Different Perspectives of Spanish Patients and Professionals on How a Dialysis Unit Should Be Designed.

Aim: The opinion of hemodialysis patients, professionals and family members is rarely considered in the design of a hemodialysis unit. Purpose: To know and compare the opinion and preferences of patients, family members and professionals regarding the design of a dialysis unit and the potential activities they believe should be carried out during the session in order to provide architects with real information for the construction of a dialysis center. Patients and Methods: Anonymous and voluntary survey in electronic format addressed to patients, relatives and professionals belonging to the 18 hemodialysis centers of the renal foundation and to ALCER and its different delegations, in relation to leisure activities to be carried out in the dialysis center and preferred design of the treatment room. The results obtained between the patient-family group and the professionals were compared. Results: We received 331 responses, of which 215 were from patients and family members (65%) and 116 (35%) from professionals. The most represented category among professionals was nursing (53%), followed by assistants (24%) and physicians (12.9%). A higher proportion of patients (66%) preferred rooms in groups of 10-12 patients as opposed to professionals who preferred open-plan rooms (p<0.001). The options that showed the most differences between patients and professionals were chatting with colleagues and intimacy (options most voted by patients/families), versus performing group activities and visibility (professionals). Conclusion: The professionals' view of patients' needs does not always coincide with the patients' perception. The inclusion of the perspective of people with kidney disease continues to be a pending issue in which we must improve both patient organizations and professionals, and the opinion of professionals and patients must be included in the design of a dialysis unit and the activities to be developed in it.

Impacto de la pandemia por SARS-CoV2 en la actividad asistencial y en la salud del personal de hemodiálisis en las diferentes oleadas / Impact of the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic on Dialysis Care Activity and the Health of Dialysis Staff During Different Waves

Introducción: Además de las consecuencias del SARS-CoV-2 sobre los pacientes renales infectados, mantener la actividad durante la pandemia ha supuesto todo un reto dada la escasez de personal por las ausencias por enfermedad. Objetivo: Analizar la incidencia de contagios por Covid-19 entre los profesionales de hemodiálisis, sus características y su repercusión en bajas laborales en las diferentes oleadas.Material y Método: Estudio observacional longitudinal desde el 3/03/2020 hasta el 23/04/2022 (776 días) en una media de 406 profesionales sanitarios y no sanitarios de 18 unidades de diálisis y dos unidades administrativas de apoyo de la Fundación Renal Iñigo Álvarez de Toledo.La recogida de datos se realizó a través de la comunicación de las distintas supervisoras al departamento de recursos humanos. Resultados: 179 profesionales de un promedio de 406 (44,1%) se infectaron en el periodo de estudio, siendo el 52% enfermeras, 25% auxiliares, 11% nefrólogos y 12% otros profesionales. Un 40,2% de los casos presentaron síntomas. Un total de 160 contagiados estuvo ausente por enfermedad (89,3%), con una media de 15,9±14,3 días. En el 71,6% se detectó un contacto estrecho (todos fuera de las unidades) y esta identificación de contactos fue creciente según avanzaban las oleadas, pasando de un 6,7% en la 1ª ola a un 40% en la 6ª ola (p=0,016). Conclusiones: La sintomatología ha sido leve, al menos de dos semanas de ausencia por enfermedad; los contactos estrechos detectados han sido fundamentalmente comunitarios, sin registrarse contagios a través de los pacientes renales en las unidades. (AU)

Introduction: In addition to the consequences of SARS-CoV-2 infection in renal patients, maintaining dialysis activity during the pandemic has been a significant challenge due to staff shortages resulting from illness-related absences. Objetives: To analyze the incidence of COVID-19 infections among hemodialysis professionals, their characteristics, and their impact on work absences during different waves of the pandemic.Material and Method: Longitudinal observational study conducted from March 3, 2020, to April 23, 2022 (776 days), involving an average of 406 healthcare and non-healthcare professionals from 18 dialysis units and two administrative support units of the Renal Foundation. Data collection was carried out through communication from various supervisors to the human resources department.Results: During the study period, 179 professionals out of an average of 406 (44.1%) became infected. Among these, 52% were nurses, 25% were nursing assistants, 11% were nephrologists, and 12% were other professionals. 40.2% of cases exhibited symptoms. A total of 160 infected individuals were absent from work due to illness (89.3%), with an average duration of 15.9 ± 14.3 days. In 71.6% of cases, close contacts were identified outside the dialysis units, and this contact identification increased with each wave of the pandemic, rising from 6.7% in the 1st wave to 40% in the 6th wave (p=0.016).Conclusions: The symptoms have generally been mild, with absences from work lasting at least two weeks. Close contacts were mainly identified within the community, and there were no recorded infections transmitted through renal patients in the units. (AU)

Chronic Kidney Disease-Associated Pruritus and Quality of Life: Learning from Our Patients.

