Bone health and predictors of 15-year mortality in a physically active population.

OBJECTIVE: To analyse determinants of mortality at 15 years in a population over 60 years of age and physically active. METHODS: This is a prospective longitudinal study. After 15 years of participating in an active ageing programme, participants were contacted by telephone to verify their state of health and to determine whether in that time they had had any fractures. RESULTS: 561 individuals over 60 years of age were included, 82% of whom were women. Only differences in densitometric data, FRAX values and history of previous fracture at baseline characteristics were found between the group that died at 15 years and the group that remained alive. The only variables that were related to mortality risk were the basal data of the densitometric t-score (OR = .50, P < .001) and history of fracture in any location (OR = 2.44, P < .033). CONCLUSIONS: The value of bone mineral density could be considered as a useful biomarker to calculate the risk of mortality in people over 60 years old with a physically active lifestyle.

Salud ósea y predictores de mortalidad a 15 años en una población físicamente activa / Bone Health and Predictors of 15-Year Mortality in a Physically Active Population

Objetivo: Analizar determinantes de mortalidad a 15años en relación con la salud ósea en una población de mayores de 60años y físicamente activos. Métodos: Estudio longitudinal prospectivo. A los 15años de participar en un programa de envejecimiento activo, y de los que se disponía de datos de salud ósea, se contactó telefónicamente con los participantes para constatar el estado vital y conocer si en ese intervalo de tiempo habían tenido alguna fractura, y para determinar la asociación entre la puntuación basal del FRAX, los datos densitométricos y la mortalidad al cabo del tiempo.Resultados: Se incluyeron 561 individuos mayores de 60años, de los que el 82% eran mujeres. Solo se encontraron diferencias en las características basales entre el grupo que falleció a los 15años y el grupo que siguió con vida en los datos densitométricos y en los valores del FRAX, así como en el antecedente de algún tipo de fractura. Las únicas variables que se relacionaron con el riesgo de mortalidad fueron los datos basales del T-score densitométricos (OR=0,50; p<0,001) y el antecedente de fractura en cualquier localización (OR=2,44; p<0,033).Conclusiones: El valor de la densidad mineral ósea podría considerarse como un biomarcador útil para calcular el riesgo de mortalidad en mayores de 60años con una vida físicamente activa.(AU)

Objective: To analyse determinants of mortality at 15years in a population over 60years of age and physically active. Methods: This is a prospective longitudinal study. After 15years of participating in an active aging programme, participants were contacted by telephone to verify their state of health and to determine whether in that time they had had any fractures. Results: A total of 561 individuals over 60years of age were included, 82% of whom were women. Only differences in densitometric data, FRAX values and history of previous fracture at baseline characteristics were found between the group that died at 15years and the group that remained alive. The only variables that were related to mortality risk were the basal data of the densitometric T-score (OR=.50, P<.001) and history of fracture in any location (OR=2.44, P<.033). Conclusions: The value of bone mineral density could be considered as a useful biomarker to calculate the risk of mortality in people over 60years old with a physically active lifestyle.(AU)

Serum Caspase-1 as an Independent Prognostic Factor in Traumatic Brain Injured Patients.

BACKGROUND: The objectives of this study were to assess the association between serum caspase 1 levels and known clinical and radiological prognostic factors and determine whether caspase 1was a more powerful predictor of outcome after traumatic brain injury (TBI) than clinical indices alone, to determine the association between the serum levels of caspase 1 and the 6-month outcome, and to evaluate if there is any association between caspase 1 with clinical and radiological variables. METHODS: This prospective and observational study was conducted in a university hospital and included patients with TBI who required hospital admission. Serum samples were collected at hospital admission and 24 h after TBI. Caspase 1 levels were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Receiver operating characteristic curves were obtained to test the potential of caspase 1 to predict mortality (Glasgow Outcome Scale Extended score of 1) and unfavorable outcome (Glasgow Outcome Scale Extended scores of 1-4). Multivariate logistic regression was used to assess the effect of serum caspase 1 levels, adjusted by known clinical and radiological prognostic indices, on the outcome. RESULTS: One hundred thirty-two patients and 33 healthy controls were included. We obtained 6-month outcome in 118 patients. On admission, the mean serum levels of caspase 1 were higher in patients with TBI compared with controls (157.9 vs. 108.5 pg/mL; p < 0.05) but not at 24 h after TBI. Serum caspase 1 levels on admission were higher in patients with unfavorable outcomes (189.5 vs. 144.1 pg/mL; p = 0.009). Similarly, serum caspase 1 levels on admission were higher in patients who died vs. patients who survived (213.6 vs. 146.8 pg/mL; p = 0.03). A logistic regression model showed that the serum caspase 1 level on admission was an independent predictor of 6-month unfavorable outcomes (odds ratio 1.05; 95% confidence interval 1-1.11; p = 0.05). Caspase 1 levels were higher in patients with severe TBI compared with those with moderate TBI, those with mild TBI, and healthy controls (p < 0.001). We did not find any correlation between caspase 1 and the radiological variables studied. CONCLUSIONS: In this cohort of patients with TBI, we show that serum caspase 1 protein levels on admission are an independent prognostic factor after TBI. Serum caspase 1 levels on admission are higher in patients who will present unfavorable outcomes 6 months after TBI. Caspase 1 levels on admission are associated with the injury severity determined by the Glasgow Coma Scale.

