Concordancia entre SPECT portátil y la gammagrafía convencional para detección de ganglio centinela en cáncer de mama / Concordance between freehand SPECT and conventional scintigraphy for sentinel lymph node detection in breast cancer

Introducción: La SPECT portátil puede ser una técnica de imagen útil para la planificación preoperatoria de la biopsia selectiva del ganglio centinela (BSGC) ya que permite la localización del ganglio centinela (GC) mediante imágenes tomográficas en 3D y en tiempo real y determina su profundidad, después de unos minutos de exploración. El objetivo del estudio fue evaluar la correlación entre el número de GC detectados entre las imágenes de la SPECT portátil y la linfogammagrafía (LG). Materiales y métodos: Cien pacientes con diagnóstico de cáncer de mama infiltrante y sin evidencia clínica de afectación ganglionar, se sometieron prospectivamente a una BSGC. El estudio preoperatorio incluyó imágenes de SPECT portátil a los 15 min tras la inyección y de LG a los 25 y 60-90 min (precoz y tardía). Se analizó el acuerdo observado y se realizó un estudio de concordancia entre el número de GC detectados con SPECT portátil y LG. Resultados: El acuerdo observado en la detección de GC entre SPECT portátil y LG precoz fue del 72%; entre SPECT portátil y LG tardía del 85%, y entre la LG precoz y la tardía de un 87%. En el estudio de concordancia se registró una concordancia moderada entre la SPECT portátil y la LG precoz (coeficiente kappa: 0,42); una concordancia moderada-alta entre la SPECT portátil y la LG tardía (coeficiente kappa: 0,60), y una concordancia de moderada-alta entre la LG precoz y la tardía (coeficiente kappa: 0,70), sin diferencias significativas entre ellos (valor p=0,16). Conclusión: La SPECT portátil presentó una concordancia moderada-alta con los estudios de imagen convencional y podría ser una alternativa válida para el estudio prequirúrgico de la BSGC en el cáncer de mama.(AU)

Introduction: Freehand SPECT can be a useful imaging technique for preoperative planning of sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) as it allows localization of the sentinel node by 3D and real-time tomographic imaging and determines its depth after a few minutes of scanning. The aim of the study was to evaluate the correlation between the number of detected SNs between freehand SPECT images and lymphoscintigraphy (LS). Materials and methods: One hundred patients with a diagnosis of invasive breast cancer and no clinical evidence of lymph node involvement prospectively underwent SLNB. The preoperative study included freehand SPECT imaging at 15min after injection and LS imaging at 25 and 60–90min after injection (early and late). The observed agreement was analyzed and a concordance study was performed between the number of SNs detected with freehand SPECT and LS. Results: The observed agreement in the detection of SNs between freehand SPECT and early LS was 72%; between freehand SPECT and late LS was 85%; and between early and late LS was 87%. In the concordance study, there was moderate concordance between freehand SPECT and early LS (kappa coefficient: 0.42); moderate-high concordance between freehand SPECT and late LS (kappa coefficient: 0.60); and moderate-high concordance between early and late LS (kappa coefficient: 0.70), with no significant differences between them (p-value=0.16). Conclusion: Freehand SPECT showed a moderate-high concordance with conventional imaging studies and could be a valid alternative for the presurgical study of SLNB in breast cancer.(AU)

Concordance between freehand SPECT and conventional scintigraphy for sentinel lymph node detection in breast cancer.

INTRODUCTION: Freehand SPECT can be a useful imaging technique for preoperative planning of sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) as it allows localization of the sentinel node by 3D and real-time tomographic imaging and determines its depth after a few minutes of scanning. The aim of the study was to evaluate the correlation between the number of detected SNs between freehand SPECT images and lymphoscintigraphy (LS). MATERIALS AND METHODS: 100 patients with a diagnosis of invasive breast cancer and no clinical evidence of lymph node involvement prospectively underwent SLNB. The preoperative study included freehand SPECT imaging at 15min after injection and LS imaging at 25 and 60-90min after injection (early and late). The observed agreement was analyzed and a concordance study was performed between the number of SNs detected with freehand SPECT and LS. RESULTS: The observed agreement in the detection of SNs between freehand SPECT and early LS was 72%; between freehand SPECT and late LS was 85%; and between early and late LS was 87%. In the concordance study, there was moderate concordance between freehand SPECT and early LS (kappa coefficient: 0.42); moderate-high concordance between freehand SPECT and late LS (kappa coefficient: 0.60); and moderate-high concordance between early and late LS (kappa coefficient: 0.70), with no significant differences between them (p-value=0.16). CONCLUSION: Freehand SPECT showed a moderate-high concordance with conventional imaging studies and could be a valid alternative for the presurgical study of SLNB in breast cancer.

