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The impact of genetic ancestry on the development of clonal hematopoiesis (CH) remains largely unexplored. Here, we compared CH in 136,401 participants from the Mexico City Prospective Study (MCPS) to 416,118 individuals from the UK Biobank (UKB) and observed CH to be significantly less common in MCPS compared to UKB (adjusted odds ratio = 0.59, 95% confidence interval (CI) = [0.57, 0.61], P = 7.31 × 10-185). Among MCPS participants, CH frequency was positively correlated with the percentage of European ancestry (adjusted beta = 0.84, 95% CI = [0.66, 1.03], P = 7.35 × 10-19). Genome-wide and exome-wide association analyses in MCPS identified ancestry-specific variants in the TCL1B locus with opposing effects on DNMT3A-CH versus non-DNMT3A-CH. Meta-analysis of MCPS and UKB identified five novel loci associated with CH, including polymorphisms at PARP11/CCND2, MEIS1 and MYCN. Our CH study, the largest in a non-European population to date, demonstrates the power of cross-ancestry comparisons to derive novel insights into CH pathogenesis.

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BACKGROUND: Vitamin K antagonists (VKA) represent an important therapeutic strategy offered by the Brazilian Unified Public Health System to patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). However, predictors of relevant clinical outcomes are understudied in the real world. OBJECTIVE: To determine the incidence and independent predictors of clinical outcomes in patients with valvular and nonvalvular AF treated with VKA. METHODS: This prospective cohort included patients with valvular and nonvalvular AF receiving VKA for ≥ 1 year. The primary outcomes were cardiovascular death, thromboembolic events, and major and clinically relevant non-major bleeding, separately and as a composite outcome. The outcomes were independently adjudicated. P values < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. RESULTS: The study included 1,350 patients, with a mean age of 69.2 (± 11.8) years, 53.6% female, followed up for 17 (15 - 19) months. The annual incidence of thromboembolic events and cardiovascular death was 4.4%, and predictors were prior thromboembolism (hazard ratio [HR] 2.12; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.22 - 3.67), time in therapeutic range (TTR) < 50% (HR 1.98; 95% CI 1.16 - 3.37), and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) < 45 mL/min/1.73 m2 (HR 2.76; 95% CI 4.82 - 1.58). The rate of major and clinically relevant non-major bleeding was 3.24% per year (95% CI 2.47 - 4.14), and predictors were prior bleeding (HR 2.60; 95% CI 1.47 - 4.61) and mechanical prosthesis (HR 1.91; 95% CI 1.15 - 3.15). The composite outcome was 8.7% per year, and predictors were prior bleeding (HR 1.70; 95% CI 1.07 - 2.70), TTR < 41% (HR 1.79; 95% CI 1.11 - 2.86), and left atrial diameter > 44 mm (HR 1.97; 95% CI 3.26 - 1.19). CONCLUSIONS: Prior thromboembolism or bleeding, reduced GFR and TTR levels, and enlarged left atrium were predictors of clinical outcomes in patients with AF treated with VKA.

FUNDAMENTO: Antagonistas da vitamina K (AVK) representam uma importante estratégia terapêutica oferecida pelo Sistema Único de Saúde no Brasil aos pacientes com fibrilação atrial (FA). Entretanto, os preditores de desfechos clínicos relevantes são pouco estudados no mundo real. OBJETIVO: Determinar a incidência e os preditores independentes de desfechos clínicos em pacientes com FA valvar e não valvar tratados com AVK. MÉTODOS: Coorte prospectivo de pacientes com FA valvar e não valvar em uso ≥ 1 ano de AVK. Desfechos primários foram morte cardiovascular, eventos tromboembólicos, sangramento maior e não maior clinicamente relevante, separadamente e como desfecho composto, e adjudicados de modo independente. Valores de p < 0,05 foram considerados estatisticamente significantes. RESULTADOS: Incluídos 1.350 pacientes, idade média de 69,2 (± 11.8) anos e 53,6% do sexo feminino, seguidos por 17 (15 - 19) meses. Incidência anual de eventos tromboembólicos e morte cardiovascular foi 4,4% e preditores foram tromboembolismo prévio (hazard ratio [HR] 2,12; intervalo de confiança [IC] de 95% 1,22 - 3,67), tempo na faixa terapêutica (TFT) < 50% (HR 1,98; IC95% 1,16 - 3,37), e taxa de filtração glomerular (TFG) < 45 mL/min/1.73 m2 (HR 2,76; IC95% 4,82 - 1,58). Taxa de sangramento maior e não maior clinicamente relevante foram 3,24% por ano (IC95% 2,47 - 4,14) e preditores foram sangramento prévio (HR 2,60; IC95% 1,47 - 4,61) e prótese mecânica (HR 1,91; IC95% 1,15 - 3,15). O desfecho composto foi 8,7% por ano e preditores foram sangramento prévio (HR 1,70; IC95% 1,07 - 2,70), TFT < 41% (HR 1,79; IC95% 1,11 - 2,86) e diâmetro do átrio esquerdo > 44 mm (HR 1,97; IC95% 3,26 - 1,19). CONCLUSÕES: Tromboembolismo ou sangramento prévios, TFG e TFT reduzidos e átrio esquerdo aumentado foram preditores de desfechos clínicos em pacientes com FA tratados com AVK.