High flow nasal cannula versus standard low flow nasal oxygen during flexible bronchoscopy in children: A randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Hypoxemia is the most frequent complication of fiberoptic bronchoscopy (FB) in children. Guidelines recommend oxygen supplementation and conventional nasal prongs (NC) are used for this purpose. The aim of this study was to evaluate if the use of high-flow nasal cannula therapy (HFNC) in children undergoing FB result in a lower incidence of hypoxemia than standard oxygen administration. METHODS: Patients aged 1 month-16 years undergoing elective FB were included in a prospective randomized controlled, nonblinded, single-center clinical trial and randomly assigned to receive oxygen via NC or HFNC. Patients' baseline characteristics were recorded pre-bronchoscopy. The primary outcome was oxygen desaturation during the procedure defined as saturation less than 94%. RESULTS: An intention to treat analysis for 53 patients receiving NC and 51 receiving HFNC, showed HFNC patients were less likely to have hypoxemia than were NC patients (p = .011), with an absolute risk reduction of 0.27 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.08-0.45) and a number needed to treat of 3.75 (95% CI: 2.22-12.04). Moderate hypoxemia (SpO2 ≥ 90% and <94%, and <60 s) was observed significantly less often with HFNC than with NC (p = .012). Severe hypoxemia (SpO2 < 90% and >30 s) was not different between groups. Patients undergoing bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) presented fewer desaturations with HFNC (p = .0003). CONCLUSIONS: HFNC offers optimized oxygenation during elective FB with a significant reduction in desaturations and can be considered for oxygen administration, especially when BAL is performed.

Bone Health and Predictors of 15-Year Mortality in a Physically Active Population. / Salud ósea y predictores de mortalidad a 15 años en una población físicamente activa.

OBJECTIVE: To analyse determinants of mortality at 15years in a population over 60years of age and physically active. METHODS: This is a prospective longitudinal study. After 15years of participating in an active aging programme, participants were contacted by telephone to verify their state of health and to determine whether in that time they had had any fractures. RESULTS: A total of 561 individuals over 60years of age were included, 82% of whom were women. Only differences in densitometric data, FRAX values and history of previous fracture at baseline characteristics were found between the group that died at 15years and the group that remained alive. The only variables that were related to mortality risk were the basal data of the densitometric T-score (OR=.50, P<.001) and history of fracture in any location (OR=2.44, P<.033). CONCLUSIONS: The value of bone mineral density could be considered as a useful biomarker to calculate the risk of mortality in people over 60years old with a physically active lifestyle.

Levels of caspase-1 in cerebrospinal fluid of patients with traumatic brain injury: correlation with intracranial pressure and outcome.

