A new species of the genus Ophiomyxa (Echinodermata: Ophiuroidea: Ophiomyxidae) from the Mallorca Channel seamounts in the western Mediterranean.

A new species belonging to the ophiuroid genus Ophiomyxa is described from the Mallorca Channel seamount, in the western Mediterranean Sea. It can be distinguished from other Ophiomyxa species by the lack of interradial marginal plates, three arm spines, the presence of two thin, transparent and completely perforated dorsal arm plates on each arm segment, the separate heptagonal ventral arm plates, the disk integument full of transparent rounded scales with scattered perforated ossicles, and a characteristic coloration of the disk, which in the living specimen is brown with abundant scattered bright white spots. Molecular analyses based on cytochrome c Oxidase subunit I (DNA barcode) clearly support the assignment of the new species to Ophiomyxa. This discovery highlights the importance of the Mallorca Channel seamounts for the Mediterranean biodiversity conservation, as they seem to provide a suitable habitat for several invertebrate species, including recent descriptions of species and new Mediterranean records, which apparently have not established permanent populations along the closest continental margin.

Brain metabolism response to intrahospital transfers in neurocritical ill patients and the impact of microdialysis probe location.

Intrahospital transfer (IHT), a routine in the management of neurocritical patients requiring imaging or interventions, might affect brain metabolism. Studies about IHT effects using microdialysis (MD) have produced conflicting results. In these studies, only the most damaged hemisphere was monitored, and those may not reflect the impact of IHT on overall brain metabolism, nor do they address differences between the hemispheres. Herein we aimed to quantify the effect of IHT on brain metabolism by monitoring both hemispheres with bilateral MD. In this study, 27 patients with severe brain injury (10 traumatic brain injury and 17 subarachnoid hemorrhage patients) were included, with a total of 67 IHT. Glucose, glycerol, pyruvate and lactate were measured by MD in both hemispheres for 10 h pre- and post-IHT. Alterations in metabolite levels after IHT were observed on both hemispheres; although these changes were more marked in hemisphere A (most damaged) than B (less damaged). Our results suggest that brain metabolism is altered after an IHT of neurocritical ill patients particularly but not limited to the damaged hemisphere. Bilateral monitorization may be more sensitive than unilateral monitorization for detecting metabolic disturbances not directly related to the course of the disease.

Stroke Unit as an alternative to Intensive Care Unit for initial hospital admission of low-grade non-aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage: A safety and cost-minimisation analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Stroke Units (SU) have been suggested as an alternative to Intensive Care units (ICU) for initial admission of low-grade non-aneurysmal spontaneous subarachnoid haemorrhage (naSAH). We hypothesised that the incidence of in-hospital complications and long-term clinical outcomes in low-grade naSAH patients would be comparable in both settings, and that a cost-minimisation analysis would favour the use of SU. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Retrospective, single-centre study at a third-level stroke-referral hospital, including low-grade spontaneous naSAH patients with WFNS 1-2. Primary outcomes were death and functional status at 3 months. Secondary outcomes were incidence of in-hospital major neurological and systemic complications. Additionally, a cost-minimisation analysis was conducted to estimate the average cost savings that could be achieved with the most efficient approach. RESULTS: Out of 96 naSAH patients, 30 (31%) were initially admitted to ICU and 66 (69%) to SU. Both groups had similar demographic and radiological features except for a higher proportion of WFNS 2 in ICU subgroup. There were no statistically significant differences between ICU and SU-managed subgroups in death rate (2 (7%) and 1 (2%), respectively), functional outcome at 90 days (28 (93%) and 61 (92%) modified Rankin Scale 0-2) or neurological and systemic in-hospital complications. Cost-minimisation analysis demonstrated significant monetary savings favouring the SU strategy. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Initial admission to the SU appears to be a safe and cost-effective alternative to the ICU for low-grade naSAH patients, with comparable clinical outcomes and a reduction of hospitalisation-related costs. Prospective multicenter randomised studies are encouraged to further evaluate this approach.

Aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage: Volumetric quantification of the blood distribution pattern to accurately predict the ruptured aneurysm location.

BACKGROUND: In spontaneous subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH) accurate determination of the bleeding source is paramount to guide treatment. Traditionally, the bleeding pattern has been used to predict the aneurysm location. Here, we have tested a software-based tool, which quantifies the volume of intracranial blood and stratifies it according to the regional distribution, to predict the location of the ruptured aneurysm. METHODS: A consecutive series of SAH patients admitted to a single tertiary centre between 2012-2018, within 72 h of onset, harbouring a single intracranial aneurysm. A semi-automatized method of blood quantification, based on the relative density increase, was applied to initial non-contrast CTs. Five regions were used to define the bleeding patterns and to correlate them with aneurysm location: perimesencephalic, interhemispheric, right/left hemisphere and intraventricular. RESULTS: 68 patients were included for analysis. There was a strong association between the distribution of blood and the aneurysm location (p < 0.001). In particular: ACom and interhemispheric fissure (p < 0.001), MCA and ipsilateral hemisphere (p < 0.001), ICA and ipsilateral hemisphere and perimesencephalic cisterns (p < 0.001), PCom and hemispheric, perimesencephalic and intraventricular (p = 0.019), and PICA and perimesencephalic and intraventricular (p < 0.001). The internal diagnostic value was high (AUROC ≥ 0.900) for these locations. CONCLUSION: Regional automatised volumetry seems a reliable and objective tool to quantify and describe the distribution of blood within the subarachnoid spaces. This tool accurately predicts the location of the ruptured aneurysm; its use may be prospectively considered in the emergency setting when speed and simplicity are attained.

Multimodal imaging of the role of hyperglycemia following experimental subarachnoid hemorrhage.

