High-Dimensional Feature Selection for Automatic Classification of Coronary Stenosis Using an Evolutionary Algorithm.

In this paper, a novel strategy to perform high-dimensional feature selection using an evolutionary algorithm for the automatic classification of coronary stenosis is introduced. The method involves a feature extraction stage to form a bank of 473 features considering different types such as intensity, texture and shape. The feature selection task is carried out on a high-dimensional feature bank, where the search space is denoted by O(2n) and n=473. The proposed evolutionary search strategy was compared in terms of the Jaccard coefficient and accuracy classification with different state-of-the-art methods. The highest feature selection rate, along with the best classification performance, was obtained with a subset of four features, representing a 99% discrimination rate. In the last stage, the feature subset was used as input to train a support vector machine using an independent testing set. The classification of coronary stenosis cases involves a binary classification type by considering positive and negative classes. The highest classification performance was obtained with the four-feature subset in terms of accuracy (0.86) and Jaccard coefficient (0.75) metrics. In addition, a second dataset containing 2788 instances was formed from a public image database, obtaining an accuracy of 0.89 and a Jaccard Coefficient of 0.80. Finally, based on the performance achieved with the four-feature subset, they can be suitable for use in a clinical decision support system.

[Mortality associated with myocardial damage by troponin I in patients with COVID 19]. / Mortalidad asociada a daño miocárdico mediante troponina I en pacientes con COVID-19.

Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) can cause cardiac injury, probably associated with myocarditis and ischemia induced by the infection. Myocardial damage leads to the liberation of proinflammatory cytokines and to the activation of autoimmune adaptive mechanisms through molecular limitation. Objective: To assess mortality associated with myocardial damage in hospitalized patients with COVID-19 confirmed by troponin I measurement. Material and methods: Case-control study nested in a cohort of patients of a third-level hospital. Descriptive statistics were used to characterize the population. Qualitative variables were expressed as proportions and ranges, quantitative variables as means and standard deviation. Fisher's exact test was used to compare mortality between patients with and without myocardial damage. A p value < 0.05 was considered significant. Results: From June 2020 to August 2020, 28 patients who met the selection criteria were enrolled, out of which 15 had no myocardial damage and 13 had myocardial damage assessed by serum troponin measurement. A strong association was found between mortality and the presence of myocardial damage, since mortality was 20% (3/15) among patients without myocardial damage and 92.3% (12/13) among those with myocardial damage (Fisher's exact test, p < 0.005). Conclusion: Mortality in patients with COVID-19 is associated with myocardial damage assessed by troponin I measurement.

Introducción: la enfermedad por coronavirus del 2019 (COVID-19) puede causar lesión cardiaca, probablemente asociada con miocarditis e isquemias inducidas por la infección. El daño miocárdico conduce a la liberación de citocinas proinflamatorias y a la activación de mecanismos adaptativos de tipo autoinmune por medio de la limitación molecular. Objetivo: evaluar la mortalidad asociada a daño miocárdico en pacientes hospitalizados con COVID-19 confirmado mediante la medición de troponina I. Material y métodos: estudio de casos y controles anidado en una cohorte de los pacientes de un hospital de tercer nivel. Se utilizó estadística descriptiva para caracterizar a la población. Las variables cualitativas se expresaron como proporciones y rangos, las cuantitativas como medias y desviación estándar. Para comparar la mortalidad entre pacientes con y sin daño miocárdico se utilizó la prueba exacta de Fisher. Valores de p < 0.05 fueron significativos. Resultados: de junio del 2020 a agosto del 2020 se enrolaron 28 pacientes que cumplieron los criterios de selección, de los cuales 15 no tuvieron daño miocárdico y 13 tuvieron daño miocárdico evaluado con la medición de troponina sérica. Se encontró fuerte asociación entre la mortalidad y la presencia de daño miocárdico, ya que se registró mortalidad del 20% (3/15) entre los pacientes sin daño miocárdico y de 92.3% (12/13) entre los que tuvieron daño miocárdico (prueba exacta de Fisher: p < 0.005). Conclusiones: la mortalidad en pacientes con COVID-19 se asocia a daño miocárdico evaluado a través de la medición de troponina I.

Decreased HDL-C Levels as a Predictor of Organ Failure in Acute Pancreatitis in the Emergency Department.

High-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) is reported as a biomarker of systemic inflammation and multi-organ failure (MOF), which has been rarely investigated in acute pancreatitis (AP), a frequent condition in the emergency department (ED). The objective was to study the predictive capacity of the decrease in HDL-C to the progression of MOF in AP in the ED; analyzing 114 patients with AP for one year in a longitudinal and prospective study, AP severity was obtained by the Atlanta classification, in relation to modified Marshall and Bedside Index for Severity in Acute Pancreatitis (BISAP) scores, and clinical and laboratory parameters in a 48 h hospital stay. The area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to estimate the validity of the predictor and define optimal cut-off points. It was found that AP was classified as severe in 24.5%, mainly for biliary etiology (78.9%) and female sex (73.6%). As a biomarker, HDL-C decreased from 31.6 to 29.5 mg/dL in a 48 h stay (p < 0.001), correlating negatively with the increase in severity index > 2 and the modified Marshall (p < 0.032) and BISAP (p < 0.009) scores, finding an area under the ROC curve with a predictive capacity of 0.756 (95% CI, 0.614-0.898; p < 0.004) and a cut-off point of 28.5 mg/dL (sensitivity: 79%, specificity: 78%), demonstrating that the decrease in HDL-C levels serves as a useful indicator with a predictive capacity for MOF in mild to severe AP, during a 48 h hospital stay in the ED.

[Ultrasound-guided insertion and the proportion of catheter-associated thrombosis]. / Inserción con técnica ecoguiada y la proporción de trombosis asociada a catéter.

