Thrombotic Event Prevention in Patients Undergoing Posterior Lumbar Arthrodesis: our experiencie. A retrospective case series study. / Prevención de eventos trombóticos en pacientes sometidos a cirugía de artrodesis lumbar por vía posterior: experiencia en nuestro centro. Estudio retrospectivo de casos.

INTRODUCTION: There is no generalized consensus regarding perioperative prophylaxis of venous thromboembolism (VTE), either on using or timing it in patients undergoing spine surgery. VTE is a current concern because, even though being an uncommon event, it can cause serious complications. The aim of the present study is to propose guidelines for the prevention of thrombotic events in posterior spinal surgery, either as deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary thromboembolism. If the number of patients getting prophylaxis drugs is reduced a subsequent reduction of the incidence of epidural hematoma can be expected. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A number of 235 patients who had undergone posterior spinal arthrodesis in the previous five years were studied. Mechanical thromboprophylaxis measures consisting of compression stockings were applied in all of them. Anticoagulant drugs were also applied whenever risk factors for thrombosis were observed. Early weight-bearing was resumed immediately after surgery. Demographic, clinical, and surgical variables were collected, as well as complications appearing during the follow-up period, that was scheduled at one, two, four, six and twelve months after the surgery. Thrombotic events, if present, were diagnosed by clinical and imaging tests such as ultrasound and CT angiography. RESULTS: From the total 235 patients of this series, one hundred and fifty-three cases met the study inclusion criteria. A total of four thrombotic events appeared, one in the form of deep vein thrombosis and other three in the form of pulmonary thromboembolism. These last patients suffering an embolism died because of it. None of the variables studied had statistical significance for the occurrence of a thrombotic event. All four patients who suffered thrombotic events were receiving anticoagulant drugs, in addition to mechanical compression stockings, because of the presence of risk factors for thrombosis. CONCLUSIONS: By applying the fore mentioned protocol, adequate prevention of thromboembolic events was achieved in this study population of patients undergoing posterior spinal surgery.

Elimination of virus-like particles reduces protein aggregation and extends replicative lifespan in Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

A major consequence of aging and stress, in yeast to humans, is an increased accumulation of protein aggregates at distinct sites within the cells. Using genetic screens, immunoelectron microscopy, and three-dimensional modeling in our efforts to elucidate the importance of aggregate annexation, we found that most aggregates in yeast accumulate near the surface of mitochondria. Further, we show that virus-like particles (VLPs), which are part of the retrotransposition cycle of Ty elements, are markedly enriched in these sites of protein aggregation. RNA interference-mediated silencing of Ty expression perturbed aggregate sequestration to mitochondria, reduced overall protein aggregation, mitigated toxicity of a Huntington's disease model, and expanded the replicative lifespan of yeast in a partially Hsp104-dependent manner. The results are in line with recent data demonstrating that VLPs might act as aging factors in mammals, including humans, and extend these findings by linking VLPs to a toxic accumulation of protein aggregates and raising the possibility that they might negatively influence neurological disease progression.

Evaluación del impacto de la obesidad en los resultados del trasplante renal / Does obesity really affect renal transplantation outcomes?

Introducción El trasplante renal es el tratamiento de elección para pacientes con enfermedad renal crónica (ERC) estadio 5. Alrededor de 60% de los pacientes con ERC presentan sobrepeso u obesidad en el momento del trasplante de riñón, y la obesidad postrasplante se da en 50% de los pacientes, con un aumento de peso de 10% en el primer año y un alto riesgo de mortalidad cardiovascular. La obesidad se asocia a un mayor riesgo de retraso de la función del injerto (RFI), rechazo agudo, complicaciones quirúrgicas, pérdida del injerto y mortalidad. El objetivo de este estudio es evaluar la evolución clínica de los pacientes obesos y con sobrepeso receptores de un trasplante renal, en términos de las complicaciones a corto y largo plazo asociadas a un mayor índice de masa corporal (IMC). Material y métodos Se realizó un estudio descriptivo, observacional y transversal con 104 pacientes sometidos a trasplante de riñón o páncreas-riñón entre marzo de 2017 y diciembre de 2020, con seguimiento hasta abril de 2021. Para el análisis comparativo, los pacientes se agruparon según el IMC. Resultados La edad media fue de 56,65 años, 60,6% varones y 39,4% mujeres. Los pacientes con sobrepeso experimentaron cirugías más prolongadas, más dehiscencia de la herida quirúrgica, RFI, hernias, proteinuria y un requerimiento mayor de biopsias renales. Por otro lado, los pacientes obesos presentaron más RFI, mayor número de biopsias renales requeridas, proteinuria, desarrollo de diabetes mellitus y fibrilación auricular, y necesitaron estancias hospitalarias más prolongadas. Conclusiones A pesar de la alta prevalencia de comorbilidad en la población con sobrepeso y/u obesidad, no se observó un empeoramiento en la supervivencia del paciente y/o del injerto. Sin embargo, es necesario un seguimiento más prolongado. (AU)

