Associations of cardiac biomarkers with stroke severity and short-term outcome in patients with acute ischemic stroke / 国际脑血管病杂志

Objective:To investigate associations between cardiac biomarkers with stroke severity and short-term outcome in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS).Methods:Patients with AIS admitted to the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University from June 2018 to February 2024 whose etiological classification was large artery atherosclerosis (LAA), small vessel occlusion (SVO) or cardioembolism (CE) were included retrospectively. According to the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score at admission, patients were divided into mild stroke group (≤8) and moderate to severe stroke group (>8). According to the modified Rankin Scale score at discharge, patients were divided into good outcome group (≤2) and poor outcome group (>2). Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to determine the independent correlation between cardiac biomarkers and short-term outcome. The predictive value of cardiac biomarkers for poor outcome in patients with AIS and different stroke etiology subtypes were evaluated using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. Results:A total of 2 151 patients with AIS were enrolled, including 1 256 males (58.4%), aged 67.40±11.34 years. 1 079 patents were LAA type (50.2%), 679 were SVO type (31.6%), and 393 were CE type (18.3%); 1 223 were mild stroke (56.86%) and 928 (43.14%) were moderate to severe stroke; 1 357 patients (63.09%) had good short-term outcome, and 794 (36.91%) had poor short-term outcome. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that N-terminal pro-B type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), NT-proBNP/creatine kinase (CK) isoenzyme MB (CK-MB) ratio, and CK-MB/CK ratio were independent risk factors for poor short-term outcome. ROC curve analysis shows that the CK-MB/CK ratio had a higher predictive value for short-term poor outcome in patients with AIS (the area under the curve, 0.859, 95% confidence interval 0.839-0.879). Various cardiac biomarkers had a higher predictive value for short-term outcome of CE type and LAA type, but the predictive value for short-term outcome of SVO type was lower. Conclusions:Cardiac biomarkers are associated with the severity and poor outcome of AIS. NT-proBNP/CK-MB and CK-MB/CK ratios have higher predictive value for short-term poor outcome of AIS, especially in patients with CE type.

Predictive value of FLAIR vascular hyperintensity in patients with acute ischemic stroke underwent endovascular treatment / 国际脑血管病杂志

Endovascular treatment has become the standard treatment method for acute ischemic stroke caused by large vessel occlusion. The application of neuroimaging techniques for appropriate patient selection and prognosis prediction is of great significance for successful endovascular treatment. This article reviews the application progress of fluid-attenuated inversion recovery sequence vascular hyperintensity in patients with acute ischemic stroke underwent endovascular treatment.

Severity assessment criteria for rosacea / 中华皮肤科杂志

Rosacea is a chronic recurrent inflammatory skin disease, and correct assessment of clinical symptoms and severity may facilitate treatment options. This review summarizes a range of subjective, semi-subjective and objective methods currently used in the assessment of rosacea severity, in order to provide useful tools for clinical assessment of rosacea severity and give guidance on treatment modification according to the therapeutic effect.

Associations of serum gamma-linolenic acid levels with erythema severity and anxiety/depression status in patients with rosacea

Abstract Background The development of rosacea is suggested to be closely associated with lipid metabolism, inflammation, and anxiety/depression. Gamma linolenic acid (GLA) is a key factor participating in lipid metabolism, which is also confirmed to regulate the inflammatory response. However, the associations of serum GLA levels with rosacea severity and psychological status still remain unclear. Objective and limitations of the study The present study aimed to investigate the associations of gamma linolenic acid (GLA), a key factor participating in lipid metabolism and the inflammatory response, with rosacea severity and psychological status. The present study still had some limitations. First, this study is a cross-sectional study and does not provide longitudinal evidence about the relationship between GLA and rosacea; Second, the cohort in this study is also relatively small, and a larger cohort is needed in further investigation to reveal the potential role of lipid metabolism in the pathogenesis of rosacea. Methods A total of 62 rosacea patients were consecutively recruited. Patient's Self-Assessment (PSA) scale and Clinician Erythema Assessment (CEA) as well as 7-item Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD-7) and 9-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) were conducted to evaluate the degree of erythema severity and anxiety/depression, respectively. Serum GLA levels were determined by gas chromatography mass. Results Lower levels of serum GLA in rosacea patients were observed (p < 0.001), and subgroup analysis revealed that patients with higher-level GLA had lower scores of PSA, CEA, GAD-7 and PHQ-9. Moreover, Spearman correlation analysis uncovered that serum GLA levels were negatively associated with PSA, CEA, GAD-7 as well and PHQ-9 scores, respectively. Linear regression model found that serum GLA levels at baseline were a predictive factor for prognosis of clinical outcomes after 1-month conventional treatment. Conclusion The present study indicates that lower levels of serum GLA in rosacea patients are negatively associated with the degree of erythema and anxiety/depression status.

