Influence of operator experience on the technical and clinical results of Woven EndoBridge endovascular treatment for intracranial aneurysms.

BACKGROUND & PURPOSE: The safety and efficacy of the Woven EndoBridge (WEB) device has been proven in recent multicenter trials. This study investigated whether operator experience influences WEB treatment-related outcomes. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This was a retrospective analysis of a prospectively collected multicenter database. The data of all patients who underwent WEB treatment for an intracranial aneurysm from March 2014 to June 2020 in two high-volume centers were pooled. Operator experience was indexed by the number of WEB treatments performed previously. The primary endpoint was the overall complication rate. Secondary endpoints were long-term adequate (Raymond-Roy classification of 1-2.) angiographic occlusion, WEB-related complications, number of WEB not deployed, procedure duration, and radiation exposure (air kerma). RESULTS: Among 237 patients (mean age 59.4 +/- 11.5 years) treated with WEB (median aneurysm diameter, 5.8 mm; interquartile range 4.5-7 mm), WEB-related complications occurred in 28 patients (11.8%) and adequate long-term occlusion was achieved for 154 aneurysms (86%). The median number of WEB treatment performed previously per operator was 20 (IQR, 9-41). The overall complication rate, WEB-related complication rate and aneurysm occlusion rate were not significantly correlated with WEB operator experience. There were also no significant correlations between the WEB operator experience and the number of WEB not deployed, procedure duration or radiation exposure. CONCLUSION: There was no significant association between the number of WEB treatments previously performed per operator and any technical or clinical results after intracranial aneurysm treatment with WEB. These results imply a relatively short learning curve for this device in high-volume neurovascular centers.

Flow-Diversion Treatment for Unruptured ICA Bifurcation Aneurysms with Unfavorable Morphology for Coiling.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Few reports described flow diversion for ICA bifurcation aneurysms. Our aim was to provide further insight into flow diversion for ICA bifurcation aneurysms difficult to treat with other strategies. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Consecutive patients receiving flow diverters for unruptured ICA bifurcation aneurysms were collected. Aneurysm occlusion (O'Kelly-Marotta grading scale) and clinical outcomes were evaluated. RESULTS: Twenty saccular ICA bifurcation aneurysms were treated with the Pipeline Embolization Device deployed from the M1 to the ICA, covering the aneurysm and the A1 segment. All patients presented with an angiographic visualized contralateral flow from the anterior communicating artery. Mean aneurysm size was 6.5 (SD, 3.2) mm (range, 4.5-20 mm). All lesions had an unfavorable dome-to-neck ratio (mean/median, 1.6/1.6; range, 0.8-2.8; interquartile range = 0.5) or aspect ratio for coiling (mean/median = 1.5/1.55; range, 0.8-2.5; interquartile range = 0.6). One was a very large aneurysm (20 mm). Nineteen medium-sized lesions were completely occluded during the angiographic follow-up (13 months). No cases of aneurysm rupture or retreatment were reported. No adverse events were described. Aneurysm occlusion was associated with the asymptomatic flow modification of the covered A1 that was occluded and contralaterally filled among 10 patients (50%), narrowed among 9 patients (45%), and unchanged in 1 subject (5%). There was no difference in the mean initial diameter of the occluded (2.1 [SD 0.4] mm; range, 1.6-3 mm) and narrowed (2 [SD, 0.2] mm; range, 1.7-2.6 mm) A1 segments. CONCLUSIONS: Medium-sized unruptured ICA bifurcation aneurysms with unfavorable morphology for coiling can be treated with M1 ICA flow diversion. Aneurysm occlusion is associated with flow modifications of the covered A1 that seems safe in the presence of a favorable collateral anatomy through the anterior communicating artery complex.

Pilot-scale phycoremediation using Muriellopsis sp. for wastewater reclamation in the Atacama Desert: microalgae biomass production and pigment recovery.

Municipal wastewater phycoremediation represents a promising circular economy-based process for wastewater reclamation used to recover water and produce biomass. This study aimed to evaluate a pilot-scale phycoremediation system, using the most efficient strain of microalgae for wastewater reclamation in the Atacama Desert. Nitrogen and phosphorus removal, as well as biomass growth, were compared in different microalgae treatments, namely Muriellopsis sp., Scenedesmus almeriensis, Chlamydomonas segnis, Chlorella pyrenoidosa and Chlorella vulgaris. The most efficient treatments, Muriellopsis sp. and S. almeriensis, were scaled up to 20-L bubble column reactors to evaluate nutrient removal and biomass biochemical profile for potential biotechnological application. Finally, Muriellopsis sp. was selected for a pilot-scale phycoremediation experiment (800-L raceway), which removed 84% of nitrogen, 93% of phosphorus and other chemical compounds after 4 days of treatment to meet most of the Chilean standards for irrigation water (NCh. 1333. DS. MOP No. 867/78). Faecal coliforms count was reduced by 99.9%. Furthermore, biomass productivity reached 104.25 mg·L-1·day-1 value with 51% protein, and pigment content of 0.6% carotenoid, with 0.3% lutein. These results indicate the potential of wastewater phycoremediation at an industrial scale for the production of irrigation water and carotenoid using Muriellopsis sp.

