Spinal cord ischemia as intraoperatory complication in shoulder surgery positioned in beach chair: case report.

Spinal cord infarction is an uncommon phenomenon, which can be caused by different etiologies, constituting a real diagnostic challenge which can lead to devastating consequences. General anesthesia in beach chair positioning with intraoperative hypotension in order to avoid surgical bleeding are associated with hypoperfusion and potential neurological ischemia-related complications. We present a case of spinal cord ischemia in the context of shoulder surgery in a beach chair position.

Spinal cord ischemia as intraoperatory complication in shoulder surgery positioned in beach chair: case report

Abstract Spinal cord infarction is an uncommon phenomenon, which can be caused by different etiologies, constituting a real diagnostic challenge which can lead to devastating consequences. General anesthesia in beach chair positioning with intraoperative hypotension in order to avoid surgical bleeding are associated with hypoperfusion and potential neurological ischemia-related complications. We present a case of spinal cord ischemia in the context of shoulder surgery in a beach chair position.

Quality of Life and Sexual Satisfaction in Women with Breast Cancer Undergoing a Surgical Treatment and in Their Male Partners.

This study aimed to determine the quality of life and sexual satisfaction in a sample of 389 women with breast cancer who underwent a surgical treatment and 366 men who were these women's partners. The sample was recruited from the Portuguese League Against Cancer by 10 trained psychologists who assessed the quality of life and sexual satisfaction of the participants. Data on the sociodemographic variables, diagnosis and treatment in the female participants, relationship with their partner, anxiety and depression, and body image were also collected. It was found that 76.6% and 54.2% of the women had low physical and mental health, respectively, while 100% of partners had acceptable physical and mental health. The predictors of women's physical health were months since surgery, current treatment, completed treatments, satisfaction with the current relationship with their partner, lower anxiety and depression, and better body image. The predictors of women's mental health were months since diagnosis and treatment completion, satisfaction with partner support during the illness, lower anxiety and depression, and better body image. The predictors of both physical and mental health of partners were lower anxiety and depression. In addition, 88.4% of women and 100% of partners presented with sexual dysfunction. The predictors of women's sexual satisfaction were being older, satisfaction with their relationship with their partner before the illness, lower anxiety and depression, and better body image. The predictors of sexual satisfaction of the male partners were psychological/psychiatric support, satisfaction with their current relationship with their partner, and lower anxiety and depression. These findings suggest that interventions targeted at the quality of life of women and sexual satisfaction with a couple perspective are needed.

Genetic susceptibility to telomere shortening through the rs2293607 polymorphism is associated with a greater risk of alcohol use disorder.

Telomere shortening is usually considered a biomarker of ageing. Harmful alcohol use promotes accelerated biological ageing and alcohol use disorders (AUDs) are associated with short telomere length (TL). This study was conducted to examine the relationship of TL to AUD and determine whether single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in TERC and TERT modulate this association. For this purpose, we genotyped TERC SNPs rs2293607, rs12696304, and rs16847897 and TERT SNPs rs2735940, rs2736100, and rs2736098 in 308 male patients with AUD and 255 sex-matched healthy controls and measured TL in a subset of 99 patients and 99 controls paired by age and smoking status. Our results showed that the mean TL was shorter in patients with AUD than in controls. The area under the ROC curve was 0.70 (P < 0.001). The GG genotype of TERC rs2293607 was more common among patients with AUD than among controls (9.8% vs. 5.1%; P = 0.038). No difference was found for the other SNPs. Carriers of the GG genotype of rs2293607 had shorter telomeres than did allele A carriers. In conclusion, patients with AUD had shorter telomeres. Genetic susceptibility to telomere shortening through the rs2293607 SNP is associated with a greater risk of AUD.

Evaluación de la reserva ovárica en varones trans durante el tratamiento hormonal de reafirmación / Assessment of ovarian reserve during gender affirmation hormone therapy in trans men

Resumen Varón trans es aquella persona de sexo biológico femenino con identidad de género masculina que puede optar por recibir una terapia hormonal de reafirmación con testosterona. Hasta el momento, los efectos de este tratamiento sobre la reproducción son poco claros. Se evaluaron los niveles de hormona antimülleriana en varones trans durante el tratamiento con testosterona a corto plazo. Se realizó un estudio prospectivo en 16 individuos que cumplían los requisitos para ser incluidos. Se midieron los niveles de gonadotrofinas, estradiol, testosterona y hormona antimülleriana en fase folicular temprana, previo al inicio deltratamiento hormonal de reafirmación (basal), mediante un método quimioluminiscente, y luego de 6 a 12 meses de tratamiento se determinaron los niveles de testosterona y hormona antimülleriana (control). La mediana de edad fue 22.5 años. Se obtuvieron niveles de testosterona y hormona antimülleriana basales de 0.58 ng/ml y 2.89 ng/ml respectivamente, valores dentro del rango correspondiente a mujeres biológicas. Todos los individuos, al momento del control semestral o anual del tratamiento hormonal, lograron alcanzar niveles de testosterona dentro del rango de referencia poblacional masculino (3-9 ng/ml). Sin embargo, no se observaron diferencias significativas (p 0.7630) en los niveles de hormona antimülleriana basales y luego de 6 a 12 meses de iniciado el tratamiento con testosterona. Nuestro estudio reveló que, a pesar de la alta variabilidad biológica de la hormona antimülleriana, no se observaron cambios significativos en sus niveles durante el tratamiento hormonal de reafirmación en varones trans.

