to the characteristics of the lesion and the degree of involvement of surrounding structures. Complete resection of the tumor and preservation of the lower extremity function are critical achievements. CONCLUSION: This case underscores the effective management of a challenging tumor such as pelvic chondrosarcoma. The multidisciplinary approach and collaboration of several specialties was crucial to reach an appropriate surgical strategy.

Catalytic amyloids for nucleotide hydrolysis.

The design of small peptides that assemble into catalytically active intermolecular structures has proven to be a successful strategy towards developing minimalistic catalysts that exhibit some of the unique functional features of enzymes. Among these, catalytic amyloids have emerged as a fruitful source to unravel many different activities. These assemblies can potentially have broad applications that range from biotechnology to prebiotic chemistry. Although many peptides that assemble into catalytic amyloids have been developed in recent years, the elucidation of convergent mechanistic aspects of the catalysis and the structure/function relationship is still a challenge. Novel catalytic activities are necessary to better address these issues and expand the current repertoire of applicability. In this chapter, we described a methodology to produce catalytic amyloids that are specifically active towards the hydrolysis of phosphoanhydride bonds of nucleotides. The design of potentially active amyloid-prone peptide sequences is explored using as template the active site of enzymes with nucleotidyltransferase activity. The procedures include an approach for sequence design, in vitro aggregation assays, morphological characterization of the amyloid state and a comprehensive methodology to measure activity in vitro using nucleoside and deoxynucleosides triphosphates as model substrates. The proposed strategy can also be implemented to explore different types of activities for the design of future catalytic amyloids.

Video assisted retroperitoneal debridement for infected pancreatic necrosis: A two port approach for difficult access.

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE: The incidence of acute pancreatitis varies globally, and its rates are increasing. Timely intervention in cases of infected necrosis is crucial to effective management. The landscape of acute pancreatitis management has undergone transformation through adopting a "step-up" strategy, accentuating the shift towards minimally invasive techniques. CASE PRESENTATION: A 63-year-old patient with acute pancreatitis and infected pancreatic necrosis underwent a challenging yet successful treatment using video-assisted retroperitoneal debridement employing a two-port approach facilitated access for an intricate area. The procedure, performed 45 days after admission, effectively reduced peripancreatic collections, demonstrating the efficacy of this approach in managing complex cases of infected pancreatic necrosis. CLINICAL DISCUSSION: The management of acute pancreatitis has evolved towards a comprehensive strategy involving early hydration, nutritional support, effective pain management, and interventions. Infected pancreatic necrosis poses a serious complication, with minimally invasive techniques such as video-assisted retroperitoneal debridement (VARD) emerging as preferred options. The efficacy and safety of VARD in complex cases are highlighted, although challenges persist, especially in extensive necrosis. CONCLUSION: The VARD procedure, a key component of the step-up approach, exhibits a remarkable safety profile, substantially reducing postoperative complications and mortality compared to open surgical counterparts. However, challenges persist in managing cases of infected Walled-Off Necrosis with deep extension, necessitating carefully considering a minimal-access approach. We report our experience using the VARD in a two-port approach.

Elucidating jejunal diverticulosis: Diagnostic and treatment insights from a perforated case study.

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE: Diverticula are sac-shaped formations resulting from the inward folding of the intestinal wall's lining. While they predominantly occur in the colon, they can manifest in other parts of the gastrointestinal tract, with jejunal diverticulum being the most prevalent. Symptoms are infrequent in most cases, and when they do occur, intestinal perforation is the most severe complication. In such instances, prompt surgical intervention is imperative, typically entailing the excision of the affected intestinal segment, followed by a end-to-end anastomosis. CASE PRESENTATION: A 75-year-old female patient presented at the emergency department with sharp abdominal pain. Imaging revealed the presence of perforated jejunal diverticula. Diagnostic laparoscopy confirmed a perforated jejunal diverticulum along with generalized peritonitis and multiple diverticula in the same region. Consequently, we performed a segmental intestinal resection and anastomosis. CLINICAL DISCUSSION: Jejunal diverticulosis, a rare condition primarily affecting the elderly, is found in 0.5-2.3 % of imaging studies. Although its exact cause remains elusive, potential contributing factors include abnormal intestinal movements and elevated gut pressure. Symptoms are generally vague, such as abdominal discomfort. Diagnosis often occurs incidentally during imaging, leading to a high mortality rate when complications occurs. While computed tomography (CT) scans are useful for detecting intestinal wall protrusions, definitive diagnosis typically requires laparoscopy or laparotomy. Treatment varies based on symptoms and complications, with surgery often necessary for perforations or when medical treatment fails. CONCLUSION: Jejunal diverticulosis is often asymptomatic or displays non-specific symptoms. Timely diagnosis and prompt surgical intervention in case of perforation is crucial.