[Cognitive performance of preschoolers with Congenital Hypothyroidism enrolled in a follow-up program]. / Desempeño cognitivo en preescolares con Hipotiroidismo Congénito incorporados en un programa de seguimiento.

The age at treatment initiation is decisive for limiting the neurological sequelae of Congenital Hypothyroidism (CH). Incorporating children into follow-up programs could be very helpful. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the cognitive performance of preschool children with CH incorporated into a follow- up program. PATIENTS AND METHOD: Prospective study of 93 patients with a confirmed diagnosis of CH. Intelligence quotient (IQ) was assessed using the Wechsler Preschool and Primary Intelligence Scale (WPPSI) at 4 and 5 years, and the WISC-R at 6 years of age. Full-Scale IQ (FSIQ), Verbal IQ (VIQ), and Performance IQ (PIQ) scores were analyzed. RESULTS: The study sample was 80 children. The average age at starting hormonal treatment was 42 ± 18 days; treatment started early in 25 patients (24 ± 6 days) and late in 55 patients (50 ± 16 days). The mean initial dose of Levothyroxine was 13.5 ± 1.5µg/kg/day. Children with athyrosis and late initiation of treatment had lower scores on the VIQ (85 ± 14), the PIQ (89 ± 12), and the FSIQ (86 ± 13) scales at 4 years of age, in comparison with patients with early initiation of treatment. These patients scored within the cut-off point for the normal IQ classification (90-109 points). IQ comparison at 6 years of age revealed differences up to 14 points in the PIQ and 11 points in the FSIQ between children with athyrosis and early initiation of treatment, with and without regular attendance to the follow-up program. DISCUSSION: These results support the importance of early initiation of treatment and the incorporation of children in follow-up programs and early stimulation. The etiology of hypothyroidism and the age at initiation of treatment were the most significant factors that affected cognitive performance.

Influence of boron doping level and calcination temperature on hydrogen evolution reaction in acid medium of metal-free graphene aerogels.

In this work, metal-free boron-doped graphene-based aerogels were successfully synthesized via a one-step autoclave assembly followed by freeze-drying and used as electrocatalysts for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) in acidic media. The synthesized reduced graphene oxide aerogels (rGOA) showed improved electrocatalytic activity by introducing boron and structural defects. The amount of boric acid used both as a dopant and reducing agent in the synthesis was optimized (boric acid/GO mass ratio = 17.5) to practically reach the crystallization limit of boric acid (boric acid/GO mass ratio = 20). It was observed that the higher the amount of boric acid added, the more boron was incorporated into the carbonaceous structure, improving the electrocatalytic activity of the final aerogel. Furthermore, calcination of the boron-doped electrocatalyst at 600 °C resulted in final aerogels with low oxygen content, moderate surface area, bimodal pore size distribution, and a high electrochemical active surface area. The final 3D graphene aerogel developed in this work, showed such outstanding electrocatalytic activity in HER as to replace noble metal-based electrocatalysts in the future.

Comparison of clinical outcomes among cancer patients treated in and out of clinical trials.

BACKGROUND: It is unknown if participation in a cancer clinical trial confers clinical benefits to patients. There is not enough scientific evidence in this regard and the available publications are scarce and provide ambiguous and limited information. OBJECTIVE: Compare overall and progression-free survival and response to treatment among those who met the eligibility criteria and accepted to participate and those who refused to participate in cancer clinical trials. METHODS: An observational cross-sectional study with an analytical component was carried out, which included patients diagnosed with cancer who participated in phase III clinical trials and patients who, being eligible, refused to participate. The patients were cared for at the National Institute of Cancerology in Colombia between 2019 and 2022. Analysis of differences in proportions and means of sociodemographic and clinical variables was included; overall survival and progression-free survival time were described and the survival curves between groups were compared. Variables related to survival were determined using a Cox regression model and Hazard Ratios were calculated. RESULTS: 62 women and 50 men were included. In the women group, we found a statistical association between clinical trial participation and non-serious events adverse and progression. The stable disease and complete response were higher in participants than in refusers. The median progression-free survival for refusers was 7,4 m meantime for participants the median was not reached and 74,1% remained without progression at 28 months. In the men group, we also found a statistical association between clinical trial participation and the occurrence of non-serious events adverse meanwhile there were no significant differences in overall response, progression, and death, even though the proportion of progression was minor in participants 20% vs. refusers 26% respectively. The median survival was not reached for any group, even though in the participants group 55,2% were still alive at month 20 and in the refusers group still alive at 56,8% at month 45. Covariables included for the multivariate Cox regression only age had a statistical association with overall survival in the women's group and the men group any covariables reached statistical association. CONCLUSION: It can be considered that participation in clinical trials could give participants a better response to treatment, without increasing the probability of death and with the probability of decreasing the progression of the disease. Participation in trials could improve the outcomes of clinical response rates, no change in overall survival, and progression-free.

