Effects of inclusion of the blend of essential oils, organic acids, curcumin, tannins, vitamin E, and zinc in the maternal diet, and of incubation temperature on early and late development of quail.

The maternal diet and egg incubation temperature are some of the factors that can influence the embryonic development and performance of the newly chicks at 15 d of age. This study evaluated the effects of adding a blend of organic acids, essential oils, curcumin, tannins, vitamin E, and zinc microencapsulated in to the diet of female quails (Coturnix coturnix japonica) on their productive, reproductive performance and redox parameters of their eggs and the interaction of maternal diet × incubation temperature on embryo (E16 and E18) and chicks development. At 98 d of age, 64 female quails with a mean body weight of 150 g ± 0.5 were distributed into two treatments: a Basal diet or a diet supplemented with blend (Sannimix). The eggs from each female were incubated at 37.5°C (Control) and 38.5°C (High Temperature) throughout the incubation period. After hatching, chicks were distributed in a 2 (maternal diet) × 2 (incubation temperature) factorial design. Female quails supplemented with Sannimix showed better productive and reproductive performance and produced higher-quality embryos. Their offspring had greater weight at hatch and at 15 d of age. The eggs and offspring of supplemented with Sannimix female quails showed better oxidative stability. At E16 and E18, High Temperature increased yolk sac utilization and gene expression of the growth hormone receptor (GHR). At E16, embryos from supplemented with Sannimix female quail had higher expression of insulin-like growth factor type I (IGFI) and heat shock protein 70 kDa genes. At 15 d of age, highest expression of the GHR and IGFI genes was observed in chicks from female quails fed the Sannimix diet, regardless of incubation temperature. Regarding the maternal diet × incubation temperature an improved result was observed for chicks from female quails fed with Sannimix even when eggs are exposed to High Temperature during the incubation. The supplementation of quail diets with blend Sannimix improves productive and reproductive performance, egg quality and their embryos, as well as their offspring quality.

Primary central nervous system germ cell tumors in Central America and the Caribbean Region: an AHOPCA 20-year experience.

Background: Primary central nervous system germ cell tumors (GCT) are rare neoplasms in pediatrics. Treatment depends on the histological subtype and extent of the disease. Overall survival (OS) is above 90% for germinomas and 70%-80% for nongerminomatous GCT (NGGCT) in high-income countries (HIC) while data are usually lacking for patients in Low-Middle Income country (LMIC). Objective: This study aims to describe the experience of treating patients with CNS GCT in four of eight countries, members of the Asociación de Hemato-Oncología Pediátrica de Centro América (AHOPCA), and determine their 5-year OS. Design/methods: We conducted a retrospective chart review of patients treated for CNS GCT. Epidemiological and clinical characteristics, histology, treatment modalities, and outcomes were analyzed. Results: From 2001 to 2021, 48 patients were included: 22 from Guatemala, 18 from Nicaragua, three from the Dominican Republic, and five from El Salvador. Thirty-one (64.6%) were boys; the median age at diagnosis was 10.2 years (range: 1 to 17 years). Presenting symptoms were headaches (n = 24, 50%), visual disturbances (n = 17, 35.4%), vomiting (n = 12, 25%), nausea (n = 8, 16.7%), and diabetes insipidus (n = 7, 14.6%). Two patients with NGGCT presented with precocious puberty. Biopsy or tumor resection was performed in 38 cases (79.2%): 23 (88.4%) germinomas, 11 (78.6%) NGGCT, and four (50%) CNS GCT. Eight patients were diagnosed and treated based on CSF tumor marker elevation; four germinomas (BHCG 11.32-29.41 mUI/mL) and four NGGCT (BHCG 84.43-201.97 mUI/mL or positive AFP > 10 UI/mL). Tumor locations included suprasellar (n = 17, 35.4%), pineal (n = 13, 27.1%), thalamus/basal ganglia (n = 5, 10.4%), other (n = 12, 25%), and one bifocal. Four (8.3%) had metastatic disease, and six had positive CSF; staging data were incomplete in 25 patients (52%). Patients were treated with varied chemotherapy and radiotherapy modalities. Nine patients had incomplete data regarding treatment. Five-year OS was 65% (68% for germinoma, 50.6% for NGGCT, and 85.7% for unclassified GCT). Conclusions: Germinoma was the most common histology, and there was a male predominance. More than half of patients had incomplete staging data and treatment was variable across the region. OS is lower compared to HIC. Standardized treatment protocols will aid in adequate staging and treatment planning, prevent complications, and improve survival.

Experiencia en el manejo de fístulas enterocutáneas postoperatorias en el Hospital Nacional del 2017 al 2022