Chronic kidney disease-associated pruritus is itching directly related to kidney disease that cannot be explained by any other condition. Despite technological advances in the different aspects of dialysis sessions and the best treatment for chronic kidney disease patients, it is still a common problem in our patients. The many complex physiological mechanisms involved, the different hypotheses made over the years on the aetiology of the condition, and the great clinical variability may partially explain the limited knowledge about this problem and the difficulties in treating it. The presence of all these factors leads to the persistence of unpleasant symptoms, which must affect the disease burden and quality of life of kidney patients. Through the presentation of an illustrative clinical case, the aim of this review article is to highlight the need for adequate diagnosis and an improved approach to all aspects of chronic kidney disease-associated pruritus, in view of the heavy burden of the disease and the huge impact on the patient's quality of life.

Perception of Spanish nephrologists on an old unsolved problem: Pruritus associated with chronic kidney disease (CKD-aP).

INTRODUCTION: Pruritus associated with chronic kidney disease is defined as the sensation of itching, in people with chronic kidney disease, in a one area or all over the body that causes the need to scratch, after having ruled out other dermatological or systemic causes. It is an old and known problem whose prevalence has been able to decrease with the improvement of dialytic techniques but which still persists and is underdiagnosed. OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study was to analyse the current perception of nephrologists about this problem that influences the quality of life of people with chronic kidney disease through a survey. RESULTS: 135 nephrologists, most of them engaged in haemodialysis, participated. 86% considered that pruritus associated with chronic kidney disease is still a problem today that affects the quality of life. Most nephrologists believe that the main pathophysiological cause is uremic toxins (60%) and only 16% believe that it is due to the dysregulation of the opioid system/endorphins-dynorphins. Only 16% comment that the prevalence of pruritus in their centre is greater than 20%. 40% believe that the diagnosis is made because it is manifested by the patient and only 27% because it is asked by the doctor. Moreover, it is not usual to use scales to measure it or the codification in the medical records. The main treatment used is antihistamines (96%), followed by moisturizers/anaesthetics (93%) and modification of the dialysis regimen (70%). CONCLUSIONS: Pruritus associated with chronic kidney disease is still a current problem, it is underdiagnosed, not codified and with a lack of indicated, effective and safe treatments. Nephrologists do not know its real prevalence and the different pathophysiological mechanisms involved in its development. Many therapeutic options are used with very variable results, ignoring their efficacy and applicability at the present time. The new emerging kappa-opioid-receptor agonist agents offer us an opportunity to reevaluate this age-old problem and improve the quality of life for our patients with chronic kidney disease.

Percepción de los nefrólogos españoles sobre un problema antiguo no resuelto: Prurito asociado a la enfermedad renal crónica (Pa-ERC) / Perception of Spanish nephrologists on an old unsolved problem: Pruritus associated with chronic kidney disease (CKD-aP)

Introducción: El prurito asociado a enfermedad renal crónica se define como la sensación desagradable que provoca la necesidad de rascarse en una parte del cuerpo o en todo en personas con enfermedad renal crónica, tras haberse descartado otras causas dermatológicas o sistémicas. Es un problema antiguo y conocido cuya prevalencia ha podido disminuir con la mejoría de la eficacia dialítica pero que todavía persiste y está infradiagnosticado. Objetivos: El objetivo de este estudio fue analizar la percepción y práctica actual de los nefrólogos sobre este problema que impacta en la calidad de vida de las personas con enfermedad renal crónica a través de una encuesta anónima. Resultados: Participaron 135 nefrólogos, la mayoría dedicados a hemodiálisis. Un 86% consideró que el prurito asociado a enfermedad renal crónica sigue siendo un problema en la actualidad que afecta a la calidad de vida. La mayoría de los nefrólogos opinan que la principal causa fisiopatológica son las toxinas urémicas (60%) y solo un 16% cree que se debe a la desregulación del sistema opioide/endorfinas-dinorfinas. Únicamente un 16% comenta que la prevalencia de prurito en su centro es mayor del 20%. Un 40% cree que el diagnóstico se realiza porque lo manifiesta el paciente y solo un 27% porque lo pregunta el facultativo. Además, no es habitual usar escalas ni codificarlo en la historia clínica. El tratamiento más común son los antihistamínicos (96%), seguido de las cremas hidratantes/anestésicas (93%) y la modificación de la pauta de diálisis (70%). (AU)

