Prevalencia de hipertirotropinemia neonatal comoindicador de deficiencia de yodo en la provincia de La Pampa: un análisis epidemiológico / Prevalence of high neonatal thyroid stimulating hormone levels as an indicator of iodine deficiency in the province of La Pampa: An epidemiological analysis

Introducción. El yodo desempeña un rol fundamental en el metabolismo, el crecimiento y el desarrollo humano. Durante el embarazo y la infancia, la demanda de este micronutriente aumenta considerablemente. La tirotropinemia neonatal (TSHn) aumentada, definida como TSHn ≥5 mUI/l, es un marcador que señala la deficiencia de yodo en una población cuando su prevalencia supera el 3 %. Objetivo. Determinar la prevalencia de TSHn ≥ 5 en La Pampa durante el período 2021-2022, analizar su correlación con diferentes variables y compararla con datos de una cohorte histórica. Población y métodos. Estudio transversal, de diseño descriptivo-analítico, sobre una población de neonatos nacidos en las cinco zonas sanitarias de la provincia de La Pampa durante los años 2021 y 2022. Resultados. De los 5778 neonatos evaluados, el 9,6 % presentó niveles de TSHn ≥5 mUI/l. El 70,4 % de estas mediciones fueron realizadas después del tercer día de vida. No se observaron diferencias significativas en la frecuencia de niveles elevados de TSHn según el año de nacimiento, peso al nacer o días hasta la extracción. Se registró una mayor prevalencia en el sexo masculino (10,6 % versus 8,5 %; p = 0,007) y entre los neonatos nacidos a término (9,8 % versus 6,6 %; p = 0,02). La prevalencia de hipertirotropinemia fue superior a la observada en una cohorte de 2001-2002. Conclusiones. La prevalencia de hipertirotropinemia neonatal en La Pampa durante los años 2021 y 2022 fue del 9,6 %, lo que indica un estado de deficiencia leve de yodo en la provincia, superior al reportado hace dos décadas.

Introduction. Iodine plays a key role in human metabolism, growth, and development. During pregnancy and childhood, the demand for this micronutrient increases notably. Increased neonatal thyroid stimulating hormone (nTSH) levels, defined as nTSH ≥ 5 mIUL, are a marker of iodine deficiency in a population if its prevalence is higher than 3%.Objective. To establish the prevalence of nTSH ≥ 5 in La Pampa in the 2021­2022 period, analyze its correlation with different variables, and compare it with data from a historical cohort.Population and methods. Cross-sectional, descriptive-analytical study in a population of newborn infants born in the 5 health regions of the province of La Pampa in 2021 and 2022. Results. Of  the  5778  assessed  newborn  infants,  9.6%  had  nTSH  levels  ≥  5  mIU/L. It was reported that 70.4% of these measurements were done after the third day of life. No significant differences were observed in the frequency of high nTSH levels by year of birth, birth weight, or days until samplecollection.A higher prevalence was observed among male infants (10.6% versus 8.5%; p = 0.007) and term infants (9.8% versus 6.6%; p = 0.02). The prevalence of high TSH levels was superior to that observed in the 2001­2002 cohort. Conclusions. The  prevalence of high nTSH levels in La Pampa during 2021 and 2022 was 9.6%, suggesting the presence of mild iodine deficiency in the population of this province, higher that what  had been reported 2 decades ago.

Goiter, iodine bioavailability and intrauterine growth restriction in Indigenous and Afro-descendant pregnant women from six non-metropolitan areas of Colombia (2019-2020).

INTRODUCTION: Iodine is an essential mineral for fetal growth and brain development. The aim of this research was to evaluate goiter, iodine deficiency and intrauterine growth restriction in pregnant women of minority ethnic groups in Colombia. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was performed in six non-metropolitan areas of Colombia. RESULTS: A total of 318 Indigenous and Afro-descendant pregnant women were invited to participate: 248 (83.2%) Indigenous and 50 (16.8%) Afro-descendants were studied. The mean age was 24 years (range 13-44 years). Of the women, 130 (43.5%) were from the department of Cauca, 72 (24.1%) were from Córdoba, 28 (9.4%) were from Guajira, 26 (8.8%) were from Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, 22 (7.4%) were from Amazonas, 16 (5.4%) were from Meta and 4 (1.3%) were from the department of Cesar. A total of 244 (81.8%) were illiterate and 291 (97.7%) were of very low socioeconomic level. Goiter was observed in 69 (23.3%) pregnant women (38 (41.7%) from the department of Cauca, 10 (35.7%) from Guajira, 5 (31.2%) from Meta, 6 (27.2%) from Amazonas and 10 (13.8%) from Córdoba). Iodine deficiency (<100 µg/L) was observed in 42 (14.9%) pregnant women (16 (11.6%) mild (50-99 µg/L), 19 (13.8%) moderate (20-49 µg/L) and 7 (5.1%) severe (<20 µg/L)). Being literate was a protective factor for iodine deficiency (odds ratio (OR)=0.19, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.04-0.84, p=0.016). Being illiterate and iodine deficient was only a risk factor for goiter (OR=6.72, 95%CI 3.9-9.5, p=0.038) in the department of Cauca. CONCLUSION: A high prevalence of goiter, iodine deficiency and intrauterine growth restriction was observed in minority ethnic groups of Colombia. The highest prevalence and risk was observed in the department of Cauca.