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OBJECTIVE: To verify whether the rectus femoris muscle mass in mechanically ventilated patients assessed by ultrasonography at intensive care unit discharge is associated with functional status at hospital discharge. METHODS: This cohort study was conducted at a tertiary hospital in Brazil between August 2019 and November 2020. We included patients over 18 years who were previously independent (Barthel index > 60) and underwent mechanical ventilation for at least 48 hours within 96 hours of admission. Ultrasonographic measurements of the rectus femoris cross-sectional area and right quadriceps thickness were performed upon enrollment, five days after enrollment, and at intensive care unit discharge. The primary outcome was assessing functional capacity via the Barthel index at hospital discharge. RESULTS: Of the 78 patients included, 35 had assessable primary outcomes. Twenty (57.1%) patients were considered functionally dependent (Barthel index < 60). The Barthel index at hospital discharge was correlated with the cross-sectional area (r = 0.53; p = 0.001) and quadriceps thickness (r = 0.43; p = 0.01) at intensive care unit discharge. Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that the cross-sectional area at intensive care unit discharge was independently associated with the Barthel index. CONCLUSION: We found that muscle mass assessed by cross-sectional area ultrasonography at intensive care unit discharge was significantly correlated with functional capacity at hospital discharge.

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PURPOSE: This study aimed to assess the impact of a bundle of care strategy on the duration of awake prone positioning (AW-PP) and other key clinical outcomes in patients with acute respiratory failure (ARF) who require high-flow nasal oxygen (HFNO). METHODS: In this secondary analysis of a prospective, multicenter cohort study, we included patients admitted with COVID-19-related ARF who required HFNO. The protocol encouraged AW-PP for as long as possible. The main exposure was a bundle of care including light sedation, monitoring, and information to patients about the strategy (bundle) compared to no bundle (control). The primary outcome was the duration of AW-PP (hours/day), while secondary outcomes included endotracheal intubation and in-hospital mortality. Directed acyclic graphs (DAGs) were employed to identify variables related to both exposure and outcomes. Four models were used to evaluate exposure-outcome associations: inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW), "double-robust" approximation (DR), traditional regression (TR), and mixed-effects model (MEM). RESULTS: Out of 499 patients, 197 were exposed to bundle, and 302 did not. The exposure group had a median (IQR) AW-PP duration of 16 (10-18) hours/day, compared to 10 (7-14) hours/day in the control group. Regression coefficients (95% CI) were 3.39 (1.67-5.11), 3.35 (1.55-5.14), 3.95 (2.63-5.28), and 3.72 (2.5-4.94) for IPTW, DR, TR and MEM, respectively. The odds ratios (95% CI) for intubation were 0.34 (0.15-0.76), 0.23 (0.10-0.50), 0.42 (0.23-0.77), and 0.48 (0.16-0.49), and for in-hospital mortality were 0.38 (0.11-1.27), 0.43 (0.14-1.26), 0.47 (0.22-0.91), and 0.46 (0.12-1.43) in the respective models. CONCLUSION: In the evaluated population of patients with COVID-19-related ARF, implementing a bundle-of-care strategy was associated with a longer AW-PP exposure and a reduced risk of endotracheal intubation. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: ClinicalTrials.gov. Identifier NCT05178212. Date of registration: January 5th, 2022. STUDY TYPE: Observational.

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PURPOSE: To evaluate the effect of real-time self-visualisation (SV) of the procedure during flexible cystoscopy (FC) on pain and anxiety in male and female patients with no prior cystoscopy history. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Between Dec 2022-May 2024, 400 patients who underwent office-based FC were enrolled into prospective randomized study in accordance with CONSORT. Patients were randomised into two groups (SV and no-SV) using sequential (1:1 ratio) randomisation. To ensure equal numbers of male and female patients in each group, one consecutive male patient was assigned to the SV group, while the next male patient was assigned to the non-SV group; the same randomization was done for females. The primary endpoint was to evaluate the pain during FC (during urethral insertion of the cystoscope and bladder examination stages) of both groups. The secondary endpoint was to evaluate anxiety, patient satisfaction, and willingness to undergo the procedure of both groups. RESULTS: In males, significant lower pain scores were detected in SV group during urethral insertion of the cystoscope (1.4 vs. 4.8, p<0.001) and during bladder examination (0.9 vs. 3.1, p<0.001). However, pain scores during urethral insertion of the cystoscope (1.9 vs. 2, p=0.38) and during bladder examination (1.2 vs. 1.3, p=0.63) were statistically similar between two groups in female patients. In both genders, significant lower anxiety levels, higher patient satisfaction and higher willingness to undergo repeat cystoscopy were detected in SV group. CONCLUSION: SV during FC may be beneficial in reducing pain in male patients but not in female patients. SV during FC has a positive effect on anxiety, patients' satisfaction, and willingness to undergo repeat procedures, regardless of gender.

