A comprehensive exploration of gallbladder health: from common to rare imaging findings.

This comprehensive review explores a wide range of imaging findings associated with the gallbladder (GB), from anatomic variants to rare diseases. Through an in-depth review of diagnostic modalities including ultrasound, magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography, CT, and MRI, we aim to highlight the crucial role of imaging techniques in diagnosing GB disorders, as congenital anomalies, inflammatory diseases, neoplasms, and surgical complications. Employing a detailed analysis and comparison of imaging findings across various modalities, this review seeks to improve diagnostic accuracy for GB-related pathologies, facilitating optimal patient management.

Understanding the flow behavior around marine biofilms.

In vitro platforms capable of mimicking the hydrodynamic conditions prevailing in natural aquatic environments have been previously validated and used to predict the fouling behavior on different surfaces. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) has been used to predict the shear forces occurring in these platforms. In general, these predictions are made for the initial stages of biofilm formation, where the amount of biofilm does not affect the flow behavior, enabling the estimation of the shear forces that initial adhering organisms have to withstand. In this work, we go a step further in understanding the flow behavior when a mature biofilm is present in such platforms to better understand the shear rate distribution affecting marine biofilms. Using 3D images obtained by Optical Coherence Tomography, a mesh was produced and used in CFD simulations. Biofilms of two different marine cyanobacteria were developed in agitated microtiter plates incubated at two different shaking frequencies for 7 weeks. The biofilm-flow interactions were characterized in terms of the velocity field and shear rate distribution. Results show that global hydrodynamics imposed by the different shaking frequencies affect biofilm architecture and also that this architecture affects local hydrodynamics, causing a large heterogeneity in the shear rate field. Biofilm cells located in the streamers of the biofilm are subjected to much higher shear values than those located on the bottom of the streamers and this dispersion in shear rate values increases at lower bulk fluid velocities. This heterogeneity in the shear force field may be a contributing factor for the heterogeneous behavior in metabolic activity, growth status, gene expression pattern, and antibiotic resistance often associated with nutrient availability within the biofilm.

Cross-sectional imaging of pancreatic leak: a pictorial review.

Pancreatic leaks occur when a disruption in the pancreatic ductal system results in the leakage of pancreatic enzymes such as amylase, lipase, and proteases into the abdominal cavity. While often associated with pancreatic surgical procedures, trauma and necrotizing pancreatitis are also common culprits. Cross-sectional imaging, particularly computed tomography, plays a crucial role in assessing postoperative conditions and identifying both early and late complications, including pancreatic leaks. The presence of fluid accumulation or hemorrhage near an anastomotic site strongly indicates a pancreatic fistula, particularly if the fluid is connected to the pancreatic duct or anastomotic suture line. Pancreatic fistulas are a type of pancreatic leak that carries a high morbidity rate. Early diagnosis and assessment of pancreatic leaks require vigilance and an understanding of its imaging hallmarks to facilitate prompt treatment and improve patient outcomes. Radiologists must maintain vigilance and understand the imaging patterns of pancreatic leaks to enhance diagnostic accuracy. Ongoing improvements in surgical techniques and diagnostic approaches are promising for minimizing the prevalence and adverse effects of pancreatic fistulas. In this pictorial review, our aim is to facilitate for radiologists the comprehension of pancreatic leaks and their essential imaging patterns.

Diffuse and focal liver fat: advanced imaging techniques and diagnostic insights.

The fatty liver disease represents a complex, multifaceted challenge, requiring a multidisciplinary approach for effective management and research. This article uses conventional and advanced imaging techniques to explore the etiology, imaging patterns, and quantification methods of hepatic steatosis. Particular emphasis is placed on the challenges and advancements in the imaging diagnostics of fatty liver disease. Techniques such as ultrasound, CT, MRI, and elastography are indispensable for providing deep insights into the liver's fat content. These modalities not only distinguish between diffuse and focal steatosis but also help identify accompanying conditions, such as inflammation and fibrosis, which are critical for accurate diagnosis and management.

Benign splenic lesions in BAP1-tumor predisposition syndrome: a case series.