Costos totales asociados a úlceras por presión y caídas en usuarios de los servicios clínicos de cirugía y medicina, en un establecimiento de alta complejidad, primer semestre del 2017 y primer semestre 2018, Chile / Total costs associated with pressure ulcers and falls in users of clinical surgery and medical services, in a highly complex establishment, first half of 2017 and first semester 2018, Chile

INTRODUCCIÓN: las actividades asistenciales relacionadas con la atención de pacientes en servicios clínicos tienen diferentes grados de riesgos para las personas que los reciben, el error en la atención sanitaria se denomina evento adverso y/o centinelas los que, según su gravedad, pueden llegar a causar la muerte de los usuarios. OBJETIVO: determinar los costos totales de úlceras por presión y caídas ocurridos en los usuarios de los servicios clínicos de cirugía y medicina en un establecimiento de alta complejidad durante el primer semestre del 2017 y primer semestre del 2018, en Chile. MÉTODO: estudio descriptivo retrospectivo. La ocurrencia de eventos relacionados a úlceras por presión y caídas son notificados a través del sistema informático Phoenix y son recepcionados por el Departamento de Calidad y Seguridad del Paciente del establecimiento, los datos económicos fueron proporcionados por el departamento de Finanzas. Los datos fueron procesados por programa computacional Excel. RESULTADOS: los costos totales asociado a úlceras por presión y caídas:Servicio de Cirugía, primer semestre del 2017:-Ulceras por presión $44.086.872 (U$ 57.557 dólares)-Caídas $39.630.517 (U$51.739 dólares)-Costo total $ 83.717.389 (U$109.297 dólares)Servicio de Medicina, primer semestre del 2017:-Úlceras por presión $22.654.894 (U$29.803 dólares)-Caídas $32.023.185 (U$41.807 dólares)-Costo total $ 54.678.079 (U$71.385 dólares)Servicio de Cirugía, primer semestre del 2018:-Ulceras por presión $76.979.440 (U$100.500 dólares)-Caídas $18.522.927 (U$24.182 dólares)-Costo total $ 95.502.367 (U$124.683 dólares)Servicio de Medicina, primer semestre del 2018:-Ulceras por presión $14.981.255 (U$19.558 dólares)-Caídas $55.258.625 (U$72.142 dólares)-Costo total $ 70.239.880 (U$91.701 dólares) CONCLUSIÓN: se logró levantar información actual sobre los recursos financieros y clínicos que determinan el impacto económico que generan los eventos adversos en los pacientes atendidos en un centro asistencial público. Es por esto, que el presente estudio, permitió cuantificar y evidenciar el impacto económico de dos eventos ocurridos en los servicios clínicos de un hospital de alta complejidad de Chile.

INTRODUCTION: healthcare activities related to the care of patients in clinical services, have different degrees of risks for the people who receive them, the error in health care is called an adverse event and / or sentinels which, depending on their severity, can arrive to cause the death of users. OBJECTIVE: to determine the total costs of pressure ulcers and falls that occurred in users of clinical services of surgery and medicine in a highly complex establishment during the first half of 2017 and the first half of 2018, in Chile. METHOD: retrospective descriptive study. The occurrence of events related to pressure ulcers and falls are notified through the Phoenix computer system and are received by the Department of Quality and Patient Safety of the establishment, the economic data were provided by the Department of Finance. The data were processed by Excel computer program. RESULTS: the total costs associated with pressure ulcers and falls:Surgery Service, first semester of 2017: -Pressure ulcers $ 44,086,872 (U$ 57,557)-Falls $ 39,630,517 (U$ 51,739) -Total cost$ 83,717,389 (U$ 109,297)Medicine Service, first semester of 2017: -Pressure ulcers $ 22,654,894 (U$29,803 dollars) -Falls $ 32,023,185 (U$41,807 dollars) -Total cost $ 54,678,079 (U$71,385 dollars)Surgery Service, first semester of 2018: -Pressure ulcers $ 76,979,440 (U$100,500 dollars) -Falls $ 18,522,927 (U$24,182 dollars) -Total cost $ 95,502,367 (U$124,683 dollars)Medicine Service, first semester of 2018: -Pressure ulcers $ 14,981,255 (U$19,558 dollars) -Falls $ 55,258,625 (U$72,142dollars) -Total cost $ 70,239,880 (U$91,701 dollars) CONCLUSIONS: it was possible to collect current information on financial and clinical resources that determine the economic impact generated by adverse events in patients treated in a public healthcare center. This is why the present study made it possible to quantify and demonstrate the economic impact of two events that occurred in the clinical services of a highly complex hospital in Chile.

