Unveiling the potential of machine learning in cost-effective degradation of pharmaceutically active compounds: A stirred photo-reactor study.

In this study, neural networks and support vector regression (SVR) were employed to predict the degradation over three pharmaceutically active compounds (PhACs): Ibuprofen (IBP), diclofenac (DCF), and caffeine (CAF) within a stirred reactor featuring a flotation cell with two non-concentric ultraviolet lamps. A total of 438 datapoints were collected from published works and distributed into 70% training and 30% test datasets while cross-validation was utilized to assess the training reliability. The models incorporated 15 input variables concerning reaction kinetics, molecular properties, hydrodynamic information, presence of radiation, and catalytic properties. It was observed that the Support Vector Regression (SVR) presented a poor performance as the ε hyperparameter ignored large error over low concentration levels. Meanwhile, the Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) model was able to provide rough estimations on the expected degradation of the pollutants without requiring information regarding reaction rate constants. The multi-objective optimization analysis suggested a leading role due to ozone kinetic for a rapid degradation of the contaminants and most of the results required intensification with hydrogen peroxide and Fenton process. Although both models were affected by accuracy limitations, this work provided a lightweight model to evaluate different Advanced Oxidation Processes (AOPs) by providing general information regarding the process operational conditions as well as know molecular and catalytic properties.

Selenium bioactive compounds produced by beneficial microbes.

Selenium (Se) is an essential trace element present as selenocysteine (SeCys) in selenoproteins, which have an important role in thyroid metabolism and the redox system in humans. Se deficiency affects between 500 and 1000 million people worldwide. Increasing Se intake can prevent from bacterial and viral infections. Se deficiency has been associated with cancer, Alzheimer, Parkinson, decreased thyroid function, and male infertility. Se intake depends on the food consumed which is directly related to the amount of Se in the soil as well as on its availability. Se is unevenly distributed on the earth's crust, being scarce in some regions and in excess in others. The easiest way to counteract the symptoms of Se deficiency is to enhance the Se status of the human diet. Se salts are the most toxic form of Se, while Se amino acids and Se-nanoparticles (SeNPs) are the least toxic and most bio-available forms. Some bacteria transform Se salts into these Se species. Generally accepted as safe selenized microorganisms can be directly used in the manufacture of selenized fermented and/or probiotic foods. On the other hand, plant growth-promoting bacteria and/or the SeNPs produced by them can be used to promote plant growth and produce crops enriched with Se. In this chapter we discuss bacterial Se metabolism, the effect of Se on human health, the applications of SeNPs and Se-enriched bacteria, as well as their effect on food fortification. Different strategies to counteract Se deficiency by enriching foods using sustainable strategies and their possible implications for improving human health are discussed.

[Ictal nystagmus: acquired nystagmus of infrequent cause in pediatrics]. / Nistagmo ictal: causa infrecuente de nistagmo adquirido en pediatría.

Ictal nystagmus is a rare phenomenon secondary to an epileptic seizure, usually in the temporo- occipital region. For its characterization, we must rely on clinical history, examination, and ideally observation of the episodes. OBJECTIVES: To describe a case of this unusual entity and highlight the characteristics that should increase diagnostic suspicion in order to avoid treatment delay. CLINICAL CASE: An 8-year-old schoolboy, with no relevant history, consulted due to 5-6 episodes a day in the last year of conjugate horizontal eye movements with rapid jerks and associated slight miosis, lasting 5-10 seconds, with doubtful disconnection from the environment or consciousness impairment in some of the episodes, with no other accompanying signs or symptoms. Neurological examination between episodes was normal. He was evaluated by ophthalmology and otolaryngology, which ruled out pathology in these areas. Video-electroencephalogram showed electro-clinical correlations, with epileptiform activity in the left temporal and occipital region, which subsequently generalized during episodes. Brain MRI showed no pathological findings. After initiation of carbamazepine treatment, the patient had a good evolution, without recurrence of the episodes at 2 years of follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: When faced with a case of acquired nystagmus, epileptic etiology should be included in the differential diagnosis, especially if the frequency of episodes is high, of short duration, and associated with consciousness impairment. The diagnosis is based on a video-electroencephalogram with electro-clinical correlations and a good response to treatment with antiepileptic drugs is expected.

[Parosteal osteosarcoma of the femur and salvage surgery with intercalary prosthesis. Experience in a third level unit and surgical technique]. / Osteosarcoma parostal de fémur y cirugía de salvamento con prótesis intercalar. Experiencia en una unidad de tercer nivel y técnica quirúrgica.

INTRODUCTION: parosteal osteosarcoma is an extramedullary malignant bone tumor in which cells produce osteoid, represents less than 5% of all osteosarcomas, it occurs predominantly in women between the second and fourth decade of life. It is often located in the distal region of the femur and proximal tibia. Clinically it presents with increased volume and thigh or knee pain. Due to its low incidence and clinical features, a clinical case of femoral parosteal osteosarcoma is presented, with description of the surgical technique performed. CASE REPORT: a 14-year-old female presented with a 6-month history of increased volume and right thigh pain. Radiological studies revealed a bone lesion with malignant characteristics, for which she was sent to third-level hospital where oncology study protocol was set up; consisting in two percutaneous biopsies of the lesion with Jamshidi needle, which were histopathology reported as negative for malignant cells. The pulmonary high-resolution computed tomography showed metastasis and a Tc-99m MDP bone scintigraphy showed increased osteoblastic activity in the right femoral shaft. Given the results, is confirmed the need of en-bloc resection and intercalary prosthesis implantation with adjuvant chemotherapy. CONCLUSION: the intercalary prosthesis is a suitable therapeutic option in limb-salvage surgery for patients with femoral parosteal osteosarcoma.