Vitamina C, tiamina e hidrocortisona: ¿aliados en shock séptico? / Vitamin C, thiamine and hydrocortisone: allies against septic shock?

Objetivo: Determinar la efectividad del uso de un protocolo de vitamina C, tiamina e hidrocortisona en shock séptico a las dosis empleadas en el estudio Marik. Método: Estudio observacional retrospectivo antes-después que compara dos grupos de pacientes con shock séptico: grupo tratamiento (GT), tratado con el protocolo, desde enero 2019 a mayo 2020, frente a un grupo control (GC) en un periodo previo. Los objetivos principales fueron la supervivencia a los 14 y a los 28 días. Resultados: Se incluyeron 91 pacientes, 44 en GC y 47 en GT. No se encontraron diferencias estadísticamente significativas en la supervivencia a los 14 ni a los 28 días ni en la duración de estancia hospitalaria ni en la Unidad de Reanimación (REA) (p>0,05). La variación de los valores de creatinina entre los días 1 y 4 presentó una mediana de -0,04 (RIC -0,24;0,8) en el GC frente a -0,3 del GT (RIC -0,079;-0,03), p<0,05. Los valores de procalcitonina descendieron en el 27,3% de los pacientes del GC frente al 91,5% del GT (p<0,05). La necesidad de soporte vasoactivo con noradrenalina fue del 93% GC vs 76,6% GT en el día 2; 75% GC vs 55,3% GT en el día 3; 50% GC vs 27,7% GT en el día 4 (p<0,05). Conclusiones: Los datos de nuestro estudio muestran un beneficio limitado del uso del protocolo en pacientes con shock séptico, pero son necesarios estudios de mayor reclutamiento con un diseño prospectivo randomizado para asegurar el beneficio real y/o dosis óptimas. (AU)

Objective: To determine the effectiveness of using a protocol of vitamin C, thiamine and hydrocortisone for the treatment of septic shock at the doses used in the Marik study. Methods: Retrospective observational before-after study comparing two groups of patients with septic shock: treatment group (GT), treated with the protocol, between January 2019 and May 2020, versus a control group (GC) in a previous period. The primary outcomes were 14-Day and 28-Day Survival. Results: 91 patients were included, 44 in GC and 47 in GT. No statistically significant differences were found in 14-day and 28-day survival, in length of hospital or Resuscitation Unit (REA) stay (p>0.05). The median creatinine variation between days 1 and 4 was -0.04 (IQR -0.24;0.8) in the GC vs -0.3 in the GT (IQR -0.079; -0.03) (p<0.05). Procalcitonin values decreased in 27.3% of GC versus 91.5% of GT (p<0.05). The need for vasoactive drugs (noradrenaline) was 93% in GC vs 76.6% GT on day 2; 75% GC vs 55.3% GT on day 3; 50% GC vs 27.7% GT on day 4 (p<0.05). Conclusions: Our results show a limited benefit of the use of the protocol in patients with septic shock, but larger recruitment studies with a prospective randomized design are needed to ensure real benefit and/or optimal doses. (AU)

Effective index model as a reliable tool for the design of nanostructured thin-film solar cells.

