Continuous flow operation of solar photo-Fenton fused with NaOCl as a novel tertiary treatment.

A novel strategy based on solar photo-Fenton mediated by ferric nitrilotriacetate (Fe3+-NTA) combined with NaOCl in continuous flow mode for wastewater reclamation has been studied. Escherichia coli (E. coli) inactivation attained ≥ 5 log10-units, meeting the most restrictive EU 2020/741 target (10 CFU/100 mL), and 75% of organic microcontaminant total load was removed. As a remarkable finding, trihalomethanes (THMs) concentration was insignificant, complying by far with the Italian legislation limit. To attain these results, first the effect of liquid depth on E. coli inactivation and imidacloprid (IMD) removal from spiked municipal effluents was evaluated in continuous flow pilot-scale raceway pond reactors at 60-min hydraulic residence time with low reagent concentrations (0.10 mM Fe3+-NTA, 0.73 mM H2O2 and 0.13 mM NaOCl). Disinfection was due to the bactericidal effect of chlorine. In contrast, liquid depth notably influenced microcontaminant removal, highlighting that operation at 10-cm liquid depth allows achieving treatment capacities higher than at 5 cm (16.50 vs 28.20 mg IMD/m2∙day). Next, the monitoring of THMs was carried out to evaluate the generation and degradation of disinfection by-products, along with the removal of actual microcontaminants. These promising results draw attention to the treatment potential and open the way for its commercial application.

Evaluating the effects of grass management technologies on the physical, environmental, and financial performance of Irish pasture-based dairy farms.

Grass management technologies (grass measuring devices and grassland management decision support tools) have been identified as important tools to improve the performance of pasture-based dairy farms. They have the potential to significantly improve the efficiency and sustainability of dairy systems by increasing milk production through enhanced pasture growth and utilization, which would reduce the need for supplementary feeds, along with increased output, therefore increasing farm profitability and environmental sustainability. Despite the several potential benefits of grass management technologies, there is a lack of empirical research around the effects of these technologies on the performance of pasture-based dairy systems. The current study aimed to fill this knowledge gap by using a 2018 nationally representative survey of Irish dairy farms and a propensity score matching approach to determine the effects of adopting grass management technologies on the physical, environmental, and financial performance of Irish pasture-based dairy farms. The findings showed that dairy farms utilizing grass management technologies had, on average, higher farm physical, environmental, and financial performance (in terms of grazed pasture use, total pasture use, length of the grazing season, milk yield, milk solids, greenhouse gas emissions per kilogram of fat- and protein-corrected milk, gross output, and gross margin) compared with dairy farms not utilizing these technologies. However, when controlling for selection bias, we can only attribute a positive causal effect of grass management technology adoption on the use of grazed pasture per cow, grazing season length, milk yield per cow, and milk solids per cow. This might be due to dairy farmers not yet using the technologies to their full potential, 2018 being an unusual year in terms of weather (and therefore not being able to capture the full range of farm performance benefits), or because grass management technologies need to be adopted in association with other technologies and practices to achieve their expected performance outcomes. Future research should include updated farm-level data to capture the weather and learning effects and so be able to determine the impact of grass management technologies on a wider range of performance indicators.

Continuous solar photo-Fenton for wastewater reclamation in operational environment at demonstration scale.

For the first time, a continuous flow solar photo-Fenton demonstration plant has been assessed for wastewater reclamation according to the EU 2020/741 regulation. The treated water qualities achieved under two operating strategies (acidic and neutral pH) in a 100-m2 raceway pond reactor were explored in terms of liquid depth, iron source, reagent concentrations, and hydraulic residence time over three consecutive days of operation. The results obtained at acidic pH showed removal percentages of contaminants of emerging concern (CECs) > 75% and water quality classes B, C and D according to EU regulation at both assessed operating conditions, with treatment capacities up to 1.92 m3 m-2 d-1. At neutral pH with ferric nitrilotriacetate (Fe3+-NTA), 50% of CEC removal and only water quality class D were achieved with the most oxidizing condition assessed, giving a treatment capacity of 0.80 m3 m-2 d-1. The treatment capacities obtained in this work, which have never been achieved with solar water treatments, demonstrate the potential of this technology for commercial-scale application.

Factors associated with intensity of technology adoption and with the adoption of 4 clusters of precision livestock farming technologies in Irish pasture-based dairy systems.

