Impact of the endovascular revolution on vascular training through analysis of national data case reports.

BACKGROUND: In the last couple of decades, there has been a shift in use of endovascular procedures in vascular surgery. We aim to examine the impact of this endovascular shift on vascular trainees, determine whether the surgical experiences of trainees in the integrated residency and fellowship program changed over time, and identify differences between the two training paradigms. METHODS: Data were extracted from the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education National Data Case Logs for the vascular surgery fellowship (1999-2021) and integrated residency (2012-2021) programs. Every procedure was categorized as open or endovascular, then designated into the following subcategories: thoracic aneurysm repairs, cerebrovascular, abdominal aneurysm repairs, venous, vascular access, peripheral arterial disease, visceral, or miscellaneous. We compared the prevalence of open and endovascular cases in the fellowship and integrated residency using data from overlapping years (2012-2021). In addition, we compared the mean number of cases per trainee per year within designated time intervals. The vascular surgery fellowship was grouped into three intervals: 1999 to 2006, 2006 to 2013, and 2013 to 2021; the integrated vascular surgery residency was grouped into two intervals: 2012 to 2017 and 2017 to 2021. Data were standardized to represent the average number of cases per trainee per year. RESULTS: Within the fellowship, we found a 362.37% increase in endovascular procedures (mean, 56.80 ± 32.57 vs 262.63 ± 9.91; P < .001), although there was only a 32.47% increase in open procedures (220.19 ± 4.55 vs 291.68 ± 8.20) between the first and last time intervals. There was a decrease in abdominal aneurysm repair (24.46 ± 7.30 vs 13.85 ± 0.58; P < .001) and visceral (6.41 ± 0.44 vs 5.80 ± 0.42; P = .039) open procedures. For the integrated residency, there was an increase in open procedures by 8.52% (352.18 ± 8.23 vs 382.20 ± 5.84; P < .001). Residents had greater total, open, and endovascular procedures per year than fellows (all P < .001). Chief residents had approximately one-half as many cases as vascular fellows per year. Fellows performed more open abdominal aneurysm repair (14.04 ± 0.80 vs 12.40 ± 1.32; P = .007) and visceral (5.83 ± 0.41 vs 4.88 ± 0.46; P > .001) procedures than residents. Overall, 52% to 53% of cases performed by trainees per year were open procedures in both the fellowship and integrated residency (288.56 ± 12.10 vs 261.27 ± 10.13, 365.52 ± 17.23 vs 319.58 ± 6.62; both P < .001). Within the subcategories, only cerebrovascular, vascular access, and miscellaneous had more open procedures performed per trainee. CONCLUSIONS: Vascular surgery training has incorporated new endovascular techniques and technologies while maintaining operative training in open procedures. Despite changes in vascular surgery training, trainees are still performing more open procedures than endovascular procedures per year. However, there are evolving deficits in specific types of procedures.

Assistance Burden Comparison Between Age-Related Macular Degeneration and Retinal Angiomatous Proliferation Over a Three-Year Follow-up.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: We compared assistance burden between neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) and retinal angiomatous proliferation (RAP) under intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) treatment on a treat-and-extend (T&E) regimen in a third-level hospital in a developed country. PATIENTS AND METHODS: This retrospective study using data from the Fight Retinal Blindness! Registry included patients treated between January 2016 and December 2020. Final event was established as best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) lower than 20 Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study letters. According to choroidal neovascularization (CNV), three different study groups were established: type 1, 2, and 3. RESULTS: A total of 285 eyes of 227 patients were included. Mean age was 80.1 ± 6.5, 79.1 ± 7.9, and 81.2 ± 7.2 years, for the three study groups, respectively. Mean injections were 16.0 ± 4.8, 16.5 ± 4.1, and 14.1 ± 5.7, respectively; and mean number of visits were 17.9 ± 4.3, 18.2 ± 3.1, and 16.8 ± 5.3, respectively. No differences were found (P > 0.05). Survival curves and log-rank analysis also showed no differences (P = 0.344). Cox proportional hazard models showed that a lower baseline BCVA, subfoveal geographic atrophy (GA), and subfoveal fibrosis (SF) were associated with a higher risk of reaching ≤ 20 letters. CONCLUSIONS: nAMD and RAP under a T&E regimen indicate a high assistance burden during the first three years. The presence of subfoveal GA or SF are associated with a BCVA lower than 20 letters. [Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina 2024;55:197-203.].

A mapping review of Pacific Vascular Symposium 6 initiatives.