Introducción: la mayoría de las fistulas enterocutáneas se producen como complicación de una o varias cirugías previas. La mortalidad sigue siendo muy elevada. Su tratamiento supone un reto para el cirujano y gran uso de recursos humanos, económicos y prolongada estancia hospitalaria. Objetivo: determinar la experiencia del manejo de las fístulas enterocutáneas postoperatorias en el servicio de cirugía general del Hospital Nacional de Itauguá durante el periodo 2017-2022. Metodología: estudio observacional descriptivo retrospectivo de corte transversal, con muestreo no probabilístico. Solo hubo 30 casos con fichas completas, las cuales sometimos a procesamiento y análisis de las variables de interés. Resultados: de la muestra final 70 % fueron hombres, el promedio de edad fue de 49,6 años y de días de internación 28,6. Solo 5 pacientes consultaron por secreción fecaloide, los demás refirieron secreción seropurulenta por herida o cicatriz operatoria. Del total, 9 fueron de alto débito. El 100 % recibió antibioticoterapia; obitaron 4 de los 14 pacientes intervenidos quirúrgicamente con fin terapéutico. La técnica quirúrgica mayormente utilizada fue: laparotomía + liberación de adherencias e identificación de la fístula + resección intestinal + anastomosis. De los antecedentes la mayoría fueron postoperados de oclusión intestinal mecánica alta o peritonitis aguda de origen apendicular. Conclusión: debido a su alto impacto en la capacidad laboral y social las fístulas enterocutáneas representan patologías quirúrgicas muy complejas y relevantes con bajas tasas de curación definitiva. La mayoría se presentan como complicación de cirugías de urgencia; requiere intervención multidisciplinaria adaptada para cada caso en particular.

Introduction: the occur enterocutaneous fistula as a complication of one or several previous surgeries. Mortality is still very high. Its treatment represents a challenge for the surgeon and great use of human and economic resources and a long hospital stay. Objective: to determine the experience in the management of postoperative enterocutaneous fistulae in the general surgery service of the Itauguá National Hospital during the period 2017-2022. Methodology: retrospective, cross-sectional, descriptive, observational study with non-probabilistic sampling. There were only 30 cases with complete records, which we subjected to processing and analysis of the variables of interest. Results: of the final sample, 70 % were men, the average age was 49,6 years and 28,6 days of hospitalization. Only 5 patients consulted due to fecaloid discharge, the rest reported seropurulent discharge from wound or surgical scar. Of the total, 9 were high debit. 100 % received antibiotic therapy, 4 of the 14 patients who underwent surgery as therapeutics, died. The most commonly used surgical technique was: laparotomy + release of adhesions and identification of the fistula + intestinal resection + anastomosis. Most of the antecedents were post-operated for high mechanical intestinal occlusion or acute peritonitis of appendiceal origin. Conclusion: due to their high impact on work and social capacity, enterocutaneous fistulas represent very complex and relevant surgical pathologies with low definitive cure rates. Most present as a complication in emergency surgeries; requires multidisciplinary intervention adapted to each particular case.

Características clínicas de niños con apendicitis aguda que acuden al Servicio de Urgencias del Hospital Regional de Pilar en el periodo 2020 al 2023

Introducción: La apendicitis aguda, definida como la inflamación del apéndice vermiforme, es la causa más frecuente de abdomen agudo quirúrgico y es la patología aguda quirúrgica más común en la infancia y en el niño mayor. Objetivo: Determinar las características clínicas de niños con apendicitis aguda que acuden al Servicio de Urgencias del Hospital Regional de Pilar durante el periodo 2020 al 2023. Materiales y métodos: Estudio observacional descriptivo, retrospectivo, de corte transversal en pacientes pediátricos que acuden al servicio de urgencias del Hospital Regional de Pilar. Incluyó pacientes de 4 a 15 años que acudieron al servicio de urgencias por cuadro de dolor abdominal agudo durante el periodo enero 2020 a julio 2023. Resultados: Se realizaron 80 apendicetomías en niños de 4 a 15 años, la media de edad fue 11±3años; predominó el sexo femenino en el 34,4%; el principal motivo de consulta fue dolor abdominal más vómitos con un tiempo promedio de evolución de 29,6±22horas; se presentó signo de defensa muscular en el 77,5%; la característica apendicular predominante fue flegmonosa en el 51,3%; el tiempo promedio de estancia hospitalaria fue de 3±1,2días y el 71,3% de los niños no presentó complicación aguda. Conclusión : El conocimiento de las características clínicas de la apendicitis aguda resultan de suma importancia para el médico en el Servicio de Urgencias para un diagnóstico precoz y; por ende, una apendicetomía temprana minimizando tanto las tazas de complicaciones intraoperatorias como posoperatorias.

Introduction: Acute appendicitis, defined as inflammation of the vermiform appendix, is the most common cause of acute surgical abdomen and is the most common acute surgical pathology in childhood and older children. Objective: Determine the clinical characteristics of children with acute appendicitis who attend the Emergency Service of the Pilar Regional Hospital during the period 2020 to 2023. Materials and methods: Descriptive, retrospective, cross-sectional observational study in pediatric patients attending the emergency service of the Pilar Regional Hospital. It included patients aged 4 to 15 years who attended the emergency department due to acute abdominal pain during the period January 2020 to July 2023. Results: 80 appendectomies were performed in children from 4 to 15 years old, the average age was 11±3 years; The female sex predominated in 34.4%; The main reason for consultation was abdominal pain plus vomiting with an average duration of 29.6±22 hours; sign of muscular defense was present in 77.5%; the predominant appendiceal characteristic was phlegmonous in 51.3%; The average length of hospital stay was 3±1.2 days and 71.3% of the children did not present acute complications. Conclusion: Knowledge of the clinical characteristics of acute appendicitis is of utmost importance for the doctor in the Emergency Department for early diagnosis and therefore, an early appendectomy minimizes both intraoperative and postoperative complication rates.