Precision livestock farming (PLF) technologies have been widely promoted as important tools to improve the sustainability of dairy systems due to perceived economic, social, and environmental benefits. However, there is still limited information about the level of adoption of PLF technologies (percentage of farms with a PLF technology) and the factors (farm and farmer characteristics) associated with PLF technology adoption in pasture-based dairy systems. The current research aimed to address this knowledge gap by using a representative survey of Irish pasture-based dairy farms from 2018. First, we established the levels of adoption of 9 PLF technologies (individual cow activity sensors, rising plate meters, automatic washers, automatic cluster removers, automatic calf feeders, automatic parlor feeders, automatic drafting gates, milk meters, and a grassland management decision-support tool) and grouped them into 4 PLF technology clusters according to the level of association with each other and the area of dairy farm management in which they are used. The PLF technology clusters were reproductive management technologies, grass management technologies, milking management technologies, and calf management technologies. Additionally, we classified farms into 3 categories of intensity of technology adoption based on the number of PLF technologies they have adopted (nonadoption, low intensity of adoption, and high intensity of adoption). Second, we determined the factors associated with the intensity of technology adoption and with the adoption of the PLF technology clusters. A multinomial logistic regression model and 4 logistic regressions were used to determine the factors associated with intensity of adoption (low and high intensity of adoption compared with nonadoption) and with the adoption of the 4 PLF technology clusters, respectively. Adoption levels varied depending on PLF technology, with the most adopted PLF technologies being those related to the milking process (e.g., automatic parlor feeders and milk meters). The results of the multinomial logistic regression suggest that herd size, proportion of hired labor, agricultural education, and discussion group membership were positively associated with a high intensity of adoption, whereas age of farmer and number of household members were negatively associated with high intensity of adoption. However, when analyzing PLF technology clusters, the magnitude and direction of the influence of the factors in technology adoption varied depending on the PLF technology cluster being investigated. By identifying the PLF technologies in which pasture-based dairy farmers are investing more and by detecting potential drivers and barriers for the adoption of PLF technologies, the current study could allow PLF technology companies, practitioners, and researchers to develop and target strategies that improve future adoption of PLF technologies in pasture-based dairy settings.

DRESS syndrome due to iodinated contrast media. A case report.

BACKGROUND: The most frequent non-immediate reactions described with iodinated contrast media (ICM) are mild to moderate, however, some cases of patients with severe non-immediate reactions, such as drug eruption with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) have been described. CASE PRESENTATION: An 84-year-old patient developed DRESS syndrome after administration of ICM ioversol. The patient fullfilled the RegiSCAR diagnostic criteria for DRESS (definite score = 6). He underwent intradermal skin testing (IDT) with the widest panel of ICM available at our center. IDT was positive with ioversol and iomeprol. A punch biopsy was performed on the positive IDT with the culprit drug (ioversol) and histopathology was compatible with a T-cell mediated mechanism. CONCLUSION: In this case, the IDT-positive biopsy was consistent with DRESS syndrome caused by T-lymphocyte activation, supporting the clinical diagnosis.

Impacto del sitio de extracción en la incidencia de hernias incisionales en pacientes sometidos a cirugía laparoscópica por cáncer colorrectal

Introducción: El objetivo de este estudio fue comparar la tasa de hernia incisional (HI) tras la extracción de piezas operatorias por mini-laparatomia media periumbilical (MM) versus mini-laparotomía transversa suprapúbica (MTS) en pacientes sometidos a cirugía laparoscópica por cáncer colorrectal (CLCC), y evaluar los factores asociados a su ocurrencia. Material y Método: Estudio de cohorte no concurrente. Se incluyen todos los pacientes consecutivos sometidos a CLCC en nuestro centro entre septiembre 2006 y diciembre 2017, cuya pieza operatoria fuese extraída por una MM o MTS y que contaran con un control tomográfico en el seguimiento. El diagnóstico de HI se realizó mediante tomografía computada, evaluada por dos radiólogos de forma independiente. Se agruparon los pacientes en MM y MTS, y se evaluaron las tasas de HI según sitio de extracción. Además, se realizó una regresión logística para identificar factores asociados a HI. Resultados: Se identificaron 1090 pacientes que tuvieron resecciones colorrectales lapa-roscópicas durante el período estudiado. De estos, 254 cumplieron con los criterios de inclusión. La edad media de la serie fue de 63 años (53,5% son hombres) con un IMC de 26,4 kg/m2. El sitio de extracción fue una MTS en un 53,1% y una MM en un 46,9%. Se identificó un total de 41 (34,5%) HI en el grupo de MM versus 17 (12,6%) en MTS (p = 0,001) en la TC de seguimiento realizado en una mediana de 18 meses (RIC 12-32) postoperatorios. En la regresión logística, el sitio de extracción (OR = 3,33, IC 95% 1,72-7,14, p < 0,001) y la presencia de patología bronquial obstructiva se asociaron de manera independiente con HI (OR = 3,45, IC 95% 1,11-11,11, p = 0,03). Conclusión: La MTS se asocia a una menor tasa de HI que la MM en pacientes sometidos a CLCC. Esto se debe tener en consideración al momento de elegir el sitio de extracción de pieza operatoria en CLCC.

