Use of portable single-lead electrocardiogram device as an alternative for QTc monitoring in critically ill patients.

PURPOSE: Acquired QT prolongation is frequent and leads to a higher mortality rate in critically ill patients. KardiaMobile 1L® (KM1L) is a portable, user-friendly single lead, mobile alternative to conventional 12-lead electrocardiogram (12-L ECG) that could be more readily available, potentially facilitating more frequent QTc assessments in intensive care units (ICU); however, there is currently no evidence to validate this potential use. METHODS: We conducted a prospective diagnostic test study comparing QT interval measurement using KM1L with conventional 12-L ECG ordered for any reason in patients admitted to an ICU. We compared the mean difference using a paired t-test, agreement using Bland-Altman analysis, and Lin's concordance coefficient, numerical precision (proportion of QT measurements with <10 ms difference between KM1L and conventional 12-L ECG), and clinical precision (concordance for adequate discrimination of prolonged QTc). RESULTS: We included 114 patients (61.4% men, 60% cardiovascular etiology of hospitalization) with 131 12-L ECG traces. We found no statistical difference between corrected QT measurements (427 ms vs. 428 ms, p = .308). Lin's concordance coefficient was 0.848 (95% CI 0.801-0.894, p = .001). Clinical precision was excellent in males and substantial in females (Kappa 0.837 and 0.781, respectively). Numerical precision was lower in patients with vasoactive drugs (-13.99 ms), QT-prolonging drugs (13.84 ms), antiarrhythmic drugs (-12.87 ms), and a heart rate (HR) difference of ≥5 beats per minute (bpm) between devices (-11.26 ms). CONCLUSION: Our study validates the clinical viability of KM1L, a single-lead mobile ECG device, for identifying prolonged QT intervals in ICU patients. Caution is warranted in patients with certain medical conditions that may affect numerical precision.

Clinical characteristics, treatments, and outcomes of difficult biliary stones in a reference hospital in Colombia.

The local experience and the success rate of different available treatments for difficult biliary stones in Colombia are poorly described. We made an observational study reporting patients treated for difficult biliary stones, at Hospital Universitario San Ignacio in Bogotá, Colombia between January 2015, and November 2021. Clinical characteristics, endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) findings, and outcomes are presented. Additionally, the success rates of Endoscopic Sphincterotomy Plus Large Balloon Dilation (ESLBD), Mechanical Lithotripsy (ML), temporary stenting (TS), cholangioscopy-guided laser lithotripsy (CGLL), and surgery are described. A total of 146 patients were included (median age 69 years, IQR 58.5-78.5, 33.8% men). The median stone diameter was 15 mm (IQR 10 - 18 mm). One stone was presented in 39.9%, two stones in 18.2%, and ≥3 stones in the remaining stone. A 67.6% disproportion rate was observed between the stone and distal common bile duct. Successful stone extraction was achieved in 56.2% in the first procedure, 22.6% in the second, 17.1% in the third, 3.4% in the fourth, and 0.7% in the fifth procedures. The successful extraction rates were 56.8% for ESLBD, 75% for ML, 23.4% for TS, 57.7% for CGLL, and 100% for surgery. Endoscopic management of difficult stones is usually successful, although it usually requires 2 or more ERCPs procedures. The surgical requirements were low. ESLBD is an effective technique unlike TS. Few patients required advanced techniques such as ML or CGLL. Endoscopic procedures are associated with a low rate of complications.

The nutrition risk index is associated with bacteremia within 30 days after autologous stem cell transplantation in patients with multiple myeloma.

OBJECTIVES: To assess whether the nutrition risk index (NRI) is associated with the risk of bacteremia within the first days after autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) in patients with multiple myeloma (MM). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Retrospective cohort study of adult patients with MM taken to ASCT at the Hospital Universitario San Ignacio (Bogotá, Colombia) between 2005 and 2019. The outcome of interest was the incidence of bacteremia at 30 days. Multivariate analysis was used to identify whether the NRI was associated with bacteremia, controlling by different confounding variables. RESULTS: One hundred and twenty-four patients with a median age of 58.5 years (IQR: 54-64) were included. 47.1% were in stage ISS III. 36.0% had moderate or severe malnourishment (NRI < 97.5). 11.2% presented bacteremia in the first 30 days after transplantation. In the univariate analysis, the NRI < 97.5 was associated with bacteremia (OR: 1.88; 95% CI: 1.30-2.72, P = .001); however, this association was not significant in the multivariate analysis, unlike the presence of mucositis (OR: 11.59; 95% CI: 1.9-68.3, <0.01), one or more previous lines of therapy (OR: 12.0; 95% CI: 2.1-67.4; P < .01), and duration of aplasia (OR: 1.70; 95% CI: 1.2-2.4, P < .01). CONCLUSIONS: Patients with moderate or severe malnourishment have a higher incidence of bacteremia in the 30 days post-ASCT in patients with MM. Additional risk factors associated with bacteremia include the presence of mucositis, one or more previous lines of therapy, and the duration of aplasia.