Flow-Diversion Treatment for Unruptured Nonsaccular Intracranial Aneurysms of the Posterior and Distal Anterior Circulation: A Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: Treatment management and outcomes of unruptured nonsaccular aneurysms are different compared with their saccular counterparts. PURPOSE: Our aim was to analyze the outcomes after flow diversion among nonsaccular unruptured lesions. DATA SOURCES: A systematic search of 3 data bases (2005-2019) was performed according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. STUDY SELECTION: We included studies reporting flow diversion for nonsaccular unruptured aneurysms of the posterior and distal anterior circulations. Anterior circulation lesions were included if located distal to the petrocavernous and supraclinoid ICA (MCA, A1, anterior communicating artery, A2). Giant dolichoectatic holobasilar lesions were excluded because of their poor treatment outcomes. DATA ANALYSIS: Aneurysm occlusion and complication rates were calculated (random effects meta-analysis). DATA SYNTHESIS: We included 15 studies (213 aneurysms). The long-term adequate occlusion rate was 85.3% (137/168; 95% CI, 78.2%-92.4%; I2 = 42.3%). Treatment-related complications were 17.4% (41/213; 95% CI, 12.45%-22.4%; I2 = 0%). Overall, 15% (37/213; 95% CI, 10%-20%; I2 = 0%) were ischemic events. Procedure-related morbidity was 8% (20/213; 95% CI, 5%-12%; I2 = 0%). Fusiform or dissecting types had comparable adequate occlusion (116/146 = 83%; 95% CI, 74%-92%; I2 = 48% versus 33/36 = 89%; 95% CI, 80%-98%; I2 = 0%; P = .31) and complication rates (35/162 = 17%; 95% CI, 10%-25%; I2 = 24% versus 11/51 = 19%; 95% CI, 10%-31%; I2 = 0%; P = .72). Aneurysm size (>10 versus ≤10 mm) was independently associated with a higher rate of complications (OR = 6.6; 95% CI, 1.3-15; P = .02). The rate of ischemic events after discontinuation of the antiplatelet therapy was 5% (5/93; 95% CI, 2%-9%; I2 = 0%). LIMITATIONS: Small and retrospective studies were available for this meta-analysis. CONCLUSIONS: Unruptured nonsaccular aneurysms located in the posterior and distal anterior circulations can be effectively treated with flow diversion. Nevertheless, treatment-related complications are not negligible, with about 15% ischemic events and 8% morbidity. Larger size (>10 mm) significantly increases the risk of procedure-related adverse events.

Predicting Factors of Angiographic Aneurysm Occlusion after Treatment with the Woven EndoBridge Device: A Single-Center Experience with Midterm Follow-Up.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Flow disruption with the Woven EndoBridge is increasingly used for the treatment of intracranial aneurysms. We examined factors leading to aneurysm occlusion and Woven EndoBridge shape change during a midterm follow-up. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients with a minimum 12-month angiographic follow-up were included. Through a univariate and multivariate analysis, independent predictors of adequate occlusion (Raymond-Roy 1/Raymond-Roy 2) and Woven EndoBridge shape change (decrease of the height of the device) were assessed. RESULTS: Eighty-six patients/aneurysms were included. The aneurysm mean size was 5.5 mm (range, 3-11.5 mm). The most common locations were the MCA (43/86 = 50%), basilar tip (13/86 = 15.1%), and anterior communicating artery (12/86 = 14%). Twenty-one patients (21/86 = 24%) had acute SAH. Immediate and long-term Raymond-Roy 1/Raymond-Roy 2 occlusion rates were 49% (42/86) and 80% (68/86), respectively. Woven EndoBridge shape change was detected among 22% (19/86) of cases. At binary logistic regression, wide ostium (≥4 mm) (OR = 0.2; 95% CI, 0.01-1; P = .04) and regular aneurysm morphology (OR = 5.9; 95% CI, 1.4-24; P = .01) were independent factors of incomplete and adequate aneurysm occlusion, respectively. In addition, irregular morphology (OR = 5.4; 95%CI, 1.4-19; P = .01) and a wide ostium (OR = 9.8; 95% CI, 1.6-60; P = .03) significantly increased the probability of the Woven EndoBridge shape change. Decrease of the Woven EndoBridge height was more common among incompletely occluded aneurysms (6/12 = 50% versus 13/74 = 17.5%), but it was not an independent prognosticator of occlusion at the multivariate model. CONCLUSIONS: The likelihood of good occlusion was 5 times lower in the presence of a wide ostium, whereas aneurysms with regular morphology were 6 times more likely to be occluded. Woven EndoBridge shape modification was strongly influenced by the aneurysm shape and ostium size, and it was not independently associated with the angiographic occlusion.

Cirugía ambulatoria electiva en patología proctológica: experiencia prospectiva de 14 años en un hospital público docente / Elective ambulatory surgery in proctological pathology: 14 years of prospective experience in a public teaching hospital

INTRODUCCIÓN: Se presenta nuestra experiencia en cirugía ambulatoria en patología proctológica. MATERIALES Y MÉTODO: La serie corresponde al análisis de 1.399 pacientes tratados entre agosto de 2003 y diciembre de 2017 en forma prospectiva, RESULTADOS: Fueron intervenidos por fístula anorrectal (20%), enfermedad hemorroidaria (19%), enfermedad pilonidal sacro coccígea (EPSC) (15%), fisura anal (13%), biopsia rectal quirúrgica o resección local endoanal (12%), condilomas (10%) y otras (10%). La morbilidad inmediata es de un caso, por un hematoma luego de una cirugía por EPSC que requirió hemostasia y cierre primario. La tasa de hospitalización inmediata fue de 0,3% y corresponde a 5 casos de retención aguda de orina. La hospitalización tardía fue de un 1,6% y corresponde a 22 pacientes, hospitalizados por sangrado tardío (9), dolor intratable (9) y fiebre (4). Todos fueron tratados en forma conservadora con resolución entre los 2 y 5 días. No se registra morbilidad mayor en esta serie. CONCLUSIONES: La cirugía ambulatoria en patología proctológica es factible y segura.

