[Mortality, cardiovascular risk, and health status in a male cohort initiated in 1968. The Manresa study]. / Mortalidad, riesgo cardiovascular y estado de salud actual de una cohorte de varones iniciada en el año 1968. Estudio Manresa.

OBJECTIVES: To analyse mortality and its causes in the Manresa male cohort followed over 42 years; to compare the initial risk of cardiovascular mortality with actual mortality; and to describe the health status of the participants at the end of the study. METHODS: Prospective observational study, in which an analysis of the cumulative incidence of mortality was performed. The association of cardiovascular risk factors with mortality was calculated with a logistic regression analysis of mixed effect. The risk of mortality of individuals was evaluated and compared with true cardiovascular mortality using ROC curves. At the end of the study, a descriptive analysis of CVRF and health status of participants in the last survey was performed. RESULTS: The number of deaths was 457 (43%). Cumulative incidence for cardiovascular diseases was 10.6%. Cardiovascular risk factors significantly associated with cardiovascular mortality were age, cholesterol, and smoking. The use of risk score charts for cardiovascular mortality was found to be useful, and there were no differences between tables. In the last health screening of cardiovascular risk factors levels in an elderly population, a high prevalence was found of hypertension and of regular physical activity, together with a low prevalence of smoking. CONCLUSIONS: Cardiovascular mortality remained high, although it has become the second cause after tumoural diseases. The comparison of predictions from cardiovascular mortality risk tables with actual mortality rates in our area over more than 4 decades demonstrated the importance of assessing cardiovascular risk in the adult population.

Patient self-management of oral anticoagulation with vitamin K antagonists in everyday practice: clinical outcomes in a single centre cohort after long-term follow-up.

BACKGROUND: Patient self-management (PSM) of vitamin K antagonists (VKA) seems a very promising model of care for oral anticoagulation in terms of efficacy and safety. In comparison with other management models of VKA therapy, the number of scientific publications supporting the advantages of PSM is more limited. Currently, most of the scarce information comes from randomized clinical trials. Moreover, a small number of studies have assessed PSM of VKA therapy in real life conditions. METHODS: We analyzed clinical outcomes of 927 patients in a single center (6018.6 patient-years of follow-up). Recruitment took place between 2002 and 2017. All patients followed a structured training program, conducted by specialized nurses. RESULTS: Fifty percent of individuals had a mechanical heart valve (MHV), 23% suffered from recurrent venous thromboembolism (VTE) or high-risk thrombophilia, and 13% received VKA therapy because of atrial fibrillation (AF). Median follow-up was 6.5 years (range 0.1-15.97 years), median age was 58.1 years (IQR 48-65.9) and 46.5% were women. The incidence of major complications (either hemorrhagic or thromboembolic) was 1.87% patient-years (pt-ys) with a 95% CI of 1.54-2.27. The incidence of major thromboembolic events was 0.86% pt-ys (95% CI 0.64-1.13) and that of major hemorrhagic events was 1.01% pt-ys (95% CI 0.77-1.31). The incidence of intracranial bleeding was 0.22% pt-ys (95% CI 0.12-0.38). In terms of clinical indication for VKA therapy, the incidence of total major complications was 2.4% pt-ys, 2.0% pt-ys, 0.9% pt-ys and 1.34% pt-ys for MHV, AF, VTE and other (including valvulopathies and myocardiopathies), respectively. Clinical outcomes were worse in patients with multiple comorbidities, previous major complications during conventional VKA therapy, and in older individuals. The percentage of time in therapeutic range (TTR) was available in 861 (93%) patients. Overall, the mean (SD) of TTR was 63.6 ± 13.4%, being higher in men (66.2 ± 13.1%) than women (60.6 ± 13.2%), p < 0.05. CONCLUSIONS: In terms of clinically relevant outcomes (incidence of major complications and mortality), PSM in real life setting seems to be a very good alternative in properly trained patients.

Randomized clinical trial of intracorporeal versus extracorporeal anastomosis in laparoscopic right colectomy (IEA trial).