Background: Central venous accesses are of great importance in daily medical practice. Insertion into the jugular vein is common due to its accessibility. Catheter-associated venous thrombosis is a relatively common medium-term complication. The use of ultrasound to guide catheterization offers multiple advantages and promises to make vascular access installation a safer technique. Objective: To compare the proportion of catheter-associated jugular thrombosis when an anatomical landmark technique is used with respect to the ultrasound-guided technique. Material and methods: An observational, cross-sectional, and analytical study that compares the frequency of thrombosis when the ultrasound-guided technique was used concerning anatomical reference technique in patients in an intensive care unit. Results: A total of 91 patients were studied: in 44 an ultrasound-guided technique was used, and in 47 anatomical references. A single case of mural thrombosis (2.7%) was observed in the ultrasound-guided insertion group vs. 11 cases (23.4%) in the other group, resulting in a significant association between the anatomical reference insertion technique and thrombosis. Chi squared (1, n = 91) = 8.86, p = 0.004. Conclusion: The proportion of catheter-associated jugular thrombosis is greater when an anatomical reference technique is used compared to the ultrasound-guided technique.

Introducción: los accesos venosos centrales tienen mucha importancia en la práctica médica diaria. La inserción en la vena yugular es habitual debido a su accesibilidad. La trombosis venosa asociada a catéter es una complicación relativamente común y de mediano plazo. El empleo de la ecografía para guiar la inserción y la evaluación posterior del vaso sanguíneo ofrece múltiples ventajas y promete hacer de la instalación de accesos vasculares una técnica más segura. Objetivo: comparar la proporción de trombosis yugular asociada a catéter cuando se emplea una técnica de referencias anatómicas con respecto a la técnica de guía ecográfica. Material y métodos: estudio observacional, transversal y analítico que compara la frecuencia de trombosis yugular según la técnica de inserción utilizada en pacientes de una unidad de cuidados intensivos. Resultados: se estudiaron un total de 91 pacientes: en 44 se utilizó una técnica de guía ecográfica y en 47 se empleó referencia anatómica. Se observó un solo caso de trombosis mural (2.7 %) en el grupo de inserción por guía ecográfica frente a 11 casos (23.4%) del grupo por referencias anatómicas, con lo cual se obtuvo como resultado una asociación significativa entre la técnica de inserción por referencia anatómica y trombosis. Chi cuadrada (1, n = 91) = 8.86, p = 0.004. Conclusión: la proporción de trombosis yugular asociada a catéter es mayor cuando se emplea una técnica de referencias anatómicas con respecto a la técnica de guía ecográfica.

[Results and complications of knee arthroplasty in patients with obesity]. / Resultados y complicaciones de la artroplastía de rodilla en pacientes con obesidad.

Introduction: In México, many patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA) are obese, which has medical and financial consequences. The functional outcomes and the incidence of complications of these patients remain uncertain due to the inconsistency between studies. Objective: To determine the association between obesity, complications and functional results of patients undergoing TKA. Material and methods: Descriptive, cross-sectional, prospective, observational, cohort study in which patients who underwent TKA between September 1, 2021, and August 30, 2022, were studied. Patients were divided by their body mass index (BMI) in < 30kg/m2 and > 30kg/m2 and their demographic characteristics, Oxford Knee Score (OKS), and incidence of complications were compared. Results: Out of the 102 patients, 59 presented a BMI < 30 kg/m2 and 43 a BMI > 30 kg/m2. No difference was found in their postoperative OKS (p = 0.12) and delta OKS (p = 0.07). A significant increase in trans-surgical (p = 0.02) and post-surgical (p = 0.04) complications was found in the group with BMI > 30 kg/m2, presenting a risk 5.03 times higher. Conclusion: A BMI > 30kg/m2 does not affect the functional results after a TKA; however, it is associated with a risk 5.03 times higher of suffering complications during and after surgical intervention.

Introducción: en México un gran número de pacientes sometidos a artroplastía total de rodilla (ATR) padecen obesidad, situación que genera grandes implicaciones médicas y financieras. Los resultados funcionales y la incidencia de complicaciones de estos pacientes permanecen inciertos debido a la gran incongruencia entre los diferentes estudios. Objetivos: determinar la asociación entre obesidad, complicaciones y resultados funcionales de los pacientes sometidos a una ATR. Material y métodos: estudio descriptivo, transversal, prospectivo, observacional, de cohorte en el que se estudiaron los pacientes a los que se les realizó una ATR primaria entre el 1 de septiembre de 2021 y el 30 de agosto de 2022. Se dividió a los pacientes con base en su índice de masa corporal (IMC) en < 30kg/m2 y > 30 kg/m2 y se compararon según sus características demográficas, el Oxford Knee Score (OKS) y la incidencia de complicaciones. Resultados: de los 102 pacientes, 59 presentaron un IMC < 30 kg/m2 y 43 un IMC>30kg/m2. No se encontró diferencia significativa en el OKS postquirúrgico (p = 0.12) y el OKS delta (p = 0.07); sin embargo, sí se encontró un aumento significativo en las complicaciones transquirúrgicas (p = 0.02) y postquirúrgicas (p = 0.04) en el grupo de IMC > 30 kg/m2, pues presentó un riesgo 5.03 veces mayor. Conclusión: un IMC > 30 kg/m2 no afecta los resultados funcionales posteriores a una ATR; sin embargo, sí se asocia con un riesgo 5.03 veces mayor de sufrir complicaciones durante y después de la intervención quirúrgica.

[Systolic blood pressure reduction in patients with intracranial hemorrhage and functional prognosis]. / Reducción de la presión arterial sistólica en pacientes con hemorragia intracraneal y pronóstico funcional.

Background: Acute intracerebral hemorrhage affects annually more than 1 million people worldwide. Chronic systemic arterial hypertension is the most important modifiable risk factor for spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage. Objective: To determine the relationship between the decrease in systolic blood pressure (SBP) in patients with intracranial hemorrhage and their short-term functional prognosis. Material and methods: Observational, longitudinal, prospective study in patients with intraparenchymal hemorrhage secondary to hypertensive dyscontrol, older than 18 years, of both sexes. Blood pressure was recorded at admission, every hour during the first 6 hours and every two hours from 8 to 24 hours after admission. Functionality was assessed using the modified Rankin scale at admission, at 6 and 24 hours after admission. Results: 58 patients were included, in whom the reduction of systolic blood pressure at admission was 17.04% and at 24 hours was 31.3 mm Hg; the mean systolic blood pressure was 183.62 mm Hg as opposed to 152.3 mm Hg at discharge (p < 0.001). Conclusions: In the first 6 hours, reduction in ASR is significantly associated with hospital outcome in patients with intracranial hemorrhage. A linear association was observed with improvement and favorable functional prognosis as measured by the modified Rankin scale.

