Association between the genetic variant in the vitamin D pathway (rs2282679), circulating 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels, insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome criteria.

Introduction: Background and aims: some studies have reported links between 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels and the presence of metabolic syndrome. The aim of the present study was to evaluate whether an association exists among 25-hydroxyvitamin D, rs2282679 of the GC gene and metabolic syndrome (MS). Methods: the study involved a population of 134 postmenopausal obese females. Measurements of anthropometric parameters, blood pressure, bone turnover markers, fasting blood glucose, insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), lipid profile, C-reactive protein and prevalence of MS were recorded. Genotype of CG gene polymorphism (rs2282679) was evaluated. Results: insulin (delta: 4.6 ± 0.9 mUI/l; p = 0.02), triglycerides (delta: 21.6 ± 2.9 mg/dl; p = 0.04) and HOMA-IR (delta: 1.1 ± 0.9 unit; p = 0.02) were lower in TT subjects than TG + GG patients. The percentages of individuals who had MS (OR = 2.80, 95 % CI = 1.39-5.65; p = 0.02), hypertriglyceridemia (OR = 2.39, 95 % CI = 1.44-5.96; p = 0.01), and hyperglycemia (OR = 2.72, 95 % CI = 1.23-6.00; p = 0.43) were higher in G allele carriers. Logistic regression analysis showed an increased risk of MS in G allele carriers (OR = 2.36, 95 % CI = 1.11-5.91, p = 0.02) and an increased risk of 25-hydroxyvitamin D deficiency (< 20 ng/ml) (OR = 2.43, 95 % CI = 1.13-6.69, p = 0.02), too. Conclusions: a negative association among G allele and insulin resistance, hypertriglyceridemia, deficiency of 25 hydroxyvitamin D levels and MS was reported in this population.

Introducción: Antecedentes y objetivos: algunos estudios han demostrado una relación entre los niveles de 25-hidroxivitamina D y la presencia del síndrome metabólico. El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar si existe una asociación entre la 25-hidroxivitamina D, la variante rs2282679 del gen GC y el síndrome metabólico (SM). Métodos: el estudio involucró a una población de 134 mujeres obesas posmenopáusicas. Se registraron parámetros antropométricos, presión arterial, marcadores de recambio óseo, glucemia en ayunas, resistencia a la insulina (HOMA-IR), perfil lipídico, proteína C reactiva y prevalencia de SM. Se evaluó el genotipo del polimorfismo del gen CG (rs2282679). Resultados: los niveles de insulina (delta: 4,6 ± 0,9 mUI/l; p = 0.02), triglicéridos (delta: 21,6 ± 2,9 mg/dl; p = 0,04) y HOMA-IR (delta: 1,1 ± 0,9 unidades; p = 0,02) fueron menores en los sujetos TT que en los pacientes TG + GG. Los porcentajes de individuos que tenían SM (OR = 2,80, IC 95 % = 1,39-5,65; p = 0,02), hipertrigliceridemia (OR = 2,39, IC 95 % = 1,44-5,96; p = 0,01) e hiperglucemia (OR = 2,72, IC 95 % = 1,23-6,00; p = 0,43) fueron mayores en los portadores del alelo G. El análisis de regresión logística mostró un mayor riesgo de SM en los portadores del alelo G (OR = 2,36, IC 95 % = 1,11-5,91; p = 0,02) y un mayor riesgo de deficiencia de 25-hidroxivitamina D (< 20 ng/ml) (OR = 2,43, IC 95 % = 1,13-6,69; p = 0,02). Conclusiones: en esta población hemos detectado una asociación negativa entre el alelo G y la resistencia a la insulina, hipertrigliceridemia, deficiencia niveles de 25-hidroxivitamina D y SM.

Self-Supported Spray-Coated NiFe-LDH Catalyst on a Stainless Steel Substrate for Efficient Oxygen Evolution Reaction.

In the quest for more efficient and cost-effective electrocatalytic systems, careful selection of catalysts and substrates plays a pivotal role. This study introduces an approach by synthesizing and depositing NiFe-layered double hydroxide (NiFe-LDH) catalysts on commercial AISI 304 substrates by using a low-temperature spray-coating technique. Through systematic investigations, the influence of processing conditions, such as the synthesis, ultrasonic power for having a stable nanoparticle's dispersion, and spray cycle optimization on the electrochemical and morphological properties of the coatings, is thoroughly explored. The results showcase exceptional catalytic performance, achieving an overpotential of 230 mV at 10 mA/cm2, with enhanced stability even at high current densities of 500 mA/cm2. The study highlights the significance of meticulous processing optimization and presents a scalable methodology that holds great potential for developing catalysts for oxygen evolution reactions (OER) and facilitates their integration into industrial processes.