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BACKGROUND AND AIMS: The first years of life are fundamental for the establishment of the gut microbiota, with diet being one of the main early exposures. During this period, the beneficial effect of breastfeeding on modulating the gut microbiota is well known; however, there are important gaps in the literature on the effects of ultra-processed food (UPF) consumption, particularly in longitudinal and large sample designs. Through a prospective birth cohort study, we investigated the effects of UPF consumption on the gut microbiota of children during the first year of life. METHODS: This study included children from the MINA-Brazil birth cohort with gut microbiota data (16S rRNA) available at the 1-year follow-up (n = 728). Data on breastfeeding practices were collected after childbirth and during follow-up visits. Complementary feeding was measured using a semi-structured questionnaire, referring to the day before the interview at the 1-year follow-up. A combined variable was generated according to breastfeeding practices and UPF consumption and was used as an independent variable in the adjusted median regression models, with alpha diversity parameters as the dependent variable. Beta diversity was analyzed using PERMANOVA according to Bray-Curtis dissimilarity and Distance-based Redundancy Analysis (db-RDA) adjusted for covariates. Relative abundance was analyzed using ANCOM-BC (corrected by FDR) and MaAsLin2 adjusted for covariates. RESULTS: Weaned children who consumed UPF showed a significant increase in alpha diversity for all parameters in the median regression models (Observed ASVs: p = 0.005; Shannon index: p = 0.036; Chao index: p = 0.026; Simpson index: p = 0.012) and in beta diversity (PERMANOVA: p = 0.006; db-RDA: p < 0.001) compared to breastfed children who did not consume UPF. Breastfed children who did not consume UPF had a higher relative abundance of Bifidobacterium than weaned children who consumed UPF (both p < 0.001 for ANCOM-BC and MaAsLin2) and a lower relative abundance of Firmicutes (p < 0.001 for MaAsLin2), Blautia (both p < 0.001 for ANCOM-BC and MaAsLin2), Sellimonas (p = 0.008 for ANCOM-BC) and Finegoldia (p = 0.045 for MaAsLin2) than weaned children who consumed UPF. CONCLUSION: These findings suggest that UPF consumption may negatively impact the diversity and abundance of the gut microbiota, with a more pronounced effect in children who have already been weaned.

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INTRODUCTION: The dissemination of information to caregivers of pediatric cancer patients in Chilean hospitals is now sporadic and contingent upon available time, underscoring the need for a systematic education program. This study assesses caregivers' perceptions of the information provided by healthcare teams to support the development of a national education program tailored to their needs. METHODS: A descriptive, prospective, multicenter study was conducted from June 2021 to March 2022 across six public hospitals in Chile. The study included caregivers of children undergoing cancer treatment. Caregivers completed a survey assessing the education received and their preferred educational methods. Data were analyzed using STATA 18 and Graph Pad 6.0, with qualitative responses analyzed through an iterative coding process. RESULTS: Of 173 respondents, 94% rated the education received as very good or good. While 51% felt well-informed at hospital discharge, 28% desired more information. Caregivers preferred information from healthcare teams (88%), websites (55%), and written materials (51%). Significant differences were found in preferred educational content based on cancer type and the time elapses since diagnosis. CONCLUSION: Caregivers generally rated the education provided positively but expressed a need for more structured and targeted information. The findings inform the design of a national education program, emphasizing the need for tailored content and improved communication strategies to enhance caregiver support.

