Assessing quality of magnetic resonance enterography and its impact on disease assessment of ileal Crohn’s disease

Background/Aims@#Assessment of quality of magnetic resonance enterography (MRE) in small bowel Crohn’s disease (CD) activity evaluation has received little attention. We assessed the impact of bowel distention and motion artifact on MRE activity indices in ileal CD. @*Methods@#A cohort of patients who underwent contemporaneous MRE and colonoscopy for ileal CD assessment between 2014 and 2021 at 2 centers were audited. An abdominal radiologist blinded to clinical data reviewed each MRE, graded bowel distention and motion artifact upon a pre-specified 3-point scale and calculated the original magnetic resonance index of activity (MaRIA) and simplified MaRIA (sMaRIA), London index and CD MRE index (CDMI). Ileal endoscopic activity was graded via the Simplified Endoscopy Score for CD (SES-CD). The performance of MRE indices in discriminating active disease (SES-CD ≥3) stratified by MRE quality was measured by receiver operator characteristic analyses. @*Results@#One hundred and thirty-seven patients had MRE and colonoscopy within a median of 16 days (range, 0–30 days) with 63 (46%) exhibiting active disease (SES-CD ≥3). Forty-four MREs (32%) were deemed low quality due to motion artifact and/or moderate to poor distention. Low-quality MREs demonstrated reduced discriminative performance between ileal SES-CD ≥3 and MRE indices (MaRIA 0.838 vs. 0.634, sMaRIA 0.834 vs. 0.527, CDMI 0.850 vs. 0.595, London 0.748 vs. 0.511, P<0.05 for all). Individually the presence of any motion artifact markedly impacted the discriminative performance (e.g., sMaRIA area under the curve 0.544 vs. 0.814, P<0.05). @*Conclusions@#Image quality parameters can significantly impact MRE disease activity interpretation. Quality metrics should be reported, enabling cautious interpretation in lower-quality studies.

Mayor uso de teleconsultas programadas y mensajería asincrónica del portal en atención primaria / Increased Use of Scheduled Teleconsultations and Asynchronous Portal Messaging in Primary Care

Introducción: durante la pandemia de COVID-19 hubo un auge sin precedentes de la telemedicina, probablemente por la forzada adopción de tecnología ante las medidas restrictivas. El presente estudio se propuso comparar la interacción y la comunicación entre médicos de cabecera (MC) y pacientes, antes y durante el período de pandemia, en términos de consultas ambulatorias programadas y mensajes del Portal de Salud. Materiales y métodos: corte transversal con muestreo consecutivo de turnos programados y mensajes, ocurridos entre las semanas epidemiológicas (SE) 10 y 23, de 2019 y 2020, respectivamente. Se incluyeron 147 médicos del Servicio de Medicina Familiar y Comunitaria, y una cápita de 73 427 pacientes afiliados al Plan de Salud del Hospital Italiano de Buenos Aires. Se realizó análisis cuantitativo y cualitativo. Resultados: hubo una reducción del 70% de las consultas presenciales (de 76 375 en 2019 a 23 200 en 2020) y un aumento concomitante de teleconsultas (de 255 en la SE13 a 1089 en la SE23). En simultáneo, los mensajes aumentaron sustancialmente (de 28 601 en 2019 a 84 916 en 2020), con un inicio abrupto al comienzo del confinamiento, y una tendencia decreciente a lo largo del tiempo. Antes de la pandemia, el contenido estuvo relacionado con órdenes electrónicas de estudios complementarios, control de resultados, recetas de medicación crónica y/o interconsultas a especialistas, mientras que los dominios más frecuentes durante la pandemia fueron necesidades informativas epidemiológicas, como medidas preventivas para COVID-19, vacuna antineumocócica, vacuna antigripal, casos o sospechas, resultados de hisopados, entre otras. Conclusión: el auge de las tecnologías de la comunicación e información durante la pandemia permitió dar continuidad a los procesos asistenciales en salud pese al distanciamiento físico. Hubo mayor utilización de mensajería por necesidades informativas de los pacientes, y la relación médico-paciente se ha modificado. (AU)

Introduction: during the COVID-19 pandemic, there was an unprecedented boom in telemedicine, probably due to the forced adoption of technology in the face of restrictive measures. This study aimed to compare the interaction and communication between general practitioners and patients before and during the pandemic based on scheduled outpatient consultations and Health Portal messages. Materials and methods: Cross-sectional study with a consecutive sampling of scheduled appointments and messages, occurring between epidemiological weeks (EW) 10 and 23 of 2019 and 2020, respectively. We included 147 physicians from the Family and Community Medicine Service and a capita of 73427 patients affiliated with the Hospital Italiano de Buenos Aires health plan. We conducted a quantitative and qualitative analysis. Results: there was a 70% reduction in face-to-face consultations (from 76375 in 2019 to 23200 in 2020) and a concomitant increase in teleconsultations (from 255 in EW13 to 1089 in EW23). Concurrently, messages increased substantially (from 28601 in 2019 to 84916 in 2020), with an abrupt onset at the beginning of confinement and a decreasing trend over time. Before the pandemic, the content involved electronic orders for complementary studies, outcome monitoring, chronic medication prescriptions, or expert consultations. The most frequent domains during the pandemic were epidemiological information needs, such as preventive measures for COVID-19, pneumococcal vaccine, influenza vaccine, cases or suspicions, and swab results, among others. Conclusion: the rise of communication and information technologies during the pandemic allowed the continuity of healthcare processes despite the physical distance. There was increased use of messaging for patients' information needs, and the doctor-patient relationship has changed. (AU)