Sorafenibe e lenvatinibe para o tratamento de indivíduos com diagnóstico de carcinoma diferenciado da tireoide localmente avançado e/ou metastático, refratário ao iodo, progressivo / Sorafenib and lenvatinib for the treatment of individuals diagnosed with locally advanced and/or metastatic, iodine-refractory, progressive differentiated thyroid carcinoma

INTRODUÇÃO: O carcinoma diferenciado da tireoide (CDT) é a forma mais comum de câncer da tireoide. O tratamento consiste no procedimento cirúrgico para a remoção do tumor e, em alguns casos, da tireoide inteira (tireoidectomia total). Porém, pacientes com doença em progressão são candidatos à terapia sistêmica, com utilização de inibidores de tirosina quinase como sorafenibe e lenvatinibe. Estes fármacos atuam no processo de angiogênese necessária para a formação do tumor e suas metástases. Desta forma, o objetivo deste relatório foi avaliar a eficácia, efetividade e impacto orçamentário de sorafenibe e lenvatinibe para o tratamento de adultos com diagnóstico de CDT localmente avançado e/ou metastático, refratário ao iodo, progressivo, no SUS. PERGUNTA DE PESQUISA: O sorafenibe e o lenvatinibe são mais eficazes e seguros para o tratamento de pacientes com diagnóstico de CDT localmente avançado e/ou metastático, refratário ao iodo, progressivo, quando comparado à quimioterap

Molecular Iodine Improves the Efficacy and Reduces the Side Effects of Metronomic Cyclophosphamide Treatment against Mammary Cancer Progression.

Metronomic chemotherapy with cyclophosphamide (Cpp) has shown promising results in cancer protocols. These lower and prolonged doses have antiangiogenic, pro-cytotoxic, and moderate secondary effects. Molecular iodine (I2) reduces the viability of cancer cells and, with chemotherapeutic agents, activates the antitumoral immune response and diminishes side effects. The present work evaluates the adjuvant of oral I2 with Cpp using a murine model of mammary cancer. Female Sprague Dawley rats with 7,12-dimethylbenzantracene-induced tumors received Cpp intraperitoneal (50 and 70 mg/kg two times/week, iCpp50 and iCpp70) and oral (0.03%; 50 mg/Kg; oCpp50) doses. I2 (0.05%, 50 mg/100 mL) and oCpp50 were offered in drinking water for three weeks. iCpp70 was the most efficient antitumoral dose but generated severe body weight loss and hemorrhagic cystitis (HC). I2 prevented body weight loss, exhibited adjuvant actions with Cpp, decreasing tumor growth, and canceled HC mechanisms, including decreases in vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and Survivin expression. oCpp50 + I2 diminished angiogenic signals (CD34, vessel-length, and VEGF content) and proinflammatory cytokines (interleukin-10 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha) and increased cytotoxic (lymphocytic infiltration, CD8+ cells, Tbet, and interferon-gamma) and antioxidant markers (nuclear erythroid factor-2 and glutathione peroxidase). I2 enhances the effectiveness of oCpp, making it a compelling candidate for a clinical protocol.

Maternal nutrition and its effects on fetal neurodevelopment.

Herein, we present a thorough examination of the impact of maternal nutrition on fetal and infant neurodevelopment, focusing on specific nutrients and their critical roles in perinatal and pediatric health. Through a comprehensive narrative review of the literature, this study highlights the importance of a balanced maternal diet rich in nutrients like eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), folic acid, iron, and iodine in shaping children's neurological functions. Key findings underscore the influence of maternal nutrition during pregnancy and the peri-gestational period on children's cognitive, motor, speech, and socio-emotional development. Deficiencies in essential nutrients, such as DHA, are linked to adverse long-lasting outcomes such as premature birth and intrauterine growth restriction, where a suitable intake of iron and folic acid is vital to prevent neural tube defects and promote healthy brain development. We highlight areas requiring further investigation, particularly regarding iodine's impact and the risks associated with alcohol consumption during pregnancy. In conclusion, this research sheds light on our current understanding of maternal nutrition and child neurodevelopment, offering valuable insights for health professionals and researchers.

