Circulating trimethyllysine and risk of acute myocardial infarction in patients with suspected stable coronary heart disease.

BACKGROUND: The carnitine precursor trimethyllysine (TML) is associated with progression of atherosclerosis, possibly through a relationship with trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO). Riboflavin is a cofactor in TMAO synthesis. We examined prospective relationships of circulating TML and TMAO with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and potential effect modifications by riboflavin status. METHODS: By Cox modelling, risk associations were examined amongst 4098 patients (71.8% men) with suspected stable angina pectoris. Subgroup analyses were performed according to median plasma riboflavin. RESULTS: During a median follow-up of 4.9 years, 336 (8.2%) patients experienced an AMI. The age- and sex-adjusted hazard ratio (HR) (95% CI) comparing the 4th vs. 1st TML quartile was 2.19 (1.56-3.09). Multivariable adjustment for traditional cardiovascular risk factors and indices of renal function only slightly attenuated the risk estimates [HR (95% CI) 1.79 (1.23-2.59)], which were particularly strong amongst patients with riboflavin levels above the median (Pint  = 0.035). Plasma TML and TMAO were strongly correlated (rs  = 0.41; P < 0.001); however, plasma TMAO was not associated with AMI risk in adjusted analyses [HR (95% CI) 0.81 (0.58-1.14)]. No interaction between TML and TMAO was observed. CONCLUSION: Amongst patients with suspected stable angina pectoris, plasma TML, but not TMAO, independently predicted risk of AMI. Our results motivate further research on metabolic processes determining TML levels and their potential associations with cardiovascular disease. We did not adjust for multiple comparisons, and the subgroup analyses should be interpreted with caution.

Effect of fish oil supplementation and restricted feeding on body fat distribution and blood lipid profile in a rabbit model of castration-induced obesity.

This study investigates the effect of fish oil supplementation and restricted feeding on body fat distribution and blood lipid profile in experimentally induced obesity in rabbits. The trial was carried out with 30 male rabbits, divided into 5 groups of 6 animals each (NC - non-castrated, non-treated, full-diet fed; C100 - castrated, non-treated, full-diet fed; FO100 - castrated, treated with fish oil, full-diet fed; C50 - castrated, non-treated, 50% restricted fed; FO50 - castrated, treated with fish oil, 50% restricted fed). At the end of the experiment, plasma lipids measurement and quantification of fat distribution was performed. The results of this study indicate that fish oil supplementation reduces obesity-associated abnormalities in lipid profile (high-density lipoprotein cholesterol to low-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio and non-esterified fatty acids) and in body fat distribution in full-diet fed rabbits. Restricted feeding (C50) alone and the combination of restricted feeding and fish oil supplementation (FO50) in particular, has a detrimental effect on the lipid profile despite the marked reduction in intra-abdominal fat.

Rifaximin alters gut microbiota profile, but does not affect systemic inflammation - a randomized controlled trial in common variable immunodeficiency.

Common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) patients have reduced gut microbial diversity compared to healthy controls. The reduced diversity is associated with gut leakage, increased systemic inflammation and ten "key" bacteria that capture the gut dysbiosis (dysbiosis index) in CVID. Rifaximin is a broad-spectrum non-absorbable antibiotic known to reduce gut leakage (lipopolysaccharides, LPS) in liver disease. In this study, we explored as a 'proof of concept' that altering gut microbial composition could reduce systemic inflammation, using CVID as a disease model. Forty adult CVID patients were randomized, (1:1) to twice-daily oral rifaximin 550 mg versus no treatment for 2 weeks in an open-label, single-centre study. Primary endpoints were reduction in plasma/serum levels of soluble (s) CD14, sCD25, sCD163, neopterin, CRP, TNF, LPS and selected cytokines measured at 0, 2 and 8 weeks. Secondary endpoint was changes in intra-individual bacterial diversity in stool samples. Rifaximin-use did not significantly change any of the inflammation or gut leakage markers, but decreased gut microbial diversity compared with no treatment (p = 0.002). Importantly, the gut bacteria in the CVID dysbiosis index were not changed by rifaximin. The results suggest that modulating gut microbiota by rifaximin is not the chosen intervention to affect systemic inflammation, at least not in CVID.

Medición ecográfica de parámetros anatómicos de la vía aérea superior en adultos / Ultrasound measurement of anatomical parameters of the upper airway in adults