BAP1-Tumor Predisposition Syndrome (TPDS) is caused by germline variants in BAP1 and predisposes to solid tumors. After observation of a radiologically malignant-appearing splenic mass with benign pathology in a patient with BAP1-TPDS, we sought to retrospectively characterize splenic lesions in individuals with BAP1-TPDS seen at a comprehensive cancer center. A dedicated radiology review for splenic abnormalities was performed. We identified 37 individuals with BAP1-TPDS, 81% with a history of cancer. Of 33 individuals with abdominal imaging, 10 (30%) had splenic lesions, and none were shown to be malignant on follow-up. Splenectomy in an individual with suspected splenic angiosarcoma showed a benign vascular neoplasm with loss of nuclear staining for BAP1 in a subset of cells. Benign splenic lesions appear to be common and potentially BAP1-driven in individuals with BAP1-TPDS; confirmation of these findings could lead to more conservative management and avoidance of splenectomy.

Development of Liposomes Loaded with Chloroaluminum Phthalocyanine for Application of Photodynamic Therapy in Breast Cancer.

Chloraluminium phthalocyanine (ClAlPc) has potential therapeutic effect for the treatment of cancer; however, the molecule is lipophilic and may present self-aggregation which limits its clinical success. Thus, nanocarriers like liposomes can improve ClAlPc solubility, reduce off-site toxicity and increase circulation time. For this purpose, developing suitable liposomes requires the evaluation of different lipid compositions. Herein, we aimed to develop liposomes containing soy phosphatidylcholine (SPC), 1,2-distearoyl-sn-glycero- 3-phosphoethanolamine-N-[amino(polyethylene glycol)-2000] (DSPEPEG2000), cholesterol and oleic acid loaded with ClAlPc using the surface response methodology and the Box-Behnken design. Liposomes with particle size from 110.93 to 374.97 nm and PdI from 0.265 to 0.468 were obtained. The optimized formulation resulted in 69.09 % of ClAlPc encapsulated, with particle size and polydispersity index, respectively, at 153.20 nm and 0.309, providing stability and aggregation control. Atomic force microscopy revealed vesicles in a spherical or almost spherical shape, while the analyzes by Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Powder X-ray Diffraction (PXRD), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) suggested that the drug was adequately incorporated into the lipid bilayer of liposomes, in its amorphous state or molecularly dispersed. In vitro studies conducted in breast cancer cells (4T1) showed that liposome improved phototoxicity compared to the ClAlPc solution. ClAlPc-loaded liposomes also enhanced the production of ROS 3-fold compared to the ClAlPc solution. Finally, confocal microscopy and flow cytometry demonstrated the ability of the liposomes to enter cells and deliver the fluorescent ClAlPc photosensitizer with dose and time-dependent effects. Thus, this work showed that Box-Behnken factorial design was an effective strategy for optimizing formulation development. The obtained ClAlPc liposomes can be applied for photodynamic therapy in breast cancer cells.

LATERAL EPICONDYLE SLIDING OSTEOTOMY IN KNEE ARTHROPLASTIES WITH VALGUS DEFORMITY.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of sliding osteotomy of the lateral epicondyle in correcting rigid valgus deformity in knee arthroplasty. METHODS: A retrospective study of patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty with lateral epicondyle sliding osteotomy between 2006 and 2018. The main outcome was the incidence of complications and adverse events. Secondary outcomes were Visual Analog Scale for Pain, varus stress test, and varus knee thrust during gait. RESULTS: 19 knees (19 participants) were included in the study. The mean follow-up was 4.2 years. There were no cases of infection or reoperation due to instability. Two participants (10.5%) had mild or moderate knee pain (VAS pain = 4.6 ± 1.9). Two arthroplasties (10.5%) had mild varus stress. No participant presented varus thrust. CONCLUSION: Sliding osteotomy of the lateral epicondyle allows fast and safe ligament balance of knee valgus deformities. Level of Evidence I, Case series.