BACKGROUND: Several non-randomized and retrospective studies have suggested that intracorporeal anastomosis (IA) has advantages over extracorporeal anastomosis (EA) in laparoscopic right colectomy, but scientific evidence is lacking. The aim was to compare short-term outcomes and to define the possible benefits of IA compared with EA in elective laparoscopic right colectomy. METHODS: An RCT was conducted from May 2015 to June 2018. The primary endpoint was duration of hospital stay. Secondary endpoints were intraoperative technical events and postoperative clinical outcomes. RESULTS: A total of 140 patients were randomized. Duration of surgery was longer for procedures with an IA than in those with an EA (median 149 (range 95-215) versus 123 (60-240) min; P < 0·001). Wound length was shorter in the IA group (median 6·7 (4-9·5) versus 8·7 (5-13) cm; P < 0·001). Digestive function recovered earlier in patients with an IA (median 2·3 versus 3·3 days; P = 0·003) and the incidence of paralytic ileus was lower (13 versus 30 per cent; P = 0·022). Less postoperative analgesia was needed in the IA group (mean(s.d.) weighted analgesia requirement 39(24) versus 53(26); P = 0·001) and the pain score was also lower (P = 0·035). The postoperative decrease in haemoglobin level was smaller (mean(s.d.) 8·8(1·7) versus 17·1(1·7) mg/dl; P = 0·001) and there was less lower gastrointestinal bleeding (3 versus 14 per cent; P = 0·031) in the IA group. IA was associated with a significantly better rate of grade I and II complications (P = 0·016 and P = 0·037 respectively). The duration of hospital stay was slightly shorter in the IA group (median 5·7 (range 2-19) versus 6·6 (2-23) days; P = 0·194). CONCLUSION: Duration of hospital stay was similar, but IA was associated with less pain and fewer complications. Registration number: NCT02667860 ( http://www.clinicaltrials.gov).

ANTECEDENTES: Varios estudios no aleatorizados y retrospectivos sugieren que la anastomosis intracorpórea (intracorporeal anastomosis, IA) tiene ventajas sobre la anastomosis extracorpórea (extracorporeal anastomosis, EA) en la colectomía laparoscópica derecha, pero no hay suficientes evidencias científicas. El objetivo del estudio fue comparar los resultados a corto plazo y definir los posibles beneficios de la anastomosis intracorpórea versus extracorpórea en la colectomía derecha laparoscópica electiva. MÉTODOS: Se realizó un ensayo clínico prospectivo y aleatorizado de mayo de 2015 a junio de 2018. El criterio de valoración principal fue la duración de la estancia hospitalaria. Los criterios de valoración secundarios fueron los eventos técnicos intraoperatorios y los resultados clínicos postoperatorios. RESULTADOS: Se aleatorizaron 140 pacientes. El tiempo quirúrgico fue más largo para la IA que para la EA (149,49 ± 27,24 versus 123,35 ± 36,56 min; P = 0,001). La longitud de la herida fue más corta en la IA (6,65 ± 1,21 versus 8,72 ± 1,44 cm; P < 0,001). La función digestiva se recuperó antes en la IA que en la EA (2,3 versus 3,3 días, P = 0,003) y la incidencia de íleo paralítico fue menor (13% versus 30%, P = 0,022). Los requisitos de analgesia postoperatoria fueron menores con la IA (39 ± 24,3 versus 53 ± 26; P < 0,001) y la puntuación de dolor (EVA) también fue menor (P < 0,035). El descenso de la hemoglobina en el postoperatorio y la hemorragia gastrointestinal baja fueron menores en la IA que en la EA (-8,83 ± 1,7 versus -17,07 ± 1,7 mg/dl; P = 0,001) y (2,8% versus 14%; P = 0,031), respectivamente. La clasificación de Clavien-Dindo mostró que la IA se asoció con resultados significativamente mejores que la EA: grado I (10% versus 27% P = 0,016); grado II (18% versus 35%, P = 0,0369). La puntuación del índice de complicación integral (comprehensive complication index, CCI) fue menor en el grupo IA (5,33 ± 9,2 versus 11,15 ± 14,34; P = 0,006). La estancia hospitalaria fue más corta en el grupo de IA pero sin diferencia significativa (5,65 ± 3,75 versus 6,58 ± 4,63 días; P = 0,194). CONCLUSIÓN: La IA presenta ventajas clínicas sobre la EA en la colectomía derecha laparoscópica.

Clinical factors that affect perceived quality of life in arthroscopic reconstruction for acromioclavicular joint dislocation. / Factores clínicos que afectan a la calidad de vida percibida en la reconstrucción artroscópica de las luxaciones acromioclaviculares.