INTRODUCCIÓN: el osteosarcoma parostal es un tumor óseo maligno extramedular en el cual las células tumorales producen osteoide. Representa menos de 5% de los osteosarcomas. Se presenta predominantemente en la mujer, entre la segunda y cuarta década de la vida. Su localización más frecuente es la región distal del fémur y proximal de la tibia. Clínicamente, se manifiesta con aumento de volumen y dolor en muslo o rodilla. Debido a su baja incidencia y características clínicas, se presenta un caso clínico de osteosarcoma parostal femoral con descripción de la técnica quirúrgica realizada. CASO CLÍNICO: femenino de 14 años edad con cuadro clínico caracterizado por aumento de volumen y dolor en muslo derecho de seis meses de evolución. Se realizaron radiografías de fémur derecho, encontrando lesión ósea con características compatibles de malignidad, por lo que es enviada a unidad de tercer nivel para iniciar protocolo oncológico; se realizan dos biopsias percutáneas con aguja de Jamshidi, ambas con reporte histológico negativo para células malignas. En tomografía pulmonar de alta resolución se observó presencia de metástasis y la gammagrafía ósea con Tc99 reportó actividad osteoblástica en fémur derecho. Se decide tratamiento con resección en bloque y colocación de prótesis intercalar más quimioterapia adyuvante. CONCLUSIÓN: la prótesis intercalar resulta una opción terapéutica adecuada en la cirugía de salvamento de extremidad para pacientes con diagnóstico de osteosarcoma parostal femoral.

Caracterización de la mortalidad por fractura de cadera como causa básica en el periodo 2017-2022 en Chile / Characterization of mortality due to hip fracture as the underlying cause in the period 2017-2022 in Chile

Introducción: La fractura de cadera (FC) es una solución de continuidad en el extremo proximal del fémur, con consecuencias significativas para quien la padece. Este estudio busca comparar descriptivamente la tasa de mortalidad por FC en el periodo 2017-2022, en Chile. Metodología: Estudio descriptivo observacional sobre defunciones por FC entre 2017 y 2022, en Chile (n= 3.190), según datos del Departamento de Estadísticas e Información de Salud de Chile. Se calcularon tasas de mortalidad por FC por variable, índice de sobremortalidad e índice de Swaroop, utilizando datos del Censo 2017. No requirió comité de ética. Resultados: La mayor tasa de mortalidad por FC se observó en el año 2018 (3,23), en el grupo de 100 años y más (2.264,15), la región de Valparaíso (28,31) y el sexo femenino (4,32) reflejandose en su índice de sobremortalidad (2,589). La menor tasa de mortalidad por FC ocurrió en el año 2021 (2,76), en el grupo de entre 0 y 19 años (0,04) y en la región de Atacama (12,58). El índice de Swaroop fue 100% en la mayoría de las regiones. Discusión: La tendencia a la baja desde el año 2019 podría explicarse por el confinamiento por COVID-19 que limitó la movilidad de las personas mayores. Los cambios postmenopausicos y un mayor riesgo de caídas podrían explicar una mayor tasa de mortalidad por FC en mujeres y pacientes de edad avanzada, respectivamente. El análisis por región podría relacionarse con la proporción demográfica de personas mayores.

Introduction: The hip fracture (HF) is a discontinuity in the proximal end of the femur, with significant consequences for those who suffer from it. This study aims to descriptively compare the HF mortality rate in the period 2017-2022 in Chile. Methodology: This is an observational descriptive study on deaths due to HF between 2017 and 2022 in Chile (n=3,190), according to data from the Department of Statistics and Health Information of Chile. HF mortality was calculated by variable, excess mortality rate, and Swaroop index, using data from the 2017 Census. No ethics committee was required. Results: The highest HF mortality rate was in 2018 (3,23), in the age group of 100 years and older (2.264,15), the Valparaíso region (28,31) and the female sex (4,32) reflected in its excess mortality rate (2,589). The lowest HF mortality rate occurred in 2021 (2,76), in the group between 0 and 19 years (0,04) and in the Atacama region (12,58). The Swaroop index was 100% in most regions. Discussion: The downward trend since 2019 could be explained by the COVID-19 lockdown that limited the mobility of elderly adults. Postmenopausal changes and a higher risk of falls could explain higher HF mortality rate in women and old people patients, respectively. The regional analysis could be related to the demographic proportion of elder people.

Tendencia de egresos hospitalarios con diagnóstico de accidente cerebrovascular agudo entre los años 2018-2021 en Chile: análisis descriptivo / Hospital discharge trend with diagnosis of acute stroke between the years 2018 and 2021 in Chile: descriptive analysis

Introducción: El accidente cerebrovascular (ACV) es una afección con alta morbimortalidad, producida por la interrupción de la perfusión cerebral. Este artículo tiene como objetivo analizar la tendencia de egresos hospitalarios por ACV agudo en el periodo 2018-2021 en Chile. Metodología: Estudio descriptivo observacional, que incluyó egresos hospitalarios con diagnóstico de ACV agudo en el periodo 2018-2021, en Chile (n=19.274), según datos del Departamento de Estadísticas e Información de Salud de Chile. Se calculó la tasa de egreso hospitalario (TEH) según variable, utilizando datos del censo chileno 2017. No requirió comité de ética. Resultados: El 2018 tuvo la mayor TEH por ACV agudo (28,99) y el 2021 la menor (26,39). El grupo de "80 años y más" presenta la mayor TEH, mientras que el de "5-9 años" la menor. La mayor y menor TEH las tienen las regiones de Ñuble (263,00) y Tarapacá (10,29), respectivamente. Discusión: La disminución de TEH durante dicho periodo podría deberse al fortalecimiento de la Ley de Urgencia, al Programa Nacional de Telesalud y el impacto de la reciente pandemia. A mayor edad, aumenta la prevalencia y gravedad de las comorbilidades, lo cual explicaría la mayor TEH en el grupo más longevo. La mayor TEH masculina podría ser porque los hombres presentan mayor cantidad y severidad de factores de riesgo. La mayor TEH en la región del Ñuble posiblemente sea por los elevados niveles de pobreza y ruralidad, y la menor TEH en Tarapacá podría relacionarse con la presencia de una población nacional más joven.