Anal involvement in patient with pemphigus vulgaris: Case report.

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE: Pemphigus Vulgaris (PV) is a low incidence autoimmune mucocutaneous bullous disease, in which pathogenic antibodies are directed against the keratinocyte cell surface. Although anal involvement is unusual, correlations between its appearance and disease severity have been recently reported. CASE PRESENTATION: A 42-year-old male presented with an anal fissure and a year of recurrent oral and pharyngeal aphtha. A chemical sphincterotomy with botulinum toxin plus fissurectomy was performed. 3 years later an upper eyelid injury raised suspicion of pemphigus vulgaris (PV), tested negative for specific antibodies. A couple years later, an anal fissure, and suspected Crohn's disease, led to a second intervention. Surgical analysis unveiled characteristics indicative of a vegetating variant of PV. CLINICAL DISCUSSION: Anal involvement in PV varies in prevalence, with studies reporting rates between 2 % and 27.98 %. This manifestation often accompanies late disease stages and may indicate severity, notably in association with oral lesions. Patients might not readily discuss anal symptoms, leading to potential underreporting. Anal PV is linked to other lesions (ocular, nasal, genital) and the severity of oral PV. Even when other sites are in remission, anal recurrence can occur. Early recognition and follow-up are crucial, highlighting the need for routine anal examination and confirmatory diagnostics. CONCLUSION: PV lesions can present on the skin or mucosa, although oral lesions are the most common site of initial presentation. Anal PV is a diagnostic challenge, and this case illustrates the importance of a careful evaluation.

Small molecule anion carriers facilitate lactate transport in model liposomes and cells.

An excessive production of lactate by cancer cells fosters tumor growth and metastasis. Therefore, targeting lactate metabolism and transport offers a new therapeutic strategy against cancer, based on dependency of some cancer cells for lactate as energy fuel or as oncogenic signal. Herein we present a family of anionophores based on the structure of click-tambjamines that have proved to be extremely active lactate carriers across phospholipid membranes. Compound 1, the most potent lactate transmembrane carrier, was studied in HeLa cells. The use of a monocarboxylate transporters (MCTs) inhibitor proved that 1 is an active lactate transporter in living cells, confirming the results obtained in phospholipid vesicles. Moreover, an additive effect of compound 1 with cisplatin was observed in HeLa cells. Identification of active lactate anionophores working in living cells opens up ways to exploit this class of compounds as molecular tools and drugs addressing dysregulated lactate metabolism.

Incidental finding of left-sided superior vena cava: A case report and comprehensive literature review.

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE: Persistent left superior vena cava (PLSVC) is a rare vascular anomaly that affects systemic venous circulation. PLSVC typically is asymptomatic as the return of venous blood to the right atrium occurs through the coronary sinus. It is important to possess a comprehensive understanding of drainage as it can present challenges in catheter placement on the right side of the heart, aiming to prevent potential complications. CASE PRESENTATION: A 59-year-old female patient presented at the medical service with abdominal distention. During the examination, the presence of ascites was observed. Subsequent studies revealed peritoneal carcinomatosis of unknown origin. The patient underwent staging laparoscopy with biopsy sampling. Consequently, the placement of a catheter for chemotherapy was performed. A portable chest X-ray was obtained revealing the catheter extending along the left subclavian vein and progressing through the left paramediastinal regionThe presence of persistent left superior vena cava was confirmed after reviewing prior studies. CLINICAL DISCUSSION: The most common abnormality in the venous drainage system is PLSVC. Approximately 40 % of PLSVC cases have associated significant cardiovascular anomalies, with septal defects being the most common. Recognizing anomalies and anatomical variants with the involvement of a multidisciplinary team is critical to prevent vascular complications during endovascular procedures and to tailor techniques for patients in need of cardiac endovascular procedures or cardiac devices. CONCLUSION: PLSVC is often asymptomatic and discovered incidentally, it is essential to have a comprehensive understanding of this anomaly and perform meticulous imaging workup to prevent potential complications.

