Application of Quantitative Assessment of Coronary Atherosclerosis by Coronary Computed Tomographic Angiography

Coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) has emerged as a pivotal tool for diagnosing and risk-stratifying patients with suspected coronary artery disease (CAD). Recent advancements in image analysis and artificial intelligence (AI) techniques have enabled the comprehensive quantitative analysis of coronary atherosclerosis. Fully quantitative assessments of coronary stenosis and lumen attenuation have improved the accuracy of assessing stenosis severity and predicting hemodynamically significant lesions. In addition to stenosis evaluation, quantitative plaque analysis plays a crucial role in predicting and monitoring CAD progression. Studies have demonstrated that the quantitative assessment of plaque subtypes based on CT attenuation provides a nuanced understanding of plaque characteristics and their association with cardiovascular events.Quantitative analysis of serial CCTA scans offers a unique perspective on the impact of medical therapies on plaque modification. However, challenges such as time-intensive analyses and variability in software platforms still need to be addressed for broader clinical implementation. The paradigm of CCTA has shifted towards comprehensive quantitative plaque analysis facilitated by technological advancements. As these methods continue to evolve, their integration into routine clinical practice has the potential to enhance risk assessment and guide individualized patient management. This article reviews the evolving landscape of quantitative plaque analysis in CCTA and explores its applications and limitations.

Compliance with spectacle wear among learners with hearing impairment in Ghana

Background: Hearing-impaired learners with refractive problems require correction because poor vision hinders their development and educational pursuits. Objectives: To determine the level of compliance with spectacle wear in learners with hearing impairment in Ghana. Method: A descriptive cross-sectional study design was used to investigate the level of compliance with spectacle wear in hearing-impaired learners with uncorrected refractive errors (URE). The participants were from six schools for the hearing impaired, comprising three schools from each sector (Northern and Southern) of Ghana. Results: Of the 1914 learners screened, 69 (3.61% CI: 2.82­4.54%) had URE. Sixty-two (89.9%) learners with URE had myopia (-0.50 Dioptre Sphere (DS) to -2.00DS), and 7 (10.1%) had hyperopia (+2.00DS to +10.00DS). There were more females (53.6%) with URE than males, and their ages ranged from 8 to 35 years, with a mean of 17.35 ± 5.19 years. Many (56.5%) learners complied with spectacle wear after 3 months of reassessment, with females being more compliant than males, but the difference was not significant (p = 0.544). Learners who complied well with the spectacle wear were those with moderate visual impairment (VI), followed by mild VI, while those with no VI were the least compliant. A significant difference was observed between spectacle compliance and presenting VI (p = 0.023). Conclusion: The spectacle wear compliance level was high compared to a previous study (33.7%) in Ghana. Contribution: This study highlights the importance of addressing URE among learners with hearing impairment in Ghana and Africa.

One-year survival in recipients older than 50 bridged to heart transplant with Impella 5.5 via axillary approach / 老年心脏病学杂志（英文版）

BACKGROUND@#Optimizing patients with advanced heart failure before orthotopic heart transplantation (OHT), especially in patients greater than 50 years old, is imperative to achieving successful post-transplant outcomes. Complications are well-described for patients bridged to transplant (BTT) with durable left ventricular assist device (LVAD) support. Given the lack of data available in older recipients after the recent increase in mechanical support use, we felt it crucial to report our center's one-year outcomes in older recipients after heart transplantation with percutaneously placed Impella 5.5 as a BTT.@*METHODS@#Forty-nine OHT patients were supported with the Impella 5.5 intended as a bridge between December 2019 and October 2022 at Mayo Clinic in Florida. Data were extracted from the electronic health record at baseline and during their transplant episode of care after Institutional Review Boards approval as exempt for retrospective data collection.@*RESULTS@#Thirty-eight patients aged 50 or older were supported with Impella 5.5 as BTT. Ten patients underwent heart and kidney transplantation within this cohort. The median age at OHT was 63 (58-68) years, with 32 male (84%) and six female patients (16%). Etiology was divided into ischemic (63%) and non-ischemic cardiomyopathy (37%). The baseline median ejection fraction was 19% (15-24). Most patients were in blood group O (60%), and 50% were diabetic. The average duration of support was 27 days (range 6-94). The median duration of follow-up is 488 days (185-693). For patients that have reached the 1-year follow-up timeframe (22 of 38, 58%), the 1-year post-transplant survival is 95%.@*CONCLUSION@#Our single-center data provides awareness for using the Impella 5.5 percutaneously placed axillary support device in older heart failure patients in cardiogenic shock as a bridge to transplantation. One-year survival outcomes after heart transplantation are excellent despite the older recipient's age and prolonged pre-transplant support.

Aspectos técnicos y clínicos de la prueba cruzada de histocompatibilidad en el trasplante de órganos solidos / Technical and clinical aspects of the histocompatibility crossmatch assay in solid organ transplantation

La presencia de anticuerpos dirigidos contra los antígenos leucocitarios humanos (Human Leukocyte Antigens, HLA) que se expresan en las células del donante, es uno de los factores de riesgo más importantes asociados con las complicaciones clínicas después del trasplante. La prueba cruzada es una de las pruebas de histocompatibilidad más eficaces para la detección de anticuerpos específicos contra el donante en los receptores de injertos. En los primeros métodos de la prueba cruzada, se utilizaba la citotoxicidad dependiente del complemento, que es útil para detectar dichos anticuerpos responsables del rechazo hiperagudo del injerto, pero carece de la sensibilidad adecuada. Por ello, se desarrollaron métodos de pruebas cruzadas más sensibles, entre ellas, la prueba cruzada por citometría de flujo que hoy se considera el método preferido. En este artículo se revisa la evolución de la prueba cruzada y los factores más importantes que deben tenerse en cuenta al realizarla y al interpretar los resultados de esta prueba fundamental para la supervivencia a largo plazo del injerto.