Prevalence of high neonatal thyroid stimulating hormone levels as an indicator of iodine deficiency in the province of La Pampa: An epidemiological analysis. / Prevalencia de hipertirotropinemia neonatal como indicador de deficiencia de yodo en la provincia de La Pampa: un análisis epidemiológico.

Introduction. Iodine plays a key role in human metabolism, growth, and development. During pregnancy and childhood, the demand for this micronutrient increases notably. Increased neonatal thyroid stimulating hormone (nTSH) levels, defined as nTSH ≥ 5 mIU/L, are a marker of iodine deficiency in a population if its prevalence is higher than 3%. Objective. To establish the prevalence of nTSH ≥ 5 in La Pampa in the 2021-2022 period, analyze its correlation with different variables, and compare it with data from a historical cohort. Population and methods. Cross-sectional, descriptive-analytical study in a population of newborn infants born in the 5 health regions of the province of La Pampa in 2021 and 2022. Results. Of the 5778 assessed newborn infants, 9.6% had nTSH levels ≥ 5 mIU/L. It was reported that 70.4% of these measurements were done after the third day of life. No significant differences were observed in the frequency of high nTSH levels by year of birth, birth weight, or days until sample collection. A higher prevalence was observed among male infants (10.6% versus 8.5%; p = 0.007) and term infants (9.8% versus 6.6%; p = 0.02). The prevalence of high TSH levels was superior to that observed in the 2001-2002 cohort. Conclusions. The prevalence of high nTSH levels in La Pampa during 2021 and 2022 was 9.6%, suggesting the presence of mild iodine deficiency in the population of this province, higher that what had been reported 2 decades ago.

Introducción. El yodo desempeña un rol fundamental en el metabolismo, el crecimiento y el desarrollo humano. Durante el embarazo y la infancia, la demanda de este micronutriente aumenta considerablemente. La tirotropinemia neonatal (TSHn) aumentada, definida como TSHn ≥5 mUI/l, es un marcador que señala la deficiencia de yodo en una población cuando su prevalencia supera el 3 %. Objetivo. Determinar la prevalencia de TSHn ≥ 5 en La Pampa durante el período 2021-2022, analizar su correlación con diferentes variables y compararla con datos de una cohorte histórica. Población y métodos. Estudio transversal, de diseño descriptivo-analítico, sobre una población de neonatos nacidos en las cinco zonas sanitarias de la provincia de La Pampa durante los años 2021 y 2022. Resultados. De los 5778 neonatos evaluados, el 9,6 % presentó niveles de TSHn ≥5 mUI/l. El 70,4 % de estas mediciones fueron realizadas después del tercer día de vida. No se observaron diferencias significativas en la frecuencia de niveles elevados de TSHn según el año de nacimiento, peso al nacer o días hasta la extracción. Se registró una mayor prevalencia en el sexo masculino (10,6 % versus 8,5 %; p = 0,007) y entre los neonatos nacidos a término (9,8 % versus 6,6 %; p = 0,02). La prevalencia de hipertirotropinemia fue superior a la observada en una cohorte de 2001-2002. Conclusiones. La prevalencia de hipertirotropinemia neonatal en La Pampa durante los años 2021 y 2022 fue del 9,6 %, lo que indica un estado de deficiencia leve de yodo en la provincia, superior al reportado hace dos décadas.

Exploring the potential anti-thyroid activity of Acetyl-L-carnitine: Lactoperoxidase inhibition profile, iodine complexation and scavenging power against H2O2. Experimental and theoretical studies.

L-Acetylcarnitine (ALC), a versatile compound, has demonstrated beneficial effects in depression, Alzheimer's disease, cognitive impairment, and other conditions. This study focuses on its antithyroid activity. The precursor molecule, L-carnitine, inhibited the uptake of triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4), and it is possible that ALC may reduce the iodination process of T3 and T4. Currently, antithyroid drugs are used to control the excessive production of thyroid hormones (TH) through various mechanisms: (i) forming electron donor-acceptor complexes with molecular iodine, (ii) eliminating hydrogen peroxide, and (iii) inhibiting the enzyme thyroid peroxidase. To understand the pharmacological properties of ALC, we investigated its plausible mechanisms of action. ALC demonstrated the ability to capture iodine (Kc = 8.07 ± 0.32 x 105 M-1), inhibit the enzyme lactoperoxidase (LPO) (IC50 = 17.60 ± 0.76 µM), and scavenge H2O2 (39.82 ± 0.67 mM). A comprehensive physicochemical characterization of ALC was performed using FTIR, Raman, and UV-Vis spectroscopy, along with theoretical DFT calculations. The inhibition process was assessed through fluorescence spectroscopy and vibrational analysis. Docking and molecular dynamics simulations were carried out to predict the binding mode of ALC to LPO and to gain a better understanding into the inhibition process. Furthermore, albumin binding experiments were also conducted. These findings highlight the potential of ALC as a therapeutic agent, providing valuable insights for further investigating its role in the treatment of thyroid disorders.