Aim: To compare the rate of incisional hernia (IH) according to the extraction site in patients undergoing laparoscopic colorectal cancer surgery (LCCS), and to evalúate the risk factors associated with its occurrence. Material and Method: Cohort study including all consecutive patients undergoing LCCS in our center between September 2006 and December 2017, where the specimen was extracted through a median mini-laparotomy (MM) or transverse suprapubic mini-laparotomy (TSM) and have a tomographic control during follow-up. The diagnosis of IH was made by computed tomography evaluated by two radiologists, independently. The rate of IH was calculated for both groups and a regression analysis were performed to identify factors associated with IH. Results: Some 1090 patients undergoing laparoscopic colorectal resections were identified during the study period; of these, 254 met the inclusion criteria. The mean age of the series was 63 years (53.5% are men) with a BMI of 26.4 kg/m2. The extraction site was a TSM in 53.1% and a MM in 46.9%. A total of 41 (34.5%) IH were identified in the MM group versus 17 (12.6%) in TSM (p = 0.001) in the follow-up CT performed at a median of18 months (IQR 12-32) postoperative. In logistic regression, the extraction site (OR = 3.33, 95% CI 1.72-7.14, p < 0.001) and the presence of obstructive bronchial pathology were independently associated with IH (OR = 3, 45, 95% CI 1.11-11.11, p = 0.03). Conclusión: A TSM is associated with a lower rate of IH compared to a MM as extraction site in patients undergoing LCCS. This must be taken into account when choosing the extraction site in patients having LCCS.

Presencia de las distintas áreas quirúrgicas en el Congreso Nacional de Cirugía. Análisis de los últimos 12 años

Introducción: Los trabajos científicos permiten divulgar, compartir y contrastar resultados a terceros. Una de las formas de ver la actividad investigativa de cada especialidad es a través de las presentaciones que realizan en reuniones científicas. Objetivo: Describir el número de presentaciones de las distintas especialidades o áreas quirúrgicas en Chile en el principal congreso realizado a nivel nacional y evaluar si el comportamiento fue distinto durante los años de pandemia por coronavirus. Material y Método: Estudio bibliométrico del Congreso Chileno de Cirugía entre los años 2010 y 2021 evaluando el número total de presentaciones por área quirúrgica, año de presentación y período categorizado en 2010 a 2019 y 2020 a 2021. Se realiza estadística descriptiva y análisis de asociación de medias de publicaciones por área y período. Resultados: Se identificaron 4.462 presentaciones, incluyendo resúmenes orales, póster, videos y jornada de residentes. La media total fue 371,8 trabajos anuales. Coloproctología y Cirugía Gastroesofágica aportaron un total de 616 (13,8%) y 598 (13,4%) respectivamente. La media de presentaciones anuales previo a la pandemia por coronavirus fue de 414, en contraste a los 160 trabajos anuales durante ella, existiendo una disminución significativa de medias de presentaciones por área de 27,6 (± 18,8) a 10,7 (± 8,69) (p < 0,001), sin diferencias sus porcentajes de participación respecto del total (p = 0,776). Conclusión: Coloproctología y Cirugía Gastroesofágica son las áreas quirúrgicas más representadas. Si bien en el período contemporáneo a la pandemia por coronavirus significó una disminución en las presentaciones, no se observó una modificación en el porcentaje de participación de algún área en particular.

Introduction: Scientific studies allow the disclosure, sharing and comparison of results with third parties. One of the ways to see the investigative activity of each medical specialty is through the presentations they make at scientific meetings. Aim: To describe the number of presentations of the different surgical specialties or areas in Chile in the main congress held at a national level and to assess whether the behavior was different during the years of the coronavirus pandemic. Material and Method: Bibliometric study of the Chilean Congress of Surgery between 2010 and 2021, evaluating the total number of presentations by surgical area, year of presentation and two categorized periods (2010 to 2019 and 2020 to 2021). Descriptive statistics and association analysis of publication means by area and period are performed. Results: 4,462 presentations were identified, including oral summaries, posters, videos, and residents' sessions, with a mean of 371.8 per year. Coloproctology and Gastroesophageal Surgery contributed a total of 616 (13.8%) and 598 (13.4%) respectively. The mean number of annual presentations prior to the coronavirus pandemic was 414, in contrast to the 160 annual works during it, with a significant decrease in the mean number of presentations per area from 27.6 (± 18.8) to 10.7 (± 8.69) (p < 0.001), without differences in their percentages of participation with respect to the total (p = 0.776). Conclusion: Coloproctology and Gastroesophageal Surgery are the most represented surgical areas. Although the contemporary period of the coronavirus pandemic meant a decrease in presentations, no change was observed in the percentage of participation in any particular area.