Repercussões psicológicas de adultos que sofreram abuso sexual na infância / Psychological repercussions of adults who suffered sexual abuse in childhood

Objetivo: correlacionar o abuso sexual na infância com as repercussões psicológicas na idade adulta, das vítimas e destacar a importância de abordar o despreparo do sistema judiciário, a culpabilização das vítimas e as falhas no acesso à educação e à informação sobre sexualidade. Métodos: uma revisão de literatura foi conduzida utilizando métodos descritivos e analíticos, com a utilização de dados publicados nos últimos 10 anos, nas bases de dados PubMed e Scielo Brasil. Resultados: foram selecionados 13 artigos do PubMed e 10 artigos do Scielo Brasil para análise. Observa-se que o abuso sexual na infância tem repercussões que vão além do nível psicológico e cognitivo, afetando outras áreas, como mudanças na estrutura cerebral, problemas de saúde física, desenvolvimento de comportamentos de risco e dificuldades em estabelecer relações sociais, além de redução na expectativa de vida. Conclusões: são muitos os impactos negativos na vida de vítimas de abuso sexual infantil. O cuidado físico e psicológico voltado às vítimas de abuso infantil vai além da infância, demandando atenção nos anos subsequentes e durante a vida adulta, uma vez que o trauma repercute de formas diferentes, gerando repercussões negativas na qualidade de vida dos abusados. Verifica-se a necessidade de implementação de estratégias de ensino e capacitação para profissionais da área da educação, a fim de identificar e denunciar casos de violência sexual, bem como a imprescindibilidade em criar espaços para abordagem desse tema nas escolas.

Objectives: to correlate sexual abuse in childhood with the psychological repercussions of the victims in adulthood and highlight the importance of addressing the lack of preparation of the judicial system, the blaming of victims, and failures in access to education and information about sexuality. Methods: a literature review was conducted using descriptive and analytical methods using data published in the last ten (10) years in the PubMed and Scielo Brasil databases. Results: 13 articles from PubMed and ten (10) articles from Scielo Brasil were selected for analysis. It is observed that sexual abuse in childhood has repercussions that go beyond the psychological and cognitive level, affecting other areas, such as changes in brain structure, physical health problems, development of risk behaviors, and difficulties in establishing relationships and social benefits, in addition to a reduction in life expectancy. Conclusions: there are many negative impacts on the lives of victims of child sexual abuse. Physical and psychological care aimed at victims of child abuse goes beyond childhood, demanding attention in subsequent years and during adult life since the trauma has repercussions in different ways, generating negative epercussions on the quality of life of those abused. There is a need to implement teaching and training strategies for professionals in the field of education to identify and report cases of sexual violence, as well as the essential need to create spaces to address this issue in schools.

KS-WNK1 is required for the renal response to extreme changes in potassium intake.

Kidney-specific with-no-lysine kinase 1 (KS-WNK1) is an isoform of WNK1 kinase that is predominantly found in the distal convoluted tubule of the kidney. The precise physiological function of KS-WNK1 remains unclear. Some studies have suggested that it could play a role in regulating potassium renal excretion by modulating the activity of the Na+-Cl- cotransporter (NCC). However, changes in the potassium diet from normal to high failed to reveal a role for KS-WNK1, but under a normal-potassium diet, the expression of KS-WNK1 is negligible. It is only detectable when mice are exposed to a low-potassium diet. In this study, we investigated the role of KS-WNK1 in regulating potassium excretion under extreme changes in potassium intake. After following a zero-potassium diet (0KD) for 10 days, KS-WNK1-/- mice had lower plasma levels of K+ and Cl- while exhibiting higher urinary excretion of Na+, Cl-, and K+ compared with KS-WNK1+/+ mice. After 10 days of 0KD or normal-potassium diet (NKD), all mice were challenged with a high-potassium diet (HKD). Plasma K+ levels markedly increased after the HKD challenge only in mice previously fed with 0KD, regardless of genotype. KSWNK1+/+ mice adapt better to HKD challenge than KS-WNK1-/- mice after a potassium-retaining state. The difference in the phosphorylated NCC-to-NCC ratio between KS-WNK1+/+ and KS-WNK1-/- mice after 0KD and HKD indicates a role for KS-WNK1 in both NCC phosphorylation and dephosphorylation. These observations show that KS-WNK1 helps the distal convoluted tubule to respond to extreme changes in potassium intake, such as those occurring in wildlife.NEW & NOTEWORTHY The findings of this study demonstrate that kidney-specific with-no-lysine kinase 1 plays a role in regulating urinary electrolyte excretion during extreme changes in potassium intake, such as those occurring in wildlife. .

Manejo clínico quirúrgico de la necrosis pancreática infectada en adultos: experiencia en un hospital especializado, Paraguay / Surgical clinical management of necrotizing pancreatitis in adults: experience in a specialized hospital, Paraguay

Introducción: la necrosis pancreática se presenta entre 10 y 20 % de los pacientes con pancreatitis aguda, tiene una mortalidad de 10 a 25 % y si se agrega infección a la necrosis entre 40 y 70 %. Objetivo: describir el manejo clínico quirúrgico de la necrosis pancreática infectada en el Servicio de Cirugía General del Hospital Nacional entre el periodo 2021-2022. Metodología: estudio observacional descriptivo de corte temporal transversal. En pacientes internados en el Servicio de Cirugía General del Hospital Nacional por pancreatitis aguda grave con necrosis pancreática infectada. Resultados: se analizaron un total de 30 pacientes. La media de edad fue de 39 años. Predominó en nuestra población pacientes de sexo masculino en el 56.67 %. En cuanto a las comorbilidades asociadas un 33.3 % los pacientes presentaron principalmente Diabetes mellitus tipo 2 e Hipertensión arterial; en menor medida Obesidad en un 23.3 %. De la población en estudio 76.6 % recibieron tratamiento quirúrgico y 23.33% tratamiento médico principalmente antibiótico terapia. De los pacientes sometidos a tratamiento quirúrgico 9 fueron a necrosectomia abierta, 7 a drenaje percutáneo, y en menor medida drenaje biliar y endoscópico. En cuanto a la mortalidad por necrosis pancreática infectada encontramos un 10 % de mortalidad. Discusión: la mayor parte de los pacientes con pancreatitis aguda grave sufren de necrosis pancreática; la necrosis pancreática infectada se asocia con mayor riesgo de mortalidad y en su mayoría requieren tratamientos invasivos. Conclusión: el manejo mínimamente invasivo en el tratamiento inicial de la necrosis pancreática infectada podría resolver la mayoría de los casos sin necesidad de realizar necrosectomia; reservando esta última solo a los que fracasan en el tratamiento inicial.