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PURPOSE: Streptococcus pneumoniae (Spn) is the primary bacterial cause of lower respiratory tract infections (LRTI) globally, particularly impacting older adults and children. While Spn colonization in children is linked to LRTI, its prevalence, and consequences in adults with comorbidities remain uncertain. This study aims to provide novel data in that regard. METHODS: This prospective study of outpatient adults with chronic diseases was conducted in Colombia. Data on demographics, vaccination, and clinical history was collected in a RedCap database. Nasopharyngeal aspirate samples were examined for Spn colonization using traditional cultures and quantitative-real time polymerase chain reaction (q-rtPCR). Patients were followed for 18 months, with colonization prevalence calculated and factors influencing colonization and its impact on clinical outcomes analyzed through logistic regressions. RESULTS: 810 patients were enrolled, with 10.1% (82/810) identified as colonized. The mean (SD) age was 62 years (±15), and 48.6% (394/810) were female. Major comorbidities included hypertension (52.2% [423/810]), cardiac conditions (31.1% [252/810]), and chronic kidney disease (17.4% [141/810]). Among all, 31.6% (256/810) received the influenza vaccine in the previous year, and 10.7% (87/810) received anti-Spn vaccines. Chronic kidney disease (OR 95% CI; 2.48 [1.01-6.15], p = 0.04) and chronic cardiac diseases (OR 95% CI; 1.62 [0.99-2.66], p = 0.05) were independently associated with Spn colonization. However, colonization was not associated with the development of LRTI (OR 95%CI; 0.64 [0.14-2.79], p = 0.55) or unfavorable outcomes (OR 95% CI;1.17 [0.14-2.79], p = 0.54) during follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: Chronic kidney and cardiac diseases are independently associated with Spn colonization. However, Spn colonization was not associated with LRTI/unfavorable outcomes in adult patients with chronic comorbidities in our cohort.

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BACKGROUND: Multifocal intraocular lenses (IOLs) are designed to reduce dependence on spectacles by providing multiple focal points. However, they are associated with photic phenomena such as halos and glare, and may reduce contrast sensitivity. The BIOS Trifocal is a single-piece acrylic diffractive IOL with a closed-loop haptic design, optimized for centration and stability. It features an aspheric, aberration-neutral surface and a precisely engineered diffraction grating for effective energy distribution across multiple distances. This study aims to evaluate the visual, clinical, and quality of life outcomes of the BIOS Trifocal IOL for treatment of cataract and presbyopia. METHODS: Participants who met the inclusion criteria underwent implantation of the BIOS Trifocal IOL and were assessed at 30 and 90 days post-surgery. The evaluations included measurements of patient-reported outcomes using the NEI-VFQ 25 at postoperative day 30 and uncorrected and corrected distance visual acuity and defocus curves at postoperative day 90. Additionally, intraoperative and postoperative complications were documented. Visual acuity assessments were performed under photopic conditions, with a range of defocus from + 1.5 D to -3.0 D. RESULTS: Significant improvements were observed in uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA), corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), and near visual acuity (UNVA) at both 30 and 90 days post-surgery (p < 0.001). The defocus curve demonstrated functional vision from + 1.5 D to -3.0 D, supporting the lens's efficacy for near, intermediate, and far distances. Quality of life, as assessed by the NEI-VFQ 25, showed marked improvement across all domains (p < 0.05), with no significant complications directly attributable to the IOL. CONCLUSIONS: The BIOS Trifocal IOL presented satisfactory effectivity in the treatment of cataract and presbyopia, providing functional vision across near, intermediate and far distances and maintaining good patient satisfaction. TRIAL REGISTRATION: This trial was registered at the ReBEC (Registro Brasileiro de Ensaios Clínicos - Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials)database under the registration code RBR-772s6y at April 6th, 2020.

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BACKGROUND: This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness, safety, and impact on health-related quality of life (HQoL) of a fully oral shortened regimen for Rifampicin-Resistant/Multidrug-Resistant Tuberculosis (RR/MDR-TB) over 9 to 12 months under programmatic conditions. METHODS: A prospective cohort study was conducted on an all-oral modified Shortened Treatment Regimen (mSTR) comprising linezolid (Lzd), bedaquiline (Bdq), levofloxacin (Lfx), clofazimine (Cfz), and cycloserine (Cs). Patients with RR/MDR-TB were enrolled between January and December 2022 across seven drug-resistant TB units in the Dominican Republic. RESULTS: A total of 113 patients were enrolled, with 87% achieving culture conversion at two months. Treatment outcomes revealed that 79% of patients were successfully treated and didn't relapse six months after the end of the treatment, 14% were lost to follow-up during the treatment, 6% deceased, and one experienced treatment failure due to Adverse Drug Reactions (ADRs). Adverse events of Special interest (AESI) were common, with 82% of patients experiencing at least one AE with high proportion of QT interval prolongation, elevated transaminases, and anemia. A total of 12% of the patients experiencing Serious Adverse Events (SAEs). Improvement in HQoL dimensions was noted throughout treatment, with the EQ-VAS score increasing by an average of 15.5 by treatment end. CONCLUSION: The high treatment success rate of the 5-drug mSTR facilitated the adaptation and integration of a shortened treatment regimen lasting 9 to 12 months in routine care in Dominican Republic. SAEs were -rare. Although AESI were frequent, they were manageable in most cases. Continuous monitoring, particularly with regard to the use of Lzd and Bdq, is crucial to effectively mitigating risks. Since September 2023, this short all oral treatment regimen is the recommended approach for patients with RR/MDR-TB in the Dominican Republic.