The presence of antibodies directed against human leukocyte antigens (HLA) expressed on donor cells is a significant risk factor for serious clinical complications after transplantation. The crossmatch assay is one of the most important tests available for the detection of donor-specific antibodies in potential allograft recipients. Early crossmatch methods utilized complement-dependent cytotoxicity, which is useful for detecting the donor-specific anti- HLA antibodies responsible for hyperacute allograft rejection but lacks adequate sensitivity. Consequently, more sensitive crossmatch methods have been developed, ultimately leading to the flow cytometry crossmatch as the currently preferred methodology. Herein, we review the evolution of the crossmatch assay and the most important factors to consider when performing and interpreting the results of this fundamental assay for ensuring the long-term survival of the transplanted organ.

A Multi-Disciplinary Approach for the Management of Prosthetic Joint Infections: An Australian Perspective

@#Introduction: Prosthetic joint infections (PJI) are a major complication of hip and knee arthroplasty, imposing significant morbidity and mortality. Orthopaedic oncology units have utilised a multi-disciplinary team (MDT) approach for some time. PJI is not only an equally lifethreatening condition, it also requires input from multiple healthcare personnel and treatment can vary significantly between individuals given the diversity in microbiological, surgical and host factors. Our arthroplasty service established an MDT meeting to manage this complex patient group. This study describes the philosophy and implementation of an MDT approach to the management of PJIs at a tertiary hospital in Australia. Materials and methods: A retrospective review of all patients that presented to the MDT PJI meeting from October 2017 to April 2020 was performed. Patient characteristics, microbiological profile and management were reviewed. Results: One hundred and one patients were reviewed over 2.5 years with a mean age of 69.2 years (SD 11.9). Patients presenting predominantly had a primary TKR (32%) or primary THR (22%). Results of Microbiology cultures varied, with 42% Gram-positive organisms, 13% Gramnegative organisms, 2% fungus and 1% yeast origin. Management mainly consisted of two-stage revision (28%), debridement-antibiotics-and-implant retention (22%) and antibiotic suppression (14%). A total of 91.5% of patients who underwent surgical management were considered cured at one year. Conclusion: PJIs are complex and require coordinated care by a number of healthcare personnel. The MDT process has allowed collaboration between Orthopaedic, Infectious Disease and Microbiology departments and aims to improve the quality of care provided to patients, potentially reducing morbidity and mortality of patients with PJI.

Immune characterization of a Colombian family cluster with SARS-CoV-2 infection / Caracterización inmunológica de un grupo familiar colombiano con infección por SARS-CoV-2

Abstract | Introduction: Immunological markers have been described during COVID-19 and persist after recovery. These immune markers are associated with clinical features among SARS- CoV-2 infected individuals. Nevertheless, studies reporting a comprehensive analysis of the immune changes occurring during SARS-CoV-2 infection are still limited. Objective: To evaluate the production of proinflammatory cytokines, the antibody response, and the phenotype and function of NK cells and T cells in a Colombian family cluster with SARS-CoV-2 infection. Materials and methods: Proinflammatory cytokines were evaluated by RT-PCR and ELISA. The frequency, phenotype, and function of NK cells (cocultures with K562 cells) and T-cells (stimulated with spike/RdRp peptides) were assessed by flow cytometry. Anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies were determined using indirect immunofluorescence and plaque reduction neutralization assay. Results: During COVID-19, we observed a high proinflammatory-cytokine production and a reduced CD56bright-NK cell and cytotoxic response. Compared with healthy controls, infected individuals had a higher frequency of dysfunctional CD8+ T cells CD38+HLA-DR-. During the acute phase, CD8+ T cells stimulated with viral peptides exhibited a monofunctional response characterized by high IL-10 production. However, during recovery, we observed a bifunctional response characterized by the co-expression of CD107a and granzyme B or perforin. Conclusion: Although the proinflammatory response is a hallmark of SARS-CoV-2 infection, other phenotypic and functional alterations in NK cells and CD8+ T cells could be associated with the outcome of COVID-19. However, additional studies are required to understand these alterations and to guide future immunotherapy strategies.

