Atrial Fibrillation Prevalence Rates and Its Association with Cardiovascular-Kidney-Metabolic Factors: SIMETAP-AF Study.

Background and Objectives: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most frequent arrhythmia and the main cause of hospital admissions for cardioembolic stroke. The SIMETAP research project aims to update the prevalence rates of cardiovascular, renal, or metabolic factors and to evaluate their respective associations with factors that could be related. The present study aims to assess the AF prevalence rates in an adult population and its association with cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic (CKM) factors. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional observational study was conducted in a primary care setting, with a population-based random sample of 6588 people aged 18.0-102.8 years. Crude and adjusted prevalence rates of AF were calculated. The associations of CKM factors with AF were assessed using bivariate and multivariate analysis. Results: The age- and sex-adjusted prevalence rates of AF were 2.9% in the overall adult population, 6.1% in the population aged ≥50 years, and 12.9% in the population aged ≥70 years, with no significant differences by sex. AF prevalence in the population under 50 years of age barely reached 1‰. Heart failure (HF), hypertension, chronic kidney disease (CKD), stroke, low HDL-cholesterol, and prediabetes were independent CKM factors associated with AF in the overall population, as were the same factors, except prediabetes, in the population ≥50 years old (p < 0.001). High or very high vascular risk was present in 92.4% [95% CI: 89.1-95.7]) of the population with AF. Conclusions: The adjusted prevalence rate of AF in the population aged 50 years or older was 6.1%, twice that of the overall adult population and half that of the population aged 70 years or older. The main independent CKM factors associated with AF were HF, stroke, CKD, hypertension, and low HDL-cholesterol.

Hyperuricaemia Prevalence Rates According to Their Physiochemical and Epidemiological Diagnostic Criteria and Their Associations with Cardio-Renal-Metabolic Factors: SIMETAP-HU Study.

Background: Scientific societies disagree on serum uric acid (SUA) thresholds for the diagnosis of hyperuricaemia (HU) according to epidemiological or physiochemical criteria (SUA ≥ 7.0 mg/dL for men and ≥6.0 mg/dL for women [HU-7/6]; SUA ≥ 7.0 mg/dL for both genders [HU-7/7], respectively). HU is not included among the diagnostic criteria for metabolic syndrome or cardiovascular-renal-metabolic syndrome (CKM), although it promotes atherosclerosis and is associated with renal and cardiometabolic diseases. Both issues are of utmost importance and need to be clarified, hence the present study aims to assess the prevalence rates of HU and their associations with CKM factors. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted on a random population-based sample of 6489 adults. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were performed on the most well-known renal and cardiometabolic variables of the populations with and without HU-7/7 and HU-7/6. Results: The adjusted prevalence rates for HU-7/6 were 13.4% in adult population (18.4% in men; 9.6% in women) and 10.2% (18.4% in men; 3.8% in women) for HU-7/7. The main factors associated independently with HU for both genders were low estimated glomerular filtration rate, hypertension, hypertriglyceridaemia, and alcoholism, regardless of the criteria chosen, as well as albuminuria in women and central obesity in men. Conclusions: The prevalence rates of HU increase linearly with age for both genders. The associations of CKM factors with HU diagnosed according to physiochemical criterion are more similar between men and women than those using epidemiological criteria.

Lower Extremity Arterial Calcification Predicts Referral to a Closed Unit After Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty.

BACKGROUND: We aimed to determine the association between lower extremity arterial calcification (LEAC) and referral to a closed unit (CU), length of stay, 90-day readmissions, and 1-year mortality in primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) patients. METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed 705 patients who underwent primary THA, identifying 64 patients (9.13%) who had LEAC and 641 who did not have LEAC. Patients who had LEAC were older (77 ± 10.0 versus 67 ± 11.5 years; P < 0.001) and had more comorbidities, except for a history of thromboembolic and oncologic diseases (P > 0.05). A preoperative antero-posterior pelvic radiograph was used to assess the presence of LEAC. Admission to CU, length of stay, 90-day readmissions, and 1-year mortality were recorded. A logistic regression model was used to identify risk factors for referral to CU. RESULTS: Patients who had LEAC had a higher incidence of admission to the intensive care unit (8 of 64 [12.5%] versus 8 of 641 [1.09%]; P < 0.001), a longer hospital stay (4.7 ± 1.8 versus 4.2 ± 1.3 days; P = 0.006), more readmissions (16 of 64 [25%] versus 33 of 641 [5.15%]; P < 0.001), and a higher 1-year mortality rate (6 of 64 [9.3%] versus 0 of 641 [0%]; P < 0.001) than patients who did not have LEAC. Of the patients who had LEAC admitted to CU, only 3 of 8 had a previous indication to do so in the preoperative assessment performed by the Department of Anesthesiology, while all non-LEAC ones referred to CU did so. Logistic regression analysis showed that LEAC was a risk factor for admission to CU (odds ratio = 4.77; 95% confidence interval: 1.12 to 20.25; P = 0.034). CONCLUSIONS: The presence of LEAC was a risk factor for transfer to CU, longer in-hospital stays, more readmissions, and a higher 1-year mortality rate. Identifying patients who have LEAC can aid in the preoperative assessment and risk stratification of patients planned for primary THA.