Abstract Trans man is a biological female person with male gender identity, who can choose to receive a gender-affirming hormone treatment with testosterone. So far, the effects of this treatment on reproduction are unclear. Anti-müllerian hormone levels were evaluated in trans men during short-term testosterone treatment. A prospective study was conducted on 16 individuals who met the requirements to be included. The levels of gonadotrophins, estradiol, testosterone and antimüllerian hormone in the early follicular phase were measured prior to the start of the hormonal firming treatment, by means of a chemiluminescent method. The testosterone and antimüllerian hormone levels were determinedafter 6 to 12 months of treatment. The median age was 22.5 years.Basal testos terone and antimüllerian hormone levels of 0.58 ng/ml and 2.89 ng/ml respectively were obtained, values within the range corresponding to biological women. By the time of the semi-annual or annual control of the hormonal firming treatment, all the individuals managed to reach testosterone levels within the reference range of the male population (3-9 ng/ml). However, no significant differences were observed in antimüllerian hormone levels(p0.7630) before and after 6 to 12 months of starting treatment with testosterone. Our study revealed that, despite the high biological variability of the antimüllerian hormone, no significant changes in its levels were observed during the firming hormone treatment in trans men.

Prevalence and risk factors for delirium in critically ill patients with COVID-19 (COVID-D): a multicentre cohort study.

BACKGROUND: To date, 750 000 patients with COVID-19 worldwide have required mechanical ventilation and thus are at high risk of acute brain dysfunction (coma and delirium). We aimed to investigate the prevalence of delirium and coma, and risk factors for delirium in critically ill patients with COVID-19, to aid the development of strategies to mitigate delirium and associated sequelae. METHODS: This multicentre cohort study included 69 adult intensive care units (ICUs), across 14 countries. We included all patients (aged ≥18 years) admitted to participating ICUs with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection before April 28, 2020. Patients who were moribund or had life-support measures withdrawn within 24 h of ICU admission, prisoners, patients with pre-existing mental illness, neurodegenerative disorders, congenital or acquired brain damage, hepatic coma, drug overdose, suicide attempt, or those who were blind or deaf were excluded. We collected de-identified data from electronic health records on patient demographics, delirium and coma assessments, and management strategies for a 21-day period. Additional data on ventilator support, ICU length of stay, and vital status was collected for a 28-day period. The primary outcome was to determine the prevalence of delirium and coma and to investigate any associated risk factors associated with development of delirium the next day. We also investigated predictors of number of days alive without delirium or coma. These outcomes were investigated using multivariable regression. FINDINGS: Between Jan 20 and April 28, 2020, 4530 patients with COVID-19 were admitted to 69 ICUs, of whom 2088 patients were included in the study cohort. The median age of patients was 64 years (IQR 54 to 71) with a median Simplified Acute Physiology Score (SAPS) II of 40·0 (30·0 to 53·0). 1397 (66·9%) of 2088 patients were invasively mechanically ventilated on the day of ICU admission and 1827 (87·5%) were invasively mechanical ventilated at some point during hospitalisation. Infusion with sedatives while on mechanical ventilation was common: 1337 (64·0%) of 2088 patients were given benzodiazepines for a median of 7·0 days (4·0 to 12·0) and 1481 (70·9%) were given propofol for a median of 7·0 days (4·0 to 11·0). Median Richmond Agitation-Sedation Scale score while on invasive mechanical ventilation was -4 (-5 to -3). 1704 (81·6%) of 2088 patients were comatose for a median of 10·0 days (6·0 to 15·0) and 1147 (54·9%) were delirious for a median of 3·0 days (2·0 to 6·0). Mechanical ventilation, use of restraints, and benzodiazepine, opioid, and vasopressor infusions, and antipsychotics were each associated with a higher risk of delirium the next day (all p≤0·04), whereas family visitation (in person or virtual) was associated with a lower risk of delirium (p<0·0001). During the 21-day study period, patients were alive without delirium or coma for a median of 5·0 days (0·0 to 14·0). At baseline, older age, higher SAPS II scores, male sex, smoking or alcohol abuse, use of vasopressors on day 1, and invasive mechanical ventilation on day 1 were independently associated with fewer days alive and free of delirium and coma (all p<0·01). 601 (28·8%) of 2088 patients died within 28 days of admission, with most of those deaths occurring in the ICU. INTERPRETATION: Acute brain dysfunction was highly prevalent and prolonged in critically ill patients with COVID-19. Benzodiazepine use and lack of family visitation were identified as modifiable risk factors for delirium, and thus these data present an opportunity to reduce acute brain dysfunction in patients with COVID-19. FUNDING: None. TRANSLATIONS: For the French and Spanish translations of the abstract see Supplementary Materials section.