OBJECTIVE: To analyse the results of arthroscopic repair of acromioclavicular dislocation in terms of health-related quality of life. MATERIAL AND METHOD: Prospective study of patients with acromioclavicular dislocation Rockwood grade iii-v, treated arthroscopically with a mean follow up of 25.4 months. The demographics of the series were recorded and evaluations were performed preoperatively, at 3 months and 2 years with validated questionnaires as Short Form-36 Health Survey (SF-36), visual analogue scale (VAS), The Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH), Constant-Murley Shoulder Outcome Score (Constant) and Walch-Duplay Score (WD). RESULTS: Twenty patients, 17 men and 3 women with a mean age of 36.1 years, were analysed. According to the classification of Rockwood, 3 patients were grade iii, 3 grade iv and 14 grade v. Functional and clinical improvement was detected in all clinical tests (SF-36, VAS and DASH) at 3 months and 2 years follow up (P<.001). The final Constant score was 95.3±2.4 and the WD was 1.8±0.62. It was not found that the health-related quality of life was affected by any variable studied except the evolution of DASH. CONCLUSIONS: The health-related quality of life (assessed by SF-36) in patients undergoing arthroscopic repair of acromioclavicular joint dislocation grades iii-v was not influenced by gender, age, grade, displacement, handedness, evolution of the VAS, scoring of the Constant or by the WD. However, it is correlated with the evolution in the DASH score.

Predictive model of mortality in patients with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis.

BACKGROUND: Hospital mortality in patients with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) is high despite albumin treatment, particularly in those with worse liver and/or renal function. AIM: To determine the independent predictive factors of in-hospital mortality and to create and validate a predictive model of mortality in patients with SBP. METHODS: We analysed all cirrhotic patients with high-risk SBP (serum urea ≥11 mmol/L and/or serum bilirubin ≥68 µmol/L) between 2001 and 2011. We developed a predictive model of in-hospital mortality and validated this in a different cohort. RESULTS: We included 118 high-risk SBP episodes treated with antibiotics and albumin. In-hospital mortality was 33/118 (28%). The independent predictive factors of in-hospital mortality at SBP diagnosis were serum urea, blood leucocyte count, Child-Pugh score and mean arterial pressure. A predictive model including these four variables showed a discrimination accuracy (AUC) of 0.850, 95% CI 0.777-0.922. A cut-off point of 0.245 showed a sensitivity of 0.85 and specificity of 0.75. The in-hospital mortality was 28/49 (57.1%) in patients with a model value ≥0.245, and 5/69 (7.2%) in patients with a model value <0.245 (P < 0.001). The validation series included 161 patients with an in-hospital mortality of 40/161 (24.8%), 30/77 (39.0%) in patients with a model value ≥0.245, and 10/84 (11.9%) in those with a model value <0.245 (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: We developed and validated a predictive model of mortality that includes serum urea, blood leucocyte count, Child-Pugh score and mean arterial pressure in high-risk patients with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis. These findings may help to identify patients who would benefit from additional therapeutic strategies.

[Evaluation of pain during mobilization and endotracheal aspiration in critical patients]. / Evaluación del dolor durante la movilización y la aspiración endotraqueal en pacientes críticos.

OBJECTIVES: 1) To assess the prevalence of pain during nursing care procedures, and 2) to evaluate the usefulness of certain vital signs and the bispectral index (BIS) in detecting pain. METHODS: A prospective, observational analytical study was made of procedures (endotracheal aspiration and mobilization with turning) in critically ill sedated patients on mechanical ventilation. The Behavioral Pain Scale was used to assess pain, with scores of ≥3 indicating pain. Various physiological signs and BIS values were recorded, with changes of >10% being considered clinically relevant. RESULTS: A total of 146 procedures in 70 patients were analyzed. Pain prevalence during the procedures was 94%. Vital signs and BIS values increased significantly during the procedures compared to resting conditions, but only the changes in BIS were considered clinically relevant. In the subgroup of patients receiving preemptive analgesia prior to the procedure, pain decreased significantly compared to the group of patients who received no such analgesia (-2 [IQR: {-5}-0] vs. 3 [IQR: 1-4]; P<.001, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: The procedures evaluated in this study are painful. Changes in vital signs are not good indicators of pain. Changes in BIS may provide useful information about pain, but more research is needed. The administration of preemptive analgesia decreases pain during the procedures.

