Emergencia hipertensiva como debut de síndrome de Cushing paraneoplásico / Hypertensive Emergency as the Debut of Paraneoplastic Cushing Syndrome

Presentamos el caso de un paciente con antecedentes de hipertensión arterial vasculorrenal tratada un año antes, que acude a urgencias por emergencia hipertensiva (HTA) y disnea. Descartada primera sospecha de reestenosis de arteria renal con angiografía por tomografía computarizada (angioTC), se completa el estudio confirmándose diagnóstico de cáncer de pulmón mediante prueba de imagen y anatomía patológica. En el estudio de hipertensión se detecta elevación de hormona adrenocorticótropa (ACTH), hipercortisolismo y datos analíticos de hiperaldosteronismo. Con el diagnóstico final de síndrome de Cushing secundario a producción ectópica de ACTH se inicia tratamiento médico, sin llegar a recibir nada más por fallecimiento del paciente a los pocos días.(AU)

We present the case of a patient with a history of renal-vascular hypertension treated with stent one year previously, who attended the emergency room due to hypertensive emergency and dyspnea. Once the first suspicion of renal artery restenosis was ruled out with CT angiography, the study was completed, confirming the diagnosis of lung cancer through imaging and pathological anatomy. In the hormonal study, elevation of ACTH, hypercortisolism and analytical data of hyperaldosteronism were detected. With the final diagnosis of Cushing's syndrome secondary to ectopic production of ACTH, medical treatment was started, without being able to receive anything else due to the death of the patient after a few days.(AU)

Uric acid and acute kidney injury in high-risk patients for developing acute kidney injury undergoing cardiac surgery: A prospective multicenter study.

PURPOSE: It is unclear whether preoperative serum uric acid (SUA) elevation may play a role in the development of acute kidney injury (AKI) associated with cardiac surgery (CSA-AKI). We conducted a cohort study to evaluate the influence of preoperative hyperuricemia on AKI in patients at high risk for developing SC-AKI. DESIGN: Multicenter prospective international cohort study. SETTING: Fourteen university hospitals in Spain and the United Kingdom. PARTICIPANTS: We studied 261 consecutive patients at high risk of developing CSA-AKI, according to a Cleveland score ≥ 4 points, from July to December 2017. INTERVENTIONS: None. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: AKIN criteria were used for the definition of AKI. Multivariable logistic regression models and propensity score-matched pairwise analysis were used to determine the adjusted association between preoperative hyperuricemia (≥7 mg/dL) and AKI. Elevated preoperative AUS (≥7 mg/dL) was present in 190 patients (72.8%), whereas CSA-AKI occurred in 145 patients (55.5%). In multivariable logistic regression models, hyperuricemia was not associated with a significantly increased risk of AKI (adjusted Odds Ratio [OR]: 1.58; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.81-3; P = .17). In propensity score-matched analysis of 140 patients, the hyperuricemia group experienced similar adjusted odds of AKI (OR 1.05, 95%CI 0.93-1.19, P = .37). CONCLUSIONS: Hyperuricemia was not associated with an increased risk of AKI in this cohort of patients undergoing cardiac surgery at high risk of developing CSA-AKI.

Recombinant ADAMTS13 in Congenital Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura.

BACKGROUND: Congenital thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) results from severe hereditary deficiency of ADAMTS13. The efficacy and safety of recombinant ADAMTS13 and standard therapy (plasma-derived products) administered as routine prophylaxis or on-demand treatment in patients with congenital TTP is not known. METHODS: In this phase 3, open-label, crossover trial, we randomly assigned patients in a 1:1 ratio to two 6-month periods of prophylaxis with recombinant ADAMTS13 (40 IU per kilogram of body weight, administered intravenously) or standard therapy, followed by the alternate treatment; thereafter, all the patients received recombinant ADAMTS13 for an additional 6 months. The trigger for this interim analysis was trial completion by at least 30 patients. The primary outcome was acute TTP events. Manifestations of TTP, safety, and pharmacokinetics were assessed. Patients who had an acute TTP event could receive on-demand treatment. RESULTS: A total of 48 patients underwent randomization; 32 completed the trial. No acute TTP event occurred during prophylaxis with recombinant ADAMTS13, whereas 1 patient had an acute TTP event during prophylaxis with standard therapy (mean annualized event rate, 0.05). Thrombocytopenia was the most frequent TTP manifestation (annualized event rate, 0.74 with recombinant ADAMTS13 and 1.73 with standard therapy). Adverse events occurred in 71% of the patients with recombinant ADAMTS13 and in 84% with standard therapy. Adverse events that were considered by investigators to be related to the trial drug occurred in 9% of the patients with recombinant ADAMTS13 and in 48% with standard therapy. Trial-drug interruption or discontinuation due to adverse events occurred in no patients with recombinant ADAMTS13 and in 8 patients with standard therapy. No neutralizing antibodies developed during recombinant ADAMTS13 treatment. The mean maximum ADAMTS13 activity after recombinant ADAMTS13 treatment was 101%, as compared with 19% after standard therapy. CONCLUSIONS: During prophylaxis with recombinant ADAMTS13 in patients with congenital TTP, ADAMTS13 activity reached approximately 100% of normal levels, adverse events were generally mild or moderate in severity, and TTP events and manifestations were rare. (Funded by Takeda Development Center Americas and Baxalta Innovations; ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT03393975.).