Evaluation of the classifications of severity in acute respiratory distress syndrome in childhood by the Berlin Consensus and the Pediatric Acute Lung Injury Consensus Conference / Avaliação das classificações de gravidade na síndrome do desconforto respiratório agudo na infância pelo Consenso de Berlim e pelo Pediatric Acute Lung Injury Consensus Conference

ABSTRACT Objective To compare two methods for defining and classifying the severity of pediatric acute respiratory distress syndrome: the Berlin classification, which uses the relationship between the partial pressure of oxygen and the fraction of inspired oxygen, and the classification of the Pediatric Acute Lung Injury Consensus Conference, which uses the oxygenation index. Methods This was a prospective study of patients aged 0 - 18 years with a diagnosis of acute respiratory distress syndrome who were invasively mechanically ventilated and provided one to three arterial blood gas samples, totaling 140 valid measurements. These measures were evaluated for correlation using the Spearman test and agreement using the kappa coefficient between the two classifications, initially using the general population of the study and then subdividing it into patients with and without bronchospasm and those with and without the use of neuromuscular blockers. The effect of these two factors (bronchospasm and neuromuscular blocking agent) separately and together on both classifications was also assessed using two-way analysis of variance. Results In the general population, who were 54 patients aged 0 - 18 years a strong negative correlation was found by Spearman's test (ρ -0.91; p < 0.001), and strong agreement was found by the kappa coefficient (0.62; p < 0.001) in the comparison between Berlin and Pediatric Acute Lung Injury Consensus Conference. In the populations with and without bronchospasm and who did and did not use neuromuscular blockers, the correlation coefficients were similar to those of the general population, though among patients not using neuromuscular blockers, there was greater agreement between the classifications than for patients using neuromuscular blockers (kappa 0.67 versus 0.56, p < 0.001 for both). Neuromuscular blockers had a significant effect on the relationship between the partial pressure of oxygen and the fraction of inspired oxygen (analysis of variance; F: 12.9; p < 0.001) and the oxygenation index (analysis of variance; F: 8.3; p = 0.004). Conclusion There was a strong correlation and agreement between the two classifications in the general population and in the subgroups studied. Use of neuromuscular blockers had a significant effect on the severity of acute respiratory distress syndrome.

RESUMO Objetivo Comparar dois métodos para definição e classificação de gravidade na síndrome do desconforto respiratório agudo pediátrica: a classificação de Berlim, que utiliza a relação entre pressão parcial de oxigênio e fração inspirada de oxigênio e a classificação do Pediatric Acute Lung Injury Consensus Conference, que utiliza o índice de oxigenação. Métodos Estudo prospectivo com pacientes de 0 - 18 anos com diagnóstico de síndrome do desconforto respiratório agudo e ventilados mecanicamente de forma invasiva, que forneceram de uma a três amostras de gasometria arterial, totalizando 140 medidas válidas. Essas medidas foram avaliadas quanto à correlação pelo teste de Spearman e à concordância pelo coeficiente kappa entre as duas classificações, inicialmente usando a população geral do estudo e, depois, subdividindo-a em pacientes com e sem broncoespasmo e com e sem o uso do bloqueador neuromuscular. Também foi verificado o efeito desses dois fatores (broncoespasmo e bloqueador neuromuscular) de forma separada e conjunta sobre ambas as classificações por meio da análise de variância para dois fatores. Resultados Na população geral, composta de 54 pacientes com idades de 0 - 18 anos, foi encontrada forte correlação negativa pelo teste de Spearman (ρ -0,91; p < 0,001) e forte concordância pelo coeficiente kappa (0,62; p < 0,001) na comparação entre Berlim e Pediatric Acute Lung Injury Consensus Conference. Nas populações com e sem broncoespasmo e com e sem o uso do bloqueador neuromuscular, os coeficientes de correlação mantiveram valores semelhantes aos da população geral. Entretanto, para os pacientes sem uso do bloqueador neuromuscular, houve maior concordância entre as classificações em relação aos pacientes com uso do bloqueador neuromuscular (kappa 0,67 versus 0,56 com p < 0,001 em ambos). Acrescenta-se ainda o efeito significativo do uso do bloqueador neuromuscular sobre a relação entre pressão parcial de oxigênio e fração inspirada de oxigênio (análise de variância; F: 12,9; p < 0,001) e o índice de oxigenação (análise de variância; F: 8,3; p = 0,004). Conclusão Houve forte correlação e concordância entre as duas classificações na população geral e nos subgrupos estudados, entretanto, há efeito significativo do uso do bloqueador neuromuscular sobre as classificações de gravidade da síndrome do desconforto respiratório agudo.

Difference Between Cardiopulmonary Bypass Time and Aortic Cross-Clamping Time as a Predictor of Complications After Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting

ABSTRACT Introduction: Along with cardiopulmonary bypass time, aortic cross-clamping time is directly related to the risk of complications after heart surgery. The influence of the time difference between cardiopulmonary bypass and cross-clamping times (TDC-C) remains poorly understood. Objective: To assess the impact of cardiopulmonary bypass time in relation to cross-clamping time on immediate results after coronary artery bypass grafting in the Registro Paulista de Cirurgia Cardiovascular (REPLICCAR) II. Methods: Analysis of 3,090 patients included in REPLICCAR II database was performed. The Society of Thoracic Surgeons outcomes were evaluated (mortality, kidney failure, deep wound infection, reoperation, cerebrovascular accident, and prolonged ventilation time). A cutoff point was adopted, from which the increase of this difference would affect each outcome. Results: After a cutoff point determination, all patients were divided into Group 1 (cardiopulmonary bypass time < 140 min., TDC-C < 30 min.), Group 2 (cardiopulmonary bypass time < 140 min., TDC-C > 30 min.), Group 3 (cardiopulmonary bypass time > 140 min., TDC-C < 30 min.), and Group 4 (cardiopulmonary bypass time > 140 min., TDC-C > 30 min.). After univariate logistic regression, Group 2 showed significant association with reoperation (odds ratio: 1.64, 95% confidence interval: 1.01-2.66), stroke (odds ratio: 3.85, 95% confidence interval: 1.99-7.63), kidney failure (odds ratio: 1.90, 95% confidence interval: 1.32-2.74), and in-hospital mortality (odds ratio: 2.17, 95% confidence interval: 1.30-3.60). Conclusion: TDC-C serves as a predictive factor for complications following coronary artery bypass grafting. We strongly recommend that future studies incorporate this metric to improve the prediction of complications.