Carotenogénesis y pigmentos en Cucurbita spp

Los carotenoides son pigmentos orgánicos que el organismo no puede sintetizar y deben ser suministrados en la dieta humana. Este artículo de revisión tiene por objetivo abordar la ruta carotenogénica y los pigmentos predominantes en la pulpa de cucurbitáceas, siendo una de las hortalizas con mayor contenido de carotenoides, de tonalidades amarillo y naranja. Se recopiló literatura relevante sobre la temática proveniente de libros y de artículos científicos, identificando que el género Cucurbita, por ser de naturaleza alógama, expresa alta variabilidad fenotípica y genotípica, que es afectada por el ambiente y, ello, supone alta variabilidad en la composición de carotenoides del fruto, tanto cuantitativa como cualitativamente. Los carotenoides son los responsables de dar color característico a las flores y a los frutos; los apocarotenoides son conocidos por dar aromas, fragancias y sabores. El almacenamiento y la biosíntesis de los carotenoides se genera en los plastidios, estos pigmentos se pueden sintetizar por la ruta del metileritritol difosfato (MEP) hasta licopeno, donde se bifurca a α-caroteno y ß-caroteno y, posteriormente, mediante hidroxilaciones, se generan las xantofilas. Su importancia en la acumulación de carotenoides en frutos radica en las múltiples funciones y beneficios en plantas, animales y humanos, como fotoreceptores y fotoprotectores de luz, colorantes agroindustriales, antioxidantes, reducción de enfermedades crónicas, precursores de vitamina A, entre otros beneficios, cabe destacar el alto contenido de carotenos totales en cucurbitáceas encontrándose en Cucurbita moschata más de 600 µg/g en genotipos mejorados.

Carotenoids are organic pigments that the body cannot synthesize and must be supplied in the human diet. This review article aims to approach the carotenogenic route and the predominant pigments in the fruits of Cucurbits, as this is one of the vegetables with the highest content of carotenoids of yellow and orange tones. Relevant literature on the subject was collected from scientific books and articles, identifying that the genus Cucurbita, being cross-pollinated in nature, expresses high phenotypic and genotypic variability, which is affected by the environment and, this implies high variability in the carotenoid composition of the fruit, both quantitatively and qualitatively. Carotenoids are responsible for giving characteristic color to flowers and fruits, apocarotenoids are known to give aromas, fragrances, and flavors. The biosynthesis and storage of carotenoids are generated in the plastids, the pathway of methylerythritol diphosphate (MEP) to lycopene can synthesize these pigments where it bifurcates to α-carotene and ß-carotene and later, by hydroxylations, xanthophylls are generated. Its importance in the accumulation of carotenoids in fruits lies in the multiple functions and benefits in plants, animals, and humans as photoreceptors and photoprotectors of light, agroindustrial colorants, antioxidants, reduction of chronic diseases, precursors of vitamin A, among other benefits. Highlighting the high content of total carotenes in Cucurbits, with more than 600 µg / g in Cucurbita moschata found in improved genotypes.

Effects of a Losartan-Antioxidant Hybrid (GGN1231) on Vascular and Cardiac Health in an Experimental Model of Chronic Renal Failure.

Drugs providing antihypertensive and protective cardiovascular actions are of clinical interest in controlling cardiovascular events and slowing the progression of kidney disease. We studied the effect of a hybrid compound, GGN1231 (derived from losartan in which a powerful antioxidant was attached), on the prevention of cardiovascular damage, cardiac hypertrophy, and fibrosis in a rat model of severe chronic renal failure (CRF). CRF by a 7/8 nephrectomy was carried out in male Wistar rats fed with a diet rich in phosphorous (0.9%) and normal calcium (0.6%) for a period of 12 weeks until sacrifice. In week 8, rats were randomized in five groups receiving different drugs including dihydrocaffeic acid as antioxidant (Aox), losartan (Los), dihydrocaffeic acid+losartan (Aox+Los) and GGN1231 as follows: Group 1 (CRF+vehicle group), Group 2 (CRF+Aox group), Group 3 (CRF+Los group), Group 4 (CRF+Aox+Los group), and Group 5 (CRF+GGN1231 group). Group 5, the CRF+GGN1231 group, displayed reduced proteinuria, aortic TNF-α, blood pressure, LV wall thickness, diameter of the cardiomyocytes, ATR1, cardiac TNF-α and fibrosis, cardiac collagen I, and TGF-ß1 expression. A non-significant 20% reduction in the mortality was also observed. This study showed the possible advantages of GGN1231, which could help in the management of cardiovascular and inflammatory processes. Further research is needed to confirm and even expand the positive aspects of this compound.

Gratitud eterna para los fundadores de la docencia médica en Cienfuegos

En el marco de los 40 años de la docencia médica en Cienfuegos, este artículo constituye un pequeño, pero sincero, homenaje para sus fundadores. El primer grupo de alumnos de 3er año de la carrera de Medicina, llegó en septiembre de 1980 al Hospital Dr. Gustavo Aldereguía Lima, de Cienfuegos. En este trabajo se hace una relatoría de los primeros trabajadores de la Unidad Docente, que radicó donde se encuentra hoy la oficina del Consejo Científico, la distribución de los alumnos y profesores por salas, la ubicación de los primeros albergues, las primeras actividades científicas, hoy Fórum Científico Estudiantil, el Movimiento de alumnos ayudantes, actividades extracurriculares: la primera actividad por el día de la mujer, las primeras celebraciones por el día del Educador, el primer chequeo de emulación de los tres centros de educación superior de la provincia, el inicio de las manifestaciones de la cultura, entre otros aspectos, anécdotas y comentarios.

