Antiproliferative Activity of N-Acylhydrazone Derivative on Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells Involves Transcriptional Regulation of Genes Required for G2/M Transition.

Liver cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related death in males. It is estimated that approximately one million deaths will occur by 2030 due to hepatic cancer. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most prevalent primary liver cancer subtype and is commonly diagnosed at an advanced stage. The drug arsenal used in systemic therapy for HCC is very limited. Multikinase inhibitors sorafenib (Nexavar®) and lenvatinib (Lenvima®) have been used as first-line drugs with modest therapeutic effects. In this scenario, it is imperative to search for new therapeutic strategies for HCC. Herein, the antiproliferative activity of N-acylhydrazone derivatives was evaluated on HCC cells (HepG2 and Hep3B), which were chemically planned on the ALL-993 scaffold, a potent inhibitor of vascular endothelial growth factor 2 (VEGFR2). The substances efficiently reduced the viability of HCC cells, and the LASSBio-2052 derivative was the most effective. Further, we demonstrated that LASSBio-2052 treatment induced FOXM1 downregulation, which compromises the transcriptional activation of genes required for G2/M transition, such as AURKA and AURKB, PLK1, and CDK1. In addition, LASSBio-2052 significantly reduced CCNB1 and CCND1 expression in HCC cells. Our findings indicate that LASSBio-2052 is a promising prototype for further in vivo studies.

Bayesian analysis of the effect of exosomes in a mouse xenograft model of chronic myeloid leukemia.

The aim of this work is to estimate the effect of Imatinib, exosomes, and Imatinib-exosomes mixture in chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). For this purpose, mathematical models based on Gompertzian and logistic growth differential equations were proposed. The models contained parameters representing the effects of the three components on CML proliferation. Parameters estimation was performed under the Bayesian statistical approach. Experimental data reported in the literature were used, corresponding to four trials of a human leukemia xenograft in BALB/c female rats over a period of forty days. The models were fitted to the following growth dynamics: normal tumor growth, growth with exosomes, growth with Imatinib, and growth with exosomes-Imatinib mixture. For the proposed logistic growth model, it was determined that when using Imatinib treatment the growth rate is 0.93 (95% CrI: 84.33-99.64) slower and reduces the tumor volume to approximately 10% (95% CrI : 8.67-10.81). In the presence of exosome treatment, the growth rate is 0.83 (95% CrI: 1.52-16.59) faster and the tumor volume is expanded by 40% (95% CrI: 25.36-57.28). Finally, in the presence of Imatinib-exosomes mixture treatment, the growth rate is 0.82 (95% CrI: 76.87-88.51) slower and the tumor volume is reduced by 95% (95% CrI: 86.76-99.85). It is concluded that the presence of exosomes partially inactivates the effect of the Imatinib drug on tumor growth in a mouse xenograft model.

The association of myocardial strain with cardiac magnetic resonance and clinical outcomes in patients with acute myocarditis.

Introduction: The role of myocardial strain in risk prediction for acute myocarditis (AMC) patients, measured by cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR), deserves further investigation. Our objective was to evaluate the association between myocardial strain measured by CMR and clinical events in AMC patients. Material and methods: This was a prospective single-center study of patients with AMC. We included 100 patients with AMC with CMR confirmation. The primary outcome was the composite of all-cause mortality, heart failure and AMC recurrence in 24 months. A subgroup analysis was performed on a sample of 36 patients who underwent a second CMR between 6 and 18 months. The association between strain measures and clinical events or an increase in left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) was explored using Cox regression analysis. Global peak radial, circumferential and longitudinal strain in the left and right ventricles was assessed. ROC curve analysis was performed to identify cutoff points for clinical event prediction. Results: The mean follow-up was 18.7 ± 2.3 months, and the composite primary outcome occurred in 26 patients. The median LVEF at CMR at baseline was 57.5% (14.6%). LV radial strain (HR = 0.918, 95% CI: 0.858-0.982, p = 0.012), LV circumferential strain (HR = 1.177, 95% CI: 1.046-1.325, p = 0.007) and LV longitudinal strain (HR = 1.173, 95% CI: 1.031-1.334, p = 0.015) were independently associated with clinical event occurrence. The areas under the ROC curve for clinical event prediction were 0.80, 0.79 and 0.80 for LV radial, circumferential, and longitudinal strain, respectively. LV longitudinal strain was independently correlated with prognosis (HR = 1.282, CI 95%: 1.022-1.524, p = 0.007), even when analyzed together with ejection fraction and delayed enhancement. LV and right ventricle (RV) strain were not associated with an increase in LVEF. Finally, when the initial CMR findings were compared with the follow-up CMR findings, improvements in the measures of LV and RV myocardial strain were observed. Conclusion: Measurement of myocardial strain by CMR can provide prognostic information on AMC patients. LV radial, circumferential and longitudinal strain were associated with long-term clinical events in these patients.

N-acylhydrazone derivative modulates cell cycle regulators promoting mitosis arrest and apoptosis in estrogen positive MCF-7 breast cancer cells.

Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer death among women worldwide. About 75% of all diagnosed cases are hormone-positive, which are treated with hormone therapy. However, many patients are refractory or become resistant to the drugs used in therapeutic protocols. In this scenario, it is essential to identify new substances with pharmacological potential against breast cancer. VEGFR2 inhibitors are considered promising antitumor agents not only due to their antiangiogenic activity but also by inhibiting the proliferation of tumor cells. Thus, the present study aimed to evaluate the effects of N-acylhydrazone derivative LASSBio-2029 on the proliferative behavior of MCF-7 cells. We observed a promising antitumor potential of this substance due to its ability to modulate critical cell cycle regulators including mitotic kinases (CDK1, AURKA, AURKB, and PLK1) and CDK inhibitor (CDKN1A). Increased frequencies of abnormal mitosis and apoptotic cells were observed in response to treatment. A molecular docking analysis predicts that LASSBio-2029 could bind to the proto-oncoprotein ABL1, which participates in cell cycle control, interacting with other controller proteins and regulating centrosome-associated tubulins. Finally, we created a gene signature with the downregulated genes, whose reduced expression is associated with a higher relapse-free survival probability in breast cancer patients.

Therapy of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia in resource-poor geospaces.

The therapy of children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) in limited resource geospaces is challenging and must balance safety, efficacy, availability, and affordability. We modified the control arm of the St. Jude Total XI protocol for outpatient delivery including once-weekly daunorubicin and vincristine in initial therapy, postponing intrathecal chemotherapy until day 22, prophylactic oral antibiotics/antimycotics, use of generic drugs, and no central nervous system (CNS) radiation. Data were interrogated from 104 consecutive children ≤12 years (median, 6 years [interquartile range (IQR), 3, 9 years]. All therapies were given in an outpatient setting in 72 children. Median follow-up is 56 months (IQR 20, 126 months). A total of 88 children achieved a hematological complete remission. Median event-free survival (EFS) is 87 months [95% confidence interval (CI), 39, 60], 7.6 years in low-risk children (3.4, 8 years) whereas 2.5 years (1, 10 years) in high-risk children. The 5-year cumulative incidence of relapse (CIR) is 28% (18, 35%), 26% (14, 37%) in low-risk children and 35% (14, 52%) in high-risk children. Median survival for all subjects is not reached but must exceed 5 years. A total of 36 children relapsed at a median of 12 months (5, 23 months). Outcomes were comparable to those reported in the control arm of the Total Therapy XI study, but inferior to current treatment protocols in high-income countries. The average cost of the first 2 years of therapy was $28,500 USD compared with an average cost of approximately $150,000 USD in the US, an 80% saving. In conclusion, using an outpatient-based modification of the St. Jude Total XI protocol, we obtained good results with relatively few hospitalizations or adverse events and at a substantial saving. This model can be applied in other resource-poor geospaces.

Prevalencia de complicaciones en pacientes mastectomizadas por cáncer de mama

Introducción: la mujer de hoy exige una cirugía lo más efectiva, segura y estética posible. Objetivo: determinar la prevalencia de las complicaciones posquirúrgicas en pacientes mastectomizadas por cáncer de mama. Materiales y métodos: se realizó un estudio cuantitativo, observacional y descriptivo en un universo de 137 pacientes sometidas a mastectomía, por cáncer de mama comprobado histológicamente, en 2019, en los hospitales General Provincial Carlos Manuel de Céspedes y Clínico Quirúrgico Docente Celia Sánchez Manduley, de Granma. Se evaluaron las variables edad, extensión de la mastectomía, lateralidad, aparición de complicaciones, tipo de complicación, estadio tumoral y diagnóstico histológico. Resultados: la media de edad de las pacientes mastectomizadas fue de 56,53 años, y la mastectomía radical modificada fue el proceder quirúrgico más realizado (76 mamas). La incidencia de complicaciones fue del 52,17 % (1,24 % intraoperatoria), siendo la complicación de mayor prevalencia el linfedema (29,63 %). En relación con el tipo histológico, el carcinoma ductal infiltrante sin especificar (77,54 %) fue el más frecuente, y con los estadios tumorales, el IIIB (22,46 %) y el IV (22,46 %) fueron los de mayor prevalencia. La incidencia de las complicaciones aumentó en la medida en que se elevó el estadio tumoral. Conclusiones: la incidencia de las complicaciones posquirúrgicas en la mastectomía fue elevada, relacionándose con el estadio tumoral.

Introduction: today's woman demands the most effective, secure and esthetic surgery possible. Objective: to determine the prevalence of post-surgery complications in patients mastectomized by breast cancer Materials and methods: a quantitative, observational and descriptive study was carried out in a universe of 137 patients who underwent a mastectomy by histologically proven breast cancer, in 2019, in the General Provincial Hospital Carlos Manuel de Cespedes and in the Clinical Surgical Teaching Hospital Celia Sanchez Manduley, of Granma. The variables age, extension of mastectomy, laterality, appearance of complications; type of complication, tumoral stage and histologic diagnosis were evaluated. Results: the mean age of mastectomized patients was 56.53 years, and modified radical mastectomy was the most performed procedure (76 mammae). The incidence of complications was 52.17% (1.24% intra-operatory), being lymphedema (29.63%) the most prevalent complication. In relation to the histologic type, unspecified infiltrating ductal carcinoma (77.54%) was the most frequent one, and tumoral stages IIIB (22.46%) and IV (22.46%) were the most prevalent. The incidence of complications increased as the tumor stage increased. Conclusions: the incidence of postsurgical complications in mastectomy was high, in relation with the tumor stage.

Development of a low-cost electrochemical sensor for monitoring components in wastewater treatment processes.