Introduction: Stroke (CVA) is a condition with high morbidity and mortality, produced by the interruption of cerebral perfusion. This article aims to analyze the trend of hospital discharges for acute stroke in the period 2018-2021 in Chile. Methodology: Descriptive observational study, which included hospital discharges with a diagnosis of acute stroke in the period 2018-2021, in Chile (n=19,274), according to data from the Chilean Department of Health Statistics and Information. The hospital discharge rate (HTE) was calculated according to variable, using data from the 2017 Chilean census. No ethics committee was required. Results: 2018 had the highest HTE for acute stroke (28.99) and 2021 the lowest (26.39). The group aged "80 years and older" had the highest TEH, while the group aged "5-9 years" had the lowest TEH. The regions of Ñuble (263.00) and Tarapacá (10.29) have the highest and lowest HTE, respectively. Discussion: The decrease in HTE during this period could be due to the strengthening of the emergency law, the National Telehealth Program and the impact of the recent pandemic. The higher the age, the higher the prevalence and severity of comorbidities, which would explain the higher HTE in the older group. The higher male HTE may be due to the fact that men have a greater number and severity of risk factors. The higher HTE in the Ñuble region is possibly due to the high levels of poverty and rurality, and the lower HTE in Tarapacá would be related to having a younger national population.

[Impact of COVID-19 pandemic confinement on musculoskeletal pain and quality of life]. / Impacto del confinamiento por la pandemia COVID-19 en el dolor musculoesquelético y la calidad de vida.

INTRODUCTION: in March 2020, lockdown was established in Spain because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The aim of this study is to assess its impact on pain and quality of life in patients with musculoskeletal pain. MATERIAL AND METHODS: prospective study including 490 individuals grouped in: 140 people without pain, 140 people with musculoskeletal pain but without any related pathology diagnosed, 140 patients diagnosed for a musculoskeletal condition and 70 patients in surgical waiting list (SWL) for a musculoskeletal condition. Data regarding pain, physical activity and quality of life (EuroQol-5D) was collected at the beginning of lockdown and one year after (March 2021). RESULTS: mean age was 53 ± 17.5 years old (18-88) and 51.3% were women. Patients in SWL referred significantly more pain than the rest of groups (p < 0.001), with a score in the visual analogue scale of 6.3 ± 1.9. Groups 3 and 4 suffered a significant increase of their pain from 2020 to 2021 (p < 0.001), while decreasing in group 2 (p < 0.001). Analgesics intake grew from 2020 to 2021 (39.9% versus 44.3%, p = 0.007). 70.2% experienced a worsening of at least one dimension of EuroQol-5D over last year, with patients in SWL being the most affected (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: lockdown has caused in patients with musculoskeletal conditions a greater aggravation of pain and deterioration of quality of life than in the general population, especially in patients in SWL, translating in an increase in analgesics intake.

INTRODUCCIÓN: en Marzo de 2020 se estableció el confinamiento en España debido a la pandemia por COVID-19. El objetivo de este estudio es determinar su impacto en el dolor y la calidad de vida de personas con dolor osteomuscular. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: estudio prospectivo que incluyó 490 personas agrupadas en: 140 personas sin dolor (grupo 1), 140 personas con dolor osteomuscular, pero sin patología diagnosticada (grupo 2), 140 pacientes con patología musculoesquelética (grupo 3) y 70 pacientes en lista de espera quirúrgica (LEQ) por patología musculoesquelética (grupo 4). Se recogieron datos sobre el dolor, la actividad física y la calidad de vida (EuroQol-5D) al inicio del confinamiento y un año después. RESULTADOS: la edad media fue de 53 ± 17.5 años (18-88) y 51.3% fueron mujeres. Las personas en LEQ refirieron un dolor significativamente mayor que el resto de grupos (p < 0.001) con una puntuación en la escala visual analógica del dolor de 6.3 ± 1.9. Los grupos 3 y 4 sufrieron un aumento significativo de su dolor desde 2020 hasta 2021 (p < 0.001), mientras que en el grupo 2 disminuyó (p < 0.001). El consumo de analgésicos creció de 2020 a 2021 (39.9% versus 44.3%, p = 0.007); 70.2% sufrió un empeoramiento en alguna de las dimensiones del EuroQol-5D, siendo el grupo en LEQ el más afectado (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONES: el confinamiento ha producido en pacientes con patología musculoesquelética un empeoramiento del dolor y de calidad de vida mayor que en el resto de personas, especialmente en aquéllas en espera de cirugía, traduciéndose en un aumento del consumo de analgésicos.

[Lateral osteotomy of the calcaneus in the treatment of Müller-Weiss disease]. / Osteotomía lateral de calcáneo en el tratamiento de la enfermedad de Müller-Weiss.

INTRODUCTION: The deforming condition of the navicular bone known as Müller-Weiss disease (MWD) is a rare disease. Patients present with chronic pain in the talonavicular joint and a paradoxical flat foot with a varo hindfoot. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the clinical results of a lateral osteotomy of calcaneus applied to patients with MWD. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Retrospective observational study carried out in two hospitals. The series consists of nine cases in eight patients, all of them with symptomatic Müller-Weiss disease, treated by lateral osteotomy of the calcaneus between 2012 and 2017, obtaining an average follow-up of 4 years (2-6). The mean age was 62 years (50-75). In all patients, Costa-Bartani angles (CB), Kite angle and Calcaneal Inclination (CI) were measured. In addition, the Manchester Oxford Scale (MO) to measure the post-surgical satisfaction of patients. RESULTS: All patients report having improved their pain by obtaining a postoperative score on the mean Manchester Oxford scale of 32.54 points (15.62-53.75). In 66% of patients the CB angle improves, the Kite angle in 89% and the CI in 33%. CONCLUSION: The improvement in the pain of the patients in our series is not accompanied by radiological changes in the same proportion, it is a simple and uncomplicated technique in our follow-up.