OBJECTIVE: The 2010 Pacific Vascular Symposium 6 (PVS6) brought venous disease content experts together with a goal of addressing critical issues collated together in the next decade with concrete plans to achieve these goals. This mapping review aims to provide a broader representation of how progress in critical issues of chronic venous disease has been made by extrapolating scientific publications related to the PVS6 initiatives. METHODS: We performed a mapping review identifying original or systematic review/meta-analysis articles related to PVS 6 initiatives (aims) that addressed one of the following key objectives: scales to measure chronic venous disease, effectiveness of interventional deep venous thrombus removal, development of a deep venous valve, and biomarkers related to venous disease. Searches were undertaken in PubMed, Ovid Medline, Cochrane Library, Embase (Elsevier), CINAHL (EBSCO), and Scopus. We extracted descriptive information about the studies and predefined variables for each specific aim, showing what and where research exists on the aims included. RESULTS: A total of 2138 articles were screened from 3379 retrieved articles from six electronic databases. We mapped 186 included articles, finding that the total number of publications significantly increased after the 2010 PVS6 meeting. Aim results were visually summarized. The largest body of data addressed catheter-based thrombus removal strategies for acute iliofemoral deep venous thrombosis. Primary research on artificial venous valves and venous biomarkers remained limited. No new post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS) score has been developed. CONCLUSIONS: This mapping review identified and characterized the available evidence and gaps in our knowledge of chronic venous disease that exist visually, which may guide where more significant investments for the future should be targeted.

Saphenous vein aneurysms characterization and treatment: A 36-year single center experience.

BACKGROUND: Superficial vein aneurysms (SVA) are rare vascular pathologies associated with trauma, chronic venous disease, and venous malformation. METHOD: We retrospectively reviewed cases of SVA treated from 1986 to 2022. RESULTS: Out of 2463 venous procedures, 16 patients were found with 19 GSV and 1 SSV aneurysms, with 88% presenting with a palpable mass. Varicose veins were noted in 94% of patients, 81% had concomitant reflux, 15% had thrombus within the aneurysm sac, and 19% demonstrated multiple aneurysms. All patients underwent ligation and excision. Post-procedure, 55% of patients received anticoagulants, and 85% received compression. Mean follow-up was 19.4 months, with no aneurysm recurrence. We propose a modification to the current SVA classification. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of multiple aneurysms suggests the need for complete limb imaging in affected patients. Surgical management of SVA was effective in preventing SVA recurrence, while the proposed classification modification will aid in future SVA management.

Increased uptake of the P2X7 receptor radiotracer 18 F-JNJ-64413739 in the brain and peripheral organs according to the severity of status epilepticus in male mice.

OBJECTIVE: The P2X7 receptor (P2X7R) is an important contributor to neuroinflammation, responding to extracellularly released adenosine triphosphate. Expression of the P2X7R is increased in the brain in experimental and human epilepsy, and genetic or pharmacologic targeting of the receptor can reduce seizure frequency and severity in preclinical models. Experimentally induced seizures also increase levels of the P2X7R in blood. Here, we tested 18 F-JNJ-64413739, a positron emission tomography (PET) P2X7R antagonist, as a potential noninvasive biomarker of seizure-damage and epileptogenesis. METHODS: Status epilepticus was induced via an intra-amygdala microinjection of kainic acid. Static PET studies (30 min duration, initiated 30 min after tracer administration) were conducted 48 h after status epilepticus via an intravenous injection of 18 F-JNJ-64413739. PET images were coregistered with a brain magnetic resonance imaging atlas, tracer uptake was determined in the different brain regions and peripheral organs, and values were correlated to seizure severity during status epilepticus. 18 F-JNJ-64413739 was also applied to ex vivo human brain slices obtained following surgical resection for intractable temporal lobe epilepsy. RESULTS: P2X7R radiotracer uptake correlated strongly with seizure severity during status epilepticus in brain structures including the cerebellum and ipsi- and contralateral cortex, hippocampus, striatum, and thalamus. In addition, a correlation between radiotracer uptake and seizure severity was also evident in peripheral organs such as the heart and the liver. Finally, P2X7R radiotracer uptake was found elevated in brain sections from patients with temporal lobe epilepsy when compared to control. SIGNIFICANCE: Taken together, our data suggest that P2X7R-based PET imaging may help to identify seizure-induced neuropathology and temporal lobe epilepsy patients with increased P2X7R levels possibly benefitting from P2X7R-based treatments.