Comparison of baseline clinical characteristics among people with type 2 diabetes on second-line therapy previously added with dapagliflozin or another oral glucose-lowering drug: AGORA study.

INTRODUCTION: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D) has acquired epidemic proportions worldwide. In recent years, new oral glucose-lowering drugs (OGLD) have emerged that improve the cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic control in T2D people. OBJECTIVES: To compare the baseline clinical-biological characteristics among T2D people to whom had added-on dapagliflozin (DAPA group) or another OGLD (SOC group) second-line hypoglycaemic therapies among the AGORA study population. METHODS: This is a multicentre cross-sectional observational study of the baseline characteristics of T2D people recruited through competitive sampling among 46 primary care health centres in Spain for the AGORA study. The inclusion and exclusion criteria of participants, and justification of the sample size are reported. After verifying the data necessary to be evaluated and informed consent, 317 subjects were included to the DAPA group and 288 to the SOC group. Both categorical and continuous variables were analysed and compared with the usual statistics. Cohen's d was used to assess the standardised difference in means. RESULTS: Six hundred and five patients with T2D were assessed (mean age 63.5 [SD±8.1] years, 61.8% men), whom 17.4% were smokers, 47.6% had obesity, 74.8% hypertension, 87.3% dyslipidaemia, and 41.7% reported physical inactivity, with no significant differences between both comparison groups. The mean (SD) evolution time of T2D was 10.1 (5.6) years. Most baseline clinical-biological characteristics at recruitment were similar in both groups. However, DAPA group was younger (2.9 years), and had lower systolic blood pressure (SBP) (2.8mmHg), higher body weight (BW) (3.7kg), and higher glycated haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) (0.3%) than SOC group. Only 11.5% of participants had poor glycaemic control (HbA1c>8%) at recruitment, 54.9% had good glycaemic control (HbA1c<7%), being significantly lower in the DAPA group (47.3%) than in the SOC group (63.4%). The percentage of T2D patients with high vascular risk (VR) was 46.3%, and 53.7% with very high VR, being significantly higher in the DAPA group (57.4%) than in the SOC group (49.6%). CONCLUSIONS: Most baseline cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic characteristics were similar in T2D patients whom had added dapagliflozin on second-line hypoglycaemic therapy as those whom had added-on another OGLD. However, patients whom had added-on dapagliflozin had higher VR, lower SBP, higher BW, and slightly worse HbA1c control. Future research is necessary to explain the causes of these differences in cardiometabolic control.

Functional characterization of biodegradable films obtained from whole Paecilomyces variotii biomass.

The indiscriminate use of petroleum-based polymers and plastics for single-use food packaging has led to serious environmental problems due the non-biodegradable characteristics. Thus, much attention has been focused on the research of new biobased and biodegradable materials. Yeast and fungal biomass are low-cost and abundant sources of biopolymers with highly promising properties for the development of biodegradable materials. This study aimed to select a preparation method to develop new biodegradable films using the whole biomass of Paecilomyces variotii subjected to successive physical treatments including ultrasonic homogenization (US) and heat treatment. Sterilization process had an important impact on the final filmogenic dispersion and mechanical properties of the films. Longer US treatments produced a reduction in the particle size and the application of an intermediate UT treatment contributed favorably to the breaking of agglomerates allowing the second US treatment to be more effective, achieving an ordered network with a more uniform distribution. Samples that were not filtrated after the sterilization process presented mechanical properties similar to plasticized materials. On the other hand, the filtration process after sterilization eliminated soluble and hydratable compounds, which produced a reduction in the hydration of the films.

Prevalence Rates of Arterial Hypertension According to the Threshold Criteria of 140/90 or 130/80 mmHg and Associated Cardiometabolic and Renal Factors: SIMETAP-HTN Study.