Introduction: Pruritus associated with chronic kidney disease is defined as the sensation of itching, in people with chronic kidney disease, in a one area or all over the body that causes the need to scratch, after having ruled out other dermatological or systemic causes. It is an old and known problem whose prevalence has been able to decrease with the improvement of dialytic techniques but which still persists and is underdiagnosed. Objectives: The objective of this study was to analyze the current perception of nephrologists about this problem that influences the quality of life of people with chronic kidney disease through a survey. Results: 135 nephrologists, most of them engaged in hemodialysis, participated. 86% considered that pruritus associated with chronic kidney disease is still a problem today that affects the quality of life. Most nephrologists believe that the main pathophysiological cause is uremic toxins (60%) and only 16% believe that it is due to the dysregulation of the opioid system/endorphins-dynorphins. Only 16% comment that the prevalence of pruritus in their center is greater than 20%. 40% believe that the diagnosis is made because it is manifested by the patient and only 27% because it is asked by the doctor. Moreover, it is not usual to use scales to measure it or the codification in the medical records. The main treatment used is antihistamines (96%), followed by moisturizers/anesthetics (93%) and modification of the dialysis regimen (70%). (AU)

A cost-effectiveness analysis of the introduction of a specialised consultation with duplex ultrasound assessment prior to vascular access surgery for haemodialysis.

INTRODUCTION: Duplex ultrasound (DUS) is increasingly used before vascular access (VA) surgery for haemodialysis. However, the cost-effectiveness of this approach is unknown. Our objective was to assess whether the introduction of a specialised consultation with DUS assessment modifies the cost and the time delay to achieve a first VA valid for haemodialysis. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Prospective cohort of patients undergoing a first VA (June 2014-July 2017) after a specialised consultation with DUS (ECO group). They were compared with a historical cohort (January 2012-May 2014) where VA was indicated exclusively by clinical evaluation (CLN group). We analysed the cost related to visits, DUS assessments, interventions, hospital admissions and graft materials to achieve a first VA valid for haemodialysis at least during 1 month. RESULTS: 86 patients in the CLN group were compared with 92 in the ECO group. Patients in the ECO group were younger (68.4 vs. 64.0 years; P=.038) but no other differences were seen among groups. The average cost to achieve a first AV valid for haemodialysis was significantly lower in the ECO group (2707 vs. 3347€; P=.024). There was a higher cost associated with DUS assessments in the ECO group yet the CLN group had a higher cost related to follow-up visits, successive surgical interventions, prosthetic material, days of hospital admission and catheters. The mean time needed to achieve a first AV valid for haemodialysis was also shorter in the ECO group (49.9 vs. 82.9 days, P=.002). CONCLUSION: The introduction of a specialised vascular access consultation with DUS prior to VA surgery has reduced the cost necessary to achieve a first VA valid for haemodialysis. From the patient's point of view this has meant less interventions and hospital admissions and a shortening of the time delay.

Assessment of the Volatile Profiles and Identification of Differentiating Aromas of Wild Undervalued Plants.

Wild edible plants have played an important role in traditional diets, including the Mediterranean diet. Many of these plants have acquired an undervalued status, since they are under-appreciated in terms of their nutritional, organoleptic qualities, or their seasonality. However, some of these species are still used in local gastronomy for their aromatic and taste characteristics. This study has investigated the quantitative and qualitative aromatic characteristics of seven undervalued wild plants that determine their organoleptic characteristics. Volatiles of the fresh leaves of each species have been determined by head-space solid-phase microextraction, a sensitive and solvent-free technique, coupled with gas chromatography and mass spectrometry. A total of 37 compounds with remarkable quantitative and qualitative differences were identified. In general, benzenoids and monoterpenoids were the most abundant groups, while branched unsaturated hydrocarbons, fatty alcohols, and sesquiterpenoids were the minor groups. Benzyl nitrile, benzyl isothiocyanate, p-cymene, and 2-hexenal were the main individual volatiles, while benzyl alcohol, eugenol, and α-copaene were the differentiating aromas. The results display that the undervalued species studied could be a suitable choice to include as new environmentally friendly crops, providing a double benefit to producers, because they are a possible way to achieve sustainable production systems, and they are an alternative for consumers, because these plants provide flavors that have high organoleptic qualities.

Impact of the COVID pandemic on vascular access creation for haemodialysis in 16 Spanish haemodialysis centres.