Introduction: pancreatic necrosis occurs between 10 and 20 % of patients with pancreatitis, has a mortality of 10 to 25 % and if infection is added to the necrosis between 40 and 70 %. Objective: to describe the surgical and clinical management of infected necrotizing pancreatitis in patients admitted to the General Surgery Service of the Hospital Nacional between the period 2021-2022. Methodology: this was an observational, descriptive and cross-section study with a temporal cut. We included patients admitted to the general surgery service of the National Hospital with severe acute pancreatitis with infected necrotizing pancreatitis. Results: a total of 30 patients were included. The mean age was 39 years. Male patients prevailed in our population in 56.67 %. Regarding the associated comorbidities, 33.3 % of the patients presented mainly type 2 diabetes mellitus and arterial hypertension; to a lesser extent Obesity in 23.3 %. In the study population, 76.6 % received surgical treatment and 23.33 % medical treatment, mainly antibiotic therapy. Of the patients who underwent surgical treatment, 9 were open necrosectomy, 7 had percutaneous drainage, and to a lesser extent biliary and endoscopic drainage. Regarding mortality due to infected necrotizing pancreatitis, we found a 10% mortality. Discussion: most of the patients with severe acute pancreatitis suffer from necrotizing pancreatitis; infected necrotizing pancreatitis is associated with increased risk of mortality and most require invasive treatment. Conclusion: minimally invasive management in the initial treatment of infected necrotizing pancreatitis, which could resolve most cases without the need to perform necrosectomy; the latter should be reserved for those who fail the initial treatment.

Arginine vasopressin regulates the renal Na+-Cl- and Na+-K+-Cl- cotransporters through with-no-lysine kinase 4 and inhibitor 1 phosphorylation.

Vasopressin regulates water homeostasis via the V2 receptor in the kidney at least in part through protein kinase A (PKA) activation. Vasopressin, through an unknown pathway, upregulates the activity and phosphorylation of Na+-Cl- cotransporter (NCC) and Na+-K+-2Cl- cotransporter 2 (NKCC2) by Ste20-related proline/alanine-rich kinase (SPAK) and oxidative stress-responsive kinase 1 (OSR1), which are regulated by the with-no-lysine kinase (WNK) family. Phosphorylation of WNK4 at PKA consensus motifs may be involved. Inhibitor 1 (I1), a protein phosphatase 1 (PP1) inhibitor, may also play a role. In human embryonic kidney (HEK)-293 cells, we assessed the phosphorylation of WNK4, SPAK, NCC, or NKCC2 in response to forskolin or desmopressin. WNK4 and cotransporter phosphorylation were studied in desmopressin-infused WNK4-/- mice and in tubule suspensions. In HEK-293 cells, only wild-type WNK4 but not WNK1, WNK3, or a WNK4 mutant lacking PKA phosphorylation motifs could upregulate SPAK or cotransporter phosphorylation in response to forskolin or desmopressin. I1 transfection maximized SPAK phosphorylation in response to forskolin in the presence of WNK4 but not of mutant WNK4 lacking PP1 regulation. We observed direct PP1 regulation of NKCC2 dephosphorylation but not of NCC or SPAK in the absence of WNK4. WNK4-/- mice with desmopressin treatment did not increase SPAK/OSR1, NCC, or NKCC2 phosphorylation. In stimulated tubule suspensions from WNK4-/- mice, upregulation of pNKCC2 was reduced, whereas upregulation of SPAK phosphorylation was absent. These findings suggest that WNK4 is a central node in which kinase and phosphatase signaling converge to connect cAMP signaling to the SPAK/OSR1-NCC/NKCC2 pathway.NEW & NOTEWORTHY With-no-lysine kinases regulate the phosphorylation and activity of the Na+-Cl- and Na+-K+-2Cl- cotransporters. This pathway is modulated by arginine vasopressin (AVP). However, the link between AVP and WNK signaling remains unknown. Here, we show that AVP activates WNK4 through increased phosphorylation at putative protein kinase A-regulated sites and decreases its dephosphorylation by protein phosphatase 1. This work increases our understanding of the signaling pathways mediating AVP actions in the kidney.

Biofortified Beverage with Chlorogenic Acid from Stressed Carrots: Anti-Obesogenic, Antioxidant, and Anti-Inflammatory Properties.