Effects of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons on gestational hormone production in a placental cell line: Application of passive dosing to in vitro tests.

Air pollution includes polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which have been correlated to endocrine disruptor pathways during early pregnancy. PAHs have been found in the placenta and cord blood, which may affect the hormones involved in placental development. We studied the effects of some airborne PAHs on beta human chorionic gonadotropin (ß-hCG) and progesterone production by using a syncytial BeWo cell line as a placental model. PAH congeners were spiked in silicon rubber membrane (SRMs) and were then introduced into the cell medium by the passive dosing method to reach a freely dissolved concentration for BeWo cell exposure. Ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography coupled with a diode array detector was used to analyze the PAHs, and electrochemiluminescence was used to test the hormone levels. Our results showed that passive dosing can deliver low levels of PAH congeners in the cell medium, which allowed us to calculate the individual release constants at equilibrium and to estimate their effects. Benzo[a]pyrene was released quickly from the SRMs to the cell medium, which can be attributed to its lipophilic properties. The PAHs were shown to decrease the ß-hCG level in the short term and progesterone level in the long term, so they may serve as a pathway for endocrine disorder in trophoblastic cells. This approximation may explain observations of impaired endometrium receptivity and placental dysfunction, which enhance adverse pregnancy outcomes such as embryonic mortality and intrauterine growth restriction.

Mucormicosis periostomal posoperatoria, a propósito de un caso / Mucormycosis periostomal: case report

Resumen Introducción: La mucormicosis en una enfermedad infrecuente y oportunista que afecta, principalmente, a pacientes inmunocomprometidos. Pocas veces se han reportado casos de afectación periostomal. Clínicamente puede ser confundida con otras patologías, pudiendo tener una evolución fulminante, por lo que un adecuado y pronto diagnóstico son necesarios para una instauración precoz del tratamiento. Caso Clínico: Se presenta el caso de una paciente de 62 años inmunocomprometida, que tras complicaciones quirúrgicas evoluciona con mucormicosis periostomal de la pared abdominal. A pesar de un tratamiento quirúrgico con múltiples resecciones de tejido asociado a antifúngico local y sistémico, la paciente fallece, concordante a la letalidad expresada en la literatura.

Introduction: Mucormycosis is a rare and opportunistic disease that mainly affects immunocompromised patients. Few cases of peristomal involvement have been reported. Clinically it can be confused with other pathologies and may have a fulminant evolution, so an adequate and prompt diagnosis is necessary for an early establishment of treatment. Clinical Case: We present the case of a 62-year-old immunocompromised patient who, after surgical complications, evolves with periostomal mucormycosis of the abdominal wall. Despite surgical treatment with multiple tissue resections, associated with local and systemic antifungal agents, the patient died, consistent with the lethality expressed in the literature.

Colgajo de Martius como tratamiento de una fístula rectovaginal recidivada: revisión de la técnica quirúrgica a propósito de un caso clínico / Martius Flap for recurrent Rectovaginal Fístula: clinical Case and surgical approach

Resumen Introducción: La fístula rectovaginal es una patología quirúrgica compleja de tratar. El trauma perineal obstétrico y las enfermedades inflamatorias intestinales, especialmente la Enfermedad de Crohn son las causas más frecuentes. La reparación quirúrgica con un Colgajo de Martius en manos experimentadas ha mostrado buenos resultados con mínima morbilidad en pacientes seleccionados. Material y Método: Presentamos un caso clínico de una paciente que cursó con una fístula rectovaginal posparto tardía, la cual tuvo una recurrencia precoz, luego de intentar tratamiento quirúrgico consistente en un colgajo de avance, siendo necesaria la desfuncionalización del tránsito con una colostomía en asa. Posteriormente se realizó un Colgajo de Martius con resultado exitoso. Resultados: Evolución satisfactoria. Cursó con dehiscencia de la herida perineal la cual requirió solo curaciones ambulatorias. Luego de 8 meses posterior a la confección del Colgajo de Martius, se realizó el cierre de colostomía. A los 30 meses poscolgajo, la paciente se encuentra en buenas condiciones, sin evidencia de recidiva y tránsito intestinal normal. Conclusión: En este caso clínico, el colgajo de Martius fue una alternativa segura y efectiva en el tratamiento de una fístula rectovaginal recidivada.