Short-term versus usual-term antibiotic treatment for uncomplicated Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Introduction: Uncomplicated Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in hospitalized patients. Current guidelines recommend a minimum of 14 days of treatment. Objective: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of short versus usual antibiotic therapy in adults with uncomplicated S. aureus bacteremia (SAB). Methods: We developed a search strategy to identify systematic review and meta-analysis of non-randomized studies (NRS), comparing short versus usual or long antibiotic regimens for uncomplicated SAB in MEDLINE, Embase, and the Cochrane Register up to June 2023. The risk of bias was assessed using the ROBINS I tool. The meta-analysis was performed using Review Manager software with a random effect model. Results: Six NRS with a total of 1700 patients were included. No significant differences were found when comparing short versus prolonged antibiotic therapy as defined by the authors for 90-day mortality [odds ratio (OR): 1.09; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.82-1.46, p: 0.55; I2 = 0%] or 90-day recurrence or relapse of bacteremia [OR: 0.72; 95% CI: 0.31-1.68, p: 0.45; I2 = 26%]. Sensitivity analysis showed similar results when comparing a predefined duration of <14 days versus ⩾14 days and when excluding the only study with a high risk of bias. Conclusion: Shorter-duration regimens could be considered as an alternative option for uncomplicated SAB in low-risk cases. However, based on a small number of studies with significant methodological limitations and risk of bias, the benefits and harms of shorter regimens should be analyzed with caution. Randomized clinical trials are needed to determine the best approach regarding the optimal duration of therapy.

Comparing short and regular antibiotic treatment duration, for a type of blood infection caused by S. aureus We investigated the optimal duration of antibiotic treatment for adults with a specific type of blood infection (uncomplicated Staphylococcus aureus), a condition with a significant global impact on mortality and costs. After a thorough search, only six trials involving 1700 patients were identified. We therefore decided to perform a meta-analysis (a type of statistical analysis). The results showed that the duration of antibiotics, whether short or long (less or more than 14 days), did not significantly affect mortality or recurrence of infection within 90 days. Consequently, we suggested that shorter courses of antibiotics might be appropriate for less severe cases. However, we emphasized caution because of the limitations of the studies. We recommended further research with improved methods to determine the optimal approach to treating this type of infection.

Concordance between LDL-C estimated by various formulas and directly measured LDL-C.

BACKGROUND: Although direct measurement of LDL cholesterol (LDL-C) in blood is possible, there are several formulas for its estimation. The performance and concordance of these formulas have not been evaluated in Colombia. OBJECTIVE: To determine the concordance between LDL-C directly measured using the enzymatic technique and existing methods to calculate it. METHODS: Study of diagnostic tests, and concordance. We analyzed complete lipid profile samples, which included direct measurement of LDL-C, from 2014 to 2022 at Hospital Universitario San Ignacio (Bogotá, Colombia). The direct LDL-C measurements were compared with estimations using the DeLong, Sampson, Friedewald, extended Martin/Hopkins, Anandaraja, and Cordova methods. Lin's concordance correlation coefficient (CCC) and Bland-Altman plots were employed, conducting subgroup analyses based on triglycerides (TG), and LDL-C levels. Kappa coefficients assessed agreement in LDL-C risk categories according to dyslipidemia guidelines. RESULTS: A total of 2144 samples were evaluated. The formulas with the best CCC were DeLong (0.971) and Sampson (0.969), with no relevant differences. The extended Martin/Hopkins formula (0.964) and the Friedewald formula (0.964) also performed well. The Anandaraja (0.921) and Cordova (0.881) equations exhibited inferior performance. For all formulas, a decrease in concordance was observed when triglycerides were ≥400 mg/dL or when LDL-C was <100 mg/dL. Most formulas demonstrated optimal agreement when assessed using risk categories according to dyslipidemia guidelines, except for Anandaraja and Cordova. CONCLUSIONS: The DeLong, Sampson, extended Martin/Hopkins, and Friedewald formulas show the best concordance with directly measured LDL-C, so in most cases the results can be considered interchangeable. However, the Anandaraja and Cordova formulas are not recommended.