Introduction Kidney transplantation is the treatment of choice for patients with stage 5 chronic kidney disease (CKD). About 60% of CKD patients are overweight or obese at the time of kidney transplantation, and post-transplant obesity occurs in 50% of patients, with a weight gain of 10% in the first year and high risk of cardiovascular mortality. Obesity is associated with an increased risk of delayed graft function (DGF), acute rejection, surgical complications, graft loss and mortality. The aim of this study is to assess the clinical evolution of obese and overweight patients that have received a kidney transplant, based on short- and long-term complications associated with a higher BMI. Material and methods A descriptive, observational, cross-sectional study was conducted with 104 kidney or pancreas-kidney transplant patients between March 2017 and December 2020, with a follow-up until April 2021. For comparative analysis, patients were grouped according to BMI. Results Mean age was of 56.65 years, 60.6% male and 39.4% female. Overweight patients experienced prolonged surgeries, more surgical wound dehiscence, delayed graft function, hernias, proteinuria and more indications for renal biopsies. Additionally, obese patients displayed more DGF, indications for renal biopsies, proteinuria, development of diabetes mellitus, atrial fibrillation and needed prolonged hospital stays. Conclusions Despite a high prevalence of comorbidity in the overweight and/or obese population, we found no reduction in patient and/or graft survival. However, longer follow-up is needed. (AU)

Three dimensional analysis of the exhalation flow in the proximity of the mouth.

The human exhalation flow is characterized in this work from the three-dimensional velocimetry results obtained by using the stereo particle image velocimetry (SPIV) measurement technique on the flow emitted from a realistic airway model. For this purpose, the transient exhalation flow through the mouth of a person performing two different breaths corresponding to two metabolic rates, standing relaxed (SR) and walking active (WA), is emulated and studied. To reproduce the flow realistically, a detailed three-dimensional model obtained from computed tomography measurements on real subjects is used. To cope with the variability of the experimental data, a subsequent analysis of the results is performed using the TR-PIV (time resolved particle image velocimetry) technique. Exhalation produces a transient jet that becomes a puff when flow emission ends. Three-dimensional vector fields of the jet velocity are obtained in five equally spaced transverse planes up to a distance of Image 1 from the mouth at equally spaced time instants Image 2 which will be referred to as phases (φ), from the beginning to the end of exhalation. The time evolution during exhalation of the jet area of influence, the velocity field and the jet air entrainment have been characterized for each of the jet cross sections. The importance of the use of realistic airway models for the study of this type of flow and the influence of the metabolic rate on its development are also analyzed. The results obtained contribute to the characterization of the human exhalation as a pathway of the transmission of pathogens such as SARS-CoV-2 virus.

Analysis of oncological drugs authorised in Spain in the last decade: association between clinical benefit and reimbursement.

BACKGROUND: Our study aimed to assess whether there was a relationship between clinical benefits and reimbursement decisions as well as the inclusion of economic evaluations in  therapeutic positioning reports (IPTs) and to explore factors influencing reimbursement decisions. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We analysed all anti-cancer drugs approved in Spain from 2010 to September 2022. The clinical benefit of each drug were evaluated using the European Society for Medical Oncology Magnitude of Clinical Benefit Scale (ESMO-MCBS) 1.1. The characteristics of these drugs were obtained from the Spanish Agency of Medicines and Medical Devices. Reimbursement status information was obtained using BIFIMED, a web resource available in Spanish and consulted the agreements of the Interministerial Committee on Pricing of Medicines (CIPM). RESULTS: In total, 73 drugs were included involving 197 indications. Almost half of the indications had substantial clinical benefit (49.8% yes vs. 50.3% no). Of the 153 indications with a reimbursement decision, 61 (56.5%) reimbursed indications had substantial clinical benefit compared to 14 (31.1%) of the non-reimbursed (p < 0.01). The median gain of overall survival was 4.9 months (2.8-11.2) for reimbursed indications and 2.9 months (1.7-5) in non-reimbursed (p < 0.05). Only six (3%) indications had an economic evaluation in the IPT. CONCLUSION: Our study revealed that there is a relationship between substantial clinical benefit and the reimbursement decision in Spain. However, we also found that the overall survival gain was modest, and a significant proportion of the reimbursed indications had no substantial clinical benefit. Economic evaluations in IPTs are infrequent and cost-effectiveness analysis is not provided by CIPM.