Effect of upper eyelid blepharoplasty on the ocular surface, tear film, and corneal microstructure

ABSTRACT Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the effect of upper eyelid blepharoplasty with the removal of the skin and a strip of orbicularis oculi muscle on the ocular surface, tear film, and dry eye-related symptoms. Methods: Twenty-two eyes of 22 consecutive patients operated by a single surgeon (21 females; mean age, 61 years; age range, 41-75 years) were included. All subjects completed the Ocular Surface Disease Index questionnaire, underwent in vivo confocal microscopy, tear film breakup time measurements, the Schirmer test with anesthesia, and fluorescein and lissamine green staining measurements before, 1 month, and 6 months after upper blepharoplasty alone with preseptal orbicularis excision. Results: A significant increase in Ocular Surface Disease Index, and corneal fluorescein and lissamine green staining and a significant decrease in tear film breakup time were observed after 1 month (p=0.003, p=0.004, p=0.029, and p=0.024 respectively) and 6 months (p=0.001 for all findings). No significant difference in the Schirmer test score was observed during the follow-up. None of the in vivo confocal microscopy parameters showed significant changes during the study. Conclusions: An increase in dry eye symptoms and a decrease in tear film stability along with ocular surface staining were observed in patients undergoing upper eyelid blepharoplasty.

Acurácia do escore de referência endoscópico para esofagite eosinofílica em crianças / Accuracy of the eosinophilic esophagitis endoscopic reference score in children

ABSTRACT Background: To assess the efficacy of applying the endoscopic reference score for EoE (EREFS) in children with symptoms of esophageal dysfunction naïve to proton pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy. Methods: An observational cross-sectional study was conducted by reviewing reports and photographs of upper gastrointestinal endoscopies (UGE) and esophageal biopsies of patients with symptoms of esophageal dysfunction. Patients who were treated with PPI or had other conditions that may cause esophageal eosinophilia were excluded. Results: Of the 2,036 patients evaluated, endoscopic findings of EoE were identified in 248 (12.2%) and more than one abnormality was observed in 167 (8.2%). Among all patients, 154 (7.6%) presented esophageal eosinophilia (≥15 eosinophils per high power field) (P<0.01). In this group, 30 patients (19.5%) had normal endoscopy. In patients with EoE, edema (74% vs 6.5%, P<0.01) and furrows (66.2% vs 2.4%, P<0.01) were more prevalent than in the control group. Association of edema and furrows was more frequent in patients with EoE than in the control group (29.2% vs 1.6%, P<0.01, OR=24.7, CI=15.0-40.5). The presence of more than one endoscopic finding had sensitivity of 80.5%, specificity of 93.4%, positive predictive value (PPV) of 50%, negative predictive value (NPV) of 98.3%, and accuracy of 92.4%. Conclusion: In conclusion, this study showed that endoscopic features suggestive of EoE had high specificity and NPV for diagnosing EoE in children naïve to PPI therapy. These findings highlight the importance of the EREFS in contributing to early identification of inflammatory and fibrostenosing characteristics of EoE, making it possible to identify and to avoid progression of the disease.

RESUMO Contexto: Avaliar a eficácia da aplicação do escore de referência endoscópico para EoE (EREFS) em crianças com sintomas de disfunção esofágica sem tratamento prévio com inibidores da bomba de prótons (IBP). Métodos: Foi realizado um estudo transversal observacional por meio de revisão de laudos e fotos de endoscopia digestiva alta (EDA) e biópsias de esôfago de pacientes com sintomas de disfunção esofágica. Pacientes tratados com IBP ou com outras condições que podem causar eosinofilia esofágica foram excluídos. Resultados: Dos 2.036 pacientes avaliados, os achados endoscópicos de EoE foram identificados em 248 (12,2%) e mais de uma anormalidade foi observada em 167 (8,2%). Entre todos os pacientes, 154 (7,6%) apresentaram eosinofilia esofágica (≥15 eosinófilos por campo de grande aumento) (P<0,01). Nesse grupo, 30 pacientes (19,5%) apresentaram endoscopia normal. Em pacientes com EoE, edema (74% vs 6,5%, P<0,01) e linhas verticais (66,2% vs 2,4%, P<0,01) foram mais prevalentes quando comparados ao grupo controle. A associação de edema e linhas verticais foi mais frequente em pacientes com EoE do que no grupo controle (29,2% vs 1,6%, P<0,01, OR=24,7, IC=15,0-40,5). A presença de mais de um achado endoscópico teve sensibilidade de 80,5%, especificidade de 93,4%, valor preditivo positivo de 50%, valor preditivo negativo de 98,3% e acurácia de 92,4%. Conclusão: Em conclusão, esse estudo mostrou que as características endoscópicas sugestivas de EoE apresentam especificidade e VPN elevados para o diagnóstico da enfermidade em crianças sem tratamento prévio com IBP. Estes achados reforçam a importância do EREFS em contribuir para a identificação precoce de características inflamatórias e fibroestenosantes, possibilitando identificar e evitar a progressão da doença.