Hyperglycemia has been linked to worsening outcomes after subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). Nevertheless, the mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of SAH have been scarcely evaluated so far. The role of hyperglycemia was assessed in an experimental model of SAH by T2 weighted, dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (T2W and DCE-MRI), [18F]BR-351 PET imaging and immunohistochemistry. Measures included the volume of bleeding, the extent of cerebral infarction and brain edema, blood brain barrier disruption (BBBd), neutrophil infiltration and matrix metalloprotease (MMP) activation. The neurofunctional outcome, neurodegeneration and myelinization were also investigated. The induction of hyperglycemia increased mortality, the size of the ischemic lesion, brain edema, neurodegeneration and worsened neurological outcome during the first 3 days after SAH in rats. In addition, these results show for the first time the exacerbating effect of hyperglycemia on in vivo MMP activation, Intercellular Adhesion Molecule 1 (ICAM-1) expression and neutrophil infiltration together with increased BBBd, bleeding volume and fibrinogen accumulation at days 1 and 3 after SAH. Notably, these data provide valuable insight into the detrimental effect of hyperglycemia on early BBB damage mediated by neutrophil infiltration and MMP activation that could explain the worse prognosis in SAH.

MicroRNA cerebrospinal fluid profile during the early brain injury period as a biomarker in subarachnoid hemorrhage patients.

Introduction: Delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI) is a dreadful complication present in up to 30% of patients with spontaneous subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). Indeed, DCI is one of the main causes of long-term disability in SAH, yet its prediction and prevention are troublesome in poor-grade SAH cases. In this prospective study, we explored the potential role of micro ribonucleic acid (microRNA, abbreviated miRNAs)-small non-coding RNAs involved in clue gene regulation at the post-transcriptional level-as biomarkers of neurological outcomes in SAH patients. Methods: We analyzed the expression of several miRNAs present in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of SAH patients during the early stage of the disease (third-day post-hemorrhage). NanoString Technologies were used for the characterization of the CSF samples. Results: We found an overexpression of miRNAs in the acute stage of 57 SAH in comparison with 10 non-SAH controls. Moreover, a differential expression of specific miRNAs was detected according to the severity of clinical onset, but also regarding the development of DCI and the midterm functional outcomes. Conclusion: These observations reinforce the potential utility of miRNAs as prognostic and diagnostic biomarkers in SAH patients. In addition, the identification of specific miRNAs related to SAH evolution might provide insights into their regulatory functions of pathophysiological pathways, such as the TGF-ß inflammatory pathway and blood-brain barrier disruption.

[Chronic degenerative conditions as risk factors for lethal COVID-19Doenças crônicas degenerativas como fator de risco para letalidade por COVID-19]. / Enfermedades crónicas degenerativas como factor de riesgo de letalidad por COVID-19 en México.

Objective: To determine the relative risk of a lethal outcome associated with chronic degenerative conditions in patients with COVID-19. Methods: A cohort study was conducted using electronic medical records belonging to patients who tested positive for COVID-19 on RT-PCR while receiving care as outpatients or inpatients in a social security system facility between March 2020 and March 2021. Two study groups were formed. The exposed group was divided into four subgroups, each of which was diagnosed with one and only one chronic condition (diabetes, hypertension, obesity, or chronic kidney disease); the unexposed group was obtained from the medical records of patients without comorbidities. A total of 1 114 medical records were examined using simple random sampling. Once the minimum sample size was reached, the relative risk was calculated for each chronic condition. Combinations of two, three, and four conditions were created, and each of them was included in the analysis. Results: In the absence of a chronic degenerative condition, the prevalence of a lethal outcome from COVID-19 is 3.8%; in the presence of type 2 diabetes mellitus, 15.8%; in the presence of arterial hypertension, 15.6%; and in the presence of obesity, 15.0%. For diabetes and hypertension combined, the prevalence of a lethal outcome is 54.1%; for diabetes and obesity combined, 36.8%, and for obesity and hypertension combined, 28.1%. Conclusion: In patients with COVID-19, the relative risk of a lethal outcome is 4.17 for those with diabetes, 4.13 for those with hypertension, and 3.96 for those with obesity. For two chronic conditions combined, the relative risk doubles or triples. The relative risk of a lethal outcome is 14.27 for diabetes plus hypertension; 9.73 for diabetes plus obesity, and 7.43 for obesity plus hypertension. Chronic conditions do not present alone; they generally occur together, hence the significance of the relative risks for lethal outcomes presented in this paper.

Objetivo: Determinar o risco de letalidade conferido por doenças crônicas degenerativas em pacientes com COVID-19. Métodos: Foi realizado um estudo de coorte em prontuários eletrônicos de pacientes com RT-PCR positivo para COVID-19 em atendimento ambulatorial ou hospitalar em uma instituição de previdência social, no período de março de 2020 a março de 2021. Foram constituídos dois grupos de estudo. O grupo exposto foi dividido em quatro subgrupos, cada um com diagnóstico único e exclusivo de uma doença crônica (diabetes, hipertensão, obesidade ou doença renal crônica). O grupo não exposto foi constituído por prontuários de pacientes sem comorbidades. Foram revisados 1.114 prontuários no total, utilizando técnica de amostragem aleatória simples. Uma vez obtido o tamanho mínimo da amostra, foi calculado o risco relativo para cada doença crônica. Foram realizadas combinações de 2, 3 e 4, tendo sido feita a análise com cada uma delas. Resultados: Na ausência de doença crônica degenerativa, a prevalência de letalidade na COVID-19 é de 3,8%; na presença de diabetes mellitus tipo 2, a letalidade é de 15,8%; na presença de hipertensão arterial, 15,6%; e na presença de obesidade, 15%. Quando tanto diabetes como hipertensão estão presentes, a letalidade é de 54,1%; com diabetes e obesidade, 36,8%; e obesidade com hipertensão, 28,1%. Conclusões: Em pacientes com COVID-19, o risco relativo de letalidade é de 4,17 naqueles com diabetes; 4,13 naqueles com hipertensão; e 3,96 naqueles com obesidade. Quando duas doenças crônicas são combinadas, o risco relativo dobra ou triplica. Para diabetes e hipertensão, o risco relativo de letalidade é 14,27; para diabetes e obesidade, 9,73; e para obesidade e hipertensão, 7,43. As doenças crônicas não ocorrem sozinhas (geralmente estão associadas), e nessa perspectiva os riscos relativos de letalidade apresentados neste artigo tornam-se relevantes.