Introduction: The rectovaginal fistula is a complex surgical pathology to treat. Obstetric perineal trauma and inflammatory bowel diseases, especially Crohn's disease, are the most frequent causes. Surgical repair with a Martius flap in experienced hands has shown good results with minimal morbidity in selected patients. Material and Methods: We present a clinical case of a patient who had a late postpartum rectovaginal fistula, which recurred early after attempting surgical treatment consisting of an advancement flap, requiring defunctionalization of the transit with a loop colostomy. Subsequently, a Martius flap was performed with a successful result. Results: Satisfactory evolution. The patient presented a dehiscence of the perineal wound which required only ambulatory dressings. At 8 months from the Martius flap was made, the colostomy was closed. At 30 months post-flap, the patient is in good condition, with no evidence of recurrence and normal intestinal transit. Conclusión: In this clinical case, the Martius flap was a safe and effective alternative in the treatment of a recurrent rectovaginal fistula.

Abordaje abierto versus laparoscópico para la reconstitución del tránsito luego de la cirugía de Hartmann: resultados de una experiencia de 10 años / Open versus laparoscopic approach for Hartmann's reversal: results of a 10-year retrospective cohort study

Resumen Objetivo: El objetivo de este estudio es comparar los resultados perioperatorios del abordaje abierto (AA) con el abordaje laparoscópico (AL) para la reconstitución de tránsito (RT), y determinar factores de riesgo asociados a morbilidad posoperatoria. Material y Métodos: Se estudiaron pacientes consecutivos sometidos a RT entre enero de 2007 y diciembre de 2016 en nuestro centro. Se excluyeron aquellos con grandes hernias incisionales que requirieran reparación abierta simultánea. Se consignaron variables demográficas y perioperatorias, y se compararon ambos grupos. Además, se realizó una regresión logística para la identificación de factores de riesgo asociados a morbilidad posoperatoria en la serie. Resultados: Se realizaron 101 RT en el período. Se excluyeron 14 casos por hernia incisional, por lo que se analizaron 87 casos (46 AA y 41 AL). Diez pacientes en el grupo AL (24,4%) requirieron conversión, principalmente por adherencias. La morbilidad total de la serie fue de 36,8%, siendo mayor en el AA (50% vs 21,9%, p = 0,007). Hubo una filtración anastomótica en cada grupo. La estadía posoperatoria fue de 5 (3-52) días para el AL y 7 (4-36) días para el AA (p < 0,001). En la regresión logística, sólo el AA fue un factor de riesgo independientemente asociado a morbilidad posoperatoria (OR 2,89, IC 95% 1,11-7,49; p = 0,029). Conclusión: El abordaje laparoscópico se asocia a menor morbilidad y estadía posoperatoria que el abordaje abierto para la reconstitución del tránsito pos-Hartmann. En nuestra serie, el abordaje abierto fue el único factor independientemente asociado a morbilidad posoperatoria.

Introduction: Hartmann's reversal (HR) is considered a technically demanding procedure and is associated with high morbidity rates. Aim: The aim of this study is to compare the perioperative results of the open approach (OA) with the laparoscopic approach (LA) for HR, and to determine the risk factors associated with postoperative morbidity. Material and Methods: Consecutive patients undergoing HR between January 2007 and December 2016 at a university hospital were included. Patients with large incisional hernias that required an open approach a priori were excluded from the analysis. Demographic and perioperative variables were recorded. Analytical statistics were carried out to compare both groups, and a logistic regression was performed to identify risk factors associated with postoperative morbidity in the series. Results: A hundred and one HR were performed during the study period. Fourteen cases were excluded due to large incisional hernias, so 87 cases (46 OA and 41 LA) were analyzed. Ten patients in the LA group (24.4%) required conversion, mainly due to adhesions. The total morbidity of the series was 36.8%, being higher in the OA group (50% vs. 21.9%, p = 0.007). There was one case of anastomotic leakage in each group. The length of stay was 5 (3-52) days for LA and 7 (4-36) days for OA (p < 0.001). In the logistic regression, the OA was the only independent risk factor associated with postoperative morbidity in HR (OR 2.89, IC 95% 1.11-7.49; p = 0.029). Conclusion: A laparoscopic approach is associated with less morbidity and a shorter length of stay compared to the open approach for Hartmann's reversal. An open approach was the only factor independently associated with postoperative morbidity in our series.

A new solar photo-Fenton strategy for wastewater reclamation based on simultaneous supply of H2O2 and NaOCl.