Nanostructured anti-reflection coatings (ARC) are used to reduce the reflectivity of the front surface of solar cells. Computational electromagnetism helps to evaluate the spectral reflectivity of of this type of ARC using several approaches. They typically require large computational resources both in time and hardware elements (memory allocation, speed of processors, etc.). Long computational times may jeopardize optimization processes based on the iterative evaluation of a given merit function that depends on several parameters. Then, simplified analytic methods can speed up this evaluation with moderate computational resources. In this contribution we adapt an Effective Index Model (EIM) to the case of the design of an ARC made with nanoparticles (NP) embedded in a medium at the front surface of a thin-film silicon solar cell. Our approach modifies the discrete dipole approximation method to adapt it to the geometric and material properties of the NPs. The results obtained from the analytic method are compared with those evaluated through a Finite Element Method (FEM) for several cases involving variations in the size and geometry of the NP arrangement, obtaining reflectances that differ less than 10[Formula: see text] for the worst case analyzed but bieng about 100 times faster than the FEM.

Decision-making and frontoparietal resting-state functional connectivity among impulsive-compulsive diagnoses. Insights from a Bayesian approach.

The Iowa Gambling Task (IGT) is one of the most widely used paradigms for assessing decision-making. An impairment in this process may be linked to several psychopathological disorders, such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), substance abuse disorder (SUD) or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), which could make it a good candidate for being consider a transdiagnostic domain. Resting-state functional connectivity (rsFC) has been proposed as a promising biomarker of decision-making. In this study, we aimed to identify idiosyncratic decision-making profiles among healthy people and impulsive-compulsive spectrum patients during the IGT, and to investigate the role of frontoparietal network (FPN) rsFC as a possible biomarker of different decision-making patterns. Using functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS), rsFC of 114 adults (34 controls; 25 OCD; 41 SUD; 14 ADHD) was obtained. Then, they completed the IGT. Hybrid clustering methods based on individual deck choices yielded three decision-makers subgroups. Cluster 1 (n = 27) showed a long-term advantageous strategy. Cluster 2 (n = 25) presented a maladaptive decision-making strategy. Cluster 3 (n = 62) did not develop a preference for any deck during the task. Interestingly, the proportion of participants in each cluster was not different between diagnostic groups. A Bayesian general linear model showed no credible differences in the IGT performance between diagnostic groups nor credible evidence to support the role of FPN rsFC as a biomarker of decision-making under the IGT context. This study highlights the importance of exploring in depth the behavioral and neurophysiological variables that may drive decision-making in clinical and healthy populations.

Controlled Ovarian Stimulation Initiated at Different Phases of the Menstrual Cycle for Fertility Preservation in Oncological Patients: a Retrospective Study.

The purpose of this study is to compare conventional start in early follicular phase (EFP) with late follicular phase (LFP) and luteal phase (LP) in controlled ovarian stimulation (COS) for fertility preservation (FP) to assess differences in clinical outcomes. Retrospective study of the first cycles of COS for FP in oncological patients between 2012 and 2020 in a tertiary hospital. Two-hundred forty-eight cycles were classified into 3 groups: 176 cycles in EFP, 8 cycles in LFP, and 52 cycles in LP. Comparing LFP to EFP, there were no differences in number of oocytes (10.0 [6.3-16.0] vs 12.0 [8.0-18.0]; p = 0.253) or number of metaphase II (MII) obtained (7.0 [2.3-13.3] vs 9.0 [6.0-13.0]; p = 0.229). Total number of days needed was higher in LFP (14.5 [12.5-16.0] vs 3.0 vs 10.0 [8.3-11.0 p = 0.000) but without significant differences in number of days of usage of gonadotropins (11.5 [8.3-12.8] vs 10.0 [8.3-11.0] p = 0.308). No differences were found between LP and EFP in number of oocytes (14.5 [9.0-20.0] p = 0.151) or MII (11.5 [7.0-16.0] p = 0.084). Number of days of gonadotropins (11.0 [10.0-12.0] p = 0.00) and total dosing (3000.0 [2475.0-3600.0] p = 0.013) were significantly higher in LP. FORT and FOI were similar in all groups. COS with a random start in fertility preservation has similar outcomes to EFP start. Therefore, we can initiate COS at any phase of the menstrual cycle with optimal results. However, LP may need more days of stimulation.