Enfermedades crónicas degenerativas como factor de riesgo de letalidad por COVID-19 en México

[RESUMEN]. Objetivo. Determinar el riesgo de letalidad de las enfermedades crónicas degenerativas en pacientes con COVID-19. Métodos. Se realizo un estudio de cohorte, en expedientes clínicos electrónicos de pacientes con RT-PCR positiva para COVID-19 en atención ambulatoria o intrahospitalaria en una Institución de Seguridad Social de marzo 2020 a marzo 2021. Se integraron 2 grupos de estudio, el grupo expuesto se dividió en cuatro subgrupos, cada uno con diagnóstico único y exclusivo de una patología crónica (diabetes, hipertensión, obesidad o enfermedad renal crónica); el grupo no expuesto lo integraron expedientes de pacientes sin comorbilidades. Se revisaron 1 114 expedientes en total utilizando técnica muestral aleatoria simple, una vez obtenido el tamaño mínimo de muestra se calculó el riesgo relativo para cada enfermedad crónica, se realizaron combinaciones de 2, 3 y 4, con cada uno de ellos se realizó el análisis. Resultados. En ausencia de enfermedad crónica degenerativa la prevalencia de letalidad en COVID-19 es 3,8%; en presencia de diabetes mellitus tipo 2 la letalidad es 15,8; en hipertensión arterial de 15,6%; y en obesidad 15,0%. Cuando se combinan diabetes e hipertensión la letalidad es 54,1%; en diabetes y obesidad 36,8%; y en obesidad e hipertensión 28,1%. Conclusiones. En pacientes con COVID-19 el riesgo relativo para letalidad de letalidad en diabetes es 4,17; en hipertensión 4,13; y en obesidad 3,96. Cuando se combinan dos enfermedades crónicas el riesgo relativo se duplica o triplica, para diabetes e hipertensión el riesgo relativo para letalidad es 14,2; para diabetes y obesidad 9,73; y para obesidad e hipertensión 7,43. Es verdad que las enfermedades crónicas no se presentan solas, generalmente se encuentra asociadas, y desde esa perspectiva los riesgos relativos para letalidad ofrecidos en este artículo adquieren relevancia.

[ABSTRACT]. Objective. To determine the relative risk of a lethal outcome associated with chronic degenerative conditions in patients with COVID-19. Methods. A cohort study was conducted using electronic medical records belonging to patients who tested positive for COVID-19 on RT-PCR while receiving care as outpatients or inpatients in a social security system facility between March 2020 and March 2021. Two study groups were formed. The exposed group was divided into four subgroups, each of which was diagnosed with one and only one chronic condition (diabetes, hypertension, obesity, or chronic kidney disease); the unexposed group was obtained from the medical records of patients without comorbidities. A total of 1 114 medical records were examined using simple random sampling. Once the minimum sample size was reached, the relative risk was calculated for each chronic condition. Combinations of two, three, and four conditions were created, and each of them was included in the analysis. Results. In the absence of a chronic degenerative condition, the prevalence of a lethal outcome from COVID-19 is 3.8%; in the presence of type 2 diabetes mellitus, 15.8%; in the presence of arterial hypertension, 15.6%; and in the presence of obesity, 15.0%. For diabetes and hypertension combined, the prevalence of a lethal outcome is 54.1%; for diabetes and obesity combined, 36.8%, and for obesity and hypertension combined, 28.1%. Conclusion. In patients with COVID-19, the relative risk of a lethal outcome is 4.17 for those with diabetes, 4.13 for those with hypertension, and 3.96 for those with obesity. For two chronic conditions combined, the relative risk doubles or triples. The relative risk of a lethal outcome is 14.27 for diabetes plus hypertension; 9.73 for diabetes plus obesity, and 7.43 for obesity plus hypertension. Chronic conditions do not present alone; they generally occur together, hence the significance of the relative risks for lethal outcomes presented in this paper.

[RESUMO]. Objetivo. Determinar o risco de letalidade conferido por doenças crônicas degenerativas em pacientes com COVID-19. Métodos. Foi realizado um estudo de coorte em prontuários eletrônicos de pacientes com RT-PCR positivo para COVID-19 em atendimento ambulatorial ou hospitalar em uma instituição de previdência social, no período de março de 2020 a março de 2021. Foram constituídos dois grupos de estudo. O grupo exposto foi dividido em quatro subgrupos, cada um com diagnóstico único e exclusivo de uma doença crônica (diabetes, hipertensão, obesidade ou doença renal crônica). O grupo não exposto foi constituído por prontuários de pacientes sem comorbidades. Foram revisados 1.114 prontuários no total, utilizando técnica de amostragem aleatória simples. Uma vez obtido o tamanho mínimo da amostra, foi calculado o risco relativo para cada doença crônica. Foram realizadas combinações de 2, 3 e 4, tendo sido feita a análise com cada uma delas. Resultados. Na ausência de doença crônica degenerativa, a prevalência de letalidade na COVID-19 é de 3,8%; na presença de diabetes mellitus tipo 2, a letalidade é de 15,8%; na presença de hipertensão arterial, 15,6%; e na presença de obesidade, 15%. Quando tanto diabetes como hipertensão estão presentes, a letalidade é de 54,1%; com diabetes e obesidade, 36,8%; e obesidade com hipertensão, 28,1%. Conclusões. Em pacientes com COVID-19, o risco relativo de letalidade é de 4,17 naqueles com diabetes; 4,13 naqueles com hipertensão; e 3,96 naqueles com obesidade. Quando duas doenças crônicas são combinadas, o risco relativo dobra ou triplica. Para diabetes e hipertensão, o risco relativo de letalidade é 14,27; para diabetes e obesidade, 9,73; e para obesidade e hipertensão, 7,43. As doenças crônicas não ocorrem sozinhas (geralmente estão associadas), e nessa perspectiva os riscos relativos de letalidade apresentados neste artigo tornam-se relevantes.