Giant squamous cell carcinoma developed on a mesh-related enterocutaneous fistula: A case report.

INTRODUCTION: Squamous cell carcinoma degeneration on enterocutaneous fistulas (EF) is infrequent. There are some reports of malignant conversion in Crohn's disease-associated fistulas. Literature about the malignant development of mesh-related EF is even more limited. PRESENTATION OF THE CASE: A 66-year-old patient who developed necrotizing pancreatitis was managed through an open necrosectomy approach with a prolonged open abdomen that derived an incisional hernia which was repaired using a synthetic mesh. Years later, the patient was admitted to the service because of hypovolemic shock due to gastrointestinal bleeding. An abdominal wound with mesh exposition and cloudy discharge was observed. A high-output enterocutaneous fistula diagnosis was established. After an institutional surgical committee, a surgical approach was defined, a 60 cm en-block resection of the involved small bowel was done, and the surgical specimen was obtained for histopathological analysis. DISCUSSION: The use of prosthetic mesh in the case of incisional hernias is associated with a higher incidence of complications. However, there is no evidence of the development of squamous cell carcinoma developed on a mesh-related enterocutaneous fistula. This is a condition associated with Chron's disease and its diagnosis should be suspected by the exacerbation of local signs and symptoms. The scarce literature published suggests that this pathology can be managed by radical surgery and even chemoradiation, the last one required only for patients with associated Chron's disease. CONCLUSION: Squamous Cell Carcinoma developed on a mesh-related enterocutaneous fistula is a rare condition with no classic signs and symptoms that allow diagnostic identification.

Mucinous appendix intussusception: Case report.

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE: Intussusception is an intestinal invagination of one bowel segment into another. It occurs mostly in children, but it can show in adults due to different etiologies. Appendiceal neoplasms are rare and can mimic an acute onset of appendicitis. Appendiceal mucinous neoplasm is one of the subtypes of appendiceal malignancies found in less than 1 % of appendectomies samples. CASE PRESENTATION: We present the case of a 32-year-old woman with abdominal pain in the right upper quadrant, whose computed tomography revealed an ileocolic intussusception and a low-density tubular image in the distal loop. She underwent diagnostic laparoscopy and laparoscopic right colectomy. Biopsy results confirmed a LAMN with acute appendicitis and intussusception. CLINICAL DISCUSSION: Appendiceal intussusception (AI) is associated with the alteration of peristalsis, in addition to multiple inflammatory conditions and diseases such as parasites, foreign bodies, Crohn's disease, and lymphoid hyperplasia. The pathophysiology of AI is not fully established, but the main appendicular alteration that has been associated with it is the presence of a tumor. AI lead points are typically pathological in 90 % of cases, 65 % of which are neoplastic in nature. Right hemicolectomy should be performed for tumors involving the periappendicular area or in those larger than 2 cm in size. Follow-up and surveillance colonoscopy is suggested. CONCLUSION: Intussusception is a rare diagnosis in adults. However, malignancy should be suspected if identified.

Differences in the evolution and management of acute appendicitis in patients with COVID-19: a case-control study.

BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic has generated uncertainty about the management of appendicitis. AIM: The aim of this study was to evaluate differences in the evolution and treatment of acute appendicitis in patients with COVID-19 infection compared to patients without the infection. METHODS: A case-control study of adult patients hospitalized for acute appendicitis was performed, having as cases those who presented COVID-19. Data were extracted from the medical records. The logistic regression model was used to calculate crude (cOR) and adjusted odds ratios (aOR) with their respective 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). RESULTS: We evaluated 38 cases and 76 controls, the mean age of the patients was 38.2 years (± 16.8), of whom 55.3% were women. Multivariate analysis showed, in cases, a lower probability of intraoperative findings (aOR: 0.21; 95% CI: 0.05-0.90) and a surgery time of more than 60 min (aOR: 0.21; 95% CI: 0.06-0.80), while there was a greater probability of management by open surgery (aOR: 3.83; 95% CI: 1.42-10.32) and a hospitalization time of more than 3 days after surgery (aOR: 3.33; 95% CI: 1.34-8.26). CONCLUSION: Significant differences were observed in terms of intraoperative findings, type of surgery, intraoperative time, and hospitalization time in patients with acute appendicitis and COVID-19.