Deterioro cognitivo tardío en pacientes con estenosis aórtica tratados con sustitución valvular quirúrgica y con implantación transcatéter de válvula aórtica: estudio comparativo / Delayed cognitive impairment in patients with aortic stenosis treated with surgical valve replacement and transcatheter aortic valve implantation: a comparative study

Introducción El deterioro cognitivo secundario a eventos cerebrovasculares es una complicación frecuente en las intervenciones de reemplazo de válvula aórtica. Nuestro objetivo es el estudio del perfil de deterioro de los pacientes sometidos a reemplazo valvular quirúrgico o implantación de prótesis transcatéter (TAVI) y si éste resulta diferente según la intervención a la que son sometidos y los factores de riesgo basales. Pacientes y métodos Estudio observacional prospectivo, con dos grupos no equivalentes de pacientes (grupo TAVI y grupo quirúrgico). Se realizaron comparaciones intergrupo en varios dominios cognitivos, con una evaluación basal y mediciones de seguimiento seis y 12 meses después la intervención. Resultados El grupo TAVI presentó resultados inferiores al grupo quirúrgico en funciones ejecutivas y visuoespaciales, puntuaciones parcialmente determinadas por la edad (p < 0,01) y el nivel intelectual previo (Pearson cociente intelectual previo-medias escalares en los test: 0,665; p < 0,001). La media de puntuaciones en los tres momentos de medición indica una disminución del rendimiento en funciones ejecutivas a los seis meses, que se recupera a los 12 meses. En memoria se registraron incrementos sostenidos en ambos momentos, en tanto que la función visuoespacial y la denominación no mostraron recuperación posterior de los niveles basales. Estas tendencias son similares en los dos grupos. Conclusión Los resultados obtenidos no confirman la instauración de un proceso específico de deterioro neurocognitivo postintervención en la estenosis aórtica complicada. El perfil de deterioro no presenta diferencias significativas entre los grupos, pero es más evidente en los pacientes con TAVI, debido a la influencia de las variables de selección de la muestra. (AU)

INTRODUCTION Cognitive impairment secondary to cerebrovascular events is a common complication of aortic valve replacement interventions. Our aim is to study the deterioration profile of patients who have undergone surgical valve replacement or transcatheter valve implantation (TAVI) and whether it differs according to the intervention they underwent and their baseline risk factors. PATIENTS AND METHODS We conducted a prospective observational study with two non-equivalent groups of patients (TAVI group and surgical group) Intergroup comparisons were carried out in several cognitive domains, with a baseline assessment and follow-up measurements six and 12 months after the intervention. RESULTS The TAVI group performed less well than the surgical group in executive and visuospatial functions, with scores partially determined by age (p < 0.01) and prior intellectual level (Pearson prior intelligence quotient-scalar test means: 0.665; p < 0.001). Mean scores at the three measurement points indicate a decline in executive function performance at six months, which is restored at 12 months. Sustained increases in memory were recorded at both time points, while visuospatial function and naming showed no subsequent recovery of the baseline levels. These trends are similar in both groups. CONCLUSION. The results obtained do not confirm the appearance of a specific process of post-intervention neurocognitive impairment in complicated aortic stenosis. The deterioration profile does not show any significant differences between groups, but is more evident in TAVI patients, due to the influence of variables related to sample selection. (AU)

[Delayed cognitive impairment in patients with aortic stenosis treated with surgical valve replacement and transcatheter aortic valve implantation: a comparative study]. / Deterioro cognitivo tardío en pacientes con estenosis aórtica tratados con sustitución valvular quirúrgica y con implantación transcatéter de válvula aórtica: estudio comparativo.

INTRODUCTION: Cognitive impairment secondary to cerebrovascular events is a common complication of aortic valve replacement interventions. Our aim is to study the deterioration profile of patients who have undergone surgical valve replacement or transcatheter valve implantation (TAVI) and whether it differs according to the intervention they underwent and their baseline risk factors. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We conducted a prospective observational study with two non-equivalent groups of patients (TAVI group and surgical group) Intergroup comparisons were carried out in several cognitive domains, with a baseline assessment and follow-up measurements six and 12 months after the intervention. RESULTS: The TAVI group performed less well than the surgical group in executive and visuospatial functions, with scores partially determined by age (p < 0.01) and prior intellectual level (Pearson prior intelligence quotient-scalar test means: 0.665; p < 0.001). Mean scores at the three measurement points indicate a decline in executive function performance at six months, which is restored at 12 months. Sustained increases in memory were recorded at both time points, while visuospatial function and naming showed no subsequent recovery of the baseline levels. These trends are similar in both groups. CONCLUSION: The results obtained do not confirm the appearance of a specific process of post-intervention neurocognitive impairment in complicated aortic stenosis. The deterioration profile does not show any significant differences between groups, but is more evident in TAVI patients, due to the influence of variables related to sample selection.