This study presents, for the first time, the concurrent supply of the oxidants H2O2 and NaOCl in solar-driven Fenton-like processes at neutral pH with ferric nitrilotriacetate (Fe3+-NTA) for wastewater reclamation. Simultaneous Escherichia coli (E. coli) inactivation and the removal of the antibiotic sulfamethoxazole (SMX) at 50 µg/L in municipal effluents were investigated in 5-cm deep raceway pond reactors. First, the individual effects of reagent concentrations (1.47, 2.94 and 4.41 mM for H2O2; 0.134, 0.269 and 0.403 mM for NaOCl; 0.1 and 0.2 mM for Fe3+-NTA) on the economic efficiency (in terms of mass of SMX eliminated per Euro and per hour to attain complete E. coli inactivation and more than 50% of SMX removal) were considered. The highest economic efficiencies were 141 mgSMX/€·h with H2O2 and 222 with NaOCl, the reaction times being 105 and 60 min, respectively. Second, a new strategy for solar photo-Fenton with the combination of the most cost-effective conditions (1.47 mM H2O2 - 0.134 mM NaOCl - 0.1 mM Fe3+-NTA) was carried out in secondary effluents from two treatment plants with different technologies. Economic efficiency was substantially affected by wastewater composition, ranging from 178 to 1131 mgSMX/€·h with treatment times between 60 and 10 min, significantly improving the reported results for conventional solar photo-Fenton to date.

Exactitud diagnóstica de la tomografía computarizada en la estadificación del cáncer de colon / Diagnostic accuracy of computed tomography in colon cancer staging

Resumen Introducción: Una terapia emergente para el cáncer de colon es la neoadyuvancia, en casos seleccionados. Dicha selección se basa en el análisis preoperatorio de imágenes mediante tomografía computada. Objetivo: Nuestro objetivo es determinar la exactitud diagnóstica del examen para estadificar el cáncer de colon y su correlación entre radiólogos expertos. Materiales y Método: Estudio de exactitud diagnóstica. Previo cálculo muestral se seleccionaron aleatoriamente 47 pacientes con adenocarcinoma colónico resecado con intención curativa e imágenes hasta 60 días previo cirugía. Se evaluó profundidad de invasión tumoral e invasión linfonodal por 2 radiólogos expertos y ciegos entre sí. Las diferencias fueron auditadas por un tercer radiólogo experto. Se compararon resultados con la biopsia, calculando la sensibilidad, especificidad, valor predictivo negativo, valor predictivo positivo y exactitud diagnóstica del examen. Se calculó la concordancia entre radiólogos mediante el índice de kappa. Resultados: La exactitud para diferenciar tumores T3-T4 de T1-T2 fue del 89,4%. En cambio, la capacidad para diferenciar tumores T4 de los T3 fue de un 65,9%. La exactitud para determinar un N (+) fue de un 66%. La concordancia entre radiólogos fue de 0,929 para identificar tumores T1-2, de 0,602 para T3, de 0,584 para T4. Para determinar un N (+), la concordancia fue de 0,521. Conclusión: La exactitud diagnóstica de la tomografía computada en cáncer de colon es adecuada para distinguir tumores avanzados. Sin embargo, su capacidad para discriminar entre T3 y T4, los N (+) y la baja concordancia entre radiólogos, sugiere la necesidad de buscar técnicas imagenológicas complementarias.

Introduction: Neoadjuvant therapy is an emerging treatment for selected cases of colon cancer. The decision is based on the analysis of preoperative images taken by computed tomography. However, its ability to discriminate those who could benefit from this therapy is unknown. Aim: Our objective is to determine the diagnostic accuracy of computed tomography to evaluate the colon cancer stage and its correlation among expert radiologists. Materials and Method: Diagnostic accuracy study. After sample size calculation, we randomly selected 47 patients who underwent a colonic adenocarcinoma resection with curative intent and had available images up to 60 days after surgery. The depth of tumor and lymph nodal invasion were evaluated by two expert radiologists, blinded to each other. The differences between radiologists were audited by a third one. The results were correlated with biopsy as the gold standard. We calculated sensitivity, specificity, negative predictive value, positive predictive value, and diagnostic accuracy of computed tomography. The agreement between radiologists was calculated using the kappa index. Results: The accuracy to differentiate T3-T4 tumors from T1-T2 was 89.4%. In contrast, ability to differentiate T4 tumors from T3 tumors was 65.9%. The accuracy to determine an N (+) was 66%. Agreement between radiologists was 0.929 to identify T1-2, 0.602 for T3, 0.584 for T4 tumors. To determine an N (+), the concordance was 0.521. Conclusion: Diagnostic computed tomography accuracy in colon cancer is adequate to differentiate advanced tumors. However, its ability to discriminate between T3 and T4, N (+) and the low agreement between radiologists suggests the need for complementary imaging techniques.