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BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Folate and B12, among other B vitamins, are methyl donors and contribute to multiple DNA methylation processes. Maternal deficiency of these nutrients may be associated with impaired fetal growth, affecting the nutritional status and adiposity of the newborn. This study aimed to describe maternal folate and B12 status throughout pregnancy and evaluate its association with neonatal nutritional status. METHODS: We studied 90 healthy pregnant women and their babies from the prospective OBESO cohort (Mexico City). Serum folate and B12 concentrations were measured (ELISA) in the first and third trimesters of pregnancy. Deficiency was considered if serum folate was <4 ng/mL, red blood cell folate (RBC) < 151 ng/mL, active B12 < 40 pmol/L, and total B12 < 203 pg/mL). Maternal supplementation of these nutrients was recorded. Newborn assessment (24-72 h) included weight (BW), length (L), waist circumference (WC), and fat mass percentage (%FM; air-displacement plethysmography). Newborn nutritional status indexes were computed and interpreted (BMI/age and length/age) (term-WHO, preterm-Intergrowth). Mean differences, correlations, and multiple linear and logistic regressions were performed (SPSS v. 29). RESULTS: One-third of women had total vitamin B12 deficiency at the end of pregnancy; no folate deficiency was observed. High doses for both folic acid and B12 supplementation were identified in the third trimester (2057.04 ± 2100.74 µg/d and 7.35 ± 4.56 µg/d). Higher first- and third-trimester maternal active B12 concentrations predicted higher WC and reduced the risk of LBW. Higher first-trimester Thcy levels increased the risk of stunting. Higher third-trimester total B12 and folate concentrations predicted higher WC; the latter was associated with higher FM% at birth. CONCLUSIONS: Maternal folate, B12, and Thcy levels influence newborn nutritional status alterations, including adiposity markers. It is vital to guarantee an optimal and balanced maternal B-complex status throughout pregnancy.

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In this study, we examine the association between COVID-19 vaccination and antibody titer and whether this association varies by nutritional status and duration of school attendance using linear regression models applied to seven-year-old children from the 2015 Pelotas (Brazil) Birth Cohort (n = 2956). Antibody titers were 0.29 optical density (OD) titer units higher among vaccinated compared with unvaccinated children (95 % CI: 0.24, 0.34). Duration of school enrollment was associated with increased antibody titer, with each month being associated with a 0.15 unit increase in OD titer (95 % CI: 0.14, 0.16). Stunting was associated with lower COVID-19 titers among unvaccinated children (-0.10, 95 % CI: -0.21,0.004), but not among vaccinated children. Stunted children may have poorer immune responses to natural infection, but vaccination can overcome this deficit. Population-wide follow-up vaccination may be beneficial, particularly prior to school entry and for stunted children to reduce the risk of natural infection.

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BACKGROUND: Rapid progression of symptoms and development of Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) frequently occurred during COVID-19 pandemic, while CT-Scan was useful to assess severity of lung damage, with classic patterns like early Ground Glass Opacity and/or late consolidation. Likewise, lung injury has been related to activation of the coagulation-fibrinolysis systems and pro-inflammatory mediators; where D-Dimer acquires prognostic relevance. The present study aimed to evaluate whether the extent of lung involvement and pattern of lung injury, as determined by chest CT-scan, are related with D-Dimer; and further impact clinical prognosis in patients with ARDS due to COVID-19. METHODS: Longitudinal, prospective, observational, multi-center study. Patients diagnosed with ARDS due to COVID-19, without previous lung damage, clotting disorder and/or anticoagulants use, who were attended at the Intensive Care Unit and Internal Medicine Department from March to June 2020. Tomographic extent of lung involvement was analyzed by image software, as well as damage patterns, assessed by experienced radiologists. Endpoints included relation of lung injury with coagulopathy markers like D-Dimer, and prognostic outcome including mortality, mechanical ventilation and hospitalization time. RESULTS: One-hundred and four patients mean aged 55 years old, 66% males, main comorbidities obesity, hypertension and diabetes mellitus. Larger lung damage was associated with older age, male gender and higher pro-inflammatory mediators like leukocytes and ferritin; whilst consolidation pattern was related to higher Body Mass Index. Higher values of D-Dimer were related either to a larger extent of lung involvement or late consolidation pattern. In addition, the extent of lung involvement was related with longer hospital stay, higher requirement of mechanical ventilation (HR 0.12, p < 0.01) and mortality rate (HR 0.13, p < 0.01); whereas late consolidation was mainly associated with requirement of mechanical ventilation (HR 0.23, p < 0.01). CONCLUSION: Tomographic extent of lung involvement and the pattern of lung injury are related with coagulopathy severity markers like D-Dimer, and own prognostic clinical ability in ARDS.