The association between gender identity fluidity and health outcomes in transgender and gender diverse people in New Orleans and Los Angeles, USA.

Objectives: Most studies with transgender and gender diverse people (TGD) examine gender identity cross-sectionally. Gender identity and expression can fluctuate over time, which may have implications for health. The goal of our study was to compare mental health, substance use and healthcare utilization among 163 gender identity fluid (1 + identity change) and gender identity consistent (no change) TGD. Methods: Participants were recruited in New Orleans, LA and Los Angeles, CA and assessed at four-month intervals over 24 months between 2017 and 2021. We conducted logistic regression models to test for associations between gender identity fluidity and health outcomes at 24 months. In post hoc analyses, we explore how controlling for cross-sectional report of gender identity at 24 months may impact the association between gender identity fluidity and health outcomes. Results: We saw no significant differences across mental health and substance use indicators. Gender identity fluid participants had 5.9 times the adjusted odds (95 % Confidence Interval (CI): 1.9-18.4) of no recent healthcare visit compared to gender identity consistent participants. After controlling for cross-sectional report of gender identity, the association between gender identity fluidity and no recent healthcare visit remained significant (aOR = 4.6; 95 % CI: 1.4-14.8). Conclusions: Because providers have limited experience providing gender-affirming care or treating patients with fluid gender identities, gender identity fluid patients may avoid healthcare more than gender identity consistent patients. Our preliminary study highlights the need to measure gender identity longitudinally and examine the relationship between gender identity fluidity and health.

Tribulus terrestris and Sport Performance: A Quantitative and Qualitative Evaluation of Its Advertisement and Availability via Online Shopping in Six Different Countries.

Dietary supplements are commonly used among athletes, and the Internet may be an easy source of these products. Tribulus terrestris is an herbal supplement with multiple properties. Of interest to athletes are reports that its consumption can lead to muscle mass gain and a faster recovery process. The objective of this cross-sectional study was to determine the availability of Tribulus terrestris via the Internet in six countries (Canada, Puerto Rico, Russia, Spain, Ukraine, and the United States of America) via a specifically designed computer program. The characteristics of the websites selling this substance, the country from which it can be purchased, the route of administration, and recommendations for its use were analyzed. The results of the study show that this supplement is marketed mainly in Russia, Ukraine, and Spain on many websites that are mostly dedicated to sports products. Just over half of the webpages (59.14%) identified only distribute this supplement within the same country. The main claims for its consumption refer to sports performance benefits, but there are also claims that it may improve male hormone levels and sexual function. Athletes should be encouraged to seek professional advice prior to ingesting this supplement to ensure that it is suitable for their specific training and sports objectives.

Leiomioma orbitario gigante en un paciente pediátrico: reto diagnóstico y terapéutico / Giant orbital leiomyoma in a pediatric patient: Diagnostic and therapeutic challenge