Using wounding stress to increase the bioactive phenolic content in fruits and vegetables offers a promising strategy to enhance their health benefits. When wounded, such phenolics accumulate in plants and can provide antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-obesogenic properties. This study investigates the potential of using wounding stress-treated carrots biofortified with phenolic compounds as a raw material to extract carrot juice with increased nutraceutical properties. Fresh carrots were subjected to wounding stress via slicing and then stored at 15 °C for 48 h to allow phenolic accumulation. These phenolic-enriched slices were blanched, juiced, and blended with orange juice (75:25 ratio) and 15% (w/v) broccoli sprouts before pasteurization. The pasteurized juice was characterized by its physicochemical attributes and bioactive compound content over 28 days of storage at 4 °C. Additionally, its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-obesogenic potentials were assessed using in vitro assays, both pre- and post-storage. The results reveal that juice derived from stressed carrots (SJ) possessed 49%, 83%, and 168% elevated levels of total phenolics, chlorogenic acid, and glucosinolates, respectively, compared to the control juice (CJ) (p < 0.05). Both juices reduced lipid accumulation in 3T3-L1 cells and nitric oxide production in Raw 264.7 cells, without significant differences between them. SJ further displayed a 26.4% increase in cellular antioxidant activity. The juice's bioactive characteristics remained stable throughout storage time. In conclusion, the utilization of juice obtained from stressed carrots in a blend with orange juice and broccoli sprouts offers a promising method to produce a beverage enriched in bioactive compounds and antioxidant potential.

Evaluation of the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-tumoral properties of bioactive compounds extracted from murta berries (Ugni molinae T.) dried by different methods.

This study evaluated the effects of different drying methods (freeze drying, vacuum drying, infrared drying, convective drying, and sun drying) on the biological properties of berries from the Chilean murta (Ugni molinae Turcz) shrub. Physical-chemical properties (proximal composition, dietary fiber, sugars) were determined. Total phenolic content through the method of Folin-Ciocalteau, the profile of phenol compounds was determined by HPLC, and antioxidant potential by DPPH and ORAC assays were also evaluated. The topic anti-inflammatory effect was evaluated by mice´s ear edema, and in vitro anti-tumoral activity was tested by MTT assay. The chemical properties of dried berries differed significantly based on the drying method: freeze-dried murta berries showed increased total phenolic content extracted over fresh and dried samples. In addition, this lyophilized extract stood out in its antioxidant potential, in both assays evaluated (DPPH and ORAC), compared to the other drying methods. Notwithstanding, vacuum- and infrared-dried murta also showed a higher ORAC value. Antioxidant potential was significantly associated with phenolic compounds catechin and pyrogallol, which were the most abundant phenolic compounds present in all samples. The anti-inflammatory activity was most effective under freeze-drying and vacuumdrying conditions. Moreover, vacuum drying and infrared drying best preserved the anti-tumoral effect on cancer cells.

Experiencia actual en el abordaje laparoscópico transabdominal preperitoneal de hernias inguinales en el Servicio de Cirugía General del Hospital Nacional: periodo 2018-2022

Introducción: la hernia inguinal es uno de los principales motivos de consulta quirúrgica y su reparación es uno de los procedimientos más comunes en cirugía. Objetivo: determinar la experiencia en el abordaje laparoscópico de las hernias inguinales por técnica transabdominal preperitoneal en el Servicio de Cirugía General del Centro Médico Nacional-Hospital Nacional. Metodología: estudio observacional descriptivo retrospectivo de corte temporal transversal. En pacientes de 16 a 90 años de edad con diagnóstico de hernia inguinal internados en el Servicio de Cirugía General del Centro Médico Nacional-Hospital Nacional para hernioplastia electiva. Resultados: se llevaron a cabo 30 hernioplastias por técnica técnica trans-abdominal pre-peritoneal de los cuales el 73 % fue realizado en hombres y 27 % en mujeres; se identificó una media de edad de 48,4 años, el grupo etario con mayor frecuencia fue de 38 a 48 años. En el examen físico pre quirúrgico se encontraron hernias inguinales unilaterales en el 76.6 % y bilaterales en el 23.3 %; en la mayor parte de los pacientes las hernias fueron primarias en el 86.6 %y recidivada en el 13.3 %. El tiempo quirúrgico en promedio fue de 93.1 minutos; con un tiempo máximo de 120 minutos y mínimo de 60 minutos. El tiempo de hospitalización en el 100 % de los pacientes fue de 48 h. De las complicaciones post operatorias se establece que el 76.6 % no presento ningún tipo de complicación; el 20 % presentó seroma como complicación principal y 3.3 % infección del sitio quirúrgico. Conclusión: debido a su alta frecuencia y a su impacto en la incapacidad laboral y social, las hernias inguinales representan una de las patologías quirúrgicas más importantes con bajas tasas de complicaciones post operatorias y corta estancia hospitalaria.

Introduction: inguinal hernia is one of the main reasons TAPP, e-TEP (Totally extraperitoneal with extended vision) for surgical consultation and its repair is one of the most common surgical procedures. Objective: to determine the experience in the laparoscopic approach of inguinal hernias by preperitoneal transabdominal technique in the Servicio de Cirugía General of the Centro Médico Nacional-Hospital Nacional. Methodology: retrospective descriptive observational study of cross-sectional time. In patients from 16 to 90 years of age with a diagnosis of inguinal hernia admitted to the Servicio de Cirugía General of the Centro Médico Nacional-Hospital Nacional for elective hernioplasty. Results: 30 hernioplasties were carried out by the TAPP technique, of which 73 % were performed in men and 27 % in women; a mean age of 48.4 years was identified, the age group most frequently being 38 to 48 years. In the pre-surgical physical examination, unilateral inguinal hernias were found in 76.6 % and bilateral in 23.3 %; in most of the patients the hernias were primary in 86.6 % and recurred in 13.3 %. Average surgical time was 93.1 minutes; with a maximum time of 120 minutes and a minimum of 60 minutes. The hospitalization time in 100 % of the patients was 48 hours. Of the post-operative complications, it is established that 76.6% did not present any type of complication; 20 % presented seroma as the main complication and 3.3 % surgical site infection. Conclusion: due to its high frequency and its impact on work and social disability, inguinal hernias represent one of the most important surgical pathologies with low rates of postoperative complications and short hospital stay.