Introducción: la hemorragia intracerebral aguda afecta anualmente a más de un millón de personas en todo el mundo. La hipertensión arterial sistémica crónica es el factor de riesgo modificable más importante para la hemorragia intracerebral espontánea. Objetivo: determinar la relación entre la disminución de la presión arterial sistólica (TAS) en pacientes con hemorragia intracraneal y su pronóstico funcional a corto plazo. Métodos: estudio observacional, longitudinal, prospectivo, en pacientes con hemorragia intraparenquimatosa secundaria a descontrol hipertensivo, mayores de 18 años, de ambos sexos. Se realizaron registros de presión arterial al ingreso, cada hora durante las primeras seis horas y cada dos horas desde las ocho a las 24 horas posterior al ingreso. Se evaluó funcionalidad mediante escala de Rankin modificada al ingreso, a las seis y a las 24 horas después del ingreso. Resultados: se incluyeron 58 pacientes, en quienes la reducción de la TAS al ingreso fue de 17.04% y a las 24 horas fue de 31.3 mm Hg de la presión arterial sistólica; la media de la TAS fue de 183.62 mm Hg a diferencia de la registrada al egreso, que fue de 152.3 mm Hg (p < 0.001). Conclusiones: en las primeras seis horas, la reducción de la TAS está significativamente asociada con el resultado hospitalario en pacientes con hemorragia intracraneal. Se observó una asociación lineal con la mejoría y un pronóstico funcional favorable, medido por la escala de Rankin modificada.

[Association of neutrophil, lymphocyte, platelet ratio with acute kidney injury in sepsis]. / Asociación de la relación neutrófilos, linfocitos y plaquetas con lesión renal aguda en sepsis.

Background: Acute kidney injury (AKI) is frequent in sepsis (25 to 51%), with high mortality (40 to 80%) and long-term complications. Despite its importance we do not have accessible markers in intensive care. In other entities (post-surgical and COVID-19) the neutrophil/lymphocyte and platelet (N/LP) ratio has been associated with acute kidney injury; however, this relationship has not been studied in a pathology with a severe inflammatory response such as sepsis. Objective: To demonstrate the association between N/LP with AKI secondary to sepsis in intensive care. Material and methods: Ambispective cohort study in patients over 18 years who were admitted to intensive care with a diagnosis of sepsis. The N/LP ratio was calculated from admission up to the seventh day and up to the diagnosis of AKI and outcome. Statistical analysis was performed with chi squared test, Cramer's V and multivariate logistic regression. Results: Out of the 239 patients studied, the incidence of AKI developed in 70%. 80.9% of patients with N/LP ratio > 3 had AKI (p < 0.0001, Cramer's V 0.458, OR 3.05, 95% CI 1.602-5.8) and increased renal replacement therapy (21.1 vs. 11.1%, p = 0.043). Conclusion: N/LP ratio > 3 has a moderate association with AKI secondary to sepsis in the intensive care unit.

Introducción: la lesión renal aguda (LRA) es frecuente en la sepsis (25 a 51%), tiene alta mortalidad (40 a 80%) y complicaciones a largo plazo. A pesar de su importancia, no contamos con marcadores accesibles en la terapia intensiva. En otras entidades (posquirúrgicos y COVID-19) la relación neutrófilos/linfocitos y plaquetas (N/LP) se ha asociado con lesión renal aguda; sin embargo, no se ha estudiado esta relación en una patología con una respuesta inflamatoria severa como la sepsis. Objetivo: demostrar la asociación entre la relación N/LP con la LRA secundaria a sepsis en la terapia intensiva. Material y métodos: estudio de cohorte ambispectiva en pacientes mayores de 18 años que ingresaron con diagnóstico de sepsis a la terapia intensiva. Se calculó la relación N/LP desde el ingreso hasta el séptimo día y hasta el diagnóstico de LRA y el desenlace. El análisis estadístico se realizó con chi cuadrada, V de Cramer y regresión logística multivariable. Resultados: de los 239 pacientes estudiados, la incidencia de LRA se desarrolló en el 70%. El 80.9% de los pacientes con relación N/LP > 3 tuvieron LRA (p = < 0.0001, V de Cramer 0.458, RM 3.05, IC al 95% 1.602-5.8) y mayor tratamiento sustitutivo renal (21.1 frente a 11.1%, p = 0.043). Conclusión: la relación N/LP > 3 tiene una asociación moderada con la LRA secundaria a sepsis en la unidad de terapia intensiva.

Depression symptoms and suicide risk of internal medicine residents before and after first year of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Introduction: Depression is a mental health disorder characterized by the presence of sadness or loss of the ability to feel pleasure, with a high incidence in patients with COVID 19. The investigations have focused on patient care and little on the care of health personnel, these being the ones with the highest mortality rate, so the objective of the study was to investigate the prevalence of depression symptoms and suicide risk and understand the association of depressive disorder and suicide risk with levels of serum cholesterol and low levels of serum cortisol among internal medicine fellows in a specialist medical hospital in Leon, Guanajuato, Mexico, before and after COVID-19. Methods: In this longitudinal study, internal medicine residents were initially monitored for 2months before starting to care for patients with COVID-19. Participants were asked to fill out depression symptoms and suicide risk surveys. We measured the serum cholesterol and cortisol of each participant, and again after 11months of treating COVID-19 patients. Results: Depression symptoms and suicide risk were assessed; significant differences were found between the two time periods for depression (p < 0.01), and no difference was found for suicide risk (p = 0.182). We found a significant correlation between serum cholesterol levels and suicide risk (r = 0.366, p < 0.01); we also found differences in serum cortisol levels (p < 0.01) and cholesterol (p < 0.0001) before and after the pandemic. Conclusion: Caring for patients with COVID-19 in the hospital contributed to an increase in levels of depression symptoms and suicidal ideation, as well as differences in levels of cortisol and cholesterol in resident physicians of internal medicine; among the possible reasons for this change could be the conditions of personal protection while treating patients, the uncertainty in the first months of not knowing how the virus was transmitted and not having or knowing when vaccinations would be available, as well as the lack of a strategy of adequate mental health support from the institutions dedicated to their academic training.

[Subtle and subclinical neurological findings in patients with SARS-CoV-2]. / Hallazgos sutiles y subclínicos neurológicos en pacientes con SARS-CoV-2.

