Selective sparing of bladder and rectum sub-regions in radiotherapy of prostate cancer combining knowledge-based automatic planning and multicriteria optimization.

Background and Purpose: The association between dose to selected bladder and rectum symptom-related sub-regions (SRS) and late toxicity after prostate cancer radiotherapy has been evidenced by voxel-wise analyses. The aim of the current study was to explore the feasibility of combining knowledge-based (KB) and multi-criteria optimization (MCO) to spare SRSs without compromising planning target volume (PTV) dose delivery, including pelvic-node irradiation. Materials and Methods: Forty-five previously treated patients (74.2 Gy/28fr) were selected and SRSs (in the bladder, associated with late dysuria/hematuria/retention; in the rectum, associated with bleeding) were generated using deformable registration. A KB model was used to obtain clinically suitable plans (KB-plan). KB-plans were further optimized using MCO, aiming to reduce dose to the SRSs while safeguarding target dose coverage, homogeneity and avoiding worsening dose volume histograms of the whole bladder, rectum and other organs at risk. The resulting MCO-generated plans were examined to identify the best-compromise plan (KB + MCO-plan). Results: The mean SRS dose decreased in almost all patients for each SRS. D1% also decreased in the large majority, less frequently for dysuria/bleeding SRS. Mean differences were statistically significant (p < 0.05) and ranged between 1.3 and 2.2 Gy with maximum reduction of mean dose up to 3-5 Gy for the four SRSs. The better sparing of SRSs was obtained without compromising PTVs coverage. Conclusions: Selectively sparing SRSs without compromising PTV coverage is feasible and has the potential to reduce toxicities in prostate cancer radiotherapy. Further investigation to better quantify the expected risk reduction of late toxicities is warranted.

Impact of the 2021 La Palma volcanic eruption on air quality: Insights from a multidisciplinary approach.

The La Palma 2021 volcanic eruption was the first subaerial eruption in a 50-year period in the Canary Islands (Spain), emitting ~1.8 Tg of sulphur dioxide (SO2) into the troposphere over nearly 3 months (19 September-13 December 2021), exceeding the total anthropogenic SO2 emitted from the 27 European Union countries in 2019. We conducted a comprehensive evaluation of the impact of the 2021 volcanic eruption on air quality (SO2, PM10 and PM2.5 concentrations) utilising a multidisciplinary approach, combining ground and satellite-based measurements with height-resolved aerosol and meteorological information. High concentrations of SO2, PM10 and PM2.5 were observed in La Palma (hourly mean SO2 up to ~2600 µg m-3 and also sporadically at ~140 km distance on the island of Tenerife (> 7700 µg m-3) in the free troposphere. PM10 and PM2.5 daily mean concentrations in La Palma peaked at ~380 and 60 µg m-3. Volcanic aerosols and desert dust both impacted the lower troposphere in a similar height range (~ 0-6 km) during the eruption, providing a unique opportunity to study the combined effect of both natural phenomena. The impact of the 2021 volcanic eruption on SO2 and PM concentrations was strongly influenced by the magnitude of the volcanic emissions, the injection height, the vertical stratification of the atmosphere and its seasonal dynamics. Mean daily SO2 concentrations increased during the eruption, from 38 µg m-3 (Phase I) to 92 µg m-3 (Phase II), showing an opposite temporal trend to mean daily SO2 emissions, which decreased from 34 kt (Phase I) to 7 kt (Phase II). The results of this study are relevant for emergency preparedness in all international areas at risk of volcanic eruptions; a multidisciplinary approach is key to understand the processes by which volcanic eruptions affect air quality and to mitigate and minimise impacts on the population.

Statin Use Reduces the Risk of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: An Updated Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review.

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary tumor of the liver resulting in approximately 800,000 deaths annually. A growing body of research investigating statin use and HCC risk has shown conflicting results. We aim to evaluate the current evidence of statin impact on HCC risk. We performed a comprehensive literature search in PubMed, PubMed Central, Embase, and ScienceDirect databases from inception through May 2019 to identify all studies that evaluated the association between statin use and HCC. We included studies that presented an odds ratio (OR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) or presented data sufficient to calculate the OR with a 95% CI. Statistical analysis was performed using the Comprehensive Meta-Analysis (CMA), Version 3 software, and a Forrest plot was generated. We assessed for publication bias using conventional techniques. Twenty studies (three randomized controlled trials, six cohorts, and 11 case-controls) with 2,668,497 patients including 24,341 cases of HCC were included in the meta-analysis. Our findings indicate a significant risk reduction of HCC among all statin users with a pooled odds ratio of 0.573 (95% CI: 0.491-0.668, I2= 86.57%) compared to non-users. No publication bias was found using Egger's regression test or on visual inspection of the generated Funnel plot. The results indicate that statin use was associated with a 43% lower risk of HCC compared to statin non-users. Further prospective randomized research is needed to confirm the association.