INTRODUCTION: We present our prospective experience in ambulatory anorectal surgery between August 2003 and December 2017. MATERIALS AND METHOD: The series corresponds to the analysis of 1399 patients treated between August 2003 and December 2017 prospectively. RESULTS: The etiology of the surgerys were anal fistula (20%), hemorrhoidal disease (19%), sacrococcygeal pilonidal disease (15%), anal fissure (13%), rectal surgical biopsy or local resection (12%), condylomata (10%) and others (10%). The immediate morbidity was seen one case, a hematoma after an EPSC surgery that required hemostasis and primary closure. The immediate hospitalization rate was 0.3% and corresponds to 5 cases of acute urinary retention. The late hospitalization was 1.6% and corresponds to 22 patients, due to late bleeding (9), severe pain (9) and fever (4). All were treated conservatively with resolution between 2 and 5 days. No major morbidity is recorded in this series. CONCLUSION: We concluded that outpatient surgery in proctologic pathology is feasible and safe.

Antiplatelet Therapy in Patients with Aneurysmal SAH: Impact on Delayed Cerebral Ischemia and Clinical Outcome. A Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Delayed cerebral ischemia strongly impacts clinical outcome after aneurysmal SAH. The effect of antiplatelet therapy on delayed cerebral ischemia has been described with heterogeneous results. Our aim was to analyze the efficacy of antiplatelet therapy on delayed cerebral ischemia and clinical outcome in patients with SAH. DATA SOURCES: A systematic search of 3 databases was performed for studies published from 1990 to 2019. STUDY SELECTION: According to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, we included studies comparing the rates of delayed cerebral ischemia and clinical outcomes among patients with SAH with and without antiplatelet therapy. DATA ANALYSIS: Random-effects meta-analysis was used to pool the following: delayed cerebral ischemia, mortality, and good outcome rates. DATA SYNTHESIS: Including 7 studies, 1060 and 1762 patients with SAH were endovascularly or surgically treated with (cases) and without (controls) antiplatelet therapy, respectively. Overall, antiplatelet therapy did not significantly decrease delayed cerebral ischemia rates compared with the control group (219/1060 versus 485/1762, OR = 0.781; 95% CI, 0.46-1.31; P = .33). Among patients treated endovascularly, there was a trend toward lower delayed cerebral ischemia rates after antiplatelet therapy (157/778 versus 413/1410, OR = 0.552; 95% CI, 0.273-1.115; P = .06). Long-term (>2 weeks) antiplatelet therapy tended to be associated with a lower incidence of delayed cerebral ischemia (63/438 versus 96/353, OR = 0.379; 95% CI, 0.12-1.2; P = .06). The good-outcome rate was significantly higher (803/1144 versus 1175/1775, OR = 1.368; 95% CI, 1.117-1.676; P = .002) and the mortality rate was significantly lower (79/672 versus 97/571, OR = 0.656; 95% CI, 0.47-0.91; P = .01) among the antiplatelet therapy group. LIMITATIONS: Heterogeneity was high for most outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, the incidence of delayed cerebral ischemia seems not to be significantly reduced among the antiplatelet therapy group. However, delayed cerebral ischemia tended to be lower among subjects with both long-term antiplatelet therapy and endovascular treatment and antiplatelet administration. Poor outcome and mortality rates were significantly reduced among the antiplatelet therapy group.

Revisión del género Boletus L. (Boletales, Basidiomycota) en Chile / Review of the genus Boletus L. (Boletales, Basidiomycota) in Chile

El género Boletus cuenta con alrededor de 300 especies, las cuales se encuentran ampliamente distribuidas en el mundo, formando micorrizas con diversos árboles. En Chile se han documentado seis especies: Boletus loyo, B. loyita, B. chilensis, B. putidus, B. bresinskyanus y B. araucariae, asociadas exclusivamente a Nothofagus spp., siendo Boletus loyo actualmente clasificada en el género Butyriboletus. En esta revisión, se describen los caracteres macro y microscópicos junto con la distribución climática de las seis especies nativas presentes en nuestro país de acuerdo a la literatura. Además, se presenta una clave dicotómica basada en bibliografía relevante para ayudar a su determinación.(AU)

The genus Boletus has around 300 species, which are distributed throughout the world, forming mycorrhizae with different trees. In Chile six species have been documented: Boletus loyo, B. loyita, B. chilensis, B. putidus, B. bresinskyanus and B. araucariae, which belong to Nothofagus spp., being Boletus loyo currently classified in the genus Butyriboletus. In this review, the macro and microscopic characters and climatic distribution of the six native species present in our country are described according to the literature. In addition, a dichotomous key based on relevant literature is presented to aid in its determination.(AU)