OBJECTIVE: The objectives of this study were to evaluate levels of inflammasome-signaling proteins in serum and CSF of patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI), and to correlate these protein levels with intracranial pressure (ICP) and clinical outcomes at 6 months after injury. METHODS: This is a prospective and observational study in patients with moderate and severe TBI who required an external ventricular drain as part of their treatment. Serum and CSF samples were collected 3 times a day for the first 5 days after TBI. The authors have determined the protein concentration of caspase-1 in the CSF and serum of patients with TBI by using commercially available enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. The ICP value was recorded hourly. The 6-month outcome was assessed using the Glasgow Outcome Scale-Extended. RESULTS: A total of 21 patients were included in this study, and a total of 234 paired serum-CSF samples were analyzed. The area under the curve (AUC) value of caspase-1 in CSF during the 5-day period was 2452.9 pg/mL·hr in the group of patients with high ICP vs 617.6 pg/mL·hr in the patients with low ICP. The differences were mainly on day 2 (19.7 pg/mL vs 1.8 pg/mL; p = 0.06) and day 3 (13.9 pg/mL vs 1 pg/mL; p = 0.05). The AUC value of caspase in CSF during the 5-day period was 1918.9 pg/mL·hr in the group of patients with poor outcome versus 924.5 pg/mL·hr in the patients with good outcome. The protein levels of caspase-1 in CSF were higher in patients with unfavorable outcomes during the first 96 hours after TBI. CONCLUSIONS: In this cohort of patients with TBI who were admitted to the neurosurgical ICU, the inflammasome protein caspase-1 is increased in the CSF of patients with high ICP, especially on days 2 and 3 after TBI. Also the protein levels of caspase-1 in CSF were higher in patients with poor outcome during the first 96 hours after TBI. Moreover, not only the absolute value of caspase-1 in CSF but also its trend is associated with poor outcomes.

Epidemiology of osteoporosis and its determinants in physically active Majorcan elderly.

OBJECTIVE: To estimate the prevalence and distribution of determinants of osteoporosis (OP) in a population of physically active Majorcans over 60. METHODS: Health survey in which consecutive women and men above 60 years old visiting sports facilities during a two-month period were recruited. All underwent a densitometry of the lumbar spine (LS) and femoral neck (FN). Osteoporosis was defined according to the World Health Organization densitometric criteria (T-score <2.5 SD in the LS or FN, and osteopenia if the result was between -2.5 and -1 SD). As osteoporosis shows substantial differences between genders, the study of its determinants was conducted independently for men and women. RESULTS: The sample included 731 subjects (86% female), with an average age of 70 (SD 5) among men and 65 (8) among women. The overall prevalence of osteoporosis was 35.7% in the LS, 8.9% in the FN and 39.4% in the LS and/or FN. The analysis by gender showed a higher prevalence of osteoporosis in women than in men (43.8 % vs. 11.1%). The presence of osteoporosis increased with age in men and women (7.8% for 61-75 years old vs 22.7% > 75 years old for men and 48.5% for 61-75 years old vs 62.7% > 75 for women). CONCLUSIONS: Densitometric osteoporosis is frequent among physically active elderly population, and higher than expected in a largely sunlight-exposed area.

Evaluación de la validez de las funciones SCORE de bajo riesgo y calibrada para población española en las cohortes FRESCO / Validity assessment of low-risk SCORE function and SCORE function calibrated to the Spanish population in the FRESCO cohorts

Introducción y objetivos. Estudiar la validez de la función SCORE original de bajo riesgo sin y con colesterol unido a lipoproteínas de alta densidad y SCORE calibrada en población española. Métodos. Análisis agrupado con datos individuales de 12 estudios de cohorte de base poblacional. Se incluyó a 30.919 participantes de 40-64 años sin enfermedades cardiovasculares en el momento del reclutamiento, que se siguieron durante 10 años para la mortalidad cardiovascular contemplada en el proyecto SCORE. La validez de las funciones se analizó mediante el área bajo la curva ROC (discriminación) y el test de Hosmer-Lemeshow (calibración), respectivamente. Resultados. Se dispuso de 286.105 personas/año. La mortalidad a 10 años por causas cardiovasculares fue del 0,6%. La razón de casos esperados/observados fue de 9,1, 6,5 y 9,1 en varones y de 3,3, 1,3 y 1,9 en mujeres con las funciones SCORE original de bajo riesgo sin y con colesterol unido a lipoproteínas de alta densidad y SCORE calibrada, respectivamente; diferencias estadísticamente significativas con el test de calibración de Hosmer-Lemeshow entre la mortalidad predicha con SCORE y la observada (p < 0,001 en ambos sexos y en todas las funciones). Las áreas bajo la curva ROC con SCORE original fueron 0,68 en varones y 0,69 en mujeres. Conclusiones. Todas las versiones de las funciones SCORE disponibles en España sobreestiman significativamente la mortalidad cardiovascular observada en la población española. A pesar de la aceptable capacidad de discriminación, la predicción del número de acontecimientos cardiovasculares mortales (calibración) fue significativamente imprecisa (AU)

