Interevaluator reliability of a tool for measuring body height in adult intensive care patients.

BACKGROUND: The calculation of body height in the intensive care unit is essential for obtaining the ideal body weight, which is used to program the tidal volume and establish objective and effective pulmonary ventilation. The objective of the study was to determine the interrater reliability of a tool for measuring body height in adult patients in an intensive care unit (ICU) in southwestern Colombia. METHODS: This cross-sectional observational study was conducted between January and May 2021, following the recommendations of the COSMIN protocol. Two physiotherapists in the roles of observer/evaluator measured the heights of 106 patients upon admission to the ICU with a previously designed. The sample size was calculated based on Pearson's correlation coefficient. For interrater reliability, the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was used, and Bland-Altman analysis was used to assess concordance. The 95% confidence interval was established, and a P value <0.05 indicated statistical significance. RESULTS: A total of 106 individuals with a mean age of 59.3 years were included; the mean body height was 158.5 cm for women. The interrater reliability of the measurement of height was excellent (global ICC of 0.99, P = 0.000), and an almost perfect positive correlation was obtained between the raters for both women and men (R = 0.99). CONCLUSIONS: Excellent interrater/interobserver reliability was obtained for the measurement of body height in the ICU. This research highlights the importance of protocolizing the measurement of height in critical patients with valid and reliable instruments.

Relationship between diabetic peripheral neuropathy and adherence to the Mediterranean diet in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: an observational study.

PURPOSE: The main study goal is to assess the relationship between adherence to the mediterranean diet (MD) and the presence of diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). METHODS: Observational pilot study of 174 patients diagnosed with T2DM. Sociodemographic and anthropometric variables, physical activity, smoking habits, blood biochemical parameters and comorbidities were recorded. The presence of alterations in sensitivity to pressure, pain, thermal and vibration was explored. Good MD adherence was a score ≥ 9 the 14-point MD adherence questionnaire (MEDAS-14). RESULTS: The study population consisted of 174 patients (61.5% men and 38.5% women), with a mean age of 69.56 ± 8.86 years; 19% of these patients adhered to the MD. The score obtained in the MEDAS-14 was higher in patients who did not present alterations in sensitivity to pressure (p = 0.047) or vibration (p = 0.021). The patients without diabetic peripheral neuropathy were more likely to comply with the MD and had a higher score on the MEDAS-14 (p = 0.047). However, multivariate analysis showed that only altered sensitivity to pressure was associated with adherence to the MD (altered sensitivity OR = 2.9; 95%CI 1.02-8.22; p = 0.045). CONCLUSIONS: Although the patients with DPN had lower scores on the MEDAS questionnaire and therefore poorer adherence to the mediterranean diet, the only parameter significantly associated with the MD was that of sensitivity to pressure (monofilament test).

Factores genéticos asociados a long COVID / Genetic factors associated with long COVID

Introducción: La variabilidad de la expresión y la evolución de la COVID no se explican completamente por los factores clínicos, atribuyéndose un importante papel a los genéticos. Además, se ha planteado si los mismos componentes genéticos que participan en la susceptibilidad y gravedad de la infección influyen en su evolución hacia long COVID. Como objetivo nos propusimos revisar la literatura a fin de conocer cuáles son los factores genéticos que intervienen en la génesis de la COVID persistente. Material y métodos: Revisión sistemática en PubMed y repositorios bioRxiv y medRxiv con base en los descriptores y términos Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) relacionados con COVID y factores genéticos. Fueron seleccionados 2.705 artículos. Un primer cribado, realizado de manera independiente por los autores, redujo la lista a 205 y finalmente, tras un análisis más detallado, se eligieron 85 trabajos para su lectura completa y revisión. Resultados: La enzima convertidora de angiotensina 2 (ACE2) y la proteasa transmembrana, serina 6 (TMPSS6) están implicadas en la susceptibilidad, sin embargo, no se ha encontrado su participación en long COVID. Sí se han hallado algunas asociaciones entre genes, que intervienen en la respuesta inflamatoria e inmune, con la gravedad de la enfermedad y el desarrollo de long COVID. La relación más importante se ha observado en el locus FOXP4. Conclusiones: Aunque actualmente la información sobre long COVID es limitada, parece claro que los factores genéticos identificados hasta ahora no justifican la progresión hacia una enfermedad persistente y se debe considerar la participación de otros componentes como la acción poligénica, de genes pleiotrópicos, de la microbiota y de los cambios epigenéticos.(AU)