Este manuscrito presenta un caso de un leiomioma orbitario de larga evolución en un joven de 14años. El tumor era inusualmente grande y causaba una proptosis severa y una afectación importante de la musculatura ocular. El paciente presentaba amaurosis, una oftalmoplejía completa, dolor ocular espontáneo e incapacidad para cerrar los párpados. Debido al tamaño del tumor y a su progresión, se realizó una exenteración orbitaria derecha para eliminar todo el contenido orbitario, incluyendo el tumor y el globo ocular. El procedimiento quirúrgico tenía como objetivo prevenir la recurrencia del tumor y mejorar la calidad de vida del paciente. El análisis histopatológico confirmó el diagnóstico de leiomioma orbitario. Este caso presenta un interés particular por el grado de evolución que ha alcanzado. La extirpación completa del tumor y un seguimiento a largo plazo son necesarios para prevenir la recurrencia y garantizar resultados óptimos para el paciente. Además, este caso refleja las grandes diferencias en el acceso a la sanidad en las diferentes regiones del mundo. (AU)

This manuscript describes an exceptional case of a long-standing orbital leiomyoma in a 14-year-old male. The tumor was unusually large, causing severe proptosis and significant involvement of the ocular muscles. The patient presented with amaurosis, complete ophthalmoplegia, spontaneous eye pain, and the inability to close the eyelids, leading to psychological distress. Due to the tumor's size and progression, a right orbital exenteration was performed to remove all orbital contents, including the tumor and the eyeball. The surgical procedure aimed to prevent tumor recurrence and improve the patient's quality of life. The histopathological analysis confirmed the diagnosis of orbital leiomyoma. This case presents a particular interest due to the degree of evolution it has reached. Complete tumor excision and long-term follow-up are necessary to prevent recurrence and ensure optimal patient outcomes. This report underscores global healthcare disparities and the complexity of managing rare orbital neoplasms in diverse country settings. (AU)

Prevalencia de la enfermedad pulmonar esclerodermia-intersticial limitada frente a la extensa en el momento del diagnóstico de SSc-EPID según los criterios de Goh et al. Revisión sistemática y metaanálisis / Prevalence of the limited vs. extensive scleroderma-related interstitial lung disease at the time of diagnosis of SSc-ILD based on Goh et al. criteria. Systematic review and meta-analysis

Introducción: Goh et al. propusieron en 2008 un algoritmo clasificatorio de SSc-EPID limitada o extensa. La prevalencia de ambos en el momento del diagnóstico de SSc-EPID no se conoce con exactitud. Métodos: La revisión se realizó mediante MEDLINE y SCOPUS desde 2008 hasta 2023 y utilizando los términos: «sistémica», «esclerodermia» o «enfermedad pulmonar intersticial» [MesH]. Se utilizó la escala de Newcastle-Ottawa para la evaluación de la calificación de los estudios observacionales y la escala de Jadad para los ensayos clínicos. Se realizó el método inverso ponderado por la varianza. Resultados: Se incluyeron inicialmente 27 estudios en la revisión sistemática y metaanálisis (SRMA). De ellos, 17 estudios no tenían datos coincidentes. Comunicaron datos de 2.149 pacientes, 1.369 (81,2%) eran mujeres. La edad media era de 52,4 (DE 6,6) años. El 45,2% de los pacientes presentaban el subtipo difuso y el 54,8% el subtipo limitado o esclerodermia sinusal. El 38,7% de los pacientes presentaban anticuerpos antitopoisomerasa positivos y el 14,2% anticuerpos anticentrómero positivos. El porcentaje medio de capacidad vital forzada al inicio del estudio fue del 80,5% (DE 6,9) y de capacidad de difusión pulmonar para el monóxido de carbono fue del 59,1% (DE 9,6). Doce estudios presentaron datos de extensión de SSc-EPID ajustados por PFR y se incluyeron en el metaanálisis. Los 10 estudios observacionales de cohortes se analizaron por separado. El porcentaje global de afectación limitada se estimó en un 63,5% (IC del 95%: 55,3-73; p<0,001) utilizando el modelo de efectos aleatorios. La heterogeneidad entre estudios (I2) fue del 9,8% (IC del 95%: 0-68,2%). La afectación pulmonar extensa se estimó en 34,3% (IC del 95%: 26-45,4; p<0,001). La heterogeneidad entre estudios (I2) fue del 0% (IC del 95%: 0-61,6%) con el modelo de efectos aleatorios.(AU)