External validation and comparison of six cardiovascular risk prediction models in the Prospective Urban Rural Epidemiology (PURE)-Colombia study.

AIMS: To external validate the SCORE2, AHA/ACC Pooled Cohort Equation (PCE), Framingham Risk Score (FRS), Non-Laboratory INTERHEART Risk Score (NL-IHRS), Globorisk-LAC, and WHO prediction models and compare their discrimination and calibration capacity. METHODS: Validation in individuals aged 40-69 years with at least 10 years follow-up and without baseline use of statins or cardiovascular diseases from the Prospective Urban Rural Epidemiology prospective cohort study (PURE)-Colombia. For discrimination, the C-statistic, and Receiver Operating Characteristic curves with the integrated area under the curve (AUCi) were used and compared. For calibration, the smoothed time-to-event method was used, choosing a recalibration factor based on the integrated calibration index (ICI). In the NL-IHRS, linear regressions were used. RESULTS: In 3,802 participants (59.1% women), baseline risk ranged from 4.8% (SCORE2 women) to 55.7% (NL-IHRS). After a mean follow-up of 13.2 years, 234 events were reported (4.8 cases per 1000 person-years). The C-statistic ranged between 0.637 (0.601-0.672) in NL-IHRS and 0.767 (0.657-0.877) in AHA/ACC PCE. Discrimination was similar between AUCi. In women, higher overprediction was observed in the Globorisk-LAC (61%) and WHO (59%). In men, higher overprediction was observed in FRS (72%) and AHA/ACC PCE (71%). Overestimations were corrected after multiplying by a factor derived from the ICI. CONCLUSIONS: Six prediction models had a similar discrimination capacity, supporting their use after multiplying by a correction factor. If blood tests are unavailable, NL-IHRS is a reasonable option. Our results suggest that these models could be used in other countries of Latin America after correcting the overestimations with a multiplying factor.

Detecting people at high risk of cardiovascular disease and implementing preventive interventions in this population is a key strategy in primary prevention. Recently, new risk calculation tools have been developed, but before their application and routine use in populations different from those where it was developed, it's necessary to validate them. The recommendations for predicting cardiovascular risk in Colombia's guidelines are based on studies with noteworthy limitations. This study involving 3,802 healthy individuals in Colombia supports the recommendation of using these prediction models. The estimation result should be multiplied by a correction factor, because most of the prediction models overestimate cardiovascular risk. For example, the correction factors suggested in women for AHA/ACC PCE and SCORE2 are 0.54 and 0.75, respectively. In men, the correction factors suggested in AHA/ACC PCE and SCORE2 are 0.28 and 0.61, respectively. Therefore, the present study with a contemporary population provides additional evidence to update these recommendations in Colombia and perhaps in Latin America.

Characteristics Associated With Elevated Time Below Range in Elderly Patients With Type 1 Diabetes Using an Automated Insulin Delivery System.

BACKGROUND: This study investigated the characteristics associated with an increased risk of hypoglycemia, in elderly patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1D) using automated insulin delivery (AID) systems. METHODS: Cross-sectional observational study including patients >60 years, using sensor-augmented insulin pump therapy with predictive low-glucose management (SAPT-PLGM), hybrid closed-loop (HCL), and advanced hybrid closed-loop (AHCL), for more than three months. A geriatric assessment was performed, and body composition was determined to investigate its association with achieving time below range (TBR) <70 mg/dL goals. RESULTS: The study included 59 patients (47.5% of men, mean age of 67.6 years, glycated hemoglobin [HbA1c] of 7.5 ± 0.6%, time in range (TIR) 77.8 ± 9.9%). Time below range <70 and <54 mg/dL were 2.2 ± 2.3% and 0.4 ± 0.81%, respectively. Patients with elevated TBR <70 mg/dL (>1%) had higher HbA1c levels, lower TIR, elevated time above range (TAR), and high glycemic variability. Regarding body composition, greater muscle mass, grip strength, and visceral fat were associated with a lower TBR <70 mg/dL. These factors were independent of the type of technology used, but TIR was higher when using AHCL systems compared with SAPT-PLGM and HCL systems. CONCLUSIONS: In elderly patients treated with AID systems with good functional status, lower lean mass, lower grip strength, and lower visceral fat percentage were associated with TBR greater than 1%, regardless of the device used. A similar finding along was found with CGM indicators such as higher HbA1c levels, lower TIR, higher TAR, and higher CV. Geriatric assessment is crucial for personalizing patient management.