Resultados perinatales tras prueba diagnóstica invasiva en el embarazo / Perinatal outcomes after invasive diagnostic test in pregnancy

Introducción: Las técnicas invasivas de diagnóstico prenatal nos permiten realizar pruebas genéticas. El desarrollo de técnicas no invasivas ha reducido su uso. Clásicamente se ha afirmado que, tras realizar la técnica invasiva, la tasa de pérdida fetal se sitúa en torno al 1%. Los datos publicados son heterogéneos, y aunque todo indica que se ha sobrestimado el riesgo, necesitamos realizar nuevos estudios. Material y métodos: En nuestro estudio retrospectivo unicéntrico analizamos los procedimientos realizados mediante técnicas invasivas de diagnóstico prenatal entre 2011 y 2019, incluyendo 832 técnicas invasivas realizadas. Los resultados perinatales se comparan con el grupo control de mujeres embarazadas (n=1.734). Resultados: La tasa de pérdida fetal temprana para las diferentes técnicas fue de 1,1% para amniocentesis, del 1,6% para biopsia corial transvaginal y del 0,5% para biopsia corial abdominal, con una tasa total del 1,1%, sin diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre ellas (p=0,57). Encontramos diferencias en el desenlace fetal, en cuanto a la variable pérdida fetal temprana, en relación con los intentos realizados (cuando se hacían tres intentos aumentaba el riesgo). Al comparar los resultados perinatales posparto del grupo sometido a técnicas con el grupo control, se encontró una mayor tasa de cesáreas en el grupo estudio (28,9% vs 20,5%), además de una menor edad gestacional media al parto (38,33 vs. 38,95 semanas). Discusión: Cuando la técnica invasiva se realiza en el momento adecuado y con no más de dos intentos, consideramos que el riesgo de pérdida fetal no se ve afectado por su realización, siendo igual al de la población general.(AU)

Introduction: Invasive prenatal diagnostic techniques allow us to conduct genetic tests. The development of non-invasive techniques has reduced their use. The foetal loss rate following an invasive procedure is considered to be around 1%. The published data is heterogeneous however, although everything indicates that the risk has been overestimated, we need to conduct further studies. Material and methods: In our single-centre retrospective study we analysed the procedures carried out using invasive prenatal diagnostic techniques between 2011 and 2019. A total of 832 invasive techniques were performed. Perinatal results are compared with a control group of pregnant women (n=1734). Results: The early foetal loss rate for the different techniques were 1.1% for amniocentesis, 1.6% for transvaginal chorionic biopsy and 5% for abdominal chorionic biopsy, with a total rate of 1.1%, without statistically significant differences between them (P=.57). We found differences in foetal outcome, in terms of variable early foetal loss, related to the attempts made (when three attempts were made, the risk increased). When comparing the perinatal outcomes after delivery of the group that underwent techniques with the control group, a higher rate of caesarean sections was found in the study group (28.9% vs 20.5%), in addition to lower mean gestational age at delivery (38.33 vs. 38.95 weeks). Discussion: When the invasive technique is performed at the right time and with no more than two attempts, we consider that the risk of foetal loss is not affected, and is equal to that of the general population.(AU)

Dosificación de ceftriaxona en el paciente crítico hipoproteinémico: un factor más a tener en cuenta / Dosage of ceftriaxone in the critical hypoproteinemic patient: another factor to take into account

Introducción: El objetivo principal del estudio fue evaluar la necesidad de ajuste posológico de ceftriaxona en pacientes críticos hipoproteinémicos. Pacientes y métodos: Estudio observacional y retrospectivo, llevado a cabo en la unidad de cuidados intensivos (UCI) del Hospital General Universitario de Ciudad Real (médico-quirúrgica de 21 camas), en el que se incluyeron pacientes tratados con ceftriaxona en la UCI desde enero de 2014 a diciembre de 2019 y se clasificaron en dos grupos al inicio del tratamiento: pacientes normoproteinémicos (proteínas totales >5,5g/dl) e hipoproteinémicos (proteínas totales ≤5,5g/dl).Variables principales: Edad, sexo, APACHE II, diagnóstico-localización del foco infeccioso, estancia en UCI, dosis de ceftriaxona, pauta posológica, tratamiento antibiótico concomitante, empírico o dirigido, necesidad de cambio de tratamiento, días de antibioterapia y mortalidad. Resultados: Se incluyeron 98 pacientes (44 normoproteinémicos y 54 hipoproteinémicos). No se obtuvieron diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre las características basales de ambos grupos, exceptuando la localización del foco, siendo respiratorio con mayor frecuencia en el grupo de pacientes normoproteinémicos (p=0,044). Se obtuvieron diferencias estadísticamente significativas a favor del grupo de pacientes normoproteinémicos para: estancia en UCI (p=0,001), necesidad de cambio de tratamiento antibiótico (p=0,004), días de antibioterapia (p=0,007) y mortalidad (p=0,046). Conclusión: Los resultados terapéuticos obtenidos en el grupo de pacientes críticos hipoproteinémicos tratados con ceftriaxona ponen en evidencia la necesidad de considerar la hipoproteinemia como un factor que podría condicionar dicho resultado si se emplean las pautas posológicas de tratamiento habituales. (AU)