Iodine status in children with intestinal failure.

OBJECTIVES: Children on long-term parenteral nutrition (PN) are at high risk of iodine deficiency (ID). However, most available information comes from cross-sectional studies. We investigated the iodine status, associated factors, and prevalence of hypothyroidism in children with intestinal failure (IF) who were followed up longitudinally. METHODS: This was a cohort study of children with IF monitored for urine iodine concentration (UIC), iodine intake, serum selenium concentration, and thyroid function in an intestinal rehabilitation program. The outcome variable ID was defined as a UIC value < 100 µg/L. Adjusted generalized estimating equations were used to assess the effects of the exposure variables on the UIC. RESULTS: Twenty-four patients aged 62.7 (39.1; 79.7) months who received PN for 46.5 (21.5) months were included. The average energy supply was 81.2 kcal/kg/day, 77.6% of which was provided by PN. An average of 5.2 UIC measurements per patient were performed. ID prevalence decreased from baseline (83.3%) to the last assessment (45.8%). Three patients had hypothyroidism secondary to iodine and selenium combined severe deficiency. Iodine intake from enteral or oral nutritional formulas was positively associated with UIC (ß = 0.71 [0.35, 1.07]; p < 0.001). Meeting approximately 80% of the estimated average requirement for iodine from nutritional formulas resulted in a greater probability of normal UIC values. CONCLUSION: ID is highly prevalent in children with IF who receive long-term PN and its frequency decreases with iodine intake from nutritional formulas. Severe combined iodine and selenium deficiencies are associated with the development of hypothyroidism in these patients.

Desensibilización de contraste iodado en paciente adulto con antecedente de episodio de alergia mayor al iodo / Desensitization of iodinated contrast in an adult patient with a history of a major iodine allergy episode

[RESUMEN]. Las reacciones adversas al medio de contraste iodado son situaciones que se ven en los servicios de imágenes. Se estima que las reacciones de hipersensibilidad leves se presentan entre 3,8 al 12,7% de los pacientes en los que se utilizan contrastes iónicos de alta osmolaridad y el 0,7 al 3,1% cuando se utilizan medios no iónicos de baja osmolaridad, mientras que el riesgo de una reacción anafiláctica severa ha sido estimado entre el 0,1 al 0,4% con los primeros y 0,02 al 0,04% con los últimos. Para prevenirlas y disminuir la aparición de estas reacciones se emplean estrategias como el uso de premedicación y la desensibilización. En este trabajo se presenta un protocolo de desensibilización realizado en una paciente con antecedentes de alergia mayor al iodo que requiere de la realización de una cinecoronariografía diagnóstica con contraste iodado. Se diseñó un protocolo de desensibilización intravenosa que consistió en la definición de una serie de diluciones y sus respectivos tiempos de administración. Se confeccionó una tabla para la preparación, detallando el listado de materiales y la descripción del procedimiento a seguir. El éxito del protocolo y la posibilidad de resolución del caso sienta precedente para aplicarla en pacientes con características similares y para realizar una revisión en conjunto con otros servicios de los protocolos de pretratamiento en pacientes con alergia a contraste iodado, atendiendo a la gravedad de las complicaciones que desencadenan las reacciones anafilactoides.

[ABSTRACT]. Adverse reactions to iodinated contrast medium are situations seen in imaging services. It is estimated that mild hypersensitivity reactions occur in 3.8 to 12.7% of patients in wich high osmolarity ionic contrast agents are used, and 0.7 to 3.1% when low osmolarity non-ionic media are used. Meanwhile the risk of a severe anaphylactic reaction has been estimated between 0.1 to 0.4% in the first group, and 0.02 to 0.04% in the second one. To prevent them and reduce the appearance of these reactions, strategies such as the use of premedication and desensitization are used. This work presents a desensitization protocol used in a patient with backgound of major allergy to iodine, that actually requires a coronary angiography with iodinated contrast. An intravenous desensitization protocol was designed. It consisted of defining a series of dilutions and their respective administration times. A table was made for the preparation, detailing the list of materials and the description of the procedure to be followed. The success of the protocol and the possibility of resolution of the case seats precedents for applying it in patients with similar characteristics and for carrying out a review in conjunction with other services of the pre-treatment protocols in patients with allergies to iodinated contrast, taking into account the severity of the complications that trigger anaphylactoid reactions.