Herramienta de código abierto para la anotación de imágenes oculares / Open-source tool for eye image annotation / Ferramenta de anotação de imagem de olho de código aberto

RESUMEN Introducción: El seguimiento del centro de la pupila usando imágenes de videooculografía se usa ampliamente para el diagnóstico de enfermedades del sistema nervioso. La diferencia entre el valor detectado automáticamente del centro de la pupila y el valor de referencia marcado por un especialista (anotación) determina la exactitud del diagnóstico. El proceso de anotación manual es muy laborioso, tedioso y propenso a errores humanos. Las anotaciones son esenciales para desarrollar y evaluar los algoritmos en el área de visión artificial, principalmente aquellos basados en el aprendizaje supervisado, sin embargo, existen pocas herramientas interactivas para realizar la anotación fiable del centro de la pupila. Objetivo: Desarrollar una herramienta de código abierto para anotar el centro de la pupila. Método: Se definieron los requisitos funcionales y no funcionales de la herramienta y se implementaron dos algoritmos para la anotación semiautomática del centro de la pupila basados en los métodos de ajuste de elipse y de círculo, a partir de varios puntos marcados por el especialista. Resultados: La aplicación software, denominada PUPILA, fue desarrollada en Python, desde marzo de 2020 a septiembre de 2020, y proporciona varias funciones auxiliares que facilitan la tarea del anotador. Conclusiones: La nueva herramienta proporciona un ambiente agradable e interactivo para anotar el centro de la pupila garantizando comodidad, exactitud y reducción de subjetividades en el trabajo del especialista. Es de código abierto y multiplataforma, lo que permite su compatibilidad con diversos dispositivos y su uso gratuito. Ha permitido anotar imágenes de bases de datos públicas y otras adquiridas experimentalmente.

ABSTRACT Introduction: The tracking of the pupil center using videoculography images is widely used for the diagnosis of diseases of the nervous system. The difference between the automatically detected value of the pupil center and the reference value marked by a specialist (annotation) determines the accuracy of the diagnosis. The manual annotation process is very laborious, tedious, and prone to human error. Annotations are essential to develop and evaluate algorithms in the area of artificial vision, mainly those based on supervised learning, however, there are few interactive tools to perform reliable annotation of the center of the pupil. Objective: To develop an open source tool to annotate the center of the pupil. Method: The functional and non-functional requirements of the tool are defined and two algorithms are implemented for the semi-automatic annotation of the center of the pupil based on the ellipse and circle adjustment methods, from several points marked by the specialist. Results: The software application, called PUPILA, was developed in Python, from March 2020 to September 2020, and provides various auxiliary functions that facilitate the annotator's task. Conclusions: The new tool provides an agreeable and interactive environment to record the center of the pupil, guaranteeing comfort, accuracy and reduction of subjectivities in the specialist's work. It is open source and cross-platform, allowing it to be compatible with various devices and free to use. It has made it possible to annotate images from public databases and others acquired experimentally.

RESUMO Introdução: O rastreamento do centro pupilar por meio de imagens de vídeo-oculografia é amplamente utilizado para o diagnóstico de doenças do sistema nervoso. A diferença entre o valor detectado automaticamente do centro da pupila e o valor de referência marcado por um especialista (anotação) determina a precisão do diagnóstico. O processo de anotação manual é muito trabalhoso, tedioso e propenso a erros humanos. As anotações são essenciais para desenvolver e avaliar algoritmos na área de visão artificial, principalmente aqueles baseados em aprendizado supervisionado, porém, existem poucas ferramentas interativas para realizar anotação confiável do centro do aluno. Objetivo: Desenvolver uma ferramenta de código aberto para anotar o centro da pupila. Método: Foram definidos os requisitos funcionais e não funcionais da ferramenta e implementados dois algoritmos para a anotação semiautomática do centro da pupila com base nos métodos de ajuste de elipse e círculo, a partir de vários pontos marcados pelo especialista. Resultados: O aplicativo de software, denominado PUPILA, foi desenvolvido em Python, no período de março de 2020 a setembro de 2020, e disponibiliza diversas funções auxiliares que facilitam a tarefa do anotador. Conclusões: A nova ferramenta proporciona um ambiente legais e interativo para registrar o centro do aluno, garantindo conforto, precisão e redução de subjetividades no trabalho do especialista. É de código aberto e multiplataforma, permitindo que seja compatível com vários dispositivos e de uso gratuito. Tornou possível anotar imagens de bancos de dados públicos e outros adquiridos experimentalmente.

Gastrointestinal Toxicities of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors Are Associated With Enhanced Tumor Responsiveness and Improved Survival.