Introduction: The variability in expression and evolution of COVID is not completely explained by clinical factors. In fact, genetic factors play an important role. Moreover, it is unknown whether the genetic factor that contribute to susceptibility and severity are also involved in the onset and evolution of long-COVID. The objective of this review is to gather information from literature to understand which genetic factors are involved in the onset of persistent COVID. Material and methods: Systematic review in PubMed and bioRxiv and medRxiv repositories based on MeSH-descriptors and MeSH-terms related to COVID and genetic factors. Using these terms 2715 articles were pooled. An initial screening performed by authors independently, selected 205 articles of interest. A final deeper screening a total of 85 articles were chosen for complete reading and summarized in this review. Results: Although ACE2 and TMPSS6 are involved in COVID susceptibility, their involvement in long-COVID has not been found. On the other hand, the severity of the disease and the onset of long-COVID has been associated with different genes involved in the inflammatory and immune response. Particularly interesting has been the association found with the FOXP4 locus. Conclusions: Although studies on long-COVID are insufficient to fully comprehend the cause, it is clear that the current identified genetic factors do not fully explain the progression and onset of long-COVID. Other factors such as polygenic action, pleiotropic genes, the microbiota and epigenetic changes must be considered and studied.(AU)

[Genetic factors associated with long COVID]. / Factores genéticos asociados a long COVID.

INTRODUCTION: The variability in expression and evolution of COVID is not completely explained by clinical factors. In fact, genetic factors play an important role. Moreover, it is unknown whether the genetic factor that contribute to susceptibility and severity are also involved in the onset and evolution of long-COVID. The objective of this review is to gather information from literature to understand which genetic factors are involved in the onset of persistent COVID. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Systematic review in PubMed and bioRxiv and medRxiv repositories based on MeSH-descriptors and MeSH-terms related to COVID and genetic factors. Using these terms 2715 articles were pooled. An initial screening performed by authors independently, selected 205 articles of interest. A final deeper screening a total of 85 articles were chosen for complete reading and summarized in this review. RESULTS: Although ACE2 and TMPSS6 are involved in COVID susceptibility, their involvement in long-COVID has not been found. On the other hand, the severity of the disease and the onset of long-COVID has been associated with different genes involved in the inflammatory and immune response. Particularly interesting has been the association found with the FOXP4 locus. CONCLUSIONS: Although studies on long-COVID are insufficient to fully comprehend the cause, it is clear that the current identified genetic factors do not fully explain the progression and onset of long-COVID. Other factors such as polygenic action, pleiotropic genes, the microbiota and epigenetic changes must be considered and studied.

Evolución de la funcionalidad y la fuerza muscular desde cuidado intensivo a hospitalización en sobrevivientes por COVID-19 / Evolution of functionality and muscle strength from intensive care to hospitalization in survivors of COVID-19

Introducción El paciente crítico hospitalizado en cuidado intensivo (UCI) tiene más riesgo de deterioro en la función física. Una forma de contrarrestarlo está relacionada con la intervención temprana de fisioterapia, pero son escasos los reportes en pacientes con enfermedad severa por COVID-19. Objetivo Describir el compromiso y cambio en la funcionalidad y en la fuerza muscular en pacientes con COVID-19 que recibieron intervención temprana de fisioterapia en UCI hasta el alta hospitalaria, y comparar la evolución de acuerdo con si recibieron ventilación mecánica invasiva o no. Metodología Estudio retrospectivo de pacientes con COVID-19 que ingresaron a UCI entre marzo y septiembre del 2020 y recibieron intervención de fisioterapia. La funcionalidad se evaluó con el índice Barthel (IB) y la fuerza muscular con el Medical Research Council Sum Score (MRC-SS), los cuales fueron medidos por el fisioterapeuta de turno en dos momentos, al egreso de UCI y de hospitalización. Se consideró el valor p < 0,05 como significativo. Resultados Se revisaron 66 registros; la edad promedio fue de 53,3 (32 ± 11,5) años; 32 (48,5%) requirieron ventilación mecánica. Se observó compromiso en la funcionalidad y en la fuerza muscular, con mejoría progresiva antes del egreso hospitalario: IB [64,1 (± 34,7) vs. 87,7 (± 18,4) p = 0,000], MRC-SS [40,5 (± 11) vs. 48 (± 9) p = 0,000]. El grupo de pacientes ventilados presentó mayor compromiso IB [34,2 (± 24,7) vs. 76,7 (± 21,2) p = 0,000] y MRC-SS [31,5 (± 7,2) vs. 42,3 (± 8,3) p = 0,000]. Los días de ventilación mecánica, de relajación, y mayor APACHE II mostraron una correlación negativa significativa con las variables de resultado (p = 0,000). Conclusiones Los pacientes con enfermedad severa por COVID-19 que recibieron intervención de fisioterapia mostraron cambios significativos en la funcionalidad y en la fuerza muscular. Los pacientes que requirieron ventilación mecánica presentaron mayor compromiso funcional (AU)