Necrotizing Scleritis as a Manifestation of Eosinophilic Granulomatosis With Polyangiitis: A Case Report.

Eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA) is an ANCA-associated vasculitis characterized by the development of necrotizing granulomas rich in eosinophils and vasculitis of small and medium vessels, with compromise of the respiratory tract, peripheral nervous system, and least frequent ocular involvement. We report the case of a 54-year-old Caucasian man with a history of EGPA who presented ocular pain, red eye, vision loss, and evidence of scleral slimming compatible with necrotizing scleritis. The patient was treated with systemic steroids and cyclophosphamide, which reduced the ocular pain but did not improve visual acuity, needing surgical treatment of the scleral coverage defect. While necrotizing scleritis is an unusual manifestation of EGPA, it should be part of the differential diagnosis in patients with red eye or ocular pain as an accurate diagnosis and prompt treatment could reduce local complications.

Factors associated with a nonresponse to prone positioning in patients with severe acute respiratory distress syndrome due to SARS-CoV-2.

OBJECTIVE: To identify risk factors for nonresponse to prone positioning in mechanically ventilated patients with COVID-19-associated severe acute respiratory distress syndrome and refractory hypoxemia in a tertiary care hospital in Colombia. METHODS: Observational study based on a retrospective cohort of mechanically ventilated patients with severe acute respiratory distress syndrome due to SARS-CoV-2 who underwent prone positioning due to refractory hypoxemia. The study considered an improvement ≥ 20% in the PaO2/FiO2 ratio after the first cycle of 16 hours in the prone position to be a 'response'. Nonresponding patients were considered cases, and responding patients were controls. We controlled for clinical, laboratory, and radiological variables. RESULTS: A total of 724 patients were included (58.67 ± 12.37 years, 67.7% males). Of those, 21.9% were nonresponders. Mortality was 54.1% for nonresponders and 31.3% for responders (p < 0.001). Variables associated with nonresponse were time from the start of mechanical ventilation to pronation (OR 1.23; 95%CI 1.10 - 1.41); preintubation PaO2/FiO2 ratio (OR 0.62; 95%CI 0.40 - 0.96); preprone PaO2/FiO2 ratio (OR 1.88. 95%CI 1.22 - 2.94); and radiologic multilobe consolidation (OR 2.12; 95%CI 1.33 - 3.33) or mixed pattern (OR 1.72; 95%CI 1.07 - 2.85) compared with a ground-glass pattern. CONCLUSION: This study identified factors associated with nonresponse to prone positioning in patients with refractory hypoxemia and acute respiratory distress syndrome due to SARS-CoV-2 receiving mechanical ventilation. Recognizing such factors helps identify candidates for other rescue strategies, including more extensive prone positioning or extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. Further studies are needed to assess the consistency of these findings in populations with acute respiratory distress syndrome of other etiologies.

Cut-off points of neck and waist circumference as predictors of obstructive sleep apnea in the Colombian population: a comparison with polysomnography.

BACKGROUND: Neck circumference (NC) is a useful anthropometric measure for predicting obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Ethnicity and sex also influence obesity phenotypes. NC cut-offs for defining OSA have not been established for the Latin American population. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate NC, waist circumference (WC), and body mass index (BMI) as predictors of OSA in the Colombian population and to determine optimal cut-off points. DESIGN AND SETTING: Diagnostic tests were conducted at the Javeriana University, Bogota. METHODS: Adults from three cities in Colombia were included. NC, WC, and BMI were measured, and a polysomnogram provided the reference standard. The discrimination capacity and best cut-off points for diagnosing OSA were calculated. RESULTS: 964 patients were included (57.7% men; median age, 58 years) and 43.4% had OSA. The discrimination capacity of NC was similar for men and women (area under curve, AUC 0.63 versus 0.66, P = 0.39) but better for women under 60 years old (AUC 0.69 versus 0.57, P < 0.05). WC had better discrimination capacity for women (AUC 0.69 versus 0.57, P < 0.001). There were no significant differences in BMI. Optimal NC cut-off points were 36.5 cm for women (sensitivity [S]: 71.7%, specificity [E]: 55.3%) and 41 cm for men (S: 56%, E: 62%); and for WC, 97 cm for women (S: 65%, E: 69%) and 99 cm for men (S: 53%, E: 58%). CONCLUSIONS: NC and WC have moderate discrimination capacities for diagnosing OSA. The cut-off values suggest differences between Latin- and North American as well as Asian populations.