Introduction and objectives. To assess the validity of the original low-risk SCORE function without and with high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and SCORE calibrated to the Spanish population. Methods. Pooled analysis with individual data from 12 Spanish population-based cohort studies. We included 30 919 individuals aged 40 to 64 years with no history of cardiovascular disease at baseline, who were followed up for 10 years for the causes of death included in the SCORE project. The validity of the risk functions was analyzed with the area under the ROC curve (discrimination) and the Hosmer-Lemeshow test (calibration), respectively. Results. Follow-up comprised 286 105 persons/y. Ten-year cardiovascular mortality was 0.6%. The ratio between estimated/observed cases ranged from 9.1, 6.5, and 9.1 in men and 3.3, 1.3, and 1.9 in women with original low-risk SCORE risk function without and with high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and calibrated SCORE, respectively; differences were statistically significant with the Hosmer-Lemeshow test between predicted and observed mortality with SCORE (P < .001 in both sexes and with all functions). The area under the ROC curve with the original SCORE was 0.68 in men and 0.69 in women. Conclusions. All versions of the SCORE functions available in Spain significantly overestimate the cardiovascular mortality observed in the Spanish population. Despite the acceptable discrimination capacity, prediction of the number of fatal cardiovascular events (calibration) was significantly inaccurate (AU)

Interaction between cardiovascular risk factors and body mass index and 10-year incidence of cardiovascular disease, cancer death, and overall mortality.

The effect of above-normal body mass index (BMI) on health outcomes is controversial because it is difficult to distinguish from the effect due to BMI-associated cardiovascular risk factors. The objective was to analyze the impact on 10-year incidence of cardiovascular disease, cancer deaths and overall mortality of the interaction between cardiovascular risk factors and BMI. We conducted a pooled analysis of individual data from 12 Spanish population cohorts with 10-year follow-up. Participants had no previous history of cardiovascular diseases and were 35-79years old at basal examination. Body mass index was measured at baseline being the outcome measures ten-year cardiovascular disease, cancer and overall mortality. Multivariable analyses were adjusted for potential confounders, considering the significant interactions with cardiovascular risk factors. We included 54,446 individuals (46.5% with overweight and 27.8% with obesity). After considering the significant interactions, the 10-year risk of cardiovascular disease was significantly increased in women with overweight and obesity [Hazard Ratio=2.34 (95% confidence interval: 1.19-4.61) and 5.65 (1.54-20.73), respectively]. Overweight and obesity significantly increased the risk of cancer death in women [3.98 (1.53-10.37) and 11.61 (1.93-69.72)]. Finally, obese men had an increased risk of cancer death and overall mortality [1.62 (1.03-2.54) and 1.34 (1.01-1.76), respectively]. In conclusion, overweight and obesity significantly increased the risk of cancer death and of fatal and non-fatal cardiovascular disease in women; whereas obese men had a significantly higher risk of death for all causes and for cancer. Cardiovascular risk factors may act as effect modifiers in these associations.

Validity Assessment of Low-risk SCORE Function and SCORE Function Calibrated to the Spanish Population in the FRESCO Cohorts.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: To assess the validity of the original low-risk SCORE function without and with high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and SCORE calibrated to the Spanish population. METHODS: Pooled analysis with individual data from 12 Spanish population-based cohort studies. We included 30 919 individuals aged 40 to 64 years with no history of cardiovascular disease at baseline, who were followed up for 10 years for the causes of death included in the SCORE project. The validity of the risk functions was analyzed with the area under the ROC curve (discrimination) and the Hosmer-Lemeshow test (calibration), respectively. RESULTS: Follow-up comprised 286 105 persons/y. Ten-year cardiovascular mortality was 0.6%. The ratio between estimated/observed cases ranged from 9.1, 6.5, and 9.1 in men and 3.3, 1.3, and 1.9 in women with original low-risk SCORE risk function without and with high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and calibrated SCORE, respectively; differences were statistically significant with the Hosmer-Lemeshow test between predicted and observed mortality with SCORE (P < .001 in both sexes and with all functions). The area under the ROC curve with the original SCORE was 0.68 in men and 0.69 in women. CONCLUSIONS: All versions of the SCORE functions available in Spain significantly overestimate the cardiovascular mortality observed in the Spanish population. Despite the acceptable discrimination capacity, prediction of the number of fatal cardiovascular events (calibration) was significantly inaccurate.