Avaliar a eficácia e a segurança da osteotomia de deslizamento do epicôndilo lateral na correção da deformidade em valgo rígida na artroplastia de joelho. Métodos: Estudo retrospectivo de pacientes submetidos à artroplastia total do joelho com osteotomia de deslizamento do epicôndilo lateral entre 2006 e 2018. O principal desfecho foi a incidência de complicações e eventos adversos. Os desfechos secundários foram escala visual analógica para dor, teste de estresse em varo e flambagem em varo do joelho durante a marcha. Resultados: Foram incluídos no estudo 19 joelhos (19 participantes). O seguimento médio foi de 4,2 anos. Não houve nenhum caso de infecção ou reoperação devido à instabilidade. Dois participantes (10,5%) apresentaram algum tipo de dor leve ou moderada no joelho (EVA = 4,6 ± 1,9). Duas artroplastias (10,5%) apresentaram estresse em varo leve. Nenhum participante apresentou flambagem em varo. Conclusão: A osteotomia de deslizamento do epicôndilo lateral possibilitou o balanço ligamentar das deformidades em valgo do joelho de forma rápida e segura. Nível de Evidência IV, Série de Casos.

Metastatic organotropism: a brief overview.

Organotropism has been known since 1889, yet this vital component of metastasis has predominantly stayed elusive. This mini-review gives an overview of the current understanding of the underlying mechanisms of organotropism and metastases development by focusing on the formation of the pre-metastatic niche, immune defenses against metastases, and genomic alterations associated with organotropism. The particular case of brain metastases is also addressed, as well as the impact of organotropism in cancer therapy. The limited comprehension of the factors behind organotropism underscores the necessity for efficient strategies and treatments to manage metastases.

Association of Lateral Pelvic Lymph Nodes with Disease Recurrence and Organ Preservation in Patients with Distal Rectal Adenocarcinoma Treated with Total Neoadjuvant Therapy.

OBJECTIVE: Assess the significance of enlarged lateral lymph nodes (LLN) for disease recurrence, metastasis, and organ preservation in patients with rectal cancer. BACKGROUND: Optimal treatment of rectal adenocarcinoma involving LLN is subject to debate. METHODS: A post hoc analysis of the OPRA trial, a multicenter study of patients with rectal cancer treated with total neoadjuvant therapy (TNT) followed by total mesorectal excision or watch-and-wait management. We analyzed the association of visible LLN (LLN+), LLN≥7 mm (short axis) on baseline MRI, and LLN≥4 mm on restaging MRI with recurrence, metastasis, and rectum preservation. RESULTS: At baseline, 57 out of 324 (18%) patients had LLN+. In 30 (53%) of 57 patients with LLN+ on baseline MRI, the LLN disappeared after TNT. Disease recurrence in LLN was rare (3.5% of patients with LLN+ and 0.4% of patients with LLN-). All patients with recurrence in LLN also had distant metastasis. The rate of organ preservation was significantly lower in patients with LLN≥4 mm on restaging MRI (P=0.013). We found no significant differences in rates of local recurrence or metastasis between patients with LLN+ vs. LLN- and in patients with LLN≥7 vs.<7 mm on baseline MRI. LLN dissection was performed in 3 patients; 2 of them died of distant metastasis. CONCLUSIONS: LLN involvement is not associated with disease recurrence or metastasis, but persistence of LLN≥4 mm after TNT is negatively associated with rectum preservation in patients with locally advanced rectal cancer treated with TNT. Dissection of lateral nodes likely benefits few patients.

Challenges of Implementing a Human Multi-Tissue Bank in a Public Hospital in the Interior of São Paulo: Under the Light of the Quality Management System.