INTRODUCCIÓN: La afección deformante del hueso navicular conocida como enfermedad de Müller-Weiss (EMW) es una enfermedad rara. Los pacientes presentan dolor crónico en la articulación talonavicular y un pie plano paradójico con retropié varo. OBJETIVO: Analizar los resultados clínicos de la osteotomía valguizante de calcáneo aplicada a pacientes con EMW. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Estudio observacional, retrospectivo, realizado en dos centros hospitalarios. La serie consta de nueve casos en ocho pacientes, todos ellos con enfermedad de Müller-Weiss sintomática, fueron tratados mediante osteotomía valguizante de calcáneo entre 2012 y 2017, con un seguimiento medio de cuatro años (dos a seis). La edad media fue de 62 años (50-75). En todos los pacientes se midieron los ángulos de Costa-Bartani (CB), el ángulo de Kite y la inclinación calcánea (IC). Además, se utilizó la escala Manchester Oxford (MO) para medir la satisfacción postquirúrgica de los pacientes. RESULTADOS: Todos los pacientes refieren haber mejorado en su dolor, obteniendo una puntuación postoperatoria media de 32.54 puntos (15.62-53.75) en la escala Manchester Oxford. En 66% de los pacientes el ángulo CB mejoró, al igual que en el ángulo de Kite en 89% y la IC en 33%. CONCLUSIÓN: La mejoría en el dolor de los pacientes de nuestra serie no está acompañada por cambios radiológicos en la misma proporción, es una técnica sencilla y sin complicaciones en nuestro seguimiento.

Determinantes Sociales y Conocimiento de Higiene Oral en Inmigrantes

RESUMEN: Se desconoce la relación entre determinantes sociales y nivel de conocimiento asociado a los hábitos de higiene oral que tiene la población inmigrante en la V región, Chile en el año 2021. El objetivo de este trabajo consistió en determinar la relación entre determinantes sociales en salud y nivel de conocimientos asociado a hábitos de higiene oral en inmigrantes de la V región 2021, Chile. Estudio descriptivo, transversal, No probabilístico por conveniencia con encuesta previamente validada y una muestra de 101 sujetos de 18 a 35 años. Se mide la prevalencia de los determinantes sociales. Después de verificar la normalidad de los resultados, se efectúa análisis descriptivo e inferencial mediante estadístico de Pearson y T-student. El Margen de error de la muestra es de 10 % y un nivel de confianza de 95 %. Técnica de recogida de datos en vía pública, formulario online y búsqueda activa en centros de reunión de migrantes. De los sujetos encuestados, un 29 % tiene estudios de nivel primario incompleto, un 36 % tiene un ingreso mensual menor a US$300. Respecto a los hábitos de higiene, solamente un 27 % se cepilla después de cada comida, el porcentaje restante se cepilla dos o menos veces al día. Destaca que un 71 % tiene acceso a la salud pública y un 20 % no tiene protección de salud. Se relacionaron 86 pares de variables con estadística inferencial. Los resultados demuestran asociación en 12 de ellas, de las cuales: Nivel de educación, rango de ingresos y sistema previsional se relacionan con los hábitos de higiene y nivel de conocimiento (significancia asintótica bilateral menor a 0.05). De igual manera, se observa que aquellos que están adscritos a un sistema previsional, tienen mejores hábitos y nivel de conocimiento que la población sin cobertura. Las características multifactoriales relacionadas a las causas del movimiento migratorio en Latinoamérica, promueven determinantes sociales disminuidos. Si bien, existe evidencia científica que relaciona los determinantes sociales con el estado de salud de un individuo, la literatura asociada al nivel de conocimientos y hábitos de higiene es escasa. A partir de los resultados obtenidos, se concluye que las particularidades del inmigrante en Chile son propicias para una salud oral menguada en calidad, por lo que debiese ser discutida como política sanitaria a nivel país.

ABSTRACT: The objective of this study is to determine the relationship between social determinants of health and the level of knowledge associated with oral hygiene habits among migrants in the V Region 2021, Chile. Descriptive, cross-sectional, non-probabilistic study by convenience with a previously validated survey and a sample of 101 subjects aged 18 to 35 years. The prevalence of social determinants was measured. After verifying the normality of the results, descriptive and inferential analysis was performed using Pearson and T-student statistics. The margin of error of the sample is 10 % and a confidence level of 95 %. Data collection on public roads, online form and active search in migrant meeting centers. Of the subjects surveyed, 29 % have incomplete primary education, 36 % have a monthly income of less than US$300. With respect to hygiene habits, only 27 % brushed after every meal, the remaining percentage brushed two or fewer times a day. It should be noted that 71 % have access to public health care and 20 % have no health protection. Eighty-six pairs of variables were related with inferential statistics. The results show an association in 12 of them, of which: level of education, income range and social security system are related with the following variables and pension system are related to hygiene habits and level of knowledge (bilateral asymptotic significance less than 0.05). Likewise, it is observed that those who are affiliated to a pension system have better habits and level of knowledge than those who are not, have better habits and level of knowledge than the population without coverage. The multifactorial characteristics related to the causes of migratory movement in Latin America promote diminished social determinants. Although there is scientific evidence that relates social determinants to the health status of an individual, the literature associated with the level of knowledge and hygiene habits is limited. From the results obtained, it is concluded that the particularities of the migrants in Chile are conducive to a lower quality of oral health, which should be discussed as a health policy at a national level.