Increased chemerin serum levels in hyperandrogenic and normoandrogenic women from Argentina with polycystic ovary syndrome.

AIM: To assess serum chemerin levels and investigate the association of chemerin with the hyperandrogenic and normoandrogenic phenotypes of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and with the metabolic status of the analyzed population. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 106 women with PCOS and 60 healthy controls from Argentina. Patients were classified as showing a hyperandrogenic or normoandrogenic phenotype. Participants underwent anthropometric and clinical evaluation and markers of cardiovascular risk, insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome (MS), and serum chemerin levels were assessed. RESULTS: PCOS patients showed increased levels of chemerin. In adjusted models for age and body mass index (BMI), chemerin was associated with markers of metabolic status. The analysis of chemerin levels considering the cutoff values of BMI, homeostatic model of insulin sensitivity (HOMA-IR) and TG/HDL marker showed that PCOS patients always presented higher levels of chemerin than controls. PCOS group showed increased chemerin levels independently of the presence of MS. CONCLUSION: PCOS patients always showed increased levels of chemerin independently of their phenotype and presence of overweight, as well as higher levels of chemerin than controls when considering the cutoff values of HOMA-IR and TG/HDL. Therefore, argentine women with PCOS display increased chemerin levels independently of their metabolic or androgenic status.

Perfil de seguridad a corto plazo de la terapia hormonal cruzada en trans-varones / Short-term safety profile of cross-hormonal therapy in trans-male subjects

Se denomina trans-varón (TV) a una persona de sexo biológico femenino con identidad de género masculino. Para adquirir caracteres sexuales y expresar un rol social semejante podría utilizarse: terapia hormonal cruzada (THC) y/o genitoplastia masculinizante. Se evaluó el perfil de seguridad a corto plazo (primer año) de la THC con las distintas formas farmacéuticas de testosterona disponibles en nuestro país. El estudio se realizó de manera retrospectiva, analizando las historias clínicas de 30 pacientes trans-varón que cumplían con los requisitos para ser incluidos. La edad media de la población fue de 27 años. La media basal de testosterona fue de 0.43 ng/ml, que luego aumentó a 6.36 ng/ml (valores normales para sexo masculino). El hematocrito incrementó de su valor basal 40.0 a 45.2% (p < 0.01) mientras la Hb de 13.6 a 15.2 g/dl (p < 0.01). El colesterol total se mantuvo estable con valores de 175 y 185 mg/dl (p = 0.81). No hubo cambios significativos en triglicéridos: 88.3 y 102 mg/dl (p = 0.08). El colesterol LDL incrementó en los primeros 6 a 12 meses de THC de 101.2 a 112.5 mg/dl (p = 0.17). A los 12 meses los niveles de colesterol HDL aumentaron de 50.1 a 52.0 mg/ dl (p < 0.01). Las enzimas hepáticas se mantuvieron estables. No existen datos en nuestro país sobre seguridad de la testosterona en TV. No tuvimos necesidad de suspender la medicación por efectos no deseados en los parámetros estudiados.

A trans-male (TM) is a biologically female person with male gender identity who wishes to acquire male sexual characteristics and fulfil a male social role. To achieve that purpose, both cross-hormonal therapy (CHT) and surgical phalloplasty can be used. We evaluated the short term (12 months) safety profile of CHT using different forms of testosterone available for prescription in Argentina. In this retrospective study, we analyzed the medical history of 30 trans-male patients fitting the inclusion criteria. The mean age of the population was 27 years. The mean basal serum level of testosterone was 0.43 ng/ml, which increased to 6.36 ng/ml (male hormonal levels). The hematocrit increased from a baseline of 40.0 to 45.2% (p < 0.01) and hemoglobin increased from 13.6 to 15.2 g/dl (p < 0.01). Total cholesterol remained stable with values of 175 and 185 mg/dl (p = 0.81). There were no significant changes in serum triglycerides: 88.3 and 102 mg/dl (p = 0.08). LDL increased in the first 6 to 12 months of CHT from 101.2 to 112.5 mg/dl (p = 0.17). At 12 months HDL levels increased from 50.1 to 52 mg/dl (p < 0.01). Hepatic enzymes remained stable. There is no available data regarding safety of testosterone use in TM in our country. In no case did we need to suspend the medication due to unwanted effects.