Validación y cumplimentación de los indicadores de calidad GESIDA en pacientes con infección por el VIH / Validation and adhesion to GESIDA quality indicators in patients with HIV infection

INTRODUCCIÓN: El objetivo del estudio es validar los indicadores de calidad relevantes para la infección VIH de GESIDA, evaluando la fiabilidad, la factibilidad y la adhesión a los mismos. MÉTODOS: La fiabilidad fue evaluada mediante la reproducibilidad de 6 indicadores en revisión por pares, siendo el segundo observador una persona externa. La factibilidad y la medida del grado de cumplimiento de 22 indicadores se realizaron de forma fragmentada anual con recogida retrospectiva de la información a partir de bases de datos o de la historia clínica de los 9 hospitales participantes. RESULTADOS: La fiabilidad fue elevada con niveles de concordancia interobservador superiores al 95% en 5 de los 6 indicadores. La mediana de tiempo para realizar cada uno de los indicadores osciló entre 5 y 600 min, pero pudieron ser obtenidos progresivamente de bases de datos específicas, lo que posibilita la obtención automatizada de los mismos. En cuanto al cumplimiento de los indicadores, alcanzaron los estándares establecidos los relacionados con la evaluación inicial de los pacientes, indicación y adecuación del TAR a las guías, adherencia al TAR y seguimiento en consultas o alcanzar CV indetectables en la semana 48 del TAR. Respecto a los indicadores de prevención de infecciones oportunistas y control de comorbilidades, no se alcanzaron los estándares establecidos y se observó una heterogeneidad importante entre hospitales. CONCLUSIÓN: Los indicadores de calidad de infección VIH de GESIDA permiten medir de forma fiable y factible unos indicadores relevantes que deberían recoger todas las unidades que asisten a pacientes con infección por VIH

INTRODUCTION: The objective of the study is to validate the relevant GESIDA quality indicators for HIV infection, assessing the reliability, feasibility and adherence to them. METHODS: The reliability was evaluated using the reproducibility of 6 indicators in peer review, with the second observer being an outsider. The feasibility and measurement of the level of adherence to the 22 indicators was conducted with annual fragmented retrospective collection of information from specific databases or the clinical charts of the nine participating hospitals. RESULTS: Reliability was very high, with interobserver agreement levels higher than 95% in 5 of the 6 indicators. The median time to achieve the indicators ranged between 5 and 600 minutes, but could be achieved progressively from specific databases, enabling obtaining them automatically. As regards adherence to the indicators related with the initial evaluation of the patients, instructions and suitability of the guidelines for ART, adherence to ART, follow-up in clinics, and achieve an undetectable HIV by PCR at week 48 of the ART. Indicators of quality related to the prevention of opportunistic infections and control of comorbidities, the standards set were not achieved, and significant heterogeneity was observed between hospitals. CONCLUSION: The GESIDA quality indicators of HIV infection enabled the relevant indicators to be feasibly and reliably measured, and should be collected in all the units that care for patients with HIV infection

Increased daylight availability reduces length of hospitalisation in depressive patients.

In a retrospective study, hospital stay in two hospitals was compared for depressive patients. The mean amount of accumulated light impinging the patient's area was 86,145 lux/light period in Hospital Universitari Son Dureta and 258,909 lux/light period in Hospital Universitari Son Espases (~300 % increase). The median stay was 14 days (1q-3q 8-19, n = 101) and 11 (1q-3q 6-15, n = 106) days, respectively. The reduction was significant only for the entire group, though not for subgroups (p < 0.007). Although the light received was not individually measured, results point to a significant effect of light in the recovery time of depressive patients. Prospective studies are needed.

[Validation and adhesion to GESIDA quality indicators in patients with HIV infection]. / Validación y cumplimentación de los indicadores de calidad GESIDA en pacientes con infección por el VIH.