Introduction: The main objective of the study was to evaluate the need for posologic adjustment of ceftriaxone in critical hypoproteinemic patients. Patients and methods: Observational and retrospective study, carried out in the intensive care unit (ICU) of the General University Hospital of Ciudad Real (21-bed medical-surgical), which included patients treated with ceftriaxone in the ICU from January 2014 to December 2019 and classified into two groups at the beginning of treatment: normoproteinemic (total proteins >5.5 g/dl) and hypoproteinemic (total proteins ≤5.5g/dl) patients.Main variables: Age, sex, APACHE II, diagnosis-location of the infectious site, ICU stay, ceftriaxone dose, dosage regimen, concomitant antibiotic treatment, empirical or targeted antibiotic treatment, need to change treatment, days of antibiotic therapy and mortality. Results: 98 patients were included (44 normoproteinemics and 54 hypoproteinemics).No statistically significant differences were obtained between the basal characteristics of both groups, except for the location of the infectious site, being respiratory more frequently in the group of normoproteinemic patients (p=0.044).Statistically significant differences were obtained in favour of the group of normoproteinemic patients for: stay in ICU (p=0.001), need for change of antibiotic treatment (p=0.004), days of antibiotherapy (p=0.007) and mortality (p=0.046). Conclusion: The therapeutic results obtained in the group of critical hypoproteinemic patients treated with ceftriaxone show the need to consider hypoproteinemia as a factor that could condition such result if the usual treatment dosage guidelines are used.

Assessment of the patient safety culture in the ICU of a second level hospital at the end of the third COVID-19 wave.

INTRODUCTION: Current healthcare settings and ICUs especially are complex, highly technical, and multidisciplinary, with interactions between healthcare professionals and users, in which there may be errors at different levels. Our objective was to assess the perception of patient safety in our unit at the end of the third wave of the COVID pandemic, with the intention of conducting subsequent improvement actions. METHODS: Observational, cross-sectional, and descriptive study. The perception of Safety Culture was estimated using the HSOPS questionnaire translated into Spanish. Some questions were posed in a positive sense, and others in a negative sense. The response was also rated as positive, negative, or neutral. Our findings were compared visually, not mathematically, with those found in the previous national study «Analysis of the culture on patient safety in the hospital setting of the Spanish National Health System¼ published in 2009. A subgroup analysis was performed according to professional group and seniority as a health worker. The Student's t, χ2 and ANOVA tests were used. RESULTS: Sixty-two professionals responded to the questionnaire, 73.90% of the total. The median time working in ICU 2 years (interquartile range 2-4.5 years). The rating for the degree of safety was 8.06 (SD 1.16). The majority (91.20%) had not reported any adverse event in the last year. A total of 30.90% had recently received patient safety training. The dimensions considered as weaknesses were 9 ("Staffing", with 27.57% of positive responses) and 10 ("Support of the hospital management in safety", with 17.64% of positive responses). The dimensions considered as strengths were 3 ("Expectation of actions by management/supervision of the service") with 85.29% of positive responses, and 5 ("Teamwork") with 95.58% of positive responses. The Cronbach's alpha index values suggest that the questionnaire has adequate internal consistency. In general, our data are more positive than those collected in the 2011 national survey, although the 2 dimensions considered weaknesses were already considered such in the previous work. CONCLUSIONS: The perception of patient safety in the ICU of our hospital after the end of the third wave of the COVID pandemic is adequate, with a more positive rating than that of the national study on safety culture at the hospital level carried out in 2009. The constant quest for patient safety should prioritize activity in the 2 dimensions considered weaknesses: staffing, and support from hospital management in everything related to patient safety.