Resumen | Introducción. Se han descrito diferentes marcadores inmunológicos durante la COVID-19, los cuales persisten incluso después de la convalecencia y se asocian con los estadios clínicos de la infección. Sin embargo, aún son pocos los estudios orientados al análisis exhaustivo de las alteraciones del sistema inmunológico en el curso de la infección. Objetivo. Evaluar la producción de citocinas proinflamatorias, la reacción de anticuerpos, y el fenotipo y la función de las células NK y los linfocitos T en una familia colombiana con infección por SARS-CoV-2. Materiales y métodos. Se evaluaron las citocinas proinflamatorias mediante RT-PCR y ELISA; la frecuencia, el fenotipo y la función de las células NK (en cocultivos con células K562) y linfocitos T CD8+ (estimulados con péptidos spike/RdRp) mediante citometría de flujo, y los anticuerpos anti-SARS-CoV-2, mediante inmunofluorescencia indirecta y prueba de neutralización por reducción de placa. Resultados. Durante la COVID-19 hubo una producción elevada de citocinas proinflamatorias, con disminución de las células NK CD56 bright y reacción citotóxica. Comparados con los controles sanos, los individuos infectados presentaron con gran frecuencia linfocitos T CD8+ disfuncionales CD38+HLA-DR-. Además, en los linfocitos T CD8+ estimulados con péptidos virales, predominó una reacción monofuncional con gran producción de IL-10 durante la fase aguda y una reacción bifuncional caracterizada por la coexpresión de CD107a y granzima B o perforina durante la convalecencia. Conclusión. Aunque la reacción inflamatoria caracteriza la infección por SARS-CoV-2, hay otras alteraciones fenotípicas y funcionales en células NK y linfocitos T CD8+ que podrían asociarse con la progresión de la infección. Se requieren estudios adicionales para entender estas alteraciones y guiar futuras estrategias de inmunoterapia.

Safety Review and Perspectives of Transcranial Focused Ultrasound Brain Stimulation

Ultrasound is an important theragnostic modality in modern medicine. Technical advancement of both acoustic focusing and transcranial delivery have enabled administration of ultrasound waves to localized brain areas with few millimeters of spatial specificity and penetration depth sufficient to reach the thalamus. Transcranial focused ultrasound (tFUS) given at a low acoustic intensity has been shown to increase or suppress the excitability of region-specific brain areas. The neuromodulatory effects can outlast the sonication, suggesting the possibility of inducing neural plasticity needed for neurorehabilitation.Increasing numbers of studies have shown the efficacy and excellent safety profile of the technique, yet comparisons among the safety-related parameters have not been compiled.This review aims to provide safety information and perspectives of tFUS brain stimulation.First, the acoustic parameters most relevant to thermal/mechanical tissue damage are discussed along with regulated parameters for existing ultrasound therapies/diagnostic imaging. Subsequently, the parameters used in studies of large animals, non-human primates, and humans are surveyed and summarized in terms of the acoustic intensity and the mechanical index. The pulse-mode operation and the use of low ultrasound frequency for tFUS-mediated brain stimulation warrant the establishment of new safety guidelines/ recommendations for the use of the technique among healthy volunteers, with additional cautionary requirements for its clinical translation.

Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Fine Needle Biopsy Needles Provide Higher Diagnostic Yield Compared to Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Fine Needle Aspiration Needles When Sampling Solid Pancreatic Lesions: A Meta-Analysis

Background/Aims@#Studies comparing the utility of endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) and endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle biopsy (EUS-FNB) for solid pancreatic lesions have been inconclusive with no clear superiority. The aim of this meta-analysis was to compare the diagnostic accuracy and safety between the two sampling techniques. @*Methods@#We performed a systematic search of randomized controlled trials published between 2012 and 2019. The primary outcome was overall diagnostic accuracy. Secondary outcomes included adverse event rates, cytopathologic and histopathologic accuracy, and the mean number of passes required to obtain adequate tissue between FNA and FNB needles. Fixed and random effect models with pooled estimates of target outcomes were developed. @*Results@#Eleven studies involving 1,365 participants were included for analysis. When compared to FNB, FNA had a significant reduction in diagnostic accuracy (81% and 87%, p=0.005). In addition, FNA provided reduced cytopathologic accuracy (82% and 89%, p=0.04) and an increased number of mean passes required compared to FNB (2.3 and 1.6, respectively, p<0.0001). There was no difference in adverse event rate between FNA and FNB needles (1.8% and 2.3% respectively, p=0.64). @*Conclusions@#FNB provides superior diagnostic accuracy without compromising safety when compared to FNA. FNB should be readily considered by endosonographers when evaluating solid pancreatic masses.

Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Fine Needle Biopsy Needles Provide Higher Diagnostic Yield Compared to Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Fine Needle Aspiration Needles When Sampling Solid Pancreatic Lesions: A Meta-Analysis

Background/Aims@#Studies comparing the utility of endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) and endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle biopsy (EUS-FNB) for solid pancreatic lesions have been inconclusive with no clear superiority. The aim of this meta-analysis was to compare the diagnostic accuracy and safety between the two sampling techniques. @*Methods@#We performed a systematic search of randomized controlled trials published between 2012 and 2019. The primary outcome was overall diagnostic accuracy. Secondary outcomes included adverse event rates, cytopathologic and histopathologic accuracy, and the mean number of passes required to obtain adequate tissue between FNA and FNB needles. Fixed and random effect models with pooled estimates of target outcomes were developed. @*Results@#Eleven studies involving 1,365 participants were included for analysis. When compared to FNB, FNA had a significant reduction in diagnostic accuracy (81% and 87%, p=0.005). In addition, FNA provided reduced cytopathologic accuracy (82% and 89%, p=0.04) and an increased number of mean passes required compared to FNB (2.3 and 1.6, respectively, p<0.0001). There was no difference in adverse event rate between FNA and FNB needles (1.8% and 2.3% respectively, p=0.64). @*Conclusions@#FNB provides superior diagnostic accuracy without compromising safety when compared to FNA. FNB should be readily considered by endosonographers when evaluating solid pancreatic masses.