ANTECEDENTES: La pandemia de COVID-19 ha generado incertidumbre sobre el manejo de la apendicitis. OBJETIVO: Evaluar las diferencias en la evolución y el tratamiento de la apendicitis en pacientes con COVID-19 en comparación con los pacientes sin la infección. MÉTODOS: Se realizó un estudio de casos y controles de pacientes adultos hospitalizados por apendicitis aguda, teniendo como casos aquellos que presentaron COVID-19. Los datos se extrajeron de las historias clínicas. Se utilizó el modelo de regresión logística para calcular las odds ratios (OR) crudas y ajustadas con sus respectivos intervalos de confianza del 95% (IC 95%). RESULTADOS: Se evaluaron 38 casos y 76 controles, la edad media de los pacientes fue de 38.2 años (± 16.8), de los cuales el 55,3% eran mujeres. El análisis multivariante mostró, en los casos, una menor probabilidad de hallazgos intra operatorios (ORa: 0,21; IC 95%: 0.05-0.90) y un tiempo de cirugía superior a 60 min (ORa: 0.21; IC 95%: 0.06-0.80), mientras que hubo una mayor probabilidad de manejo mediante cirugía abierta (ORa: 3.83; IC 95%: 1.42-10.32) y un tiempo de hospitalización superior a tres días tras la cirugía (ORa: 3.33; IC 95%: 1.34-8.26). CONCLUSIONES: Se observaron diferencias significativas en cuanto a los hallazgos intraoperatorios, el tipo de cirugía, el tiempo intraoperatorio y el tiempo de hospitalización en pacientes con apendicitis aguda y COVID-19.

Dysregulated lipolysis and lipophagy in lipid droplets of macrophages from high fat diet-fed obese mice.

Obesity is associated with lipid droplet (LD) accumulation, dysregulated lipolysis and chronic inflammation. Previously, the caspase recruitment domain-containing protein 9 (CARD9) has been identified as a potential contributor to obesity-associated abnormalities including cardiac dysfunction. In the current study, we explored a positive feedback signalling cycle of dysregulated lipolysis, CARD9-associated inflammation, impaired lipophagy and excessive LD accumulation in sustaining the chronic inflammation associated with obesity. C57BL/6 WT and CARD9-/- mice were fed with normal diet (ND, 12% fat) or a high fat diet (HFD, 45% fat) for 5 months. Staining of LDs from peritoneal macrophages (PMs) revealed a significant increase in the number of cells with LD and the number of LD per cell in the HFD-fed WT but not CARD9-/- obese mice. Rather, CARD9 KO significantly increased the mean LD size. WT obese mice showed down regulation of lipolytic proteins with increased diacylglycerol (DAG) content, and CARD9 KO normalized DAG with restored lipolytic protein expression. The build-up of DAG in the WT obese mice is further associated with activation of PKCδ, NF-κB and p38 MAPK inflammatory signalling in a CARDD9-dependent manner. Inhibition of adipose triglyceride lipase (ATGL) by Atglistatin (Atg) resulted in similar effects as in CARD9-/- mice. Interestingly, CARD9 KO and Atg treatment enhanced lipophagy. In conclusion, HFD feeding likely initiated a positive feedback signalling loop from dysregulated lipolysis, CARD9-dependent inflammation, impaired lipophagy, to excessive LD accumulation and sustained inflammation. CARD9 KO and Atg treatment protected against the chronic inflammation by interrupting this feedforward cycle.

A Novel Late-Stage Autophagy Inhibitor That Efficiently Targets Lysosomes Inducing Potent Cytotoxic and Sensitizing Effects in Lung Cancer.