Background: There are severe neurological conditions in patients with COVID-19, such as: cerebrovascular disease, Guillain-Barré syndrome, encephalitis, acute hemorrhagic necrotizing encephalopathy and myelitis. Objective: We describe that the patient with SARS-CoV 2 with respiratory symptoms has subtle or subclinical neurological manifestations. Material and methods: Observational, cross-sectional, analytical study, which included patients aged 18-65 years with respiratory symptoms and a confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19. Intubated patients with chronic neurodegenerative diseases or pre-existing neurological compromise were excluded. Semiology of the headache and neurological examination were performed; Serum levels of glucose, protein, electrolytes, lactate, C-reactive protein, lactic dehydrogenase, and D-dimer were measured. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis and electroencephalogram (EEG) were also performed in patients who accepted the risks. Results: A high prevalence of subtle neurological manifestations was found in patients with COVID-19 with only a respiratory clinical picture. Headache, anosmia, dysgeusia, and hypopalesthesia predominated in the early stages, with frequent abnormal findings in the CSF (>70%) and less frequently in the EEG (<20%). Conclusions: Headache, anosmia, dysgeusia and hypoesthesia were frequent at the beginning of the infection, together with abnormal findings in CSF and EEG, without other neurological symptoms or neurological disease.

Introducción: existen condiciones neurológicas severas en pacientes con COVID-19, como: enfermedad cerebrovascular, síndrome de Guillain-Barré, encefalitis, encefalopatía necrotizante hemorrágica aguda y mielitis. Objetivo: describimos que el paciente con SARS-CoV-2 con síntomas respiratorios tiene manifestaciones neurológicas sutiles o subclínicas. Material y métodos: estudio observacional, transversal, analítico, que incluyó pacientes de 18-65 años con síntomas respiratorios y diagnóstico de COVID-19 confirmado. Se excluyeron pacientes intubados, con enfermedades neurodegenerativas crónicas o compromiso neurológico preexistente. Se realizó semiología de la cefalea y exploración neurológica; Se midieron los niveles séricos de glucosa, proteínas, electrolitos, lactato, proteína C reactiva, deshidrogenasa láctica y dímero D. También se realizaron análisis de líquido cefalorraquídeo (LCR) y un electroencefalograma (EEG) en los pacientes que aceptaron los riesgos. Resultados: se encontró alta prevalencia de manifestaciones neurológicas sutiles en pacientes con COVID-19 con solo cuadro clínico respiratorio. Cefalea, anosmia, disgeusia e hipopalestesia predominaron en las primeras etapas, con hallazgos anormales frecuentes en el LCR (>70%) y con menos frecuencia en el EEG (<20%). Conclusiones: la cefalea, anosmia, disgeusia e hipoestesia fueron frecuentes al inicio de la infección, junto con hallazgos anormales en LCR y EEG, sin otros síntomas neurológicos ni enfermedad neurológica.

[Relationship between the systolic-diastolic shock index and mortality in myocardial infarction]. / Relación del índice de choque sistólico-diastólico con mortalidad en el infarto miocárdico.

Background: In the emergency room, the shock index was applied to determine the prognosis in various pathologies, such as acute infarction. The shock index is the re-sult of dividing heart rate by the systolic blood pressure. Objective: To determine the relationship between the systolic shock index and the di-astolic shock index as prognostic factors for mortality in acute myocardial infarction with ST segment elevation prior to admission to the Hemodynamics Room. Material and methods: A prolective analytical cross-sectional study was carried out in patients who were admitted to the Hemodynamics Room for cardiac catheterization within a period of 5 months in 2022. The systolic shock index and diastolic shock index were included as independent variables and mortality was the dependent variable. SPSS, version 25, was used and Pearson's chi-square test was used as statistical test, with a p value < 0.05 being significant. Results: 162 patients were analyzed and showed a diastolic shock index > 1.2143 with a sensitivity of 62.5% and a specificity of 77.4% with a p < 0.05. Their systolic shock in-dex was > 0.8908 with a sensitivity of 45.8% and specificity of 91.2%, with a p < 0.05. Conclusion: It was determined that both shock indices are related as mortality prognos-tic factors in acute myocardial infarction with ST elevation prior to admission to the He-modynamic Room.

Introducción: en el Servicio de Urgencias, se implementó el índice de choque para determinar el pronóstico de forma rápida en diversas patologías, como en el infarto agudo al miocardio. El índice de choque es el resultado de dividir la frecuencia cardia-ca entre la presión arterial. Objetivo: determinar la relación entre el índice de choque sistólico y el índice de choque diastólico como factores pronósticos de mortalidad en el infarto agudo al mio-cardio con elevación del segmento ST previo al ingreso al Área de Hemodinamia. Material y métodos: estudio transversal analítico prolectivo en pacientes que ingresa-ron al Área de Hemodinamia para cateterismo cardiaco en un plazo de cinco meses en el 2022. Tuvo como variables independientes el índice de choque sistólico y el índice de choque diastólico y como variable dependiente la mortalidad. Se utilizó el paquete estadístico SPSS, versión 25, y como prueba estadística la prueba chi cuadrada de Pearson, con una p < 0.05 como estadísticamente significativa. Resultados: se analizaron 162 pacientes que tuvieron un índice de choque diastólico > 1.2143, con una sensibilidad de 62.5% y una especificidad de 77.4%, con una p < 0.05. Y presentaron un índice de choque sistólico > 0.8908, con una sensibilidad de 45.8% y una especificidad de 91.2%, con una p < 0.05. Conclusión: se determinó que ambos índices de choque tienen relación como factores pronósticos de mortalidad en el infarto agudo al miocardio con elevación del segmento ST antes de su ingreso al Área de Hemodinamia.

[Electrocardiographic interval as a predictor of life-threatening arrhythmias in dilated cardiomyopathy patients]. / Intervalo electrocardiográfico como predictor de arritmias graves en pacientes con miocardiopatía dilatada.