Study of neutrophil/lymphocyte and platelet/lymphocyte ratios in type 2 diabetes mellitus

The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) are potential inflammatory biomarkers for prognostic analysis in several diseases, such as type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). This study analyzed NLR and PLR as possible T2DM biomarkers. A cross-sectional study was conducted with a secondary database that included laboratory test results from two healthcare units in Goiânia, GO, Brazil, between 2015 and 2016. The participants were normoglycemic (NG), prediabetic (preDM), and had controlled DM (CDM) and uncontrolled DM (UDM). NLR and PLR were compared between study groups according to sex and age group. NLR was higher in group UDM than preDM (1.88 vs. 1.62, p <0.05) and lower in group preDM than NG (1.62 vs. 1.80, p <0.05). NG women aged ≥65 years were six times more likely to present PLR ≤91.83 than preDM ones (OR: 6.34; CI: 1.98 - 20.55; sensitivity = 41.5%, PPV = 84.6, and LR + = 4.15). NG men aged <65 years were almost four times more likely to present PLR ≤120 (OR: 3.64; CI: 1.21 - 10.89; sensitivity = 80%, PPV = 37.7, and LR + 1.53) than preDM ones. NLR and PLR increases are directly proportional to DM severity, except for group preDM compared to NG for NLR values. These biomarkers can help estimate T2DM prognosis.

Efecto de la suplementación oral con vitamina D sobre la gravedad de la psoriasis: ¿Genera beneficios significativos? / Effect of oral vitamin D supplementation on psoriasis severity: Does it generate significant benefits?

RESUMEN La psoriasis es una enfermedad crónica de la piel mediada por el sistema inmunológico con una base genética y patogénica compleja, que frecuentemente conduce a comorbilidades significativas y una reducción en la calidad de vida. Su prevalencia varía a nivel global y muestra una tendencia creciente con el tiempo. Comorbilidades como la artritis psoriásica, enfermedades cardiovasculares y problemas de salud mental complican aún más la carga de la psoriasis. Las opciones de tratamiento van desde terapias tópicas hasta agentes sistémicos, siendo los agentes biológicos prominentes en los últimos años. Sin embargo, la seguridad y eficacia de estos tratamientos se evalúan continuamente a través de datos del mundo real. La vitamina D ha llamado la atención como un posible objetivo terapéutico debido a su papel en la regulación inmunológica y la función de barrera de la piel. Esta revisión tiene como objetivo evaluar la eficacia de la suplementación oral de vitamina D en mejorar la gravedad de la psoriasis. Después de una búsqueda bibliográfica, se encontró que la psoriasis es una condición multifacética con significativas implicaciones globales. Los agentes biológicos han transformado su manejo, y la suplementación oral de vitamina D es un camino prometedor para una mayor exploración. Un enfoque integral centrado en el paciente que tenga en cuenta las comorbilidades y los resultados a largo plazo es crucial para optimizar el cuidado de la psoriasis. Se necesita más investigación para comprender completamente el papel de la vitamina D en la psoriasis y su potencial como intervención terapéutica.

ABSTRACT Psoriasis is a chronic immune-mediated skin disease with a complex genetic and pathogenic basis, often leading to significant comorbidities and a reduced quality of life. Its prevalence varies globally and exhibits an increasing trend over time. Comorbidities such as psoriatic arthritis, cardiovascular diseases, and mental health issues further compound the burden of psoriasis. Treatment options range from topical therapies to systemic agents, with biologics playing a prominent role in recent years. However, the safety and efficacy of these treatments are continuously assessed through real-world data. Vitamin D has gained attention as a potential therapeutic target due to its role in immune regulation and skin barrier function. This review aims to evaluate the efficacy of oral vitamin D supplementation in ameliorating the severity of psoriasis. After bibliographic search, it was found that psoriasis is a multifaceted condition with significant global implications. Biologics have transformed its management, and oral vitamin D supplementation is a promising avenue for further exploration. A comprehensive, patient-centered approach that considers comorbidities and long-term outcomes is crucial for optimizing psoriasis care. Further research is needed to fully understand the role of vitamin D in psoriasis and its potential as a therapeutic intervention.