Resultados a largo plazo de la rehabilitación del piso pélvico en pacientes con incontinencia fecal / Long-term results of pelvic floor rehabilitation in patients with fecal incontinence

Resumen Introducción: La rehabilitación del piso pélvico es frecuentemente indicada a los pacientes con incontinencia fecal. Su efectividad a corto plazo ha sido demostrada. Sin embargo, sus resultados en el largo plazo son controversiales. Objetivo: Nuestro objetivo es evaluar los resultados funcionales y calidad de vida a largo plazo de los pacientes con incontinencia fecal tratados mediante rehabilitación del piso pélvico. Materiales y Método: Estudio cuasi-experimental. Se incluyeron los pacientes con incontinencia fecal tratados mediante rehabilitación del piso pélvico entre 2007-2014 en nuestro centro, sin necesidad de cirugía. Se midió el puntaje funcional de Wexner y de calidad de vida (FIQLS) antes (T1) y después del tratamiento (T2). Se realizó encuesta vía correo electrónico para obtener dichos puntajes entre 3-10 años posterior al tratamiento (T3). Resultados: De 215 pacientes, 182 cumplían criterios de inclusión. 96 (52,8%) de ellos respondieron la encuesta en T3. La mediana de seguimiento fue de 4,5 (3-10) años. La edad promedio al tiempo del estudio fue de 60,8 ±13,1 años. 88,4% fueron mujeres. La mediana del puntaje funcional fue 16 (6-20) en T1 y 7 (0-18) en T2, p = 0,000. La calidad de vida mejoró significativamente en sus 4 dimensiones entre T1 y T2. En T3, ambos puntajes presentaron mejores promedios que en T1, p = 0,000. No hubo asociación entre el tiempo de seguimiento y el resultado funcional en T3. Conclusión: Los pacientes con incontinencia fecal tratados mediante rehabilitación del piso pélvico mejoran significativamente su funcionalidad y calidad de vida. El beneficio disminuye en el tiempo, pero persiste mejor que previo al tratamiento.

Introduction: Pelvic floor rehabilitation is often indicated as first-line therapy for patients with fecal incontinence. Its short-term effectiveness has been demonstrated in these patients. However, long-term results are controversial. Aim: Our objective is to evalúate long-term functionality and quality of life in patients with fecal incontinence treated with pelvic floor rehabilitation. Materials and Method: Quasi- experimental study conducted at a single tertiary care center. We included patients with fecal incontinence treated by pelvic floor rehabilitation at our center between 2007-2014 who did not require surgery. Wexner functional score and quality of life using FIQLS were measured pre (T1) and post-treatment (T2). Poste - riorly, an-e-mail survey was conducted to retrieve scores three to 10 years after treatment (T3). Results: Of the 215 patients, 182 met the inclusion criteria. 96 (52.8%) patients responded at T3 and were therefore included. The median follow-up period was of 4.5 years (3-10). The mean age at the time of the study was 60.8 ± 13.1 years and 88.4% were women. The median Wexner score was 16 (6-20) in T1 and 7 (0-18) in T2, (p = 0.000). Quality of life improved significantly in its four dimensions when comparing T1 and T2. In T3, Wexner and the quality of life scores were significantly lower than T2. However, in T3, both scales had better means than T1, (p = 0.000). There was no association between the follow-up time and the functional result in T3. Conclusions: Patients with fecal incontinence treated by pelvic floor rehabilitation improve their functionality and quality of life significantly. This benefit decreases over time but remains above its baseline.

Comportamiento del cáncer de tiroides en la Unidad de Cirugía Adulto del Hospital Clínico Herminda Martín de Chillán: período 2017 al 2019 / Thyroid cancer behavior in the adult surgery unit of the Herminda Martin de Chillan Clinical Hospital: period from 2017 to 2019

Resumen Objetivo: Describir las características demográficas del cáncer de tiroides en la Región de Ñuble en pacientes operados en el servicio de cirugía del Hospital Clínico Herminda Martin del 2017 al 2019. Materiales y Método: Mediante estudio descriptivo, se revisaron las historias clínicas de los pacientes operados en la Unidad de Cirugía de Adultos del hospital entre enero de 2017 y diciembre de 2019, tabulando las variables demográficas, clínicas e histopatológicas y método diagnóstico. Resultados: Se operaron 124 pacientes con afecciones tiroideas, 58 resultaron tener cáncer. Predominó el sexo femenino (50 pacientes). Se realizaron 43 tiroidectomías totales como primera cirugía y 15 disecciones cervicales. El carcinoma papilar fue el más diagnosticado (93,1%). Hubo discrepancias entre las categorías Bethesda II y IV en cuanto al diagnóstico definitivo. En mujeres el 36% de los tumores tuvo extensión extra tiroidea y el 54% tenían un diámetro mayor a 1 cm. Discusión: La prevalencia en el sexo femenino corresponde con los datos que se aportan a nivel mundial y en Chile. La discrepancia en el sistema Bethesda pudo corresponder a errores de la toma de muestra o su interpretación citológica. Los hallazgos de extensión y tamaño tumoral pueden estar en relación con el tiempo de espera para la cirugía. Conclusiones: El cáncer tiroideo es más frecuente en el sexo femenino. El carcinoma papilar fue el más diagnosticado. La asociación de tiroiditis con cáncer tiroideo fue de 98%. No se realizó ninguna cirugía conservadora.