Descripción del Autoconcepto en pacientes con trastorno bipolar / Description of Self-concept in patients with bipolar disorder

Resumen. El autoconcepto se concibe como la idea que una persona ha construido de su sí mismo, producto de la auto-observación de sus capacidades y limitaciones propias. El objetivo del presente trabajo es describir el autoconcepto en una muestra de pacientes con trastorno bipolar. Estudio de corte transversal, de característica descriptiva. Muestreo intencional, se evaluaron 36 personas por medio del cuestionario AF5. Al realizar una comparación de medias entre grupos no se hallaron diferencias estadísticamente significativas para ninguna de las dimensiones. Las mujeres puntuaron por debajo del baremo en las dimensiones emocional y familiar y los hombres puntuaron por debajo en la dimensión social y familiar. Es importante que futuros estudios establezcan relaciones con otras variables que puedan mediar la respuesta emocional ante la presencia de un diagnóstico de enfermedad mental, como la resiliencia, de igual manera se deben incluir otras muestras clínicas y de diferentes rangos de edad, la importancia de conocer el funcionamiento de la variable estudiada en diferentes grupos poblacionales y condiciones clínicas radica en la posibilidad de generar estrategias de intervención que pueden afectar el pronóstico de la enfermedad misma. Los resultados se discuten a la luz de la literatura científica sobre el tema.

Abstract: The self-concept is conceived as the idea that a person has built of himself, product of the self-observation of his own capacities and limitations. The aim of this paper is to describe the self-concept in a sample of patients with bipolar disorder. Cross-sectional study, with descriptive characteristics. Intentional sampling, 36 people were evaluated through the AF5 questionnaire. When performing a comparison of means between groups, no statistically significant differences were found for any of the dimensions. Women scored below the scale in the emotional and family dimensions and men scored below in the social and family dimension. It is important that future studies establish relationships with other variables that can mediate the emotional response in the presence of a diagnosis of mental illness, such as resilience, in the same way other clinical samples and from different age ranges should be included, the importance of knowing The functioning of the variable studied in different population groups and clinical conditions lies in the possibility of generating intervention strategies that can affect the prognosis of the disease itself. The results are discussed in light of the scientific literature on the subject.

How should childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia relapses in low-income and middle-income countries be managed: The AHOPCA-ALL study group experience.

BACKGROUND: Children with relapsed acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) in low-income and middle-income countries rarely survive. The Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Association of Central America (AHOPCA) developed the AHOPCA-ALL REC 2014 protocol to improve outcomes in resource-constrained settings without access to stem cell transplantation. METHODS: The AHOPCA-ALL REC 2014 protocol was based on a modified frontline induction phase 1A, a consolidation therapy with six modified R-blocks derived from the ALL-Berlin-Frankfurt-Munster REZ 2002 protocol and intermittent maintenance therapy. Children with B-lineage ALL were eligible after a late medullary relapse, an early or late combined relapse, or any extramedullary relapses. Those with T-lineage ALL were eligible after early and late extramedullary relapses, as were those with both B-lineage and T-lineage relapses occurring at least 3 months after therapy abandonment. RESULTS: The study population included 190 patients with T-lineage (n = 3) and B-lineage (n = 187) ALL. Of those with B-lineage ALL, 25 patients had a very early extramedullary relapse, 40 had an early relapse (32 extramedullary and 8 combined), and 125 had a late relapse (34 extramedullary, 19 combined, and 72 medullary). The main cause of treatment failure was second relapse (52.1%). The 3-year event-free survival rate (± standard error) was 25.9% ± 3.5%, and the 3-year overall survival rate was 36.7% ± 3.8%. The 3-year event-free survival rate was 47.2% ± 4.7% for late relapses. The most frequently reported toxicity was grade 3 or 4 infection. Mortality during treatment occurred in 17 patients (8.9%), in most cases because of infectious complications. CONCLUSIONS: Selected children with relapsed ALL in Central America can be cured with second-line regimens even without access to consolidation with stem cell transplantation. Children in low-income and middle-income countries who have lower risk relapses of ALL should be treated with curative intent.

Glucose/Fructose Delivery to the Distal Nephron Activates the Sodium-Chloride Cotransporter via the Calcium-Sensing Receptor.