Comparación de los resultados de la artroplastia total de tobillo en pacientes menor o igual a 55 y mayor a 55 años / Comparison of total ankle arthroplasty outcomes between patients younger and older than 55 years

Objetivo: Comparar los resultados posoperatorios clínicos y radiográficos en dos grupos de pacientes: menor o igual a 55 años y mayor a 55 años, sometidos a una artroplastia total de tobillo de tercera generación. Materiales y Métodos: Se evaluó, en forma retrospectiva, a dos grupos de pacientes: menor o igual a 55 años (n = 13) y mayor a 55 años (n = 18), que fueron sometidos a una artroplastia total de tobillo de tercera generación. La edad promedio del grupo de menor o igual a 55 años era 42.8 (DE 6.4) y la del grupo mayor a 55 años, 65.7 (DE 8.8). Resultados: El seguimiento promedio fue de 36 meses (RIC 25-60). La etiología era principalmente postraumática en ambos grupos. El puntaje promedio de la escala AOFAS al año de la cirugía fue 76,69 (RIC 58-89) en el grupo menor o igual a 55 años y 85,22 (RIC 67-100) en el grupo mayor a 55 años. No hubo diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre ambos grupos en los ángulos alfa, beta y gamma; medidos en las radiografías con apoyo a los 2 meses y a los 2 años de la cirugía. Conclusiones: Nuestro estudio demostró que los resultados clínicos y radiográficos en pacientes más jóvenes serían comparables con los de pacientes más grandes en el seguimiento temprano. Se necesita un seguimiento a más largo plazo para determinar si el riesgo de revisión es más alto en los pacientes jóvenes, debido a la falla relacionada con el desgaste de la prótesis

Objective: To compare the clinical and radiographic postoperative outcomes in two groups of patients: younger 55 and older than 55-year patients undergoing a third-generation total ankle arthroplasty (TAA). Materials and Methods: Two groups of patients were retrospectively studied: younger 55 (n=13) and older 55-year patients (n=19) undergoing a third-generation TAA. Group younger 55 average age was 42.8 (SD, 6.4) and Group older 55 average age was 65.7 (SD, 8.8). Results: The average follow-up was 36 months (IQR, 25-60). The main etiology was post-traumatic conditions in both groups. The mean score of the AOFAS scale one year after surgery was 76.69 (IQR, 58-89) in the group younger 55 and 85.22 (IQR, 67-100) in the group older 55. There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups in the alpha, beta and gamma angles measured on weight-bearing radiographs at 2-month and 2-year postoperative controls. Conclusions: Our study shows clinical and radiographic short-term outcomes in younger patients are similar to those in older patients. Longer-term follow-up is warranted to determine if the revision risk is greater in young patients, due to failures related to prosthesis wear

Spontaneous scleral rupture associated with retinochoroidal coloboma / Ruptura espontânea de esclera associada a coloboma coriorretiniano

Abstract We reported a case of ocular hypotony due to spontaneous scleral rupture in retinochoroidal coloboma and the treatment which was performed. This is a prospective case report in which a 21-year-old woman complained of abrupt vision loss in her left eye. Ocular hypotony due to spontaneous scleral rupture in retinochoroidal coloboma was identified through tests. An ultrassonography confirmed the scleral lesion but magnetic resonance imaging and fluorescein angiography have also proven to be useful. Due to the posterior location of the perforation, we opted for a sub-tenon injection of autologous blood and intraocular gas tamponade, which were successful, resulting in improved visual acuity and intraocular pressure. In this case, an alternative to invasive surgical procedure in the treatment of spontaneous scleral perforation and retinochoroidal coloboma was presented.

Resumo Relatamos um caso de hipotensão ocular secundária a ruptura escleral espontânea em coloboma coriorretiniano e o tratamento realizado. Trata-se de estudo de caso prospectivo de uma mulher de 21 anos de idade que se apresentou queixando perda súbita de visão no olho esquerdo. Ao exame, foi evidenciado hipotensão ocular em virtude de ruptura espontânea de esclera em coloboma coriorretiniano. Ultrassonografia confirmou a lesão da esclera embora ressonância magnética e angiofluoresceinografia também tenham sido úteis. Em virtude da localização posterior da perfuração, optamos por injeção sub-tenoniana de sangue autólogo e tamponamento intraocular com gás, que demonstraram ser úteis, resultando em melhora da acuidade visual e da pressão intraocular. Neste caso, apresentamos uma alternativa a procediemnto cirúrgico invasivo para tratamento de perfuração espontânea de esclera em coloboma coriorretiniano.