Background and objectives: Arterial hypertension (HTN) is the leading preventable cause of atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases (ASCVD) and death from all causes. This study aimed to determine the prevalence rates of HTN diagnosed according to the threshold diagnostic criteria 130/80 mmHg and 140/90 mmHg, to compare blood pressure (BP) control, and to evaluate their associations with cardiovascular diseases and cardiometabolic and renal risk factors. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional observational study conducted in primary care with a population-based random sample: 6588 people aged 18.0-102.8 years. Crude and adjusted prevalence rates of HTN were calculated. BP control was compared in HTN patients with and without ASCVD or chronic kidney disease (CKD). Their associations with cardiovascular diseases and cardiometabolic and renal factors were assessed using bivariate and multivariate analysis. Results: Adjusted prevalence rates of HTN diagnosed according to 140/90 and 130/90 criteria were 30.9% (32.9% male; 29.7% female) and 54.9% (63.2% male; 49.3% female), respectively. BP < 130/80 mmHg was achieved in 60.5% of HTN patients without ASCVD or CKD according to 140/90 criterion, and 65.5% according to 130/80 criterion. This BP-control was achieved in 70% of HTN patients with ASCVD and 71% with CKD, according to both criteria. Coronary heart disease (CHD), heart failure, atrial fibrillation, stroke, diabetes, prediabetes, low glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), hyperuricemia, hypercholesterolemia, obesity, overweight, and increased waist-to-height ratio were independently associated with HTN according to both criteria. Conclusions: Almost a third of the adult population has HTN according to the 140/90 criterion, and more than half according to the 130/90 criterion, with a higher prevalence in men. The main clinical conditions associated with HTN were heart failure, diabetes, CHD, low eGFR, and obesity.

Heart Failure Prevalence Rates and Its Association with Other Cardiovascular Diseases and Chronic Kidney Disease: SIMETAP-HF Study.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: Heart failure (HF) is a major health problem that causes high mortality and hospitalization rates. This study aims to determine the HF prevalence rates in populations aged both ≥18 years and ≥50 years and to assess its association with cardiovascular diseases and chronic kidney disease. METHODS: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted in a primary care setting, with a population-based random sample of 6588 people aged 18.0-102.8 years. Crude and adjusted prevalence rates of HF were calculated. The associations of renal and cardiometabolic factors with HF were assessed in both populations using univariate, bivariate and multivariate analysis. RESULTS: The HF crude prevalence rates were 2.8% (95%CI: 2.4-3.2) in adults (≥18 years), and 4.6% (95%CI: 4.0-5.3) in the population aged ≥ 50 years, without significant differences between males and females in both populations. The age- and sex-adjusted prevalence rates were 2.1% (male: 1.9%; female: 2.3%) in the overall adult population, and 4.5% (male: 4.2%; female: 4.8%) in the population aged ≥ 50 years, reaching 10.0% in the population aged ≥ 70 years. Atrial fibrillation, hypertension, low estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), coronary heart disease (CHD), stroke, sedentary lifestyle, and diabetes were independently associated with HF in both populations. A total of 95.7% (95%CI: 92.7-98.6) of the population with HF had an elevated cardiovascular risk. CONCLUSIONS: This study reports that HF prevalence increases from 4.5% in the population over 50 years to 10% in the population over 70 years. The main clinical conditions that are HF-related are sedentary lifestyle, atrial fibrillation, hypertension, diabetes, low eGFR, stroke, and CHD.

Association between Modic changes and intervertebral vacuum phenomenon severity in patients undergoing percutaneous cement discoplasty.

BACKGROUND: Modic changes and intervertebral vacuum phenomenon (IVP) are considered spinal degenerative changes. The correlation between Modic and IVP has not been analyzed in the literature. PURPOSE: To analyze the correlation between IVP severity, Modic changes, and subchondral sclerosis across the lumbar spine in patients with lumbar degeneration. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This is a retrospective study analyzing patients who underwent percutaneous cement discoplasty at a single institution between 2015 and 2020. Preoperative magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography scans were analyzed to make the measurements. Modic type and grade as well as severity of IVP were preoperatively measured. The association between Modic type, grade, subchondral sclerosis, and the presence of IVP was analyzed. RESULTS: In total, 110 patients (mean age = 77.03 ± 7.1 years) were finally included in the study. Per level correlation analysis showed a significant positive association between IVP and Modic type, IVP and Modic grade, and IVP and subchondral sclerosis. Moreover, subchondral sclerosis was significantly associated with Modic type and grade. CONCLUSION: Our study showed a significant positive correlation among Modic changes, IVP, and subchondral sclerosis throughout the lumbar spine. Our findings support the theory that endplate degeneration parameters are associated with the presence and severity of IVP.