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INTRODUCTION: Headache is common among patients diagnosed with pituitary adenoma (PA). There are still controversies regarding the headache presentation, pathophysiology and outcome after treatment in these patients. OBJECTIVES: To determine the prevalence of headache among patients with PA, describe their phenotypes and identify precipitating factors. Also, to evaluate prospectively if PA treatment leads to headache improvement. METHODS: Treatment-naïve adult patients with PA were included. A questionnaire based on the beta version of the International Classification of Headache Disorders 3rd edition was created to classify the headaches. Patients submitted to surgery or medical treatment were reevaluated at least three to six months after treatment. RESULTS: Headache during the previous 3 months was present in 62% of the 104 patients. The most prevalent phenotypes were migraine and tension-type headache. Trigeminal autonomic cephalalgias (TACs) were observed only in prolactinoma patients. Both genders presented headache at similar rates (64% in females and 58% in males) but patients with headache were younger (41.5 ± 13.8 vs. 56.8 ± 13.6 years). Tumor characteristics were not determinant of headache. Patients with acromegaly that presented headache had higher GH levels. Headache was more frequent in prolactinomas (83%) than in NFPA (52%). After disease remission or control, resolution of headache was observed in 83%, 50% and 33% of the NFPA, somatotropinomas and prolactinomas, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Migraine and tension-type are the most common headache phenotypes in PA patients, and TACs were only observed in prolactinomas. Also, headache was more common in prolactinomas than in NFPA. GH levels were higher in patients with acromegaly that presented headache. Surgical and medical treatments completely resolve the headaches in 50% of the patients.

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Preoperative anemia is associated with poor outcomes, but less is known about its impact on quality of life (QoL). This study investigates the association between preoperative anemia and QoL in elderly undergoing major abdominal surgery. This prospective observational study was conducted from 2017 to 2021 in a tertiary hospital's preoperative anesthesia clinic. QoL outcomes were assessed using the EuroQol 5-Dimension 3-Level (EQ-5D-3L) and the EuroQol-Visual Analogue Scale (EQ-VAS). Data was collected at baseline, 1-, 3-, and 6-month postoperatively. Patients were included if they were 65 years or older, could provide written informed consent and were planned for elective major abdominal surgery. Patients were excluded if they were going for organ transplant surgery. A total of 469 patients were analyzed, of which 176 (38%) had anemia. There was no significant difference across varying anemia severity in EQ-5D-3L dimensions of mobility, self-care, usual activities, and pain/discomfort. Moderate-to-severe anemic patients generally have more issues across EQ-5D-3L dimensions. At baseline, these patients exhibited more issues with self-care (3%), pain/discomfort (13%), and anxiety/depression (19%), along with a lower mean EQ-VAS score of 77. However, there was a significant improvement in mobility, usual activities, and pain/discomfort over time. EQ-VAS score significantly improved for all groups of patients over time. The dimensions of EQ-5D-3L and EQ-VAS scores improved as the severity of anemia decreased. Preoperative anemia is associated with a significant decrease in QoL based on EQ-VAS. Recognizing and managing preoperative anemia may improve the recovery of elderly patients undergoing major abdominal surgery.

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BACKGROUND: The impact of a healthy diet on the secondary prevention of ischemic stroke (IS) remains uncertain. Levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) are inversely associated with the risk of IS recurrence. A Mediterranean diet (MeDi), consisting of a preference for fish/poultry, monosaturated fats from olive oil, fruit, vegetables, whole grains, legumes/nuts and limited red meats, animal fats and sweetened beverages, reduces metabolic syndrome, LDL-C levels and stroke risk. Avocados also reduce metabolic syndrome and LDL-C levels but are not part of the traditional MeDi diet. The effects of an avocado-based Mediterranean diet on LDL-C were investigated and compared to those of a low-fat diet in patients with previous IS. METHODS: The Avocado-Based Mediterranean Diet on Serum Lipids for Secondary Prevention after Ischemic Stroke (ADD-SPISE) was a prospective, randomized, open-label, blinded outcome assessment, phase 2, clinical trial. The participants were adults with an IS in the previous month who were randomly assigned at a 1:1 ratio to a MeDi or a low-fat diet for three months. Outcome assessors of laboratory results and data analysts were masked. The primary outcome was the mean difference in LDL-C between groups at 90 days, adjusted by statin use. Safety, feasibility and acceptability (assessed through a 14-item questionnaire administered to all patients who completed the follow-up) were also evaluated. RESULTS: From August 2018 to October 2022, 200 participants were enrolled (97 randomized to the low-fat diet and 103 to the MeDi), with 189 (94.5%) completing the study. There were no significant differences in LDL-C levels between the MeDi group and the low-fat group at 90 days: 66.5 mg/dL (95% confidence interval [CI] 59.6, 73.4) in the MeDi group and 69.9 mg/dL (62.6, 77.2) in the low-fat group at the end of follow-up. The adjusted difference was - 3.4 mg/dL (-13.4, -6.62); P = 0.50. The intervention group showed significant improvements in Mediterranean diet adherence (P < 0.01). Moreover, no significant differences in adverse events were observed between the groups. CONCLUSION: Compared with a low-fat diet, the avocado-based MeDi did not significantly lower LDL-C in IS patients after three months. The intervention was safe, feasible, and well accepted. Larger trials should establish whether longer dietary interventions could yield clinically significant benefits in these patients. The study is registered under ADD-SPISE at www. CLINICALTRIALS: gov . Identifier: NCT03524742.