Clinical and therapeutic variables may influence the association between infarct core predicted by CT perfusion and clinical outcome in acute stroke.

OBJECTIVES: After an acute ischemic stroke, patients with a large CT perfusion (CTP) predicted infarct core (pIC) have poor clinical outcome. However, previous research suggests that this relationship may be relevant for subgroups of patients determined by pretreatment and treatment-related variables while negligible for others. We aimed to identify these variables. METHODS: We included a cohort of 828 patients with acute proximal carotid arterial occlusions imaged with a whole-brain CTP within 8 h from stroke onset. pIC was computed on CTP Maps (cerebral blood flow < 30%), and poor clinical outcome was defined as a 90-day modified Rankin Scale score > 2. Potential mediators of the association between pIC and clinical outcome were evaluated through first-order and advanced interaction analyses in the derivation cohort (n = 654) for obtaining a prediction model. The derived model was further validated in an independent cohort (n = 174). RESULTS: The volume of pIC was significantly associated with poor clinical outcome (OR = 2.19, 95% CI = 1.73 - 2.78, p < 0.001). The strength of this association depended on baseline National Institute of Health Stroke Scale, glucose levels, the use of thrombectomy, and the interaction of age with thrombectomy. The model combining these variables showed good discrimination for predicting clinical outcome in both the derivation cohort and validation cohorts (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve 0.780 (95% CI = 0.746-0.815) and 0.782 (95% CI = 0.715-0.850), respectively). CONCLUSIONS: In patients imaged within 8 h from stroke onset, the association between pIC and clinical outcome is significantly modified by baseline and therapeutic variables. These variables deserve consideration when evaluating the prognostic relevance of pIC. KEY POINTS: •The volume of CT perfusion (CTP) predicted infarct core (pIC) is associated with poor clinical outcome in acute ischemic stroke imaged within 8 h of onset. •The relationship between pIC and clinical outcome may be modified by baseline clinical severity, glucose levels, thrombectomy use, and the interaction of age with thrombectomy. •CTP pIC should be evaluated in an individual basis for predicting clinical outcome in patients imaged within 8 h from stroke onset.

Effect of Intra-arterial Alteplase vs Placebo Following Successful Thrombectomy on Functional Outcomes in Patients With Large Vessel Occlusion Acute Ischemic Stroke: The CHOICE Randomized Clinical Trial.

Importance: It is estimated that only 27% of patients with acute ischemic stroke and large vessel occlusion who undergo successful reperfusion after mechanical thrombectomy are disability free at 90 days. An incomplete microcirculatory reperfusion might contribute to these suboptimal clinical benefits. Objective: To investigate whether treatment with adjunct intra-arterial alteplase after thrombectomy improves outcomes following reperfusion. Design, Setting, and Participants: Phase 2b randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial performed from December 2018 through May 2021 in 7 stroke centers in Catalonia, Spain. The study included 121 patients with large vessel occlusion acute ischemic stroke treated with thrombectomy within 24 hours after stroke onset and with an expanded Treatment in Cerebral Ischemia angiographic score of 2b50 to 3. Interventions: Participants were randomized to receive intra-arterial alteplase (0.225 mg/kg; maximum dose, 22.5 mg) infused over 15 to 30 minutes (n = 61) or placebo (n = 52). Main Outcomes and Measures: The primary outcome was the difference in proportion of patients achieving a score of 0 or 1 on the 90-day modified Rankin Scale (range, 0 [no symptoms] to 6 [death]) in all patients treated as randomized. Safety outcomes included rate of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage and death. Results: The study was terminated early for inability to maintain placebo availability and enrollment rate because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Of 1825 patients with acute ischemic stroke treated with thrombectomy at the 7 study sites, 748 (41%) patients fulfilled the angiographic criteria, 121 (7%) patients were randomized (mean age, 70.6 [SD, 13.7] years; 57 women [47%]), and 113 (6%) were treated as randomized. The proportion of participants with a modified Rankin Scale score of 0 or 1 at 90 days was 59.0% (36/61) with alteplase and 40.4% (21/52) with placebo (adjusted risk difference, 18.4%; 95% CI, 0.3%-36.4%; P = .047). The proportion of patients with symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage within 24 hours was 0% with alteplase and 3.8% with placebo (risk difference, -3.8%; 95% CI, -13.2% to 2.5%). Ninety-day mortality was 8% with alteplase and 15% with placebo (risk difference, -7.2%; 95% CI, -19.2% to 4.8%). Conclusions and Relevance: Among patients with large vessel occlusion acute ischemic stroke and successful reperfusion following thrombectomy, the use of adjunct intra-arterial alteplase compared with placebo resulted in a greater likelihood of excellent neurological outcome at 90 days. However, because of study limitations, these findings should be interpreted as preliminary and require replication. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03876119; EudraCT Number: 2018-002195-40.