Background: The Tpe interval (Tp-e) in the surface electrocardiogram represents ventricular repolarization, a key phase in the pathogenesis of severe ventricular arrhythmias. However, there are few studies evaluating changes in this electrocardiographic interval as a risk factor for serious arrhythmias in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy. Objective: To determine whether the Tp-e interval prolongation predicts the presence of life-threatening arrhythmias in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) with implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD). Material and methods: Analytical, cross-sectional study in patients with DCM with ICDs. The Tp-e interval was measured in the V2 electrocardiographic lead and correlated with the incidence of life-threatening arrhythmias identified by the ICD. Results: 53 patients were recruited, 10 (18.8%) presented life-threatening arrhythmias. Prolongation of Tp-e interval was related to an increase in the incidence of ventricular tachycardia/fibrillation tachycardia (VT/FT) with a mean of 93 ± 20.5 ms (p = 0.003), using ROC curves to determine the thereshold of 90 ms for increased risk of VT/VF with sensitivity of 70% and specificity of 84%, with an area under the curve of 0.798. Conclusion: The prolongation of the ITp-e interval greater than 90 ms in a population with dilated cardiomyopathy predicts the presence of arrhythmic episodes, such as VT and/or VT/FT.

Introducción: el intervalo Tpe (ITp-e) en el electrocardiograma de superficie representa la repolarización ventricular, fase clave en la patogénesis de arritmias ventriculares graves. Sin embargo, existen pocos estudios que evalúen la alteración de este intervalo electrocardiográfico como factor de riesgo de arritmias graves en pacientes con miocardiopatía dilatada. Objetivo: determinar si la prolongación del ITp-e predice la presencia de arritmias potencialmente mortales en pacientes con miocardiopatía dilatada (MCD) portadores de desfibrilador automático implantable (DAI). Material y métodos: estudio, transversal analítico en pacientes con MCD portadores de DAI. Se midió el ITp-e en la derivación electrocardiográfica V2 y se correlacionó con la incidencia de arritmias potencialmente letales identificadas por el DAI. Resultados: se incluyeron 53 pacientes, 10 (18.8%) presentaron arritmias potencialmente mortales. La prolongación del ITp-e se relacionó con aumento de incidencia de taquicardia ventricular/fibrilación ventricular (TV/FV) con media de 93 ± 20.5 ms (p = 0.003), por lo que se determinó mediante curvas ROC el punto de corte de 90 ms para el aumento de riesgo de TV/FV con sensibilidad de 70% y especificidad de 84%, con área bajo la curva de 0.798. Conclusión: la prolongación del intervalo ITp-e > 90 ms en población con miocardiopatía dilatada predice la presencia de episodios arrítmicos como TV o FV.

[Atherogenic index and its association with acute coronary ischemic syndrome mortality]. / Índice aterogénico y su relación con la mortalidad del síndrome isquémico coronario agudo.

Background: Several indexes have been developed to define the risk attributable to lipid metabolism with a single value. The total cholesterol/high-density lipoprotein (TC/HDL-C) and low-density lipoprotein/high-density lipoprotein (LDL-C/HDL-C) ratios are the most used. The higher the value of these ratios, the greater the probability of cardiovascular events. Objective: To identify whether the TC/HDL-C and LDL-C/HDL-C ratios are early prognostic markers of mortality and major cardiovascular events in patients with ST-elevation acute coronary syndrome. Material and methods: 265 patients with ST-segment elevation acute coronary ischemic syndrome were included, divided into 4 groups according to the values of the atherogenic indices. Mortality and major cardiovascular events at 30-day follow-up were analyzed. Comparison of the groups was performed using the chi-squared test or ANOVA, depending on the case (p < 0.05). Results: The cut-off point for the TC/HDL-C index was 6.9 and for the LDL-C/HDL-C it was 2.7. The comparative analysis of groups showed that cardiovascular death and arrhythmia were higher in group 3 (p = 0.006 and p = 0.003, respectively). Conclusions: TC/HDL-C and LDL-C/HDL-C indexes can be used as prognostic markers of cardiovascular mortality in the first 30 days of follow-up.

Introducción: se han elaborado diferentes índices para definir el riesgo atribuible al metabolismo lipídico con un solo valor. Los coeficientes colesterol total/lipoproteínas de alta densidad (CT/C-HDL) y lipoproteínas de baja densidad/lipoproteínas de alta densidad (C-LDL/C-HDL) son los más utilizados. A mayor valor de estos cocientes, la probabilidad de eventos cardiovasculares es mayor. Objetivo: identificar si los índices CT/C-HDL y C-LDL/C-HDL son marcadores pronósticos tempranos de mortalidad y evento cardiovascular mayor en pacientes con síndrome isquémico coronario agudo con elevación del ST. Material y métodos: se incluyeron 265 pacientes con síndrome isquémico coronario agudo con elevación del segmento ST, divididos en 4 grupos según los valores de los índices aterogénicos. Se analizó la mortalidad y el evento cardiovascular mayor en los 30 días de seguimiento. Se identificó el punto de corte de cada índice mediante un análisis de curva ROC. La comparación de los grupos se hizo con chi cuadrada o ANOVA, según fuera el caso (p < 0.05). Resultados: el punto de corte para el índice CT/C-HDL fue de 6.9 y para el C-LDL/C-HDL de 2.7. El análisis comparativo de los grupos demostró que la muerte cardiovascular y arritmia fue mayor en el grupo 3 (p = 0.006 y p = 0.003, respectivamente). Conclusiones: los índices CT/C-HDL y C-LDL/C-HDL pueden ser utilizados como marcadores pronósticos de mortalidad cardiovascular en los primeros 30 días de seguimiento.

[Delta of neutrophil lymphocyte index and mortality in covid-19 disease]. / Delta del índice neutrófilo linfocito y mortalidad en infección COVID-19.

Background: Acute respiratory distress syndrome, due to SARS-CoV-2, is a worldwide health problem. The neutrophil-lymphocyte index allows risk stratification in patients with severe and poor prognostic data, since it reflects the inflammatory state. Objective: To determine whether the Neutrophil-Lymphocyte Index delta predicts mortality in patients with COVID-19. Material and methods: We conducted a longitudinal, comparative study in patients with COVID-19, older than 18 years, admitted to the ICU. We evaluated HAS, DM, obesity, COPD, asthma, PaO2/FiO2, tomographic severity. On admission and on days 3 and 7 we measured Neutrophil-Lymphocyte Index, SOFA and APACHE score. For statistical analysis, we performed ROC and Kaplan-Meyer curves. Results: We included 180 patients with COVID-19, 63 died (35%). Delta INL1(Day1-day3)>4.11 was associated with mortality (AUC:0.633); sensitivity 55.56% and specificity 77.78%, CI95 0.55-0.70, for delta INL2 (Day1-day7)>8.95 (AUC:0.623); sensitivity 44.44% and specificity 84.62%, CI95 0.54-0.69. Difference in survival was observed for Delta1. SOFA scale >6, was associated with more days of mechanical ventilation and lower PaO2/FiO2 (p<0.001). Conclusions: INL delta between the day of ICU admission and the 3rd day of evolution is a predictor of mortality in critically ill patients.