Treatment of Wide-Neck Intracranial Aneurysms with the Woven EndoBridge Device Associated with Stenting: A Single-Center Experience.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: The intrasaccular flow disruptor, the Woven EndoBridge device, is increasingly used for the treatment of wide-neck intracranial aneurysms. Due to unfavorable anatomy, additional stent placement is sometimes required to avoid Woven EndoBridge protrusion into bifurcation branches. We report our experience with the Woven EndoBridge associated with stent placement for the treatment of complex intracranial aneurysms. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients with aneurysms treated with the Woven EndoBridge Single-Layer plus stent placement were evaluated retrospectively with prospectively maintained data. The technical feasibility, procedural complications, aneurysm occlusion, and clinical outcome were studied. RESULTS: Seventeen patients and aneurysms treated with the Woven EndoBridge plus stent placement were included. The mean aneurysm size was 7 ± 3.1 mm. Aneurysm locations were the following: MCA (10 patients), anterior communicating artery (3 patients), basilar tip (3 patients), and posterior communicating artery (1 patient). Two lesions were ruptured and treated in the acute phase. The Woven EndoBridge and stent placement were successfully delivered in all cases. There were no permanent/major complications. Among the 2 patients with SAH, minor and completely reversible in-stent thrombosis occurred during treatment. An asymptomatic occlusion of the angular artery with a distal nonbifurcation aneurysm was discovered during the angiographic follow-up. Long-term (10.4 months) angiographic complete (Raymond-Roy I) and near-complete (Raymond-Roy II) occlusion was obtained in 11 (69%) and 2 (12.5%) aneurysms, respectively. The mean sizes of aneurysms showing Raymond-Roy I/Raymond-Roy II and Raymond-Roy III occlusion were 5.5 ± 2.1 mm and 10 ± 1 mm, respectively (P = .003). The mean fluoroscopy time was 35 ± 14 minutes. CONCLUSIONS: Aneurysm embolization with the Woven EndoBridge device associated with stent placement appears technically feasible and effective for the treatment of lesions with unfavorable anatomy. In our study, this strategy was relatively safe with a low rate of relevant procedure-related adverse events.

Treatment of Unruptured Distal Anterior Circulation Aneurysms with Flow-Diverter Stents: A Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: The safety and efficacy of flow diversion among distal anterior circulation aneurysms must be proved. PURPOSE: Our aim was to analyze the outcomes after flow diversion among MCA, anterior communicating artery, and distal anterior cerebral artery aneurysms. DATA SOURCES: A systematic search of 3 databases was performed for studies published from 2005 to 2018. STUDY SELECTION: According to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, we included studies reporting flow diversion of distal anterior circulation aneurysms. DATA ANALYSIS: Random-effects meta-analysis was used to pool aneurysm occlusion and complication rates. From the individual patient data, univariate and multivariate analyses were used to test predictors of occlusion and complications. DATA SYNTHESIS: We included 27 studies (484 aneurysms). The long-term adequate occlusion rate (O'Kelly-Marotta scale, C-D) was 82.7% (295/364; 95% CI, 77.4%-87.9%; I2 = 52%). Treatment-related complications were 12.5% (63/410; 95% CI, 9%-16%%; I2 = 18.8%), with 5.4% (29/418; 95% CI, 3.2%-7.5%; I2 = 0%) morbidity. MCA location was an independent factor associated with lower occlusion (OR = 0.5, P = .03) and higher complication rates (OR = 1.8, P = .02), compared with anterior communicating artery and distal anterior cerebral artery aneurysms. The Pipeline Embolization Device (versus other stents) gave better occlusion rates (OR = 2.6, P = .002), whereas large/giant aneurysms were associated with higher odds of complications (OR = 2.2, P = .03). The rates of occlusion and narrowing of arteries covered by flow-diverter stents were 6.3% (29/283; 95% CI, 3.5%-9.1%; I2 = 4.2%) and 23.8% (69/283; 95% CI, 15.7%-32%; I2 = 80%), respectively. Symptoms related to occlusion and narrowing of the jailed arteries were 3.5% (6/269; 95% CI, 1.1%-5%; I2 = 0%) and 3% (6/245; 95% CI, 1%-4%; I2 = 0%), respectively. LIMITATIONS: We reviewed small and retrospective series. CONCLUSIONS: Flow diversion among distal anterior circulation aneurysms is effective, leading to adequate aneurysm occlusion in 83% of cases. However, this strategy has some limitations among MCA and larger lesions, especially related to the higher rate of complications. Compared with the other devices, the Pipeline Embolization Device seems to be associated with a higher occlusion rate.

Comparison of Prasugrel and Clopidogrel Used as Antiplatelet Medication for Endovascular Treatment of Unruptured Intracranial Aneurysms: A Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: Clopidogrel is routinely used to decrease ischemic complications during neurointerventional procedures. However, the efficacy may be limited by antiplatelet resistance. PURPOSE: Our aim was to analyze the efficacy of prasugrel compared with clopidogrel in the cerebrovascular field. DATA SOURCES: A systematic search of 2 large databases was performed for studies published from 2000 to 2018. STUDY SELECTION: According to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, we included studies reporting treatment-related outcomes of patients undergoing neurointerventional procedures under prasugrel, and studies comparing prasugrel and clopidogrel. DATA ANALYSIS: Random-effects meta-analysis was used to pool the overall rate of complications, ischemic and hemorrhagic events, and influence of the dose of prasugrel. DATA SYNTHESIS: In the 7 included studies, 682 and 672 unruptured intracranial aneurysms were treated under prasugrel (cases) and clopidogrel (controls), respectively. Low-dose (20 mg/5 mg; loading and maintenance doses) prasugrel compared with the standard dose of clopidogrel (300 mg/75 mg) showed a significant reduction in the complication rate (OR = 0.36; 95% CI, 0.17-74, P = .006; I2 = 0%). Overall, the ischemic complication rate was significantly higher in the clopidogrel group (40/672 = 6%; 95% CI, 3%-13%; I2 = 83% versus 16/682 = 2%; 95% CI, 1%-5%; I2 = 73%; P = .03). Low and high loading doses of prasugrel were associated with 0.6% (5/535; 95% CI, 0.1%-1.6%; I2 = 0%) and 9.3% (13/147; 95% CI, 0.2%-18%; I2 = 60%) intraperiprocedural hemorrhages, respectively (P = .001), whereas low and high maintenance doses of prasugrel were associated with 0% (0/433) and 0.9% (2/249; 95% CI, 0.3%-2%; I2 = 0%) delayed hemorrhagic events, respectively (P = .001). LIMITATIONS: Retrospective series and heterogeneous endovascular treatments were limitations. CONCLUSIONS: In our study, low-dose prasugrel compared with clopidogrel premedication was associated with an effective reduction of the ischemic events with an acceptable rate of hemorrhagic complications.