Overcoming resistance is one of the most challenging features in current anticancer therapy. Autophagy is a cellular process that confers resistance in some advanced tumors, since it enables cancer cells to adapt to stressful situations, such as anticancer treatments. Hence, the inhibition of this cytoprotective autophagy leads to tumor cells sensitization and death. In this regard, we designed a novel potent anionophore compound that specifically targets lysosomes, called LAI-1 (late-stage autophagy inhibitor-1), and evaluated its role in blocking autophagy and its potential anticancer effects in three lung cancer cell lines from different histological subtypes. Compared to other autophagy inhibitors, such as chloroquine and 3-Methyladenine, the LAI-1 treatment induced more potent anticancer effects in all tested cancer cells. LAI-1 was able to efficiently target and deacidify lysosomes, while acidifying cytoplasmic pH. Consequently, LAI-1 efficiently blocked autophagy, indicated by the increased LC3-II/I ratio and p62/SQSTM1 levels. Moreover, no colocalization was observed between autophagosomes, marked with LC3 or p62/SQSTM1, and lysosomes, stained with LAMP-1, after the LAI-1 treatment, indicating the blockage of autophagolysosome formation. Furthermore, LAI-1 induced cell death by activating apoptosis (enhancing the cleavage of caspase-3 and PARP) or necrosis, depending on the cancer cell line. Finally, LAI-1 sensitized cancer cells to the first-line chemotherapeutic agent cisplatin. Altogether, LAI-1 is a new late-stage autophagy inhibitor that causes lysosomal dysfunction and the blockage of autophagolysosome formation, as well as potently induces cancer cell death and sensitization to conventional treatments at lower concentrations than other known autophagy inhibitors, appearing as a potential new therapeutic approach to overcome cancer resistance.

E-cigarette exposure with or without heating the e-liquid induces differential remodeling in the lungs and right heart of mice.

Various cardiopulmonary pathologies associated with electronic cigarette (EC) vaping have been reported. This study investigated the differential adverse effects of heating-associated by-products versus the intact components of EC aerosol to the lungs and heart of mice. We further dissected the roles of caspase recruitment domain-containing protein 9 (CARD9)-associated innate immune response and NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome in EC exposure-induced cardiopulmonary injury. C57BL/6 wild type (WT), CARD9-/-, and NLRP3-/- mice were exposed to EC aerosol 3 h/day, 5 days/week for 6 month with or without heating the e-liquid with exposure to ambient air as the control. In WT mice, EC exposure with heating (EwH) significantly increased right ventricle (RV) free wall thickness at systole and diastole. However, EC exposure without heating (EwoH) caused a significant decrease in the wall thickness at systole. RV fractional shortening was also markedly reduced following EwH in WT and NLRP3-/- mice. Further, EwH activated NF-κB and p38 MAPK inflammatory signaling in the lungs, but not in the RV, in a CARD9- and NLRP3-dependent manner. Levels of circulatory inflammatory mediators were also elevated following EwH, indicating systemic inflammation. Moreover, EwoH activated TGF-ß1/SMAD2/3/α-SMA fibrosis signaling in the lungs but not the RV of WT mice. In conclusion, EC aerosol exposure following EwH or EwoH induced differential cardiopulmonary remodeling and CARD9 innate immune response and NLRP3 inflammasome contributed to the adverse effects.

Características clínicas y morbimortalidad en cirugía abdominal de emergencia en pacientes con COVID-19 / Clinical characteristics, morbidity and mortality following an emergency abdominal surgery in patients with COVID-19

RESUMEN Objetivo: Presentar las características clínicas, análisis de laboratorio, diagnóstico, tratamiento y evolución de los pacientes portadores de la enfermedad por el virus SARS-CoV-2 operados en emergencia. Materiales y métodos: Estudio multicéntrico de tipo descriptivo y retrospectivo de 45 pacientes operados de emergencia por abdomen agudo quirúrgico con diagnóstico de COVID-19 activo, entre abril y agosto del 2020. Resultados: Se operó a 45 pacientes con enfermedad abdominal aguda. El 55,55 % fueron varones y el 44,44 %, mujeres, con una media de edad de 48,33 años. El método de diagnóstico de COVID-19 más frecuente fue la prueba serológica (88,88 %). A todos los pacientes se les realizó una tomografía pulmonar que fue informada como "sin alteraciones" en 31,11 % de los casos y con un consolidado bilateral en 48,88 %. Los diagnósticos más frecuentes fueron apendicitis aguda (64,44 %) y obstrucción intestinal (15,55 %). Las complicaciones postoperatorias se presentaron en 35,55 % de los casos (16 de 45 pacientes), las más frecuentes fueron la insuficiencia respiratoria (15,55 %) y la insuficiencia renal aguda (13,33 %). Dos pacientes (4,44 %) fallecieron a causa de la insuficiencia respiratoria severa. Conclusiones: El diagnóstico de COVID-19 se realizó con base en las pruebas serológicas y en los hallazgos de la tomografía axial computarizada pulmonar. La operación quirúrgica más frecuente fue la apendicectomía. Se encontró una morbilidad y mortalidad baja en relación a lo reportado en la literatura médica.