Anti-TNF vs tocilizumab in refractory uveitic cystoid macular edema due to Behcet's disease. Multicenter study of 49 patients.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the efficacy of TNF inhibitors (adalimumab (ADA) and infliximab (IFX)) vs tocilizumab (TCZ) in patients with refractory cystoid macular edema (CME) due to Behçet's disease (BD). METHODS: Multicenter study of patients with BD-associated CME refractory to conventional and/or biological immunosuppressive drugs. From a cohort of 177 patients treated with anti-TNF and 14 patients treated with TCZ, we selected those with CME at baseline. We analyzed the evolution of macular thickness (main outcome), best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and intraocular inflammation (Tyndall and vitritis) from baseline up to 4 years in the 3 groups mentioned. RESULTS: 49 patients and 72 eyes with CME were included. ADA was used in 25 patients (40 eyes), IFX in 15 (21 eyes) and TCZ in 9 (11 eyes). No statistically significant baseline differences were observed between the 3 groups except for a lower basal BCVA in TCZ group and a higher basal degree of intraocular inflammation in ADA group. Most patients from all groups had received several conventional immunosuppressive drugs. In addition, most patients in the group of TCZ had also received anti-TNF agents. Biological therapy was used in monotherapy (n=8) or combined with conventional immunosuppressive drugs (n=41). Macular thickness progressively decreased in the 3 groups, with no signs of CME after 1 year of treatment. Similarly, BCVA improvement and inflammatory intraocular remission was achieved in all groups. CONCLUSION: Refractory CME associated with BD uveitis can be effectively treated either with ADA, IFX or TCZ. Furthermore, TCZ is effective in patients resistant to anti-TNF therapy.

Influence of inflammatory plasma biomarkers on choroidal thickness in type 2 diabetes mellitus.

PURPOSE: To assess the influence of inflammatory plasma biomarkers on choroidal thickness (CT) in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D). METHODS: Cross-sectional study enrolling T2D patients and age-matched healthy controls (>55 years of age, Caucasian, axial length <26 mm, no macular edema, and naïve). Patients were examined with swept-source OCT Triton, obtaining automatic measurements. CT was analyzed using the ETDRS grid and the recently proposed choroidal division. A blood analysis was commanded: general biochemical profile, liver status, T2D status, thyroid and parathyroid activity, coagulation, general immunological profile, and inflammatory biomarkers. RESULTS: 124 eyes of 124 patients with a mean age between 66 and 68 years were examined. The new choroidal division showed differences between groups (p < 0.05) in more sectors than the ETDRS grid, and more biomarkers influenced these new sectors. T2D patients had higher levels of IL-8, TNF-α, MCP1, adiponectin and L-selectin. CT was influenced by TNF-α, IL-17, leukocytes and erythrocyte sedimentation rate, as well as by HDL cholesterol, albumin, liver function biomarkers, and TSH. HbA1c showed little influence on CT. CONCLUSIONS: T2D patients present increased plasma inflammatory biomarkers, exhibiting an influence on CT. IL-17 is related to a thicker choroid but TNF-α is related to a thinner choroid. HbA1c has little influence on CT. The recently proposed choroidal division is more sensitive to CT changes than the ETDRS grid. Some sectors are more sensitive to plasma biomarkers.

Tensiones y posibilidades del investigador educativo colombiano: de la disolución mercantil a la defensa del deseo de saber / Tensions and Possibilities of the Colombian Educational Researcher: From Mercantile Dissolution to the Defense of the Desire to Know

Resumen El artículo expone elementos históricos que han incidido en la configuración de la investigación educativa en Colombia en las últimas décadas para mostrar de qué forma tal contexto ha influenciado en el investigador educativo. En primer lugar, describe vacíos presentes en los trabajos de investigación en educación. Desde allí, el análisis se centra en la universidad contemporánea y los efectos que ha tenido el capitalismo cognitivo y la mercantilización en estas instituciones que son uno de los escenarios donde se efectúa investigación educativa. En un tercer momento, muestra la incidencia de la lógica mercantil en la formación de investigadores educativos. Finalmente, el artículo propone elementos para tensionar el campo e incidir en la formación de los futuros investigadores y en las prácticas de los investigadores vigentes, de tal manera que se logre una reorientación de los parámetros que determinan al campo educativo.

Abstract The article exposes historical elements that have influenced the configuration of educational research in Colombia in recent decades to show how this context has influenced the educational researcher. In the first place, it describes gaps present in educational research works. From there, the analysis focuses on the contemporary university and the effects that cognitive capitalism and commodification have had on these institutions, which are one of the scenarios where educational research is conducted. Thirdly, it shows the incidence of mercantile logic in the training of educational researchers. Finally, the article proposes elements to stress the field and influence the training of future researchers and the practices of current researchers, so as to achieve a reorientation of the parameters, which determine the educational field.

Tocilizumab resolves refractory macular edema associated to retinitis pigmentosa.