Introduction: Goh et al. proposed in 2008 a classificatory algorithm of limited or extensive SSc-ILD. The prevalence of both at the time of diagnosis of SSc-ILD is not known with exactitude. Methods: The review was undertaken by means of MEDLINE and SCOPUS from 2008 to 2023 and using the terms: “systemic”, “scleroderma” or “interstitial lung disease” [MesH]. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale was used for the qualifying assessment for observational studies and the Jadad scale for clinical trials. The inverse variance-weighted method was performed. Results: Twenty-seven studies were initially included in the systematic review and meta-analysis (SRMA). Of these, 17 studies had no overlapping data. They reported data from 2,149 patients, 1,369 (81.2%) were female. The mean age was 52.4 (SD 6.6) years. 45.2% of the patients had the diffuse subtype and 54.8% had the limited or sine scleroderma subtype. A total of 38.7% of the patients showed positive antitopoisomerase antibodies and 14.2% positive anticentromere antibodies. The mean percentage of forced vital capacity at baseline was 80.5% (SD 6.9) and of diffusing capacity of the lungs for carbon monoxide was 59.1% (SD 9.6). Twelve studies presented SSc-ILD extension data adjusted for PFTs and were included in the meta-analysis. The 10 observational cohort studies were analyzed separately. The overall percentage of limited extension was estimated at 63.5% (95%CI 55.3–73; p<0.001) using the random-effects model. Heterogeneity between studies (I2) was 9.8% (95%CI 0–68.2%) with the random-effects model. Extensive pulmonary involvement was estimated at 34.3% (95%CI 26–45.4; p<0.001). Heterogeneity between studies (I2) was 0% (95%CI 0–61.6%) with the random-effects model. Conclusion: The overall percentage of limited SSc-ILD at the time of diagnosis of SSc-ILD was estimated at 63.5% and extensive at 34.3%.(AU)

Psycho-emotional intervention with parents of very preterm babies during the first year: A single-arm pilot study.

Studies of intervention programs that aim to improve the emotional state of parents of children admitted to the neonatal intensive care units (NICU) are scarce in Spain. The aims of this single-arm pilot study are to get to know the emotional profile of parents of high-risk preterm newborns, and to explore parents' patterns of emotional well-being before and after a psychological program called the Parental Empowerment Program, to increase parental readiness levels. The sample was made up of 100 parents (50 couples) who participated in the program. Measurements were taken of post-traumatic stress, depression, and resilience at 1 month and 12 months. Repeated measurements and dyadic data analyses were performed. One month after the birth of the baby and prior to the start of the program, mothers show more symptoms of stress and depression than fathers. After the intervention, both parents experienced improvements in their mood levels. The evidence obtained seems to show that high resilience levels and low post-traumatic stress symptoms are associated with reduced depression levels after implementing the program. However, the heterogeneity of the responses obtained, the observed associations between stress, resilience, and maternal depression, along with the reciprocal influence between maternal and paternal depression 1 year after the intervention, highlight the need for a more in-depth exploration of the interplay between risk and protective factors in this population. Despite the identified potential threats to validity, further work in this direction is recommended, including the implementation of clinical trials to demonstrate intervention efficacy. The adaptation of the parents' mutual emotional adjustment at each stage would allow them to participate more actively in the baby's care.

Role of compliance in Helicobacter pylori eradication treatment: Results of the European Registry on H. pylori management.

BACKGROUND: Adherence to Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) eradication treatment is a cornerstone for achieving adequate treatment efficacy. OBJECTIVE: To determine which factors influence compliance with treatment. METHODS: A systematic prospective non-interventional registry (Hp-EuReg) of the clinical practice of European gastroenterologists. Compliance was considered adequate if ≥90% drug intake. Data were collected until September 2021 using the AEG-REDCap e-CRF and were subjected to quality control. Modified intention-to-treat analyses were performed. Multivariate analysis carried out the factors associated with the effectiveness of treatment and compliance. RESULTS: Compliance was inadequate in 646 (1.7%) of 38,698 patients. The non-compliance rate was higher in patients prescribed longer regimens (10-, 14-days) and rescue treatments, patients with uninvestigated dyspepsia/functional dyspepsia, and patients reporting adverse effects. Prevalence of non-adherence was lower for first-line treatment than for rescue treatment (1.5% vs. 2.2%; p < 0.001). Differences in non-adherence in the three most frequent first-line treatments were shown: 1.1% with proton pump inhibitor + clarithromycin + amoxicillin; 2.3% with proton pump inhibitor clarithromycin amoxicillin metronidazole; and 1.8% with bismuth quadruple therapy. These treatments were significantly more effective in compliant than in non-compliant patients: 86% versus 44%, 90% versus 71%, and 93% versus 64%, respectively (p < 0.001). In the multivariate analysis, the variable most significantly associated with higher effectiveness was adequate compliance (odds ratio, 6.3 [95%CI, 5.2-7.7]; p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Compliance with Helicobacter pylori eradication treatment is very good. Factors associated with poor compliance include uninvestigated/functional dyspepsia, rescue-treatment, prolonged treatment regimens, the presence of adverse events, and the use of non-bismuth sequential and concomitant treatment. Adequate treatment compliance was the variable most closely associated with successful eradication.