Antecedentes: La mayoría de los trabajos sobre anatomía ecográfica de la vía aérea (VA) se limitan a la descripción morfológica. Presentamos un estudio cuyo objetivo es ofrecer datos objetivos de medidas de normalidad. Materiales y métodos: Estudio observacional para describir con ecografía las características de la VA superior en adultos sin criterios clínicos de VA difícil (VAD) y comparación con modelos anatómicos de disección en cadáver. Resultados: Se incluyó a 45 voluntarios (27 varones y 18 mujeres) y 3 modelos de cadáver. La calidad de la exploración fue muy buena/buena en el 93% de los casos. Mediciones: diámetro traqueal (1,3±0,3cm), cuerda vocal (1,6±0,5cm), membrana tirocricoidea (0,94±0,32cm), membrana cricotraqueal (0,3±0,09cm), grosor de los músculos del suelo de la boca (MSB) (1,5±0,26cm), tejido subcutáneo de la grasa submandibular y MSB (2,11±0,34cm), distancia hioides-mandíbula (5,35±0,69cm), distancia paladar-suelo de la boca (4,92±0,5cm), distancia paladar-borde anterior de la mandíbula (5,51±0,7cm), ángulo de los ejes bucal y faríngeo (114±14). Diferencias observadas: el diámetro traqueal fue mayor en hombres (H: 1,4±0,3 vs. M: 1,2±0,2cm; p=0,014). La altura mostró una correlación significativa con el diámetro traqueal (R: 0,501; p <0,001), la longitud de la cuerda vocal (R: 0,363; p=0,016) y el grosor MSB (R=0,299; p=0,046), así como con las distancias hioides-mandíbula (R: 0,556; p<0,001) y mandíbula-paladar (R: 0,362; p=0,015). Conclusiones: La ecografía permite evaluar la anatomía de la VA superior y calcular distancias entre estructuras anatómicas. En nuestro estudio se definen estas distancias en voluntarios adultos sin criterios clínicos de VAD

Background: Most of the works on ultrasound airway anatomy are limited to a morphological description. A study was conducted in order to provide an objective normal range of measurements. Materials and methods: Observational study to describe the ultrasound characteristics of the upper airway in adults without clinical difficult airway criteria, compared to cadaver dissection anatomical models. Results: The study included 45 volunteers (27 men and 18 women), and 3fresh cadavers. The quality of the examination was very good/good in 93% of the cases. Measurements: tracheal diameter (1.3±0.3cm), vocal cord (1.6±0.5cm), cricothyroid membrane (0.94±0.32cm), cricotracheal membrane (0.3±0.09cm), thickness of the muscles in the floor of the mouth (MFM) (1.5±0.26cm), sub-mandibular subcutaneous fat plus MFM (2.11±0.34cm), hyoid-mandible distance (5.35±0.69cm), palate-floor of the mouth distance (4.92±0.5cm), palate-anterior border of the mandible (5.51±0.7cm), and palate-pharynx angle (114±14). Observed differences: Males had a larger tracheal diameter than females (M: 1.4±0.3 vs. F: 1.2±0.2cm, p=0.014). Subject height showed a significant correlation with the tracheal diameter (R: 0.501, p<0.001), as well as the length of the vocal cord (R: 0.363, p=0.016), the thickness of MFM (R=0.299, p=0.046) as well as the hyoid-mandible (R: 0.556; p<0.001) and palate-mandible distances (R: 0.362; p=0.015). Conclusions: Ultrasound allows the anatomy of upper airway to be evaluated, as well as to calculate distances between the anatomical structures. The study defines these distances in adult volunteers without clinical difficult airway criteria

Ultrasound measurement of anatomical parameters of the upper airway in adults. / Medición ecográfica de parámetros anatómicos de la vía aérea superior en adultos.

BACKGROUND: Most of the works on ultrasound airway anatomy are limited to a morphological description. A study was conducted in order to provide an objective normal range of measurements. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Observational study to describe the ultrasound characteristics of the upper airway in adults without clinical difficult airway criteria, compared to cadaver dissection anatomical models. RESULTS: The study included 45 volunteers (27 men and 18 women), and 3fresh cadavers. The quality of the examination was very good/good in 93% of the cases. MEASUREMENTS: tracheal diameter (1.3±0.3cm), vocal cord (1.6±0.5cm), cricothyroid membrane (0.94±0.32cm), cricotracheal membrane (0.3±0.09cm), thickness of the muscles in the floor of the mouth (MFM) (1.5±0.26cm), sub-mandibular subcutaneous fat plus MFM (2.11±0.34cm), hyoid-mandible distance (5.35±0.69cm), palate-floor of the mouth distance (4.92±0.5cm), palate-anterior border of the mandible (5.51±0.7cm), and palate-pharynx angle (114±14). Observed differences: Males had a larger tracheal diameter than females (M: 1.4±0.3 vs. F: 1.2±0.2cm, p=0.014). Subject height showed a significant correlation with the tracheal diameter (R: 0.501, p<0.001), as well as the length of the vocal cord (R: 0.363, p=0.016), the thickness of MFM (R=0.299, p=0.046) as well as the hyoid-mandible (R: 0.556; p<0.001) and palate-mandible distances (R: 0.362; p=0.015). CONCLUSIONS: Ultrasound allows the anatomy of upper airway to be evaluated, as well as to calculate distances between the anatomical structures. The study defines these distances in adult volunteers without clinical difficult airway criteria.