Delayed mechanical ventilation with prolonged high-flow nasal cannula exposure time as a risk factor for mortality in acute respiratory distress syndrome due to SARS-CoV-2.

In a high proportion of patients, infection by COVID-19 progresses to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), requiring invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) and admission to an intensive care unit (ICU). Other devices, such as a high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC), have been alternatives to IMV in settings with limited resources. This study evaluates whether HFNC exposure time prior to IMV is associated with mortality. This observational, analytical study was conducted on a historical cohort of adults with ARDS due to SARS-CoV-2 who were exposed to HFNC and subsequently underwent IMV. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression was used to analyze the impact of HFNC exposure time on mortality, controlling for multiple potential confounders. Of 325 patients with ARDS, 41 received treatment with HFNC for more than 48 h before IMV initiation. These patients had a higher mortality rate (43.9% vs. 27.1%, p: 0.027) than those using HFNC < 48 h. Univariate analysis evidenced an association between mortality and HFNC ≥ 48 h (OR 2.16. 95% CI 1.087-4.287. p: 0.028). Such an association persisted in the multivariable analysis (OR 2.21. 95% CI 1.013-4.808. p: 0.046) after controlling for age, sex, comorbidities, basal severity of infection, and complications. This study also identified a significant increase in mortality after 36 h in HFNC (46.3%, p: 0.003). In patients with ARDS due to COVID-19, HFNC exposure ≥ 48 h prior to IMV is a factor associated with mortality after controlling multiple confounders. Physiological mechanisms for such an association are need to be defined.

Dynamic changes in liver function tests do not correctly reclassify patients at risk of choledocholithiasis beyond ASGE 2019 criteria.

Introduction: Dynamic changes in liver function tests have been proposed to correctly reclassify the risk of choledocholithiasis; however, information is scarce and insufficient to recommend its use. Methods: Retrospective cohort of patients undergoing endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) due to moderate and high risk of choledocholithiasis according to the 2019 American Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE) guidelines. We evaluated whether significant changes in liver function tests (bilirubin, transaminases, or alkaline phosphatase), defined as an increase or a reduction ⩾30 or ⩾50% between two measurements taken with a difference of 24-72 h can correctly reclassify the risk of choledocholithiasis beyond the ASGE guidelines. The net reclassification index (NRI) was calculated for patients with and without choledocholithiasis. Results: Among 1175 patients who underwent ERCP, 170 patients were included in the analysis (59.4% women, median 59.5 years). Among patients without a diagnosis of choledocholithiasis, the number of patients correctly reclassified by transaminases was slightly higher than those incorrectly reclassified (NRI = 0.24 for aspartate amino transaminase and 0.20 for alanine amino transaminase). However, among patients with a diagnosis of choledocholithiasis, it led to incorrect reclassification in a greater number of cases (NRI = -0.21 and -0.14, respectively). The benefits of reclassification were minimal for bilirubin and alkaline phosphatase, or for value changes >50%. A subgroup analysis showed similar findings in patients without a history of cholecystectomy and in those with normal bile duct. Conclusion: Dynamic changes in liver function tests do not improve choledocholithiasis risk classification beyond the 2019 ASGE criteria. New criteria should continue to be sought to optimize risk stratification.

Results From a Virtual Clinic for the Follow-up of Patients Using the Advanced Hybrid Closed-Loop System.