Making an accurate diagnosis of anterior mediastinal lesions: a proposal for a new diagnostic algorithm from the BTOG Thymic Malignancies Special Interest Group.

Due to the rising demand in cross-sectional thoracic imaging, anterior mediastinal lesions are being identified with increasing frequency. Following iterative and multidisciplinary discussions, the BTOG Thymic Malignancies Special Interest Group have developed an algorithm to standardise the diagnostic approach for these relatively uncommon but important conditions which span from benign (thymic remnant, thymic hyperplasia and thymic cysts) to suspected localised thymomas to suspected more aggressive malignancy (thymic carcinoma, lymphoma and germ cell tumours). For each condition, we provide a brief description, an overview of the key radiological findings and a description of the proposed algorithm including the rationale behind the recommendations. We also highlight the role of magnetic resonance (MR) imaging for the characterisation of anterior mediastinal masses in specific indications when the necessary local resources and expertise exist. In addition, we hope this provides the rationale for service development in MR of the anterior mediastinum where current resource and expertise requires development. Through this standardised pathway, we hope to drive improvements in patient care by rationalising surveillance schedules, avoiding unnecessary resections of benign entities with their associated morbidity and optimising the diagnostic work-up prior to the appropriate treatment of anterior mediastinal malignancies.

Comparative MRI analysis of the forebrain of three sauropsida models.

The study of the brain by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) allows to obtain detailed anatomical images, useful to describe specific encephalic structures and to analyze possible variabilities. It is widely used in clinical practice and is becoming increasingly used in veterinary medicine, even in exotic animals; however, despite its potential, its use in comparative neuroanatomy studies is still incipient. It is a technology that in recent years has significantly improved anatomical resolution, together with the fact that it is non-invasive and allows for systematic comparative analysis. All this makes it particularly interesting and useful in evolutionary neuroscience studies, since it allows for the analysis and comparison of brains of rare or otherwise inaccessible species. In the present study, we have analyzed the prosencephalon of three representative sauropsid species, the turtle Trachemys scripta (order Testudine), the lizard Pogona vitticeps (order Squamata) and the snake Python regius (order Squamata) by MRI. In addition, we used MRI sections to analyze the total brain volume and ventricular system of these species, employing volumetric and chemometric analyses together. The raw MRI data of the sauropsida models analyzed in the present study are available for viewing and downloading and have allowed us to produce an atlas of the forebrain of each of the species analyzed, with the main brain regions. In addition, our volumetric data showed that the three groups presented clear differences in terms of total and ventricular brain volumes, particularly the turtles, which in all cases presented distinctive characteristics compared to the lizards and snakes.

Predicting the Length of Mechanical Ventilation in Acute Respiratory Disease Syndrome Using Machine Learning: The PIONEER Study.

Background: The ability to predict a long duration of mechanical ventilation (MV) by clinicians is very limited. We assessed the value of machine learning (ML) for early prediction of the duration of MV > 14 days in patients with moderate-to-severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Methods: This is a development, testing, and external validation study using data from 1173 patients on MV ≥ 3 days with moderate-to-severe ARDS. We first developed and tested prediction models in 920 ARDS patients using relevant features captured at the time of moderate/severe ARDS diagnosis, at 24 h and 72 h after diagnosis with logistic regression, and Multilayer Perceptron, Support Vector Machine, and Random Forest ML techniques. For external validation, we used an independent cohort of 253 patients on MV ≥ 3 days with moderate/severe ARDS. Results: A total of 441 patients (48%) from the derivation cohort (n = 920) and 100 patients (40%) from the validation cohort (n = 253) were mechanically ventilated for >14 days [median 14 days (IQR 8-25) vs. 13 days (IQR 7-21), respectively]. The best early prediction model was obtained with data collected at 72 h after moderate/severe ARDS diagnosis. Multilayer Perceptron risk modeling identified major prognostic factors for the duration of MV > 14 days, including PaO2/FiO2, PaCO2, pH, and positive end-expiratory pressure. Predictions of the duration of MV > 14 days showed modest discrimination [AUC 0.71 (95%CI 0.65-0.76)]. Conclusions: Prolonged MV duration in moderate/severe ARDS patients remains difficult to predict early even with ML techniques such as Multilayer Perceptron and using data at 72 h of diagnosis. More research is needed to identify markers for predicting the length of MV. This study was registered on 14 August 2023 at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT NCT05993377).