Pelvic MRI findings in relapsed prostate cancer after radical prostatectomy.

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE: Little is known about the clinical impact of using multiparametric MRI to plan early salvage radiotherapy after radical prostatectomy. We aimed to evaluate the incidence and location of recurrence based on pelvic multiparametric MRI findings and to identify clinical variables predictive of positive imaging results. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We defined radiological criteria of local and lymph node malignancy and reviewed records and MRI studies of 70 patients with PSA recurrence after radical prostatectomy. We performed univariate and multivariate analysis to identify any association between clinical, pathological and treatment-related variables and imaging results. RESULTS: Multiparametric MRI was positive in 33/70 patients. We found local and lymph node recurrence in 27 patients and 7 patients, respectively, with a median PSA value of 0.38 ng/ml. We found no statistically significant differences between patients with positive and negative multiparametric MRI for any variable. Shorter PSADT was associated with positive lymph nodes (median PSADT: 5.12 vs 12.70 months; p: 0.017). CONCLUSIONS: Nearly half the patients had visible disease in multiparametric MRI despite low PSA. Positive lymph nodes incidence should be considered when planning salvage radiotherapy, particularly in patients with a short PSADT.

Mohs micrographic surgery for basal cell carcinomas: results of a Spanish retrospective study and Kaplan­Meier survival analysis of tumour recurrence.

BACKGROUND: Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) is a specialized procedure usually limited to specific indications (e.g. high-risk basal cell carcinomas [BCCs]). OBJECTIVE: To determine the recurrence rate of MMS for BCC at a tertiary referral centre in Barcelona, Spain. METHODS: Review of medical records of patients undergoing 534 consecutive MMS interventions for confirmed BCCs. The main outcome measure was biopsy-proven recurrence of BCC at the same anatomical location after MMS. RESULTS: A total of 489 patients underwent MMS for 534 BCCs from April 1999 to December 2011. The patients' mean age was 66 years. The most frequent location was the nasal/perinasal region (38.4%, n = 205). The surgical interventions of 47.9% (n = 256) were for primary BCCs and 52.1% (n = 278) procedures were for recurrent or residual BCCs. The mean follow-up was 30.5 months (range 1­145 months). Thirty-two recurrences were identified in total. The raw recurrence rate following MMS for primary BCCs was 1.2% (3/256) compared to 10.4% (32/278) for recurrent BCC. On multivariate analysis (Cox proportional hazard model) only prior treatment (P = 0.018, hazard ratio [HR] 4.68 with 95% confidence intervals [CI] 1.30­16.79), multiple prior treatments (P = 0.013, HR 2.72 [95%CI 1.24­5.96]), and healing by secondary intention (P = 0.041, HR 2.88 [95%CI 1.04­7.97]) were independent prognostic factors of recurrence after MMS. LIMITATIONS: The limitations of our study are those of a retrospective study. CONCLUSION: Mohs micrographic surgery for primary high-risk BCCs has a high success rate but the cumulative probability of recurrence increases significantly when tumours with recurrences are referred for MMS.

Efficacy and safety of fibrin glue and tranexamic acid to prevent postoperative blood loss in total knee arthroplasty: a randomized controlled clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: Postoperative blood loss in patients after total knee arthroplasty may cause local and systemic complications and influence clinical outcome. The aim of this study was to assess whether fibrin glue or tranexamic acid reduced blood loss compared with routine hemostasis in patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty. METHODS: A randomized, single-center, parallel, open clinical trial was performed in adult patients undergoing primary total knee arthroplasty. Patients were divided into four groups. Group 1 received fibrin glue manufactured by the Blood and Tissue Bank of Catalonia, Group 2 received Tissucol (fibrinogen and thrombin), Group 3 received intravenous tranexamic acid, and Group 4 (control) had no treatment other than routine hemostasis. The primary outcome was total blood loss collected in drains after surgery. Secondary outcomes were the calculated hidden blood loss, transfusion rate, preoperative and postoperative hemoglobin, number of blood units transfused, adverse events, and mortality. RESULTS: One hundred and seventy-two patients were included. The mean total blood loss (and standard deviation) collected in drains was 553.9 ± 321.5 mL for Group 1, 567.8 ± 299.3 mL for Group 2, 244.1 ± 223.4 mL for Group 3, and 563.5 ± 269.7 mL for Group 4. In comparison with the control group, Group 3 had significantly lower total blood loss (p < 0.001), but it was not significantly lower in Groups 1 and 2. The overall rate of patients who had a blood transfusion was 21.1% (thirty-five of 166 patients analyzed per protocol). Two patients required transfusion in Group 3 compared with twelve patients in Group 4 (p = 0.015). No significant difference was observed between the two fibrin glue groups and the control group with regard to the need for transfusion. There was no difference between groups with regard to the percentage of adverse events. CONCLUSIONS: Neither type of fibrin glue was more effective than routine hemostasis in reducing postoperative bleeding and transfusion requirements, and we no longer use them. However, this trial supports findings from previous studies showing that intravenous tranexamic acid can decrease postoperative blood loss.