BACKGROUND: The calcium-sensing receptor (CaSR) in the distal convoluted tubule (DCT) activates the NaCl cotransporter (NCC). Glucose acts as a positive allosteric modulator of the CaSR. Under physiologic conditions, no glucose is delivered to the DCT, and fructose delivery depends on consumption. We hypothesized that glucose/fructose delivery to the DCT modulates the CaSR in a positive allosteric way, activating the WNK4-SPAK-NCC pathway and thus increasing salt retention. METHODS: We evaluated the effect of glucose/fructose arrival to the distal nephron on the CaSR-WNK4-SPAK-NCC pathway using HEK-293 cells, C57BL/6 and WNK4-knockout mice, ex vivo perfused kidneys, and healthy humans. RESULTS: HEK-293 cells exposed to glucose/fructose increased SPAK phosphorylation in a WNK4- and CaSR-dependent manner. C57BL/6 mice exposed to fructose or a single dose of dapagliflozin to induce transient glycosuria showed increased activity of the WNK4-SPAK-NCC pathway. The calcilytic NPS2143 ameliorated this effect, which was not observed in WNK4-KO mice. C57BL/6 mice treated with fructose or dapagliflozin showed markedly increased natriuresis after thiazide challenge. Ex vivo rat kidney perfused with glucose above the physiologic threshold levels for proximal reabsorption showed increased NCC and SPAK phosphorylation. NPS2143 prevented this effect. In healthy volunteers, cinacalcet administration, fructose intake, or a single dose of dapagliflozin increased SPAK and NCC phosphorylation in urinary extracellular vesicles. CONCLUSIONS: Glycosuria or fructosuria was associated with increased NCC, SPAK, and WNK4 phosphorylation in a CaSR-dependent manner.

Comprehensive Evaluation of the Impact of Sociodemographic Inequalities on Adverse Outcomes and Excess Mortality During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Pandemic in Mexico City.

BACKGROUND: The impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in Mexico City has been sharp, as several social inequalities at all levels coexist. Here we conducted an in-depth evaluation of the impact of individual and municipal-level social inequalities on the COVID-19 pandemic in Mexico City. METHODS: We analyzed suspected severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) cases, from the Mexico City Epidemiological Surveillance System from 24 February 2020 to 31 March 2021. COVID-19 outcomes included rates of hospitalization, severe COVID-19, invasive mechanical ventilation, and mortality. We evaluated socioeconomic occupation as an individual risk, and social lag, which captures municipal-level social vulnerability, and urban population density as proxies of structural risk factors. Impact of reductions in vehicular mobility on COVID-19 rates and the influence of risk factors were also assessed. Finally, we assessed discrepancies in COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 excess mortality using death certificates from the general civil registry. RESULTS: We detected vulnerable groups who belonged to economically unfavored sectors and experienced increased risk of COVID-19 outcomes. Cases living in marginalized municipalities with high population density experienced greater risk for COVID-19 outcomes. Additionally, policies to reduce vehicular mobility had differential impacts modified by social lag and urban population density. Finally, we report an under-registry of COVID-19 deaths along with an excess mortality closely related to marginalized and densely populated communities in an ambulatory setting. This could be attributable to a negative impact of modified hospital admission criteria during the pandemic. CONCLUSIONS: Socioeconomic occupation and municipality-wide factors played a significant role in shaping the course of the COVID-19 pandemic in Mexico City.

Horizontal and vertical colonies for royal jelly production in Brazil

The potential of royal jelly production in Africanized honeybee colonies was evaluated using techniques involving two queens per colony in horizontal and vertical systems during the spring of 2019. The techniques were tested for their effect on cell acceptance (%); royal jelly production per colony (g), per harvest (g), and per position of cell bar (g) and compared with standard techniques (five and ten-frame hives) in southern Brazil. Results showed statistical significance in royal jelly production between methods. Vertical colonies produced a significantly greater amount of royal jelly per colony and per harvest (8.26 and 53.28±4.98 g) compared with single-queen colonies in ten-frame hives (4.30 and 32.76±3.57 g) and five-frame hives overlapping (2.03 and 14.45±2.48 g), but did not differ from two-queen horizontal colonies (8.09 and 46.81±4.90 g). In contrast, there was no significant difference in queen cell acceptance rate within vertical, horizontal, and ten-frame colonies. Royal jelly yield of two-queen vertical colonies increase as compared with standard colonies.(AU)

COVID-19 epidemiology in a Mexican tertiary care hospital.

INTRODUCTION: As a result of COVID-19, many hospitals underwent a conversion for the care for this disease. OBJECTIVE: To analyze COVID-19 hospital epidemiological behavior from March to August 2020. METHODS: Through a series of cases, COVID-19 epidemiological behavior at the hospital was analyzed, for which simple case rates, percentages and incidence of COVID-19 per 100 hospital discharges were estimated. RESULTS: Out of 491 subjects who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2, 156 (31.7 %) were hospitalized for clinical data of moderate to severe disease. Average age was 59.1 years; 121 cases (75 %) were discharged due to improvement, and 32 (20.5 %), due to death. Average age of those who died was 69.7 years, and the most affected age group was 60 to 80 years (45.4 %). Calculated lethality was 20.5 per 100 hospital discharges, while that calculated taking into account positive patients (outpatients and hospitalized patients) was 6.5. CONCLUSIONS: COVID-19 epidemiological behavior was similar to that described in other studies; however, lethality and mortality are above national average. The analysis of this and of the factors that favored it in our population is pending.