Thyroid Volume in Pregnancy is Associated with Parity, Gestational Age, and Body Mass Index in an Iodine-sufficient Area.

OBJECTIVE: We compared thyroid volume (TV) and presence of nodular goiter (NG) in pregnant vs. non-pregnant women in an iodine-sufficient area. We also evaluated the relationship between gestational age, parity, and TV in the pregnant women group, and determined the 2.5th and 97.5th percentiles of normal TV in pregnancy. METHODS: This cross-sectional study included 299 healthy women (216 pregnant) without previous thyroid diseases. Thyroid ultrasounds were performed and compared between pregnant and non-pregnant women. The range of normal distribution of TV (2.5th and 97.5th percentiles) in pregnancy was determined after excluding individuals with positive thyroid antibodies, NG, and/or abnormal serum thyrotropin (TSH) or free thyroxine (FT4). RESULTS: Thyroid volume was larger among pregnant compared to non-pregnant women (8.6 vs 6.1 cm3; p < 0.001) and was positively correlated with gestational age (rs = 0.221; p = 0.001), body mass index (BMI, rs 0.165; p = 0.002), and FT4 levels (rs 0.118 p = 0.021). Nodular goiter frequency did not differ between the two groups. There was a negative correlation between TV and TSH (rs -0.13; p = 0.014). Thyroid volume was lower among primiparous compared to multiparous patients (7.8 vs 8.9; p < 0.001) and was positively correlated with parity (rs 0.161; p = 0.016). The 2.5th and 97.5th percentiles of TV were 4.23 and 16.47 cm3, respectively. CONCLUSION: Thyroid volume was higher in pregnant compared to non-pregnant women and was positively related to parity, BMI, and gestational age in a normal iodine status population. Pregnancy did not interfere with the development of NG.

OBJETIVO: Comparamos o volume tireoidiano (VT) e a presença de bócio nodular (BN) em mulheres grávidas e não grávidas em uma área suficiente em iodo. Também avaliamos a relação entre idade gestacional, paridade e VT no grupo de gestantes e determinamos os percentis 2,5 e 97,5 de VT normal na gestação. MéTODOS: Este estudo transversal incluiu 299 mulheres saudáveis (216 grávidas) sem doenças tireoidianas prévias. Ultrassonografias de tireoide foram realizadas e comparadas entre mulheres grávidas e não grávidas. A faixa de distribuição normal de VT (percentis 2,5 e 97,5) na gestação foi determinada após a exclusão de indivíduos com anticorpos tireoidianos positivos, BN e/ou tireotropina sérica (TSH) ou tiroxina livre (T4L) anormais. RESULTADOS: O VT foi maior entre as gestantes em comparação com as mulheres não grávidas (8,6 vs 6,1 cm3; p < 0,001) e foi positivamente correlacionado com a idade gestacional (rs = 0,221; p = 0,001), índice de massa corporal (IMC, rs 0,165; p = 0,002) e níveis de T4L (rs 0,118 p = 0,021). A frequência de BN não diferiu entre os dois grupos. Houve correlação negativa entre VT e TSH (rs -0,13; p = 0,014). O VT foi menor entre as primíparas em comparação com as multíparas (7,8 vs 8,9; p < 0,001) e foi positivamente correlacionado com a paridade (rs 0,161; p = 0,016). Os percentis 2,5 e 97,5 de VT foram 4,23 e 16,47 cm3, respectivamente. CONCLUSãO: O VT foi maior em gestantes em comparação com mulheres não grávidas e foi positivamente relacionado à paridade, IMC e idade gestacional em uma população com status iódico normal. A gravidez não interferiu no desenvolvimento de BN.

Preventive Effect of Molecular Iodine in Pancreatic Disorders from Hypothyroid Rabbits.