Métodos de tiroglobulina de primera y segunda generación: su utilidad en pacientes con cáncer diferenciado de tiroides / First and second generation thyroglobulin measurement methods: Their usefulness in patients with thyroid cancer

El cáncer diferenciado de tiroides (CDT) es el cáncer endocrinológico más frecuente y en las últimas décadas su incidencia ha aumentado. El seguimiento de la enfermedad se efectúa con la medición de tiroglobulina (Tg) sérica, ecografía cervical y barrido corporal total diagnóstico. Los métodos de Tg han evolucionado a través del tiempo. Actualmente, los ensayos inmunométricos de Tg se clasifican en 1.ª y 2.ª generación (1.ª G y 2.ª G). Comprobamos que los ensayos de 2.ª G alcanzan una precisión adecuada para medir valores del orden de 0,1 ng/ml y los de 1.ª G de 1 ng/ml. La bibliografía señala que en el caso de los pacientes de bajo riesgo, una Tg bajo levotiroxina indetectable por un método de 2.ª G puede evitar la realización de Tg estimulada, sea por la suspensión de la terapia hormonal como por el empleo de la TSH recombinante humana, debido a su mayor sensibilidad. Sin embargo, por su menor especificidad, un valor detectable no asegura la presencia de enfermedad, y debería confirmarse. Para optimizar la utilidad clínica de dicha medición se podrían emplear valores de cortes de acuerdo con la población y el método en lugar de la sensibilidad funcional o límite de cuantificación del mismo. Se señalan también otros aspectos críticos en la medición de Tg como son la discordancia entre distintas metodologías y las interferencias en su medición, principalmente por anticuerpos antitiroglobulina. En presencia de interferencias pierden utilidad los ensayos de Tg de 1.ª y 2.ª G. El seguimiento de los pacientes con Tg interferida tiene limitaciones todavía no resueltas. Es importante consensuar entre médicos y bioquímicos las dificultades técnicas y los criterios de interpretación de los valores de Tg en el seguimiento de los pacientes con CDT.

Differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) is the most common endocrine cancer (tumour) and its incidence has risen in the past decades. Its follow-up includes measuring serum thyroglobulin (Tg), performing neck ultrasound and a diagnostic whole-body scan. Tg assays have evolved with time. At present immunoassays for Tg are classified as 1 st and 2 nd generation assays (1 st G and 2 nd G). 2 nd G assays show an adequate (good) precision at levels close to 0.1 ng/ml and 1 st G assays at levels close to 1 ng/ml. The literature shows that for low risk patients on levothyroxine treatment, who undetectable levels by 2 aG assays can avoid the stimulation test performed by thyroid hormone withdrawal or after recombinant human TSH, due to better sensitivity. However, due to lower specificity, detectable levels do not confirm the presence of disease (tumour), and should be confirmed. To optimise the clinical usefulness of the test, cut-off values specific for population and method should be used, instead of functional sensitivity or quantification limit. Critical issues for measuring Tg are discussed, such as non-harmonisation of methods, and interferences, mainly by antithyroglobulin antibodies (ATg). 1 st and 2 nd G assays are less useful in presence of ATg, and follow up of such patients is limited. Consensus between physicians and the laboratory on technical issues and interpretation criteria of Tg values is of outmost importance in the follow-up of DTC patients.

Lipid Accumulation Product (LAP) and Visceral Adiposity Index (VAI) as Markers of Insulin Resistance and Metabolic Associated Disturbances in Young Argentine Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrine disorder. PCOS women are at high risk of developing insulin resistance (IR) and cardiovascular disorders since young age. We aimed to study the reliability of lipid accumulation product (LAP) and visceral adiposity index (VAI) as markers of metabolic disturbances (MD) associated with IR in young reproductive aged PCOS patients. We also evaluated the association between LAP and VAI and the presence of hyperandrogenism. In a cross-sectional study, 110 PCOS patients and 88 control women (18-35 years old) were recruited. PCOS patients were divided into 2 groups, as hyperandrogenic and non-hyperandrogenic considering the signs of hyperandrogenism (clinical or biochemical). Anthropometric measurements were taken and blood samples collected. Metabolic and anthropometric characteristics and their association with IR and associated MD were evaluated and LAP and VAI were calculated. LAP and VAI were compared with TC/HDL-c and TG/HDL-c to define the best markers of MD in this population. Independently of the phenotype, young PCOS patients showed high IR and dyslipidemia. Both LAP and VAI showed to be more effective markers to assess MD and IR in these young women than TG/HDL-c or TC/HDL-c [cut-off values: LAP: 18.24 (sensitivity: 81.43% specificity: 73.49%), positive predictive value (PPV): 75.0%, negative predictive value (NPV): 77.27%, VAI: 2.19 (sensitivity: 81.16% specificity: 72.15% PPV: 74.65% NPV: 72.22%)]. LAP and VAI are representative markers to assess MD associated with IR in young PCOS patients. All PCOS patients, independently of their androgenic condition, showed high metabolic risk.

Síndrome de ovario poliquístico: fenotipos y enfermedad cardiovascular / Polycystic ovary syndrome: Phenotypes and cardiovascular disease