ABSTRACT Objective: To present the clinical characteristics, laboratory analyses, diagnosis, treatment and evolution of patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection who underwent an emergency surgery. Materials and methods: A multicenter, descriptive and retrospective study conducted in 45 patients who underwent an emergency surgery for acute (surgical) abdomen with a diagnosis of COVID-19 between April and August 2020. Results: Forty-five (45) patients with acute abdomen underwent surgery, out of which 55.55 % were men and 44.44 % were women, with a mean age of 48.33 years. The most frequently used diagnostic test for COVID-19 was the serology test (88.88 %). All the patients underwent a chest computed tomography scan which showed no alterations (31.11 %) and bilateral consolidation of the lungs (48.88 %). The most frequent diagnoses were acute appendicitis (64.44 %) and intestinal obstruction (15.55 %). Postoperative complications occurred in 16 patients (35.55 %). The most frequent complications were respiratory failure (15.55 %) and acute renal failure (13.33 %). Two patients (4.4 %) died due to severe respiratory failure. Conclusions: COVID-19 was diagnosed based on serology tests and chest computed tomography scan findings. The most frequent surgery was appendectomy. Low morbidity and mortality rates were observed in relation to those reported in the medical literature.

[Results of the application of the Protocol for Improved Recovery in Surgery (PREMEC) in the surgical treatment of colorectal cancer at the Edgardo Rebagliati National Hospital â€" EsSalud]. / Resultados de la aplicación del Protocolo de Recuperación Mejorada en Cirugía (PREMEC) en el tratamiento quirúrgico del cáncer colorrectal en el Hospital Nacional Edgardo Rebagliati â€" EsSalud.

INTRODUCTION: Improvement in health care is reflected in achieving better results in quality indicators. For quite some time several programs have pursued a reduction of complications and length of stay. A program called Protocol for Improved Recovery in Surgery (PREMEC) has been implemeted at the colorectal surgery service. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study is to show results of the implementation of PREMEC. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This is an observational study of two cohorts, 516 patients were included. One is a historic cohort (before the protocol) comprised by patients who underwent resective colonic and rectal surgery through an open approach from January 2017 to November 2018. The other prospective cohort includes patients treated under the PREMEC program from December 2018 through to March 2020. This cohort was divided into two groups according to the surgical approach, open and laparoscopic. All groups were compared regarding postoperative length of stay, complications, mortality and readmissions. RESULTS: Groups were similar in age, sex, cancer staging and type of surgery. Length of stay was 13.86 days (SD 7.86 days) for the pre-PREMEC group, 10.62 days (SD 5.4 days) for the PREMEC open group and 6.86 days (SD 2.7 days) for the PREMEC laparoscopic group. As for complications the PREMEC group showed a decrease in anastomotic leaks, Surgical Site Infection (SSI) and postoperative ileus. No differences were found regarding mortality, reoperations and readmissions. CONCLUSION: Implementation of the PREMEC program attained a decrease in length of stay, anastomotic leaks, SSI and postoperative ileus with no increase in mortality, reoperations or readmissions.

Plant Volatiles Help Mediate Host Plant Selection and Attraction of the Spotted Lanternfly (Hemiptera: Fulgoridae): a Generalist With a Preferred Host.