Ciento cincuenta años de hebefrenia. Una revisión

Introducción: La publicación del artículo de Hecker sobre la hebefrenia en 1871 fue un hito fundamental para la psiquiatría clínica. A pesar del reconocimiento inicial, se alzaron muchas voces en contra de esta categoría diagnóstica y sus límites se fueron diluyendo a lo largo del siglo XX hasta su desaparición a comienzos de este siglo -con el resto de los subtipos de esquizofrenia- del DSM y la CIE. Discusión: Contrariamente a su disolución conceptual, la consistencia del cuadro clínico hace posible que surjan otros criterios para continuar o reiniciar su estudio sistemático. Sobresalen en este sentido los conceptos de esquizofrenia deficitaria, de hebefrenia como sustitución de la esquizofrenia en su conjunto y las hebefrenias como esquizofrenias sistemáticas de Leonhard. En el presente artículo se discuten los principales conflictos diagnósticos de la categoría de hebefrenia a lo largo del tiempo, haciendo hincapié en la problemática de las últimas décadas. Conclusiones: El concepto de hebefrenia comenzó a revalorizarse en los últimos arios y los conceptos de esquizofrenia deficitaria, de hebefrenia como categoría mayor y de hebefrenias sistemáticas permiten profundizar en nuevas investigaciones sobre este cuadro fundacional de la psiquiatría clínica.

Introduction: The publication of Hecker's article on hebephrenia in 1871 was a fundamental milestone for clinical psychiatry. Despite the initial recognition, many voices were raised against this diagnostic category and its limits were attenuated throughout the 20th century until its disappearance at the beginning of this century (along with the other subtypes of schizophrenia) in the DSM and ICD. Discussion: However, given the consistency of the clinical picture, there is the possibility of other criteria emerging that would lead its systematic study to continue or recommence. In this sense, the concepts of deficit schizophrenia, hebephrenia as a replacement for schizophrenia as a whole, and Leonhard's hebephrenias as systematic schizophrenias stand out. This article discusses the main diagnostic conflicts of the category of hebephrenia over time, with emphasis on the problems of recent decades. Conclusions: The concept of hebephrenia has begun to be revalued in recent years, and the concepts of deficit schizophrenia, of hebephrenia as a major category, and of systematic hebephrenias allow further investigation of this foundational picture of clinical psychiatry.

Cardioverter-defibrillator reduces mortality risk in eligible ischemic and non-ischemic cardiomyopathy patients: Sub-analysis of the multi-center Improve SCA study

Background & Objective: Despite the burden of sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) worldwide, implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) are underutilized, particularly in Asia, Latin America, Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. The Improve SCA trial demonstrated that primary prevention (PP) patients in these regions benefit from an ICD or a cardiac resynchronization therapy defibrillator (CRT-D). We aimed to compare the rate of device therapy and mortality among ischemic and non-ischemic cardiomyopathy (ICM and NICM) PP patients who met guideline indications for ICD therapy and had an ICD/CRT-D implanted. Methods: Improve SCA was a prospective, non-randomized, non-blinded multicenter trial that enrolled patients from the above-mentioned regions. All-cause mortality and device therapy were examined by cardiomyopathy (ICM vs NICM) and implantation status. Cox proportional hazards methods were used, adjusting for factors affecting mortality risk. Results: Of 1848 PP NICM patients, 1007 (54.5%) received ICD/CRT-D, while 303 of 581 (52.1%) PP ICM patients received an ICD/CRT-D. The all-cause mortality rate at 3 years for NICM patients with and without an ICD/CRT-D was 13.1% and 18.3%, respectively (HR 0.51, 95% CI 0.38e0.68, p < 0.001). Similarly, all-cause mortality at 3 years in ICM patients was 13.8% in those with a device and 19.9% in those without an ICD/CRT-D (HR 0.54, 95% CI 0.33e.0.88, p ¼ 0.011). The time to first device therapy, time to first shock, and time to first antitachycardia pacing (ATP) therapy were not significantly different between groups (p 0.263). Conclusions: In this large data set of patients with a guideline-based PP ICD indication, defibrillator device implantation conferred a significant mortality benefit in both NICM and ICM patients. The rate of appropriate device therapy was also similar in both groups.

A study on the impact of simulation-based training, on retention of knowledge and skills of medical interns, for patient care, during the COVID-19 pandemic