Within the framework of 40 years of medical teaching in Cienfuegos, this article constitutes a small, but sincere, tribute to its founders. The first group of 3rd year Medicine students arrived in September 1980 at the Dr. Gustavo Aldereguía Lima Hospital in Cienfuegos. In this work, a report is made of the first workers of the Teaching Unit, which was located where the office of the Scientific Council is today, the distribution of students and teachers by rooms, the location of the first hostels, the first scientific activities, today the Student Scientific Forum, the Movement of student assistants, extracurricular activities: the first activity for Women's Day, the first celebrations for Educator's Day, the first emulation check of the three higher education centers in the province, the beginning of the manifestations of culture, among other aspects, anecdotes and comments.

A single FTO gene variant rs9939609 is associated with weight change and insulin resistance improvement in response to a robotic sleeve gastrectomy in individuals with severe obesity.

BACKGROUND: Genetic mechanisms have been involved in the weight response secondary to bariatric surgery. OBJECTIVE: The aim of our study was to evaluate the effects of the rs9939609 genetic variant on weight loss and metabolic parameters after sleeve gastrectomy. SETTING: Tertiary hospital. METHODS: A total of 95 participants were enrolled. Co-morbidities, biochemical evaluation, and anthropometric parameters were registered before and after 3-, 6-, and 12-month follow-up. Genotype of the rs9939609 fat mass and obesity-associated (FTO) gene was evaluated. RESULTS: We grouped the participants into 2 groups: carriers of A allele (TA+AA, 69.5%) and noncarriers of A allele (TT, 30.5%). We detected a statistically significant reduction of blood pressure, biochemical, and anthropometric parameters at 3 times during follow-up. After 6 months, changes of some parameters were greater in non-A allele carriers: weight (-39.6 + 4.0 kg versus -24.6 + 2.8 kg; P = .02), waist circumference (-21.1 + 2.1 cm versus -16.2 + 1.8 cm; P = .04), insulin (-12.3 + .9 mUI/L versus -8.9.1 + .2 mUI/L; P = .02), and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (-3.1 + .1 units versus -2.3 + .1 units; P = .02 ). After 12 months, changes of the aforementioned parameters remained greater in non-A allele carriers. The percentage of participants with diabetes diminished earlier in the non-A allele carriers than A allele carriers at 6-month follow-up. The percentage of participants with diabetes at the end of the study was lower in non-A allele carriers (3.4% versus 12.1%; P = .02). CONCLUSIONS: Our data suggest that non-A allele carriers of the genetic variant (rs9939609) of the FTO gene showed a better improvement of anthropometric and insulin levels in non-A allele carriers after a robotic sleeve gastrectomy. Both improvements are associated with a lower percentage of participants with diabetes at 12 months.

Las Investigaciones en Servicios y Sistemas de Salud, instrumento de gestión en la atención sanitaria / Research in Health Services and Systems, a management tool in health care

Mejorar los procesos de atención en los servicios sanitarios es una prioridad del Ministerio de Salud Pública en Cuba y la Investigación en Servicios y Sistemas de Salud. Las proyecciones en este campo pueden estar dirigidas a la descripción de problemas de salud y de los servicios, la evaluación de intervenciones en salud (promoción, prevención, curación y rehabilitación) y las enfocadas en determinar situaciones problemáticas surgidas en la aplicación de actividades sanitarias con el objetivo de analizar las causas posibles y encontrar soluciones. Las investigaciones en servicios y sistemas de salud facilitan la planificación, organización, evaluación y control de los servicios y aportan evidencias para la dirección científica del sistema de Salud, por lo que el objetivo del artículo es analizar los aspectos metodológicos y organizacionales de las Investigaciones en Servicios y Sistemas de Salud y posibilitar la participación de los profesionales y directivos de múltiples disciplinas que propician la intersectorialidad.

Improving care processes in health services is a priority of the Ministry of Public Health in Cuba and Research in Health Services and Systems. The projections in this field can be aimed at the description of health problems and services, the evaluation of health interventions (promotion, prevention, cure, and rehabilitation) and those focused on determining problematic situations that arise in the application of health activities with the objective of analyzing the possible causes and finding solutions. Research in health services and systems facilitate the planning, organization, evaluation, and control of services and provide evidence for the scientific direction of the health system, so the objective of the article is to analyze the methodological and organizational aspects of Research in Health Services and Systems and enable the participation of professionals and managers from multiple disciplines that foster intersectoriality.

Mycotic Aneurysm of Internal Carotid Artery Secondary to Livestock-associated Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus Aureus Clonal Complex CC398.