Background: The coronavirus disease (COVID) pandemic has resulted in a major disruption in healthcare that has affected several medical and surgical specialties. European and American Vascular Societies have proposed deferring the creation of an elective vascular access (VA) [autologous or prosthetic arteriovenous fistula (AVF) or arteriovenous graft (AVG)] in incident patients on haemodialysis (HD) in the era of the COVID pandemic. The aim of this study is to examine the impact of the COVID pandemic on VA creation and the central venous catheter (CVC)-related hospitalizations and complications in HD patients dialyzed in 16 Spanish HD units of three different regions. Methods: We compared retrospectively two periods of time: the pre-COVID (1 January 2019-11 March 2020) and the COVID era (12 March 2020-30 June 2021) in all HD patients (prevalent and incident) dialyzed in our 16 HD centres. The variables analysed were type of VA (CVC, AVF and AVG) created, percentage of CVC in incident and prevalent HD patients, CVC-related hospitalizations and complications (infection, extrusion, disfunction, catheter removal) and percentage of CVC HD sessions that did not reach the goal of Kt (>45) as a marker of HD adequacy. Results: A total of 1791 VAs for HD were created and 905 patients started HD during the study period. Patients who underwent vascular access surgery during the COVID period compared with pre-COVID period were significantly younger, with a significant decrease in surgical activity to create AVFs and AVGs in older HD patients (>75 and >85 years of age). There was a significant increase in CVC placement (from 59.7% to 69.5%; P < 0.001) from the pre-COVID to the COVID period. During the COVID pandemic, a significantly higher number of patients started HD through a CVC (80.3% versus 69.1%; P < 0.001). The percentage of CVC in prevalent HD patients has not decreased in the 19 months since the start of the pandemic [414 CVC/1058 prevalent patients (39.4%)]. No significant changes were detected in CVC-related hospitalizations between the pre-COVID and COVID periods. In the COVID period, a significant increase in catheter replacement and the percentage of HD session that did not reach the HD dose objective (Kt > 45) was observed. Conclusions: COVID has presented a public health system crisis that has influenced VA for HD, with an increase in CVCs relative to AVFs. A decrease in HD sessions that did not reach the HD dose objective was observed in the COVID period compared with a pre-COVID period.

Impacto de la introducción de una consulta específica con valoración eco-doppler en el costo asociado a la obtención de un primer acceso vascular para hemodiálisis / A cost-effectiveness analysis of the introduction of a specialised consultation with duplex ultrasound assessment prior to vascular access surgery for haemodialysis

Introducción: La valoración mediante eco-doppler (ED) previa a la realización de un acceso vascular (AV) está cada vez más extendida, pero existen pocos estudios que aborden su coste/efectividad. Nuestro objetivo fue evaluar si la introducción de una consulta específica de AV con ED modifica el coste, los tiempos de demora, el número de re-intervenciones e ingresos para lograr un primer AV útil.Pacientes y métodosCohorte prospectiva de pacientes sometidos a un primer AV (junio 2014-julio 2017), a quienes se practicó un ED preoperatorio (grupo ECO). Se compararon con una cohorte histórica (enero 2012-mayo 2014) de primeros AV indicados exclusivamente mediante valoración clínica (grupo CLN). Se calcularon los costes de realización y el seguimiento para lograr un AV útil para hemodiálisis durante como mínimo un mes sin complicaciones.ResultadosSe compararon 86 pacientes del grupo CLN con 92 del ECO, siendo estos últimos más jóvenes (68,4 vs. 64,0 años; p=0,038). El coste medio del grupo ECO fue significativamente inferior (ECO=2.707 vs. CLN=3.347€; p=0,024). El grupo ECO tuvo un coste mayor en ecografías preoperatorias y de seguimiento. El grupo CLN tuvo un coste superior respecto a consultas de seguimiento, intervenciones quirúrgicas sucesivas, material protésico, días de ingreso y catéteres. Se disminuyó el tiempo de demora para la realización del AV (CLN=82,9 vs. ECO=49,9 días; p=0,002).ConclusiónLa introducción de una consulta específica de AV para hemodiálisis con valoración ED, ha permitido disminuir el coste para lograr un primer AV útil, como consecuencia de una reducción en los tiempos de demora, visitas de control, re-intervenciones, días de ingreso e implantación de catéteres. (AU)

Introduction: Duplex ultrasound (DUS) is increasingly used before vascular access (VA) surgery for haemodialysis. However, the cost-effectiveness of this approach is unknown. Our objective was to assess whether the introduction of a specialised consultation with DUS assessment modifies the cost and the time delay to achieve a first VA valid for haemodialysis.Patients and methodsProspective cohort of patients undergoing a first VA (June 2014-July 2017) after a specialised consultation with DUS (ECO group). They were compared with a historical cohort (January 2012-May 2014) where VA was indicated exclusively by clinical evaluation (CLN group). We analysed the cost related to visits, DUS assessments, interventions, hospital admissions and graft materials to achieve a first VA valid for haemodialysis at least during 1 month.ResultsEighty-six patients in the CLN group were compared with 92 in the ECO group. Patients in the ECO group were younger (68.4 vs. 64.0 years; P=.038) but no other differences were seen among groups. The average cost to achieve a first AV valid for haemodialysis was significantly lower in the ECO group (2707 vs. 3347€; P=.024). There was a higher cost associated with DUS assessments in the ECO group yet the CLN group had a higher cost related to follow-up visits, successive surgical interventions, prosthetic material, days of hospital admission and catheters. The mean time needed to achieve a first AV valid for haemodialysis was also shorter in the ECO group (49.9 vs. 82.9 days, P=.002).ConclusionThe introduction of a specialised vascular access consultation with DUS prior to VA surgery has reduced the cost necessary to achieve a first VA valid for haemodialysis. From the patient's point of view this has meant less interventions and hospital admissions and a shortening of the time delay. (AU)