Introducción: El síndrome de ovario poliquístico (SOP) es una endocrinopatía que afecta a mujeres en edad reproductiva, frecuentemente asociado a insulinorresistencia (IR) y riesgo cardiovascular (RCV). El criterio de Rotterdam distingue 4 fenotipos: 3 presentan hiperandrogenismo clínico y/o bioquímico (HA) y uno es normo-androgénico (NHA). Por ser un síndrome heterogéneo, es necesario identificar a las pacientes con mayor RCV. Dos nuevos marcadores han sido propuestos para evaluarlo: el índice de adiposidad abdominal (VAI) y el producto de acumulación lipídica (LAP). Objetivo: Evaluar los marcadores LAP y VAI como predictores de IR y su correlación con los parámetros de RCV en relación con los fenotipos SOP. Metodología: Se estudió a 130 pacientes con SOP entre 18 y 36 años, clasificadas en 2 grupos: HA y NHA según la presencia de hiperandrogenismo clínico y/o bioquímico. Se evaluaron parámetros de RCV según ATP III: circunferencia de cintura (CC), glucemia, HDL, triglicéridos (TG) y presión arterial. Se calcularon: LAP = (CC [cm] - 58) * TG (mmol/l) y VAI = (CC [cm]/[36,58 + (1,89 * IMC [kg/m²]] * [TG [mg/dl]/0,81] * [1,52/HDL-c [mg/dl]]). Se realizaron curvas ROC/área bajo la curva para establecer valores de corte de LAP y VAI para la identificación de IR, análisis de correlación con parámetros de RCV y de las diferencias entre fenotipos, tomando como significativo p < 0,05. Resultados: Los valores de corte establecidos para definir IR fueron de 14,02 para LAP (especificidad: 93,22%; sensibilidad: 93,94%) y de 2,17 para VAI (especificidad: 91,38%; sensibilidad: 87,88). Dichos marcadores correlacionaron con marcadores de IR (HOMA-IR, QUICKI e índice glucosa/insulina) y presentaron una correlación positiva con TG, CC y negativa con HDL. El análisis entre fenotipos no reveló diferencias en la presencia de SM, IR o factores de RCV. Conclusión: LAP y VAI serían buenos predictores de IR y RCV asociado en pacientes jóvenes con SOP. El análisis de los parámetros entre fenotipos HA y NHA indica que ambos presentan similar riesgo metabólico y de desarrollar enfermedad cardiovascular.

Introduction: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disorder affecting women of reproductive age. It is associated with insulin resistance (IR) and high cardiovascular risk (CVR). According to the Rotterdam consensus, four PCOS phenotypes could be established: three with clinical and/or biochemical hyperandrogenism (HA), and one non-hyperandrogenic (NHA). It is necessary to identify which of these patients are at risk of metabolic disturbances and CVR. Two indexes: lipid accumulation product (LAP) and visceral adiposity index (VAI) have been suggested as reliable markers of IR and CVR in PCOS. Objective: The present study aims to assess the reliability of LAP and VAI as IR markers in a young local population of PCOS patients. Their association with CVR parameters is also evaluated. Methodology: LAP and VAI were calculated in 130 PCOS patients. The PCOS patients were divided in two groups as HA and NHA, taking into account the signs of hyperandrogenism (clinical or biochemical). An evaluation was also made of the metabolic and anthropometric characteristics of the population and their association with CVR and IR. Results: Both LAP and VAI showed to be effective markers to asses CVR and IR in these PCOS women (cutoff values: LAP: 14.02 (sensitivity: 93.94% specificity: 93.22%) VAI: 2.17 (sensitivity: 87.88% specificity: 91.38%). There was a positive correlation of both markers with abdominal circumference and triglycerides (TG), and negative with HDL-cholesterol. The risk of IR and metabolic disturbances was similar in both phenotypes (NHA versus HA). Conclusion: Our data show that both LAP and VAI are representative markers for assessing IR and associated CVR in PCOS patients. These results also suggest that the NHA phenotype in the population studied shows the same risk of metabolic disturbances and cardiovascular disease when compared to HA phenotypes.

Intervenciones psicológicas para cuidadores con síntomas depresivos: revisión sistemática y metanálisis / Psychological interventions for caregivers with depressive symptoms: systematic review and meta-analysis

Está bien establecido que los cuidados no profesionales, un componente fundamental de la atención a personas dependientes, pueden aumentar el riesgo de trastornos mentales en el cuidador, especialmente de depresión. El objetivo de este estudio fue realizar una revisión sistemática y un metanálisis para determinar la eficacia de las intervenciones psicológicas, para reducir los síntomas depresivos, dirigidas a cuidadores no profesionales. Se realizó una búsqueda exhaustiva de estudios publicados entre los años 1980 y 2013 en las bases de datos Medline y PsycInfo, así como en las referencias de otras revisiones y metanálisis y capítulos de libro relevantes, de los cuales se seleccionaron 13 estudios. Aunque la mayoría de las intervenciones obtuvieron resultados positivos en la reducción de la sintomatología depresiva, en general, sus efectos fueron moderados (tamaño del efecto = -0.49, intervalo de confianza 95% [-0.62,-0.36]). Se han producido importantes avances en relación con la calidad de los estudios, pero todavía se encontraron algunas limitaciones que restringen el alcance de sus hallazgos. Es necesario realizar más estudios que cumplan con los estándares de excelencia y, más concretamente, de prevención indicada de la depresión.