Proximal forearm nerve branching patterns: an anatomical study and its clinical significance.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to add to the understanding of nerve branching patterns in the proximal forearm and consider optimal nerve transfer options to address the various injuries that affect the function of the upper extremity. METHODS: Eleven upper-extremity cadaveric specimens were dissected to expose the radial, median, and ulnar nerves in the proximal forearm. The site of origin of nerve branches from the major nerves was assessed, with measurements made in reference to the lateral epicondyle for the radial nerve branches and the medial epicondyle for the median and ulnar nerve branches. The distances to where these branches entered their respective muscles (muscle entry point) were assessed using the same landmarks. To plan a transfer, the length of the nerve branches was then calculated as the difference from the apparent origin from the main nerve trunk to the location where the nerve entered the muscle. Importantly, the nerve branch origin was established as the location of obvious separation from the main nerve trunk without additional fascicular dissection from the major nerve trunk. The number of branches was determined, and the diameter for each branch was measured using a Vernier caliper. RESULTS: The radial nerve branch to the extensor carpi radialis brevis (ECRB) muscle had an average length of 50.7 mm and average diameter of 1.6 mm. The mean medial and lateral lengths of the radial branches to the supinator muscle were found to be 22.2 mm (diameter 1.4 mm) and 15.3 mm (diameter 1.3 mm), respectively. The anterior interosseous nerve (AIN) branch of the median nerve was found 67.8 mm distal to the medial epicondyle with a diameter of 2.3 mm. The flexor carpi ulnaris (FCU) muscle innervation from the ulnar nerve was provided by 3 or 4 branches in most specimens. The second and third of these branches were the longest, with means of 30.5 mm (diameter 1.4 mm) and 30.7 mm (diameter 1.3 mm), respectively. CONCLUSIONS: While there is variability of the nerve branching pattern in the proximal forearm between specimens, the authors provide evidence of commonalities (branching patterns and distances) that can facilitate planning for upper-extremity nerve reconstructions. Importantly, all measurements are provided with reference to easily identified bony landmarks and to their muscle entry points to aid operative decision-making. These data complement the growing practice of nerve transfers in the upper extremity for a variety of pathologies.

Post intensive care syndrome in survivors of COVID-19 who required mechanical ventilation during the third wave of the pandemic: A prospective study.

BACKGROUND: Post intensive care syndrome is defined as the presence of any impairment affecting the physical, psychiatric, or cognitive domains as a result of critical illnesses. OBJECTIVES: To explore functional, cognitive and psychological outcomes at 30 days post hospital discharge among survivors of COVID-19-associated acute respiratory distress syndrome, who required mechanical ventilation. METHODS: Prospective cohort study. We included adult patients with COVID-19-associated acute respiratory distress syndrome, invasively ventilated in two ICUs in Buenos Aires. We measured functional, cognitive and psychological impairments with Barthel index, Montreal Cognitive Assessment test, Patient Health Questionnaire-9 and General Anxiety Disorder-7. Primary outcome was post-intensive care syndrome. Secondary outcome was mortality at 60 days. RESULTS: We admitted 40 patients, median age was 69 (60-75) and mostly male (75%). Mortality at 60 days was 37%. Cox regression analysis identified diabetes and Apache II as independent predictors of mortality. Out of 22 patients studied, 14 (64%) developed PICS after discharge. With a physical, cognitive and psychological impairment in 64%, 41% and 32% of patients, respectively. Obesity, days of mechanical ventilation, Apache II, vasopressors use, delirium duration and cumulative midazolam dose were associated with functional dependence. CONCLUSIONS: We identified a high prevalence of functional, cognitive and mental impairment at 30 days after hospital discharge in COVID-19-associated acute respiratory distress syndrome survivors, invasively ventilated. The physical domain was the most frequently affected. These findings suggest the need for long-term follow-up of this population.

Tasas de prevalencia de enfermedad renal crónica y su asociación con factores cardiometabólicos y enfermedades cardiovasculares. Estudio SIMETAP-ERC / Prevalence rates of chronic kidney disease and its association with cardiometabolic factors and cardiovascular diseases. SIMETAP-CKD study

Introducción: La enfermedad renal crónica (ERC) constituye un importante problema de salud que contribuye al desarrollo de alteraciones cardiovasculares como la insuficiencia cardíaca y la enfermedad cardiovascular arteriosclerótica (ECVA). Los objetivos de este estudio fueron determinar la prevalencia de ERC y evaluar su asociación con factores de riesgo cardiometabólicos y la ECVA. Métodos: Estudio observacional transversal realizado en el ámbito de atención primaria. Muestra aleatoria de base poblacional: 6.588 personas entre 18 y 102 años (tasa de respuesta: 66%). Se determinaron las tasas de prevalencia brutas y ajustadas por sexo y edad de ERC según KDIGO valorando albuminuria y filtrado glomerular estimado según CKD-EPI, y sus asociaciones con factores cardiometabólicos y ECVA. Resultados: La prevalencia cruda de ERC fue 11,48% (IC95%: 10,72–12,27%), sin diferencia significativa entre hombres (11,64% [IC95%: 10,49–12,86%]) y mujeres (11,35% [IC95%: 10,34–12,41%]). La tasa de prevalencia ajustada por edad y sexo de ERC fue 9,16% (hombres: 8,61%; mujeres: 9,69%). La prevalencia del filtrado glomerular estimado reducido (<60mL/min/1,73m2) y de albuminuria (≥30mg/g) fueron 7,95% (IC95%: 7,30–8,61) y 5,98% (IC95%: 5,41–6,55), respectivamente. Hipertensión, diabetes, prediabetes, índice cintura-talla aumentado, insuficiencia cardíaca, fibrilación auricular y ECVA se asociaban independientemente con ERC (p<0,001). El 77,51% (IC95%: 74,54–80,49) de la población con ERC tenía un riesgo cardiovascular muy alto según SCORE. Conclusiones: La prevalencia ajustada de ERC era del 9,2% (filtrado glomerular estimado reducido: 8%; albuminuria: 6%). La mayoría de los pacientes con ERC tenía riesgo cardiovascular muy alto. Hipertensión, diabetes, prediabetes, índice cintura-talla aumentado y ECVA se asociaban independientemente con la ERC.(AU)