Asociación entre severidad del asma bronquial, nivel de control y calidad de vida en niños

Fundamento el asma bronquial es una de las enfermedades crónicas de mayor prevalencia en la infancia. Las guías para el diagnóstico y tratamiento se rigen según severidad, nivel de control y calidad de vida, sin embargo, no existen evidencias que demuestren su asociación estadística. Objetivo medir el grado de asociación entre la severidad del asma bronquial, nivel de control y calidad de vida en niños. Métodos estudio de corte transversal, realizado en el periodo enero-diciembre de 2022, en una muestra de 189 pacientes con diagnóstico confirmado de asma bronquial. Se analizaron las variables: edad, sexo, severidad, nivel de control y calidad de vida. Se calcularon estadígrafos, frecuencia absoluta, porcentaje, media aritmética y desviación estándar. Para medir asociación se utilizó la prueba de Chi cuadrado (p<0,01) y para evaluar la fuerza de la asociación el coeficiente de V-Cramer. Resultados la edad media resultó 9,17 años (DE ± 0,67). Predominaron los varones, representativos del 53,54 %. Prevalecieron el asma intermitente (39,15 %), el nivel de control parcial (59,79 %) y la calidad de vida alta (50,26 %). Al relacionar severidad con nivel de control, el estadígrafo de asociación indicó X2=190,461 (VC= 0,662); en el caso de severidad y calidad de vida, X2=252,673 (VC=0,762); y entre nivel de control y calidad de vida, X2=66,733 (VC=0,401). Conclusiones existió asociación fuerte entre severidad del asma bronquial-nivel de control y entre la severidad del asma-calidad de vida; así como asociación moderada entre nivel de control-calidad de vida.

Foundation bronchial asthma is one of the most prevalent chronic diseases in childhood. The guidelines for diagnosis and treatment are governed by severity, level of control and quality of life, however, there is no evidence that demonstrates its statistical association. Objective to measure the association degree between the severity of bronchial asthma, control level and quality of life in children. Methods cross-sectional study, carried out from January to December 2022, in a sample of 189 patients with a bronchial asthma confirmed diagnosis. The analyzed variables were: age, sex, severity, level of control and quality of life. Statisticians, absolute frequency, percentage, arithmetic mean and standard deviation were calculated. The Chi-square test (p<0.01) was used to measure association and the V-Cramer coefficient was used to evaluate the strength of the association. Results the mean age was 9.17 years (SD ± 0.67). Males predominated, representing 53.54%. Intermittent asthma (39.15%), partial control level (59.79%) and high quality of life (50.26%) prevailed. When relating severity with level of control, the association statistician indicated X2=190.461 (VC= 0.662); in the case of severity and quality of life, X2=252.673 (VC=0.762); and between level of control and quality of life, X2=66.733 (VC=0.401). Conclusions there was a strong association between severity of bronchial asthma-level of control and between severity of asthma-quality of life; as well as a moderate association between level of control-quality of life.

Asociación entre el grado de severidad de la infección por COVID-19 durante el embarazo y la rotura prematura de membranas pretérmino en un hospital nivel III del Perú / Association between the degree of severity of COVID-19 infection during pregnancy and preterm premature rupture of membranes in a level III hospital in Peru

RESUMEN Objetivos. Determinar la asociación entre el grado de severidad de la infección por COVID-19 durante el embarazo y la rotura prematura de membranas pretérmino (RPMP) en un hospital nivel III de Perú. Materiales y Métodos. Estudio transversal, analítico y observacional en mujeres mayores de 18 años con diagnóstico de infección por COVID-19 en el embarazo durante el 2020-2022. Se recogieron variables clínicas y obstétricas. Para el análisis descriptivo se realizaron las pruebas de Chi Cuadrado y exacta de Fisher, y para el análisis multivariado, se calculó la razón de prevalencia mediante regresión de Poisson en modelos crudos y ajustados. Todas las pruebas estadísticas se realizaron considerando un valor de p<0,05 como significativo y con un nivel de confianza de 95%. Resultados. Se analizaron los datos de 163 gestantes con COVID-19, de las cuales el 9,2% tuvieron RPMP, todas fueron casos sintomáticos. Los casos leves de COVID-19 tuvieron 1,10 veces la probabilidad de presentar RPMP (RPa=1,10; IC95%: 1,02−1,18) y los casos moderados/severos tuvieron 1,64 veces esta probabilidad (RPa=1,64; IC95%: 1,43−1,87), en comparación con los casos asintomáticos. Conclusiones. Se identificó que un mayor grado de severidad de la infección por COVID-19 durante el embarazo se asoció a una mayor probabilidad de tener RPMP.

ABSTRACT Objectives. To determine the association between the degree of severity of COVID-19 infection during pregnancy and preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM) in a level III hospital in Peru. Materials and Methods. Cross-sectional, analytical and observational study in women older than 18 years diagnosed with COVID-19 infection during pregnancy, between the years 2020 and 2022. Clinical and obstetric variables were collected. The chi-square and Fisher's exact tests were used for the descriptive analysis. For the multivariate analysis, we calculated the prevalence ratio by using Poisson regression in crude and adjusted models. All statistical tests were performed considering a value of p<0.05 as significant and with a confidence level of 95%. Results. We analyzed data from 163 pregnant women with COVID-19, of which 9.2% had PPROM; all were symptomatic cases. Mild COVID-19 cases were 1.10 times more likely to have PPROM (RPa=1.10; 95%CI: 1.02-1.18) and moderate/severe cases were 1.64 times more likely (RPa=1.64; 95%CI: 1.43-1.87), compared to asymptomatic cases. Conclusions. We identified that a higher degree of severity of COVID-19 infection during pregnancy was associated with a higher probability of having PPROM.