Aim: To describe the demographic characteristics of thyroid cancer in the Ñuble Region in patients operated on by the Herminda Martín de Chillán Clinical Hospital surgery service from 2017 to 2019. Materials and Method: Through a descriptive study, the medical records of the patients operated on in the Adult Surgery Unit of the hospital between January 2017 and December 2019 were reviewed, tabulating the demographic, clinical and histopathological variables and method diagnosis. Results: 124 patients with thyroid conditions were operated on, 58 had cancer. The female sex predominated (50 patients). 43 total thyroidectomies were performed as the first surgery and 15 cervical dissections. Papillary carcinoma was the most diagnosed (93.1%). There were discrepancies between Bethesda categories II and IV regarding the definitive diagnosis. In women, 36% of the tumors had an extra-thyroid extension and 54% had a diameter greater than 1 cm. Discussion: The prevalence in the female sex corresponds to the data provided worldwide and in Chile. The discrepancy in the Bethesda system could correspond to errors in the sampling or its cytological interpretation. The findings of tumor extension and size may be related to the waiting time for surgery. Conclusions: Thyroid cancer is more frequent in females. Papillary carcinoma was the most diagnosed. The association of thyroiditis with thyroid cancer was 98%. No conservative surgery was performed.

Simultaneous bacterial inactivation and microcontaminant removal by solar photo-Fenton mediated by Fe3+-NTA in WWTP secondary effluents.

Simultaneous microorganism inactivation and organic microcontaminant removal in municipal wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) secondary effluents by the solar photo-Fenton process mediated by Fe3+-NTA is studied in depth. To achieve this objective, different key aspects were addressed: (i) the effect of initial Fe3+-NTA concentration at 1:1 molar ratio (0.10-0.30 mM) and H2O2 concentration (1.47-5.88 mM), (ii) the effect of initial microorganism load (103 and 106 CFU/mL) and (iii) the impact of the disinfection target on treatment cost. The first stage of this work was carried out in simulated WWTP effluent spiked with 100 µg/L of imidacloprid (IMD) as model microcontaminant and inoculated with Escherichia coli (E. coli) K-12 as reference strain, in a pilot scale raceway pond reactor with 5-cm of liquid-depth. Secondly, the most cost-effective conditions were validated in actual WWTP effluent. The kinetic analysis revealed that increasing Fe3+-NTA concentration over 0.20 mM does not significantly reduce treatment time due to the limited effect caused on the volumetric rate photon absorption. Treatment cost is determined by the disinfection process, since IMD removal was always faster than E. coli inactivation. The most cost-effective strategy to achieve 10 CFU/100 mL of E. coli (Regulation EU 2020/741) was 0.20/4.41 mM Fe3+-NTA/H2O2, with a cost of 0.32 €/m3. A less restrictive disinfection target, 100 CFU/100 mL, allowed reducing reactant concentration and cost, 0.10/1.47 mM Fe3+-NTA/H2O2 and 0.15 €/m3, respectively. In both cases, no regrowth at 24 h and more than 90% of IMD removal were observed.

Sex differences in fear memory consolidation via Tac2 signaling in mice.

Memory formation is key for brain functioning. Uncovering the memory mechanisms is helping us to better understand neural processes in health and disease. Moreover, more specific treatments for fear-related disorders such as posttraumatic stress disorder and phobias may help to decrease their negative impact on mental health. In this line, the Tachykinin 2 (Tac2) pathway in the central amygdala (CeA) has been shown to be sufficient and necessary for the modulation of fear memory consolidation. CeA-Tac2 antagonism and its pharmacogenetic temporal inhibition impair fear memory in male mice. Surprisingly, we demonstrate here the opposite effect of Tac2 blockade on enhancing fear memory consolidation in females. Furthermore, we show that CeA-testosterone in males, CeA-estradiol in females and Akt/GSK3ß/ß-Catenin signaling both mediate the opposite-sex differential Tac2 pathway regulation of fear memory.