Pancreatic alterations such as inflammation and insulin resistance accompany hypothyroidism. Molecular iodine (I2) exerts antioxidant and differentiation actions in several tissues, and the pancreas is an iodine-uptake tissue. We analyzed the effect of two oral I2 doses on pancreatic disorders in a model of hypothyroidism for 30 days. Adult female rabbits were divided into the following groups: control, moderate oral dose of I2 (0.2 mg/kg, M-I2), high oral dose of I2 (2.0 mg/kg, H-I2), oral dose of methimazole (MMI; 10 mg/kg), MMI + M-I2,, and MMI + H-I2. Moderate or high I2 supplementation did not modify circulating metabolites or pancreatic morphology. The MMI group showed reductions of circulating thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), moderate glucose increments, and significant increases in cholesterol and low-density lipoproteins. Acinar fibrosis, high insulin content, lipoperoxidation, and overexpression of GLUT4 were observed in the pancreas of this group. M-I2 supplementation normalized the T4 and cholesterol, but T3 remained low. Pancreatic alterations were prevented, and nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor-2 (Nrf2), antioxidant enzymes, and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARG) maintained their basal values. In MMI + H-I2, hypothyroidism was avoided, but pancreatic alterations and low PPARG expression remained. In conclusion, M-I2 supplementation reestablishes thyronine synthesis and diminishes pancreatic alterations, possibly related to Nrf2 and PPARG activation.

High-power ultrasound bleaching technique for canola oil (Brassica napus L.): Pigments removal and quality parameters.

Canola seeds (Brassica napus L.) are among the most commonly used seeds in Mexico for vegetable oil production. This is based on the high yield and content of polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fatty acids. During oil bleaching, it is important to maintain fatty acids in their cis configuration because of the health concerns associated with trans-fatty acid consumption. In this sense, the industrial processing parameters employed for this purpose present some limitations, such as high temperatures and long times, which may change the cis configuration to trans. In addition, the amount of bleaching clay employed for this process could be a source of contamination because it is disposed of after treatment. Therefore, the aim of this study was to develop a bleaching process for canola oil using high-power ultrasound (US). US processing was applied to nine treatments with different processing times (60, 75, and 90 min), clay percentages (1, 2, and 3%), and temperatures (60 and 80 °C) to determine the concentrations of chlorophyll a and b (µg chlo/100 g oil), carotenes (µg ß-carotene/100 g oil), color (L*, a*, b*, C*, and h°), iodine value (g I2/100 g oil), and finally carrying out a spectroscopic analysis (ATR-FTIR and Raman). A conventional bleaching treatment (100 °C for 180 min, 3% bleaching clay) was used as a control. The results revealed that US treatments with 2% clay at 60 °C for 60 and 90 min eliminated most of the chlorophyll compounds (98%). However, in terms of carotenes reduction, these identical treatments exhibited a similar tendency to that of the control (approximately 30% decrease). These findings also affected the sample color, in which US treatments revealed chromatic coordinates that indicated yellow tones with chroma values that were more intense than those in the control samples. In terms of the iodine value, such treatments fulfilled the international standards for vegetable oils (90-100 g I2/100 g oil). Finally, the spectroscopic study revealed no trans configurations or the presence of different chemical compounds after US treatment, because neither of them presented typical peaks for those molecular configurations. In this regard, US can be a useful methodology for bleaching vegetable oils, helping to reduce time, and bleaching clay with similar pigment reduction results.

Two-Stage Pulsatile Human Placenta Model for Microvascular Anastomosis Training in Neurosurgery.

OBJECTIVE: The development of microsurgical skills is crucial for neurosurgical education. The human placenta is a promising model for practicing vascular anastomosis due to its similarities with brain vessels. We propose a 2-stage model for training in extracranial-to-intracranial anastomosis using the placenta. METHODS: Initially, we propose practicing anastomosis in 2 adjacent placentas. Once successful, the procedure advances to a more challenging configuration that employs a 3-dimensionally printed skull with a window simulating a pterional craniotomy. It is positioned an intracranial placenta and an extracranial one, and the latter has a prominent vessel exposed toward the side of the craniotomy. Both placentas have one artery and vein cannulated in the umbilical cord, and we present an artificial placental circulation system for microvascular training that regulates pulsation and hydrodynamic pressure while keeping veins engorged with a pressurized bag. To verify anastomosis patency, we utilize sodium fluorescein and iodine contrast. RESULTS: The 2-stage model simulated several aspects of microvascular anastomosis. Our perfusion system allowed for intraoperative adjustments of hydrodynamic pressure and pulsation. Using iodine contrast and fluorescein enabled proper evaluation of anastomosis patency and hydrodynamic features. CONCLUSIONS: Training in the laboratory is essential for developing microsurgical skills. We have presented a model for microvascular anastomosis with artificial circulation and postoperative imaging evaluation, which is highly beneficial for enhancing the learning curve in microvascular procedures.