Complicaciones neurológicas asociadas a la COVID-19. Hospital San Vicente de Paúl, 2021

Fundamento la COVID-19 es causada por el virus del SARS-Cov-2 y presenta una amplia sintomatología, tanto en su fase aguda como en su fase crónica. Entre los sistemas que afecta se encuentra el Nervioso, debido a su mecanismo neurotrópico. Objetivo determinar el riesgo de complicaciones neurológicas asociadas a la severidad de la COVID-19 en pacientes adultos. Métodos se realizó un estudio descriptivo y transversal, que incluyó a 143 pacientes positivos a COVID-19 atendidos en el Hospital San Vicente de Paúl, de Ibarra, Ecuador, durante el año de 2021. Se analizaron las complicaciones neurológicas y la severidad de la COVID-19. Como medida de asociación para dichas variables, se utilizó Test de Fisher (p = ≤ 0,05) y se realizó un análisis bivariado. Resultados el 54 % de los pacientes presentó complicaciones neurológicas del Sistema Nervioso Central, mientras que el 46 % fue del Sistema Nervioso Periférico; y fue la severidad leve-moderada la de mayor frecuencia (41 %), y la alteración auditiva la que mayor probabilidad estadística tuvo de presentarse (OR= 74,968; IC: 95 %). La tasa de letalidad en estos pacientes fue de 7,1 %; y en aquellos con complicaciones neurológicas, de 8,4 %. Conclusión las secuelas neurológicas con mayor probabilidad de presentarse fueron la alteración auditiva y la alteración del gusto, en pacientes con severidad leve y severidad grave, respectivamente; además de polineuropatía en pacientes con severidad crítica, la cual también se presentó en pacientes fallecidos.

Background COVID-19 is caused by the SARS-Cov-2 virus and presents a wide range of symptoms, both in its acute phase and in its chronic phase. Among the systems that it affects is the Nervous, due to its neurotropic mechanism. Objective to determine the risk of neurological complications associated with the COVID-19 severity in adult patients. Methods a descriptive and cross-sectional study was carried out, which included 143 positive patients for COVID-19 treated at the San Vicente de Paúl Hospital, in Ibarra, Ecuador, during 2021. Neurological complications and the severity of the COVID-19 disease were analyzed. As a measure of association for these variables, the Fisher Test was used (p = ≤ 0.05) and a bivariate analysis was performed. Results 54% of the patients presented neurological complications of the Central Nervous System, while 46% were of the Peripheral Nervous System; and mild-moderate severity was the most frequent (41%), and hearing impairment had the highest statistical probability of occurring (OR= 74.968; CI: 95%). The case fatality rate in these patients was 7.1%; and in those with neurological complications, 8.4%. Conclusion the neurological sequelae most likely to occur were hearing impairment and taste impairment, in patients with mild severity and serious severity, respectively; in addition to polyneuropathy in patients with critical severity, which also occurred in deceased patients.

Asociación entre los síntomas de la infección por la COVID-19 y los resultados materno-perinatales adversos en gestantes de un hospital de referencia / Association between symptoms of COVID-19 infection and adverse maternal-perinatal outcomes in pregnant women at a referral hospital

Objetivos. Determinar la asociación entre los síntomas de la infección por la COVID-19 y los resultados materno-perinatales adversos en gestantes de un hospital de referencia. Materiales y métodos. Estudio transversal analítico en gestantes en el tercer trimestre, hospitalizadas por la COVID-19 en el área de ginecología y obstetricia de un hospital general de Lima, en el 2020. Se recogieron variables clínicas y obstétricas. Para el análisis descriptivo se empleó la prueba exacta de Fisher y Chi Cuadrado, y para hallar la asociación entre las variables de interés se usó la regresión de Poisson, con un intervalo de confianza al 95% (IC95%). Resultados. Se incluyeron a 272 gestantes, de ellas el 50,3% tuvieron síntomas de infección. El 35,7% de las gestantes y el 16,5% de los recién nacidos tuvieron un resultado adverso. Tener síntomas de la infección por la COVID-19 aumentó el riesgo de complicaciones maternas en su conjunto (RP= 2,32 IC95%: 1,61-3,34), de ruptura prematura de membranas (RP= 2,73 IC95%: 1,51-4,94) y de preeclampsia (RP= 2,73 IC95%: 1,51-4,94). De igual forma, aumentó el riesgo de complicaciones perinatales en su conjunto (RP= 2,51 IC95%: 1,34-4,68) y de sufrimiento fetal agudo (RP= 2,99 IC95%: 1,07-8,38). Conclusiones. Los síntomas de la infección por la COVID-19 aumentan el riesgo de resultados materno-perinatales adversos.