Adalimumab for the treatment of psoriasis in real life: a retrospective cohort of 119 patients at a single Spanish centre.

BACKGROUND: Patients with moderate-to-severe psoriasis treated with adalimumab in daily clinical practice are different from those in clinical trials, and outcomes may differ in different geographical settings. OBJECTIVES: To analyse the efficacy, retention of treatment and adverse events in a cohort of such patients at a referral centre in Barcelona, Spain. METHODS: Data from a cohort of 119 consecutive patients treated between January 2008 and March 2013 were retrospectively collected. Drug survival was analysed by the Kaplan-Meier method with log-rank test and Cox regression. RESULTS: The mean duration of treatment was 25 months (median 22, range 2-60). The 75% improvement in Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI 75) response rates at 16 weeks, 6 months and 1 year of treatment were 64%, 58% and 53%, respectively (intention-to-treat analysis). The corresponding PASI 90 values were 49%, 52% and 50%. Biologic-naive patients (41%) had significantly higher PASI 75 and PASI 90 response rates at 6 months and 1 year. On multivariate analysis, only PASI 90 response at 6 months was significantly associated with treatment retention (P = 0.0009), with a hazard ratio of 7.3 (95% confidence interval 2.3-23.6). Forty-eight adverse events (AEs) occurred in 29 patients, and were serious in eight (0.032 events per patient-year). Paradoxical flares of psoriasis or arthritis were seen in five patients. Infections accounted for seven serious AEs, and were the reason for discontinuation in two patients. CONCLUSIONS: PASI 90 response at 6 months was the only independent variable predicting drug survival on multivariate analysis. Infections, including de novo infection by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, accounted for seven serious AEs.

Risk of early breastfeeding cessation among symmetrical, small for gestational age infants.

BACKGROUND: Many studies have shown that children born small for gestational age are at a metabolic disadvantage. Breastfeeding is associated with reduced risk of developing metabolic syndrome. OBJECTIVE: To determine whether ponderal index, weight, length or head circumference at birth affect early exclusive breastfeeding discontinuation. DESIGN: Information from medical records of full-term infants attending the same paediatric clinic was used to examine the relationship between birth size and failure to breastfeed within 28 days after birth. Details of demographics and diagnoses were prospectively recorded. Feeding method was assessed at each child visit by their healthcare provider. Feeding practices were compared between infants of high, normal and low ponderal index at birth. RESULTS: Multivariate models (p's ≤ 0.02) confirmed that the chance of exclusive breastfeeding continuation within 4 weeks of life was less in infants whose birth weight was below 2780 g or whose neonatal head circumference was < 33 cm. Birth length did not account for this effect. Ponderal index was not associated with a higher risk of early discontinuation of exclusive breastfeeding. CONCLUSIONS: This study reports that birth weight ≥ 2780 g and head circumference at birth ≥ 33 cm are independent predictors of breastfeeding onset success.

[Viscosity changes in thickened water due to the addition of highly prescribed drugs in geriatrics]. / Cambios en la viscosidad del agua con espesantes por la adición de fármacos altamente prescritos en geriatría.