Enfermedades crónicas degenerativas como factor de riesgo de letalidad por COVID-19 en México / Chronic degenerative conditions as risk factors for lethal COVID-19 / Doenças crônicas degenerativas como fator de risco para letalidade por COVID-19

RESUMEN Objetivo. Determinar el riesgo de letalidad de las enfermedades crónicas degenerativas en pacientes con COVID-19. Métodos. Se realizo un estudio de cohorte, en expedientes clínicos electrónicos de pacientes con RT-PCR positiva para COVID-19 en atención ambulatoria o intrahospitalaria en una Institución de Seguridad Social de marzo 2020 a marzo 2021. Se integraron 2 grupos de estudio, el grupo expuesto se dividió en cuatro subgrupos, cada uno con diagnóstico único y exclusivo de una patología crónica (diabetes, hipertensión, obesidad o enfermedad renal crónica); el grupo no expuesto lo integraron expedientes de pacientes sin comorbilidades. Se revisaron 1 114 expedientes en total utilizando técnica muestral aleatoria simple, una vez obtenido el tamaño mínimo de muestra se calculó el riesgo relativo para cada enfermedad crónica, se realizaron combinaciones de 2, 3 y 4, con cada uno de ellos se realizó el análisis. Resultados. En ausencia de enfermedad crónica degenerativa la prevalencia de letalidad en COVID-19 es 3,8%; en presencia de diabetes mellitus tipo 2 la letalidad es 15,8; en hipertensión arterial de 15,6%; y en obesidad 15,0%. Cuando se combinan diabetes e hipertensión la letalidad es 54,1%; en diabetes y obesidad 36,8%; y en obesidad e hipertensión 28,1%. Conclusiones. En pacientes con COVID-19 el riesgo relativo para letalidad de letalidad en diabetes es 4,17; en hipertensión 4,13; y en obesidad 3,96. Cuando se combinan dos enfermedades crónicas el riesgo relativo se duplica o triplica, para diabetes e hipertensión el riesgo relativo para letalidad es 14,2; para diabetes y obesidad 9,73; y para obesidad e hipertensión 7,43. Es verdad que las enfermedades crónicas no se presentan solas, generalmente se encuentra asociadas, y desde esa perspectiva los riesgos relativos para letalidad ofrecidos en este artículo adquieren relevancia.

ABSTRACT Objective. To determine the relative risk of a lethal outcome associated with chronic degenerative conditions in patients with COVID-19. Methods. A cohort study was conducted using electronic medical records belonging to patients who tested positive for COVID-19 on RT-PCR while receiving care as outpatients or inpatients in a social security system facility between March 2020 and March 2021. Two study groups were formed. The exposed group was divided into four subgroups, each of which was diagnosed with one and only one chronic condition (diabetes, hypertension, obesity, or chronic kidney disease); the unexposed group was obtained from the medical records of patients without comorbidities. A total of 1 114 medical records were examined using simple random sampling. Once the minimum sample size was reached, the relative risk was calculated for each chronic condition. Combinations of two, three, and four conditions were created, and each of them was included in the analysis. Results. In the absence of a chronic degenerative condition, the prevalence of a lethal outcome from COVID-19 is 3.8%; in the presence of type 2 diabetes mellitus, 15.8%; in the presence of arterial hypertension, 15.6%; and in the presence of obesity, 15.0%. For diabetes and hypertension combined, the prevalence of a lethal outcome is 54.1%; for diabetes and obesity combined, 36.8%, and for obesity and hypertension combined, 28.1%. Conclusion. In patients with COVID-19, the relative risk of a lethal outcome is 4.17 for those with diabetes, 4.13 for those with hypertension, and 3.96 for those with obesity. For two chronic conditions combined, the relative risk doubles or triples. The relative risk of a lethal outcome is 14.27 for diabetes plus hypertension; 9.73 for diabetes plus obesity, and 7.43 for obesity plus hypertension. Chronic conditions do not present alone; they generally occur together, hence the significance of the relative risks for lethal outcomes presented in this paper.

RESUMO Objetivo. Determinar o risco de letalidade conferido por doenças crônicas degenerativas em pacientes com COVID-19. Métodos. Foi realizado um estudo de coorte em prontuários eletrônicos de pacientes com RT-PCR positivo para COVID-19 em atendimento ambulatorial ou hospitalar em uma instituição de previdência social, no período de março de 2020 a março de 2021. Foram constituídos dois grupos de estudo. O grupo exposto foi dividido em quatro subgrupos, cada um com diagnóstico único e exclusivo de uma doença crônica (diabetes, hipertensão, obesidade ou doença renal crônica). O grupo não exposto foi constituído por prontuários de pacientes sem comorbidades. Foram revisados 1.114 prontuários no total, utilizando técnica de amostragem aleatória simples. Uma vez obtido o tamanho mínimo da amostra, foi calculado o risco relativo para cada doença crônica. Foram realizadas combinações de 2, 3 e 4, tendo sido feita a análise com cada uma delas. Resultados. Na ausência de doença crônica degenerativa, a prevalência de letalidade na COVID-19 é de 3,8%; na presença de diabetes mellitus tipo 2, a letalidade é de 15,8%; na presença de hipertensão arterial, 15,6%; e na presença de obesidade, 15%. Quando tanto diabetes como hipertensão estão presentes, a letalidade é de 54,1%; com diabetes e obesidade, 36,8%; e obesidade com hipertensão, 28,1%. Conclusões. Em pacientes com COVID-19, o risco relativo de letalidade é de 4,17 naqueles com diabetes; 4,13 naqueles com hipertensão; e 3,96 naqueles com obesidade. Quando duas doenças crônicas são combinadas, o risco relativo dobra ou triplica. Para diabetes e hipertensão, o risco relativo de letalidade é 14,27; para diabetes e obesidade, 9,73; e para obesidade e hipertensão, 7,43. As doenças crônicas não ocorrem sozinhas (geralmente estão associadas), e nessa perspectiva os riscos relativos de letalidade apresentados neste artigo tornam-se relevantes.