Surgical Risk Following Anatomic Lung Resection in Thoracic Surgery: A Prediction Model Derived from a Spanish Multicenter Database. / Riesgo quirúrgico tras resección pulmonar anatómica en cirugía torácica. Modelo predictivo a partir de una base de datos nacional multicéntrica.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to develop a surgical risk prediction model in patients undergoing anatomic lung resections from the registry of the Spanish Video-Assisted Thoracic Surgery Group (GEVATS). METHODS: Data were collected from 3,533 patients undergoing anatomic lung resection for any diagnosis between December 20, 2016 and March 20, 2018. We defined a combined outcome variable: death or Clavien Dindo grade IV complication at 90 days after surgery. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed by logistic regression. Internal validation of the model was performed using resampling techniques. RESULTS: The incidence of the outcome variable was 4.29% (95% CI 3.6-4.9). The variables remaining in the final logistic model were: age, sex, previous lung cancer resection, dyspnea (mMRC), right pneumonectomy, and ppo DLCO. The performance parameters of the model adjusted by resampling were: C-statistic 0.712 (95% CI 0.648-0.750), Brier score 0.042 and bootstrap shrinkage 0.854. CONCLUSIONS: The risk prediction model obtained from the GEVATS database is a simple, valid, and reliable model that is a useful tool for establishing the risk of a patient undergoing anatomic lung resection.

Mortality in Hemodialysis Patients with COVID-19, the Effect of Paricalcitol or Calcimimetics.

BACKGROUND: In COVID-19 patients, low serum vitamin D (VD) levels have been associated with severe acute respiratory failure and poor prognosis. In regular hemodialysis (HD) patients, there is VD deficiency and markedly reduced calcitriol levels, which may predispose them to worse outcomes of COVID-19 infection. Some hemodialysis patients receive treatment with drugs for secondary hyperparathyroidism, which have well known pleiotropic effects beyond mineral metabolism. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of VD status and the administration of active vitamin D medications, used to treat secondary hyperparathyroidism, on survival in a cohort of COVID-19 positive HD patients. METHODS: A cross-sectional retrospective observational study was conducted from 12 March to 21 May 2020 in 288 HD patients with positive PCR for SARS-CoV2. Patients were from 52 different centers in Spain. RESULTS: The percent of HD patients with COVID-19 was 6.1% (288 out of 4743). Mortality rate was 28.4% (81/285). Three patients were lost to follow-up. Serum 25(OH)D (calcidiol) level was 17.1 [10.6-27.5] ng/mL and was not significantly associated to mortality (OR 0.99 (0.97-1.01), p = 0.4). Patients receiving active vitamin D medications (16/94 (17%) vs. 65/191(34%), p = 0.003), including calcimimetics (4/49 (8.2%) vs. 77/236 (32.6%), p = 0.001), paricalcitol or calcimimetics (19/117 (16.2%) vs. 62/168 (36.9%); p < 0.001), and also those on both paricalcitol and calcimimetics, to treat secondary hyperparathyroidism (SHPTH) (1/26 (3.8%) vs. 80/259 (30.9%), p < 0.001) showed a lower mortality rate than patients receiving no treatment with either drug. Multivariate Cox regression analysis confirmed this increased survival. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings suggest that the use of paricalcitol, calcimimetics or the combination of both, seem to be associated with the improvement of survival in HD patients with COVID-19. No correlation was found between serum VD levels and prognosis or outcomes in HD patients with COVID-19. Prospective studies and clinical trials are needed to support these findings.

Impact of a Nosocomial COVID-19 Outbreak on a Non-COVID-19 Nephrology Ward during the First Wave of the Pandemic in Spain.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to analyze a nosocomial coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak that occurred on a polyvalent non-COVID-19 ward at a tertiary care university hospital in Spain during the first wave of the pandemic and to describe the containment measures taken. The outbreak affected healthcare workers (HCWs) and kidney disease patients including transplant patients and those requiring maintenance hemodialysis. METHODS: The outbreak investigation and report were conducted in accordance with the Orion statement guidelines. RESULTS: In this study, 15 cases of COVID-19 affecting 10 patients and 5 HCWs were identified on a ward with 31 beds and 43 HCWs. The patients had tested negative for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection on admission. One of the HCWs was identified as the probable index case. Five patients died (mortality rate, 50%). They were all elderly and had significant comorbidities. The infection control measures taken included the transfer of infected patients to COVID-19 isolation wards, implementation of universal preventive measures, weekly PCR testing of patients and HCWs linked to the ward, training of HCWs on infection control and prevention measures, and enhancement of cleaning and disinfection. The outbreak was contained in 2 weeks, and no new cases occurred. CONCLUSION: Nosocomial COVID-19 outbreaks can have high attack rates involving both patients and HCWs and carry a high risk of patient mortality. Hospitals need to implement effective infection prevention and control strategies to prevent nosocomial COVID-19 spread.