Introduction The critically ill patient hospitalized in intensive care unit (ICU), has a higher risk of deterioration in physical function. One way to counteract its related to early physiotherapy intervention, but there are few reports in patients with severe disease from COVID-19. Objective To describe the compromise and change in functionality and muscle strength in patients with COVID-19 who received early physiotherapy intervention in ICU until hospital discharge and compare the evolution according to whether or not they received invasive mechanical ventilation. Methodology Retrospective study of patients with COVID-19 admitted to the ICU between March and September 2020 and received physiotherapy intervention. Functionality was assessed with the Barthel Index (BI) and muscle strength with the Medical Research Council Sum Score (MRC-SS), which were measured by the physiotherapist at two moments, upon discharge from ICU and from hospitalization. For the correlations, a value P<.05 was considered significant. Results Sixty-six records were reviewed; the mean age was 53.3 (32±11.5) years; 32 (48.5%) required mechanical ventilation. Compromise in functionality and muscle strength was observed, with progressive improvement before hospital discharge: IB [64.1 (± 34.7) vs. 87.7 (± 18.4), P = .000], MRC-SS [40.5 (± 11) vs. 48 (± 9), P = .000]. The group of ventilated patients presented greater compromise: IB [34.2 (± 24.7) vs. 76.7 (± 21.2), P = .000] and MRC-SS [31.5 (± 7.2) vs. 42.3 (± 8.3), P = .000]. The days of mechanical ventilation, relaxation, and higher APACHE II showed a significant negative correlation with the outcome variables (P = .000). Conclusions Patients with severe disease from COVID-19 who received physiotherapy intervention, showed significant changes in functionality and muscle strength. The patients who required mechanical ventilation presented greater functional compromise (AU)

Efectividad de la respiración glosofaríngea en pacientes con enfermedades neuromusculares y lesión medular: Revisión sistemática exploratoria / Effectiveness of glossopharyngeal breathing in patients with neuromuscular diseases and spinal cord injury: Scoping review

Antecedentes Las enfermedades neuromusculares y las lesiones medulares comprometen los músculos respiratorios y función pulmonar ocasionando complicaciones respiratorias. La insuficiencia respiratoria aguda y el compromiso respiratorio crónico ocasionan alto riesgo de morbilidad y mortalidad. Se ha descrito el uso de la respiración glosofaríngea para mejorar variables de función pulmonar y muscular respiratoria que promueven la tos más efectiva y aumento del tiempo libre de ventilación mecánica. Objetivo Describir y presentar la evidencia actual de la efectividad de la respiración glosofaríngea en mejorar la función pulmonar y muscular respiratoria en pacientes adultos y pediátricos con enfermedades neuromusculares o lesión medular con o sin ventilación mecánica. Diseño Revisión exploratoria con la metodología PRISMA-ScR. Se realizó una búsqueda en las bases de datos PEDro, Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Springer, Medline, Cochrane, SciELO, Lilacs, Google Académico, se usaron palabras claves y términos MeSH en idiomas español, inglés y portugués, entre los años 2000-2020. Los resultados se presentan de forma descriptiva. Resultados Se identificaron 491 estudios y fueron incluidos 12. El 58,3% fueron realizados en países europeos. El 41,6% de los estudios fueron valorados y ninguno cumplió totalmente los criterios de calidad. La efectividad de la respiración glosofaríngea en la función pulmonar y muscular respiratoria estuvo relacionada con mejoría de capacidad vital en 66,6% y pico flujo de tos en 33,3% de los estudios. Se reportó mejoría en expansión torácica en 66,6% de los estudios y complicaciones como síncope, mareo en 33,3%. Conclusión La efectividad de respiración glosofaríngea en pacientes con enfermedades neuromusculares y lesión medular está relacionada con aumento de capacidad vital y pico flujo de tos. Se recomienda la realización de estudios con más rigurosidad científica para soportar la validez de estos resultados (AU)