Anaerobic digestion (AD) is a complex biological process widely used to decompose various types of organic matter, as well as to produce some metabolites and biogas. Diverse microorganism groups cooperate in many intricate metabolic routes so that organic matter can be degraded. However, any imbalance on these routes can lead to process instability or even failure. Therefore, a proper monitoring system, as well as a good understanding of the process, are key steps to improve performance and stability. Several mathematical models have been developed to represent AD. Despite this, process monitoring is mostly conducted by analytical methods, whose equipment is either expensive or the analyses are time-consuming, which may be a hindrance to low-budget developments. The objective of this study was to develop a low-cost electrochemical sensor to monitor components in wastewater treatment plants. Hundreds of synthetically supplemented sugarcane vinasse and synthetic domestic sewage samples were characterised. The obtained signals were used to calibrate principal component regression, partial least square and artificial neural network estimation models. The predictable variables were chemical oxygen demand, volatile fatty acids, sodium bicarbonate, beef extract, and lipids, and their R2 ranged from 0.84 to 0.99, depending on the component.

Perfil clínico de pacientes con urticaria crónica en el Hospital Militar Principal, Guinea-Bisáu / Clinical profile of patients with chronic urticaria at the Main Military Hospital, Guinea-Bissau / Perfil clínico dos doentes com urticária crónica no Hospital Militar Principal, Guiné-Bissau

RESUMEN Introducción: La urticaria crónica es una enfermedad heterogénea delimitada de la piel caracterizada por el desarrollo de ronchas o habones. Objetivo: Determinar las características clínicas y el tratamiento farmacológico indicado en pacientes con diagnóstico de urticaria crónica. Método: Se realizó un estudio cuantitativo, prospectivo, observacional y descriptivo en un universo de 48 pacientes con diagnóstico de urticaria crónica, Hospital Militar Principal, Guinea-Bisáu, 2018-2020. Se midieron las variables: edad, sexo, tipo de urticaria, tiempo de evolución, comorbilidad y tratamiento utilizado en la primera y última consulta registrada, así como la actividad de la enfermedad. Resultados: La edad media fue de 38,52 años con predomino del sexo femenino. El tiempo medio de evolución de la enfermedad fue de 4,67 años y el 70,83 % no presentó angioedema. La urticaria crónica espontánea fue el tipo predominante. La ciproheptadina fue el tratamiento más indicado al inicio del tratamiento y al término del seguimiento su uso se incrementó. El montelukast fue el otro medicamento que incremento su uso al término del seguimiento. La actividad de la enfermedad se redujo con el tratamiento a índices reconocidos como urticaria crónica espontánea controlada. Conclusiones: La urticaria crónica en Guinea-Bisáu tiene una prevalencia y manifestaciones clínicas acorde a lo reportado a nivel mundial con esquemas de tratamiento susceptibles de modificaciones según el inicio del uso de medicamentos recomendados como ciclosporina u omalizumab.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Chronic urticaria is a heterogeneous demarcated skin disease characterized by the development of wheals or hives. Objective: Determination of the clinical characteristics and the pharmacological treatment indicated in patients diagnosed with chronic urticaria. Method: A quantitative, prospective, observational and descriptive study was conducted in a total of 48 patients (the universe) diagnosed with chronic urticaria, Main Military Hospital, Guinea-Bissau, 2018-2020. The following variables were used: age, sex, type of urticaria, time of evolution, comorbidity and treatment used in the first and last recorded consultation, as well as disease activity. Results: The mean age was 38.52 years with a female predominance. The mean time of evolution of the disease was 4.67 years and 70.83% did not present angioedema. Chronic spontaneous urticaria was the predominant type. cyproheptadine was the treatment most indicated to be used at baseline and at the end of treatment follow-up its use increased. montelukast was the other drug that increased its use at the end of follow-up. With the treatment used disease activity was reduced up to rates recognized as controlled chronic spontaneous urticaria. Conclusions: Chronic urticaria in Guinea-Bissau has prevalence and clinical manifestations in line with those reported worldwide, with treatment regimens susceptible to modifications depending on the early use of recommended drugs such as cyclosporine or omalizumab.

RESUMO Introdução: A urticária crônica é uma doença heterogênea delimitada da pele caracterizada pelo desenvolvimento de urticária ou urticária. Objetivo: Determinar as características clínicas e o tratamento farmacológico indicado em pacientes com diagnóstico de urticária crônica. Método: Estudo quantitativo, prospectivo, observacional e descritivo realizado em um universo de 48 pacientes com diagnóstico de urticária crônica, Hospital Militar Principal, Guiné-Bissau, 2018-2020. As variáveis foram mensuradas: idade, sexo, tipo de urticária, tempo de evolução, comorbidade e tratamento utilizado na primeira e última consulta registrada, bem como a atividade da doença. Resultados: A média de idade foi de 38,52 anos com predomínio do sexo feminino. O tempo médio de evolução da doença foi de 4,67 anos e 70,83% não apresentavam angioedema. A urticária crônica espontânea foi o tipo predominante. A ciproeptadina foi o tratamento mais indicado no início do tratamento e ao final do seguimento seu uso aumentou. O montelucaste foi a outra droga que aumentou seu uso ao final do seguimento. A atividade da doença foi reduzida com o tratamento para taxas reconhecidas como urticária crônica espontânea controlada. Conclusões: A urticária crônica na Guiné-Bissau tem prevalência e manifestações clínicas compatíveis com a relatada mundialmente, com esquemas de tratamento que podem ser modificados dependendo do início do uso de medicamentos recomendados como ciclosporina ou omalizumabe.