TITLE: Deterioro cognitivo tardío en pacientes con estenosis aórtica tratados con sustitución valvular quirúrgica y con implantación transcatéter de válvula aórtica: estudio comparativo.Introducción. El deterioro cognitivo secundario a eventos cerebrovasculares es una complicación frecuente en las intervenciones de reemplazo de válvula aórtica. Nuestro objetivo es el estudio del perfil de deterioro de los pacientes sometidos a reemplazo valvular quirúrgico o implantación de prótesis transcatéter (TAVI) y si éste resulta diferente según la intervención a la que son sometidos y los factores de riesgo basales. Pacientes y métodos. Estudio observacional prospectivo, con dos grupos no equivalentes de pacientes (grupo TAVI y grupo quirúrgico). Se realizaron comparaciones intergrupo en varios dominios cognitivos, con una evaluación basal y mediciones de seguimiento seis y 12 meses después la intervención. Resultados. El grupo TAVI presentó resultados inferiores al grupo quirúrgico en funciones ejecutivas y visuoespaciales, puntuaciones parcialmente determinadas por la edad (p < 0,01) y el nivel intelectual previo (Pearson cociente intelectual previo-medias escalares en los test: 0,665; p < 0,001). La media de puntuaciones en los tres momentos de medición indica una disminución del rendimiento en funciones ejecutivas a los seis meses, que se recupera a los 12 meses. En memoria se registraron incrementos sostenidos en ambos momentos, en tanto que la función visuoespacial y la denominación no mostraron recuperación posterior de los niveles basales. Estas tendencias son similares en los dos grupos. Conclusión. Los resultados obtenidos no confirman la instauración de un proceso específico de deterioro neurocognitivo postintervención en la estenosis aórtica complicada. El perfil de deterioro no presenta diferencias significativas entre los grupos, pero es más evidente en los pacientes con TAVI, debido a la influencia de las variables de selección de la muestra.

Effects of low nitrogen supply on biochemical and physiological parameters related to nitrate and water, involving nitrate transporters and aquaporins in Citrus macrophylla.

A reduction in chemical N-based fertillizer was investigated in Citrus plants. As N and water uptake are connected, the relationship between the physiological response to reductions in N was studied in relation to N metabolism and water. We examined the response of new and mature leaves and roots of Citrus macrophylla, grown under controlled conditions, and given different concentrations of N: 16, 8 or 4 mM. Differences in growth and development were determined for biochemical (mineral content, photosynthetic pigments, proteins and nitrate and nitrite reductase activity), physiological (photosynthesis and transpiration), and molecular (relative expression of nitrate transporters and aquaporins) parameters. Only plants given 4 mM N showed a reduction in growth. Although there were changes in NR activity, protein synthesis, and chlorophyll content in both 8 and 4 mM N plants that were highly related to aquaporin and nitrate transporter expression. The results revealed new findings on the relationship between aquaporins and nitrate transporters in new leaves of Citrus, suggesting a mechanism for ensuring growth under low N when new tissues are being formed.

Long-Term Monitoring of Aphid-Transmitted Viruses in Melon and Zucchini Crops: Genetic Diversity and Population Structure of Cucurbit Aphid-Borne Yellows Virus and Watermelon Mosaic Virus.

Understanding the emergence and prevalence of viral diseases in crops requires the systematic epidemiological monitoring of viruses, as well as the analysis of how ecological and evolutionary processes combine to shape viral population dynamics. Here, we extensively monitored the occurrence of six aphid-transmitted viruses in melon and zucchini crops in Spain for 10 consecutive cropping seasons between 2011 and 2020. The most prevalent viruses were cucurbit aphid-borne yellows virus (CABYV) and watermelon mosaic virus (WMV), found in 31 and 26% of samples with yellowing and mosaic symptoms. Other viruses, such as zucchini yellow mosaic virus, cucumber mosaic virus, Moroccan watermelon mosaic virus, and papaya ring spot virus, were detected less frequently (<3%) and mostly in mixed infections. Notably, our statistical analysis showed a significant association between CABYV and WMV in melon and zucchini hosts, suggesting that mixed infections might be influencing the evolutionary epidemiology of these viral diseases. We then carried out a comprehensive genetic characterization of the full-length genome sequences from CABYV and WMV isolates by using the Pacific Biosciences single-molecule real-time (PacBio) high-throughput technology to assess the genetic variation and structure of their populations. Our results showed that the CABYV population displayed seven codons under positive selection, and although most isolates clustered in the Mediterranean clade, a subsequent analysis of molecular variance revealed a significant, fine-scale temporal structure, which was in part explained by the level of the variance between isolates from single and mixed infections. In contrast, the WMV population genetic analysis showed that most of the isolates grouped into the Emergent clade, with no genetic differentiation and under purifying selection. These results underlie the epidemiological relevance of mixed infections for CABYV and provide a link between genetic diversity and CABYV dynamics at the whole-genome level.