BACKGROUND: Human multi-tissue banks (HMTB) are important health institutions specialized in the capture, processing, and distribution of human tissues for transplants and research, aiming for safety and quality in the supply of their products, intended for reconstructive surgeries and injury repair, in addition to contributing to the advancement of research developed in regenerative medicine. This study aims to report and share the experience of implementing an HMTB, as well as creating an institution's own quality management system. METHODS: This is a descriptive study, an experience report type, which identifies historical aspects of an HMTB's actions in the 5 years of implementing and operating the service. RESULTS: Initially, a musculoskeletal tissue bank was established in collaboration with the Department of Orthopedics at the State University of Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil, in June 2018. In 2023, through a management model and associated technologies, the banks of human musculoskeletal and ocular tissues at the institution established the HC-UNICAMP Human Multi-tissue Bank. CONCLUSIONS: The implementation of the HMTB with modern and technological infrastructure, associated with the development and operation of the quality management system, allowed us to provide excellent organization of work processes, as well as obtain the necessary health license to begin activities. It is believed that this report can be an important source of information and recommendations applicable to the implementation of other human HMTBs.

Evidence of SARS-CoV-2 infection and co-infections in stray cats in Brazil.

The zoonotic virus SARS-CoV-2, which causes severe acute respiratory syndrome in humans (COVID-19), has been identified in cats. Notably, most positive cases were in cats that had close contact with infected humans, suggesting a role for humans in animal transmission routes. Previous studies have suggested that animals with immune depletion are more susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 infection. To date, there is limited evidence of SARS-CoV-2 infections in stray and free-range cats affected by other pathogens. In this study, we investigated infections caused by SARS-CoV-2, Leishmania spp., Toxoplasma gondii, Mycoplasma spp., Bartonella spp., Feline leukemia virus (FeLV), and Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) in stray cats from an urban park in Brazil during the COVID-19 pandemic. From February to September 2021, 78 mixed-breed cats were tested for SARS-CoV-2 and hemopathogens using molecular analysis at Américo Renné Giannetti Municipal Park, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to detect IgG in T. gondii. None of the animals in this study showed any clinical signs of infections. The SARS-CoV-2 virus RNA was detected in 7.7 % of cats, and a whole virus genome sequence analysis revealed the SARS-CoV-2 Delta lineage (B.1.617.2). Phylogenetic analysis showed that SARS-CoV-2 isolated from cats was grouped into the sublineage AY.99.2, which matches the epidemiological scenario of COVID-19 in the urban area of our study. Leishmania infantum was detected and sequenced in 9 % of cats. The seroprevalence of T. gondii was 23.1 %. Hemotropic Mycoplasma spp. was detected in 7.7 % of the cats, with Mycoplasma haemofelis and Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum being the most common. Bartonella henselae and Bartonella clarridgeiae were detected in 38.5 % of the cats, FeLV was detected in 17,9 %, and none of the cats studied tested positive for FIV. This study reports, for the first time, the SARS-CoV-2 infection with whole-genome sequencing in stray cats in southeastern Brazil and co-infection with other pathogens, including Bartonella spp. and Feline leukemia virus. Our study observed no correlation between SARS-CoV-2 and the other detected pathogens. Our results emphasize the importance of monitoring SARS-CoV-2 in stray cats to characterize their epidemiological role in SARS-CoV-2 infection and reinforce the importance of zoonotic disease surveillance.

Lateral epicondyle sliding osteotomy in knee arthroplasties with valgus deformity / Osteotomia de deslizamento do epicôndilo lateral nas artroplastias de joelho com deformidade em valgo

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of sliding osteotomy of the lateral epicondyle in correcting rigid valgus deformity in knee arthroplasty. Methods: A retrospective study of patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty with lateral epicondyle sliding osteotomy between 2006 and 2018. The main outcome was the incidence of complications and adverse events. Secondary outcomes were Visual Analog Scale for Pain, varus stress test, and varus knee thrust during gait. Results: 19 knees (19 participants) were included in the study. The mean follow-up was 4.2 years. There were no cases of infection or reoperation due to instability. Two participants (10.5%) had mild or moderate knee pain (VAS pain = 4.6 ± 1.9). Two arthroplasties (10.5%) had mild varus stress. No participant presented varus thrust. Conclusion: Sliding osteotomy of the lateral epicondyle allows fast and safe ligament balance of knee valgus deformities. Level of Evidence I, Case series.