Background Neuromuscular diseases and spinal cord injuries compromise respiratory muscles and lung function, causing respiratory complications. Acute respiratory failure and chronic respiratory compromise cause high risk of morbidity and mortality. The use of glossopharyngeal respiration has been described to improve pulmonary and respiratory muscle function variables that promote more effective coughing and increased time off mechanical ventilation. Objective Describe and present the current evidence of the effectiveness of glossopharyngeal respiration in improving lung and respiratory muscle function in adult and pediatric patients with neuromuscular diseases or spinal cord injury with or without mechanical ventilation. Design Exploratory review with the PRISMA-ScR methodology. A search was carried out in the PEDro, Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Springer, Medline, Cochrane, SciELO, Lilacs, Google Academic databases, keywords and MeSH terms were used in Spanish, English and Portuguese languages, among the years 2000–2020. The results are presented in a descriptive way. Results 491 studies were identified and 12 were included. 58.3% were conducted in European countries. 41.6% of the studies were critically appraised and none fully met the quality criteria. The effectiveness of glossopharyngeal breathing in lung and respiratory muscle function was related to an improvement in vital capacity in 66.6% and peak cough flow in 33.3% of the studies. Improvement in thoracic expansion was reported in 66.6% of the studies and complications such as syncope, dizziness in 33.3%. Conclusion The effectiveness of glossopharyngeal respiration in patients with neuromuscular diseases and spinal cord injury is related to increased vital capacity and peak flow of cough. Studies with more scientific rigor are recommended to support the validity of these results (AU)

Tropical tree foliage supplementation in ruminants improves rumen fermentation and the bacterial profile and decreases methane production.

The main of this study was to evaluate the effect of supplementation of tropical tree foliage in ruminant diets on the in vitro fermentation, bacterial population, volatile fatty acids (VFAs), and enteric CH4 production. Seven experimental diets were evaluated: a control treatment of Pennisetum purpureum (T7) and six treatments of P. purpureum supplemented (30%) with the foliage of Neomillspaughia emargiata (T1), Tabernaemontana amygdalifolia (T2), Caesalpinia gaumeri (T3), Piscidia piscipula (T4), Leucaena leucocephala (T5), and Havardia albicans (T6). The T2, T7, and T5 treatments had the highest (p < 0.05) digestibility of dry matter. Overall, supplementation increased (p < 0.05) the concentrations of propionic and butyric acid and decreased acetic acid. Methanogenic bacteria decreased (p < 0.05) in T1, T2, T5, and T6. Ruminococcus albus decreased in T1, T2, T3, and T5 and Selenomonas ruminiantum increased in T3. Fibrobacter succinogenes increased, except in T5. Methane production decreased (p < 0.05) in T1, T4, T5, and T6. The supplementation with Leucaena leucocephala, Tabernaemontana amygdalifolia, Neomillspaughia emargiata, Piscidia piscipula, Havardia albicans, and Caesalpinia gaumeri is a potential alternative nutritional strategy for ruminants that results in positive changes in VFAs profile, a decrease on CH4 production and methanogenic bacteria, and changes on fibrolytic and non-fibrolytic bacteria composition.HIGHLIGHTSTropical tree foliage supplementation increased propionic and butyric acid and decreased acetic acid concentrations.Fibrolytic, non-fibrolytic, and Methanogenic bacteria were selectively modulated with the supplementation of tropical tree foliage.The enteric methane (CH4) production decreased with the supplementation of tree foliage.The supplementation of Tabernaemontana amygdalifolia and Leucaena leucocephala had the highest digestibility and is a potential alternative nutritional strategy for ruminants.

A high-resolution neutron spectroscopic camera for the SPARC tokamak based on the Jet European Torus deuterium-tritium experience.