Ba+2 ion trapping using organic submonolayer for ultra-low background neutrinoless double beta detector.

If neutrinos are their own antiparticles the otherwise-forbidden nuclear reaction known as neutrinoless double beta decay can occur. The very long lifetime expected for these exceptional events makes its detection a daunting task. In order to conduct an almost background-free experiment, the NEXT collaboration is investigating novel synthetic molecular sensors that may capture the Ba dication produced in the decay of certain Xe isotopes in a high-pressure gas experiment. The use of such molecular detectors immobilized on surfaces must be explored in the ultra-dry environment of a xenon gas chamber. Here, using a combination of highly sensitive surface science techniques in ultra-high vacuum, we demonstrate the possibility of employing the so-called Fluorescent Bicolor Indicator as the molecular component of the sensor. We unravel the ion capture process for these molecular indicators immobilized on a surface and explain the origin of the emission fluorescence shift associated to the ion trapping.

Psychometric properties of the Spanish version of the Frontal Assessment Battery (FAB-E) and normative values in a representative adult population sample.

BACKGROUND: The Frontal Assessment Battery is a short bedside test used to assess executive functions (EF). The aims of the present study were, first, to evaluate the psychometric proprieties of the Spanish version of the FAB (FAB-E) in a representative sample, and second, to establish cut-off points for impairment in executive function according to age and education level. METHODS: A sample of 798 healthy Spanish adult subjects aged 19 to 91 participated in this study. Neuropsychological assessment of participants was conducted using the FAB-E, Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and Trail Making Test (TMT). We examined internal consistency, intraclass correlation, test-retest reliability, and concurrent and divergent validity. In addition, we established a cut-off point for detecting executive function impairment based on the 5th percentile by age group and education level. RESULTS: The analysis of the psychometric properties of the FAB-E showed good internal consistency (Cronbach's α = 0.60), intraclass correlation (0.72), test-retest reliability (0.70) and concurrent and divergent validity between the TMT (r = -0.523), MMSE (r = 0.426) and the FAB-E. The cut-off points for each age group were 16 points for the ≤ 29 group, 15 points for the 30-39 group, 14 points for the 40-49 and 50-59 groups, 12 points for the 60-69 group, and 10 points for the ≥ 70 age group. CONCLUSIONS: The psychometric analysis showed that the FAB-E has good validity and reliability. Thus, FAB-E may be a helpful tool to evaluate EF in a healthy Spanish population. In addition, this study provides information on reference data that will be very valuable for clinicians and researchers.

Quality of life in adolescents who underwent congenital diaphragmatic hernia surgical repair. / Calidad de vida en adolescentes intervenidos de hernia diafragmática congénita.

OBJECTIVE: The advances made in the surgical and postnatal treatment of congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) have considerably improved patient survival, but morbidity remains significant. The objective of this study was to analyze the effect these sequels have on the health-related quality of life (HRQL) of adolescents and young adults who have survived CDH, and to compare it with that of the general population. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A transversal descriptive study of patients diagnosed with CDH in our institution from 1997 to 2004 was carried out. Survival, location, hernia size, herniated organs, need for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, and mechanical ventilation time were analyzed. In addition, a comparative study of the current HRQL of survivors was conducted using the SF-36 survey (36-Item Health Survey Short Form), which assessed physical function, physical role, body pain, general health, vitality, social function, emotional role, and mental health. Data of 24 healthy adolescents was used as a control group. RESULTS: Of the 29 survivors (70.7%), 21 were successfully contacted, and 16 responded to the survey. They all claimed their overall quality of life was good or very good. The group of adolescents who underwent CDH surgical repair had better results in the vitality (p= 0.001) and mental health (p<0.05) areas, but the overall HRQL score and the remaining health areas were similar. No significant differences were found regarding diaphragmatic size or need for ECMO. CONCLUSION: According to adolescent survivors who underwent CDH surgical repair, their quality of life is similar to that of other individuals of their age. Our results are encouraging and may prove useful for future parents of CDH patients.