BACKGROUND: Evidence regarding the implementation of medium-term strategies in advanced hybrid closed-loop (AHCL) system users is limited. Therefore, this study aimed to describe the efficacy and safety of the AHCL system in patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D) on a six-month follow-up in a virtual diabetes clinic (VDC). METHOD: A prospective cohort of adult patients with T1D treated using the AHCL system (Mini Med 780G; Medtronic, Northridge, California) in a VDC follow-up. Standardized training and follow-up were conducted virtually. Clinical data and metabolic control outcomes were reported at baseline, and at three and six months. RESULTS: Sixty-four patients (mean age = 42 ± 14.6 years, 65% men, 54% with graduate education) were included. Percentage time in range (%TIR) increased significantly regardless of prior therapy with intermittently scanned continuous glucose monitoring + multiple daily injections and sensor-augmented pump therapy with predictive low-glucose management after starting AHCL and persisted during the follow-up period with no hypoglycemic events. The %TIR 70 to 180 mg/dL according to socioeconomic strata was 73.4% ± 5.3%, 78.1% ± 8.1%, and 84.2% ± 7.5% for the lower, middle, and upper strata, respectively. The sensor was used more frequently in the population with a higher education level. Adherence to sensor use and SmartGuard retention were higher in patients who underwent the VDC follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: Medium-term follow-up of users of AHCL systems in a VDC contributes to safely achieving %TIR goals. Virtual diabetes clinic follow-up favored adherence to sensor use and continuous SmartGuard use. Socioeconomic strata were associated with a better glycemic profile and education level was associated with better adherence to sensor use.

Numerical and clinical precision in hypoglycemia of the intermittent FreeStyle Libre glucose monitoring through an NFC-Bluetooth transmitter associated with the xDrip+ algorithm in diabetic patients under insulin therapy.

INTRODUCTION: There are data capture devices that attach to the FreeStyle Libre sensor and convert its communication from NFC (Near-field communication) to Bluetooth technology, generating real-time continuous glucose monitoring. The accuracy of hypoglycemia measurements displayed by smartphone apps using this device has not been established. METHODS: Study of diagnostic tests. Numerical accuracy was evaluated, utilizing the absolute difference with respect to capillary glucometry (ISO 15197:2015 standard) and clinical accuracy, using the Clarke and Parkes (Consensus) error grids, for glucose measurements less than 70mg/dL performed with the FreeStyle Libre system and with the digital estimation xDrip+ app, in diabetic patients managed with insulin therapy. RESULTS: Twenty-seven patients were included (TIR 73.4%, TBR70 5.6%), who contributed 83 hypoglycemic events. Numerical accuracy was adequate in similar proportions with the FreeStyle Libre system compared to the xDrip+ app (81.92% vs. 68.67%, p=0.0630). The clinical accuracy evaluation showed that 92.8% of the measurements for xDrip+ and 98.8% for FreeStyle libre met the criteria according to the Parkes (Consensus) grid (p=0.0535); and 79.5% and 91.6% of the measurements met the criteria according to the Clarke grid (p=0.0273), being higher with FreeStyle libre. CONCLUSIONS: The use of the NFC-Bluetooth transmitter (Miao-Miao) associated with the xDrip+ app does not improve numerical or clinical accuracy for detecting hypoglycemic events in diabetic patients managed with insulin therapy, compared to the FreeStyle Libre device.

FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH DIFFICULT BILIARY CANNULATION IN A TRAINING CENTER FOR ENDOSCOPIC INTERVENTION OF THE BILIARY TRACT.

BACKGROUND: This paper aims to determine factors associated with difficult biliary cannulation (DBC) that are identifiable before procedures. METHODS: This is a nested case-control study within a historical cohort in adult patients undergoing endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) from 2015-2019 in the Hospital Universitario San Ignacio, Colombia. This study assessed the associations among variables that could be identified before or at the beginning of procedures and the probability of DBC. These associations were evaluated through a bivariate and multivariate analysis. The study used criteria for DBC defined by the European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. RESULTS: A total of 498 ERCP performed in 376 patients were analyzed. Of all procedures, 144 (29%) fulfilled criteria for DBC. The multivariate analysis showed an association between DBC and the acute care hospital setting (OR:2.92; CI95% 1.70-5.01; P<0.001), redundant papilla (OR:7.26; CI95% 3.38-15.61; P<0.001), or peridiverticular papilla (OR:2.45; CI95% 1.38-4.36; P=0.002). No association was found between DBC and endoscopist's experience, bilirubin levels, or dilation of the biliary tract. CONCLUSION: The DBC is a frequent event. Alterations in the papilla and ERCP performed in the acute care hospital setting are the principal factors associated with DBC. This information might be useful to predict DBC and establish healthcare and administrative strategies to reduce its implications.