INTRODUCTION: Dysphagia is a swallowing disorder with a high incidence in the geriatric patient related with an increased risk for undernutrition and pneumonia due to bronchial aspiration. In this condition, it is usual to add commercial thickeners in liquids, as well as the addition of drugs in this mixture to improve their administration. However, there are no studies regarding the possible change in viscosity produced by their addition. OBJECTIVES: To assess the change in viscosity of water thickened with commercial products by adding the drugs frequently used in elderly patients. METHODS: Samples of water mixed with the commercial thickener Resource (modified corn starch) or Nutilis (modified corn starch, maltodextrin, and gums: tara, xhantan, and guar) to achieve an intermediate consistence as "honey". The viscosity of these samples was measured as well as for similar samples to which one of the following drugs was added: galantamine, rivastigmin, ciprofloxacin, cholecalciferol, memantine, fosfomycin, calcium, and amoxicillin/clavulanic acid. RESULTS: In the samples with Resource thickener we observed decreased viscosity by adding galantamine, memantine, fosfomycin or calcium, and increased viscosity with amoxicillin/clavulanic acid. The viscosity of the samples with Nutilis® decreased with galantamine, rivastigmine, amoxicillin/clavulanic acid, fosfomycin and calcium. CONCLUSION: The viscosity of water with commercial thickeners may be affected by some drugs or their preservatives, which may influence the swallowing capability. It is recommended to perform further in vitro and in vivo studies in order to adjust these formulations if necessary.

[Hemodynamic and antipyretic effects of paracetamol, metamizol and dexketoprofen in critical patients]. / Efectos hemodinámicos y antipiréticos del paracetamol, metamizol y dexketoprofeno en pacientes críticos.

BACKGROUND: The objective was to study the antipyretic and hemodynamic effects of three different drugs used to treat fever in critically ill patients. DESIGN AND SETTING: Prospective, observational study in a 16-bed, general ICU of a university hospital. PATIENT POPULATION: We studied 150 patients who had a febrile episode (temperature>38°C): 50 received paracetamol, 50 metamizol and 50 dexketoprofen. INTERVENTIONS: None. Body temperature, systolic, diastolic and mean arterial pressure, heart rate, central venous pressure and oxygen saturation were determined at baseline and at 30, 60 and 120minutes after infusion of the drug. Additionally, we recorded temperature 180minutes after starting drug infusion. Diuresis and the need for or change of dose of vasodilator or vasoconstrictor drugs were also recorded. RESULTS: Patient characteristics, baseline temperature and hemodynamics were similar in all groups. We observed a significant decrease of at least 1°C in temperature after 180minutes in 38 patients treated with dexketoprofen (76%), in 36 with metamizol (72%), and in 20 with paracetamol (40%) (p<0.001). After 120minutes, the mean decrease in mean arterial pressure was 8.5±13.6mmHg with paracetamol, 14.9±11.8mmHg with metamizol, and 16.8±13.7mmHg with dexketoprofen (p=0.005). CONCLUSIONS: Dexketoprofen was the most effective antipyretic agent at the doses tested. Although all three drugs reduced mean arterial pressure, the reduction with paracetamol was less pronounced.

Management of obstetric perineal tears: do obstetrics and gynaecology residents receive adequate training? Results of an anonymous survey.

Background/Aim. To evaluate the obstetrics and gynaecology residents' perspective of their training and experience in the management of perineal tears that occur during assisted vaginal delivery. We hypothesised that residents would perceive room for improvement in their knowledge of pelvic floor anatomy and the training received in tears repair. Design. Descriptive cross-sectional study. Population/Setting. Seventy-two major residents from all teaching hospitals in Catalonia. Methods. A questionnaire was designed to evaluate experience, perception of the training and supervision provided. Results. The questionnaire was sent to all residents (n = 72), receiving 46 responses (64%). The participants represented 15 out of the 16 teaching hospitals included in the study (94% of the hospitals represented). Approximately, 52% of residents were in their third year while 48% were in their fourth. The majority of them thought that their knowledge of pelvic floor anatomy was poor (62%), although 98% felt confident that they would know when an episiotomy was correctly indicated. The survey found that they lacked experience in the repair of major degree tears (70% had repaired fewer than ten), and most did not carry out followup procedures. Conclusion. The majority of them indicated that more training in this specific area is necessary (98%).

Insulin requirements throughout pregnancy in women with type 1 diabetes mellitus: three changes of direction.