INTRODUCTION: The objective of the study is to validate the relevant GESIDA quality indicators for HIV infection, assessing the reliability, feasibility and adherence to them. METHODS: The reliability was evaluated using the reproducibility of 6 indicators in peer review, with the second observer being an outsider. The feasibility and measurement of the level of adherence to the 22 indicators was conducted with annual fragmented retrospective collection of information from specific databases or the clinical charts of the nine participating hospitals. RESULTS: Reliability was very high, with interobserver agreement levels higher than 95% in 5 of the 6 indicators. The median time to achieve the indicators ranged between 5 and 600minutes, but could be achieved progressively from specific databases, enabling obtaining them automatically. As regards adherence to the indicators related with the initial evaluation of the patients, instructions and suitability of the guidelines for ART, adherence to ART, follow-up in clinics, and achieve an undetectable HIV by PCR at week 48 of the ART. Indicators of quality related to the prevention of opportunistic infections and control of comorbidities, the standards set were not achieved, and significant heterogeneity was observed between hospitals. CONCLUSION: The GESIDA quality indicators of HIV infection enabled the relevant indicators to be feasibly and reliably measured, and should be collected in all the units that care for patients with HIV infection.

Increased STAT3 phosphorylation on CD27(+) B-cells from common variable immunodeficiency disease patients.

Maturation and differentiation of B-cells are driven by T-cells' help through IL-21/STAT3 axis in GC centers or through extrafollicular pathways, in a T-independent manner. B-cell differentiation is defective in common variable immunodeficiency disease (CVID) patients. We investigated if IL-21/STAT3 axis alterations could influence B-cell fate. We activated purified CVID B-cells with surrogate T-dependent (anti-CD40), T-independent (TLR-9 ligand) stimuli or through B-cell receptor engagement (anti-IgM) with or without IL-21. IL-21 mediated STAT3 activation was greater on CD27(-) than CD27(+) B-cells depending on the stimulus. IL-21 alone induced STAT3 phosphorylation (pSTAT3) only on CD27(-) B-cells and IL-21 induced higher pSTAT3 levels on CD27(-) than CD27(+) B-cells after anti-IgM or anti-CD40 activation. CVID CD27(+) B-cells showed selective STAT3 hyperphosphorylation after activation with anti-IgM or anti-CD40 alone and anti-IgM, anti-CD40 or ODN combined with IL-21. Increased STAT3 activation during immune responses could result in B-cell differentiation defects in CVID.

Urinary phytate (Myo-inositol hexaphosphate) in healthy school children and risk of nephrolithiasis.

OBJECTIVE: Although the incidence of urolithiasis is lower in children than in adults, the number of children with urolithiasis is increasing. Phytate, a naturally occurring compound present in legumes, nuts, and whole meals, has antilithiasic activity. The aim of this study was to assess, for the first time, the urinary levels of phytate in children and to correlate these levels with other urinary parameters related to crystallization risk and to general dietary habits. DESIGN AND METHODS: This was a cohort study conducted from April 2012 to March 2013 in the Laboratory of Investigation in Renal Lithiasis and at Son Espases Universitary Hospital in Palma de Majorca, Spain. SUBJECTS: Subjects included 165 healthy schoolchildren aged 5 to 12 years. INTERVENTION: All subjects followed their habitual diet. Information on the main dietary habits of the study subjects was obtained by asking each child's parents to fill out a dietary questionnaire. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE: Phytate and citrate concentration and excretion were measured in 2 urine samples (a spot sample and a 12-hour overnight sample) for each child. Furthermore, common urinary biochemical indicators of stone risk were measured in each sample. RESULTS: The urinary phytate concentrations were low in this child population because of low consumption of dietary phytate. The urinary concentrations of phytate and citrate were low in 27.5% of these children. CONCLUSION: Because both substances are important inhibitors of crystallization, these finding suggests that these children are at risk of crystallization. Moreover, their diets consisted of foods rich in animal protein, with insufficient consumption of vegetables, legumes, and fruits.