Local tissue effects of various barrier membranes in a rat subcutaneous model

Purpose@#The purpose of this study was to examine the local tissue reactions associated with 3 different poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) prototype membranes and to compare them to the reactions associated with commercially available resorbable membranes in rats. @*Methods@#Seven different membranes—3 synthetic PLGA prototypes (T1, T2, and T3) and 4 commercially available membranes (a PLGA membrane, a poly[lactic acid] membrane, a native collagen membrane, and a cross-linked collagen membrane)—were randomly inserted into 6 unconnected subcutaneous pouches in the backs of 42 rats. The animals were sacrificed at 4, 13, and 26 weeks. Descriptive histologic and histomorphometric assessments were performed to evaluate membrane degradation, visibility, tissue integration, tissue ingrowth, neovascularization, encapsulation, and inflammation. Means and standard deviations were calculated. @*Results@#The histological analysis revealed complete integration and tissue ingrowth of PLGA prototype T1 at 26 weeks. In contrast, the T2 and T3 prototypes displayed slight to moderate integration and tissue ingrowth regardless of time point. The degradation patterns of the 3 synthetic prototypes were similar at 4 and 13 weeks, but differed at 26 weeks. T1 showed marked degradation at 26 weeks, whereas T2 and T3 displayed moderate degradation.Inflammatory cells were present in all 3 prototype membranes at all time points, and these membranes did not meaningfully differ from commercially available membranes with regard to the extent of inflammatory cell infiltration. @*Conclusions@#The 3 PLGA prototypes, particularly T1, induced favorable tissue integration, exhibited a similar degradation rate to native collagen membranes, and elicited a similar inflammatory response to commercially available non–cross-linked resorbable membranes.The intensity of inflammation associated with degradable dental membranes appears to relate to their degradation kinetics, irrespective of their material composition.

Comparison of proinsulin to C-peptide ratio in children with and without type 1 diabetes and its relation to age

Purpose@#This study aimed to compare the proinsulin to C-peptide (PI:C) ratio in those with recent-onset type 1 diabetes versus those with no diabetes and to explore the effect of age on PI:C ratio. @*Methods@#Nineteen participants (n=9 with type 1 diabetes and n=10 with no diabetes) between 10 and 19 years of age were enrolled in a single-visit cross-sectional study and underwent blood collection after 10 hours fasting to measure proinsulin and C-peptide levels as well as other glycemic parameters. @*Results@#The median PI:C ratio was significantly different between type 1 diabetes and nondiabetes groups (6.24% vs. 1.46%, P<0.01). A significant negative correlation was seen between PI:C ratio and patient age after adjustment for duration of diabetes (r2=0.61, P=0.02) in the type 1 diabetes group. @*Conclusion@#Even in this narrow age window, a higher degree of β-cell dysfunction indicated by a higher PI:C ratio was seen in younger children.

Local tissue effects of various barrier membranes in a rat subcutaneous model

Purpose@#The purpose of this study was to examine the local tissue reactions associated with 3 different poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) prototype membranes and to compare them to the reactions associated with commercially available resorbable membranes in rats. @*Methods@#Seven different membranes—3 synthetic PLGA prototypes (T1, T2, and T3) and 4 commercially available membranes (a PLGA membrane, a poly[lactic acid] membrane, a native collagen membrane, and a cross-linked collagen membrane)—were randomly inserted into 6 unconnected subcutaneous pouches in the backs of 42 rats. The animals were sacrificed at 4, 13, and 26 weeks. Descriptive histologic and histomorphometric assessments were performed to evaluate membrane degradation, visibility, tissue integration, tissue ingrowth, neovascularization, encapsulation, and inflammation. Means and standard deviations were calculated. @*Results@#The histological analysis revealed complete integration and tissue ingrowth of PLGA prototype T1 at 26 weeks. In contrast, the T2 and T3 prototypes displayed slight to moderate integration and tissue ingrowth regardless of time point. The degradation patterns of the 3 synthetic prototypes were similar at 4 and 13 weeks, but differed at 26 weeks. T1 showed marked degradation at 26 weeks, whereas T2 and T3 displayed moderate degradation.Inflammatory cells were present in all 3 prototype membranes at all time points, and these membranes did not meaningfully differ from commercially available membranes with regard to the extent of inflammatory cell infiltration. @*Conclusions@#The 3 PLGA prototypes, particularly T1, induced favorable tissue integration, exhibited a similar degradation rate to native collagen membranes, and elicited a similar inflammatory response to commercially available non–cross-linked resorbable membranes.The intensity of inflammation associated with degradable dental membranes appears to relate to their degradation kinetics, irrespective of their material composition.

Interference of blood storage containing K2EDTA and K3EDTA anticoagulants in the automated analysis of the hemogram / Interferência da estocagem de sangue contendo os anticoagulantes K2EDTA e K3EDTA na análise automatizada do hemograma

ABSTRACT Introduction: The present work evaluated the possible alterations in different hemogram parameters as: total erythrocyte count, hematocrit, leukocyte, and platelet count, against different times of sample storage at refrigerated and room temperature towards the effects of anticoagulants that can affect the variation of laboratory results. Objective: Compare variations in automated hemogram analysis, with blood collected in tubes containing dipotassium ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (K2EDTA) and tripotassium ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (K3EDTA). Material and methods: A comparative study was carried out on differential leukocyte count and absolute leukocyte count, hemoglobin determination and red blood cell count and platelet count. Therefore, it researches the anticoagulant that brings less interferences in hemogram analysis according to storage, at temperatures from 2°C to 8°C and 25°C (room temperature), and the time window between collection and analysis (4, 6, and 8 hours). These determinations were carried out after homogenization from five to eight inversions using the automated device Sysmex XN-1000TM. Eighteen biological samples of venous blood were collected, used as control, from patients aged 18 and over that did not have any hematologic disease. Results: The results were evaluated through descriptive statistical analysis, and comparison of mean values through the analysis of variance (Anova). In accordance with the results presented, there were not changes in the parameters by refrigerating the sample in the period of 8 hours, except for the platelet count, presenting oscillations when stored under refrigeration from 2°C to 8°C. Conclusion: At room temperature, the parameters mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), and hematocrit presented significant statistical differences.