Myocardial Injury in Patients With Acute and Subacute Chagas Disease in the Brazilian Amazon Using Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance.

Background Chagas disease is a neglected tropical disease that is still considered a global health emergency. In the Amazon region, most of the reports are of acute cases that are associated with oral transmission. This study aimed to evaluate myocardial injury in patients with acute Chagas disease before and after treatment. Methods and Results We evaluated 23 patients with acute Chagas disease in 3 different stages of progression. Group 1 had 12 patients evaluated during the acute phase, at the time of diagnosis, and 1 year after treatment, and Group 2 had 11 patients in the late postacute phase who were evaluated 5.2 years on average after diagnosis and treatment. ECGs with the Selvester score, 24-hour Holter exam, and cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging were performed. The mean age of the 23 patients was 44.3±18.9 years, and they were mostly men (15/65.24%) from Amazonas state (22/95.6%). In 69.6% (n=16) of the patients, some ECG alterations were found, the most frequent being left anterior fascicular block and ventricular repolarization. In Group 1, the 24-hour Holter exam showed atrial tachycardia in 3 (25%) patients and ventricular extrasystoles in 2 (16.7%) patients. In Group 2, 1 patient had ventricular extrasystoles. Myocardial injury was observed in 7 patients (58.3%) at the acute phase and in 5 (50%) patients at the 1-year follow-up in Group 1 and in 2 (18.2%) patients in Group 2. Conclusions This article describes, for the first time, myocardial injury shown by cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging in a group of patients with acute Chagas disease and reveals the importance of early detection and follow-up of the cardiac impairment in these patients.

Prevalencia de rinitis alérgica y factores asociados en estudiantes de Guinea Bissau

RESUMEN Introducción: la rinitis alérgica es una enfermedad inflamatoria crónica de la mucosa nasal, alérgeno-específica, con participación de diversas células. Objetivo: determinar la prevalencia de rinitis alérgica y sus factores de riesgo en estudiantes en dos regiones de Guinea Bissau. Materiales y Métodos: se realizó un estudio cuantitativo, transversal y analítico en un universo de 2 008 estudiantes de 7ª a 12ª clase, en las regiones de Gabú y Bafatá, en Guinea Bissau, entre 2019 y 2020. Se utilizó el Cuestionario diagnóstico de rinitis alérgica para estudios epidemiológicos y el Cuestionario para identificar los factores de riesgo en rinitis alérgica. Los datos del estudio propuestos a medir fueron extraídos de las encuestas. Se solicitó autorización de las autoridades de las instituciones. Resultados: la prevalencia de rinitis alérgica fue del 17,77 %. La media de edad fue mayor en la región de Bafatá (17,34 años), con predominio del sexo femenino en ambas regiones (51,71 % vs. 51,97 %). Resultaron factores de riesgo en ambas regiones -con alto nivel de significación estadística- el sexo femenino (OR: 1,92 / 1,64), el antecedente familiar de la enfermedad (OR: 9,68 / 10,82) y el antecedente de enfermedad recurrente de vías respiratorias superiores (OR: 6,43 / 5,33). Factores como la humedad no resultaron de riesgo (OR: 0,71 / 0,93). Conclusiones: la rinitis alérgica es una condición frecuente en población joven en Guinea Bissau. El antecedente familiar de atopia y el antecedente personal de enfermedad recurrente de vías respiratorias superiores resultaron de un nivel de significación estadística muy alto.

ABSTRACT Introduction: allergic rhinitis is a chronic, allergen-specific, inflammatory disease of the nasal mucosa, involving various cells. Objective: to determine the prevalence of allergic rhinitis and its risk factors in students in two regions of Guinea Bissau. Materials and methods: a quantitative, cross-sectional and analytic study was carried out in a universe of 2,008 students from 7th to 12th class, in the regions of Gabú y Bafatá, in Guinea Bissau, between 2019 and 2020. The Diagnostic Questionnaire of Allergic Rhinitis for Epidemiologic Studies and the Questionnaire to Identify the Risk Factors in Allergic Rhinitis were used. The study data proposed to be measured were drawn from the surveys. It was asked authorization from the authorities of the institutions. Results: the prevalence of allergic rhinitis was 17.77 %. The mean age was higher in Bafatá region (17.34 years), with female predominance in both regions (51.71 % vs. 51.97 %). Risk factors found in both regions-with a high level of statistical significance-were female sex (OR: 1.92 / 1.64), family history of disease (OR: 9.68 / 10.82), and history of recurrent upper respiratory disease (OR: 6.43 / 5.33). Factors like humidity were not found risky (OR: 0.71 / 0.93). Conclusions: allergic rhinitis is a common condition among the young population in Guinea Bissau. The family history of atopy and the personal history of recurrent upper respiratory disease resulted in a very high level of statistical significance.

Apendicitis aguda traumática. Reporte de caso / Traumatic acute appendicitis. A case report

RESUMEN Se presenta el caso de un hombre de 37 años sin antecedentes de dolor abdominal, o padecimiento de alguna enfermedad, que recibió un golpe directo con objeto romo (bate de béisbol) en el cuadrante inferior derecho del abdomen. Asistió a consulta con dolor abdominal selectivo en fosa ilíaca derecha, de aproximadamente 29 horas de evolución, que comenzó después de un trauma abdominal cerrado. Al examen físico se constata signo de Blumberg positivo, punto de McBurney doloroso con hiperestesia cutánea y cierto grado de defensa muscular. En los exámenes complementarios se comprueba leucocitosis y predominio de neutrófilos, con desviación a la izquierda. Se decidió realizar laparotomía exploratoria y se constató en el transoperatorio apendicitis aguda flegmonosa. La etiología traumática en la apendicitis aguda es un diagnóstico por exclusión que debe ser considerado en condiciones específicas.