RESUMO Avaliar a eficácia e a segurança da osteotomia de deslizamento do epicôndilo lateral na correção da deformidade em valgo rígida na artroplastia de joelho. Métodos: Estudo retrospectivo de pacientes submetidos à artroplastia total do joelho com osteotomia de deslizamento do epicôndilo lateral entre 2006 e 2018. O principal desfecho foi a incidência de complicações e eventos adversos. Os desfechos secundários foram escala visual analógica para dor, teste de estresse em varo e flambagem em varo do joelho durante a marcha. Resultados: Foram incluídos no estudo 19 joelhos (19 participantes). O seguimento médio foi de 4,2 anos. Não houve nenhum caso de infecção ou reoperação devido à instabilidade. Dois participantes (10,5%) apresentaram algum tipo de dor leve ou moderada no joelho (EVA = 4,6 ± 1,9). Duas artroplastias (10,5%) apresentaram estresse em varo leve. Nenhum participante apresentou flambagem em varo. Conclusão: A osteotomia de deslizamento do epicôndilo lateral possibilitou o balanço ligamentar das deformidades em valgo do joelho de forma rápida e segura. Nível de Evidência IV, Série de Casos.

CT Imaging Assessment of Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma Resectability after Neoadjuvant Therapy: Current Status and Perspective on the Use of Radiomics.

Pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is the most common pancreatic cancer and is associated with poor prognosis, a high mortality rate, and a substantial number of healthy life years lost. Surgical resection is the primary treatment option for patients with resectable disease; however, only 10-20% of all patients with PDAC are eligible for resection at the time of diagnosis. In this context, neoadjuvant therapy has the potential to increase the number of patients who are eligible for resection, thereby improving the overall survival rate. For patients who undergo neoadjuvant therapy, computed tomography (CT) remains the primary imaging tool for assessing treatment response. Nevertheless, the interpretation of imaging findings in this context remains challenging, given the similarity between viable tumor and treatment-related changes following neoadjuvant therapy. In this review, following an overview of the various treatment options for PDAC according to its resectability status, we will describe the key challenges regarding CT-based evaluation of PDAC treatment response following neoadjuvant therapy, as well as summarize the literature on CT-based evaluation of PDAC treatment response, including the use of radiomics. Finally, we will outline key recommendations for the management of PDAC after neoadjuvant therapy, taking into consideration CT-based findings.

Molecular Docking and ADME-TOX Profiling of Moringa oleifera Constituents against SARS-CoV-2.

The SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2019) etiological agent, which has a high contagiousness and is to blame for the outbreak of acute viral pneumonia, is the cause of the respiratory disease COVID-19. The use of natural products grew as an alternative treatment for various diseases due to the abundance of organic molecules with pharmacological properties. Many pharmaceutical studies have focused on investigating compounds with therapeutic potential. Therefore, this study aimed to identify potential antiviral compounds from a popular medicinal plant called Moringa oleifera Lam. against the spike, Mpro, ACE2, and RBD targets of SARS-CoV-2. For this, we use molecular docking to identify the molecules with the greatest affinity for the targets through the orientation of the ligand with the receptor in complex. For the best results, ADME-TOX predictions were performed to evaluate the pharmacokinetic properties of the compounds using the online tool pkCSM. The results demonstrate that among the 61 molecules of M. oleifera, 22 molecules showed promising inhibition results, where the compound ellagic acid showed significant molecular affinity (-9.3 kcal.mol-1) in interaction with the spike protein. These results highlight the relevance of investigating natural compounds from M. oleifera as potential antivirals against SARS-CoV-2; however, additional studies are needed to confirm the antiviral activity of the compounds.

EPIDEMIOLOGY OF POST-TRAUMATIC SPINAL CORD INJURY IN A TERTIARY HOSPITAL.

Objective: to outline the profile of risk groups for spinal cord injury (SCI) at the Hospital de Clinicas de Campinas by an epidemiological survey of 41 patients with SCI. Methods: Data from patients with SCI were collected and analyzed: demographic data, level of neurological injury, visual analogue scale (VAS), and the current American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) impairment scale (AIS), using questionnaires, medical records, and imaging tests. Fisher's exact test was used to assess the relationship between categorical variables, Spearman's correlation coefficient was used for numerical variables, and the Mann-Whitney and Kruskal-Wallis tests were used to analyze the relationship between categorical and numerical variables, with significance level of 5%. Results: There was a prevalence of 82.9% of men, a mean age of 26.5 years, and traffic accidents as the cause of SCI in 56.1% of cases. Conclusion: Results suggest the importance of SCI prevention campaigns directed at this population. Level of Evidence II, Retrospective Study.