RESUMEN Introducción: Este trabajo evaluó los posibles cambios en diferentes parámetros del hemograma, como conteo de eritrocitos totales, leucocitos, hematocrito y plaquetas, con respecto a diferentes tiempos de almacenamiento de la muestra en ambiente refrigerado y temperatura ambiente en cuanto a los efectos de los anticoagulantes, que pueden afectar los resultados del análisis de laboratorio. Objetivo: Comparar los cambios presentes en el análisis del hemograma automatizado, recogido en tubos que contienen ácido etilendiaminotetraacético dipotásico (K2EDTA) y tripotásico (K3EDTA). Material y método: Estudio comparativo realizado para conteo diferencial/absoluto de leucocitos, determinación de hemoglobina y conteo de eritrocitos y plaquetas, a fin de investigar el anticoagulante que trae menos interferencia en el análisis del hemograma según su almacenamiento - temperatura de 2°C a 8°C y 25°C (temperatura ambiente) y ventana de tiempo entre recuento y análisis de 4, 6, y 8 horas. Se realizaron las determinaciones luego de homogeneizar las muestras con cinco a ocho inversiones en el analizador automatizado Sysmex XN-1000TM. Dieciocho muestras de sangre venosa de pacientes mayores de 18 años, sin enfermedades hematológicas, fueron recogidas y usadas como control. Resultados: Se evaluaron los resultados mediante un análisis descriptivo, con comparación de medias por análisis de la varianza (Anova). De acuerdo con los resultados, no hubo cambios en los parámetros enfriándose la muestra en el período de 8 horas, a excepción del recuento de plaquetas, que presentó oscilaciones bajo refrigeración (2°C-8°C). Conclusión: A temperatura ambiente, los parámetros volumen corpuscular medio (VCM), concentración de hemoglobina corpuscular media (CHCM) y hematocrito presentan diferencia estadísticamente significativa.

RESUMO Introdução: O presente trabalho avaliou as possíveis alterações em diferentes parâmetros do hemograma, como contagem de eritrócitos totais, leucócitos, hematócrito e plaquetas, em relação a diferentes tempos de armazenamento da amostra em ambiente refrigerado e em temperatura ambiente quanto aos efeitos dos anticoagulantes, que podem afetar a variabilidade de seus resultados laboratoriais. Objetivo: Comparar as variações presentes na análise do hemograma automatizado, colhido nos tubos contendo ácido etilenodiamino tetra-acético dipotássico (K2EDTA) e tripotássico (K3EDTA). Material e métodos: Estudo comparativo realizado para contagem diferencial/absoluta dos leucócitos, determinação de hemoglobina e contagem de hemácias e plaquetas, com o intuito de investigar o anticoagulante que traz menos interferentes na análise do hemograma de acordo com sua estocagem - temperatura de 2°C a 8°C e 25°C (temperatura ambiente) e janela de tempo entre a coleta e a análise de 4, 6 e 8 horas. Essas determinações foram realizadas após homogeneização de cinco a oito inversões pelo aparelho automatizado Sysmex XN-1000TM. Dezoito amostras biológicas de sangue venoso de pacientes com idade superior a 18 anos, sem doenças hematológicas, foram coletadas e utilizadas como controle. Resultados: Os resultados foram avaliados por meio de uma análise estatística descritiva, com comparação de médias através da análise de variância (Anova). De acordo com os resultados apresentados, não ocorreram alterações nos parâmetros ao refrigerar a amostra no período de 8 horas, com exceção da contagem de plaquetas, que apresentou oscilações quando armazenadas sob refrigeração de 2°C a 8°C. Conclusão: Na temperatura ambiente, os parâmetros volume corpuscular médio (VCM), concentração de hemoglobina corpuscular média (CHCM) e hematócrito apresentaram diferença estatística significante.

Recomendaciones para la atención de pacientes con diabetes mellitus con factores de riesgo o enfermedad cardiovascular establecida y SARS-CoV-2 / Recommendations for the care of patients with diabetes mellitus with risk factors or established cardiovascular disease and SARS-CoV-2

Resumen Se realiza una revisión sobre el riesgo de los pacientes que padecen diabetes mellitus en el contexto de morbimortalidad general y relacionada a infección por el coronavirus 2 del síndrome respiratorio agudo grave (SARS-CoV-2). Así mismo se repasan las recomendaciones generales, de alimentación y de la prevención de las comorbilidades que más frecuentemente padecen dichos enfermos. Finalmente se hace una revisión de las recomendaciones farmacológicas sobre el tratamiento tanto oral como parenteral en el paciente ambulatorio, en la hospitalización y en estados críticos infectados por el SARS-CoV-2.

Abstract A review is carried out to examine the risk of patients suffering from diabetes mellitus in the context of general morbidity and mortality and related to infection by SARS-CoV-2. Likewise, the general recommendations for food and the prevention of comorbidities that most these patients suffer most frequently are also studied. Finally, a review of the pharmacological recommendations on both oral and parenteral treatment in the outpatient, in hospitalization and in critical states infected with SARS-CoV-2 is made.