Contenido de yodo de la sal alimentaria en puestos de venta del Gran San Salvador de Jujuy, Argentina (Mayo 2022) / Iodine content in dietary salt available at retail outlets in Gran San Salvador de Jujuy, Argentina (May 2022)

El objetivo de este trabajo fue determinar la calidad de yodación de la sal alimentaria a nivel de puestos de venta en los barrios del Gran San Salvador de Jujuy (GSSJ). Para esto se llevó a cabo un estudio descriptivo y transversal. Se adquirió a nivel comercial un envase de sal en cada una de las 47 urbanizaciones del GSSJ, durante el mes de mayo del 2022. El yodo en sal se determinó por titulación con tiosulfato de sodio, con valor referencial establecido por la Ley 17.259/69 (toda sal debe estar yodada en un rango de una parte de yodo en 30.000 de sal ± 25 % = 24,7­41,2 ppm). Los resultados mostraron que el nivel de yodo en las sales fue de 24,5 ± 9,4 ppm (promedio ± desvío estándar), 26,1 ppm de mediana, 0 a 42,5 ppm (rango) y IC 95 % de 21,8­27,2 ppm. Solo el 53,2 % de las muestras estaban correctamente yodadas, el 40,4 % contenían yodo, pero de manera insuficiente, el 4,3 % estaban sin yodar y el 2,1 % en exceso marginal, con similar distribución en todas las categorías del NBI/urbanización (p=NS). Solo el 45,0 % de las sales envasadas regionales cumplían con el nivel de yodo adecuado, diferencia altamente significativa respecto a las no regionales (p=0,0077). En conclusión, en el expendio del mercado minorista del GSSJ casi la mitad de los productos necesitan optimizar el nivel de yodación, por lo que se hace necesario aunar los esfuerzos de todos los actores participantes ante la imperiosa necesidad de cumplir no solo con las normativas y parámetros referenciales, sino fundamentalmente con el aporte del nutriente clave para cubrir los requerimientos diarios de la población.

This study aimed to determine the iodization quality of food-grade salt available at retail outlets in neighborhoods of Gran San Salvador de Jujuy (GSSJ). To do so, a descriptive and cross-sectional study was conducted, involving the acquisition of salt samples from 47 urban areas within the GSSJ during May 2022. The iodine in salt was determined by titration with sodium thiosulfate, following the reference value established by Law 17,259/69 (all salt must be iodized within a range of one part iodine per 30,000 parts of salt ± 25 % = 24.7­41.2 ppm). The results showed that the iodine level in the salt samples were 24.5 ± 9.4 ppm (mean ± standard deviation), median 26.1 ppm, 0 to 42.5 ppm (range), and 95 % CI of 21.8­27.2 ppm. Only 53.2 % of the samples were correctly iodinated, 40.4 % contained iodine, but insufficiently, 4.3 % were not iodinated, and 2.1 % were in marginal excess, with similar distribution across all categories of UBN/urbanization (p=NS). Only 45.0 % of the regional packaged salts met the adequate iodine level, a highly significant difference compared to the non-regional ones (p=0.0077). In conclusion, in the GSSJ retail market, almost half of the products need to optimize their level of iodization, which is why it is necessary to combine the efforts of all relevant actors in the face of the imperative need to comply not only with the regulations and reference parameters but, fundamentally, with the contribution of this key nutrient to cover the daily requirements of the population.

[Insufficient elevation of TSH before therapy with I131 in a patient with metastatic differentiated thyroid carcinoma] / Elevación insuficiente de TSH antes de la terapia con I131 en paciente con carcinoma diferenciado de tiroides metastásico.

Guidelines suggest a thyrotropin (TSH) stimulation level ≥30 mIU/l for the administration of 131-iodine (I131) in patients with differentiated thyroid carcinoma (DTC). We present a patient with follicular thyroid carcinoma (FTC), with spinal metastasis as the initial manifestation, who after 6 weeks without levothyroxine did not present an elevation of ≥30 mIU/l of TSH. This situation was interpreted as secondary to the presence of functioning metastases and it was decided, regardless of the TSH level, to administer a therapeutic dose of I131, with iodine-uptake lesions in the liver and spine being confirmed.

Las guías sugieren un nivel de estimulación de tirotrofina (TSH) ≥30 mUI/l para la administración de yodo 131 (I131) en pacientes con carcinoma diferenciado de tiroides (CDT). Presentamos una paciente con carcinoma folicular de tiroides (CFT), con metástasis vertebral como manifestación inicial, que tras 6 semanas sin levotiroxina no presentó una elevación ≥30 mUI/l de TSH. Esta situación fue interpretada como secundaria a la presencia de metástasis funcionantes y se decidió, independientemente del valor de TSH, la administración de una dosis terapéutica de I131 constatándose lesiones captantes de I131 en hígado y columna vertebral.