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS: The aim of the study was to analyse the insulin requirements of women with type 1 diabetes mellitus throughout pregnancy. METHODS: We have examined the weekly mean blood glucose (mmol/l), insulin requirements (U kg(-1) day(-1)) and total insulin requirements (U/day) in 65 women with type 1 diabetes mellitus and tight metabolic control since before pregnancy (HbA(1c) < or =6.0%). RESULTS: Both insulin requirement and total insulin requirement displayed a peak in week 9, a nadir in week 16 and a second peak in week 37. For the change in insulin requirement (4.08% per week) and in total insulin requirement (5.19% per week), the sharpest slope was observed from week 16 to week 37. However, two changes of direction took place in the first 11 weeks and eight out of nine episodes of severe hypoglycaemia requiring treatment with glucagon or i.v. glucose took place in the first 16 weeks. CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION: Pregnant women with type 1 diabetes mellitus and tight metabolic control since before pregnancy displayed changes in insulin requirement and total insulin requirement with successive changes of direction. The sharpest slope was observed between 16 and 37 weeks, but insulin requirements were more unstable in the first 16 weeks. This information could help patients and physicians to react to changes in glycaemic pattern in a prompt and adequate way.

Maternal and fetal outcome in women with type 2 versus type 1 diabetes mellitus: a systematic review and metaanalysis.

CONTEXT: Glycemic disturbance is usually less severe in pregnant women with type 2 than in those with type 1 diabetes mellitus (DM). Nevertheless, a worse perinatal outcome in women with type 2 DM has been reported in some studies. OBJECTIVE: Our objective was to review maternal and fetal outcomes in pregnant women with type 2 vs. type 1 DM. STUDY SELECTION: We conducted a systematic review of papers providing original data on pregnancy outcomes in both type 2 and type 1 DM (Medline search of the period January 1, 1987, to June 30, 2008). Two independent investigators considered papers for eligibility, and a third one solved discrepancies. DATA EXTRACTION: Metaanalysis tools were used to compare four main outcomes (major congenital malformations, stillbirth, and neonatal and perinatal mortality) and 15 secondary ones (five maternal, 10 fetal). Meta-analysis of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (MOOSE) guidelines were used to assess quality. DATA SYNTHESIS: Thirty-three studies qualified for inclusion of 3743 citations retrieved. Women with type 2 DM had lower glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) at booking and throughout pregnancy but a higher risk of perinatal mortality [odds ratio (OR) 1.50, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.15-1.96] without significant differences in the rates of major congenital malformations, stillbirth, and neonatal mortality. As to secondary outcomes, women with type 2 DM had less diabetic ketoacidosis (OR 0.09, 95% CI 0.02-0.34) and cesarean section (OR 0.80, 95% CI 0.59-0.94) without differences in other outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: Despite a milder glycemic disturbance, women with type 2 DM had no better perinatal outcomes than those with type 1, indicating that type 2 DM in pregnancy is a serious condition.

[Psychopathological symptoms in patients suffering from chronic cephalea with or without fibromyalgia]. / Síntomas psicopatológicos en pacientes afectos de cefalea crónica con o sin fibromialgia.

INTRODUCTION: The presence of psychopathological symptoms as anxiety and depression in chronic daily headache and in fibromyalgia is common. AIM: To study whether there are any difference in the psychopathological profile and treatment response between patients with chronic headache and fibromyalgia (CHFM) and patients with chronic headache without fibromyalgia (CH). PATIENTS AND METHODS: A comprehensive psychological test battery was administered to 30 patients with CH and 30 patients with CHFM, diagnosed by a rheumatologist. We included chronic migraine and chronic tensional headache in CH group. Patients were matched for age and gender. Depression, anxiety and obsession scores, and the profile of psychopathological symptoms (MMPI-2, SCL-90-R) were compared (t-test). Correlations between symptoms and treatment response were examined. RESULTS: Patients with CHFM showed significant highest scores on hypochondriasis, depression, hysteria, paranoia, psychasthenia and schizophrenia (MMPI-2) and more somatization, obsession and anxiety according to SCL-90-R. A poorer response to treatment was observed in CHFM (17.85%) versus CH (42,85%) group. CONCLUSIONS: Patients with CHFM showed a psychopathological profile with highest scores and symptoms than patients without fibromyalgia. These differences correlated with the therapeutic response.

Prevalence evolution and impact of cardiovascular risk factors on allograft and renal transplant patient survival.