Introducción: El síndrome de dificultad respiratoria aguda, por SARS-CoV-2, es un problema mundial de salud. El índice neutrófilo-linfocito, permite estratificar el riesgo en pacientes con datos de severidad y mal pronóstico, ya que refleja el estado inflamatorio. Objetivo: Determinar si el delta del Índice Neutrófilo-Linfocito predice mortalidad en pacientes con COVID-19. Material y métodos: Se realizó un estudio longitudinal, comparativo en pacientes con COVID-19, mayores de 18 años, ingresados a UCI. Evaluamos HAS, DM, Obesidad, EPOC, asma, PaO2/FiO2, severidad tomográfica., A su ingreso y los días 3 y 7 medimos Índice Neutrófilo-Linfocito, puntaje SOFA y APACHE. En el análisis estadístico, realizamos curvas ROC y Kaplan-Meyer. Resultados: Incluimos 180 pacientes con COVID-19, 63 fallecieron (35%). Se asoció delta INL1(Día1-día3)>4.11 con mortalidad (AUC:0.633); sensibilidad 55.56% y especificidad 77.78%, IC95 0.55-0.70, para delta INL2 (Día1-día7)>8.95 (AUC:0.623); sensibilidad 44.44% y especificidad 84.62%, IC95 0.54-0.69. Se observó diferencia en la sobrevida para delta1. La escala SOFA >6, se asoció a más días de ventilación mecánica y PaO2/FiO2 menor (p<0.001). Conclusiones: El delta de INL entre el día de ingreso a UCI y el 3er día de evolución es predictor de mortalidad en pacientes críticamente enfermos.

[Aggressive multifocal extensive cutaneous epithelioid haemagioendothelioma. A case report]. / Hemangioendotelioma epitelioide cutáneo extenso multifocal agresivo. Informe de un caso.

Epithelioid haemangioendothelioma is a rare vascular tumor, first described in 1975 by Dail and Liebow as a bronchioloalveolar carcinoma. Although it usually behaves like a low-grade neoplasm, cases have been reported in which the tumor shows a high grade of malignancy, spreading rapidly throughout the body. We present the case of a 41-year-old man with dermatosis in the left thigh with rapid extension to the abdomen; the initial differential diagnoses were metastatic carcinoma versus lymphoma. When the histopathology was re-examined, a diagnosis of skin epithelioid hemangioendothelioma was confirmed and treatment with radiotherapy was initiated. This tumour rarely affects the skin; there are only a few previously reported cases.

Iron overload as cardiovascular risk factor in children and adolescents with renal disease.

BACKGROUND: Iron overload can affect cardiac structure and function by the production of free radicals in addition to iron deposits in heart muscle. The purpose of this study was to compare traditional and non-traditional cardiovascular risk factors (CVRF) in children and adolescents on renal replacement with and without iron overload. Also, we evaluated the relationships between iron overload and left ventricular mass (LVM). METHODS: First, in a cross-sectional study, we evaluated traditional and non-traditional CVRF in 143 children and adolescents, 48 on peritoneal dialysis (PD), 53 on hemodialysis (HD) and 42 after renal transplantation according to iron overload. In a second phase with a case-control study, we measured LVM in 12 case patients and 12 matched controls. RESULTS: Iron overload was identified in 15 patients (10.5%), 11 in HD and 4 in PD (P = 0.002). The group with iron overload had lower body mass index (17 versus 19; P = 0.01), total cholesterol (132 versus 165 mg/dL; P = 0.03) and hemoglobin (8.5 versus 10.6 g/dL; P = 0.003) but higher interleukin (IL)-6 levels (4.8 versus 3.6 ng/L; P = 0.04) and hypertension diagnosis (79 versus 48%; P < 0.001) than those without iron overload. Ferritin showed a positive correlation with C-reactive protein (CRP) and IL-6 levels. In a subgroup of 24 patients (12 with and 12 without iron overload), LVM was not different. However, ferritin levels showed a borderline positive correlation (r = 0.44, P = 0.05) with LVM. CONCLUSION: Children and adolescents with iron overload show more CVRFs, especially if they received replacement therapy with HD. Ferritin is related to CRP and IL-6 levels.

[Determination of glucose levels by means of spectroscopy as a non-invasive method]. / Determinación niveles de glucosa por medio de espectroscopía como método no invasivo.

Background: Diabetes mellitus is one of the most serious public health problems in Mexico. The most worrying factor is the lack of control of it, which has a direct impact, causing severe damage to the health and quality of life of the patient and its family, as well as an economic burden to the health system. The development of a non-invasive method for measuring blood glucose would provide to patients a simple and painless way of monitoring and consequently better control of diabetes. Objective: To investigate, develop and validate a non-invasive sensor by means of spectroscopy for the estimation of the blood glucose level. Material and methods: An analysis of a cross-sectional analytical correlation study was carried out in the facilities of the laboratory at the UMAE No. 1, Bajío. Voluntary adult patients who attended the laboratory of the UMAE to take serum glucose levels were included, and simultaneously the measurement was carried out through a non-invasive method by spectroscopy and, later, both results were compared to demonstrate the validity of the device. Results: By the Bland-Altman mean difference analysis, it was identified that only one patient had an extreme value, and that the method to measure glucose non-invasively overestimates up to 10.2% of the central glucose value. Conclusions: Comparing these results with the standards for digital glucometers, it is concluded that our device is capable of providing accurate glucose levels.