El análisis del flujo aórtico por ecocardiografía Doppler es útil en la estratificación pronóstica de los pacientes con estenosis aórtica grave con fracción de eyección normal / Systolic volume index by doppler echocardiography is an useful marker for stratification and prognostic evaluation in patients with severe aortic stenosis and preserved ejection fraction

Introducción y objetivos. El pronóstico de los pacientes con estenosis aórtica grave con bajo gradiente aórtico y fracción de eyección normal es controvertido. Nuestro estudio analiza el pronóstico de estos pacientes y su relación con el gradiente de presión y el flujo valvular aórtico. Métodos. Cohorte retrospectiva de 363 pacientes consecutivos con estenosis aórtica grave y fracción de eyección normal, dividida en cuatro grupos según índice de volumen sistólico mayor o menor que 35 ml/m2 y gradiente aórtico medio mayor o menor que 40 mmHg. Grupo I, flujo normal y gradiente elevado (n = 169; 47%); grupo II, flujo normal y bajo gradiente (n = 98; 27%); grupo III, bajo flujo y gradiente elevado (n = 54; 15%), y grupo IV, bajo flujo y bajo gradiente (n = 42; 12%). El objetivo primario es la mortalidad total. Resultados. Los factores de riesgo independientes de mortalidad son la edad (hazard ratio = 1,04; intervalo de confianza del 95%, 1,01-1,08) y la fibrilación auricular (hazard ratio = 2,21; intervalo de confianza del 95%, 1,24-3,94). El tratamiento quirúrgico se asocia a mayor supervivencia en todos los grupos (hazard ratio = 0,25; intervalo de confianza del 95%, 0,13-0,49). Los pacientes con bajo flujo presentan mayor mortalidad que los pacientes con flujo normal (el 26,6 frente al 13,6%; p = 0,004). El grupo II muestra mejor pronóstico (hazard ratio = 0,4; intervalo de confianza del 95%, 0,2-0,9). Conclusiones. Los pacientes con estenosis aórtica grave, fracción de eyección normal y bajo flujo aórtico presentan peor pronóstico. El análisis del flujo aórtico mediante ecocardiografía Doppler es útil en la estratificación de riesgo y en la toma de decisiones terapéuticas en pacientes con estenosis aórtica (AU)

Introduction and objectives. The prognosis of patients with severe aortic stenosis, low aortic gradient and preserved ejection fraction is controversial. Our study analyzed the prognosis of these patients and its relation to pressure gradient and aortic valve flow. Methods. We performed a retrospective cohort study of 363 consecutive patients with severe aortic stenosis and preserved ejection fraction, divided into 4 groups, based on the presence of a systolic volume index greater or lower than 35mL/m2 and the presence of a mean aortic gradient greater or lower than 40mmHg. Group I: normal flow, high gradient (n=169, 47%); group II: normal flow, low gradient (n=98, 27%); group III: low flow, high gradient (n=54, 15%), and group IV: low flow, low gradient (n=42, 12%). The primary endpoint was overall mortality. Results. Independent risk factors for mortality were age (hazard ratio=1.04; 95% confidence interval, 1.01-1.08) and atrial fibrillation (hazard ratio=2.21; 95% confidence interval, 1.24-3.94). Surgical treatment was associated with longer survival in all groups (hazard ratio=0.25; 95% confidence interval: 0.13-0.49). Mortality was higher in patients with low flow than in those with with normal flow (26.6% vs 13.6%; P=.004). The most favorable mean prognosis was found in group II (hazard ratio=0.4; 95% confidence interval, 0.2-0.9). Conclusions. Patients with severe aortic stenosis, normal ejection fraction and low aortic flow have a worse prognosis. Analysis of aortic flow by Doppler echocardiography is useful in risk stratification and therapeutic decision-making in patients with aortic stenosis (AU)

Systolic volume index by Doppler echocardiography is an useful marker for stratification and prognostic evaluation in patients with severe aortic stenosis and preserved ejection fraction.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: The prognosis of patients with severe aortic stenosis, low aortic gradient and preserved ejection fraction is controversial. Our study analyzed the prognosis of these patients and its relation to pressure gradient and aortic valve flow. METHODS: We performed a retrospective cohort study of 363 consecutive patients with severe aortic stenosis and preserved ejection fraction, divided into 4 groups, based on the presence of a systolic volume index greater or lower than 35 mL/m(2) and the presence of a mean aortic gradient greater or lower than 40 mmHg. Group I: normal flow, high gradient (n=169, 47%); group II: normal flow, low gradient (n=98, 27%); group III: low flow, high gradient (n=54, 15%), and group IV: low flow, low gradient (n=42, 12%). The primary endpoint was overall mortality. RESULTS: Independent risk factors for mortality were age (hazard ratio=1.04; 95% confidence interval, 1.01-1.08) and atrial fibrillation (hazard ratio=2.21; 95% confidence interval, 1.24-3.94). Surgical treatment was associated with longer survival in all groups (hazard ratio=0.25; 95% confidence interval: 0.13-0.49). Mortality was higher in patients with low flow than in those with with normal flow (26.6% vs 13.6%; P=.004). The most favorable mean prognosis was found in group II (hazard ratio=0.4; 95% confidence interval, 0.2-0.9). CONCLUSIONS: Patients with severe aortic stenosis, normal ejection fraction and low aortic flow have a worse prognosis. Analysis of aortic flow by Doppler echocardiography is useful in risk stratification and therapeutic decision-making in patients with aortic stenosis.