Dedicated nuclear diagnostics have been designed, developed, and built within EUROFUSION enhancement programs in the last ten years for installation at the Joint European Torus and capable of operation in high power Deuterium-Tritium (DT) plasmas. The recent DT Experiment campaign, called DTE2, has been successfully carried out in the second half of 2021 and provides a unique opportunity to evaluate the performance of the new nuclear diagnostics and for an understanding of their behavior in the record high 14 MeV neutron yields (up to 4.7 × 1018 n/s) and total number of neutrons (up to 2 × 1019 n) achieved on a tokamak. In this work, we will focus on the 14 MeV high resolution neutron spectrometers based on artificial diamonds which, for the first time, have extensively been used to measure 14 MeV DT neutron spectra with unprecedented energy resolution (Full Width at Half Maximum of ≈1% at 14 MeV). The work will describe their long-term stability and operation over the DTE2 campaign as well as their performance as neutron spectrometers in terms of achieved energy resolution and high rate capability. This important experience will be used to outline the concept of a spectroscopic neutron camera for the SPARC tokamak. The proposed neutron camera will be the first one to feature the dual capability to measure (i) the 2.5 and 14 MeV neutron emissivity profile via the conventional neutron detectors based on liquid or plastics scintillators and (ii) the 14 MeV neutron spectral emission via the use of high-resolution diamond-based spectrometers. The new opportunities opened by the spectroscopic neutron camera to measure plasma parameters will be discussed.

Confiabilidad interevaluador de la medición de la excursión diafragmática y fracción de engrosamiento diafragmático mediante ultrasonografía en voluntarios sanos / Inter-rater reliability of the measurement of diaphragmatic excursion and fraction of diaphragmatic thickening by ultrasonography in healthy volunteers

Antecedentes y objetivo: Determinar la confiabilidad interevaluador en la medición ultrasonográfica (US) de la excursión diafragmática (ED) y la fracción de engrosamiento diafragmático (FED) realizada por profesionales de salud no médicos en voluntarios sanos. Participantes y métodos: Estudio observacional prospectivo en un hospital de tercer nivel en Cali, Colombia. Se realizaron mediciones a 30 voluntarios sanos escogidos mediante muestreo a conveniencia, sin antecedentes de enfermedades pulmonares, con edades entre los 18-60 años. Previamente se realizó una prueba piloto con 8 voluntarios sanos. Las mediciones US de ED y FED se basaron en protocolos publicados anteriormente. Cada evaluador observaba independientemente varios ciclos de respiración tranquila normal durante 3minutos para establecer una línea de base. Para evaluar la confiabilidad interevaluador en las mediciones de ED y FED se utilizó el índice de correlación intraclase (ICC), con intervalos de confianza del 95% y un p<0,05. Resultados: Se identificó concordancia sustancial en la medición de la ED en las ventanas esplénica y hepática debido a que el ICC fue mayor a 0,6 (p<0,05). La medición de la FED en la ventana hepática mostró concordancia leve tanto en el modo 2D como en el modo M (p>0,05). En la ventana esplénica la medición de la FED en el modo 2D se identificó concordancia regular y para el modo M se encontró una concordancia leve (p>0,05). Conclusiones: La US diafragmática constituye un método reproducible con aceptable confiabilidad interevaluador para la medición del grosor inspiratorio/espiratorio y con confiabilidad pobre para la medición de FED.(AU)

Background and objective: To determine the inter-rater reliability in the ultrasonographic (US) measurement of the diaphragmatic excursion (DE) and the diaphragm thickness fraction (DTF) performed by non-medical health professionals in healthy people. Participants and methods: Prospective observational study in a third level hospital in Cali, Colombia. Measurements were made to 30 healthy volunteers chosen by convenience sampling, without a history of lung diseases, with ages between 18-60 years. A pilot test was previously carried out with 8 healthy volunteers. US measurements of DE, and DTF were based on previously published protocols. Each assessor independently observed several cycles of normal quiet breathing for 3minutes to establish a baseline. The Intraclass Correlation Index (ICC) was used to evaluate the inter-rater reliability in the measurements of DE and DTF, with 95% confidence intervals and a P<.05. Results: Substantial agreement was identified in the measurement of DE in the splenic and hepatic windows because the ICC was greater than 0.6 (P<.05). The measurement of the DTF in the hepatic window showed slight agreement in both 2D and M modes (P>.05). In the splenic window, the measurement of the DTF in the 2D mode was found to be moderate agreement and for the M mode a slight agreement was found (P>.05).Conclusions: The diaphragmatic US constitutes a reproducible method with acceptable inter-rater reliability for the measurement of inspiratory/expiratory thickness, and with little reliability for the measurement of DTF.(AU)