Introduction: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a major health problem that contributes to the development of cardiovascular disorders such as heart failure and arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ACVD). The aims of this study were to determine the prevalence of CKD and to assess its association with ACVD and cardiometabolic risk factors. Methods: Cross-sectional observational study conducted in primary care setting. Population-based random sample: 6,588 people between 18 and 102 years old (response rate: 66%). Crude and sex- and age-adjusted prevalence rates of CKD according to KDIGO were determined by assessing albuminuria and estimated glomerular filtration rate according to CKD-EPI, and their associations with cardiometabolic factors and ACVD were determined. Results: The crude prevalence of CKD was 11.48% (95%CI: 10.72–12.27%), without significant difference between men (11.64% [95%CI: 10.49–12.86%]) and women (11.35% [95%CI: 10.34–12.41%]). The age- and sex-adjusted prevalence rate of CKD was 9.16% (men: 8.61%; women: 9.69%). The prevalence of low estimated glomerular filtration rate (<60mL/min/1.73m2) and albuminuria (≥30mg/g) were 7.95% (95%CI: 7.30–8.61) and 5.98% (95%CI: 5.41–6.55), respectively. Hypertension, diabetes, prediabetes, increased waist-to-height ratio, heart failure, atrial fibrillation, and ACVD were independently associated with CKD (P<.001). Very high cardiovascular risk according to SCORE was found in 77.51% (95%CI: 74.54–80.49) of the population with CKD. Conclusions: The adjusted prevalence of CKD was 9.2% (low estimated glomerular filtration rate: 8.0%; albuminuria: 6.0%). Most of the patients with CKD had very high cardiovascular risk. Hypertension, diabetes, prediabetes, increased waist-to-height ratio and ACVD were independently associated with CKD.(AU)

Prevalence rates of chronic kidney disease and its association with cardiometabolic factors and cardiovascular diseases. SIMETAP-CKD study. / Tasas de prevalencia de enfermedad renal crónica y su asociación con factores cardiometabólicos y enfermedades cardiovasculares. Estudio SIMETAP-ERC.

INTRODUCTION: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a major health problem that contributes to the development of cardiovascular disorders such as heart failure and arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ACVD). The aims of this study were to determine the prevalence of CKD and to assess its association with ACVD and cardiometabolic risk factors. METHODS: Cross-sectional observational study conducted in primary care setting. Population-based random sample: 6,588 people between 18 and 102 years old (response rate: 66%). Crude and sex- and age-adjusted prevalence rates of CKD according to KDIGO were determined by assessing albuminuria and estimated glomerular filtration rate according to CKD-EPI, and their associations with cardiometabolic factors and ACVD were determined. RESULTS: The crude prevalence of CKD was 11.48% (95%CI: 10.72-12.27%), without significant difference between men (11.64% [95%CI: 10.49-12.86%]) and women (11.35% [95%CI: 10.34-12.41%]). The age- and sex-adjusted prevalence rate of CKD was 9.16% (men: 8.61%; women: 9.69%). The prevalence of low estimated glomerular filtration rate (<60mL/min/1.73m2) and albuminuria (≥30mg/g) were 7.95% (95%CI: 7.30-8.61) and 5.98% (95%CI: 5.41-6.55), respectively. Hypertension, diabetes, prediabetes, increased waist-to-height ratio, heart failure, atrial fibrillation, and ACVD were independently associated with CKD (P<.001). Very high cardiovascular risk according to SCORE was found in 77.51% (95%CI: 74.54-80.49) of the population with CKD. CONCLUSIONS: The adjusted prevalence of CKD was 9.2% (low estimated glomerular filtration rate: 8.0%; albuminuria: 6.0%). Most of the patients with CKD had very high cardiovascular risk. Hypertension, diabetes, prediabetes, increased waist-to-height ratio and ACVD were independently associated with CKD.