Background: Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are increasingly used to treat advanced malignancies. However, they are associated with the development of multiple gastrointestinal immune-related adverse events (GI-irAEs). We aimed to evaluate the types and severity of GI-irAEs associated with ICI therapy, to identify potential risk factors for developing GI-irAEs and to determine the relationship of GI-irAEs development to tumor responsiveness and overall survival. Methods: All patients who received ICIs for advanced malignancies at our center were included. Medical records were reviewed, and data extraction included: baseline demographic characteristics, immunotherapy regimens, development of GI-irAEs, response to treatment, and overall survival. Overall survival was calculated from the date of treatment initiation and estimated by the Kaplan-Meier method. Results: Five hundred sixty-seven patients received ICI therapy for stage IV malignancies. Forty-one (7%) patients experienced at least one GI-irAE. Among those experiencing GI-irAEs, 23 (56%) developed hepatitis, 17 (42%) developed colitis, four (10%) developed pancreatitis, and two (5%) developed gastritis. Patients who developed GI-irAEs experienced a better response to ICI therapy compared to patients who did not develop GI-irAEs (41% vs. 27%, P = 0.003). The 2-year overall survival rate of stage IV cancer patients who developed GI-irAEs was 62% (95% confidence interval (CI): 49 - 79) and 36% for those who did not develop GI-irAEs (95% CI: 32 - 41) (P = 0.002). The median follow-up time of surviving patients was 28 months. Twelve (29%) of the patients receiving dual ICI therapy developed GI-irAEs. Conclusion: Hepatitis, colitis, and pancreatitis were the most commonly encountered GI-irAEs with ICI therapy. Development of these GI-irAEs was associated with superior tumor responsiveness and better overall survival.

The CHIVA strategy applied to large-diameter saphenous veins.

BACKGROUND: CHIVA (Cure Conservatrice et Hemodynamique de l'Insufficience Veineuse en Ambulatoire) is a conservative outpatient treatment strategy for chronic venous disease (CVD) that preserves the superficial venous system. A modified two-stage strategy is used in patients with a great saphenous vein (GSV) diameter ≥9 mm with the goal to decrease the risk of symptomatic superficial vein thrombosis (SVT), as the risk of complications is higher when first and second stage is performed simultaneously. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective observational study of 111 patients with CVD and a GVS diameter ≥9 mm treated with two possible stages of the CHIVA strategy, between January 2010 and December 2019. The goal of the first stage was to interrupt the main reflux escape point (incompetent saphenofemoral junction), thereby lowering the venous pressure and achieving a sufficient reduction in GSV diameter to enable, if necessary, a second stage that consists of disconnection of secondary reflux exit point (incompetent saphenous tributaries), with a lower risk of symptomatic SVT when patients do not show significant clinical improvement. Reductions in GSV diameter, postoperative complications and clinical improvement were analyzed. RESULTS: There were 60 men (54.1%) and 51 women (45.9%) with a mean age of 57±11.9 years. All patients undergone first surgical stage, and this interruption of the saphenofemoral junction was the single procedure in 77.5% of cases (86 patients). Mean follow-up time was 19.8 months. The second stage was performed in 25 patients (22.5%). Mean preoperative GSV diameter was 10.2±1.1 mm and this decreased to 7.1±1.5 mm after the first surgery (mean reduction, 3±1.5 mm, P<0.001). Six patients (5.4%) experienced recurrence due to recanalization of the reflux point and 16 patients (14.4%) developed SVT, which was symptomatic in 12 cases (10.8%). CONCLUSIONS: Interruption of the main reflux escape point as a single procedure in patients with a GSV diameter ≥9 mm led to a significant reduction in diameter and sufficient clinical improvement in almost 80% of cases.

HistoBCAD: herramienta de código abierto para detección de cáncer de mama en imágenes histopatológicas

RESUMEN Fundamento: la detección y clasificación precisa del cáncer de mama mediante el diagnóstico histopatológico es de vital importancia para el tratamiento efectivo de la enfermedad. Entre los tipos de cáncer de mama, el carcinoma ductal invasivo es el más frecuente. El análisis visual de las muestras de tejido en el microscopio es un proceso manual que consume tiempo y depende del observador. Sin embargo, en muchos países, incluido Cuba, es escaso el uso de herramientas software para asistir el diagnóstico. Objetivo: desarrollar una herramienta software para detectar tejido de cáncer de mama, del subtipo carcinoma ductal invasivo, en imágenes histopatológicas. Métodos: la herramienta se implementó en Python e incluye métodos de detección de carcinoma ductal invasivo en imágenes histopatológicas, basados en algoritmos de extracción de características de color y textura en combinación con un clasificador de bosques aleatorios. Resultados: la herramienta de código abierto brinda una serie de facilidades para la lectura, escritura y visualización de imágenes histopatológicas, delineación automática y manual de zonas cancerígenas, gestión de los datos diagnósticos del paciente y evaluación colaborativa a distancia. Fue evaluada en una base de datos con 162 imágenes de pacientes diagnosticados con carcinoma ductal invasivo y se obtuvo una exactitud balanceada de 84 % y factor F1 de 75 %. Conclusiones: la herramienta permitió un análisis interactivo, rápido, reproducible y colaborativo mediante una interfaz gráfica sencilla e intuitiva. En versiones futuras se prevé incluir nuevos métodos de aprendizaje automático incremental para el análisis de imágenes histopatológicas digitales.