Host plant volatiles play a key role in mediating plant-herbivore interactions. How an array of host plant volatiles guides host preference and attraction in the invasive polyphagous Lycorma delicatula (White), the spotted lanternfly (SLF), is largely unknown. A pernicious phloem feeder, SLF feeds on over 70 species of plants, some with high economic impact. To aid the development of detection and monitoring tools for SLF, we used a two-choice olfactometer to compare 14 host plant species for attraction, first to a blank control, and then to their preferred host Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) Swingle (Sapindales: Simaroubaceae), tree-of-heaven. SLF were significantly attracted to seven host plants compared to a blank control, but no host plant was more attractive than tree-of-heaven. We then used electroantennographic detection (EAD) to screen select host plants for EAD active compounds, hypothesizing that EAD-active plant volatiles act as kairomones and mediate SLF attraction to host plants. Out of 43 unique antennal responses, 18 compounds were identified and tested individually for attraction in a two-choice olfactometer against a blank control and then against methyl salicylate, the current best attractant. Eleven compounds were significantly attractive, and one, sulcatone, was more attractive than methyl salicylate. Blends of kairomones were then tested for attraction, revealing five blends that were significantly more attractive than methyl salicylate, and could be developed into lures for field testing. The presence of these kairomones in volatile profiles of 17 plant species is described. These findings support the hypothesis that the identified volatiles act as kairomones and function in attraction to host plants.

Resultados de la aplicación del Protocolo de Recuperación Mejorada en Cirugía (PREMEC) en el tratamiento quirúrgico del cáncer colorrectal en el Hospital Nacional Edgardo Rebagliati - EsSalud / Results of the application of the Protocol for Improved Recovery in Surgery (PREMEC) in the surgical treatment of colorectal cancer at the Edgardo Rebagliati National Hospital - EsSalud

RESUMEN Introducción: La mejora en la atención de salud se ha visto reflejada en la obtención de mejores resultados de los indicadores de calidad. Desde hace mucho tiempo diversos programas buscan disminuir las complicaciones y la estancia postoperatoria. En el servicio de cirugía colorrectal se ha implementado un programa denominado Protocolo de Recuperación Mejorada en Cirugía (PREMEC) en pacientes con diagnóstico de cáncer colorrectal. Objetivo: El objetivo del presente estudio fue presentar los resultados con la implementación del PREMEC. Materiales y método: Estudio observacional de dos cohortes. Se estudiaron 516 pacientes. Una es la cohorte histórica (antes del protocolo) conformada por pacientes operados con cirugía resectiva de colon y recto mediante abordaje abierto entre enero del 2017 y noviembre del 2018. La otra cohorte prospectiva estuvo conformadas por pacientes que fueron manejados de acuerdo al PREMEC desde diciembre del 2018 hasta marzo del 2020. Esta cohorte se dividió en dos grupos según el abordaje quirúrgico, abierto y laparoscópico. Se compararon los grupos entre sí, teniendo en cuenta las variables de estancia postoperatoria, complicaciones, mortalidad, reoperaciones y readmisiones. Resultados: Los grupos fueron similares en edad, sexo, estadio del cáncer y cirugía realizada. La estancia hospitalaria en el grupo antes del protocolo fue 13,86 (DS 7,86) días, en el grupo PREMEC abordaje abierto fue 10,62 (DS 5,4) días y el grupo PREMEC abordaje laparoscópico de 6,86 (DS 2,7) días. A nivel de las complicaciones en el grupo PREMEC se demostró la disminución de las fugas anastomóticas, Infecciones de Sitio Operatorio (IS0) e íleo postoperatorio. No se encontró diferencias en la mortalidad, reoperaciones y readmisiones. Conclusión: La implementación del PREMEC logró disminuir la estancia postoperatoria, las fugas anastomóticas, ISO e íleo postoperatorio, sin incremento de la mortalidad, reoperaciones y readmisiones.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Improvement in health care is reflected in achieving better results in quality indicators. For quite some time several programs have pursued a reduction of complications and length of stay. A program called Protocol for Improved Recovery in Surgery (PREMEC) has been implemeted at the colorectal surgery service. Objective: The objective of this study is to show results of the implementation of PREMEC. Materials and methods: This is an observational study of two cohorts, 516 patients were included. One is a historic cohort (before the protocol) comprised by patients who underwent resective colonic and rectal surgery through an open approach from January 2017 to November 2018. The other prospective cohort includes patients treated under the PREMEC program from December 2018 through to March 2020. This cohort was divided into two groups according to the surgical approach, open and laparoscopic. All groups were compared regarding postoperative length of stay, complications, mortality and readmissions. Results: Groups were similar in age, sex, cancer staging and type of surgery. Length of stay was 13.86 days (SD 7.86 days) for the pre-PREMEC group, 10.62 days (SD 5.4 days) for the PREMEC open group and 6.86 days (SD 2.7 days) for the PREMEC laparoscopic group. As for complications the PREMEC group showed a decrease in anastomotic leaks, Surgical Site Infection (SSI) and postoperative ileus. No differences were found regarding mortality, reoperations and readmissions. Conclusion: Implementation of the PREMEC program attained a decrease in length of stay, anastomotic leaks, SSI and postoperative ileus with no increase in mortality, reoperations or readmissions.