Intervertebral vacuum phenomenon - prevalence and severity CT-scan analysis in patients older than 50 years: a retrospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Chronic low back pain secondary to degenerative changes in the spine is a common cause of disability, and disc degeneration is one of the most frequent imaging findings. Intervertebral vacuum phenomenon (IVP) is usually observed in advanced degeneration. Recently, this phenomenon has gained interest due to a relatively new surgical technique called percutaneous discoplasty, aimed at treating low back pain secondary to degenerative disc disease in elderly patients. PURPOSE: To analyze the prevalence and related factors of the vacuum phenomenon in adult patients. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A retrospective cohort study was performed of patients who underwent abdominal computed tomography (CT) for non-spine-related reasons. Age, body mass index, smoking, and CT-based characteristics as presence of IVP, subchondral sclerosis, and facet joint degeneration at the lumbar spine from L1 to the sacrum were included in order to determine the prevalence of the vacuum phenomenon in this population and establish a relationship between this condition and patient demographics and other signs of spine degeneration, such as sclerosis and facet joint disease. RESULTS: A total of 238 patients were included in the study (114 men, 124 women; mean age = 75.6 ± 12.3 years. In total, 91 (38%) patients had at least one level of IVP; 59 (25%) patients exhibited subchondral sclerosis, and 235 (98%) facet joint degeneration. Among risk factors, age, smoking, and subchondral sclerosis were significantly associated with the presence of vacuum. CONCLUSION: IVP was present in 38% of participants. Risk factors associated with vacuum were age, smoking, and subchondral sclerosis.

Tasas de prevalencia de sobrepeso y obesidad y sus asociaciones con factores cardiometabólicos y renales. Estudio SIMETAP-OB / Prevalence rates of overweight and obesity and their associations with cardiometabolic and renal factors. SIMETAP-OB study

Introducción: El exceso de peso constituye un importante problema de salud. Los objetivos del estudio fueron determinar las tasas de prevalencia de sobrepeso y obesidad, y comparar sus asociaciones con factores de riesgo cardiometabólicos y renales entre las poblaciones con y sin obesidad, y entre las poblaciones con y sin sobrepeso. Métodos: Estudio observacional transversal realizado en Atención Primaria. Muestra aleatoria de base poblacional: 6.588 sujetos de estudio entre 18 y 102 años (tasa de respuesta: 66%). Se calcularon las prevalencias brutas y ajustadas por edad y sexo de sobrepeso y obesidad, y se evaluaron sus asociaciones con variables cardiometabólicas y renales mediante análisis bivariado y multivariado. Resultados: Las prevalencias ajustadas por edad y sexo de sobrepeso y obesidad fueron 36,0% (42,1% en hombres; 33,1% en mujeres) y 25,0% (26,2% en hombres; 24,5% en mujeres), respectivamente. Estas prevalencias se incrementaban con la edad, y eran más elevadas en hombres que en mujeres. El 52,0% (IC95%: 50,0-53,9) de la población con sobrepeso y el 62,3% (IC95%: 60,1-64,5) de la población con obesidad tenían un riesgo cardiovascular alto o muy alto. La obesidad abdominal, la inactividad física, la prediabetes, la hipertensión, la hipertrigliceridemia y el c-HDL bajo se asociaban independientemente con ambas entidades. Además, la diabetes se asociaba independientemente con el sobrepeso y la hipercolesterolemia con la obesidad. Conclusiones: La prevalencia de sobrepeso y obesidad era del 61,0% (68,4% en hombres y 59,0% en mujeres). Más de la mitad de la población con sobrepeso y casi dos tercios de la población con obesidad tenían un riesgo cardiovascular elevado. La hiperglucemia, el sedentarismo, la hipertensión, la hipercolesterolemia, el c-HDL bajo y la hipertrigliceridemia se asociaban independientemente con el sobrepeso y la obesidad.(AU)

Introduction: Excess weight is a major health problem. Aims of this study were to determine the prevalence rates of overweight and obesity, and to compare their associations with cardiometabolic and renal risk factors between obese and non-obese populations, and between overweight and non-overweight populations. Methods: Cross-sectional observational study conducted in Primary Care. Population-based random sample: 6,588 study subjects between 18 and 102 years of age (response rate: 66%). Crude and sex- and age-adjusted prevalence rates of overweight and obesity were calculated, and their associations with cardiometabolic and renal variables were assessed by bivariate and multivariate analysis. Results: The age- and sex-adjusted prevalence rates of overweight and obesity were 36.0% (42.1% in men; 33.1% in women) and 25.0% (26.2% in men; 24.5% in women), respectively. These prevalences increased with age, and were higher in men than in women. Fifty-two percent (95%CI: 50.0-53.9) of the overweight population and 62.3% (95%CI: 60.1-64.5) of the obese population had a high or very high cardiovascular risk. Abdominal obesity, physical inactivity, prediabetes, hypertension, hypertriglyceridemia, and low HDL-C were independently associated with both entities. Furthermore, diabetes was independently associated with overweight and hypercholesterolemia with obesity. Conclusions: The prevalence of overweight and obesity was 61.0% (68.4% in men and 59.0% in women). More than half of the overweight population and nearly two-thirds of the obese population had a high cardiovascular risk. Hyperglycemia, physical inactivity, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, low HDL-C, and hypertriglyceridemia were independently associated with overweight and obesity.(AU)

Overview of the anterolateral complex of the knee.