INTRODUCCIÓN: A consecuencia de COVID-19, numerosos hospitales sufrieron una reconversión para la atención de esta enfermedad. OBJETIVO: Analizar el comportamiento epidemiológico hospitalario de COVID-19 entre marzo y agosto de 2020. MÉTODOS: En una serie de casos se analizó el comportamiento epidemiológico de COVID-19 en un hospital de tercer nivel, para lo cual se estimaron frecuencias simples de casos, porcentajes e incidencia por cada 100 egresos hospitalarios. RESULTADOS: De 491 sujetos con prueba positiva para SARS-CoV-2, 156 (31.7 %) fueron hospitalizados por datos clínicos de enfermedad moderada a grave. La edad promedio fue de 59.1 años; 121 casos (75 %) egresaron por mejoría y 32 (20.5 %), por defunción. El promedio de edad de quienes fallecieron fue de 69.7 años y el grupo etario más afectado fue el de 60 a 80 años (45.4 %). La letalidad calculada fue de 20.5 por 100 egresos hospitalarios, mientras que la calculada tomando en cuenta los pacientes positivos (ambulatorios y hospitalizados) fue de 6.5. CONCLUSIONES: El comportamiento epidemiológico de COVID-19 fue similar al descrito en otros estudios; sin embargo, la letalidad y la mortalidad están por encima de la media nacional. Está pendiente el análisis de estas y de los factores que las favorecieron en nuestra población.

Diagnostic performance and clinical implications of rapid SARS-CoV-2 antigen testing in Mexico using real-world nationwide COVID-19 registry data.

BACKGROUND: SARS-CoV-2 testing capacity is important to monitor epidemic dynamics and as a mitigation strategy. Given difficulties of large-scale quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) implementation, rapid antigen tests (Rapid Ag-T) have been proposed as alternatives in settings like Mexico. Here, we evaluated diagnostic performance of Rapid Ag-T for SARS-CoV-2 infection and its associated clinical implications compared to qRT-PCR testing in Mexico. METHODS: We analyzed data from the COVID-19 registry of the Mexican General Directorate of Epidemiology up to April 30th, 2021 (n = 6,632,938) and cases with both qRT-PCR and Rapid Ag-T (n = 216,388). We evaluated diagnostic performance using accuracy measures and assessed time-dependent changes in the Area Under the Receiver Operating Characteristic curve (AUROC). We also explored test discordances as predictors of hospitalization, intubation, severe COVID-19 and mortality. RESULTS: Rapid Ag-T is primarily used in Mexico City. Rapid Ag-T have low sensitivity 37.6% (95%CI 36.6-38.7), high specificity 95.5% (95%CI 95.1-95.8) and acceptable positive 86.1% (95%CI 85.0-86.6) and negative predictive values 67.2% (95%CI 66.2-69.2). Rapid Ag-T has optimal diagnostic performance up to days 3 after symptom onset, and its performance is modified by testing location, comorbidity, and age. qRT-PCR (-) / Rapid Ag-T (+) cases had higher risk of adverse COVID-19 outcomes (HR 1.54 95% CI 1.41-1.68) and were older, qRT-PCR (+)/ Rapid Ag-T(-) cases had slightly higher risk or adverse outcomes and ≥7 days from symptom onset (HR 1.53 95% CI 1.48-1.59). Cases detected with rapid Ag-T were younger, without comorbidities, and milder COVID-19 course. CONCLUSIONS: Rapid Ag-T could be used as an alternative to qRT-PCR for large scale SARS-CoV-2 testing in Mexico. Interpretation of Rapid Ag-T results should be done with caution to minimize the risk associated with false negative results.

Epidemiología de COVID-19 en un hospital de tercer nivel mexicano / COVID-19 epidemiology in a Mexican tertiary care hospital

Resumen Introducción: A consecuencia de COVID-19, numerosos hospitales sufrieron una reconversión para la atención de esta enfermedad. Objetivo: Analizar el comportamiento epidemiológico hospitalario de COVID-19 entre marzo y agosto de 2020. Métodos: En una serie de casos se analizó el comportamiento epidemiológico de COVID-19 en un hospital de tercer nivel, para lo cual se estimaron frecuencias simples de casos, porcentajes e incidencia por cada 100 egresos hospitalarios. Resultados: De 491 sujetos con prueba positiva para SARS-CoV-2, 156 (31.7 %) fueron hospitalizados por datos clínicos de enfermedad moderada a grave. La edad promedio fue de 59.1 años; 121 casos (75 %) egresaron por mejoría y 32 (20.5 %), por defunción. El promedio de edad de quienes fallecieron fue de 69.7 años y el grupo etario más afectado fue el de 60 a 80 años (45.4 %). La letalidad calculada fue de 20.5 por 100 egresos hospitalarios, mientras que la calculada tomando en cuenta los pacientes positivos (ambulatorios y hospitalizados) fue de 6.5. Conclusiones: El comportamiento epidemiológico de COVID-19 fue similar al descrito en otros estudios; sin embargo, la letalidad y la mortalidad están por encima de la media nacional. Está pendiente el análisis de estas y de los factores que las favorecieron en nuestra población.

Abstract Introduction: As a result of COVID-19, many hospitals underwent a conversion for the care for this disease Objective: To analyze COVID-19 hospital epidemiological behavior from March to August 2020. Methods: Through a series of cases, COVID-19 epidemiological behavior at the hospital was analyzed, for which simple case rates, percentages and incidence of COVID-19 per 100 hospital discharges were estimated. Results: Out of 491 subjects who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2, 156 (31.7 %) were hospitalized for clinical data of moderate to severe disease. Average age was 59.1 years; 121 cases (75 %) were discharged due to improvement, and 32 (20.5 %), due to death. Average age of those who died was 69.7 years, and the most affected age group was 60 to 80 years (45.4 %). Calculated lethality was 20.5 per 100 hospital discharges, while that calculated taking into account positive patients (outpatients and hospitalized patients) was 6.5. Conclusions: COVID-19 epidemiological behavior was similar to that described in other studies; however, lethality and mortality are above national average. The analysis of this and of the factors that favored it in our population is pending.