ABSTRACT Background: the accurate detection and classification of breast cancer through histopathological diagnosis is of vital importance for the effective treatment of the disease. Among the types of breast cancer, invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) is the most common. Visual analysis of tissue samples under the microscope is a manual, time-consuming and observer-dependent process. However, in many countries, including Cuba, the use of software tools to assist diagnosis is scarce. Objective: to develop a software tool to detect IDC subtype breast cancer tissue in histopathological images. Methods: the tool is implemented in Python and includes IDC detection methods in histopathological images, based on algorithms for extraction of color and texture features in combination with a random forest classifier. Results: the open source tool provides a series of facilities for the reading, writing and visualization of histopathological images, automatic and manual delineation of cancer areas, management of patient diagnostic data and collaborative remote evaluation. It was evaluated in a database with 162 images of patients diagnosed with IDC, obtaining a balanced accuracy of 84 % and a F1 factor of 75 %. Conclusions: the tool allowed an interactive, fast, reproducible, precise and collaborative analysis through a simple and intuitive graphical interface. Future versions are expected to include new incremental machine learning methods for the analysis of digital histopathology images.

Risk of hernia-related complications after transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt creation in patients with pre-existing ventral abdominal hernias: 15-year experience at a quaternary medical center.

OBJECTIVE: Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) placement is used to treat the sequelae of portal hypertension, including refractory variceal bleeding, ascites and hepatic hydrothorax. However, hernia-related complications such as incarceration and small bowel obstruction can occur after TIPS placement in patients with pre-existing hernias. The aim of this study was to determine the incidence of hernia complications in the first year after TIPS placement and to identify patient characteristics leading to an increased risk of these complications. DESIGN: This retrospective analysis included patients with pre-existing abdominal hernias who underwent primary TIPS placement with covered stents at our institution between 2004 and 2018. The 1-year hernia complication rate and the average time to complications were documented. Using a Wilcoxon rank-sum test, the characteristics of patients who developed hernia-related complications versus the characteristics of those without complications were compared. RESULTS: A total of 167 patients with pre-existing asymptomatic abdominal hernias were included in the analysis. The most common reason for TIPS placement was refractory ascites (80.6%). A total of 36 patients (21.6%) developed hernia-related complications after TIPS placement, including 20 patients with acute complications and 16 with non-acute complications. The mean time to presentation of hernia-related complications was 66 days. Patients who developed hernia-related complications were more likely than those without complications to have liver cirrhosis secondary to alcohol consumption (p=0.049), although this association was no longer significant after multivariate analysis. CONCLUSION: Within 1 year after TIPS placement, approximately 20% of patients with pre-existing hernias develop hernia-related complications, typically within the first 2 months after the procedure. Patients with pre-existing hernia undergoing TIPS placement should be educated regarding the signs and symptoms of hernia-related complications, including incarceration and small bowel obstruction.

The spectrum of histopathological findings after SVR to DAA for recurrent HCV infection in liver transplant recipients.

Sustained virological response (SVR) to the treatment of recurrent HCV in liver transplant recipients has excellent clinical outcomes; however, little is known about the effects on allograft histology. The study aimed to assess the histology of the allograft liver. In this single-center, retrospective cohort study, patients with recurrent hepatitis C (HCV) in allograft liver who were cured with antiviral therapy between 2010 and 2016 were identified. Biopsies were reviewed by two liver pathologists blinded to the treatment and SVR status. Paired analysis was performed to compare pre- and post-treatment histological features. Of the 62 patients analyzed, 22 patients received PEGylated interferon/ribavirin (IFN) therapy, while 40 patients received direct-acting antiviral agents (DAA). The mean age was 57 years, 24% were female, and 79% were Caucasian. RNA in situ hybridization testing for HCV and HEV was negative in all the tested patients. Significant reduction in the inflammatory grade of post-treatment biopsy specimens was noted in all subjects (n = 57; p < 0.001) and in the IFN group (n = 21; p = 0.001) but not in the DAA group (p = 0.093). Of all subjects, 21% had worsening stage, 31% had improvement, and 48% had no change in stage. Of the treatment groups, 27% in the IFN and 17% in the DAA groups had worsening stage; however, the results were not statistically significant in all subjects or by treatment modality. Persistent inflammatory infiltrates and fibrosis was noted in allograft tissue of patients cured with DAA. Significant improvement in grade was noted in the IFN group, without a significant change in stage.

Simplified 6-month prediction scores for primary biliary cholangitis patients treated with ursodeoxycholic acid.