Background: During the pandemic of COVID-19, the highly transmissible novel coronavirus can easily affect medical interns who are a part of frontline health-care providers. They are required to have adequate knowledge and skills, to protect themselves from getting infected with COVID-19 and also care for patients, effectively. Aims and Objectives: This study aims to evaluate the impact of simulation-based training on retention of knowledge and skills of medical interns, for patient care, during the COVID-19 pandemic. Materials and Methods: A total of 122 medical interns, aged between 21 and 25 years, of which 47.5% (58) were male and 52.5% (64) female, were included as study participants. A simulation-based training was conducted, based on knowledge and skills required in providing patient care during the COVID-19 pandemic such as donning and doffing of personal protective equipment, triage of COVID-19 patients, and airway management. A pre-tested pre-test questionnaire was used before training and simulation-based practical test along with post-test was conducted 6 months after the training. Results: The pre-test and post-test theory and simulation-based practical scores were analyzed and compared using paired t-test and P = 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. There was a significant difference between total scores, both theory and practical pre-test and post-test scores, using paired t test with t = 28.441 (P = 0.001). Conclusion: During the current COVID-19 pandemic, simulation-based training has a significant impact on retention of knowledge and skills of the medical interns in patient care, during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Validación externa y reproducibilidad del cuestionario PUMA para el diagnóstico de EPOC en una población latinoamericana: validación externa del cuestionario PUMA / External validation and reproducibility of the PUMA questionnaire for the diagnosis of COPD in a Latin American population: external validation of the PUMA questionnaire

Resumen El uso de escalas de predicción clínica puede incrementar la detección temprana de enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica (EPOC). Su rendimiento en población latinoamericana ha sido pobremente estudiado. Nuestro objetivo fue determinar la validez y reproducibilidad del cuestionario PUMA, como herramienta de tamización en atención primaria en población colombiana, mediante un estudio tipo corte transversal; donde se establecieron las características operativas del cuestionario, área bajo la curva de características operativas del receptor (ACOR) y el mejor punto de corte para esta población. 1.980 sujetos fueron incluidos en el análisis. La prevalencia de EPOC correspondió a 18,9%. La capacidad discriminatoria del cuestionario fue de 0,69 (IC95%: 0,66-0,72), para un punto de corte óptimo mayor de 5, con una sensibilidad del 60%, especificidad 66% y un valor predictivo negativo de 88%. La escala PUMA para tamizaje de pacientes en riesgo de EPOC tiene una capacidad discriminatoria moderada y una excelente reproducibilidad en la población estudiada.

The use of clinical prediction scales may increase the early detection of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The performance characteristics of these scales in the Latin American population is poorly studied. We aimed to evaluate validity and reproducibility of PUMA questionnaire as a screening tool in primary care in a Colombian population. A cross-sectional study was performed. Operational characteristics of the questionnaire, the area under the received operator curve (AUROC), and the best cut-off point of the score were calculated. 1,980 individuals were included in this analysis. Prevalence of COPD was 18.9%. AUROC of the questionary was 0.69 (CI95%: 0.66-0.72), with an optimal cut-off point greater than 5 (sensitivity 60%, specificity 66%); predictive negative value was 88%. PUMA's scale for the screening of patients at risk of COPD has a moderate accuracy and an excellent reproducibility in the studied population.

Determining Accessibility of Anterior Cervicothoracic Spine Based on Age and Gender: Radiographic Analysis of Computed Tomography Scans / Determinação da capacidade de acesso anterior à coluna cervicotorácica conforme idade e gênero: Análise radiográfica de imagens de tomografia computadorizada

Abstract Objective The approachability of the cervicothoracic region anteriorly based on age and gender, and the possibility of anatomic variances in different geographic populations have not been previously investigated. The aim of the present work was to perform a radiographic analysis of Brazilian patients to assess anterior approachability of the cervicothoracic junction based on age and gender. Methods Retrospective radiographic analysis of 300 computed tomography scans. Patients were separated based on age and gender. The radiographic parameters studied were: horizontal level above the sternum (HLS), vertebral body angle (VBA), intervertebral disc line (IDL), and intervertebral disc line angulation (IDLA). Results The most frequent HLS and IDL were T2 (34.3%) and C7-T1 (46%) respectively. Vertebral body angleand IDLA had average values of 18 ± 8.94 and 19 ± 7.9 degrees, respectively. Males had higher values in both IDLA (p= 0.003) and VBA (p= 0.02). Older groups had higher values in both IDLA (p= 0.01) and VBA (p= 0.001). No differences were observed in HLS between gender (p= 0.3) or age groups (p= 0.79). No differences were seen in IDL between gender groups (p= 0.3); however, the older group had a more caudal level than the younger groups (p= 0.12). ConclusionsCompared to other populations, our sample had a more cephalad IDL and HLS. Vertebral body angle and IDLA were higher in males and higher angles for VBA and IDLA were shown for older groups. Intervertebral disc line was more caudal with aging.

Resumo Objetivo A capacidade de acesso anterior à região cervicotorácica com base na idade e gênero do paciente e a possibilidade de variações anatômicas em diferentes populações geográficas ainda não foram investigadas. O objetivo deste trabalho foi realizar uma análise radiográfica de pacientes brasileiros para avaliar a acessibilidade anterior da junção cervicotorácica conforme idade e gênero. Métodos Análise radiográfica retrospectiva de 300 tomografias computadorizadas. Os pacientes foram separados por idade e gênero. Os parâmetros radiográficos estudados foram: nível horizontal acima do esterno (HLS, na sigla em inglês), angulação do corpo vertebral (VBA, na sigla em inglês), linha do disco intervertebral (IDL, na sigla em inglês) e angulação da linha do disco intervertebral (IDLA, na sigla em inglês). Resultados Os HLS e IDL mais frequentes foram T2 (34,3%) e C7-T1 (46%), respectivamente. Os valores médios de VBA e IDLA foram de 18 ± 8,94 e 19 ± 7,9 graus, respectivamente. Os homens apresentaram valores maiores de IDLA (p= 0,003) e VBA (p= 0,02). Os grupos de maior idade apresentaram valores maiores de IDLA (p= 0,01) e VBA (p= 0,001). Não houve diferenças de HLS entre os gêneros masculino e feminino (p= 0,3) ou faixas etárias (p= 0,79). Não foram observadas diferenças na IDL entre os gêneros masculino e feminino (p= 0,3); entretanto, o grupo mais velho apresentou nível mais caudal do que os grupos mais jovens (p= 0,12). ConclusõesEm comparação a outras populações, nossa amostra apresentou IDL e HLS mais cefálicos. AVBA e a IDLA foram maiores no gênero masculino, enquanto VBA e IDLA foram maiores em grupos mais velhos. A IDL era mais caudal em pacientes idosos.