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OBJECTIVE: to identify the main factors related to complications of the invasive blood pressure system. METHOD: prospective study conducted with patients over 18 years of age admitted to intensive care, using a device for measuring invasive blood pressure. Participants were monitored during the catheter dwell-time and sociodemographic, clinical and device data were collected. The outcome analyzed was removal due to non-indication of use or due to complications. Student's t-test, Mann-Whitney U test, chi-square test and Fisher's exact test were used for the analyses. RESULTS: 50 participants were included and monitored, and most devices were installed in the radial artery (86%), with a 20-gauge catheter (50%), all with a flexible catheter. Each patient remained, on average, 4.36 days (SD: 3.504) with the device. Regarding the outcomes, 60.0% of the devices were removed due to non-indication of use and 40.0% due to complications. Phlebitis was the most prevalent complication, and pressure in the bag was the factor associated with catheter removal before the time of indication (p=0.046). CONCLUSION: the main complications associated with this device were obstruction and phlebitis, while pressure in the bag was the factor related to catheter removal before indication. BACKGROUND: (1) Phlebitis was the most prevalent complication. (2) Pressure in the bag was associated with catheter removal before indication. (3) Length of stay and use of sedation were related to the onset of phlebitis.

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Frailty is a significant risk factor for adverse outcomes in elderly surgical patients. Gait speed assessment is a new tool recently used to stratify risk for these pre-operative adverse outcomes. In this prospective study of 392 frail elderly patients undergoing abdominal surgery, we investigated the predictive value of preoperative gait speed for postoperative outcomes. Patients were divided into two groups based on their 6-meter gait speed: normal (≥0.8 m/s, n=184) and slow (<0.8 m/s, n=208). The slow group was older, had more comorbidities, and higher American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) grades (P<0.05). They also had significantly higher rates of 30-day overall complications (38.9 vs 18.5%, P<0.01), severe complications (12.0 vs 4.3%, P<0.01), and 1-year mortality (15.4 vs 6.5%, P=0.008) compared to the normal group. Pulmonary infection, wound infection, and delirium were the most common complications. Multivariate logistic regression confirmed slow gait speed as an independent risk factor for 30-day complications (OR=2.38, 95%CI: 1.41-4.01) and 1-year mortality (OR=2.19, 95%CI: 1.07-4.48). Our findings demonstrated that preoperative 6-meter gait speed effectively predicted short-term complications and mid-term mortality in frail elderly patients undergoing abdominal surgery. This suggests the need for individualized perioperative management strategies for high-risk patients with slow gait speed to potentially improve their prognosis.

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This systematic review of inception prospective cohort studies aimed to investigate whether autoantibodies are potential prognostic factors for short- and long-term clinical outcomes of COVID-19. Searches were conducted in MEDLINE, EMBASE, AMED, GLOBAL HEALTH, and COCHRANE databases from 2019 to 2022. When possible, meta-analysis was conducted, otherwise findings from individual studies were reported using odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Quality of evidence was summarized using the GRADE criteria. We identified 2292 references, 18 inception prospective cohort studies (3178 patients) were included in the systematic review, and 12 studies reached criteria for meta-analysis. Studies achieved, in general, low to moderate risk of bias. Moderate quality of evidence showed that anti-interferon (IFN) was associated with increased risk of severity (OR=7.75; CI=1.79-33.61) and mechanical ventilation (OR=4.19; CI=2.06-8.53), but not with COVID-19 mortality (OR=1.68; CI=0.63-4.44). Antiphospholipids were not associated with COVID-19 mortality (OR=1.42; CI=0.85-2.37; P=0.18; I2=3.21) nor with thrombosis risk (OR=1.41; CI: 0.71-2.8; P=0.33). Antinuclear antibody level was not associated with risk of mortality or severity (risk for mortality: OR=3.8; CI=0.78-18.6; P=0.1; I2: 32.3; severity: OR=1.74; CI=0.96-3.16; P=0.07). Evidence currently available is insufficient for a quantitative analysis of autoantibodies association with long COVID-19. Anti-IFN measurement should be considered in COVID-19 follow-up. In a population-based rational, optimized vaccination strategies should be considered for individuals with anti-IFN antibodies since it could represent a risk for a worse prognosis. High-quality prospective studies for short- and long-term disease effects and autoantibody evaluation are still needed.