ABSTRACT We present a 37 year-old man with no antecedents of abdominal pain, or suffering from other illnesses who received a direct blow with a blunt object (baseball bat) in the right lower quadrant of the abdomen. The patient was seen in consultation with a selective abdominal pain in his right iliac fossa, with approximately 29 hours of evolution that began after a closed abdominal trauma. A positive Blumberg sign, a painful McBurney's point with cutaneous hyperesthesia and certain grade of muscular defense were verified on physical exam. Leukocytosis and prevalence of neutrophils with left deviation were proven on complementary exams. An exploratory laparotomy was decided and a phlegmonous acute appendicitis was verified during the periprocedural period. Traumatic etiology in acute appendicitis is a diagnosis for exclusion that should be considered under specific conditions.

Reacciones anafilácticas y alérgicas durante procedimientos médicos o quirúrgicos en dos hospitales de Guinea Bissau

RESUMEN Introducción: la seguridad durante los procedimientos médicos o quirúrgicos se ve amenazada por la anafilaxia. Objetivo: evaluar el cuadro clínico, método de estudio y eventual resultado de la reexposición en pacientes con reacciones anafilácticas y alérgicas durante procedimientos médicos o quirúrgicos. Materiales y métodos: se realizó un estudio cuantitativo, observacional y descriptivo en 11 pacientes con diagnóstico de anafilaxia en el curso de una intervención quirúrgica o proceder médico, en los hospitales Militar Principal y Nacional Simão Méndes, de Guinea Bissau, entre 2018 y 2020. Se evaluaron las variables: edad, sexo, procedimiento, método anestésico, antecedentes alérgicos, gravedad de la anafilaxia y agente causal. Resultados: de los 11 pacientes estudiados, 10 tuvieron reacciones en procedimientos quirúrgicos. La media de edad fue de 46,09 años, con una relación por sexo de 0,57 casos masculinos por cada caso femenino. Cinco pacientes (45,45 %) desarrollaron el grado máximo de severidad de la anafilaxia. Los agentes anestésicos fueron la causa de la anafilaxia en dos de los cuatro pacientes sometidos al método de anestesia general y en dos de los cinco sometidos al método de anestesia regional. Por su parte, el látex resultó ser el agente causal en el 45,45 % de los pacientes. Conclusiones: la apropiada identificación de las reacciones anafilácticas durante su aparición, constituye la piedra angular de la actuación médica. En cualquier caso, conllevará estudios alergoanestésicos posteriores que definan el agente causal.

ABSTRACT Introduction: safety during medical or surgical procedures is threatened by anaphylaxis. Objective: to evaluate the clinical characteristics, study method and eventual outcome of re-exposure in patients with anaphylactic and allergic reactions during medical or surgical procedures. Materials and methods: a quantitative, observational and descriptive study was carried out in 11 patients with a diagnosis of anaphylaxis in the course of a surgical intervention or medical procedure, in the Main Military Hospital and the National Hospital Simão Méndes, of Guinea Bissau between 2018 and 2020. The evaluated variables were: age, sex, procedure, anesthetic method, allergic history, severity of anaphylaxis and causal agent. Results: of the 11 patients studied, 10 had reactions in surgical procedures. The mean age was 46.09 years with a sex ratio of 0.57 male cases for each female case. Five patients (45.45 %) developed the maximum degree of anaphylaxis severity. Anesthetic agents were the cause of anaphylaxis in two of the four patients who underwent the general anesthesia method, and in two of the five who underwent the regional anesthesia method. Latex was found to be the causal agent in 45.45 % of the patients. Conclusions: the proper identification of anaphylactic reactions during their appearance is the cornerstone of medical action. In any case, subsequent allergo-anesthetic studies would be needed to define the causative agent.

Prevalencia de complicaciones posquirúrgicas en pacientes sometidos a reparación quirúrgica de hernias inguinales

RESUMEN La hernia inguinal es una enfermedad frecuente no exenta de complicaciones. Con el objetivo de determinar la prevalencia de las complicaciones posquirúrgicas en pacientes con hernia inguinal; se realizó un estudio cuantitativo, transversal y descriptivo en un universo de 86 pacientes intervenidos quirúrgicamente por hernia inguinal en el año 2019; Hospital General Mariano Pérez Balí, Granma. Se evaluaron las variables: edad, sexo, tipo de hernia inguinal, lateralidad, técnica quirúrgica y complicaciones constatadas. En un total de 86 pacientes con hernia inguinal la edad media fue de 53,81 años. El sexo masculino representó el 95,34 % del total de pacientes, las hernias tipo II de Nyhus representaron el 46,24 %. Las técnicas de hernioplastias fueron empleadas en la reparación del 54,84 % del total de hernias reparadas particularmente la técnica de Lichtenstein. El 66,66 % de las hernias inguinales sometidas a reparación quirúrgica no presentaron complicaciones mientras que el 11,83 % se complicaron de forma aguda con funiculitis. Se concluye que la incidencia de las complicaciones posquirúrgicas en la hernia inguinal fue elevada.