Impacto del confinamiento por la pandemia COVID-19 en el dolor musculoesquelético y la calidad de vida / Impact of COVID-19 pandemic confinement on musculoskeletal pain and quality of life

Resumen: Introducción: En Marzo de 2020 se estableció el confinamiento en España debido a la pandemia por COVID-19. El objetivo de este estudio es determinar su impacto en el dolor y la calidad de vida de personas con dolor osteomuscular. Material y métodos: Estudio prospectivo que incluyó 490 personas agrupadas en: 140 personas sin dolor (grupo 1), 140 personas con dolor osteomuscular, pero sin patología diagnosticada (grupo 2), 140 pacientes con patología musculoesquelética (grupo 3) y 70 pacientes en lista de espera quirúrgica (LEQ) por patología musculoesquelética (grupo 4). Se recogieron datos sobre el dolor, la actividad física y la calidad de vida (EuroQol-5D) al inicio del confinamiento y un año después. Resultados: La edad media fue de 53 ± 17.5 años (18-88) y 51.3% fueron mujeres. Las personas en LEQ refirieron un dolor significativamente mayor que el resto de grupos (p < 0.001) con una puntuación en la escala visual analógica del dolor de 6.3 ± 1.9. Los grupos 3 y 4 sufrieron un aumento significativo de su dolor desde 2020 hasta 2021 (p < 0.001), mientras que en el grupo 2 disminuyó (p < 0.001). El consumo de analgésicos creció de 2020 a 2021 (39.9% versus 44.3%, p = 0.007); 70.2% sufrió un empeoramiento en alguna de las dimensiones del EuroQol-5D, siendo el grupo en LEQ el más afectado (p < 0.001). Conclusiones: El confinamiento ha producido en pacientes con patología musculoesquelética un empeoramiento del dolor y de calidad de vida mayor que en el resto de personas, especialmente en aquéllas en espera de cirugía, traduciéndose en un aumento del consumo de analgésicos.

Abstract: Introduction: In March 2020, lockdown was established in Spain because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The aim of this study is to assess its impact on pain and quality of life in patients with musculoskeletal pain. Material and methods: Prospective study including 490 individuals grouped in: 140 people without pain, 140 people with musculoskeletal pain but without any related pathology diagnosed, 140 patients diagnosed for a musculoskeletal condition and 70 patients in surgical waiting list (SWL) for a musculoskeletal condition. Data regarding pain, physical activity and quality of life (EuroQol-5D) was collected at the beginning of lockdown and one year after (March 2021). Results: Mean age was 53 ± 17.5 years old (18-88) and 51.3% were women. Patients in SWL referred significantly more pain than the rest of groups (p < 0.001), with a score in the visual analogue scale of 6.3 ± 1.9. Groups 3 and 4 suffered a significant increase of their pain from 2020 to 2021 (p < 0.001), while decreasing in group 2 (p < 0.001). Analgesics intake grew from 2020 to 2021 (39.9% versus 44.3%, p = 0.007). 70.2% experienced a worsening of at least one dimension of EuroQol-5D over last year, with patients in SWL being the most affected (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Lockdown has caused in patients with musculoskeletal conditions a greater aggravation of pain and deterioration of quality of life than in the general population, especially in patients in SWL, translating in an increase in analgesics intake.

Osteotomía lateral de calcáneo en el tratamiento de la enfermedad de Müller-Weiss / Lateral osteotomy of the calcaneus in the treatment of Müller-Weiss disease

Resumen: Introducción: La afección deformante del hueso navicular conocida como enfermedad de Müller-Weiss (EMW) es una enfermedad rara. Los pacientes presentan dolor crónico en la articulación talonavicular y un pie plano paradójico con retropié varo. Objetivo: Analizar los resultados clínicos de la osteotomía valguizante de calcáneo aplicada a pacientes con EMW. Material y métodos: Estudio observacional, retrospectivo, realizado en dos centros hospitalarios. La serie consta de nueve casos en ocho pacientes, todos ellos con enfermedad de Müller-Weiss sintomática, fueron tratados mediante osteotomía valguizante de calcáneo entre 2012 y 2017, con un seguimiento medio de cuatro años (dos a seis). La edad media fue de 62 años (50-75). En todos los pacientes se midieron los ángulos de Costa-Bartani (CB), el ángulo de Kite y la inclinación calcánea (IC). Además, se utilizó la escala Manchester Oxford (MO) para medir la satisfacción postquirúrgica de los pacientes. Resultados: Todos los pacientes refieren haber mejorado en su dolor, obteniendo una puntuación postoperatoria media de 32.54 puntos (15.62-53.75) en la escala Manchester Oxford. En 66% de los pacientes el ángulo CB mejoró, al igual que en el ángulo de Kite en 89% y la IC en 33%. Conclusión: La mejoría en el dolor de los pacientes de nuestra serie no está acompañada por cambios radiológicos en la misma proporción, es una técnica sencilla y sin complicaciones en nuestro seguimiento.

Abstract: Introduction: The deforming condition of the navicular bone known as Müller-Weiss disease (MWD) is a rare disease. Patients present with chronic pain in the talonavicular joint and a paradoxical flat foot with a varo hindfoot. Objective: To analyze the clinical results of a lateral osteotomy of calcaneus applied to patients with MWD. Material and methods: Retrospective observational study carried out in two hospitals. The series consists of nine cases in eight patients, all of them with symptomatic Müller-Weiss disease, treated by lateral osteotomy of the calcaneus between 2012 and 2017, obtaining an average follow-up of 4 years (2-6). The mean age was 62 years (50-75). In all patients, Costa-Bartani angles (CB), Kite angle and Calcaneal Inclination (CI) were measured. In addition, the Manchester Oxford Scale (MO) to measure the post-surgical satisfaction of patients. Results: All patients report having improved their pain by obtaining a postoperative score on the mean Manchester Oxford scale of 32.54 points (15.62-53.75). In 66% of patients the CB angle improves, the Kite angle in 89% and the CI in 33%. Conclusion: The improvement in the pain of the patients in our series is not accompanied by radiological changes in the same proportion, it is a simple and uncomplicated technique in our follow-up.