The aim of this article is to present a case of mycotic aneurysm of internal carotid artery secondary to livestock-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (LA-MRSA) treated with resection and common-to-internal carotid artery bypass with autologous vein graft in a male pig farmer. A 69-year-old man, pig farmer, with recent dental extraction was admitted with a right cervical pulsatile mass, dysphonia, pain, leukocytosis and elevated C-reactive protein (CRP). Ultrasonography (US) and computed tomography angiography (CTA) showed a 3.9 × 4.5 cm mycotic aneurysm of right internal carotid artery with hypermetabolic uptake in positron emission tomography (PET) scan. Resection of the mycotic aneurysm and a common-to-internal carotid artery bypass with major saphenous vein graft were performed. LA-MRSA clonal complex (CC) 398 was detected in intraoperative samples and antibiotic therapy was changed according to antibiogram. Patient was discharged at the seventh postoperative day and received antibiotic therapy for 6 weeks. US 12 months later showed patency of the bypass without collections. Mycotic aneurysms of internal carotid artery are very infrequent. MRSA isolation is rare, and to the best of our knowledge this is the first case caused by multi-drug resistant LA-MRSA CC398. The treatment includes mycotic aneurysm resection and reconstruction with venous graft bypass plus intensive antibiotic therapy.

Incidence and dynamic risk stratification in differentiated thyroid cancer in a high-resolution clinic, 2002-2017.

OBJECTIVE: We evaluated the incidence, progression and the dynamic risk stratification in differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) under follow-up in a high-resolution clinic (HRC). METHODS: This was a retrospective observational study on incident cases in the tumor registry from 2002 to 2017 and their evolution under follow-up in HRC. RESULTS: A total of 444 patients (78.5% women, 52.1±14.9 mean years old) were DTC diagnosed from 2002 to 2017. The incidence rate of DTC increased from 5.2 to 25.7×105 habitants/year in women and from 2.3 to 7.1×105 habitants/year in men (P<0.0001). This increased incidence was not associated with an increment in the incidental papillary microcarcinoma diagnosed (from 29.4% to 32%). In those patients undergoing follow-up at the HRC (84% papillary carcinomas), 65.7% were classified as being at a low risk of recurrence compared to 14.5% at high risk. Of those, 88.8% classified as making an excellent response at diagnosis remained disease-free at the final follow-up visit. However, those patients with an indeterminate or structurally incomplete response at diagnosis evolved to an excellent response in 55.8% and 42.9% of the cases, respectively, compared to 14.8% of those with a biochemically incomplete response (P<0.001) CONCLUSIONS: The increased incidence of DTC is similar to results published previously in other countries. Dynamic risk stratification systems adequately classify DTC patients and assess diagnostic and treatment procedures, especially in low-risk subgroups.

Caracterización de una población pediátrica de escasos recursos que habita por encima de 2500 m. s. n. m., positiva para SARS-COV-2 / Characterization of a Low-Income Pediatric Population Living Above 2500 m. a. s. l. Positive for SARS-COV-2 / Caracterizaçáo de urna populaçáo pediátrica de baixa renda vivendo acima de 2.500 m. s. n. m. positiva para SARS-COV-2

Resumen: La infección por el nuevo SARS-COV-2 ha impactado de diversas maneras a toda la sociedad, incluidos los niños. Se describe el comportamiento de esta enfermedad en una población pediátrica de escasos recursos localizada por encima de 2500 m. s. n. m. Este es un trabajo retrospectivo transversal entre marzo y octubre de 2020 en Bogotá involucró niños entre 1 mes y 14 años con RT-PCR positiva para SARS-COV-2. Se estudiaron antecedentes, características sociodemográficas, clínicas, de laboratorio, radiológicas y evolutivas, agrupando los pacientes según la gravedad y analizando su significancia (p < 0.05). Como resultado, se obtuvieron 416 casos, de los cuales 43.3 % eran asintomáticos, 46.6 % sintomáticos leves, 8.9 % graves y 1.2 % críticos. De los consultantes a urgencias, los menores de 1 año fueron los más frecuentes (56.79 %) y los que más se hospitalizaron (35.8 %). El tiempo entre el inicio de los síntomas y la consulta fue en promedio de 2 días, El diagnóstico más frecuente en los pacientes no hospitalizados fue rinofaringitis (58.97 %), y en los que se hospitalizaron fue bronquiolitis (50 %). La mediana del tiempo de hospitalización de todo el grupo fue de 4 días la cual ser prolongó a 7 días para los que requirieron UCI. Con la hospitalización se asocia, entre otras causas, los índices nutricionales < 2 de, taquipnea, dificultad respiratoria, hipoxemia, linfopenia (en mayores de 2 años) (p < 0.05), no influyendo el hacinamiento ni el nivel socioeconómico. Después del estudio, se pudo concluir que la enfermedad es, generalmente, mucho más leve en niños que en adultos, diferenciándose de estos tanto en los factores predisponentes, los paraclínicos y en la evolución. Sin embargo, algunas variables demográficas, clínicas y de laboratorio podrían asociarse con una mayor gravedad en este grupo poblacional.