It has been well determined that nonprofessional caregiving, which is a fundamental component of care to dependent persons, may lead to an increased risk for mental disorders in caregivers, especially depression. This paper sought to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to determine the efficacy of psychological interventions to reduce depressive symptoms aimed at nonprofessional caregivers. A comprehensive search of studies published from 1980 to 2013 was conducted in Medline and PsycInfo databases, as well as in the references of other reviews, meta-analysis and relevant book chapters, thereby shortlisting 13 papers. Although most of the interventions reached positive results in decreasing depressive symptomatology, their effects in general were moderate (ES = -0.49, 95% CI [-0.62, -0.36]). Important advances have been produced regarding the quality of the studies, but some limitations are still found which restrict the scope of their findings. It is necessary to conduct further studies that meet excellence standards and, more concretely, regarding indicated prevention of depression.

[Body weight increase and quality of semen: a controversial association]. / Aumento del peso corporal y calidad seminal: una asociación controvertida.

BACKGROUND: Infertility is a public health disorder affecting 10% of the population worldwide. Research on the impact of body mass index (BMI) on male fertility is very limited as compared to the multiple studies evaluating the impact of overweight in women's fertility. Although 25%-30% of the cases of couples consulting for infertility are attributable to male factors, studies evaluating the association between semen parameters and BMI are controversial. OBJECTIVE: To assess the impact of BMI on semen parameters in a selected group of men with unexplained infertility. METHOD: A retrospective analysis of 168 patients during the 2008-2010 period. They all had at least one semen analysis and related studies to rule out known causes of infertility. Median age of patients was 35 years (22-55), and they were divided into three groups: normal weight (BMI: 20-24.9kg/m(2)), overweight (BMI 25-29.9kg/m(2)), and obese (BMI ≥30kg/m(2)). RESULTS: There were no significant differences in semen parameters evaluated between the three groups, and no significant correlation was found between the same parameters and BMI. CONCLUSIONS: There was no significant association between BMI and conventional semen parameters, but we cannot exclude an impairment in other semen parameters that are not routinely assessed, which could result in a lower potential fertility in these individuals.

Prevalence, comorbidity, and correlates of DSM-IV axis I mental disorders among female university students.

This cross-sectional study evaluated the prevalence of Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th edition (DSM-IV), axis I mental disorders among Spanish female students and investigated their psychiatric comorbidity and correlates. 1054 female students with a mean age of 22.2 years were randomly selected, with stratification by academic seniority and the type of academic discipline. The cases of mental disorder were identified by clinically trained interviewers with the aid of the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV Axis I Disorders-Clinician Version. The lifetime prevalence of the targeted psychiatric disorders was 50.8%, and its point prevalence was 37.3%. The commonest disorders were nicotine dependence, depression, and generalized anxiety disorder. Nearly 37% of subjects with a psychiatric disorder had two or more diagnoses. Mental illness was associated with family income, financial independence, type of academic discipline, violence from men, social support, and self-esteem. Psychiatric disorders are common among female university students. Serious attention should be paid to preventive and therapeutic programs in this group.

Prevalencia de infección por helicobacter pylori en una población del Estado Nueva Esparta: Correlación Clínica, endoscopica y anatomopatológica

El Helicobacter pylori es un patógeno humano importante que infecta cerca de la mitad de la población mundial, la colonización de la mucosa gástrica resulta en el desarrollo de gastritis crónica, progresando a úlcera y cáncer. Objetivo: Determinar las características epidemiológicas, clínicas, hallazgos endoscópicos e histológicos en pacientes con infección por Helicobacter pylori en una población del estado Nueva Esparta. Materiales y Métodos: Se realizo un estudio retrospectivo recopilando los datos de las historias de los pacientes evaluados en la unidad de gastroenterología en la Clínica Popular "Nueva Esparta", la Asunción, Estado Nueva Esparta, con trastornos dispépticos que tenía Helicobcater pylori positivo en las biopsias, desde el mes de octubre del año 2006 a marzo del año 2007.Resultados: Se estudiaron 158 pacientes, la prevalencia para Helicobacter pylori fue de 82,1%, de los cuales 50 (31,64%) pertenecían al genero masculino y 108 (68,35%) al genero femenino, con edades entre 18 y 80 años. Evidenciándose la epigastralgia como el síntoma más relevante: 51,01%. En los hallazgos endoscópicos prevalece la gastritis erosiva en antro: 66,6%. En los hallazgos histológicos prevalece la gastritis crónica activa: 36,51%. Existe mayor prevalencia en el municipio Mariño: 25,32%. Conclusión: La infección por Helicobacter pylori en nuestra población es alta, relacionándose con trastornos dispépticos, disminuyendo de esta forma su calidad de vida.