Click-tambjamines as efficient and tunable bioactive anion transporters.

A novel class of transmembrane anion carriers, the click-tambjamines, display remarkable anionophoric activities in model liposomes and living cells. The versatility of this building block for the generation of molecular diversity offers promise to develop future drugs based on this design.

Operaciones abdominopélvicas de emergencia en pacientes con COVID-19 en el Hospital Edgardo Rebagliati Martins - EsSalud, Lima, Perú / Emergency abdominopelvic operations in patients with COVID-19at Hospital Edgardo Rebagliati Martins ­ EsSalud

Introducción. La pandemia COVID-19 que se declaró el 11 de marzo de este año, se extendió desde China a todo el mundo rápidamente, y la gran cantidad de pacientes infectados ha saturado nuestro precario sistema de salud, lo que ha obligado a restringir la actividad quirúrgica electiva y de emergencia. El objetivo del presente estudio fue describir las características clínicas y quirúrgicas de los pacientes con COVID-19 operados en el servicio de emergencia del Hospital Nacional Edgardo Rebagliati Martins - EsSalud. Método. Se realizó un estudio descriptivo, observacional y retrospectivo, donde se incluyeron los pacientes con diagnóstico de COVID-19 operados por el servicio de emergencia, entre el 6 de marzo y el 8 de junio de 2020. Se analizan las características clínicas, hallazgos en los exámenes diagnósticos y características quirúrgicas. Resultados. Se operaron de emergencia 26 pacientes y se realizaron 17 cesáreas, 4 apendicectomías, 2 resecciones intestinales con ostomía, una herniorrafia inguinal, una rafia vesical y una laparotomía exploradora. Todas tu-vieron abordaje abierto. Los síntomas más frecuentes fueron tos y fiebre; 23% los pacientes fueron asintomáticos. El diagnóstico de COVID-19 se confirmó con pruebas rápidas o serológicas. En el grupo de patología abdominal se elevaron la proteína C reactiva y el dímero D más que en el grupo de cesáreas. Se encontró una complicación (infección del sitio operatorio) y no se observó fallecimientos. Conclusión. La adopción de medidas restrictivas en la indicación quirúrgica de emergencia en los pacientes puede explicar la ausencia de complicaciones severas y fallecimientos en esta serie.

Introduction. The COVID-19 pandemic that was declared on March 11 of this year, spread from China to the entire world rapidly, and the large number of infected patients has saturated our precarious health system, which has forced to restrict the elective and emergency surgical activity. The objective of this study was to describe the clinical and surgical characteristics of patients with COVID-19 operated on in the emergency service of the Edgardo Rebagliati Martins National Hospital ­ EsSalud.Method. A descriptive, observational and retrospective study was performed, which included patients with a diagnosis of COVID-19 operated by the emergency service, between March 6 and June 8, 2020. The clinical characteristics, diagnostic tests and surgical findings were analyzed.Results. 26 patients underwent emergency surgery and 17 caesarean sections, four appendectomies, two intestinal resections with ostomy, an inguinal herniorrhaphy, a bladder raffia and an exploratory laparotomy were performed. All had an open approach. The most frequent symptoms were cough and fever; 23% of the patients were asymptomatic. The diagnosis of COVID-19 was confirmed with rapid or serological tests. In the abdominal pathology group, C-reactive protein and D-dimer were elevated more than in the cesarean section. A complication was found (infection of the surgical site) and no deaths were observed.Conclusion. The adoption of restrictive measures in surgical indications for emergency patients may explain the absence of severe complications and deaths in this series