Bloqueo ecoguiado de los nervios geniculados en el manejo analgésico de la artroplastia de rodilla: descripción de la técnica y resultados clínicos preliminares / Ultrasound-guided genicular nerve block for pain control after total knee replacement: preliminary case series and technical note

Introducción. La artroplastia total de rodilla (ATR) es una cirugía con un dolor postoperatorio moderado-severo. Los modelos Fast-Track emplean técnicas de infiltración local con anestésico con elevados volúmenes (100-150ml). Nos planteamos realizar el bloqueo de los nervios geniculados con bajo volumen de anestésico local. El objetivo de nuestro estudio es evaluar la distribución periarticular de estos bloqueos en un modelo humano (cadáver) y describir la técnica en un grupo preliminar de pacientes sometidos a ATR. Materiales y métodos. En la fase anatómica se realizó el bloqueo de 4 nervios geniculados (superomedial, superolateral, inferomedial e inferolateral) con 4ml de anestésico local con contraste yodado y azul de metileno en cada uno de ellos (16ml en total). Se realizó en cadáver fresco y se evaluó la distribución del medio inyectado mediante escáner y cortes coronales en sus 2 rodillas. La fase clínica incluyó a 12 pacientes programados para ATR. Se realizó, preoperatoriamente, el bloqueo ecoguiado de los 4 nervios geniculados y evaluamos su eficacia clínica mediante la valoración del dolor tras la reversión del bloqueo subaracnoideo y a las 12h de realizado el bloqueo. Se midió el dolor mediante escala numérica y se evaluó la necesidad de analgesia de rescate. Resultados. Se observó una amplia distribución periarticular del contraste por escáner que fue posteriormente evaluado en los cortes coronales. La distribución seguía la cápsula articular sin introducirse en la articulación, tanto en el fémur como en la tibia. En el grupo de pacientes, el dolor tras la reversión del bloqueo subaracnoideo fue de 2±1, precisando analgesia de rescate un 42% de los pacientes. A las 12h, el dolor según la escala numérica fue de 4±1, precisando analgesia de rescate un 33% de ellos. Conclusión. La administración de 4ml de anestésico local a nivel de los 4 nervios geniculados de la rodilla produce una distribución amplia periarticular. Nuestros datos preliminares en una serie de 12 pacientes sometidos a ATR parece ser clínicamente efectiva. A pesar de ello, son necesarios amplias series de casos y estudios comparativos con la analgesia mediante infiltración local que corroboren estos alentadores resultados (AU)

Introduction. Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is an operation with moderate to severe postoperative pain. The Fast-Track models employ local infiltration techniques with anaesthetics at high volumes (100-150ml). We proposed a genicular nerve block with low volume of local anaesthetic. The aim of our study is to evaluate the periarticular distribution of these blocks in a fresh cadaver model and to describe the technique in a preliminary group of patients submitted to TKA. Materials and methods. In the anatomical phase, 4 genicular nerves (superior medial, superior lateral, inferior medial and inferior lateral) were blocked with 4ml of local anaesthetic with iodinated contrast and methylene blue in each (16ml in total). It was performed on a fresh cadaver and the distribution of the injected medium was evaluated by means of a CT-scan and coronal anatomical sections on both knees. The clinical phase included 12 patients scheduled for TKA. Ultrasound-guided block of the 4 genicular nerves was performed preoperatively and their clinical efficacy evaluated by assessing pain after the reversal of the spinal block and at 12h after the block. Pain was measured using the numerical scale and the need for rescue analgesia was evaluated. Results. A wide periarticular distribution of contrast was observed by CT-scan, which was later evaluated in the coronal sections. The distribution followed the joint capsule without entering the joint, both in the femur and in the tibia. The pain after the reversal of the subarachnoid block was 2±1, requiring rescue analgesia in 42% of the patients. At 12h, the pain according to the numerical scale was 4±1, 33% required rescue analgesia. Conclusion. The administration of 4ml of local anaesthetic at the level of the 4 genicular nerves of the knee produces a wide periarticular distribution. Our preliminary data in a series of 12 patients undergoing TKA seems to be clinically effective. Nevertheless, extensive case series and comparative studies with local infiltration techniques with anaesthetics are needed to support these encouraging results (AU)

Ultrasound-guided genicular nerve block for pain control after total knee replacement: Preliminary case series and technical note. / Bloqueo ecoguiado de los nervios geniculados en el manejo analgésico de la artroplastia de rodilla: descripción de la técnica y resultados clínicos preliminares.

INTRODUCTION: Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is an operation with moderate to severe postoperative pain. The Fast-Track models employ local infiltration techniques with anaesthetics at high volumes (100-150ml). We proposed a genicular nerve block with low volume of local anaesthetic. The aim of our study is to evaluate the periarticular distribution of these blocks in a fresh cadaver model and to describe the technique in a preliminary group of patients submitted to TKA. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In the anatomical phase, 4 genicular nerves (superior medial, superior lateral, inferior medial and inferior lateral) were blocked with 4ml of local anaesthetic with iodinated contrast and methylene blue in each (16ml in total). It was performed on a fresh cadaver and the distribution of the injected medium was evaluated by means of a CT-scan and coronal anatomical sections on both knees. The clinical phase included 12 patients scheduled for TKA. Ultrasound-guided block of the 4 genicular nerves was performed preoperatively and their clinical efficacy evaluated by assessing pain after the reversal of the spinal block and at 12h after the block. Pain was measured using the numerical scale and the need for rescue analgesia was evaluated. RESULTS: A wide periarticular distribution of contrast was observed by CT-scan, which was later evaluated in the coronal sections. The distribution followed the joint capsule without entering the joint, both in the femur and in the tibia. The pain after the reversal of the subarachnoid block was 2±1, requiring rescue analgesia in 42% of the patients. At 12h, the pain according to the numerical scale was 4±1, 33% required rescue analgesia. CONCLUSION: The administration of 4ml of local anaesthetic at the level of the 4 genicular nerves of the knee produces a wide periarticular distribution. Our preliminary data in a series of 12 patients undergoing TKA seems to be clinically effective. Nevertheless, extensive case series and comparative studies with local infiltration techniques with anaesthetics are needed to support these encouraging results.