Abstract: Infection with the new SARS-COV-2 has impacted the entire society, including children, in various ways. The behavior of this disease in a low-income pediatric population located above 2500 m. a. s. I. is described. This is a cross-sectional retrospective study carried out between March and October 2020 in Bogotá involving children between 1 month and 14years old with positive RT-PCR for SARS-COV-2. History, sociodemographic, clinical, laboratory, radiological and evolutionary characteristics were studied, grouping the patients according to severity and analyzing their significance (p < 0.05). As a result, 416 cases were obtained, of which 43.3 % were asymptomatic, 46.6 % mildly symptomatic, 8.9 % severe, and 1.2 % critical. Of the consultants to the emergency room, those under 1 year of age were the most frequent (56.79 %) and those who were hospitalized the most (35.8 %). The time between the onset of symptoms and consultation was an average of 2 days. The most frequent diagnosis in non-hospitalized patients was rhinopharyngitis (58.97 %), and in those who were hospitalized it was bronchiolitis (50 %). The median hospitalization time for the entire group was 4 days, which was extended to 7 days for those who required ICU. Hospitalization is associated with, among other causes, nutritional indices < 2 SD, tachypnea, respiratory distress, hypoxemia, lymphopenia (in those older than 2 years) (p < 0.05), with neither overcrowding nor socioeconomic status as influencing factors. After the study, it was possible to conclude that the disease is generally much milder among children than in adults, differing from these in predisposing factors, paraclinical factors, and evolution. However, some demographic, clinical and laboratory variables could be associated with greater severity in this population group.

Resumo: A infecção com o novo SARS-COV-2 impactou toda a sociedade de várias maneiras, incluindo crianças. O comportamento desta doença em urna população pediátrica de baixa renda localizada acima de 2.500 m. s. n. m. é descrito. Este é um estudo transversal retrospectivo entre margo e outubro de 2020 em Bogotá, envolvendo crianças entre 1 mês e 14 anos com RT-PCR positiva para SARS- COV-2. Foram estudados antecedentes, características sociodemográficas, clínicas, laboratoriais, radiológicas e evolutivas, agrupando os pacientes de acordo com a gravidade e analisando sua significância (p < 0.05). Como resultado, foram obtidos 416 casos, sendo 43.3 % assintomáticos, 46.6 % sintomáticos leves, 8.9 % graves e 1.2 % críticos. Dos pacientes em pronto-socorro, os menores de 1 ano foram os mais frequentes (56.79 %) e os que mais internaram (35.8 %). O tempo entre o inicio dos sintomas e a consulta foi em média de 2 dias, sendo o diagnóstico mais frequente nos pacientes não internados a rinofaringite (58.97 %), e nos internados foi a bronquiolite (50 %). A mediana do tempo de internação para todo o grupo foi de 4 dias, que foi estendida para 7 dias para aqueles que necessitaram de UTI. A hospitalização está associada, entre outras causas, a índices nutricionais < 2 DP, taquipneia, desconforto respiratório, hipoxemia, linfopenia (nos maiores de 2 anos) (p < 0.05), não influenciando a superlotação ou o nível socioeconómico. Após o estudo, foi possível concluir que a doença geralmente é muito mais branda em crianças do que em adultos, diferindo destes em fatores predisponentes, fatores para clínicos e evolução. No entanto, algumas variáveis demográficas, clínicas e laboratoriais podem estar associadas á maior gravidade nesse grupo populacional.

[Real-world study in oncological outpatients of an oral supplement enriched with ω-3 fatty acids - effect on quality of life and nutritional parameters]. / Estudio en vida real de un suplemento oral enriquecido con ácidos grasos ω-3 en pacientes ambulatorios oncológicos: efecto sobre la calidad de vida y los parámetros nutricionales.

INTRODUCTION: Background: cancer patients are a group at high nutritional risk. Oral nutritional supplementation (ONS) can improve nutritional status. Objective: the objective of our study was to evaluate the effectiveness on nutritional parameters and quality of life of a ω3-enriched ONS in oncology outpatients in a real-world study. Material and methods: a total of 35 outpatient cancer patients who received 2 ONS per day were recruited. Chemistry, anthropometric, impedance measurement, nutritional survey, malnutrition universal screening tool (MUST) test, and EQ5D quality of life test were all used before and after 3 months of intervention. Results: mean age was 65.4 ± 10.7 years (18 females/17 males). Mean completion of the group was 81.7 ± 7.2 %. During the intervention, total protein (1.5 ± 0.2 g/dL; p = 0.01), albumin (0.9 ± 0.1 mg/dL; p = 0.04), and transferrin (53.9 ± 21.1 mg/dL; p = 0.02) levels increased. At the beginning of the study, 100 % of the patients were in the high nutritional risk category according to MUST. After the intervention, 34.3 % (n = 12) were in the low nutritional risk category, 51.4 % (n = 18) in the moderate nutritional risk category, and only 14.3 % (n = 5) in the category of high nutritional risk; previously, 100 % of patients had high nutritional risk (p = 0.02). The total score in the quality of life test increased significantly (0.51 ± 0.06 vs 0.84 ± 0.03 points; p = 0.01), with improvement in 5 dimensions. Conclusions: the use of a ω3-enriched ONS in a real-world study with cancer outpatients showed a beneficial effect on nutritional parameters and quality of life.