PURPOSE: The aim of this report is to describe the resolution of refractory cystoid macular edema (CME) associated to retinitis pigmentosa (RP) with intravenous tocilizumab in three patients. METHODS: Retrospective study of a series of consecutive cases of patients treated with off-label intravenous tocilizumab (anti IL6) for CME refractory to acetazolamide 250 mg for 3 months. Patients were diagnosed with RP by fundus appearance, electrophysiology, visual fields, and genetic testing. A complete ophthalmic examination, including spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) was performed. PATIENTS: Three patients with RP and CME refractory to acetazolamide 250 mg for 3 months were treated with monthly intravenous tocilizumab for at least six months. RESULTS: All patients resolved CME and improved visual acuity after the third month of intravenous tocilizumab, resolving systemic and ocular adverse events related to previous treatments for CME. Tocilizumab was well tolerated with no other adverse events. DISCUSSION: CME causes visual impairment in RP, but current treatments are usually deficient. Tocilizumab has been successfully used as treatment for refractory CME in uveitis, retinal dystrophies, and autoimmune retinopathies. This article reports, for the first time, the long-term resolution of refractory CME in RP with intravenous tocilizumab.

Macro and microangiopathy related to retinopathy and choroidopathy in type 2 diabetes.

PURPOSE: To describe the relationship between diabetic retinopathy (DR) and choroidal thickness (CT), and systemic macro and microangiopathy in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D). METHODS: Cross-sectional study enrolling 200 eyes (100 T2D naïve patients) without macular edema. DR was graded and swept-source optical coherence tomography Triton DRI (Topcon) was used to measure CT, which gave automatic measurements in ETDRS grid. An endocrinologist examined all the patients and searched in their medical records for data about macro and microangiopathy: ischemic cardiopathy (IC), cerebrovascular accident (CVA), peripheral artery disease (PAD), nephropathy, and peripheral polyneuropathy (PPN). RESULTS: Mean age was 67.38 ± 8.15 years, mean axial length was 23.26 ± 0.09 mm, and mean IOP was 16.75 ± 3.06 mmHg. Sixty eyes had no DR, 46 had mild, 64 had moderate, 20 had severe, and 10 had proliferative DR. IC was correlated with horizontal choroidal zones (p < 0.05 and η between 0.16 and 0.21) but not with DR (p = 0.16). CVA was neither correlated with CT (p > 0.05) nor with DR (p = 0.39). PAD was not correlated with CT (p > 0.05) but it was with DR (p = 0.03). The type of nephropathy was correlated both with CT in vertical sectors (p < 0.05 and η between 0.15 and 0.27) and DR (p = 0.01, τ = 0.24). PPN was not correlated with CT (p > 0.05) but it was with DR (p = 0.03). CONCLUSIONS: DR is correlated with microangiopathy (nephropathy and PPN) but not with macroangiopathy (IC, CVA, and PAD). CT is mildly correlated with nephropathy and IC. Some choroidal regions are more sensitive than others to each diabetic macro and microvascular manifestation.

The role of retinal fluid location in atrophy and fibrosis evolution of patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration long-term treated in real world.

PURPOSE: To assess the effect of clinical factors on the development and progression of atrophy and fibrosis in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) receiving long-term treatment in the real world. METHODS: An ambispective 36-month multicentre study, involving 359 nAMD patients from 17 Spanish hospitals treated according to the Spanish Vitreoretinal Society guidelines, was designed. The influence of demographic and clinical factors, including the presence and location of retinal fluid, on best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and progression to atrophy and/or fibrosis were analysed. RESULTS: After 36 months of follow-up and an average of 13.8 anti-VEGF intravitreal injections, the average BCVA gain was +1.5 letters, and atrophy and/or fibrosis were present in 54.8% of nAMD patients (OR = 8.54, 95% CI = 5.85-12.47, compared to baseline). Atrophy was associated with basal intraretinal fluid (IRF) (OR = 1.87, 95% CI = 1.09-3.20), whereas basal subretinal fluid (SRF) was associated with a lower rate of atrophy (OR = 0.40, 95% CI = 0.23-0.71) and its progression (OR = 0.44, 95% CI = 0.26-0.75), leading to a slow progression rate (OR = 0.34, 95% CI = 0.14-0.83). Fibrosis development and progression were related to IRF at any visit (p < 0.001). In contrast, 36-month SRF was related to a lower rate of fibrosis (OR = 0.49, 95% CI = 0.29-0.81) and its progression (OR = 0.50, 95% CI = 0.31-0.81). CONCLUSION: Atrophy and/or fibrosis were present in 1 of 2 nAMD patients treated for 3 years. Both, especially fibrosis, lead to vision loss. Subretinal fluid (SRF) was associated with good visual outcomes and lower rates of atrophy and fibrosis, whereas IRF yields worse visual results and a higher risk of atrophy and especially fibrosis in routine clinical practice.