Objetivo: Traçar o perfil dos grupos de risco para trauma raquimedular (TRM) do Hospital das Clínicas de Campinas através de levantamento epidemiológico de 41 pacientes vítimas de TRM. Métodos: Foram coletados e analisados dados demográficos, nível da lesão neurológica, escala visual analógica (EVA) e American Spinal Injury Association impairment scale (AIS) atuais, através da aplicação de questionários, análise de prontuários e de exames de imagem. Para avaliar a relação entre as variáveis categóricas foi utilizado o teste exato de Fisher; para as variáveis numéricas foi utilizado o coeficiente de correlação de Spearman; e para a análise da relação entre variáveis categóricas e numéricas foram utilizados os testes de Mann-Whitney e Kruskal-Wallis, adotando nível de significância de 5%. Resultados: Houve prevalência de 82,9% do sexo masculino, média de idade de 26,5 anos e de 56,1% casos de TRM causados por acidente automobilístico. Conclusão: Os resultados sugerem a importância da realização de campanhas de prevenção ao TRM voltadas para essa população. Nível de Evidência II, Estudo Retrospectivo.

Molecular detection and characterization of SARS-CoV-2 in cats and dogs of positive owners during the first COVID-19 wave in Brazil.

Despite previous reports of SARS-CoV-2 infection in dogs and cats worldwide, the type of swab sample used for its detection through RT-qPCR needs to be better compared and described. Accordingly, as part of a multicenter study in Brazil, the aim of the present study was to assess which rectal or oropharyngeal swabs would be more appropriate for detecting SARS-CoV-2 in cats and dogs, through viral load comparison. Pets of owners diagnosed with COVID-19 in the last 7 days were eligible. A total of 148 animals from four of the five Brazilian geographical regions were analyzed, among which 10/48 cats (20.83%) and 11/100 dogs (11.00%) were positive. The results suggested that oropharyngeal swabs should be considered for SARS-CoV-2 detection, particularly in cats, due to the higher cDNA viral load. Also, the genomic results showed similarities between SARS-CoV-2 animal variants and human variants that were circulating at the time of sampling, thus corroborating the existence of zooanthroponotic transmission. In conclusion, the present study highlighted the importance of SARS-CoV-2 monitoring among cats and dogs, as virus modification may indicate the possibility of mutations in animals and spillover back to owners. Thus, positive individuals should always self-isolate from their pets during COVID-19, to prevent trans-species transmission and mutation.

Individual Differences in Females' Adherence to Public Health Measures and Psychopathology Symptoms During a Global Health Crisis: the Role of Triarchic Psychopathic Traits.

The two broad aims of this study were to (a) investigate how the three traits of the triarchic model-boldness, meanness, and disinhibition-relate to compliance with public health measures, as well as to internalizing and externalizing psychopathology, during a public health crisis, and (b) test for associations between psychopathology and compliance with public health measures. Participants were 947 Brazilian adult females aged 18-75 years who completed measures of the triarchic traits, internalizing and externalizing symptoms/problems, and a COVID-19 behaviors and beliefs questionnaire. Multiple regression and path analyses showed meanness to be the only triarchic trait significantly predictive of compliance with public health measures, in a negative direction, when controlling for the other traits. Results also demonstrated that compliance with public health measures was associated with levels of distress (negatively), obsessions/fear (positively), and positive mood (negatively). Overall, the results demonstrate the contributions of the triarchic traits to understanding complex phenomena, highlighting meanness as the most essential triarchic trait predictor of adherence to public health measures among females.