OBJECTIVES: To develop a prognostic score evaluating treatment response at 6 months after ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) initiation in primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) patients. METHODS: Adult PBC patients who were newly prescribed UDCA at our institution (n = 292) were included. Significant determinants of liver-related adverse events in the multivariable Cox model were used for score development, weighted by ß-coefficients. Discrimination ability was assessed using Harrell's C-statistic. The performance of our model was compared to the previous models. RESULTS: Our model included the following variables evaluated at 6 months: (1) alkaline phosphatase decline of less than 50% from baseline and >upper limit normal (ULN) (2 points); (2) bilirubin >ULN (2 points); (3) albumin

Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Patients Without Cirrhosis: The Fibrosis Stage Distribution, Characteristics and Survival.

BACKGROUND: The data on hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients without liver cirrhosis is scarce. AIMS: To study the epidemiology, underlying etiology and fibrosis distribution in noncirrhotic HCC and compare the survival outcomes to cirrhotic HCC. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective study including all adult patients diagnosed with HCC at two US tertiary academic centers from 2000 to 2015. Univariable and multivariable Cox regression analyses were performed to evaluate the variables associated with patient survival. RESULTS: Two thousand two hundred and thirty-seven HCC patients were included in the final analysis, of which, 13% had no liver cirrhosis. The most common underlying liver disease in non-cirrhotic patients was cryptogenic cause (40%), followed by nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) (25.2%) and hepatitis C (19%). The percentage of F0-F1, F2, and F3 was 72%, 17%, and 11% (cryptogenic cause); 69%, 12%, and 19% (NAFLD); 50%, 17%, and 33% (alcohol); 33%, 39%, and 28% (hepatitis B); 20%, 40%, and 40% (hemochromatosis); and 12%, 40%, and 48% (hepatitis C), respectively. In non-cirrhotic compared to cirrhotic patients, the tumor was more likely to be larger and fell outside Milan criteria (all p < 0.001). Cirrhotic patients had significant shorter survival than non-cirrhotic patients (p < 0.001). On the multivariable analysis, having liver cirrhosis (HR 1.48; 1.21-1.82, p < 0.001), combined viral hepatitis and alcohol use (HR 1.51; 1.23-1.88, p < 0.001), morbid obesity (HR 1.31; 1.01-1.69, p = 0.040) and underweight (HR 2.06; 1.27-3.34, p = 0.004) were associated with worse patient survival. CONCLUSIONS: The fibrosis distribution in non-cirrhotic HCC differed among each etiology of liver diseases. Despite more advanced HCC, patients without cirrhosis had significantly longer survival than those with cirrhosis.

Mortality and bleeding complications of COVID-19 critically ill patients with venous thromboembolism.

BACKGROUND: Venous thromboembolism (VTE) disease in COVID-19 patients is a remarkable issue, especially its relationship with bleeding events and mortality. The objective of this study was to describe the outcomes of critically ill patients with COVID-19, hospitalized in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), in relationship with VTE during their stay. METHODS: This is a prospective cohort study of critically ill COVID-19 patients in two hospitals that underwent a venous ultrasound at the beginning of follow-up of both lower limbs in April 2020. In case of clinical suspicion of new VTE during the 30-day follow-up, additional ultrasound or thoracic CT were performed. Global VTE frequency, major bleeding events and survival were collected, and their predictors were studied. RESULTS: We included 230 patients. After 30 days of follow-up, there were 95 VTE events in 86 patients (37.4%). Thirteen patients (5.7%) developed major bleeding complications and 42 patients (18.3%) died. None of the comorbidities or previous treatments were related with bleeding events. D-Dimer at admission was significantly related with VTE development and mortality. Independent predictors of mortality in the regression model were older age (>66 years), D-Dimer at admission (>1.500 ng/mL) and low lymphocyte count (<0.45×109/L) with an AUC in the ROC curve of 0.81 (95% CI: 0.73-0.89). Patients presenting these three conditions presented a mortality of 100% in the predictive model. CONCLUSIONS: VTE frequency in ICU COVID-19 patients is high and risk of major bleeding is low. Comorbidities and laboratory parameters of admission in these patients can be a useful tool to predict mortality.

Prevalence of Peripheral Arterial Disease and Associated Vascular Risk Factors in 65-Years-Old People of Northern Barcelona.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the prevalence and risk factors associated with peripheral arterial disease (PAD) in Northern Barcelona at 65 years of age. METHODS: A single-center, cross-sectional study, including males and females 65 years of age, health care cardholders of Barcelona Nord. PAD was defined as an ankle-brachial index (ABI) < 0.9. Attending subjects were evaluated for a history of common cardiovascular risk factors. A REGICOR score was obtained, as well as a physical examination and anthropometric measurements. RESULTS: From November 2017 to December 2018, 1174 subjects were included: 479 (40.8%) female and 695 (59.2%) male. Overall prevalence of PAD was 6.2% (95% CI: 4.8-7.6%), being 7.9% (95% CI: 5.9-9.9%) in males and 3.8% (95% CI: 2.1-5.5%) in females. An independent strong association was seen in male smokers and diabetes, with ORs pf 7.2 (95% CI: 2.8-18.6) and 1.8 (95% CI: 1.0-3.3), respectively, and in female smokers and hypertension, with ORs of 5.2 (95% CI: 1.6-17.3) and 3.3 (95% CI: 1.2-9.0). Male subjects presented with higher REGICOR scores (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Higher-risk groups are seen in male subjects with a history of smoking and diabetes and female smokers and arterial hypertension, becoming important subgroups for our primary healthcare centers and should be considered for ABI screening programs.