Allo-HLA Cross-Reactivities of Cytomegalovirus-, Influenza-, and Varicella Zoster Virus-Specific Memory T Cells Are Shared by Different Healthy Individuals.

Virus-specific T cells can recognize allogeneic HLA (allo-HLA) through TCR cross-reactivity. The allospecificity often differs by individual (private cross-reactivity) but also can be shared by multiple individuals (public cross-reactivity); however, only a few examples of the latter have been described. Because these could facilitate alloreactivity prediction in transplantation, we aimed to identify novel public cross-reactivities of human virus-specific CD8+ T cells directed against allo-HLA by assessing their reactivity in mixed-lymphocyte reactions. Further characterization was done by studying TCR usage with primer-based DNA sequencing, cytokine production with ELISAs, and cytotoxicity with 51 chromium-release assays. We identified three novel public allo-HLA cross-reactivities of human virus-specific CD8+ T cells. CMV B35/IPS CD8+ T cells cross-reacted with HLA-B51 and/or HLA-B58/B57 (23% of tetramer-positive individuals), FLU A2/GIL (influenza IMP[58-66] HLA-A*02:01/GILGFVFTL) CD8+ T cells with HLA-B38 (90% of tetramer-positive individuals), and VZV A2/ALW (varicella zoster virus IE62[593-601] HLA-A*02:01/ALWALPHAA) CD8+ T cells with HLA-B55 (two unrelated individuals). Cross-reactivity was tested against different cell types including endothelial and epithelial cells. All cross-reactive T cells expressed a memory phenotype, emphasizing the importance for transplantation. We conclude that public allo-HLA cross-reactivity of virus-specific memory T cells is not uncommon and may create novel opportunities for alloreactivity prediction and risk estimation in transplantation.

Estimación del volumen de anestésico local en contacto con el nervio ciático en el bloqueo poplíteo / 3D ultrasound estimation of the effective volume for popliteal block at the level of division

La administración del anestésico local en el tejido conectivo que une los componentes tibial y peroneo del nervio ciático a nivel de su división en el hueco poplíteo produce una distribución muy eficiente de anestésico para conseguir un bloqueo efectivo. Mediante ecografía en 3dimensiones podemos cuantificar este volumen de contacto en una longitud determinada del nervio. Métodos. Se incluyó a 20 pacientes consecutivos programados para cirugía de hallux valgus. En todos los casos se realizó un bloqueo poplíteo ecoguiado en la división del nervio ciático, en abordaje «fuera de plano» con el paciente en decúbito prono. Se administraron 30ml de anestésico local y se evaluó su difusión. Se realizó una adquisición volumétrica del nervio ciático antes e inmediatamente después de finalizar la inyección del fármaco para cuantificar el volumen del nervio ciático y el volumen contenido en el interior del tejido conectivo que envuelve ambos componentes del nervio ciático; todo ello en un segmento de 5cm de nervio. Resultados. Todos los bloqueos fueron efectivos a los 20 min. El volumen de anestésico local contenido en el interior del tejido conectivo fue de 6,8±2,6cm3. De este volumen, 4,4±1,7cm3 se situaban en el halo que envolvía los componentes del nervio y 2,4±1,7cm3 se ubicaban en el interior del nervio ciático o sus componentes. Conclusiones. El volumen en contacto con el nervio ciático puede ser estimado mediante la adquisición volumétrica. Nuestros resultados indican que el volumen para el bloqueo efectivo del nervio ciático a nivel poplíteo quizás se podrá reducir de forma significativa en un futuro (AU)

Local anaesthetic injection between the tibial and commmon peroneal nerves within connective tissue sheath results in a predictable diffusion and allows for a reduction in the volume needed to achieve a consistent sciatic popliteal block. Using 3D ultrasound volumetric acquisition, we quantified the visible volume in contact with the nerve along a 5cm segment. Methods. We included 20 consecutive patients scheduled for bunion surgery. Ultrasound guided popliteal block was performed using a posterior, out of plane approach at the level of división of the sciatic nerve. Thirty ml of mepivacaine 1.5% and levobupivacaine 0.5% were slowly injected while assessing the injection pressure and the diffusion of the local anaesthetic. Volumetric acquisition was performed before and after the block to quantify the the volume of the sciatic nerve and the volume of the surrounding hypoechoic halo contained inside the connective tissue in a 5cm segment. Results. All blocks were successful within 20min after the injection. The total estimated volume contained inside the common connective tissue sheath was 6.8±2.6cm3. Of this, the volume of the halo sorrounding the nerve was 4.4±1.7cm3 and the volume inside the sciatic nerve was 2.4±1.7cm3. Conclusions. The volume of local anaesthetic in close contact with the sciatic nerve can be estimated by volumetric acquisition. Our results suggest that the effective volume of local anaesthetic needed for a successful sciatic popliteal block could be reduced to less than 7ml (AU)