Biomarker dynamics during infliximab salvage for acute severe ulcerative colitis: C-reactive protein (CRP)-lymphocyte ratio and CRP-albumin ratio are useful in predicting colectomy

Background/Aims@#The residual risk of colectomy after infliximab salvage in steroid-refractory acute severe ulcerative colitis (ASUC) is required to inform the need for subsequent maintenance biologic therapy. The aim of this study was to determine the dynamic response of common serum biomarkers to infliximab salvage and assess their utility in predicting subsequent colectomy. @*Methods@#A retrospective single-center cohort study was conducted on all patients who received infliximab salvage for steroid-refractory ASUC between January 1, 2010, and July 31, 2019. Biomarkers were assessed on admission and days 1 and 3 post infliximab, and included C-reactive protein (CRP)-albumin-ratio (CAR), CRP-lymphocyte-ratio (CLR), platelet-lymphocyte-ratio (PLR) and neutrophil-lymphocyte-ratio (NLR). @*Results@#Of 94 patients (median age, 35 years; 67% of male), 20% required colectomy at 12 months. Biomarkers on day 3 post-infliximab best differentiated nonresponders, who had higher CRP, lower albumin and lower lymphocyte count (each P 0.05) but superior to Mayo (0.726), partial Mayo (0.719), PLR (0.719), Ho index (0.714), NLR (0.675), Travis score (0.657) and endoscopic Mayo (0.609) (each P< 0.05). A day 3 CAR cutoff of 0.47 mg/g had 79% sensitivity, 80% specificity, 94% negative predictive value (NPV) to predict colectomy; while a day 3 CLR cutoff of 6.0 mg/109 had 84% sensitivity, 84% specificity, 96% NPV. @*Conclusions@#CAR and CLR measured on day 3 post infliximab salvage for steroid-refractory ASUC represent simple and routinely performed biomarkers that appear to be strong predictors of colectomy. Prospective studies are required to confirm the utility of these predictive scores.

Liver transplant after SARS-CoV-2 infection: A systematic review

Abstract Background: The Coronavirus 19 (COVID-19) pandemic has dramatically impacted liver organ transplantation. The American Society of Transplantation recommends a minimum of 28 days after symptom resolution for organ donation. However, the exact time for transplantation for recipients is unknown. Considering that mortality on the waiting list for patients with MELD >25 or fulminant hepatitis is higher than that of COVID-19, the best time for surgery after SARS-CoV-2 infection remains undetermined. This study aims to expand the current knowledge regarding the Liver Transplantation (LT) time for patients after COVID-19 and to provide transplant physicians with essential decision-making tools to manage these critically ill patients during the pandemic. Methods: Systematic review of patients who underwent liver transplantation after diagnosis of COVID-19. The MEDLINE, PubMed, Cochrane, Lilacs, Embase, and Scielo databases were searched until June 20, 2021. The MESH terms used were "COVID-19" and "Liver transplantation". Results: 558 articles were found; of these 13 articles and a total of 18 cases of COVID-19 prior to liver transplantation were reported. The mean age was 38.7±14.6, with male prevalence. Most had mild symptoms of COVID. Five patients have specific treatment for COVID-19 with convalescent plasm or remdesivir/oseltamivir, just one patient received hydroxychloroquine, and 12 patients received only symptomatic treatment. The median time between COVID-19 to LT was 19 days (13.5-44.5). Deceased donor liver transplantation accounted for 61% of cases, while living donor transplantation was 39%. Conclusion: Despite the concerns regarding the postoperative evolution, the mortality of patients with high MELD or fulminant hepatitis transplanted shortly after COVID-19 diagnosis does not seem to be higher. (PROSPERO, registration number = CRD42021261790)

HIV knowledge and its correlation with the Undetectable = Untransmittable slogan in Brazil

ABSTRACT Knowledge about HIV transmission and prevention is a necessary step for adopting preventive behaviors. We assessed HIV knowledge and its correlation with the perceived accuracy of the "Undetectable = Untransmittable" (U=U) slogan in an online sample with 401 adult Brazilians. Overall, 28% of participants showed high HIV knowledge level. The perceived accuracy of the U=U slogan significantly correlated with HIV knowledge. Younger participants, those reporting lower income or lower education, or who had never tested for HIV showed poorer HIV knowledge. Filling gaps of knowledge among specific populations is urgent in order to increase preventive behaviors and decrease HIV stigma.