ABSTRACT Inguinal hernia is a common disease not free of complications. In order to determine the prevalence of postoperative complications in patients with inguinal hernia; a quantitative, cross-sectional and descriptive study was carried out in a universe of 86 patients who underwent surgery for inguinal hernia in 2019; Mariano Pérez Balí General Hospital, Granma. The variables were evaluated: age, sex, type of inguinal hernia, laterality, surgical technique and verified complications. In a total of 86 patients with inguinal hernia the mean age was 53,81 years. Male sex represented 95,34 % of all patients, Nyhus type II hernias represented 46,24 %. Hernioplasty techniques were used to repair 54,84 % of all hernias repaired, particularly the Lichtenstein technique. The 66,66 % of the inguinal hernias undergoing surgical repair did not present complications while 11,83 % were acutely complicated with funiculitis. It isconcluded that the incidence of postoperative complications in inguinal hernia was high.

RESUMO A hérnia inguinal é uma doença frequente que não está isenta de complicações. A fim de determinar a prevalência de complicações pós-operatórias em pacientes com hérnia inguinal; foi realizado um estudo quantitativo, transversal e descritivo em um universo de 86 pacientes submetidos à cirurgia de hérnia inguinal em 2019; Hospital Geral Mariano Pérez Balí, Granma. Foram avaliadas as variáveis: idade, sexo, tipo de hérnia inguinal, lateralidade, técnica cirúrgica e complicações encontradas. Em um total de 86 pacientes com hérnia inguinal, a média de idade foi de 53,81 anos. O sexo masculino representou 95,34% do total de pacientes, as hérnias tipo II de Nyhus representaram 46,24%. As técnicas de hernioplastia foram utilizadas no reparo de 54,84% de todas as hérnias reparadas, principalmente a técnica de Lichtenstein. 66,66% das hérnias inguinais foram submetidas a correção cirúrgica sem complicações, enquanto 11,83% foram agudamente complicadas com funiculite. Conclui-se que a incidência de complicações pós-operatórias em hérnia inguinal foi alta.

Decreased Native T1 Values and Impaired Myocardial Contractility in Anabolic Steroid Users.

Anabolic androgenic steroid (AAS) abuse leads to myocardial toxicity. Human studies are conflicting about the myocardial fibrosis in AAS users. We evaluated cardiac tissue characterization, left ventricle (LV) function, and cardiac structure by cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR). Twenty strength-trained AAS users (AASU) aged 29±5 yr, 20 strength-trained AAS nonusers (AASNU), and 7 sedentary controls (SC) were enrolled. Native T1 mapping, late-gadolinium enhancement (LGE), extracellular volume (ECV), and myocardial strain were evaluated. AASU showed lower Native T1 values than AASNU (888±162 vs. 1020±179 ms p=0.047). Focal myocardial fibrosis was found in 2 AASU. AASU showed lower LV radial strain (30±8 vs. 38±6%, p<0.01), LV circumferential strain (-17±3 vs. -20±2%, p<0.01), and LV global longitudinal strain (-17±3 vs. -20±3%, p<0.01) than AASNU by CMR. By echocardiography, AASU demonstrated lower 4-chamber longitudinal strain than AASNU (-15±g3 vs. -18±2%, p=0.03). ECV was similar among AASU, AASNU, and SC (28±10 vs. 28±7 vs. 30±7%, p=0.93). AASU had higher LV mass index than AASNU and SC (85±14 vs. 64±8 vs. 58±5 g/m2, respectively, p<0.01). AAS abuse may be linked to decreased myocardial native T1 values, impaired myocardial contractility, and focal fibrosis. These alterations may be associated with maladaptive cardiac hypertrophy in young AAS users.

Deslocamento linear longitudinal do ventrículo esquerdo comparado ao strain longitudinal global por ressonância magnética cardiovascular / Left ventricular longitudinal linear displacement versus global longitudinal strain on cardiovascular magnetic resonance

Introdução: A função sistodiastólica do ventrículo esquerdo é prognóstica nas doenças cardiovasculares e pode ser avaliada por strain longitudinal global por meio de ecocardiografia e de ressonância magnética cardíaca. O strain longitudinal global pela ressonância magnética cardíaca exige a utilização de software de alto custo. O deslocamento linear longitudinal do ventrículo esquerdo pode ser uma alternativa simples e barata ao strain longitudinal global, porém eles não foram ainda comparados sistematicamente. Objetivo: Comparar o deslocamento linear longitudinal com o strain longitudinal global e fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo em valvopatas aórticos e controles. Métodos: Incluímos 44 participantes (26 valvopatas aórticos/19 controles). O strain longitudinal global utilizou software específico (Circle Cardiovascular Imaging 42) e o deslocamento linear longitudinal apenas medidas lineares de distância entre a base e o ápex do ventrículo esquerdo, gerando deslocamento máximo, velocidade máxima no início da diástole, velocidade na diástase e a relação entre velocidade na diástase e velocidade máxima no início da diástole. Resultados: Deslocamento máximo e velocidade máxima no início da diástole correlacionaram-se com strain longitudinal global (r=0,69 e r=0,65 respectivamente) e com a fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo (r=0,47 e r=0,57, p<0,001 para ambos). Deslocamento máximo e velocidade máxima no início da diástole apresentaram área sob a curva Característica de Operação do Receptor de 0,88 e 0,91 e, no melhor ponto de corte (-0,13 e 0,66), sensibilidade de 72,43% e 57,14% e especificidade 80,65% e 87,10%, respectivamente, quando comparados ao strain longitudinal global. Utilizando a fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo como referência, foram obtidos 0,70 e 0,82, e, no melhor ponto de corte (-0,11 e 0,61), sensibilidade de 75,00% e 50,00% e especificidade 72,97% e 78,38%, respectivamente. Conclusão: O deslocamento linear longitudinal foi semelhante ao strain longitudinal global. O deslocamento máximo derivado do deslocamento linear longitudinal foi o melhor parâmetro na sístole, enquanto a velocidade máxima no início da diástole foi o melhor na diástole, o que possibilita a avaliação da função diastólica pela ressonância magnética cardíaca na rotina clínica de forma rápida e sem custo adicional.(AU)