INTRODUCCIÓN: Antecedentes: los pacientes oncológicos son un grupo de alto riesgo nutricional. Los suplementos orales nutricionales (SON) pueden ayudar a mejorar su situación nutricional. Objetivo: el objetivo de nuestro estudio fue evaluar en un estudio en vida real la efectividad sobre los parámetros nutricionales y la calidad de vida de un SON enriquecido con ω-3 en pacientes ambulatorios oncológicos. Material y métodos: se reclutaron 35 pacientes oncológicos ambulatorios que recibieron 2 SON al día. Se realizaron: valoración bioquímica y antropométrica, impedanciometría, encuesta nutricional, test Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool (MUST) y test de calidad de vida EQ5D, antes y a los 3 meses de intervención. Resultados: la edad media fue de 65,4 ± 10,7 años (18 mujeres/17 hombres). La cumplimentación media del grupo fue de un 81,7 ± 7,2 %. Durante la intervención aumentaron los niveles de proteínas totales (1,5 ± 0,2 g/dl; p = 0,01), albúmina (0,9 ± 0,1 mg/dl; p = 0,04) y transferrina (53,9 ± 21,1 mg/dl; p = 0,02). Al inicio del estudio, un 100 % de los pacientes presentaban en el test MUST la categoría de alto riesgo nutricional. Tras la intervención, un 34,3 % (n = 12) presentaban la categoría de bajo riesgo nutricional, un 51,4 % (n = 18) presentaban en el test MUST la categoría de moderado riesgo nutricional, y solo un 14,3 % (n = 5) presentaban la categoría de alto riesgo nutricional; previamente, el 100 % de los pacientes tenían la categoría alto riesgo (p = 0,02). La puntuación total del test de calidad de vida aumentó significativamente (0,51 ± 0,06 vs. 0,84 ± 0,03 puntos; p = 0,01), mejorando cualitativamente las 5 dimensiones. Conclusiones: la utilización de un SON enriquecido con ω-3 en pacientes oncológicos ambulatorios en condiciones de vida real muestra un efecto beneficioso sobre los parámetros nutricionales y la calidad de vida.

Incidence and dynamic risk stratification in differentiated thyroid cancer in a high-resolution clinic, 2002-2017. / Incidencia y estadificación dinámica del riesgo del carcinoma diferenciado de tiroides en una unidad de alta resolución. periodo 2002-2017.

OBJECTIVE: We evaluated the incidence, progression and the dynamic risk stratification in differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) under follow-up in a high-resolution clinic (HRC). METHODS: This was a retrospective observational study on incident cases in the tumor registry from 2002 to 2017 and their evolution under follow-up in HRC. RESULTS: A total of 444 patients (78.5% women, 52.1±14.9 mean years old) were DTC diagnosed from 2002 to 2017. The incidence rate of DTC increased from 5.2 to 25.7x105 habitants/year in women and from 2.3 to 7.1x105 habitants/year in men (P<0.0001). This increased incidence was not associated with an increment in the incidental papillary microcarcinoma diagnosed (from 29.4% to 32%). In those patients undergoing follow-up at the HRC (84% papillary carcinomas), 65.7% were classified as being at a low risk of recurrence compared to 14.5% at high risk. Of those, 88.8% classified as making an excellent response at diagnosis remained disease-free at the final follow-up visit. However, those patients with an indeterminate or structurally incomplete response at diagnosis evolved to an excellent response in 55.8% and 42.9% of the cases, respectively, compared to 14.8% of those with a biochemically incomplete response (P<0.001) CONCLUSIONS: The increased incidence of DTC is similar to results published previously in other countries. Dynamic risk stratification systems adequately classify DTC patients and assess diagnostic and treatment procedures, especially in low-risk subgroups.

Guía de práctica clínica para el tratamiento de la insuficiencia cardíaca aguda / Clinical Practice Guidelines for Acute Heart Failure Treatment

RESUMEN Las guías de práctica clínica son el resultado de la compilación y evaluación de toda la evidencia relevante disponible, sobre un tema en particular, con el objetivo de ayudar a los médicos a seleccionar la mejor estrategia diagnóstica y terapéutica para aplicar a un paciente que sufre una enfermedad determinada. La presente guía aborda fundamentalmente los aspectos diagnósticos y terapéuticos de la insuficiencia cardiaca aguda, la cual se define como la rápida aparición o el empeoramiento de los síntomas o signos de insuficiencia cardiaca. Es una entidad potencialmente mortal, la cual puede estar causada por una disfunción cardíaca primaria o precipitada por factores extrínsecos, conllevando habitualmente a la hospitalización del paciente. Esta guía está dirigida tanto a especialistas, como a residentes de las especialidades de cardiología, medicina interna, medicina intensiva y emergencia, medicina general integral, anestesiología y reanimación, así como a estudiantes de la carrera de medicina.