References values and predictive factors for thyroid volume in pregnant women.

Objective: Thyroid volume varies within each population according to different clinical and biochemical factors and can change during pregnancy. The present investigation was aimed to determine the reference values for thyroid volume in pregnant women and their predictive factors. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out with 360 healthy pregnant women. The following variables were examined: maternal age, gestational age, skin color, current smoking status, parity, use of iodinated supplements, body mass index, thyrotropin, total and free thyroid hormones, thyroglobulin, antithyroid antibodies, chorionic gonadotropin, cholesterol and triglycerides. Results: The mean thyroid volume was 5.3 ± 1.3 mL, 5.4 ± 1.6 mL and 5.6 ± 2.5 mL in the first trimester, second trimester and third trimester, respectively. The reference interval was 2.47-9.49 mL in the first trimester, 3.17-9.01 mL in the second trimester, and 3.00-12.38 mL in the third trimester. Free triiodothyronine and triglycerides were predictors of thyroid volume (corrected R2 = 0.12; p = 0.000). Conclusion: This study is the first to determine the reference values for thyroid volume and its predictive factors in pregnant women from Cuba, a Caribbean island with sustainable elimination of iodine deficiency disorders.

Cellulose acylation in homogeneous and heterogeneous media: Optimization of reactions conditions.

The dependence of the DS on the acid anhydride/anhydroglucose unit ((RCO)2O/AGU) molar ratio was correlated using second-order polynomials. The regression coefficients of the (RCO)2O/AGU terms showed that increasing the length of the RCO group of the anhydride led to lower values of DS. For acylation under heterogeneous reaction conditions, the following were employed: acid anhydrides and butyryl chloride as acylating agents; iodine as a catalyst; N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF) as a solvent, pyridine, and triethylamine as solvents and catalysts. For acylation using acetic anhydride plus iodine, the values of DS correlate with reaction time by a second-order polynomial. Due to its role as a polar solvent and a nucleophilic catalyst, pyridine was the most effective base catalyst, independent of the acylating agent (butyric anhydride and butyryl chloride).

Dual-Energy CT for Pediatric Thoracic Imaging: A Review.

Dual-energy CT has expanded the potential of thoracic imaging in both children and adults. Data processing allows material- and energy-specific reconstructions, which improve material differentiation and tissue characterization compared with single-energy CT. Material-specific reconstructions include iodine, virtual unenhanced, perfusion blood volume, and lung vessel images, which can improve assessment of vascular, mediastinal, and parenchymal abnormalities. The energy-specific reconstruction algorithm allows virtual monoenergetic reconstructions, including low-energy images to increase iodine conspicuity and high-energy images to reduce beam-hardening and metal artifacts. This review highlights dual-energy CT principles, hardware, and postprocessing algorithms; the clinical applications of dual-energy CT; and the potential benefits of photon counting (the most recently introduced iteration of spectral imaging) in pediatric thoracic imaging.

Accuracy and Precision of Iodine Quantification in Subtracted Micro-Computed Tomography: Effect of Reconstruction and Noise Removal Algorithms.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effect of reconstruction and noise removal algorithms on the accuracy and precision of iodine concentration (CI) quantified with subtracted micro-computed tomography (micro-CT). PROCEDURES: Two reconstruction algorithms were evaluated: a filtered backprojection (FBP) algorithm and a simultaneous iterative reconstruction technique (SIRT) algorithm. A 3D bilateral filter (BF) was used for noise removal. A phantom study evaluated and compared the image quality, and the accuracy and precision of CI in four scenarios: filtered FBP, filtered SIRT, non-filtered FBP, and non-filtered SIRT. In vivo experiments were performed in an animal model of chemically-induced mammary cancer. RESULTS: Linear relationships between the measured and nominal CI values were found for all the scenarios in the phantom study (R2 > 0.95). SIRT significantly improved the accuracy and precision of CI compared to FBP, as given by their lower bias (adj. p-value = 0.0308) and repeatability coefficient (adj. p-value < 0.0001). Noise removal enabled a significant decrease in bias in filtered SIRT images only; non-significant differences were found for the repeatability coefficient. The phantom and in vivo studies showed that CI is a reproducible imaging parameter for all the scenarios (Pearson r > 0.99, p-value < 0.001). The contrast-to-noise ratio showed non-significant differences among the evaluated scenarios in the phantom study, while a significant improvement was found in the in vivo study when SIRT and BF algorithms were used. CONCLUSIONS: SIRT and BF algorithms improved the accuracy and precision of CI compared to FBP and non-filtered images, which encourages their use in subtracted micro-CT imaging.