Clinical characteristics and evolution of hematological patients and COVID-19 in Argentina: a report from the Argentine Society of Hematology / Características clínicas y evolución de pacientes hematológicos y COVID-19 en Argentina: datos de la Sociedad Argentina de Hematología

Abstract Individuals with malignancies and COVID-19 have a lower survival compared with the general population. However, the information about the impact of COVID-19 on the whole hematological population is scarce. We aimed to describe the 30th day overall survival (OS) after COVID-19 infection in pa tients with a hematological disease in Argentina. A completely anonymous survey from the Argentine Society of Hematology was delivered to all the hematologists in Argentina; it started in April 2020. A cut-off to analyze the data was performed in December 2020 and, finally, 419 patients were reported and suitable for the analysis (average age: 58 years, 90% with malignant diseases). After the COVID-19 diagnosis, the 30-day OS for the whole population was 80.2%. From the entire group (419), 101 (24.1%) individuals required intensive care unit admission, where the 30-day OS was 46.6%. Among allogeneic stem cell transplant recipients, the 30-day OS was 70.3%. Factors associated with a low OS were two or more comorbidities, an active hematological disease and history of chemotherapy. In individuals with the three factors, the 30-day OS was 49.6% while the 30-day OS in those without those factors was 100%. Patients with hematological diseases have a higher mortality than the general population. This group represents a challenge and requires careful decision-making of the treatment in order not to compromise the chances of cure.

Resumen El presente estudio tuvo por objetivo primario conocer la mortalidad de pacientes con enfermedad hematológica que presentaron infección por COVID-19 en Argentina. Para ello se difundió una encuesta desde la Sociedad Argentina de Hematología (SAH) entre los hematológos para informar sobre los pacientes con enfermedades hematológicas y diagnóstico de infección por SARS- CoV-2, entre el 19/4/2020, y el 7/12/2020. Se incluyeron individuos de todas las edades con diagnóstico de enfermedad hematológica benigna o maligna e infección por SARS-CoV-2 confirmada por técnica de RT-PCR. Se analizaron 419 pacientes (mediana 58 años; 90% enfermedades malignas). La supervivencia al día 30 fue de 80.2%. La supervivencia fue menor en aquellos que requirieron internación (74.2%), cuidados intensivos (46.6%) y asistencia respiratoria mecánica (36.8%). Entre los trasplantados alogénicos la supervivencia fue 70.3%. Los factores vinculados a la supervivencia global fueron las comorbilidades, el estado de la enfermedad al momento de la infección y el antecedente de quimioterapia. Se pudo establecer un score en el que aquellos que tuvieron un puntaje de 4 alcanzaron una supervivencia del 49.6% al día 30, mientras que la de los pacientes con score 0 fue del 100% a 30 días. En comparación con la población general, los pacientes con enfermedades hematológicas presentan una mayor mortalidad vinculada al COVID-19, motivo por el cual es primordial definir pautas destinadas a disminuir la exposición de los mismos sin comprometer las posibilidades de beneficiarse del tratamiento de la enfermedad de base.

Evaluación de comorbilidades y pronóstico de la neumonía por COVID-19: revisión de la literatura

La infección por COVID-19 presenta una elevada mortalidad respecto a otros virus respiratorios. En este artículo buscamos definir las comorbilidades que están asociadas a la elevada mortalidad o a las complicaciones que requieren mayor soporte ventilatorio en unidades de cuidados intensivos. Se ha diseñado una búsqueda bibliográfica con respecto a las comorbilidades y/o alteraciones en los exámenes de laboratorio y los estudios radiológicos que se han asociado a la presencia de mortalidad, especialmente en los casos descritos en China.

Mortality due to SARS-CoV-2 is high compared to that caused by other respiratory viruses. This article aims to define the comorbidities associated with high mortality rates or complications that require ventilatory support in intensive care units. A bibliographic search has been performed with respect to comorbidities and/or alterations in laboratory tests and radiographic exams that have been associated with mortality, especially those described in China.

Correlation between epicardial fat thickness with intima–media thickness and ankle–brachial index in patients with metabolic syndrome

BACKGROUND An increase in epicardial fat thickness (EFT) has been associated with increased cardiovascular risk and the development of atherosclerosis. Transthoracic echo-cardiography provides a reliable measurement of EFT. We evaluated the relationship of EFT with carotid intima–media thickness (CIMT) and ankle–brachial index (ABI), in patients with metabolic syndrome. METHODS We assessed 80 patients with metabolic syndrome who underwent echocardiography; EFT was measured by two cardiologists. The CIMT (B-mode colour imaging of extracranial carotid arteries using high-resolution ultrasound) was also measured by a certified ultrasonographer, and ABI was measured by the main researcher. RESULTS We did not find any correlation between ABI with EFT (r=0.0103, p=0.93) or with CIMT (r=–0.1625, p=0.15). However, we found a significant correlation between EFT and CIMT (r=0.2718, r2=0.074, p=0.015). When we evaluated the risk for a CIMT >0.9 mm in patients with an EFT >3 mm, we found a statistically significant association (p=0.039). Interestingly, only 1 patient with an EFT <3 mm had a CIMT >0.9 mm. CONCLUSION We found that the EFT correlates with CIMT in patients with metabolic syndrome, which explains, at least in part, the higher risk of atherosclerosis in them. Measurement of EFT should be part of the cardiovascular risk evaluation in patients with metabolic syndrome.