Risk factors for urinary stones in healthy schoolchildren with and without a family history of nephrolithiasis.

BACKGROUND: The prevalence of lithiasis is increasing at all ages. This study aimed to assess the crystallization risk in urine from healthy school children and to determine urinary parameters that are most associated with it. METHODS: Urine samples were obtained from 184 children aged 5-12 years: a spot sample collected in the afternoon, and a 12-h overnight sample. Information was obtained regarding family histories of lithiasis. Urine volume, pH, and biochemical parameters of stone risk were measured. Crystallization risk was defined by the presence of specific urine conditions that had previously been associated with stone formation in vitro. RESULTS: Crystallization risk was observed in 15 % of spot urine samples and 54 % of 12-h samples. Metabolic abnormalities and a low urinary volume were more frequently detected in children with crystallization risk. Calcium excretion and calcium/citrate ratio were higher in children with a family history of lithiasis. CONCLUSIONS: We observed a high prevalence of crystallization risk in urine, especially in children with a family history of the disease. Low urinary volume was the factor most associated with increased risk. Adequate fluid intake at an early age may be a simple and effective measure to reduce the incidence of nephrolithiasis.

Impaired circadian variation of platelet activity in patients with sleep apnea.

BACKGROUND: Cardiovascular diseases are frequent in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSAS). There is evidence that the day-night pattern of myocardial infarction and sudden cardiac death observed in the general population is altered in patients with OSAS. This study investigates potential abnormalities in the circadian profiles of platelet activity in OSAS. METHODS: We studied 37 patients with OSAS [7 of whom were also studied after 3 months on continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) treatment] and 11 controls. In each subject, we obtained six different blood samples during 24-h period (2200, 0200, 0600, 1000, 1400, and 1800 hours). Platelet activity was determined by flow cytometry immediately after sampling. RESULTS: We found that nocturnal platelet activity was significantly increased in patients with OSAS (p = 0.043) and that effective treatment with CPAP decreased platelet activity in these patients but differences just failed to reach statistical significance (p = 0.063). CONCLUSIONS: OSAS is associated with increased platelet activity during the night, and that this appears to be improved by chronic use of CPAP. These results may contribute to explain the high prevalence of cardiovascular events during sleep in OSAS.

High prevalence of undiagnosed airflow limitation in patients with cardiovascular disease.

BACKGROUND: The prevalence of airflow limitation (AL) in patients with cardiovascular disease (CVD) is unknown, and whether AL is adequately diagnosed and treated in these patients has not been investigated before, to our knowledge. METHODS: We compared clinical and spirometric data in three groups of individuals. Two of them were participants in the follow-up of an ongoing population-based study according to the presence or absence of CVD. The third group included patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) confirmed by coronariography regularly visited at a tertiary referral university hospital. AL was defined according to the Global Initiative for Obstructive Lung Disease guidelines. RESULTS: We studied 450 population participants without CVD, 52 population participants with CVD, and 119 hospital patients with CAD. The prevalence of AL in these three groups was 17.5% (95% CI, 14.0-21.0), 19.2% (95% CI, 8.1-30.7), and 33.6% (95% CI, 25.0-42.2), respectively (P < .05). Underdiagnosis of AL ranged from 60% in population participants with CVD up to 87.2% in hospital patients with CAD. Sixty percent of those with spirometrically confirmed AL (in all three groups) did not receive any respiratory treatment. CONCLUSIONS: AL is frequent in individuals with CVD, particularly in those with CAD attended in the hospital, is largely underdiagnosed and therefore is highly undertreated. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Clinicaltrials.gov; Identifier: NCT00787748.