Effectiveness and safety of new oral and injectable agents for in-hospital management of type 2 diabetes in general wards: Systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Current guidelines recommend insulin alone for in-hospital management of diabetes, but growing information suggests that new oral or injectable agents may be as effective and safe. METHODS: Systematic review and meta-analysis with evidence from randomized (RCT) and non-randomized (NRS) studies in PubMed, EMBASE and LILACS databases up to February 10, 2022, for studies including hospitalized type 2 diabetes patients, comparing dipeptidyl peptidase 4 inhibitors (DPP4i), sodium glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP1Ra) with insulin alone for glycemic control and safety outcomes. FINDINGS: 7 RCT and 3 NRTs were included. There were no differences in mean blood glucose, measurements within range or rate of hypoglycemia between DPP4i and insulin. We found a lower mean glucose for GLP1Ra plus insulin subgroup (-16.36 mg/dL, 95 % CI -27.31, -5.41; I2 = 0 %) with lower incidence of hypoglycemia < 70 mg/dL with GLP1Ra (RR 0.31, CI 95 % 0.14-0.70, I2 = 0 %). SGLT2i data was limited. Adverse events rates were similar between treatments. CONCLUSION: Our review suggests that inpatient management in the general ward with DPP4i and GLP1Ra is as effective and safe as management with insulin. More randomized studies are required to support these findings before they could be recommended as usual practice.

Efficacy and safety of sensor augmented insulin pump therapy with low-glucose suspend feature in older adults: A retrospective study in Bogota, Colombia.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: The literature has supported the efficacy and safety of insulin pump therapy in young adults diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (DM1). However, there is limited evidence in older adults with DM1 and DM2. METHODS: A retrospective cohort study was conducted in patients ≥60 years-old with DM1 and DM2, who started Sensor Augmented Insulin Pump therapy with low-glucose suspend feature (SAP + LGS) at Hospital Universitario San Ignacio diabetes center in Bogotá, Colombia. Patients were evaluated between 2009 and 2019 and were treated with Paradigm VEO or Medtronic MiniMed 640 insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitoring system. Glycated hemoglobin (A1c), severe hypoglycemia and hypoglycemia unawareness were assessed at least every 3 months, and hospitalizations and ketoacidosis episodes incidence were assessed yearly. RESULTS: 36 patients were analyzed, (67.36 ± 4.88 years-old) (body mass index 25.48 ± 4.61 kg/m2). The most common indications for starting SAP + LGS were hypoglycemia (58.3%), high glycemic variability (25.0%) and poor metabolic control (16.7%). 26 patients used VEO (72.2%) whereas 27.8% started 640 insulin pump. Data from 32 participants showed A1c decreased from 8.57 ± 1.73% to 7.42 ± 0.96 after a year of therapy (Mean difference -1.15%, p < 0.05); 28.12% reached A1c levels <7% and 42.85% < 7.5%. There was a significant decrease in the proportion of patients with at least one severe hypoglycemia (56.7 vs 3.3%), one or more hospitalizations (20 vs 3.3%), and hypoglycemia unawareness after the first year of follow-up (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest that SAP + LGS is safe and effective in people 60 years or older after one year of therapy. Future randomized clinical trials are needed in the elderly.

Are the Pediatric Index of Mortality 2 and 3 equal predictors of mortality? An intensive care unit-based concordance study. / Pediatric Index of Mortality 2 e 3 são preditores de mortalidade iguais? Estudo de concordância com base em unidade de terapia intensiva.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the concordance of mortality risk classification through the use of the Pediatric Index of Mortality (PIM) 2 and 3. METHODS: Through a retrospective cohort, we evaluated patients admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit between April 2016 and December 2018. We calculated the mortality risk with the PIM 2 and 3. Analyses were carried out to determine the concordance between the risk classification obtained with both scales using unweighted and linearly weighted kappa. RESULTS: A total of 722 subjects were included, and 66.6% had a chronic condition. The overall mortality was 3.7%. The global kappa concordance coefficient for classifying patients according to risk with the PIM 2 and 3 was moderate at 0.48 (95%CI 0.43 - 0.53). After linear weighting, concordance was substantial at 0.64 (95%CI 0.59 - 0.69). For cardiac surgery patients, concordance for risk classification was fair at 0.30 (95%CI 0.21 - 0.39), and after linear weighting, concordance was only moderate at 0.49 (95%CI 0.39 - 0.59). The PIM 3 assigned a lower risk than the PIM 2 in 44.8% of patients in this subgroup. CONCLUSION: Our study proves that the PIM 2 and 3 are not clinically equivalent and should not be used interchangeably for quality evaluation across pediatric intensive care units. Validation studies must be performed before using the PIM 2 or PIM 3 in specific settings.