Análisis del nódulo pulmonar solitario tras su resección quirúrgica en pacientes con 18F-FDG PET-TC integrado en el estudio preoperatorio / Analysis of solitary pulmonary nodule after surgical resection in patients with 18F-FDG positron emission tomography integrated computed tomography in the preoperative work-up

Introducción: Analizar las características clínico-patológicas de los pacientes operados por nódulo pulmonar solitario (NPS) y 18F-FDG PET-TC integrado tras su resección quirúrgica.Material y métodosEstudio retrospectivo sobre una base de datos prospectiva de pacientes operados entre enero-2007 y octubre-2017 por NPS sin diagnóstico preoperatorio. La variable dependiente fue el resultado anatomopatológico (benigno vs. maligno) del NPS. Las variables del estudio fueron: edad, sexo, captación en PET-TC, SUVmáx, tabaquismo, EPOC, antecedente de tumoración maligna previa, localización del tumor y tamaño en la TC.ResultadosUn total de 305 pacientes fueron incluidos en el estudio, 225 (73,8%) varones, 80 (26,2%) mujeres, edad media = 63,9 (rango 29-86 años), tamaño medio NPS = 1,68 (d.t. 0,65 cm), benignos = 46 (15,1%), malignos = 258 (84,6%), tipo de resección: cuña = 151 (49,5%), lobectomía = 141 (46,2%), segmentectomía = 12 (3,9%), exploradora = 1 (0,3%). La mortalidad postoperatoria fue del 1,9%. EPOC = 50,8% casos, cáncer previo = 172 casos (56,4%), tabaquismo = 250 casos (82%), PET positiva = 280 casos (91,8%), NPS en campos superiores = 204 casos (66,9%), SUVmáx mediana = 3,4 (rango 0-20,7). El modelo de regresión logística binaria por pasos hacia atrás mostró que la edad, SUVmáx, enfermedad maligna previa y sexo femenino fueron factores de riesgo independientes con significación estadística (p < 0,05).La sensibilidad, especificidad, el valor predictivo positivo, el valor predictivo negativo y la seguridad diagnóstica fueron 94,6%, 23,4%, 87,1%, 44% y 83,6%, respectivamente. Hubo un total de 14 casos falsos negativos (4,6%) y 36 casos falsos positivos (11,8%). (AU)

Introduction: To analyse clinicopathological characteristics of patients operated for pulmonary solitary nodule (PSN) and 18F-FDG integrated PET-CT scan after surgical resection.MethodologyRetrospective study on a prospective database of patients operated from January 2007 to October 2017 for PSN without preoperative diagnosis. Dependent variable was anatomopathological result (benign vs malignant) of PSN. Variables of the study were: age, sex, PET-CT uptake, SUVmax, smoking history, COPD, previous history of malignant disease, tumoral location, and tumour size on CT-scan.ResultsA total of 305 patients were included in this study, 225 (73.8%) men, 80 (26.2%) women, mean age = 63.9 (range 29-86 years), mean size PSN = 1.68 (s.d. .65 cm), benign = 46 (15.1%), malignant = 258 (84.6%), type of resection: pulmonary wedge = 151 (49.5%), lobectomy = 141 (46.2%), segmentectomy = 12 (3.9%), exploratory intervention = 1 (0.3%). Postoperative mortality was 1.9%. COPD = 50.8% cases, previous cancer disease = 172 cases (56.4%), smoking history = 250 cases (82.0%), positive PET = 280 cases (91.8%), PSN in upper pulmonary fields = 204 cases (66.9%), median SUVmax = 3.4 (range 0-20.7). Backward stepwise binary logistic regression model showed that age, SUVmax, previous malignant disease and female sex were independent risk factors with statistical significance (p < .05). Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and diagnostic accuracy were 94.6%, 23.4%, 87.1%, 44.0%, and 83.6% respectively. There were 14 false negative cases (4.6%) and 36 false positive cases (11.8%). (AU)

Complexity Analysis of the Default Mode Network Using Resting-State fMRI in Down Syndrome: Relationships Highlighted by a Neuropsychological Assessment.