Introducción: la diabetes mellitus es uno de los problemas más graves de salud pública que enfrenta México. El factor más preocupante es la falta de control de la misma, lo que incide de manera directa, causando daños severos a la salud y la calidad de vida del paciente y familiares, así como una carga económica al país. El desarrollo de un método no invasivo para la medición de la glucemia proporcionaría a los pacientes una forma sencilla e indolora de monitoreo y, en consecuencia, un mejor control de la diabetes. Objetivo: investigar, desarrollar y validar un sensor no invasivo por medio de la espectroscopía para la estimación del nivel de glucosa en sangre. Material y métodos: se realizó un análisis de estudio transversal analítico de correlación realizado en las instalaciones del laboratorio de la UMAE No 1, Bajío. Se incluyeron pacientes adultos voluntarios que acudieron al laboratorio de dicha unidad para la toma de niveles de glucosa sérica y de manera simultánea se realizó la medición a través de método no invasivo por espectroscopía y, posteriormente, se compararon ambos resultados para demostrar la validez del dispositivo. Resultados: mediante el análisis de la diferencia de medias de Bland-Altman, se identificó que solamente un paciente tuvo un valor extremo, y que el método para medir la glucosa de manera no invasiva sobreestima hasta un 10.2% del valor de glucosa central. Conclusión: comparando dichos resultados con las normas para glucómetros digitales se concluye que nuestro dispositivo es capaz de proporcionar niveles de glucosa certeros.

Psychological Distress and Signs of Post-Traumatic Stress in Response to the COVID-19 Health Emergency in a Mexican Sample.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the psychological impacts of COVID-19 prevention measures, such as social isolation, on a Mexican sample. METHODS: We conducted an online sociodemographic and Impact of Event Scale-Revised (IES-R) survey during the second phase of the COVID-19 outbreak in Mexico to evaluate the presence of psychological distress, signs of post-traumatic stress, and to identify the groups at highest risk in the sample. RESULTS: Prevalence of psychological distress at moderate or severe levels in the sample were as follows: 943 (22%) intrusive thoughts, 933 (22.3%) avoidance, and 515 (12.2%) hyperarousal. Furthermore, we found the symptoms of clinically significant post-traumatic stress in 1160 (27.7%) of the participants. The variables positively correlated with higher psychological distress were as follows: age (younger), sex (female), employment (employed), relationship status (single), in social isolation, number of days in isolation, the number of people in the household (3-5), and a perception of a high risk of contracting COVID-19, change in routine, engaging in less activity, and loss of income. CONCLUSION: During phase 2 of the COVID-19 outbreak in Mexico, we observed the presence of psychological distress and post-traumatic stress symptoms in over a quarter of the population. This investigation may guide mental health interventions and policies towards the groups that are most vulnerable to the impacts of the social and lifestyle changes taking place in Mexico due to COVID-19.

[Holt-Oram syndrome and portal extrahepatic hypertension. A case report]. / Síndrome de Holt-Oram asociado con hipertensión portal.

BACKGROUND: The Holt-Oram syndrome (HOS) is characterized by skeletal abnormalities, frequently accompanied by congenital cardiac defects. It was first described by Holt and Oram in 1960. It has a prevalence of 0.95/10,000 live newborns. The syndrome shows a dominant autosomic heritance with high penetrance. A mutation in the transcription gene factor TBX5 has been identified. This factor has been shown to be important in the heart and upper extremities development. CLINICAL CASE: A 17 year-old boy with muscle-skeletal abnormalities in forearms and hands, with implantation defects of thumbs and narrow shoulders as well as wide atrial septal defect type osteum secundum. He also showed portal cavernomatosus degeneration which conditioned portal extrahepatic hypertension and esophageal varicose veins. The diagnosis was established by clinical, radiological and auxiliary studies. His parents were also studied, and they did not show abnormalities. CONCLUSIONS: Two previous cases have been reported in the Mexican medical literature, both due to de novo genetic mutation. However, none has been associated with portal cavernomatosus degeneration and portal hypertension.

[Coronary artery disease in Mexican women]. / Cardiopatía isquémica en mujeres mexicanas.

OBJECTIVE: To identify differences between both genders regarding coronary artery disease occurrence. PATIENTS AND METHODS: In referred patients for cardiac catheterization we investigated coronary risk factors, clinical diagnosis, associated diseases, left ventricle ejection fraction, and coronary lesions. Data were analyzed by X2 test, Student t test, odds ratio and confidence intervals, a p value < 0.05 was considered significant. RESULTS: We studied 586 patients, 409 were men. Women were older than men (59.43 +/- 9.93 vs 56.80 +/- 10.14 years old, p < 0.05). The frequency of coronary lesions in women was 56 vs 81% in men. The proportions of positive nuclear medicine studies (14 vs 16%) and exercise treadmill test (36 vs 28%) were similar. Acute myocardial infarction was the most frequent diagnosis in men (46%) whereas in women it was angor pectoris (57%). Smoking was observed more in men (72 vs 26%) and systemic arterial hypertension in women (65 vs 48%), There were no differences in diabetes mellitus and dyslipidemia frequencies. CONCLUSION: Systemic arterial hypertension was the risk factor more frequent in women, where as in men it was smoking. Ischemia induction tests are less specific to identify coronary atherosclerosis in women. In spite of the clinical data, image and laboratory results, we had a great proportion of women without coronary lesions.

Relación neutrófilos, linfocitos y plaquetas como predictor de lesión renal aguda en sepsis por COVID-19 en la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos / Neutrophiles, lymphocytes and platelets ratio as a predictor of acute kidney injury in sepsis by COVID-19 in the Intensive Care Unit / Relação de neutrófilos, linfócitos e plaquetas como preditor de lesão renal aguda na sepse por COVID-19 na Unidade de Terapia Intensiva