Factores de riesgo asociados a las variantes clínicas del síndrome coronario agudo / Risk factors associated with clinical variants of acute coronary syndrome

Introducción: En la actualidad, carecen los estudios que relacionan los factores de riesgo cardiovascular con las formas clínicas del síndrome coronario agudo. En caso de existir estos estudios, sería posible desarrollar estrategias de prevención más focalizadas e individualizadas. Objetivo: Identificar si existe asociación entre las formas clínicas del síndrome coronario agudo y algunos factores de riesgo vascular clásicos. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio observacional analítico transversal en pacientes ingresados en el servicio de cuidados coronarios del Hospital Clínico Quirúrgico Comandante Manuel Fajardo entre los años 2013 y 2018. Fueron incluidos los pacientes con diagnóstico de síndrome coronario agudo. Los datos se extrajeron de las historias clínicas. Para comprobar la hipótesis se utilizaron modelos univariantes y multivariantes. Un valor de p˂ 0,05 fue considerado significativo. Resultados: Se estudiaron 393 pacientes, de los cuales el 25,7 por ciento fueron diagnosticados con síndrome coronario agudo con elevación del segmento ST y el 74,3 por ciento con síndrome coronario agudo sin elevación del segmento ST. En el primer grupo, la mediana de edad de los pacientes fue significativamente mayor (p < 0,001). El tabaquismo constituyó una variable predictora de la elevación del segmento ST (OR: 3,89; IC 95 por ciento: 2,24-6,73, p < 0,001). Se relacionaron de manera inversa el antecedente de cardiopatía isquémica (OR: 0,13; IC 95 por ciento: 0,07-0,25; p < 0,001) y la hipertensión arterial (OR: 0,38; IC 95 por ciento: 0,20-0,72; p= 0,003). Conclusiones: Se concluye que el tabaquismo constituye un predictor de síndrome coronario agudo con elevación del segmento ST, mientras que el antecedente de cardiopatía isquémica y la hipertensión arterial se relacionaron con la no elevación del segmento ST(AU)

Introduction: Currently, there is a lack of studies that relate cardiovascular risk factors with clinical forms of acute coronary syndrome. If these studies happen, it would be possible to develop more targeted and individualized prevention strategies. Objective: To identify if there is an association between the clinical forms of acute coronary syndrome and some classic vascular risk factors. Methods: A cross-sectional analytical observational study was carried out in patients admitted to the coronary care service at Commandant Manuel Fajardo Clinical Surgical Hospital from 2013 to 2018. Patients with diagnosis of acute coronary syndrome were included. Data were pulled out from medical records. To test the hypothesis, univariate and multivariate models were used. A value of p ˂ 0.05 was considered significant. Results: Three hundred ninety three (393) patients were studied, of which 25.7 percent were diagnosed with acute coronary syndrome with ST segment elevation and 74.3 percent with acute coronary syndrome without ST segment elevation. In the first group, the median age of the patients was significantly higher (p < 0.001). Smoking was a predictor variable for ST segment elevation (OR: 3.89; 95 percent CI: 2.24-6.73, p < 0.001). A history of ischemic heart disease (OR: 0.13; 95 percent CI: 0.07-0.25; p < 0.001) and arterial hypertension (OR: 0.38; 95 percent CI: 0, were inversely related). 20-0.72; p = 0.003). Conclusions: It is concluded that smoking is a predictor of acute coronary syndrome with ST segment elevation, while history of ischemic heart disease and arterial hypertension were related to non-ST segment elevation(AU)

Chemopreventive Effect of Statin on Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Patients With Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis Cirrhosis.

INTRODUCTION: To estimate the annual incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) with advanced liver fibrosis, to determine the risk factors for the development of HCC, and to evaluate the chemoprotective effect of statin use stratified by fibrosis stage. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective study at 2 US tertiary academic centers, including patients with NASH-related advanced liver fibrosis (bridging fibrosis [F3] and cirrhosis [F4]) followed between July 2002 and June 2016. Patients were followed from the date of diagnosis to the time of last abdominal imaging, liver transplantation, or HCC diagnosis. Multivariable Cox regression analysis was performed to evaluate the risk factors associated with HCC development, stratified by fibrosis stage. RESULTS: A total of 1,072 patients were included: 122 patients with F3 fibrosis and 950 patients with cirrhosis. No HCC was observed during 602 person-year follow-up among F3 patients. Among patients with cirrhosis, HCC developed in 82 patients with the annual incidence rate of 1.90 per 100 person-years (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.53-2.35). Multivariable analysis in patients with cirrhosis demonstrated that HCC development was associated with male sex (hazard ratio [HR] 4.06, 95% CI, 2.54-6.51, P < 0.001), older age (HR, 1.05, 95% CI, 1.03-1.08, P < 0.001), and CTP score (HR, 1.38, 95% CI, 1.18-1.60, P < 0.001). Statin use was associated with a lower risk of developing HCC (HR, 0.40, 95% CI, 0.24-0.67, P = 0.001). Each 365 increment in cumulative defined daily dose of statin use reduced HCC risk by 23.6%. DISCUSSION: Our findings suggest that patients with NASH and bridging fibrosis have a low risk of HCC. Dose-dependent statin use reduced HCC risk significantly in patients with NASH cirrhosis.