ABSTRACT The clinical practice guidelines are the result of the compilation and evaluation of all the relevant evidence available, on a particular topic, with the aim of helping physicians select the best diagnostic and therapeutic strategy to apply to a patient suffering from a determined disease. This guide primarily addresses the diagnostic and therapeutic aspects of acute heart failure, which is defined as the rapid onset or worsening of symptoms or signs of heart failure. It is a life-threatening entity, which can be caused by a primary cardiac dysfunction or precipitated by extrinsic factors, usually leading to hospitalization of the patient. This guide is addressed to both specialists and residents of cardiology, internal medicine, intensive and emergency medicine, comprehensive general medicine, anesthesiology and resuscitation specialties, as well as medical students.

[The rs10401670 variant of the resistin gene is related to circulating resistin levels, insulin resistance, and presence of type-2 diabetes mellitus in obese patients]. / La variante rs10401670 del gen de la resistina se relaciona con los niveles de resistina circulante, la resistencia a la insulina y la presencia de diabetes mellitus de tipo 2 en los pacientes obesos.

INTRODUCTION: Background: the SNP 3´UTR C/T (rs10401670) of the RETN gene is a polymorphism that has been associated with the presence of type-2 diabetes mellitus in a single work in the literature. Objective: the objective of our study was to evaluate the influence of this resistin gene SNP (rs10401670) on the serum levels of resistin, as well as on the presence of type-2 diabetes mellitus in obese subjects and on insulin resistance. Material and methods: a Caucasian population of 653 obese subjects was analyzed. All subjects underwent an anthropometric evaluation (weight, waist circumference, fat mass), an evaluation of their nutritional intake, a biochemical profile (glucose, insulin, C-reactive protein, lipid profile, insulin, HOMA-IR), and an assessment of the rs10401670 genotype. Determinations were made in the presence of type-2 diabetes mellitus (DM2). A univariate analysis was carried out and a logistic regression was performed with a dichotomy parameter (DM2: yes/no) (SPSS, 17.0, IL, EUA). Results: genotype distribution was as follows: CC, 212 subjects (32.4%); CT, 340 subjects (52.0%); and TT, 101 subjects (15.6%). There were no significant differences between both genotypes in lipid profile, basal glucose, C-reactive protein, anthropometric parameters, nutritional intake, and blood pressure levels. Serum resistin levels (delta: 1.0 ± 0.2 ng/mL; p = 0.02), insulin levels (delta: 1.3 ± 0.1 ng/mL; p = 0.02), and HOMA-IR (delta: 1.2 ± 0.2 ng/mL; p = 0.01) were higher in T-allele carriers than non-T-allele carriers. The overall prevalence of type-2 diabetes mellitus (DM2) in the sample was 21.8%. With respect to the rs10401670 polymorphism, 17.9% of subjects with the CC genotype had DM2, and 23.8% of T-allele carriers had DM2. In the logistic regression analysis the T-allele of the SNP rs10401670, adjusted by age, sex, resistin levels, and body weight showed an association with DM2 - OR: 2.27 (95% CI: 1.26-4.09). Conclusions: the T-allele of the rs10401670 genetic variant is associated with higher levels of resistin, basal insulin, and insulin resistance, and a higher prevalence of type-2 diabetes mellitus, in obese subjects.

INTRODUCCIÓN: Introducción: el SNP 3´UTR C/T (rs10401670) del gen RETN es un polimorfismo que se ha asociado con la presencia de diabetes mellitus de tipo 2 en un único trabajo en la literatura. Objetivo: el objetivo de diseñar este estudio fue evaluar la influencia del SNP rs10401670 del gen de la resistina sobre los niveles séricos de resistina, así como sobre la presencia de diabetes mellitus de tipo 2 en sujetos con obesidad y la resistencia a la insulina. Material y métodos: se analizó una población caucásica de 653 sujetos adultos con obesidad. A todos se les realizó una evaluación antropométrica (peso, circunferencia cintura, masa grasa), una evaluación de la ingesta nutricional y un análisis bioquímico (glucosa, insulina, proteína C-reactiva, perfil lipídico, insulina, HOMA-IR). La evaluación del genotipo rs10401670 se determinó en presencia de diabetes mellitus de tipo 2 (DM2). Se realizó un análisis univariante y posteriormente un análisis de regresión logística con la variable dependiente dicotómica "DM2 = Sí/No" (SPSS, 17.0, IL EUA). Resultados: la distribución del genotipo fue la siguiente: CC, 212 (32,4%); CT, 340 (52,0%), y TT, 101 (15,6%). No se hallaron diferencias significativas entre ambos genotipos en cuanto a perfil lipídico, glucosa basal, proteína C-reactiva, parámetros antropométricos, ingesta nutricional y tensión arterial, pero sí en los niveles de resistina (delta: 1,0 ± 0,2 ng/ml; p = 0,02), insulina (delta: 1,3 ± 0,1 ng/ml; p = 0,02) y HOMA-IR (delta: 1,2 ± 0,2 ng/ml; p = 0,01), que fueron superiores en los pacientes portadores del alelo mutado T. La prevalencia global de la diabetes mellitus de tipo 2 (DM2) en la muestra fue del 21,8%. Con respecto al SNP rs10401670, entre los sujetos con CC un 17,9% tenían DM2 y entre los portadores del alelo T, el 23,8% tenían DM2. En el análisis de regresión logística, al analizar el efecto del alelo T ajustado según la edad, el sexo, los niveles de resistina circulante y el peso corporal, continuó mostrándose como variable independiente la presencia del alelo T del SNP rs10401670 sobre la presencia de DM2: OR: 2,27 (IC 95%: 1,26-4,09). Conclusiones: el alelo T de la variante genética rs10401670 se asocia con mayores niveles de resistina, insulina basal, resistencia a la insulina y prevalencia de la diabetes mellitus de tipo 2 en los sujetos obesos.