Resumen: Introducción: La lesión renal aguda se encuentra en 40% de los pacientes que presentan sepsis (S-LRA), ya que la inflamación es una de las causas fisiopatológicas de la lesión renal aguda. Durante la pandemia, la principal causa de sepsis en la unidad de cuidados intensivos (UCI) fue secundaria a enfermedad por coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19), en ésta se ha reportado incidencia de lesión renal de 36 a 75%. La fisiopatología de esta complicación aún no se conoce, pero se han demostrado mecanismos similares a la lesión renal séptica típica. La relación neutrófilos, linfocitos y plaquetas (RNLP) previamente se ha asociado con la presencia de lesión renal aguda en otros ámbitos (cirugía cardiaca y cirugía abdominal mayor), y en pacientes con sepsis secundaria a COVID-19 puede ser un marcador que identifique a los pacientes con riesgo de presentar esta complicación. Objetivo: Determinar si la relación neutrófilos, linfocitos y plaquetas es un predictor de lesión renal aguda en sepsis secundaria a COVID-19 en la UCI adultos. Material y métodos: Estudio de cohorte prospectiva, unicéntrico. En pacientes mayores de 18 años que ingresen a la UCI con diagnóstico de sepsis por COVID-19 se realizará el cálculo de la RNLP desde el día uno hasta el día siete. Se dividen en dos grupos: RNLP mayor de tres puntos y RNLP igual o menor de tres puntos, observando presencia o no de lesión renal aguda durante su estancia, y posterior al desenlace. Para el objetivo principal se hace prueba χ2, y se realiza prueba de regresión logística multivariable para valorar la asociación de las diferentes variables con el desenlace (OR IC95%). Resultados: Se estudió una población de 119 pacientes, se obtuvo una incidencia de lesión renal aguda inducida por sepsis (S-LRA) de 53.8% (IC95% 44-62%) en pacientes con sepsis secundaria a COVID-19, siendo la mayoría KDIGO I (53.2%). El grupo de RNLP mayor de tres tuvo una incidencia de 68.4% de S-LRA en comparación con el grupo de RNLP igual o menor de tres con 28% (p = 0.001, OR 4.255 IC95% 1.782-10.16), los pacientes con RNLP mayor de tres tuvieron estancia más prolongada en la UCI (12 versus 10 días, p = 0.018), y más tiempo de ventilación mecánica (11 versus ocho días, p = 0.003). Conclusión: El incremento de la relación neutrófilos, linfocitos y plaquetas es un factor de riesgo y puede ser pronóstico para la presencia de lesión renal aguda en sepsis por COVID-19 en la UCI.

Abstract: Introduction: Acute kidney injury is found in 40% of patients with sepsis (S-AKI), since inflammation is one of the pathophysiological causes of acute kidney injury. During the pandemic, the main cause of sepsis in the ICU was secondary to COVID-19, in which an incidence of kidney injury of 36 to 75% has been reported. The pathophysiology of this complication is not yet known, but mechanisms similar to typical septic kidney injury have been demonstrated. The neutrophil, lymphocyte and platelet ratio (RNLP) has previously been associated with the presence of acute kidney injury in other settings (cardiac surgery and major abdominal surgery) and in patients with sepsis secondary to COVID-19 it may be a marker that identifies the patients at risk of presenting this complication. Objective: To determine if the ratio of neutrophils, lymphocytes and platelets is a predictor of acute kidney injury in sepsis secondary to COVID-19 in the adult ICU. Material and methods: Prospective, single-center cohort study. In patients over 18 years of age who are admitted to the ICU with a diagnosis of sepsis due to COVID-19, the RNLP will be calculated from day 1 to day 7, it is divided into 2 groups: RNLP greater than 3 and RNLP equal or less than 3, observing the presence or not of acute kidney injury during their stay, and after the outcome, for the main objective a χ2 test is performed, and a multivariate logistic regression test is performed to assess the Association of the different variables with the outcome (OR with 95% CI). Results: A population of 119 patients was studied, there was an incidence of S-AKI of 53.8% (95% CI 44-62%) in patients with sepsis secondary to COIVD-19, the majority being KDIGO I (53.2%). In the RNLP group greater than 3 I had a 68.4% incidence of S-AKI compared to the RNLP group less than or equal to 3 with 28% (p = 0.001, OR 4.255 95% CI 1.72-10.16), the patients with RNLP greater than 3 had a longer stay in the ICU (12 vs 10 days, p = 0.018), and a longer time of mechanical ventilation (11 vs 8 days, p = 0.003). Conclusion: The increase in the neutrophil, lymphocyte and platelet ratio is a risk factor and can be a prognostic for the presence of acute kidney injury in sepsis due to COVID-19 in the ICU.

Resumo: Introdução: A lesão renal aguda é encontrada em 40% dos pacientes com sepse (S-LRA), uma vez que a inflamação é uma das causas fisiopatológicas da lesão renal aguda. Durante a pandemia, a principal causa de sepse na UTI foi secundária à COVID-19, na qual a incidência de lesão renal foi relatada de 36 a 75%. A fisiopatologia dessa complicação ainda não é conhecida, mas mecanismos semelhantes à lesão renal séptica típica foram demonstrados. A proporção de neutrófilos, linfócitos e plaquetas (RNLP) já foi associada à presença de lesão renal aguda em outros âmbitos (cirurgia cardíaca e cirurgia abdominal de grande porte) e em pacientes com sepse secundária à COVID-19 pode ser um marcador que identifica os pacientes em risco de apresentar esta complicação. Objetivo: Determinar se a proporção de neutrófilos, linfócitos e plaquetas é um preditor de lesão renal aguda na sepse secundária à COVID-19 na UTI adulto. Material e métodos: Estudo de coorte prospectivo, unicêntrico. Pacientes maiores de 18 anos admitidos na UTI com diagnóstico de sepse por COVID-19, o RNLP será calculado do dia 1 ao dia 7, dividido em 2 grupos: RNLP maior que 3 e RNLP igual ou inferior a 3, observando a presença ou não de lesão renal aguda durante sua internação, e posteriormente o desfecho, para o objetivo principal, é realizado um teste de χ2, e se realiza um teste de regressão logística multivariável para avaliar a associação das diferentes variáveis com o resultado (OR com 95% IC). Resultados: Estudou-se uma população de 119 pacientes, com incidência de S-LRA de 53.8% (IC 95% 44-62%) em pacientes com sepse secundária a COVID-19, sendo a maioria KDIGO I (53.2%). No grupo RNLP maior que 3, houve uma incidência de 68.4% de S-LRA comparado ao grupo RNLP menor ou igual a 3 com 28% (p = 0.001, OR 4.255, IC 95% 1.782-10.16), os pacientes com RNLP maior que 3 tiveram maior tempo de permanência na UTI (12 vs 10 dias, p = 0.018) e maior tempo em ventilação mecânica (11 vs 8 dias, p = 0.003). Conclusão: O aumento da proporção de neutrófilos, linfócitos e plaquetas é um fator de risco e pode ser prognóstico para a presença de lesão renal aguda na sepse por COVID-19 na UTI.