OBJETIVO: Determinar a concordância da classificação do risco de mortalidade por meio do uso dos escores Pediatric Index of Mortality (PIM) 2 e 3. MÉTODOS: Avaliação de uma coorte retrospectiva pela análise dos pacientes admitidos à unidade de terapia intensiva pediátrica entre abril de 2016 e dezembro de 2018. Calculamos o risco de mortalidade por meio do PIM 2 e do 3. Realizaram-se análises para determinar a concordância entre a classificação de risco obtida com ambas as escalas pela utilização do cálculo do Kappa não ponderado e linearmente ponderado. RESULTADOS: Incluímos 722 pacientes, sendo que 66,6% destes tinham uma condição crônica. A mortalidade global foi de 3,7%. O coeficiente Kappa de concordância para classificação dos pacientes, segundo o risco com o PIM 2 e o 3, foi moderado: 0,48 (IC95% 0,43 - 0,53). Após ponderação linear, a concordância foi substancial: 0,64 (IC95% 0,59 - 0,69). Para pacientes de cirurgia cardíaca, a concordância para a classificação de risco foi regular: 0,30 (IC95% 0,21 - 0,39); após ponderação linear, a concordância foi apenas moderada: 0,49 (IC95% 0,39 - 0,59). O PIM 3 acusou um risco mais baixo do que o PIM 2 em 44,8% dos pacientes desse subgrupo. CONCLUSÃO: Nosso estudo comprova que o PIM 2 e o 3 não são clinicamente equivalentes e não devem ser usadas de forma intercambiável para avaliação da qualidade em diferentes unidades de terapia intensiva. Devem ser conduzidos estudos de validação antes que se utilizem os PIM 2 e 3 em situações específicas.

Metrics of activity in social networks are correlated with traditional metrics of scientific impact in endocrinology journals.

AIMS: Traditional journal level metrics, as the impact factor or Scimago journal ranking indicator (SJR) measure the impact of research on other researchers, but fail to assess the reach of these publications among wider audiences. This study aims to assess the correlation between SJR and metrics of presence on social networks of endocrinology journals. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Journals within the area of endocrinology, diabetes and metabolism were identified from the electronic portal Scimago Journal and Country Rank, and their metrics based on the number of citation collected. Different metrics of the presence on social networks, such as the number of followers and number of tweets, were assessed. The correlation between both metrics was evaluated by calculating the Spearman correlation coefficient. RESULTS: Of the 232 journals evaluated, 28 (12.1%) had social networks. The median SJR (1.53 vs 0.60, p < 0.01), and H index (58.5 vs 22, p < 0.01) were significantly higher among journals with social networks. The correlation between the number of followers on twitter and the SJR was moderate (r = 0.60, p < 0.05), and it was better in journals with more than 500 publications in the last 3 years (r = 0.85, p < 0.05). The number of tweets also had a moderate correlation with the SJR (r = 0.59, p < 0.05) CONCLUSIONS: Our results suggest that the dissemination of research on social networks is moderately related to the traditional metrics of impact. Both types of metrics offer complementary information: while metrics based on social media may not perfectly predict the impact a scientific journal, it does have the advantage of immediacy.

Application of Queuing Theory to Optimize the Triage Process in a Tertiary Emergency Care ("ER") Department.

CONTEXT: Time from triage to patient care is usually evaluated, but time elapsed between the arrival of patient to emergency room (ER) and triage (pretriage) is not usually measured. AIMS: The present study evaluates how the application of the queuing (or "waiting line") theory in the triage process can generate effective strategies to improve patient care in the ER. SETTINGS AND DESIGN: A "before-and-after" study was conducted in the ER of the Hospital Universitario San Ignacio, a tertiary emergency care in Bogotá, Colombia. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: The pretriage time was evaluated, and queuing theory was applied to the evaluation; according to the results, the number and distribution of the necessary nursing personnel were determined. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED: The change in waiting times was compared using a paired t-test. RESULTS: In a first 7 months evaluation period, 89,898 patient visits were considered, with an average pretriage time of 22.15 min. According to the arrival distribution by hours and days of the week and considering the results of the calculations made using queuing theory, the number of nurses needed in the service per hour was determined for each day of the week, and schedule changes were implemented without increasing staff. In a second similar evaluation period, 94,497 patient visits were considered demonstrating a reduction of the pretriage time to 7.5 min (mean difference 14.64 min, 95% confidence interval 14.42-14.85, P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The use of queuing theory in the planning of the daily personnel requirements in the triage area of ER can reduce the pretriage time by 65% without incurring additional cost.