Anemia hemolítica autoinmune después de la infección por Covid 19 / Autoimmune Haemolytic Anaemia After Covid 19 Infection

Since its emergence in Wuhan province in late 2019, SARS-CoV-2 infection has affected more than 520 million people and caused the death of more than 6.2 million individuals. Despite rare, several haematological disorders have been observed and associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection, in particular, autoimmune haemolytic anaemia (AIHA). We present the case of a 71-year-old man with recent SARS-CoV-2 infection, presenting with 5 weeks evolution of asthenia and loss of 10% of body weight. From the initial study, normochromic normocytic anaemia stands out with haptoglobin consumption. Direct Coombs test was positive, with positive direct antiglobulin test for IgG4. The patient was admitted and started corticosteroids therapy with prednisolone 1 mg / kg. Given that the extended etiologic study was negative, covid 19 was assumed to be the trigger of the current clinical picture. During hospitalization, the patient presented a favourable evolution with recovery of haemoglobin value and absence of haemolysis. (AU)

Desde su aparición en la provincia de Wuhan a finales de 2019, la infección por SARS-CoV-2 ha afectado a más de 520 millones de personas y ha causado la muerte de más de 6,2 millones de individuos. A pesar de ser poco frecuentes, se han observado varios trastornos hematológicos asociados a la infección por SARS-CoV-2, en particular la anemia hemolítica autoinmune (AIHA). Presentamos el caso de un varón de 71 años con infección reciente por SARS-CoV-2, que presenta astenia de 5 semanas de evolución y pérdida del 10% del peso corporal. Del estudio inicial destaca anemia normocítica normocrómica con consumo de haptoglobina. El test de Coombs directo fue positivo, con antiglobulina directa positiva para IgG4.El paciente fue ingresado y se inició tratamiento con corticosteroides con prednisolona 1 mg / kg. Dado que el estudio etiológico ampliado fue negativo, se asumió que el covid 19 era el desencadenante del cuadro clínico actual. Durante la hospitalización, el paciente presentó una evolución favorable con recuperación del valor de hemoglobina y ausencia de hemólisis. (AU)

The Role of Radiomics in Rectal Cancer.

PURPOSE: Radiomics is a promising method for advancing imaging assessment in rectal cancer. This review aims to describe the emerging role of radiomics in the imaging assessment of rectal cancer, including various applications of radiomics based on CT, MRI, or PET/CT. METHODS: We conducted a literature review to highlight the progress of radiomic research to date and the challenges that need to be addressed before radiomics can be implemented clinically. RESULTS: The results suggest that radiomics has the potential to provide valuable information for clinical decision-making in rectal cancer. However, there are still challenges in terms of standardization of imaging protocols, feature extraction, and validation of radiomic models. Despite these challenges, radiomics holds great promise for personalized medicine in rectal cancer, with the potential to improve diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment planning. Further research is needed to validate the clinical utility of radiomics and to establish its role in routine clinical practice. CONCLUSION: Overall, radiomics has emerged as a powerful tool for improving the imaging assessment of rectal cancer, and its potential benefits should not be underestimated.

Viscous Microcapsules as Microbioreactors to Study Mesenchymal Stem/Stromal Cells Osteolineage Commitment.

It is essential to design a multifunctional well-controlled platform to transfer mechanical cues to the cells in different magnitudes. This study introduces a platform, a miniaturized bioreactor, which enables to study the effect of shear stress in microsized compartmentalized structures. In this system, the well-established cell encapsulation system of liquefied capsules (LCs) is used as microbioreactors in which the encapsulated cells are exposed to variable core viscosities to experience different mechanical forces under a 3D dynamic culture. The LC technology is joined with electrospraying to produce such microbioreactors at high rates, thus allowing the application of microcapsules for high-throughput screening. Using this platform for osteogenic differentiation as an example, shows that microbioreactors with higher core viscosity which produce higher shear stress lead to significantly higher osteogenic characteristics. Moreover, in this system the forces experienced by cells in each LC are simulated by computational modeling. The maximum wall shear stress applied to the cells inside the bioreactor with low, and high core viscosity environment is estimated to be 297 and 1367 mPa, respectively, for the experimental setup employed. This work outlines the potential of LC microbioreactors as a reliable in vitro customizable platform with a wide range of applications.