Helicobacter pylori is an important human pathogen that infects nearly half of the world´s population. Colonization of the gastric mucosa may result in the development of chronic gastritis with progressing to ulcer or cancer. Objective: To determine the epidemiological and clinical characteristics, endoscopic and histological findings in patients with Helicobacter pylori infection in a population of Nueva Esparta state. Materials And Methods: A retrospective study was done compiling the information in the files of patients evaluated at the gastroenterology unit in the Popular Clinic "Nueva Esparta", located in La Asuncion city, Nueva Esparta state, with dyspeptic disorders in the presence of helicobacter pylori in the biopsies, from October, 2006 to March, 2007. Results: 158 patients were studied, the prevalence for Helicobacter pylori was 82, 1 %, 50 male(31, 64 %) and 108 female patients (68,35%), with ages between 18 and 80 years old. Epigastric pain was the most relevant symptom: 51, 01 % of ptients .Erosive gastritis prevailed as the main endoscopic finding in: 66, 6 %. Chronic active gastritis in the biopsies represented: 36, 51 %. There is a higher prevalence at the Mariño District: 25, 32 %. Conclusion: Helicobacter pylori infection in our population is high and related with dyspeptic disorders, affecting our quality of life.

Diferentes respuestas somáticas y densitométricas sobre el hueso cortical y trabecular a la androgenoterapia en varones hipogonádicos / Different somatic and densitometric responses of cortical and trabecular bone to androgen therapy in hypogonadal men

Una consecuencia clínica de la deficiencia de testosterona en el varón es el descenso de la densidad mineral ósea (DMO), asociado a mayor riesgo de fractura (con la consiguiente morbi-mortalidad en el hombre añoso), y cambios de la composición y el contenido de calcio corporal total. Para cuantificar los efectos de la androgenoterapia sobre la composición corporal y el contenido de calcio corporal, correlacionar los cambios hormonales con los densitométricos y de la composición corporal, y constatar posibles diferencias densitométricas regionales, se incluyeron 15 varones hipogonádicos. Se determinaron variables antropométricas, bioquímicas, densitométricas y de la composición corporal en condiciones basales y bajo la terapia sustitutiva. Como resultado, se logró compensar el déficit androgénico y duplicar la concentración de estradiol. El eugonadismo inducido incrementó la DMO como el contenido del calcio corporal total. Además, redujo el porcentaje de masa grasa corporal total (principalmente abdominal) y aumentó la masa muscular corporal total, con incremento de la relación masa magra/masa grasa, sin cambios del índice de masa corporal. En conclusión, nuestros resultados afirman el papel preponderante de los esteroides sexuales sobre la composición corporal y su rol en el hueso. El hipogonadismo masculino constituye un factor de riesgo para osteoporosis y enfermedad cardiovascular.

A clinical consequence of testosterone deficiency in males is the reduction of bone mineral density (BMD), associated with a higher risk of fracture (and a subsequent increase in morbi-mortality in elderly men) and with changes in body composition and total body calcium content. In order to quantify the effects of androgen therapy on body composition and body calcium content, and to correlate changes in hormone levels with densitometric changes and changes in body composition changes, as well as to determine potential regional densitometric differences, 15 hypogonadal men were included in the present study. Anthropometric, biochemical, densitometric and body composition variables were analyzed under basal conditions, and under replacement therapy. As a result, androgen deficiency was compensated, and estradiol level was twice as high. Induced eugonadism increased both BMD and total body calcium content. Also, replacement treatment reduced the percentage of total body fat, (primarily abdominal fat) and increased total muscle mass, with an increment of the lean mass/fat mass ratio, and no change in BMI. In conclusion, our results strengthen the preponderant role of sexual steroids on body composition, and its effect on bones. Male hypogonadism is a risk factor for osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease.

Valor del diagnóstico y tratamiento precoz en el pronostico de pacientes con sindrome de Budd-Chiari / The diagnose value and precocious treatment in the patient prognosis with Budd-Chari syndrome

El síndrome de Budd-Chiari es una obstrucción completa, completa o parcial del drenaje venoso hepático. En los últimos 10 años la sobrevida de los pacientes con Budd Chiari ha aumentado, debido a los avances en los métodos diagnósticos y de radiología endovascular (Angioplastia y derivaciones intra-hepáticas transyugulares portosistemicas), las nuevas técnicas radiológicas intervensionistas pueden tener un papel relevante frente al tratamiento quirúrgico. Revisamos las historias de 8 pacientes con diagnóstico de Síndrome de Budd-Chiari, 4 pacientes fueron diagnosticados y tratados precozmente con anticoagulación y terapia endovascular, los restantes 4 pacientes acudieron a la institución con hipertensión portal clínicamente significativa, en estadios avanzados de su enfermedad y no fueron susceptibles de tratamiento medico o de terapia endovascular. De los 4 pacientes diagnosticados tempranamente, 3 (2 Child B y 1 Child C) recibieron anticoagulación oral con angioplastia con balon por vía transyugular, con mejoría clínica y resolución de la ascitis, con una reducción significativa del Índice de Child-Pugh (Child –Pugh A). Durante el seguimiento solo dos de los tres pacientes requirieron una sesión adicional de angioplastia transyugular. 1 paciente con Budd Chiari y trombosis portal simultanea, recibió solamente anticoagulación oral con evolución satisfactoria. Dos pacientes fueron referidas tardíamente (con 5 y 11 años de evolución) a este centro para evaluación y diagnóstico murieron durante el seguimiento, la causa en los dos caso fue síndrome hepatorrenal. El tratamiento del SBC requiere una valoración multidisciplinaria y debe ser individualizado. En los pacientes en que el Budd Chiari no pudo ser controlado médicamente, la angioplastia con balón vía transyugular se podría establecer como medida de descompresión de elección , frente a las derivaciones quirúrgicas, reservando el trasplante hepático cuando estas no son eficaces. Los resultado de este estudi...