Efficiency of a digital electrofulguration system in contaminated root canals in vitro

Abstract Decontamination of the root canal (RC) system is essential for successful endodontic therapy. In this in vitro study, it was evaluated the disinfection potential of an electrofulguration device, the Endox® Endodontic System (EES), in RC infected with Enterococcus faecalis. Sixty-five human lower premolars were instrumented with MTwo® system. The specimens were distributed into six experimental groups (n = 10), according to the irrigation protocol: 2% chlorhexidine gel (CHX); CHX + EES; 5.25% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl); NaOCl + EES; saline solution (SS); and SS + EES. Five specimens were untreated (control). RC samples were collected before (C1) and after EES treatment (C2), after chemo-mechanical preparation (CMP) (C3), and after final EES treatment (C4). All samples were plated for colony forming units (CFU/mL) onto solid media. The data were analyzed by Wilcoxon and Friedman tests for intragroup comparisons and by Kruskal Wallis test followed by Dunn's test for intergroup comparisons (α = 0.05). Treatment with the EES did not significantly reduce the number of CFU/mL as compared to baseline levels (C1 vs. C2, p> 0.05). After CMP (C3), all groups showed a significantly reduced amount of CFU/mL (p <0.05), with no difference between CHX- and NaOCl-treated samples (p >0.05). Lastly, treatment with the EES following CMP (C4) did not significantly reduce the amount of CFU/mL (C3 vs. C4, p> 0.05). To conclude, the use of the Endox® Endodontic System did not result in considerable bacterial reduction at all operative times, while treatment with NaOCl and CHX was equally efficient for this purpose.

Resumo A descontaminação do sistema do canal radicular (CR) é essencial para o sucesso da terapia endodôntica. Neste estudo in vitro, foi avaliado o potencial de desinfecção de um dispositivo de eletrofulguração, o Endox® Endodontic System (EES), em CR infectado com Enterococcus faecalis. Sessenta e cinco pré-molares inferiores humanos foram instrumentados com o sistema MTwo®. As amostras foram distribuídas em seis grupos experimentais (n = 10), de acordo com o protocolo de irrigação: clorexidina gel a 2% (CHX); CHX + EES; Hipoclorito de sódio 5,25% (NaOCl); NaOCl + EES; solução salina (SS); e SS + EES. Cinco amostras não foram tratadas (controle). As amostras de CR foram coletadas antes (C1) e após o tratamento com EES (C2), após preparo químico-mecânico (PQM) (C3) e após o tratamento final com EES (C4). Todas as amostras foram plaqueadas para unidades formadoras de colônias (CFU / mL) em meio sólido. Os dados foram analisados pelos testes de Wilcoxon e Friedman para comparações intragrupos e pelo teste de Kruskal Wallis, seguidos pelo teste de Dunn para comparações intergrupos (α = 0,05). O tratamento com o EES não reduziu significativamente o número de CFU / mL em comparação com os níveis basais (C1 vs. C2, p> 0,05). Após PQM (C3), todos os grupos apresentaram uma quantidade significativamente reduzida de CFU / mL (p <0,05), sem diferença entre as amostras tratadas com CHX e NaOCl (p> 0,05). Por fim, o tratamento com o EES após PQM (C4) não reduziu significativamente a quantidade de CFU / mL (C3 vs. C4, p> 0,05). Concluindo, o uso do Endox® Endodontic System não resultou em redução bacteriana considerável em todos os momentos operatórios, enquanto os tratamentos com NaOCl e CHX foram igualmente eficientes para esse fim.

De la presencialidad a la virtualidad en tiempos de pandemia: la experiencia del Hospital Italiano de Buenos Aires / From face-to-face to virtuality in pandemic times: the experience of the Hospital Italiano de Buenos Aires

El 11 de marzo de 2020, la Organización Mundial de la Salud (OMS) declaró el COVID-19 como pandemia, afectando drásticamente la atención de la salud. A nivel global se adoptaron medidas como el distanciamiento social y la cuarentena. Ello representó un enorme desafío para los Sistemas de Información en Salud (SIS), que rápidamente debieron adaptarse, frente a una razón ineludible para abrazar por completo la transformación digital. Surge la necesidad de explorar las tecnologías digitales utilizadas durante la pandemia y considerarlas para su uso continuado en el tiempo o cíclicamente en caso de brotes recurrentes. Las herramientas informáticas se han utilizado para la prestación de servicios de telemedicina, monitorización remota de pacientes, comunicación digital entre líderes políticos y autoridades científicas, monitorización de datos para analizar la propagación y evolución del COVID-19, etc. Los países y organizaciones han impulsado el uso de soluciones tecnológicas con distintas limitaciones. El Hospital Italiano de Buenos Aires posee una trayectoria de más de 20 años en implementaciones e innovaciones tecnológicas; sin embargo, la pandemia impulsó una serie de adaptaciones en su SIS. El objetivo de este trabajo fue describir dicho proceso de adaptación digital desde marzo a diciembre de 2020, e identificar los principales resultados utilizando un modelo sociotécnico. Se empleó el modelo de Sittig que incluye 8 dimensiones: Infraestructura, Contenido clínico, Interfaz Humano-computadora, Personas, Comunicación y procesos, Regulaciones, Características organizacionales y Políticas internas y Medición y monitorización. (AU)