Telangiectasia diameter in response to thermal stimulus: experimental data and possible clinical applications.

BACKGROUND: Telangiectasias are dilated blood vessels on the skin that develop progressively because of several diseases, including chronic venous disease. The skin blood flow has differences compared to the rest of the circulatory system. These vessels have a permanent vasoconstrictor tone that can respond to vasoconstriction/vasodilation stimulative substances and higher or lower temperatures. The aim of this study was to investigate any possible telangiectasias vasoconstriction or vasodilation in response to temperature changes. METHODS: This study is a clinical trial with 26 outpatients of vascular surgery with telangiectasias in the lower limbs. We used direct skin digital microscopy to obtain telangiectasias images at room temperature and after the thermal stimulus with cold pads. These photographs were processed using AmScopeAmLite (United Scope LLC Euromex Optics Group b.v., Los Angeles, CA, USA) and the capillary diameter and area were measured in Adobe Illustrator (Adobe Inc., Mountain View, CA, USA). The data collected was analyzed in SPSS Statistics (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA) with a paired t-test for the telangiectasias area and a Wilcoxon matched-pairs signed-rank test for the telangiectasias diameter. RESULTS: In comparison to telangiectasias measures at room temperature, we found a statistically significant decrease in the diameter (median of -0.04 mm; interquartile range: -0.10 mm to -0.01 mm; P<0.001) and area (mean of -26.54 mm2; 95% Confidence interval (-36.31, -16.76) mm2; P<0.001 in response to the cold stimulus. CONCLUSIONS: Telangiectasias respond to cold patch application with a significantly statistical microscale quantifiable vasoconstriction. This intervention has the potential to improve the current state of telangiectasias sclerotherapy due to its mechanism helping to stabilize the applied foam. We speculate that topic cold used as a neoadjuvant treatment could improve the efficiency, stability, and other outcomes of sclerotherapy. Also, complementary use of topical cold stimulus application may be of interest in the therapeutic management of telangiectasias.

Resultados clínicos del reemplazo valvular aórtico percutáneo con dispositivo balón expandible MyVal en estenosis aórtica severa de alto riesgo / Clinical results of percutaneous aortic valve replacement using the MyVal prosthesis in patients with severe aortice stenosis and hisgh surgical risk

INTRODUCCIÓN: El dispositivo MyVal balón-expandible (Meril Life Sciences, India) fue recientemente aprobado en Chile y la Unión Europea para uso comercial. El objetivo del presente estudio fue proveer datos de eficacia y seguridad temprana y de mediano plazo en pacientes portadores de estenosis aórtica (EA) severa de alto riesgo quirúrgico sometidos a reemplazo valvular aórtico percutáneo (RVAP) con dispositivo MyVal. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Se enrolaron retrospectivamente todos los pacientes con EA severa sintomática de alto riesgo según criterio del ´heart team´ local, sometidos a RVAP usando prótesis MyVal en Hospital San Borja Arriarán. RESULTADOS: La población quedó compuesta por 14 sujetos tratados entre Octubre 2018 y Noviembre 2019. La población tuvo una edad media de 82,5±7,8 años y elevado perfil de riesgo (puntaje STS promedio 11,6±5,1% de mortalidad a 30 días). Se logró éxito de dispositivo y procedimiento en 12 pacientes (86%) con caída sustancial de la gradiente aórtica media, persistente a 6 meses de seguimiento sin insuficiencia aórtica más que leve. Ocurrió falla de dispositivo en 2 pacientes, una debida a falla de entrega y otra por embolización a ventrículo, esta última con resultado de muerte. En términos de complicaciones, ocurrió una muerte precoz atribuida a disección/ruptura de aorta y 2 hemorragias mayores. La tasa de marcapasos ascendió a 3 pacientes, 23% considerando todos quienes recibieron implante. CONCLUSIÓN: El presente registro cuestiona la seguridad de MyVal en el tratamiento percutáneo de la EA severa de alto riesgo. Sin embargo, una vez logrado un implante exitoso MyVal muestra adecuados parámetros de funcionamiento, persistentes a un plazo mediano de seguimiento.