Potential of lactic acid bacteria from Pico cheese for starter culture development.

Autochthonous lactic acid bacteria may provide a means of promoting the quality and safety of traditional fermented food products, in particular, artisanal cheeses. Pico cheese is an artisanal, dairy specialty of the Azores in risk of disappearing. Efforts to maintain its quality to the requirements of the modern markets are, thus, necessary. Lactic acid bacteria were isolated from artisanal Pico cheese, identified by sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene, and their potential as starter cultures was evaluated by studying their acidification ability, enzymatic activities (caseinolysis, lipolysis and API-ZYM profile), diacetyl and expolysaccharide production, autolysis, antimicrobial activity against Listeria monocytogenes ATCC 7466, Escherichia coli ATCC 25922, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 29523, Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853 and Clostridium perfringens ATCC 8357, sensory evaluation of odour formation in milk, syneresis and firmness of the curd. Several of the studied lactic acid bacteria isolates showed interesting properties for practical application as starters in artisanal cheese production. The isolates with the highest number of positive traits and, therefore, the most promising for starter development were Lactococcus lactis ssp. lactis L1C21M1, Lactobacillus paracasei L1B1E3, Leuconostoc pseudomesenteroides L1C1E6, Lactobacillus casei L1A1E5 and L1C1E8.

Flow-Diversion Effect of LEO Stents: Aneurysm Occlusion and Flow Remodeling of Covered Side Branches and Perforators.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Flow diversion with intermediate-porosity stents (braided stents) has been recently reported for distally located small aneurysms. The aim of this study was to evaluate the flow-diversion effect of LEO stents on covered vessels and for aneurysms treated with sole stent-placement therapy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We retrospectively evaluated the following outcomes: 1) remodeling of covered side branches and perforators (extra-aneurysmal flow remodeling), and 2) the occlusion rate of aneurysms treated with sole stent-placement therapy (intra-aneurysmal flow remodeling). RESULTS: Seventy-six patients with 98 covered vessels were studied. Overall, 89 covered arteries (91%) were normal, 7 showed narrowing (7%), and 2 (2%) were occluded (1 posterior communicating artery and 1 MCA) without related complications (mean DSA follow-up, 14 months). Univariate and multivariate analyses highlighted smoking (P = .03) and the length of follow-up (P = .002) as factors associated with arterial remodeling. Of the 17 Sylvian (lenticulostriate arteries) and 7 basilar perforators, 1 (4%) group of Sylvian perforators covered with double stents had asymptomatic remodeling. Ten aneurysms (mean size, 3.5 mm) were treated with LEO stents as stent monotherapy (5 recanalized after coiling and 5 directly treated with the LEO). Complete occlusion (Raymond-Roy I) was achieved in 70% of aneurysms (mean follow-up, 14 months). The Raymond-Roy I occlusion rate among recanalized aneurysms and those directly treated with LEO stents was 80% and 60%, respectively (P = .9). CONCLUSIONS: The rate of flow remodeling on the covered arteries and perforators was 9% and 4%, respectively, and was clinically irrelevant in all cases. Complete occlusion of aneurysms treated with sole stent-placement therapy was 70%. These data stress the flow-diversion properties of LEO stents.

Treatment of Intracranial Aneurysms with Self-Expandable Braided Stents: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: The safety and efficacy of treatment with self-expandable braided stents (LEO and LVIS) required further investigation. PURPOSE: Our aim was to analyze the outcomes after treatment with braided stents. DATA SOURCES: A systematic search of 3 databases was performed for studies published from 2006 to 2017. STUDY SELECTION: According to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, we included studies reporting patients treated with LEO or LVIS stents. DATA ANALYSIS: Random-effects meta-analysis was used to pool the following: aneurysm occlusion rate, complications, and neurologic outcomes. DATA SYNTHESIS: Thirty-five studies evaluating 1426 patients treated with braided stents were included in this meta-analysis. Successful stent delivery and complete aneurysm occlusion were 97% (1041/1095; 95% CI, 95%-98%) (I2 = 44%) and 88.3% (1097/1256; 95% CI, 85%-91%) (I2 = 72%), respectively. Overall, treatment-related complications were 7.4% (107/1317; 95% CI, 5%-9%) (I2 = 44%). Ischemic/thromboembolic events (48/1324 = 2.4%; 95% CI, 1.5%-3.4%) (I2 = 27%) and in-stent thrombosis (35/1324 = 1.5%; 95% CI, 0.6%-1.7%) (I2 = 0%) were the most common complications. Treatment-related morbidity was 1.5% (30/1324; 95% CI, 0.9%-2%) and was comparable between the LEO and LVIS groups. Complication rates between the anterior (29/322 = 8.8%; 95% CI, 3.4%-12%) (I2 = 41%) versus posterior circulation (10/84 = 10.5%; 95% CI, 4%-16%) (I2 = 0%) and distal (30/303 = 8%; 95% CI, 4.5%-12%) (I2 = 48%) versus proximal aneurysms (14/153 = 9%; 95% CI, 3%-13%) (I2 = 46%) were comparable (P > .05). LIMITATIONS: Limitations were selection and publication biases. CONCLUSIONS: In this analysis, treatment with the LEO and LVIS stents was relatively safe and effective. The most common complications were periprocedural thromboembolisms and in-stent thrombosis. The rate of complications was comparable among anterior and posterior circulation aneurysms, as well as for proximal and distally located lesions.