[Hypertensive Emergency as the Debut of Paraneoplastic Cushing Syndrome]. / Emergencia hipertensiva como debut de síndrome de Cushing paraneoplásico.

We present the case of a patient with a history of renal-vascular hypertension treated with stent one year previously, who attended the emergency room due to hypertensive emergency and dyspnea. Once the first suspicion of renal artery restenosis was ruled out with CT angiography, the study was completed, confirming the diagnosis of lung cancer through imaging and pathological anatomy. In the hormonal study, elevation of ACTH, hypercortisolism and analytical data of hyperaldosteronism were detected. With the final diagnosis of Cushing's syndrome secondary to ectopic production of ACTH, medical treatment was started, without being able to receive anything else due to the death of the patient after a few days.

Validación de la escala Short FES-I en población española mayor de 70 años / Validation of the short FES-I scale in Spanish population over 70 years

Introducción Las caídas deterioran la calidad de vida de los ancianos y el miedo a estas ha demostrado ser un factor de riesgo independiente para fragilidad, por lo que es prioritario disponer de herramientas para su evaluación. La escala ShortFalls Efficacy Scale-International (FES)-I, versión corta (siete ítems) de la escala FES-I (16 ítems), evalúa el miedo a caer (MC). El objetivo de este estudio es validar la escala Short FES-I en población española mayor de 70 años y analizar la relación entre el miedo a las caídas, el riesgo de las mismas y la fragilidad. Material y métodos Se trata de un estudio observacional transversal. La muestra consistió en 227 sujetos (50,7% varones; edad media 75,8 años). La ubicación fue en el norte de España. Las variables empleadas fueron sociodemográficas, clínicas, pruebas de ejecución Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) y Timed Up and Go Test (TUG), FES-I y Short FES-I. Se analizaron las propiedades psicométricas: validez y fiabilidad. Resultados La escala Short FES-I muestra excelentes consistencia interna (alfa de Cronbach = 0,90, coeficiente correlación intraclase = 0,89) y reproducibilidad test-retest (Rho Spearman = 0,76). Tiene una elevada validez de criterio concomitante analizada por su correlación con FES-I (Rho Spearman = 0,90). La validez de constructo discriminante ha sido confirmada tanto para SPPB como TUG. Short FES-I presenta buena capacidad de clasificación de fragilidad (definida por SPPB) con área bajo la curva [AUC] = 0,715; como punto de corte se propone un valor Short FES-I>8 para miedo moderado/alto de caídas. Conclusiones La escala Short FES-I es un buen instrumento para estudiar el miedo a las caídas en población española mayor de 70 años y es válida para su uso clínico y en investigación. (AU)

Introduction Falls deteriorate the quality of life of the elderly and the fear of falling has been shown to be an independent risk factor for frailty, so having tools for its evaluation is a priority. The short FES-I scale, short version (7 items) of the FES-I scale (16 items), assesses fear of falling. The objective of this study is to validate the short FES-I scale in the Spanish population over 70 years and to analyze the relationship between fear of falling, risk of falls and frailty. Material and methods Cross-sectional observational study. Sample: 227 subjects (50.7% male; mean age 75.8 years). Setting: northern Spain. Variables: sociodemographic, clinical, short physical performance battery (SPPB) and timed up and go test (TUG) execution tests, FES-I and short FES-I. Analysis of psychometric properties: validity and reliability. Results The short FES-I scale shows excellent internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha = 0.90, intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.89) and test–retest reliability (rho Spearman = 0.76). It has a high concomitant criterion validity analyzed by its correlation with FES-I (rho Spearman = 0.90). The discriminant construct validity has been confirmed for both SPPB and TUG. Short FES-I presents good capacity for frailty classification (defined by SPPB) with AUC = 0.715. As a cut-off point, a short FES-I value > 8 is proposed for moderate/high fear of falling. Conclusions The short FES-I scale is a good instrument to study fear of falling in the Spanish population over 70 years and is valid for clinical and research use. (AU)