BACKGROUND: The recently approved balloon expandable MyVal (Meril Life Sciences, India) transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) prosthesis is available for commercial use in Chile and the European Union. The aim of this study is to provide early and mid-term data on the safety and efficacy of patients with severe aortic stenosis (AS) at high surgical risk undergoing TAVR using the MyVal device. METHODS: All patients with symptomatic severe AS at high surgical risk undergoing intended TAVR with MyVal prosthesis at San Borja-Arriarán Hospital entered to a retrospective registry. RESULTS: Between October 2018 and November 2019, 14 patients entered to the registry. The mean age was 82.5±7.8 years-old with a high-surgical riskprofile (mean STS score of 11.6±5.1% for 30-day mortality). Device and procedural success were achieved in 12 patients (86%) with substantial decrease in the mean aortic gradient, persistent at 6 months follow-up, all with mild or trace aortic regurgitation. Device failure occurred in 2 patients, one due to failed delivery and other due to device embolization into the left ventricle, which resulted in patient death. There were one death attributed aortic dissection/rupture and two major bleeding episodes. Three patients receiving MyVal implant required the implantation of a permanent pacemaker (23%). CONCLUSION: The present registry rises a question upon the safety of the MyVal TAVR device in high-risk AS. However, once a successfully implant was achieved the MyVal prosthesis showed an adequate performance to mid-term follow-up.

Dexmedetomidina subcutánea. ¿Es útil en el perioperatorio del paciente pediátrico? / Subcutaneous dexmedetomidine. Is it useful in the perioperative of the pediatric patient?

Resumen: Introducción: La dexmedetomidina es un alfa 2 agonista, al cual se le han atribuido diversos efectos clínicos (antinociceptivos, hipnótico-sedantes, anestésicos, cardiovasculares, ventilatorios, renales, endocrinos y oculares), variados mecanismos de acción, y versatilidad en sus vías de administración, por lo que ha sido utilizada como adyuvante durante el período perioperatorio, ya que proporciona sedación, ansiólisis, prevención de delirio y analgesia. En este estudio, se evaluó exclusivamente la administración subcutánea como adyuvante, sus implicaciones sobre el dolor y la comodidad en el postoperatorio. Material y métodos: Se realizó una serie de casos de forma prospectiva, observacional, descriptiva, en donde se estudiaron pacientes de 3-15 años de edad, de ambos géneros, programados para cirugía de abdomen bajo, ASA I-II. Se dividieron en cuatro grupos: grupo I recibió placebo; II, III y IV clorhidrato de dexmedetomidina de 1, 1.5 y 2 μg/kg, respectivamente. El placebo o clorhidrato de dexmedetomidina se administraron vía subcutánea en región deltoidea. En el postoperatorio inmediato se tomaron en cuenta, por única vez, la escala de sedación, delirio y confort, para valorar durante la emersión el impacto de la dosis de dexmedetomidina. Después se realizó la medición y registro en tres tiempos distintos de los parámetros hemodinámicos (TA, FC, SpO2), así como la intensidad del dolor; la primera al finalizar el procedimiento quirúrgico, a las 12 y a las 24 horas. Conclusiones: La administración subcutánea de dexmedetomidina en el paciente pediátrico es una alternativa segura y eficaz, que preserva la función respiratoria, con adecuado grado de sedación, y estabilidad hemodinámica, mejorando la analgesia (hasta 24 horas) posterior al evento quirúrgico, menor agitación y delirio en el postoperatorio, lo que resulta en mayor comodidad.

Abstract. Introduction: Dexmedetomidine is an alpha 2 agonist, several clinical effects has been attributed (antinociceptive, hypnotic-sedative, anesthetic, cardiovascular, ventilatory, renal, endocrine and ocular), varied mechanisms of action, and versatility in its administration pathways. It has been used as adjuvant during the perioperative period providing sedation, anxiolysis, delirium prevention and analgesia. In this study we evaluated exclusively subcutaneous administration as an adjuvant, its implications on pain and postoperative comfort (PO). Material and methods: A prospective, observational, descriptive series of cases was performed. Patients 3-15 years of age, scheduled for low abdominal surgery, both genders, ASA I, II. They were divided into four groups: Group I. placebo, group II, III and IV received dexmedetomidine hydrochloride 1, 1.5 and 2 μg/kg respectively. The placebo or dexmedetomidine hydrochloride was administered subcutaneously in the deltoid region. The sedation, delirium and comfort scale were titrated in the immediate postoperative PO to assess the impact of the dose of dexmedetomidine during the emersion. Subsequently, three evaluations of the hemodynamic parameters (TA, FC, SpO2) were performed, as well as the intensity of the pain, the first one at the end of the surgical procedure, 12 and at 24 hours later. Conclusions: Subcutaneous administration of dexmedetomidine in the pediatric patient is a safe and effective alternative, preserving respiratory function, with adequate sedation, hemodynamic stability, improving analgesia (up to 24 hours) after the surgical event, less agitation and delirium in the postoperative resulting in greater comfort.

OCULAR ADVERSE EVENTS ASSOCIATED WITH MEK INHIBITORS.