Treatment of Distal Anterior Cerebral Artery Aneurysms with Flow-Diverter Stents: A Single-Center Experience.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Flow diversion for aneurysms beyond the circle of Willis is still debated. Our aim was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of flow diversion treatment of distal anterior cerebral artery aneurysms. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Consecutive patients with distal anterior cerebral artery aneurysms treated from January 2014 to October 2017 were evaluated retrospectively with prospectively maintained data. Treatment was performed only for unruptured or recanalized aneurysms after coiling. Technical feasibility, procedural complications, aneurysm occlusion (O'Kelly-Marotta grading scale), and clinical outcome were evaluated. RESULTS: Fifteen patients were included in the study, with 17 distal anterior cerebral artery saccular aneurysms treated with flow-diverter stents. Mean aneurysm size was 4.25 ± 3.9 mm; range, 2-9 mm. Flow diversion was used as retreatment among 6 previously coiled aneurysms (5 ruptured and coiled in the acute phase, and 1 unruptured and recanalized). Stent deployment was technically successful in all cases. During the perioperative period, 1 patient experienced a transient minor stroke (6%), whereas 2 patients reported acute in-stent thrombosis with disabling ischemic complications (13%). Fourteen patients and 16 aneurysms were available during a mean radiologic follow-up of 12 months (range, 3-24 months). Overall, 12 (75%) aneurysms were completely occluded (O'Kelly-Marotta grading scale score D), 1 aneurysm (6%) showed near-complete occlusion (O'Kelly-Marotta grading scale score C), and 3 aneurysms (19%) were incompletely occluded (O'Kelly-Marotta grading scale, score B). All 6 aneurysms previously coiled were completely occluded after flow diversion, whereas 70% of aneurysms treated with flow diverters alone showed complete/near-complete occlusion (O'Kelly-Marotta grading scale C-D). There were no cases of aneurysm rupture, in-stent occlusion, or retreatment during long-term follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: Treatment of distal anterior cerebral artery aneurysms with flow-diverter stents is feasible and effective, with high rates of aneurysm occlusion. Flow diversion plus coiling, in the retreatment of lesions previously coiled, allowed higher rates of occlusion compared with flow diverters alone. However, the risk of ischemic complications is not negligible, and flow-diversion treatment should be evaluated only for aneurysms not amenable to simple coil embolization.

Multicentric Experience in Distal-to-Proximal Revascularization of Tandem Occlusion Stroke Related to Internal Carotid Artery Dissection.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Internal carotid dissection is a frequent cause of ischemic stroke in young adults. It may cause tandem occlusions in which cervical carotid obstruction is associated with intracranial proximal vessel occlusion. To date, no consensus has emerged concerning endovascular treatment strategy. Our aim was to evaluate our endovascular "distal-to-proximal" strategy in the treatment of this stroke subtype in the first large multicentric cohort. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Prospectively managed stroke data bases from 2 separate centers were retrospectively studied between 2009 and 2014 for records of tandem occlusions related to internal carotid dissection. Atheromatous tandem occlusions were excluded. The first step in the revascularization procedure was intracranial thrombectomy. Then, cervical carotid stent placement was performed depending on the functionality of the circle of Willis and the persistence of residual cervical ICA occlusion, severe stenosis, or thrombus apposition. Efficiency, complications, and radiologic and clinical outcomes were recorded. RESULTS: Thirty-four patients presenting with tandem occlusion stroke secondary to internal carotid dissection were treated during the study period. The mean age was 52.5 years, the mean initial NIHSS score was 17.29 ± 6.23, and the mean delay between onset and groin puncture was 3.58 ± 1.1 hours. Recanalization TICI 2b/3 was obtained in 21 cases (62%). Fifteen patients underwent cervical carotid stent placement. There was no recurrence of ipsilateral stroke in the nonstented subgroup. Twenty-one patients (67.65%) had a favorable clinical outcome after 3 months. CONCLUSIONS: Endovascular treatment of internal carotid dissection-related tandem occlusion stroke using the distal-to-proximal recanalization strategy appears to be feasible, with low complication rates and considerable rates of successful recanalization.