Efectos en vida real de la adición de semaglutida subcutánea semanal al tratamiento con insulina en diabetes mellitus tipo 2 / Real-life effects of adding weekly subcutaneous semaglutide to insulin for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus

Objetivos: Determinar en la vida real los beneficios antropométricos y analíticos de la adición de semaglutida por vía subcutánea al tratamiento previo con insulina en pacientes con diabetes tipo 2.Métodos: Estudio descriptivo, retrospectivo y abierto en el que se describen características clínicas y antropométricas de 117 pacientes diagnosticados de diabetes tipo 2 seguidos en las consultas externas de Endocrinología y Nutrición del Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias a lo largo de 53 semanas tras el inicio de tratamiento con semaglutida subcutánea (octubre-diciembre 2019). Todos los pacientes estaban en tratamiento previo con insulina, con o sin antidiabéticos orales.Resultados: De los 117 pacientes iniciales, 17 no completaron el estudio debido a efectos adversos (náuseas, vómitos), decisión clínica y pérdida de seguimiento.A los 12 meses (semana 53) del inicio de la semaglutida se obtuvo un descenso de HbA1c de 0,74% (IC 95% 0,59-1,14, p<0,05), así como de 3,61kg de peso (IC 95% 2,30-4,92, p<0,05), y de 15,88 UI de insulina total (IC 95% 10,98-20,74, p<0,05) respecto a las cifras basales. En pacientes sin análogo del receptor de GLP-1 (arGLP-1) previo, el efecto en la disminución de HbA1c, el peso y la dosis total de insulina fue estadísticamente significativo; sin embargo, los pacientes pretratados con arGLP-1 solo tuvieron mejoría en la reducción de peso. No se observaron eventos adversos graves.Conclusiones: La adición de semaglutida subcutánea al tratamiento previo con insulina con o sin antidiabéticos orales induce una disminución de HbA1c, peso y dosis de insulina de forma segura. Este efecto es mayor en pacientes naïve para tratamiento con arGLP-1. (AU)

Objectives: This work aims to determine the real-life anthropometric and analytical benefits of adding subcutaneous semaglutide to previous insulin treatment in patients with type 2 diabetes.Methods: This is a descriptive, retrospective, open-label study describing the clinical and anthropometric characteristics of 117 patients diagnosed with type 2 diabetes followed-up on in the Endocrinology and Nutrition outpatient clinic of the Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias for 53 weeks after starting treatment with subcutaneous semaglutide (October-December 2019). All patients were on previous insulin treatment with or without oral antidiabetics.Results: Of the 117 initial patients, 17 did not complete the study due to adverse effects (nausea, vomiting), the physician's decision, or loss to follow-up.Twelve months (week 53) after starting semaglutide, there was a decrease in HbA1c of 0.74% (95% CI 0.59-1.14, p<0.05) as well as 3.61kg of weight loss (95% CI 2.30-4.92, p<0.05) and a decline in total insulin of 15.88 IU (95% CI 10.98-20.74, p<0.05) from baseline figures. In patients without prior GLP-1 receptor analogs (GLP-1ra), the effect in terms of a reduction in HbA1c, weight, and the total insulin dose was statistically significant. However, in patients pre-treated with GLP-1ra only had improvements in terms of weight loss. No serious adverse events were observed.Conclusions: The addition of subcutaneous semaglutide to prior insulin treatment with or without oral antidiabetics safely led to a decrease in HbA1c, weight, and the insulin dose. This effect is greater in GLP-1ra naive patients. (AU)

Valoración de la cultura de seguridad del paciente en la UCI de un hospital de segundo nivel al finalizar la tercera oleada de COVID-19 / Assessment of the patient safety culture in the ICU of a second level hospital at the end of the third COVID-19 wave

Introducción: El ambiente sanitario actual y, especialmente, las UCI, sen un medio complejo, altamente tecnificado y multidisciplinar, con interacciones entre los profesionales sanitarios y los usuarios, en los que puede haber errores a distinto nivel. Nuestro objetivo fue valorar la percepción de seguridad del paciente en nuestra unidad al terminar la tercera ola de la pandemia de COVID-19, con la intención de llevar a cabo acciones de mejora posteriores. Métodos: Estudio observacional, transversal y descriptivo. La percepción sobre la cultura de seguridad se estimó mediante el cuestionario HSOPS traducido al castellano. Algunas preguntas se plantearon en sentido positivo y otras en sentido negativo. También se calificó la respuesta como positiva, negativa o neutra. Se compararon visualmente, no de forma matemática, nuestros hallazgos con los encontrados en el estudio nacional previo «Análisis de la cultura sobre seguridad del paciente en el ámbito hospitalario del Sistema Nacional de Salud español» publicado en 2009. Se realizó un análisis de subgrupos en función del grupo profesional y de la antigüedad como sanitario. Se emplearon las pruebas t de Student, χ? y ANOVA. Resultados: Respondieron al cuestionario 62 profesionales, el 73,90% del total. La mediana del tiempo de trabajo en UCI fue 2 años (rango intercuartil 2-4,5 años). La calificación del grado de seguridad fue 8,06 (DE 1,16). La mayoría (91,20%) no había notificado ningún evento adverso en el último año. Un 30,90% había recibido formación en seguridad de paciente recientemente. Las dimensiones consideradas como debilidad fueron la 9 («Dotación del personal», con 27,57% de respuestas positivas) y la 10 («Apoyo de la gerencia del hospital en la seguridad», con 17,64% de respuestas positivas).(AU)