Factores asociados con complicaciones mediatas en pacientes postoperados de fracturas transtrocantéricas con sistema de tornillo dinámico de cadera de 135o / Factors associated with mediate complications in postoperative patients with transtrochanteric fractures with 135o dynamic hip screw system

Resumen: Introducción: Las fracturas transtrocantéricas representan 50% de las fracturas del fémur proximal con mayor incidencia en pacientes mayores de 65 años. El objetivo del estudio es evaluar la asociación de factores ortopédicos con la presencia de complicaciones mediatas en pacientes geriátricos postoperados de fracturas transtrocantéricas con sistema de tornillo dinámico de cadera (DHS, por sus siglas en inglés) de 135o. Material y métodos: Estudio retrospectivo, analítico. Evaluamos pacientes mayores de 65 años con fracturas transtrocantéricas tratados con DHS de 135o. Analizamos radiografías prequirúrgicas, postquirúrgicas a tres y seis meses. Realizamos un análisis descriptivo de las características poblacionales, análisis de comparación de medias (U de Mann Whitney) y de proporciones (χ2), análisis de correlación y un modelo de regresión logística para determinar el grado de asociación de los factores con complicaciones mediatas. Resultados: Evaluamos 92 pacientes con edad promedio de 83 ± 6.7 años. Evidenciamos complicaciones ortopédicas mediatas en 8.7%, considerando como la más frecuente el cut-out (5.4%). En el análisis de correlación el índice punta ápex > 25 tiene correlación débil (r = 0.372), mientras que el índice punta ápex modificado al calcar > 27 posee correlación moderada (r = 0.528). El ángulo cérvico-diafisario lateral > 20o tiene correlación alta (r = 0.7). En el análisis de regresión este último se asoció con presencia de complicaciones ortopédicas mediatas (OR 4.93, IC 1.2-15.81, p = 0.000). Conclusiones: Se observó correlación entre factores como el índice punta ápex > 25, índice punta ápex modificado al calcar > 27 y ángulo cérvico-diafisario lateral > 20o con presencia de complicaciones, destacando este último como el factor que presenta asociación con diferencias estadísticamente significativas.

Abstract: Introduction: Transtrochanteric fractures represent 50% of proximal femur fractures, with a higher incidence in patients older than 65 years. The objective of the study is to evaluate the association of orthopedic factors with the presence of mediate complications in post-operative geriatric patients for transtrochanteric fractures with the 135o dynamic hip screw (DHS) system. Material and methods: Retrospective, analytical study. We evaluated patients older than 65 years with transtrochanteric fractures treated with 135o DHS. We analyzed pre-surgical, post-surgical, and 3 and 6-month radiographs. We performed a descriptive analysis of the population characteristics, comparison analysis of means (Mann-Whitney U) and proportions (chi square), correlation analysis, and a logistic regression model to determine the degree of association of the factors with mediate complications. Results: We evaluated 92 patients with a mean age of 83 ± 6.7 years. We evidenced mediate orthopedic complications in 8.7%; considering as the most frequent the cut-out (5.4%). In the correlation analysis, the peak apex index > 25 has a weak correlation (r = 0.372), the peak apex index modified to calcar > 27 moderate correlation (r = 0.528). The lateral cervico-diaphyseal angle > 20° has a high correlation (r = 0.7). In the regression analysis, the latter was associated with the presence of mediate orthopedic complications (OR 4.93, CI 1.2-15.81, p = 0.000). Conclusions: A correlation was observed between factors such as tip apex index > 25, tip apex index modified to calcar > 27 and cervical-lateral diaphyseal angle > 20o with the presence of complications, highlighting the latter as the factor that presents association with statistically significant differences.

[Factors associated with mediate complications in postoperative patients with transtrochanteric fractures with 135° dynamic hip screw system]. / Factores asociados con complicaciones mediatas en pacientes postoperados de fracturas transtrocantéricas con sistema de tornillo dinámico de cadera de 135°.

INTRODUCTION: Transtrochanteric fractures represent 50% of proximal femur fractures, with a higher incidence in patients older than 65 years. The objective of the study is to evaluate the association of orthopedic factors with the presence of mediate complications in post-operative geriatric patients for transtrochanteric fractures with the 135o dynamic hip screw (DHS) system. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Retrospective, analytical study. We evaluated patients older than 65 years with transtrochanteric fractures treated with 135o DHS. We analyzed pre-surgical, post-surgical, and 3 and 6-month radiographs. We performed a descriptive analysis of the population characteristics, comparison analysis of means (Mann-Whitney U) and proportions (chi square), correlation analysis, and a logistic regression model to determine the degree of association of the factors with mediate complications. RESULTS: We evaluated 92 patients with a mean age of 83 ± 6.7 years. We evidenced mediate orthopedic complications in 8.7%; considering as the most frequent the cut-out (5.4%). In the correlation analysis, the peak apex index > 25 has a weak correlation (r = 0.372), the peak apex index modified to calcar > 27 moderate correlation (r = 0.528). The lateral cervico-diaphyseal angle > 20° has a high correlation (r = 0.7). In the regression analysis, the latter was associated with the presence of mediate orthopedic complications (OR 4.93, CI 1.2-15.81, p = 0.000). CONCLUSIONS: A correlation was observed between factors such as tip apex index > 25, tip apex index modified to calcar > 27 and cervical-lateral diaphyseal angle > 20o with the presence of complications, highlighting the latter as the factor that presents association with statistically significant differences.