Hepatitis autoinmune tipo 2 sindrome de superposición: hepatitis autoinmune/cirrosis biliar primaria: a proposito de un caso / Autoimmune hepatitis type 2: overlap syndrome: premary biliar autoimmune/eirrhosis hepatitis: case report

La Hepatitis Autoinmune constituye una inflamación crónica del hígado caracterizada por la presencia de autoanticuerpos y de hepatitis de interfase en el examen histológico e hipergammaglobulinemia. Constituye el 11-23 por ciento de todos los casos de hepatitis crónica en USA, afecta principalmente a las mujeres, siendo el tipo I el más frecuente. Se presenta el caso de una paciente de 21 años, con perfil inmunológico compatible con una Hepatitis Autoinmune tipo 2, con autoanticuerpos antimicrosomales de Hígado-Riñón (LKM1) positivo, lo cual es de prevalencia muy baja .El hallazgo asociado de anticuerpos antimitocondriales (AMA) positivo, característico de Cirrosis Biliar Primaria, nos lleva a considerar: Síndrome de Superposición

Evaluación endoscópica e histológica en el diagnóstico de la enfermedad inflamatoria intestinal / Endoscopy and histology evaluation in the diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease

El propósito de este estudio fue evaluar los hallazgos endoscópicos e histológicos de la Enfermedad Inflamatoria Intestinal (EII), así como conocer en nuestro medio las formas de presentación clínica, endoscópica y las características demográficas de los pacientes estudiados y la prevalencia de esta enfermedad en nuestro medio. Se realizó un estudio retrospectivo, transversal en el Hospital IVSS Dr. Miguel Pérez Carreño, entre los años 2001-2003, de pacientes con hallazgos endoscópicos e histológicos de Enfermedad Inflamatoria Intestinal. Resultados: de un total de 1749 colonoscopias, 21 casos presentaron Enfermedad Inflamatoria Intestinal representando el 1,2 por ciento, siendo: 19 colitis ulcerosa (RCU) y 2 Enfermedad de Crohn (EC), siendo el sexo femenino mas frecuente 52,38 por ciento, el rango de edad fue entre 32 a 58 años, el motivo de la endoscopia mas frecuente fue el antecedente de EII en un 38,09 por ciento, la proctitis fue el hallazgo endoscópico mas frecuente en un 36,84 por ciento. Las características clínicas son similares a lo reportado por otros autores y es importante reconocer la clínica, los hallazgos endoscópicos e histológicos, para su oportuno tratamiento

Análisis de las complicaciones más frecuentes de la cirrosis hepática en nuestro medio / Analysis of the complication frequence of the cirrhosis hepatic in means

Conocer las principales causas de cirrosis hepática (CH) en nuestro medio. Analizar la relación entre edad, sexo, etiología y parámetros hematológicos: albúmina (Alb), tiempo de protrombina (PT) y bilirrubina (BT) con las causas de descompensación de la CH. Se evaluó parámetros: clínicos, hematológicos, endoscópicos, ecográficos y en algunos casos histológicos de la base de datos de la consulta de hepatología del Hospital IVSS "Dr. Miguel Pérez Carreño" establecida desde diciembre de 1999. Se utilizó la escala de Child-Pugh en los casos con cirrosis hepática compensada (CHC); la cirrosis hepática descompensada (CHC) se definió por la presencia de algunas de las complicaciones: Ascitis (A), Encefalopatía (E), Hemorragía Digestiva Superior (HDS) y Peritonitis Bacteriana Espontánea (PBE). Se estableció factores pronósticos de descompensación: edad, sexo, Alb, PT, BT. Análisis estadístico: se utilizó medidas de tendencia central, frecuencias absolutas y relativas, medidas de asociación y comparación. Se obtuvo 80 casos de los cuales el 55 por ciento (n=44) perteneció al sexo masculino con un promedio (X) de edad de 53 años, y el 45 por ciento (n=36) restante al femenino con un X de edad de 50 años. La etiología más frecuente de CH fue por alcohol (ETOH) en un 31,3 por ciento (n=25), seguido de infección viral (VHC) en un 17,5 por ciento (n=14). La principal complicación fue la (A) entre los casos con CHD en un 26,25 por ciento (n=21), seguido de la (HDS) con 6,25 por ciento (n=5). Los hallazgos endoscópicos resultantes: varices esofágicas y la gastropatía hipertensiva con 45 y 24 casos respectivamente; mientras que los ecográficos: esplenomegalia en 34 casos, seguido de enfermedad hepática difusa con 32 casos. Hubo un 3,75 por ciento de muertes en 30 meses de seguimiento. La causa más frecuente de CH en nuestro medio es el alcohol siendo la princiapl complicación la ascitis, algunos parámetros hematológicos guarda relación con la misma