Test predictivo de intubación difícil en microcirugía de laringe. Estudio de validación / A predictive test for difficult intubation in laryngeal microsurgery. Validation study

Introducción. En el año 2003 nuestro grupo describió un test simple para la detección de intubación difícil (ID) en pacientes sometidos a microcirugía de laringe. El presente estudio se ha realizado para validar dicho test. Métodos. Se incluyeron pacientes con patología de laringe sometidos a microcirugía laríngea. Las variables puntuadas fueron el test de Mallampati≥III, la distancia tiromentoniana <6,5cm, la apertura bucal <40mm, la movilidad de la articulación temporomandibular, la dentición patológica, la presencia de paladar ojival, la movilidad del cuello, deficiencia maxilar, el índice de masa corporal, los síntomas de disfunción laríngea y la localización supraglótica de la lesión laríngea. Además se realizó un examen rápido de la vía aérea por el anestesiólogo experto en el área, justo antes de la inducción. Se definió como ID la visión de la glotis Cormack gradoiii-iv obtenida por laringoscopia directa y/o el requerimiento de algún equipo auxiliar para lograr la intubación orotraqueal. Se utilizaron curvas ROC para estimar el valor de corte con mejor predicción para ID, y se evaluaron las diferencias entre el índice descrito en 2003 y la valoración rápida por un anestesiólogo experto. Resultados. La incidencia de ID, de acuerdo con los criterios predefinidos, de los 105 pacientes estudiados fue del 45% (47 pacientes). Para un valor de corte ≥5 del test se obtuvo una sensibilidad del 89% y una especificidad del 55%. La evaluación rápida por un anestesiólogo experto obtuvo una sensibilidad similar (89%) y una mejor especificidad (81%). El área bajo la curva (AUC) fue de 0,87, similar a la de la evaluación rápida por el anestesiólogo (AUC: 0,85; p=0, 71). Conclusión. El test para un valor de corte ≥5 se validó como una prueba válida y fiable para predecir ID en pacientes con enfermedades de laringe, siendo una herramienta útil para los anestesiólogos con formación convencional no expertos en esta área (AU)

Background. In 2003 a simple test to detect difficult intubation (DI) in patients underwent laryngeal microsurgery was described. The present study was conducted to validate the test. Methods. Patients with laryngeal disease scheduled for laryngeal microsurgery were included. The variables evaluated were eleven parameters: Mallampati Score ≥III, thyromental distance <6.5cm, mouth opening <40mm, limitation of the temporomandibular joint, pathological dentition, arched paladet, maxillary deficiency, neck mobility <90°, body mass index, symptoms of laryngeal dysfunction, and tumour of supraglottic region. A rapid examination of the airway by an expert anaesthesiologist was carried out just before induction. DI was defined by a Cormack laryngeal view gradeiii-iv and/or if auxiliary equipment was required to achieve orotracheal intubation. A comparison of ROC curves was conducted to estimate the best predicting cut-off, as well as differences between the index described in 2003 and the rapid assessment by an expert anaesthesiologist. Results. One hundred and five patients were included in the study. The incidence of DI according to the predefined criteria was 45% (47 patients). The score at the cut-off of 5 provides a sensitivity of 89% and a specificity of 55%. The fast-evaluation by an expert anaesthesiologist obtained similar sensitivity (89%) and better specificity (81%). Area under curve (AUC) was 0.87, similar to a fast evaluation (AUC: 0.85; P=.71). Conclusion. The index was validated at a cut-off of ≥5, being a useful and reliable test to predict DI in patients with laryngeal diseases and it is a useful tool for anaesthesiologists with conventional training (AU)

A predictive test for difficult intubation in laryngeal microsurgery. Validation study. / Test predictivo de intubación difícil en microcirugía de laringe. Estudio de validación.