BACKGROUND: Studies on complexity indicators in the field of functional connectivity derived from resting-state fMRI (rs-fMRI) in Down syndrome (DS) samples and their possible relationship with cognitive functioning variables are rare. We analyze how some complexity indicators estimated in the subareas that constitute the default mode network (DMN) might be predictors of the neuropsychological outcomes evaluating Intelligence Quotient (IQ) and cognitive performance in persons with DS. METHODS: Twenty-two DS people were assessed with the Kaufman Brief Test of Intelligence (KBIT) and Frontal Assessment Battery (FAB) tests, and fMRI signals were recorded in a resting state over a six-minute period. In addition, 22 controls, matched by age and sex, were evaluated with the same rs-fMRI procedure. RESULTS: There was a significant difference in complexity indicators between groups: the control group showed less complexity than the DS group. Moreover, the DS group showed more variance in the complexity indicator distributions than the control group. In the DS group, significant and negative relationships were found between some of the complexity indicators in some of the DMN networks and the cognitive performance scores. CONCLUSIONS: The DS group is characterized by more complex DMN networks and exhibits an inverse relationship between complexity and cognitive performance based on the negative parameter estimates.

A cost-effectiveness analysis of the introduction of a specialised consultation with duplex ultrasound assessment prior to vascular access surgery for haemodialysis. / Impacto de la introducción de una consulta específica con valoración eco-doppler en el costo asociado a la obtención de un primer acceso vascular para hemodiálisis.

INTRODUCTION: Duplex ultrasound (DUS) is increasingly used before vascular access (VA) surgery for haemodialysis. However, the cost-effectiveness of this approach is unknown. Our objective was to assess whether the introduction of a specialised consultation with DUS assessment modifies the cost and the time delay to achieve a first VA valid for haemodialysis. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Prospective cohort of patients undergoing a first VA (June 2014-July 2017) after a specialised consultation with DUS (ECO group). They were compared with a historical cohort (January 2012-May 2014) where VA was indicated exclusively by clinical evaluation (CLN group). We analysed the cost related to visits, DUS assessments, interventions, hospital admissions and graft materials to achieve a first VA valid for haemodialysis at least during 1 month. RESULTS: Eighty-six patients in the CLN group were compared with 92 in the ECO group. Patients in the ECO group were younger (68.4 vs. 64.0 years; P=.038) but no other differences were seen among groups. The average cost to achieve a first AV valid for haemodialysis was significantly lower in the ECO group (2707 vs. 3347€; P=.024). There was a higher cost associated with DUS assessments in the ECO group yet the CLN group had a higher cost related to follow-up visits, successive surgical interventions, prosthetic material, days of hospital admission and catheters. The mean time needed to achieve a first AV valid for haemodialysis was also shorter in the ECO group (49.9 vs. 82.9 days, P=.002). CONCLUSION: The introduction of a specialised vascular access consultation with DUS prior to VA surgery has reduced the cost necessary to achieve a first VA valid for haemodialysis. From the patient's point of view this has meant less interventions and hospital admissions and a shortening of the time delay.

Local adaptation optimizes photoprotection strategies in a Neotropical legume tree under drought stress.

Photoprotection is a plant functional mechanism to prevent photooxidative damage by excess light. This is most important when carbon assimilation is limited by drought, and as such, it entails a trade-off between carbon assimilation vs stress avoidance. The ecological adaptation of plants to local water availability can lead to different photoprotective strategies. To test this, we used different provenances of Caesalpinia spinosa (Mol.) Kuntze (commonly known as 'tara') along a precipitation gradient. Tara is a Neotropical legume tree with high ecological and commercial value, found in dry tropical forests, which are increasingly threatened by climate change. Morphological and physiological responses of tara provenances were analysed under three different treatments of drought and leaflet immobilization, i.e., light stress, in a common garden greenhouse experiment. Tara quickly responded to drought by reducing stomatal conductance, evapotranspiration, photochemical efficiency, carbon assimilation and growth, while increasing structural and chemical photoprotection (leaflet angle and pigments for thermal dissipation). Leaflet closure was an efficient photoprotection strategy with overall physiological benefits for seedlings as it diminished the evaporative demand and avoided photodamage, but also entailed costs by reducing net carbon assimilation opportunities. These responses depended on seed origin, with seedlings from the most xeric locations showing the highest dehydration tolerance, suggesting local adaptation and highlighting the value of different strategies under distinct environments. This plasticity in its response to environmental stress allows tara to thrive in locations with contrasting water availability. Our findings increase the understanding of the factors controlling the functional ecology of tara in response to drought, which can be leveraged to improve forecasts of changes in its distribution range, and for planning restoration projects with this keystone tree species.

Structural equation models to estimate dynamic effective connectivity networks in resting fMRI. A comparison between individuals with Down syndrome and controls.