Neuralgia del trigémino: aspectos clínicos y terapéuticos / Trigeminal neuralgia: clinical and therapeutic aspects

RESUMEN INTRODUCCIÓN: La neuralgia del trigémino produce una gran limitación en la calidad de vida de los pacientes que sufren esta condición. Es necesario un adecuado conocimiento de sus características clínicas para diferenciarla de otras causas de dolor facial que son más frecuentes y evitar tratamientos innecesarios e irreversibles como las extracciones dentales. OBJETIVO: describir los aspectos más importantes en el diagnóstico y tratamiento de los pacientes con neuralgia del trigémino. METODOLOGÍA: Revisión narrativa. DESARROLLO: La neuralgia del trigémino se caracteriza por presentar episodios recurrentes de dolor facial unilateral, severo, breve y penetrante que sigue la distribución del nervio trigémino. Existe una forma clásica en la que se reconoce contacto vascular sobre el nervio trigémino, una forma idiopática sin etiología conocida y una forma secundaria debido a condiciones como la esclerosis múltiple, tumores, malformaciones arteriovenosas, entre otras. El diagnóstico se basa principalmente en las características clínicas, aunque la resonancia magnética es una ayuda en casos seleccionados. La carbamazepina y la oxcarbazepina son la primera línea del tratamiento, mientras que otros medicamentos con menor nivel de evidencia hacen parte de la segunda línea de tratamiento. Para los casos refractarios existen alternativas quirúrgicas, entras las que se encuentra la descompresión microvascular, la rizotomía percutánea por radiofrecuencia, la rizotomía percutánea con glicerol, la compresión percutánea con balón y la radiocirugía estereotáxica. CONCLUSIONES: El abordaje de la neuralgia del trigémino requiere conocer sus características clínicas y elegir el tratamiento más adecuado para el paciente mediante un trabajo multidisciplinario.

SUMMARY INTRODUCTION: Trigeminal neuralgia produces a great limitation in the quality of life of patients suffering from this condition. It is necessary an adequate knowledge of its clinical characteristics to differentiate it from other causes of facial pain that are more frequent and to avoid unnecessary and irreversible treatments such as tooth extraction. OBJECTIVE: To describe the most important aspects in the diagnosis and treatment of patients with trigeminal neuralgia. METHODOLOGY: Narrative review. DEVELOPMENT: Trigeminal neuralgia is characterized by recurrent episodes of unilateral, severe, brief, and penetrating facial pain that follows the distribution of the trigeminal nerve. There is a classic form in which vascular contact is recognized on the trigeminal nerve, an idiopathic form without known etiology and a secondary form due to conditions such as multiple sclerosis, tumors, arteriovenous malformations, among others. The diagnosis is based mainly on the clinical characteristics, although magnetic resonance imaging is an aid in selected cases. Carbamazepine and oxcarbazepine are the first line of treatment, while other medications with a lower level of evidence are part of the second line of treatment. For refractory cases, there are surgical alternatives, among which is microvascular decompression, percutaneous radiofrequency rhizotomy, percutaneous glycerol rhizotomy, percutaneous balloon compression, and stereotactic radiosurgery. CONCLUSIONS: The approach of trigeminal neuralgia requires knowing its clinical characteristics and choosing the most appropriate treatment for the patient through multidisciplinary work.

Personalized approach to growth hormone replacement in adults

ABSTRACT Growth hormone (GH) deficiency (GHD) in adults is well-characterized and includes abnormal body composition, reduced bone mass, an adverse cardiovascular risk profile, and impaired quality of life. In the early 1990s, it was also shown that patients with hypopituitarism without GH replacement therapy (GHRT) had excess mortality. Today, GHRT has been shown to decrease or reverse the negative effects of GHD. In addition, recent papers have shown that mortality and morbidity are approaching normal in hypopituitary patients with GHD who receive modern endocrine therapy including GHRT. Since the first dose-finding studies, it has been clear that efficacy and side effects differ substantially between patients. Many factors have been suggested as affecting responsiveness, such as sex, age, age at GHD onset, adherence, and GH receptor polymorphisms, with sex and sex steroid replacement having the greatest impact. Therefore, the individual tailoring of GH dose is of great importance to achieve sufficient efficacy without side effects. One group that stands out is women receiving oral estrogen replacement, who needs the highest dose. Serum insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) is still the most used biochemical biomarker for GH dose titration, although the best serum IGF-1 target is still debated. Patients with GHD due to acromegaly, Cushing's disease, or craniopharyngioma experience similar effects from GHRT as others. Arch Endocrinol Metab. 2019;63(6):592-600

Desenvolvimento profissional de treinadores brasileiros medalhistas olímpicos / Professional development of brazilian coaches olympic medalists