In the last few years, much more information on the anterolateral complex of the knee has become available. It has now been demonstrated how it works in conjunction with the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) controlling anterolateral rotatory laxity. Biomechanical studies have shown that the anterolateral complex (ALC) has a role as a secondary stabilizer to the ACL in opposing anterior tibial translation and internal tibial rotation. It is of utmost importance that surgeons comprehend the intricate anatomy of the entire anterolateral aspect of the knee. Although most studies have only focused on the anterolateral ligament (ALL), the ALC of the knee consists of a functional unit formed by the layers of the iliotibial band combined with the anterolateral joint capsule. Considerable interest has also been given to imaging evaluation using magnetic resonance and several studies have targeted the evaluation of the ALC in the setting of ACL injury. Results are inconsistent with a lack of association between magnetic resonance imaging evidence of injury and clinical findings. Isolated ACL reconstruction may not always reestablish knee rotatory stability in patients with associated ALC injury. In such cases, additional procedures, such as anterolateral reconstruction or lateral tenodesis, may be indicated. There are several techniques available for ALL reconstruction. Graft options include the iliotibial band, gracilis or semitendinosus tendon autograft, or allograft.

Prevalencia de prediabetes y asociación con factores cardiometabólicos y renales. Estudio SIMETAP-PRED / Prevalence of prediabetes and association with cardiometabolic and renal factors. SIMETAP-PRED study

Introducción: La prediabetes constituye un importante problema de salud pública. Los objetivos del estudio fueron determinar la prevalencia de prediabetes según dos criterios diagnósticos, y comparar la asociación de factores de riesgo cardiometabólicos y renales entre las poblaciones con y sin prediabetes. Métodos: Estudio observacional transversal realizado en el ámbito de Atención Primaria. Muestra aleatoria de base poblacional: 6.588 sujetos de estudio (tasa de respuesta: 66%). Se utilizaron dos criterios diagnósticos: 1) prediabetes según la Sociedad Española de Diabetes (PRED-SED): glucosa plasmática en ayunas 110–125mg/dL o HbA1c 6,0%–6,4%; 2) prediabetes según la Asociación Americana de Diabetes (PRED-ADA): glucosa plasmática en ayunas 100–125mg/dL o HbA1c 5,7%–6,4%. Se evaluaron las prevalencias crudas y ajustadas por edad y sexo, y las variables cardiometabólicas y renales asociadas con prediabetes. Resultados: Las prevalencias crudas de PRED-SED y PRED-ADA fueron 7,9% (IC95% 7,3–8,6%), y 22,0% (IC95% 21,0–23,0%) respectivamente, y sus prevalencias ajustadas fueron 6,6% y 19,1% respectivamente. El riesgo cardiovascular alto o muy alto de las poblaciones PRED-SED y PRED-ADA fueron 68,6% (IC95% 64,5–72,6%) y 61,7% (IC95% 59,1–64,1%) respectivamente. La hipertensión, hipertrigliceridemia, sobrepeso, obesidad y el índice cintura-talla aumentado se asociaban independientemente con PRED-SED. Además de estos factores, el filtrado glomerular bajo y la hipercolesterolemia también se asociaban independientemente con PRED-ADA. Conclusiones: La prevalencia de PRED-ADA triplica a la PRED-SED. Dos tercios de la población con prediabetes tenían un riesgo cardiovascular elevado. Varios factores de riesgo cardiometabólicos y renales se asociaban con la prediabetes. En comparación con los criterios de la SED, los criterios de la ADA facilitan más el diagnóstico de la prediabetes. (AU)