Objectives. To determine the association between symptoms of COVID-19 infection and adverse maternal-perinatal outcomes in pregnant women from a referral hospital. Materials and methods. Analytical cross-sectional study of women in the third trimester of pregnancy hospitalized due to COVID-19 in the gynecology and obstetrics area of a general hospital in Lima during 2020. Clinical and obstetric variables were collected. Fisher's exact test and Chi-square test were used during the descriptive analysis. Poisson regression was used to find the association between the variables of interest, with a 95% confidence interval (95%CI). Results. A total of 272 pregnant women were included, 50.3% of whom had symptoms of infection. Of these, 35.7% of the pregnant women and 16.5% of the newborns had an adverse outcome. Having symptoms of COVID-19 infection increased the risk of maternal complications as a whole (PR= 2.32 95%CI: 1.61-3.34), premature rupture of membranes (PR= 2.73 95%CI: 1.51-4.94) and preeclampsia (PR= 2.73 95%CI: 1.51-4.94). Similarly, symptoms of COVID-19 infection increased the risk of perinatal complications as a whole (PR= 2.51 95%CI: 1.34-4.68) and acute fetal distress (PR= 2.99 95%CI: 1.07-8.38). Conclusions. The presence of symptoms of COVID-19 infection increase the risk of adverse maternal-perinatal outcomes.

Value of five scoring systems in predicting the severity of hyperlipidemic acute pancreatitis: A comparative analysis / 临床肝胆病杂志

Objective To investigate the value of pancreatitis activity scoring system (PASS) score, Bedside Index for Severity in Acute Pancreatitis (BISAP) score, Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation Ⅱ (APACHE-Ⅱ) score, harmless acute pancreatitis score (HAPS), and Ranson score in evaluating the severity and prognosis of hypertriglyceridemia acute pancreatitis (HTGAP). Methods A retrospective analysis was performed for the clinical data of 300 patients with HTGAP who were admitted to General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University from January 2016 to January 2022, and according to the disease severity, these patients were divided into mild acute pancreatitis (MAP) group, moderate-severe acute pancreatitis (MSAP) group, and severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) group. Clinical data and the above scores were compared between the three groups. The chi-square test was used for comparison of categorical data between groups; an analysis of variance was used for continuous data with homogeneity of variance, and the Kruskal-Wallis H test was used for comparison of non-normally distributed continuous data between groups. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was plotted according to disease severity, and related indicators were compared in terms of the area under the ROC curve (AUC). Results There were significant differences between the three groups in PASS score ( F =219.351, P < 0.01), Ranson score ( χ 2 =83.084, P < 0.01), APACHE-Ⅱ score ( χ 2 =43.388, P < 0.01), and BISAP score ( χ 2 = 50.785, P < 0.01). Compared with the other four scoring systems in evaluating and predicting disease severity, PASS score had the highest sensitivity of 0.945 and the largest AUC of 0.963, followed by Ranson score with a sensitivity of 0.655 and an AUC of 0.819. Conclusion For patients with HTGAP, PASS score can more accurately assess the severity and prognosis of HTGAP patients and thus holds promise for clinical application.

Correlation between non-traditional lipid parameters and in-hospital recurrence in patients with acute minor ischemic stroke / 国际脑血管病杂志

Objective:To investigate the correlation between non-traditional lipid parameters and in-hospital recurrence in patients with acute minor ischemic stroke (AMIS).Methods:Patients with AMIS admitted to three sub-central hospitals in Shanxi Province within 72 h of onset in March, June, September, and December of 2012, 2014, 2016, and 2018 were retrospectively included. The demographic information, clinical features, blood lipid parameters, and in-hospital stroke recurrence events were collected. Non-traditional lipid parameters included low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C)/high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) ratio, total cholesterol (TC)/HDL-C ratio, triglycerides (TG)/HDL-C ratio, and non-HDL-C levels. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to determine the independent correlation between the non-traditional lipid parameters and the risk of in-hospitals stroke recurrence. Results:A total of 1 040 patients with AMIS were included, including 727 males (69.9%), aged 61.5±13.0 years old; 51 patients (4.904%) experienced in-hospital stroke recurrence, with an average time from admission to recurrence was 7.4±5.7 d. Four hundred and thirty-six (41.9%) AMIS patients complicated with ICAS, aged 61.0±12.5 years old, with 304 males (69.7%); 26 (6.0%) experienced recurrence of in-hospital stroke, and the time from admission to recurrence was 7.8±6.2 d. Multivariate logistic analysis showed that after adjusting for confounding variables, the higher TC/HDL-C ratio (odds ratio [ OR] 1.35, 95% confidence interval [ CI] 1.02-1.77; P=0.035) and non-HDL-C ( OR 1.37, 95% CI 1.02-1.77; P=0.045) were the independent risk factors for in-hospital stroke recurrence. In AMIS patients with intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis, only higher non-HDL-C was significantly and independently associated with the risk of in-hospital stroke recurrence ( OR 1.67, 95% CI 1.05-2.65; P=0.030). Conclusion:The higher non-traditional lipid parameters are associated with an increased risk of in-hospital stroke recurrence in patients with AMIS.

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and ischemic stroke / 国际脑血管病杂志

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a chronic liver disease characterized by excessive fat accumulation in the liver. More and more evidence suggests that NAFLD is a multisystem disease that affects multiple extra-hepatic organs. Recent studies have shown that NAFLD may be associated with the risk, severity, and outcome of ischemic stroke. The article provides a summary of these aspects.