Background: Left ventricular (LV) systolic diastolic function is prognostic in cardiovascular diseases and can be assessed via global longitudinal strain (GLS) on echocardiography and cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR). However, GLS by CMR requires the use of expensive software. Longitudinal linear displacement (LLD) may be a simple and inexpensive alternative to GLS, but the two have not been systematically compared. Objective: To compare LLD with GLS and LV ejection fraction (LVEF) in aortic valve disease patients and controls. Methods: We included 44 participants (26 with aortic valve disease, 19 controls). GLS was determined using CVI42 software (Circle Cardiovascular Imaging), while the LLD linear measurements of the distance between the base/apex of the LV included maximum displacement (MD), maximum velocity in early diastole (MVED), atrioventricular junction velocity in diastasis (VDS), and VDS/MVED ratio. Results: DM and MVED were correlated with GLS (r=0.69 and r=0.65, respectively) and LVEF (r=0.47 and r=0.57, p<0.001 for both). DM and MVED showed areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of 0.88 and 0.91, and at the best cut-off point (-0.13 and 0.66), sensitivities of 72.43% and 57.14% and specificities of 80.65% and 87.10%, respectively, compared to GLS. Using LVEF as a reference, we obtained AUC of 0.70 and 0.82, and at the best cut-off point (-0.11 and 0.61), sensitivities of 75.00% and 50.00% and specificities of 72.97% and 78.38%, respectively. Conclusion: LLD demonstrated similar performance to that of GLS. MD derived from LLD was the best parameter during systole, while MVED was the best during diastole. Our findings demonstrate the routine, quick, and inexpensive assessment of diastolic function on CMR.(AU)

Transcatheter Valve-in-Valve Procedures for Bioprosthetic Valve Dysfunction in Patients With Rheumatic vs. Non-Rheumatic Valvular Heart Disease.

Background: Bioprosthetic heart valve has limited durability and lower long-term performance especially in rheumatic heart disease (RHD) patients that are often subject to multiple redo operations. Minimally invasive procedures, such as transcatheter valve-in-valve (ViV) implantation, may offer an attractive alternative, although data is lacking. The aim of this study was to evaluate the baseline characteristics and clinical outcomes in rheumatic vs. non-rheumatic patients undergoing ViV procedures for severe bioprosthetic valve dysfunction. Methods: Single center, prospective study, including consecutive patients undergoing transcatheter ViV implantation in aortic, mitral and tricuspid position, from May 2015 to September 2020. RHD was defined according to clinical history, previous echocardiographic and surgical findings. Results: Among 106 patients included, 69 had rheumatic etiology and 37 were non-rheumatic. Rheumatic patients had higher incidence of female sex (73.9 vs. 43.2%, respectively; p = 0.004), atrial fibrillation (82.6 vs. 45.9%, respectively; p < 0.001), and 2 or more prior surgeries (68.1 vs. 32.4%, respectively; p = 0.001). Although, device success was similar between groups (75.4 vs. 89.2% in rheumatic vs. non-rheumatic, respectively; p = 0.148), there was a trend toward higher 30-day mortality rates in the rheumatic patients (21.7 vs. 5.4%, respectively; p = 0.057). Still, at median follow-up of 20.7 [5.1-30.4] months, cumulative mortality was similar between both groups (p = 0.779). Conclusion: Transcatheter ViV implantation is an acceptable alternative to redo operations in the treatment of patients with RHD and severe bioprosthetic valve dysfunction. Despite similar device success rates, rheumatic patients present higher 30-day mortality rates with good mid-term clinical outcomes. Future studies with a larger number of patients and follow-up are still warranted, to firmly conclude on the role transcatheter ViV procedures in the RHD population.

Síndrome de Alicia en el país de las maravillas secundario a consumo de montelukast. Presentación de caso / Alice in wonderland syndrome secondary to medication with montelukast. Case presentation

RESUMEN La condición neurológica definida por la aparición de alteraciones en la percepción, usualmente interpretada como fenómenos extraños de metamorfosis y despersonalización, se reconoce como síndrome de Alicia en el país de las maravillas. Se presenta el caso de una paciente femenina de 9 años de edad, con el diagnóstico de síndrome de Alicia en el país de las maravillas secundario a medicación crónica con montelukast. El diagnóstico del síndrome psiquiátrico se realizó teniendo en consideración los antecedentes patológicos personales y el examen físico. El síndrome de Alicia en el país de las maravillas tiene un carácter benigno, sumamente infrecuente, y aunque su etiología no es del todo conocida, su aparición como reacción adversa a medicamentos es una opción que debe ser siempre considerada por el médico actuante (AU).