Endovascular Treatment of Very Large and Giant Intracranial Aneurysms: Comparison between Reconstructive and Deconstructive Techniques-A Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: The safety and efficacy of reconstructive and deconstructive endovascular treatments of very large/giant intracranial aneurysms are not completely clear. PURPOSE: Our aim was to compare treatment-related outcomes between these 2 techniques. DATA SOURCES: A systematic search of 3 data bases was performed for studies published from 1990 to 2017. STUDY SELECTION: We selected series of reconstructive and deconstructive treatments with >10 patients. DATA ANALYSIS: Random-effects meta-analysis was used to analyze occlusion rates, complications, and neurologic outcomes. DATA SYNTHESIS: Thirty-nine studies evaluating 894 very large/giant aneurysms were included. Long-term occlusion of unruptured aneurysms was 71% and 93% after reconstructive and deconstructive treatments, respectively (P = .003). Among unruptured aneurysms, complications were lower after parent artery occlusion (16% versus 30%, P = .05), whereas among ruptured lesions, complications were lower after reconstructive techniques (34% versus 38%). Parent artery occlusion in the posterior circulation had higher complications compared with in the anterior circulation (36% versus 15%, P = .001). Overall, coiling yielded lower complication and occlusion rates compared with flow diverters and stent-assisted coiling. Complication rates of flow diversion were lower in the anterior circulation (17% versus 41%, P < .01). Among unruptured lesions, early aneurysm rupture (within 30 days) was slightly higher after reconstructive treatment (5% versus 0%, P = .08) and after flow diversion alone compared with flow diversion plus coiling (7% versus 0%). LIMITATIONS: Limitations were selection and publication biases. CONCLUSIONS: Parent artery occlusion allowed high rates of occlusion with an acceptable rate of complications for unruptured, anterior circulation aneurysms. Coiling should be preferred for posterior circulation and ruptured lesions, whereas flow diversion is relatively safe and effective for unruptured anterior circulation aneurysms.

Tratamiento de la enfermedad hemorroidaria con desarterialización y pexia guiada por doppler (THD®): experiencia inicial / Treatment of haemorrhoidal disease with desarterialization and fixing guided by Doppler

Resumen Introducción: La enfermedad hemorroidaria puede ser tratada de múltiples formas. Una alternativa es la ligadura de las ramas terminales de la arteria rectal y pexia de los paquetes guiados por Doppler (THD®). Objetivo: Presentar nuestra experiencia inicial con esta técnica. Material y Método: Serie prospectiva, consecutiva, no aleatoria. Incluye a los pacientes tratados por enfermedad hemorroidaria que no responde al manejo no quirúrgico. Resultados: La serie corresponde a 11 pacientes, 7 de género masculino. Todos fueron operados en forma ambulatoria. El tiempo quirúrgico promedio fue de 35 min y la evaluación del dolor posoperatorio inmediato no superó un EVA de 3 en todos los pacientes. El seguimiento promedio es de 12 meses y solo un paciente requirió una ligadura con banda elástica por sangrado hemorroidario. Conclusión: La técnica de ligadura y pexia guiada por Doppler es sencilla, con buenos resultados iniciales y con mínimo dolor posoperatorio.

Introduction: Hemorrhoidal disease can be treated by many surgical options. One of them are Transanal Haemorroidal Dearterialization (THD®). Objective: To present our initial experience with this technique. Material and Methods: Prospective, consecutive, non-random series. It includes patients treated for haemorrhoidal disease unresponsive to no operative management. Results: The series consists of 11 patients, 7 male gender. All were operated on an outpatient basis. The average operating time was 35 minutes and the immediate post-operative pain assessment did not exceed an AVS of 3 in all patients. The average follow up was 12 month. Only one patient needed a rubber band ligation for hemorrhoidal bleeding control. Conclusion: The THD technique is simple, with good initial results and minimal post-operative pain.

Effect of once-daily generic ciclesonide on exhaled nitric oxide in atopic children with persistent asthma

BACKGROUND: Ciclesonide (CIC) is an effective inhaled corticosteroid for treating asthmatic children. However, its effect on airway inflammation assessed by the fraction of exhaled nitric oxide (FENO) in children with persistent asthma is virtually unknown. We aimed to assess the effect of once-daily generic CIC, 80 or 160 μg, on FENO, lung function, asthma control and bronchial hyperresponsiveness, in atopic children with persistent asthma. METHODS: This was a 12-week, randomised, double-blind, parallel-group study. Sixty children with mild-to-moderate persistent asthma were recruited. Changes in FENO, asthma control score, lung function (FEV1) and bronchial hyperresponsiveness to methacholine (BHR) were used to assess the effects of both CIC doses. Non-normally distributed variables were log-transformed to approximate normality, and parametric tests were used for comparisons within and between groups at baseline and after 12 weeks of treatment. RESULTS: In the CIC 80 μg group, FENO decreased from 45.0 ppb (95% CI 37.8-53.7) to 32.7 ppb (95% CI 21.0-47.3) at the end of study (P = 0.021), whereas in the CIC 160 μg group, FENO decreased from 47.3 ppb (95% CI 40.4-55.3) to 30.5 ppb (95% CI 24.1-38.7) (P < 0.001). The difference between groups in FENO at the end of study was not significant (P = 0.693). There was a significant improvement of asthma control with both CIC doses but there was no significant change in BHR or FEV1 in either group. CONCLUSION: Once-daily generic ciclesonide (80 μg or 160 μg), for 12 weeks, is effective to improve airway inflammation and asthma control in atopic children with persistent asthma

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