BACKGROUND: In 2003 a simple test to detect difficult intubation (DI) in patients underwent laryngeal microsurgery was described. The present study was conducted to validate the test. METHODS: Patients with laryngeal disease scheduled for laryngeal microsurgery were included. The variables evaluated were eleven parameters: Mallampati Score ≥III, thyromental distance <6.5cm, mouth opening <40mm, limitation of the temporomandibular joint, pathological dentition, arched paladet, maxillary deficiency, neck mobility <90°, body mass index, symptoms of laryngeal dysfunction, and tumour of supraglottic region. A rapid examination of the airway by an expert anaesthesiologist was carried out just before induction. DI was defined by a Cormack laryngeal view gradeiii-iv and/or if auxiliary equipment was required to achieve orotracheal intubation. A comparison of ROC curves was conducted to estimate the best predicting cut-off, as well as differences between the index described in 2003 and the rapid assessment by an expert anaesthesiologist. RESULTS: One hundred and five patients were included in the study. The incidence of DI according to the predefined criteria was 45% (47 patients). The score at the cut-off of 5 provides a sensitivity of 89% and a specificity of 55%. The fast-evaluation by an expert anaesthesiologist obtained similar sensitivity (89%) and better specificity (81%). Area under curve (AUC) was 0.87, similar to a fast evaluation (AUC: 0.85; P=.71). CONCLUSION: The index was validated at a cut-off of ≥5, being a useful and reliable test to predict DI in patients with laryngeal diseases and it is a useful tool for anaesthesiologists with conventional training.

3D ultrasound estimation of the effective volume for popliteal block at the level of division. / Estimación del volumen de anestésico local en contacto con el nervio ciático en el bloqueo poplíteo.

Local anaesthetic injection between the tibial and commmon peroneal nerves within connective tissue sheath results in a predictable diffusion and allows for a reduction in the volume needed to achieve a consistent sciatic popliteal block. Using 3D ultrasound volumetric acquisition, we quantified the visible volume in contact with the nerve along a 5cm segment. METHODS: We included 20 consecutive patients scheduled for bunion surgery. Ultrasound guided popliteal block was performed using a posterior, out of plane approach at the level of división of the sciatic nerve. Thirty ml of mepivacaine 1.5% and levobupivacaine 0.5% were slowly injected while assessing the injection pressure and the diffusion of the local anaesthetic. Volumetric acquisition was performed before and after the block to quantify the the volume of the sciatic nerve and the volume of the surrounding hypoechoic halo contained inside the connective tissue in a 5cm segment. RESULTS: All blocks were successful within 20min after the injection. The total estimated volume contained inside the common connective tissue sheath was 6.8±2.6cm3. Of this, the volume of the halo sorrounding the nerve was 4.4±1.7cm3 and the volume inside the sciatic nerve was 2.4±1.7cm3. CONCLUSIONS: The volume of local anaesthetic in close contact with the sciatic nerve can be estimated by volumetric acquisition. Our results suggest that the effective volume of local anaesthetic needed for a successful sciatic popliteal block could be reduced to less than 7ml.

Análisis de coste-eficacia del recuperador postoperatorio de sangre de drenajes en cirugía protésica primaria de rodilla. ¿Debemos seguir recomendando su empleo en la actualidad? / Cost-effectiveness of post-operative cell salvage in total knee arthroplasty. Should we continue to recommend its use today?

Objetivos. La artroplastia total de rodilla (ATR) presenta una elevada tasa transfusional. En nuestro protocolo, indicamos el empleo del recuperador de drenajes postoperatorios (RDPO) en los pacientes con contraindicación al ácido tranexámico. Analizamos el efecto de los RDPO respecto la tasa transfusional y sus costes en pacientes intervenidos de ATR. Material y métodos. Se incluyeron prospectivamente 518 pacientes. De ellos, 434 recibieron ácido tranexámico y en 84 se contraindicó. Calculamos la masa eritrocitaria, el volumen sanguíneo y el porcentaje de volumen sanguíneo perdido. Controlamos las incidencias asociadas al uso del recuperador y la tasa de transfusión. Realizamos un análisis de costes asociados a los métodos de prevención de transfusión alogénica. Resultados. En 10 de los 84 pacientes no candidatos a ácido tranexámico no colocamos el RDPO. En los 74 en los que colocamos un RDPO, reinfundimos 158 ± 72 ml de masa eritrocitaria. La tasa de transfusión alogénica fue del 36%, y en los que no se colocó, del 52%. Con el empleo de RDPO el riesgo relativo de transfusión se situó en el 0,69 (0,41-1,16), con una reducción de riesgo absoluto del 16% (-8,-40%). El número de pacientes a tratar para evitar una transfusión alogénica fue de 7. Los costes tangibles directos para evitar una transfusión alogénica se situó en 1.610€. No observamos complicaciones asociadas a la reinfusión de la sangre recuperada. Conclusiones. El empleo de RDPO tras ATR precisa de su empleo en 7 pacientes para evitar una transfusión alogénica, con un coste más de 10 veces superior al del concentrado alogénico