ABSTRACT The neurological condition defined by the appearance of alterations in perception usually interpreted as strange phenomena of metamorphosis and depersonalization is recognized as Alice in wonderland syndrome. The case of a 9-year-old female patient is presented, with the diagnosis of Alice in Wonderland syndrome secondary to chronic medication with montelukast. The diagnosis of the psychiatric syndrome was made taking into account personal pathological history and physical examination. Alice in Wonderland syndrome has a benign, extremely rare character and although its etiology is not fully known, its appearance, as an adverse reaction to medications, is an option that should always be considered by the acting physician (AU).

Modeling anaerobic digestion metabolic pathways for antibiotic-contaminated wastewater treatment.

Anaerobic digestion has been used to treat antibiotic-contaminated wastewaters. However, it is not always effective, since biodegradation is the main removal mechanism and depends on the compound chemical characteristics and on how microbial metabolic pathways are affected by the reactor operational conditions and hydrodynamic characteristics. The aim of this study was to develop a mathematical model to describe 16 metabolic pathways of an anaerobic process treating sulfamethazine-contaminated wastewater. Contois kinetics and a useful reaction volume term were used to represent the biomass concentration impact on bed porosity in a N continuously stirred tank modeling approach. Two sulfamethazine removal hypotheses were evaluated: an apparent enzymatic reaction and a cometabolic degradation. Additionally, long-term modeling was developed to describe how the operational conditions affected the performance of the process. The best degradation correlations were associated with the consumption of carbohydrates, proteins and it was inversely related to acetic acid production during acidogenesis.

Evaluación de la escala de Alvarado como herramienta diagnóstica en la apendicitis aguda / Assessment of the Alvarado Score as a Diagnostic Tool for Acute Appendicitis

RESUMEN Introducción: La apendicitis aguda es la enfermedad quirúrgica más común en cirugía de urgencia; sin embargo, sigue siendo un problema diagnóstico. Objetivos: Evaluar la escala de Alvarado como herramienta diagnóstica en la apendicitis aguda. Métodos: Se desarrolló un estudio observacional y descriptivo con fases analíticas en un universo de 107 pacientes con sospecha diagnóstica de apendicitis aguda, en el Hospital Universitario "Carlos Manuel de Céspedes", Bayamo, Granma, en el período de enero a mayo de 2019. Los datos fueron procesados en el sistema Excel estimándose los parámetros predictivos de efectividad clínica. Resultados: Predominaron los pacientes masculinos (63,55 por ciento) con una edad media de 29,64 años y un tiempo medio de evolución de los síntomas de 33,74 horas. La aplicación de la escala de Alvarado resultó en 87 pacientes (81,31 por ciento) con probable diagnóstico de apendicitis aguda y donde el 3,74 por ciento de los pacientes no padecían la enfermedad. La escala demostró una sensibilidad (84 por ciento) y una especificidad (80 por ciento) que la hace recomendable para la práctica clínica habitual. Conclusiones: La escala de Alvarado es un sistema de puntuación predictivo simple, no invasivo y recomendable para su uso en la práctica clínica habitual en cualquier escenario y por cualquier médico de asistencia(AU)

ABSTRACT Introduction: Acute appendicitis is the commonest surgical disease in emergency surgery; however, it remains a diagnostic problem. Objectives: To evaluate the Alvarado score as a diagnostic tool for acute appendicitis. Methods: We carried out an observational and descriptive study, with analytical phases, of a population of 107 patients with suspected diagnosis of acute appendicitis, at Carlos Manuel de Céspedes University Hospital in Bayamo, Granma, from January to May 2019. The data were processed in the Excel system, and the predictive parameters of clinical effectiveness were estimated. Results: Male patients (63.55 percent) predominated, with a mean age of 29.64 years and a mean time of evolution of symptoms of 33.74 hours. Application of the Alvarado score resulted in 87 patients (81.31 percent) with a probable diagnosis of acute appendicitis, 3.74 percent of which did not suffer from the disease. The score demonstrated a sensitivity (84 percent) and a specificity (80 percent) that makes it recommendable for routine clinical practice. Conclusions: The Alvarado score is a simple, noninvasive predictive scoring system recommended to be used in routine clinical practice in any setting and by any attending physician(AU)

The effect of breed, sex, and drug concentration on the pharmacokinetic profile of ivermectin in cattle.

Ivermectin (IVM) is one of the most widely used antiparasitic drugs worldwide and has become the drug of choice for anthelmintic and tick treatment in beef cattle production. It is known that pharmacokinetic parameters are fundamental to the rational use of a drug and food safety and these parameters are influenced by different factors. The aim of this study was to evaluate the pharmacokinetic profile of IVM in Bos indicus, Bos taurus, and crossbreed cattle (B. indicus × B. taurus) kept under same field conditions and the possible impacts of sex and IVM formulation (1% and 3.15%). It was observed that IVM concentration was significantly affected by breed. The plasma concentrations of IVM, AUC, Cmax , and t1/2ß were significantly higher in B. indicus compared to B. taurus. Crossbreed animals showed an intermediate profile between European and Indian cattle. No alteration in pharmacokinetics parameters was detected when comparing different gender. Concerning the pharmacokinetic data of IVM formulation, it was verified that Tmax , AUC, and t1/2ß were higher in 3.15% IVM animals than those from 1% IVM formulation. The results clearly indicated that the IVM plasma concentrations in B. indicus were higher than that in B. taurus.