PURPOSE: Mitogen-activates protein kinase (MAPK) inhibitors, particularly MEK inhibitors, have shifted the treatment paradigm for metastatic BRAF-mutant cutaneous melanoma; however, oncologists, ophthalmologists, and patients have noticed different toxicities of variable importance. This review aims to provide an update of the ocular adverse events (OAEs), especially retinal toxicity, associated with the use of MEK inhibitors. METHODS: We conducted a scientific literature search using the PubMed database up to July 2018 with the terms "MEK inhibitors" with a "review" filter and "MEK inhibitors" with a "clinical trials" filter. Phase I-III experimental studies and reviews were selected. Current principles and techniques for diagnosing and managing MEK inhibitor retinopathy and other OAEs are discussed. RESULTS: In patients treated with MEK inhibitors, including asymptomatic patients, OAEs occur with an incidence of up to 90%. Mild to severe ophthalmic toxicities are described, including visual disturbances, a 2-line decrease in Snellen visual acuity, dry eye symptoms, ocular adnexal abnormalities, visual field defects, panuveitis, and retinal toxicities, such as different degrees of MEK-associated retinopathy, vascular injury, and retinal vein occlusion. CONCLUSION: MEK inhibitors can lead to different degrees of retinal, uveal, and adnexal OAE, causing visual disturbances or discomfort. One of the most relevant OAE of MEK therapy is MEK inhibitor-associated retinopathy (MEKAR), which is usually mild, self-limited, and may subside after continuous use of the drug for weeks or months, or discontinuation, thereby restoring the normal visual function of the retina, with some exceptions. Ocular adverse events are often associated with other systemic adverse effects that can modify the dosage of treatment, so the communication with the oncologist is fundamental.

Reconocimiento social del docente universitario: subjetividad agobiada, puja por el prestigio académico y reivindicación del acto educativo / Social recognition of the university instructor: oppressed subjectivity, bid for academic prestige, and revindication of the educational act

Resumen El reconocimiento docente es configurado desde esquemas de valoración social explícitos e implícitos. Los primeros determinan formas de ser-hacer alienados a los parámetros de la universidad mercantilizada, donde se compite por el prestigio académico. Los segundos operan en el acto pedagógico y esquemas de vigencia social relacionados con entramados afectivos. Las políticas para la educación superior, materializadas en los procesos de acreditación de alta calidad actuales, han incidido en la construcción de dicho reconocimiento de los docentes universitarios, así mismo, se han generado estrategias de resistencia de los docentes para lograr la trasformación de los parámetros de valoración que los subjetivizan como profesionales.

Abstract Teaching recognition is put together from explicit and implicit social value schemes. The former determine ways of being-making alienated to the commercialized university, where you compete for academic prestige. The latter operate within the pedagogical act and social validity schemes related to affective networks. Policies for higher education, materialized in the current high quality accreditation processes, have influenced the construction of this recognition of university instructors. Likewise, strategies of resistance have been generated from the instructors to achieve the transformation of the valuation parameters that subjectivize them as professionals.

La responsabilidad social empresarial y la sostenibilidad, criterios habilitantes en la gerencia de proyectos / Corporate social responsibility and sustainability, enabling criteria in projects management / Responsabilidade social corporativa e sustentabilidade, possibilitando critérios em gerenciamento de projetos

RESUMEN El artículo está orientado a proponer unos criterios de alto nivel, llamados habilitantes, que permitan tomar decisiones con respecto a la utilización de diferentes metodologías, métodos y estándares existentes para la gerencia de proyectos. Para ello, se abordó una investigación exploratoria, descriptiva y propositiva, utilizando la técnica de revisión documental. Con base en ella, se establecen 32 criterios técnicos, derivados de diez factores que hacen parte de tres categorías. Se concluye que los criterios habilitantes para la toma de decisiones deben ser la responsabilidad social empresarial y la sostenibilidad, tendencias que conjugan la satisfacción de los intereses de los stakeholders externos e internos; al respecto se sugiere una guía para su validación en la gerencia de proyectos. Se recomienda como líneas futuras de investigación, la contrastación empírica de la propuesta, así como la incorporación de las prácticas de la responsabilidad social empresarial y la sostenibilidad en la gerencia de proyectos. CÓDIGOS JEL M14, M10,Y4

ABSTRACT The article seeks to propose high-level criteria, called enabling, for taking decisions regarding the use of different existing methodologies, methods and standards for project management. To do this, an exploratory, descriptive and purposeful research was addressed, using the technique of document review. Based on it, 32 technical criteria are established, derived from ten factors that are part of three categories. It is concluded that the enabling criteria for decision-making must be corporate social responsibility and sustainability, trends that combine the satisfaction of the interests of external and internal stakeholders, about a guide is suggested for validation in project management. It is recommended as future research lines, the empirical testing of the proposal and incorporating practices of corporate social responsibility and sustainability in project management. JEL CLASSIFICATION M14,M10,Y4