On March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared COVID-19 a pandemic, dramatically affecting health care. Measures such as social distancing and quarantine were adopted globally. This new context represented a huge challenge for Health Information Systems (HIS) that had to adapt quickly, facing an inescapable reason to fully embrace the digital transformation. There is a need to explore the digital technologies used during the pandemic and consider them for continued use over time or cyclically in the event of recurring outbreaks. Digital tools have been used for the provision of telemedicine services, remote patient monitoring, digital communication between political leaders and scientific authorities, data monitoring to analyze the spread and evolution of COVID-19, etc. Countries and organizations have promoted the use of technological solutions with different limitations. The Hospital Italiano de Buenos Aires has a history of more than 20 years in technological implementations and innovations, however, the pandemic prompted a series of adaptations in its SIS. The objective of this work was to describe said digital adaptation process from March to December 2020, and to identify the main results using a sociotechnical model. Sittig´model was used, which includes 8 dimensions: Infrastructure, Clinical Content, Human-Computer Interface, People, Communication and Processes, Regulations, Organizational Characteristics and Internal Policies, and Measurement and Monitoring. (AU)

Experiencia de un servicio de pediatría del ámbito privado del área metropolitana de Buenos Aires durante la pandemia por COVID-19 / Experience at the Department of Pediatrics of a private facility in the Metropolitan Area of Buenos Aires during the COVID-19 pandemic

Introducción. A fin de 2019 se identificó una nueva variedad de coronavirus causante de COVID-19 que alcanzó categoría de pandemia. En Argentina, el área metropolitana de Buenos Aires (AMBA) concentra alrededor del 37 % de la población total y el mayor número de casos diagnosticados. El objetivo de este estudio fue describir las características clínico-epidemiológicas de los pacientes con COVID-19 y describir el impacto en el funcionamiento del Servicio de Pediatría de una institución privada de la zona. Métodos. Diseño retrospectivo, observacional, desarrollado en una institución de la zona oeste del AMBA entre el 12 de marzo y el 31 de agosto de 2020. Se incluyeron todos los menores de 16 años con diagnóstico de COVID-19. Se registraron características demográficas, epidemiológicas, clínicas, indicación de internación/control ambulatorio, número de consultas externas, internación por infecciones virales estacionales, licenciamiento del personal, modificación del número de camas y de las actividades de los profesionales. Resultados. Hubo 5454 consultas ambulatorias pediátricas totales, sospecha de COVID-19 en 753/5 454 (13,8 %), se confirmaron 152/753 (20,2 %). Mediana de edad 82 meses (rango intercuartílico: 20,5-147 m), el 50 % fueron varones. La fiebre fue el síntoma más frecuente. Se internaron 22/152 (14,5 %). Las consultas disminuyeron el 87 %, no hubo internación por infecciones virales estacionales y el 52,9 % (91/172) del personal fue licenciado. Conclusiones. La mayoría de los casos fueron leves y la fiebre fue el principal síntoma. Observamos un notable impacto en el funcionamiento del servicio en cuanto al recurso humano. Destacamos la necesidad de la organización logística del servicio para enfrentar esta contingencia.

Introduction. Towards the end of 2019, a novel coronavirus that causes COVID-19 was identified and became a pandemic. In Argentina, approximately 37 % of the total population lives in the Metropolitan Area of Buenos Aires (AMBA), where most cases have been diagnosed. The objective of this study was to describe the clinical and epidemiological characteristics of COVID-19 patients and the impact on the operations of the Department of Pediatrics of a private facility located in the AMBA. Methods. Retrospective, observational study conducted at a facility in the west of AMBA between March 12th and August 31st, 2020. All patients younger than 16 years diagnosed with COVID-19 were included. Demographic, epidemiological, and clinical characteristics; indication for hospitalization/outpatient follow-up; number of outpatient visits; hospitalization due to seasonal viral infections; staff on leave; changes in bed availability and health care providers' activities were recorded. Results. There were 5454 pediatric outpatient visits, COVID-19 was suspected in 753/5454 (13.8 %) and 152/753 (20.2 %) were confirmed cases. Their median age was 82 months (interquartile range: 20.5-147 months); 50 % were males. Fever was the most common symptom. In total, 22/152 (14.5 %) patients were hospitalized. Outpatients visits decreased by 87 %; there were no hospitalizations due to seasonal viral infections; and 52.9 % (91/172) of staff took a leave. Conclusions. Most cases were mild, and fever was the main symptom. The department operations were considerably affected in terms of human resources. It is worth noting the need for a logistic organization at the Department of Pediatrics to face such contingency.

High acceptability of PrEP teleconsultation and HIV self-testing among PrEP users during the COVID-19 pandemic in Brazil

ABSTRACT In March 2020, telemedicine and HIV self-testing were adopted by Brazilian Public Health services to minimize disruptions in pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) access and delivery during the COVID-19 pandemic. To understand the acceptability of PrEP teleconsultation and HIV self-testing, we conducted a web-based study during social distancing period (April-May, 2020) among men who have sex with men and transgender/non-binary individuals using social media. Out of the 2375 HIV negative respondents, 680 reported PrEP use and were included in this analysis. Median age was 33 years (IQR: 28-40), 98% cisgender men, 56% white, 74% high education, and 68% middle/high income. Willingness to use HIVST was 79% and 32% received an HIV self-testing during social distancing period. The majority reported preference for PrEP/HIV self-testing home delivery instead of collecting at the service. PrEP teleconsultation was experienced by 21% and most reported feeling satisfied with the procedures. High acceptability of PrEP teleconsultation was reported by 70%. In ordinal logistic model, having higher education was associated with high aceptability of PrEP teleconsultation (aOR:1.62; 95%CI: 1.07-2.45). Our results point out that PrEP teleconsultation and PrEP/HIV self-testing home delivery could be implemented by PrEP services in Brazil to avoid PrEP shortage during the COVID-19 pandemic and thereafter as an option to increase retention and adherence.