Emerging evidence suggests that an effective or functional connectivity network does not use a static process over time but incorporates dynamic connectivity that shows changes in neuronal activity patterns. Using structural equation models (SEMs), we estimated a dynamic component of the effective network through the effects (recursive and nonrecursive) between regions of interest (ROIs), taking into account the lag 1 effect. The aim of the paper was to find the best structural equation model (SEM) to represent dynamic effective connectivity in people with Down syndrome (DS) in comparison with healthy controls. Twenty-two people with DS were registered in a functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) resting-state paradigm for a period of six minutes. In addition, 22 controls, matched by age and sex, were analyzed with the same statistical approach. In both groups, we found the best global model, which included 6 ROIs within the default mode network (DMN). Connectivity patterns appeared to be different in both groups, and networks in people with DS showed more complexity and had more significant effects than networks in control participants. However, both groups had synchronous and dynamic effects associated with ROIs 3 and 4 related to the upper parietal areas in both brain hemispheres as axes of association and functional integration. It is evident that the correct classification of these groups, especially in cognitive competence, is a good initial step to propose a biomarker in network complexity studies.

Minimally invasive technique for stage III adult-acquired flatfoot deformity: a mid- to long-term retrospective study.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to present the functional, radiological, and quality of life outcomes of a series of stage III adult-acquired flatfoot deformity corrections using an original operative approach based on minimal incision surgery (MIS). METHODS: Sixty-two patients (67 feet) with a symptomatic stage III flatfoot deformity were treated using a modified double arthrodesis by MIS. The mean age was 63 years (range, 50 to 81) and the mean follow-up was 6.6 years (range, 3.2 to 11.5). Clinical, radiological, American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society Hindfoot score (AOFAS score), quality of life (SF-36), and satisfaction scores were collected retrospectively. RESULTS: The mean AOFAS score improved by 54.27 (95% [CI], 57.27-51.3; P < 0.0001), and the SF-36 improved by a mean of 17.5 points (95% CI, 1.4-20.9) in the physical component summary (PCS). Deformity correction was confirmed by a significant improvement in the x-ray measurements (six angles). Bony union was observed in 89.5% of cases (60/67). In all, nine patients (13.4%) needed a secondary surgery: three for talonavicular nonunion, four for progression of the flatfoot deformity, and two for screw protrusion. No cases of superficial infection, wound dehiscence, or avascular necrosis of the talus were observed. CONCLUSION: The present series represents the largest study of stage III flatfoot correction using MIS with a mid- to long-term follow-up. Because the data showed clinical and functional improvement after surgery with fewer complications, this technique may be ideal for patients at risk of complications. Graphical abstract.

Analysis of solitary pulmonary nodule after surgical resection in patients with 18F-FDG positron emission tomography integrated computed tomography in the preoperative work-up. / Análisis del nódulo pulmonar solitario tras su resección quirúrgica en pacientes con 18F-FDG PET-TC integrado en el estudio preoperatorio.

INTRODUCTION: To analyse clinicopathological characteristics of patients operated for pulmonary solitary nodule (PSN) and 18F-FDG integrated PET-CT scan after surgical resection. METHODOLOGY: Retrospective study on a prospective database of patients operated from January 2007 to October 2017 for PSN without preoperative diagnosis. Dependent variable was anatomopathological result (benign vs malignant) of PSN. Variables of the study were: age, sex, PET-CT uptake, SUVmax, smoking history, COPD, previous history of malignant disease, tumoral location, and tumour size on CT-scan. RESULTS: A total of 305 patients were included in this study, 225 (73.8%) men, 80 (26.2%) women, mean age = 63.9 (range 29-86 years), mean size PSN = 1.68 (s.d. .65 cm), benign = 46 (15.1%), malignant = 258 (84.6%), type of resection: pulmonary wedge = 151 (49.5%), lobectomy = 141 (46.2%), segmentectomy = 12 (3.9%), exploratory intervention = 1 (0.3%). Postoperative mortality was 1.9%. COPD = 50.8% cases, previous cancer disease = 172 cases (56.4%), smoking history = 250 cases (82.0%), positive PET = 280 cases (91.8%), PSN in upper pulmonary fields = 204 cases (66.9%), median SUVmax = 3.4 (range 0-20.7). Backward stepwise binary logistic regression model showed that age, SUVmax, previous malignant disease and female sex were independent risk factors with statistical significance (p < .05). Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and diagnostic accuracy were 94.6%, 23.4%, 87.1%, 44.0%, and 83.6% respectively. There were 14 false negative cases (4.6%) and 36 false positive cases (11.8%). CONCLUSIONS: Age, SUVmax, previous malignant disease, and female sex were independent risk factors in our study. Each case should be individually evaluated in a multidisciplinary committee, and the patient's preferences or concerns should be kept in mind in decision-making. Surgical resection of PSN is not exempt from morbidity and mortality, even in sublobar or pulmonary wedge resection.