Effectiveness of Thrombectomy in Stroke According to Baseline Prognostic Factors: Inverse Probability of Treatment Weighting Analysis of a Population-Based Registry.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE:  In real-world practice, the benefit of mechanical thrombectomy (MT) is uncertain in stroke patients with very favorable or poor prognostic profiles at baseline. We studied the effectiveness of MT versus medical treatment stratifying by different baseline prognostic factors. METHODS:  Retrospective analysis of 2,588 patients with an ischemic stroke due to large vessel occlusion nested in the population-based registry of stroke code activations in Catalonia from January 2017 to June 2019. The effect of MT on good functional outcome (modified Rankin Score ≤2) and survival at 3 months was studied using inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) analysis in three pre-defined baseline prognostic groups: poor (if pre-stroke disability, age >85 years, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale [NIHSS] >25, time from onset >6 hours, Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score <6, proximal vertebrobasilar occlusion, supratherapeutic international normalized ratio >3), good (if NIHSS <6 or distal occlusion, in the absence of poor prognostic factors), or reference (not meeting other groups' criteria). RESULTS:  Patients receiving MT (n=1,996, 77%) were younger, had less pre-stroke disability, and received systemic thrombolysis less frequently. These differences were balanced after the IPTW stratified by prognosis. MT was associated with good functional outcome in the reference (odds ratio [OR], 2.9; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.0 to 4.4), and especially in the poor baseline prognostic stratum (OR, 3.9; 95% CI, 2.6 to 5.9), but not in the good prognostic stratum. MT was associated with survival only in the poor prognostic stratum (OR, 2.6; 95% CI, 2.0 to 3.3). CONCLUSIONS:  Despite their worse overall outcomes, the impact of thrombectomy over medical management was more substantial in patients with poorer baseline prognostic factors than patients with good prognostic factors.

Sponges of Western Mediterranean seamounts: new genera, new species and new records.

BACKGROUND: The seamounts Ses Olives (SO), Ausias March (AM) and Emile Baudot (EB) at the Mallorca Channel (Balearic Islands, western Mediterranean), are poorly explored areas containing rich and singular sponge communities. Previous works have shown a large heterogeneity of habitats, including rhodolith beds, rocky, gravel and sandy bottoms and steeped slopes. This diversity of habitats provides a great opportunity for improving the knowledge of the sponges from Mediterranean seamounts. METHODS: Sponges were collected during several surveys carried out by the Balearic Center of the Spanish Institute of Oceanography at the Mallorca Channel seamounts. Samples were obtained using a beam-trawl, rock dredge and remote operated vehicle. Additional samples were obtained from fishing grounds of the Balearic Islands continental shelf, using the sampling device GOC-73. Sponges were identified through the analysis of morphological and molecular characters. RESULTS: A total of 60 specimens were analyzed, from which we identified a total of 19 species. Three species and one genus are new to science: Foraminospongia balearica gen. nov. sp. nov., Foraminospongia minuta gen. nov. sp. nov. and Paratimea massutii sp. nov. Heteroxya cf. beauforti represents the first record of the genus Heteroxya in the Mediterranean Sea. Additionally, this is the second report of Axinella spatula and Haliclona (Soestella) fimbriata since their description. Moreover, the species Petrosia (Petrosia) raphida, Calyx cf. tufa and Lanuginella pupa are reported for the first time in the Mediterranean Sea. Petrosia (Strongylophora) vansoesti is reported here for the first time in the western Mediterranean Sea. Haliclona (S.) fimbriata is reported here for the first time in the north-western Mediterranean Sea. Hemiasterella elongata is reported here for the second time in the Mediterranean Sea. The species Melonanchora emphysema, Rhabdobaris implicata, Polymastia polytylota, Dragmatella aberrans, Phakellia ventilabrum and Pseudotrachya hystrix are reported for first time off Balearic Islands. Following the Sponge Barcoding project goals, we have sequenced the Cytochrome Oxidase subunit I (COI) and the 28S ribosomal fragment (C1-D2 domains) for Foraminospongia balearica sp. nov., Foraminospongia minuta sp. nov., H. cf. beauforti and C. cf. tufa, and the COI for Paratimea massuti sp. nov. We also provide a phylogenetic analysis to discern the systematic location of Foraminospongia gen. nov., which, in accordance to skeletal complement, is placed in the Hymerhabdiidae family. A brief biogeographical discussion is provided for all these species, with emphasis on the sponge singularity of SO, AM and the EB seamounts and the implications for their future protection.

Impact of COVID-19 Infection on the Outcome of Patients With Ischemic Stroke.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: We evaluated whether stroke severity, functional outcome, and mortality are different in patients with ischemic stroke with or without coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection. METHODS: A prospective, observational, multicentre cohort study in Catalonia, Spain. Recruitment was consecutive from mid-March to mid-May 2020. Patients had an acute ischemic stroke within 48 hours and a previous modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score of 0 to 3. We collected demographic data, vascular risk factors, prior mRS score, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score, rate of reperfusion therapies, logistics, and metrics. Primary end point was functional outcome at 3 months. Favourable outcome was defined depending on the previous mRS score. Secondary outcome was mortality at 3 months. We performed mRS shift and multivariable analyses. RESULTS: We evaluated 701 patients (mean age 72.3±13.3 years, 60.5% men) and 91 (13%) had COVID-19 infection. Median baseline National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score was higher in patients with COVID-19 compared with patients without COVID-19 (8 [3-18] versus 6 [2-14], P=0.049). Proportion of patients with a favourable functional outcome was 33.7% in the COVID-19 and 47% in the non-COVID-19 group. However, after a multivariable logistic regression analysis, COVID-19 infection did not increase the probability of unfavourable functional outcome. Mortality rate was 39.3% among patients with COVID-19 and 16.1% in the non-COVID-19 group. In the multivariable logistic regression analysis, COVID-19 infection was a risk factor for mortality (hazard ratio, 3.14 [95% CI, 2.10-4.71]; P<0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Patients with ischemic stroke and COVID-19 infection have more severe strokes and a higher mortality than patients with stroke without COVID-19 infection. However, functional outcome is comparable in both groups.