A microbotanical and microwear perspective to plant processing activities and foodways at Neolithic Çatalhöyük.

Çatalhöyük is a renowned archaeological site in central Anatolia, best known for its Neolithic occupation dated from 7100 to 6000 cal BC. The site received worldwide attention early on for its large size, well-preserved mudbrick architecture, and elaborate wall paintings. Excavations at the site over almost three decades have unearthed rich archaeobotanical remains and a diverse ground stone assemblage produced by what once was a vibrant farming community. The study presented here adds to our understanding of crops and plant processing at Çatalhöyük by integrating phytoliths and starch analyses on grinding implements found at three domestic contexts attributed to the Middle (6700-6500 cal BC) and Late (6500-6300 cal BC) period of occupation. Our results reveal a rich microbotanical assemblage that testifies the use of a wide range of geophytes and wild seasonal resources previously unknown at the site. Moreover, by comparing results from the microbotanical proxies and microscopic wear patterns on artefacts, we are also able to discern various plant processing practices the analysed artefacts were employed for. In sum, this work further expands our understanding of plants and crop processing activities performed by the inhabitants of Neolithic Çatalhöyük.

SAXS structure of homodimeric oxyHemoglobin III from bivalve Lucina pectinata.

Hemoglobin III (HbIII) is one of the two oxygen reactive hemoproteins present in the bivalve, Lucina pectinata. The clam inhabits a sulfur-rich environment and HbIII is the only hemoprotein present in the system which does not yet have a structure described elsewhere. It is known that HbIII exists as a heterodimer with hemoglobin II (HbII) to generate the stable Oxy(HbII-HbIII) complex but it remains unknown if HbIII can form a homodimeric species. Here, a new chromatographic methodology to separate OxyHbIII from the HbII-HbIII dimer has been developed, employing a fast performance liquid chromatography and ionic exchange chromatography column. The nature of OxyHbIII in solution at concentrations from 1.6 mg/mL to 20.4 mg/mL was studied using small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS). The results show that at all concentrations, the Oxy(HbIII-HbIII) dimer dominates in solution. However, as the concentration increases to nonphysiological values, 20.4 mg/mL, HbIII forms a 30% tetrameric fraction. Thus, there is a direct relationship between the Oxy(HbIII-HbIII) oligomeric form and hemoglobin concentration. We suggest it is likely that the OxyHbIII dimer contributes to active oxygen transport in tissues of L pectinata, where the Oxy(HbII-HbIII) complex is not present.

COVID-19: presentación clínica en pacientes hospitalizados en el Instituto de Medicina Tropical "Pedro Kourí" / COVID-19: clinical presentation in patients admitted to Pedro Kourí Tropical Medicine Institute

. Introducción: Con los primeros casos de COVID-19 en Cuba era necesario el reconocimiento temprano de los pacientes con riesgo de evolucionar hacia formas graves de la enfermedad. Objetivo: Describir el comportamiento clínico de la COVID-19 en pacientes hospitalizados en el Instituto de Medicina Tropical "Pedro Kourí" e identificar factores asociados a la gravedad. Métodos: Se presentaron los primeros 73 casos de COVID-19 hospitalizados en el Instituto de Medicina Tropical Pedro Kourí desde el 11 de marzo al 5 mayo de 2020. Los pacientes se clasificaron en dos grupos: graves y con enfermedad ligera. Se compararon variables clínicas, demográficas, de laboratorio e imagenológicas en el momento del ingreso, y su posible asociación con la gravedad de la enfermedad. Resultados: Hubo siete pacientes graves (9,6 por ciento), cinco fallecieron. La edad > 60 años, tener más de una comorbilidad, hipertensión arterial y asma bronquial, fueron más frecuentes en pacientes graves. La fiebre más de seis días (p= 0,00), disnea (p= 0,00), presencia de estertores húmedos (p= 0,00), frecuencia respiratoria > 24/min (p= 0,00) y valores de linfocitos < 0,8 x109/L (p= 0,00), de ferritina > 500µg/L (p =0,00), proteína C reactiva ( 10μg/L (p= 0,01) y LDH ( 500 U/L (p= 0,01) se relacionaron con la gravedad. El 18,2 por ciento de las radiografías de tórax mostró alteraciones, con predominio de focos de condensación inflamatoria bilateral. Las complicaciones más frecuentes fueron: distrés respiratorio, choque, sepsis bacteriana y afecciones cardíacas. Conclusiones: Existen características clínicas y de laboratorio, identificables al ingreso, que están relacionadas con la gravedad de la enfermedad; lo que puede ser útil para la estratificación del riesgo y el manejo adecuado de los pacientes(AU)