Inter-rater reliability of the measurement of diaphragmatic excursion and fraction of diaphragmatic thickening by ultrasonography in healthy volunteers.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: To determine the inter-rater reliability in the ultrasonographic (US) measurement of the diaphragmatic excursion (DE) and the diaphragm thickness fraction (DTF) performed by non-medical health professionals in healthy people. PARTICIPANTS AND METHODS: Prospective observational study in a third level hospital in Cali, Colombia. Measurements were made to 30 healthy volunteers chosen by convenience sampling, without a history of lung diseases, with ages between 18-60 years. A pilot test was previously carried out with 8 healthy volunteers. US measurements of DE, and DTF were based on previously published protocols. Each assessor independently observed several cycles of normal quiet breathing for 3min to establish a baseline. The Intraclass Correlation Index (ICC) was used to evaluate the inter-rater reliability in the measurements of DE and DTF, with 95% confidence intervals and a p<0.05. RESULTS: Substantial agreement was identified in the measurement of DE in the splenic and hepatic windows because the ICC was greater than 0.6 (p<0.05). The measurement of the DTF in the hepatic window showed slight agreement in both 2D and M modes (p>0.05). In the splenic window, the measurement of the DTF in the 2D mode was found to be moderate agreement and for the M mode a slight agreement was found (p>0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The diaphragmatic US constitutes a reproducible method with acceptable inter-rater reliability for the measurement of inspiratory/expiratory thickness, and with little reliability for the measurement of DTF.

A new dedicated signal processing system for gamma-ray spectrometers in high power deuterium-tritium plasma scenarios in tokamaks.

The most performant deuterium-tritium (DT) plasma discharges realized by the Joint European Torus (JET) tokamak in the recent DT campaign have produced neutron yields on the order of 1018 n/s. At such high neutron yields, gamma-ray spectroscopy measurements with scintillators are challenging as events from the neutron-induced background often dominate over the signal, leading to a significant fraction of pileup events and instability of the photodetector gain along with the consequent degradation of the reconstructed spectrum. Here, we describe the solutions adopted for the tangential lanthanum bromide spectrometer installed at JET. A data acquisition system with free streaming mode digitization capabilities for the entire duration of the discharge has been used to solve dead-time related issues and a data reconstruction code with pileup recovery and photodetector gain drift restoration has been implemented for off-line analysis of the data. This work focuses on the acquired data storage and parsing, with a detailed explanation of the pileup recovery and gain drift restoration algorithms.

Fusion product measurements by nuclear diagnostics in the Joint European Torus deuterium-tritium 2 campaign (invited).

A new deuterium-tritium experimental, DTE2, campaign has been conducted at the Joint European Torus (JET) between August 2021 and late December 2021. Motivated by significant enhancements in the past decade at JET, such as the ITER-like wall and enhanced auxiliary heating power, the campaign achieved a new fusion energy world record and performed a broad range of fundamental experiments to inform ITER physics scenarios and operations. New capabilities in the area of fusion product measurements by nuclear diagnostics were available as a result of a decade long enhancement program. These have been tested for the first time in DTE2 and a concise overview is provided here. Confined alpha particle measurements by gamma-ray spectroscopy were successfully demonstrated, albeit with limitations at neutron rates higher than some 1017 n/s. High resolution neutron spectroscopy measurements with the magnetic proton recoil instrument were complemented by novel data from a set of synthetic diamond detectors, which enabled studies of the supra-thermal contributions to the neutron emission. In the area of escaping fast ion diagnostics, a lost fast ion detector and a set of Faraday cups made it possible to determine information on the velocity space and poloidal distribution of the lost alpha particles for the first time. This extensive set of data provides unique information for fundamental physics studies and validation of the numerical models, which are key to inform the physics and scenarios of ITER.

Is there a therapeutic potential in combining bupropion and naltrexone in schizophrenia?

INTRODUCTION: A sustained-release tablet composed of a combination of the dopamine and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor bupropion (BUP) and the µ-opioid receptor antagonist naltrexone (NAT) is marketed under the brand name Contrave by Orexigen Therapeutics for appetite control. Minimal literature is available regarding the use of combination bupropion and naltrexone (BUPNAT) in individuals with schizophrenia. AREAS COVERED: In this review, we propose a theoretical model where BUPNAT may have a therapeutic effect in the treatment of schizophrenia. We explore the pathways targeted by the constituent drugs BUP and NAT and summarize the literature on their efficacy and possible adverse effects. We then look at the potential use of BUPNAT in schizophrenia. EXPERT OPINION: Research has hinted that BUP's dopaminergic properties affect the same striatal pathways involved in schizophrenia. NAT, via opioid receptor antagonism, indirectly increases striatal dopamine release by disinhibiting nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. As such, we hypothesize that BUPNAT can have a therapeutic effect in schizophrenia, particularly on negative symptoms. We also suggest that it may ameliorate comorbidities frequently seen in this group of patients, including obesity, smoking, and substance use. Further research and clinical data are needed to elucidate the potential clinical benefits of BUPNAT in the treatment of schizophrenia.