Edema Resolution and Clinical Assessment in Poor-Grade Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: Useful Indicators to Predict Delayed Cerebral Infarctions?

BACKGROUND: The level of consciousness and cerebral edema are among the indicators that best define the intensity of early brain injury following aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH). Although these indicators are usually altered in patients with a poor neurological status, their usefulness for selecting patients at risk of cerebral infarction (CI) is not well established. Furthermore, little is known about the evolution of these indicators during the first week of post-ictal events. Our study focused on describing the association of the longitudinal course of these predictors with CI occurrence in patients with severe aSAH. METHODS: Out of 265 aSAH patients admitted consecutively to the same institution, 80 patients with initial poor neurological status (WFNS 4-5) were retrospectively identified. After excluding 25 patients with early mortality, a total of 47 patients who underwent early CT (<3 days) and late CT (<7 days) acquisitions were included in the study. Early cerebral edema and delayed cerebral edema were calculated using the SEBES score, and the level of consciousness was recorded daily during the first week using the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS). RESULTS: There was a significant improvement in the SEBES (Early-SEBES median (IQR) = 3 (2-4) versus Delayed-SEBES = 2 (1-3); p = 0.001) and in GCS scores (B = 0.32; 95% CI 0.15-0.49; p = 0.001) during the first week. When comparing the ROC curves of Delayed-SEBES vs Early-SEBES as predictors of CI, no significant differences were found (Early-SEBES Area Under the Curve: 0.65; Delayed-SEBES: 0.62; p = 0.17). Additionally, no differences were observed in the relationship between the improvement in the GCS across the first week and the occurrence of CI (p = 0.536). CONCLUSIONS: Edema and consciousness level improvement did not seem to be associated with the occurrence of CI in a surviving cohort of patients with severe aSAH. Our results suggest that intensive monitoring should not be reduced in patients with a poor neurological status regardless of an improvement in cerebral edema and level of consciousness during the first week after bleeding.

The Chemical Optimization of Cerebral Embolectomy trial: Study protocol.

RATIONALE: The potential value of rescue intraarterial thrombolysis in patients with large vessel occlusion stroke treated with mechanical thrombectomy has not been assessed in randomized trials. AIM: The CHemical OptImization of Cerebral Embolectomy trial aims to establish whether rescue intraarterial thrombolysis is more effective than placebo in improving suboptimal reperfusion scores in patients with large vessel occlusion stroke treated with mechanical thrombectomy. SAMPLE SIZE ESTIMATES: A sample size of 200 patients allocated 1:1 to intraarterial thrombolysis or intraarterial placebo will have >95% statistical power for achieving the primary outcome (5% in the control versus 60% in the treatment group) for a two-sided (5% alpha, and 5% lost to follow-up). METHODS AND DESIGN: We conducted a multicenter, randomized, placebo-controlled, double blind, phase 2b trial. Eligible patients are 18 or older with symptomatic large vessel occlusion treated with mechanical thrombectomy resulting in a modified treatment in cerebral ischemia score 2b at end of the procedure. Patients will receive 20-30 min intraarterial infusion of recombinant tissue plasminogen activator or placebo (0.5 mg/ml, maximum dose limit 22.5 mg). STUDY OUTCOME(S): The primary outcome is the proportion of patients with an improved modified treatment in cerebral ischemia score 10 min after the end of the study treatment. Secondary outcomes include the shift analysis of the modified Rankin Scale, the infarct expansion ratio, the proportion of excellent outcome (modified Rankin Scale 0-1), the proportion of infarct expansion, and the infarction volume. Mortality and symptomatic intracerebral bleeding will be assessed. DISCUSSION: The study will provide evidence whether rescue intraarterial thrombolysis improves brain reperfusion in patients with large vessel occlusion stroke and incomplete reperfusion (modified treatment in cerebral ischemia 2b) at the end of mechanical thrombectomy.

Clinical improvement within 24 hours from mechanical thrombectomy as a predictor of long-term functional outcome in a multicenter population-based cohort of patients with ischemic stroke.

BACKGROUND: Single-center studies have suggested that the early clinical course after mechanical thrombectomy (MT) in patients with ischemic stroke is a clinical predictor of long-term outcome. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the prognostic value of clinical improvement within 24 hours in a population-based multicenter cohort. METHODS: From a total of 3792 patients with acute ischemic stroke in Catalonia (CICAT registry), 1951 patients were treated with MT. The National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score within 24 hours, and follow-up was available in 1666 patients. Percentage variation in the NIHSS score was calculated in relation to a baseline assessment. Good outcome was defined as a modified Rankin Scale score ≤2 at 90 days. Predictive values of clinical improvement and adjusted OR to predict good outcomes were assessed in the whole cohort and the subgroup of patients with posterior circulation stroke (n=166). RESULTS: Good outcome was achieved in 656/1666 patients (39%) overall. Percentage improvements both at the end of MT and at 24 hours predicted good outcome, with higher predictive capacity at 24 hours (C-statistic, 0.85 vs 0.73, p<0.001). Positive and negative predictive values were 70% and 74% for the >30% cut-off point at the end of MT, and 69% and 84% for the >50% cut-off point at 24 hours, respectively. The adjusted OR for good outcome was 5.8 (95% CI 4.2 to 8.1) and 12.9 (95% CI 9.7 to 17.1), respectively. In patients with posterior circulation stroke, the predictive value of the improvement at 24 hours was similar (C-statistic 0.90). CONCLUSION: Clinical improvement of patients within 24 hours of MT is a reliable and robust predictor of long-term prognosis, including patients with posterior circulation occlusions.