Introduction: Upon appearance of the first COVID-19 cases in Cuba, early identification of patients at risk of developing severe forms of the disease became a necessity. Objective: Describe the clinical behavior of COVID-19 in patients admitted to Pedro Kourí Tropical Medicine Institute and identify factors associated to severity. Methods: A presentation was made of the first 73 COVID-19 cases admitted to Pedro Kourí Tropical Medicine Institute from 11 March to 5 May 2020. The patients were divided into two groups: severe and mild disease. A comparison was made of clinical, demographic, laboratory and imaging variables at admission, and their possible association to disease severity. Results: Seven patients (9.6%) were critically ill; five died. Age > 60 years, more than one comorbidity, arterial hypertension and bronchial asthma were more common among critical patients. Fever for more than six days (p= 0.00), dyspnea (p= 0.00), presence of humid stertors (p= 0.00), respiratory rate > 24/min (p= 0.00) and lymphocytes < 0.8 x109/l (p= 0.00), ferritin > 500 µg/L (p =0.00), C-reactive protein 10 μg/l (p= 0.01) and LDH 500 U/l (p= 0.01) were related to disease severity. 18.2 percent of the chest radiographs showed alterations, with a predominance of bilateral foci of inflammatory condensation. The most common complications were respiratory distress, shock, bacterial sepsis and heart disorders. Conclusions: Some clinical and laboratory characteristics identifiable at admission may be associated to disease severity, which makes them useful for risk stratification and the appropriate management of patients(AU)

Efectividad de una demostración clínica simulada para elevar los conocimientos sobre RCP-B en el adulto / Effectiveness of a simulated clinical performance to raise the adults' knowledge about Bystander Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation

Introducción: La ejecución de maniobras de reanimación cardiopulmonar por las personas que han presenciado un paro aumenta siete veces las posibilidades de supervivencia. Objetivo: Evaluar la efectividad de una demostración de situación clínica simulada realizada en los domicilios para elevar el nivel de conocimientos sobre reanimación cardiopulmonar básica en el adulto. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio de tipo antes y después sin grupo control entre septiembre y diciembre de 2018. El universo estuvo conformado por 620 pacientes pertenecientes a un consultorio del policlínico 19 de abril de Plaza de la Revolución. Se seleccionó una muestra de 200 pacientes y se les aplicó una encuesta, realizada por los autores, antes y después de la intervención, la cual se sometió a test alfa para la validación interna. Para la evaluación de la demostración se utilizó la prueba t de student, un análisis de varianza (ANOVA) y un análisis post hoc. Resultados: La media de edad fue de 45,45 ± 14,45 años. El sexo femenino predominó con 102 personas (51 por ciento). Hubo 63 (32 por ciento) pacientes con nivel de técnico medio. La diferencia de las medias de puntos antes y después de la demostración fue estadísticamente significativa en todos los grados de escolaridad (p ˂ 0,001). Hubo diferencias en el aumento de puntos después de la demostración entre los universitarios y las personas con sexto grado (p = 0,013). Conclusiones: Realizar una demostración con una situación clínica simulada constituyó una herramienta efectiva para elevar el nivel de conocimiento de la población en estudio, independientemente del nivel de escolaridad(AU)

Introduction: Bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation increases the chances of survival by seven times. Objective: To assess the effectiveness of a simulated clinical situation carried out in homes to raise the level of knowledge about basic cardiopulmonary resuscitation in adults. Methods: A before-and-after study without a control group was carried out between September and December 2018. The universe consisted of 620 patients from a family doctor's office belonging to 19 de Abril Outpatient Polyclinic in Plaza de la Revolución Municipality (Havana, Cuba). A sample of 200 patients was selected and a survey was applied on them, carried out by the authors, before and after the intervention, which was subjected to an alpha test for internal validation. For the assessment of the demonstration, Student's t test, variance analysis (ANOVA) and a post hoc analysis were used. Results: The mean age was 45.45 ± 14.45 years. The female sex predominated, with 102 people (51 percent). There were 63 (32 percent) patients with an associate's degree. The difference in the means of scores before and after the demonstration was statistically significant in all school levels (P˂0.001). There were differences in the increase of scores after the simulated performance between the university students and the people with sixth grade (P=0.013). Conclusions: Performance of a simulated clinical situation was an effective tool to raise the level of knowledge of the population under study, regardless of their level of education(AU)