OBJETIVO: Los avances en el tratamiento quirúrgico y posnatal han mejorado significativamente la supervivencia de pacientes con hernia diafragmática congénita (HDC). La morbilidad asociada sigue siendo significativa. El objetivo del estudio es evaluar efecto de estas secuelas sobre la calidad de vida relacionada con la salud (CVRS) de adolescentes y adultos jóvenes supervivientes de HDC y compararla con la población general. MATERIAL Y METODOS: Estudio descriptivo transversal de pacientes diagnosticados de HDC entre 1997 y 2004. Supervivencia, localización, tamaño de la hernia, órganos herniados, necesidad de oxigenación por membrana extracorpórea, tiempo de ventilación mecánica. Estudio comparativo de CVRS actual de pacientes supervivientes mediante la encuesta SF-36 (36-Item Health Survey Short Form): función física, rol físico, dolor corporal, salud general, vitalidad, función social, rol emocional, salud mental. Utilizamos datos de 24 adolescentes sanos como grupo control. RESULTADOS: De los 29 supervivientes (70,7%), fueron localizados 21 y contestaron la encuesta 16, que consideraron tener una calidad de vida global buena o muy buena. El grupo de adolescentes intervenidos tuvieron mejores resultados en las esferas de vitalidad (p = 0,001) y salud mental (p<0,05), pero la puntuación de la CVRS global y el resto de dimensiones de salud fueron similares. No se objetivaron diferencias significativas en relación con el tamaño diafragmático ni la necesidad de ECMO. CONCLUSIONES: Los adolescentes supervivientes intervenidos de HDC consideran tener una calidad de vida similar a jóvenes de su misma edad. Los resultados de nuestro estudio son alentadores y permiten un mejor asesoramiento para futuros pacientes con HDC.

Calidad de vida en adolescentes intervenidos de herniadiafragmática congénita / Quality of life in adolescents who underwent congenital diaphragmatic hernia surgical repair

Objetivo: Los avances en el tratamiento quirúrgico y posnatal hanmejorado significativamente la supervivencia de pacientes con herniadiafragmática congénita (HDC). La morbilidad asociada sigue siendosignificativa. El objetivo del estudio es evaluar el efecto de estas se-cuelas sobre la calidad de vida relacionada con la salud (CVRS) deadolescentes y adultos jóvenes supervivientes de HDC y compararlacon la población general. Material y métodos: Estudio descriptivo transversal de pacientesdiagnosticados de HDC entre 1997 y 2004. Supervivencia, localiza-ción, tamaño de la hernia, órganos herniados, necesidad de oxigenaciónpor membrana extracorpórea, tiempo de ventilación mecánica. Estudio comparativo de CVRS actual de pacientes supervivientes mediante laencuesta SF-36 (36-Item Health Survey Short Form): función física,rol físico, dolor corporal, salud general, vitalidad, función social, rolemocional, salud mental. Utilizamos datos de 24 adolescentes sanoscomo grupo control. Resultados: De los 29 supervivientes (70,7%), fueron localizados21 y contestaron la encuesta 16, que consideraron tener una calidad devida global buena o muy buena. El grupo de adolescentes intervenidostuvieron mejores resultados en las esferas de vitalidad (p = 0,001) ysalud mental (p < 0,05), pero la puntuación de la CVRS global y elresto de dimensiones de salud fueron similares. No se objetivaron diferencias significativas en relación con el tamaño diafragmático ni lanecesidad de ECMO. Conclusiones: Los adolescentes supervivientes intervenidos deHDC consideran tener una calidad de vida similar a jóvenes de su mis-ma edad. Los resultados de nuestro estudio son alentadores y permitenun mejor asesoramiento para futuros pacientes con HDC.(AU)

Objective: The advances made in the surgical and postnataltreatment of congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) have consid-erably improved patient survival, but morbidity remains significant.The objective of this study was to analyze the effect these sequelshave on the health-related quality of life (HRQL) of adolescents andyoung adults who have survived CDH, and to compare it with thatof the general population. Materials and methods: A transversal descriptive study of pa-tients diagnosed with CDH in our institution from 1997 to 2004 wascarried out. Survival, location, hernia size, herniated organs, need forextracorporeal membrane oxygenation, and mechanical ventilationtime were analyzed. In addition, a comparative study of the currentHRQL of survivors was conducted using the SF-36 survey (36-Item Health Survey Short Form), which assessed physical function,physical role, body pain, general health, vitality, social function,emotional role, and mental health. Data of 24 healthy adolescentswas used as a control group. Results: Of the 29 survivors (70.7%), 21 were successfullycontacted, and 16 responded to the survey. They all claimed theiroverall quality of life was good or very good. The group of ado-lescents who underwent CDH surgical repair had better results inthe vitality (p= 0.001) and mental health (p< 0.05) areas, but theoverall HRQL score and the remaining health areas were similar.No significant differences were found regarding diaphragmatic sizeor need for ECMO. Conclusions: According to adolescent survivors who underwentCDH surgical repair, their quality of life is similar to that of otherindividuals of their age. Our results are encouraging and may proveuseful for future parents of CDH patients.(AU)

Graves' disease induced by Alemtuzumab in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis patients: an observational study in a reference center.