OBJECTIVE: The prevalence of traditional cardiovascular risk factors in renal transplantation is high. Studying the evolution of cardiovascular risk factors over time may help us to design better strategies to control them. The relative impact of traditional cardiovascular risk factors on allograft survival and mortality in transplant recipients is not clear. This study was performed to determine the incidence and risk factors for allograft survival and mortality among renal transplant patients. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We enrolled 250 patients who had undergone transplantation between 1980 and 2004. They were followed for various periods, and we analyzed the impact of traditional and nontraditional risk factors on renal allograft survival. RESULTS: The prevalence of hypertension was >80% during all the follow-up periods. Blood pressure diminished, antihypertensive drug prescription increased, and 15% of patients had adequate blood pressure control during follow-up. The prevalence of pretransplant diabetes mellitus was 6.8%; the incidence of posttransplant diabetes mellitus (PTDM) was 14.2%. The prevalence of PTDM increased over the course of patient evolution. The prevalence of dyslipidemia was in all cases >70%; total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-cholesterol decreased; prescription of statins increased; and the percentage of patients with good lipid control also increased. The 25% prevalence of active smoking at the time of transplantation decreased to 13.6% at 10 years posttransplantation. The mean patient follow-up was 8 +/- 4.6 years. Sixty-five patients (26%) lost their grafts and 40 (16%) died during follow-up. Donor age, exercise, diastolic blood pressure, renal function, and albumin levels were independent risk factors for graft loss. Charlson comorbidity index at transplantation, recipient and donor ages, exercise, diastolic blood pressure, and LDL-cholesterol posttransplantation were independent risk factors for mortality among renal transplant recipients. CONCLUSION: Blood pressure and lipid control improved during follow-up, however, insufficiently among renal transplant patients. The prevalence of diabetes gradually increased, and the incidence of smoking cessation was low. Diastolic blood pressure, exercise, and albuminemia were the most significant modifiable cardiovascular risk factors for renal allograft survival. Diastolic blood pressure, LDL-cholesterol level, and exercise were the most relevant modifiable cardiovascular risk factors for the survival of renal transplant patients.

A novel GSK-3beta inhibitor reduces Alzheimer's pathology and rescues neuronal loss in vivo.

Amyloid deposits, neurofibrillary tangles, and neuronal cell death in selectively vulnerable brain regions are the chief hallmarks in Alzheimer's (AD) brains. Glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK-3) is one of the key kinases required for AD-type abnormal hyperphosphorylation of tau, which is believed to be a critical event in neurofibrillary tangle formation. GSK-3 has also been recently implicated in amyloid precursor protein (APP) processing/Abeta production, apoptotic cell death, and learning and memory. Thus, GSK-3 inhibition represents a very attractive drug target in AD and other neurodegenerative disorders. To investigate whether GSK-3 inhibition can reduce amyloid and tau pathologies, neuronal cell death and memory deficits in vivo, double transgenic mice coexpressing human mutant APP and tau were treated with a novel non-ATP competitive GSK-3beta inhibitor, NP12. Treatment with this thiadiazolidinone compound resulted in lower levels of tau phosphorylation, decreased amyloid deposition and plaque-associated astrocytic proliferation, protection of neurons in the entorhinal cortex and CA1 hippocampal subfield against cell death, and prevention of memory deficits in this transgenic mouse model. These results show that this novel GSK-3 inhibitor has a dual impact on amyloid and tau alterations and, perhaps even more important, on neuronal survival in vivo further suggesting that GSK-3 is a relevant therapeutic target in AD.

[Evaluation of the quick diagnosis and treatment program for lung cancer]. / Evaluación del programa de diagnóstico y tratamiento rápido del cáncer de pulmón.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the efficiency of the program of quick diagnosis and treatment (PDTR, programa de diagnóstico y tratamiento rápido) of lung cancer established in the Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau of Barcelona to review the epidemiology of lung cancer. METHODS AND MATERIALS: Fifty-eight patients with lung cancer were studied. Twenty-nine of them were included in the program between October 2005 and May 2006, and the remaining were randomly selected among those diagnosed the year before (control group). Time between first visit, diagnosis and treatment and other variables (age, sex, histological type and TNM stage) were compared between groups. RESULTS: Significant differences were found between the two groups. PDTR patients had a mean time between first visit and treatment of 26.7 days (Standard Deviation [SD]=13.6), whereas this was 84 days (SD=53) in the control group. The PDTR group had a lower TNM stage, but statistical significance was only found in N (lymph node involvement) (p=0.007). CONCLUSION: Most patients included in the PDTR program spend less than 30 days between first visit and treatment, which represents a significant reduction in time (p<0.001). The effect on prognosis is controversial and will need long term studies.