INTRODUCCIÓN: Las fracturas transtrocantéricas representan 50% de las fracturas del fémur proximal con mayor incidencia en pacientes mayores de 65 años. El objetivo del estudio es evaluar la asociación de factores ortopédicos con la presencia de complicaciones mediatas en pacientes geriátricos postoperados de fracturas transtrocantéricas con sistema de tornillo dinámico de cadera (DHS, por sus siglas en inglés) de 135o. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Estudio retrospectivo, analítico. Evaluamos pacientes mayores de 65 años con fracturas transtrocantéricas tratados con DHS de 135o. Analizamos radiografías prequirúrgicas, postquirúrgicas a tres y seis meses. Realizamos un análisis descriptivo de las características poblacionales, análisis de comparación de medias (U de Mann Whitney) y de proporciones (2), análisis de correlación y un modelo de regresión logística para determinar el grado de asociación de los factores con complicaciones mediatas. RESULTADOS: Evaluamos 92 pacientes con edad promedio de 83 ± 6.7 años. Evidenciamos complicaciones ortopédicas mediatas en 8.7%, considerando como la más frecuente el cut-out (5.4%). En el análisis de correlación el índice punta ápex > 25 tiene correlación débil (r = 0.372), mientras que el índice punta ápex modificado al calcar > 27 posee correlación moderada (r = 0.528). El ángulo cérvico-diafisario lateral > 20o tiene correlación alta (r = 0.7). En el análisis de regresión este último se asoció con presencia de complicaciones ortopédicas mediatas (OR 4.93, IC 1.2-15.81, p = 0.000). CONCLUSIONES: Se observó correlación entre factores como el índice punta ápex > 25, índice punta ápex modificado al calcar > 27 y ángulo cérvico-diafisario lateral > 20o con presencia de complicaciones, destacando este último como el factor que presenta asociación con diferencias estadísticamente significativas.

Experimental data on activity catalyst TiO2/Fe3O4 under natural solar radiation conditions.

In this document, the photocatalytic activity of TiO2/Fe3O4, prepared by the mixing of the pure oxides, was studied. The photocatalytic degradation of aqueous Methylene Blue (MB) solutions (10 and 30 ppm) was performed, the TiO2/Fe3O4 catalysts in 80/20, 50/50 and 20/80 mass ratios were used during the test, artificial sunlight and natural solar radiation were tested at laboratory and pilot plant scale respectively. Besides, the kinetic reactions were evaluated according to the Langmuir-Hinshelwood model, the apparent velocity constants (kapp) were obtained for the TiO2/Fe3O4 catalysts. In the laboratory test, the TiO2/Fe3O4 catalyst (80/20) had a performance for 93.04% of discoloration, kapp = 0.0238 min-1, while for TiO2/Fe3O4 (50/50, 20/80) had an 83.46%, 65.00% for discoloration of MB and the kapp values were 0.0154 min-1 and 0.0098 min-1, respectively. In the solar test at pilot scale, the percentages of discoloration of 24.32%, and 57.78%, with kapp values of 0.00037 min-1, 0.00121 min-1 respectively were obtained for TiO2/Fe3O4 (80/20), a MB solution of 30 ppm, a load of 0.1 g/L and 0.3 g/L of the catalyst respectively.

Wild microorganism and plankton decay in ballast water treatments by solar disinfection (SODIS) and advanced oxidation processes.

Ballast water (BW) is a dead weight used by ships to provide stability in their journeys. It poses health, economic and ecological problems. Since 2017, the International Maritime Organization-IMO mandated management of BW. This research compares plankton mortality and microorganism inactivation in different BW treatments to identify possible decay models. Treatments include solar radiation (Srad), UV, H2O2 and advanced oxidation processes (AOPs). In the wild populations, the disinfection capacity was measured in natural seawater pumped from the Santa Marta port zone in Colombia. AOPs showed different models and effectiveness according to the treatment and microorganism. Plankton larger than 50 µm was the most resistant; therefore, it must be removed first by a previous filter. Wild microorganisms showed log-linear and log-linear tail decay models for most AOPs in E. coli. For Vibrio, the models were log-lineal tail and biphasic models.

Tepary Bean (Phaseolus acutifolius) Lectins Induce Apoptosis and Cell Arrest in G0/G1 by P53(Ser46) Phosphorylation in Colon Cancer Cells.

A Tepary bean lectin fraction (TBLF) has been studied because it exhibits differential cytotoxic and anticancer effects on colon cancer. The present work focuses on the evaluation of the apoptotic mechanism of action on colon cancer cells. Initially, lethal concentrations (LC50) were obtained for the three studied cell lines (HT-29, RKO and SW-480). HT-29 showed the highest LC50, 10 and 100 times higher than that of RKO and SW-480 cells, respectively. Apoptosis was evaluated by flow cytometry, where HT-29 cells showed the highest levels of early and total apoptosis, caspases activity was confirmed and necrosis was discarded. The effect on cell cycle arrest was shown in the G0/G1 phase. Specific apoptosis-related gene expression was determined, where an increase in p53 and a decrease in Bcl-2 were observed. Expression of p53 gene showed the maximum level at 8 h with an important decrease at 12 and 24 h, also the phosphorylated p53(ser46) increased at 8 h. Our results show that TBLF induces apoptosis in colon cancer cells by p-p53(ser46) involvement. Further studies will focus on studying the specific signal transduction pathway.