Linoleic Acid Status in Cell Membranes Inversely Relates to the Prevalence of Symptomatic Carotid Artery Disease.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: The red blood cell fatty acid composition objectively reflects the long-term dietary intake of several fatty acids. In patients undergoing carotid endarterectomy, we explored whether red blood cell status of selected fatty acids related to symptomatic carotid artery disease. METHODS: We included patients with symptomatic (n=22) and asymptomatic (n=23) carotid artery disease. We determined all-C18:1 trans, linoleic acid (LA, C18:2n6), alpha-linolenic acid (C18:3n3), and the omega-3 index (sum of eicosapentaenoic [C20:5n3] and docosahexaenoic [C22:6n3] acids) in both red blood cells and carotid plaque phospholipids by gas-chromatography. RESULTS: In a multivariate logistic regression analysis, we only observed a significant association for LA, whose red blood cell status was inversely related to symptomatic carotid artery disease (odds ratio, 0.116 [95% CI, 0.022-0.607], P=0.011, for each 1-SD increase). A similar result was observed for LA in carotid plaque phospholipids. CONCLUSIONS: Cell membrane enrichment in LA, which reflects its intake, was inversely related to symptomatic carotid disease. This increases evidence supporting a favorable role of dietary LA in vascular health.

Susceptibility Vessel Sign in Deep Perforating Arteries in Patients with Recent Small Subcortical Infarcts.

OBJECTIVES: Recent small subcortical infarcts (RSSI) are considered an acute manifestation of cerebral small vessel disease. Paramagnetic signals in perforating arteries supplying RSSI may be detected on T2*-relaxation derived sequences on MRI and is defined as susceptibility vessel sign (SVS). We aimed to study the prevalence of SVS in patients with RSSI, and explore whether its identification is related to cerebral small vessel disease markers. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We selected patients with RSSI identified on MRI during admission from a single-center stroke registry. The main demographic and clinical features, including vascular risk factors, were collected. Radiological features of RSSI and cerebral small vessel disease [white matter hyperintensities in deep and periventricular regions, enlarged perivascular spaces, lacunae, microbleeds, and brain atrophy] were described using validated qualitative scores. The presence of SVS was assessed on T2*gradient-echo or other susceptibility-weighted imaging. We compared the clinical and radiological features of patients with or without SVS in uni- and multivariate models. RESULTS: Out of 210 patients with an RSSI on an MRI, 35 (17%) showed SVS. The proportion of SVS+ patients was similar in different susceptibility imaging modalities (p=.64). Risk factor profiles and clinical course were similar in SVS+ and SVS- patients. SVS+ patients had a higher grade of deep white matter hyperintensities and brain atrophy, more lacunae (p=.001, p=.034, p=.022, respectively), and a similar degree of the rest of radiological variables, compared to SVS- patients. In the multivariate analysis, the grade of deep white matter hyperintensities was the only independent factor associated with SVS [OR 3.1 (95% CI, 1.5-6.4)]. CONCLUSIONS: SVS in patients with RSSI is uncommon and related to a higher grade of deep white matter hyperintensities. Pathophysiological mechanisms underlying the deposition of hemosiderin in the path of occluded perforating arteries are uncertain and might include endothelial dysfunction or embolic mechanisms.

Carotid stent occlusion after emergent stenting in acute ischemic stroke: Incidence, predictors and clinical relevance.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Emergent stent placement may be required during neurothrombectomy. Our aim was to investigate the incidence, predictors and clinical relevance of early extracranial carotid stent occlusion following neurothrombectomy. METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed a cohort of 761 consecutive neurothrombectomies performed at our center between May 2010 and August 2018, from whom a total of 106 patients had acute internal carotid artery occlusions. Early stent occlusion was defined as complete vessel occlusion within 24 h of neurothrombectomy. Clinical outcome was evaluated at day 90 with the modified Rankin Score scale (mRS). Pretreatment, procedural and outcome variables were recorded and analyzed using logistic regression. RESULTS: Carotid stenting was performed in 99 (13%) patients. Of those, 22 (22%) had early stent occlusion at follow-up. Stent occlusion was associated with a lower use of post-stenting angioplasty [adjusted OR (aOR) = 11.2, 95%CI = 2.49-50.78, p = 0.002)], increased residual intrastent stenosis (aOR = 2.1, 95%CI = 1.38-3.06, p < 0.001) and unsuccesful intracranial recanalization (modified TICI score 0-2a) (aOR = 13.5, 95%CI = 1.97-92.24, p = 0.008). Stent occlusion was associated with poor clinical outcome at day 90 (poorer mRS shift, aOR = 3.9, 95%CI = 1.3-11.3, p = 0.014; mRS>2, aOR = 6.3, 95%CI = 1.8-22.7, p = 0.005), and with an increased rate of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage at 24 h (14% versus 1%, p = 0.033). CONCLUSIONS: Early carotid stent occlusion occurred in one out of five neurothrombectomies and was associated with periprocedural factors that included increased residual intrastent stenosis, a lower use of post-stenting angioplasty and unsuccessful intracranial recanalization. Further investigation is warranted for the evaluation of strategies aimed to prevent carotid stent occlusion.