Objectives. Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) has a high transfusion rate. In our protocol, the use of postoperative cell salvage is indicated in patients with contraindications to tranexamic acid (TA). An analysis was performed on the effect of post-operative cell salvage (POCS) regarding transfusion rate and costs in patients undergoing TKA. Material and methods. A prospective analysis was conducted on 518 patients, of whom 434 received TA, and 84 were contraindicated. The red cell mass, blood volume, and the percentage of lost blood volume were calculated. Incidents associated with the use of post-operative re-perfusion of drained blood and the rate of transfusion were recorded. An analysis was performed on the costs associated with allogeneic transfusion prevention methods. Results. A POCS drain was not inserted in 10 out of the 84 patients not candidates for TA. In the 74 in which it was placed, 158 ± 72 ml of red cell mass was reinfused. The allogeneic transfusion rate was 36%, and was 52% in those with no drain inserted. Relative risk of transfusion using POCS was 0.69 (0.41 to 1.16) with an absolute risk reduction of 16% (-8 to 40%). The number needed to treat to avoid allogeneic transfusion was 7. The direct costs to avoid allogeneic transfusion were €1,610. No complications associated with blood re-infusion were observed. Conclusions. The use of POCS would be required in 7 patients after TKA to avoid one allogeneic transfusion with a cost over 10 times that of a transfusion of red cell concentrates

Altered gut microbiota profile in common variable immunodeficiency associates with levels of lipopolysaccharide and markers of systemic immune activation.

Common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) is the most common symptomatic primary immunodeficiency characterized by low immunoglobulin (Ig)G and IgA, and/or IgM. In addition to bacterial infections, a large subgroup has noninfectious inflammatory and autoimmune complications. We performed 16S ribosomal RNA-based profiling of stool samples in 44 CVID patients, 45 patients with inflammatory bowel disease (disease controls), and 263 healthy controls. We measured plasma lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and markers of immune cell activation (i.e., soluble (s) CD14 and sCD25) in an expanded cohort of 104 patients with CVID and in 30 healthy controls. We found a large shift in the microbiota of CVID patients characterized by a reduced within-individual bacterial diversity (alpha diversity, P<0.001) without obvious associations to antibiotics use. Plasma levels of both LPS (P=0.001) and sCD25 (P<0.0001) were elevated in CVID, correlating negatively with alpha diversity and positively with a dysbiosis index calculated from the taxonomic profile. Low alpha diversity and high dysbiosis index, LPS, and immune markers were most pronounced in the subgroup with inflammatory and autoimmune complications. Low level of IgA was associated with decreased alpha diversity, but not independently from sCD25 and LPS. Our findings suggest a link between immunodeficiency, systemic immune activation, LPS, and altered gut microbiota.

Cost-effectiveness of post-operative cell salvage in total knee arthroplasty. Should we continue to recommend its use today? / Análisis de coste-eficacia del recuperador postoperatorio de sangre de drenajes en cirugía protésica primaria de rodilla. ¿Debemos seguir recomendando su empleo en la actualidad?

OBJECTIVES: Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) has a high transfusion rate. In our protocol, the use of postoperative cell salvage is indicated in patients with contraindications to tranexamic acid (TA). An analysis was performed on the effect of post-operative cell salvage (POCS) regarding transfusion rate and costs in patients undergoing TKA. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A prospective analysis was conducted on 518 patients, of whom 434 received TA, and 84 were contraindicated. The red cell mass, blood volume, and the percentage of lost blood volume were calculated. Incidents associated with the use of post-operative re-perfusion of drained blood and the rate of transfusion were recorded. An analysis was performed on the costs associated with allogeneic transfusion prevention methods. RESULTS: A POCS drain was not inserted in 10 out of the 84 patients not candidates for TA. In the 74 in which it was placed, 158±72ml of red cell mass was reinfused. The allogeneic transfusion rate was 36%, and was 52% in those with no drain inserted. Relative risk of transfusion using POCS was 0.69 (0.41 to 1.16) with an absolute risk reduction of 16% (-8 to 40%). The number needed to treat to avoid allogeneic transfusion was 7. The direct costs to avoid allogeneic transfusion were €1,610. No complications associated with blood re-infusion were observed. CONCLUSIONS: The use of POCS would be required in 7 patients after TKA to avoid one allogeneic transfusion with a cost over 10 times that of a transfusion of red cell concentrates.

Optimización de la hemoglobina preoperatoria en cirugía ortopédica mayor utilizando hierro intravenoso con o sin eritropoyetina. Estudio epidemiológico / Optimizing preoperative haemoglobin in major orthopaedic surgery using intravenous iron with or without erythropoietin. An epidemiologic study

Objetivo: Evaluar la efectividad del tratamiento con hierro intravenoso, solo o asociado a eritropoyetina (rHuEPO), mediante el incremento de hemoglobina (Hb). Como objetivo secundario se analizó la relación del incremento de Hb con los parámetros utilizados para evaluar la anemia. Material y método: Estudio observacional retrospectivo realizado en 2 centros entre enero de 2005 y diciembre de 2009. Se incluyeron pacientes sometidos a cirugía ortopédica electiva con déficit de hierro y que fueron tratados con hierro sacarosa intravenosos solo o asociado a rHuEPO. Se analizó la efectividad del tratamiento mediante la diferencia entre la Hb basal y la Hb previa a la cirugía y se valoró la relación entre los parámetros hematimétricos y del metabolismo del hierro con la efectividad del tratamiento. Resultados: Se incluyeron 412 pacientes que recibieron una mediana de 800 mg de hierro sacarosa. A 125 pacientes (30,4%) se les asoció 2,4 viales de rHuEPO. El incremento de Hb fue de 0,8 (1,1) g/dL en los pacientes tratados con hierro intravenoso y de 1,5 (1,3) g/dL en los que se asoció rHuEPO (p < 0,01). El incremento de Hb en los pacientes tratados con hierro se correlacionó con el porcentaje de hematíes hipocromos (r = 0,52) y el valor del receptor soluble de la transferrina (r = 0,59). Conclusiones: La efectividad del tratamiento con hierro sacarosa en pacientes con déficit de hierro para la optimización de la Hb preoperatoria fue moderada, siendo mayor con la administración adyuvante de eritropoyetina. La determinación de los parámetros funcionales del estado del hierro nos podría guiar para mejorar la efectividad del tratamiento (AU)