Validación de la escala Short FES-I en población española mayor de 70 años / Validation of the short FES-I scale in Spanish population over 70 years

Introducción Las caídas deterioran la calidad de vida de los ancianos y el miedo a estas ha demostrado ser un factor de riesgo independiente para fragilidad, por lo que es prioritario disponer de herramientas para su evaluación. La escala ShortFalls Efficacy Scale-International (FES)-I, versión corta (siete ítems) de la escala FES-I (16 ítems), evalúa el miedo a caer (MC). El objetivo de este estudio es validar la escala Short FES-I en población española mayor de 70 años y analizar la relación entre el miedo a las caídas, el riesgo de las mismas y la fragilidad. Material y métodos Se trata de un estudio observacional transversal. La muestra consistió en 227 sujetos (50,7% varones; edad media 75,8 años). La ubicación fue en el norte de España. Las variables empleadas fueron sociodemográficas, clínicas, pruebas de ejecución Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) y Timed Up and Go Test (TUG), FES-I y Short FES-I. Se analizaron las propiedades psicométricas: validez y fiabilidad. Resultados La escala Short FES-I muestra excelentes consistencia interna (alfa de Cronbach = 0,90, coeficiente correlación intraclase = 0,89) y reproducibilidad test-retest (Rho Spearman = 0,76). Tiene una elevada validez de criterio concomitante analizada por su correlación con FES-I (Rho Spearman = 0,90). La validez de constructo discriminante ha sido confirmada tanto para SPPB como TUG. Short FES-I presenta buena capacidad de clasificación de fragilidad (definida por SPPB) con área bajo la curva [AUC] = 0,715; como punto de corte se propone un valor Short FES-I>8 para miedo moderado/alto de caídas. Conclusiones La escala Short FES-I es un buen instrumento para estudiar el miedo a las caídas en población española mayor de 70 años y es válida para su uso clínico y en investigación. (AU)

Introduction Falls deteriorate the quality of life of the elderly and the fear of falling has been shown to be an independent risk factor for frailty, so having tools for its evaluation is a priority. The short FES-I scale, short version (7 items) of the FES-I scale (16 items), assesses fear of falling. The objective of this study is to validate the short FES-I scale in the Spanish population over 70 years and to analyze the relationship between fear of falling, risk of falls and frailty. Material and methods Cross-sectional observational study. Sample: 227 subjects (50.7% male; mean age 75.8 years). Setting: northern Spain. Variables: sociodemographic, clinical, short physical performance battery (SPPB) and timed up and go test (TUG) execution tests, FES-I and short FES-I. Analysis of psychometric properties: validity and reliability. Results The short FES-I scale shows excellent internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha = 0.90, intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.89) and test–retest reliability (rho Spearman = 0.76). It has a high concomitant criterion validity analyzed by its correlation with FES-I (rho Spearman = 0.90). The discriminant construct validity has been confirmed for both SPPB and TUG. Short FES-I presents good capacity for frailty classification (defined by SPPB) with AUC = 0.715. As a cut-off point, a short FES-I value > 8 is proposed for moderate/high fear of falling. Conclusions The short FES-I scale is a good instrument to study fear of falling in the Spanish population over 70 years and is valid for clinical and research use. (AU)

Round ligament management during minimally invasive groin hernia repair in women: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Female sex has been associated with worse outcomes after groin hernia repair (GHR), including a higher rate of chronic pain and recurrence. Most of the studies in GHR are performed in males, and the recommendations for females extrapolate from these studies, even though females have anatomy intricacies. The round ligament of the uterus (RLU) is associated with pelvic stabilization and plays a role in sensory function. Transection of the RLU during GHR is controversial as it can allow easier mesh placement but can favor genitourinary complications and chronic pain. As no previous meta-analysis compared preserving versus transecting the RLU during minimally invasive (MIS) GHR, we aim to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis evaluating surgical outcomes comparing the approaches. METHODS: Cochrane Central, Embase, and PubMed databases were systematically searched for studies comparing transection versus preservation of the RLU in MIS groin hernia surgeries. Outcomes assessed were operative time, bleeding, surgical site events, hospital stay, chronic pain, paresthesia, recurrence rates, and genital prolapse rates. Statistical analysis was performed using RevMan 5.4.1. Heterogeneity was assessed with I2 statistics. A review protocol for this meta-analysis was registered at PROSPERO (CRD 42023467146). RESULTS: 1738 studies were screened. A total of six studies, comprising 1131 women, were included, of whom 652 (57.6%) had preservation of the RLU during MIS groin hernia repair. We found no statistical difference regarding chronic pain, paresthesia, recurrence rates, and postoperative complications. We found a longer operative time for the preservation group (MD 6.84 min; 95% CI 3.0-10.68; P = 0.0005; I2 = 74%). CONCLUSION: Transecting the RLU reduces the operative time during MIS GHR with no difference regarding postoperative complication rates. Although transection appears safe, further prospective randomized studies with long-term follow-up and patient-reported outcomes are necessary to define the optimal management of RLU during MIS GHR.