Hybrid Phytase and Carbohydrases in Corn and Soybean Meal-Based Diets for Broiler Chickens: Performance and Production Costs

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of using 500 FTU/kg of hybrid phytase (created from three bacteria - Natuphos E), with or without xylanase and glucanase (560 TXU/kg; 250 TGU/kg) - Natugrain TS, in corn and soybean meal-based diets, with nutritional reductions in metabolizable energy (ME), Ca, and available phosphorus (AP), on performance parameters and production costs in broiler chickens. The 1875chickens were housed in boxes and distributed among 5 treatments with 15 replicates of 25 chickens each. The experiment included a positive control (the diet of which met the nutritional requirements of the birds), two negative controls (with ME reductions of 70 and 100 kcal/kg, and fixed reductions in Ca [0.16%] and AP [0.15%]), and two treatments with identical nutritional reductions in addition to enzyme supplementation. The treatments included the following: PC= positive control (basal diet (BD) corn and soybean meal); R_70 = BD with reduction of 70 kcal/kg, Ca and AP;R_100 = BD with reduction of 100 kcal, Ca and AP; R_70 + P =BD with reduction of 70 kcal/kg, Ca and AP + phytase (500 FTU/kg); R_100 + P + XG =BD with reduction of 100 kcal/kg, Ca and AP + phytase (500 FTU/kg) + xylanase (560 TXU/kg) + glucanase (250 TGU/kg). Performance parameters, carcass yield, and production costs (USD/ton chilled carcass) were evaluated. In conclusion, the reductions of 70 kcal/kg, 0.16% Ca, and 0.15% AP did not affect performance in chickens over 42 days, if diets were supplemented with hybrid phytase (500 FTU/kg). Supplementation with hybrid phytase and carbohydrases in diets with reductions of 100 kcal/kg, 0.16% Ca, and 0.15% AP led to lower production costs.(AU)

Hybrid Phytase and Carbohydrases in Corn and Soybean Meal-Based Diets for Broiler Chickens: Performance and Production Costs

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of using 500 FTU/kg of hybrid phytase (created from three bacteria - Natuphos E), with or without xylanase and glucanase (560 TXU/kg; 250 TGU/kg) - Natugrain TS, in corn and soybean meal-based diets, with nutritional reductions in metabolizable energy (ME), Ca, and available phosphorus (AP), on performance parameters and production costs in broiler chickens. The 1875chickens were housed in boxes and distributed among 5 treatments with 15 replicates of 25 chickens each. The experiment included a positive control (the diet of which met the nutritional requirements of the birds), two negative controls (with ME reductions of 70 and 100 kcal/kg, and fixed reductions in Ca [0.16%] and AP [0.15%]), and two treatments with identical nutritional reductions in addition to enzyme supplementation. The treatments included the following: PC= positive control (basal diet (BD) corn and soybean meal); R_70 = BD with reduction of 70 kcal/kg, Ca and AP;R_100 = BD with reduction of 100 kcal, Ca and AP; R_70 + P =BD with reduction of 70 kcal/kg, Ca and AP + phytase (500 FTU/kg); R_100 + P + XG =BD with reduction of 100 kcal/kg, Ca and AP + phytase (500 FTU/kg) + xylanase (560 TXU/kg) + glucanase (250 TGU/kg). Performance parameters, carcass yield, and production costs (USD/ton chilled carcass) were evaluated. In conclusion, the reductions of 70 kcal/kg, 0.16% Ca, and 0.15% AP did not affect performance in chickens over 42 days, if diets were supplemented with hybrid phytase (500 FTU/kg). Supplementation with hybrid phytase and carbohydrases in diets with reductions of 100 kcal/kg, 0.16% Ca, and 0.15% AP led to lower production costs.

Experimental data on the relationship between dyes sensitizers and wavelength during the photocatalytic degradation of diclofenac.

Sensitizers are being used to improve the photocatalytic activity of semiconductors in the visible light region of the solar spectrum. Different types of dyes are reported as sensitizer agents, such as ruthenium complex molecules, porphyrins and Pt complexes, which are critically assessed because they are hazardous substance. Therefore, it is necessary to replace these compounds with safer sensitizer like organic dyes. This work evaluated the photocatalytic degradation of diclofenac using two different types of organic dyes (Perinaphtenone and Eosin-Y) as sensitizer agents. The catalyst concentration [0.15; 0.35 g/l], source of light (UVA - Vis) and type of dye were evaluated. The data obtained can be useful to classify organic dyes that could be employees as sensitizers and which is the wavelength more adequate to use as an energy source. The Kapp for the reaction has values between 1*10-3 to 5*10-3 min-1 for UVA, 3*10-4 to 3*10-3 min-1 for Vis and 2*10-3 to 6*10-3 min-1 for UV-Vis.

Somatostatin receptor imaging by SPECT and PET in patients with chronic inflammatory disorders: a systematic review.

OBJECTIVE: To review the literature on the clinical application of radiolabeled somatostatin receptor scintigraphy (SRS) by SPECT and PET in adults with chronic inflammatory diseases. RESEARCH DESIGN: Systematic review of published observational studies between 1993 and 2017. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MedLine, EMBASE, PubMed, Google Scholar, OVID, EBSCO, Scopus, and Web of Science were used to search for studies on the use of SRS in adults with chronic inflammatory diseases. A team of reviewers independently screened for eligible studies. Quality of evidence was assessed by QUADAS approach. RESULTS: Eligible papers included 38 studies. Studied populations were heterogeneous, and patients were classified according to the diagnosed disease: endothelial inflammation, rheumatoid arthritis, cardiac allograft rejection, granulomatous diseases, small vessel vasculitis, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, sarcoidosis, and thyroid exophthalmopathy. Because of many quality differences between studies, it was not possible to pool data, and a narrative synthesis is reported. CONCLUSION: Results highlight the value of SRS to detect active inflammation in several chronic inflammatory conditions, despite the bias related to the index test, showing lack of standardization of the scintigraphic technique and high variability of methods used to clinically evaluate inflammatory condition.