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: Previous studies have shown that women with coronary artery disease (CAD) are less likely to undergo angiography and have less favorable outcomes after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). OBJECTIVES: Assess the outcomes of women with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and stable CAD (lesion>50%) treated with contemporary PCI using DES. METHODS: Observational, longitudinal cohort study with prospective follow-up included all female patients ≥ 18 years admitted at a tertiary public cardiovascular center in Brazil from January 2019 to December 2020. The level of significance adopted in the statistical analysis was 5%. RESULTS: 1146 women (average age 65 years) underwent guideline-recommended PCI. Risk factors were frequent (hypertension: 88%, dyslipidemia: 85%, diabetes: 47.5%), and 69% were admitted due to ACS. Radial access was used in 59% of patients; 1516 vessels were treated with 1725 stents implanted (1.5 stents/patient). PCI was successful in 97.7%, in-hospital death occurred in 1.2%, peri-procedural MI in 3.6%, and TIA in 0.4%. Predictors of in-hospital major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCE): previous stroke (OR: 2.97; CI: 1.06-7.15; p= 0.023), CKD (OR: 3.11; CI: 1.49-6.20; p= 0.002), and at least one procedural failure during PCI (OR: 10.2; CI: 1.17-5.9; p<0.001). The average follow-up was 576.2 days in 1047 patients. All-cause mortality occurred in 5.3%, cardiac death in 3.5%, recurrent ACS in 8%, and additional revascularization procedures in 5.5%. The predictors for MACCE during FU were hospital admission for ACS for the index PCI (OR: 1.58; HR: 1.06-2.35; p=0.023) and the presence of MACCE during hospitalization (OR: 6.66; HR: 2.42- 18.3; p< 0.001). CONCLUSION: In this pioneering study involving 1146 patients treated by contemporary PCI and followed for almost 2 years, we obtained very encouraging in-hospital and mid-term results.

FUNDAMENTO: Estudos prévios demonstram que mulheres com doença arterial coronariana (DAC) são menos submetidas a angiografia e apresentam resultados menos favoráveis após intervenção coronariana percutânea (ICP). OBJETIVOS: Avaliar os resultados de mulheres com síndrome coronariana aguda (SCA) e DAC estável (lesão>50%) tratadas com ICP contemporânea usando stents liberadores de drogas. MÉTODOS: Estudo de coorte observacional, longitudinal, com acompanhamento prospectivo, que incluiu todas as pacientes do sexo feminino > 18 anos admitidas em centro cardiológico público terciário no Brasil, no período de janeiro de 2019 a dezembro de 2020. RESULTADOS: 1146 mulheres (idade média de 65 anos) foram submetidas à ICP recomendada pela diretriz. Os fatores de risco foram frequentes (hipertensão: 88%, dislipidemia: 85%, diabetes: 47,5%) e 69% foram internadas devido à SCA. O acesso radial foi usado em 59% das pacientes; 1516 vasos foram tratados com 1725 stents implantados (1,5 stents/paciente). A ICP foi bem-sucedida em 97,7%, a morte intra-hospitalar ocorreu em 1,2%, IM periprocedimento em 3,6% e ataque isquêmico transitório em 0,4%. Preditores de eventos adversos cardíacos e cerebrovasculares maiores (ECCAM) intra-hospitalares: acidente vascular cerebral prévio (OR: 2,97; IC: 1,06-7,15; p = 0,023), DRC (OR: 3,11; IC: 1,49-6,20; p = 0,002) e pelo menos uma falha de procedimento durante ICP (OR: 10,2; IC: 1,17-5,9; p < 0,001). O acompanhamento médio foi de 576,2 dias em 1.047 pacientes. Mortalidade por todas as causas ocorreu em 5,3%, morte cardíaca em 3,5%, nova SCA em 8% e necessidade de nova revascularização em 5,5%. Os preditores de ECCM durante o seguimento foram admissão por SCA (retirar índice ICP) e a presença de ECCM durante a hospitalização (OR: 6,66; HR: 2,42-18,3; p< 0,001). CONCLUSÃO: Neste estudo pioneiro envolvendo 1146 pacientes tratados por ICP contemporânea e acompanhados por quase 2 anos, obtivemos resultados hospitalares e de médio prazo muito encorajadores.