Risk factors and predictive value of early neurological deterioration in patients with minor stroke caused by middle cerebral artery occlusion / 国际脑血管病杂志

Objective:To investigate the risk factors and predictive value of early neurological deterioration (END) in patients with minor stroke caused by middle cerebral artery occlusion.Methods:Consecutive patients with minor stroke caused by middle cerebral artery occlusion admitted to Zhangjiagang Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University from October 2021 to May 2023 were retrospectively included. Minor stroke was defined as the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score ≤5 at admission, and END was defined as an increase of ≥4 from baseline in the NIHSS score within 24 h of admission (excluding intracranial hemorrhage). Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to determine independent risk factors for END. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to evaluate the predictive value of various risk factors on END. Results:A total of 130 patients with minor stroke caused by middle cerebral artery occlusion were included, of which 33 (25.4%) had END and 97 (74.6%) did not. Univariate analysis showed that there were statistically significant differences in NIHSS scores, volume with cerebral blood flow <30%, CT perfusion mismatch volume, baseline blood glucose, and baseline white blood cell count between the END and non-END groups (all P<0.05). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that CT perfusion mismatch volume (odds ratio [ OR] 1.010, 95% confidence interval [ CI] 1.003-1.017; P=0.007) and baseline white blood cell count ( OR 1.582, 95% CI 1.200-2.085; P=0.001) were the independent risk factors for END. ROC curve analysis showed that the area under the curves of CT perfusion mismatch volume and baseline white blood cell count for predicting END were 0.748 (95% CI 0.660-0.835; P<0.001) and 0.757 (95% CI 0.659-0.854; P<0.001), respectively. The area under the curve of combined predicting END was 0.821 (95% CI 0.738-0.905; P<0.001). Conclusions:CT perfusion mismatch volume and baseline white blood cell count are independent risk factors for the occurrence of END patients with minor stroke caused by middle cerebral artery occlusion, and the combination of the two has good predictive value for END.

Impact of obstructive sleep apnea on outcome in patients with acute ischemic stroke / 国际脑血管病杂志

Objective:To investigate the impact of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) on neurological function outcome in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) at 90 days after onset.Methods:Patients with AIS admitted to Hefei Second People's Hospital from September 2022 to June 2023 were prospectively included. According to the modified Rankin Scale score at 90 days after onset, they were divided into a good outcome group (0-2) and a poor outcome group (>2). The demographic data, vascular risk factors, baseline laboratory tests, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) scores at admission, severity of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), and apnea hypopnea index (AHI) were compared between the two groups. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to determine the independent risk factors for poor outcomes. Results:A total of 104 patients with AIS were enrolled, including 62 males (59.6%), with a median age of 65.5 years (interquartile range, 57.0-72.0 years). The median baseline NIHSS score was 3.00 (interquartile range, 2.00-4.00). The median AHI was 18.14/h (interquartile range, 11.34-27.88/h), 43 patients (41.35%) with no/mild OSA and 61 patients (58.65%) with moderate to severe OSA. Seventy-four patients (71.2%) had good outcome, and 30 patients (28.8%) had poor outcome. When introducing AHI as a categorical variable into the logistic regression model, the higher baseline NIHSS score (odds ratio [ OR] 3.041, 95% confidence interval [ CI] 1.797-5.145; P<0.001) and moderate to severe OSA ( OR 4.413, 95% CI 1.032-18.877; P=0.045) were independent risk factors for poor outcome; When introducing AHI as a continuous variable into the logistic regression model, higher baseline NIHSS score ( OR 3.176, 95% CI 1.844-5.472; P<0.001), age ( OR 1.093, 95% CI 1.014-1.177; P=0.020), and AHI ( OR 1.044, 95% CI 1.002-1.089; P=0.042) were independent risk factors for poor outcome. Conclusion:Moderate to severe OSA is an independent risk factor for poor functional outcome in patients with AIS at 90 days after onset, and a higher AHI indicates poor outcome in patients.

Relationship between serum interleukin-6 and interleukin-10 levels and the clinical prognosis of severe acute pancreatitis / 中国基层医药

Objective:To investigate the relationship between serum interleukin-6 and interleukin-10 levels and clinical prognosis in patients with severe acute pancreatitis.Methods:Ninety-two patients with severe acute pancreatitis who received treatment in The Second People's Hospital of Liaocheng from August 2018 to July 2021 were included in this study. Serum interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-10 levels were detected. The Bedside Index of Severity in Acute Pancreatitis (BISAP) score was evaluated. Clinical interventions were performed. The relationship between serum IL-6 and IL-10 levels and the clinical prognosis of severe acute pancreatitis was investigated.Results:Serum IL-6 level [(103.75 ± 15.53) ng/L] was highest in patients who died. Serum IL-10 level [(97.33 ± 13.06) ng/L] was highest in patients with local complications. The highest number of patients with a prognostic outcome of death [26 (37.14%)] was found in patients with a BISAP score ≥ 3. Serum IL-6 level in patients with severe acute pancreatitis was positively correlated with the BISAP score ( r = 0.62, P < 0.05), and serum IL-6 level and BISAP score were negatively correlated with serum IL-10 level ( r = -0.57, -0.61, both P < 0.05). Conclusion:Increased or decreased serum IL-6 and IL-10 levels in patients with severe acute pancreatitis indicate that the patient's condition tends to worsen, and timely intervention according to serum IL-6 and IL-10 levels can improve the clinical prognosis of severe acute pancreatitis.