Aim: To evaluate the effectiveness of intravenous iron treatment, with or without associated erythropoietin (rHuEPO), measured as haemoglobin (Hb) increase. The relationships between the Hb increase and parameters used to evaluate anaemia were analysed. Material and method: Retrospective observational study carried out in two third-level hospitals between January 2005 and December 2009. The study included patients with iron deficiency anaemia scheduled for elective orthopaedic surgery and treated with intravenous iron sucrose alone or associated with rHuEPO. Treatment efficacy was analysed based on the Hb increase from baseline to just before surgery. Results: A total of 412 patients who received a median of 800 mg of iron sucrose were included; 125 of them (30.4%) additionally received 2.4 vials of rHuEPO. The Hb increase was 0.8 (1.1) g/dL in patients treated with intravenous iron and 1.5 (1.3) g/dL in those additionally given rHuEPO (P < .01). The percentage of hypochromic red blood cells (r = 0.52) and soluble transferrin receptor (r = 0.59) value were significantly correlated to the Hb increase in patients receiving iron. Conclusions: In patients with iron deficiency anaemia, the effectiveness of iron sucrose treatment to optimize Hb before surgery was moderate; adjuvant administration of erythropoietin improved the results. Determination of functional iron status parameters may improve the treatment effectiveness (AU)

Descripción anatómica de las ventanas laríngeas ecográficas / Anatomical description of laryngeal ultrasound windows

No disponible

Olanzapine depot exposure in male rats: Dose-dependent lipogenic effects without concomitant weight gain.

Treatment with second-generation antipsychotic agents such as olanzapine frequently results in metabolic adverse effects, e.g. hyperphagia, weight gain and dyslipidaemia in patients of both genders. The molecular mechanisms underlying metabolic adverse effects are still largely unknown, and studies in rodents represent an important approach in their exploration. However, the validity of the rodent model is hampered by the fact that antipsychotics induce weight gain in female, but not male, rats. When administered orally, the short half-life of olanzapine in rats prevents stable plasma concentrations of the drug. We recently showed that a single intramuscular injection of long-acting olanzapine formulation yields clinically relevant plasma concentrations accompanied by several dysmetabolic features in the female rat. In the current study, we show that depot injections of 100-250 mg/kg olanzapine yielded clinically relevant plasma olanzapine concentrations also in male rats. In spite of transient hyperphagia, however, olanzapine resulted in weight loss rather than weight gain. The resultant negative feed efficiency was accompanied by a slight elevation of thermogenesis markers in brown adipose tissue for the highest olanzapine dose, but the olanzapine-related reduction in weight gain remains to be explained. In spite of the absence of weight gain, an olanzapine dose of 200mg/kg or above induced significantly elevated plasma cholesterol levels and pronounced activation of lipogenic gene expression in the liver. These results confirm that olanzapine stimulates lipogenic effects, independent of weight gain, and raise the possibility that endocrine factors may influence gender specificity of metabolic effects of antipsychotics in the rat.

Optimizing preoperative haemoglobin in major orthopaedic surgery using intravenous iron with or without erythropoietin. An epidemiologic study.

AIM: To evaluate the effectiveness of intravenous iron treatment, with or without associated erythropoietin (rHuEPO), measured as haemoglobin (Hb) increase. The relationships between the Hb increase and parameters used to evaluate anaemia were analysed. MATERIAL AND METHOD: Retrospective observational study carried out in two third-level hospitals between January 2005 and December 2009. The study included patients with iron deficiency anaemia scheduled for elective orthopaedic surgery and treated with intravenous iron sucrose alone or associated with rHuEPO. Treatment efficacy was analysed based on the Hb increase from baseline to just before surgery. RESULTS: A total of 412 patients who received a median of 800mg of iron sucrose were included; 125 of them (30.4%) additionally received 2.4 vials of rHuEPO. The Hb increase was 0.8 (1.1) g/dL in patients treated with intravenous iron and 1.5 (1.3) g/dL in those additionally given rHuEPO(P<.01). The percentage of hypochromic red blood cells (r=0.52) and soluble transferrin receptor (r=0.59) value were significantly correlated to the Hb increase in patients receiving iron. CONCLUSIONS: In patients with iron deficiency anaemia, the effectiveness of iron sucrose treatment to optimize Hb before surgery was moderate; adjuvant administration of erythropoietin improved the results. Determination of functional iron status parameters may improve the treatment effectiveness.