O estudo acerca do coaching esportivo, apesar de escasso no Brasil, vem mostrando um amplo desenvolvimento nos últimos anos. Estudos foram realizados principalmente no contexto do desempenho, no entanto, nenhum destes abordou o desenvolvimento de treinadores brasileiros medalhistas olímpicos. Este estudo objetivou analisar as situações de aprendizagens realizadas ao longo da vida de treinadores brasileiros medalhistas olímpicos com o intuito de compreender quais destas possibilitaram aos treinadores construir e desenvolver os conhecimentos necessários para se engajar efetivamente na sua prática profissional. Utilizou-se um delineamento descritivo qualitativo do tipo múltiplos estudos de caso. Os participantes do estudo foram selecionados intencionalmente respeitando os seguintes critérios: treinadores brasileiros medalhistas nos Jogos Olímpicos do Rio de Janeiro; mais de dez anos de experiência como treinador esportivo; disposição para participar do estudo. Aceitaram fazer parte do estudo, 5 treinadores brasileiros, sendo três treinadores de esportes individuais e dois treinadores de esportes coletivos. Os dados foram coletados a partir da aplicação da Linha do Tempo e de entrevista semiestruturada. A análise dos dados foi realizada a partir dos preceitos da Análise de Conteúdo. Os resultados informaram a utilização de uma variedade de situações de aprendizagens mediadas, não mediadas e internas. Sendo assim, possibilitaram a identificação de um panorama de formação e desenvolvimento dos treinadores brasileiros medalhistas olímpicos, qual seja: a) possuem experiência enquanto atletas nas modalidades que atuam; b) possuem prática enquanto treinadores em outros contextos de prática; c) são formados em Educação Física; d) frequentaram cursos especializados de curta duração; e) realizam ações de prática reflexiva deliberada....(AU)

The study about sports coaching, although scarce in Brazil, has been showing a wide development in recent years. Studies were conducted mainly in the context of performance, however, none of these addressed the development of Brazilian Olympic medalist coaches. This study aimed at analyzing the lifelong learning situations of Brazilian Olympic medalists coaches in order to understand which of these enabled coaches to build and develop the knowledge needed to effectively engage their professional practice. A qualitative descriptive design of multiple case studies was used. The study participants were intentionally selected according to the following criteria: Brazilian medalists coaches at the Rio de Janeiro Olympic Games; more than ten years of experience as a sports coach; willingness to participate in the study. Five Brazilian coaches were accepted as being part of the study, being three individual sports coaches and two collective sports coaches. The data were collected from the application of the Timeline and semi-structured interview. The analysis of the data was carried out from the precepts of the Content Analysis. The results informed the use of a variety of mediated, unmediated and internal learning situations. Thus, they enabled the identification of a formation and development panorama of the Brazilian Olympic medalists trainers, which are: a) they have experience as athletes in the modalities that act; b) practice as coaches in other contexts of practice; c) are trained in Physical Education; d) attended specialized short courses; e) carry out actions of deliberate reflexive practice....(AU)

Neutropenia febril asociada a quimioterapia en pacientes con neoplasias hematológicas de un centro de referencia en Colombia: características clínicas y desenlaces / Febrile neutropenia in patients with hematological malignancies at a reference center in Colombia

RESUMEN Objetivo: analizar las características epidemiológicas, clínicas y bacteriológicas que influyen en la supervivencia de los pacientes con neoplasias hematológicas que desarrollaron neutropenia febril posterior a quimioterapia. Materiales y métodos: estudio de corte transversal que incluyó adultos con diagnóstico de neoplasias hematológicas que presentaron neutropenia febril durante la hospitalización en 2014 en las sedes de Oncólogos de Occidente en Pereira, Manizales y Armenia (Colombia). Se realizaron análisis univariados y multivariados; la supervivencia se estableció según el método de Kaplan-Meier. Se estableció un valor de p <0.05. Se usó el software STATA. Se tuvo aval de bioética de la Universidad Tecnológica de Pereira. Resultados: se incluyó a 55 pacientes. La mediana de edad fue de 48 años (31-63), 27(49 %) fueron hombres. Los diagnósticos oncológicos más frecuentes fueron el linfoma no Ho-dgkin (29 %), leucemia mieloide aguda (24%) y leucemia linfoblástica aguda (20 %). La mayor letalidad se presentó en los días 21, 32 y 48. La mortalidad general fue del 9 % y la mortalidad por neutropenia profunda fue del 18 %. Conclusión: el número de neutropenias febriles, mayor tiempo de duración de la neutropenia febril, índice de Charlson y el antecedente de ingreso a UCI son factores de riesgo para mortalidad, mientras que el uso de piperacilina-tazobactam y el incremento en la puntuación del índice de MASCC son factores protectores.

ABSTRACT Objective: analyze the epidemiological, clinical and bacteriological characteristics that influence the survival of patients with haematological malignancies who developed febrile neutropenia after chemotherapy. Materials and methods: cross-sectional study of adult patients diagnosed with hema-tologic malignancies who presented febrile neutropenia during hospitalization in 2014 at Oncólogos de Occidente in Pereira, Manizales and Armenia (Colombia). Univariate and multivariate analyzes were performed. The survival analysis was established according to the Kaplan-Meier method. A value of p<0.05 was established for it. The STATA software was used. This study was endorsed by the bioethics committee of the Universidad Tecnológica de Pereira. Results: 55 patients were included. The median age was 48 years (31-63), 27 (49%) were men. The most frequent oncological diagnoses were non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (29 %), acute myeloid leukemia (24 %) and acute lymphoblastic leukemia (20 %). The highest lethality occurred on days 21, 32 and 48. Overall mortality was 9 %, mortality due to deep neutro-penia was 18 %. Conclusion: the number of febrile neutropenia, longer duration of febrile neutropenia, Charlson index and the history of admission to the ICU are risk factors for mortality, while the use of piperacillin-tazobactam and the increase in the score of the MASCC index are protective factors.