Introduction: Prediabetes is a major public health problem. The aims of the SIMETAP-PRED study were to determine the prevalence rates of prediabetes according to two diagnostic criteria, and to compare the association of cardiometabolic and renal risk factors between populations with and without prediabetes. Methods: Cross-sectional observational study conducted in Primary Care. Based random sample: 6,588 study subjects (response rate: 66%). Two diagnostic criteria for prediabetes were used: 1) prediabetes according to the Spanish Diabetes Society (PRED-SDS): Fasting plasma glucose (FPG) 110–125mg/dL or HbA1c 6.0% –6.4%; 2) prediabetes according to the American Diabetes Association (PRED-ADA): FPG 100–125mg/dL or HbA1c 5.7%–6.4%. The crude and sex- and age-adjusted prevalence rates, and cardiometabolic and renal variables associated with prediabetes were assessed. Results: The crude prevalence rates of PRED-SDS and PRED-ADA were 7.9% (95% CI 7.3–8.6%), and 22.0% (95% CI 21.0–23.0%) respectively, their age-adjusted prevalence rates were 6.6% and 19.1 respectively. The high or very high cardiovascular risk of the PRED-SDS or PRED-ADA populations were 68.6% (95%CI 64.5–72.6%) and 61.7% (95%CI 59.1–64.1%) respectively. Hypertension, hypertriglyceridemia, overweight, obesity, and increased waist-to-height ratio were independently associated with PRED-SDS. In addition to these factors, low glomerular filtration rate and hypercholesterolemia were also independently associated with PRED-ADA. Conclusions: The prevalence of PRED-ADA triples that of PRED-SDS. Two thirds of the population with prediabetes had a high cardiovascular risk. Several cardiometabolic and renal risk factors were associated with prediabetes. Compared to the SDS criteria, the ADA criteria make the diagnosis of prediabetes easier. (AU)

Prevalence rates of overweight and obesity and their associations with cardiometabolic and renal factors. SIMETAP-OB study. / Tasas de prevalencia de sobrepeso y obesidad y sus asociaciones con factores cardiometabólicos y renales. Estudio SIMETAP-OB.

INTRODUCTION: Excess weight is a major health problem. Aims of this study were to determine the prevalence rates of overweight and obesity, and to compare their associations with cardiometabolic and renal risk factors between obese and non-obese populations, and between overweight and non-overweight populations. METHODS: Cross-sectional observational study conducted in Primary Care. Population-based random sample: 6,588 study subjects between 18 and 102 years of age (response rate: 66%). Crude and sex- and age-adjusted prevalence rates of overweight and obesity were calculated, and their associations with cardiometabolic and renal variables were assessed by bivariate and multivariate analysis. RESULTS: The age- and sex-adjusted prevalence rates of overweight and obesity were 36.0% (42.1% in men; 33.1% in women) and 25.0% (26.2% in men; 24.5% in women), respectively. These prevalences increased with age, and were higher in men than in women. Fifty-two percent (95%CI: 50.0-53.9) of the overweight population and 62.3% (95%CI: 60.1-64.5) of the obese population had a high or very high cardiovascular risk. Abdominal obesity, physical inactivity, prediabetes, hypertension, hypertriglyceridemia, and low HDL-C were independently associated with both entities. Furthermore, diabetes was independently associated with overweight and hypercholesterolemia with obesity. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of overweight and obesity was 61.0% (68.4% in men and 59.0% in women). More than half of the overweight population and nearly two-thirds of the obese population had a high cardiovascular risk. Hyperglycemia, physical inactivity, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, low HDL-C, and hypertriglyceridemia were independently associated with overweight and obesity.

Prevalence of prediabetes and association with cardiometabolic and renal factors. SIMETAP-PRED study. / Prevalencia de prediabetes y asociación con factores cardiometabólicos y renales. Estudio SIMETAP-PRED.

INTRODUCTION: Prediabetes is a major public health problem. The aims of the SIMETAP-PRED study were to determine the prevalence rates of prediabetes according to two diagnostic criteria, and to compare the association of cardiometabolic and renal risk factors between populations with and without prediabetes. METHODS: Cross-sectional observational study conducted in Primary Care. Based random sample: 6,588 study subjects (response rate: 66%). Two diagnostic criteria for prediabetes were used: 1) prediabetes according to the Spanish Diabetes Society (PRED-SDS): Fasting plasma glucose (FPG) 110-125mg/dL or HbA1c 6.0% -6.4%; 2) prediabetes according to the American Diabetes Association (PRED-ADA): FPG 100-125mg/dL or HbA1c 5.7%-6.4%. The crude and sex- and age-adjusted prevalence rates, and cardiometabolic and renal variables associated with prediabetes were assessed. RESULTS: The crude prevalence rates of PRED-SDS and PRED-ADA were 7.9% (95% CI 7.3-8.6%), and 22.0% (95% CI 21.0-23.0%) respectively, their age-adjusted prevalence rates were 6.6% and 19.1 respectively. The high or very high cardiovascular risk of the PRED-SDS or PRED-ADA populations were 68.6% (95%CI 64.5-72.6%) and 61.7% (95%CI 59.1-64.1%) respectively. Hypertension, hypertriglyceridemia, overweight, obesity, and increased waist-to-height ratio were independently associated with PRED-SDS. In addition to these factors, low glomerular filtration rate and hypercholesterolemia were also independently associated with PRED-ADA. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of PRED-ADA triples that of PRED-SDS. Two thirds of the population with prediabetes had a high cardiovascular risk. Several cardiometabolic and renal risk factors were associated with prediabetes. Compared to the SDS criteria, the ADA criteria make the diagnosis of prediabetes easier.