Teicoplanin for treating enterococcal infective endocarditis: A retrospective observational study from a referral centre in Spain.

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of teicoplanin for treating enterococcal infective endocarditis (EIE). A retrospective analysis of a prospective cohort of definite EIE patients treated with teicoplanin in a Spanish referral centre (2000-2017) was performed. The primary outcome was mortality during treatment. Secondary outcomes were mortality during 3-month follow-up, adverse effects and relapse. A total of 22 patients received teicoplanin, 9 (40.9%) as first-line (8 Enterococcus faecium and 1 Enterococcus faecalis) and 13 (59.1%) as salvage therapy (13 E. faecalis). Median (IQR) age was 71.5 (58.3-78) years and Charlson comorbidity index was 4.5 (3-7). Five (22.7%) affected prosthetic valves. Median duration of treatment in survivors was 53 (42.5-61) days for antibiotics and 27 (17-41.5) days for teicoplanin [median dose 10 (10-10.8) mg/kg/day]. Reasons for teicoplanin use were resistance to ß-lactams (40.9%), adverse events with previous regimens (31.8%) and outpatient parenteral antimicrobial therapy (OPAT) (27.3%). Teicoplanin was withdrawn due to adverse events in 2 patients (9.1%). Five patients (22.7%) died during treatment: four in the first-line (three with surgery indicated but not performed) and one in the salvage therapy group (surgery indicated but not performed). Two deaths (11.8%) occurred over the 3-month follow-up. There were no relapses during a median of 43.2 (22.1-69.1) months. Teicoplanin can be used as an alternative treatment for susceptible E. faecium IE and as a salvage therapy in selected patients with E. faecalis IE when adverse events develop with standard regimens or to allow OPAT.

Lung transplantation in two cystic fibrosis patients infected with previously pandrug-resistant Burkholderia cepacia complex treated with ceftazidime-avibactam.

We describe two cystic fibrosis patients infected with pandrug-resistant Burkholderia cepacia complex, with the exception of ceftazidime-avibactam, who received prophylaxis with this antibiotic during lung transplantation. Although both patients had a post-operative relapse of respiratory infection, one with positive blood cultures, ceftazidime-avibactam treatment yielded a favourable outcome. 12 months after transplantation, one patient presented an excellent clinical outcome. However, the other patient died 10 months later due to severe B. cepacia sinusitis with intracranial invasion.

Optimal Use of Transient Elastography and Acoustic Radiation Force Impulse to Stage Liver Fibrosis in HIV/HCV-Coinfected Patients in Clinical Practice.

OBJECTIVES: Liver fibrosis (LF) is crucial for the individualized management of patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV). We evaluated the concordance between two noninvasive methods for staging LF, transient elastography (TE) and acoustic radiation force impulse (ARFI), in patients coinfected with human immunodeficiency virus and HCV. We propose an algorithm for optimal use of both techniques in routine clinical practice. METHODS: A total of 89 human immunodeficiency virus/HCV-coinfected patients underwent TE and ARFI on the same day. The kappa index was used to assess concordance between the techniques. An algorithm combining ARFI and TE was proposed based on the independent factors associated with a kappa index greater than or equal to 0.70, obtained from a multiple regression analysis. We performed a cost-effectiveness analysis. The study was approved by our institutional review board and all patients signed the informed consent. RESULTS: Concordance between TE and ARFI for F2, F3, and F4 was 0.55, 0.59, and 0.69, respectively. Ultrasound normal spleen size (odds ratio [OR], 0.20; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.05-0.91) and high viral load (OR, 0.36; 95% CI, 0.17-0.77) reduced the probability of agreement between TE and ARFI, whereas ultrasound normal left liver lobe size (OR, 3.32; 95% CI, 1.21-9.10) increased this probability. The algorithm revealed that LF was adequately assessed in 74.16%, with 25.84% of patients misclassified. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of TE compared with ARFI to increase concordance by 1% was €8.86. CONCLUSIONS: Concordance between TE and ARFI was moderate. In the algorithm we proposed, ARFI was cost-effective as a first technique for the staging of LF in the study population.