Treatment of In-Stent Stenosis Following Flow Diversion of Intracranial Aneurysms with Cilostazol and Clopidogrel / 신경중재치료의학

In-stent stenosis is a feared complication of flow diversion treatment for cerebral aneurysms. We present 2 cases of patients treated with pipeline flow diversion for unruptured cerebral aneurysms. Initial perioperative dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) consisted of standard aspirin plus clopidogrel. At 6-month follow-up cerebral angiography, the patients were noted to have developed significant in-stent stenosis (63% and 53%). The patients were treated with cilostazol and clopidogrel for at least 6 months. Subsequent angiography at 1-year post-treatment showed significant improvement of the in-stent stenosis from 63% to 34% and 53% to 21%. The role of cilostazol as treatment of intracranial in-stent stenosis has not been previously described. Cilostazol’s vasodilatory effect and suppression of vascular smooth muscle proliferation provides ideal benefits in this setting. Cilostazol plus clopidogrel may be a safe and effective alternative to standard DAPT for treatment of in-stent stenosis following flow diversion and warrants further consideration and investigation.

Assessment of Blood Clot Composition by Spectral Optical Coherence Tomography: An In Vitro Study / 신경중재치료의학

Purpose@#Optical coherence tomography (OCT) has the potential for in vivo clot composition characterization in difficult mechanical embolectomy cases. We performed an in vitro study to determine the OCT characteristics of red blood cells (RBCs) and fibrin rich clots. @*Materials and Methods@#Analogues of 5 compositions of clots (5% to 95% RBCs from Group A to E) were created from human blood. The blood mixture was injected into the bifurcation of a 3D printed bifurcated silicone tube. The OPTISTM Integrated System (St. Jude Medical Inc.) was used to identify the magnitude of OCT signals from different compositions of clots. Martius Scarlett Blue trichrome (MSB) staining was performed to confirm the composition of RBCs and fibrin in each clot. @*Results@#Group A and B showed less signal attenuation (less than 30%) from its surface to the inside, which indicated high penetration (low-back scattering). Group C indicated intermediate signal attenuation (60%) from its surface to inside the clots, in which signals were found even at the periphery of the clot. Group D and E were superficially signal rich with more signal attenuation (more than 80%) from its surface to the inside indicating low penetration (high-back scattering). Signal-free shadowing was shown in 3 clots in Group E. MSB staining indicated color change (from red in fibrin-rich clots to yellow in RBC-rich clots). @*Conclusion@#Different compositions of clots can be assessed using OCT. Fibrin-rich clots have homogeneous signals with high penetration, while RBC-rich clots can be recognized as superficially signal rich with low penetration.

SARS-CoV-2 testing disparities across geographical regions from a large metropolitan area in Brazil: Results from a web-based survey among individuals interested in clinical trials for COVID-19 vaccines

ABSTRACT After more than a year since the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) disease 2019 or COVID-19 has reached the status of a global pandemic, the number of COVID-19 cases continues to rise in Brazil. As no effective treatment been approved yet, only mass vaccination can stop the spread of SARS-CoV-2 and end the COVID-19 pandemic. Multiple COVID-19 vaccine candidates are under development and some are currently in use. This study aims to describe the characteristics of individuals who have registered in an online platform to participate in clinical trials for COVID-19 vaccines. Additionally, participants' characteristics according to age and presence of comorbidities associated with severe COVID-19 and differences of SARS-CoV-2 testing across different geographical areas/neighborhoods are provided. This was a cross-sectional web-based study conducted between September and December/2020, aiming to reach individuals aged ≥18 years who live in Rio de Janeiro metropolitan area, Brazil. Among 21,210 individuals who completed the survey, 20,587 (97.1%) were willing to participate in clinical trials for COVID-19 vaccines. Among those willing to participate, 57.8% individuals were aged 18-59 years and had no comorbidity, 33.7% were aged 18-59 years and had at least one comorbidity, and 8.6% were aged ≥ 60 years regardless the presence of any comorbidity. Almost half (42.6%) reported ever testing for COVID-19, and this proportion was lower among those aged ≥ 60 years (p < 0.001). Prevalence of positive PCR results was 16.0%, higher among those aged 18-59 years (p < 0.009). Prevalence of positive antibody result was 10.0%, with no difference across age and comorbidity groups. Participants from areas/neighborhoods with higher Human Development Index (HDI) reported ever testing for SARS-CoV-2 more frequently than those from lower HDI areas. Interest to participate in clinical trials for COVID-19 vaccines candidates in Rio de Janeiro was significantly high. The online registry successfully reached out a large number of individuals with diverse sociodemographic, economic and clinical backgrounds.