OBJECTIVES: Graves' disease induced by Alemtuzumab (GD-IA) is one of the most frequently observed adverse events in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) treated with this drug. The aim of this study is the sequencing and description of these events, along with the identification of the risk factors leading to their development. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We conducted a retrospective observational study identifying patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) and GD-IA, studying their baseline clinical features and variables related to the natural history of the disease. RESULTS: A total of 121 participants treated with Alemtuzumab were included, of whom 41 developed GD-IA (33.9%). A higher percentage of first-degree relatives with autoimmune thyroid disease was documented in the subgroup who developed the abovementioned event (14.6% vs 1.5%; p < 0.01). A total of 70.7% of patients diagnosed with GD-IA (n = 29/41) had fluctuations in thyroid function during follow-up, and 24.4% (n = 10/41) required total thyroidectomy for resolution of the condition. In 54.8% of participants diagnosed with GD-IA, a pattern of significant TSH decline was identified in the month prior to diagnosis of the event, with high predictive ability and associated with a more favorable clinical course (fewer weeks to normalization of thyroid function, HR = 8.99; 95% CI [2.11-38.44]; p = 0.0003). CONCLUSION: GD-IA has an atypical course compared to classical forms of the disease. The identification of risk factors for the development of the disease before starting treatment with Alemtuzumab and early monitoring of thyroid function once this treatment is initiated prove to be useful strategies in the diagnosis and clinical management of this condition.

Adaptación del trabajo asistencial en una farmacia comunitaria durante la situación de crisis sanitaria por SARS-CoV2 / Adapting care work in a community pharmacy during the SARS-CoV2 health crisis situation

JUSTIFICACIÓN: la crisis generada por la pandemia por SARS-CoV2 ha afectado a la forma de trabajar en diversos ámbitos. La farmacia ha tenido que adaptarse a esta nueva situación y reconducir su trabajo asistencial.OBJETIVO: describir cómo adaptó esta farmacia su actividad asistencial durante esta crisis, con la finalidad de satisfacer las necesidades farmacoterapéuticas y sociales de las personas que habitualmente acompañamos.MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: estudio descriptivo retrospectivo sobre las acciones asistenciales realizadas: • Unidad de Optimización de la Farmacoterapia (UOF): - Marzo 2020 – diciembre 2021. - Población diana: Pacientes que ya formaban parte de la unidad - Atendidos telemáticamente. • “Atención telemática Confinamiento”: - 15 marzo - 21 junio 2020 - Población diana: Mayores de 70 años, frágiles, con ficha en la farmacia. - Se realizaron llamadas diarias según necesidades detectadas. - Registro: Nombre, apellidos, fecha, intervención y observaciones. • “Atención telemática continuada”: - Diciembre 2020 - febrero 2021 - Población diana: mayores de 70 años, con ficha en farmacia y polimedicación mayor. - Se dividieron en grupos, asignados a cada farmacéutico como profesional de referencia, que se encargó de mantener la relación y registrar datos. Se clasificaron las intervenciones en: • Farmacoterapéutica • Gestión • SocialRESULTADOS / DISCUSIÓN • Pacientes UOF: - 63 pacientes - Intervenciones: • Farmacoterapéuticas: 57 • Sociales: 6 • Gestión: 0 • Atención telemática confinamiento: - 105 pacientes - Intervenciones: • Farmacoterapéuticas: 3 • Gestión: 32 • Sociales: 70 • Atención telemática continuada: - 126 pacientes - La gran mayoría (98) en ese momento no manifestaron necesidades - Intervenciones: • Farmacoterapéuticas: 3 • Gestión: 6 • Sociales: 19En este periodo las personas ya habían recuperado parte de su actividad y vida social, lo que justifica que muchos no manifestaban necesidades “urgentes”. (AU)

Optimized identification of microorganisms directly from positive blood cultures by MALDI-TOF to improve antimicrobial treatment.