Giant orbital leiomyoma in a pediatric patient: diagnostic and therapeutic challenge.

This manuscript describes an exceptional case of a long-standing orbital leiomyoma in a 14-year-old male. The tumor was unusually large, causing severe proptosis and significant involvement of the ocular muscles. The patient presented with amaurosis, complete ophthalmoplegia, spontaneous eye pain, and the inability to close the eyelids, leading to psychological distress. Due to the tumor's size and progression, a right orbital exenteration was performed to remove all orbital contents, including the tumor and the eyeball. The surgical procedure aimed to prevent tumor recurrence and improve the patient's quality of life. The histopathological analysis confirmed the diagnosis of orbital leiomyoma. This case presents a particular interest due to the degree of evolution it has reached. Complete tumor excision and long-term follow-up are necessary to prevent recurrence and ensure optimal patient outcomes. This report underscores global healthcare disparities and the complexity of managing rare orbital neoplasms in diverse country settings.

Evolution of the Magnetic Excitations in Electron-Doped La_{2-x}Ce_{x}CuO_{4}.

We investigated the high energy spin excitations in electron-doped La_{2-x}Ce_{x}CuO_{4}, a cuprate superconductor, by resonant inelastic x-ray scattering (RIXS) measurements. Efforts were paid to disentangle the paramagnon signal from non-spin-flip spectral weight mixing in the RIXS spectrum at Q_{∥}=(0.6π,0) and (0.9π,0) along the (1 0) direction. Our results show that, for doping level x from 0.07 to 0.185, the variation of the paramagnon excitation energy is marginal. We discuss the implication of our results in connection with the evolution of the electron correlation strength in this system.

Structural elucidation of derivatives of polyfunctional metabolites after methyl chloroformate derivatization by high-resolution mass spectrometry gas chromatography. Application to microbiota metabolites.

Metabolomics has become an essential discipline in the study of microbiome, emerging gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry as the most mature, robust, and reproducible analytical technique. Silylation is the most widely used chemical derivatization strategy, although it has some limitations. In this regard, alkylation by alkyl chloroformate offers some advantages, such as a rapid reaction, milder conditions, better reproducibility, and the generation of more stable derivatives. However, commercial spectral libraries do not include many of the alkyl derivatives, mainly for polyfunctional metabolites, which can form multiple derivatives. That introduces a huge bias in untargeted metabolomics leading to common errors such as duplicates, unknowns, misidentifications, wrong assignations, and incomplete results from which non-reliable findings and conclusions will be retrieved. For this reason, the purpose of this study is to overcome these shortcomings and to expand the knowledge of metabolites in general and especially those closely related to the gut microbiota through the thorough study of the reactivity of the different functional groups in real matrix derivatized by methyl chloroformate, a common representative alkylation reagent. To this end, a systematic workflow has been developed based on exhaustive structural elucidation, along with computational simulation, and taking advantage of the high sensitivity and high-resolution gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Several empirical rules have been established according to chemically different entities (free fatty acids, amino acids, polyols, sugars, amines, and polyfunctional groups, etc.) to predict the number of derivatives formed from a single metabolite, as well as their elution order and structure. In this work, some methyl chloroformate derivatives not previously reported as well as the mechanisms to explain them are given. Extremely important is the interconversion of E- and Z- geometric isomers of unsaturated dicarboxylic acids (case of fumaric-maleic and case of citraconic-mesaconic acids), or the formation of cycled derivatives for amino acids, as well as common metabolites, as in the case of serine and cysteine, and many others.