RESUMO O artigo tem como objetivo propor critérios de alto nivel, chamados de habilitação, que permitam tomar decisões quanto ao uso de diferentes metodologias, métodos e padrões existentes para o gerenciamento de projetos. Para isso, foi realizada uma pesquisa exploratória, descritiva e proativa, utilizando a técnica de revisão documental. Com base nisso, 32 critérios técnicos são estabelecidos, derivados de dez fatores que se enquadram em três categorias. Conclui-se que os critérios de habilitação para a tomada de decisão devem ser a responsabilidade social corporativa e a sustentabilidade, tendências que combinam a satisfação dos interesses das partes interessadas externas e internas; Nesse sentido, sugere-se um guia para sua validação no gerenciamento de projetos. Recomendase como futuras linhas de pesquisa, o teste empirico da proposta, bem como a incorporação das práticas de responsabilidade social corporativa e sustentabilidade no gerenciamento de projetos. CLASSIFICAÇÕES JEL M14,M10,Y4

Successful Optimization of Adalimumab Therapy in Refractory Uveitis Due to Behçet's Disease.

PURPOSE: To assess efficacy, safety, and cost-effectiveness of adalimumab (ADA) therapy optimization in a large series of patients with uveitis due to Behçet disease (BD) who achieved remission after the use of this biologic agent. DESIGN: Open-label multicenter study of ADA-treated patients with BD uveitis refractory to conventional immunosuppressants. SUBJECTS: Sixty-five of 74 patients with uveitis due to BD, who achieved remission after a median ADA duration of 6 (range, 3-12) months. ADA was optimized in 23 (35.4%) of them. This biologic agent was maintained at a dose of 40 mg/subcutaneously/2 weeks in the remaining 42 patients. METHODS: After remission, based on a shared decision between the patient and the treating physician, ADA was optimized. When agreement between patient and physician was reached, optimization was performed by prolonging the ADA dosing interval progressively. Comparison between optimized and nonoptimized patients was performed. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Efficacy, safety, and cost-effectiveness in optimized and nonoptimized groups. To determine efficacy, intraocular inflammation (anterior chamber cells, vitritis, and retinal vasculitis), macular thickness, visual acuity, and the sparing effect of glucocorticoids were assessed. RESULTS: No demographic or ocular differences were found at the time of ADA onset between the optimized and the nonoptimized groups. Most ocular outcomes were similar after a mean ± standard deviation follow-up of 34.7±13.3 and 26±21.3 months in the optimized and nonoptimized groups, respectively. However, relevant adverse effects were only seen in the nonoptimized group (lymphoma, pneumonia, severe local reaction at the injection site, and bacteremia by Escherichia coli, 1 each). Moreover, the mean ADA treatment costs were lower in the optimized group than in the nonoptimized group (6101.25 euros/patient/year vs. 12 339.48; P < 0.01). CONCLUSION: ADA optimization in BD uveitis refractory to conventional therapy is effective, safe, and cost-effective.

Optimal Gestational Weight Gain for Women with Gestational Diabetes and Morbid Obesity.

OBJECTIVES: Our aim was to investigate the greatest gestational weight gain (GWG) without adverse pregnancy complications in women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and morbid obesity. METHODS: An observational retrospective study including 3284 patients with single pregnancies and GDM was completed. Of the patients, 131 (4.0%) were classified as having pre-pregnancy morbid obesity (BMI ≥ 35 kg/m2). Perinatal complications were compared among BMI groups. In the group with morbid obesity, GWG threshold values to predict outcomes were examined based on sensitivity and specificity values under the receiver operating characteristic curve. RESULTS: GWG was higher in mothers with morbid obesity and macrosomic neonates: 11.3 (4.4-15.7) versus 4.8 (1.5-8.2) kg (p = 0.033). The GWG and neonatal ponderal index were positively correlated (r = 0.305, p = 0.001). The GWG was 7.0 (2.9-11.6) kg in women with hypertensive disorder versus 4.5 (1.0-7.5) kg in normotensive women (p = 0.017). A GWG above 5 kg was a risk factor for macrosomia (87.8% sensitivity, 54.7% specificity) and hypertensive disorder (70.0% sensitivity, 48.4% specificity). GWG associations were maintained after controlling for glycemic control, maternal and gestational age, parity, smoking and neonatal sex. CONCLUSIONS FOR PRACTICE: A GWG below 5 kg is recommended for women with GDM and morbid obesity. In these women, adequate GWG may prevent macrosomia, fetal overgrowth and hypertensive disorder.