OBJECTIVE: Bacteriemia is a major cause of morbidity and mortality among hospitalized patients worldwide. Early identification of microorganisms from blood culture can lead to improvement of treatment and outcomes. METHODS: The study was divided into two phases. The first phase when a comparison of the methods was made to check the concordance between them, using as a reference the standard method implemented in the laboratory. In a second phase, both methods are combined. We used the rapid identification method and when it could not identify we used the standard method. The microorganisms that were not identified by either of the two methods were identified from colony at 24 hours. RESULTS: A total of 589 microbial positive blood cultures have been included in the present study. With the rapid method we obtained 96% and 88% identification results for Gram-negative bacilli (GNB) and Gram-positive cocci (GPC) respectively. In this study we observed that the combination of the rapid and standard method achieved identifications of 98% and 97% for GNB and GPC respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The data analysed shows that both methods combined perform better than individually. We achieved an optimization of the identification of microorganisms directly from positive blood cultures by MALDI-TOF. This combination identified 98% of the microorganisms in between ten minutes to one hour and a half since the blood culture flagged positive.

Pharmacogenetic studies in Alzheimer disease.

INTRODUCTION: Alzheimer disease (AD) is the most common cause of dementia and is considered one of the main causes of disability and dependence affecting quality of life in elderly people and their families. Current pharmacological treatment includes acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (donepezil, galantamine, rivastigmine) and memantine; however, only one-third of patients respond to treatment. Genetic factors have been shown to play a role in this inter-individual variability in drug response. DEVELOPMENT: We review pharmacogenetic reports of AD-modifying drugs, the pharmacogenetic biomarkers included, and the phenotypes evaluated. We also discuss relevant methodological considerations for the design of pharmacogenetic studies into AD. A total of 33 pharmacogenetic reports were found; the majority of these focused on the variability in response to and metabolism of donepezil. Most of the patients included were from Caucasian populations, although some studies also include Korean, Indian, and Brazilian patients. CYP2D6 and APOE are the most frequently studied biomarkers. The associations proposed are controversial. CONCLUSIONS: Potential pharmacogenetic biomarkers for AD have been identified; however, it is still necessary to conduct further research into other populations and to identify new biomarkers. This information could assist in predicting patient response to these drugs and contribute to better treatment decision-making in a context as complex as ageing.

A rare case of a secondary pituitary abscess arising in a craniopharyngioma with atypical presentation and clinical course / Un caso raro de absceso hipofisario secundario derivado de un craneofaringioma con presentación y evolución clínica atípicas

Pituitary abscesses are very uncommon. They are divided into primary, arising within a healthy gland, and secondary, observed with an underlying pre-existing lesion. Here we present the eighth case reported of a secondary abscess within a craniopharyngioma. A 59-year-old-woman presented with a 3-week history of headache, and fever. Physical examination was unremarkable. An Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) showed a pituitary lesion suggestive of a chronic inflammatory process. She was diagnosed with lymphocytic meningitis with hypophysitis and she was treated with corticosteroids. Two months later she presented with headache and fever again. Control MRI showed enlargement of the pituitary lesion. Therefore, a transsphenoidal biopsy was performed. During the procedure, purulent material was released. Histological study demonstrated a craniopharyngioma and meningeal inflammation. Empiric antibiotics were started. Three months post-operatively, a follow-up MRI showed a suspect minimal residual mass. Secondary pituitary abscesses are rare. The key to successful management is a high index of suspicion. Transsphenoidal surgical evacuation plus antibiotics is the mainstay of treatment. Although most symptoms resolve, endocrinopathies improve only rarely (AU)

Los abscesos hipofisarios son infrecuentes. Se pueden dividir en primarios o secundarios, si se producen sobre una lesión previa. Presentamos el octavo caso de un absceso asentado sobre un craneofaringioma. Una mujer de 59 años consultó por fiebre y cefalea de tres semanas de evolución. La exploración física era anodina. Una resonancia magnética (RMN) evidenció una lesión hipofisaria sugestiva de un proceso inflamatorio crónico. Finalmente, se diagnosticó de una meningitis linfocítica e hipofisitis y se trató con corticoides. Dos meses después reconsultó por los mismos síntomas. En la RMN se evidenció crecimiento de la lesión, por lo que se biopsia endoscópicamente. Durante el procedimiento salió pus. En el examen histológico se evidenció un craneofaringioma y una inflamación meníngea. Se iniciaron antibióticos empíricamente. En el seguimiento a tres meses, la RMN evidenciaba un dudoso resto. Los abscesos hipofisarios secundarios son raros y hay que tener un alto índice de sospecha para diagnosticarlos. El tratamiento se basa en antibioterapia y evacuación transesfenoidal. Aunque los síntomas se suelen resolver, las endocrinopatías no (AU)