Papel de la estimulación del nervio vago en el tratamiento de la epilepsia refractaria. Resultados clínicos e impacto en la calidad de vida / The role of vagus nerve stimulation in the treatment of refractory epilepsy: Clinical outcomes and impact on quality of life

Introducción: La estimulación del nervio vago (ENV) se ha mostrado como una terapia complementaria al tratamiento farmacológico en pacientes con epilepsia refractaria. Nuestro objetivo es evaluar la eficacia de la ENV en relación con la disminución del número, intensidad y duración de las crisis, con la reducción del número de fármacos antiepilépticos y con la mejoría de la calidad de vida. Material y métodos: Se analizó la evolución de 70 pacientes con epilepsia refractaria, tratados mediante ENV en el Hospital General Universitario de Alicante y en el Hospital Clínico de Valencia. Se recogieron variables pre- y postoperatorias. La diferencia en la frecuencia tras la estimulación vagal se clasificó mediante la escala de McHugh. También se recogieron los cambios en la duración e intensidad de las crisis y la disminución de la medicación junto con la modificación de la calidad de vida. Resultados: El 12,86% de los pacientes se clasificaron como McHugh I, el 44,29% como ii, el 40% como iii y el 2,86% como iv-v. Un 57,15% de los pacientes presentaron una reducción superior al 50% en la frecuencia de las crisis. Un 88% de los pacientes presentaron una mejoría en la duración de las crisis, en el 68% disminuyó la intensidad, un 66% toman menos fármacos y en el 93% mejoró la calidad de vida. Conclusiones: La ENV ha mostrado disminuir la frecuencia de las crisis, así como la duración, la intensidad y el consumo de fármacos, ofreciendo además una mejoría en la calidad de vida de nuestros pacientes. (AU)

Background: Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is used as a complementary therapy to pharmacological treatment in patients with refractory epilepsy. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of VNS in reducing seizure frequency, severity, and duration; reducing the number of antiepileptic drugs administered; and improving patients’ quality of life. Material and methods: We analysed the clinical progression of 70 patients with refractory epilepsy treated with VNS at Hospital Universitario de Alicante and Hospital Clínico de Valencia. Data were collected before and after the procedure. The difference in seizure frequency pre- and post-VNS was classified using the McHugh scale. Data were also collected on seizure duration and severity, the number of drugs administered, and quality of life. Results: According to the McHugh classification, 12.86% of the patients were Class I, 44.29% were Class II, 40% were Class III, and the remaining 2.86% of patients were Class IV-V. A ≥ 50% reduction in seizure frequency was observed in 57.15% of patients. Improvements were observed in seizure duration in 88% of patients and in seizure severity in 68%; the number of drugs administered was reduced in 66% of patients, and 93% reported better quality of life. Conclusions: VNS is effective for reducing seizure frequency, duration, and severity and the number of antiepileptic drugs administered. It also enables an improvement in patients’ quality of life. (AU)

Quantitative systems pharmacology modeling sheds light into the dose response relationship of a trispecific T cell engager in multiple myeloma.

In relapsed and refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM), there are few treatment options once patients progress from the established standard of care. Several bispecific T-cell engagers (TCE) are in clinical development for multiple myeloma (MM), designed to promote T-cell activation and tumor killing by binding a T-cell receptor and a myeloma target. In this study we employ both computational and experimental tools to investigate how a novel trispecific TCE improves activation, proliferation, and cytolytic activity of T-cells against MM cells. In addition to binding CD3 on T-cells and CD38 on tumor cells, the trispecific binds CD28, which serves as both co-stimulation for T-cell activation and an additional tumor target. We have established a robust rule-based quantitative systems pharmacology (QSP) model trained against T-cell activation, cytotoxicity, and cytokine data, and used it to gain insight into the complex dose response of this drug. We predict that CD3-CD28-CD38 killing capacity increases rapidly in low dose levels, and with higher doses, killing plateaus rather than following the bell-shaped curve typical of bispecific TCEs. We further predict that dose-response curves are driven by the ability of tumor cells to form synapses with activated T-cells. When competition between cells limits tumor engagement with active T-cells, response to therapy may be diminished. We finally suggest a metric related to drug efficacy in our analysis-"effective" receptor occupancy, or the proportion of receptors engaged in synapses. Overall, this study predicts that the CD28 arm on the trispecific antibody improves efficacy, and identifies metrics to inform potency of novel TCEs.