Introduction: Current healthcare settings and ICUs especially are complex, highly technical, and multidisciplinary, with interactions between healthcare professionals and users, in which there may be errors at different levels. Our objective was to assess the perception of patient safety in our unit at the end of the third wave of the COVID pandemic, with the intention of conducting subsequent improvement actions. Methods: Observational, cross-sectional, and descriptive study. The perception of Safety Culture was estimated using the HSOPS questionnaire translated into Spanish. Some questions were posed in a positive sense, and others in a negative sense. The response was also rated as positive, negative, or neutral. Our findings were compared visually, not mathematically, with those found in the previous national study «Analysis of the culture on patient safety in the hospital setting of the Spanish National Health System» published in 2009. A subgroup analysis was performed according to professional group and seniority as a health worker. The Student's t, χ? and ANOVA tests were used. Results: Sixty-two professionals responded to the questionnaire, 73.90% of the total. The median time working in ICU 2 years (interquartile range 2-4.5 years). The rating for the degree of safety was 8.06 (SD 1.16). The majority (91.20%) had not reported any adverse event in the last year. A total of 30.90% had recently received patient safety training. The dimensions considered as weaknesses were 9 («Staffing», with 27.57% of positive responses) and 10 (“Support of the hospital management in safety”, with 17.64% of positive responses). The dimensions considered as strengths were 3 («Expectation of actions by management / supervision of the service») with 85.29% of positive responses, and 5 («Teamwork») with 95.58% of positive responses.(AU)

Endarterectomy, Stenting, or Medical Treatment for Symptomatic Carotid Near-Occlusion: Results from CAOS, a Multicenter Registry Study.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: The treatment of symptomatic carotid near-occlusion is controversial. Our aim was to analyze the results of carotid endarterectomy and carotid artery stent placement in patients with symptomatic carotid near-occlusion and to identify factors related to technical failure, periprocedural complications, and restenosis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We conducted a multicenter, prospective nonrandomized study. Patients with angiography-confirmed carotid near-occlusion were included. We assessed the revascularization rate and periprocedural stroke or death. Twenty-four-month clinical and carotid imaging follow-up was performed, and rates of carotid restenosis or occlusion, ipsilateral stroke, and mortality were analyzed. Carotid artery stent placement, carotid endarterectomy, and medical treatment were compared. RESULTS: One hundred forty-one patients were included. Forty-four carotid artery stent placement and 23 carotid endarterectomy procedures were performed within 6 months after the event. Complete revascularization was achieved in 83.6%, 81.8% in the carotid artery stent placement group and 87% with carotid endarterectomy (P = .360). Periprocedural stroke or death occurred in 6% (carotid artery stent placement = 2.3%; carotid endarterectomy = 13%; P = .077) and was not related to revascularization failure. The carotid restenosis or occlusion rate was 8.3% (5% restenosis, 3.3% occlusion); with carotid artery stent placement it was 10.5%; and with carotid endarterectomy it was 4.5% (P = .419). The 24-month cumulative rate of ipsilateral stroke was 4.8% in the carotid artery stent placement group, 17.4% for carotid endarterectomy, and 13.1% for medical treatment (P = .223). Mortality was 12%, 4.5%, and 5.6%, respectively (P = .422). Revascularization failure and restenosis occurred more frequently in patients with full collapse compared with patients without full collapse (33.3% versus 5.6%, P = .009; 21.4% versus 2.9%, P = .032, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Carotid artery stent placement and carotid endarterectomy are associated with high rates of failure and periprocedural stroke. Carotid near-occlusion with full collapse appears to be associated with an increased risk of technical failure and restenosis. Carotid near-occlusion revascularization does not seem to reduce the risk of stroke at follow-up compared with medical treatment.