Genograma y árbol genealógico / Genogram and genealogical tree

El genograma y el árbol genealógico son herramientas de representación gráfica de la familia que, aunque comparten similitudes, tienen una funcionalidad y significados diferentes. Si bien el objetivo básico del primero es representar la estructura familiar y las relaciones entre sus miembros, el segundo pretende la identificación del patrón de herencia y de rasgos heredables, aunque su uso y aplicaciones van mucho más allá. Por otra parte, la representación gráfica en ambas herramientas se encuentra normalizada con símbolos similares, aunque algunos de ellos con significado distinto. Tanto una como otra, son utilizadas por el médico de familia, y éste debe tener las competencias necesarias para su manejo efectivo. En este trabajo se pretende mejorar dichas competencias al definir las principales diferencias de una y otra herramienta, establecer los elementos básicos para la construcción e interpretación del árbol genealógico, además de señalar su utilidad clínica y sus usos más frecuentes (AU)

A genogram and a genealogical tree are graphic representations of families that share similarities but have different functionality and meanings. While the first basic objective is to represent the family structure and the relationships between its members, the second seeks to identify the inheritance pattern and inheritable traits, although its use and applications go much further. Graphic representation is normalized with similar symbols, although some of them have different meanings. Both are used by family doctors, and they must have the necessary skills for their effective management. This work aims to improve these skills by defining the main differences between the two tools, establishing the basic elements for the construction and interpretation of a genealogical tree, and pointing out its clinical utility and its most frequent uses (AU)

Forest maturity has a stronger influence on the prevalence of spider monkeys than howler monkeys in an anthropogenically impacted rainforest landscape.

The transformation and depletion of primary forest over the past few decades have placed almost half of the world's primate species under the threat of extinction. Developing any successful conservation program for primates requires distribution and demography data, as well as an understanding of the relationships between these factors and their habitat. Between March and June 2010 and 2011 we collected data on the presence and demographic parameters of howler and spider monkeys by carrying out surveys, and validated our findings using local knowledge. We then examined the relationship between forest type and the presence of these primates at 54 sites in the northern area of the Selva Zoque Corridor, Mexico. We detected 86 spider monkey groups across 31 plots and censused 391 individuals (mean ± SD = 5.9 ± 3.0 individuals per sub-group, n = 67 sub-groups). We also detected 69 howler monkey groups across 30 plots and censused 117 individuals (mean ± SD = 5.3 ± 2.4 individuals per group, n = 22 groups). Howler monkey presence was not related to any specific vegetation type, while spider monkeys were present in areas with a higher percentage of tall forest (trees > 25 m high). Overall, spider monkeys were more prevalent than howler monkeys in our sampling sites and showed demographic characteristics similar to those in better protected areas, suggesting that the landscape features in the Uxpanapa Valley are suitable for their needs. Conversely, howler monkey presence was found to be more limited than in other regions, possibly due to the extended presence of spider monkeys.

The role of vagus nerve stimulation in the treatment of refractory epilepsy: clinical outcomes and impact on quality of life.

BACKGROUND: Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is used as a complementary therapy to pharmacological treatment in patients with refractory epilepsy. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of VNS in reducing seizure frequency, severity, and duration; reducing the number of antiepileptic drugs administered; and improving patients' quality of life. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We analysed the clinical progression of 70 patients with refractory epilepsy treated with VNS at Hospital Universitario de Alicante and Hospital Clínico de Valencia. Data were collected before and after the procedure. The difference in seizure frequency pre- and post-VNS was classified using the McHugh scale. Data were also collected on seizure duration and severity, the number of drugs administered, and quality of life. RESULTS: According to the McHugh classification, 12.86% of the patients were Class I, 44.29% were Class II, 40% were Class III, and the remaining 2.86% of patients were Class IV-V. A ≥ 50% reduction in seizure frequency was observed in 57.15% of patients. Improvements were observed in seizure duration in 88% of patients and in seizure severity in 68%; the number of drugs administered was reduced in 66% of patients, and 93% reported better quality of life. CONCLUSIONS: VNS is effective for reducing seizure frequency, duration, and severity and the number of antiepileptic drugs administered. It also enables an improvement in patients' quality of life.